Nigeria’s Sports Betting and Casino Market: Growth, Trends, and Key Players in 2024

 

Over the past year, Nigeria's sports betting and casino market has continued its impressive growth, solidifying its position as one of Africa’s most dynamic gambling industries. This expansion has been driven by technological advancements, an enthusiastic sports-loving population, and increasing internet accessibility. In this analysis, we explore the latest market data, key industry players—including emerging brands like Waddibet—and the trends shaping the sector.

Market Growth and Projections

As of 2024, Nigeria's gambling industry is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.65% between 2025 and 2029, reaching a market volume of approximately $4.19 billion by 2029, according to Statista. This growth highlights the resilience of the sector despite economic challenges.

The sports betting segment, in particular, is expected to grow at a 4.83% CAGR within the same period, with projections estimating a market value of $755.90 million by 2029 (Statista). The increasing use of mobile betting platforms and digital wallets has significantly contributed to this growth, making it easier for bettors to place wagers seamlessly.

User Engagement and Demographics

Recent reports indicate that approximately 60 million Nigerians engage in sports betting daily, with the majority aged between 18 and 40. The betting industry in Nigeria is currently valued at over ₦730 billion ($950 million) annually (Lucky Sales Inc).

This growing participation is fueled by Nigeria's deep-rooted football culture, with English Premier League (EPL) matches attracting the highest betting volumes. Additionally, the pursuit of supplementary income has encouraged many Nigerians to explore betting as a form of entertainment and potential profit-making activity.

Key Industry Players

The Nigerian sports betting market is home to several major operators, each offering unique features to attract customers. Some of the most prominent players include:

1. Bet9ja

As one of Nigeria's most recognized betting platforms, Bet9ja offers a wide range of sports markets, competitive odds, and live betting options. It remains a household name due to its massive retail presence and strong marketing campaigns (BetBlazers).

2. 1xBet

Known for its high odds, diverse betting markets, and international reach, 1xBet has become a favorite for bettors looking for variety and value. Its expansive selection of in-play betting options and casino games sets it apart from competitors (BetBlazers).

3. SportyBet

SportyBet has rapidly gained traction in Nigeria due to its user-friendly platform, instant cashout features, and competitive odds. The brand is known for offering some of the highest payouts in the industry (Nairaland).

4. Betway Nigeria

Betway Nigeria has become a dominant force, leveraging global expertise, an easy-to-use interface, and extensive betting options. It attracts both new and experienced bettors (Soccer24).

5. Waddibet

A new entrant in Nigeria’s betting market, Waddibet has quickly gained attention through its unique promotions, localized betting markets, and partnerships with Nigerian media giants. Waddibet aims to set itself apart with innovative features and seamless user experience (Yogonet).

Technological Advancements Driving Growth

The increasing adoption of mobile devices and digital payment solutions has transformed the betting industry in Nigeria. With over 170 million mobile phone users, many bettors now prefer placing wagers via mobile apps rather than traditional betting shops.

The rise of live betting, virtual sports, and online casino gaming has also played a significant role in attracting more users. Virtual games, such as virtual football leagues and instant-win casino games, provide bettors with quick gaming options beyond traditional sports betting.

Regulatory Environment and Challenges

Despite its success, the Nigerian betting industry faces several challenges:

1. Complex Regulatory Framework

The gambling sector in Nigeria is regulated at both federal and state levels, leading to inconsistencies in enforcement. A more unified regulatory framework is needed to ensure a fair betting environment (PM News).

2. Gambling Addiction Concerns

With the rapid growth of betting, concerns over gambling addiction have increased. The government and betting companies must introduce responsible gambling measures, including self-exclusion tools and betting limits, to protect consumers (PMC).

3. Economic Impact

While the industry generates billions in revenue, there is growing concern about its effect on household incomes. Many low-income earners view betting as an escape from financial struggles, often leading to excessive gambling behavior (TGM Research).

