THEWILL NEWSPAPER, MARCH 02, 2025

Digital IS NOW WHOLLY

Emmanuel Okoro, popularly known by his brand name Emmy Kasbit, is no newbie to the fashion and design scene. Okoro has been in the industry for over a decade and was inspired to start his journey in the fashion industry to change the narrative and the Western world’s perception of African fashion. African designers were not getting attention for all their hard work, so Okoro wanted to be one of the designers who put African fashion on a global stage and tell African stories in the best way possible.

According to Emmanuel Okoro, people inspired by something of African descent often tell the story but don’t do it the right way. He wanted to change that status quo by being one of the industry’s change-makers. So, he promotes traditional fashion practices, such as the hand-woven technique known as Akwete, which he has become popular for.

Emmanuel Okoro’s story is interesting. To learn more about him and his brand, scroll to pages 8 to 10.

Have you ever been in a relationship where the other party isn’t truthful about who they are? That’s what our Downtown Confidential page is about this week. Go to page 15 to read the story.

I have never been able to get myself to see any of the Paddington films, but after this week’s review of the latest one, Paddington in Peru, I am keen to find the first two and watch them.

As usual, we have a playlist curated specially for you, our dear readers. Simply click on the instructions below to QR code or scan the QR code to download the playlist. Until next week, enjoy your read.

Photo: Kola Oshalusi

@insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2025

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COVER

Between Tinubu, GAC/Sanwo-Olu and a Defiant Majority in Lagos Assembly, Who Blinks First?

BY AMOS ESELE

President Bola Tinubu is frustrated with the turn of events at his home state’s Lagos State House of Assembly, THEWILL can report and has asked Lagos State Governor, Babajide SanwoOlu, who he believes orchestrated the ouster of Hon. Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, to get him reinstated. The problem however appears to be that neither Sanwo-Olu, some influential members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) nor the majority of the elected members of the Assembly are keen on seeing Obasa return to the office of Speaker despite the president’s directive that he should be restored to office and allowed to resign voluntarily.

Political leaders including the governor and the leadership of the GAC according to findings have expressed their displeasure to the President about the impeached speaker’s highhandedness and disrespect for the office of the governor, members of his cabinet, party leaders as well as elected members of the state assembly. This appeared not to bother Obasa as he did not make amends.

“The president is very upset about this matter. He is even more upset that he had no idea that they had planned to remove Obasa without getting his approval. Even more upsetting for him was that the coupists waited for the President to be on ground in Abu Dhabi on an official trip when they sacked Obasa. The fact of the matter is that no one trusts that Obasa will resign when reinstated and clearly he is saying this to his supporters. The worry is that they know he is a very vindictive person so allowing him back as Speaker is akin to inflicting serious injury on oneself,” a person familiar with the powerplay told THEWILL anonymously.

THEWILL reports that this standoff has led to the crisis and commotion that have engulfed the Lagos State House of Assembly despite multiple efforts by leaders to restore peace.

However, by fixing March 7, 2025, as the date for hearing in a suit filed by the impeached Speaker, a Lagos State High Court, sitting in Ikeja, at the weekend poured water on the blind rage that had run wild the previous day, a Thursday.

On that day, Obasa, in company with the police, invaded the House

of Assembly Complex, broke into the Speaker Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lesbat Meranda’s office and took over the day’s session with only four members in attendance. Security operatives had allegedly forced open the chamber doors and granted Obasa and his loyalists access. “I have resumed and I remain the Speaker of the Assembly,” he declared before journalists later. When asked whether he had been reinstated, Obasa dismissed suggestions that he was ever lawfully removed.

“Impeachment or removal is a democratic and constitutional process, but it must follow due process. I am not against it, but if it is not done properly, then it is illegitimate,” he stated. The plenary was however boycotted by 35 lawmakers in what appeared to be a show of support for the substantive Speaker, Mojisola Meranda.

Apart from presiding over a rump assembly, Obasa also wrote and signed a statement of apology to security agencies over a recent assault by the staff of the Assembly. “On behalf of the Lagos State House of Assembly, I hereby apologise to the security agencies, for the embarrassment caused them and, in particular the assault on security operatives of the DSS as widely circulated in videos…,” he wrote on a letterhead which he signed as Speaker. He praised them for always responding to calls for protection of lives and property and pleaded on behalf of those who have been charged to court on the matter.

For the embattled former Speaker, who was appearing in the House for the first time since January when he was impeached by a majority of lawmakers over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office, Justice Yetunde Rukayat Pinheiro’s ruling in an application which granted members of the assembly loyal to Speaker Meranda to be joined as defendants in his suit, turned the tide in a looming anarchy that hung over Lagos, the economic nerve of the country. Making appearances for Speaker Meranda on Friday, were counsels led by Prof. Tayo Oyetibo (SAN). Appearing for the State Assembly were Mr. Olu Daramola (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana (SAN); Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN); Mrs Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN); Dr. Dada Awosika (SAN); Prof. Dayo Amokaye (SAN); Mr. Mofe Oyetibo (SAN); Mr.

COVER

Between Tinubu, GAC/Sanwo-Olu and...

invasion happened on a day, “all the police officers and other security details attached to Speaker were withdrawn,” according to her spokesperson, Ganzallo Victor. A few minutes after the contest of wills between impeached Speaker Obasa and his successor, Meranda, beamed on live television to homes and offices across Nigeria, subsided, the police restored her security details.

THEWILL learnt that the incident jolted the majority members and Speaker Meranda so much that they feared for their lives like “people abandoned to their fate,” as a legislative aide confided in this newspaper. Even when the Police eventually restored the Speaker’s security details, the members had to act swiftly to maintain their ranks. Hence the decision to join the suit instituted by the impeached Speaker challenging the legality of his impeachment.

Within hours of arriving at that decision to be joined in the impeached Speakers suit, the members contacted their legal counsels, namely, Prof Oyetibo, SAN, Mr. Falana, SAN, Daramola, SAN, Dr Banire, SAN, Mrs Akeredolu SAN, Dr Awosika, SAN, Prof. Amokaye, SAN, Mr. Mofe Oyetibo, SAN, Mr. Oyewole and Mr. Okeremi.

Hon. Meranda, who confirmed that her initially withdrawn security detail had been restored, disclosed that it was a sharp contrast to the usual level of protection she received. She said, “At present, I have three or four policemen, whereas my normal security details are 12 policemen, four DSS, and two anti-bomb units. But I don’t have up to that now”.

Addressing this security issue, the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Moshood Jimoh, said the police on that fateful Thursday carried out an audit of policemen, firearms and crime-fighting equipment nationwide, hence the Meranda security details were temporarily withdrawn. He said, “As we speak, other police commands across the country are conducting similar audits without any issues. The ongoing audit has been in progress for several days, with prominent individuals complying. It is not targeted at any specific person or group.”

Jimoh said Obasa had recently applied for police protection due to threats against his life and family, which was approved, adding that the Command was unaware of how or when the Speaker’s office at the House of Assembly was broken into. “The command remains neutral in the matter and committed to ensuring law, order, and public safety throughout Lagos,” he said, adding that the police presence at the Assembly complex was reinforced with additional Mobile Force Units, Counter-Terrorism Units and Special Protection Units.

But questions that arise from this obvious security lapse are these: Why did Obasa choose to invade the Assembly on such a day the police carried out its security audit? How was it that he had full compliments of his security details on a day those of the Speaker were withdrawn? Couldn’t the police details attached to Obasa report his movement to the Lagos Police Command.? Was the action of the police Command influenced by orders from ‘above’? Efforts to get reactions from the Public Relations Officer of the Command in Lagos, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin failed. He responded to greetings on his WhatsApp page but declined to respond to the above questions. Checks, however, show that considering his social status, Obasa is yet to lose his political leverage in the Assembly.

What about the role of Governor Banbajide Sanwo-Olu as chief security officer of the state? A dependable government official told THEWILL on Saturday, on the condition of anonymity, that the Assembly leadership crisis was not directly impacting governance in the state and pleaded that the governor be left out of the crisis.

“Even at the National Assembly, don’t they throw chairs and fight themselves? The Assembly is an arm of government. They should be able to disagree and agree. So, a family is quarrelling and you want the landlord to come in. They have gone to court. We are very busy. Yesterday we went on inspection, every arm of government has its function. Beginning from next week, we are commissioning many schools in Lagos, so we have no time for what is going on in the Assembly.”

ENTER OBASA

Since becoming a lawmaker in 2007 and Speaker from 2015 till January this year when he was impeached, Obasa had acquired much political capital and membership of the inner caucus of President Bola Tinubu, during whose second tenure as governor in Lagos State the impeached speaker was first elected into the House of Assembly to represent Agege Constituency 1.

By his admission at the weekend, the 52-year-old Obasa said that much. He disclosed that he has been, “following this man, (President Tinubu) since I just left secondary school. I have pictures to prove this,” and taunted those who are, “just realizing that now,”

and “have not been part of us from the genesis,” have lost out. It is this connection, his loyalty, that made him stay for almost 10 years on the saddle as Speaker of the Assembly. Having seen Speakers of Houses of Assembly come and go nationwide, he had also had a sort of national pool of comradeship.

