Major International Business Headlines Brief ::: 17 December 2025

[Bulls n Bears]

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Major International Business Headlines Brief :::  17 December  2025 

 


 


 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


 

 


 

ü  Ethiopia: India's PM Visit to Ethiopia Highlights the Growing Role of
Finance in South-South Trade

ü  Nigeria: Senate Endorses $60 Oil Benchmark, Crude Price Falls to
$59/Barrel

ü  Nigeria: Pension Commission Pays N362.74bn From N758bn Bond to Clear
Longstanding Arrears

ü  African Development Fund Approves $23 Million to Boost Clean Energy
Access in Bosaso, Somalia

ü  Malawi Exporting Maize to Zambia Amid Import Plans--Who's Watching the
Borders?

ü  Nigeria: Experts Urge TotalEnergies to Settle $285m Tribunal Award to
NNPCL

ü  Malawi Exporting Maize to Zambia Amid Import Plans--Who's Watching the
Borders?

ü  Nigeria: CBN Revokes Licences of Aso Savings, Union Homes

ü  Ghana: Ban Raw Rubber Exports to Save Local Industry - WRHC Urges Govt

ü  Nigeria: NCAA Directs Airlines to Provide Fare Filings Amid Rising
Passenger Complaints

ü  Nigeria: NMDPRA CEO Denies Responding to Dangote's Fund Mismanagement
Claims

ü  Nigeria: Microsoft Empowers Four Million Nigerians With Digital Skills in
Five Years - Official

ü  South Africa: Stern Warning Against Reckless Behaviour On Gauteng Roads

ü  Kenya: JKIA to Introduce Shoe-On Screening Under New Security Upgrade

ü  Nigerian Labour Congress Says Protest Continues Despite Meeting With
Tinubu

ü  Somalia, Turkey Sign Deal to Boost Marine Production and Blue Economy

 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


 

 

 

Ethiopia: India's PM Visit to Ethiopia Highlights the Growing Role of
Finance in South-South Trade

Nairobi — The visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Addis Ababa
this week marks more than a diplomatic milestone.

 

By elevating India-Ethiopia relations to a strategic partnership, the two
governments signalled an intention to move decisively from political
goodwill towards deeper economic and institutional cooperation.

 

Coming at a time when the Global South is reshaping its development
pathways, the visit carries significance well beyond protocol.

 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) Modi said: "Landed in Addis Ababa a short
while ago. Honoured by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali's gesture of welcoming
me at the airport. Ethiopia is a nation with great history and vibrant
culture. India and Ethiopia share deep civilisational ties. I look forward
to engaging with the Ethiopian leadership to further strengthen our
partnership in diverse areas."

 

 

Modi underlined the importance of the visit, noting that it reflects India's
commitment to deepening partnerships with countries that share age-old
civilisational links and robust contemporary relations with New Delhi.

 

On his first day in Addis Ababa Modi and Dy Abiy Ahmed saw India and
Ethiopia sign three memoranda of understanding. Both countries have decided
to enhance cooperation in administrative assistance in customs matters, data
centre establishment at the embassy of Ethiopia and cooperation in UN
peacekeeping.

 

"We are elevating India and Ethiopia relations to a strategic partnership.
This step will provide new energy, new momentum and new depth to our ties,"
Prime Minister Modi said during the delegation-level talks.

 

 

"Today, we got the opportunity to deliberate on the key aspects of our
cooperation, such as economy, innovation, technology, defence, health,
capacity-building and multilateral cooperation. I am pleased that today, we
have decided to double the student scholarship for Ethiopia in India," Mr.
Modi said.

 

Mr. Modi said that India and Ethiopia have shared contact, dialogue, and
exchange for thousands of years. The two countries, which are rich in
languages and traditions, are symbols of unity in diversity, he added.

 

In a social media post, Prime Minister Abiy noted: "We held a productive
tête-à-tête meeting, followed by a bilateral session with our respective
delegations, exploring renewed avenues of cooperation that reflect the
growing partnership and shared priorities between Ethiopia and India."

 

 

"India has been a longstanding partner of Ethiopia, and today's meetings
underscore our shared commitment to expanding collaboration across multiple
sectors for the mutual benefit of our nations," Prime Minister Abiy stated.

 

"Today, we meet with a clear focus to shape a modern partnership, grounded
in sovereignty, self-reliance and practical cooperation. Our cooperation is
rooted in equality and South-South solidarity," he said.

 

"Our economy is performing strongly. Last year, we grew 9.2% and this year
we are expecting 10.3% GDP growth. Besides GDP growth, our FDI inflow is
also rising big time. India is the leading source for our FDI," he said.

 

Ethiopia, Africa's second-most populous country, occupies a central position
in the Horn of Africa and has long been viewed as a gateway to the
continent. India, for its part, has become one of the most active external
partners across Africa, with commercial interests spanning manufacturing,
pharmaceuticals, agriculture, technology and infrastructure. The Modi visit
reflects a convergence of priorities: Ethiopia seeking capital, trade
expansion and foreign-exchange stability; India seeking reliable, long-term
partners in fast-growing markets.

 

The warm welcome extended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underlined the
political importance Addis Ababa attaches to the relationship. When the two
prime ministers arrived at the Sheraton Addis, members of local and
international business and community circles were present to observe and
welcome the moment -- among them Mr Abdirashid Duale, reflecting the close
interest of the private sector and diaspora communities in the visit's
economic implications.

 

Yet beyond ceremony, the real test will lie in execution -- how trade flows
are financed, how investments are settled, and how cross-border economic
activity is sustained.

 

This is where financial intermediaries with deep regional roots -- and
effective public-private partnerships -- play an increasingly central role.

 

Trade and investment partnerships depend not only on government agreements
but on the capacity of businesses to move capital efficiently, compliantly
and predictably. For Ethiopia, strengthening foreign-exchange inflows,
expanding trade finance and integrating diaspora capital into the formal
economy are now key policy objectives. Achieving these goals increasingly
requires closer coordination between public institutions and private-sector
operators.

 

Institutions such as Dahabshiil Group, one of the Horn of Africa's largest
financial services and investment groups, illustrate how private actors can
support public economic objectives. Founded in the region and operating
across Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America, the group has long
been associated with remittances. Its role has since broadened to encompass
a wider range of financial services, including banking services across the
region.

 

Through entities including East Africa Bank, Dahabshiil Group works with
Indian, Ethiopian and global banking and commercial partners, and has
expanded into trade-related payments, settlement services and cross-border
liquidity support, operating alongside banks and regulators to facilitate
formal trade flows.

 

Dahabshiil Group already facilitates significant trade-related financial
flows between India and the region, including Ethiopia, supporting importers
and exporters across sectors such as pharmaceuticals, consumer goods,
machinery and agricultural inputs. Indian suppliers exporting into the
region, and regional traders sourcing from India.

 

Beyond bilateral corridors, the group supports triangular and multi-market
trade linking India with the Horn of Africa, the Gulf, East Africa, Europe
and North America. This includes settling payments for regional exporters
accessing third markets, supporting Indian firms operating across the Horn
of Africa, and channelling diaspora-linked capital into productive trade and
investment activity.