Future Outlook: Opportunities and Innovations

The Nigerian sports betting market is poised for continued growth, with new innovations and business models expected to emerge:

1. Expansion of Esports and Virtual Sports

Esports betting is gaining traction, with increasing numbers of Nigerians wagering on FIFA, Call of Duty, and other esports tournaments. Operators are now integrating live esports streams and betting markets to capture this growing interest.

2. Enhanced User Experience Through AI and Automation

Leading betting platforms, including Waddibet, Bet9ja, Sportybet, Betking etc are integrating AI-driven betting recommendations and automated odds adjustments to improve user engagement and personalization.

3. Crypto and Blockchain Betting

With the increasing adoption of cryptocurrency in Nigeria, some betting platforms are exploring blockchain technology for secure and transparent betting transactions.

 

The Nigerian sports betting and casino market has experienced significant growth over the past year, fueled by technology, a vibrant sports culture, and increasing digital adoption. Key players, including Bet9ja, SportyBet, Betway, 1xBet, and Waddibet, continue to shape the industry through innovative betting options and enhanced user experiences.

Despite challenges related to regulation, responsible gambling, and economic impact, the market's future remains promising. With continued innovation, better oversight, and an emphasis on responsible gaming, Nigeria’s betting industry is set to thrive in the coming years.

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How Waddibet is Revolutionizing the Nigerian Betting Market with Innovative Features and Exciting Bonuses

Waddibet, a new entrant into Nigeria’s growing sports betting industry, is making waves with its fresh approach, innovative features, and customer-focused offerings. As the sports betting market in Nigeria continues to expand, Waddibet is positioning itself as a top choice for bettors by introducing new promotions, a seamless user experience, and unique betting tools like BetMentor.

   

A Fresh Take on Sports Betting in Nigeria

With the Nigerian betting industry becoming increasingly competitive, Waddibet aims to differentiate itself through innovation and customer engagement. The brand has partnered with Soft2Bet and Channels Media Group, leveraging cutting-edge technology and industry expertise to deliver a world-class betting experience tailored to Nigerian users. Soft2Bet’s Motivational Engineering Gamification Application (MEGA) is integrated into Waddibet’s platform, bringing a new level of engagement and excitement for bettors. MEGA enhances the user experience by offering personalized features, loyalty rewards, and gamification elements that make betting more interactive and entertaining.

Unique Selling Points: What Sets Waddibet Apart

One of Waddibet’s most exciting features is BetMentor, a tool designed to help bettors make more informed decisions. BetMentor provides guidance on betting options based on user preferences, increasing the chances of making profitable bets. This feature is particularly beneficial for both beginners and experienced punters looking to refine their strategies.   

ALSO READ Understanding Betting Odds: A Simple Guide for Nigerian Punters 

Another standout feature is Waddibet’s live betting option, which offers thousands of in-play sports odds and markets. This allows users to place bets in real-time, making the betting experience more dynamic and engaging. With access to detailed match statistics and updates, live betting on Waddibet ensures that users stay ahead of the game.

Exciting Promotions and Bonuses

Waddibet is also attracting attention with its generous promotions and bonuses. The brand has launched a variety of offers to reward both new and existing customers. Some of the promotions available on the platform include:

• Welcome Bonus: New users receive an attractive welcome offer when they sign up and make their first deposit.
• Reload Bonuses: Regular deposit bonuses give existing users extra betting funds to maximize their chances of winning.
• Free Bets: Special promotions and events provide opportunities for bettors to place free bets and increase their winnings without additional risk.

These promotions, available on Waddibet’s official website, demonstrate the brand’s commitment to rewarding customer loyalty and enhancing the overall betting experience.

Why Nigerians Should Bet on Waddibet

The Nigerian betting landscape is filled with numerous operators, but Waddibet stands out due to its commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and responsible gaming. The platform provides a secure and user-friendly interface, ensuring seamless navigation and a smooth betting experience. Additionally, Waddibet places a strong emphasis on responsible gambling, offering tools and resources to help users bet responsibly and manage their spending effectively. Waddibet’s customer support team is also available to assist users with inquiries, providing quick responses to ensure a hassle-free experience. Whether through live chat, email, or FAQs, Waddibet prioritizes customer service, setting itself apart from many competitors in the industry.   