He was said to have put his clout to good use during the 2023 electioneering by securing the commitments of Speakers in the country to work for the success of the President Tinubu. Though, at the weekend, he was vague about nursing any governorship ambition, even though, he said, “he was qualified,” he is said to have been flaunting his closeness to the President and social status in the face of stakeholders in the state, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, member of the Governance Advisory Council, GAC, the influential and highest decision making organ in the state, that everyone is reluctant to stand by him now.

APC LEADERS, OBASA MEET, FAULT LAWMAKERS’ ACTION

At a meeting to review recent political issues and developments within the party in the state, some party chieftains have reaffirmed their loyalty and support to the political legacies of President Tinubu. The meeting which took place at the weekend had Obasa in attendance as well as some GAC members. They are Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku, Senator Anthony Adefuye, Chief Muraina Taiwo, Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, Hon Monsuru Owolabi, Hon. Kolawole Taiwo, Hon. Lanre Ogunyemi and Hon. Johnson Babatunde. The chieftains observed that the unity, peace and political stability in the party and the state built over the years by the President is a legacy that must be sustained and respected by all loyal party members in the state.

Even the President is said to have been swayed by reports that his protégé has overreached himself. A prominent chieftain of the APC in Lagos State, Fouad Oki, who said that the impeachment of Obasa as the speaker was in the best interests of the state, disclosed that Tinubu tried to resolve the crisis in the state legislature. He said that in the wisdom of members of the GAC, the President’s attention was called to the festering crisis in the Assembly. “The President, as father and leader, called a meeting wherein he tried to make a sense out of the observations raised by elders of the party. Unfortunately, the President saw by himself a recalcitrant Obasa. I think that is what broke the camel’s back.”

A constitutional lawyer, Liborous Oshioma, however expressed doubts that Obasa was acting alone. “I can tell that if Obasa is not enjoying the backing of Abuja, he would not be doing what he is doing. How can the police claim that it had not enough police to give to the Speaker but had to give to Obasa. The thing is simple; the law is the law. If the majority of members decide on who they want as Speaker that ends it.”

Still, Obasa has refused to back down. Although he was said to have been promised some form of ‘soft landing’, he is yet to get used to the idea that power as he once knew it, has slipped from his hands. Nonetheless, his defiance has polarised groups in the state to the point that a separate mediation team led by former National Chairman of the APC, Bisi Akande has been drafted to mediate.

For one, the GAC, comprising ex-governors, serving and former Senators, former deputy governors and other APC leaders, across the 20 local government areas of the state and 37 local council development areas, are divided for and against Obasa. In fact, two members, Chief Muraina Taiwo and Senator Anthony Adefuye have taken side with Obasa, speaking publicly against what they considered the faulty process of his impeachment.

Moreover, the ongoing Assembly leadership impasse has introduced ethnic colouration into the ongoing fiasco because Meranda is a Lagosian as against Obasa, said to be from Ogun State. For this, many Lagos indigenes who have been campaigning for their turn in the top political positions in the state are asking Meranda not to resign.

It is for the party to decide, they (lawmakers) have no absolute power to remove and install their leaders. Nobody can become a member of the House of Assembly unless sponsored by a political party and the sponsors are the inspectors

The leaders assessed the crisis rocking the Assembly and criticised the action carried out by its members without recourse to the President, the party and other political leaders. They advised the Assembly members to commit themselves to party discipline and respect the party leadership as epitomised by President Tinubu, as anything to the contrary would amount to disloyalty to the party and disregard for the political system and legacy that produced them.

The leaders concluded that they would vigorously campaign and massively mobilise the Nigerian electorate for President Tinubu’s second term in office.

2027 CONNECTION

Given the recent mobilisation of opposition, particularly from the North, against the President ahead of the 2027 polls, there is palpable fear that the lingering Assembly leadership crisis must be resolved fast to safeguard what sources call the “president’s backyard and prevent enemies fishing in troubled waters.” Though they say that the dynamics has changed with the President now in power, they recall that the President lost the state to the candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi in the 2023 general election and that allowing the Assembly crisis to drag for too long would be bad optics for him.

Addressing this seeming helplessness of stakeholders at the weekend, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, the Chairman, GAC, said neither the council nor the party in the state was consulted before Obasa was removed as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. He said that the council should not be dragged into the leadership crisis that led to the removal of Obasa and his replacement by the Deputy Speaker, Mrs Mojisola Meranda. “We invited all of them and insisted that all of them are products of the party. They lodged their complaints and we listened to them. I blamed them for one thing and that is for not lodging the complaints earlier before the party.

“It is for the party to decide, they (lawmakers) have no absolute power to remove and install their leaders. Nobody can become a member of the House of Assembly unless sponsored by a political party and the sponsors are the inspectors.” He said no organ of government was totally independent of the other, adding that the party, GAC and another high-powered committee set up was working tirelessly to resolve the dispute.

That high-powered committee of the party is led by Chief Bisi Akande with members like Aremo Olusegun Osoba, and former APC National Vice Chairman, South-west, Chief Pius Akinyelure and others. “They are working and making efforts to resolve the matter. I know they are in consultation with the House of Assembly, Obasa and the other Speaker, Mrs Mojisola Lasbat Meranda. “Those of us in the GAC and the Chairman of the Party, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi are doing all within our power to assist the committee,” he added. Meranda agreed that the party leadership was taking the necessary steps to resolve the speakership tussle.

“We are definitely consulting with our leaders and all the rightful things will be done at the right time. Let us assure the people of Lagos that we are still committed to our party. We are still committed to our leadership and we are still committed to serving the people of Lagos State. That is what is more important,” she said. Constitutional lawyer, Oshioma said the Constitution should be allowed to take its course. “Section 92 of the Constitution is very clear. It should be allowed to operate or else there will be chaos and it can set a bad precedent for similar cases in years to come.”

Sub-section 1 of that part of the Constitution says: “There shall be a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker of a House of Assembly who shall be elected by the members of the House from among themselves.” He said he understood that political arrangements involving balancing on the three senatorial zones were part of the problem but argued that openly flouting constitutional provisions was undemocratic and a call to self-help.

President Bola Tinubu (sitting), Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, (l) President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun at the signing of the 2025 appropriation bill into law at the State House on Friday, February 28, 2025

NEWS

Ramadan Season Coincides With Nigeria’s Renewed Hope -Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has said that the sacred month of Ramadan coincides with the country’s renewed hope for progress and congratulated the Muslim faithful in Nigeria and worldwide on the beginning of the sacred month

The President, who expressed profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting “us the grace to witness the commencement of this holy month, a cornerstone of the Islamic faith., prayed that “this fasting and devotion period be marked by good health, spiritual fulfilment, and divine blessings.”

According to the President in a message issued on Saturday, Ramadan is a time for deep reflection, renewed devotion to Allah, and acts of compassion and generosity toward humanity.

“It is a season of spiritual rejuvenation, self-discipline, and empathy for the less fortunate. I urge all Muslims observing the fast to embrace the profound lessons of piety, humility, and selflessness that this holy month embodies. Let us use this period to strengthen our bonds with Allah and one another, fostering unity and peace in our communities.,” he said, adding that, “this year’s Ramadan holds special significance as it coincides with a period of renewed hope and progress for our nation.”

Continuing, he said, “Our administration’s bold and transformative policies are beginning to yield positive results,

as evidenced by the gradual stabilisation of our economy. The Gross Domestic Product for the last quarter of 2024 showed a marked improvement over the same period in 2023. The once-soaring prices of essential food items are now downward, providing much-needed relief to our fasting population and all Nigerians. The exchange rate is stabilising, and fuel prices are declining, signalling a brighter future.

“As the wet season approaches, we remain steadfast in boosting agricultural productivity. We are determined to enhance food production and ensure self-sufficiency and food security for all Nigerians through targeted input support, mechanisation, and innovative farming initiatives. Our resolve to build a resilient and prosperous nation remains unwavering.

“In this sacred month, I call on all Nigerians to join hands in prayer and action for our beloved country’s continued growth and development. Let us fervently seek Allah’s guidance and protection for our nation, and let our words and deeds reflect our shared commitment to peace, unity, and progress.

“I extend my heartfelt wishes to all Muslims observing Ramadan for a month filled with joy, peace, and spiritual renewal. May the blessings of this holy month illuminate our hearts and homes, and may we emerge from it as better individuals and a stronger nation.”

Opposition Lawmakers Reject Supreme Court Ruling on Rivers Allocation, LG Election

BY   FELIX IFIJEH

AGermany, EU Earmark ¢1.2m to Improve Social Cohesion in Borno, Adamawa

BY LADI DAPSON, MAIDUGURI

Oxfam, the German government and the European Union (EU) have earmarked ¢1.2 million to support three Local Government Areas of Adamawa and Borno States to improve social protection through community development planning.

Samuel Lashom, the Project Coordinator, Oxfam, said this at the “support to improving social cohesion through community development planning” launch in Maiduguri.

He noted that the project aimed to encourage and increase the people of the grassroots participation and inclusion regardless of their migration, beliefs and socio-cultural in governance.

