Category: News

  • Federal Government Unveils ‘RenewHER’ Initiative to Transform Women’s Healthcare

    Federal Government Unveils ‘RenewHER’ Initiative to Transform Women’s Healthcare

    According to Daily Post reporting on Thursday, the Federal Government has officially launched a strategic deliberative process aimed at revamping healthcare delivery for women across Nigeria. The initiative, coordinated through the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Women’s Health, Dr. Adanna Steinacker, brought together over 20 prominent women’s groups at the Presidential Villa to align grassroots needs with national policy. The move is central to the “RenewHER Presidential Women’s Health Transformation Initiative,” which seeks to eliminate barriers to medical access for underserved populations.

    The program adopts a “statewide approach” to ensure that health interventions are not centralized but felt at the community level. During the stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja, officials emphasized that the primary goal is to listen to civil society and professional leaders who interact daily with women in rural areas. By fostering this collaboration, the government intends to examine existing policies, increase advocacy, and improve the actual delivery of maternal and reproductive services nationwide.

    The project emphasizes that the solutions for women’s health cannot be designed in isolation. Dr. Steinacker noted that by involving groups closest to the grassroots, the administration can better understand the specific pain points and cultural barriers that prevent women from seeking care. This coordinated framework is expected to serve as a blueprint for future health investments under the current administration’s development agenda.

    Validating this development, The Guardian reports that the initiative is a response to rising maternal mortality concerns, noting, “The RenewHER project represents a shift toward data-driven and inclusive health governance.” Similarly, Leadership highlights the involvement of international partners, quoting a health advocate who stated, “This is the first time we are seeing a dedicated presidential office focused specifically on the nuances of women’s clinical needs.”

    Echotitbits take: This initiative is a critical step in addressing Nigeria’s high maternal mortality rates. By shifting from a top-down approach to a “listening” model, the government might finally bridge the gap between policy and the reality of rural clinics. Watch for the rollout of specific funding allocations to primary healthcare centers in the coming months.

    Source: Daily Post – https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/12/nigerian-govt-initiates-strategies-to-improve-women-health/, February 12, 2026

    Photo credit: Daily Post

  • Cargo Clearing Resumes as FAAN Reduces Tariffs Following Eight-Day Strike

    Cargo Clearing Resumes as FAAN Reduces Tariffs Following Eight-Day Strike

    According to an update by The Guardian, freight forwarders and cargo agents at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos have called off their week-long industrial action. The breakthrough came after the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) agreed to lower the proposed cargo tariff from N20 per kilogram to N15 per kg. This compromise follows an eight-day strike that had completely paralyzed clearing operations at the country’s busiest airport.

    The strike had led to a massive backlog of goods, including perishables and industrial raw materials, causing significant losses for importers. Frank Ogunojemite, President of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders & Logistics (APFFLON), confirmed that agents have been directed to resume duties immediately. While the new N15 rate is still an increase from the previous N7 per kg, the agents accepted it as a “middle ground” to allow business to continue.

    Validating the resolution, Vanguard reports that the agreement was brokered during a high-stakes meeting chaired by Lekan Thomas, FAAN’s Director of Cargo Development. The publication quotes Henry Agbebire, FAAN’s spokesperson: “The outcome reflects the spirit of dialogue and shared responsibility.” ThisDay added that ground handling companies like SAHCO and NAHCO have been put on high alert to handle the surge of clearing requests expected over the next 48 hours.

    Echotitbits take:

    The resolution of this strike is a relief for the supply chain, but the 114% hike (from N7 to N15) will inevitably be passed on to consumers. Expect a slight uptick in the price of imported air-freighted goods by the end of the month. The government is clearly looking for revenue, but at the risk of fueling inflation.

    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/faan-cargo-agents-reach-compromise-on-cargo-tariff/, February 11, 2026

    Photo credit: The Punch

  • National Revenue Service Clarifies Input Recovery Benefits in New Tax Act

    National Revenue Service Clarifies Input Recovery Benefits in New Tax Act

    According to TVC News, the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) has begun an intensive sensitization campaign to explain the benefits of the new Tax Act to skeptical business owners. A key highlight of the new regime is the transition to a 7.5% “full input recovery” system, which now includes services and capital expenditure (capex), unlike the old regime which was far more restrictive. Executive Chairman Zacch Adedeji emphasized that these reforms are intended to reduce the overall tax burden on productive sectors while widening the tax net.

