Export Ban: Akpabio Demands 30% Value Addition on Nigeria’s Raw Materials
Before any raw materials may be exported from Nigeria, a minimum of 30% local value addition must be added, according to a law that Senate President Godswill Akpabio has promised the National Assembly will approve.
Speaking at his Abuja office on Wednesday, Akpabio made the comment while meeting with representatives of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), who were accompanied by Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, the council’s director general.
The Senate president characterized the proposed modification to the RMRDC Act as “a moral compass” that might serve as a reference for other African countries, in addition to being crucial to Nigeria’s economic advancement, according to a press release issued by Jackson Udom, his special assistant on media.
“We would have had at least a factory for those chains that would have also created jobs for our people outside of what the farmers are doing if any of the values were added in Nigeria before exporting them,” Akpabio stated.
“Innovative changes in technology would have also occurred.”
In order to create stronger value chains across industries, Akpabio underlined the significance of coordinating Nigeria’s push for research and development with legislative support.
“It is regrettable that although we grow cocoa in Nigeria, we ultimately import the same cocoa products from abroad at a higher cost and without any inputs,” he continued.
Raw Materials and the Deficit in Solid Minerals
Citing the solid minerals industry as one of the most severely impacted by the absence of value addition, Akpabio commended Senate Deputy Chief Whip Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi for introducing the amendment bill.
According to him, “the solid mineral sector is the most pitiful because we are not adding any value before we sell it.”
As a result, it is sold at a very low price, and if you take the whole picture, you will realize that, in terms of identifying and utilizing the potential inside its borders, African development in 2025 is still in a primitive form.
“The only reason poverty is getting worse is ignorance.”
In order to educate Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, about the value and economic potential of solid minerals and raw materials, Akpabio urged the council to launch a grassroots initiative.
Read Also: Niger Delta Takeover Continues — Okaba Sounds Warning in Rivers State
According to him, “Nigerians and secondary school students should be taught something about raw materials, solid minerals for recognition wherever they found one.”
“We can’t let this go on. Nigeria would have taken action to guarantee that any raw material being exported from the nation had at least 30% added value if we were to help you pass the bill and have the president sign it into law.
RMRDC’s optimism
Ike-Muonso, the Director-General of RMRDC, had earlier thanked the meeting and expressed his hope that the National Assembly would support the legislation to fortify Nigeria’s industrial foundation.
He said, “We have seen reforms like the Tax Administration Bills, but the one that worries us the most is the bill to amend the Raw Materials Research and Development Council Act, which is primarily to ensure that we do not export raw materials out of the country without them having at least 30 percent of value-added.”
“Given that Nigeria is a continent leader, this bill is undoubtedly the most important one in Africa and will transform the future of this nation.”
In addition, he invited the Senate President to the Africa Raw Materials Summit, which is scheduled for later this month.
Niger Delta Takeover Continues — Okaba Sounds Warning in Rivers State
Niger Delta residents have been cautioned by Benjamin Okaba, president of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), to stay vigilant and oppose the divide and conquer strategy being used in the area.
The political crisis in Rivers State is a planned state capture that the masterminds intend to enact throughout the Niger Delta, according to sociology professor Okaba.
According to reports, this was said by Professor Okaba on Thursday at Rivers State’s News Central Town Hall.
He said, “I will speak as a professor of sociology; let me disappoint those who expect me to speak as the president of the Ijaw National Congress.” He continued, “I have heard all of the contributions, and it is not surprising that we are a divided house.”
Rivers Matter is a sign of a broken political system, according to the president of INC. What you mean when you say “state capture” is not the conquest of River State, but rather the Niger Delta.
He says the region’s vast oil riches are the reason for the plot to seize it. According to him, the federal government would have easy access to the region’s resources if the policy of divide and conquer was implemented, pitting the local populace against one another.