Lashom said Oxfam had targeted 3,100 direct beneficiaries from the project, which was limited to the rural communities in the Kwaya Kusar, Biu, and Guyuk Local Government Areas of Borno and Adamawa.“We are targeting 3,100 direct beneficiaries on the project, and we can break it down, and as we have indicated, we have at least 100 people from each of the 33 wards that will be working with across the three local governments.

“We are happy to see the approach changing from what it used to from up to down. We want everyone to have a voice, especially at the local government levels”, he said. The coordinator said the project was limited to three council areas due to inadequate resources. Their international partners were committed to providing more funds to the remaining local government areas.

“As we have always known, resources are scarce. As development partners, we cannot simultaneously develop the project in all the local government areas.

“So, we are very strategic. We have started doing some work in the Southern Borno part. However, we have plans with partners to scale it up to other local governments in Northern Borno and the central part of Borno. But if you go to Adamawa, we will do it across all the geopolitical zones”, the coordinator said.

coalition of 27 federal lawmakers from opposition parties has condemned the Supreme Court’s ruling barring the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Accountant General of the Federation from releasing statutory allocations to Rivers State.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Opposition Lawmakers’ Coalition, Ikenga Ugochinyere, who represents Ideato Federal Constituency of Imo State, described the ruling as “strange” and warned that it could have severe consequences for the people of Rivers. The lawmakers also criticized the Supreme Court’s decision to invalidate the October 5 Rivers local government election, insisting that governance at the council level would

continue. Ugochinyere noted that the ruling did not reinstate the former council chairmen whose tenure expired last year. Expressing their unwavering support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the lawmakers maintained that he would remain in office until the appeal on the defection of 25 lawmakers led by Martins Amaewhule is resolved. “It is surprising that the Supreme Court faulted the Court of Appeal’s decision to vacate the initial order stopping the release of funds to Rivers State, simply because Governor Fubara did not r e-present the 2024 budget before the sacked Amaewhule-led faction,” Ugochinyere stated.

Lashom, however, said that the project had a series of activities lined up, which required a serious commitment from all stakeholders. “For instance, the next thing we will do is build up all team members’ capacity. The government partners, after which we will commence sensitisation for all the critical stakeholders, and then we will be involved in a dialogue with all the gatekeepers; we call it community entry.

“Where we are going to sit down on a round table and highlight everybody’s role, after which we commence full implementation by conducting community development planning sessions and, of course, coming out with other capacity building training across the three local governments”, he said.

L-R: Senate President Godswill Akpabio, VicePresident Kashim Shettima, President Bola Tinubu, Abdullahi Ganduje, Ajibola Basiru, at the APC NEC meeting in Abuja on Tuesday February 26, 2025.

Don Emphasises Critical Role of Mathematics in Understanding Life’s Complexities

Professor Musa Adeku Ibrahim, a Mathematics expert at the Federal University Lokoja in Kogi State, has emphasized the critical role mathematics plays in offering deep insights into various disciplines. Professor Ibrahim made this statement during the 24th Inaugural Lecture organized by the university.

He explained that mathematics is not only the study of numbers but also the exploration of patterns, structures, and relationships, developed through rigorous reasoning and abstraction. He noted that the methods of mathematics are grounded in logical deduction, establishing truths that are consistent and universal.

The professor’s lecture, titled “Unraveling the Tapestry of NonClassical Set Theory: Navigating Novel Paths in Understanding Life’s Complexities,” delved into the connection between mathematics and human experiences. He pointed out that identities are shaped by factors such as culture, upbringing, and personal beliefs, reflecting the dynamic and multifaceted nature of life.

“We explored the essence of non-classical set theory, examining its fundamental principles and alternative approaches it offers for understanding the complexities of life,” said Professor Ibrahim. He further emphasized that nonclassical set theory provides invaluable tools for navigating decision-making and reasoning in daily life.

“By embracing alternative methods and challenging traditional paradigms, we can gain deeper insights into the diverse and intricate fabric of our existence, enabling us to approach its complexities with clarity, resilience, and wisdom,” he added.

Professor Ibrahim described mathematics as the science of structure and relationships between these structures, asserting that abstract reasoning leads to profound and precise results. He referred to it as the “science of the mind” because of its logical nature.

The professor further explored the practical implications of the interplay between logic and mathematics, particularly in fields such as computer science, artificial intelligence, and cryptography. He explained that human nature, which is complex and influenced by a wide range of cognitive and emotional processes, can be analyzed through the frameworks of set-theoretic and fuzzy traits, providing insights into decision-making, emotional responses, and interpersonal

interactions.

He pointed out that non-classical set theory plays a significant role in expanding our understanding of mathematical structures and their application to real-world complexities.

Unlike classical set theory, which relies on rigid, binary logic, non-classical set theory introduces flexibility, allowing for the accommodation of vagueness, uncertainty, and contradictions. This flexibility, he argued, provides richer and more nuanced models for addressing life’s complexities, including decision-making, human identity, and artificial intelligence.

Professor Ibrahim noted that the advancement of nonclassical set theory offers valuable insights into both theoretical mathematics and practical problem-solving. He explained that while classical set theory aligns with structured, rulebased reasoning, fuzzy logic mirrors the adaptable, contextsensitive nature of human thought and decision-making. He called for greater recognition of this duality to help people navigate the complexities of life more effectively.

In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, described inaugural lectures as one of the most significant traditions in academic institutions globally.

He explained that inaugural lectures celebrate academic excellence and provide a platform for distinguished professors to share their research and intellectual contributions with the wider university community and the public.

“The inaugural lecture offers professors—who have reached the peak of their academic careers—a chance to present the culmination of years of research and reflection,” said Professor Akinwumi. “Today’s lecture stands out for its intellectual depth and interdisciplinary relevance, inviting us to engage with concepts that challenge traditional mathematical thinking while offering profound implications for other fields.”

He added, “This lecture is highly relevant to both our university community and the wider world. As a center of learning and innovation, our university must embrace groundbreaking ideas that challenge conventional knowledge and open new frontiers of discovery. I encourage everyone here to engage critically with these insights, as they may influence future research and applications across various disciplines.”

Ogun Building World-Class Aviation Estate to Compliment Agro Cargo Airport - Commissioner

For professionals and Investors working or doing business in and around the Ogun State Agro cargo airport, the construction of a 200 Housing Units Aviation Estate located at Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area of the state would provide a convenient living environment for their business to thrive.

Commissioner for Housing in the State, Jamiu Omoniyi, while inspecting the first phase of the aviation estate at Iperu, said that the estate was being built to support the agro cargo airport so that people who work and do business within the airport could have a place to call home.

He said that the provision of basic infrastructural facilities including electricity, good road network, fibre optic internet facility for business transactions, security and pipe borne water with 75,000 litre reservoir capacity would serve residents of the estate, adding that with about 5000 workers drawn from different skills including bricklayer, plumbers, roofers, electrician, aluminium fabricators among others, receiving 700 million daily wages, the state net Gross Domestic Products, GDP, would drastically improve.

Omoniyi said that due to the estate’s business advantage and infrastructural facilities, subscribers have bought houses in the first phase of the estate which is ready for commissioning, while asking subscribers to apply for the second phase which is currently undergoing construction.

He said that when operations begin at the agro cargo airport, the movement of goods and services as well as agricultural products would commence around the aerotropolis, making room for local businesses to thrive around the estate for economic growth.

The Commissioner said “the Gateway Aviation Estate is to compliment Ogun Agro Cargo Airport and other commercial operations of the airport which would also serve as a hub for business activities with the state”

“The airport on its own cannot thrive without having a community around it that is why the gateway aviation village is well primed to support and complement the aerotropolis so that people that work and do business around that environment will have a place where they can live and work.”

He said, “ One beautiful thing Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration has done is to open up the Remo Development clusters. In these clusters, we have the much-talked-about Gateway Village and the world standard aerotropolis with this, the movement of goods and services, raw materials and agricultural products will soon commence here.

BY  JOSEPH AMEDU, LOKOJA

BY SEGUN AYINDE, ABEOKUTA

POLITICS

APC NEC, National Caucus Seek Reconciliation

BY FELXI IFIJEH

After severally postponing its National Caucus and National Executive Committee meeting amid growing concern for direction in the party, the governing All Progressives Congress, APC, finally convened meetings of its two respected organs on February 25 and 26, 2025, respectively.

The meetings were postponed last November and since then the party has been reeling from crisis of leadership, accusations of anti-party activities, succession and postelections issues in some state chapters. These high-level gatherings took place at the Presidential Villa and the party’s National Secretariat on 40 Blantyre Street, Wuse II, Abuja.

In attendance at these exclusive gatherings were key stakeholders, including past and present Presidents, Vice Presidents, governors, National Assembly members and other leaders from across the states. But ex-President Muhammadu Buhari and his Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former President of the Senate Ahmad Lawan, as well as former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai and his Ekiti counterpart, Kayode Fayemi, including former Transportation Minister, Rotimi Amaechi were noticeably absent. Buhari’s adie, Garba Shehu however explained that his principal’s absence was not deliberate.

