Today’s Top Stories

Fiscal Policy & Government Revenue

Gombe Revenue Hits N40.8bn As Tax Collection Rises 500% In Six Years

Gombe State has achieved a remarkable milestone in internal revenue generation, with tax collections surging by 500% over the past six years to reach N40.8 billion. The Gombe State Internal Revenue Service (GIRS) Chairperson, Aisha Adamu, disclosed that revenue rose from N6.8 billion in 2019 to the current figure, attributing the growth to comprehensive tax reforms centred on transparency, digitalisation, and fiscal responsibility. The introduction of digital tax payment systems eliminated cash handling, blocked revenue leakages, and improved accountability across the state’s tax administration.

Source: BizWatch Nigeria
URL: https://bizwatchnigeria.ng/gombe-revenue-hits-n40-8bn-as-tax-collection-rises-500-in-six-years/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 11:23 am

Women Affairs Minister Seeks Upward Review of ₦134.2bn 2026 Budget

The Minister of Women Affairs has appeared before the Senate Committee on Women Affairs to seek an upward review of the ministry’s 2026 budget from the initially proposed ₦89.8 billion to ₦134.2 billion. During the budget defence session, Committee Chairman Senator Ireti Kingibe expressed serious concern over poor releases of funds to ministries, emphasizing that while the committee is not opposed to upward review of budget allocations, the problem of abysmal releases of funds must first be addressed by the executive.

The Minister disclosed that out of N89.8 billion appropriated for capital projects in 2025, only N394 million was released in December and remained unutilised, highlighting implementation gaps that undermine the ministry’s ability to deliver on its mandate. Senator Kingibe further noted that the ministry cannot effectively implement programs with such poor funding releases, calling for a more pragmatic approach to budget implementation rather than just increasing allocations without addressing release mechanisms.

Source: BizWatch Nigeria
URL: https://bizwatchnigeria.ng/women-affairs-minister-seeks-upward-review-of-%e2%82%a6134-2bn-2026-budget/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 11:45 am

Additional Coverage:

• Independent Nigeria: https://independent.ng/2026-senate-asked-to-increase-women-affairs-ministrys-budget-to-n134-2bn/

Capital Market

Nigerian Exchange Records 42% Year-on-Year Growth In January Despite Sharp Monthly Decline

The Nigerian Exchange demonstrated resilience in January 2026, recording 42% year-on-year growth despite experiencing sharp monthly declines. The performance reflects continued investor confidence in select sectors while highlighting the volatility characterizing current market conditions. Market analysts attribute the growth to strong corporate earnings and strategic positioning by institutional investors.

Source: BizWatch Nigeria
URL: https://bizwatchnigeria.ng/nigerian-exchange-records-42-year-on-year-growth-in-january-despite-sharp-monthly-decline/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 11:01 am

Nigerian Stock Market Gains N804bn as NGX Warns Investors

The Nigerian stock market recorded a significant gain of N804 billion in today’s trading session, even as the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) issued warnings to investors about market volatility and the need for cautious investment decisions. The market capitalization increase reflects renewed investor confidence in select sectors, though exchange officials continue to emphasize the importance of fundamental analysis and risk management in the current economic environment.

Source: Daily Post Nigeria
URL: https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/24/nigerian-stock-market-gains-n804bn-as-ngx-warns-investors/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 5:54 am

Infrastructure & Accountability

PEBEC And FAAN Unveil Upgraded Reportgov Kiosk At Lagos Airport To Boost Accountability

The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) have jointly unveiled an upgraded Reportgov kiosk at the Lagos Airport to enhance accountability and transparency in airport operations. The kiosk allows travelers and airport users to report service failures, make complaints, and provide feedback on their experiences, supporting the federal government’s ease of doing business agenda.

The upgraded facility is part of broader efforts to improve service delivery at Nigeria’s international airports and ensure that public complaints are addressed promptly. Officials stated that the kiosk would be monitored regularly, with reports generated to track response times and resolution rates.

Source: BizWatch Nigeria
URL: https://bizwatchnigeria.ng/pebec-and-faan-unveil-upgraded-reportgov-kiosk-at-lagos-airport-to-boost-accountability/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 10:57 am

Education & Labour

FG-ASUU 2025 Agreement: FG Unveils Autonomy Safeguards And 40% Salary Increase For Universities

The Federal Government has unveiled details of the 2025 agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), including university autonomy safeguards and a 40% salary increase for academic staff. The comprehensive package aims to address longstanding grievances in the education sector while positioning Nigerian universities for improved global competitiveness.

