The NBS data, released yesterday, revealed that the February headline inflation decreased by 0.04 per cent from the previous month.

Nigeria’s headline inflation rate fell to 15.06 per cent in February, down from 15.10 per cent in January, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

On a year-on-year basis, the headline inflation rate was 11.21 per cent lower than the 26.27 per cent recorded in February 2025. This shows a decrease in the same month in the preceding year.

On a month-on-month basis, the headline inflation rate in February 2026 was 2.01 per cent, 4.89 percentage points higher than the January 2026 rate (-2.88 per cent).

This means that, in February 2026, the rate of increase in the average price level was higher than in January 2026.

The food inflation rate in February stood at 12.12 per cent year-on-year, 14.86 percentage points lower than the rate recorded in February 2025 (26.98 per cent).

However, on a month-on-month basis, the food inflation rate in February 2026 was 4.69 per cent, up from -6.02 per cent in January 2026.

According to the NBS, the increase is attributed to the rate of increase in the average prices of Beans, Carrots, Okazi Leaf, Cassava Tuber, Crayfish, Millet Flour, Yam Flour, Snails, Avenger (Ogbono/Apon) – dried, ungrinded and cow peas.

… Over conferment  of Grand Patron of Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria on him

A public health practitioner and prominent son of Ngor Okpala local government area of Imo state, High Chief Dr Chijioke Kaduru and other Catholics across Owerri senatorial district of Imo state have rolled out drums in their various homes and groups to celebrate the state governor, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Dr Hope Uzodimma, CON, GSSR as he receives one of the most prestigious titles in the Catholic faith as Grand Patron of the Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria.

Speaking to news men, Dr Chijioke Kaduru, a core Catholic by faith, attributed the choice of Governor Uzodimma by the Catholic Laity Council as grand Patron to Hope Uzodimma’s relentless efforts in supporting the church in general and unbridled devotion to pursuits geared towards boosting the welfare of Catholics in Nigeria.

Dr Chijioke Kaduru who is the Chief Convener of Nkwa Chi Kwere Movement, a humanitarian initiative pointed out that the Imo state Chief Executive, Senator Dr Hope Uzodimma had made immeasurable contributions to the growth of the Catholic Church.

Describing the award by the Catholic Church as most befitting, Chijioke Kaduru posited that Governor Uzodimma in addition to functioning as agent of upliftment and strong facilitator in the growth of modern day church, has tremendously excelled in governance and other areas of service to mankind.

High Chief Dr Chijioke Kaduru described Governor Hope Uzodimma as a highly detribalised Nigeria who sees all residents of Imo state and beyond as brothers and sisters who should live together, worship together and share everything in common.

Dr Kaduru applauded the Catholic Church in Nigeria for appreciating the rare attributes of Hope Uzodimma and thus, encouraging leadership by example.

By Senator Onyekwere

Imo  State House of Assembly,  on Wednesday,  passed a vote of confidence on the state governor,  Senator Hope Uzodimma,  for his efforts in restoring law ,order, peace and security in Imo.

The House passed the vote of confidence, following a motion moved by the representative of the Obowo State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Kennedy Ibeh during a plenary session.

The motion also called for a Panel of Inquiry to investigate traditional rulers, who have abdicated their thrones and constituencies,  for over three months.

Presenting the motion, Hon Ibeh recalled that the state had  faced severe security challenges, resulting in breakdown of law and order, loss of lives, and property, causing widespread insecurity concerns among residents.

He recalled that the governor tackled the problem with the help of state and federal security agencies , restoring law and order, peace, and security, and rebuilding public confidence in the government.

He went on to commend the governor for the recent deployment of vehicles and other equipment to bolster community policing and security across all autonomous communities in the state.

The lawmaker went on to add that traditional rulers play pivotal roles in preserving law and order, peace, and security in their communities, as mandated by law.