He said the former president received his invitation a day to the event and could not plan for it. El-Rufai had told Arise TV during an interview that he was yet to receive any invitation two days to the event, which he decried because, according to him, members of the NEC ought to be given a 21- day notice before the occasion. National Secretary of the party, Senator Ajibola Basiru said Osinbajo and Fayemi sent in their apologies for their inability to attend and pledged their loyalty to the party.

Nevertheless, the NEC as the highest decision making organ of the party, expectedly discuss party policies, future elections, and other burning national issues. The meetings featured a high-powered attendance list, including the National Chairman, Deputy National Chairman (North and South), National Secretary, National Legal Adviser, National Treasurer, Organising Secretary, Woman Leader, Youth Leader, and representatives from each geo-political zone.

At the NEC meeting last Tuesday, President Tinubu was given a vote of confidence by the party. The motion for the confidence vote was moved by Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State and he was seconded by former Edo State governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole. An elated Tinubu thanked members of the party for their support for his administration.

He said, ”I have heard your various remarks on how we have strengthened the security of our country and food security in the country. I am grateful to all Nigerians for the electoral successes that we have from one state to another and I am also happy for the various people joining us in the National Assembly.

“On the economy, I am happy the food prices are going down particularly during this Ramadan period. I thank the leadership of our party. Let the NEC find a way to celebrate our progressive ideals. And I promise you our governors and Nigerians that we will sustain these progressive changes. I am very happy and I promise not to let any of you down.

Earlier, National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, while presenting his scorecards, counted among his achievements, reconciliation drive, the e-membership register and the establishment of the Progressives Institute, which he described as an independent, self-sustaining global standard institute, which will serve as the official Think-Tank and intellectual Resource Centre of the party.

Even so on the table for critical action in the days ahead

would be crisis in seven states, namely Adamawa, Bayelsa, Benue, Delta, Lagos, Kaduna, Kano, Rivers and Osun and who succeeds National Chairman, a seat the North Central zone of the party has been call attention since former Kano Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje was appointed to succeed Senator Abdullahi Adamu who resigned in July 2023 after the general elections held in that year.

Fortunately for him, the NEC ratified zoning of the office to the North West zone. Ganduje is from Kano State. In the states, the crisis has been lingering to the point that Ministers are embarrassed with suspension orders by wards, which the National Working Committee, NCW, had to vacate.

An example is Bayelsa where Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lopkobiri and exgovernorship aspirant on the platform of the party, David Lyon clashed over denial of the governorship ticket to the latter in 2023 that his predecessor, Timipre Sylva won. The crisis made it hard for the party to present a united front in the governorship poll, leading eventually to the suspension of some chieftains of the party in the state including Lyon and Lokpobiri.

In Delta, the leadership crisis is about to be resolved following the defection of Senator Ned Nwoko from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the APC last month. The immediate impact of his defection was the validation of the leadership of Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development after an adhoc Committee led by Olorogun O’tega Emerhor rejected the leadership claims of former Deputy Senate Ovie Omo Agege by virtue of having lost his national standing as an appointed or elected member. Keyamo sealed his leadership in the state when he led a delegation from the state to present Senator Nwoko to the National Chairman, Ganduje and his NWC team in Abuja.

In Osun, the lingering differences between Minister of Marina and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola and exGovernor of the State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola finally took

We are making it clear to everyone: if they bring him [Abbas] back, we will leave. The party will surely fail again. We are not with such people, and no matter what happens, we will not align with them “

its toll with the former Interior Minister resigning from the party alongside his political group in the state, Omoluabi Progressives. His exit has polarised the party in the state, and has compounded the party’s misfortunes following its loss of the governorship in 2022 and the National Assembly positions in the 2023 general election.

In Benue, Senator Gabriel Suswan, Senator Barnabas Gemande are said to be at ‘war’with Governor Hyacinth Alia and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. The latter reportedly warned the governor to be wary of the ‘friendship’ of both senators.

In Lagos State, the lingering Assembly leadership crisis has currently polarized the party in the state.

In Rivers State, the party is factionalised into two groups led by former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi with Emeka Beke as his chairman and another group led by Tony Okocha. Both have been using the law courts to legitimise their positions though the NWC often leans towards the Okocah faction, particularly since Amaechi’s perceived anti-Tinubu administration’s stand.

The Governor Uba Sani and his predecessor, Nasir elRufai are locked in supremacy battle over allegations of corruption during the latters’ administration.

The Kano State chapter of the party erupted in crisis a few days after the party’s NEC and National Caucus meeting. This happened when the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Atta, openly rejected the party’s state chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, who was handpicked by Ganduje

Atta’s strong opposition emerged during a Fagge APC Caucus meeting in Kano, where he warned that the APC risked another political defeat in the state if Abbas remained at the helm, arguing that his continued leadership would weaken the party’s chances of reclaiming Kano from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

He accused the APC leadership of failing to recognize divine authority in politics. He declared that the party lost the 2023 gubernatorial election not because of the opposition’s strength, but because it had “challenged God.” “We are making it clear to everyone: if they bring him [Abbas] back, we will leave. The party will surely fail again. We are not with such people, and no matter what happens, we will not align with them,” Atta thundered.

Since its defeat in the governorship and nine National Assembly positions in the 2023 general election in Adamawa State, the party has lost the loyalty of many members who operate indifferent camps. Nevertheless, the governing party has been harvesting defectors from both the main opposition PDP and the Labour party both at the National Assembly and general members across states in the country.

“Through dialogue, we have initiated high level discussions among party leaders and other stakeholders with a view to resolving lingering differences between our members,” Ganduje said after the occasion.

Outrageous YouTube Surgery in Owerri

Every profession has its fair share of quacks. But quacks can intrude and thrive in any profession when it fails to maintain standards and apply sanctions as a form of check on members’ excesses and keep invaders away. The story of quackery in the medical profession in Nigeria is legion; many have been caught performing  surgery, which often results in the death of the patient.

implemented is questionable.

Indeed, things got so bad a few years ago, that the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, introduced a doctor stamp which, it said, will be mandatory on all medical documents issued by any physician that is registered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria

Indeed, things got so bad a few years ago, that the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, introduced a doctor stamp which, it said, will be mandatory on all medical documents issued by any physician that is registered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, the stamp is an anti-quackery measure. The idea is that if a doctor’s stamp is on any report, the stamp has the file number of that doctor, the name of that doctor, the institution and the year they graduated from medical school. In addition, each medical institution, particularly private institutions, are meant to have a logo of such a stamp by their sample so that it can help to identify a qualified doctor. That stamp was reportedly made mandatory for registered doctors from 31st march, 2018.

Any doctor who fails to comply with the directive will be treated as a quack.  How far this policy has been

This is because sometime in February 2025, a depressing story broke about the death of a mother and her baby after doctors and nurses performed surgery on her while watching YouTube Videos to perform the operation. According to the patient’s husband, Onyedikachi Eze, a building contractor, the hospital had called two male doctors and three female nurses to assist with the operation.

He said, “They were hired by Dr. Lebechi. Three of her nurses also assisted, bringing the total to five people involved in the surgery. Dr. Lebechi was not in the theatre during the operation. She left twice to buy fuel for the generator. The nurses knew me and my wife well. We weren’t strangers at the hospital. It was the nurses who were watching YouTube videos on how to perform the C-section.”

In desperation Mr. Eze fulfilled the demands made by the owner of the hospital, Dr. Lebechi Chijioke, including buying fuel for the hospital’s power generator, repeatedly going to buy blood at only approved places and while, returning to the hospital from one of the trips to buy blood, heard, “Dr. Lebechi casually mentioned that surgery was not her area of specialisation.”

In fact, the conduct of the doctors and nurses clearly shows they are unqualified as Eze noted and Dr.

OPINION

TEnd of an Era in Nigerian Politics

BY ABIODUN KOMOLAFE

he passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned elder statesman and Afenifere chieftain and foremost Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, mark the end of an era. Adebanjo, like Clark, embodied the spirit of emancipation, which arose from the earlier stages of the agitation to end the colonial incursion in Africa.

Indeed, Clark was, as a student at Holborn College of Law in London, an active member of the West African Students’ Union (WASU). Between 1952 and 1965. He was also a member of the Honourable Society of Inner Temple, London.

WASU is of great significance. It triggered the current of thinking based on the progressive philosophical base, not just for dismantling colonialism but also for presenting a programme of action to guide the post-colonial state.

The position of WASU affected the thinking of movements such as the Action Group (AG) in Nigeria and the Convention People’s Party (CPP) in Ghana, amongst others.

Indeed, the AG’s manifesto pledge, to ‘make life more abundant’, was aligned with WASU’s affiliation with the ground-breaking manifesto of the Labour Party in 1945, ‘Let us face the future’, which has stood as the most important manifesto ever issued. Significantly, it was the AG manifesto in 1951 which persuaded Adebanjo to switch from the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) to AG. The late sage obviously felt that AG’s manifesto was in alignment with his own political philosophy.

