News
FG will soon ask for bailout, States face collapse – Gov Masari
Beset with plummeting prices of crude oil and a huge drop in revenue from the federation account, states are facing collapse over their inability to meet obligations, Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari has said.
In an interview with a Nigerian newspaper at the weekend, Masari painted a picture of the perilous state of the finances of state governments.
“I think if there is any word that is more than serious, it is more than that. I am telling you as at today, some states after federation accounts (allocation) are going home with less than N60 million”, he told THISDAY, adding, “Some are in the negative, majority cannot pay salaries from the federation account allocation.”
While noting that some states were already mulling the option of reducing their workforce, Masari said, “every state governor is looking for where to block leakages so that at least at the end of the month they will be able to pay salaries.”
He however said that what states needed at this time was far beyond what bailout, which he described as “ad-hoc measure,” could address.
“The reality is that the problem is deeper than this ad-hoc measure of bailout. We have to have a budget support programme – that this is the budget of a state and this is what the state can get, then the central bank with the Federal Government and whatever agency will have to have a way of supporting that project.
“Because we cannot allow the country to collapse. We have to sit down and see how we can have these budget support funds. It is too costly to allow this system to collapse. The consequences are more than any measure that one will take now in order to restore sanity.”
Giving further explanation on what he meant by budget support programme, Masari said it involves starting a conversation between the states and Federal Governments and its relevant agencies.
Such conversation, he said, would go thus: “This is the budget of the state and this is the amount accruable to the state; the difference, how do we finance it? Do we finance it by ways and means? Or do we finance it by borrowing from outside? Or do we support it by inviting World Bank? How do we support it?
“Do we raise bonds, which have maturity period of 20, 30, 50 years in order to aid the budget support programme and have a much more realistic budget approach, planning approach to predict that in the next two, three years this is the likely economic scenario. If we can build about two or three more scenarios, whichever one comes, this is the approach.”
Buttressing his point, he said the best option was the budget support approach built around a permanent solution and not an ad-hoc solution.
The governor however warned that, “the way we are going, even the Federal Government will start asking for bailout.”
He said the reality on ground shows that unless something happens in the global oil market and the price of oil and other commodities rise, the issue of revenue accruable to states, including the Federal Government will be going down to a level that no any tier of government can manage.
In order to avert social crisis and rally people to support governments at this difficult time, Masari said leaders must have the courage to look at the people and tell them the truth.
“We must invite them and be truthful to them by telling them what the situation is. It is now time of what can you do for Nigeria because Nigeria has nothing to do for you now. It has done (a lot for Nigerians) before, because when people were getting everything free they thought it will be free forever. Now it is payback time,” he added.
The governor who served as speaker of the House of Representatives between 2003 and 2007, put the blame of the parlous state of the economy on the failure of leaders to plan.
Describing Nigeria as a “planless nation,” he said “that is why we find ourselves in the position we are.”
“We had the money, we had the opportunities, but there was no foresight to see what was coming. We were busy expanding consumption, we were not creating sources of revenue, we were not investing,” he added.
Masari’s remarks confirmed THISDAY report of last Sunday that states had been hit by another cash crunch and were seeking another bailout, six months after the Federal Government bailed out 19 of the 27 states that were enmeshed in financial crisis.
In that report, THISDAY had revealed that most of the states that benefitted from the N400 billion intervention fund, in form of loans, offered by the Federal Government through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), were now approaching the presidency and the CBN for another bailout.
The Federal Government, in accordance to the decision of National Economic Council (NEC) in July last year offered of 19 out of the 27 states affected by cash crunch a relief package to pay backlog of their workers’ salaries.
The states included Ekiti, Nassarawa, Kwara, Kebbi, Zamfara, Osun, Niger, Bauchi, Gombe, Abia, Adamawa, Ondo. Others that enjoyed the facility were Imo, Ebonyi, Ogun, Plateau, , Sokoto, Edo and Oyo
Following the approval of the intervention fund, the CBN spokesman, Ibrahim Mu’azu, had clarified that the facility was made available with 20-year tenure except Ogun which had its own on a 10-year tenure.
