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The Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc generated N20.28bn from transaction and depository fees in the financial year ended December 31, 2025, underscoring strong growth in market activity and reinforcing its position at the core of Nigeria’s capital market infrastructure.

Details from the company’s 2025 annual financial report show that the figure represents a 70.88 per cent increase from the N11.87bn recorded in 2024. The combined income from transaction and depository services accounted for 87.4 per cent of the group’s total revenue of N23.21bn during the period under review.

A breakdown of the performance indicates that transaction fees remained the primary revenue driver, rising sharply to N15.44bn from N7.91bn in the previous year, reflecting a 95.26 per cent growth. The segment alone contributed 66.52 per cent of total revenue, highlighting increased trading volumes and sustained investor participation in the Nigerian equities market.

Depository fees also recorded steady growth, increasing by 22.26 per cent to N4.85bn in 2025 from N3.96bn in 2024, further supporting the group’s earnings profile.

Transaction fees, typically charged as a percentage of the value of executed trades, remain a fundamental cost component for investors, while depository fees are earned from custodial and settlement services provided by the institution.

Speaking at the company’s 32nd Annual General Meeting, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Shehu Shantali, said the strong performance was achieved despite a dynamic operating environment.

He noted that the group’s total revenue rose by 66 per cent to N23.21bn, while total operating income reached N28.67bn, demonstrating the scalability of its business model.

According to him, operating profit climbed significantly to N8.71bn, with operating margin expanding to 37.5 per cent from 10.7 per cent recorded in the previous year, reflecting improved cost discipline and operational efficiency.

Profit before tax stood at N13.57bn, while profit after tax closed at N9.90bn. The company also strengthened its balance sheet, with total equity increasing to N43.49bn, a development Shantali said reinforces the institution’s long-term sustainability.

Beyond financial performance, CSCS reported key operational and technological milestones achieved during the year. These include the implementation of a comprehensive internal data integrity initiative aimed at improving the reliability of its systems and processes.

The company also completed an upgrade of its core application, enhancing system capacity and scalability to meet evolving market demands.

A major highlight of the year was the successful transition of Nigeria’s equity settlement cycle from T+3 to T+2, achieved in collaboration with regulators and other market participants. The shift is expected to improve market liquidity, reduce counterparty risk, and align Nigeria’s capital market operations with global standards.

In addition, CSCS expanded its digital ecosystem with the launch of RegConnect 2.0, a Custodian Portal, and a redesigned Brokers Portal, alongside enhanced API integration capabilities to support market participants.

At the regional level, the company hosted the annual conference of the Africa and Middle East Depositories Association in Lagos, bringing together stakeholders to discuss innovation and integration across capital markets.

Looking ahead, CSCS said it is entering a new phase of growth following the conclusion of its 2021–2025 strategic plan. The company plans to focus on digital transformation, automation of post-trade processes, improved data analytics, enhanced cybersecurity, and deeper system integration across the financial ecosystem.

It also indicated plans to work with regulators and stakeholders towards achieving a T+1 settlement cycle in the future, further improving market efficiency and reducing settlement risks.

The company added that evolving regulatory requirements, including revised capital thresholds introduced by the Securities and Exchange Commission, are expected to strengthen the overall resilience and governance of market operators, ultimately boosting investor confidence.

CSCS reiterated its commitment to investing in talent development, innovation, and institutional capacity as it continues to support the growth and stability of Nigeria’s capital market.

CSCS Fee Income Jumps 71% To N20.28bn Amid Market Boom is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc has commenced plans to raise approximately N485.9bn through a rights issue, as part of efforts to strengthen its capital base and support ongoing expansion initiatives.

The company disclosed that it has submitted an application to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) seeking approval for the listing of 8,097,918,827 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at a price of N60.00 per share.

The proposed offer will be executed on the basis of two new ordinary shares for every three existing shares held.

According to the filing, the rights issue is expected to provide existing shareholders with the opportunity to increase their equity stake in the company while enabling the firm to raise fresh capital to fund strategic growth objectives and enhance operational capacity.

The qualification date for the offer has been fixed for April 20, 2026, meaning that only shareholders whose names appear on the company’s register as at the close of business on that date will be eligible to participate in the rights issue.

The transaction is being handled by a consortium of stockbrokers, including Meristem Stockbrokers Limited, Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers Limited and Vetiva Securities Limited, who are acting on behalf of the company in securing regulatory approvals and facilitating the offer process.

Market analysts note that the proposed capital raise ranks among the largest equity issuances in recent years on the Nigerian bourse, reflecting the company’s ambition to scale operations and consolidate its position within the sugar industry.

They added that the pricing of the offer and the 2-for-3 structure could drive strong shareholder participation, particularly given the company’s established market presence and growth outlook.

The development comes amid increased capital-raising activities in the Nigerian equities market, as corporates seek to take advantage of improved investor sentiment and liquidity conditions to finance expansion and navigate evolving economic dynamics.