He noted with concern, that  many  of them had abandoned their communities for over three months, neglecting their legal obligations and depriving their communities of the benefits of their leadership.

He, therefore, urged the House to pass a vote of confidence on the Governor for his exemplary efforts in restoring law and order, peace, and security in the state.

Ibeh also appealed to the House to urge the governor to establish a Panel of Inquiry to investigate traditional rulers,  who have abdicated their thrones and constituencies for over three months.

Supporting the motion, the representive  Orsu state Constituency Rt Hon Uche Agabige   observed that a lot of traditional rulers were culpable, with a majority abandoning their seats at the peak of the security crisis.

He said this might have contributed to the proliferation of insecurity before the intervention of the state Government.

Also speaking in support of the motion, the Majority Leader,  RT Hon Kanayo Onyemaechi  stated that the security situation in the state had been stable, because of the Governor’s efforts.

He added that traditional rulers, as custodians of their communities had unfortunately been found wanting in their roles as chief security officers of their communities.

He also suggested that communities with absentee rulers should be merged with new Autonomous Communities amd new rulers coronation.

In his contribution, the Ngor-Okpala representative, Rt Hon Obinna Egu commended the Governor for working hard to eradicate security threats in the state and restoring peace.

Egu equally noted that a large number of traditional rulers had relocated abroad, leaving their duties to Presidents General of their communities who do not have the powers to carry out their duties.

He also observed that the communities with absent rulers will also be deprived of a lot of benefits from the government.

He stressed the need for their immediate return to enable them properly assess the needs of their people and render the service they were called to do.

Following more contributions and a unanimous vote in favour of the first prayer of the motion, the Speaker, Mr Chike Olemgbe  ruled in favour of the passing a vote of confidence on the Governor.

He, however, discarded the call for a Panel of Inquiry to investigate absentee rulers, following a unanimous vote against it by the lawmakers.

He also directed the Clerk to convey the resolutions to the office of the Governor.

Tension is rising in Amankanu Ohofia Oduma Autonomous Community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State after residents rejected what they described as a flawed Igweship election that produced one Shadrach Ekene Ekpete as the traditional ruler.

The controversy followed an event held on March 6, 2026, Mr. Ekpete, popularly known as Ekenediri Ekpete, was presented as the traditional ruler of the community—an outcome stakeholders insist did not follow due process.

In a statement signed by David E. C. Okoro, First and Immediate Past President-General of Amankanu Ohofia Oduma, community leaders maintained that the exercise could not be regarded as a legitimate Igweship election.

“The event held on March 6, 2026, did not follow due process and therefore cannot be regarded as a legitimate Igweship election or presentation,” Okoro said.

He described the exercise as “scripted” and a “charade,” stressing that the community was not opposed to anyone emerging as Igwe but insisted that established legal and traditional procedures must be strictly followed.

According to the statement, the controversial process has resulted in two individuals laying claim to the traditional stool.

Community members expressed particular concern that the claimants—Innocent Okorie Ekpete and Shadrach Ekene Ekpete—are biological father and son, describing the situation as unprecedented in the history of the community.

Okoro revealed that a letter dated February 25, 2026, was reportedly issued from the office of the Enugu State Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs to the Chairman of the community’s Caretaker Committee in preparation for the Igweship election.

However, he alleged that the letter was not made public to members of the community either at home or in the diaspora.

“There was no public notification through radio, television, print media, social media platforms, or even through the traditional town crier system,” he stated.

“As a result, many indigenes were unaware that such a significant event was scheduled to take place.”

The statement further alleged that the gathering where Ekpete was presented took place at the village hall of the Caretaker Committee Chairman, with attendees reportedly selected rather than openly invited.

Stakeholders questioned whether those present could legitimately represent the broader population of Amankanu Ohofia.

Observers also criticised the venue used for the gathering, describing it as small and inaccessible compared with the community village square traditionally used for major public meetings.

