Naira Redesign
The Naira redesign policy, initially introduced during the Muhammadu Buhari administration in 2022, spilled over into 2023, significantly shaping the economic landscape and public sentiment. The redesign, which included changes to the 200, 500, and 1000 Naira notes, aimed at addressing various economic concerns. However, the implementation process stirred widespread frustration among Nigerians. The altered currency landscape triggered a cascade of reactions, with many expressing dissatisfaction over the abrupt changes and the perceived impact on daily transactions. The frustration was particularly pronounced as citizens navigated the scarcity caused by the policy.
Amidst this, an unexpected shift occurred — Point of Sale (POS) vendors rose to prominence as key players in the financial system. With many Nigerians encountering challenges related to the redesigned currency, POS vendors became essential facilitators, selling cash to desperate Nigerians.
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2023 General Election:
The 2023 Nigerian election emerged as a pivotal event, introducing a disruptive element that deviated from the traditional duel between two dominant forces. A notable third force emerged, altering the political landscape and challenging established norms.
However, despite this shift, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged as the victor. The electoral competition was notably keenly contested, with Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Mr. Peter Obi securing the second and third positions, respectively. The aftermath witnessed a surge in court cases, underscoring the intensity and significance of the electoral battle. Analysts characterized this election as one of the most hotly contested, reflecting the depth of political engagement and the challenges inherent in navigating the evolving democratic landscape of Nigeria.
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The Nigeria Air Scandal
One of the noteworthy events that left an imprint on Nigeria in 2023 was the unveiling of “Nigeria Air” by the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika. However, the excitement surrounding the announcement was soon overshadowed by a revelation that stirred controversy. It came to light that the unveiled plane, purportedly representing Nigeria Air, was, in fact, a hired Ethiopian airline plane.
This discovery triggered mixed reactions from various quarters, ranging from disappointment to scrutiny of the transparency surrounding such a significant national endeavor.
Hilda Baci
In a culinary spectacle that captivated the world in 2023, Nigerian chef, Hilda Baci achieved a remarkable feat by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking time. The 26-year-old chef dedicated an astonishing 93 hours and 11 minutes to cooking, preparing over 100 pots of food during this culinary marathon.
However, the glory was short-lived as Irish Chef Alan Fisher emerged on the scene, orchestrating a culinary marathon that surpassed Baci’s record. Fisher cooks for 119 hours and 57 minutes
Napoli’s Win
Another defining moment that unfolded in 2023, was when Napoli clinched their first Scudetto since 1990. The stage was set at Udinese, and the hero of the moment was none other than Nigerian goal getter, Victor Osimhen, whose second-half goal etched a glorious comeback in the annals of Italian football history. For Napoli faithful, the triumph was more than a championship; it was a nostalgic return to the glory days of 1990.
Israel – Hamas War
In a shocking turn of events in 2023, Hamas staged a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the tragic loss of 1,200 lives and the taking of about 240 hostages. The Israeli military swiftly responded with air strikes on Gaza and launched a ground offensive in an attempt to retaliate.
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Rotimi Akeredolu’s Death
In a somber chapter of 2023, the people of Ondo State were greeted with the loss of their governor, Barrister Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. The deceased governor fondly called Aketi valiantly fought a prolonged battle against cancer.
Regrettably, he became the fourth governor to die in office in Nigeria.
Furthermore, in 2023, Turkey experienced a devastating earthquake, resulting in widespread destruction and leaving many people struggling in its aftermath.
Additionally, Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu, known for his time with Premier League clubs Chelsea and Newcastle, tragically lost his life in this event.