Germany and Nigerian public policy think tank, Nextier, have explored the evolving landscape of German-Nigerian cooperation, focusing on economic growth, security, climate resilience, and investment opportunities.

 

The discussion was featured in the latest episode of Nextier’s Crossing Perspectives podcast, where Nextier’s Managing Partner, Dr. Ndu Nwokolo, engaged with the Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy in Nigeria, Ambassador Johannes Lehne.

 

Lehne noted Germany’s longstanding partnership with Nigeria and the country’s improving economic climate, attributing it to the reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu.

 

“Inflation is decreasing, foreign exchange reserves are stabilising, and oil production is picking up,” he said.

 

He observed that German companies are showing increased interest in Nigeria, reflecting growing confidence in the business environment.

 

He added that Germany’s approach to development aid in Nigeria is shifting from crisis management to investment and business promotion.

 

“We will put more investment into the country. We will shift from crisis management to promoting businesses,” he stated, while also reaffirming Germany’s commitment to bolstering Nigeria’s defence sector.

 

According to him, Germany has already established a military support programme with the Nigerian Armed Forces and is likely to increase its assistance. He also highlighted Germany’s role in strengthening ECOWAS’ counterterrorism capabilities by providing mobile headquarters, hospitals, and logistics infrastructure.

 

On concerns over potential budget cuts in climate resilience, food security, and gender-related initiatives, Lehne reassured that funding remains intact.

 

“The Green Party in Germany secured €100 billion for climate, resilience, and gender programs. As the United States reduces its aid footprint, Germany will step in to fill the gap,” he said.

 

Germany, he added, will maintain its active development cooperation through GIZ, focusing on energy, agriculture, and job creation, including expanding the African Power Program for regional electricity integration.

On migration, Lehne acknowledged the desperation that pushes young Nigerians to seek illegal routes abroad but warned against the dangers of human trafficking networks.

 

“Don’t do it. It’s highly dangerous. Criminals exploit migrants, and the journey is filled with risks,” he cautioned.

 

Instead, he noted that Germany is working on a legal migration agreement with Nigeria to create structured opportunities for skilled workers.

Lehne also highlighted Germany’s investment in Nigeria’s energy transition and infrastructure development, citing projects such as the West African Power Program, which aims to integrate electricity networks across the region.

 

Regarding Nigeria’s critical minerals sector, he revealed that German companies have begun exploring opportunities, conducting satellite mapping of resources, and engaging with state governments.

 

However, he stressed that security and energy infrastructure must improve to attract sustainable foreign investment.

 

The discussion also addressed challenges facing ECOWAS, particularly the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Lehne compared the situation to Brexit, stating that ECOWAS must decide whether to tolerate military rule or uphold democratic values.

 

“Countries cannot cherry-pick benefits without sharing responsibilities,” he said.

 

With an upcoming transition in the German government, he predicted heightened defence investments due to global security concerns.

 

He noted that Germany recently strengthened military cooperation with Nigeria through a $2 million defence support programme for 2025–2026 while continuing its counterterrorism support for ECOWAS.

 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, announced the launch of Air Algérie’s inaugural direct flight service from Algiers to Abuja, set to begin on April 6, 2025.

 

This is said to strengthen the diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Algeria.

 

According to a statement signed by the Acting Spokesperson for the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the new route, which is the result of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between the two countries, will be operated by the national carrier, Air Algérie, using a Boeing 737 aircraft.

 

This new service is expected to boost connectivity, encourage tourism, and facilitate trade and investment between Nigeria and Algeria.

 

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the commencement of Air Algerie’s inaugural direct flight service from Algiers to Abuja, scheduled for 6th April 2025.

 

“This historic development marks a significant milestone in the growing diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and Algeria.

 

“It is pertinent to state that it is the implementation of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between both countries, which culminated in this successful venture,” the statement read in part.

 

The ministry also praised the efforts of the Nigerian Embassy in Algiers for its key role in making the flight a reality.

The inaugural flight is expected to carry the Charge d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Algiers, Nigerian community leaders, and representatives from the Algerian government.

 

The Federal Government has extended congratulations to Air Algérie and offered its full support to ensure the success of the new service.