With its entry into the Nigerian market, Waddibet is bringing a refreshing change to the sports betting industry. By offering innovative features like BetMentor, an engaging live betting experience, and attractive promotions, the brand is well-positioned to become a leading choice for Nigerian bettors. As the industry continues to grow, Waddibet’s commitment to enhancing the betting experience through technology, customer engagement, and responsible gaming will likely solidify its place as a top-tier betting platform in Nigeria. For those looking for a modern, feature-rich, and rewarding betting experience, Waddibet is undoubtedly a platform worth exploring. Visit www.waddibet.com to get started.

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Say Goodbye to Online Scams with Escrowmart

 Say Goodbye to Online Scams with Escrowmart

In the rapidly expanding world of online transactions, convenience is key. Whether you’re purchasing products, hiring freelancers, or conducting business deals, the internet has made it easier than ever to connect with people across the globe. However, this convenience comes with a downside: the risk of falling victim to online scams. Every day, countless individuals and businesses are duped by fraudulent schemes, losing both money and trust in the process. Protecting yourself in this digital landscape is not just important—it's essential. That’s where Escrowmart comes in, offering a reliable way to secure your transactions and avoid being scammed.

Why Online Transactions Need Protection

The anonymity of the internet is a double-edged sword. While it allows for seamless, borderless transactions, it also provides a shield for scammers. They prey on unsuspecting buyers and sellers, often presenting deals that seem too good to be true—or worse, posing as legitimate businesses or clients. The fallout from these scams can be severe: buyers lose money on goods or services that are never delivered, while sellers may provide products or services without receiving proper payment.

These risks not only result in financial loss but also lead to wasted time, emotional stress, and a diminished trust in online transactions. It’s crucial for anyone involved in online commerce to have a way to protect themselves from these threats.

How Escrowmart Safeguards Your Transactions

Escrowmart offers a straightforward, yet highly effective, solution to the problem of online scams. By acting as a neutral third party, Escrowmart holds the payment securely until both the buyer and seller have fulfilled their part of the deal. Here’s how Escrowmart benefits you:

1. Secure Payments: Escrowmart ensures that your funds are held safely until the agreed-upon goods or services are delivered. This means you’ll never pay for something you don’t receive, and sellers can rest assured that payment is guaranteed once they meet the terms of the agreement.

2. Building Trust: For sellers, knowing that the buyer’s payment is already secured in escrow provides peace of mind. For buyers, it means that their money won’t be released until they confirm satisfaction with the purchase.

3. Affordable Security: Escrowmart charges a small fee for its services, providing an invaluable layer of security that can save you from much greater losses. This cost is a small price to pay for ensuring your transaction is completed safely.

4. Dispute Resolution: Should any disagreements arise, Escrowmart offers a structured dispute resolution process. This ensures that both parties are treated fairly and that the funds are released to the rightful party based on the evidence provided.

5. User-Friendly Experience: Escrowmart is designed to be simple and intuitive, making it accessible for all users, regardless of their experience with online transactions. The platform guides you through each step, ensuring that your transaction is protected from start to finish.

Take Action with Escrowmart

Online scams are a growing threat, but with Escrowmart, you can transact with confidence. Protect yourself from fraud, safeguard your money, and ensure that your online deals go smoothly. Whether you’re buying or selling, Escrowmart is the smart choice for secure, scam-free transactions.

Don’t leave your transactions to chance. Invite your clients to www.escrowmart.com.ng today and finalize your deals with the security and assurance that only Escrowmart can provide. Make the switch to safe online transactions—your peace of mind is worth it.