They cited the 2025 Amended Laws for Igwe and Town Unions in Enugu State, which emphasise inclusiveness and accessibility in community decision-making processes.

Eyewitness accounts also alleged that youths were prevented from entering the venue, raising further concerns about transparency.

The statement clarified that the women present at the meeting were members of the “Njikọka” women group and not the official women’s wing of the Amankanu Ohofia Town Union.

Okoro also questioned why the Caretaker Committee leadership allegedly failed to publicly release the February 25 letter from the Commissioner’s office.

“That omission represents a serious procedural lapse,” he said.

Council Chairman Distances Self

Meanwhile, the Chairman of Aninri Local Government Area, Ugochukwu Nwanjoku, has distanced himself from the outcome of the disputed exercise.

Addressing some stakeholders from Amankanu, Nwanjoku said he was not informed of any arrangement for an Igweship election in the community on March 6.

He said he could not recognise the outcome of a process that allegedly did not follow due process.

“I was not informed of any arrangement for an election in Amankanu on the 6th of March, 2026, and I therefore distance myself from the outcome of such an election,” he said, stressing that the process did not follow due procedure.

Call for Justice and Due Process

Community leaders noted that Amankanu Ohofia has maintained a long-standing tradition of peace and lawful conduct but warned that continued irregularities could trigger fresh litigation or unrest.

According to Okoro, the community has been involved in several court cases since 2017, many of which remain unresolved, including disputes relating to the Igweship.

Stakeholders are now looking toward a pre-election stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for March 11 by the Enugu State Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs as an opportunity to harmonise the processes for both the substantive Town Union leadership and the Igweship election.

They urged the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs to carefully review reports submitted by delegated officials and ensure that justice and due process prevail.

“We believe in your wisdom and integrity to ensure a fair and lawful process for the sake of posterity, peace, and justice,” Okoro said.

The family of Kehinde Albert has appealed to members of the public to help locate the 42-year-old man who has been missing since February 27.

It was gathered that Kehinde disappeared from the General Hospital, Gbagada, Lagos, where he had been receiving treatment.

Speaking on behalf of the family during a telephone interview with our correspondent on Tuesday, the missing man’s elder brother, Olatunde, said Kehinde had battled alcoholism for years and was preparing to begin a rehabilitation programme that required him to undergo medical tests.

He explained that Kehinde was taken to the hospital on February 26 alongside his twin brother for preliminary examinations ahead of the rehabilitation.

“On Thursday, February 26, I took him to the hospital with his twin brother because we wanted to enrol him in a rehabilitation programme for his alcoholism. We were told to carry out some medical tests on him,” he said.

“He had not been feeling well generally. About two years ago, we took him to a private hospital and spent a lot of money on treatment. Things became worse for him after we lost our mother last year.“Our mother used to take care of them, but after her death, there was no one to restrain him and he returned to drinking. So when we went to the rehabilitation centre, we were advised to run some tests.”

According to him, while at the hospital, Kehinde suddenly developed seizures and convulsions and was immediately admitted.

“When we got to the hospital, he suddenly started having seizures and convulsions, so he was admitted. After treatment by the medical staff, he became better later that Thursday,” he added.

Olatunde said he returned to the hospital the following day to purchase some prescribed drugs, leaving Kehinde in the care of his twin brother.

“On Friday, I went to get some drugs and left him with his twin brother because he was in better health,” he said.

He explained that he later saw the twin brother on the street and became worried.

“Later that night, I was surprised to see his twin brother on the street. When I asked why he had left Kehinde at the hospital, he said the hospital workers chased them away,” he said.

However, Olatunde said hospital staff told him a different story when he returned to the facility.

…Offer prayers for unconditional release

Igbo traditional priestesses have visited leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, at the Sokoto Prison.

The priestesses, under the umbrella of Titled Spiritual Mothers of Igboland, were led on the visit, yesterday, by Chief Mrs Oliaku Chika Ibeneme, who holds the title of Nne Mmanwu Igbo Niine (Mother of All Igbo Masquerades).

