Nigeria News (Standard)
Chef Mohammad Baydoun Introduces Plantain Cake with Spicy Prawns in Lagos Culinary Showcase
Renowned chef highlights Nigerian ingredients with innovative dish, drawing attention from food lovers and hospitality sector
Renowned chef highlights Nigerian ingredients with innovative dish, drawing attention from food lovers and hospitality sector
Chef Mohammad Baydoun unveiled his latest culinary creation, a plantain cake stuffed with spicy prawns and served with chilli pepper sauce, during a food showcase held in Lagos on Thursday. The event featured Baydoun demonstrating how classic Nigerian ingredients can be transformed into globally appealing dishes.
According to organisers, the dish combines sweet ripe plantains with savoury prawns, offering a crispy exterior and spicy filling that has quickly become popular among attendees. Chef Baydoun emphasised the importance of texture in his preparation, stating that frying the plantain cake to a deep golden colour is key to achieving the desired result.
Baydoun, who has built a reputation for refining local flavours for international audiences, said his approach aims to elevate familiar tastes for both Nigerians and visitors. “This recipe takes our favourite childhood flavours and gives them a new twist,” he explained during the demonstration. The dish was served alongside a fiery chilli pepper sauce, which added an extra layer of heat appreciated by many at the event.
Industry stakeholders present noted that such innovations could boost Nigeria’s culinary tourism potential by attracting more food enthusiasts to local restaurants. While some chefs praised Baydoun’s creativity, others expressed interest in adapting the recipe for their own menus. “It’s inspiring to see our traditional ingredients showcased in this way,” one participant commented.
The event is expected to spark renewed interest in Nigerian fusion cuisine, as chefs and restaurant owners explore new ways to blend local staples with international techniques. Food industry observers predict that dishes like Baydoun’s plantain cake may soon find their way onto menus across major cities in Nigeria.
Source: https://guardian.ng/life/chef-mohammad-baydouns-plantain-cake-with-spicy-prawns/
Nigeria News (Standard)
CBN to Revise Guidelines for Financial Holding Companies in Abuja
Central Bank moves to update regulatory framework, aiming to strengthen oversight of Nigeria’s financial conglomerates
Central Bank moves to update regulatory framework, aiming to strengthen oversight of Nigeria’s financial conglomerates
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced plans to review the rules governing financial holding companies, signalling a fresh move to strengthen oversight of the country’s financial sector. The development was made public in Abuja on Thursday, 11 June 2026, as part of ongoing efforts by the apex bank to align regulations with evolving industry realities.
According to the CBN, the review will focus on updating existing guidelines that oversee how financial holding companies operate within Nigeria’s banking ecosystem. These companies typically control multiple subsidiaries across banking, insurance, asset management and other financial services. The new rules are expected to address operational risks and ensure that holding structures do not undermine the stability of individual subsidiaries or the wider financial system.
The move comes amid growing concerns over compliance gaps and risk management practices among some holding companies. In recent years, stakeholders have called for clearer boundaries and stricter supervisory mechanisms to prevent abuses such as regulatory arbitrage or concentration of risk. The CBN’s planned revision is seen as an attempt to address these issues before they escalate.
While specific details of the proposed changes have not yet been disclosed, industry experts expect tighter reporting requirements and improved corporate governance standards. The apex bank said it will engage with relevant stakeholders—including commercial banks and non-bank subsidiaries—before finalising the revised framework.
The CBN is expected to release a draft guideline for public input in the coming weeks. Observers say the updated rules could have significant implications for conglomerates operating under holding structures, as well as for investors seeking clarity on sector stability.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NCAA Launches Probe Into Asaba Aircraft Roadway Landing Incident
Aviation authority begins investigation after plane lands on public road in Delta State, raises safety concerns
Aviation authority begins investigation after plane lands on public road in Delta State, raises safety concerns
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has commenced an official investigation into the unusual landing of an aircraft on a public roadway in Asaba, Delta State, on Thursday. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, has sparked concern among stakeholders about air safety protocols and enforcement in the country.
According to initial reports, the aircraft made an unscheduled landing on a major road within Asaba metropolis. Eyewitnesses described seeing the plane come to a halt amid surprised motorists and pedestrians, but there were no reported injuries or casualties as at press time. NCAA officials arrived at the scene shortly after to secure the area and begin preliminary inquiries.
This incident has drawn attention to Nigeria’s aviation safety standards, particularly regarding flight operations near populated urban areas. Airspace regulation is a recurring issue in Nigeria’s aviation sector, especially given previous incidents involving runway incursions and emergency landings. The NCAA’s response is being closely watched by both industry professionals and residents who expressed concern over possible lapses that could endanger lives.
An NCAA spokesperson confirmed that a comprehensive probe is underway to determine the circumstances leading to the event. “We are treating this as a serious safety matter and will examine all relevant factors before releasing our findings,” the spokesperson said in a written statement. No opposition or external aviation experts have issued formal comments as at Thursday evening.
The outcome of this investigation is expected to inform future policy measures aimed at preventing similar occurrences. The NCAA said its final report would be made public and promised that any parties found culpable would face appropriate sanctions under Nigerian civil aviation regulations.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Tinubu to Address Nigerians Nationwide on Democracy Day, Presidency Confirms
President’s live broadcast scheduled for Friday amid public calls for reforms and remembrance of June 12 significance
President’s live broadcast scheduled for Friday amid public calls for reforms and remembrance of June 12 significance
President Bola Tinubu will address the nation in a live broadcast on Friday, marking this year’s Democracy Day celebrations across Nigeria. The announcement comes as the country prepares to commemorate June 12, a day recognised for its pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic history and a public holiday nationwide.
According to the presidency, the address will be broadcast from Abuja and is expected to focus on the state of the nation, ongoing reforms, and government’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions. This yearly presidential speech has become tradition since June 12 was officially designated as Democracy Day in honour of the annulled 1993 elections widely considered Nigeria’s freest poll.
Democracy Day serves as a reminder of the struggles that led to civilian rule after years of military dictatorship. Many Nigerians are looking forward to President Tinubu’s message against a backdrop of economic hardship, security challenges and heightened expectations for reforms promised by his administration. Civil society groups and opposition parties have already called on government to use the occasion to recommit to electoral transparency, justice sector improvements and policies addressing poverty and youth unemployment.
While details of Tinubu’s planned remarks have not been released as at Thursday evening, sources within Aso Rock say the speech will touch on national unity and highlight progress achieved since his assumption of office. The main opposition parties—PDP and LP—have urged government to back up rhetoric with concrete actions that improve livelihoods and protect civil liberties.
The president’s speech will be aired on national television and radio stations from 7:00 am. Nigerians are expected to participate in various commemorative activities across states as part of the Democracy Day programme.