By the time the foremost nationalist switched to AG, the NCNC had undergone a significant shift in its ideology. Following the death of Herbert Macaulay, the party abandoned its initial stance on a federalist post-colonial state and adopted a highly centralised ‘unification’ position. This drastic change had far-reaching consequences, leading to disastrous effects that still plague the country today.

Adebanjo’s shift in allegiance revealed the politics of an era which was based on philosophical ideas and ideological thrusts. This is in marked contradistinction to today’s trend of ‘decamping’ for purely personal advancement and pecuniary benefits. He remained steadfast in his progressive beliefs from his early 20s until his passing at 96. This is why an era has passed and the passing of

Tthat era should be treated with deep regret. The highly respected Nigerian did not shift from his ideological position, through tribulations, setbacks and defeats, including the prospect of going to jail.

THE DEMISE OF GIANTS LIKE AYO ADEBANJO SERVES AS A POIGNANT REMINDER THAT THE BATON OF LEADERSHIP MUST BE PASSED TO A NEW GENERATION OF NIGERIANS WHO ARE EQUALLY COMMITTED TO THE IDEALS OF DEMOCRACY, SOCIAL JUSTICE AND FEDERALISM

During the 1962 treasonable felony trial, Adebanjo faced a choice: abandon his principles and gain a lucrative appointment by testifying for the prosecution or stand firm. He chose the latter. Today, the political atmosphere is in direct contrast to the faithfulness exhibited by Isanya Ogbo, an Ijebu Ode-born leader, and the nation is financially and morally poorer for it. Nigeria is today mired in the ’development of the underdevelopment’, underachievement and an alarming slide into the fringes in the world pecking order.

In my January 6, 2009, article, ‘Afenifere: Once upon an identity’, I wrote that many Yoruba people believed the once-revered body had become extinct, with its relevance dying even before the passing of notable figures like Bola Ige and Abraham Adesanya. Fast-forward to today, the question remains: How relevant is Afenifere in the face of widespread crises, including security concerns and rampant unemployment in the Southwest?

If a country’s politics is not ideologically driven, there are always consequences. In other words, if Nigeria had continued to produce people who believed in the ideological current and stayed faithful, the country could have lived to be at par with Brazil, which is the world’s 10th largest economy; if not, with India, which is the 5th largest. Instructively, there was a clear ideological mandate of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva that, in his first coming, that translated into practice moved 40 million Brazilians out of poverty and built one million housing units annually for eight years. Nigeria could have achieved similar progress, and more, if it had continued to create the atmosphere that produced Ayo Adebanjo and Edwin Clark.

Generally speaking, Nigeria’s biggest problem is the attitude of its leaders and the popular. Imagine the plight of the average citizen.

Technology Policies: Refineries and Artificial Intelligence Pathways

BY UKADIKE NWAOBI

he United States leveraged technological advancements over three decades to enhance domestic oil and gas production and supply security, leading to the shale gas revolution.

The US Council of Economic Advisers indicated that innovation in energy technology resulted in an eight-fold increase in natural gas extraction productivity and a nineteen-fold increase in oil between 2007 and 2019. This progress was supported by research and development initiatives from both private and government sectors, along with regulatory changes, land use adjustments, and fiscal incentives for emerging technologies. These efforts were motivated by anticipated macroeconomic benefits, including job creation and supply chain requirements. The eventual outcomes included changes in supply and price dynamics and infrastructural developments, such as retrofitting former import terminals into export terminals.

A unique aspect of Nigeria’s energy policy is its reliance on the presidency rather than political party affiliation. An empirical review of Nigeria’s petroleum sector liberalisation policies reveals similar objectives despite a combination of quasi-socialist and capitalist approaches implemented through various strategies across different political administrations. For example, President Obasanjo introduced a privatisation policy to optimise stranded assets through private-sector investment. On the other hand, President Yar’ Adua opposed this philosophy, especially regarding the energy midstream sector (i.e., refineries), despite both presidents being from the same political party.

Consequently, the liberalisation opposition resulted in financial decisions by investors to develop independent refineries—modular and integrated— supported by favourable policies and licences during the Jonathan presidency. Most recently, under President Buhari, there was also financial and capital support for refinery development, even though his administration was perceived as quasi-socialist. Additionally, the role of various state and local governments in facilitating land-use policy changes is essential to note. As a result of these events and policies from multiple Nigerian presidencies, the Dangote Refinery and other modular refineries are now operational, leading to local production of refined products

and, consequently, reduced imports. This shift has provided fiscal and monetary benefits and changed trade flow dynamics. In 2024, Nigeria experienced public energy policy deliberations and negotiations between Dangote Refinery and various downstream players, including oil traders, retailers, and regulators. However, firm, independent, deliberate energy regulation and policy are needed to enhance and optimise Nigeria’s refinery technology uptake and spillover effects.

Interestingly, state-owned refineries, which had previously been moribund and suffering from a lack of technological support, are almost operational due to ideological backing and supply competition. A refinery industrial revolution in 2025 is not ideal.

ENERGY SUPPLY AND SECURITY ARE PREREQUISITES FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT. A RECENT STUDY INDICATES THAT 1.5 MILLION ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SERVERS RUNNING AT FULL CAPACITY WOULD CONSUME AT LEAST 85.4 TERAWATT-HOURS OF ELECTRICITY ANNUALLY, HIGHLIGHTING THE CORRELATION BETWEEN ENERGY SECURITY/SUPPLY AND THE GROWING DEMAND FOR DATA AND AI

Nigeria is currently at least three decades behind in energy technology. Some believe that global political powers have allowed Nigeria’s refinery revolution to progress due to global decarbonisation policies and support for renewable energy options.

Furthermore, the international relevance of the energy industry has changed; ExxonMobil is the only energy technology firm in the S&P 20, whereas the top nine firms are now information technology-related— this was not the case 30 years ago when ExxonMobil ranked first on the index.

Energy supply and security are prerequisites for information technological advancement. A recent study indicates that 1.5 million artificial intelligence servers running at full capacity would consume at least 85.4 terawatt-hours of electricity annually, highlighting the correlation between energy security/ supply and the growing demand for data and AI.

157.3% Surge in Pre-Tax Profit to N13.6bn

...Board Approves Record

N4.4bn Dividend for Shareholders

The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) Plc has announced its audited financial results for the year ended 31 December 2024, delivering a record-breaking profit before tax (PBT) of N13.6 billion, marking an impressive 157.3% year-on-year growth.

In a statement on Friday, signed by Mr. Izuchukwu Akpa, its Ag. Company Secretary, the NGX explained that this strong performance was driven by robust revenue expansion, strategic cost optimization, and increased market participation, reflecting the Group’s resilience and financial strength.

The Group’s gross earnings surged by 103.2% to N24.0 billion in FY 2024, up from N11.8 billion in the previous year, propelled by significant growth across key revenue streams:

•Transaction fees rose 64.0%, driven by heightened market activity.

•Listing fees increased by 397.1%, reflecting stronger capital market participation.

•Technology related income grew by 105%, reflecting the success of the group’s digital transformation efforts

•Other fees recorded a 174.8% growth, reinforcing the Group’s diversified revenue base.

•Treasury investment income climbed 45.6%, highlighting NGX Group’s effective asset management.

•Market data revenue grew by 100.5%, contributing to a 102.6% rise in other income, which now accounts for 29.6% of gross earnings.

EDITOR Sam Diala

Fibre Protection: Ministries Commence Action Against Damage During Road Works

Expanding Jobless GDP Mirrors Troubled Agriculture, Manufacturing Sector

The Federal Government is celebrating the country’s recent Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report published by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which showed a 3.84 percent growth in real terms in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024. The performance reflects an improvement from the 3.46 percent growth recorded in the same period of 2023. It also marks a slight increase from the previous quarter which recorded a 3.46 percent growth rate.

For the full year 2024, Nigeria’s economy grew by 3.40 percent, an improvement from the 2.74 percent recorded in 2023, also being applauded by the authorities as a positive mark of economic development. The NBS attributes the GDP expansion to stronger performance in the services sector, which recorded a 5.37 percent growth rate and accounted for 57.38 percent of the country’s total GDP.

THE WORRYING TREND

Despite the overall economic growth, the agriculture sector, which remains critical for food security and employment, recorded a slower expansion of 1.76 percent, down from 2.10 percent in the corresponding quarter of 2023. Crop production remained dominant, accounting for 90.70 percent of the sector’s contribution to GDP.

In terms of GDP contribution, agriculture contributed 25.59 percent to Nigeria’s GDP in real terms, constituting a decrease from 26.11 percent in the same period in 2023. This reflected the declining trajectory recorded in the Q3 2024 when agriculture’s contribution to real GDP dropped to 28.65 percent from 29.31 percent in the same quarter of 2022.

The manufacturing sector, which also plays a critical role in terms of employment, recorded a real GDP growth rate of 1.79 percent in Q4 2024, up from 1.38 percent in the previous quarter. This was mainly on account of improved performance at Eleme Petrochemical and revival of the petroleum refineries.

However, manufacturing’s share of GDP fell to 8.07 percent, from 8.23 percent in the corresponding quarter of 2023.

that several multinational companies have exited the Nigerian market due to the tough business environment.”

