THEWILL NEWSPAPER, April 21, 2024

The annual GTCO Food and Drink Festival is back for the seventh year; this time, it has many exciting attractions. Since its maiden edition in 2016, the food fair has gathered food enthusiasts in one venue to explore different delicacies. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Victoria Island, the event, which started as a two-day event, has now expanded into a three-day event. Just imagine three days of exploring food from across the continent of Africa. The Masterclasses over the years have been nothing short of entertaining and informative, and this year’s promises to be even more exciting. For one, they have the kid’s baking class, which provides kids and up-and-coming cooks a chance to learn about the delights of baking. In anticipation of this year’s event, we journey through the previous Food and Drink Festivals and explore what to expect this year. Check it out on pages 8 to 10.

Have you ever started a new relationship to fill the emptiness from a recent breakup? That’s called a rebound relationship. This week, Downtown Confidential discusses rebound relationships and how you can avoid getting into one. That’s on page 15.

Fruits are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, so we are advised to incorporate them into our diet. The problem is that they can be boring, but not to worry. Our food page, Bon Appetit, lists exciting ways in which you can add fruit to your diet.

It’s autism awareness month, so our health page discusses living with autism as an adult.

Don’t forget to click on the instructions below the QR codes on page 16 to download our playlist. As always, it promises to be musically pleasing.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

COVER

EFCC VS YAHAYA BELLO:

Who Blinks First?

BY AMOS ESELE

There is no telling how the legal tussle between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yayaha Bello, popularly known as the White Lion, over the latter’s involvement in an alleged case of money laundering to the tune of N80.2 billion will end. But there is a clear indication that the anti-graft agency is determined to have its way, even if it means making good its threat to draft the military to forcefully haul the former governor in the dock.

A dependable source at the Commission confided in THEWILL at the weekend that the statement by its counsel, Kemi Pinhero, that the agency might deploy the military was not empty, considering the “refusal of the former governor to honour its invitation and let the law run its course.”

He said the EFCC knows where the ex-governor is hiding in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. The antigraft agency, he disclosed, is facing a test that will shape how it carries out its mandate in the future. He was particularly pleased with the level of cooperation from the relevant agencies of the Federal Government, saying that it would strengthen the sense of independence of the Commission in doing its work in accordance with the rule of law.

Letting the law run its course was also interpreted by Bello from his hide-out on Friday to mean that the EFCC cannot arrest him because a court order prevents the agency from doing so.

Speaking through his counsel, Abdulwahab Muhammad, Bello told Justice Emeka Nwite of the

Federal High Court, Abuja, that there is an order from a court restraining the EFCC from arresting or arraigning him.

According to Muhammad, a Kogi State High Court had on February 9, 2024, restrained the EFCC from arresting or arraigning the former governor until the Court of Appeal, which the EFCC asked to upturn the High Court judgement, rules on the matter.

He pointed out that the EFCC was therefore acting unconstitutionally, and the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain any charge from the Commission.

Pinhero disagreed with Muhammad’s submission and argued that the EFCC had obeyed the ruling in the substantive matter on the suit as delivered by the Kogi State High Court on March 17, 2024, that for Bello be arrested or arraigned, the EFCC must first seek leave from the court to do so.

“It was in line with that judgement that the EFCC, through an ex parte application, filed for the order seeking the arrest of the former governor which the court granted,” Pinhero said.

Mr Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, supports Pinheiro’s submission. He said in a statement on Friday, that Bello’s “allegation is completely baseless as the Kogi State High Court did not grant such wide powers.”

He said that what the Kogi State High Court granted was an order to enforce the fundamental right of Bello to personal liberty and freedom of movement.

That order, Falana submitted, was made without prejudice to the power of the Federal High Court to make any order as it may deem just in the determination of the rights of the applicant and the respondents as may be submitted to her for consideration and determination.

“Therefore, by filing charges of money laundering of over N80 billion against Mr Yahaya Bello at the Federal High Court, the EFCC has diligently complied with the order of the Kogi State High Court,” Falana said, adding, “In the same vein, the order made by the Federal High court for the arrest of Mr Yahaya Bello for the purpose of his arraignment is equally in line with the order of the Kogi State High Court.”

EFCC’s CASE AGAINST BELLO

Bello is being arraigned by the EFCC alongside Ali Bello, Dauda Suleiman and Abdulsalam Hudu on 19-count charges bordering on money laundering to the tune of over N80 billion.

Count one of the charges reads: “That you, Yahaya Adoza Bello, Ali Bello, Dauda Suliman and Abdulsalam Hudu ( still at large), sometime in February, 2016, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, conspired amongst yourselves to convert the total sum of N80, 246,470, 088.88, which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of your unlawful activity to wit, criminal breach of trust and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(a) and punishable under Section 15(3) of the Money Laundering ( Prohibition) Act, 2011 as amended”.

Count 17 of the charges read: “That you Yahaya Bello

COVER ...Who Blinks First?

between July 26, 2021 and April 6, 2022 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court aided E-Traders International Limited to conceal the aggregate sum of N3081,804,654.00 in account number 1451458080 domiciled in Access Bank Plc, which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of proceeds of unlawful activity to wit, criminal breach of trust and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(a), 15(2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 as amended and punishable under Section 15( 3) of the same Act.”

Count 18 of the charges reads: “That you Yahaya Adoza Bello sometime in November 2021 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court indirectly procured E-Traders international Limited to transfer the aggregate sum of $570,330.00 to account number 4266644272 domiciled in TD Bank, United States of America, which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of proceeds of unlawful activity to wit, criminal breach of trust and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15(2) (d) of the Money Laundering ( Prohibition) Act, 2011 as amended and punishable under Section 15( 3) of the same Act.”

Bello failed to appear before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, on Thursday, April 18, sparking off a looming, long-drawn legal tussle.

Bello’s botched arraignment came on the heels of his warrant of arrest granted the EFCC by the court on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

Efforts by the Commission to arrest him at his Abuja residence was botched when Governor Usman Ododo breached the cordon around the house and reportedly whisked his predecessor away.

A day before the former governor’s arraignment, EFCC operatives had laid siege to his home on Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, but they could not arrest him until Governor Ododo reportedly drove to his predecessor’s compound with heavy security operatives and spirited him away.

Referring to this twist in the matter, prosecution counsel, Pinheiro, SAN, expressed regret that a lawful attempt to serve the defendant the charges, along with a court order of arrest was botched “by a person of immunity, who came and whisked him away in his car,” noting that by virtue of Section 287 of the constitution all persons are obliged to obey a court order.

Also, Section 12 of ACJA, he said, allowed law enforcement agencies to break down premises to bring unwilling defendants to justice.

Pinheiro assured that the state “will invoke all its powers within the law” to ensure that the defendant is produced in court. He said, “The state will ensure that he is produced in court for the purpose of arraignment and it is in his own interest so that he can take his plea”.

Following Bello’s absence, Pinheiro sought leave of the court to serve the former governor the charges through his counsel, Abdulwahab Muhammed, SAN. Muhammed, however, declined saying that he did not have the authority of his client to accept the charges.

Muhammed further argued that his client cannot be arraigned in court until EFCC’s appeal against an order of the High Court, restraining the Commission from arresting, detaining and prosecuting him is determined and also until the determination of his client’s preliminary objection, challenging the jurisdiction of Justice Nwite’s court to entertain his trial.

Pinheiro, however, submitted that it was legal and constitutional to serve the defendant through his lawyer, especially as the defence counsel introduced himself in court unconditionally and without limitations as the representative of the defendant. “Having introduced himself unconditionally as the representative of the defendant, my learned colleague knows that he cannot

be a defence counsel for arraignment and not for bail. If he is served the charges on behalf of the defendant, if he likes he can now advise his client to stay permanently away from the court,” he said.

The judge adjourned the matter till Tuesday, April 23, 2024, for ruling as to whether the prosecution can serve the defendant through his lawyer for arraignment.

ODODO REACTS

On Friday evening Governor Ododo denied any involvement in preventing the EFCC from arresting Bello. The Commissioner for Information and Communications. Kingsley Fanwo said EFCC lied that Governor Ododo was involved in their failed attempt to arrest Bello.

Fanwo described the accusation by the EFCC as laughable. “Were they sure that the former governor was in his residence? They were not sure that Governor Ododo whisked him away. So, the allegation is false.

“The Governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo is a lawabiding citizen and leader who respects the rule of law at constitutional level. He wouldn’t be involved in that kind of act. So, the accusation is laughable, and it is one of the most frivolous things I have heard from the EFCC,” he said.

A LOST BATTLE?

While the legal battle rages, the Federal Government has waded into the matter on the side of the EFCC. After failing to get Bello to answer its summons, the antigraft agency declared the former governor wanted. In a domino effect, other structures of government began adding their weight to ensure the former governor does not flee the country.

A few hours after the EFCC declared Bello wanted, the Nigerian Immigration Service, in an April 18, 2024, letter signed by Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, D.S Umar, for the Comptroller-General, Kemi Nandap, alerted the police and the Department of State Services to effect the former governor’s arrest.

The NIS, in its letter, detailed the name, nationality and passport number of the former governor (B50083321).

Thereafter, the chief law officer of the country followed suit: According to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, the

“

The famous human rights lawyer stated that the allegation made by Bello that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has disobeyed a court order by attempting to arrest him to answer the charge of N84 billion theft is legally untenable

reaction by the former governor was disgusting and a deliberate breach of the law, which can only compound the case.

