ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has retained the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), the country’s benchmark interest rate, at 26.5 percent.

The decision was announced at the end of the 306th meeting of the MPC, held in Abuja on July 20 and 21, 2026.

All 11 members of the committee attended the two-day meeting, where they reviewed recent domestic and global economic developments before deciding to leave the benchmark lending rate unchanged.

The decision means the CBN has maintained its tight monetary policy stance amid efforts to sustain the moderation in inflation, stabilise the foreign exchange market and consolidate recent macroeconomic gains.

Details shortly…

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has approved a new minimum monthly pension of ₦50,000 for retired civil servants in the state.Government

The new payment will begin next month and means no pensioner will receive less than the approved amount.

The governor announced the decision during his appearance on a live entertainment programme, Taba Kidi Taba Karatu, aired by the Adamawa Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) in Yola at the weekend.

Fintiri said it was unfair for some retired workers to survive on monthly pensions below ₦10,000 after spending many years serving the state.

He said the increase was introduced to give retired civil servants better living conditions and allow them to enjoy life after leaving public service.

He explained that his administration has continued to improve the welfare of workers by paying salaries on time, approving promotions, employing qualified workers and improving pension payments.

According to him, the new pension package is another step in fulfilling promises made to the people of Adamawa.

The governor also assured residents that all projects started by his administration would be completed before the end of his tenure.

He listed some of the projects to include the International Conference Hall, a modern shopping complex, the NYSC Orientation Camp, the Mother and Child Hospital, road projects, school facilities and other public investments across the state.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

By Gloria Ikibah

Al-Ittihad forward, George Ilenikhena has won praise after presenting a brand new car to renowned cleric, Apostle Okechukwu Etiaka, in appreciation of the spiritual guidance, encouragement and support he received before rising to international football.

The thoughtful gesture was warmly received by members of the church and well-wishers, who described it as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering those who played a role in one’s success.

The presentation was an emotional moment as Apostle Etiaka received the vehicle with gratitude, while family members, church members and supporters celebrated the footballer’s act of generosity and offered prayers for his continued success on and off the pitch.

Beyond the gift itself, Ilenikhena’s action has been widely viewed as an example of humility and gratitude, showing that success is not only measured by achievements on the field but also by the willingness to acknowledge those who helped make the journey possible.

The gesture has also drawn attention to the positive influence athletes can have within society. By recognising a mentor who stood by him before his breakthrough, the young footballer has reinforced the values of appreciation, loyalty and giving back to the community.

For many observers, the moment serves as a reminder that football is more than goals and trophies. It also provides a platform for players to inspire others through acts of kindness, encourage young people to value mentorship, and demonstrate that true success includes lifting others and honouring those who made the journey possible.