INFLATIONARY IMPACT

Nigeria’s inflationary outlook has undergone a significant shift, following the recent rebasing of the CPI by the NBS. The latest data for January 2025 shows headline inflation reactions at 24.48%, a sharp 10.32 basis points decline from December 2024’s 34.80%.

The sector’s contribution to the GDP in Q3 2024 declined to 8.21 percent from 8.42 percent in the corresponding period of 2023. The sector in Q3 2024 contributed 8.59 percent and 8.42 percent to the GDP in Q3 2022 and Q3 2021 respectively.

In recognition of this exceptional performance, the Board of Directors has approved a final dividend of N4.4 billion, translating to N2.00 per share, the highest dividend payout in the Group’s history.

This decision reaffirms NGX Group’s commitment to delivering value to shareholders while maintaining a strong capital position.

Speaking on the results, Group Chairman, NGX Group, Alhaji Dr. Umaru Kwairanga stated:

Continues on page 35

Analysts at FBNQuest Capital Research had said in a note that the sector’s progress was constrained by multiple macro-headwinds, including the adverse impact of high inflation on household wallets and operating costs, high-interest environment, and naira volatility.

“The sector posted another sluggish growth,” the Analysts said, noting

DELIBERATE POLICIES THEREFORE MUST BE PUT IN PLACE TO DEVELOP THE LOCAL SUPPLY CHAIN WITH NIGERIA FARMERS, IN AN EFFORT TO BOOST LOCAL SUGAR CANE PRODUCTION, INCREASE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY AND CREATE EMPLOYMENT ALONG THAT VALUE CHAIN

The NBS maintains that the surge in food inflation continues to challenge the economy, with firms shutting down over high operation costs while households experience steep drop in living standard spiked by high cost of living.

The NBS also explained that worsening insecurity across the country, especially in the North which is the nation’s food basket, is behind the high cost of food. It noted that the mass food producing areas of the North have been under the siege of insecurity in the past nine years.

In states like Niger, Benue, Plateau, Borno, Katsina, Taraba and others, the farming communities have deserted

Expanding Jobless GDP Mirrors Troubled... BUSINESS WEEKLY NGX Group Reports...

their farm lands where they were displaced by bandits, herdsmen, terrorists and kidnappers; and are now living in the internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.

Unfortunately, there are no signs that the ugly trend is likely to improve in 2025, given the continued spate of killings and abductions in the North since the beginning of the Bola Tinubu-led government in May 2023, and since the year as has been the case in Benue

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) last week maintained its benchmark interest rate of 27.50 percent as manufacturers struggle with the high interest rate amid rising production costs.

Muda Yusuf, chief executive officer, of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) said it is troubling that despite the declining growth performance of many critical sectors of the economy as earlier evidenced in the third quarter GDP report, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) continued its tightening stance

PRODUCTIVITY-GAP CONCERN

Nigeria’s jobless GDP growth, which hinges on the poor performance of the real sector, constitutes a major concern to industry and economy watchers as it is subsumed in the growth euphoria among government officials.

Industry experts observe that the Q4 2024 GDP growth numbers which are suboptimal for a 200 million population growing at 3 percent as GDP per capita, had fallen to an all-time low, with an economy struggling with stagflation.

“This highlights ‘The Output Gap’ problem in the Nigerian economy where we are falling short of our productivity and growth potential,” said Adetilewa Adebajo, CEO, The CFG Advisory, in a note last week.

According to Adebajo, the Nigerian government needs to

revamp its trade policy and effect the Harmonised System (HS) Codes realignment of the industrial policy, in order to address the declining productivity in manufacturing, industry and agriculture in an effort to boost growth, stressing that investment policy incentives also need to be amplified.

He said, “Excessive fiscal spending with a N150 trillion debt burden, 2 years cumulative 40 trillion naira deficit is a source of concern.

“N16 trillion for debt service in the 2025 budget exceeds the defense, education, health and infrastructure budgets combined at N14 trillion. While the sovereign risk spreads have fallen to a 5-year low on our sovereign bonds, our credit rating remains at junk bond status.”

WAY OUT

Industry experts emphasise that the Government has to optimize equity in its capital structure by selling assets in an effort to reduce its debt profile and achieve investment grade credit ratings.

Adebajo noted that the direction of government should be to enact policies that will enhance productivity, create employment, close the output gap and grow the economy.

While relative stability has been achieved in the economy, to build on this requires deliberate industrial policies to achieve import substitution in targeted sectors of the economy; building on the success with cement, fertilizer and petroleum refining, should be replicated.

“Deliberate policies therefore must be put in place to develop the local supply chain with Nigeria farmers, in an effort to boost local sugar cane production, increase agricultural productivity and create employment along that value chain. Closing the output gap is the only way to achieve the desired trillion-dollar economy,” the industry expert noted.

The Federal Ministry of Works (FMoW) and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMoCIDE) have established a Joint Standing Committee on the Protection of Fiber Optic Cables to address the persistent issue of fiber optic cuts and damages caused by road construction and rehabilitation activities. These disruptions have had a significant negative impact on telecommunications services across Nigeria.

The Joint Standing Committee on Protection of Fiber Optic Cables was inaugurated Tuesday 18th February at the Boardroom of the FMoW, by the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, and his counterpart at the FMoCIDE, Engr Farouk Yusuf, with the attendance of the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida. The Committee is comprised of key staff from the two ministries and the NCC.

The main assignment of the joint Standing Committee is to establish and maintain clear communication/co-ordination channels between the two ministries and the NCC in order to limit and prevent damage to Telecommunications Fiber Optic cables during road constructions or rehabilitation activities.

“These results mark a pivotal moment in NGX Group’s post-demutualisation growth journey, reinforcing investor confidence in our long-term vision.

“The approval of a record N4.4 billion dividend demonstrates our unwavering commitment to rewarding shareholders while positioning NGX Group as a key driver of capital market development. As we continue to invest in market infrastructure and innovation, we remain focused on creating sustainable value for all stakeholders.

“The NGX Group under my leadership is focused on harnessing the entrepreneurial and innovative spirit of Nigeria’s private sector to drive the economy to greater heights.”

NGX Group’s outstanding financial performance in 2024 reflects the success of its strategic expansion and innovation agenda, including:

•The launch of NGX Invest, which has facilitated N1.845 trillion in capital raises for the banking sector, enhancing liquidity and investor participation.

•Expansion into new markets, marked by a strategic investment in the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), reinforcing the Group’s

regional footprint.

•Workforce optimization and operational efficiency initiatives, leading to improved cost management and productivity.

Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Temi Popoola, commented:

“NGX Group’s remarkable performance in 2024 reflects our strategic focus on execution, operational excellence, and innovation.

The 157.3% increase in profit before tax underscores the strength of our execution strategy and the dedication of our team.

“By leveraging technology, expanding market data solutions, and strengthening our partnerships, we have built a more resilient and diversified business model that positions us for sustained growth.

“Looking ahead, we remain committed to deepening market participation, broadening investment opportunities, and driving efficiency across the capital market ecosystem.

“We will continue investing in innovation, enhancing market infrastructure, and developing new platforms that improve accessibility and attract a wider range of investors.

Through these efforts, we

Fibre Protection: Ministries Commence Action Against Damage During Road Works

Engr. Adebiyi, while inaugurating the Committee, directed it to establish modalities to ensure the reduction of damage to deployed fiber optic cables resulting from road construction and maintenance activities, as well as vandalism which has caused severe incidences of service disruption across the country.

He said the Committee will serve as a coordinating body for all issues pertaining to the protection of fiber optic cables, before, during and after the completion of road constructions or maintenance activities, and will meet on a regular basis to discuss identified problems, agree on industry-wide solutions, set standard engagement processes and procedures, as well as share monthly performance reports.

“They are also expected to develop an instant communication mechanism to facilitate prompt communication and dissemination of information amongst all stakeholders,” he said.

He assured that going forward, the Ministry will ensure that the placement of fiber cables will be considered in the planning, design and construction of the country’s road networks, and would include providing for ducts during constructions.

Engr. Adebiyi further stated that the committee will work closely with all Federal Controllers of Works (FCW) to give attention to the task of protecting this sensitive infrastructure during the planning and implementation stages of projects across the roads in the country, while aligning with the telecom operators on all ongoing and future projects.

Engr. Farouk Yusuf, in his remarks, highlighted the significance of fiber optics cables to the country’s economy, stating that fiber networks are the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy, enabling the seamless delivery of both fixed and mobile broadband services essential for nationwide connectivity, economic growth, and technological innovation.

He noted that the Committee’s work is crucial to ensuring that telecommunication services are not hampered by the work of construction companies.

The EVC/CEO of NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the significance of the Committee’s mandate, noting that it has the potential to significantly reduce service disruptions across Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.

“This is a pivotal moment for the telecommunication industry and its customers.

Fiber networks are the foundation of Nigeria’s broadband ecosystem, providing the essential

high-capacity backhaul required to deliver ultrafast 4G and 5G speeds, as these next-generation mobile technologies rely on fiber infrastructure to ensure low latency, high reliability, and seamless data transmission.

