Conflicting reports emerged about Nigeria's Federal Government's financial status in the first quarter of 2024. We will examine what a massive budget deficit means for an already inflation-burdened country. 

Then, Nigeria's Central Bank has raised interest rates yet again. We'll look at the motivations behind this decision and its potential ripple effects on the economy.

Finally, we move to look at Chad where Mahamat Deby has been declared the winner of the recent elections, solidifying his power grab. What could be the geopolitical effects of this move?

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One of Nigeria's most reliable businesses, Okomu Oil Palm Plc, is facing a crisis. Recent attacks by criminal gangs have left three employees dead, raising questions about investor safety and government intervention. We explore the complexities of this situation and ask: what are the broader implications of these brazen threats on the immediate community and the country at large?

Next, the Nigerian fiscal policy committee has proposed sweeping Value Added Tax (VAT) reforms aimed at simplifying the tax system and protecting vulnerable populations. Part of the reforms proposed is the simplification of the VAT system by consolidating state-level consumption taxes, allowing input VAT credits for businesses, and exempting basic necessities from VAT. Will these changes truly impact small businesses and lower-income segments?

Finally, in Ghana, inflation rates are showing a mixed picture, with declines in food prices contrasting with increases in non-food items. 
Data coming out of Ghana highlights a slight decrease in the overall inflation rate while food prices dipped, leading to the overall decline in the inflation rate, same cannot be said for non-food items. What factors are driving these trends, and how are they affecting everyday Ghanaians' purchasing power?

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This week Nigeria's central bank asked banks in the country to charge a 0.5% cyber-security level on most transactions. Still on hitting the pockets of Nigerians, Ikeja Electric announced a reduction of its electricity tariff. Finally, we discuss what is happening in Togo as President Faure Gnassingbe looks to consolidate power for life. What is the future of democracy in that country?

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Recent attacks on the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) beg the question: is the CJTF adequately equipped for the fight against insurgency?

A supposed deal with shipping giant Maersk has caused a wave of confusion. Is this just a misunderstanding, or something more concerning? How will this decision impact Nigeria's attractiveness to other investors?  

In Ghana, a sweet commodity is turning bitter. Cocoa prices have skyrocketed, raising concerns for consumers worldwide. What is behind this surge? What does it mean for your next chocolate bar?

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