He said the EFCC is given power by the law to invite any person of interest to interact with them in the course of its investigation into any matter, regardless of status.

“Therefore, the least that we can all do when invited, is not to put any obstruction in the way of the EFCC but to honourably answer the invitation.

“A situation where public officials who are themselves subject to protection by law enforcement agents will set up a stratagem of obstruction to the civil and commendable efforts of the EFCC to perform its duty is, to say the least, insufferably disquieting.”

The AGF gave Bello an advice; “A flight from the law does not resolve issues at stake but only exacerbates it.”

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, followed up by withdrawing the police details attached to the former governor. Thus, apart from placing him on a watch list, the Federal Government has ‘disabled’ the former governor.

In the meantime, some CSOs and human rights crusaders have thrown their support for the former Kogi governor on the grounds that the EFCC was yet to vacate the restraining order in the Court of Appeal before going to lay siege to the former governor’s residence and effect his arrest.

The CSOs, which included Executive Chairman, the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, Debo Adeniran; Sina Loremikan, (Campaign Against Impunity); Declan Ihekhaire, (Activists for Good Governance); Gbenga Soloki, CADOV; Ochiagha Ohaneze, (Ohaneze Youth Council); Funmi Jolade, (Women Democratic Vanguard); Kola Abe, (Centre for Socioeconomic Rights); Ologun Ayodeji, (Transparency and Accountability Group); Femi Lawson, (Centre for Public Accountability) and Gbenga Ganzallo (Media Rights Campaign) addressed the media last week and insisted what the EFCC had done amounted to breaking and not enforcing the law.

AN END GAME

Falana said that no court of law can prevent the EFCC from arraigning and prosecuting Bello.

He said, “By virtue of section 35(1) (c) of the Constitution, the police, anti-graft agencies and other prosecutorial bodies cannot be prevented by a court of law from arresting a criminal suspect once there is reasonable suspicion that he or she has committed a criminal offence.”

The famous human rights lawyer stated that the allegation made by Bello that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has disobeyed a court order by attempting to arrest him to answer the charge of N84 billion theft is legally untenable.

He said that as a former governor, Bello has lost his immunity from arrest and prosecution. No court can confer a life immunity on a former governor in Nigeria.

“The Supreme Court had pointed out that the order of a High Court to the effect that a criminal suspect should not be arrested cannot bar a court of coordinate jurisdiction from trying him. In the case of Orji Kalu v Federal Republic of Nigeria (2016) 39 WRN 53, the Appellant challenged the EFCC for charging him before the Federal High Court, in spite of the order of the High Court of Abia State restraining the anti-graft agency from violating his fundamental right to personal liberty.

“In view of the foregoing, the police officers who prevented the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission from arresting the suspect have committed a grave criminal offence,” Falana said.

Laughing Stock – Gen TY Danjuma

Former Minister of Defence, General Theophilus Yakubu, has lamented the disgraceful nature of the country, stressing that the country has become a war front where killings reign.

The elder statesman made this remark on Friday, during the Nwonyo Fishing and Cultural Festival held in Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State.

Lamenting that Nigeria had become a laughing stock to the rest of the world, Danjuma said it was imperative for Nigerians to put their house in order by focusing on how to tackle the incessant insecurity and other vices bedeviling the country.

"The festival stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Taraba State that we cherish and celebrate with great pride. It showcases our cultural values and serves as a symbol of our unity. Let us take a moment to reflect on the significance of the occasion. It is a symbol of resilience and determination of our people in the face of daunting challenges.

"Let us renew our commitment to promoting peace, harmony and celebrate the bonds that unite us as one family. May this occasion be a reminder of who we are and the strength that lies in our unity.

"We must put our own house in order and have peace in our state and throughout the country if we want this to be truly an international festival. There is no sane foreigner who will come to celebrate with us if we continue to disgrace ourselves as we do.

"As we are today in Nigeria, we are a disgrace to the whole world. The whole country is a war front of our people killing our people. We are a laughing stock to the whole world. We must put our house in order. We must make our roads safe and stop kidnapping people. We must learn to live together as a country and as a people", the General said.

Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, in his remarks, said that his government is committed to ensuring justice and peace so that development can take its rightful course.

Agbu stressed that as nature's gift to the nation, Taraba must showcase its numerous potentials to the rest of the world, only then can the potentials be fully utilised.

Union Seeks Payment of Outstanding N34bn Exit Benefits to Ex-Staff

BY ANTHONY AWUNOR

The foremost aviation union, the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), has pleaded with the Federal Government to expedite action on the payment of the outstanding N34Billion exit benefits of the ex-Nigeria Airways staff.

This is just as the union expressed its appreciation to the Federal Government for the payment of part of the exit benefits of the ex-staff of the defunct national carrier.

According to ATSSSAN, the payment has become urgent as some of the ex-workers are dying due to lack of finances to take care of their health needs.

They made the plea in a communique issued at the end of theNational Executive Council (NEC) meeting themed: "Challenges of Labour Unions in a Depressing Economy: Nigeria Aviation Sector in View" held 21st to 23rd February, 2024 at the University Ibadan, Oyo State Capital

The aviation union also called on all employers in the private sector in the aviation industry to respect collective bargaining agreements in order to avert industrial crises at the workplace.

ATSSSAN stated that it is seriously disturbed by the continuous willful act by some private airlines towards frustrating the unionisation of their employees, contrary to the letters and spirit of section 40 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and relevant international conventions and laws. To nip such situation in the bud, the union called on the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to ensure compliance by all employers in the aviation sector with the rights of workers to belong to unions of their choice.

The Union equally called on the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development to urgently convoke a stakeholders’ meeting of the defaulting airlines and our unions, with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in attendance.

The NEC meeting was attended by all the seventeen (17) affiliates of ATSSSAN with the full complement of their respective branch chairmen, secretaries, and the National Officers commencing with the National Administrative Committee (NAC) meeting on February 21, to the NEC meeting of February 22/23 and the public symposium of February 23, which marked the end of the programme.

Hoodlums Set Ebonyi Traditional Ruler's Palace Ablaze

The palace of the late traditional ruler of Umuezeokaoha community in Ebonyi State, Eze Igboke Ewa, has been set ablaze by arsonists just three days before his burial.

Eze Ewa was shot dead by gunmen in his palace during the 2023 electioneering period. His assailants were said to have shot him repeatedly in the night when they invaded the compound. Following the tragic incident, security agents arrested some people in connection with the murder while the body of the monarch was deposited in the morgue.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the incident to journalists in Abakaliki.

“Yes, I got a signal like that. They were called about a fire incident at the late monarch's house.

“When I made further inquiry, they said that some people set it ablaze but let me check the signal on the incident very well and know what really happened,” he stated.

Prior to the palace fire incident, his family members had announced his burial to be this weekend.

Despite the setback, the monarch’s family has vowed to proceed with the burial arrangements. Some of the family members, who preferred anonymity, told our Correspondent that the burial arrangements are almost concluded.

Governor Diri Tasks NCDMB, SPDC on Projects Completion, Inaugurates NDU Digital Library

BY AMOS OKIOMA, YENAGOA

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has urged the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and other international oil companies (IOCs) to prioritize the completion of their projects in the state.

Governor Diri made the call while inaugurating an ultramodern Learning Centre and Digital Library Complex jointly funded by the NCDMB, SPDC, Exxon Mobil, Total Energies and the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) at the Niger Delta University (NDU), Wilberforce Island, Amassoma on Thursday.

FROM CHRISTIE BABAYO

FROM SUNDAY OGBU

POLITICS

PDP: More Hurdles Ahead

BY AMOS ESELE

Despite overcoming a potential threat to party cohesion on Wednesday as the National Working Committee, NWC, and the National Caucus voted for the retention of the Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, still has more hurdles to scale. No less a person than the Chairman of the Board of Trustee, Senator Adolphus Wabara, put a finger to the challenge a day after. According to him, the continued stay in office of the duo of Damagun and National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, was raising tension in the party and weighing on the “collective conscience of all of them.”

Wabara said, “I must address a matter that weighs heavily on our collective conscience, the leadership of the party as it stands. Recalling the events that led to the ousting of the former Chairman of the party in the person of H.E. Senator Iyorchia Ayu, the current Acting Chairman has spent over a year in office, whereas as the usual practice of the party, the region where the national officer comes from should have produced a viable candidate to complete the tenure of the former national officer.

“Furthermore, the contentious issue surrounding the office of the National Secretary has regrettably sown seeds of discord within our party. The ambiguity surrounding this position has led to confusion and internal strife, hindering our collective efforts to pursue our noble objectives.”

Wabara said the party’s constitution was being bypassed in addressing these lingering issues by those who deliberately choose to institute legal disputes over party cohesion and supremacy.

Damagun, who had previously served as National Deputy Chairman, North, had assumed the leadership role in acting capacity, following the hasty exit of former National Chairman, Prof Iyorchia Ayu, in the instance of a court suspension in March 2023.