“Last year, we experienced over 50,000 fiber cuts incidents across the country of which around 30,000 were attributed to Federal and State Road construction activities. In the extreme, some of these incidents had led to major network outages like the February 2024 nationwide MTN network outage.

“A key contributor to the increasing number of fiber cuts attributed to road construction activities is the lack of an efficient handshake mechanism between road construction companies and operators of the fiber infrastructure.

“I am optimistic that the work of this Committee will lead to a significant reduction in fiber cuts attributed to road construction which would then reduce network outages, avoid unnecessary expenditure on repair works and reduce the need to put redundant routes in place to serve as alternatives whenever there are outages due to fiber cuts.

“This initiative is not just for the benefit of the telecommunications industry but for all Nigerians. Every time a fiber cut occurs, consumers experience service disruptions. The industry is forced to invest in costly redundancy measures, but if we can prevent these avoidable disruptions, operators can redirect resources towards network expansion and infrastructure improvement,” Dr. Maida stated.

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Continues from page 34

The Role of Financial Literacy in Accelerating Economic Development in Africa

BY ADESUWA LILIAN EDOKPOLOR

Africa is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies, driven by a young and dynamic population, rapid urbanisation, and increasing digital transformation. However, despite this immense potential, financial exclusion remains a significant barrier to economic prosperity. One of the primary contributors to this challenge is the widespread lack of financial literacy.

Financial literacy—the ability to understand and effectively use financial skills such as budgeting, personal financial management, and investing—is fundamental to individual and national economic growth. Without it, access to financial services, wealth creation, and sustainable development remains limited.

THE CURRENT STATE OF FINANCIAL LITERACY IN AFRICA

Africa has made remarkable strides in financial inclusion, with mobile banking, fintech solutions, and innovative lending platforms leading the way. According to the World Bank, financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa grew from 23 percent in 2011 to 55 percent in 2021, largely driven by mobile money adoption. However, financial literacy levels remain critically low, limiting the effective use of financial services.

Studies indicate that a significant portion of Africa’s population lacks basic financial knowledge. Many individuals do not understand fundamental concepts such as interest rates, inflation, or debt management, making them vulnerable to financial missteps. The effects of low financial literacy are evident in the following ways:

Limited savings culture: Many Africans struggle to develop a savings habit, leading to financial insecurity. High debt mismanagement: From informal borrowing to high-interest loans, many individuals take on unsustainable debt without understanding repayment obligations.

Low investment participation: Capital markets and investment vehicles remain underutilised due to a lack of awareness.

Susceptibility to financial fraud: Ponzi schemes and fraudulent investment platforms exploit financially illiterate populations. Addressing these gaps is crucial for fostering sustainable economic growth in Africa.

A financially literate population makes informed decisions about earning, saving, investing, and spending. When individuals understand the importance of budgeting and financial planning, they can avoid unnecessary debt and work toward financial security. For example, Kenya’s M-Pesa has revolutionised financial transactions for millions. However, financial literacy ensures that users do not accumulate debts through mobile loans without a repayment plan.

PROMOTING ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND BUSINESS GROWTH

Africa’s economic transformation is largely driven by entrepreneurship, but many SMEs struggle with poor financial management. Financial literacy helps entrepreneurs understand taxation, regulatory requirements, funding options, risk management, and business sustainability strategies. Nigeria’s Bank of Industry offers business loans to SMEs, but many fail to utilize them.

BOOSTING FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND ACCESS TO CREDIT

Financial literacy fosters trust in formal financial systems. Informed individuals are more likely to open bank accounts, use insurance services, and access credit responsibly. In Ghana and Rwanda, financial education campaigns have boosted the adoption of microfinance and savings schemes, enabling individuals and businesses to invest in productive ventures rather than relying on exploitative informal lenders.

ENCOURAGING A CULTURE OF SAVINGS AND

INVESTMENTS

A robust savings culture boosts economic stability, reduces government aid, and supports infrastructure development. Increased participation in stock markets, bonds, and mutual funds channels funds into productive sectors, with South Africa’s advanced capital markets potentially boosting retail investor participation.

REDUCING FINANCIAL FRAUD AND ECONOMIC LOSSES

Lack of financial knowledge makes individuals vulnerable to scams and high-risk investment schemes. Across Africa, fraudulent schemes promise unrealistic returns, preying on unsuspecting individuals. Financial literacy helps people identify legitimate financial opportunities and understand risk factors, protecting their hard-earned wealth.

ENHANCING GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND ECONOMIC STABILITY

A financially literate population supports sound economic policies. When citizens understand taxation, inflation, and public budgeting, they are more likely to support policies that promote economic stability. In Uganda, financial education initiatives have helped farmers manage agricultural loans better, improving productivity and reducing default rates.

STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE FINANCIAL LITERACY IN AFRICA INTEGRATING FINANCIAL EDUCATION INTO SCHOOL CURRICULA

Introducing financial literacy at an early age creates a financially responsible generation. Schools should teach students about saving, investing, debt management, and entrepreneurship. South Africa has incorporated financial literacy into its national curriculum, and more African nations should follow suit.

LEVERAGING DIGITAL PLATFORMS FOR FINANCIAL EDUCATION

With mobile penetration exceeding 80 percent in many African countries, digital platforms offer a scalable way to educate the masses. Financial literacy apps, online courses, and social media campaigns can reach diverse audiences.

For example, fintech startups like PiggyVest (Nigeria) and Safaricom’s DigiFarm (Kenya) integrate financial education into their platforms, enabling users to make better financial decisions.

PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS FOR FINANCIAL EDUCATION

Governments, financial institutions, and NGOs must collaborate to develop nationwide financial literacy programs. Initiatives such as Ghana’s Financial Literacy Week and Nigeria’s SEC Capital Market Literacy Initiative exemplify how public and private sectors can work together. Community-based financial education programmes

Rural communities, often reliant on informal economies, need tailored financial literacy programmes. Grassroots organisations and cooperatives can provide training on savings groups, microfinance, and risk management.

WORKPLACE FINANCIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMMES

Employers can enhance financial literacy by offering workshops on financial planning, pension education, and investment guidance, ensuring employees make sound financial decisions for themselves and their families.

Regulating and standardising financial products

Governments should enforce policies that promote transparency in financial products and services. Clear terms, fair interest rates, and consumer protection laws can prevent exploitation and encourage responsible financial behaviour.

CONCLUSION

Financial literacy is not just an individual necessity—it is a national asset. A financially literate population drives entrepreneurship, increases investment, reduces poverty, and strengthens economic resilience.

To accelerate economic development, Africa must prioritise financial education. Governments, financial institutions, and educational organisations must work together to create widespread financial awareness. With the right strategies in place, Africa can unlock its full economic potential and create a prosperous future for all.

•Edokpolor, an investment specialist and management executive, is a member of the Forbes Finance Council

Financial literacy—the ability to understand and effectively use financial skills such as budgeting, personal financialmanagement, and investing—is fundamental to individual and national economic growth

Can Fintech Outsmart Financial Criminals in the Digital Age?

BY JAPINYE ABAYOMI OLUWASEUN

In 2023, the financial scene took a big hit when a sophisticated money laundering scheme in Singapore funneled over $2 billion using digital methods. Fast forward less than a year, and the UK’s National Crime Agency kicked off a global investigation that brought down a billiondollar Russian money-laundering operation. These eye-catching cases raise an important question: Can fintech really be the go-to solution for tackling financial crime in this digital age? With digital payment systems changing, they’re attracting all sorts of criminals who are looking to use them for money laundering, cryptocurrency smuggling, and creating shady digital shell companies. But here’s the thing: while tech gives these bad guys new tools for their illicit activities, it also offers us fresh ways to fight back. The real challenge is whether fintech can stay a step ahead of these criminals. Those days of criminals sticking to cash and secretive bank accounts are long gone. Nowadays, these financial wrongdoers are tech-savvy, using decentralized networks, encrypted transactions, and layered moneymoving techniques to hide their dirty cash.

Cryptocurrency has really shaken things up, too. A recent case from Eastern Europe showed how a criminal group was using Bitcoin to wash millions, leaving regulators and law enforcement pretty frustrated. On top of that, DeFi platforms add another layer of complexity.

FINTECH AS THE COUNTERMEASURE

People often see fintech as part of the problem, but it’s also key to the solution. The same tech advancements that criminals are taking advantage of can actually be turned against them. New fintech innovations are giving us cool tools to detect, prevent, and disrupt financial crimes like never before.

AI plays a huge role in modern transaction tracking, scanning large transactions in realtime to spot anything unusual. Machine learning sharpens our detection skills, and blockchain tech makes financial transactions clearer and harder to mess with, making it easier for authorities to trace the money.

Fintech companies are already helping regulatory agencies reveal major financial crimes. Just recently, a top fintech firm flagged a suspicious transaction network, helping prevent a multimillion-dollar laundering operation. Success stories like these show how fintech can be an

essential partner in the fight against financial crime.

