Business
How we can have a better Nigeria – Ex-President, Olusegun Obasanjo hints solution
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged Nigerians to always see themselves as one regardless of their religion or political affiliation, saying Nigerians must continue to demonstrate the spirit of oneness.
The former President who spoke at the Ogun State 2016 Christmas Carol and Service of nine lessons held in Abeokuta. Apart from Obasanjo, others who were graced the Carol included Head of Interim National Government, Chief Enerst Sonekan, Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye and his wife, Mrs. Folu Adeboye.
Other eminent dignitaries that attended the event were, former Governors of the State, Daniel Akintonde, Raji Rasaki, former Military Administrator of Sokoto State, Rasheed Raji, Prof. Ebenezer Obey, Primate Peter Akinola, Primate of Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Emeka Uche and Senator Iyabo Anisulowo, among others.
According to Obasanjo, I believe if we all, as Christians and Muslims internalised the teachings of the holy words in the Bible and the Quran, we will have a better community, better State and a better nation.” Amosun in his remarks urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the country so as to get of the current situation the country had found itself, stressing that it was only through continuous prayers by the people that would change the hearts of the leaders of the nation. The Governor added that the people’s prayers were the only thing that had sustained Nigeria till today and urged Nigerians, especially leaders to remain committed to the development of the nation. Amosun commended the people of the State for their continued support, noting that their support had assisted the government achieved all its lofty dreams.
The event witnessed beautiful carol renditions from Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Choirs from the four the regions of the State (Remo, Ijebu, Yewa and Egba). There were also renditions from Pastor Kunle Ajayi, the popular Christian musician, Tope Alabi, Ayan-Jesu group among others.
In his Christmas message, the Secretary General of Anglican Communion Worldwide, Archbishop Josiah Atkins Idowu-Fearon urged leaders in the country to be just and fear God at all time. The cleric emphasised that leadership is the same both in the Bible and the Quran, saying that leaders are called to be fair, just and to always have the welfare of their subjects at heart. According to him, “If Nigeria is going to move forward, if Nigeria must experience good development both Christians and Muslims must go back to God, we must obey God’s commandents.” “Leaders must be just, they are commanded by God to be just and to fear God. They must not betray the trust of the people and must always keep their promises to the people. They must know that they are only accountable to God.” “Whether you are a Muslim or a Christian, know that there is only one God. Both the Bible and the Quran recorded the birth of Jesus Christ so we all have a common reason to celebrate. This Christmas, we all ought to give the gift of our love and kindness because giving these kind of gifts will ensure the full joy of Christmas.” Meanwhile, the chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Ogun State Chapter Bishop Tunde Akin-Akinsanya has congratulated Christians in the country for witnessing yet another yuletide, describing the birth of Jesus as a gift unquantified to the world which all Christians should appreciate God for. In a Press statement to felicitate with the Christians by his Chief Press Secretary Rev Tolulope Taiwo, Akin-Akinsanya charged Nigeria Leaders at all levels of government to intensify action in making life more meaningful to the citizens as many people groaning in poverty. While highlighting some lessons of Christmas to include love, passion, commitment and sacrifice the CAN Chairman called on Nigerians especially the Religious leaders to always exhibit the good examples of Jesus in whatever they do. Akin-Akinsanya also called on Nigeria Preachers to make truth, Salvation, righteousness and self denial the hallmark of their sermon calling them to express love and passion which this Season is all about. The CAN chairman however remind everyone to remember that everyone shall give account of our stewardship on this earth to him one day.
Nigeria’s Inflation Drops to 15.10% as NBS Reports Deflationary Trend
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate declined to 15.10 per cent in January 2026, marking a significant drop from 27.61 per cent recorded in January 2025, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report released by the National Bureau of Statistics.
The report also showed that month-on-month inflation recorded a deflationary trend of –2.88 per cent, representing a 3.42 percentage-point decrease compared to December 2025. Analysts say the development signals easing price pressures across key sectors of the economy.
Food inflation stood at 8.89 per cent year-on-year, down from 29.63 per cent in January 2025. On a month-on-month basis, food prices declined by 6.02 per cent, reflecting lower costs in several staple commodities.
The data suggests a sustained downward trajectory in inflation over the past 12 months, pointing to improving macroeconomic stability.
The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has consistently attributed recent economic adjustments to ongoing fiscal and monetary reforms aimed at stabilising prices, boosting agricultural output, and strengthening domestic supply chains.
Economic analysts note that while the latest figures indicate progress, sustaining the downward trend will depend on continued policy discipline, exchange rate stability, and improvements in food production and distribution.
The January report provides one of the clearest indications yet that inflationary pressures, which surged in early 2025, may be moderating.
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate declined to 15.10 per cent in January 2026, marking a significant drop from 27.61 per cent recorded in January 2025, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report released by the National Bureau of Statistics.
