AGP Executive Report

Petrol & Cost of Living: The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has demanded immediate wage awards as petrol prices keep climbing, warning higher transport costs will push up food, rents and other essentials. Telcos & Financial Inclusion: Former CBN governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi admitted he was wrong to delay telcos’ entry into Nigeria’s financial services, saying it slowed inclusion. Capital Markets & Dangote IPO: Nigeria’s stock market extended gains as investors stayed bullish on Dangote Refinery’s N2.15tn IPO, while regulators warn of scams targeting would-be investors. Digital Identity Push: President Tinubu ordered NIN enrolment to reach 95% coverage by December 2026, citing growth to about 142 million registrations. Broadband for Elections: ICT stakeholders urged stronger broadband and internet connectivity to make 2027 election processes smoother. Ports & Trade: NPERA said efficient, competitive ports are vital to the $1tn economy goal, stressing tougher enforcement and digitisation. Maritime Security: The U.S. lifted a 12-year restriction on Nigerian vessels, praising Nigeria’s port security reforms. Health Policy: Nigeria is moving to institutionalise Health Technology Assessment to guide what the health system funds. Politics in Kano: PDP in Kano replaced its guber candidate with Alhaji Muhammad Abacha and named a running mate after internal reconciliation. Culture & Learning: NCDMB hosted its 5th book reading programme, urging Nigerians to build a culture of learning.

Entertainment & Culture: President Tinubu and top Nigerians mourn veteran Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs, who died at 84, with tributes highlighting his role in professionalising Nigeria’s film industry and his “Lion of Lufodo” legacy. Politics & 2027: FCT Minister Nyesom Wike says only President Tinubu can question him, while APC campaign spokesperson Ima Niboro urges Wike and APC governors to stop infighting and focus on grassroots work ahead of 2027. Energy & Power: TCN schedules preventive maintenance in Niger State, warning of electricity disruption in Bida and surrounding communities from 8am to 1pm. Telecoms Security: NCC warns of renewed call masking, saying it distorts revenues and threatens communications security, as a new identity risk system is set for October. Transport & Economy: Bolt reports a 92% week-on-week jump in driver registrations after Uber exited Nigeria, as the ride-hailing market reshuffles. Health & Diagnostics: FG says medical diagnostics are a strategic national asset and calls for stronger local production, regulation and partnerships to cut dependence on imports. Sports: Nigeria’s Davis Cup team arrives in Rabat for the World Group II tie against Morocco.

Football Governance: FIFA/CAF assess Nigeria Football Federation leadership after Gusau’s resignation; state FA chairmen insist leagues are running and there’s no full-blown crisis. Politics & Security: Akwa Ibom Gov Umo Eno warns politicians against electioneering violence and hate speech. Democracy Watch: CSOs warn democracy faces threats from intimidation, inflammatory rhetoric and weak accountability ahead of 2027. Fuel & Cost of Living: ADC blasts Tinubu over petrol up to N1,470, saying Nigerians are nearing breaking point; Dangote blames cross-border smuggling and says prices abroad are 30–50% higher. Capital Markets: Nigeria returns to J.P. Morgan’s frontier bond index after 11 years with 7.4% weighting, while Dangote refinery’s “People’s IPO” triggers investor rush and priority for small investors if oversubscribed. Business & Finance: Insurance regulator urges trust as the industry’s key asset; International Breweries to return N84bn to shareholders. Sports & Culture: LEAGA 2026 launches as “Olympics of Entertainment,” and Team Nigeria heads to the FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand.