 

The relevance of these developments is further underscored by the presence
in Addis Ababa of the Chief Executive Officer of Dahabshiil Group,
Abdirashid Duale, who is engaging with stakeholders to assess economic and
regulatory developments and to meet diaspora business communities active
across Ethiopia and the wider region. Such engagement highlights how
public-private partnerships are becoming more important than ever in
translating diplomatic momentum into practical outcomes.

 

Yet the success of this renewed partnership will depend less on summit
communiqués than on the plumbing of finance and trade -- and on the
effectiveness of collaboration between governments and private institutions.
As states set direction, organisations such as Dahabshiil Group quietly
ensure payments are settled, trade continues and commercial relationships
endure.

 

Read the original article on Capital FM.

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: Senate Endorses $60 Oil Benchmark, Crude Price Falls to $59/Barrel

The Senate yesterday approved some far-reaching recommendations of its
Committee on Finance on the 2026-2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework
(MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP), backing a lower and more realistic
crude oil benchmark of $60.

 

The Upper Chamber also endorsed a N54.46 trillion federal spending plan for
2026 aimed at stabilising Nigeria's economy amid global uncertainties.

 

In the same vein, Brent crude, Nigeria's oil benchmark, fell over 2.56 per
cent to below $60 per barrel yesterday, its lowest level since May 2025, due
to rising hopes for a potential peace deal in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

 

 

Specifically, Brent crude futures fell to $59.01 a barrel, while U.S. West
Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was trading at $55.36, down 2.57 per cent,
lowest since February 2021.

 

This came as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi
Cardoso, yesterday reaffirmed the country's commitment to rules-based
economic management, transparent markets, and predictable policy frameworks,
amid the heightened global economic uncertainty.

 

Also yesterday, the CBN announced the revocation of operating licences of
Aso Savings and Loans Plc and that of Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc for
violation of various Sections of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions
Act (BOFIA) 2020 and the Revised Guidelines for Mortgage Banks in Nigeria.

 

The approval of the MTEF/FSP, followed the presentation of the committee's
report by its Chairman, Senator Sani Musa, at plenary presided over by
Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

 

 

Lawmakers said the adopted parameters were designed to promote macroeconomic
stability, strengthen fiscal discipline and support the federal government's
ongoing economic reforms.

 

A key decision was the downward review of the crude oil benchmark price for
2026 from $64.85 per barrel to $60.

 

The Senate, however, approved benchmark prices of $65 and $70 per barrel for
2027 and 2028, respectively.

 

The committee explained that the conservative adjustment for 2026 was
necessitated by heightened geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Middle
East, as well as persistent volatility in the global oil market.

 

Despite the cautious oil price outlook, the Senate sustained crude oil
production projections of 1.84 million barrels per day (mbpd) for 2026,
1.88mbpd for 2027, and 1.92mbpd for 2028.

 

It expressed optimism that improved security conditions, industry reforms,
and investments in the sector would boost output.

 

 

On exchange rate assumptions, lawmakers endorsed projections of N1,512 to
the dollar for 2026, N1,432.15 for 2027, and N1,383.18 for 2028.

 

The Senate noted that the figures were consistent with the Central Bank of
Nigeria's policy direction and efforts to stabilise the naira through better
coordination of fiscal and monetary policies.

 

The upper chamber also approved inflation projections of 16.5 per cent for
2026, 13 per cent for 2027 and nine per cent for 2028, citing anticipated
tightening measures by monetary authorities.

 

Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth projections of 4.68 per cent, 5.96
per cent, and 7.9 per cent for the three years were equally sustained, with
senators expressing confidence that recent tax and structural reforms would
begin to yield measurable economic benefits from 2026.

 

In a bid to enhance revenues, the Senate urged strict implementation of
newly enacted tax laws, describing them as critical to economic growth and
development.

 

It also recommended the adoption of a National Scanning Policy within the
National Single Window of the Nigeria Revenue Service, in collaboration with
relevant agencies, to curb leakages, improve trade facilitation, boost
transparency and enhance national security.

 

On fiscal aggregates, the Senate approved a total federal budget size of
N54.46 trillion for 2026, comprising retained revenue of N34.33 trillion and
new borrowings of N17.88 trillion from domestic and external sources.

 

Debt service was pegged at N15.52 trillion, while pensions, gratuities and
retirees' benefits were estimated at N1.376 trillion, with an overall fiscal
deficit of N20.13 trillion.

 

Capital expenditure of N20.131 trillion, statutory transfers of N3.152
trillion, a sinking fund of N388.54 billion, and recurrent (non-debt)
spending of N15.265 trillion were also endorsed.

 

The committee expressed appreciation to the Senate for its support, voicing
optimism that the approved framework would lay the foundation for
sustainable economic growth and long-term prosperity.

 

Nigeria's Crude Oil Benchmark, Brent, Falls Below $60

 

Brent crude, Nigeria's oil benchmark, fell over 2.56 per cent to below $60
per barrel yesterday, its lowest level since May, due to rising hopes for a
potential peace deal in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

 

Specifically, Brent crude futures fell to $59.01 a barrel, while U.S. West
Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was trading at $55.36, down 2.57 per cent.

 

For the 2025 budget, the benchmark was set at about $75 per barrel of crude
oil, with a production target of 2.06 million barrels per day and an assumed
exchange rate of around N1,500/$1). This benchmark reflects the price at
which the government expects to sell its crude to fund spending plans.

 

But in practice, global crude oil prices have frequently been below this
benchmark for much of 2025. Brent crude, the global reference price that
largely dictates what Nigeria earns for its oil, has often hovered in the
$60-$70 per barrel range, but has now fallen well below the budget
assumption.

 

This range means lower foreign exchange earnings and reduced oil revenue
than planned, putting pressure on government finances and potentially
increasing borrowing or forcing spending adjustments.

 

"Brent has dropped this morning to below $60 per barrel for the first time
in months, as the market assesses a potential peace deal resulting in
additional Russian volumes becoming available and oversupplying the market
further," said Rystad.

 

The U.S. offered to provide NATO-style security guarantees for Kyiv and
European negotiators reported progress in talks on Monday, sparking optimism
that an end to the war was closer. Russia, meanwhile, said it was not
willing to make any territorial concessions, state news agency TASS quoted
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov as saying.

 

"The grind in talks will be matched with the continued grind lower in prices
as we enter 2026 with all its associated predictions of 'glut.' Brent will
make a fresh year-to-date low, but will not break below $55 a barrel before
the year is out," said PVM Oil Associates analyst John Evans.

 

The six-month Brent futures spread moved into a contango for the first time
since October.

 

Barclays analysts expect Brent to average $65/bbl in 2026, slightly ahead of
the forward curve, due to the expected 1.9 million bpd surplus they see as
being priced in already.

 

Adding to the pressure, soft Chinese economic data on Monday further fuelled
concerns that global demand may not be strong enough to absorb recent supply
growth, said IG market analyst Tony Sycamore, quoted by Reuters.