Ibeneme is a former Commissioner for Works and Housing in Anambra State, and a foremost custodian of Igbo traditions.

She was accompanied on the visit by Lolo Eze Nwanyị Nnewi.

A statement released by the pro-Biafra group yesterday disclosed that during the visit, the priestesses extended “unwavering solidarity and abiding maternal affection” to Kanu.

They also offered “powerful prayers” for Kanu, whom they embraced as their cherished son.

“It is with deep reverence and cultural pride that we announce the sacred and purposeful visit paid yesterday.

“This visit was carried out on behalf of Ndi Nne Mụọ Ala-Igbo nile (the Titled Spiritual Mothers of Igboland), embodying the collective maternal, spiritual, and ancestral guardianship of our people across Ala-Igbo.

“In her capacity as a revered spiritual mother and advocate for Igbo heritage, Chief Mrs Oliaku Chika Ibeneme presented meaningful gifts, invoked ancestral blessings, and reaffirmed the profound motherly support of all Igbo mothers — both the living and those who have joined the ancestors (ndi nwụrụ anwụ),” the statement read.

The priestesses informed Kanu of their determined plans to undertake a broader mission by engaging prominent paramount rulers, traditional leaders, and spiritual authorities throughout Nigeria towards securing his release from detention.

“This initiative seeks to foster dialogue, harness divine and earthly influences, and advocate for his unconditional release,” the statement said.

Ibeneme urged all Igbos to pray for Kanu’s freedom.

She said, “We urge all sons and daughters of Ala-Igbo, along with people of conscience everywhere, to unite in fervent prayers for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s immediate freedom, for the continued efficacy of our mothers’ intercessions, and for the restoration of justice, equity and harmony in our land.

“May Chukwu Okike Abiama guide, protect, and uplift our son, our revered mothers, and the entire Igbo nation.”

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, rtd, has directed Nigeria’s service chiefs to visit the North-west and North-East to rejig military operations.

The directive was issued at a meeting with the service chiefs on Wednesday at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

Musa had summoned the service chiefs to discuss security challenges in the affected zones.

It had earlier reported that meeting followed the rising level of insecurity in the country.

According to the Media Adviser to the Minister, Timothy Antigha, the service chiefs are expected to report their findings after their visit to the security-challenged geopolitical zones.

It would be also recalled that in recent weeks, there has been a spate of attacks by terrorists in the regions, with military bases often targeted and several personnel killed.

“Ensure you rejig military operations in the North-East and North-West region,” the defence minister told the service chiefs, according to Antigha.

Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo on Monday toured schools in his hometown Isuofia, to officially signal the end of the five-year “sit-at-home” era in Anambra State.

He toured 10 schools and conducting an extensive monitoring exercise across the educational institutions.

According to the Press Secretary to the Governor, Christian Aburime the schools visited include: Community School, Isuofia, Unique Nursery and Primary School, Unique Secondary School, Central School, Primary School, Holy Child Secondary School, Community Secondary School, Amaorji Primary School, Ikemee Primary School, and Model Primary School, all in Isuofia.

This strategic visit, Aburime said, covered a broad spectrum of primary, secondary, and mission-managed schools, and that that served as a definitive declaration that the state has reclaimed its traditional five-day academic and economic week. “By restoring Monday as a primary driver of productivity, the administration is effectively aligning the state’s education sector with global standards of development”, Aburime wrote.

According to him, during the tour, the Governor bypassed formal protocols to engage directly with pupils and educators within their learning environment.

The Governor emphasized that the “New Anambra” generation must be prepared for international competition, noting that a truncated four-day week is incompatible with the state’s developmental aspirations, challenging students to internalize values of integrity and hard work, framing the return to full-time schooling as a critical step in reclaiming the state’s collective future and social order.

