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One of the governorship aspirants under the under the platform of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State ahead of the 2027 elections, Dr Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has announced his withdrawal.

Adediran on Thursday, addressing the media, party leaders of the Lagos4Lagos Movement, and his supporters at Liberty House, Adeniyi Jones Secretariat in Ikeja.

His decision comes days after President Bola Tinubu endorsed the incumbent Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

“Within hours after I purchased my nomination forms, there were developments, including a meeting involving the President and the Deputy Governor,” Jandor explained.

It was subsequently made known that the President had endorsed Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

“Based on my earlier position that I will align with the direction of the President, I have decided to withdraw from the race.”

BREAKING: Jandor withdraws from 2027 Lagos governorship race

The outgoing 13th President and Chairman of Council of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Oluropo Samuel Dada, FCS, is a seasoned investment professional. Having previously served as the Institute’s 2nd and 1st Vice President, he was elected President in July 2024.

In this interview with Chris UGWU of THE WHISTLER, he shares his perspectives on key developments in Nigeria’s capital market and economy, as well as the notable achievements that defined his tenure.

What is your outlook for Nigeria’s capital market in Q2 2026?

The outlook for Q2 2026 is cautiously optimistic. We expect a gradual improvement in market activity, driven by macroeconomic stabilisation, policy reforms, and renewed investor interest. However, inflationary pressures and exchange rate volatility remain key risks that could moderate growth.

You will recall that the equities market recorded a 51 per cent gain in 2025, and as of 21 April 2026, the market had gained about 40 per cent. This is significant. From my perspective, the outlook for the second quarter reflects a market that has regained investors’ confidence, owing largely to the priority attached to ethical governance by the SEC, NGX, and other exchanges.

It is also important to note that most of the results released by listed firms showed some level of improvement. In light of this, the market is expected to record further growth.

However, there may still be some fluctuations as a result of profit-taking. The performance of the second quarter will also be influenced by the broader macroeconomic environment and geopolitical developments. Overall, I am confident that the market will grow beyond the inflation rate in Q2.

How would you assess the current investment climate in Nigeria?

The investment landscape is evolving, but it is still constrained in several respects. There is growing sophistication among institutional investors, but retail participation remains relatively low. Confidence is improving gradually, especially with ongoing reforms in the financial sector.

How did CIS drive capacity building and professional development under your leadership?

We prioritised human capital development through continuous professional education, examination reforms, and specialised training programmes. The goal was to ensure that our members remain competitive in an evolving market shaped by technology, regulation, and global integration. We also expanded our digital learning platforms to improve accessibility.

Which institutional reforms or innovations best define your tenure?

We strengthened governance structures, improved internal processes, and embraced digital transformation in our operations. In addition, we focused on enhancing transparency, improving member engagement, and aligning the Institute more closely with global best practices in the securities market.

What key strategic initiatives did your administration deliver?

I would like to emphasise that this is the result of a collective effort. We provided responsible leadership by fostering collaboration and teamwork across the Institute, while also strengthening partnerships with other trade groups and professional associations in the financial market. We spearheaded high-level engagements with federal and state governments, as well as the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), and maintained a strong balance sheet through prudent resource management and well-structured policy initiatives.

The Federal Government recognised CIS as a champion of the $1 trillion economy. The number of students sitting for our examinations has increased exponentially, with many non-finance professionals regularising their membership. We also restructured the Institute by sustaining a highly skilled and capable workforce.

How has CIS contributed to strengthening investor confidence in the market?

Through advocacy, ethical enforcement, and collaboration with regulators, the Institute has played an important role in reinforcing trust in the market. By promoting professionalism among stockbrokers and improving public education, we have helped to reduce information asymmetry and improve investor awareness.

What major challenges did the Institute face during your tenure?

The key challenges included navigating macroeconomic instability, managing limited resources, adapting to rapid technological changes, and addressing low public awareness of the securities profession. Despite these challenges, we remained focused on strengthening the Institute’s resilience and relevance.

What guidance would you offer your successor as CIS President?

My advice to my successor is to build on the foundations already laid by deepening reforms, embracing innovation, and strengthening stakeholder collaboration. It is important to sustain professional standards, expand digital transformation, and continue advocacy for greater retail investor participation. Equally important is maintaining strong relationships with regulators and ensuring that the Institute remains forward-looking in a rapidly changing financial environment.

How would you like your tenure to be remembered?

I would like my tenure to be remembered for strengthening professionalism within the stockbroking community, enhancing institutional credibility, and contributing to a more resilient and trusted capital market. Most importantly, I hope it will be seen as a period that advanced capacity building and positioned the Institute for future growth. I also consider my emphasis on ethical governance to be a key part of that legacy.

What are the biggest challenges facing investment and stockbroking firms in Nigeria today?