 

With affordable fares and Algeria’s proximity to Europe, the flight also offers Nigerians a convenient gateway to Europe, enhancing Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for business, tourism, and transit.

 

The statement added, “The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant aviation authorities, extends its warm congratulations to Air Algerie and assures all necessary support to ensure the success and sustainability of this new service.

 

“We believe this initiative will further strengthen the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and Algeria, while opening new opportunities for mutual growth.

 

“The affordable fare structure and the proximity of Algeria to Europe would also provide Nigerians with a convenient gateway to Europe, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for business, tourism, and transit.”

The ministry encouraged citizens and businesses to take advantage of this new connectivity to explore opportunities for trade, tourism and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Popular Nigerian Singer, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Face or 2Baba, made a striking appearance on Wednesday at the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja.

 

He arrived with his new partner, Natasha Osawaru, the lawmaker representing Egor Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly and the Deputy Majority Leader.

 

Osawaru was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.

 

The tribunal is poised to deliver its verdict on a petition filed by the PDP and its candidate, Asuerinme Ighodalo, seeking to annul the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress.

In January, 2Baba/2face publicly announced his separation from his wife, Annie Idibia. The following month, he proposed to Natasha, a move that captured widespread attention.

 

Since then, the couple has been seen together frequently, making appearances at social events and shopping outings. Recently, Natasha updated her Instagram bio to reflect the singer’s surname, Idibia.

 

Click the link below to watch the video:

 

https://x.com/MobilePunch/status/1907370962300912000?t=bIDIOIfXrcZeCg-CUplcxg&s=19

 

A Life of Purpose: My 50-year Journey of Impact, Gratitude and Philanthropy – By Aare Adetola Olaniyi Emmanuelking

 

The 2nd of April holds a profound significance for me. This year marks a momentous milestone – my 50th birthday—a celebration of half a century filled with rich experiences and impactful contributions. In stark contrast to the jubilant celebrations of my 40th birthday, which saw the streets of Lagos alive with revelry, I have chosen a path of humility and gratitude to observe this occasion. I plan to reflect quietly on my journey and offer heartfelt thanks to my creator for the many blessings I have received.

 

My life story is truly remarkable. The inspiration for my thriving real estate business was born during a particularly challenging period—while I was recuperating in a hospital. It was then that I envisioned a venture that would transform the housing landscape in Nigeria and beyond. Today, that vision has flourished into a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate, and I have dedicated myself to providing affordable housing solutions. My work has significantly impacted the lives of countless individuals, turning the once homeless into proud homeowners. My innovative approaches have not only disrupted traditional real estate practices but have also inspired many others in the industry to explore similar pathways.

 

I remain profoundly grateful to my creator for enabling me to turn my lofty dreams into reality. I have focused my efforts on addressing the pressing issue of housing in Nigeria, crafting affordable home plans that have set a standard many in the industry have sought to emulate. As a trailblazer in the real estate sector, I have become known as the benchmark for real estate business success in Nigeria. Yet, I eschew lavish displays of wealth and grandeur. Rather than inviting praise from my admirers through elaborate festivities, I am instructing friends and associates to express gratitude on my behalf and to redirect their gifts toward charitable endeavors. This philosophy represents what I view as one of the greatest gifts I could receive for my birthday—bringing joy to those in need.

 

An embodiment of generosity and selflessness, I have intentionally opted against the extravagant celebrations common among billionaires. Instead, I encourage my community to focus their resources on philanthropy during this special time. For me, the opportunity to support and uplift the less fortunate embodies the true spirit of celebration.

In honour of my 50th birthday, I have planned a personal prayer service dedicated to me and my family, which will serve as a moment for reaffirming my commitment to a life devoted to serving God. My gratitude is especially poignant, given the challenges I have overcome. Adversity has met resilience on my journey, and I continuously witness the favour and protection of my creator, which empowers me to thrive despite life’s many obstacles.

