Category: Government

  • Minister Imaan Reaffirms Nigeria’s Commitment To Women, Peace and Security Agenda At 25th Anniversary of UN Resolution 1325

    Minister Imaan Reaffirms Nigeria’s Commitment To Women, Peace and Security Agenda At 25th Anniversary of UN Resolution 1325

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, fsi, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to advancing the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda as the world marks the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325).

    In a statement personally signed by the Minister and released by Jonathan Eze, Special Adviser, Media & Publicity to the Honourable Minister, Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the Resolution as “a defining moment that gave the world a new language for peace — one spoken through the courage, strength, and leadership of women.”

    The Minister noted that Nigeria remains one of the first African countries to domesticate the global agenda through the development of its National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace, and Security, which ensures that women’s participation, protection, and leadership are mainstreamed into national security and peacebuilding processes.

    Hon. Imaan stated that, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which prioritizes women, children, families, and vulnerable groups, the Third National Action Plan (NAP 3) has been developed and approved by the President. The new plan, she said, was crafted through an inclusive process involving government agencies, the United Nations system, development partners, and civil society, ensuring collective ownership and accountability.

    She announced that a National Committee will soon be inaugurated to operationalize the Third NAP and coordinate its implementation nationwide. The committee, comprising representatives from relevant ministries, security agencies, and partners, will also oversee activities commemorating 25 years of the global Women, Peace, and Security Agenda.

    The Minister highlighted major institutional reforms that have strengthened gender mainstreaming within Nigeria’s security sector — including the establishment of Gender Desk Offices across the Armed Forces and paramilitary services and the elevation of the Directorate of Gender in the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff.

    She praised the adoption of gender policies by the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), describing them as “bold shifts toward inclusive and accountable security governance.”

    Under these initiatives, Nigeria has recorded historic progress — including the appointment of the first female Director-General of the DSS, female Comptroller Generals of Immigration, the first female Deputy Comptroller General of the NSCDC, and the first female Public Relations Officers of both the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force.

    Hon. Imaan also commended traditional institutions for increasingly appointing women into community leadership roles, describing it as “a significant cultural shift that strengthens peace, governance, and social cohesion.”

    The Minister revealed that 16 States and 21 Local Government Areas have already developed their respective Action Plans, with efforts ongoing to expand the initiative to all states to deepen grassroots implementation.

    On the international front, she disclosed that Nigeria has surpassed the UN’s benchmark for women’s participation in peacekeeping operations, with 21.2% of deployed Nigerian peacekeepers now being women — a milestone she said reflects “Nigeria’s leadership in advancing gender equality in global peace missions.”

    Hon. Imaan explained that the Third National Action Plan aligns with the Nine Pillars of the Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention Programmes (RH-SIIP) of the Ministry, providing a comprehensive framework for empowerment, protection, social inclusion, governance, and national stability.

    She expressed appreciation to key partners — including UN Women, the Defence Headquarters, the Nigeria Police, the DSS, the Governments of the United Kingdom and Norway, development partners, civil society organizations, and traditional leaders — for their sustained collaboration in advancing the WPS Agenda.

    Reaffirming the Ministry’s resolve, the Minister stated:

    “Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, we will continue to champion women’s leadership as the cornerstone of peace, stability, and progress. When women lead in peace, nations rise in strength — and when women rise, they lift generations, communities, and the destiny of a nation.”

     

  • Ododo’s Performance Has Silenced Opposition – Fanwo 

    Ododo’s Performance Has Silenced Opposition – Fanwo 

    The Kogi State Government has said that the opposition in the state is jittery due to Governor Usman Ododo’s impressive performance and growing popularity.

    The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, stated this during the Monthly Ododo Media Awards held at the Ministry.

    Fanwo noted that the Governor’s leadership style and direct connection with the people have exposed the falsehood of opposition elements, who are unsettled by the Governor’s growing popularity and performance record.

