Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has described the state as ready for both local and foreign investors, highlighting reforms aimed at improving infrastructure, security and the ease of doing business.   According to a report by Channels Television, Uzodimma made the remarks while speaking at the third edition of Invest Lagos 3.0 themed “Lagos: The Business Gateway to Africa” held in Lagos on Monday. He said his administration has moved away from government-controlled enterprises and is now focused on private sector-led growth, positioning the state as an emerging investment destination. The governor stated that Imo had undergone significant reforms since 2020, including improvements in road infrastructure, power sector restructuring through public-private partnerships, digitised land administration and tax harmonisation. Uzodimma also claimed that the state now handles electricity generation, transmission and distribution through a PPP arrangement, while its energy free trade zone is attracting investment interest in petrochemicals, fertiliser production and gas processing. He added that initiatives such as the Imo Digital City had trained over 65,000 young people in digital skills, with many now employed or running tech-driven businesses. Other developments highlighted include ongoing upgrades to Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, investment in the Orashi River corridor for logistics, and planned hotel expansion projects in Owerri. The governor further noted that Imo’s location between Onitsha, Aba and Port Harcourt gives it strategic access to major commercial markets in southern Nigeria. He urged investors to consider the state, saying reforms have made business operations easier, safer and more profitable.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has listed Nigeria among the world’s most expensive countries for airline operations, warning that high costs are limiting the growth and profitability of local carriers, according to a report by Channels Television.   Speaking at the IATA Annual General Meeting in Brazil, the organisation’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil Al-Awadhi, said airlines operating in Nigeria continue to face severe cost pressures despite reform efforts in the aviation sector. He noted that the high-cost environment, driven by excessive taxes, regulatory charges and operational expenses, is making it difficult for Nigerian airlines to remain competitive. According to him, the situation is preventing the sector from achieving its full economic potential. Al-Awadhi urged member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to implement a proposed 25 per cent reduction in aviation taxes and charges. He argued that the move would lower ticket prices, increase passenger demand and improve airline competitiveness across the region. Industry stakeholders have repeatedly warned that high operating costs remain one of the biggest barriers to affordable air travel in West Africa. They say reforms in taxation and regulation are crucial to improving connectivity and boosting economic activity tied to aviation, including trade and tourism. The development adds to ongoing discussions about how to make Nigeria’s aviation sector more viable, even as the Federal Government continues policy reforms aimed at improving efficiency and safety standards.

Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has paid a heartfelt tribute to his grandfather, Benson Idonije, during a 90th birthday celebration held in Lagos on Sunday.   According to a report by TheCable Lifestyle, the singer used the occasion to reflect on the deep influence his grandfather has had on his life and family, describing him as a key figure behind their success. Speaking at the event, Burna Boy praised Idonije as “the greatest man in the world” in a moment that was captured in a viral video clip. He said he remained “forever indebted and grateful” for his grandfather’s role in shaping their family’s achievements. The artiste also led a toast in honour of the celebrant, expressing hope for his longevity and family legacy, adding that he wished to see future generations celebrate him. Benson Idonije is a respected Nigerian music critic, former broadcaster, and former manager of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti. He also played a role in the establishment of Radio Nigeria 2, now Metro FM, in 1977. The celebration highlighted both Idonije’s long-standing contribution to Nigerian broadcasting and Burna Boy’s public recognition of his family heritage.

The Federal Government has approved payments to more than 1,240 local contractors as part of efforts to clear verified debts exceeding ₦700 billion and inject liquidity into businesses across Nigeria.   According to Channels Television, the approval followed a verification and reconciliation exercise carried out by the Federal Ministry of Finance to ensure only validated claims qualified for payment. The ministry said the payments, approved by Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele, cover contractors working with various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). In a statement issued on Monday by the minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Communication and Press Secretary, Mary-Ann Duke, the government said the latest round of payments prioritised contractors with verified claims of ₦100 million or less. The ministry noted that the move is designed to provide immediate financial relief to businesses, particularly indigenous firms and small and medium-sized enterprises, enabling them to return to project sites, pay workers, settle suppliers and meet other financial obligations. It disclosed that more than ₦700 billion in verified obligations owed to local contractors has been processed in recent months. Within May alone, about ₦436.6 billion in transactions were completed, reflecting an accelerated effort to settle outstanding government liabilities. Officials said the strategy of paying a larger number of smaller contractors rather than concentrating funds among a few major beneficiaries would spread the economic benefits across sectors and regions. The government expressed confidence that the payments would strengthen trust among contractors, suppliers and service providers working with public institutions by demonstrating a commitment to honouring verified obligations. The ministry added that reducing outstanding liabilities would help improve public financial management, support economic recovery and enhance the delivery of infrastructure and public services nationwide.