It's baffling that our financial institutions in Nigeria don't take agroprocessing seriously. They pay lip service to it and think they're helping. Many processors have given up and will seek funding outside Nigeria.
Agroprocessing is a vital sector in Nigeria's economy, contributing to food security, job creation, and value addition to agricultural products. However, like any other industry, it faces several challenges that need to be addressed to maximize its potential. Here are five significant agroprocessing challenges that I know we have in Nigeria, @borie_nla and @akinwale_cfi feel free to add yours :
Infrastructure Deficiency: Inadequate infrastructure, including reliable power supply, transportation networks, and storage facilities, poses a significant challenge to agroprocessing in Nigeria. Frequent power outages and inadequate transportation infrastructure result in increased production costs, reduced efficiency, and product losses. The lack of modern storage facilities also leads to post-harvest losses, affecting the quality and quantity of processed agricultural products.
Access to Finance: Limited access to finance is a major hurdle for agroprocessors in Nigeria. Many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggle to secure affordable loans or investment capital to expand their operations, purchase modern equipment, and invest in technology and workforce development. The high interest rates, stringent collateral requirements, and limited financial literacy further exacerbate the funding challenge, hindering the growth and competitiveness of agroprocessing enterprises.
Inadequate Processing Technologies: Outdated and inefficient processing technologies are another significant challenge in Nigeria's agroprocessing sector. Many processors still rely on traditional methods, resulting in low productivity, poor product quality, and limited value addition. The lack of access to modern processing technologies and equipment inhibits the sector's ability to compete in domestic and international markets.
Quality and Safety Standards: Compliance with quality and safety standards is critical for agroprocessors to access lucrative markets and build consumer trust. However, in Nigeria, the adherence to these standards remains a challenge for many processors. Limited knowledge and capacity to meet international standards, lack of proper certifications, and inadequate regulatory enforcement hinder the growth and marketability of processed agricultural products.
Supply Chain Constraints: Efficient supply chains are crucial for the success of agroprocessing, but Nigeria faces several challenges in this area. Issues such as poor coordination between farmers and processors, inadequate storage and logistics infrastructure, and fragmented value chains contribute to supply chain inefficiencies. These constraints result in inconsistent raw material supply, quality variations, and increased costs, affecting the overall competitiveness and profitability of agroprocessing businesses.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving government interventions, private sector collaboration, and supportive policies (this is very very key). Investments in infrastructure development, particularly power supply and transportation networks, are crucial to improving the operational efficiency of agroprocessors. Enhancing access to affordable finance, providing targeted financial literacy programs, and creating incentives for agroprocessing investments would encourage industry growth.
Furthermore, there is a need to prioritize research and development to drive innovation in processing technologies, product development, and packaging. Strengthening quality control systems, implementing stringent standards, and enhancing regulatory enforcement will ensure compliance and boost consumer confidence.
Additionally, promoting partnerships and collaboration along the agricultural value chains, fostering farmer-processor linkages, and encouraging the establishment of agro-industrial parks can enhance supply chain efficiencies and promote integration.
By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its agroprocessing sector, stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and contribute to sustainable agricultural development.
Me I don talk my own problem.
When I placed the Renewed Hope Agenda before Nigerians, I did not speak of housing in vague terms. I gave my word that this administration would work to make decent homes affordable again, and that a hardworking family, after years of paying rent, would finally have a path to a house of its own.
Let me account for that promise plainly, by juxtaposing what we pledged beside what we have actually achieved.
1/
I expect far more from the Mark Okoye-led South East Development Commission. It’s very concerning as the Senate committee indicts the SEDC for renting a single-room office in Abuja for N153 million.
PRESS RELEASE
𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐅𝐄𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐋 𝐆𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐈𝐌𝐅 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐎𝐅 𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐀'𝐒 𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐎𝐌𝐘 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐑𝐄𝐌𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐓𝐎 𝐒𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐑𝐄𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐒 𝐌𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐔𝐌
Abuja, 9 June 2026
The Federal Government welcomes the publication of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) 2026 Article IV Mission Concluding Statement on Nigeria and notes its overall positive assessment of the country's economic reform programme. The report provides further independent validation that the bold and necessary reforms undertaken under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, are strengthening macroeconomic stability, restoring confidence, and laying the foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth.
The IMF observed that reforms implemented over the past two and a half years have yielded improved macroeconomic outcomes and enhanced Nigeria's resilience to external shocks. The Fund specifically highlighted improvements in foreign exchange market functioning, stronger external buffers, ongoing fiscal and revenue reforms, banking sector resilience, and growing macroeconomic stability. These developments affirm that Nigeria is moving in the right direction and is better positioned to withstand global economic uncertainties than at any time in recent years.
