In a ground-breaking move to fortify economic ties, Nigeria has opened new frontiers of cooperation with Saudi Arabia, focusing on trade, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
The high-level visit to Riyadh, led by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, signals a bold step toward unlocking opportunities for sustainable growth.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC), Edun spearheaded discussions with top Saudi financial and development institutions, laying the groundwork for transformative partnerships.
Director of information and public communication, Muhammed Manga in a statement, indicated that talks with the Saudi EXIM Bank explored strategies to enhance export credit, insurance frameworks, and broaden market access—key measures expected to boost trade volumes between the two nations.
According to him, further engagements with the Saudi Development Fund and the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) delved into plans to scale up investments in infrastructure and agriculture.
SALIC reaffirmed its commitment to advancing food security and job creation in Nigeria, promising responsible investment practices that prioritize economic inclusion.
The delegation also held strategic discussions with Saudi ministers overseeing finance, energy, and economic planning, highlighting Nigeria’s resolve to attract foreign investment and accelerate growth across critical sectors.
Accompanied by Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and National Planning; Mr. Wale Tinubu, Presidential Economic Coordination Council member; and other key officials, the delegation emphasized Nigeria’s readiness for deeper economic integration with Saudi Arabia.
As both nations chart a path toward expanded cooperation, this landmark engagement sets the stage for robust investments, job creation, and shared prosperity in the years ahead.

A northern advocacy group, Northern Frontiers for Good Governance, has demanded a probe into the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security over an alleged N1 billion contract awarded for the renovation and rehabilitation of the Ojude Oba Pavilion in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

The group, in a petition addressed to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on December 20, 2024, described the contract as a misplacement of priorities, questioning why funds meant for agricultural development were diverted to non-agricultural projects.

Signed by its National Coordinator, Mallam Abdullah Tanko, the petition raised concerns about the ministry’s focus at a time when Nigerian farmers face crippling insecurity, lack of fertilizers, and limited access to modern farm equipment.

“It is disturbing that a ministry responsible for improving food security is prioritizing the renovation of a pavilion instead of supporting farmers who are unable to access their farms due to insecurity,” the group stated.

The petition further questioned whether the project passed through legislative scrutiny, particularly the Senate Committee on Appropriation, chaired by an indigene of Ogun State.

The group urged the EFCC to investigate the motives behind the contract, Evaluate the actual cost of the project against the allocated budget, Recover any misappropriated funds and prosecute any individuals found culpable.

It emphasized that swift action would deter future mismanagement of public funds and restore confidence in governance.
In response, the EFCC confirmed receipt of the petition in a letter dated December 23, 2024, with reference number EFCC/PET/HQR/4401/2024.

As investigations commence, stakeholders and civil society organizations are closely watching how the anti-graft agency handles the case, which has sparked debates about budget priorities and accountability in public service.

In the wake of the tragic airstrike on Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State, survivors and human rights groups are calling for an independent investigation into the incident.
The attack, intended to target Lakurawa terrorists, instead left dozens of civilians dead and injured, turning Christmas Day into a nightmare for the peaceful villagers.
While local authorities have yet to release an official casualty figure, eyewitness accounts paint a grim picture of widespread destruction and trauma.
Survivors described the moment bombs rained down on their homes, killing children, women, and elderly residents who had gathered for Christmas celebrations.
“We were celebrating Christmas when we heard explosions. People ran in all directions, but many were caught in the blasts,” said Usman Aliyu, a resident of Gidan Sama who lost his younger brother in the attack.
Community leaders and advocacy groups are now demanding answers. Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad Daftarana, Chairman of Silame LGA, assured residents that a thorough assessment is underway, but he urged the military to improve its intelligence gathering to avoid future mishaps.
Humanitarian Concerns and Rising Tensions
The attack has raised questions about the military’s rules of engagement and their ability to distinguish between terrorists and civilians. Several humanitarian organizations have already mobilized to provide medical aid, food, and shelter to the displaced victims.

Meanwhile, Amnesty International Nigeria issued a statement condemning the incident:
“This tragedy is yet another reminder of the dangers faced by civilians in conflict zones. The Nigerian government must ensure accountability and prevent further loss of innocent lives.”
As residents mourn their loved ones, calls for justice are growing louder. Survivors and activists are pushing for an independent inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding the airstrike and ensure compensation for affected families.
“We cannot let this be swept under the rug,” said Aisha Ibrahim, a Sokoto-based human rights advocate. “The government must take responsibility and provide answers to the people who lost everything.”
With investigations ongoing, pressure is mounting on authorities to strike a balance between fighting terrorism and safeguarding civilian lives.