 

China's factory output growth slowed to a 15-month low, official data
showed. Retail sales also grew at their slowest pace since December 2022,
during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Fears of an oversupply were marginally offset by the U.S. seizing an oil
tanker off Venezuela last week, but traders and analysts said a glut of
floating storage and a surge in Chinese buying from Venezuela in
anticipation of sanctions were also limiting the market impact.

 

The prospect of a peace agreement could lead to an easing of sanctions on
Russian oil, which would increase supply on an already well-supplied global
market. Oil markets are closely watching developments, as Russia's seaborne
oil exports are struggling to find buyers, with India's imports of Russian
crude expected to drop significantly this month.

 

Cardoso Reaffirms Commitment to Rules-based Economic Management, Transparent
Markets

 

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso,
yesterday reaffirmed the country's commitment to rules-based economic
management, transparent markets, and predictable policy frameworks, amid the
heightened global economic uncertainty.

 

Cardoso, at a meeting with senior business leaders and institutional
investors at the U.S.-Nigeria Executive Business Roundtable in Washington,
D.C., further reiterated the country's commitment to economic stability,
underscoring its reform agenda and renewed drive for macroeconomic
stability.

 

Cardoso, at the meeting with investors in Washington D.C, highlighted recent
reforms in the foreign exchange market, the adoption of orthodox monetary
policy, ongoing banking-sector reforms, and payments system modernisation as
central to stabilising the economy and enabling sustainable,
private-sector-led growth.

 

Convened by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's U.S.-Africa Business Center, the
roundtable's discussions focused on macroeconomic stabilisation, regulatory
clarity, and opportunities to scale bankable projects across priority
sectors of the Nigerian economy - reinforcing deepening commercial ties
between Nigeria and the United States.

 

Commenting on the discussions, President of the U.S.-Africa Business Center
at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Kendra Gaither, noted that investors
were increasingly focused on policy credibility and consistency.

 

She said, "What investors are responding to today is clarity, clear rules,
credible reforms, and a seriousness of purpose.

 

"Nigeria's message is increasingly one of discipline and opportunity, and
that matters in a global economy seeking actively for stability and
predictability."

 

CBN Revokes Aso Savings, Union Homes' Licences

 

The CBN yesterday announced the revocation of operating licences of Aso
Savings and Loans Plc and that of Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc for
violation of various Sections of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions
Act (BOFIA) 2020 and the Revised Guidelines for Mortgage Banks in Nigeria.

 

The central bank said the action was part of its efforts to reposition the
mortgage sub-sector and promote a culture of compliance with relevant laws
and regulations.

 

The revocation was contained in a statement issued by the CBN's Acting
Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali.

 

The apex bank, in announcing the licences' revocation, further noted that
the move was in exercise of the powers conferred on it under Section 12 of
BOFIA 2020, and Section 7.3 of the Revised Guidelines for Mortgage Banks in
Nigeria.

 

The CBN stated that the affected mortgage institutions had failed to meet
the minimum paid-up share capital requirement for the category of the bank
licence granted to them by the central bank.

 

The banks were also said to have insufficient assets to meet their
liabilities, and remained critically undercapitalised with a capital
adequacy ratio below the prudential minimum ratio as prescribed by the CBN.

 

Sidi Ali further explained that the actions were warranted by the failure of
the mortgage banks to comply with several directives and obligations imposed
upon them by the CBN.

 

The CBN acting director, however, reaffirmed the apex bank's commitment to
its core mandate of ensuring financial system stability.

 

Senate Calls for Emergency Fertiliser Subsidy, Silo Overhaul to Tame Soaring
Food Costs

 

In the meantime, the Senate yesterday called on the federal government and
sub-national authorities to urgently subsidise fertiliser and other farm
inputs and rehabilitate silos nationwide to stabilise food prices, protect
farmers' livelihoods and address deepening food insecurity worsened by
insecurity across the country.

 

The resolution followed an extensive debate on a motion sponsored by Senator
Mohammed Danjuma Goje (Gombe Central) on the widening gap between falling
farm-gate prices of agricultural produce and the persistently high cost of
farm inputs, which lawmakers warned now threatens the survival of millions
of smallholder farmers.

 

While commending the federal government for policies, including import
waivers and special permits, that have helped bring down food prices and
offered temporary relief to consumers, senators cautioned that the same
measures have created market distortions that are hurting local producers.

 

They noted that prices of staples have declined sharply, even as fertilizer,
pesticides and other inputs remain prohibitively expensive, leading to
massive post-harvest losses, income erosion and waste across farming
communities.

 

The Senate observed that many farmers are unable to sell produce at
profitable rates, discouraging reinvestment ahead of the next planting
season and posing a clear danger to domestic food production, rural
livelihoods and national food security.

 

Lawmakers also warned that rising dependence on imported food undermines
food sovereignty, weakens local value chains, exposes the economy to global
price volatility and places pressure on foreign exchange.

 

Accordingly, the upper chamber urged the federal government to introduce
broad-based agricultural input subsidies, with particular emphasis on
fertiliser, to reduce production costs and encourage sustained output.

 

It also called for urgent investment in strategic agricultural
infrastructure, including the repair and completion of silos across the
country, rural roads, processing centres and irrigation systems, to curb
post-harvest losses and improve farmers' profitability.

 

Crucially, senators asked the government to activate a guaranteed off-take
mechanism through which produce would be purchased from farmers, stored in
rehabilitated silos and released to the market at affordable prices during
periods of scarcity, as a buffer against price spikes and shortages.

 

Leading the debate, Senator Goje said the current situation, if left
unaddressed, would waste the enormous labour and resources invested by
farmers and worsen insecurity, as rural communities lose their primary
source of income.

 

He stressed the need for coordinated action among federal and state
governments, MDAs, commodity boards, cooperatives and the private sector to
stabilise markets and ensure fair pricing.

 

Supporting the motion, Senator Aliyu Wamakko commended the government for
bringing down food prices but described the cost of farm inputs as
"alarming", urging decisive action to encourage farmers to produce more.

 

Senator Mohammed Dandutse warned that a bag of fertiliser now costs over
N60,000, while a bag of maize sells for less than N20,000, describing the
imbalance as devastating for farmers and a contributor to insecurity.

 

"Nigeria is blessed. We can feed Africa, but we are relying on importation,"
he said.

 

Some lawmakers, however, urged caution against policies that could reverse
recent gains for consumers.

 

Senator Sunday Karimi said the government must strike a balance between
protecting farmers and ensuring food remains affordable, noting that
Nigerians had only just begun to enjoy relief from soaring prices.

 

In his contribution, Senator Ede Dafinone expressed reservations about
introducing new subsidies, warning of market distortions. However, he
acknowledged the need to support farmers through alternative measures.
Attention repeatedly turned to Nigeria's idle storage infrastructure.

 

Senator Patrick Ndubueze lamented that completed silos across the country
were "being occupied by lizards and cockroaches."

