G' W🌍RLD: Niger closes airspace amidst escalating political tensions

 In a move that underscores the escalating tensions in Niger’s ongoing political crisis, the country has made the decision to close its airspace, effective immediately and until further notice.

The decision was announced on Sunday by a representative of the junta, a group that assumed power following a recent coup. The closure comes amidst mounting concerns of potential military intervention by the West African regional bloc after the coup leaders rebuffed a deadline to reinstate the ousted president.

The junta’s announcement came following a surge of support from thousands of its backers, who assembled at a stadium in Niamey, the capital. They cheerfully celebrated the junta’s defiance against external pressure, applauding their stance in the face of demands to hand over power, which comes from the power seizure on July 26.

Kano Govt to activate, support 250 cooperative groups

The Kano State Government is set to empower 250 cooperative groups as part of a broader strategy for socio-economic development.

Jamilu Abbas-Kiru, newly appointed Special Adviser on Cooperative Groups, explained that the government’s plan aims to stimulate commerce, industry, energy, security, and climate change initiatives.

The cooperative societies will cover various sectors, including agriculture, commerce, handicrafts, artisans, and transportation. The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in economic activities, particularly in rural areas, by integrating modern Information and communication technology (ICT) practises.

This strategy intends to link members with financial institutions, enabling them to access intervention funds and improve their businesses. The government seeks to enhance the quality of healthcare, education, rural development, and water supply in the state.

Engage audit firms to probe CBN, not private Investigator, experts urge FG

Financial experts have suggested that the Nigerian government involve a consortium of audit firms to investigate the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The decision comes after a private investigator, Osayande Obaze, a former CEO of the Financial Reporting Council (FRC), was appointed to probe the CBN. Some stakeholders feel that the FRC is the appropriate body for such an investigation, and using an individual could send the wro

ng message.

Experts like Prof. Uche Uwaleke and Okechukwu Unegbu believe a consortium of reputable audit firms would provide a more thorough and impartial probe.

Meanwhile, Muda Yusuf of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise emphasised the need for a fair investigation to determine any infractions or abuse of office. President Bola Tinubu authorised Obaze’s appointment as a special investigator to probe the CBN, directing him to work with experienced professionals and provide regular progress updates.