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Never Get Scammed Online Again with Escrowmart

In today's digital age, the convenience of online transactions has transformed the way we buy, sell, and conduct business. From purchasing goods to hiring freelancers, the internet has opened doors to a world of possibilities. However, this convenience comes with a significant risk—online scams. Every day, countless individuals fall victim to fraudsters who exploit the anonymity and vastness of the internet. The need for a reliable and secure way to protect both buyers and sellers from these threats has never been more critical. Enter Escrowmart, the ultimate solution to safeguard your online transactions.

Why You Need Protection from Online Scammers

Scammers are constantly evolving, finding new ways to deceive unsuspecting victims. They often lure people into fake deals, promising goods or services that never materialize. For sellers, the risk is equally high, with the possibility of delivering products or services only to receive fake payment confirmations or chargebacks.

These scenarios not only result in financial loss but can also lead to wasted time, emotional distress, and a loss of trust in online transactions. Whether you're a buyer worried about receiving what you paid for, or a seller concerned about getting paid, the risks are real and can be devastating.

The Benefits of Using Escrowmart

Escrowmart offers a simple yet powerful solution to the problems of online scams. By acting as a neutral third party, Escrowmart holds the funds in escrow until both parties fulfill their obligations. Here’s how it works:

1. Secure Transactions: When you use Escrowmart, your money is held securely in an escrow account. This means that the seller only receives payment once you, the buyer, have confirmed that you’ve received the goods or services as agreed. This eliminates the risk of paying for something that isn’t delivered.

2. Trust for Both Parties: For sellers, Escrowmart ensures that the buyer has the funds available and ready to be released once the terms of the deal are met. This guarantees that you won’t deliver goods or services without getting paid.

3. Affordable Peace of Mind: For a small fee, Escrowmart provides peace of mind that far outweighs the cost. This nominal fee ensures that your transaction is protected from the start, making it a smart investment to avoid potential losses and headaches.

4. Dispute Resolution: In the rare event that there’s a disagreement between the buyer and seller, Escrowmart offers a dispute resolution process. This ensures that both parties are treated fairly and that the funds are released to the rightful party.

5. Simple and Convenient: Escrowmart is easy to use, whether you’re a seasoned online trader or new to the world of e-commerce. The platform guides you through the process step by step, making it simple to protect your transactions.

Seal the Deal with Escrowmart

In a world where online scams are rampant, it’s essential to protect yourself and your business. Don’t take unnecessary risks—secure your transactions with Escrowmart and ensure that your hard-earned money is safe. Whether you’re buying or selling, Escrowmart provides the security and trust you need to transact with confidence.

Ready to protect yourself from online scammers? Invite your clients to www.escrowmart.com.ng today and seal the deal with the peace of mind that only Escrowmart can provide. Don’t wait until it’s too late—make the smart choice and safeguard your transactions now.

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29 Home Remedies and wonders of Charcoal

Charcoal is one of the most neglected products at home. We only see the need when it's time to set fire - to the coal pot users.

Charcoal is something you must have on you all the time. In Case you never paid much attention, it's time to do it.

Here are the benefits of charcoal you never thought of:

1. Does your shoe smell bad? Just buy charcoal and put it in it.

2. Do you have a bad smell in your room? Drop Charcoal that you think the smell might come from.

3. Does your refrigerator or freezer have a smell? Put a piece of coal in it.

4. Do you have a strong body smell? Just make a charcoal powder and use. Charcoal is very good to get rid of the bad smell.

5. Have you ever wondered why your parents always pick up the ashes of the coal pot to pour in the hen or toilet before sweeping? It was to get rid of the smell.

6. If you want your vegetables to be fresh all the time, make a solution with charcoal and leave your vegetables.

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7. Nowadays, people complain about the use of fertilizer on plants and vegetables, making them unhealthy and toxic. If you have charcoal, you don't have to worry about it. All you need to do is leave the vegetables in a charcoal solution during the night and it will take care of the toxins.

8. If you suspect that a food contains too many chemicals, simply drop them in a charcoal solution for a few hours and you are ready to leave.