Key elements of the agreement include:

• Statutory guarantees for university autonomy in administrative and academic matters
• 40% salary increase for academic staff across federal universities
• Enhanced funding for infrastructure development and research
• Regular review mechanisms to ensure implementation compliance

Implementation mechanisms are being developed to ensure timely execution of commitments, with government officials emphasizing that the agreement represents a significant step toward resolving perennial disputes in the university system.

Source: BizWatch Nigeria
URL: https://bizwatchnigeria.ng/fg-asuu-2025-agreement-fg-unveils-autonomy-safeguards-and-40-salary-increase-for-universities/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 10:56 am

Transport & Commuter Affairs

Commuters to Pay More as Lagos Approves 13% Hike on BRT, Standard Bus Fares

Lagos State Government has approved a 13% increase in BRT and standard bus fares, citing operational costs and the need to sustain public transportation services. The adjustment affects millions of daily commuters and has generated discussions about transportation affordability in Africa’s largest city.

Transport authorities emphasize that the increase remains below actual cost inflation and that subsidy elements are preserved to cushion the impact on low-income commuters. The fare adjustment applies to all routes served by state-regulated bus services, with new rates taking effect immediately.

Commuters expressed mixed reactions, with some acknowledging the need for service sustainability while others voiced concerns about the cumulative impact on household budgets amid broader economic pressures.

Source: Business Hallmark
URL: https://hallmarknews.com/commuters-to-pay-more-as-lagos-approves-13-hike-on-brt-standard-bus-fares/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 10:25 am

Energy Sector

GenCos Dismiss Claims Tinubu Reduced Power Sector Legacy Debt to N2.8tn

Power Generation Companies (GenCos) have dismissed claims that President Tinubu reduced the power sector legacy debt to N2.8 trillion, disputing the verification outcomes announced by the presidency. The GenCos maintain that the actual indebtedness remains higher and call for a more transparent verification process that includes industry stakeholders.

The disagreement highlights ongoing tensions in the power sector value chain, with generation companies seeking clarity on payment timelines and the basis for debt verification. Industry analysts note that resolving legacy debt issues is critical for attracting investment and improving liquidity in the sector.

Source: Daily Post Nigeria
URL: https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/24/gencos-dismiss-claims-tinubu-reduced-power-sector-legacy-debt-to-n2-8tn/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 10:34 am

Executive Order on Oil Revenue: Stakeholders Offer Opinion as Tension Grips NNPCL

Stakeholders in the oil and gas sector have offered diverse opinions on President Tinubu’s executive order regarding oil revenue management, as tension continues to grip the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). The executive order, which addresses revenue allocation and operational autonomy, has generated debate among industry participants, with some praising the clarity it provides while others express concerns about implementation.

The tension at NNPCL reflects broader discussions about the company’s role in the post-subsidy era and the balance between commercial viability and national energy security objectives. Industry watchers anticipate further clarifications from regulatory authorities as implementation proceeds.

Source: Daily Post Nigeria
URL: https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/24/executive-order-on-oil-revenue-stakeholders-offer-opinion-as-tension-grips-nnpcl/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 5:39 am

Political Development with Business Implications

Report: Tinubu Removes IGP Egbetokun, Names Tunji Disu as Successor

In a significant leadership change with implications for business security and investment climate, President Tinubu has reportedly removed Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and named Tunji Disu as his successor. The change in police leadership comes amid ongoing discussions about security sector reforms and their impact on business operations across the country.

The business community will be watching closely to see whether the new IGP maintains continuity in security policies or introduces new approaches to crime prevention, investor protection, and public safety. Security remains a critical factor in investment decisions, and police leadership transitions often signal shifts in enforcement priorities.

Source: Business Hallmark
URL: https://hallmarknews.com/report-tinubu-removes-igp-egbetokun-names-tunji-disu-as-successor/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 11:42 am

State Government News

Bayelsa Assembly Confirms Pastor Peter Akpe as New Deputy Governor

The Bayelsa State House of Assembly has confirmed Pastor Peter Akpe as the new deputy governor, following his nomination by Governor Douye Diri. The confirmation process was completed swiftly, with legislators citing the need for continuity in state governance and economic management.

The new deputy governor assumes office at a time when Bayelsa is focusing on diversifying its economy beyond oil and gas, with emphasis on agriculture, tourism, and small business development. His experience and policy orientation will be closely watched by investors and business stakeholders in the state.

Source: Business Hallmark
URL: https://hallmarknews.com/bayelsa-assembly-confirms-pastor-peter-akpe-as-new-deputy-governor/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 11:13 am

Governor Diri Picks Peter Akpe As New Deputy

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has officially picked Pastor Peter Akpe as his new deputy, filling the vacancy created by the previous occupant’s departure. The appointment is expected to bring stability to the state’s executive branch and allow continued focus on developmental priorities.