The Government is particularly encouraged by the IMF's recognition that the difficult but necessary decisions to end fuel subsidies, eliminate deficit monetisation, liberalise the foreign exchange market, and strengthen fiscal discipline have contributed significantly to reducing vulnerabilities and rebuilding confidence in the economy. The report notes that Nigeria now faces global shocks with stronger policy frameworks and buffers than before.
The recent conflict in the Middle East has created new challenges for economies around the world through higher energy prices, rising food costs, tighter financial conditions, and disruptions to global supply chains. While these developments present inflationary pressures, the IMF acknowledged that Nigeria has demonstrated notable resilience. Despite significant increases in global energy prices, the foreign exchange parallel market premium has remained below five percent, sovereign spreads have remained broadly stable, and investor confidence has been preserved.
The IMF further noted that Nigeria is well positioned to benefit from higher energy prices through stronger export earnings, improved fiscal revenues, and increased foreign exchange inflows.
The Federal Government remains focused on translating these opportunities into long-term gains by increasing crude oil production, expanding domestic refining capacity, growing gas production and exports, and attracting new investments across the energy value chain.
The Government acknowledges the IMF's observation that poverty and food insecurity remain significant challenges. While progress is being made in terms of per capita income growing by nearly 10 percent in 2025 indicating marked reduction in poverty levels, we are mindful that macroeconomic stability, while necessary, is not sufficient on its own. Economic growth must be inclusive and must translate into tangible improvements in the welfare of Nigerians.
Accordingly, the Government continues to strengthen targeted social protection programmes, including direct cash transfers to vulnerable households, support for small businesses, student financing through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), consumer credit initiatives, healthcare investments, and interventions aimed at improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities.
In agriculture, the Government is scaling up investments through the Renewed Hope National Agricultural Mechanisation Programme and other initiatives designed to improve productivity, expand irrigation and dry-season farming, enhance access to inputs and financing, strengthen value chains, and improve food security. These efforts are aimed at moderating food inflation while creating jobs and raising rural incomes.
The Federal Government also welcomes the IMF's recognition of the progress being made in domestic revenue mobilisation and public financial management reforms. The successful implementation of Nigeria's new tax laws, the digitisation of revenue collection processes, improved transparency in public finance, and enhanced accountability mechanisms will continue to strengthen fiscal sustainability while ensuring a fairer and more efficient tax system.
We note the IMF's recommendations regarding fiscal reporting, budget transparency, and data reconciliation. The Government is already taking steps to strengthen fiscal data integrity, improve coordination among relevant institutions, enhance transparency in budget execution, and deepen public financial management reforms. Efforts are ongoing to improve fiscal reporting systems and ensure that economic and fiscal statistics continue to meet the highest international standards.
The report's medium-term outlook reinforces confidence in Nigeria's economic prospects. The IMF projects continued economic growth above four percent, improving external reserves, rising investment, and strengthening fiscal revenues over the medium term. Public debt has already declined relative to GDP, while reserve buffers have strengthened considerably. These outcomes which complement recent sovereign credit rating upgrades by leading international rating agencies reflect the growing resilience of the Nigerian economy and the positive impact of ongoing reforms.
The Federal Government remains firmly committed to maintaining macroeconomic stability, accelerating inclusive growth, strengthening fiscal discipline, deepening structural reforms, improving the investment climate, expanding infrastructure, enhancing human capital development and job creation. We will continue to pursue policies that support private sector growth, attract domestic and foreign investment, and improve the competitiveness of the Nigerian economy.
While challenges remain, the direction is clear and the foundations are stronger. The ultimate objective of these reforms is not merely improved economic indicators, but better outcomes for every Nigerian - lower inflation, decent jobs, higher incomes, greater economic opportunity, and a better quality of life.
𝐓𝐚𝐢𝐰𝐨 𝐎𝐲𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐞
Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Police Arrest Nine Foreign Nationals in Igbopa Community, Recover Phones, Documents
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian police force have arrested nine foreign nationals suspected of taking refuge in Igbopa Community, following a swift response to an intelligence report received on June 7, 2026.
Sources said the suspects were sighted in a residential building at about 2:12 p.m. and were promptly trailed and apprehended by a team of officers deployed to the area.
The suspects were identified as Abubakar Ishe (23), Abdulrazak Adamu (21), Adamu Adamu (23), Dasi Hamma (24), Oseni Sulagan (24), Michael Nabia (22), Abubakar Chuku (30), Ahmed Yusuf (23) and Yusuf Saad (22). They were said to be nationals of Chad and Sudan.
According to the sources, a search conducted in the building led to the recovery of 10 Android phones and iPhones, multiple SIM cards, transaction documents, a copy of the Holy Qur’an and some charms.