Anyanwu’s continued stay in office, even as he contested the Imo State governorship election and lost to the incumbent Governor Hope Uzodinma, created so much crisis within the state chapter and the nation that

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The contentious issue surrounding the office of the National Secretary has regrettably sown seeds of discord within our party. The ambiguity surrounding this position has led to confusion and internal strife, hindering our collective efforts to pursue our noble objectives

confusion and strife has continued to haunt the party. Indeed, the party recently approved the appointment of caretaker committees in 21 states, including the FCT, where the tenures of its executive members had expired. In many other states as well, the ward and local government executive structures are almost expired.

It was not, therefore, a surprise that last Wednesday through Thursday meeting of the National Executive of the party featured the two tendencies loyal to the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and its 2023 presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, respectively, each trying to assert its control of the party’s machinery.

Investigation, however, shows that while the forces within try to battle for control of the party’s structure, the upcoming governorship elections in Edo State and Ondo State, have presented the party with no option for now.

The Edo State governorship poll comes up on September 26, 2024, while that of Ondo will take place on

November 14, 2024. Although the party has successfully concluded the primary election in Edo State, it still has the yet-to-be-held one in Ondo to contend with. Both states present the party with a tough battle against its rival All Progressives Congress, APC. In both states, the two parties are the major contenders and they each have one state apiece; APC controls Ondo, while PDP governs Edo State.

A win in Ondo will boost the PDP’s image in the SouthWest geo-political zone where it currently controls two, Oyo and Osun, out of the six states there. Conversely, the APC will consolidate its image in the South-South if it wins in Edo and with Cross Rivers State, make it two over six in that geo-political zone.

According to Damagun, these two challenges are the main focus of the party for now, even as he said his leadership was consulting widely to maintain order in the party.

He said, “We have been active and diligent despite the challenges that have arisen in various forms. We have two elections approaching in Edo and Ondo States. We are optimistic that following the upcoming primary in Ondo, the future of that election looks promising. We have performed admirably to the extent that we can confidently say that in that election, with our collective efforts, we will emerge victorious.

The National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said the NEC has “charged all Organs, leaders, critical stakeholders and indeed, all members of the PDP to close ranks, put aside every personal or group interests and work together in the overall effort to reposition and return the PDP to power at the centre in the interest of the Nigerian people.”

To accomplish these tasks, the NEC received and approved the timetable for party congresses across the country; approved the reconstitution of the party’s Disciplinary and Reconciliation Committees to further ensure the stability of the party and approved the extension of the life of the Constitution Amendment Committee to allow it to receive new amendment proposals for inclusion in its deliberation and final report for consideration by the NEC.

The recent flooding which wreaked devastating effects in an unexpected location such as Dubai, United Arab Emirate, just last week is a timely warning , again, that flooding, which is caused in most cases by climate change and blockade of canals and waterways due to urban planning lapses in some other instances, could be so fatal

Preparing For Perennial Flooding

The rains are coming and the Federal Government has raised the alarm of impending flooding across the country for 2024 with 148 local government areas across 31 states already identified as high flood-risk areas, while 249 others in the 36 states and Abuja were listed among the moderate flood risk areas.

The states listed as the high-risk states in the recently-released Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) for 2024 include Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba and Yobe States.

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, while unveiling the AFO in Abuja, last Monday, disclosed that the flooding would come between April and November as he called for concerted efforts, including preparedness, early warning systems and community engagement, to mitigate the effects of the flooding across the already identified areas.

The recent flooding which wreaked devastating effects in an

unexpected location such as Dubai, United Arab Emirate, just last week, is a timely warning. Again, that flooding, which is caused in most cases by climate change and blockade of canals and waterways due to urban planning lapses in some other instances, could be so fatal.

Every year in Nigeria, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), as well as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) always roll out alerts and warning signals to states to prepare for what has become a perennial flooding and states that fail to act fast are always at the receiving end with devastating consequences. Nigerians will not forget in a hurry the havoc wreaked by the 2022 flooding, the worst in a decade, which the World Bank estimated the total loss to be about a whopping $6.68 billion.

THEWILL recalls that the 2022 flooding swept through about 34 states and impacted over 2.5 million people as over 200,000 houses were either partially or fully damaged and no fewer than 600 people reportedly died in the massive flooding, which also displaced 1.5 million others. The 2022 flooding came exactly 10 years after a similar one in

2012 in which the country lost over N2 trillion to the rampaging floods with farmlands, livestock and houses swept away, thus compounding the food insecurity challenges in the country.

As the 2024 flooding looms large, we want to commend state,s such as Lagos and Akwa Ibom, among others, for being proactive about measures to mitigate the effects of the impending flooding. Lagos has stepped up the clearing of structures along the waterways and has been pulling down houses constructed on canals and drainages across the state.

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, is also moving fast to constitute a committee to interface with relevant government agencies in working out necessary modalities to mitigate the effects of the looming flood.

Akwa Ibom is one of the 31 states already identified as being at high risk of the impending flood and the committee was set up by the governor two days after the Federal Government issued the warning alert.

We advise other states still foot dragging in working out modalities to mitigate the effects of the impending flooding to act fast before the torrential rains come in order to reduce the effects in their respective states.

THEWILL NEWSPAPER TEAM

OPINION

Black Colony: Navigating Nigeria's Path from Colonialism to Cultural Renaissance

BY DAVID SANNI

Despite the challenges posed by Nigeria's diverse cultural landscape, there exists a deep-seated aspiration for unity and cohesion among its people. The nation's motto, "Unity and Peace," emblazoned on its coat of arms, serves as a constant reminder of the shared values that bind Nigerians together.

BY EMBRACING THE RICHNESS OF NIGERIA'S CULTURAL TAPESTRY, THE NATION CAN FORGE A MORE INCLUSIVE AND COHESIVE NATIONAL IDENTITY THAT TRANSCENDS ETHNIC, RELIGIOUS, AND REGIONAL DIFFERENCES

Nigeria's history is a rich tapestry woven with threads of colonialism, cultural diversity and aspirations for unity. From the imposition of colonial rule to the struggle for independence and beyond, the nation has undergone profound transformations. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into Nigeria's journey from its colonial past to its contemporary challenges and aspirations, tracing the legacy of colonisation, the evolution of cultural identity and the quest for a united future. Amidst the challenges of modernisation and globalisation, preserving Nigeria's rich cultural heritage is of paramount importance. Traditional art forms, such as Benin's fired clay sculptures and Igbo wood carvings, serve as tangible reminders of the nation's storied past and artistic prowess. Efforts to safeguard and celebrate Nigeria's cultural heritage must be prioritised, both as a means of honoring the contributions of past generations and as a source of inspiration for future endeavours. Initiatives, such as cultural festivals, museum exhibitions and educational programmes play a crucial role in promoting awareness and appreciation of Nigeria's diverse cultural heritage.

Furthermore, fostering cultural exchange and dialogue between different ethnic groups can help bridge divides and promote mutual understanding and respect. By embracing the richness of Nigeria's cultural tapestry, the nation can forge a more inclusive and cohesive national identity that transcends ethnic, religious, and regional differences.

Colonial Legacy: Foundations and Frictions

The colonial era in Nigeria began in the late 19th century with the arrival of British colonial administrators, marking the start of a transformative period in the nation's history. The British, guided by imperial ambitions and economic interests, sought to establish control over the diverse territories and peoples of present-day Nigeria.

One of the key strategies employed by the British colonialists was the policy of Indirect Rule, pioneered by Lord Frederick Lugard. Under this system, local traditional rulers were co-opted as intermediaries of colonial authority, allowing for the indirect governance of diverse ethnic groups across Nigeria. While Indirect Rule provided a semblance of stability and continuity, it also exacerbated existing divisions and inequalities within Nigerian society.

The legacy of colonial rule is complex and multifaceted, encompassing both positive and negative aspects. On one hand, colonialism introduced modern administrative structures, educational systems, and infrastructural developments to Nigeria, laying the groundwork for future nation-building efforts. On the other hand, colonialism also perpetuated exploitative economic practices, cultural erasure, and social divisions that continue to reverberate through Nigerian society today.

Cultural Renaissance: From Nationalism to Political Strife

In response to colonial domination, Nigeria's cultural leaders and intellectuals began to mobilise for independence, laying the groundwork for a nationalist movement that would ultimately culminate in the nation's liberation from colonial rule. Figures, such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo and Ahmadu Bello emerged as champions of Nigerian nationalism, advocating self-determination and unity in the face of colonial oppression.

The struggle for independence galvanised Nigerians across ethnic, religious and regional lines, forging a sense of common purpose and shared identity. Education and literacy played a crucial role in mobilising the masses and fostering a spirit of national consciousness, as Nigerian intellectuals used newspapers, pamphlets, and public speeches to disseminate their message of liberation and empowerment.

However, the transition from colonialism to independence was not without its challenges. The legacy of colonialism, coupled with deep-seated ethnic and religious divisions, gave rise to political tensions and power struggles that threatened to undermine the nascent nation's unity and stability. The First Republic, marked by political rivalries and ethnic tensions, was short-lived, giving way to a series of military coups and counter-coups that plunged Nigeria into a cycle of political terror.

Afenifere And The Progressive Camp (2)

BY ABIODUN KOMOLAFE

In the course of the week, I had cause to be at the Akure, Ondo State home of the Afenifere Leader, Reuben Fasoranti, and I saw modesty in its raw form. From Fasoranti’s symbolic bungalow, which has played host to presidents, governors and other crème-de-la-crème of the society in their monstrous agbada or Babarigas, to the information gleaned from Nigerians in and around his residence, yours sincerely couldn’t stop marvelling at the Spartan lifestyle of this 97-year-old Awoist. Anyway, that’s a story for another day!