Source: CKN News
URL: https://cknnigeria.com/2026/02/24/governor-diri-picks-peter-akpe-as-new-deputy/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 10:57 am

Security & Law Enforcement

How Girlfriend Helped Military Track Down Mexico’s Most-wanted Drug Kingpin El Mencho

In international news with implications for global crime trends and security cooperation, reports emerged detailing how a girlfriend helped military forces track down Mexico’s most-wanted drug kingpin El Mencho. While not directly a Nigerian business story, developments in international drug trafficking often have ripple effects on global financial systems, money laundering patterns, and security cooperation that can impact Nigerian businesses operating internationally.

Source: CKN News
URL: https://cknnigeria.com/2026/02/24/how-girlfriend-helped-military-track-down-mexicos-most-wanted-drug-kingpin-el-mencho/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 9:11 am

How We Curtailed Lagos Airport Fire Incident – FAAN

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has issued a statement explaining how its emergency response teams successfully curtailed a fire incident at the Lagos Airport, preventing what could have been a major disruption to air travel and cargo operations. The swift response demonstrates the effectiveness of recent investments in airport safety infrastructure and personnel training.

FAAN officials assured travelers and stakeholders that all necessary measures have been taken to prevent future incidents and that airport operations continue normally. The incident highlights the importance of robust emergency response capabilities for maintaining business continuity in critical transport infrastructure.

Source: CKN News
URL: https://cknnigeria.com/2026/02/24/how-we-curtailed-lagos-airport-fire-incident-faan/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 6:11 am

Borno Command Loses 2 Assistant Commissioners of Police In 2 Days

The Borno State Police Command has lost two Assistant Commissioners of Police within two days, in what officials describe as a significant blow to the command’s leadership structure. The losses come at a time when security operations in the northeast remain critical for protecting communities and enabling economic activities in the region.

The development raises questions about succession planning and operational continuity in one of Nigeria’s most security-challenged regions. Business operators in the northeast will be monitoring how the command maintains its effectiveness during this transition period.

Source: CKN News
URL: https://cknnigeria.com/2026/02/24/borno-command-loses-2-asst-commissioners-of-police-in-2-days/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 6:03 am

El-Rufai Aide Raises Alarm Over ICPC Refusal To Grant Him Bail

An aide to former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has raised alarm over the ICPC’s refusal to grant him bail, alleging procedural irregularities in his detention. The case has drawn attention to anti-corruption enforcement practices and their implications for due process and individual rights.

For the business community, cases involving political figures often signal the broader enforcement environment and the predictability of legal processes, which are important considerations for investment decisions and risk assessment.

Source: CKN News
URL: https://cknnigeria.com/2026/02/24/el-rufai-aide-raises-alarm-over-icpc-refusal-to-grant-him-bail/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 5:54 am

Legal & Crime

Winners Chapel Pastor, John Abebe, Docked Over ‘N19m Fraud’

A Winners Chapel pastor, John Abebe, has been arraigned in court over alleged fraud involving N19 million. The case highlights ongoing efforts to address financial crimes across all sectors of society, including religious institutions. The pastor was docked on charges brought by law enforcement agencies, with proceedings expected to continue in the coming weeks.

The case serves as a reminder that financial crime enforcement extends across all sectors and that businesses and institutions must maintain robust internal controls to prevent and detect fraudulent activities.

Source: Business Hallmark
URL: https://hallmarknews.com/winners-chapel-pastor-john-abebe-docked-over-n19m-fraud/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 10:47 am

Amnesty International Flays Tinubu Govt for Failing to End Escalating Killings

Amnesty International has issued a strong statement criticizing the Tinubu administration for failing to end escalating killings across various parts of Nigeria. The human rights organization called for urgent action to protect civilian populations and address the root causes of violence.

For businesses, sustained insecurity creates operational challenges, increases costs, and discourages investment in affected regions. The international criticism also has reputational implications for Nigeria’s investment climate and may influence perceptions among foreign investors and multilateral partners.

Source: Business Hallmark
URL: https://hallmarknews.com/amnesty-international-flays-tinubu-govt-for-failing-to-end-escalating-killings/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 10:38 am

Truck Crushes LASTMA Officer, Two Motorcyclists

A tragic accident at the weekend claimed the lives of a LASTMA officer and two motorcyclists when a truck lost control and crushed them. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and the risks faced by traffic enforcement personnel and road users alike.

The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for improved vehicle standards, driver training, and road infrastructure to reduce the frequency and severity of accidents on Nigerian roads. For businesses relying on road transport, these incidents underscore the importance of safety protocols and risk management.

Source: Business Hallmark
URL: https://hallmarknews.com/truck-crushes-lastma-officer-two-motorcyclists/
Posted: February 24, 2026 | 10:35 am

Summary of February 24, 2026 Business News