 

He insisted that the government should immediately buy produce from farmers,
store it and support agro-processing industries around the facilities.

 

This, he said, would stabilise prices without pushing food beyond the reach
of the poor.

 

On fertiliser distribution, Senator Mohammed Sani Musa said the government
was reviewing policies to ensure inputs reach genuine farmers rather than
middlemen.

 

In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, expressed optimism that
the resolutions would help stabilise markets, assist farmers and ensure food
availability nationwide.

 

He commended the administration of President Bola Tinubu for efforts to
reduce food prices and expand access to agricultural inputs, urging "all
hands on deck" to secure Nigeria's food future.

 

Read the original article on This Day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: Pension Commission Pays N362.74bn From N758bn Bond to Clear
Longstanding Arrears

The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has paid out N362.74 billion from
the N758 billion pension bond approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to
address long-standing pension arrears and increments under the Contributory
Pension Scheme (CPS).

 

The Director-General of PenCom, Omolala Oloworaran made the disclosure while
giving her 365 Days Scorecard at the Pension Revolution Summit in Abuja. The
bond was designed to clear accrued pension rights dating back to 2007 and
provide relief to retirees and contributors.

 

According to her, the largest component of the bond--N387 billion--was
earmarked for pension increases and adjustments. Of this amount,
N362,742,954,194 has already been disbursed, with a balance of about N24.7
billion currently undergoing processing and purchase.

 

She explained that the payments were made directly into the Individual
Retirement Savings (IRS) accounts of eligible retirees and contributors,
ensuring transparency and eliminating delays associated with manual
processing.

 

The PenCom DG said the disbursement formed part of the Federal Government's
broader effort to restore confidence in the pension system and improve the
welfare of pensioners who had waited several years for their entitlements.

 

"This intervention is targeted at clearing long-standing pension increases
and ensuring that retirees receive what is due to them promptly and with
dignity," she said.

 

She added that the payments had a direct impact on more than one million
Retirement Savings Accounts, significantly easing the financial burden on
affected retirees and workers.

 

The pension regulator noted that the bond intervention would also strengthen
investor confidence in the pension industry, as it demonstrates the
government's commitment to meeting its pension obligations.

 

She assured contributors and retirees that the remaining balance under the
pension increase component would be settled once processing is completed,
while other components of the N758 billion bond, including payments related
to pension guarantees and outstanding government contributions, were being
implemented in phases.

 

The PenCom DG reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to safeguarding pension
assets and ensuring the sustainability of the CPS.

 

On the technology front, Ms Oloworaran said the Commission still has a lot
to do, but so far this year, it has achieved full automation of critical
pension processes.

 

"Over time, we have achieved an automated pension plan certificate, which
used to be a manual process before, but now the process is automated. We
have also automated and upgraded the benefit processing and contribution
remittance platform.

 

"To strengthen collaboration and leadership across the industry, we
established the pension industry leadership council, a strategic platform
that brings together industry leaders to drive innovation, reinforce
accountability and build collective ownership of reforms," she added.

 

She maintained that the defining reform of the year was the restructuring
and rebranding of the micro pension plan into the Personal Pension Plan.

 

"This was about meeting Nigerians, where they are, artisans, traders, gig
workers, market women, creatives, all informal sectors at large under the
personal pension plan, we have simplified onboarding. Onboarding is
completely simplified. I believe you only need your name, as simple as
having a need to onboard and be on the personal pension and plan," she said.

 

The DG revealed that the Commission has also expanded digital enrollment,
and crucially, introduced accredited pension agents, explaining that the
accredited pension agents are not merely a distribution channel, but also an
employment strategy.

 

"We believe that with this initiative, thousands of young Nigerians will be
recruited and trained across board to participate in expanding pension
coverage across the country. And also it's also a medium for any meaningful
livelihoods and impactful financial inclusion, and I dare say that this is
enabling financial inclusion that creates jobs," she said.

 

The DG also mentioned that a total of N32.27 billion has been recovered by
the recovery agents comprising N15.87 billion recovered as principal
contributions and N16.40 billion as penalties from defaulting employers
between June 2012 and September 2025.

 

In addition, she said it had recorded significant compliance gains in the
third quarter of 2025 alone, recovering N2.06 billion (N775 million
principal and N1.27 billion penalties) from 49 defaulting employers,
reflecting a sustained surge in enforcement activities.

 

On states compliance with the CPS, Oloworaran disclosed that only eight (8)
out of 36 states have complied. She however, stated that the Commission was
partnering with all states to ensure full compliance.

 

She also disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force is yet to exit the CPS.
Adding that the Commission was working round the clock to ensure that their
plight is adequately addressed instead of exiting.

 

She disclosed that so far about N132 billion out of the 338 billion has been
paid to them (22%). Saying that the police constitute about 40% of the
public service pensioners in the country.

 

Read the original article on Leadership.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

African Development Fund Approves $23 Million to Boost Clean Energy Access
in Bosaso, Somalia

The Board of Directors of the African Development Fund has approved a grants
package worth $23.36 million to bring clean and reliable electricity to the
city of Bosaso, Somalia.

 

The Rehabilitation and Expansion of Bosaso Power Grid and Strengthening of
Energy Sector Institutions project, funded through the African Development
Fund ($9.618 million) and the Transition Support Facility ($13.74 million),
will introduce new solar generation, expand the distribution network and
install modern meters to help households manage energy use more efficiently.
It will also bring solar home systems to families that have never before had
access to electricity, including internally displaced people living in
vulnerable conditions.

 

Somalia has one of the lowest electricity access rates in the world. About
half of the population lives without power. Those who are connected pay
extremely high prices as most electricity is produced with diesel
generators, which are both expensive to run and highly polluting. Inadequate
and unreliable electricity make daily life difficult and limit the growth of
local businesses. Government agencies also struggle to manage the sector due
to limited technical and financial capacity.

 

Bubacarr Sankareh, the Bank Group's Lead Operations Advisor for Somalia,
welcomed the approval, saying: "This project will change lives in Bosaso for
families and small businesses. It will make electricity cheaper, cleaner and
more reliable and is a major step toward a stronger and more resilient
energy future for Somalia."

 

These efforts are expected to reduce the cost of electricity for local
residents and help businesses operate more reliably. Markets, small shops
and service providers will benefit from steady and more affordable power.
Families will experience better access to lighting, refrigeration and
essential household services. Cleaner energy will also reduce pollution and
improve living conditions in crowded neighbourhoods.

 

The project will also create new jobs during construction and long-term work
opportunities in system operations and maintenance. It will also support
public institutions through technical training and capacity building so that
Somalia can better plan and regulate its energy sector.

 

The positive environmental impact will be significant. Replacing diesel
generators with solar power and battery storage will cut carbon emissions
and support Somalia's long-term climate goals.

 

Read the original article on African Development Bank (AfDB).

 

 

 

 

 

Malawi Exporting Maize to Zambia Amid Import Plans--Who's Watching the
Borders?

In a baffling twist that raises urgent questions about government oversight,
Malawi is reportedly exporting maize to Zambia through Mchinji
District--despite a formal maize export ban and ongoing plans by Lilongwe to
import the very same staple from its neighbour.