Well, the threatening truth is that Afenifere is down and the progressive camp is beaten! So, when will Yorubaland laugh and when will the progressive camp shout Uhuru? When will our land smile again and when will Yoruba leaders wake up and face reality? When will they appropriate the social capital as it was in the days of Egbe Omo Oduduwa, whose existence wasn’t structured around tea parties or ‘owambe’? Right now, the Yorubas are behind in terms of capital formation, financial intermediation and allied stuff. Of course, we have never been this behind in a century and a half! Even at the time of the Kiriji War, the Lagos Colony was very advanced, vis-à-vis the rest of Africa, save for South Africa. For now, what Yorubaland refers to as strength is just the property values of a few capital cities like Lagos and Ibadan. Take that away, what remains is zero capital strength, compared to what was obtained in the 1920s and the 1940s, up to the 1960s. So it’s like basking in the euphoria of past glories! Take, for example, the Banks created by our heroes' past were not just Banks, but strategic financial institutions. Had successful generations of Yoruba leaders stayed faithful to the cause, National Bank and Wema Bank would have become the biggest, dominant financial institutions in Africa outside of Standard Bank in South Africa, whereas the Central Bank of Nigeria is talking about N500 billion paidup capital, Standard Bank of South Africa already has a paid-up capital of $13 billion, which of course makes ours a joke.

So, how can Afenifere restore the strength of the Yoruba and let their eyes receive sight and how can the progressive camp make everything perfect at its time? Interestingly, while the former seems to have been demobilised by political partisanship, the latter, as it is, is walking on its knees and somebody needs to create a positive narrative before players in the sector completely hijack its ideological relevance. Talking about the progressive camp, yours sincerely wasn’t a small boy during the ‘June 12’ crises and the roles played by Frank Ovie Kokori and other prominent Nigerians, all in a bid to bequeath a lasting democracy to Nigeria. The then Secretary-General of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) was hounded into prison and could only heave a sigh of relief after death struck Sani Abacha like a thief in the night. Thereafter, Kokori lived unsung and died like a pauper, which was a devastating indictment on the progressives.

When he launched his book, ‘Frank Kokori: The Struggle for June 12’ in 2014, reports had it that only Segun Osoba attended the event among “the ensemble of characters who led the famous June 12 struggle.” Others simply slept beside their wives in the comfort of their homes, which was a disgrace of monumental proportion to the bent. It’s even on record that when Kokori was in Bama Prison in Borno State, only Osoba was paying regular visits and rendering financial assistance to his (Kokori’s) family. Yes, that’s the kind of progressive class we are dealing with in Nigeria! But Kokori wasn’t alone in this progressive embarrassment. Ola Oni! Akin Makinde! Chima Ubani! And others! They’re an unforgettable part of the struggles that eventually brought Nigeria to where she is. But didn’t the country they served with all their strengths abandon them when they needed it most? I doubt if any of the friends in power even remember the likes of Alfred Rewane, Babatunde Elegbede, Olu Omotehinwa, Bisoye Tejuosho, Suliat Adedeji, Shola Omosola and Bagauda Kaltho who paid the

ultimate price for us to get to this pass! Abiola and Kudirat, his wife, are only lucky that they have a few monuments named after them; and the reason is simple! We are even hearing that Governor Ademola Adeleke is planning to rename MKO Abiola Airport in Ido Osun, Osun State, after Isiaka Adetunji, his late brother and former governor of the state. Well, Nigerians hope it’s fake news; and it had better be!

In sane climes, the progressives are supposed to be the main drivers of social change. But is that happening in this part of the world? If we couldn’t honour people like Kokori for their active, frontline roles while they lived, it only goes to show that everything about democracy in Nigeria is self-centred, half-hearted and transactional. Had Kokori for example been honoured, maybe the man would still be alive today!

IF WE COULDN’T HONOUR PEOPLE LIKE KOKORI FOR THEIR ACTIVE, FRONTLINE ROLES WHILE THEY LIVED, IT ONLY GOES TO SHOW THAT EVERYTHING ABOUT DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA IS SELFCENTRED, HALF-HEARTED AND TRANSACTIONAL

John McCain was an American senator, who had his own distinct mind. He went to school. He also maintained tradition. He was a “soldier of soldiers” who fought for his fatherland. In the process, he was captured and almost killed. But, as fate would have it, McCain ‘graduated’ to a Prisoner of War (POW). After his release, he came back to the USA, again, to serve his fatherland until his death. Even, in death, the Senator from Arizona remained justified for the actions he took while he lived. Now, look at McCain’s children and what they are achieving for selves and their fatherland.

In the considered opinion of this writer, this is not the time to forget those who risked what they had for what the country needed but now lack the voice and the mobility because of dispensational factors or the nature of their creation. To get out of the woods therefore, Afenifere has to set out the real development agenda with the ferocious finesse that will define its very boundaries and prescribe the landscape of institutional democracy for the Yoruba nation. Unfortunately, the region is falling behindthem, especially in times of credit and this is not too good for us! So, we need a leadership that will celebrate not only the generations of love among us but also the legacy, inspiration and testimony of our founding fathers.

More than ever, the Yoruba nation needs an established culture of political consciousness that can demand and stand for its rights and a Development Agenda that can truly negotiate the future, capture the interests of the race, synthesise and stick to the needs of the people, and entrench a system of democratic awareness in the people. Again, this is where DAWN Document and Yoruba Academy come in! Let Afenifere rethink its vision and work with the state governments in the region on how to make things happen!

Amid worsening economic hardship, Nigerians were subjected to high costs of petrol, diesel and cooking gas in the month of March, 2024, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

In its monthly reports on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) Price Watch, Automotive Gas Oil (Diesel) Price Watch and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Cooking Gas) Watch published recently, prices of the three essential energy commodities witnessed varied prices increase with some states' worst hit.

According to the report, the average retail price paid by consumers for Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol) for the month of March 2024 was N696.79, indicating a 163.65 percent increase when compared to the value recorded in March 2023 (N264.29).

Likewise, comparing the average price value with the previous month (.i.e. February 2024), the average retail price increased by 2.56 per cent from N679.36.

On State profile analysis, Taraba State had the highest average retail price for Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol), at N761.92, Yobe and Adamawa States were next, with N749.09 and N735.00, respectively.

On the other side, Lagos, Oyo and Ogun States had the lowest average retail prices for Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol), at N630.75, N645.88 and N651.25 respectively.

Lastly, on Zonal profile, the North

UBA Plc Beats Industry Record, Grows Assets by 90.22% in 2023

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), emerged tops in asset growth among Nigeria’s major financial services institutions, especially those in Tier-1 category.

Details from the 2023 financial statements of the ‘Big Five’ recently submitted to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), revealed that UBA achieved the highest asset growth rate of 90.22 percent to beat its peers during the year.

While all the banks raked in tremendous earnings in both the topline and bottom-line performance, UBA stood at a significant distance ahead with almost doubled asset growth of 90.22 percent to N20.65 trillion in 2023 from N10.85 trillion in the previous year.

It was trailed by Access Holdings which recorded a 78 percent asset growth of N26.68 trillion during the period against N14.99 trillion in 2022, though it remains the largest bank by asset.

Zenith Bank Plc recorded an asset jump of 65.8 percent with N620.36 trillion delivered in 2023, compared with the N12.28 trillion in the preceding year, though it remains Nigeria’s most capitalized bank (N1.04 trillion). Similarly, behemoth FBN Holdings Plc, Nigeria’s oldest financial services institution, hit a 60 percent asset growth of N16.90 trillion from N10.58 trillion in the previous year.

The reports also revealed that GTCO Plc’s asset growth of N9.37 trillion compared with the N6.45 trillion in prior year, constituted a 45.27 percent rise. This placed GTCO on the bottom of the ‘Big Five’ - all with a combined asset growth of 65.58 percent to N93.96 trillion in the review period, against N55.15 trillion in 2022.

UBA’s outstanding asset performance stemmed largely from a number of factors which includes a remarkable triple-digit growth of 139.5 percent in gross earnings from N835 billion reported in 2022 to N2 trillion in 2023. This impressive triple-digit growth in gross earnings resulted in a year-

on-year (YoY) increase of 277.19 percent in profit before tax (PBT) from N200.87 billion in 2022 to N757.68 billion in 2023.

Profit after tax (PAT) also recorded triple-digit growth of 257 percent from N170.27 billion to N607.69 billion in the period ended 31 December, 2023. This performance not only sets a record for the bank but also ranks among the top two best results showing in the lead in asset growth.

The gross earnings of N2 trillion was also a contribution of enhanced unterest income of N1,075 or 93 percent increase while net interest income rose to N707.540 billion representing an 86 percent increase.

The group recorded net fees and commission income of N189.059 billion or 47.7 percent as trading and foreign exchange gains rose by 814 percent to N659.25 billion

Further study of the results showed that the increase in interest income is attributed to the growth in the size of risk assets and their effective repricing, alongside the rise in the yield of other interest-bearing instruments over the year. Growth in non-interest income was driven by significant trading gains and an increase in gains from the revaluation of foreign currencies.