Organ Trafficking Crackdown: A new report contrasts legal, family kidney donation in Abuja with the darker reality of brokers and paid donors, urging Nigeria to close the gap that fuels organ trafficking. EU Travel Rules: The EU published a Schengen visa list placing 51 African countries, including Nigeria, on the “visa required” track for entry into 29 Schengen states. Fake Drugs Alarm: Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju warns of fake drugs and substandard products flooding Nigeria, calling for stronger action and accountability at NAFDAC. Drug War Update: NDLEA arrests a Mexican meth kingpin and dismantles an industrial lab in Ebonyi, showing expanding international drug networks. Politics & Courts: Ekiti tribunal slams SDP over delays in a governorship petition, while Ogun’s APC candidate Solomon Adeola issues a 24-hour evidence ultimatum over origin claims. Digital Skills Push: FG launches a six-month Digital Training Academy for 32,000 Nigerians and telcos back free daily data for students. Economy & Energy: Dangote links Nigeria’s petrol prices to smuggling incentives and says the refinery’s IPO is set to fund expansion. Security & Justice: Police warn against “social media trial” in rape cases, stressing due process. Sports & Culture: Inter Milan shows interest in Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey; Nigeria produces its first local World Rugby educators.

Digital Connectivity Push: Communications Minister Bosun Tijani doubles down on Project BRIDGE, promising 90,000km of open-access fibre, new towers and two satellites as he withdraws from an ITU race to focus on Nigeria’s digital transformation. Disability Inclusion: NCC, with CBM International, trains persons with disabilities on digital citizenship, online safety and skills to help them participate in the digital economy. Nigeria–India Trade Reset: Nigeria and India agree to revive bilateral trade toward nearly $15bn, with Modi urging renewed Nigerian crude purchases and Shettima saying Nigeria will review the request under Tinubu’s investment drive. Dangote Refinery IPO Frenzy: NGX opens Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s N2.15tn “people’s IPO” at N525 per share (4.1bn shares), with Dangote promising wealth creation and strong returns as retail investors rush in. Power Sector Debt Relief: FG raises about N1.23tn via bonds to settle GenCos’ N4tn legacy debt, boosting confidence in the electricity debt reduction programme. Health Alarm: CSOs warn maternal and child health is still slipping, with 40% of under-fives stunted and vaccination coverage lagging, urging measurable reform results. Security & Economy: A report shows kidnapping has evolved into a “ransom economy” across Northern Nigeria, with millions paid and many victims still harmed. Sports & Culture: Nigeria’s Davis Cup team jets to Morocco for a bid to win and advance, while CANAL+ and LaLiga sign an anti-piracy deal across nearly 50 countries.

Business & Markets: Aliko Dangote has launched the Dangote Petroleum Refinery IPO on the Nigerian Exchange, targeting about $1.6bn and up to N2.15tn, with shares priced at N525 and a plan to expand capacity to 1.4m barrels/day by 2028. Digital Regulation: Meta is seeking a settlement with Nigeria after a $220m FCCPC fine over consumer protection and data privacy breaches, following a tribunal decision upholding the penalty. Security: Nigeria Police issued a nationwide alert over possible attacks on schools, worship centres and NYSC camps, urging tighter protection as the academic session begins. Regional Development: President Tinubu ordered the SGF to release funds for regional commissions, warning against corruption and “conduit pipe” waste. Trade & Border Efficiency: Nigeria and Benin plan real-time Customs data sharing at Sèmè-Kraké to cut border delays. Telecom Expansion: FG targets at least 200 new telecom sites active before December to connect over 20m unserved Nigerians. Politics & Governance: Obi says Nigeria needs urgent leadership reform; Obasanjo renewed condemnation of xenophobia in South Africa. Sports: Nigeria unveiled its 2026 African Men’s Volleyball Nations Championship squad and FirstBank/Okwaraji U-16 zonal qualifiers begin September 19.

NGX Capital Raise: Banks, insurers and others listed about N2.7tn shares on the Nigerian Exchange as recapitalisation gathers pace, with NAICOM saying insurers alone raised N1.079tn. Dangote IPO Push: CIS and ASHON back the Dangote Petroleum Refinery IPO opening today at N525/share, while retail investors are urged to participate. Digital Education: NCC launches zero-rated data for approved educational platforms to widen access and build human capital. Telecom Security: NCC also restates network integrity plans, including live device compliance tools and identity risk controls coming in October. Oil & Shipping: NUPRC reports Nigeria met its OPEC quota again, while the US commends Nigeria’s maritime reforms after lifting a 12-year vessel entry restriction. Fuel Subsidy Debate: CPPE warns that bringing back old subsidy could cost about N19tn–N20tn yearly. Politics & Elections: INEC’s 2027 presidential list keeps Tinubu, Atiku and Obi in the race, as SERAP demands INEC account for ?126bn electoral funds. Security & Humanitarian: NAPTIP says it rescued 180+ trafficked children, exposing deception networks. South Africa Tensions: Fresh killings of Nigerians spark renewed calls for action and probes. Business & Jobs: FG’s iDICE programme plans 50,000 youth BPO training in the South-West, linking skills to jobs. In Memoriam: PDP elder Bamanga Tukur is buried in Yola amid tributes from top leaders.