Key challenges include macroeconomic instability, low market liquidity, high operating costs, regulatory compliance burdens, and limited retail investor engagement. In addition, gaps in technology adoption and capital constraints also affect competitiveness.

With regulators shutting down over 400 fraudulent schemes, how is CIS tackling Ponzi operations?

CIS works closely with the Securities and Exchange Commission and other stakeholders to enhance investor education, professional ethics, and public awareness. We are also strengthening certification standards and promoting financial literacy campaigns to help investors identify and avoid fraudulent schemes.

What impact has the Securities and Investment Act had on the capital market?

The passage of the Securities and Investment Bill into law has strengthened regulatory clarity, improved investor protection, and modernised the legal framework of the capital market. It has also enhanced enforcement capacity and aligned the market more closely with global standards.

How is CIS boosting retail investor participation, particularly in mutual funds?

We are working to deepen financial literacy, support product innovation, and encourage asset managers to design retail-friendly mutual funds. We also collaborate with regulators and market operators to improve access and simplify investment processes.

What opportunities exist for investors in an emerging economy like Nigeria?

Nigeria retains strong long-term prospects due to its large population, youthful demographics, and expanding digital economy. If structural reforms continue to yield results, the capital market will become an even more important driver of wealth creation and infrastructure financing.

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How are global geopolitical tensions shaping Nigeria’s investment climate?

Geopolitical tensions introduce uncertainty into global markets, often triggering risk aversion and a shift of capital toward safe-haven assets. While economies like Nigeria may not always be at the centre of such conflicts, the indirect effects can be substantial, particularly through oil price volatility, foreign exchange pressures, and shifts in investor sentiment.

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What key lessons should CEOs draw from rising global uncertainties?

For Chief Executive Officers, the key lesson is the importance of building resilient and adaptable business strategies. This includes strengthening risk management frameworks to respond effectively to external shocks, diversifying revenue streams and supply chains to reduce exposure to vulnerable markets, maintaining adequate liquidity buffers and flexible financing options, closely monitoring macroeconomic indicators such as oil prices and exchange rates, and communicating proactively with stakeholders to sustain confidence during periods of uncertainty. Ultimately, CEOs who prepare for geopolitical volatility are better positioned not only to safeguard their organisations, but also to seize emerging opportunities in times of global disruption.

INTERVIEW: Economic Headwinds Still Cloud Nigeria’s Investment Outlook — Dada, Ex-CIS President is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Nigerian singer, Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has spoken about the impact of Lagos on his career, revealing that the city was crucial to his maturity journey.

Asake, who relocated to Lagos after graduating from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ille-Ife, said the city nurtured him into manhood.

Speaking in a recent interview with Spotify, the Sungba crooner said Lagos inspired many of his songs.

“Lagos taught me how to live like a man. Lagos inspired most of my songs,” he said.

The singer said he is grateful to God that his talent is being appreciated worldwide, noting that there are far more talented artists than him who are not been heard.

He said, “I’m happy because there are a lot of people who make music out there and a lot of people who are more talented than me. I’m thankful to God that I’m able to use the talent He gave me -not only locally but also globally. So for that, I give all thanks to God.”

Many musicians far more talented than me but not heard – Asake

The United Kingdom, High Commissioner in Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, and the Deputy High Commissioner, Gill Lever, have visited political leaders and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC officials ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The UK High Commission disclosed this in a statement posted on its X handle on Thursday.

The Commission vowed to work with all contending political parties to ensure inclusive and credible elections.

“We look forward to working with all parties and the interns community to support inclusive & credible elections”, the post added.

Those visited include the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, 2023 presidential candidates, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Amupitan.

According to TVC News, the visits were about developments in Nigeria’s political and democratic processes.

UK High Commission visits INEC, Atiku, Obi ahead of 2027 elections [PHOTOS]

The Nigeria Customs Service in Bauchi State says its newly established Abdulsamad Rabiu Nigerian Customs Hospital is open to the general public.

Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Sanusi Rimi, who also serves as Chief Consultant and Zonal Medical Officer of the facility, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Bauchi.

Rimi said the hospital, located in Yelwa Tudu, is a multi-specialist facility developed through a public-private partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Abdulsamad Rabiu Africa Initiative.

He said the hospital is designed to serve customs personnel, other paramilitary agencies, the military, as well as civilians seeking quality healthcare.

According to him, the facility offers services across nine departments, including specialised units such as obstetrics and gynaecology, surgery, and internal medicine.

He added that the obstetrics and gynaecology department provides antenatal and postnatal care, while the surgery unit handles various operations and the medical department manages conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

Rimi further said the hospital also has paediatric, dental and nutrition units to cater to children, oral health needs and dietary counselling.

He disclosed that the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, is facilitating the development of additional diagnostic services, including X-ray and ultrasound.

“The ultrasound unit is already operational and being used for patients, with services priced to remain affordable,” he said.