Cost of fund (interest expense) increased tas a result of the high interest environment. Interest expense rose by 107 percent from N177.6 billion in 2022 to N367.8 billion in 2023. Notwithstanding the 77.42 percent growth in operating expenses in 2023, the Group’s bottom-line was not negatively impacted due to improved top-line performance.

The Group has continued to deepen its market leadership in key corporate and retail deposit segments as customer deposits increased by 90.4 percent from N7.82 trillion to N14.89 trillion in 2023.

The enhanced assets performance is also reflective of the growth in total deposits and the revaluation of foreign currency deposits. Gross loans

BUSINESS WEEKLY

...Grows

Assets by 90.22% in 2023

United Bank for Africa (UBA) has was named the ‘African Bank of the Year’ at the 2023 Bankers Awards organised by The Banker Magazine — a publication of the Financial Times of London last December

grew by 61.51 percent from N3.43 trillion in 2022 to N5.54 trillion in 2023 due to the revaluation of foreign currency loans and the growth in local currency risk assets.

Commenting on the significance of strong asset quality, Professor of Finance and Accounts at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Muhammad Mainoma, had told THEWILL that strong asset base is strategic to the development of any business because an enterprise is handicapped if it trades with a lean balance sheet.

“Strong asset base signifies that a business is strategically positioned to take advantage of its environment. For a bank, there is no time that people will not need money. Once a business is focused and invests in areas that people always need, it will not lose. This explains the continuous growth (in asset) despite the difficult operating environment,” Mainoma, a former president of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), had said.

United Bank for Africa (UBA) was named the ‘African Bank of the Year’ at the 2023 Bankers Awards organised by The Banker Magazine — a publication of the Financial Times of London last December. Dominating the African continent, UBA not only clinched the title of African Bank of the Year at the event, but also propelled its subsidiaries to victory in eight additional African nations.

The bank’s subsidiaries in Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Mozambique, Congo, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania all emerged as the Bank of the Year in their respective countries.

According to the statement, it would be the second time in the past three years that the bank has won the regional award as the best bank in Africa, after winning the title in 2021.

Oliver Alawuba, UBA’s group managing director, said the recognitions came as a reassurance that the bank was on track in its goal of consolidating its leadership position in Africa, and creating superior value for its stakeholders

“UBA is honoured to be named the Bank of the Year in these eight countries and to receive the overall Award for Africa,” he said.

He added. “This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of the entire UBA team.

“We remain committed to delivering top-notch banking services that positively impact the lives of our customers across the continent.

“We have our millions of customers across the globe and our many thousands of staff to thank for this. They are the very reason why we keep winning and receiving these accolades.”

Joy Macknight, Editor of the Banker Magazine, said UBA remains a clear winner across a wide range of criteria, having performed impressively across its footprint with a strong financial performance across most of its markets.

“In a year of strong competition among the continent’s major banking groups, UBA has gained the edge on its rivals to win the Bank of the Year award for Africa for the 2nd time in three years,” she said.

“The award recognises the bank’s strength across Africa, including many of its most competitive markets.”

Furthermore, the Group is undertaking urgent necessary actions to meet the new minimum N500 billion equity capital requirement to maintain its international authorisation within the timeframe stipulated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This will strengthen its presence in key markets to continue positioning for sustainable growth and value addition for stakeholders.

Transcorp Hotels Divests 100% Interest in Calabar Subsidiary to Eco Travels And Tours Limited

Transcorp Hotels Plc, the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc has announced the divestment of its 100% interest in Transcorp Hotels Calabar Limited to Eco Travels and Tours Limited, an indigenous hospitality company.

This was contained in the company’s notice to the shareholders filed with the Nigerian Exchange Limited.

According to the statement signed by Stanley Chikwendu, Company Secretary, Eco Travels and Tours has a diversified portfolio including hotel management, wellness and fitness facilities, family-centric spaces, and interior and exterior design and decoration.

It noted that Transcorp Hotels strategic focus is on Abuja and the significant continuing investment in the iconic Transcorp Hilton Hotel and in development opportunities in Lagos.

According to the company, in its published 2023 audited financial statements, the Company recorded 36% revenue growth and with the ongoing execution of its business

strategies and optimization of new business opportunities, will continue to deliver even greater value to all its stakeholders.

Trascorp Hotels Plc had last year announced the conclusion of its plans to sell 100% equity holdings in its subsidiaries, Trancorp Hotels Calabar.

This was part of the special resolutions at the Ninth Annual General Meeting of Transcorp Hotels Plc held at Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

According to the resolutions released by the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), shareholders authorized the board and the company’s management to dispose its 100% equity interests in Transcorp Hotels Calabar Limited in accordance with relevant laws, statutes, and regulations. They also authorized the board and the management to invest in, acquire, or divest from any business and/or carry out as the Directors may deem appropriate and in accordance with any relevant laws, any actions, including but not limited to

an

Ifiokobong Akan

inlaw to the politician. Of the entire cabinet members appointed by Yusuf,

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

Being a Fashion Designer is a Destiny I am Called to Fulfill – Ifiokobong Akan

Ifiokobong Akan, who runs the popular fashion brand, House of Borah, speaks with IVORY UKONU about fulfilling her destiny through her craft and her calling to make a difference in people's lives through her speaking engagements and her acts of charity. Excerpts:

You recently clocked 10 years in the fashion industry. How has it been?

It has been amazing; a lot of lessons have been learnt. It has not been easy living as a mother, wife and businessperson. Of course, there have been disappointments, tears and struggles. You know doing business in Nigeria is not easy. There are lots of internal and external forces struggling to bring your business down. Sometimes it could be government policies, lack of basic infrastructures, etc. Everything I do, I do it in fear and give it my best. It has actually not been easy, but it has been worth it. However, we are called here to fulfill destiny and so I see my being a fashion designer as a destiny that I must fulfill and when you are fulfilling destiny, you do not give up. So in commemoration of my 10 years as a fashion designer, I decided to chronicle my journey in the fashion industry with the book 'In the fabric of Fashion'.

The book is basically about me telling my story and affirming that I am here to stay for a long period. I realise Africans aren't adept at telling their unique stories. So, the book is just me putting the bits and pieces of what I had to go through to build a fashion brand, the difficulties and strategies that I used to succeed because you cannot build any brand without putting some modalities in place. Also being a wife, a mother and an entrepreneur and having to also build the brand in the city of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, in a city where fashion wasn't really reckoned with, so to speak, a place where I came and changed the dynamics of what they hitherto felt was fashion and how they used to see fashion designers. This book is important because I speak in various fora and people ask me a lot of questions, especially about my story. They want to know how I have been able to navigate my way through the different facets of my life. So I thought, why not just put all the answers to these questions down in a book so I can easily refer people to read the book for each question I get asked.

Why is the book important for fashion designers?

It is a fashion blueprint that will be useful for newbies, aspiring fashion designers and veterans. Many chapters in the book are dedicated to fashion entrepreneurs. I mentioned some of the exclusive places I source my fabrics, relatable stories in the fashion industries. I also talked about style preferences, how people should just make designs that stand out as there will always be someone who will like them. A lot of times, fashion designers think people are only interested in a particular design, not knowing that fashion is so versatile. Fashion designers should just embrace their creativity and not limit themselves. Fashion is one of the basic necessities of life. So, whether you like it or not, people will always wear clothes. Why limit yourself?

What is the ultimate take-away from the book?

I talked about us, humans, being the light of the world. God has called us to be the light of the world. We are like a city built on a hilltop which cannot be hidden and so we should let our light shine according to Mathew Chapter 5. I think people are not really shining their light because they are timid, they fear the unknown and fear that people will not accept them for who they are and what they are doing. We cannot be a city set on a hill and be hidden or lack creativity. So it means we need to study to show ourselves approved. We have value to bring to the world and so we have to keep inspiring other people. That is why we are here on earth. So this book is me telling people, it is time to shine, break away from that mindset of thinking little. It is time for them to tell their story because the world needs to hear their stories. That is how they can shape their narratives. A lot of people who have different perceptions about African entrepreneurs and what we do. So I believe we need to talk more and shine more. Let Africa as a whole know that there is something happening here. Let us be more of what God has created us to be. It is more or less like propagating

the gospel.

How did your love for fashion begin? Fashion has always been my core interest. It is my love for fashion that made me go into it in the first place. I love fashion. I think it is what every human being should do. It is vast like oil and gas. People will always wear clothes.

What would you consider to be your greatest achievement since becoming a fashion designer?

I am actually a work-in-progress, but one of my greatest achievements will be launching this book because it is huge, especially as many people have told me that I inspire them through what I do.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years' time?

I am already global. I see myself telling more of my African stories. Through this book, I am already spreading light and I think in the next 10 years, I will see more people coming out being themselves, living their essence and telling their stories and being who God called them to be. It may not be in the fashion world though.

What else do you do besides fashion?

I am into real estate as well. I am also, like I mentioned before, a mentor and a coach to a lot of people. I enjoy writing as well. I am a speech writer. I write a lot of speeches for my husband and his politician friends.

How would you compare fashion 10 years ago with what is obtainable today?

It is absolutely amazing now. The new generation of fashion designers, the Generation Zs or GenZs are doing so well and they are really changing a lot and bringing a lot of dynamics into the game. Designs that seemed to look a bit difficult in those days are being done with ease these new designers. They are making it known that people can get the best of masterpieces in days, hours. I love their creativity. I also love their collaborative spirit. The older ones didn't do much collaborations, didn't know how to mentor and coach, preferring only to shine alone. I don't believe fashion should be limited because I have seen some of the GenZs not getting it right because they are burning out trying to do a particular style and also trying to do different things at the same time. I think they should moderate things.