Soludo used the occasion to clarify the state’s collaboration with “returned schools” framework. Under this mission-state partnership, the Anambra State Government provides substantial subsidies and covers the majority of personnel costs for teaching staff, while the Church and Missions remain responsible for capital investments and the maintenance of physical infrastructure- a synergy designed to ensure that mission-managed institutions provide a conducive environment for high-quality instruction backed by state resources.

In addressing security concerns, the Governor reassured the public that comprehensive safety measures have been implemented to protect the academic calendar. He commended the resilience of educators as the frontline heroes of this recovery and issued a directive to school administrators to maintain rigorous attendance records.

This official oversight reinforces the government’s stance that the state’s social and economic engines are fully operational, signaling to both citizens and investors that Anambra is firmly back to business.

Two teenagers have died after falling into a pond while allegedly trying to escape from suspected phone snatchers in Kano State.
The Kano State Fire Service confirmed the incident in a statement issued yesterday by its Public Relations Officer, ACFO Saminu Yusif Abdullahi.
According to the statement, the incident happened on Friday, March 6, 2026, at about 4:04 p.m. at Ring Road Kureken Sani in Kumbotso Local Government Area.
“The Emergency Response Unit (Control Room) received an emergency call from Muhd Abba reporting an incident at Ring Road Kureken Sani in Kumbotso Local Government Area,” the statement said.
It added that a rescue team from the Service Headquarters was immediately deployed to the scene.
“On arrival, the team discovered that two 18-year-old youths, Sadiq Isyaku and Auwal Isyaku, had fallen into an open water.”
The fire service said the victims were rescued from the water unconscious but were later confirmed dead.
“Their bodies were handed over to their father, Ibrahim Shehu, of Unguwa Uku Quarters,” the statement added.
The service explained that preliminary information indicated that the teenagers fell into the pond while trying to escape from suspected phone snatchers.
“Preliminary information received indicated that the tragedy occurred while the victims were attempting to escape from suspected phone snatchers who were pursuing them. In the process of trying to save themselves, they accidentally fell into the pond,” the statement said.
In a separate incident, the fire service said its rescue team saved a man who fell into a well in Kano Municipal.
According to the statement, the emergency call was received on Monday, March 9, 2026, at about 7:12 p.m. from Abdullahi Aminu reporting that a person had fallen into a well at Durumin Zungura by Assahabul Khahafi.
“Our men from the agency’s headquarters were immediately mobilized to the scene of incident,” the statement said.
It added that on arrival, the team found a man identified as Shitu Balarabe, about 40 years old, inside the well.
“The rescue team successfully retrieved him alive and handed him over to his brother, Jamilu Balarabe, of Durumin Zungura Kano City.”
The Kano State Fire Service extended its condolences to the families affected by the incidents and advised the public to take precautions.
“The Service also calls on members of the public to take precautionary measures to prevent such tragedies by ensuring that children and youths stay away from open water, and to build or construct protective walls and provide metal covers for wells to prevent people and animals from falling in,” the statement said.

Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmad Gumi said he would support the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as well as Boko Haram terrorists and bandits operating in the country, if they are ready to lay down their arms.

Speaking in a recent interview about his ongoing dialogue with armed groups, Gumi stressed that the groups must be ready to come to a roundtable and negotiate with the Nigerian government to earn his support.

“Dialogue can bring peace, and we are men of peace. Even IPOB, which wants secession, are ready to put down their arms, come to a round table to discuss, I’m ready and would support them. All we don’t want is violence,” he said.

Speaking further, he alleged that the federal government of Nigeria knows the identities and locations of terrorists operating in the country.

“The government knows every terrorist by name and location. I don’t go alone to negotiate. I go with the police, military, and other security agencies,” he said.

He described some of his past peace efforts, noting that he has even accompanied women into forests during negotiations with armed groups.

The cleric also highlighted public mistrust of government actions.

“What they say is not what they do. Essentially, we are asking: what is the way out of insecurity? There is a way out. Let’s bring intellectuals and criminologists from reputable institutions together to find solutions,” he said.