The reason for this is that our region is extremely wealthy, the divide and conquer strategy, the balkanization strategy, and the strategy of forcing us to fight against ourselves have all been enacted over time. He added, “The federal government will start to exploit our resources while we clap hands for those persons when there is a crisis that is planned using our own people to cause the crisis, just like during the colonial period.”
He emphasized that there is no connection between ethnic differences and the Rivers situation.
Read Also: Nigerian Defence Academy Postpones Screening Test of 77 Regular Course
Because of this, I make every effort as president of the Ijaw National Congress to declare whenever I have the chance that this is not an ethnic crisis. And the Niger Delta’s enemies are those who wish to give it ethnic coloration,” he said.
He urged everyone in the Niger Delta to stand together and denounced those in power who are using the people of the area to further their own political agendas.
Nigerian Defence Academy Postpones Screening Test of 77 Regular Course
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has announced the postponement of its screening test for the 77 Regular Course. This development follows the decision by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to conduct a fresh round of Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for candidates due to errors in the previously held examination.
Major Mohammed Maidawa, the NDA spokesperson, disclosed the update on Thursday night.
“In view of this development, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) wishes to inform the general public and all applicants to the 77 Regular Course that the NDA Screening Test earlier scheduled for Saturday, 24 May 2025, has been postponed,” he said.
The NDA emphasized that the decision was taken to uphold equal opportunity and to avoid the disenfranchisement of any candidate affected by the JAMB error.
A new date for the screening will be announced in due course.
The NDA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of its admissions process and ensuring fairness for all candidates.
Applicants are advised to follow the NDA’s official social media channels and regularly visit the NDA portal for updates.
Mental Health Care in Northeast Nigeria: Community-Led Solutions That Work
In Nigeria’s northeast, where years of insurgency have devastated lives and communities, a quiet revolution in mental healthcare is offering hope and healing—led not by institutions alone, but by the communities themselves.
At the heart of this transformation is Dr. Fatima Abba Ali, a Consultant Psychiatrist and alumna of the AIG Public Leaders Programme. Her groundbreaking initiative, Mentaccess, is reshaping how mental health challenges are identified and treated, especially among children and adolescents in Borno State.
At a bustling primary healthcare centre in Jere LGA, Community Health Extension Workers equipped with digital tablets are screening young people for mental health conditions—often catching problems early, before they spiral. One such case is that of a student identified as Y.J.K., whose father was killed by insurgents. His silent struggles were uncovered during a routine screening and he was promptly referred for professional care. Today, he is back in school and thriving.
Mentaccess operates through a three-tier model: local health workers screen and support mild cases, trained counselors manage more complex issues, and the most severe are referred to psychiatrists at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Maiduguri—some via teleconsultation.
The project’s strength lies in its community-led approach. Trusted local health workers, traditional leaders, and culturally sensitive methods have helped dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness. Mentaccess tools work even in areas with poor internet access, ensuring no one is left behind.
Since its launch, over 29,000 young people have been screened. The project now spans six local government areas and is piloting school-based mental health interventions by training teachers to identify early warning signs.
Dr. Fatima’s message is clear: “Mental health conditions are real and treatable. With the right support, our communities can become the frontline of recovery.”
The Mentaccess project is supported by the AIG Public Leaders Programme, facilitated by the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. It is a shining example of how local innovation, global learning, and grassroots engagement can solve Nigeria’s toughest healthcare challenges.
Nigeria formally joins European Bank for reconstruction, development
Nigeria has been formally admitted as a member of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), marking a significant step towards boosting private sector access to international capital and supporting the country’s long-term economic transformation.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, led a high-level delegation to the EBRD 2025 Annual Meetings in London, where Nigeria’s accession was formalized.
Speaking at the Board of Governors’ Plenary Session, Edun described Nigeria’s membership as a strategic milestone aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This is a proud day for Nigeria. Our accession to the EBRD marks a critical milestone in our economic reform journey.
We are committed to building a transparent, rules-based economy that unlocks private investment and accelerates inclusive growth,” Edun stated.
