
Emem Usoro, Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, Central Bank of Nigeria, stated that the bank's ongoing reforms and implemented policies have prevented Nigeria from economic disaster. Speaking at Akwa Ibom State University's convocation where she received an honorary doctorate, Usoro noted that aligning monetary policies with fiscal reforms has led to exchange rate and macroeconomic stability, boosted economic growth, and fostered an inclusive economy. She emphasized the importance of brilliant young minds for Nigeria's economic growth, citing countries like Singapore, Japan, and South Korea as examples of nations that achieved prosperity by leveraging their youth's innovation. Usoro also announced financial support from the CBN for the university's academic and research work and encouraged graduates to remain curious and embrace new ideas. She charged female graduands to overcome societal constraints in pursuing their aspirations. The university graduated 6,779 first-degree and 746 postgraduate students.
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Must ReadDr. Bolaji Olagunju argues that the underperformance of most public sector boards in Nigeria is not accidental but a result of their design. He asserts that every institution is designed to achieve its current results, whether success or failure. To improve performance, he proposes applying "the seven transformational disciplines of running government like a business" to boards: Purpose, Strategy, Structure, Roles, People, Culture, and Systems. Olagunju explains that a performing board clearly defines its purpose beyond legalistic functions, sets strategic direction rather than merely endorsing management's plans, and is structured effectively with appropriate committees and meeting cadences. Furthermore, clear role definitions are crucial to avoid "role pollution." He emphasizes that the most critical discipline is "People," advocating for board members who possess competence, independence, and commitment, rather than being selected based on political or personal considerations. A culture of candour, where directors can openly disagree and challenge management, is also vital. Finally, he stresses the importance of robust systems for board operations, from annual calendars to performance evaluations, rather than relying on informal interactions. Olagunju cites NAFDAC under Dora Akunyili as an example of successful design implementation. He concludes that fixing the design of these boards is essential for national progress, and that while all seven disciplines are important, g
Must ReadBandits attacked Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing three people: Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, the Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, aged 70; and Sunday Ayele, aged six. The incident occurred around 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday. The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the attack, stating that a large number of armed bandits on approximately 40 motorcycles invaded the school, with a suspected intention to abduct students and residents. A joint security response, including police, military personnel, and local vigilante groups, engaged the attackers, forcing them to flee. One attacker was neutralized, and a member of the security team sustained gunshot injuries. Preliminary findings indicate no conclusive evidence of a successful mass abduction. The Commissioner of Police has ordered sustained bush-combing operations and patrols, with joint security operatives continuing intensive operations to apprehend suspects and prevent further attacks. The public is urged to remain calm and provide credible information.

The House of Representatives has adopted a motion defining "cognate legislative experience" for principal officers, effectively ending the ambition of Ikenga Ugochinyere to become Minority Leader. The decision, following a motion by Mr. Babajimi Benson, stipulates that only members who have completed at least one full four-year term are eligible for principal officer appointments. This move came after the Minority Leader position became vacant due to Kingsley Chinda's defection and subsequent governorship candidacy. Ugochinyere, a first-term lawmaker, had garnered support from 61 lawmakers, though his candidacy faced controversy over alleged forged signatures and financial inducement. The House's resolution, which states that "there is no other definition to the term 'cognate legislative experience' other than as stated," aligns with the 10th Senate's recent definition. While some, like Solomon Bob, argued the motion was unnecessary and could limit the Speaker's authority, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas defended the House's decision to interpret its own rules. This development is expected to reshape the race for the Minority Leader position, focusing on ranking opposition lawmakers who meet the new eligibility criteria.