 

Moving beyond personal reflection, I am also initiating plans for widespread communal betterment across Nigeria. I aim to donate substantial infrastructure improvements to underserved communities, making tangible contributions to enhance residents’ lives in significant ways. My commitment is symbolized by my pledge to commission 50 impactful projects nationwide, each representing a part of my dedication to fostering positive change and supporting community development.

While I have plans for a well-deserved retreat with my family beyond Nigeria’s borders, I remain grounded in my values and commitment to my community. As my 50th birthday unfolds, many are gathering to honour me in various ways, a testament to the profound influence I have had on their lives and the societal landscape.

 

In line with the wisdom of renowned playwright Professor Femi Osofisan, who insightfully noted that birthdays are not merely for the deceased, I truly appreciate the significance of this milestone, especially within a society where the average life expectancy is less than 50 years. I stand as a beacon of humility, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.

 

Ultimately, as part of my ongoing legacy, I have made it clear that my 50th birthday celebration will revolve around positive societal contributions. Instead of indulging in extravagant expenditures for personal enjoyment, I prioritize investments that will uplift communities across Nigeria. I am determined to ensure that my milestone is marked by meaningful contributions rather than mere indulgence, reaffirming my role as both a property magnate and a dedicated servant to my country and its people.

 

In conclusion, I want to thank you all for your love, wishes, and prayers. May heaven celebrate you all, too. Amen. Happy 50th birthday 🎂 to me.

 

The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on Hong Kong’s police chief, justice secretary and other officials over human rights concerns after China clamped down in the financial hub.

 

The sanctions on Police Commissioner Raymond Siu Chak-yee and the others will block any interests they hold in the United States and generally criminalize financial transactions with them under US law.

 

The sanctions mark a rare action invoking human rights by the administration of President Donald Trump, who has described China as an adversary but has shown no reluctance to ally with autocrats.

 

The sanctions “demonstrate the Trump administration’s commitment to hold to account those responsible for depriving people in Hong Kong of protected rights and freedoms or who commit acts of transnational repression on US soil or against US persons,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement.

 

Other officials targeted in the latest sanctions include Paul Lam, the city’s secretary for justice.

 

In response, Hong Kong strongly condemned the sanctions as “an attempt to intimidate” officials safeguarding national security and defended its moves to target pro-democracy figures abroad.

 

The sanction list “clearly exposed the US’s barbarity under its hegemony, which is exactly the same as its recent tactics in bullying and coercing various countries and regions,” the Hong Kong government said in a statement.

 

The commissioner’s office of China’s foreign ministry in Hong Kong also blasted the sanctions as “unreasonable” and said Beijing will take “effective measures for resolute retaliation.”

 

Hong Kong’s top official, Chief Executive John Lee, is already under US sanctions.

The officials were targeted in line with a US law that champions Hong Kong democracy.

 

– Visa curbs over Tibet –

 

The State Department also pointed to some of the officials’ roles in efforts to “intimidate, silence and harass 19 pro-democracy activists” who fled overseas, including one US citizen and four US residents.

 

Washington’s top diplomat has been outspoken on China’s human rights record dating back to his time as a senator.

 

In a separate action on Monday, Rubio said he was imposing visa restrictions on unspecified Chinese officials in response to denial of access to US diplomats, journalists and others to Tibet.

Rubio earlier also imposed sanctions on officials in Thailand over their deportations back to China of members of the Uyghur minority.

 

Beijing promised a separate system to Hong Kong when Britain handed over the city in 1997.

 

China then cracked down hard against dissent, imposing a draconian national security law, after massive and at times destructive protests in favor of democracy swept Hong Kong in 2019.

 

AFP

 

The lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Tuesday, announced that she would not back out on her plan to return to her constituency for the Sallah break.

 

The senator also urged her supporters to disregard speculations making the round that she has cancelled her scheduled visit.

 

She disclosed this in a statement issued by her media team in the early hours of Tuesday.

 

The statement read, “We are pleased to confirm that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sallah visit to Kogi Central Senatorial District will proceed as planned.

 

“Despite rumours circulating online, there has been no official announcement from our office regarding the cancellation of this visit.”

 

While stating that she has a statutory function in her capacity as the lawmaker representing her constituents, the senator encouraged her supporters to troop out en masse to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with her.