    He emphasized that the people of Kogi are happy with their Governor because they can see the tangible achievements of his administration.

    “Whenever Governor Ododo steps out to interact with the people, the opposition knows they’ve lost the battle. The people of Kogi are happy with their Governor because they can see the tangible achievements of his administration. These are not audio projects, they’re real and already impacting lives,” Fanwo said.

    The Commissioner commended the Governor for remaining focused on governance and development rather than politics.

    “His Excellency has said it clearly, his projects are his noise. We won’t be distracted. This is not the time for politics; it’s the time for delivery. The people deserve the development they’re witnessing across the state,” he added.

    He highlighted the numerous ongoing projects across the state as proof of the administration’s commitment to service.

    Fanwo also announced that the Ministry will provide Blood Pressure (BP) and Blood Sugar Testing Kits to Information Officers as part of a new wellness initiative designed to promote a healthy and productive workforce.

    “As we go about our duty of projecting the achievements of the Ododo Administration, we must also take our health seriously. A healthy Information Officer is a more efficient one,” he said.

    He commended the Information Officers for their dedication, professionalism, and loyalty to the vision of the Governor, stressing that Kogi is firmly on the path of progress under Ododo.

    “We have a Governor who is committed to good governance and genuinely serving the people. His focus on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and rural development is laying a solid foundation for a prosperous Kogi,” he said.

    The event also featured the presentation of awards to outstanding Information Officers for their dedication to duty and effective communication of government policies and programs.

    In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Celestine Idoko, applauded the Commissioner for his continuous efforts to motivate staff, describing the Ododo Media Awards as a creative platform that encourages productivity and excellence in public communication.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • History Remembers Nation Builders — Not Those Who Begged For Invasion.

    History Remembers Nation Builders — Not Those Who Begged For Invasion.

    Mogaji (Hon) Seye Oladejo

    The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is compelled to address a dangerous and disgraceful trend perpetuated by a faction of politically-frustrated loudspeakers who believe that because they failed woefully at the ballot box, Nigeria must burn for their ego to breathe.

    To even daydream about a United States invasion of Nigeria is not only delusional – it is the height of treachery and emotional bankruptcy. This is what happens when desperation meets intellectual emptiness: people begin to flirt with national suicide.

    Only Traitors Wish for Foreign Boots on Home Soil

    Let it be stated unequivocally:
    Any Nigerian who prays, whispers, types, retweets or amplifies the fantasy of foreign military intervention is not an activist – they are traitors to the flag and enemies of the Republic.

    If your political heartbreak has matured into treasonous daydreams, then your problem is no longer political – it is suicidal.

    Opposition’s International Smear Campaign Now Showing Rotten Fruits

    It is no coincidence that after months of coordinated demarketing and deliberate misinformation sold to the international community by frustrated opposition actors, we are now seeing the dangerous ripple effects of their propaganda.

    Unable to convince Nigerians at home, they exported their bitterness abroad – peddling falsehoods, exaggerations and doomsday narratives simply to clap back over their political failures and wounded ambitions.

    Their mission was never about democracy or good governance. It was a petty crusade to tarnish Nigeria’s global image because Nigerians rejected them at the polls. Now their poisonous campaign has begun to bear the rotten fruits they desperately prayed for – foreign misperception, misguided commentary and reckless external speculation.

    Let them hear it clearly: you cannot blackmail your way to power through slander, hysteria and foreign sympathy. Nigeria will not collapse to massage anyone’s defeated ego.

    No Foreign Army Comes to Save – They Come to Control

    Those romanticizing American jets flying over Lagos should take a tour of Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan. Nations do not recover from that type of foolishness – and those who cheer the loudest online are always the first to flee.

    A US invasion does not bring democracy.
    It brings devastation, disintegration, and domination.

    No winners. Only rubble, body bags, and foreign interests smiling.
    The end results will be sorrow, regrets , tears and blood.

    But of course, some characters would rather serve as slaves abroad than participate as citizens in a thriving Nigeria, simply because their social-media messiah could not win an election.

