The Nigerian Navy has issued a public warning against the unauthorized wearing of naval uniforms and accoutrements. In a statement from Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, Director of Naval Information, the Navy emphasized that individuals who are not military personnel should refrain from donning these uniforms, as doing so is a violation of Nigerian law.The statement highlighted that the unauthorized use of naval uniforms is an offense under Chapter 12, Section 110 of the Criminal Code, which prohibits non-military personnel from wearing military attire. The Navy warned that anyone found in violation of this regulation could face arrest and prosecution.The Navy’s warning comes in response to reports of civilians improperly wearing naval uniforms and insignia. The authorities reiterated the importance of adhering to these regulations to maintain the integrity of military attire and prevent impersonation.

The House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Corruption recently held a meeting with the management of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to discuss enhancing the operational framework in the fight against corruption in Nigeria. Chairman of the committee, Kayode Moshood Akiolu, emphasized the meeting’s goal of identifying gaps, challenges, and potential areas for legislative reforms to improve the effectiveness of anti-corruption agencies. He highlighted the importance of open dialogue to address issues such as transparency, reporting mechanisms, and public engagement. Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, Chairman of the ICPC, represented by Mr. Henry Emore, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the lawmakers. He reported that from June 2023 to June 2024, the ICPC filed 67 cases involving various corrupt practices, securing 17 convictions despite challenges posed by the slow judicial process. The ICPC has also recovered over ₦73 billion and $20,000 linked to corrupt activities, redirecting these funds to the national treasury. Aliyu acknowledged the challenges faced by the commission, including limited resources and legal loopholes, and reaffirmed the ICPC’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities to foster integrity and accountability in Nigeria. The session concluded with a question-and-answer segment, allowing lawmakers to engage directly with the ICPC management regarding their operational activities and strategies in combating corruption.

The Senate has initiated an inquiry into the troubling importation of hazardous petroleum products into the country. At its inaugural briefing Thursday in Abuja, the 15-man ad-hoc committee established by the Senate leadership reiterated its commitment to this pressing issue. Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who chairs the committee and serves as the Senate Leader, announced that the investigation will involve summoning key stakeholders to address the systemic failings within the petroleum sector.The committee made it clear that any entity that fails to cooperate with the investigation might face a warrant of arrest issued by the Inspector General of Police. Senator Bamidele also pointed out that the investigation will probe into the persistent issue of non-operational local refineries. Entities expected to present their Memorandum of Understanding include the Minister of State for Petroleum, the Ministries of Finance and Trade, the NNPCL, CBN, NIMASA, Customs, Navy, as well as major players like Dangote Oil and Obat Oil. The committee plans to utilize the National Assembly recess period for this investigation, which will conclude with a Public Hearing scheduled from September 12 to 14.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has sold a total of $148 million to 29 authorized dealer banks to stabilize the foreign exchange market and curb the recent decline of the naira. The sales were made on July 22 and 23, 2024, at exchange rates ranging from ₦1,470 to ₦1,510 per US dollar. This intervention comes on the heels of two previous CBN actions aimed at promoting market stability:

• Two weeks ago, the CBN sold $122.67 million to 46 authorized dealers.
• One week ago, the CBN announced it would sell $20,000 to each Bureau de Change (BDC) operator at a rate of ₦1,450/$1.

However, despite these measures, the naira has continued to depreciate against the US dollar, trading above ₦1,600 at the official market on Thursday. The CBN’s statement emphasized that the $148 million in foreign exchange was sold to the 29 authorized dealer banks. The ongoing volatility in the foreign exchange market and the naira’s decline underscore the challenges faced by the CBN in managing Nigeria’s currency. While the bank has taken steps to inject liquidity and support the naira, the currency has remained under pressure, likely due to factors such as reduced oil revenues, high inflation, and economic uncertainty.

The House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes has issued a directive for Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to appear before it by July 30 regarding budgetary allocation issues. The committee expressed dissatisfaction with Olukoyede’s absence during a recent oversight visit to the EFCC headquarters in Abuja, where they were reportedly denied access to the complex. Committee Chairman Rep. Obinna Onwusibe criticized what he described as a dismissive attitude from Olukoyede and emphasized the importance of accountability concerning the commission’s financial performance and challenges. The committee had previously coordinated with the EFCC for the oversight visit, only to be informed that Olukoyede was unavailable due to an emergency at the Central Bank of Nigeria. The committee’s actions highlight ongoing concerns about the EFCC’s operations and financial management, underscoring the need for transparency and cooperation between government agencies.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has deployed 4,200 officers to strategic locations across Abuja in anticipation of nationwide protests scheduled from August 1 to 10. The deployment, announced by Police Public Relations Officer SP Josephine Adeh, aims to ensure public safety, protect protesters, and prevent potential disruptions by non-state actors. The operation includes visibility policing, explosive ordinance device checks, and cooperation with other security agencies to maintain order. Commissioner of Police CP Benneth C. Igweh has urged for peaceful protests and warned against any violent actions or property damage.

Nigerian actress Nancy Isime has addressed the backlash against her upcoming film, Blood Brothers, following controversy over a poster featuring her in a niqab and holding a gun. The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has demanded a ban on the film, citing offense caused by the portrayal. In response, Isime took to Instagram to express her focus on personal goals and peace, dismissing the criticism as a reflection of others’ insecurities. She emphasized her commitment to her work and resilience against public opinion.