 

The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) confirmed in its
November 2025 Maize Market Report that

 

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: Experts Urge TotalEnergies to Settle $285m Tribunal Award to NNPCL

Abuja — Energy law experts have urged TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited to
comply with a tribunal ruling ordering it to pay the Nigerian National
Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) $285.2 million, describing the award as a
landmark affirmation of Nigeria's legal and contractual framework.

 

In its decision of November 19, 2025, the tribunal resolved a dispute dating
back to 2015 over the 2000 Amenam/Kpono Carry Agreement. Beyond its
financial weight, experts say the ruling reinforces confidence in Nigeria's
ability to enforce contracts and protect national assets.

 

The dispute stemmed from a carry financing arrangement under which
TotalEnergies provided upfront capital for oil field development, to be
repaid through a share of production. By 2007, NNPC had fully met its
obligations, repaying $697.2 million in principal and $281 million in
interest. The tribunal was therefore tasked with determining whether
TotalEnergies was entitled to continue lifting crude after full repayment.

 

 

It ruled that any further lifting amounted to an overlift, entitling NNPCL
to compensation and affirming that the proceeds belong to the Nigerian state
and its citizens.

 

Reacting to the judgment, oil and gas law expert Kelvin Nnamdi said the
decision carries important signals for investors and corporate governance.

 

"The ruling sends a clear message to international investors that Nigeria
enforces its contracts fairly. Prompt compliance reflects respect for the
rule of law and the social licence granted by the Nigerian people. It is a
critical test of corporate integrity and governance," he said.

 

 

Nnamdi noted that the award provides legal certainty for serious investors
and underscores the importance of compliance in sustaining long-term
partnerships.

 

"For multinationals operating in Nigeria, legal certainty drives long-term
investment. This award shows that contracts will be honoured, disputes
resolved fairly, and no party is above the law. Compliance strengthens
credibility and partnership with NNPCL," he added.

 

He further described respect for the tribunal's decision as a core element
of responsible corporate citizenship, warning that delays could erode trust.

 

Another energy law expert, Babatunde Olawale, focused on the contractual
principles underpinning the ruling, saying it reinforces the doctrine that
obligations cannot be reinterpreted once fully discharged.

 

"This award affirms that after a contract has been fully performed, parties
cannot seek to extract additional benefits. Compliance is not only a legal
requirement but essential to maintaining trust in Nigeria's business
environment," Olawale said.

 

He added that the tribunal's rejection of attempts to recast the carry
agreement as a production sharing contract preserves contractual clarity and
prevents the abuse of legal ambiguities by multinational operators.

 

According to Olawale, compliance should be seen as responsible corporate
behaviour rather than an admission of wrongdoing. "Any delay undermines
trust and weakens a company's social licence," he said, noting that the
ruling ultimately safeguards the interests of over 200 million Nigerians
whose wealth is tied to the country's oil resources.

 

The $285.2 million award represents value derived from about 492 million
barrels of Nigerian crude oil. Experts argue that, at a time when the
country is seeking to improve infrastructure, healthcare and education,
enforcing the award is clearly in the national interest.

 

The case also highlights NNPCL's evolution into a more commercially astute
and legally capable national oil company. Successfully pursuing a complex
international arbitration over a decade, analysts say, demonstrates its
ability to defend national interests while engaging foreign partners
transparently.

 

Lessons from the dispute have since informed the adoption of a Modified
Carry Agreement, which introduces clearer terms to avoid similar ambiguities
in future transactions.

 

While TotalEnergies retains the option of challenging the award in court,
experts warn that prolonged litigation could attract reputational risks and
perceptions of bad faith. In their view, prompt compliance remains the most
prudent course for preserving the company's social licence and long-term
business interests.

 

Read the original article on Vanguard.

 

 

 

 

Malawi Exporting Maize to Zambia Amid Import Plans--Who's Watching the
Borders?

In a baffling twist that raises urgent questions about government oversight,
Malawi is reportedly exporting maize to Zambia through Mchinji
District--despite a formal maize export ban and ongoing plans by Lilongwe to
import the very same staple from its neighbour.

 

The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) confirmed in its
November 2025 Maize Market Report that "large quantities of maize started
flowing out of the country through Mchinji border towards Chipata." Yet,
IFPRI also notes that Malawi remains dependent on imports from Tanzania,
Zambia, and Mozambique to stabilize its local markets.

 

The anomaly exposes a glaring disconnect: while officials publicly insist
the export ban safeguards national food security, maize continues to leave
the country unchecked. Retail prices within Malawi even dropped by six
percent from late October to November, suggesting that local supply is not
only sufficient but also moving in ways that contradict official policy.

 

 

Forex Over Food Security?

 

Grace Mijiga-Mhango, president of the Grain Traders Association of Malawi,
sheds light on the incentive behind the exports. Traders are exploiting
foreign exchange opportunities, she says, as maize is cheaper in US dollar
terms locally than across the border. "This shows traders have reasonable
stocks," she explained, "but it does not mean we have enough maize for the
country."

 

Civil Society Agriculture Network chair Driana Lwanda adds that demand in
eastern Zambia and price disparities are further fuelling exports--putting
local food security at risk.

 

 

Meanwhile, the government's export ban appears largely symbolic.
Agricultural policy expert Tamani-Nkhono Mvula observes that farmers and
traders are holding onto maize, waiting for prices to rise before releasing
stocks. "Ban enforcement has proved costly and oftentimes ineffective,"
confirms agriculture economist Steve Kayira, who argues the focus should be
on creating credible local market participation rather than relying on
punitive measures.

 

Imports While We Export?

 

Compounding the confusion, Transporters Association of Malawi spokesperson
Frank Banda revealed that the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Water
Development has already engaged the association to transport maize from
Zambia--potentially 300 trucks of between 15 and 30 metric tonnes.

 

As if the contradictions were not enough, Malawi is also reportedly
considering maize imports from Tanzania, while a letter from Uganda's
Ministry of Agriculture suggests Kampala is seeking to export maize, beans,
soybeans, sesame, and rice to Malawi.

 

Attempts to reach Minister of Agriculture Roza Mbilizi were unsuccessful,
and Secretary for Agriculture Erica Maganga says she has not yet seen the
Uganda letter.

 

Questions Linger

 

The situation exposes a troubling circus of contradictory actions: maize
leaves Malawi even as officials prepare to bring in more from neighbouring
countries. Price manipulation, foreign exchange speculation, and weak
enforcement leave ordinary Malawians questioning whether their government is
safeguarding national food security--or simply watching traders profit at
their expense.

 

Who is really controlling the maize market? And how long before these
contradictory policies translate into hunger at home while Malawi's staple
grains flow out the border?

 

Read the original article on Nyasa Times.

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: CBN Revokes Licences of Aso Savings, Union Homes

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has revoked the operational licences of
Aso Savings and Loans Plc and Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc, citing
persistent violations of regulatory requirements and failure to meet
prudential standards governing mortgage banks in Nigeria. The CBN's decision
was part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen the mortgage sub-sector and
ensure greater compliance with financial regulations.

