General
Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun in NYSC Certificate Forgery Scandal

By Dipo Olowookere
These are not the best of times for Nigeria’s Finance Minister, Mrs Folakemi Adeosun, getting into the news for the wrong reasons in recent times.
The eloquent and brilliant Economist has been accused of forging her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate to get jobs in Nigeria, including the present one.
According to Premium Times, the former Commissioner for Finance in Ogun State did not participate in the mandatory one-year scheme even after graduating before the age of 30, when she is qualified for an exemption.
Mrs Adeosun graduated from the Polytechnic of East London in 1989, at the age of 22 as Folakemi Oguntomoju and in 1992, the institution changed its name to University of East London with her certificate issued in the new name.
According to her curriculum vitae, Mrs Adeosun was born in March 1967 and having graduated at 22, it was obligatory for Mrs Adeosun to participate in the one-year national service for her to qualify for any job in Nigeria.
Going by the NYSC law, section 13, eligible Nigerians who skipped the service are liable to be sentenced to 12 months imprisonment and/or N2,000 fine.
Section 13 (3) of the law also prescribes three-year jail term or option of N5,000 fine for anyone who contravenes provision of the law.
The report by Premium Times said the Finance Minister parades a purported NYSC exemption certificate, which was issued in September 2009, granting her exemption from the mandatory service on account of age.
Business Post gathered from the report that Mrs Adeosun’s ‘certificate’ is dated September 9, 2009, and was purportedly signed by the former director-general of NYSC, Mr Yusuf Bomoi.
But officials of the NYSC said Mr Bomoi stepped down from the corps in January 2009, and could not have signed any certificate for the agency eight months after. The retired brigadier general passed on in September 2017.
It is important to note that the NYSC certificate is a requirement for government and private sector jobs in Nigeria and the enabling law prescribes punishment for anyone who absconds from the scheme or forges its certificates.
Subsection 4 of Section 13 of the law criminalises giving false information or illegally obtaining the agency’s certificate. It provides for up to three-year jail term for such offenders.
According to Premium Times, upon graduation in 1989, Mrs Adeosun, who studied Applied Economics in the United Kingdom, did not return to Nigeria to serve her fatherland, but pursued fast-paced career in the British public and private sectors.
She first landed a job at British Telecoms, but left after a year to join Goodman Jones, an accounting and investment firm, as audit officer. She served there till 1993.
In 1994, Mrs Adeosun joined London Underground Company as Internal Audit Manager, before switching to Prism Consulting, a finance firm, where she worked between 1996 until 2000.
In 2000, Mrs Adeosun was hired by PricewaterhouseCoopers, where she worked for two years.
When she eventually returned to Nigeria in 2002, Mrs Adeosun still did not deem it necessary to participate in the NYSC scheme. She simply accepted a job offer at a private firm, Chapel Hill Denham.
However, ostensibly concerned that she might run into trouble for skipping the mandatory scheme, Mrs Adeosun, sometime in 2009, procured a fake exemption certificate.
The NYSC does not issue exemption certificate to anyone who, like the minister, graduates before turning 30, top officials of the scheme familiar with the matter said.
Using that fake certificate, Mrs Adeosun went on to clinch high-profile jobs at Quo Vadis Partnerships (managing director), Ogun State Government (commissioner for finance), and Federal Government of Nigeria (minister of finance).
By the provision of Section 12 of the NYSC Act, employers must demand NYSC certificates from prospective employees. The law also mandates employees to present only genuine certificates for that purpose.
Section 12 of the Act reads: “For the purposes of employment anywhere in the Federation and before employment, it shall be the duty of every prospective employer to demand and obtained from any person who claims to have obtained his first degree at the end of the academic year 1973-74 or, as the case may be, at the end of any subsequent academic year the following:-
a. a copy of the Certificate of National Service of such person issued pursuant to section 11 of this Decree
b. a copy of any exemption certificate issued to such person pursuant to section 17 of this Decree
c. such other particulars relevant there to as may be prescribed by or under this Decree.”
A lawyer, Sagir Gezawa, described jobs Mrs Adeosun has had in Nigeria as illegal.