Essentially, President Buhari endorsed a three-pronged relief for the distressed states. One of it was the intervention from the CBN in form of soft loans to the states for the purposes of paying backlog of salaries and the second one being the NLNG proceeds
The third part of the bailout is a debt relief programme to be proposed by the Debt Management Office (DMO) which will help states restructure their commercial loans currently put at over N660 billion and extend the life span of such loans while reducing their debt-servicing expenditures.”
Already, workers have down tools in some states over unpaid salaries while several other states are currently contending with brewing labour crisis as the states are consistently unable to meet their obligations to their workforce. Projects initiated by states prior to the dip in revenue allocation have stagnated while governors are unable to fulfil their campaign promises.
Analysis
Why Penis Size Does Not Affect Performance, Fertility — Experts

For countless men, penis size stirs deep anxiety fed by social media, locker-room banter, and pressure from adult content.
But sex experts and urologists agree: size rarely determines sexual function or fertility.
In a revealing conversation with PUNCH Healthwise, clinical sexologist Cecilia Agu and consultant urologist Dr. Gabriel Ogah broke down the myths emphasizing emotional connection, overall health, and sperm quality as far more meaningful indicators of sexual well-being.
Sexual Satisfaction Lies Beyond Size
Agu, who specializes in human sexology, has heard the insecurities countless times. Yet she insists that the fixation on size overshadows what truly matters in intimate relationships.
“Women value intimacy, chemistry, and creativity not centimeters,” she explained, her tone both compassionate and pragmatic.
“In most cases, size doesn’t determine performance or biological capacity. Only rare, clinically significant conditions impact size.”
She points to societal myths that equate larger size with virility.
“Historic portrayals in art and literature, and today’s media, amplify stereotypes. Pornography exaggerates, turning a normal variation into unreasonable expectations.”
Agu also cautioned against the booming market selling “enhancement” remedies.
“That industry profits off insecurity peddling pills, gadgets, and herbal supplements with no proven benefit.
The real dilemma lies in emotional weariness, not physical deficiency.”
She acknowledged true medical conditions like micropenis, often linked to hormonal or genetic causes but emphasized their rarity.
“Anyone worried about hormonal imbalances or developmental issues should seek professional evaluation,” she advised.
“Fertility Is Unrelated to Size” Dr. Gabriel Ogah
Dr. Ogah, a respected urologist, offered a no-nonsense medical perspective on the fertility question.
“A small penis doesn’t reduce a man’s ability to impregnate a woman,” he stated firmly.
“If sperm is healthy and ejaculation occurs, fertilization can happen.”
He added that many young men consult him out of anxiety sparked by unrealistic comparisons.
“Almost always, their size falls within healthy norms. It’s undue stress, fueled by exposure to distorted media portrayals.”
Dr. Ogah also debunked the idea that older men can “restore” diminishing function through enhancement products.
“As absurd as it sounds, many try. But no pill or serum can permanently alter anatomy.
These are myths masquerading as solutions.”
So What Truly Matters?
Both experts agree: prioritizing overall health, emotional intimacy, and stress-free communication far outweighs anxiety over size.
Agu stressed that sex is about connection, not metrics. “Being nervous about measurements sets couples up for dissatisfaction.
But when you focus on pleasure, emotional safety, and experimentation, the experience transforms.”
Dr. Ogah echoed this, emphasizing regular health check-ups. “Good cardiovascular health, balanced hormones, and mental well-being are key. Size doesn’t affect that.”
Dispelling the Myths, Sustaining the Confidence
As myths dissolve under scientific clarity, a bigger concern emerges: how do we nurture a culture free of body shaming? Agu proposed educational steps.
“We should teach young people that anatomy varies. Performance is multi-dimensional. Communication trumps comparison every time.”
Dr. Ogah endorsed that sentiment. “Let’s shift the narrative. Appreciate function over form. Listen to your body, and care for it through healthy living.”
Performance Isn’t About Inches
Size remains largely irrelevant when partners are emotionally in sync, focused on connection, and attuned to shared pleasure.
Fertility hinges on sperm health not size.
Medical concerns like micropenis are rare, but deserve medical evaluation.
Media, culture, and marketing distort reality. Let’s counter that with facts.
Confidence and sexual well-being stem from health, honesty, and intimacy not obsession with size.
In the end, as Agu beautifully summed up, “It’s not the size it’s how you share it.” That truth holds far more value than any number on a measuring tape.
