As we stepped out of the pages of 2023, our reporters, in retrospect, highlighted stories that  resonated with them. Here are their top picks of standout stories that made 2023 memorable.

1. How North Korean runs illegal hospital patronised by the high and mighty in Abuja

Check out the shocking revelation of a North Korean running an illegal private hospital in Abuja. Our investigation exposes the four-year operation of Lilu Specialist Hospital, which attracts patronage from high-profile individuals, including public officials. The hospital lacks proper registration and operates without a signboard. Despite having a tax identification number, it doesn’t pay the required taxes, and there are several concerns about the nationality of the hospital’s proprietor, who claims to be Chinese, but… Read the full report here.

2. ‘No space’, Abuja hospitals reject patients over dearth of bed space, NARD actions

Explore the challenges faced by Abuja’s public hospitals in 2023, grappling with a severe shortage of bed space amid an ongoing doctors’ strike. The ICIR sheds light on the negative impact on patient care and the growing imbalance in the doctor-patient ratio. Read the full report here.

3. Brides by Barter: Inside story of Niger state communities where young girls are forced into marriages

Uncover the barbaric practice of forced marriages affecting young girls in Niger State. Our investigation features interviews with brave girls resisting forced unions, shedding light on cultural and economic factors contributing to child marriages. Read the full report here.

4. Hardship: Nigerians Turn to Loan Sharks Amidst Challenges

This story aggregates, in detail, the challenges faced by Nigerians dealing with loan apps, revealing cases of harassment, cyberbullying, and unethical practices. Despite regulatory efforts, some loan apps operate without licenses, exploiting the economic crisis. The report identifies specific loan apps engaging in such practices, including Henloan, Quick Credit, Flypay, Camelloan, Cashdoor, and others. The report also exposes the lack of oversight for these loan apps, as many operate without the required licenses from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Read the full report here.

5. The ICIR’s Bold Predictions: Ministers in Tinubu’s Cabinet and Off-Cycle Governorship Elections

The ICIR’s predictions on appointed ministers in Tinubu’s cabinet and elected governors in the off-cycle elections in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa states were also noteworthy, as some of the predictions were correct. Explore ministerial predictions here and governorship predictions here.

Click on the links to unravel the full stories and stay informed on the issues that mattered in 2023!