 

“As the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan remains committed to engaging with her community and fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation.

“Her dedication to the people of Kogi Central is unwavering, and she looks forward to celebrating Eid-el-Fitr with her constituents.

 

“We would like to assure the public that all necessary arrangements are in place to ensure a successful and joyous event. We invite all members of the community to join us in marking this special occasion,” the statement added.

 

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s homecoming notification comes a few hours after the Kogi State Government banned rallies and public gatherings in the state over security reports.

 

The government also stopped fishing and other activities, lamenting that they resulted in the loss of two lives in Kasemiya, Katubo and Umozu Ette, all in Kogi Local Government Area in Kogi West.

 

In a statement issued on Monday, the state Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, said the move was to prevent any form of security breach that might destabilise the state.

 

Fanwo added that intelligence reports indicated that some persons were planning to “stage some violent rallies in the guise of political and religious agitations” in Kogi Central.

 

Former Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull drew chuckles Tuesday as he impersonated Donald Trump, urging the nation’s political leaders to contest a general election next month to “stand up” to the US president.

 

Turnbull, who was Australian prime minister when Trump first took office in 2017, briefly adopted a nasal American accent as he mimicked the US commander-in-chief during a speech.

 

Political hopefuls contesting Australia’s May 3 general election should not be scared of angering Trump, Turnbull said.

 

“That’s the challenge for our leaders — they’ve got to be able to stand up,” he began.

 

“If that means they get a brickbat or a Truth Social post saying ‘You’re weak and ineffectual. You don’t know anything about China’,” Turnbull added, aping Trump’s characteristic cadence.

 

“If you’re spooked by that you shouldn’t be in the job,” Turnbull finished while drawing laughs from the crowd.

 

Former conservative leader Turnbull took a swipe at Trump earlier this year, deriding his return to office as “chaotic” and “erratic”.

Trump returned to serve on his Truth Social platform, saying Turnbull was “a weak and ineffective leader” who “never understood what was going on in China”.

 

The pair’s relationship appeared ill-fated from the beginning.

 

Turnbull was among the many leaders who phoned the US president after his shock election victory in 2016.

 

But Trump reportedly later dismissed that call as “the worst by far”.

 

Then-press secretary Sean Spicer then butchered Turnbull’s name twice in a press conference, mistakenly referring to him as “Mr Trumble”.

 

AFP

 

 

*Wema Bank Releases Audited Results for FY 2024, Profit Before Tax Soars 135% to ₦102.5bn Billion; Proposes N1.00 final dividend per share; commences N150bn Rights issue in April 2025*
Lagos, Nigeria – Wema Bank Nigeria (“Wema” or “the Bank”)) has released its audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended December 31st, 2024, to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX).
Wema Bank reported profit before tax of ₦102.51bn, representing an increase of 135% over the ₦43.59bn recorded in the corresponding period in 2023. The Bank also proposed a dividend of N1.00 per share on the back of the impressive result.
The Bank’s Balance sheet remained well structured, diversified and resilient with Total Assets growing by 60% to ₦3,585.05bn in FY 2024 from ₦2,240.06bn in FY 2023. The bank also grew its deposit base year on year by 36% to ₦2,523.82bn from ₦1,860.57bn reported in FY 2023. Loans and Advances grew by 50% to ₦1,201.21bn in FY 2024 from ₦801.10bn in FY, 2023. NPL stood at 3.86% as at end of FY 2024.
The bank recorded improved year on year performance as Gross Earnings grew by 92% to ₦432.34bn (FY 2023: ₦225.75bn). Interest Income was up 92% y/y to ₦353.54bn (FY 2023: ₦184.48bn). Also, Non-Interest Income was up 91% y/y to ₦78.80bn (FY 2023: ₦41.27bn).
Return on Equity (ROAE) of 43.60%, Return on Assets (ROAA) of 2.96%, Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 19.67% and Cost to Income ratio of 56.23% underscore the commercial bank’s resilience and financial strength.
The Managing Director/CEO of the Bank, Mr. Moruf Oseni stated that the strong 2024 FY performance stems from the commercial bank’s focus on strong strategy execution in the key areas of risk management, customer relationship management and digital banking. Our people are committed to the institution’s founding ethos of supporting Nigerian businesses and individuals with the most innovative banking products and services. ALAT our flagship digital platform continues to lead in the adoption of digital banking services across the increasingly young Nigerian populace. An example of this innovation is ALAT XPlore, the first licensed banking App for teenagers designed to help teenagers ages 13-17 build their money management skills, achieve their financial goals and become financially responsible.