There is so much that can come out of the fashion industry. Unfortunately, we have no support system. The Bank of Industry, BOI, should be there for us, I am sorry I don't know what they are really doing. They stressed out some of my mentees who experienced difficulties when they tried to apply for loans. The government needs to regulate the industry because there is so much that can be harnessed from the industry. The industry growth hasn't been bad but it can be better.

Are you a member of any fashion association?

I was once a member of the Fashion Designer Association of Nigeria, FADAN, but I quit because in my opinion, it was not well regulated. So now there is one in Akwa Ibom called Akwa Ibom State Professional Fashion Designers and Tailors Guild. That works for me as we support ourselves by sponsoring upcoming fashion entrepreneurs.

What is your mentorship and humanitarian platform called? 'I Exude' humanitarian foundation where I do a lot of empowerment to deserving individuals. I also have a lot of social media platforms where I get to talk to people and impart knowledge. It is what I do for fun.

Akan

Akan

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

Continued from page 17

believed that Wike still holds the political leadership and structure of the state. But with Odili's declaration, a man who is still held in high regard in the state, years after he left office, it may just mean that Wike still lives in fool's paradise and may not yet know that he is gradually losing grip

PETER ODILI BUKKY GEROGETAYLOR BAGS HONORARY DOCTORATE DEGREE

Geroge-Taylor

Rilwan Akiolu Back in Bola Tinubu's Good Books

an undisclosed issue which could have snowballed and possibly threatened the foundations of the centre of excellence where both hold sway, in their respective capacities. Reliable sources had disclosed that their close relationship may have been tested on account of Akiolu's father/son relationship with Akinwunmi Ambode, a former governor of Lagos State. Not even when Ambode was in political wilderness did their close relationship wane. Akiolu manifested how much Ambode meant to him during the period the former governor's second term gubernatorial ambition was threatened and finally cut short by Tinubu. The former police officer turned traditional ruler did everything within his power to get Tinubu to rescind his decision to deny Ambode a second term ticket. He made

several trips to Tinubu's house in an attempt to iron things with the former governor of the state and consulted with many others that mattered in the political circle across the state and beyond, to help save Ambode's job. But it was all an effort in futility, a situation that badly affected Akiolu who felt pained that he couldn't use his position as a firstclass king to broker a truce between the two warring parties. Well, Tinubu has since called a truce with Ambode and even offered him a seat on Governance Advisory Council. By extension, he also mended fences with Akiolu. During the last Sallah holidays, the president and the traditional ruler were photographed cozying up to each other when the latter paid him a visit at his Lagos home. Both were relaxed as they took time catching up on happenings.

Seinye Lulu-Briggs Bags Chieftaincy Title

ASon Emerges

daughters of common men and women and the governor being a beneficiary of Kwankwaso's goodwill, it was only natural that he (the governor) reciprocate the gesture, particularly when Mustapha proved himself good. Until his appointment, Mustapha was the administrator of Key Special Academy, a private school owned by his father, located at the Gwarinpa area of the

few months after she published her first book, 'Born To Stand Out,' a book that emphasises the importance of intentional personal branding, self-reflection and self-awareness, quintessential queen of public relations, Bukky George-Taylor has bagged a honorary doctorate degree in Communications and strategy from Myles Leadership University. The university deemed it fit to honour her having sustained a reputation over a period of years in her field with a proven track record of success in Nigeria's luxury market. Besides bagging the doctorate, she will also be partnering with the university on course offerings and educating more students in her field. An award-winning strategic communications expert, a public speaker, a director of 'The Lagos Today' Newspaper, founder of Africa's number 1 social calendar app, CRAWL and The Bobby Taylor Company. Bukky is a graduate of the Nellie Quander Leadership Institute and a Fellow of the Institute of Brand Management of Nigeria. She is a member of the Public Relations Society of America, The Canadian Public Relations Society, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, and sits on the board of Silver Lining for the Needy Initiative. Bukky is also a director of strategic partnerships at The Luxury Network and a member of various organizations such as BoardRoom Africa, Valence Community, and The Gathering Spot Atlanta.

Lulu-Briggs

Dr Mrs Seinye LuluBriggs, the Ghanaian born widow of late oil mogul and distinguished elder Kalabari statesman, High Chief Dr O.B. LuluBriggs has added another feather to her cap. She has been conferred with a new chieftaincy title of ‘Ununwe Gwoduma Emene Ekpeye 1 of Ekpeyeland’ (The Chief that heals Ekpeye people). The honour was conferred on her by His Imperial Majesty, Eze Sir (Ambassador) Kelvin Ngozi Anugwo, PhD, Eze Ekpeye Logbo 111, the Paramount King of Ekpeye Kingdom and his council of

chiefs. The installation ceremony took place during the official opening ceremony of the O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation’s Free Medical Mission which had a team of over 130 medical and non-medical volunteers dispensing free counselling/health education, outpatient consultations, paediatric care including deworming, dental care, eye care including surgery and glasses, malaria testing & treatment, HIV/AIDs screening, physiotherapy.

An accomplished businesswoman, social investor and philanthropist, Seinye a widow herself understands the plight of widowhood in Nigeria which prompted her to take on the plight of widows and help them rise above victimisation and all forms of persecution.

She is also in collaboration with the African Women Lawyers Association, AWLA, to offer free legal service, fully paid for by her husband’s foundation, to support embattled widows in the pursuit of their rights and the protection of their dignity.

STORIES

BY IVORY UKONU

ADEMOLA ALAKIJA'S RELATIVES IN FIERCE BATTLE OVER HIS PROPERTY

Relatives of late businessman, lawyer and politician, Sir Ademola Alakija are up in arms over one of his properties situated in the Ikoyi area of Lagos. Some of his relatives, Alaba Alakija and Alaba's daughter in-law, Oyinkansola were recently arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) after a petition was written by two of the late Alakija's grandchildren, Modupe Alakija and Oreoluwa Alakija who are themselves children of Late Taiwo Alakija, the first twin son of the late Sir Alakija and sent to the anti-graft agency, on realising that Alaba and Oyinkansola tried to commit fraud with the said property. While the alleged fraud was perpetuated in 2015, the petition was written in 2022. In their petition, the duo claimed that the property is a family property and does not belong solely to Alaba who is claiming that by an undated Vesting Deed that he is the sole owner. They also complained that the registered undated Vesting Deed, in the name of two deceased executors of the Will of the late Sir Alakija, was a forged document. The Vesting Deed was

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

delivered for registration on August 6, 2015, allegedly by Dr. Afolabi Alakija, who died in 1982, an Executor of the Will of Sir Alakija and himself a son of the late Sir Alakija. Alaba and Oyinkansola were subsequently arraigned on a two-count charge of conspiring to commit felony using false documents with intent to financially benefit from the property contrary to sections 409 and 364 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011 and using false document titled; 'Vesting Deed by Dr. Omodele Alakija and Mr. Afolabi Alakija.' Alaba was granted a bail bond of N10 million with two sureties by the trial judge after pleading not guilty to the charges while Oyinkansola who was initially at large, presented herself in court and pleaded not guilty. Both their international passports were taken possession of by the court. The matter has been adjourned to May 20 and 28 for the commencement of the trial.

Tunde Ayeni Gives Out Daughter in Marriage

Four months after businessman, Tunde Ayeni hosted eminent personalities to the traditional introduction ceremony of his only daughter, Bolaji and her lover, Oluwatobiloba Adeoye at his Lagos residence, the erstwhile chairman of defunct Skye Bank last weekend again gathered them as he hosted them a second time to the engagement ceremony and then a third time to a lavish party following his daughter's holy matrimony. On Thursday April 11, Ayeni and his family hosted friends to the traditional engagement wedding in Lagos, in a parade of some of the best cultural aesthetics. Yinka Aiyefele was the choice musician to entertain the audience

Eyoanwan Otu Joins The 60s Club

About a week ago, Rev. (Mrs) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, the first lady of Cross Rivers State shut down the Calabar metropolis in celebration of her 60th birthday. The line up of activities to usher her into the 60s club began with a party for street kids. Amidst laughter and music, the children received vital medical check-ups, treatments, and thoughtful gifts. Mrs Otu also announced scholarships for eager children who wanted to return to school. Additionally, vocational studies opportunities and shelter homes were promised, marking a significant step towards empowering the less privileged. These were all in line with her notable project, ‘Humanity Without Borders Initiative,’ aimed at advancing

education, particularly for girls and healthcare, advocating for women’s development, and

Businessman and socialite Obinna Iyiegbu, aka Obi Cubana, recently added another year and electronics manufacturer, Samsung and popular car brand, GAC Motors decided to host him to separate events to celebrate his 49th birthday. While Samsung treated him to a exquisite dinner and an after-party at a newly opened luxury restaurant, on Victoria Island, Lagos State with hsi family, friends and associate in attendance, Iyiegbu

Two days later, on Friday April 13th, the Church wedding held at Pastor Tunde Bakare-led Latter Rain Church where the politician/ clergyman joined the couple together. This was followed by a reception party at the Balmoral Hall of the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos. It was an absolute display of wealth, opulence and splendour as the who is who in Nigeria’s business, political and social space were in attendance.