    Opposition or Obsession?

    The opposition’s new tactic is clear:
    “If we cannot govern Nigeria, then let us destroy Nigeria.”

    This is not patriotism – it is weaponized bitterness masquerading as activism.

    Rather than build ideas, they build hashtags.

    Rather than offer solutions, they offer sabotage.

    Rather than campaign for the future, they fantasize about foreign fighter jets.

    Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is busy stabilizing the economy, repairing global partnerships, restoring security architecture, and laying foundations for a stronger, more prosperous nation.

    Nation builders are working. Nation wreckers are tweeting.

    Nigeria Will Never Surrender Its Sovereignty

    We will not trade our flag for foreign boots.

    We will not exchange our destiny for pity from outsiders.

    We will not allow the tantrums of bitter losers to rewrite our fate.

    Nigeria will rise – not with foreign bombs, but with Nigerian courage, leadership, and vision.

    Final Word

    To those who think their political relevance depends on inviting chaos – this nation will survive you, outlast you, and remember you only as cautionary tales of failed ambition and destructive bitterness.

    Nigeria belongs to patriots – not to cowards seeking foreign rescue from self-inflicted electoral humiliation.

     

    Mogaji (Hon) Seye Oladejo
    Lagos APC Spokesman

  • Food Prices Drop: South-West Arewa Community Lauds Tinubu,Sanwo-Olu,Others For Economic Progress

    Food Prices Drop: South-West Arewa Community Lauds Tinubu,Sanwo-Olu,Others For Economic Progress

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The South-West Arewa Community for Asiwaju 2027 has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the notable decline in food prices across major markets in the South-West region.

    The group attributed the price drop to the Renewed Hope Agenda’s economic policies and market interventions.

    In a statement issued in Lagos,the group went further to commend Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum, and his counterparts across the zone for complementing the Federal Government’s reforms with people-centred market initiatives that have eased the cost of living for traders and consumers.

    Investigator news reports that the prices of staple foods from Mile 12 International Market, Oyingbo, Ile-Epo, Balogun, Agege, and Abule Egba Markets have reduced significantly,according to market findings,with a 50kg bag of local rice selling for ₦58,000, down from ₦61,500, and a bag of foreign rice costing between ₦78,000 and ₦82,000, down from ₦95,000.

    A 60kg bag of garri now ranges between ₦37,500 and ₦40,000 (down from ₦45,000); a 100kg bag of beans costs about ₦145,000 (down from ₦170,000); a big basket of tomatoes now sells for ₦35,000 (down from ₦120,000)

    A 25-litre gallon of groundnut oil is now ₦41,000 (from ₦47,000). These price drops coincide with the strengthening of the naira, now trading around ₦1,460–₦1,520 per dollar.

    In his remarks, Alhaji Shehu Usman “Sampam”, who serves as the Director-General of the South-West Arewa Community for Asiwaju 2027, Chairman of Mile 12 International Market, and Member of the Lagos State Markets Advisory Council, hailed President Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu for their steadfast commitment to economic recovery and market stabilization.

    “The current stability and decline in food prices reflect the positive impact of President Tinubu’s leadership and Governor Sanwo-Olu’s proactive market interventions,”

    “We are witnessing the gradual restoration of economic balance and public confidence in our markets.”Alhaji Usman said.

    He appealed to food vendors, restaurants, and hoteliers to reciprocate this progress by reducing their prices in line with current market realities.

    “We appeal to all food vendors, eateries, and hotels to review their menus and prices downward,”

    “When food items become cheaper in the market, it should reflect on the dining tables of citizens. We must collectively promote fairness and empathy in business.”he urged

    Alhaji Usman went further to assure that as responsible market leaders, the South-West Arewa Community for Asiwaju 2027 would continue to monitor market trends, upload regular price updates, and alert the government immediately if any artificial scarcity, hoarding, or exploitative pricing is observed.