News
I’m Not Desperate to Be President – Atiku

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has said he is more interested in building a better Nigeria than in becoming president at all costs.
Atiku made this known on Saturday during an affirmation ceremony in Lagos for new defectors to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The event saw several political heavyweights from the PDP and Labour Party officially announce their defection to the ADC.
The former PDP candidate, who recently resigned from the party along with other opposition politicians, formally joined the ADC in what he described as a “movement for national renewal.”
Speaking at the event, Atiku said his focus was not personal ambition but the pursuit of a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.
“Atiku Abubakar’s plan is to build a better Nigeria,” said Olateju, who spoke on behalf of Atiku.
“It’s not about him being president at all costs. It’s about having a government that can truly deliver for Nigerians.”
According to him, the ADC should not be seen merely as a political party but as a movement dedicated to national transformation.
“It’s no longer politics as usual. This is a new beginning for Nigeria, and that’s what Atiku is championing,” he added.
Atiku further noted that the removal of fuel subsidy and rising inflation have left many Nigerians struggling.
He stressed that only good leadership could deliver lasting solutions.
He also said the coalition was confident that God would use them to bring meaningful change to Nigeria.
On who would likely emerge as the ADC presidential candidate in 2027, Atiku insisted the choice would be left to party members.
“Whoever emerges through a free and fair contest, we will all support. We are not imposing anyone,” he said.
“The point is not Atiku for president at all costs, or Obi for president at all costs. The point is Nigeria.
Whoever picks the ticket will represent the collective voice and aspirations of the Nigerian people,” he added.
Prominent defectors present at the event included PDP Board of Trustees member Dr. Abimbola Ogunkelu; former Lagos PDP chairmen Chief Muritala Ashorobi and Retired Capt. Tunji Shelle; PDP Vice Chairman (Lagos Central); and former PDP Youth Leader Mr. Tai Benedict, among others.
They were received by top ADC leaders, including National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Senator Kolawole Ogunwale, and Lagos State Chairman George Ashiru.
News
Town Square Meetings: Gov Eno empowers 7688 Akwa Ibomites As Series End
... approves dual carriage way from Afaha Offiong - Itreto Road

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has concluded the 6-month Town Square Meeting/Empowerment series, with a visit to Etinan Federal Constituency where he said no fewer than 7688 citizens across the State have benefited from grants for farming, trading, equipment support, cars and mini buses worth over N10 billion.
The series, which began in Abak Federal Constituency with 833 beneficiaries, continued in Oron with 980, Eket with 1,076, Ikot Ekpene with 664 and 540 in Ikot Abasi federal constituencies.
411 and 677 people also benefited in Ukanafun and Itu Federal Constituencies, respectively, while 1,187 and 476 beneficiaries were recorded from Uyo and Ikono Federal Constituencies.
Speaking during the grand finale held at Nsit Ubium Council Secretariat, Ikot Edibon, the Governor said 844 from Etinan Federal Constituency were beneficiaries of N361, 450, 000 worth of grants for the different empowerment packages.
He said all the beneficiaries were harvested from the ARISE portal. He urged everyone, especially youths, to take advantage of the portal to benefit from Government initiatives, including procurement, employment, empowerment and others.
According to him, the State under his leadership will not give slots to individuals, but will continue to ensure a level playing field for all citizens irrespective of social status, stressing that everyone should have equal opportunity.
He said, though the Town Square meeting had ended, his committed service to Akwa Ibom State will continue, adding that the needs document for Etinan Federal Constituency, as well as all others across the State, had been received and will be accommodated accordingly in the 2026 budget, based on the availability of funds.
The Governor said all local government areas have benefited from one project or the other at various stages of completion.
He said youth centres will be built in all the local government areas across the State, and urged local government chairmen to make land available for the project.
Governor Eno, who reiterated his support for local government autonomy, said that to ensure that local government chairmen reside within their communities, official residences will be built for all local government chairmen across the State.
He appreciated everyone for taking part in the town square meetings, and specifically appreciated the people of Etinan Federal Constituency for their overwhelming turnout and heroic reception, and directed the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Prof. Eno Ibanga to facilitate the design for the award of contract for a dual carriageway from Afaha Offiong in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area to Itreto in Nsit Ubium.