    The new Act also streamlines Personal Income Tax (PIT) and Company Income Tax (CIT) to remove “nuisance taxes” that have historically complicated compliance for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Despite these explanations, many Nigerians remain wary of the NRS’s expanded enforcement powers. The government, however, insists that the automation of tax collection will reduce human interface and corruption, ultimately leading to a more transparent fiscal environment.

    Validating these updates, Channels TV reported on the public’s mixed reactions to the “full input recovery” clause, with an economic analyst stating, “While the math looks good for big corporations, small businesses still fear the aggressive enforcement stance of the NRS.” The Nation also covered the development, quoting Taiwo Oyedele of the Presidential Tax Reform Committee: “Our goal is to make Nigeria a tax-friendly destination where the system is fair and predictable.”

    Echotitbits take:

    The “full input recovery” is a significant olive branch to the manufacturing and service industries. It essentially means businesses can recoup more of the VAT they pay on operations. However, the success of this policy depends on whether the NRS can actually process these refunds faster than the old, sluggish system.

    Source: Arise – https://www.arise.tv/lirs-activates-power-of-substitution-under-new-tax-law-to-boost-tax-recovery/, February 11, 2026

    Photo credit: Arise

  • Lagos State Judiciary Overhauls Justice System with New Efficiency Reforms

    Lagos State Judiciary Overhauls Justice System with New Efficiency Reforms

    Figures cited by Premium Times show that the Lagos State Government has introduced sweeping reforms aimed at ensuring civil cases are concluded within 18 months and tenancy disputes within six months. The state’s Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro (SAN), announced these changes during a press briefing, highlighting the deployment of a new “criminal information system” capable of tracking defendants across all courts. These measures are designed to eliminate the perennial issue of case backlogs that have long plagued the state’s legal system.

    The reforms also focus heavily on reducing prison congestion through non-custodial sentencing, inmate profiling, and an expanded plea-bargain process. For the first time, the state is implementing a robust witness protection and support law to encourage citizens to participate in the criminal justice process without fear of retaliation. The Ministry of Justice believes these institutional shifts will significantly improve the “Ease of Doing Business” in Lagos by providing a more predictable legal environment for investors.

    In support of these claims, The Guardian reports that legal practitioners in Lagos have expressed cautious optimism about the timelines, with one senior lawyer stating, “The focus on technology is the only way to clear the thousands of pending cases in our registries.” Additionally, Vanguard highlights the government’s collaboration with the judiciary, quoting a state official who affirmed, “Lagos is setting a template for judicial speed that the rest of the federation must follow.”

    Echotitbits take:

    Lagos is acting as a laboratory for judicial reform in Nigeria. If the 18-month civil case cap holds true, it could spark a massive influx of foreign direct investment, as legal delays are a top deterrent for businesses. The real test will be the consistency of the “forensic measures” and technology infrastructure under pressure.

    Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/lagos-judiciary-expands-access-to-justice-with-enhanced-virtual-court-hearing-system/ February 11, 2026

    Photo credit: The Guardian

  • United States Deploys 200 Military Personnel to Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism Training  R

    United States Deploys 200 Military Personnel to Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism Training R

    Reporting by The Punch indicates that the United States government has authorized the deployment of 200 military personnel to Nigeria to bolster the country’s fight against insurgency and banditry. This move, reportedly approved by the Trump administration following a request from President Bola Tinubu, focuses specifically on enhancing the “air and infantry operations” of the Nigerian Armed Forces. The troops are expected to arrive in the coming weeks to provide high-level technical guidance and intelligence-gathering strategies.

    The deployment marks a significant escalation in international military cooperation between Abuja and Washington. While the American forces will not be engaged in direct combat on the front lines, their presence is intended to refine the tactical efficiency of Nigerian troops who have been battling Islamic extremists and kidnapping syndicates for over a decade. The collaboration follows recent high-profile security breaches that have drawn international concern toward the West African sub-region.

    Validating this story, Daily Post features comments from U.S. Representative Riley Moore, who stated on Fox News that the situation in Nigeria had become a “bloodbath” requiring urgent intervention. Moore noted, “We are making steps in the right direction to address this persecution… we are sending 200 troops to train the Nigerian military.” Furthermore, Gazette Nigeria highlights the diplomatic context, quoting a U.S. Africa Command spokesperson who said, “We want to partner with capable and willing partners that are able to address these shared security concerns.”