    “As leaders, we owe it to our people to ensure transparency and accountability in market operations,” he added. “We will keep updating the public on price movements and will immediately inform authorities if we observe any loopholes that could reverse these gains.”

    Investigator news gathered that the statement reaffirmed the group’s unflinching loyalty to President Tinubu, Governor Sanwo-Olu, and the South-West Governors’ Forum.

    It pledged continued collaboration with market unions, community leaders, and policymakers to sustain the gains of the Renewed Hope Agenda and ensure inclusive growth across all social classes.

    “The Renewed Hope Agenda is producing tangible results,” the DG concluded.

    “We stand firmly with President Tinubu, Governor Sanwo-Olu, and the South-West Governors’ Forum as partners in progress toward shared prosperity for all Nigerians.”

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Senator Anyanwu–led NWC Announces Counter-Suspension On Damagum,Ologunagba,Others.

    Senator Anyanwu–led NWC Announces Counter-Suspension On Damagum,Ologunagba,Others.

    Felicia Asuquo, Abuja 

     The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has escalated, as the Senator Samuel Anyanwu–led National Working Committee (NWC) announced the counter-suspension of the party’s National Chairman, Umar Damagum, citing alleged incompetence, misappropriation of party funds, and pursuit of personal interests.

    Also suspended are the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and the Deputy National Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja, among others.

    According to Senator Anyanwu, all the suspended officers will be referred to the party’s disciplinary committee for further action.

    The announcement by Anyanwu comes shortly after the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, announced his suspension as the party’s National Secretary by the NWC.

    Others suspended alongside Anyanwu are the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade; Deputy Legal Adviser, Okechukwu Osuoha; and National Organizing Secretary, Umaru Bature for one month.

    The suspension comes on the heels of the judgement of the Federal High Court On Friday, which stopped the party’s planned national convention.

    Ologunagba had told journalists in Abuja on Saturday that the decision followed an emergency meeting of the national working committee, which was held in Abuja.

    He noted that the suspended party officials have been referred to the National Disciplinary Committee.

    He said that during this period of the suspension, they cease to function in their respective capacities.

    According to him, in the case of the National Secretary, Pursuant to Section 36(2) of the PDP Constitution as amended in 2017, the Deputy National Secretary, Hon. Arc. Setonji Koshoedo shall act as the National Secretary.

    He added that in the case of the National Legal Adviser and the Deputy National Legal Adviser, the National Director of Legal Services has been directed to oversee the activities of the Department.

    Investigator news reports that the move is seen as a counter-reaction to the earlier suspension of Senator Anyanwu and other party officials by the NWC.

    The suspended officials include the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade; Deputy Legal Adviser, Okechukwu Osuoha; and National Organizing Secretary, Umaru Bature

     

     

  • Governor Soludo Congratulates Igwe Nnewi On Historic 100th Birthday

    Governor Soludo Congratulates Igwe Nnewi On Historic 100th Birthday

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has joyfully celebrated and congratulated His Royal Majesty, Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Nnaji Orizu III,CON,the Igwe of Nnewi, on the occasion of his remarkable 100th birthday,describing him as a symbol of resilience, wisdom, and dedication to service.

    In his congratulatory remarks signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime,Governor Soludo stated that the significant centenary milestone in the life of Igwe Orizu III is a historic achievement which gladdens the heart and stirs admiration for a long-reigning monarch with undiminished vigour, wisdom, exceptional leadership, and dedication to the service of his people.

    Governor Soludo noted that the Igwe’s 62-year reign has been marked by exceptional leadership, wisdom, and dedication to his people.

    He also highlighted the Igwe’s contributions to Nnewi, Anambra State, and Nigeria, which transcend traditional ceremonial functions to include fostering peace and harmony, and creating an environment conducive to economic development and social progress.