BRICS Diplomacy: President Tinubu, speaking via VP Shettima at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, renewed calls for UN Security Council and global finance reforms, pushing BRICS to move from dialogue to delivery and positioning Nigeria as a gateway under AfCFTA. Bilateral Talks: PM Modi met Shettima on BRICS sidelines, reviewing India-Nigeria cooperation across trade, defence, energy, agriculture, healthcare and digital tech. Economy & Policy: The Presidency rejected Atiku’s plan to reintroduce fuel subsidy, saying it would undermine reforms and discourage investment in local refining. Jobs & Education: NBTE directed that HND admissions in polytechnics and related institutions be handled through JAMB to curb illegal entries. Security & Crime: Gunmen abducted six imams in Zamfara; NDLEA also seized 2.3 tonnes of drugs from UK-linked consignments. Health & Cost of Living: Analysts expect Nigeria’s August inflation to stay high around 15.3–15.94%. Sports: Tobi Amusan won Nigeria’s first medal at the Ultimate Championships with silver in the 100m hurdles. Politics & Public Life: INEC urged parties to take concrete steps to boost women’s participation ahead of 2027. Tributes: Shettima and Obasanjo mourned former PDP chair Bamanga Tukur, hailing him as a patriot and institution-builder.

2027 Elections: INEC has released the final list of 18 presidential candidates and running mates for the January 16, 2027 polls, keeping Tinubu/Shettima, Atiku/Amaechi and Obi/Kwankwaso among the top names. Aso Rock Politics: Aso Rock insiders have reportedly deferred NNPC oil block sales amid lobbying ahead of 2027, with analysts pointing to shifting incentives and legal hurdles. South Africa Xenophobia: Nigeria has condemned the killing of two Nigerians and says it is pushing for probes; lawmakers and parliamentary bodies have suspended official visits to South Africa over anti-migrant violence. Justice & Security: Six Nigerians have been extradited to the US over an alleged $6m romance scam, while EFCC and FBI move to probe alleged diversion of USAID funds. Economy & Markets: The naira gained at NAFEM, and investors cheered the NGX close; meanwhile, businesses and tax experts are seeking clarity on Nigeria’s new tax regime. Aviation Workers: FG has started paying ₦18bn severance to 2,700 ex-Nigeria Airways workers after a 20-year wait. Sports & Culture: FIFA is expected in Nigeria to assess NFF leadership transition; Nigeria’s Falconets face New Caledonia for a Round of 16 spot, and Lagos hosts Independence Day boxing chaos with Appah and Carter Efe headlining. Creative Economy: FG targets 2m creative industry jobs by 2030, while Nigeria’s tourism and animation sectors get fresh boosts. BRICS Diplomacy: VP Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the WTO and multilateralism at the BRICS summit in India. Obituary: Nigeria mourns former PDP chair Bamanga Tukur, with Tinubu and political leaders across parties paying tribute.

Aviation & Jobs: The FG has started paying long-overdue severance to ex-Nigeria Airways workers, disbursing ₦18bn to 2,700 beneficiaries in batches after a 20-year wait. Forex & Economy: The naira firmed at NAFEM to ₦1,326.52/$ (+₦1.70) as reserves edged up to about $54.28bn, while the NASD index slid 1.20%. Security & Crime: South Africa extradited six Nigerians to the US over alleged $6m+ online romance scams, with authorities linking them to the Black Axe network. Foreign Affairs: Nigeria condemned the killing of two Nigerians in South Africa and demanded transparent investigations, as xenophobia fears grow. Digital & Media: Police clarified that citizens can record officers, but the IGP opposes misuse of such clips for comedy skits. Politics: APC says it will integrate 10,000+ defectors into its structures ahead of 2027. Culture & Business: A new Lagos studio, Casa Mouda, is set to spotlight contemporary West African design.