 

In a statement, the Acting Director of the Corporate Communications
Department at CBN, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, said the revocation of licences
followed significant breaches of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions
Act (BOFIA) 2020 and the Revised Guidelines for Mortgage Banks in Nigeria.
Both banks were found to be undercapitalised, with share capital below the
minimum requirement for their licence categories, insufficient assets to
meet liabilities, and failure to comply with several CBN directives.

 

 

The CBN emphasized that its actions were necessary to safeguard the
financial system and protect depositors. "The CBN remains committed to its
core mandate of ensuring financial system stability," the statement read.
This move signals the regulator's zero-tolerance approach to non-compliance
and its determination to rebuild confidence in Nigeria's mortgage sector.

 

Follow us on WhatsApp | LinkedIn for the latest headlines

 

Following the licence revocation, the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation
(NDIC) has begun the liquidation process of both banks. The NDIC will pay
insured depositors up to ¦ 2 million, per depositor, in line with the
provisions of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act. Depositors
with balances exceeding ¦ 2 million will receive the insured portion, while
the remainder will be settled as liquidation dividends after the sale of
assets and recovery of outstanding debts.

 

 

The NDIC stated that the payment of insured deposits has already begun, with
depositors' claims being processed through either online or in-person
verification. For online claims, depositors are instructed to visit the NDIC
claims portal, while those opting for physical verification can visit the
closed banks' branches from December 16 to 30, 2025.

 

To expedite the payment process, the NDIC has urged depositors to provide
proof of account ownership, valid identification, and details of their
alternate bank accounts, including Bank Verification Numbers (BVN). The
corporation also advised depositors to enable transaction alerts to receive
notifications of their payments.

 

The NDIC will prioritize the settlement of depositors' claims before
addressing creditors' claims as required by law.

 

Read the original article on Vanguard.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ghana: Ban Raw Rubber Exports to Save Local Industry - WRHC Urges Govt

The Western Regional House of Chiefs (WRHC) has renewed its call on
government to impose a total ban on the export of raw rubber, arguing that
partial restrictions will not address the challenges facing the domestic
rubber industry.

 

The President of the House, Nana Kobina Nkestia V, said the continued export
of raw rubber, particularly from the Western Region, Ghana's leading
rubber-producing area, runs contrary to the government's own policies on
value addition, job creation and local content development.

 

He mentioned that proposals to merely restrict exports would continue to
undermine local processing and derail the country's industrialisation
agenda.

 

Speaking at a general meeting of the House in Sekondi, Nana Nkestia said
chiefs in the region were united in demanding a complete prohibition on the
export of natural rubber in its raw form.

 

Illegal felling, smuggling of rosewood: 200 containers shipped out ...
between Jan 2018 and Jan 2019June 20, 2019

GFAHP directs members to withdraw ...in solidarity with HSWU serviceOctober
27, 2021

"It was clearly stated in the 2026 Budget that the discussion was about
natural rubber. However, the way the minister framed it suggested a
restriction on the export of raw rubber. We are not asking for a
restriction; we are asking for a total ban," he expatiated.

 

According to him, a full ban would ensure a steady supply of raw materials
for local processors, revive struggling rubber-based industries and align
with flagship government initiatives such as the One District One Factory
(1D1F) programme and the 24-Hour Economy policy.

 

Nana Nkestia, who is also the Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional
Area, noted that excessive exportation of raw rubber had deprived local
processors of inputs.

 

He cited Ghana Rubber Estates Limited (GREL) in the Western Region, which he
said had been forced to halve its workforce and reduce operations from three
shifts to one due to shortages of raw materials.

 

He further revealed that a rubber processing company in the Central Region
had shut down entirely because of a lack of raw rubber, according to the
Association of Natural Rubber Actors of Ghana (ANRAG).

 

Although he acknowledged that the Parliamentary Select Committee on Trade
and Industry had expressed support for government's decision to restrict raw
rubber exports from 2026 and had pledged to assist in drafting the required
Legislative Instrument (LI), Nana Nkestia insisted that restriction alone
would not solve the problem.

 

"Exporting raw rubber directly contradicts the government's stated policy
direction and undermines the domestic industry. If we are serious about
industrialisation, then we must process our rubber here instead of exporting
it in its raw state," he underlined.

 

He also called for stricter enforcement of existing laws governing the
export of raw materials, arguing that Ghana's main challenge lay in weak
implementation rather than a lack of policy.

 

"There are laws against exporting raw materials in their raw form. We must
support government and work with them to ensure the regulatory framework
functions effectively. This is not just for producing areas, but for the
benefit of the entire country," Nana Nkestia stated.

 

Drawing parallels with the mining sector, he criticised what he described as
a long-standing pattern of extracting resources from host regions without
corresponding local processing or industrial development.

 

Supporting the call, Awulae Angamatuo Gyan, Paramount Chief of the Gwira
Traditional Area, said traditional authorities had engaged the Ministry of
Trade and Industry and the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat on the issue for
years.

 

"We have raised concerns about raw rubber exports for many years through
engagements with relevant institutions. Although the results have been slow,
we are hopeful that government's current position on restriction will be a
stepping stone towards a full ban," he noted.

 

Also contributing, Awulae Attibrukusu, Paramount Chief of the Axim
Traditional Area, welcomed government's intention to restrict exports but
stressed the need for a unified regional position.

 

"As a region, we must come together and meet the relevant authorities to
clearly state our resolve to have a total ban on raw rubber exports," he
said.

 

Read the original article on Ghanaian Times.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: NCAA Directs Airlines to Provide Fare Filings Amid Rising Passenger
Complaints

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, has ordered domestic airlines
to submit their fare filings to the Directorate of Air Transport Regulation.

 

Specifically, the authority warned that inconsistencies could result in
sanctions.

 

The move, Vanguard gathered, comes as complaints from passengers escalate,
citing flight cancellations, delays and alleged ticket resale at inflated
prices.

 

Speaking during a meeting with airline operators in Abuja, Mr. Michael
Achimugu, NCAA's Director of Consumer Protection and Public Relations, said
reports showed some fares exceeding N500,000 without any corresponding rise
in statutory taxes or fees.

 

 

He insisted that airlines must ensure their submitted fares reflect actual
selling prices and stressed that violations would attract strict regulatory
action.

 

"The level of disruption we have seen is unacceptable. Passengers have faced
avoidable delays and cancellations, and in some cases, tickets have been
resold at inflated rates. Airlines must be accountable," Achimugu said.

 

He revealed that the NCAA had carried out inspections and sting operations
across multiple airports, uncovering irregular ticketing practices, poor
communication with passengers and slow refund processing.

 

Achimugu warned that persistent offenders could face penalties of up to N100
million.

 

Representatives from the airlines acknowledged challenges with refund
processing and blamed third-party ticketing agents and payment platforms.
They pledged to improve communication, provide timely refunds and ensure
passengers are informed promptly during disruptions.