The suspects are currently undergoing profiling, while investigations have commenced to determine their mission in the area and possible security implications.
Police authorities assured that further updates would be provided as investigations progress.
Yet Another GoodNews 🔥
AIR COMPONENT OF OPERATION HADIN KAI NEUTRALISES TERRORISTS, DESTROYS LOGISTICS VEHICLE IN BORNO STATE
The Air Component of Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI has recorded another major operational breakthrough in its sustained offensive against Boko Haram terrorists, delivering a decisive precision strike on identified terrorist elements in the Cross Kauwa – Ali Sherifti general area of Borno State during the early hours of 7 June 2026. The intelligence-driven operation resulted in the neutralisation of several terrorists and the destruction of a logistics vehicle concealed under dense foliage, further degrading the insurgents' operational and logistical capabilities while reinforcing ongoing efforts to deny terrorist groups freedom of action and restore enduring peace and security across the North East.
The successful operation was executed following credible intelligence and subsequent tasking to conduct a follow-up air interdiction mission on identified terrorist activities within the area. During aerial surveillance, the air crew detected and tracked a group of terrorists concealed under trees, while another group was observed in proximity to a vehicle hidden beneath thick foliage. Acting on positive identification, the aircraft conducted a precision strike on the first target, effectively neutralising eight terrorists.
Subsequent Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) revealed additional terrorist elements attempting to flee the area. A follow-on strike was immediately executed against the fleeing terrorists and the concealed vehicle being used for logistical support. The strike resulted in the elimination of the terrorists and the complete destruction of the vehicle, which was observed engulfed in flames. Further assessment confirmed the absence of any surviving terrorist movement within the target area.
This successful operation highlights the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Army to dismantling terrorist networks, denying insurgents freedom of action, and destroying their logistics infrastructure. The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in synergy with other security agencies and stakeholders, will continue to sustain aggressive operations aimed at restoring lasting peace, security and stability across the North East region and the country at large.
@escalladizzy@ruffydfire You are foolish. You guys don't want a working country. You just want to attack government. When they were kidnapped, you idiots said govt is not working. Now they've been released, you idiots twisted it to "it was a staged kidnap"
Troops Rescue All 360 Women, Children Abducted by Boko Haram in Gwoza Operations
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in conjunction with Special Operations Forces, have rescued 360 civilians, mainly women and children, abducted by terrorists from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.
Military sources said the rescue followed a coordinated special operation conducted on June 6 across multiple fronts around the Mandara Mountains.
According to the sources, Special Operations Forces initially carried out preliminary missions that created confusion within terrorist camps, paving the way for ground troops of the 26 Task Force Brigade to successfully extract the captives.
The rescued civilians were among residents abducted during a terrorist attack on Ngoshe community on March 3, 2026.
However, the operation recorded a tragic setback as two infants died during the rescue effort due to the harsh and difficult terrain encountered while moving the victims to safety.
The military said all rescued persons underwent immediate medical screening upon arrival, while those requiring urgent medical attention were stabilised by brigade medical personnel and admitted to the General Hospital in Gwoza for treatment.
The victims were also provided with food and water before being moved to a secure holding facility pending their handover to relevant authorities and reunification with their families.
Security sources described the operation as a significant humanitarian and operational success in ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and rescue civilians held captive in remote areas of the North-East.
They added that the general security situation in the area remained calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and operational effectiveness remained high.
PRESS RELEASE
UPDATE ON FALSE REPORT OF ALLEGED KIDNAPPING OF STUDENTS AT ADUWAWA AND IKPOBA HILL, BENIN CITY
Further to the earlier press release issued by the Edo State Police Command regarding the false and misleading report of an alleged kidnapping of students at Green Park Academy Aduwawa and Western Boys’ College Ikpoba Hill, Benin City, the Command wishes to inform the general public that one Uzebor Emmanuel ‘f’, popularly known on social media as “Aza Woman,” has been arrested in connection with the viral publications.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspect knowingly disseminated false claims in various social media posts alleging that about 6 persons had been kidnapped through various Mini transport Buses. According to her some purportedly escaped from their abductors, while others paid ransome. These publications generated widespread apprehension, heightened public anxiety, and could undermine public confidence in the security architecture of the State.
The Edo State Police Command reiterates that the deliberate spread of false information, particularly on matters relating to public safety and security, is a serious offence with far-reaching consequences. Such actions are capable of inciting panic, disrupting public order, and diverting security resources from genuine emergencies. The security of a state should never be jeopardized for views, engagement, online relevance, or any other form of social media gratification.
The suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Command therefore advises members of the public to exercise restraint, verify information from credible sources before sharing, and refrain from using social media platforms to disseminate falsehoods capable of disturbing public peace and order.