Both Evangelist Dunni Olarewaju and King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal the Fuji maestro entertained the guests,

while comedian Gbenga Adeyinka steered proceedings at the party. Some of those who attended were the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Kogi State Secretary to the State Government; Mrs Ayoade Folashade' former Governor of Ogun State Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Chairman Federal Inland Revenue Service; Dr Zacch Adedeji; former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori; Former Governor of Ekiti State, Niyi Adebayo; Bola Shagaya; Oba Francis Alao; Oba Saheed Elegushi; Oba Otudeko, Iyaloja of Lagos, Folashade TinubuOjo; Former Fidelity Bank MD Mr Nnamdi Okonkwo, Daily Times Publisher, Fidelis Anosike and wife Rita Dominic-Anosike; Nkiru Anumudu; Segun Awolowo; Terry Waya; Comfort Obamuyiwa; Aisha Achimugu and a host of others.

prioritizing the welfare of the vulnerable in society, particularly women, aged children in the state. Later in the evening, the Calabar International Convention Centre (CICC) was lit up as dignitaries thronged the venue of the party to celebrate Mrs Otu. some of the dignitaries present were Onari Duke, a former first lady of the state, Senator Florence Ita Giwa, Senator Stephen Odey, Senator Victor Ndoma Egba, Unoma Akpabio, wife of the Senate President. Being a reverend, a handful of gospel singers including Mercy Chinwo serenaded guests with their soulful songs. Steering proceedings at the party was comedian and actress Anita Asuogha aka Real Warri Pikin.

GAC MOTORS WOWS OBI CUBANA WITH CAR GIFT ON 49TH BIRTHDAY

GAC Motors equally treated him to a surprise reception party where he was surprisingly gifted a white luxury GS8 automobile, one of their top range of SUVs. The car gift may not be unconnected to his recent venture into the e-hailing cab service business. Aptly named Enviable Transport Service, Obi purchased over 100 electric vehicles which he flooded the city of Abuja with and facilitated by GAC Motors. The purchase which is just the first phase, is arguably the largest purchase made by any individual in Nigeria from a car brand. As reported earlier by THEWILL, Obi hopes to replicate the same feat in Port Harcourt, Enugu, Asaba, Lagos, Umuahia where the e-hailing service will be available soon.

Bola Atta Gives Out Daughter in Marriage

Penultimate week, Bola Atta, the Group Director, Marketing and Corporate Communications with the United Bank for Africa, hosted family and friends for the traditional engagement ceremony of her daughter, Zeinat Serafina and her lover, Olayinka, the son of socialites, Funmi and Ladi Ajose-Adeogun. The ceremony which was held on a weekday, took place at The Jewel Aida in Lagos.

Expectedly, top management staff of UBA led by the chairman, Tony Elumelu were well represented at the party. It was also a delight to see Erelu Oodua Ojuolape Ojora step out of her cocoon to grace the party looking strong and healthy. A society matriarch, Erelu Ojuolape had slowed down on being a frequent face on the social scene as age caught up with her. Shortly after the demise of her second son, Dapo, she

gave the social scene a wide berth in order to mourn him. So it won't be wrong to say the Atta/Ajose-Adeogun party was her first major party in recent times. Others who were in attendance were Sir Shina Peters, Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun; Lagos State deputy governor, Femi Hamzat; Oodua Investment chairman, Bimbo Ashiru; Mo Abudu; Ekua Abudu; Bose Ogulu; Toyin Saraki and several others.

The Ayenis and Adeoyes

Ademola

Otu

SHOTS OF THE WEEK

L-R: Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Emmanuel Oriakhi; Corporate Affairs Director, NB Plc, Sade Morgan; Managing Director, NB Plc, Hans Essaadi; Company Secretary/Legal Director, NB Plc, Uaboi Agbebaku and Finance Director, NB Plc, Ben Wessels Boer, during the 78th Pre-Annual General Meeting Media Briefing of Nigerian Breweries Plc held in Lagos on April 17, 2024.

Group Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga; Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite and Group Chief Executive Officer, NGX Group, Mr. Temi Popoola , during a strategic meeting between the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and NGX Group  in Lagos  on April 15, 2024.

Risk-Taking Bobrisky: From Gender Bender to Prison

BY MICHAEL JIMOH

The unhappiest celeb in a Nigerian prison at the moment can’t be anyone other than Bobrisky born and known to his parents as Idris Olarewanju Okuneye. From Ikoyi Custodial Centre where he became the most famous inmate a week or so ago, officials of the Nigeria Prison Services have confirmed his relocation to the roomier Kirikiri Prison at Olodi Apapa where Nigeria’s preeminent gender bender will remain for six months. It is so sudden a metamorphosis that had any Ifa priest worth his opele cautioned the social media influencer about it, Bobrisky would have sniffed at the venerable priest, probably urging him to look again at his Ouija board.

Before his arrest last March, Bobrisky was undoubtedly one of the gayest social media individuals around. Born male, he relished his transformation through plastic surgery into a spectacular female figure. He flaunted it, dressed to match in his new-found identity: there were the tightfitting lace wrappers, short and long gowns, the flamboyant headgears, cherry-red lips and painted, long finger nails you ordinarily would associate with a Surulere socialite. There were the numerous spiky high heel footwear. In short, Bobrisky’s makeover from man to woman was so complete that she easily trumped others in a competition as best dressed woman recently.

Men transforming into women isn’t such a novel phenomenon in the world. There was the classic case of Irish gender-bender and artiste Boy George (George O’Dowd) who strutted around in his funny get-up back in the 1980s up to the nineties. As the lead singer of musical group Culture Club, Boy George performed in concerts and shows dressed most times as a woman in in America, Europe and Asia with hardly a wink of disapproval from millions of followers and admirers.

So, when Bobrisky made a similar transformation and proudly proclaimed it to all years ago, there was a rumble of both disapproval and admiration from her followers (5 million strong on social media.) Of course, he became an instant sensation such that whatever Bobrisky did at any one time became the subject of public debate. And, for more publicity traction, he fuelled it himself. Is it a phalanx of male admirers swooning to befriend him? He posted it online without naming any of them. Her new home bought for a dizzying N400 million? It was grist for social media. Bobrisky’s followers quickly latched on to them and forwarded such news items promptly. He counted among his friend Nollywood actress Tontoh Dike who was always a pillar of support.

But there were those who thought the controversial cross dresser had gone too far with his adopted female identity. Mostly a patriarchal society, many of Bobrisky’s traducers in Nigeria couldn’t understand why he had to embrace the identity of another sex in the first place. To them, it is anathema, like defying the natural order. They couldn’t stand it! Who does he think he is, anyway? What’s more? He seemed to always throw it in the faces of those who were most repulsed by the very idea of him becoming a woman, a sort of in-your-face attitude that you could do nothing about. Or so he thought.

“

Bobrisky’s haters couldn’t do

much

to rein him in.

Commenting on Bobrisky’s conviction and jailing by a Nigerian judge, four Nigerian professors in American universities Wale Adebanwi, Akin Adesokan, Ebenezer Obadare and Olufemi Taiwo have written thusly: “The conviction of Okuneye Idris Olarewanju, popularly known as Bobrisky, by a Federal High Court in Lagos, constitutes a flagrant display of judicial highhandedness, an offence against fairness and basic decency, if not an outright distortion of the law. In sentencing the accused to six months in jail without an option of a fine, Justice Abimbola Awogboro presided over a sham trial in which she substantiated her prejudice while possibly allowing herself and the legal system to be used to do the dirty work of those who cannot stomach the spectacle of Bobrisky dressing as and, for all intents and purposes, presenting publicly as a woman.”

On her popular Thursday column in Punch of 18 April, Abimbola Adelakun equally panned the sentencing of the famous cross dresser. Headlined “Finally, they came for Bobrisky,” she surmised that practically the entire establishment in Nigeria were massed against the accused and he stood no chance of survival before them. Describing Bobrisky’s transformation as an affront to the male masculine symbol of the penis, Adelakun mused that “When men could no longer take the affront to their dear penis anymore, they came up with the most spurious charge against Bobrisky,” insisting that the country “has a collection of judicial enforcers – from the police to the Department of State, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and even judges who wield immense power but hardly match it with up with either a sense of moral responsibility or an understanding of the spirit of democracy.”

Despite that, Bobrisky’s sentencing and jailing begs some questions. Why do celebs like to push the envelope, to tempt fate? For the fun of it? To be noticed? To dare the authorities? Or just because he or she is a famous person? The answer could just be all of the above.

They needn’t hardly worry because there is freedom of choice guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. On that score, Bobrisky’s haters couldn’t do much to rein him in. But as the Yorubas say, an individual who rubs oil on his body has made the job relatively easier for those who want to burn him. His mutilation of the naira three times at three different venues in Lagos state was enough to hang him, even though similar offences by others have resulted in not as much punitive sentencing. The aim, say his defenders, was to get Bobrisky at all cost for genderbending inclination and not because of his disrespect for Nigeria’s currency.