    Echotitbits take:

    The arrival of U.S. special forces suggests a “re-globalization” of Nigeria’s security architecture. While the non-combat role is emphasized to manage public perception, the intelligence and tactical edge provided could be a game-changer for the Nigerian Air Force. The key will be ensuring that these foreign tactics are successfully adapted to the local terrain.

    Source: Leadership – https://leadership.ng/us-deploys-200-troops-to-nigeria/, February 11, 2026

    Photo credit: Leadership

  • Federal Government Partners with Ericsson to Launch Youth Tech Innovation Hackathon

    Federal Government Partners with Ericsson to Launch Youth Tech Innovation Hackathon

    According to reporting by Leadership, the Nigerian government is set to unveil a major technological empowerment initiative dubbed the “Connect NextGen” Innovation Hackathon. The four-month-long program, which is being coordinated through the Office of the Vice President, officially kicks off on February 11, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. This partnership with global telecommunications giant Ericsson is designed to equip Nigerian youths with advanced skills in modern technologies, fostering a new generation of digital entrepreneurs.

    The initiative aligns with the broader national agenda to deepen digital inclusion and create high-value jobs within the tech ecosystem. By leveraging Ericsson’s global expertise, the hackathon will provide participants with hands-on training and mentorship in emerging fields like 5G, Artificial Intelligence, and Internet of Things (IoT). The government expects that the solutions developed during this period will address local challenges while positioning Nigeria as a competitive hub in the global digital economy.

    In validation of this development, The Nation reports that the “Connect NextGen” program is a critical component of the administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda for the ICT sector. The publication quotes a senior official from the Vice President’s office stating, “This hackathon is not just a competition but a strategic pipeline for talent discovery and national development.” Similarly, ThisDay emphasizes the private-sector involvement, noting that “Ericsson’s technical leadership will provide the necessary backbone for Nigerian youths to innovate at scale.”

    Echotitbits take:

    This move signals a shift toward practical, industry-led skill acquisition rather than just theoretical training. By involving a global leader like Ericsson, the government is bridging the gap between local talent and international standards. Watch for how the winning innovations are integrated into the public and private sectors over the next fiscal year.

    Source: The Nation – https://thenationonlineng.net/fed-govt-ericsson-to-launch-connect-nextgen-innovation-hackathon/, February 11, 2026

    Photo credit: The Nation

  • Entertainment Industry Shaken as 960 Music Group Sues Over Burna Boy Catalogue

    Entertainment Industry Shaken as 960 Music Group Sues Over Burna Boy Catalogue

    According to Channels Television, the Nigerian music industry is facing a high-stakes legal battle as the 960 Music Group has filed a lawsuit to void the multi-million dollar sale of Burna Boy’s music catalogue. The group, which claims to be a major shareholder, argues that the sale of the “crown jewel” assets was finalized without their knowledge, consent, or board approval.

    The lawsuit seeks to freeze the proceeds of the sale and restore the ownership rights to the original stakeholders. This case highlights the growing complexity of music rights and intellectual property in Africa’s booming entertainment sector, where global investors are increasingly looking to acquire the libraries of Afrobeats stars.

    Burna Boy’s catalogue is considered one of the most valuable in African music, containing global hits that generate significant streaming and licensing revenue. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for how contracts are structured and how minority shareholders are protected in the Nigerian creative industry.

    Further reporting from The Punch and Tribune provides additional context. The Punch reported that “international buyers are closely watching the case as it affects the stability of Nigerian music investments,” while Tribune noted that “Burna Boy’s management has yet to release an official statement regarding the litigation.”

    Echotitbits take: This is the “Big Corporate” side of Afrobeats. As our music goes global, the legal battles will only get messier. This case will be a litmus test for IP laws in Nigeria and how “Legacy” labels handle the exit of their biggest stars to global giants.

    Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/09/960-music-group-sues-to-void-multi-million-dollar-burna-boy-catalogue/, February 10, 2026

    Photo credit: Channels TV

  • Nigerian Judiciary Adopts Digital Service for Social Media Influencers

    Nigerian Judiciary Adopts Digital Service for Social Media Influencers

    Reporting by ThisDay (via AllAfrica) indicates a landmark shift in the Nigerian legal system as an Ikeja High Court has officially recognized social media platforms as valid channels for the service of court documents. Justice Akintunde Savage granted leave for high-profile influencers, including “VeryDarkMan” and Kelvin Emmanuel, to be served legal papers via WhatsApp and Instagram in a defamation suit.