“The combined effect of sections 12 and 13 of the NYSC Act is that it is illegal to hire a person who graduated but failed to make himself or herself available to serve, or falsify any document to the effect that he or she has served or exempted from serving.”
However, without demanding or verifying the veracity of the certificate presented by Mrs Adeosun, two Nigerian companies, the Ogun State Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria employed her at various times.
On becoming Governor of Ogun State in 2011, Mr Ibikunle Amosun nominated her into his cabinet. She proceeded to serve as commissioner of finance for four years.
In November 2015, Mrs Adeosun was sworn in as minister by President Muhammadu Buhari, and assigned the all-important finance ministry, after a supposed security and Senate screening.
The State Security Service, charged with vetting appointees to top government positions, failed to detect that her NYSC certificate was fake.
The Senate, which received the fake certificate as part of the documents Mrs Adeosun submitted for her confirmation hearing, detected the discrepancy, PREMIUM TIMES understands.
But it nonetheless proceeded to clear her for the top office. Those familiar with the matter said the leadership of the National Assembly used that information to blackmail and extort Mrs Adeosun for years.
Premium Times investigated Mrs Adeosun’s so-called NYSC certificate for months, determining eventually that it is fake.
“This one is an Oluwole certificate,” a top official of the corps said after we showed him a copy of the document. “We did not issue it and we could not have issued it.” Oluwole is a location in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos, where fraudsters possess an amazing dexterity in the act of forging all kinds of documents.
Several current and former officials of the scheme told this paper that the NYSC would never issue an exemption certificate to anyone who graduated before age 30 and did not fall into the categories of persons exempted by the corps’ enabling Act.
By that law, there are four categories of Nigerians eligible for exemption certificates. The first are those who graduated after turning 30. The second are holders of national honours. The third are persons who served in the armed forces or the police for up to nine months. The last category are staff of intelligence agencies, or the armed forces.
Therefore, having graduated at 22, and with no record of national honours or service in the intelligence or armed forces, Mrs Adeosun is not qualified for exemption, officials said.
Yet, the so-called exemption certificate she holds gave age as the reason for her exemption.
“This is not the size of our exemption certificate,” another top official of the corps remarked when shown a copy of the minister’s ‘certificate’. “The calligraphy is also different”.
On another day, another staff questioned the genuineness of the ‘certificate’ based on the font of the serial number.
“Look at this, look at this other one, the numbering is different,” the staff said while comparing Mrs Adeosun’s certificate with a genuine one on file.
Mrs Adeosun’s name also failed to pop up during multiple checks of the exemption certificates registers kept by the corps, officials said.
One official, who perused the register recently, noted that the sequence of serial numbers for certificates issued in 2009 did not correspond to that in Mrs Adeosun’s purported certificate.
The signature on the ‘certificate’ is also suspect. As indicated earlier in this report, it was purportedly signed by an official who left the corps eight months before the document was made. One official described that claim as “barefaced lie and total impossibility”.
Premium Times reported Friday how the certificate scandal was turned into a tool for blackmail by a National Assembly cartel that used it to coerce the finance minister to keep releasing funds to the lawmaking arm.
Some federal lawmakers revealed to the paper that the discrepancy was detected by the Senate during the minister’s confirmation hearing. But rather than probe the issue, they turned it into a tool against Mrs Adeosun.
The report linked the certificate scandal to the minister’s excessive, even illegal, funding of the lawmakers, including recently funnelling a N10 billion largesse to that arm of government.
Although several of its officials informally cooperated with our reporters in the course of this investigation, the NYSC leadership declined to respond to our official correspondences.
The newspaper first sent a letter to Director-General Sule Kazaure (brigadier-general) requesting him to help determine the authenticity or otherwise of the minister’s ‘certificate’.
After it received no response for several weeks, a Freedom of Information request was sent on the matter. Weeks after, the journal is still waiting for response.
Insiders say authorities of the corps have been under severe pressure in the past weeks not to respond to inquiries on the matter.
A reporter of the newspaper also requested a reaction from Oluyinka Akintunde, the spokesperson to Mrs Adeosun, who was briefed on the outcome of the investigations. He was yet to send a response to the inquiry.