The zonal medical officer added that the hospital operates a 24-hour emergency unit and is working to deploy electronic medical records, alongside outpatient and inpatient services.

“I want people to know that this hospital is meant to serve the entire people of Bauchi and neighbouring states. They should not hesitate to access proper healthcare,” he said.

Rimi said 123 patients had been treated in April alone, noting that patronage continues to grow.

He explained that both customs officers and civilians currently pay about 50 per cent of standard treatment costs as part of the agency’s corporate social responsibility.

He added that the facility is already easing access to healthcare, as residents no longer need to travel long distances for treatment.

Customs Hospital In Bauchi Opens Services To Public – Official is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Defence Headquarters says troops neutralised no fewer than 216 terrorists and apprehended 284 suspects in a series of coordinated operations conducted across various theatres in April.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja while briefing newsmen on ongoing military operations nationwide.

Onoja said the troops also rescued scores of kidnapped civilians, dismantled terrorist enclaves, and destroyed logistics networks in sustained offensives carried out across the six geopolitical zones.

According to him, the operations, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies and supported by local communities, have significantly degraded the operational capabilities of insurgents and criminal elements.

In the North East, Onoja said troops of Operation HADIN KAI sustained aggressive operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states.

He said the troops neutralised 136 terrorists, apprehended 114 suspects and rescued abducted civilians as well as recorded the surrender of nine insurgents and their families.

Onoja noted that notable operations included the rescue of 90 captives from the Mandara Mountains and the repelling of a major terrorist attack on April 24, during which 21 insurgents were killed and weapons recovered.

He added that coordinated ground and air operations in the Timbuktu Triangle and Sambisa Forest further led to the neutralisation of terrorists and destruction of enclaves.

In the North West, Onoja said troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA neutralised 24 terrorists, arrested two suspects and rescued 70 kidnapped victims across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara states.

He said troops also destroyed terrorist camps, rescued abducted worshippers and intercepted a suspect conveying improvised explosive device materials.

In the North Central, Onoja said troops of Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD recorded significant gains in Niger and adjoining states.

“Within the period, troops neutralised 21 terrorists, arrested 17 suspects and rescued 10 kidnapped victims.

“Troops also destroyed criminal camps, recovered arms and repelled attacks on communities without recording casualties on own troops,” he said.

Similarly, the defence spoken said troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralised 18 terrorists, arrested four suspects and rescued 53 kidnapped victims across Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba states.

According to him, troops also recovered N8 million ransom from kidnappers and returned it to victims, while drone-supported operations led to further arrests.

He further disclosed that Joint Task Force operations in Plateau, Kogi and surrounding areas led to the neutralisation of 14 terrorists, arrest of 40 suspects and rescue of 35 victims.

Onoja assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would sustain the ongoing offensive against terrorists and criminal elements across the country.

He reiterated the military’s commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation while ensuring the safety of citizens.

“The Armed Forces remain resolute and will continue to intensify operations to ensure lasting peace and security across the country,” he said.

Troops Neutralise 216 Terrorists, Apprehend 284 In April – DHQ is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Manchester United legend, Paul Scholes, has criticized Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard.

Scholes said the Norway midfielder is a big problem for Arsenal, adding that he hasn’t played his position properly this season.

Speaking about Odegaard’s struggles on the latest episode of The Overlap Fan Debate, Scholes said, “That game on Saturday [Arsenal vs Newcastle], I didn’t see all of it, I probably saw the first half an hour, but I think Odegaard is a big problem for them.

“I love Odegaard, I think he’s brilliant. Technically, he’s great, but he doesn’t play his position properly.

“Half the time I saw him in the first 20 minutes, he was almost the deepest man.”

He’s big problem for Arsenal, doesn’t play his position properly’ – Scholes slams Odegaard

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s $700 million worth 130-kilometer Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben, OB3, Gas Pipeline has finally completed crossing the River Niger, 10 years after the project to expand Nigeria’s national gas transmission network began in 2016.

NNPCL’s spokesperson, Andy Odey, announced the historic milestone in a statement on Thursday.

The state-owned firm said the successful crossing would unlock the full potential of the OB3 Pipeline, aimed at connecting the eastern gas network to western and northern Nigeria.

Commenting on the development, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Bayo Ojulari, described the milestone as a testament to disciplined execution and technical excellence.

According to him, “The completion of the OB3 River Niger Crossing is a defining milestone for Nigeria’s gas infrastructure and a clear demonstration of what disciplined execution and sustained commitment to excellence can deliver.

“By successfully traversing one of the most technically challenging sections of the project, we have unlocked a critical link that will enhance gas supply reliability, deepen domestic utilization, and support power generation and industrial growth across the country.”
The OB3 Pipeline, with a capacity of 2 billion standard cubic feet per day, serves as a backbone gas infrastructure linking the Eastern gas network to the Western network and extending connectivity to the Northern corridor through the AKK Pipeline.