Governor Eno who is the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State, urged all members and intending ones to participate in the ongoing membership registration/revalidation, as well as in the Continuous Voter registration that has just been started by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He warned youths against insulting leaders, stressing that Akwa Ibom is progressively united in support of President Tinubu, Godswill Akpabio, and of course, his return to Hilltop Mansion, come 2027.
In his tone setting, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, said the meeting was a homecoming for a worthy son of the Federal Constituency who has been fruitful and has served creditably well.
In their separate remarks, General Paul Isang (rtd), Otuekong Sunny Jackson, and Obong Umana Okon Umana said they were proud to identify with the laudable achievements of the Governor, adding that he has done creditably well and deserves a second term.
On his part, the Oku Ibom Ibibio and President-General of Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM, Ntenyin (Dr) Solomon Etuk appreciated the Governor for making them proud through impactful service, and prayed for more grace upon him to do more for Etinan Federal Constituency and the State at large.
Also speaking, members of the State Executive Council, led by Attorney-General/Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom, SAN, appreciated the Governor for his people-centric governance and for appointing them to be part of his cabinet, and assured them of continuous support beyond 2027.
Also speaking on behalf of local government chairmen from the Constituency, Chairman of Nsit Ubium LGA, Hon Alfred Charles, said God has made them proud with impactful leadership.
Presenting the empowerment packages on behalf of the State government, the State Chairman of the APC, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo said he was not surprised by the sea of heads at the event, stressing that it was not just a statement, but a vote of confidence and endorsement for the Governor.
High point of the event was the adoption of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Umo Eno as sole candidates for the office of President and Governor in the 2027 elections, following a motion moved by Rt Hon Otobong Bob and seconded by Hon Eric Akpan.
News
2027 polls: Etinan Federal Constituency endorses Tinubu, Eno
...as Gov. Eno doles out N361m to business owners, farmers, others

In what turned out to be a climax in a season of appreciation and endorsements, the People of Etinan Federal Constituency have reaffirmed their solidarity to the Government of Pst Umo Eno,PhD, and have pledged their resolve to support his re-election, and the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.
This is as the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has doled out N361,450,000 to 844 persons from Etinan Federal Constituency.
The donation comes in the form of farmers grants, traders grant, equipment support, MSMEs, cars and mini buses beneficiaries.
At what was tagged a grand finale in the series of Town Square meetings between the Governor and his people, held at the Nsit Ubium Council Headquarters ground in Ikot Edibon, the people unanimously voted in support of the continuation of the Governor in office.
The Governor had thanked the people for the massive turnout saying “it is organic, spontaneous and electrifying.”
He said having received the needs documents from all the federal constituencies, he was going to select the very critical ones for inclusion in the 2026 budget, noting that some could still be captured in the remaining part of the subsisting budget.
The Governor said the recent Impact Assessment Summit organized by his government, afforded everyone opportunity of seeing that every local government in the State has been positively affected by his administration, but added that where gaps were noticed, corrections would be effected.
On his policy of establishing Youth Friendly Centers in all the local government areas, the Governor urged local council chairmen to each, avail him of 1000sq meter of land for the project, and also harped on the essence of encouraging youths in computer training.
Following the premises laid by speakers at the event, a voice vote was moved by the Nsit Ubium State Constituency lawmaker, Otobong Bob and seconded by Hon Eric Akpan of Nsit Ibom State Constituency with the people affirming their decision to support the All Progressives Congress and its candidates Governor Eno and President Tinubu.Speaking, stakeholders of the federal constituency, through their Political Leader, Senator Effiong Bob, held that Governor Eno’s performance had endeared him to the people of the entire State, insisting that, “if you were not a good governor they would not have accepted you”.
“We are not here to speak about what are you doing, or what you have not done, or what you are about to do, because we know that you have done your best within these two years.
Sen Bob who was confirming the position of the earlier speakers at the event, Chief Sunny Jackson Udo, Mr Umana Umana and Hen Paul Isang,Rtd, said, “You have 8 yrs mandate, so your mandate will be judged at the end of 8 yrs, but for the two years, you have done so much for our people as had been said in the programme”, he said wooing for support for President Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Governor.
On his part, the Oku Ibom Ibibio and President-General of the Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, His Eminence, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, acknowledged that God has used the Governor to accomplish much for the State.