9. If you want to whiten your teeth, don't pay attention to all these ads on chemicals and bleaching technology. Just get charcoal and catch a plantain stem. Make a powder on charcoal, crush the end of the plantain stem, soak in charcoal powder and brush your teeth with a week.

10. Did your peanut or palm soup go wrong? You don't have to worry about everything. Just put it on fire and drop a piece of charcoal. This will extract all the bad taste and smell and restore soup to its fresh state.

11. Do you have a hangover of a drink with friends the previous night? Just have charcoal with you and chew on it. To make it more effective, make it a nice solution and drink. You're good at it.

12. If you have made a wild mix and you think it can bring you down, add charcoal to the mix and your problem will be solved. Or if you've taken too much alcohol, just drink a charcoal solution and you're ready to go.

13. Do you have a situation where someone's injury has become so infected that doctors say they have to cut the affected area? Don't insist on it, take a large amount of coal powder and pour it on the wound. This will help extract all the poison from the wound and help it heal faster. If you have a cup and you want to treat it quickly, take charcoal powder and pour on it.

14. Do you feel like your water is contaminated? You don't need all these products on the market. Charcoal can do better, just drop part of it. Don't worry about the color, for sure, you can even chew charcoal. It's a lot safer than eating kfc chicken.

15. Do you have pimples, acne or skin disease that you really want to get rid of or do you want a very smooth face or skin? All you need is charcoal. Make a thick solution and apply it on your body and leave it for a few hours before taking your bath. It will leave your skin fresh and fresh.

16. Do you have a persistent stain in your kitchen, bathroom or tiles? You really need charcoal to get rid of it. I know you imagine how this black terrazzo product can actually eliminate stains? Try it, it works like magic.

17. If you ate or drank something and you feel swollen, Charcoal is the best solution to get rid of bloating.

18. Make a solution and drink help eliminate all the bad cholesterol you stored in you. Charcoal can treat all ulcers. Take the habit of always chewing.

19. You got hurt, pour some coal powder and you'll see.

20. Headache, a teaspoon of coal drink and you'll see.

21. Stomach aches, a teaspoon of coal and evil goes away the next minute.

22. It treats diarrhoea, Amoeba, injuries (Ash outside that it's an antibiotic, it's more than medical alcohol), and in the metaphysical field, coal aspires to negative elements or entities on the body , water to drink, bath (just some 2 OR 3 Pieces) and in houses (house corners a little salt).

23. Constipation; you have done 3 days without going to the WC, CROQUE 2 TO 4 Piece and you will go to the wc that same day.

24. It's the sovereign drug against viruses including aids virus. He doesn't kill viruses, but he has the ability to neutralize them so that they are in the body and remain harmless.

25. Coal also cures migraines.

26. A handful of salt d plus, a piece of coal at the end to extract the excess of salt.

27. Charcoal also softens the influence of chilli either in the mouth or in the eyes.

28. It is used in stopping severe diarrhoea.

29. For ulcer  mix with sugar and for effective dental hygiene also mixed with lemon and brush.

Credit: Prince Fynn |  x.com

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Minister: FG Alone Can’t Finance Education Alone

 

The Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, has said that the federal government alone cannot finance education in Nigeria.

He said this at an event in Abuja organised in honour of Dr Emeka Offor and his wife, Dr Adaora Offor who were awarded honourary degrees in business administration and social advocacy respectively by the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) and the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka.

The minister said though the government had spent so much in funding education, private individuals and philanthropists needed to emulate what Mr Offor and his wife had done through their foundation to support education.

He said, “The ministry is encouraged with this kind of recognition because the government cannot finance education alone; just as it has contributed a lot.

“That is why people like Emeka Offor and wife have stepped in, and what they are doing should be encouraged by others. I believe this is an excellent example of well-used resources, and I urge others to take a cue from what they have done.”

While UNN received N100m for research activities and scholarly enterprise that will impact the Faculty of Business Administration, NAU received N50m for the welfare of widows, children with special needs and other vulnerable members of the society.