In the near term, the successful crossing is expected to unlock over 500 million standard cubic feet of incremental gas supply for the domestic market, supporting power generation, industrial growth, and gas supply to the West African market.
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Recall that in June last year, the AKK gas pipeline project also successfully completed the River Niger crossing.

NNPCL finally completes OB3 gas pipeline River Niger crossing after 10 years

Nigeria’s development challenge is not merely a national dilemma. It is fundamentally a subnational issue that reflects deeper structural distortions within the federation. The federating units, which should function as engines of growth and hubs of innovation, have frequently underperformed due to institutional weaknesses, fiscal dependency, and limited governance capacity.

If Nigeria must truly unlock its vast economic and human potential, then deliberate attention must shift toward strengthening states as the primary drivers of sustainable development, productivity, and long-term national transformation.

For decades, an over-centralised governance system has suppressed initiative, weakened accountability, and constrained policy creativity at the state level. Many states became heavily reliant on federal allocations instead of building resilient, diversified, and productive local economies. This pattern discouraged innovation, reduced competitiveness, and slowed socio-economic advancement. A clear and strategic shift is therefore necessary. States must transition from dependency to productivity, with a renewed focus on economic diversification, efficient resource management, and structured growth.

The path forward lies in strengthening institutions and adopting pragmatic, result-oriented governance approaches. Each state possesses distinct comparative advantages in agriculture, commerce, natural resources, and human capital development. Unlocking these opportunities requires visionary leadership, coherent policy frameworks, and disciplined execution. It also demands the removal of bureaucratic constraints and the creation of an enabling environment that actively promotes investment, entrepreneurship, industrialisation, and enterprise sustainability.

In this evolving context, Abia State provides a relevant and instructive example of how deliberate reforms can begin to yield measurable and visible results. Without overstating its progress, the state has recorded notable improvements in revitalising commercial activity, supporting small and medium-scale enterprises, and upgrading critical infrastructure, particularly within key economic clusters such as Aba. While challenges persist, these reform-driven efforts demonstrate that purposeful leadership, strategic planning, and policy consistency can reposition a state toward sustainable growth, increased productivity, and renewed investor confidence.

It is equally important to advance fiscal federalism beyond rhetoric into actionable and practical implementation. States should have greater control over their resources while upholding strong standards of transparency, accountability, and prudent fiscal management. This balanced framework will promote healthy competition, strengthen governance institutions, and stimulate innovation across the federation. At the same time, sustained investment in education, healthcare, technical skills acquisition, and critical infrastructure remains essential for inclusive growth and long-term socio-economic stability.

Ultimately, Nigeria’s future will be shaped by how effectively its states perform and respond to the evolving demands of governance and development. The emerging progress in Abia, alongside similar reform-oriented efforts in other forward-looking states, illustrates that meaningful transformation is both possible and achievable. Fixing Nigeria begins with building stronger, more capable states that can govern efficiently, drive inclusive economic expansion, and deliver tangible, lasting improvements in the quality of life for their people.

-Dr Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, writes from Onuaku, Uturu, Isuikwuato, Abia State

OPINION: Fixing Nigeria Starts With Fixing States is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Nineteen persons abducted during a communal clash between Ukpute community in Oju Local Government Area and Adiko community in Obi Local Government Area of Benue State have been rescued by security operatives.

The crisis reportedly began on Monday after a woman from Ukpute community was allegedly attacked and severely injured while working on her farm.

The incident was said to have sparked retaliation by some youths, leading to the abduction of 19 people and rising tension in the affected communities.

In response to the unrest, the Chairmen of Oju and Obi local government areas, Ominyi Jackson Adah and Silas Odeh, mobilised security personnel, including soldiers and police officers, to restore order in the troubled areas.

Officials confirmed that the coordinated security operation led to the successful rescue of all the abducted victims, who have since reunited with their families.

The two council chairmen also visited Ukpute community in Ainu Ette as part of efforts to calm tensions and encourage peaceful dialogue among residents.

During the visit, the leaders appealed to both communities to avoid further reprisals and embrace peaceful coexistence, warning that renewed violence could worsen the situation.

Meanwhile, the Omi Ny’Igede Youth Wing Development Association called for urgent humanitarian support for residents displaced by the violence.

The group urged the Benue State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency to provide relief materials for affected families.

According to the association, many victims of the clash are currently in need of food supplies, shelter, and medical assistance following the disruption caused by the conflict.

Communal clashes in Benue State are frequently linked to disputes over land ownership and community boundaries, with authorities consistently advocating dialogue and early intervention to prevent escalation.

Security personnel have continued to maintain their presence in the affected communities as calm gradually returns.

19 abducted persons rescued as Benue communal clash triggers tension