General
USA SMS Number Rental: Everything You Need to Know

The interconnected world benefits from USA phone numbers because these numbers allow users to access specific American services, perform privacy protection, and manage accounts. With the capacity to receive SMS online through a USA phone number, you open opportunities in multiple areas.
This tutorial will reveal every aspect of USA SMS number rentals, including an overview of the advantages, the best providers, and step-by-step setup details.
Why Rent a USA SMS Number?
There are numerous reasons why someone might need a USA phone number. Here are just a few:
- Accessing US-Based Services: Most US-based online platforms and their promotions and services operate within a US-specific region. A phone number in the USA lets you overcome such geographical limitations to access restricted content.
- Business Purposes: If your business has small operations, it can use USA numbers to support customer relations and marketing processes without maintaining physical locations.
- Travel: American travelers benefit from US numbers because these numbers enable access to local facilities and restaurant reservations, keeping US family members connected without creating financial burdens due to roaming expenses.
- Dating Apps: Online dating requires users to consider privacy safeguards when dealing with dating applications. The USA number is an account verification tool that allows secret contact without exposing your original telephone details.
How Does USA SMS Number Rental Work?
Obtaining a USA SMS number for rental remains a straightforward process. You join an SMS service provider that lets you select the number you want, followed by a monthly rental fee payment, to access their services. You obtain your number from the service, which you can use to get SMS messages that might be accessed through their platform or application. The service allows you to access SMS messages from any location worldwide.
Choosing a USA SMS Number Provider
Selecting the right provider is crucial for a smooth and reliable experience. Consider the following factors:
- Reliability: Choose a provider who demonstrates excellence in delivering SMS messages through a reliable service.
- Number Selection: Verify that the provider will provide numbers that match the specific area code or geographical region you need.
- Pricing: Select a price plan that meets your spending needs and covers your message requirements.
- User Interface: Select a vendor with a simple application for handling your phone number and reading messages.
- Privacy and Security: Review the provided privacy policy to understand how personal data is handled and to determine the security measures in place.
Who Can Benefit from Renting a USA SMS Number?
The benefits of renting a USA SMS number extend to a diverse range of users:
- Privacy Seekers: Individuals who value privacy can use a USA number to protect their personal information online.
- Small Businesses: Startups and small businesses can establish a US presence without the overhead of traditional phone lines.
- Frequent Travelers: Travelers can stay connected and access local services without roaming fees.
- Dating App Users: Users of dating apps can maintain anonymity and control their personal information.
Getting Started with a USA SMS Number
The process of renting a USA SMS number usually involves these steps:
- Research Providers: Explore different providers and compare their features, pricing, and reputation.
- Sign Up: Create an account with your chosen provider.
- Select a Number: Choose a USA number that meets your needs.
- Verify Your Account: You may need to verify your identity with the provider.
- Start Receiving SMS: Once your number is activated, you can begin receiving SMS messages.
SMS-MAN is one such service that provides virtual numbers for various purposes. It offers numbers from many countries, including the USA, and provides a platform for managing these numbers and receiving SMS messages. Its services can benefit those seeking privacy or needing a number for verification purposes.
Tips for Using Your USA SMS Number
- Protect Your Account: To secure your account, implement a strong password and activate the two-factor authentication provided by the service.
- Be Mindful of Usage: Check your received texts regularly to remove all unwanted messages with spam content.
- Manage Your Messages: SMS-MAN and other comparable providers developed simple methods to obtain and manage US smartphone messaging numbers. Following the advice presented in this article will help you identify the best service for your unique needs.
SMS-MAN, alongside similar providers, makes obtaining and managing a US number for SMS much more straightforward than it used to be. Considering the factors in this article, you can find the perfect service to meet your needs.
Conclusion
The rental of SMS numbers from the USA serves many functions that benefit users who require US-based access or need to preserve their privacy. The combination of selecting an established provider with knowledge of how their services function enables users to gain US phone number benefits with no need for regular phone line expenses.
General
NICA Advocates Wider Acceptance of Buy Now, Pay Later

By Adedapo Adesanya
The National Institute of Credit Administration (NICA) has urged Nigerians to support the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) model.
BNPL is a short-term financing option, common in e-commerce and retail, that allows consumers to make purchases and pay for them in installments, usually without interest if paid on time.