    “What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that His Royal Majesty has retained all his mental and physical faculties, continuing to discharge his royal duties with the same sagacity, clarity, and wisdom that have defined his illustrious reign for 62 years”

    “Throughout the six decades, His Royal Majesty has been a bastion of stability in times of change, a voice of reason in moments of tension, and a bridge-builder when division threatened.”

    “His enduring reign represents continuity, institutional memory, and the preservation of cherished cultural heritage in an era of rapid transformation.”

    “The Igwe’s contributions to Nnewi, Anambra State and Nigeria transcend traditional ceremonial functions to include fostering peace and harmony, and creating an environment conducive to economic development and social progress.”

    “He has been a bastion of stability, a voice of reason, and a bridge-builder in times of tension.”

    “Thus his national honour as a Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and his appointment as a Justice of the Peace (JP) reflect the high esteem in which he is held at the national level.”he said

    He wished the monarch continued divine guidance and wisdom

    “I want to convey my earnest congratulations and appreciation to His Royal Majesty, Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Nnaji Orizu III, CON, JP, on his centenary celebration.

    “Wishing the revered monarch greater divine grace, fulfillment, vitality, and many more years of wisdom and guidance as his reign continues to bring prosperity, peace, and progress to Nnewi and Anambra State.”

     

  • Ododo Inspects Ongoing Projects in Kabba-Bunu LGA, Pledges More Development.

    Ododo Inspects Ongoing Projects in Kabba-Bunu LGA, Pledges More Development.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has inspected several ongoing and completed projects in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, reaffirming his commitment to the development of the state.

    During the inspection tour which took place on Friday 31, October 2025,Governor Ododo charged citizens to take ownership of public facilities and infrastructure provided by the government, stressing that such projects are meant to serve the people directly.

    The Governor inspected several projects, including nearly completed Primary Health Care Centers, a newly constructed Senior Secondary School, and other key infrastructure projects in Agbadu, Aiyegunle-Igun Bunu, Okebukun, and Kabba town.

    He commended the contractors for the quality of work delivered across the local government area.

    Goveror Ododo expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts in transforming Nigeria’s economy and ensuring improved resources for massive infrastructural development across the country.

    He described President Tinubu as a leader who believes in consolidation and continuity, urging the people to continue supporting him.

    “I thank a father, a leader, a president who believes in giving back to his people, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He’s a man of the people, a leader who leads from the front and does not play politics with the lives of his citizens.”

    “I appreciate him for giving us the opportunity and resources to deliver these projects for our people,”Ododo stated.

    He further noted that President Tinubu had urged sub-national governments to focus on projects that directly benefit their citizens, which aligns with his administration’s ongoing initiatives.

    “Mr. President said we must look back home, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. These projects were initiated under his vision of justice and development for the people.”

    “We’re here to inspect the progress, and within the shortest possible time — before the end of this year, these projects will be commissioned,” he added.

    Governor Ododo reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the transformative development of Kogi State, stressing that his mandate is to serve humanity.

    He disclosed that about 90 to 95 percent of Primary Health Care Centers (PHCs) across the state would be completed and made operational before their official commissioning.

    He also called on citizens to disregard the propaganda of individuals discouraging community engagement with government, explaining that such interaction helps identify pressing needs that can be addressed effectively.

    The Governor appreciated the people of the communities for their support and cooperation, urging them to continue working closely with traditional rulers and stakeholders while providing credible security intelligence to relevant authorities.

    “Don’t allow criminals to find shelter in your communities,” he charged.

    At the Palace of the Obaro of Kabba, Ododo highlighted that his visit to Kabba-Bunu LGA was not only to inspect ongoing projects but also to appreciate the traditional council for its steadfast support to his administration and the progress of Kogi State.

    “We’re here to assess the impact of ongoing government projects, particularly the ecological projects and developments at Kogi State University, Kabba, to ensure they meet the needs of our people.

    “These projects reflect our determination to bring governance closer to the grassroots.”

    “Your Royal Majesty, no government can succeed without the cooperation of traditional institutions.”

