Okin Biscuits Eyes Comeback as Historic Kwara Factory Nears Reopening The historic Okin Biscuits Factory in Ijagbo, Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State, is on the verge of returning to production, raising hopes for renewed industrial activities and economic growth within the state. After years of inactivity, the once-prominent manufacturing company is being repositioned for a fresh start through ongoing rehabilitation efforts supported by the Kwara State Government and private sector investors. The anticipated reopening has been greeted with optimism by residents, former workers, and business stakeholders who see the development as a positive step towards job creation, economic revitalisation, and industrial expansion. Founded in 1980 by the late Chief Emmanuel Olatunji Adesoye, a renowned industrialist and philanthropist, Okin Biscuits became one of Nigeria's most recognised food manufacturing brands. The factory not only produced biscuits enjoyed across the country but ...

Only 18% of Nigerian Retailers Access Formal Loans, FMCG Report Reveals Poet of Afrique  A new industry report has revealed that only 18 per cent of retailers in Nigeria's fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector have accessed formal loans, highlighting the persistent challenge of financial exclusion among small businesses across the country. The finding is contained in the Nigeria FMCG Industry Report 2026 , published by omni.co and unveiled in Lagos on Friday by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole. According to the report, approximately 74 per cent of retailers consider access to credit critical for sustaining daily operations. However, only a small fraction have been able to obtain formal financing, while many continue to struggle with inadequate working capital and inventory shortages. The report noted that more than half of retailers surveyed reported credit shortfalls that directly affect their ability to restock products on time, limiting grow...

  CBN Warns States Against Poor Fiscal Management The Central Bank of Nigeria has cautioned state governments against poor fiscal management, warning that reckless financial decisions could undermine efforts to stabilise prices and strengthen the nation’s economy. Speaking during a meeting with state government officials organised by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Secretariat, the CBN stressed that inflation control requires strong collaboration between the federal and state governments. The Deputy Governor in charge of Economic Policy Directorate, Muhammad Abdullahi, stated that poor fiscal decisions by state governments have the potential to trigger rising inflation across the country. The meeting had in attendance Commissioners for Finance and Economic Planning, Accountants-General, Permanent Secretaries, and statisticians from over 20 states. According to a statement issued by the apex bank, it is identified that borrowing decisions, rising domestic debts, spending patterns, wage...

 *A Father Cannot Be Enslaved While the Son Chooses His Path* 30th April, 2026 By: JEGEDE ABDULAZEEZ  It is both surprising and disappointing that some elements within the Moro PDP have chosen to drag my father into matters that concern my personal political decisions. Let me state this clearly, a father cannot be enslaved while the son chooses his own path. Political affiliation is a matter of individual conviction, not family bondage. For the better clarification, my father is not a politician but an artisan (musician) who focuses on his craft and personal livelihood. Attempts to label or pressure him politically are unfair, unnecessary, and completely misplaced. Despite of not been a politician, he has dedicated over a decade of his life working tirelessly for the party, contributing his time, energy, and loyalty. Yet, it is evident to all that his sacrifices have not translated into any meaningful or tangible benefit rather than 50K for 11 family men. As for me, I have als...