FB @Edo State Police Command
X @EdoPoliceNG
WhatsApp @Edo State Police Command
ASP ENO IKOEDEM,
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
EDO STATE COMMAND.
6th June, 2026.
Committed to protecting our people & our interests. In coordination with the Armed Forces of Nigeria, operations in Northeastern Nigeria underscores the value of our partnership. Make no mistake, our two nations will relentlessly pursue & neutralize terrorist threats. #Nigeria
OPERATION HADIN KAI EXECUTES UNPRECEDENTED INTELLIGENCE-LED RESCUE OPERATION, FREES 360 ABDUCTEES FROM JAS STRONGHOLD IN THE MANDARA MOUNTAINS
In one of the most significant hostage rescue operations conducted in the North East Theatre in recent times, troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), comprising Special Forces and troops of Sector 1, have successfully rescued 360 abductees from a heavily fortified Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) enclave deep within the Mandara Mountains area of southern Borno State. The operation, which was the culmination of weeks of painstaking intelligence preparation, covert reconnaissance, and operational planning, resulted in the safe recovery of men, women, and children who had been held in captivity under harsh conditions after being abducted from several communities, particularly within the Ngoshe axis. The successful rescue underscores the growing operational reach, intelligence dominance, and tactical superiority of OPHK in denying terrorists freedom of action and protecting vulnerable populations across the theatre.
The operation was initiated following the receipt of credible and corroborated intelligence from multiple sources indicating the precise location of the hostages and the existence of an elaborate insurgent support network sustaining the enclave. OPHK intelligence elements subsequently launched an extensive target development process involving the integration of Human Intelligence (HUMINT), Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and persistent Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations conducted through unmanned aerial systems and long-range reconnaissance patrols. Through sustained intelligence collection and analysis, commanders developed a comprehensive understanding of the terrain, insurgent disposition, defensive arrangements, movement patterns, and the condition of the abductees. This intelligence-driven approach enabled the force to accurately map the objective area, identify vulnerabilities within the terrorist network, and significantly reduce risks to the hostages during the rescue mission.
A decisive breakthrough was achieved through the successful penetration of the terrorist network by carefully cultivated intelligence assets operating under the supervision of OPHK military intelligence personnel. These assets provided timely and actionable intelligence regarding the exact locations of the abductees, the disposition of insurgent commanders, internal security measures, and planned relocation routes. Simultaneously, carefully coordinated information and psychological operations created uncertainty and mistrust within the insurgent ranks, degrading their cohesion and disrupting command and control arrangements. The resulting intelligence advantage provided OPHK with unprecedented situational awareness and enabled commanders to shape the operational environment well before the commencement of the assault phase.
For eight months, the team maintained a quiet and diligent approach.
The FID-STS conducted a discreet, patient, and determined investigation into a notorious FCT kidnapping, robbery, and extortion syndicate.
The syndicate believed they would not be apprehended. This assumption proved incorrect.
Watch the documentary to learn more about their operations.
Every child deserves a safe and secure environment to learn and grow. Here are actions we can take together to help ensure school security... #SafeSchools
NIGERIAN ARMY TROOPS RESCUE TWO KIDNAP VICTIMS IN BOLD OPERATION SAVANNAH SHIELD STRIKE
In a decisive demonstration of operational prowess, troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North Central Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD (OPSS), deployed at Patrol Base Babasango, have successfully rescued two civilians from the clutches of kidnappers in Kwara State. On 3 June 2026, during an aggressive fighting patrol to Gidan Dogo Ekaa, the troops encountered and secured the victims who had daringly escaped their captors’ custody. This swift intervention highlights the Nigerian Army’s relentless commitment to neutralizing threats and restoring peace in vulnerable communities.
The rescued individuals, Mr Temitope Samuel, 42 and Mr Mohammed Sani, 40, were immediately taken into protective custody by the troops. Both men have been transferred to Patrol Base Babanla, where they are receiving comprehensive medical care, psychological support and all necessary assistance. Arrangements are now in full swing to reunite them safely with their families, ensuring their swift return to normal life.
The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mandate to safeguard lives and property through sustained, intelligence-led operations under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD. We commend the gallant troops for their bravery and professionalism, while calling on the public to continue providing timely information that strengthens our collective fight against insecurity.
The Nigeria Police Force presents a compelling account of an 18-month intelligence-led investigation by the Force Intelligence Department – Special Tactical Squad, culminating in the arrest of a notorious syndicate linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, and extortion within the Federal Capital Territory.
Through the voices of the victims, and suspects, this documentary provides an inside look at the painstaking efforts that led to the dismantling of a criminal network that terrorised innocent citizens and threatened public safety.
Watch the story behind the operation and the pursuit of justice.