Gumi argued that Nigeria’s insecurity cannot be addressed solely through military action, citing poor infrastructure and lack of social amenities as major contributing factors.

“Experts say 75 percent of the action should be non-kinetic. Look at the roads — terrible. Electricity is erratic and costly. Healthcare is weak; even wealthy Nigerians travel abroad for treatment. Education is in crisis. In this context, should we spend trillions on defense, or invest in providing essential amenities that would have a real impact?” he asked.

To strengthen regional support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his son, Seyi Tinubu has appointed High Chief Johnbosco Onunkwo as the South East Zonal Leader of the advocacy group, Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria (RTIFN).

The announcement, made at a national executive session in Abuja, highlights RTIFN’s drive to deepen the impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda in the South East through grassroots mobilisation and inclusive leadership.

High Chief Onunkwo, a philanthropist, engineer, and seasoned political figure, was selected for his track record in community development and his ability to connect the federal government with local stakeholders.

His responsibilities include coordinating state chapters, strengthening communication between the presidency and South East leaders, and mobilising support for Tinubu’s economic and social reforms.

Speaking on the appointment, the Minister of Youth Development, Mr  Ayodele Olawande described Onunkwo’s experience and humanitarian work as key assets for the role.

“His leadership is expected to drive a new era of economic advocacy and political engagement in the region,” Ayodele said.

National Coordinator of RTIFN,  Ahmed Bala, added, “This appointment is a testament to High Chief Onunkwo’s dedication to the Nigerian project. Under his guidance, the South East will clearly see the progress of the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The appointment coincides with RTIFN’s nationwide expansion, following the inauguration of state coordinators across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Onunkwo is expected to lead community projects and innovative engagement strategies to ensure the group’s message resonates across the South East.

The Dangote Refinery has reduced its ex-gantry price of petrol by ₦100 per litre, offering a slight relief to fuel marketers and motorists after recent increases triggered by volatility in global oil prices.

According to the refinery’s latest pricing template released yesterday, petrol will now sell at ₦1,075 per litre, down from the previous rate of ₦1,175. The facility also announced that petrol supplied through coastal distribution channels will cost ₦1,050 per litre.

The company also adjusted its diesel price downward, cutting it to ₦1,430 per litre.

This represents a reduction of ₦190 from the earlier price of ₦1,620 per litre.

However, the refinery clarified that the quoted gantry prices do not include statutory charges imposed by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

The latest adjustment marks the first reduction after three successive price increases in recent days, reflecting the refinery’s response to movements in the international crude oil market.

Just a day earlier, the refinery had raised the petrol price to ₦1,175 per litre, up from ₦995 on March 7 and ₦874 on March 2, as global oil prices surged following tensions in the Middle East.

Industry analysts say the price cut followed a drop in crude prices to about $90 per barrel after the conflict involving the United States, Iran and Israel unsettled energy markets and pushed fuel costs higher in Nigeria.

The president of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, has welcomed the federal government’s approval of an enhanced gratuity for retiring federal civil servants.

Mr Ajaero gave the commendation in an interview yesterday in Abuja.

It would be recalled that the federal government recently approved a new exit benefit scheme for federal civil servants.

Under the scheme, retiring civil servants will receive a gratuity equivalent to 100 per cent of their total annual emolument.

The gratuity will be paid in addition to pensions under the Contributory Pension Scheme.

The scheme takes effect from January 1, 2026, and applies to workers who have served for at least 10 years.

He described the approval as a positive development that would support workers at the end of their service.

According to him, gratuity is different from pension because it is a form of appreciation to workers who have served their employers diligently over the years.

“It recognises the dedication and loyalty of civil servants throughout their careers.

“The contributory pension scheme alone may not adequately support retirees immediately after leaving service, so gratuity provides immediate financial support to start something meaningful,” he added.