    “You’re the bridge between the government and the people, and your role in maintaining peace and security cannot be overstated.” He added.

    The Governor acknowledged the challenges faced by some communities and assured that his administration would address them decisively.

    Ododo inspected several projects at Agbadu, Aiyegunle-Igun Bunu, Okebukun, and Kabba town, including nearly completed Primary Health Care Centers, a newly constructed Senior Secondary School, and other key infrastructure projects.

    At the palace, the Obaro of Kabba and Chairman of the Okun Traditional Council, His Royal Majesty Oba Solomon Owoniyi, commended the Governor for his tireless efforts toward ensuring the safety of lives and property.

    He also appealed for urgent attention to the Kabba–Egbe–Ilorin Road, which is long overdue for rehabilitation.

    Similarly, the Olu of Okebukun, His Royal Highness Oba Timothy Ige, thanked God for the Governor’s visit to his community and applauded him for building on the legacies of the immediate past Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello.

    He commended Governor Ododo for ensuring that the projects are well implemented and for strengthening the state’s security architecture.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Anambra’s Best Fiscal Rating: Excellence Of Governance Under Governor Soludo.

    Anambra’s Best Fiscal Rating: Excellence Of Governance Under Governor Soludo.

    By Christian ABURIME

    As much as unflattering narratives sometimes cast shadows on the brightness of Anambra State, the Light of the Nation always finds ways to shine through and brighter.

    It is like a cat with nine lives: unstoppable. Throw ceaseless brickbats at it, but it still bounces ahead.

    At a time that many are stirring storm in a teacup, twisting innocuous campaign statements of Governor Chukwuma Soludo into unintended interpretations, moments of genuine progress deserve recognition and celebration.

    Today, as BudgIT unveils its 2025 State of States Report, Anambra State takes the crown as Nigeria’s undisputed leader in fiscal performance, a resounding affirmation of what progressive leadership can achieve.

    Rising from second place in 2024 to claim the top spot this year, Anambra has outshone economic powerhouses like Lagos, which held steady at second, and emerging contenders such as Kwara (third), Abia (fourth), and Edo (fifth).

    This is not just another ranking from a speculative consulting armchair; it is an authentic affirmation of sustainable development, and at its helm is Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, whose strategic foresight and resourceful management have silenced detractors and propelled the state into a new era of sustainability.

    For too long, Anambra has faced unwarranted cynicism from critics quick to amplify isolated setbacks or peddle misleading ratings that ignore the bigger picture.

    Yet, BudgIT’s latest report paints a different, far more inspiring narrative.

    This milestone report, marking 10 years of rigorous scrutiny, evaluates states on five critical metrics that go beyond surface-level finances to the heart of governance: a state’s ability to fund operating expenses solely through Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) under Index A; year-on-year IGR growth via Index A1; the capacity to cover all expenses and loans without resorting to borrowing in Index B; debt sustainability, factoring in foreign debt ratios, total debt to revenue, debt service burdens, and personnel costs, through Index C; and the wise prioritisation of capital expenditure over recurrent spending in Index D.

    Anambra’s dominance across these pillars is not accidental; it is the fruit of deliberate, innovative policies under Governor Soludo’s administration.

    Let’s consider the metrics in action: Anambra’s stellar performance in IGR growth and self-sufficiency shows a state that is thriving on its own terms.

    By streamlining revenue systems, combating waste, doing more with less, and fostering an environment ripe for investment, Governor Soludo has turned fiscal prudence into a powerhouse engine.

    This contrasts sharply with some other states which plummeted from enviable heights to a downgrade. Anambra’s rising, meanwhile, builds on its consistent top-tier rankings in fiscal transparency and sustainability over the years.

    BudgIT’s reports have repeatedly hailed the state for its accountability, a legacy Governor Soludo has amplified since taking office in 2022.

    His background as a renowned economist, former Chief Economic Adviser, former Central Bank Governor who steered Nigeria through global financial crises, infuses his governance with data-driven precision, turning abstract metrics into tangible benefits for Anambra’s residents.