The celebrant and donor, Chief Offor, said the endowment fund would be a restricted one, where the principal sum would be held in perpetuity except otherwise decided by the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF) and the universities.

He said, “This gesture is our desire towards supporting higher education in Nigeria and strengthening the bond of friendship between SEOF and UNN/NAU.”

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Zamfara Farmers Jubilate As Bàndits Kingpin,Dogo Dide Order Them To Return To Their Farms

 

Residents of Magami in Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State are celebrating the relocation of Dogo Gide, a notorious terrorism kingpin.

Gide has instructed farmers to return to their fields without fear of abduction, Premium Times reported.

Dogo Gide, allegedly involved in the abduction of students from a public school in Kuriga, Kaduna State, was reportedly wounded by troops of Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) on March 12 in Madada forest, Maru Local Government Area, Zamfara State, five days after the Kuriga abductions.

Following his encounter with the military, Gide relocated to Kizara, a community on the eastern fringe of Magami, and assumed control of the area.

He assured farmers they could safely return to their farms without fear of kidnapping or property seizure.

“Dogo Gide has relocated to Kizara, a community at the eastern fringe of Magami, after his encounter with the military and has assumed control of turfs in the areas.

“He directed farmers to return to their farms without fear of abduction or seizure of properties,” a resident confided in Premium Times.

A new song shared with Premium Times, released in June by unidentified singers allegedly from Tsafe, praises Mr Gide for relocating to their area, indicating the resumption of farming activities there.

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NCS Junior Officers Protest Over New Uniform Mandatory For Promotion Exam

 

There is currently disquiet among the junior officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service over the failure of the authorities to provide them with the service’s new uniform free as they did for their senior colleagues.

The affected officers have also raised the alarm over the decision of the authorities to make the wearing of the new uniform a condition for them to take part in a promotion examination scheduled for between Monday, July 1, 2024, and Saturday, July 6, 2024.

Some of the affected personnel who spoke with PUNCH Online on Thursday noted that in uniformed organisations, the rank and files get uniform free “but the phase-out reverse is the case in NCoS.”

One of the officers who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of victimisation said, “The NCoS changed its uniform in 2019, and since then, there has been a gradual phase-out of the old uniform. It started with the Controller-General to the Chief Superintendents of Corrections free according to plan, and it stopped.

“Now, they are forcing other officers to get the uniform from the open market when the due allocation was made for free distribution of the uniform and other accoutrements.

“They are now using the upcoming promotion interview to activate this enforcement.”

Another affected officer simply said, “They always wait for promotion interview time to implement such draconian policies.

“The said uniform is not being given free as promised. It is not available in our command stores nationwide. Officers are resorting to self-help by buying in the open market. This is bad.”

Another officer noted that the service personnel have four different uniforms, lamenting that in the market, a uniform “costs N4,000 per trouser length, and we are using three trouser lengths for one complete uniform. So, we need a minimum of N12,000 to buy the materials for one complete set of uniforms.”

He alleged that some people got the materials of the new uniforms “from the central store and gave them out to some others to sell for them.”

Our correspondent sighted a circular dated June 24, 2024, announcing the timetable for the third batch of 2024 promotion examination for officers on the ranks of Inspector/Superintendent to Assistant Controller of Corrections.

The circular with reference number GEN.24/S.21/T2/VOL.IV/632 was signed by the Assistant Controller-General of Corrections (HR), Dr Ado Sale.

Aside from other conditions stipulated for officers eligible to take part in the promotion examination, the circular added in paragraph 7 that “Eligible officers must appear in the new NCoS uniforms.”

When contacted by our correspondent, the spokesman for NCoS, Abubakar Umar said, “The true position of the Service is that from Level 7 (junior officers) downwards, they are not only given free uniforms but also the accoutrements and the jungle boots, while the senior officers buy their uniforms.”