Dangote Sugar Plans N485.9bn Capital Raise Via Rights Issue is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

 The Catalyst Symposium Akure, themed “Ma’ami Ajulo XCI: Legacy & Girl Child Mentorship,” concluded on a high note on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the T.I. Francis Auditorium, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA).

The one-day event brought together a diverse audience of enthusiastic young girls, students, emerging leaders, professionals, and mentors for an inspiring blend of intellectual discourse and vibrant cultural expressions.

The symposium was designed to empower the girl child, encouraging her to break societal barriers, take bold actions from an early age, and deliberately build enduring legacies that will transform future generations.

The programme was professionally moderated by Adeyemo Ademola Richard and Dr. Macaulay Barnabas, whose seamless coordination and engaging facilitation maintained a vibrant and impactful atmosphere throughout the day.

The event opened with a powerful Welcome Address by the Convener, Arogundade Dolapo, who charged participants to see mentorship as a vital bridge to holistic transformation. He urged young girls in the audience to intentionally craft their own legacies through courage, wise daily choices, and consistent purposeful action.

This edition of the symposium was specially inspired by the 91st birthday celebration of Princess Chief (Mrs) Christianah Monisola Ajulo, the mother of the Attorney General of Ondo State, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, OON, SAN, whose life of grace, wisdom, and service continues to inspire girl child mentorship and legacy building across communities.

In a special appearance, the Keynote Address was delivered on behalf of Professor Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, the first female Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, by Prof. M. T. Olowookere, Director of the Centre for Gender Issues in Science and Technology (CEGIST), FUTA. 

The keynote highlighted Prof. Oladiji’s remarkable journey of academic excellence and leadership, serving as a powerful example of what is possible when girls dare to dream big and lead with integrity.

One of the most energising sessions was delivered by Adeoye Dideoluwa Goodness, popularly known as Lady Arise. In her presentation titled “Becoming the Girl Who Starts: Igniting Bold Action and Building a Legacy Early,” the brand strategist and founder of VOGENTI and LUMA challenged participants to move from passive dreaming to immediate and courageous execution.

The programme featured a refreshing cultural interlude with FUTA students and scholars presenting a soul-stirring Ewi (traditional Yoruba eulogy), a thought-provoking drama skit, and deeply moving spoken word performances that celebrated the resilience and leadership potential of the girl child.

Other notable sessions included:

•  Mary Sabo’s practical talk on “Turning Confusion into Clarity and What That Looks Like in Real Life: Skills and Hacks.”

•  Adegunle Boluwatife Grace’s insightful presentation on “Girl Child Issues in Leadership and Professional Space,” with emphasis on professionalism, resilience, and sustainable development.

•  Rahaman Adekunle Yusuf’s session on “From Silence to Voice: The Power of Journalism in Empowering the Girl Child and Building Generational Legacies.”

•  Adekunle Morire Mercy’s candid address on “Low Self-Esteem in a Girl Child,” drawing from her personal journey as a skincare therapist, model, and businesswoman.

•  Ajimuda Peace Boluwatife’s closing presentation titled “She Didn’t See It, So She Became It,” sharing her inspiring entrepreneurial journey from the University of Ilorin to building successful food business franchises in Ibadan and Akure.

Participants left the symposium with renewed minds, ignited spirits, strengthened confidence, and practical tools to become bold starters, confident voices, and intentional legacy builders for the girl child, not only in Nigeria but across the African continent.

The lawmaker representing Sokoto East Senatorial District in the upper legislative chamber, Senator Ibrahim Lamido has formerly resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

In a letter dated April 22, 2026 and addressed to the APC Chairman in Isa South Ward, Isa Local Government Area of the state, the lawmaker cited persisting internal leadership crisis in the state chapter of the ruling party as reason for his decision.

The decision, according to him, was not “taken lightly”, stressing that the “ongoing internal party crisis, suspicion and unfair party leadership style within the party in Sokoto State has made it increasingly difficult for me to continue my membership in good conscience”.

The lawmaker added that the “persistent divisions, lack of cohesion, and unresolved disputes have significantly hindered the progress and unity that the party once stood for.

“I remain grateful for the opportunity to have served and contributed to the party during my time as a member. I wish the party well in its efforts to overcome its present challenges and move forward in unity”.

DAILY POST gathered that Senator Lamido is set to pick the membership card of the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

Sokoto lawmaker, Ibrahim Lamido formerly dumps APC, to join ADC

US President Donald Trump was rushed offstage at the White House correspondents’ dinner on Saturday evening after shots were fired.

Trump, who was unharmed, had been sitting at the top table at the black-tie event at the Washington Hilton when multiple gunshots were heard around 8.30pm, shortly after the event got under way.

As Secret Service agents ran into the packed ballroom, attendees dropped to the floor and hid under tables as the US president, first lady Melania Trump and vice-president JD Vance were ushered off the stage.

Officials later confirmed that a suspect had run towards the ballroom’s entrance, but was quickly apprehended by Secret Service officers.

Trump said at a media briefing later at the White House that a Secret Service officer outside the ballroom was shot in the vest, but was “doing great”.

