Nigeria News (Standard)
Tinubu Announces 21% Rise in Nigeria’s Non-Oil Exports for 2025, Certifies 1,000 SMEs
President highlights new export certification for small businesses as government pursues economic diversification beyond oil sector
President highlights new export certification for small businesses as government pursues economic diversification beyond oil sector
President Bola Tinubu has announced that Nigeria’s non-oil exports grew by 21 percent in 2025, with over 1,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) newly certified for export operations nationwide. The president made this known in Abuja on Friday while reviewing progress on the administration’s economic diversification agenda.
According to Tinubu, the boost in non-oil exports is a direct result of targeted government policies aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on crude oil revenue. The president noted that the certification of SMEs for international trade was part of a broader initiative to empower local businesses and expand Nigeria’s footprint in global markets.
The push to grow non-oil exports comes amid ongoing efforts by successive administrations to cushion the impact of fluctuating oil prices and naira devaluation on Nigeria’s economy. Non-oil sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services have been identified by the federal government as key drivers of job creation and foreign exchange earnings.
Speaking on the development, Tinubu said, “Our commitment is to ensure Nigerian products gain more acceptance abroad while supporting local enterprises to meet international standards.” The president further explained that the certification process involved rigorous compliance checks by relevant agencies. Economic analysts say that while the figures show progress, sustaining growth will require continued investment in infrastructure and capacity building across export-oriented industries.
With global demand for Nigerian agricultural produce and manufactured goods rising steadily, industry stakeholders expect further gains if government sustains its current momentum. Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to strengthen support systems for exporters and attract more investment into non-oil sectors.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Katsina Shuts POS Centres, Bans Jerrycan Fuel Sales and Restricts Motorcycles in Two LGAs Amid Banditry Surge
Governor Radda issues executive order after emergency meeting with security agencies; residents limited to direct vehicle fuel purchases
Governor Radda issues executive order after emergency meeting with security agencies; residents limited to direct vehicle fuel purchases
The Katsina State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all Point of Sale (POS) centres and commercial phone-charging businesses in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas, imposed a state-wide ban on the sale and transport of petrol in jerrycans, and restricted motorcycle movement in the two affected LGAs. The measures, announced on Monday via an executive order signed by Governor Dikko Umar Radda (APC), follow an emergency security meeting with law enforcement agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders.
According to the new directive, all POS outlets and phone-charging businesses in Matazu and Musawa must cease operations immediately. In addition, motorcycles are now prohibited from operating within both LGAs. Across Katsina’s 34 local government areas, residents are banned from purchasing or transporting petrol in jerrycans, though buying fuel directly into vehicle tanks at filling stations remains permitted.
Government said these steps were necessary to tackle rising banditry and criminal activities that have continued to threaten communities across the North-West state. Intelligence reports indicate that informal financial services such as POS have been exploited by criminal groups for funding, while petrol smuggled in jerrycans is frequently used to fuel motorcycles and generators operated by armed men hiding in forests. The restriction on motorcycles targets the mobility advantage enjoyed by bandits who often use them to evade security patrols across rural areas.
“These measures are aimed at disrupting the support networks of criminal elements by cutting off their access to funds, fuel supplies and easy movement,” Governor Radda said in a statement accompanying the order. Security officials have long argued that portable fuel sales enable bandits to sustain attacks despite ongoing military operations. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment on the new restrictions.
Katsina has faced persistent insecurity, including attacks on villages, kidnappings for ransom and cattle rustling. Many residents have abandoned farms and businesses due to fear of violence. Authorities say this latest move was informed by intelligence assessments and consultations with local leaders. The government maintains that while these restrictions may inconvenience some law-abiding residents—especially those in rural communities with limited banking access—they are essential for restoring peace.
Security agencies are expected to step up enforcement of the order in coming days, with surveillance intensified around filling stations and border communities. The state government says it will review the effectiveness of these measures regularly as part of broader efforts to secure lives and property across Katsina.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Scientists Unveil Why Mosquitoes Target Some Nigerians More Than Others
Experts link higher mosquito bites to body chemistry, carbon dioxide emission and alcohol intake; urge use of nets and repellents
Experts link higher mosquito bites to body chemistry, carbon dioxide emission and alcohol intake; urge use of nets and repellents
Researchers in Lagos have explained the scientific reasons why some Nigerians are bitten by mosquitoes more frequently than others, highlighting the role of body chemistry, carbon dioxide output and lifestyle choices. The findings were released on Tuesday following a series of laboratory studies conducted in collaboration with international partners.