Despite the constrained operating environment, the bank continues to experience strong growth across all its financial indices reflecting the quality and resilience of the workforce. The performance is headlined by impressive improvements in Profit before Tax which grew strongly by 135%. The growth of Gross Earnings by 92%, Total Assets by 60% and earnings per share at 483.20kobo shows the core improvements to our balance sheet. In addition, our cost-to-income ratio of 56.23% has witnessed significant improvement from the previous period. Finally, it is important to mention that the Bank’s Capital Raise Program will also commence in April 2025 with a N150bn Rights Issue.

 

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has explained why the Senate confirmed Dr. Bosun Tijani as Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy despite his controversial past, which included calling Nigerian lawmakers “morons.”

 

Akpabio revealed that Tijani’s screening in the Senate was rocky due to this remark, but ultimately, the lawmakers were swayed by their trust in President Bola Tinubu’s judgment.

 

Akpabio spoke on Saturday night at a special Iftar held at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja, to honour President Bola Tinubu who marked his 73rd birthday.

 

The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, revealed some details of the event in a statement on Sunday titled ‘President Tinubu: Why I Appointed Bosun Tijani as Minister Despite Past Criticism.’

 

According to the statement, Akpabio in his remarks noted that Tijani’s screening in the upper chamber was rocky after a senator recounted an instance where Tijani reportedly labelled all lawmakers as “morons.”

 

Akpabio narrated, “When he came to the Senate for screening, senators said, ‘No, no, we can’t have him.’

 

“One senator quoted from the internet where he described all Nigerian senators as ‘morons.’

 

“I had to stop proceedings and ask Bosun, ‘Did you write this?’ And he admitted, ‘Sir, I did because that was how I felt then.’ So I asked him, ‘And you have the audacity to stand before us and expect us to confirm you?’”

 

The Senate President noted that what ultimately swayed the lawmakers was their trust in President Tinubu’s judgment.

 

“Mr. President, we confirmed him because we knew you must have seen something special in him. You are never wrong when it comes to your judgment of people.

 

“I went into an executive session and told my colleagues, ‘Let us give this young man an opportunity and see what happens.’

“And today, I am happy to say that he is one of the best-performing ministers in the cabinet,” he stated.

 

Earlier, President Tinubu recounted how his decision to appoint Tijani as a minister was met with strong reservations from close associates who objected to Tijani’s past critical statements on social media.

 

Despite these objections, the President said he remained steadfast in his choice, acknowledging the minister’s talent and potential for contributing meaningfully to his administration.

“Because he criticises me does not mean he has nothing to offer,” Tinubu revealed on Saturday night at a special Iftar held in his honour at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja, as he turned 73.

 

The President emphasised that the minister’s past criticisms were insufficient reason to discount his ability, suggesting instead that his once-vocal dissatisfaction could fuel a deeper commitment to public service.

 

“When I picked him, it was tough. My very close confidantes, who had read his comments on social media, came to me and said, ‘No, never.’

 

“I said, ‘Yes, he is talented. Because he criticises me and pours abuse on the parliament, it does not mean he has nothing to offer.

 

“Maybe his frustration at that time will drive him to contribute more to governance. And today, he is doing that, and I am very proud of him,’” President Tinubu stated.

 

Tijani, in his remarks, described how he was surprised by the President’s decision to give him “the opportunity to represent your country and contribute to making it a better place,” despite knowing the minister’s past activism and criticisms.

 

“I was expecting a proper scolding because of my records, but the magnanimity of the President is one that I experienced for the very first time in my life,” Tijani said, adding that during a prior meeting, some individuals questioned his record, but the President interjected with a firm, “Shut it.”