With over 80 percent of its financing directed towards the private sector, the EBRD plays a pivotal role in supporting entrepreneurship, SMEs, and large-scale investments across key sectors.
Nigeria’s membership opens new opportunities for local businesses to access development finance and technical expertise across priority areas such as energy transition, infrastructure, agriculture, and digital innovation.
The Minister also held high-level bilateral meetings with delegations from France and the United States, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as an active and trusted partner in global economic governance.
Held under the theme “Expanding Horizons, Enduring Strengths,” the 2025 EBRD Annual Meetings brought together leaders from over 70 economies to advance dialogue on inclusive growth, resilience, and sustainable development.
In a statement, Mohammed Manga, Director of Information and Public Relations, said that as Nigeria embarks on this new chapter of economic cooperation with the EBRD, the country is poised to leverage the Bank’s expertise and resources to drive sustainable growth, create jobs, and improve the lives of its citizens.
He noted that with this strategic partnership, Nigeria is set to unlock new opportunities for economic transformation, cementing its position as a key player in global economic governance.
Ondo APC Chairman’s Ransom Bearers Abducted, Kidnappers Make Fresh Request
Two people who allegedly offered to deliver the ₦5 million ransom for Nelson Adepoyigi’s release have reportedly been abducted by the gunmen who kidnapped the Ward 5 Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The kidnappers are now requesting ₦30 million in order to free Adepoyigi and the two ransom bearers, Bayode Loco and Isimeri, in the wake of this tragedy.
Around 10 p.m. on Monday, Adepoyigi was reportedly kidnapped from outside his Ifon home, where he was beaten by the gunmen before being dragged away by force.
The community is in a state of disarray as a result of this crisis, which has further shattered and alarmed the victim’s family and political circles.
After discussions, the kidnappers lowered their initial demand of ₦100 million in ransom to ₦5 million plus food. Adepoyigi’s family and political associates had hoped for his return, but after collecting the ₦5 million, they broke their word and are now seeking ₦30 million for the safe return of Adepoyigi and the two people.
Read Also: Tougher Measures in Edo as Govt Imposes Death Penalty for Kidnapping
According to one unnamed source, the same kidnappers also took the people who supplied the money hostage.
The Daily Post cited the unidentified source as stating, “They have now turned around to demand a fresh ₦30 million before they can release all three of them.”
Kolapo Oja, the Chairman of the Ose Local Council Area, confirmed the occurrence by revealing that the ransom demand of ₦100 million was reduced to ₦5 million during previous discussions with the kidnappers, along with the provision of food supplies.
Oja, who expressed his concern over the situation, called for calm as the state’s security forces step up their efforts to guarantee the victims’ safe rescue.
Tougher Measures in Edo as Govt Imposes Death Penalty for Kidnapping
Governor Monday Okpebholo and the State House of Assembly are united in their strong opposition to the growing issue of kidnapping, according to the Edo State administration.
This was revealed by Fred Itua, the governor’s chief press secretary, in a statement released on Thursday.
The Edo State House of Assembly enacted the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2025, according to the government’s statement, “A STEP-BY-STEP BREAKDOWN OF NEW KIDNAPPING PROHIBITION LAW IN EDO STATE.”
“Governor Monday Okpebholo and members of the State House of Assembly are united in taking a firm stand against the escalating threat of kidnapping in Edo State,” the statement said. In 2025, the Edo State House of Assembly passed the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law. A daring legislative milestone, this amended law aims to tighten the noose around kidnappers, their accomplices, and those who facilitate their activities. The government’s determination to improve public safety and rebuild trust in the state’s legal and law enforcement systems is evident in this. This modified law has greatly increased the severity of the punishment for abduction. According to one of the nation’s strictest anti-kidnapping laws, anyone directly implicated in a kidnapping when a life is lost faces the death penalty. In contrast to earlier laws that imposed milder penalties, convicted kidnappers now risk life in prison for situations in which the victims survive the ordeal.
