Buhari knocked for economic crisis, EFCC defies order with night raid: Weekly news recap
As the week comes to a close, here are top stories from across the country.
Following the death of the Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, in a helicopter crash in the United States, the Nigerian government and his kinsmen have called for a probe.
The Super Eagles lost the AFCON final to Cote d’Ivoire and midfielder, Alex Iwobi, was the target of internet attacks by angry fans.
Several prominent figures exonerated President Tinubu from the current economic woes.
Tinubu said no to food importation amidst the food crisis, while the Labour Union pushed for a N1m minimum wage.
Below are highlights from the week’s biggest news stories, from February 11 to February 17, 2024.
- Wigwe
Following the tragic helicopter crash in California that claimed the lives of prominent Nigerian businessman and CEO of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, his family, former Nigerian Exchange Group Plc Chairman Abimbola Ogunbanjo, and others, investigations have been launched by both Nigerian and American authorities.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has engaged in talks with the US National Transportation Safety Board to provide support for the investigation, aligning with international aviation regulations.
Meanwhile, American investigators have begun examining the wreckage, identifying major components and recovering electronic devices for analysis.
Witness reports of adverse weather conditions at the time of the crash are being verified through meteorological analysis.
Nigerian dignitaries, including Governor Dapo Abiodun, Aliko Dangote and Pastor E.A. Adeboye, have made condolence visits to the families of the deceased.
There were protests in Wigwe’s hometown, demanding thorough investigations and the repatriation of the victims’ remains.
The NTSB is expected to release preliminary and final investigation reports, with ongoing efforts aimed at determining the cause of the crash and ensuring transport safety improvements in Nigeria and the United States.
Meanwhile, Access Holdings named Bolaji Agbede as the acting CEO following the tragic helicopter crash.
- Eagles FIFA Ranking
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have made a significant jump in the latest FIFA rankings, moving from 42nd to 28th in the world, marking their best leap since 2013.
This rise followed their performance in the 2023 African Cup of Nations, where they secured silver after a loss to hosts, Ivory Coast, in the final.
Despite not winning the tournament, their strong showing contributed to their improved ranking. Ivory Coast, the AFCON winners, also moved up 10 places to 39th globally.
South Africa, Equatorial Guinea, and Angola also saw improvements in their rankings based on their performances in the AFCON.
The next FIFA ranking update is scheduled for April 4, with Nigeria expected to continue its preparations for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June.