He said the huge crowd was a true reflection of the love and confidence of his people in him.
“As royal fathers, our role is to guide and advise, and in that spirit, I thank you sincerely for all you are doing for the sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom State. We are confident that you will not let your people down.
“We are proud to identify with you, to support you, and to pray for your continued success. Already, you have been named the Best Performing Governor in Nigeria, and we encourage you to keep up the good work so that you will continue to win even greater honors”, the monarch added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, Alfred Charles, on behalf of the three chairmen in the constituency, hailed the Governor as “the pride of Etinan Federal Constituency”, assuring that the constituency would stand solidly behind him all the way.
This was corroborated by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom, SAN, who spoke on behalf of members of the State Executive Council from the constituency.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Enobong Uwah, described the Governor as a compassionate and inclusive leader, as well as the best performing Governor in Nigeria, who in just two years, has earned the love of his people and a doctoral degree in learning.
He thanked the Nsit Ubium people for supporting their son, assuring everyone that, “you have a Governor who is not just performing, but excelling”.
Highpoints of the occasion was the symbolic presentation of cheques to some of the beneficiaries by the State Chairman of the APC, Obong Stephen Ntokekpo.
News
Tinubu govt seeks $238m loan from Japan

The Federal Government is currently in discussions with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to secure a $238 million loan aimed at transforming Nigeria’s electricity transmission network and boosting power supply across the nation.
These discussions took center stage during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), held in Yokohama, Japan, where President Bola Tinubu led Nigerian delegation, including Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu and other senior officials.
As part of the event, the Nigerian delegation engaged with top Japanese energy giants like Toshiba, Hitachi, Japan’s Transmission & Distribution Corporation, and Energy Exchange Corporation.
The discussions focused on major investments in transmission infrastructure, improving grid efficiency, and reducing system losses.
This proposed facility is anchored on Nigeria’s recent Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval of ₦19 billion in counterpart funding, which is expected to unlock JICA’s support.
The loan will fund the construction of nearly 103 kilometers of 330kV double-circuit transmission lines and 105 kilometers of 132kV double-circuit lines, along with multiple substations and line bay extensions across the country.
These upgrades aim to enhance the reliability and efficiency of Nigeria’s power grid while addressing critical system losses.
Minister Adebayo Adelabu also shared that Nigeria is pursuing a separate $190 million renewable energy loan with JICA to scale solar mini-grids and other off-grid solutions in underserved communities.
This initiative complements the $750 million World Bank-backed Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) program under the Mission 300 Compact, which seeks to provide clean and reliable electricity to over 17 million Nigerians.
Additionally, three JICA-funded substations—located in Apo (FCT), Keffi (Nasarawa State), and Apapa (Lagos State)—are nearing commissioning. Built with a $32 million JICA grant, these facilities are set to improve power delivery to homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, such as Lagos Port.
JICA’s contributions extend beyond infrastructure. The organization has equipped the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN) in Abuja with cutting-edge training tools to enhance the technical expertise of local engineers.
Minister Adelabu highlighted the importance of this facility in fostering long-term sustainability through capacity development.
While speaking at a panel session titled “HICKARE Africa: Harnessing Innovation, Co-creation, and Knowledge for Accessible and Resilient Energy for Africa”, Adelabu pointed out that only about 60 percent of Nigeria’s 200 million citizens currently have access to electricity, much of which is unreliable.
He emphasized the government’s dual approach of expanding the national grid in urban areas while accelerating solar and off-grid solutions in rural communities.
Despite challenges such as limited access to affordable capital, high costs for rural electrification, and the under-utilization of productive-use equipment, Adelabu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to overcoming these obstacles through supportive policies, private-sector partnerships, and local manufacturing of renewable energy components.
He praised JICA and the Japanese government as “reliable partners in advancing Nigeria’s energy transition” and ensuring access to sustainable, affordable electricity.
President Tinubu echoed this sentiment, underscoring Nigeria’s focus on achieving concrete results from international partnerships.
“Nigeria is deliberately shifting from planning to implementation, from agreements to delivery, and from promises to measurable results”, he stated, emphasizing that the country’s participation at TICAD 9 was about creating real impact, not symbolic gestures.
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