Umar added that the Controller-General of the NCoS “never asked anyone to go to the open market to buy uniforms. As long as it’s available, it’ll be distributed,” while noting that the supply of the new uniforms which were launched in 2022 is “still ongoing considering the number of staff we have. So it’s being shared in phases.”

He said everybody would get the uniforms, adding that the Service frowns at any officer who goes to buy uniforms from the markets, as such officer is liable to sanctions.

When asked if officers who show up for the promotion examinations and accreditation and are not dressed in the new uniforms would be allowed to participate, the NCoS spokesman said, “I’m not aware of that stringent measure put in place. I can’t speak on that.

“Before now, they (officers) knew that the distribution of uniforms is according to the ranks, down the ladder. It will be a kind of mischief for somebody to say because the screening and promotion examinations are around the corner; they are now using that as cheap publicity and not appreciating the Controller-General’s efforts.”

In 2022, the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari changed the name of the Nigerian Prisons Service after signing the NCoS Act 2019 into law.

During the inauguration of the Information and Communications Technology command and control rooms, and the unveiling of new uniforms for the staff of the NCoS, among others, former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, had said that the new uniforms symbolised “the transition from a punitive prison system to a reformatory corrections system that is now the philosophy of the service.”

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Keyamo: Private Aircraft Used For Drug Trafficking And Money Laundering

 

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has expressed his displeasure on the activities of private illegal aircraft operators who are engaged in hard drug transportation as well as money laundering in the country.

He added that this illegal charter operation was already thriving within the aviation sector.

Keyamo disclosed this at a management meeting in Abuja on Thursday, where he expressed readiness to tackle the perpetrators headlong without any form of shyness.

The PUNCH had exclusively reported the move of the Federal Government, through the Nigerian Customs Service, to clamp down on operators of improperly imported private jets into the country.

80 operators of private jets are expected to appear at the headquarters of Nigeria Customs in Abuja with their aircraft import documents.

The minister, who recalled that it was part of his promise to ensure safety, support for local operators and revenue generation on his assumption of office, insisted that the activities of the illegal operators have not only led to significant financial losses to the Federal Government but have also raised security and safety concerns in the industry.

He said, “It has come to my attention, through a series of disturbing reports, that the practice of illegal charter operations is thriving within the aviation industry, thereby undermining the efforts of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and other regulatory bodies.

“These illicit activities have not only resulted in significant financial losses to the Federal Government but have also raised security and safety concerns as the operations of private aircraft owners have remained largely unchecked and unregulated. This has also resulted in using these private aircraft for other illegal activities.”

He also stated that the owners of the illegal aircraft have been operating in collusion with some legitimate aircraft operators, who have been allowing the illegal operators to use their licenses and certificates to carry out their illegal activities.

While enumerating his displeasure over the development, the minister mentioned that the office of the National Security Adviser has also noticed the trend of increasing money laundering, drug trafficking and other illegal activities through the use of private aircraft in the country

”These illicit activities have not only resulted in significant financial losses to the Federal Government but have also raised security and safety concerns as the operations of private aircraft owners have remained largely unchecked and unregulated. This has also resulted in using these private aircraft for other illegal activities.

“Last week, the National Security Adviser wrote to us, alerting us of the spike in money laundering, drug trafficking and other illegal activities through the use of private aircraft in the country. It appears that Private Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) operators have become increasingly emboldened, continuing their illegal operations with the assistance of Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders who collect tolls and list these illegal charters under their AOCs,” Keyamo added.

To start the fight against these illegal operators, the minister announced the immediate composition of a ministerial Task Force on Illegal Private Charter Operations and Related Matters.

The task force was saddled with the responsibilities of “Taking inventory of all PNCF holders and AOC holders; To determine why the practice of illegal charters by PNCF holders persists in the country despite regulatory controls; To call in all professional licenses of pilots and crew in the country and determine their authenticity and validity; To recommend to the Minister any additional measures to be taken by regulatory agencies to stem this ugly tide.”

The other responsibilities include, “To recommend appropriate sanctions to be imposed by the regulatory agencies on defaulters and to recommend additional measures to further monitor the operations and activities of private aircraft in Nigeria.”