    Fiscal sustainability is not some esoteric concept reserved for policy wonks; it is the bedrock of real development. When a state like Anambra masters it under good leadership, the dividends are profound: roads get built, schools flourish, healthcare improves, and jobs multiply.

    By prioritising infrastructure and human capital investments, Governor Soludo’s leadership also ensures long-term value, creating a virtuous cycle where today’s fiscal discipline fuels tomorrow’s growth. This approach counters the short-sighted borrowing and wasteful spending that plague many states, proving that true progress comes from inward-looking reforms rather than external bailouts.

    Of course, naysayers will persist, clinging to disingenuous criticisms or cherry-picked data to undermine Governor Soludo’s achievements.

    But let it be made clear that Anambra’s rise is debunking the narrative of decline, revealing instead a state under bold, transformational leadership.

    Amidst the frenzy of electioneering for the upcoming November election, it is fitting to celebrate Anambra’s resilience and Governor Soludo’s unyielding vision. Yet, the new top ranking is not an endpoint; it is a momentum for even greater heights.

    As Anambra now exemplifies what is possible when leadership prioritises sustainability over superficiality, Governor Soludo has proved that with fiscal wisdom, Nigeria’s states can not only survive but thrive. Let the solution continue

  • Anambra Tops 2025 Fiscal Performance Rankings, Lagos, Kwara Follow Close – BudgIT Report.

    Anambra Tops 2025 Fiscal Performance Rankings, Lagos, Kwara Follow Close – BudgIT Report.

    Onyebuchi Onwuchekwa

    Anambra State has emerged as the top performer in the 2025 Fiscal Performance Ranking, according to BudgIT’s State of States Report.

    Lagos, Kwara, Abia, and Edo rounded out the top five, while Cross River saw a significant drop from 5th to 30th place. Rivers State was not included in the report due to a lack of audited data.

    The report highlights Anambra’s rise from second place to first, with the state demonstrating strong fiscal management.

    Rivers State, a consistent top-five performer in previous years, was excluded from this year’s report due to the state of emergency declared earlier in the year, which prevented the release of audited data.

    In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, BudgIT described this year’s edition—titled “A Decade of Subnational Fiscal Analysis: Growth, Decline and Middling Performance”—as a milestone marking 10 years of tracking fiscal sustainability and governance transparency across Nigeria’s 36 states.

    “Anambra State rose from second to first position, securing the title of the best-performing state in the federation, while Lagos maintained its second place for the second consecutive year.

    “Kwara climbed from fourth to third, Edo entered the top five after consistently ranking within the top ten over the last four editions, and Abia, which had never previously featured in the top 10, now ranks fourth,” the organisation said.

    Other notable movements include Akwa Ibom, which surged 17 places from 27th to 10th, and Zamfara, which moved up nine places from 26th to 17th.

    At the lower end of the rankings, Imo, Kogi, Jigawa, Benue, and Yobe occupy the bottom positions.

    The report retained five key metrics to rank all 35 states: Index A – a state’s ability to meet operating expenses using only Internally Generated Revenue (IGR); Index A1 – year-on-year IGR growth; Index B – capacity to cover all expenses and loan obligations using total revenue without borrowing; Index C – debt sustainability based on foreign debt as % of total debt, total debt as % of revenue, debt service as % of revenue, and personnel cost as % of revenue; and Index D – prioritisation of capital expenditure over recurrent spending.

    On revenue performance, BudgIT noted major shifts in IGR.

    “While Rivers (121.26%) and Lagos (118.39%) were the only two states with sufficient IGR to cover their operating expenses in 2024, the absence of Rivers from this year’s analysis has reshaped this dynamic.

    “Lagos remains a returning champion with 120.87%, while Enugu now leads with an impressive 146.68% IGR-to-operating expense ratio,” the report said.