Additionally, the law establishes a minimum term of 21 years for anyone who attempts to perpetrate, helps, abets, or conspires to commit the crime of abduction, demonstrating the government’s goal to punish not only the act but also the whole network of support that underlies it.
The clause that targets people who give kidnappers shelter, hiding places, or logistical help is another ground-breaking feature of the legislation. These people now face a minimum 14-year prison sentence upon conviction, regardless of whether they were personally involved in the crime. The goal of this broad provision is to eliminate the conditions that allow abductions to be planned and carried out, so plugging the gaps that criminals have long taken advantage of.
Additionally, the legislation expands the definition of what is considered abduction. It now involves forcing someone else into imprisonment, regardless of the length of time or type of incarceration, by use of threats or deception. The goal of this redefinition is to include a broader range of criminal strategies, particularly those that deprive people of their liberty without resorting to conventional hostage-taking situations.
It’s noteworthy that the legislation makes ransom negotiations illegal as well. Now, anyone—whether a family member or not—who accepts, proposes, or facilitates the exchange of ransom money could face legal action. The goal of the law is to make it less profitable for offenders by ending the circle of financial incentives that have supported the crime’s continuation. Similarly, it is now illegal to possess both immovable and moveable property obtained through ransom money, as this can result in forfeiture and other legal repercussions.
Included in the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2025 are provisions that guarantee the safety of victims and witnesses throughout the legal battle. It requires witnesses to remain anonymous and protects them from possible retaliation. This clause represents a shift toward a more victim-sensitive justice system and is crucial considering the anxiety and hesitancy sometimes connected to testifying against dangerous perpetrators.
Read Also: Ohanaeze to JAMB: Award 300 Marks to All South-East Candidates or Face Lawsuit
“This new law is a response to the increasing calls for stricter laws from the public, security experts, and civil society to stop the increase in kidnappings that have not only endangered lives but also disrupted economic activity and disturbed communal harmony.”
“The Edo State government has made it obvious that it would no longer put up with criminal activity that infringes upon the sanctity of human freedom by deciding to implement such extensive and severe actions.
Training law enforcement personnel, informing the public on the implications of the amendments, and sensitizing the judiciary will be prioritized as the state carries out the terms of this law. For the law to be effective and to create a safer Edo State where people can live without fear, a multifaceted strategy is required.
Ohanaeze to JAMB: Award 300 Marks to All South-East Candidates or Face Lawsuit
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, the youth section of the Igbo sociocultural organization, has requested that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) assign 300 points to all South-East students for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Ohanaeze criticized JAMB for its intention to administer a new test to anyone affected by what it called unacceptable flaws in the recently released 2025 UTME results.
According to reports, on Wednesday, May 14, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the JAMB Registrar, admitted that errors were a factor in the poor test results of applicants from Lagos State and the five South-East states.
As a result, the Board declared that plans were in motion to reschedule the test for the impacted applicants.
However, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, stated that this arrangement was completely unacceptable in a statement made public on Thursday, May 15.
According to Okwu, it was unfair for JAMB to put the candidates through “another round of mental torture, stress, and risk” because of uncontrollable conditions.
Since JAMB has already tortured our people’s minds, we want to make it clear that they will not tolerate any more exams.
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The candidates have been subjected to mental torment ever since the phony results were revealed, thus they are not in the correct state of mind to take another test.
In addition, who will pay for it? Are these the same parents that are having a lot of financial difficulties?
“How dangerous would it be to relocate to the exam sites in a nation plagued by insecurity?” Ohanaeze asked.
“Having said this, we demand that JAMB assign a 300 score to all the South-East candidates affected by its own error, not the candidates’,” Nnabuike added. Igbos have a lot of intelligence and might have earned $300 or more.
“It was obviously intended to punish the people of the South-East by denying them access to education.
“We will not hesitate to take JAMB to court if they disregard our request; the Board will not be saved by the Registrar’s crocodile tears.”