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Nigeria has intensified its bid to host the African Union’s African Monetary Institute (AMI), with the Federal Ministry of Finance leading coordinated efforts to secure the institution ahead of its planned 2026 operationalisation.

The renewed push was articulated on the sidelines of the IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington D.C., where Nigeria is advancing its case as a credible host for the continental institution central to Africa’s monetary integration agenda.

Speaking through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Raymond Omachi, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, underscored the country’s full political and institutional backing for the initiative. He stated that Nigeria has moved beyond policy commitments to concrete delivery, with the necessary infrastructure and administrative arrangements already in place.

The Ministry emphasised that hosting the AMI aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic strategy of positioning Abuja as a hub for continental financial coordination. It noted that the institute represents a critical step toward deeper monetary cooperation, improved macroeconomic convergence, and a more integrated African financial system.

Earlier, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, had reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness through his representative, the Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, Mr. Muhammad Abdullahi. He indicated that a dedicated office facility has already been secured in Abuja and made available for inspection, reflecting the country’s preparedness to meet host country obligations.

According to the Ministry, Nigeria remains actively engaged with the African Union and is prepared to conclude all required agreements to ensure a seamless take-off of the institute within the stipulated timeline.

The African Monetary Institute, approved in February, is designed to strengthen policy coordination, stabilise exchange rate frameworks, and lay the groundwork for eventual monetary unification across the continent.

Senior continental stakeholders at the meetings reinforced the significance of the initiative. The African Union Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals, Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, described the institute as a pivotal step toward a single African currency and deeper economic integration.

Similarly, Chief Economist and Vice President of the African Development Bank, Kevin Urama, noted that the institute would strengthen financial stability, improve debt sustainability, and address structural constraints posed by multiple currencies across the continent.

Nigeria’s engagement at the Spring Meetings reflects a deliberate effort to translate continental commitments into operational outcomes, with the Federal Ministry of Finance driving alignment across policy, infrastructure, and diplomatic channels.

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The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has announced adjustment for the campaign period ahead of the Osun State governorship election.

The adjusted schedule for the election was announced in a statement issued on Thursday by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) issued the Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election and adjusted the Osun State Governorship Election forward by one week from the 8th of August 2026 to the 15th.

“As a result of this adjustment, the last day for political parties’ campaigns in the state is now midnight on Thursday, August 13, 2026, in line with Section 98(1) of the Electoral Act 2026, which provides that campaigns shall end 24 hours prior to election day.

“The Commission urges all political parties, candidates, and stakeholders to strictly adhere to the revised timeline.

“INEC remains committed to the conduct of free, fair, credible and inclusive elections,” the statement read.

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Fresh allegations have surfaced against former Zamfara State Governor and current senator representing Zamfara West, Abdulaziz Yari, accusing him of engaging in large-scale financial inducements aimed at influencing political figures and advancing his ambition to become Nigeria’s Vice President.

According to claims attributed to unnamed sources, Yari is allegedly distributing billions of naira to politicians and influential individuals, while reportedly keeping detailed records of such transactions for potential leverage. The allegations suggest that these actions are part of a broader effort to position himself as a possible running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, should there be any change involving current Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The report further alleges that Yari has made substantial monthly payments to key political figures, including APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, as well as providing funds to presidential aides to secure access and influence.

In addition, Yari is said to have targeted individuals within the inner circle of the President, including associates and family members. One claim alleges that he distributed millions of dollars during a recent birthday event for Gilbert Chagoury.

The senator is also reportedly linked to the establishment of a political support group, the Renewed Hope Network, allegedly funded with billions of naira and coordinated through political ally James Abiodun Faleke.

Further allegations tie Yari to past financial dealings involving late former President Muhammadu Buhari and former First Lady Aisha Buhari, with claims that funds were exchanged and later referenced during investigations into alleged fraud cases.

Sources also claim that Yari’s wealth is partly derived from illegal gold mining activities in Zamfara State, alongside consultancy payments reportedly received from the Federal Government.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from Yari or the individuals named in the allegations. The claims also remain unverified, and no formal charges or independent confirmations have been publicly established.