    Only five states—Abia, Anambra, Kwara, Ogun, and Edo—generated enough IGR to cover at least 50% of their operating expenses, compared with six in 2024. Fourteen states now require more than five times their IGR to cover costs, up from six in 2024, underscoring persistent challenges.

    In capital expenditure, Abia led with 77.05% of its total expenditure devoted to capital projects, followed by Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Taraba, each allocating over 70%.

    Overall, 24 states spent at least half of their budgets on capital projects, while Bauchi, Ekiti, Delta, Benue, Oyo, and Ogun devoted more than 60% to personnel and overhead costs.

    Total recurrent revenue for all 35 states grew from N6.6 trillion in 2022 to N8.66 trillion in 2023 and N14.4 trillion in 2024—a 66.28% increase, far surpassing the 28.95% rise between 2022 and 2023.

    Lagos accounted for 13.42% (N1.93 trillion) of total revenue in 2024. Gross FAAC transfers increased by 110.74%, reaching N11.38 trillion, with states like Oyo (785.79%), Delta (708.36%), and Anambra (640.98%) recording over 600% growth between 2015 and 2024. Despite these gains, 28 states relied on FAAC for at least 55% of total revenue.

    Subnational debt also saw a change. Total debt rose modestly from N9.89 trillion in 2023 to N10.57 trillion in 2024, a 6.8% increase. The top five debtor states—Lagos, Kaduna, Edo, Ogun, and Bauchi—accounted for 50.32% of total debt.

    Encouragingly, 31 states reduced domestic debt by at least N10 billion, while foreign debt fell by over $200 million.

    On long-term trends, BudgIT said, “Over the past decade, the State of States has evolved into Nigeria’s most authoritative subnational fiscal analysis. This 10th edition not only reflects the story of growth and imbalance but also underscores the urgent need for reform.”

    “Fiscal sustainability requires that states look inward, improving revenue systems, cutting waste, and prioritising infrastructure and human development investments that deliver long-term value,” said Vahyala Kwaga, Group Head of Research.

    The report also highlighted uneven social spending. In education, only 66.9% of the budgeted N2.41 trillion was spent. Nine states—Edo, Delta, Katsina, Rivers, Yobe, Ekiti, Bayelsa, Bauchi, and Osun—exceeded 80% of their budgeted allocations, with Edo, Delta, and Katsina surpassing 100%. Average per capita spending remained low at N6,981, with no state exceeding N20,000 per capita and only eight states above N10,000.

    In health, the states budgeted N1.32 trillion but expended N816.64 billion, achieving 61.9% implementation. Seven states—Yobe, Gombe, Ekiti, Lagos, Edo, Delta, and Bauchi—spent over 80% of their health budgets, with Yobe leading at 98.2%. Average per capita spending was N3,483, with only a few states exceeding N5,000, highlighting gaps in service delivery relative to education.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Governor Soludo Congratulates New Service Chiefs.

    Governor Soludo Congratulates New Service Chiefs.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has conveyed his earnest congratulations to the new security service chiefs recently appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

    Governor Soludo, in his goodwill message signed by his Chief Press Secretary,Mr Christian Aburime,commended the appointments of General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff, Major-General W. Shaibu as the Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as the Chief of Naval Staff, stating that they represent a pivotal step towards strengthening the security architecture of our great nation.

    The Governor expressed confidence in the leadership, expertise and experience the seasoned military professionals bring to their new roles at this critical time when our nation faces evolving security challenges.

    He added that it is imperative for the service chiefs to engage with all stakeholders to ensure a unified approach to tackling insecurity in Nigeria and secure the lives and properties of all Nigerians.

    Soludo went further to reaffirm the commitment of the Anambra State Government to support the Federal Government and the newly appointed security chiefs in their efforts to combat insecurity in the Southeast as well as foster a peaceful, safe environment for all citizens.

    “I wish to congratulate General Olufemi Oluyede, Major-General W. Shaibu, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas on their well-deserved appointments and wish them great success in their new roles for a safer Nigeria.”he said