    This ruling addresses the long-standing challenge of “unknown physical addresses” for digital creators and public figures who operate primarily online. The court emphasized that as society evolves technologically, the law must adapt to ensure that individuals cannot evade justice by simply not having a traditional office or home address on file.

    Legal experts believe this sets a powerful precedent for future litigation involving the “digital-first” generation. It ensures that the bailiff’s inability to find a defendant physically no longer stalls legal proceedings, provided there is proof that the defendant is active on their verified social media accounts.

    Validation from Daily Post and The Nation confirms the significance of the case. Daily Post noted that “legal practitioners are hailing the move as a ‘digital revolution’ for the judiciary,” while The Nation reported that “the court ordered the bailiff to provide screenshots of the ‘sent’ or ‘delivered’ status as proof of service.”

    Echotitbits take: This is the end of “hiding” for social media trolls and influencers. If you can post a video, you can be served a lawsuit. Watch for this to drastically speed up defamation cases and civil litigation involving the Nigerian diaspora and digital nomads.

    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/federal-ministry-of-justice-adopts-digital-system-to-boost-efficiency/, February 10, 2026

    Photo credit: Leadership

  • Major Healthcare Crisis Averted as JOHESU Suspends Three-Month Strike

    Major Healthcare Crisis Averted as JOHESU Suspends Three-Month Strike

    In an update published by Channels TV, the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has suspended its 84-day nationwide strike following a breakthrough in negotiations with the Federal Government. The suspension brings relief to millions of Nigerians who have been unable to access affordable healthcare services in public hospitals for nearly three months.

    The union, which represents nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists, had downed tools over issues including the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and the payment of hazard allowance arrears. The government has reportedly agreed to a phased implementation of the new salary structure and has committed to clearing outstanding arrears by the end of the second quarter of 2026.

    While the strike is suspended, the union has warned that its members will not hesitate to resume industrial action if the government fails to uphold its end of the bargain. Hospital managements across the country have been directed to ensure a smooth transition and immediate resumption of clinical services.

    Validating reports from Vanguard and Premium Times highlight the human cost of the dispute. Vanguard reported that “maternal and child mortality rates spiked in several states during the strike period,” and Premium Times quoted the JOHESU Chairman saying, “we are suspending the strike in good faith, but our eyes are on the implementation timeline.”

    Echotitbits take: The healthcare system has taken a massive hit, and “suspending” is not the same as “ending.” The government must prioritize these payments to prevent a total collapse of the public health sector, especially with Lassa Fever cases rising in the North.

    Source: NigeriaInfo – https://www.nigeriainfo.fm/news/homepagelagos/johesu-suspends-84-day-nationwide-strike/, February 10, 2026

    Photo credit: Voice of Nigeria

  • Nigeria Faces Deepening Economic Crisis as Currency Gap Widens

    Nigeria Faces Deepening Economic Crisis as Currency Gap Widens

    Figures cited by BusinessDay show that the Nigerian economy is facing renewed pressure as the gap between the official and parallel market exchange rates has widened to over N90. This development marks the most significant divergence in three years, threatening the government’s efforts to achieve exchange rate convergence and stabilize the local currency.

    The widening gap is attributed to a “scramble for FX” by importers and a slowdown in foreign capital inflows. Despite the Central Bank’s recent policy adjustments, liquidity remains tight, forcing many businesses to source dollars at exorbitant rates from the black market. This has directly contributed to the rising cost of imported raw materials and finished goods, further fueling headline inflation.

    Economic experts warn that if the divergence continues, it could lead to another round of official devaluation. The manufacturing sector is particularly hit, with many firms reporting narrowed profit margins and reduced production capacity. The government’s 2026 budget projections, which rely on a stable exchange rate, are now under threat of significant revision.

    Validating data from ThisDay and The Sun confirm the market volatility. ThisDay reported that “the FX scarcity is stalling major infrastructure projects,” while The Sun quoted a financial analyst stating, “the market is reacting to the delay in the anticipated $3 billion emergency loan from international lenders.”

    Echotitbits take: The “Naira-mismatch” is back, and it’s a nightmare for the Central Bank. Watch for a potential hike in interest rates (MPR) in the next MPC meeting as the CBN tries to mop up excess liquidity and attract investors to the fixed-income market.

    Source: Legit.ng – https://www.legit.ng/business-economy/economy/1695884-naira-suffers-decline-forex-market-exchange-gap-widens/, February 10, 2026

    Photo credit: Legit.ng