Mr Ajaero said that this also allows retirees to manage their affairs while waiting for their pension.

The labour leader said that if gratuity was stopped in the past without any law abolishing it, those who were not paid should have their entitlements settled.

He said, “The government must ensure fairness for all retirees affected in the past.”

Mr Ajaero said that gratuity was important because it helped retirees start new ventures before relying on their pensions.

According to him, it also provides security and dignity immediately after leaving service.

He said that gratuity was separate from pension and should not be treated as part of pension benefits.

“Both should operate independently to ensure retirees are fully supported,” he added.

The NLC president added that there was no law abolishing gratuity in the civil service.

He implored the government to ensure that workers previously denied gratuity received their entitlements.

Mr Ajaero also called on organisations in the private sector to adopt similar gratuity arrangements for their workers.

“It would encourage a culture of gratitude and fairness across all sectors,” the NLC president said.

Some civil servants welcomed the reintroduction of gratuity in the federal civil service, describing it as a major relief that will ease financial burdens after retirement.

The workers, who spoke in separate interviews in Abuja, said the move marked a return to the “good old days’’ of enhanced retirement benefits for civil servants.

The Federal Executive Council, on March 5, approved a new exit benefit scheme that introduces a gratuity payment for retiring officers.

Under the new scheme, retiring federal civil servants in treasury-funded ministries, departments, and agencies will receive a gratuity equivalent to 100 per cent of their total annual emoluments, that is,  one full year’s salary package.

The benefit applies to officers who have served for a minimum of 10 years and complements the existing Contributory Pension Scheme, which was introduced 22 years ago and previously operated without a gratuity component for many retirees.

Safia Umaru said she was excited when she heard the news from a colleague.

Another civil servant, Wale Ogunnaike, a deputy director retiring in July, put the benefits of the reintroduced gratuity in perspective to justify the big relief it will bring to retirees.

Mr Ogunnaike said, “I am billed to retire in three months’ time, and the total savings in my contributory pension scheme are about N20 million. With the unfavourable and exploitative provisions in the Contributory Pension Scheme Act, I am only entitled to 25 per cent of the contribution, about N5 million, to be paid to me in a lump sum.

“The balance of 75 per cent, about N15 million, will be paid to me on a monthly basis for 10 years, 120 months, at approximately N125,000 per month. My worry has been that, with Nigeria’s economic situation, what business will I start with N5 million, after putting in 35 years in service?”

Mr Ogunnaike said the reintroduction of gratuity has brought great succour, because what he will receive will complement his pension’s lump-sum payment for tangible investment.

According to him, with his current monthly gross earnings of about N500,000, the anticipated gratuity will be about N6 million.

“With N5 million pension lump sum and N6 million gratuity payments, I can  make reasonable and wise investment decisions that are befitting for a retired civil servant of my status,” he said.

Mr Ogunnaike, however, appealed for prompt and unhindered implementation of the gratuity, so that the joy of civil servants will not be cut short.

Alice Ita said, “It will reduce the constant worry about what to do after retirement and the challenges of accessing a pension. It is indeed a big relief.”

Ms Ita urged the National Assembly to review the pension act, to allow retirees access to at least 50 per cent of their total savings without encumbrance.

Specifically, she called for the removal of the inhibiting clause in the act, which provides that the lump sum can only be taken if the remaining balance can still provide at least 50 per cent of the retiree’s final salary as a monthly pension.

Obinna Ibe described the return of gratuity as welcome, noting that civil servants face numerous economic challenges.

He also called for improved welfare for civil servants, including salary reviews to reduce disparities across government agencies.

Michael Samson described gratuity as a ‘plan B’ for civil servants after retirement. According to him, the lump-sum payment can help retirees stabilise their lives and even start small businesses.

President Bola Tinubu has vowed that Nigeria will not give in to people who are causing trouble and trying to break the peace in the country.