 

 

Read the original article on Vanguard.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: NMDPRA CEO Denies Responding to Dangote's Fund Mismanagement Claims

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream
Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed has disowned a
statement circulating in the media and on social platforms in which he was
quoted as responding to allegations levelled against him by the Chairman of
the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote.

 

In a disclaimer issued on Wednesday, Ahmed stated that the purported
response did not emanate from him, describing the statement in which he
explained how he funded his children's education as false and unauthorised.

 

"My attention has been drawn to a purported response I was said to have made
on the recent allegations against my person. I hereby state categorically
that the so-called statement did not emanate from me," he said.

 

 

The NMDPRA boss was reacting to allegations made by Dangote, who recently
accused him of spending about $5 million on the secondary school education
of his children in Switzerland, an amount Dangote said raised serious
questions about possible misuse of public funds and abuse of office.

 

Dangote, Africa's richest man and head of the Dangote Group, made the claims
amid ongoing tensions between his business interests, particularly in the
oil and gas downstream sector and regulatory authorities.

 

He alleged that the funds used for the overseas education of the NMDPRA
CEO's children were inconsistent with the known earnings of a public
officer, calling for scrutiny by relevant anti-corruption agencies.

 

However, in his clarification, Ahmed said he deliberately chose not to
engage in public exchanges despite what he described as "wild and spurious
allegations."

 

 

"While I am aware of the wild and spurious allegations made against me and
my family and the frenzy it has generated, as a regulator of a sensitive
industry, I have opted not to engage in public brickbat," he stated.

 

Ahmed further disclosed that the matter has now been taken to a formal
investigative institution by the accuser, expressing confidence that the
process would allow for an objective examination of the claims.

 

"Thankfully, the person behind the allegations has taken it to a formal
investigative institution. I believe that would provide an opportunity to
dispassionately distill the issues and to clear my name," he said.

 

Dangote had on Tuesday submitted a petition to the Independent Corrupt
Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), through his lawyer,
Ogwu Onoja, SAN, calling for Ahmed's arrest, investigation, and prosecution
for allegedly living above his means as a public officer.

 

The petition, addressed to the ICPC Chairman, Musa Aliyu, alleged that Ahmed
"spent without evidence of lawful means of income amounting to over $5
million for the education of his four children" in Switzerland. It provided
the children's names, schools, and specific amounts for verification.

 

Dangote cited Section 19 of the ICPC Act, which empowers the Commission to
investigate and prosecute corrupt practices, noting that a successful
prosecution could result in a five-year jail term without an option of fine.

 

He urged the ICPC to act decisively, stressing that he remained available to
provide evidence supporting his allegations.

 

Read the original article on Leadership.

 

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: Microsoft Empowers Four Million Nigerians With Digital Skills in
Five Years - Official

Ms Ujam announced additional training of 350,000 Nigerians in Artificial
Intelligence (AI) skills, describing it as a major milestone in its National
Skills Initiative (AINSI).

 

Microsoft said on Tuesday that its longstanding partnership with the Federal
Government of Nigeria had delivered digital training to over four million
people since 2021.

 

The Director for Government Affairs at Microsoft for West Africa, Nonye
Ujam, disclosed this at a media roundtable in Lagos.

 

Ms Ujam said that the milestone underscored Nigeria's commitment to thriving
in the digital economy.

 

She added that recent figures indicated that 350,000 individuals have been
actively engaged in its specialised students' programmes.

 

"With 63,000 completing specific training pathways and 43,000 receiving
global certification," she said.

 

Ms Ujam announced additional training of 350,000 Nigerians in Artificial
Intelligence (AI) skills, describing it as a major milestone in its National
Skills Initiative (AINSI).

 

The Microsoft executive said further that apart from the federal government,
the skills initiative was also being carried out in collaboration with Data
Science, Nigeria and Lagos Business School.

 

She said that the milestone reaffirmed Microsoft's commitment to
transforming Nigeria's digital landscape to upskilling five million
citizens.

 

"Microsoft is equipping developers for the future through developer-focused
programmes, creating a strong pipeline of technical talent.

 

"Also, through government-driven initiatives like Developers in Government
(DevsInGov) and the three Million Technical Talent Initiative (3MTT) led by
the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, developers
in public sectors have gained new skills," Ms Ujam explained.

 

According to her, around 645 participants have been trained in analytics and
AI integration.

 

She said that another 1,000 developers learned advanced skills in areas such
as DevOps, machine learning and data science.

 

"These efforts are helping Nigeria's workforce prepare for the future by
advancing AI fluency across the digital ecosystem," the Microsoft director
said.

 

Also speaking at the event, the Country General Manager, Microsoft Nigeria
and Ghana, Abideen Yusuf, said that Nigeria's current AI adoption rate stood
at 8.7 per cent, slightly below the Sub-Saharan average of 10 per cent.

 

Mr Yusuf said that with Africa's Gross Domestic Product projected to gain
$1.5 trillion from AI by 2030, Nigeria must position its youth population
within a median age of 18 years to lead in this sector.

 

"Nigeria cannot afford to wait, AI is reshaping every sector and the
countries that move fastest on skills will lead.

 

"We are focusing on three key indices: the frontier (innovation),
Infrastructure (connectivity and power), and most importantly, skills," he
said.

 

According to Mr Yusuf, by collaborating with the government to equip
leaders, developers and tech users, Microsoft is building a future-ready
workforce.

 

It is also helping Nigerians adopt and adapt the technology, thereby
maximising its potential, the country general manager noted.

 

One of Microsoft's partners, the Dean, Lagos Business School (LBS), Olayinka
David-West, said that the partnership had successfully trained 99 public
sector leaders from 58 agencies.

 

Mrs David-West said that skill must go beyond technical building to include
governance and risk management.

 

She said that the leaders were trained so as to be able to ask the right
question about safety, ethics and how to use AI to enable credit access and
improve agricultural cycles.

 

According to her, AI skilling is no longer optional for Nigeria's digital
future, it is the foundation of the nation's competitiveness.

 

"At LBS, we believe that equipping leaders and citizens with AI capabilities
is essential for driving inclusive growth, innovation and national
transformation."

 

According to the LBS dean, as it stands, a significant percentage of
Nigerian graduates are still to acquire digital skills.

 

She highlighted the importance of workforce readiness.

 

Mrs David-West said that the second phase of Nigeria's skilling programme
under Microsoft's AINSI aimed at reaching one million citizens in three
years.

 

She said that AINSI was helping to drive a range of different programmes
designed to embed AI skills across every sector of the economy.

 

The Founder, Data Science Nigeria, Bayo Adekanmbi, highlighted the structure
used to reach the grassroots.

 

Mr Adekanmbi, who was represented by the Business Lead, DSN, Aanu Oyeniran,
said that through Microsoft's support, 38 training partners across the
country had been empowered with infrastructure to remove barriers to
learning.

 

He said that its collaboration with Microsoft had demonstrated that AI
readiness required coordinated investment across every stakeholder group,
government, developers, educators and communities.