Local Governance: Governors still “strangle” local councils 26 months after the Supreme Court affirmed financial autonomy, with no council directly receiving Federation Account allocations—fueling poor service delivery and insecurity. Elections & Rights: The ADC tells INEC to publish a clear nationwide PVC timetable to prevent voter suppression, while DRLI renews calls for an independent audit of INEC electoral technologies ahead of 2027. South Africa Xenophobia: Nigeria’s National Assembly suspends all official visits and boycotts South Africa-hosted legislative activities after reported xenophobic killings of Nigerians; lawmakers cite grave concern over violence and intimidation. Economy & Taxes: Businesses and tax professionals raise fresh concerns over Nigeria’s new tax regime, warning about VAT refunds, compliance burdens and uncertainty for SMEs. Aviation & Labour: FG begins paying N18bn severance to 2,700 ex-Nigeria Airways workers after a 22-year wait, alongside N1.1bn exit benefits to 175 civil service retirees. Security: COAS warns today’s solutions won’t match tomorrow’s threats as the Army pushes updated strategies for evolving security challenges. Diplomacy/Trade: Nigeria and China deepen tourism cooperation as VP Shettima heads to India for BRICS talks.

BRICS Diplomacy: Nigeria’s VP Kashim Shettima arrives in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, with plans to deepen deals in agriculture, tech, AI and the digital economy. Governance & Elections: HURIWA backs Peter Obi’s idea for independent polling-unit result transmission for 2027, while the Nigerian Institute of Management urges stronger institutional governance to curb corruption and mismanagement. South Africa Fallout: Nigeria’s National Assembly suspends all official visits and boycotts South Africa-hosted legislative activities over xenophobic attacks on Nigerians; meanwhile, South Africa extradites six Nigerians to the US over alleged romance scams targeting over 100 women. Economy & Trade: Manufactured goods imports hit about N18tn in H1 2026, showing Nigeria’s continued import dependence; airlines also renew calls to fix the 5% ticket sales charge row. Security & Justice: IPCR DG calls for more investment in peacebuilding and prevention, not just reaction. Business & Food: Olam Agri enters ruminant nutrition with TruValue cattle feed in Nigeria.

Digital Transformation: Siemens and Redington will roll out Siemens Xcelerator industrial software across Egypt, Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Morocco and Tanzania, bringing tools like Teamcenter and Simcenter to support digital twins and Industrial AI. Aviation Upgrade: Nigeria’s aviation minister, Festus Keyamo, met global aircraft makers at Egypt’s El Alamein Airshow to push faster infrastructure modernisation. Anti-Corruption Scrutiny: EFCC leadership says over 40 staff were dismissed for corruption and malpractice since it took office, while critics warn the agency must match its fight against corruption with internal discipline. Education Access: FG begins free 100MB daily data for approved educational platforms from Oct. 1, with plans to regulate internet access for children under 16. Security Support: The US delivered fresh military equipment to the Nigerian Air Force under Foreign Military Sales, as troop levels are reduced but trainers and analysts remain. Health & Food Security: Nigeria ranks second in West Africa for acute pesticide poisoning among farmers, and FG also flags food security pressure amid high food import spending. Politics & Violence: Kano social media commentator Dan Shagamu was killed at home; police say two suspects were arrested. Sports & Culture: Tinubu explains the delay in paying D’Tigress $100,000 rewards, while Nigeria’s youth cricket and athletics teams push for upcoming global events. Transport Economy: Uber exits Nigeria and Uganda after 12 years, citing business priorities and rising operating costs. Agribusiness: A $60m coffee partnership begins implementation in Liberia, targeting 200,000 farmers and value-chain upgrades.