But as the Yorubas say, an individual who rubs oil on his body has made the job relatively easier for those who want to burn him. His mutilation of the naira three times at three different venues in Lagos state was enough to hang him, even though similar offences by others have resulted in not as much punitive sentencing

In 1984, the military dictatorship of General Muhammadu Buhari and Brigadier Tunde Idiagbon passed a decree that Nigerians should not carry more than a certain sum amount of Basic Travelling Allowance while travelling outside the country. Late Fela Anikulapo fell afoul of it. He was promptly arrested, tried and jailed. His last son, Seun, in May 2023 stood up to an officer of the Nigeria Police Force and surprised the man with a well-timed slap. He was caught and detained. In February 2024, Nollywood actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin was punished with a fine of N300, 000 for mutilating the naira at a party, a crime for which Bobrisky has now been jailed.

The social media is currently awash with high profile individuals who have committed the same offence and gone scot free. So, why is Bobrisky’s case different?

There can only be speculations. But what is pretty much clear is this: By the time Bobrisky completes his prison term in six months, he will emerge from Kirikiri Custodial Centre a different person – especially physically and mentally. Before his arrest, trial and sentencing, the gender bender who likes to shock lived like royalty. For instance, he had a smorgasbord of dishes to choose from, at any posh restaurant and at whatever price. He could place his order from swank eateries as well or have a chef rouse up some special delicacy at home. But now, and for the rest of his stay at KCC, he will have to queue behind other inmates for dollops of unappetising prison rations.

Worse still he will be denied that which he cherished most as a social media influencer: updating millions of followers on his every activity by the minute.

BY JUDE OBAFEMI

The inclusion of Victor Osimhen and Tobi Amusan in the prestigious 2024 Forbes Africa 30 Under-30 list stands as an undeniable testament to their extraordinary feats and the profound influence they command, which transcends the boundaries of their respective sporting arenas. As the sole Nigerian athletes honoured in this illustrious roster, their achievement deserves the highest acclaim, emblematic of the

indelible imprint they have left on Nigerian sports.

The Forbes Africa 30 Under-30 is a hallowed platform that recognises the continent's most influential and impactful young trailblazers – a veritable constellation of African brilliance. For Osimhen and Amusan to grace this esteemed list is a resounding affirmation of the athletic heights they have attained and the integrity that has defined their journeys thus far.

To begin with, Osimhen's rise as the talismanic striker for the Super Eagles blossomed with his exploits in Italy's Serie A with last season's champions Napoli. Hailing from the teeming heart of Lagos, his path was carved through formidable obstacles, from honing his skills on the sun-baked streets of Olusosun in Oregon/Ojota to navigating the challenges of his tenure at VfL Wolfsburg. Yet, his indomitable spirit and sheer force of will propelled him relentlessly forward.

It was within the hallowed arenas of Serie A that Osimhen truly flourished, donning the iconic azure blue of Napoli with a swagger and panache that belied his youth. With each thunderous strike, each masterful turn, and each lung-busting run, he emblazoned his name and unique hair-glow into the hearts of the Neapolitan faithful, leading them to their first Scudetto in over three decades. His breathtaking tally of 26 league goals not only shattered African records in Italy's too division but also earned him the coveted Golden Boot, as the ‘Capocannoniere del campionato,’ an unprecedented feat for an African player.

Osimhen, Amusan Make Forbes Africa Honours List “

The glory of Osimhen and Amusan's achievements carries an immense responsibility that now rests upon their shoulders

Yet, Osimhen's impact extends far beyond mere statistics. His inclusion in the Forbes list stands as a resounding acknowledgement of the positive influence he wields, both on and off the pitch. As the face of Nigerian football, backed by his CAF award as the best male footballer in Africa for 2023, his every triumph ignites a nation's dreams, inspiring countless young Nigerians to believe that greatness is within their grasp.

undoubtedly leave an indelible impact on the Nigerian psyche. In a nation that has long yearned for heroes to rally behind, these two young titans have emerged as beacons of hope, shining examples of what can be achieved through unwavering dedication and an unyielding spirit.

Both athletes’ narratives, woven from the fabric of adversity and triumph, should inspire a generation of young Nigerians to dream bigger, push harder, and embrace the values that have propelled these sporting idols to the pinnacles of their respective sports. In the halls of classrooms, on the sun-baked streets where dreams are born, and in the hearts of aspiring athletes, their names will forever be synonymous with Nigerian excellence.

Osimhen

As Nigeria's Economy Slips to 4th in Africa, President Tinubu Must Restructure Now

For the better part of the 21st century, Nigeria has squandered the enormous potential bestowed upon it by natural resource wealth and a large, youthful population. The recent projection by the International Monetary Fund that Nigeria will slip to being only the 4th largest economy in Africa is a fresh low bar, but also an inflection point for undertaking the comprehensive restructuring that can unleash Africa's sleeping giant.

The decline from being the continent's premier economy is rooted in both long-gestating structural deficiencies and more recent policy missteps. On the structural front, Nigeria's economy has been hamstrung by its overwhelming dependence on oil exports, leaving it vulnerable to price shocks in global energy markets.

Despite earning an abundance of petro-dollars from oil revenues since the 1970s, the country has little to show for it in terms of productive diversification into other sectors or investments in human capital development through education and healthcare.

Compounding this is the stark lack of economic complexity and manufacturing capacity. Nigeria remains heavily reliant on imports for even basic consumption goods like food, textile products, and pharmaceuticals. Its exports are overwhelmingly concentrated in a single primary commodity - crude oil.

This lack of diversity leaves the nation perilously exposed during oil busts, while depriving it of sustainable growth drivers during booms. The cherished goal of economic sovereignty remains elusive when so much wealth is drained on importing goods that could be produced domestically.

Pervasive corruption and poor governance have further undermined any progress and hollowed out public institutions. Decades of plunder and misallocation of resources by a self-serving ruling elite have left Nigeria with decrepit infrastructure in dire need of upgrading. Basic services like electricity, transportation, and internet connectivity are unreliable at best. The costs and inefficiencies imposed on businesses operating in this environment have smothered private enterprise and deterred long-term investments.

It is against this moribund backdrop of systemic decay that some controversial economic policies of the current administration have landed. The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration took office in May 2023 with promises of sweeping pro-market reforms after years of statist policies by previous governments. Key measures included unifying multiple exchange rates into a single market-driven regime for the naira currency, removing unsustainable petrol subsidies, and raising interest rates to tame inflation.

While well-intentioned as part of a broader economic liberalisation drive, many of these policies have exacerbated near-term pain for the Nigerian public. The naira has plunged significantly against the U.S. dollar,

severely denting the country's dollar-denominated GDP output. Subsidy removals have caused domestic prices for food and fuel to spike amidst a backdrop of global inflationary pressures. The bite has been particularly

brutal for Nigeria's poor and working classes who have seen real incomes collapse.

The consequences of this economic quagmire, both immediate and longer-term, have been dire. In the nearterm, Nigeria's GDP measured in U.S dollar terms has fallen from around $477 billion in 2022 to an estimated $253 billion for 2024 based on current projections. This devaluation-induced statistical contraction has enabled economies like South Africa, Egypt and even Algeria to surpass Nigeria in the GDP rankings.

For a country with such lofty aspirations of regional leadership and pre-eminence, the psychological blow of relinquishing its status as Africa's biggest economy cannot be overstated. Nigeria's global standing has di-

minished, as have its capabilities to project power and shape continental affairs. More tangibly, the reversal of economic fortunes has dampened foreign investment sentiment, with investors adopting a wait-and-see approach to see whether Nigeria can emerge from this turbulence.

The longer-term consequences are even more pernicious if this economic malaise persists. Nigeria has suffered cycles of booms and busts in the past due to its oil dependence. But this time around, the stagnation comes superimposed on an already dire situation of widespread poverty, double-digit unemployment, decaying public services and heightened insecurity from political violence and criminality. The risks of social unrest and internal displacement could spike, setting off a vicious cycle where more economic disruptions and capital flight occur.

It is this perfect storm of structural fragilities and recent shocks that underscores why comprehensive, rootand-branch restructuring of Nigeria's economic and governance model is imperative - not as a mere policy choice but as an existential imperative for keeping the nation intact. Addressing only surface-level issues through fiscal and monetary policies, while leaving the deeper structural flaws unresolved, is akin to applying band-aids to gaping wounds.

So what could such a restructuring entail? At its core, any overhaul must decisively pivot Nigeria away from its dependence on crude oil exports towards diversified production across multiple sectors, while transitioning to a more decentralised governance model.

On the economic front, a formidable push into agriculture and light manufacturing could provide sustainable growth levers. Nigeria is blessed with over 80 million hectares of arable land and conducive climatic conditions for a wide array of cash crops including cocoa, groundnuts, palm oil and cotton. Yet decades of neglect and wanton insecurity in farming regions have hollowed out once-thriving agricultural value chains and seen the sector's contribution to GDP fall below 30 per cent.

With a security boost and strategic policies aimed at boosting productivity and market access, Nigeria could rapidly resuscitate its agricultural economy to ensure food security, generate rural incomes and employment, while also capturing a bigger slice of the global food trade. Light manufacturing capabilities linked with agricultural value chains and leveraging Nigeria's lowcost labour could follow in areas like textile, furnituremaking and food processing. These focus areas would utilise domestically available raw materials and skills, rather than being dependent on imported components.

The keys to unlocking Nigeria's true potential go beyond just economic and fiscal restructuring. A transformation in the quality of governance and public accountability is equally vital, if the fruits of growth are to be equitably shared and wealth utilised productively