The suspect and wounded agent were being treated at a local hospital, according to Washington mayor Muriel Bowser. Police said the suspect was carrying a shotgun, handgun and a number of knives, and was registered as a guest at the hotel.

The US president said at the briefing that the suspect was a “very sick person” from California and was likely a “lone wolf”. An image of the suspect was posted on Trump’s Truth Social account.

The suspect was later charged with two counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence and assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon, and was due to appear in court on Monday.

Trump Rushed Offstage After Gunshots At White House Dinner is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Millwall winger, Femi Azeez has pledged his international allegiance to Nigeria, DAILY POST reports.

Azeez, who was born in England to a Nigerian father and Spanish mother, is eligible to represent the three countries.

The 24-year-old has, however, opted to play for the Super Eagles after he was approached by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, according to Footmercato.net.

Super Eagles head coach, Éric Chelle recently stated that he would comb Europe for Nigerian-born players ahead of his side’s participation at next month’s 2026 Unity Cup.

Azeez is now expected to be named in the Super Eagles squad for the friendly invitational tournament.

The talented winger has impressed for Millwall this season, providing nine goals, and eight assists in 34 league appearances.

The former Reading player was also included in the Sky Bet Championship Team of the Season.

Super Eagles: Millwall winger commits international future to Nigeria

Bayern Munich have finally decided not to sign Chelsea striker, Nicolas Jackson on a permanent transfer at the end of the season.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Jackson will return to the Premier League west London club in June as Bayern are not triggering the €65m buy option clause in his loan deal.

As a result, Chelsea and Jackson’s camp will assess the player’s future with a possible new move in the summer.

Recall that Jackson had joined Bayern on a season-long loan deal from Chelsea last summer.

The Senegalese international was not in manager Enzo Maresca’s plans for the current season.

However, Jackson could end up playing for Chelsea next season when a new permanent manager is appointed.

Recall that Maresca had parted ways with the Bleus a few months ago, while his replacement, Liam Rosenior, was recently sacked.

Bayern Munich take final decision on signing Chelsea striker, Nicolas Jackson on permanent transfer

United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were abruptly evacuated on Saturday night after gunfire erupted near the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C.

The incident occurred at the venue’s main security screening area when a man armed with a shotgun attempted to breach security and opened fire, according to officials.

A United States Secret Service agent was struck but escaped injury due to protective gear.

Security operatives swiftly removed the president, first lady, and other senior officials from the hall as panic spread among the roughly 2,600 attendees.

Guests reportedly dove for cover under tables while agents secured the area.

Among those forced to the ground by security were senior cabinet members, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.

Authorities confirmed that the suspect was quickly apprehended, and no government officials were harmed.

In a post on Truth Social shortly after the incident, Trump praised law enforcement, stating that all top officials, including the vice president and cabinet members, were “in perfect condition.”

“Shooter had been apprehended.”

“Quite an evening in D.C. Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job,” Trump added.

He also announced plans to address the nation at a press conference later that night.

The event was subsequently cancelled, with Trump expressing hope it could be rescheduled within 30 days.

Trump, top US officials evacuated as armed man attacks White House dinner

 

There is panic over the fate of some clerics with the Redeemed Christian Church of God and Christ Apostolic Church who were reportedly abducted by gunmen at Odo-Eri community in the Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.

While the police authorities claimed to have intensified efforts to rescue the victims, who were kidnapped along with some family members, there have been no response from the affected church leadership.

It was gathered that the gunmen, who were close to 30 in number, stormed the community around 10pm on Wednesday.

They were said to be on motorcycles as they fired indiscrimninately to scare residents.

The hoodlums then proceeded to abduct the clerics, their wives, children and other residents.

Although the actual number of victims have not been confirmed, a source said that no fewer than 20 persons were taken away from the community.

The attackers were said to have fled via Abewo Road towards Kwara State.

Efforts to speak with the state Police Public Relations Officer, Afusat Saliu, on Saturday proved abortive as she was not reachable.

However, Saliu had earlier confirmed the incident to TVC News.

She said security operatives had been deployed in the area, with efforts ongoing to rescue the victims and apprehend the perpetrators.

When contacted, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in the state, Apostle Olaniyan Adebayo, told Sunday PUNCH that the Department of State Services issued a security alert prompting precautionary measures across churches in some parts of the state.

Adebayo said, “The DSS called me and asked me to call the churches in those places based on the intelligence report they had. We alerted all the churches on Wednesday and Thursday concerning it. We sent messages to those churches through their coordinators in the local government.”

He noted that the early warning helped ensure that some church leaders and members were aware of the situation and took necessary precautions.

The Redeemed Christian Church of God declined comment when contacted 

A senior official, who claimed not to be aware of the incident, said he had escalated it to the relevant authority.

Josephina ‘Phyna’ Otabor, the winner of Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) season seven, has revealed a significant personal shift in priorities: she now prefers raising pets over having children.

The reality TV star spoke about her perspective during a recent livestream session, explaining that her mindset has evolved as she approaches her 30s.

The 28-year-old reality star argued that women who have endured multiple heartbreaks often redirect their nurturing instincts toward animals.