According to the scientists, mosquitoes are not randomly attracted to people. The lead researcher explained that female mosquitoes are drawn first to carbon dioxide exhaled by humans, which they can sense from several metres away. As they approach, they rely on body odour and skin heat to select specific targets. “Our studies show that individuals who produce more sebum—a natural oil on the skin—emit compounds that are especially attractive to mosquitoes,” the scientist said during a briefing in Ikeja.
The research further dispelled popular beliefs about blood type or skin colour influencing mosquito preference. The team stated that there is no scientific evidence supporting claims that blood group affects mosquito attraction, noting previous studies were too small for meaningful conclusions. However, they found that pregnant women in their second trimester face a higher risk due to increased body temperature and metabolic changes.
Alcohol consumption was also identified as a factor that increases mosquito bites. In one study involving 465 volunteers, those who consumed beer within the previous day were over 30 percent more likely to be bitten. Experts attributed this to higher body heat and altered skin odour after drinking alcohol.
The researchers advised Nigerians to use loose-fitting clothing that covers the skin, apply insect repellent, and sleep under treated mosquito nets—especially during rainy season when malaria risk is highest. They also recommended minimising alcohol intake before outdoor activities in mosquito-prone areas. “Prevention remains key because most risk factors are tied to natural body processes,” the scientist added.
Public health officials say these findings reinforce ongoing malaria prevention campaigns across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, urging residents to prioritise protective measures regardless of perceived personal immunity.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/why-mosquitoes-bite-some-people-more-than-others-2026061717360585875
Nigeria News (Standard)
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Disburses ₦100m Grant to 2,000 Benue Women, Commissions ICT Centre
Governor Alia hails Renewed Hope Initiative as newly built roads and digital centre target economic growth in North-Central state
Governor Alia hails Renewed Hope Initiative as newly built roads and digital centre target economic growth in North-Central state
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu on Tuesday empowered 2,000 women petty traders in Benue State with a ₦100 million economic grant and commissioned a new ICT centre in Vandeikya Local Government Area. The interventions, carried out under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), are aimed at promoting financial inclusion and digital skills for women and youths across the state.
The event, held during the First Lady’s visit to Benue, saw each beneficiary receive ₦50,000 to support their businesses and improve their livelihoods. In addition to the grant distribution, Mrs Tinubu unveiled the Lucy Zayol Aluor Community ICT Centre in Ihugh, a facility established through collaboration between RHI and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The centre is expected to provide training in digital literacy and technology for local residents.
Addressing attendees at the commissioning, Senator Tinubu said the programme was designed to help women expand their businesses and contribute more effectively to their families and communities. “Empowering women is key to national development. This initiative will not only boost economic activities but also ensure sustainable growth among beneficiaries,” she stated during her speech.
Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr Hyacinth Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC), commended the First Lady for making Benue one of the selected states for the Renewed Hope Initiative’s empowerment efforts. He expressed optimism that both the grant and new ICT centre would positively impact women entrepreneurs and young people seeking opportunities in today’s economy.
As part of her visit, Mrs Tinubu also participated in the official commissioning of 10 newly completed intra-city roads in Makurdi, covering approximately 11.5 kilometres. The roads—including Shire Bakut Road dual carriageway and Abu Ken Shulua Road—were constructed under Phase I of Benue’s Urban Renewal Programme. In recognition of her contributions, Ishayaba Street was renamed after Senator Tinubu.
The Renewed Hope Initiative has rolled out similar empowerment schemes across multiple states, focusing on grants, educational support and vocational training for women, youths and vulnerable groups nationwide. The Benue programme forms part of a broader campaign to improve livelihoods, reduce poverty and expand access to economic opportunities through targeted support.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/remi-tinubu-benue-women-grant-ict-centre-2026061717241397087
Katsina Shuts POS Centres, Bans Jerrycan Fuel Sales and Restricts Motorcycles in Two LGAs Amid Banditry Surge
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