By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

In a significant policy shift, the Federal Ministry of Finance will now assume responsibility for national development finance activities, a role previously managed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This move aims to establish a clearer, more sustainable framework for mobilizing long-term investment into the country’s priority sectors.

The transition fills a strategic gap left nearly two years ago when the CBN halted its direct funding of development programs, which had constrained financing for critical areas like infrastructure, energy, and agriculture.

Unveiling the new strategy, the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, announced that the ministry will issue comprehensive guidelines for a forward-looking development finance model. She positioned Domestic Development Finance Institutions (DFIs)—such as the Bank of Industry and the Nigerian Export-Import Bank—as central pillars in achieving Nigeria’s growth and investment ambitions.

“Given the scale of Nigeria’s growth targets and the need to mobilize an estimated N246 trillion in patient capital by 2036, the government recognizes DFIs as essential partners,” Uzoka-Anite stated. “They will de-risk priority sectors, bolster investor confidence, and catalyze large-scale private capital.”

DFIs will provide long-term financing, concessional instruments, technical expertise, and risk-sharing to sectors where private investment has lagged despite strong potential. Key focus areas include infrastructure, energy transition, agribusiness, healthcare, climate-resilient industries, and digital public infrastructure.

The minister outlined a dedicated strategy to enhance the capacity and impact of domestic DFIs, among which are: enhanced capitalization, governance reforms, risk-sharing mechanisms, and treasury & policy alignment.

The ministry plans to leverage both domestic and international partnerships to accelerate capital mobilization and project delivery. Uzoka-Anite emphasized aligning all financing with climate resilience, financial inclusion, and sustainability goals in line with global standards.

“Nigeria’s reform momentum, policy clarity, and execution discipline create a credible platform for DFIs to deploy capital at scale with measurable impact,” she added.

This reassignment of responsibility follows the CBN’s strategic withdrawal from direct intervention financing. Shortly after his appointment, Governor Olayemi Cardoso announced the bank would cease funding development programs, refocusing on its core monetary mandates. In December 2023, the CBN formally suspended new loans under all existing intervention schemes while continuing to recover previously disbursed funds.

The Federal Government has affirmed its commitment to maintaining policy consistency and institutional coordination to ensure the success of this new DFI-led approach.

There was an outrage in Kano on Friday following the killing of a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) volunteer, Abdurrauf Sheriff, who was allegedly stabbed to death by suspected hoodlums while on official duty.

The fatal incident occurred along Gyadi Gyadi Court Road, where the volunteer was reportedly carrying out his assigned responsibilities before he was attacked the hoodlums on the night of New year celebration by Kano State Governor.

Confirming the development in a statement, the Kano State Command of the NSCDC strongly condemned the killing, describing it as a violent and unacceptable act against a personnel lawfully discharging his duty.

The statement, issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Abdullahi, disclosed that four suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.

“The Command wishes to inform the general public that four suspects were arrested with dangerous weapons including a hacksaw, Danbida and drugs. They are currently in custody and assisting security agencies with investigations to ensure that justice is served,” Abdullahi stated.

Reacting to the tragic loss, the State Commandant of the NSCDC in Kano, Commandant Mohammed Hassan Agalama, expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and reassured residents of the Corps’ commitment to maintaining security across the state.

He further emphasized the NSCDC’s resolve to collaborate with other security agencies to combat criminal activities and protect lives and property.

According to the statement, preliminary findings have classified the incident as culpable homicide, and the case will be transferred to the Nigerian Police for further investigation and prosecution.

The Command also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and continue to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid crime-fighting efforts in the state.

The Special Advisers’ Forum in Kano State has formally endorsed the political direction of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, describing his leadership as pivotal to the peace and progress of the state. Dr. Idris Salisu Rogo, Secretary of the Forum, made this known while addressing journalists in Kano.

Dr. Rogo explained that politics is inherently dynamic, with varying opinions, alignments, and perspectives forming a natural part of democratic society. He stressed that, despite these differences, the Forum believes political engagement must be guided by mutual respect, maturity, decorum, and a shared commitment to the stability of Kano State.

According to Dr. Rogo, the Forum is urging all political actors, appointees, party members, supporters, and the general public to exercise restraint in their statements and actions. He warned that the use of inflammatory language, personal attacks, threats, or the disclosure of private communications undermines public trust and distracts from governance. He added that Kano State has a commendable history of political awareness and civility that must be preserved.

Dr. Rogo emphasized that Governor Yusuf, as the Executive Governor of Kano State, holds ultimate authority over political direction and decision-making. He noted that the Forum affirms its unwavering loyalty and alignment with any political decisions taken by the Governor in the interest of the state and its citizens.

The Forum, according to Dr. Rogo, has pledged collective support to the Governor as he continues his efforts toward good governance, people-focused policies, infrastructural development, social welfare initiatives, and reforms that positively impact residents. He maintained that the progress achieved across key sectors under Yusuf’s leadership is evident and deserves protection and consolidation.

Dr. Rogo further called on stakeholders to prioritize the interests of Kano State above personal feelings or political rivalries. He said unity within government and respect among political actors are vital for stability, effective governance, and the realization of the administration’s vision.

Dr. Rogo stated that the Special Advisers’ Forum remains committed to fostering dialogue, internal cohesion, and responsible communication in support of Governor Yusuf’s leadership and the overarching development agenda for Kano State.