 

According to him, by building capacity for evidence-driven governance,
responsible innovation, classroom integration and community adoption, we are
laying foundations for a globally competitive workforce.

 

Mr Adekanmbi said that true digital transformation happened when the entire
ecosystem moved forward together.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the technology company says it
is committed to making AI available broadly, and doing so responsibly with a
mission to empower every person and every organisation on the planet to
achieve more.

 

Read the original article on Premium Times.

 

 

 

 

 

South Africa: Stern Warning Against Reckless Behaviour On Gauteng Roads

The Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has warned
motorists that there will be zero tolerance for unroadworthy vehicles,
reckless behaviour, or criminality on Gauteng's roads.

 

"Our enforcement teams are acting decisively to protect commuters and ensure
full compliance by public transport operators. Road safety is not
negotiable, and those who undermine it will be dealt with without
exception," Diale-Tlabela said on Wednesday.

 

With a dedicated team of 96 officers, the MEC said the Gauteng Transport
Inspectorate (GTI) remains committed to enhancing road safety, clamping down
on illegal operations, and upholding the rule of law across the province.

 

 

The Gauteng Provincial Government continues to intensify road safety
enforcement through high-impact stop-and-search operations led by the GTI,
in collaboration with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC).

 

These operations form part of a coordinated strategy to curb lawlessness,
combat criminal activity, and improve compliance with traffic legislation,
particularly within the public transport sector.

 

"Stop-and-search operations remain a key pillar of the province's road
safety and law-enforcement programme, strengthening compliance through
sustained visibility and reinforcing the message that lawlessness on
Gauteng's roads will not be tolerated," she said.

 

Between 08 and 14 December 2025, intensified enforcement operations were
conducted across the Cities of Johannesburg and Tshwane, focusing on major
public transport corridors during the long-week operational cycle.

 

 

Key enforcement outcomes recorded include:

 

· 64 unroadworthy minibuses discontinued from operation.

 

· 89 vehicles issued with discontinuation notices for non-compliance with
road safety regulations.

 

· Over 800 manual infringement notices issued and

 

· 1174 electronic infringement notices processed via GTI e-Force devices.

 

· Two vehicles impounded for failure to comply with road safety
requirements.

 

Further non-compliance identified during the operations revealed:

 

· 168 minibus taxi operators driving without valid driving licences; and

 

· 147 minibuses operating without valid licence discs.

 

· In addition to traffic-related offences, the operations also targeted
broader criminal activity.

 

Arrests were affected for serious offences, including:

 

· Driving under the influence (two arrests).

 

· Contraventions of the Immigration Act (four arrests).

 

· Fraud-related offences (four arrests).

 

· Obstruction of officers in the execution of their duties (one arrest); and

 

· Reckless and negligent driving (one arrest).

 

Read the original article on SAnews.gov.za.

 

 

 

Kenya: JKIA to Introduce Shoe-On Screening Under New Security Upgrade

Nairobi — Travellers using Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) may
soon no longer be required to remove their shoes during security screening
as the government moves to modernise airport security and improve passenger
experience.

 

Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Board Chairperson Caleb Kositany said the
authority is in the process of installing advanced security scanners that
will allow passengers to pass through screening without removing footwear.

 

Speaking during a press briefing, Kositany said JKIA will also roll out
facial recognition technology, enabling passengers--particularly those on
domestic flights--to move through checkpoints without presenting physical
identification documents.

 

"Part of what we need to do immediately to enhance passenger comfort within
our airports is to install modern scanners so that passengers do not have to
remove their shoes during screening," Kositany said.

 

"We also want to board passengers without them having to carry
identification cards. Facial recognition will make it easier for passengers,
especially on domestic routes, to move in and out of the airport," he added.

 

Kositany said the upgrades form part of broader infrastructure improvements
aimed at boosting JKIA's capacity to handle rising passenger and aircraft
traffic more than four decades after its commissioning.

 

Planned developments include the construction of a rapid exit taxiway to
improve runway clearance times and the building of a second runway to
accommodate increased flight movements amid growing travel demand.

 

"JKIA was commissioned in 1978 and was designed to handle about two million
passengers annually. We have now surpassed that capacity more than
threefold," Kositany said.

 

He noted that congestion during peak hours has become a major challenge,
both within the terminal and on access roads, as well as on the airside.

 

The KAA chairperson said the government is actively seeking international
partners to support the financing of the airport's modernisation.

 

President William Ruto recently said the renovation of JKIA, alongside the
construction of a new international airport to complement it, is expected to
begin next year.

 

Read the original article on Capital FM.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nigerian Labour Congress Says Protest Continues Despite Meeting With Tinubu

Addressing reporters at the Labour house on Wednesday, the NLC President Joe
Ajaero, said the protest would hold as planned.

 

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) said it will continue with today's
scheduled protest despite Tuesday's meeting with President Bola Tinubu.

 

Mr Tinubu met the leadership of the labour union late on Tuesday with the
hope of shelving the nationwide protest.

 

Addressing reporters at the Labour house on Wednesday, the NLC President Joe
Ajaero, said the protest would hold as planned.

 

Details later...

 

Read the original article on Premium Times.

 

 

 

 

Somalia, Turkey Sign Deal to Boost Marine Production and Blue Economy

Ankara — Somalia and Turkey have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at
developing Somalia's marine production and blue economy, Somali officials
said on Tuesday.

 

The agreement was signed in Ankara by Somalia's Minister of Fisheries and
Blue Economy, Ahmed Hassan Aden, and Turkey's OYAK Group, following earlier
understandings between the two sides on joint investment in the sector.

 

Somalia's defence minister hosted the signing ceremony at OYAK's
headquarters, underscoring the strategic importance Ankara attaches to the
partnership, officials said.

 

Under the deal, Turkey will support direct investment in Somalia's blue
economy infrastructure, expand fish production for international markets,
help establish fishing industries and improve the skills of Somali
fishermen.

 

Somali authorities said the agreement also prioritises combating illegal
fishing, protecting marine resources and creating thousands of jobs,
particularly for young people and coastal communities.

 

The signing was attended by Somalia's minister of ports and maritime
transport, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, and the director general of the fisheries
ministry, Abdi Diirshe.

 

Minister Ahmed Hassan Aden praised Turkey and OYAK for increasing investment
in Somalia, saying improved security and political stability were
encouraging international companies to engage in long-term economic
projects.

 

Turkish officials from the ministries of defence, agriculture and forestry,
and foreign affairs, along with senior OYAK executives, described the
agreement as strategically significant, saying it would strengthen economic
ties between the two countries and pave the way for major development
projects.

 

Read the original article on Shabelle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 


 


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INVESTORS DIARY 2025

 


Company

Event

Venue

Date & Time

 


 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 


Companies under Cautionary

 

 

 


 

 

 

 


CBZH

GetBucks

EcoCash

 


Padenga

Econet

RTG

 


Fidelity

TSL

FMHL

 


 

 

 

 


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companies typically involve a higher degree of risk and more volatility than
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for guideline purposes only and d from third parties.

 


 

 


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