Security & Defence: The US delivered military equipment to the Nigerian Air Force under a foreign military sales deal, boosting cooperation against terrorism. Politics & Democracy: Aviation minister Festus Keyamo condemned the reported blockade of Peter Obi’s Benue visit as an attack on democratic norms, while Obi again accused INEC’s Mahmood Yakubu of bias in 2023. Health & Industry: Health Textiles Nigeria has started manufacturing next-generation dual-active ingredient mosquito nets, targeting 10 million nets yearly and scaling malaria prevention locally. Economy & Energy: NUPRC warned gas-flaring project developers that permits could be revoked if progress stalls after one year, as Nigeria pushes to commercialise flared gas. Agriculture & Jobs: Stakeholders in Ghana are demanding Nigeria-style upgrades for Adidome Farm Institute into an Agric and Veterinary college, arguing it will strengthen livestock services and youth employment. Digital Governance: Nigeria fully digitised academic credential verification, moving authentication online to cut delays and travel costs. Capital Markets: Dangote Sugar Refinery listed about 8.1bn new shares on NGX after its rights issue. Elections 2027: Peter Obi reiterated no new buildings or road construction if elected, saying existing projects will be rehabilitated first.

BRICS Diplomacy: Nigeria’s High Commissioner to India, Saidu Muhammad, urged the country to use the upcoming BRICS Summit to tap India’s tech and investment strengths in agri-tech, healthcare and pharmaceuticals. Maritime & Oil Sector: A Bayelsa vessel accident at Nembe Creek was blamed on a minor debris mishap by the barge owner, who denied any link to Nembe E&P operations. Sports: Nigeria’s tennis hopes got a boost as Seun Ogunsakin ended a 35-year Nigerian Grand Slam singles drought at the US Open Juniors; meanwhile, NSC confirmed D’Tigresses’ presidential rewards have been paid. Agriculture: TAAT and partners trained extension master-trainers in Jigawa to scale agricultural innovations, targeting 500,000 farmers. Economy & Markets: The stock market shed about N1.67tn ahead of Dangote Refinery’s IPO, while the naira’s FX demand hit a six-year high and Nigeria’s FX utilisation rose to $50.93bn in 2025. Governance & Security: Police arrested 46 over the Benue blockade of Peter Obi’s convoy, and the NBA urged Nigerians to record police only when officers are on duty while respecting privacy off duty. Digital & Telecoms: Airtel Africa plans $1.1bn network expansion across Africa, and Nigeria’s software industry push includes plans for a national software registry.

Ogun 2027 Politics: Senator Solomon Adeola’s four court cases over his APC governorship bid in Ogun have been withdrawn, with his media aide saying discontinuance was filed in open court. Jobs From Stability: NES President Dr Baba Y. Musa urged the FG to turn macroeconomic stability into production, jobs and higher incomes, warning stability must be a foundation, not the end goal. Solar Push in 2027 Campaigns: SDP presidential hopeful Adewole Adebayo vowed to install 11–15 kilowatts of solar on every Nigerian roof within 11 months, linking it to local manufacturing and training. Ethical Finance Growth: Fintech Open Space launched an Ethical Finance platform with asset-backed, Shariah-compliant products aimed at expanding access for farmers, SMEs and underserved Nigerians. Education Funding & Quality Control: FG has settled CATA arrears for academic staff (Jan–Aug 2026) and is moving to stop tertiary institutions from “borrowing” staff/equipment for accreditation. Infrastructure Pressure: FG says it will urgently redesign and repair the Benin-Asaba Highway after years of neglect, as motorists complain of deadly delays. Trade & Energy Signals: Nigeria’s trade surplus doubled to $9.5bn in Q2 as fuel imports fell and exports rose; Dangote Refinery also reported strong H1 2026 earnings. Security & Governance: Aviation minister Festus Keyamo condemned the Benue blockade of Peter Obi’s convoy and urged media neutrality; NDLEA arrested a suspected heroin kingpin repatriated after two years on the run. Emergency Response Upgrade: Government moves to roll out the single national emergency number 112 nationwide.