The minister also mentioned that the members of the Task Force have been carefully selected from within the aviation industry “and are people of high repute and integrity. I wish them well”

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Ondo Election: APC Members Defect To PDP, Accuse Party Of, Lack Of Internal Democracy

 

Over 1,000 members of the ruling All Progressives Congress in Ondo State, on Wednesday, announced their defection to the Peoples Democratic Party.

The defectors, from the 208 wards and the 18 local government areas of the state, said they were ready to work for the governorship candidate of the PDP, Mr Agboola Ajayi, to win the November 16 governorship election.

Their promise did not, however, bother the Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organisation Foot Soldiers, as its spokesman, Mr Kayode Fasua, described the defectors as political jobbers who underwent dress rehearsal to please their paymasters.

The PUNCH reports that the campaign for the governorship election in Ondo State, as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission, began on June 19.

At a rally held at the Akure town hall on Wednesday, the defectors were received by Ajayi and the state leadership of the PDP.

Welcoming them into the party, Ajayi said there had been suffering, hunger and anger in the land, following the alleged maladministration of the APC-led government in the state.

The former deputy governor said if voted into power in November, he would provide the people of the state with a better alternative, saying the PDP was ready to reposition the state for the better.

The former deputy governor said if voted into power in November, he would provide the people of the state with a better alternative, saying the PDP was ready to reposition the state for the better.

He urged the new members to join hands with other members and work for the PDP to win the forthcoming poll.

“We are working very hard to regain the state and we need to be strategic about it to emerge victorious in the November 2024 election, because the people of the state are looking up to us.

“As new members, I assure you of all rights, same with members of our party. We will ensure that you benefit from every opportunity regarding the welfare of members without sentiments,” he said.

In his remarks, the State Chairman of the PDP, Mr Tola Alabere, said the umbrella of the PDP was wide enough to accommodate more members, as he assured the defectors of equal treatment and fairness.

“I am confident that his election will mark a rapid growth in the state and you are welcome to join this moving train as partners to reposition the state toward development,” Alabere said.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, the former APC Organising Secretary in Akure South Local Government, Akinwande Fayinminu, said they decided to leave the ruling party following an alleged lack of internal democracy.

“The APC lacks internal democracy, a reason the party is factionalised. Since it came into power, leaders have not integrated many members. They are operating the party like an occult. We can’t stay in such a party any longer,” Fayinminu stated.

Fasua, however, waved off the strength of the defectors, saying they were rented.

“The crowd at the so-called PDP rally in Akure today was largely rented. This was amplified by the ugly spectre of people fighting over service money, after the jamboree.

“No doubt, campaigns are just starting and the happy people of Akure, who are impressed with the masses-oriented programmes of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, will troop out en mass to show gratitude once the APC campaigners mount the stump.

“Those who reportedly said hunger chased them from APC to PDP are mere political jobbers, who underwent dress rehearsal to please their paymasters.

“They will soon be seen lobbying to play the same role, using the other side of the coin, when another political party comes to town for campaigns,” he said.

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Former CEO Of Konga Imudia, Commit Súicide in Lagos Home

 

Former Chief Executive Officer of Konga, one of Nigeria’s e-commerce giants, Nick Imudia, has reportedly diéd by suicide.

Imudia was said to have committed the act by jumping from the balcony of his apartment in the Lekki area of Lagos State on the evening of Tuesday, June 25, 2024.

Before his déath, the businessman reportedly made a call to his United States-based brother to give him instructions on how to distribute his wealth and also called his young daughter to inform her that he would always be there for her.

According to a post on an online platform, TheWill, friends, family and associates of Imudia are still in shock as to why he would commit súicide.

An indigene of the Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, Imudia was previously married to the mother of his young daughter. The marriage ended due to irreconcilable differences.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the case to our correspondent on Thursday.

“Yes, it is true. He committed the act on June 25,” Hundeyin said.

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