According to the Registrar and chief executive of NICA, Mr Chris Onalo, in a statement, the ‘cash and carry’ approach slows economic growth, adding that in contrast, buy now, pay later creates opportunities for small businesses to thrive and expand.
He also explained that the government’s ongoing loan schemes, saying the initiatives would bring prosperity to small businesses and citizens
He highlighted that President Bola Tinubu’s credit policy addresses micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) key challenges, adding that establishing a guarantee system helps absorb bankable risks and enhances financial inclusion.
Mr Onalo emphasised that the National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC) will resolve the long-standing issue of collateral.
“Lack of security has historically hindered MSMEs’ access to bank financing.
“Tinubu is quietly and carefully laying a cornerstone for economic stability. A credit economy is essential for sustainable growth and development,” he said.
He explained that no developed economy thrives without credit, stressing that access to credit is crucial for resilience and long-term economic sustainability.
Mr Onalo noted that the consumer credit initiative led by the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) will boost the economy. It will also improve Nigerians’ living standards.
According to him, NICA is committed to educating Nigerians on the benefits of credit. Credit access is vital for citizens’ well-being and overall economic growth.
“This government is restructuring Nigeria’s economy. It aims to create a well-shaped, sustainable system that supports hardworking and creative Nigerian entrepreneurs.
“When fully implemented, Nigeria will become a thriving economy. It will attract Nigerians in the diaspora and black people worldwide,” he said.
He stressed the importance of an economic stabilisation system, adding that wealth should be concentrated in citizens’ hands to enhance economic resilience.
He noted that Tinubu identified “consumer credit culture” as a key pillar of his economic growth strategy upon assuming office.
He attributed current economic hardships to past governments’ failures.
“A lack of people-centred policies hindered productivity, entrepreneurship, job creation, and industrialisation.
“NICA, as an independent professional entity, recognises Tinubu’s economic reforms. Though slow, they are laying the foundation for a resilient economy.
“A nation with strong credit access, particularly for MSMEs, will experience exponential economic growth,” Mr Onalo stated.
He said prioritising people’s empowerment would drive industrialisation.
According to him, this will create jobs, improve living standards, and increase government revenue streams.
Mr Onalo also emphasised that MSMEs drive national prosperity, as indigenous business owners would evolve into conglomerates, blue-chip companies, and multinational corporations.
General
Obasa Missing at Lagos Assembly Plenary Weeks After Removal as Speaker

By Adedapo Adesanya
The embattled former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, was absent when the chamber resumed plenary on Thursday, almost a month after his ouster by his colleagues while he was out of the country.
Mr Obasa was impeached on January 13 over allegations bordering on financial misconduct and abuse of office.
Many also believed that the Agege-based politician’s ambition to be Lagos State governor come 2027 was an unspoken factor, a move he said in December 2024 was well within his rights.
Although he won’t lead the house as the Speaker following his impeachment, he remains a member of the legislature until 2027.
The Lagos Assembly comprises 40 lawmakers of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), representing the 20 Local Government Areas of the state. At the plenary today, only 36 lawmakers were present.
Business Post reports that issues surrounding the former speaker were not raised on the floor of the House on Thursday, indicating that lawmakers may have moved on from the matter.
On issues discussed, the lawmaker representing Epe Constituency I, Mr Abiodun Tobun, commended the economic policy of the federal government, saying insecurity in Lagos has been curbed to the barest minimum.
Mr Tobun also moved a motion, asking the House to write a letter of commendation to the presidency for all the impactful initiatives introduced by the federal government.
On his part, the lawmaker representing Eti-Osa constituency II, Mr Gbolahan Yishawu, also reeled out various initiatives introduced by the Federal Government, alongside other lawmakers.
The Speaker of the House, Mrs Mojisola Meranda, joined in applauding President Bola Tinubu, expressing confidence in his leadership.
According to her, the President has approved loan access for small-scale businesses, and the stock market capitalisation is growing. She noted that these were signs that Nigeria was on the right track.
She noted that Mr Tinubu is also making significant investments in security to ensure the safety of Nigerians and also praised First Lady, Mrs Remi Tinubu, for her dedication to national development.
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