The report also showed that month-on-month inflation recorded a deflationary trend of –2.88 per cent, representing a 3.42 percentage-point decrease compared to December 2025. Analysts say the development signals easing price pressures across key sectors of the economy.
Food inflation stood at 8.89 per cent year-on-year, down from 29.63 per cent in January 2025. On a month-on-month basis, food prices declined by 6.02 per cent, reflecting lower costs in several staple commodities.
The data suggests a sustained downward trajectory in inflation over the past 12 months, pointing to improving macroeconomic stability.
The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has consistently attributed recent economic adjustments to ongoing fiscal and monetary reforms aimed at stabilising prices, boosting agricultural output, and strengthening domestic supply chains.
Economic analysts note that while the latest figures indicate progress, sustaining the downward trend will depend on continued policy discipline, exchange rate stability, and improvements in food production and distribution.
The January report provides one of the clearest indications yet that inflationary pressures, which surged in early 2025, may be moderating.
Alpha Morgan to Host 19th Economic Review Webinar
In an economy shaped by constant shifts, the edge often belongs to those with the right information.
On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Alpha Morgan Bank will host the 19th edition of its Economic Review Webinar, a high-level thought leadership session designed to equip businesses, investors, and individuals with timely financial and economic insight.
The session, which will hold live on Zoom at 10:00am WAT and will feature economist Bismarck Rewane, who will examine the key signals influencing Nigeria’s economic direction in 2026, including policy trends, market movements, and global developments shaping the local landscape.
With a consistent track record of delivering clarity in uncertain times, the Alpha Morgan Economic Review continues to provide practical context for decision-making in a dynamic environment.
Registration for the 19th Alpha Morgan Economic Review is free and can be completed via https://bit.ly/registeramerseries19
It is a bi-monthly platform that is open to the public and is held virtually.
Visit www.alphamorganbank to know more.
GTBank Launches Quick Airtime Loan at 2.95%
Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (GTBank), the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, Africa’s leading financial services group, today announced the launch of Quick Airtime Loan, an innovative digital solution that gives customers instant access to airtime when they run out of call credit and have limited funds in their bank accounts, ensuring customers can stay connected when it matters most.
In today’s always-on world, running out of airtime is more than a minor inconvenience. It can mean missed opportunities, disrupted plans, and lost connections, often at the very moment when funds are tight, and options are limited. Quick Airtime Loan was created to solve this problem, offering customers instant access to airtime on credit, directly from their bank. With Quick Airtime Loan, eligible GTBank customers can access from ₦100 and up to ₦10,000 by dialing *737*90#. Available across all major mobile networks in Nigeria, the service will soon expand to include data loans, further strengthening its proposition as a reliable on-demand platform.
For years, the airtime credit market has been dominated by Telcos, where charges for this service are at 15%. GTBank is now changing the narrative by offering a customer-centric, bank-led digital alternative priced at 2.95%. Built on transparency, convenience and affordability, Quick Airtime Loan has the potential to broaden access to airtime, deliver meaningful cost savings for millions of Nigerians, and redefine how financial services show up in everyday life, not just in banking moments.
Commenting on the product launch, Miriam Olusanya, Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd, said: “Quick Airtime Loan reflects GTBank’s continued focus on delivering digital solutions that are relevant, accessible, and built around real customer needs. The solution underscores the power of a connected financial ecosystem, combining GTBank’s digital reach and lending expertise with the capabilities of HabariPay to deliver a smooth, end-to-end experience. By leveraging unique strengths across the Group, we are able to accelerate innovation, strengthen execution, and deliver a more integrated customer experience across all our service channels.”
Importantly, Quick Airtime Loan highlights GTCO’s evolution as a fully diversified financial services group. Leveraging HabariPay’s Squad, the solution reinforces the Group’s ecosystem proposition by bringing together banking, payment technology, and digital channels to deliver intuitive, one-stop experiences for customers.
With this new product launch, Guaranty Trust Bank is extending its legacy of pioneering digital-first solutions that have redefined customer access to financial services across the industry, building on the proven strength of its widely adopted QuickCredit offering and the convenience of the Bank’s iconic *737# USSD Banking platform.
About Guaranty Trust Bank
Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) is the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, a leading financial services group with a strong presence across Africa and the United Kingdom. The Bank is widely recognized for its leadership in digital banking, customer experience, and innovative financial solutions that deliver value to individuals, businesses, and communities.
About HabariPay
HabariPay is the payments fintech subsidiary of GTCO Plc, focused on enabling fast, secure, and accessible digital payments for individuals and businesses. By integrating payments and digital technology, HabariPay supports innovative services that make everyday financial interactions simpler and more seamless.
Enquiries:
GTCO
Group Corporate Communication
[email protected]
+234-1-2715227
www.gtcoplc.com
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