Tinubu made the vow during an Interfaith Iftar event held with religious and traditional leaders at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday evening.

He assured that Nigeria will win the fight against insecurity.

The President also said Nigeria’s economy has started to improve.

“Nigeria will never let people who cause trouble damage its peace, unity, and independence.

“We are not discouraged. We are going to win, and we will win in a strong and fair way. Yes, we are facing challenges; the terrorists are now in a desperate situation because they are losing ground.

“But I can promise you one thing: Nigeria will never give up. I am thankful for the chance to serve, and I will keep doing my job with loyalty and dedication. I can say that the economy has started to improve. It’s improving, and older people are slowly starting to feel some relief,” the President said.

By Ifeanyichukwu Ibe

Stakeholders across government agencies, entrepreneurs and artisan groups have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing skills acquisition and artisan development in Imo State at a high-level engagement meeting organized by the Imo State Ministry of Entrepreneurship, Skills Acquisition and Social Responsibility.

The meeting, which held in Owerri on Friday, 27 February, with the theme “Entrepreneurship as a Tool for Sustainable Development,” was described by participants as timely and profound. They noted that it came at a critical period when youth empowerment and economic diversification remain central to the government’s objectives.

Declaring the event open, the Imo State Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, who represented Governor Hope Uzodimma, stated that the meeting underscored the administration’s dedication to entrepreneurship and skill acquisition as critical pillars of its economic development agenda.

She further disclosed government’s focus on creating a favourable environment for enterprises to thrive, including equipping young people with relevant, market-driven skills while ensuring responsiveness to social responsibility.

“I urge participants to remain open, forward-thinking, and solution-oriented, aligning ideas that would strengthen the economy and secure a brighter future for the state,” the deputy governor stated.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Entrepreneurship, Skills Acquisition and Social Responsibility, Prof. Mrs. Love Moses noted that the stakeholders’ meeting was necessitated by the need to promote the activities of entrepreneurs and artisans whom she described as the backbones of the economy.

“In job creation, poverty alleviation, revenue generation and economic development, artisans and entrepreneurs have roles to play in complementing government efforts,” Prof. Love Moses said.

She disclosed the ministry’s resolve to support artisans and entrepreneurs in making tangible contributions toward the growth of the state by unlocking their potential through various trainings and activities. According to her, the social responsibility component of the ministry highlights the importance of synergy in driving collective growth.

In his lecture, the Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, Dr. Chiemezie Amadi described the gathering as one of the building blocks for massive skills acquisition and empowerment in the state.

He highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship and skills development in modern society and outlined his ministry’s ongoing efforts in training young people in digital skills to prepare them for emerging opportunities.

In their separate remarks, the Chief of Staff, Government House, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, the Special Adviser on Artisans, Hon. Ethelbert Ukobu and the his Skills counterpart, Hon. Chidi Onyebuchi  described the engagement as more than a mere gathering, calling it a collective responsibility to ensure the success of artisans as valuable economic assets for the overall good of society.

Prominent personalities in attendance included the Owerri Zonal Chairman of the Council of Ndieze, Eze Fred Nwachukwu; the South East Zonal Director of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Chioma Uloaku Ogbonna; the Imo State Manager of the Bank of Agriculture, Esther Okubuike; and the Medical Director of Federal Medical Center, Okigwe, Dr. Emily Akuabia Nzeribe, among others.

Reacting to the initiative, some participants praised it as a thoughtful step in the right direction but urged organizers to intensify efforts aimed at engaging young people in skills development. They emphasized that empowering youths with practical skills would not only reduce crime rates but also boost productivity and economic growth.

Among those who spoke were Hon. Dozie Julius, the Imo State/South East Coordinator of the Association of Nigerian Artisans and Technicians (ASNAT), and Engr. Victor Nwadimma of the Nigerian Agribusiness Group.

The meeting concluded with renewed calls for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to advance entrepreneurship and artisan development as strategic tools for sustainable development in Imo State.