CHALLENGES TO FINTECH’S EFFECTIVENESS

Even with all its promise, fintech faces some major challenges in fighting financial crime. A big one is that regulations are lagging behind. Many of our existing anti-money laundering (AML) laws were created for the old-school banking world and just can’t keep up, leaving gaps for criminals to slip through.

We also need to find a balance between keeping an eye on finances and respecting individual privacy. Overdoing it with surveillance can step on people’s rights, while not monitoring enough can leave openings for criminals. We need to figure out how to strike the right balance so that people can trust digital financial systems.

CALL FOR A COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGY

If fintech wants to really step up the fight against money laundering, we need to take a comprehensive approach. Governments and financial watchdogs should team up with fintech companies to create flexible AML regulations that keep pace with how financial crime is changing. We should incorporate real-time transaction monitoring and automated reporting systems.

Investing in cybersecurity is critical, too. Fintech firms need to make security a top priority, using advanced encryption, constant system oversight, and following the best practices in the industry. Only with solid protection can the finance world stay ahead of clever criminals.

With digital payment systems changing, they’re attracting all sorts of criminals who are looking to use them for money laundering, cryptocurrency smuggling, and creating shady digital shell companies

Plus, working together globally and sharing information is super important. Financial crimes often cross borders, and by encouraging cooperation between regulators, financial institutions, and fintech innovators from around the world, we can strengthen our financial system. By sharing knowledge and good practices, we can build stronger defenses against illicit financial flows.

THE VERDICT: CAN FINTECH WIN THE WAR ON FINANCIAL CRIME?

Fintech has the potential to change the game in detecting and preventing financial crime, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. While AI, blockchain, and predictive analytics are powerful tools, they need to work hand in hand with solid regulations, ethical oversight, and collaboration across the industry.

The battle against money laundering is far from over. However, if we combine tech innovation, strict regulations, and international teamwork, fintech can become a fierce ally against financial crime. The real challenge ahead is to make sure our digital defenses evolve faster than the criminals who are trying to outsmart us. If we can nail this, we could have a financial system that’s not just advanced but also tough— where transparency becomes the everyday standard, not just a rarity.

•Abayomi is a cybersecurity expert

SHOTS OF THE WEEK

Photo Editor: Peace Udugba [08033050729]

Chief Medical Director, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Pokop Bupwatda

with Prof. Benjamin

Department of Surgery,  Jos University Teaching Hospital, during the World Cancer day Multidisciplinary

(l);

Ugwu,

Team Management workshop in Jos on February 27, 2025.

L-R: Chairman, Flour Mills Nigeria, John Comantarous; JBS Controlling Shareholder, Wesley Battista; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; CEO, Nigeria Investment Promotion Council (NIPC), Aisha Rimi and another JBS Controlling Shareholder, Joesley Battista, during their visit to the Governor at his Oke-Mosan Office, Abeokuta, Ogun State, on February 23, 2025.

Chairman of  Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Muhammed Bello Shehu (l), presenting a souvenir to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George  Akume, during the Inaugural Plenary meeting of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission’s Board in Abuja on February 25, 2025.

The General Manager Commercial Aradel Holding, Mr. Lanre Daramola (l) with the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, during the tour of exhibition stand at the on- going  8th Nigeria International Energy Summit  in Abuja on February 26, 2025.

L-R: Minister of  State Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo; representative  of  the President, Dr. Doris UzokaAnite; Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri and Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Country (OPEC) Secretary General, Haitham Al Ghais, during the 8th Nigeria International Energy Summit  in Abuja on February 25, 2025.

L-R: Director-General, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr. Jobson Ewalefoh; Head, Client Coverage StanbicIBTC, Joyce Dimkpa and Managing Director, Lagos Free Zone, Adesuwa Ladoja, during a conference on driving Gas and Infrastructure opportunities in Africa organized by Stanbic IBTC in Lagos on  february 25, 2025.

Nigeria Pitch Awards: Mirroring Nigerian Football’s Strengths, Ambitions

BY JUDE OBAFEMI

The Nigeria Pitch Awards recently announced the nominees for its 11th edition, marking over a decade of recognising excellence in Nigerian football. Since its inception in 2013, the awards event has grown into a respected platform, maintaining a strong focus on credibility and transparency while adapting to the changing landscape of the sport in Nigeria.

The Nigeria Pitch Awards began on November 16, 2013 at the Transcorp Metropolitan Hotel in Calabar, Cross River State. Organised by Matchmakers Consult International Limited and endorsed by the Nigeria Football Federation, the initial ceremony aimed to honour players, administrators and journalists for their positive impact on Nigerian sports.

The first edition featured 16 categories, a number that increased to 22 by 2016, reflecting a broader scope of recognition. Over the years, the event has moved across cities, such as Abuja, Kaduna, Lagos, and Uyo, adapting to logistical needs and growing interest.

Shina Philips, president of the awards, has consistently emphasised the goal of creating a platform rooted in fairness and openness, a commitment that has guided its evolution.

Maintaining credibility and transparency has been central to the awards’ development. From the start, the organisers partnered with SIAO Partners, an independent accounting and auditing firm, to handle vote collation and verification. This process ensures that results remain free from interference, a point reinforced by Philips during press conferences over the years. The awards have avoided controversies that often plague similar events by relying on a structured voting system, with votes cast by sports editors and journalists across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. This approach has helped build trust among stakeholders, including the Nigeria Football Federation, which has supported the initiative since Inception.

Over the past decade, the awards have expanded their reach and influence.

The College of Voters plays a key role in upholding the awards’ integrity. Comprising over 150 sports editors and football analysts spread across the country. This group ensures that selections reflect informed and impartial judgment. Voters assess nominees based on clear criteria and their decisions are audited by SIAO Partners, adding a layer of accountability. This system has been praised by figures like Ademola Olajire, the Nigeria Football Federation’s communications director, who noted during the 10th anniversary celebrations that the awards’ openness and lack of controversy make them a model for others. The independence of the College of Voters has been crucial in maintaining public confidence, particularly in a context where trust in institutions can be fragile.

Among the awards’ categories, King and Queen of the Pitch stand out for their prestige and significance. These titles, awarded to the top male and female players, celebrate individual excellence and reflect the strength of Nigerian talent on both domestic and international stages. Past winners include Victor Osimhen, who claimed the King of the Pitch title multiple times, and Asisat Oshoala, a four-time Queen of the Pitch recipient. The categories have evolved to mirror the growing global presence of Nigerian players, with nominees often drawn from top European leagues alongside those excelling locally. The consistent recognition of stars like Osimhen and Oshoala underscores the awards’ role in spotlighting Nigeria’s footballing talent.

The 10th edition, held in June 2024 at the Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, drew significant attention, with Nigeria Football Federation president Ibrahim Gusau among the attendees. The event has grown from a modest ceremony to a high-profile occasion, attracting dignitaries, football managers, and top players. The addition of an awards conference, planned for the 11th edition in March 2025, signals a further step forward. Themed “A Viable Football Ecosystem as Catalyst for Economic Prosperity in Nigeria,” the conference aims to encourage discussions on leveraging football for national development, showing how the awards have evolved beyond mere recognition into a platform for broader impact.

The impact of the Nigeria Pitch Awards on Nigerian football is notable. By honouring players, coaches, and administrators annually, the awards provide motivation and set benchmarks for excellence. Philips has often stated that recognising achievements inspires consistency and higher performance, a view echoed by Nigeria Football Federation representatives. Over the years, winners like Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala have used their success at the awards to cement their status as role models, encouraging younger players to aim for similar recognition. The awards also highlight contributions off the pitch, such as grassroots development and corporate sponsorship, which are vital for the sport’s growth in Nigeria.

This year’s nominations for the 11th edition, announced on 22 February 2025, offer insights into the current state of Nigerian football. Osimhen, now with Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Lig, and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, African Player of the Year, lead the list for best striker and King of the Pitch, alongside Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface. Their inclusion highlights the dominance of Nigerian forwards in Europe, with Osimhen’s goal-scoring record in Turkey and Lookman’s standout performances at Atalanta drawing global attention. For Queen of the Pitch, names like Rasheedat Ajibade of Atletico Madrid Femenino and Chiamaka Nnadozie of Paris FC join Oshoala, now with Bay FC, pointing to the depth of talent in women’s football. The presence of domestic teams like Enyimba FC and Remo Stars in the Team of the Year category also suggests a strengthening Nigerian Professional Football League.

The nominations reflect a mix of continuity and change in Nigerian football. Osimhen and Oshoala, long-time contenders, represent sustained excellence, while newer names like Lookman and Boniface indicate emerging talent. The Super Falcons’ nomination for Team of the Year underscores the women’s game’s progress, bolstered by players thriving abroad. However, the absence of major surprises in the list might suggest a consolidation rather than a transformation of the sport’s landscape. Nigerian football remains competitive, with players excelling internationally, but challenges like infrastructure and grassroots funding persist, as evidenced by recurring nominees like Lagos State for best grassroots development programme.

Standout contenders this year bring significant contributions to the sport. Osimhen, a consistent nominee since his rise with Napoli, continues to elevate Nigeria’s profile. His loan move to Galatasaray in 2024 kept him in top form, scoring regularly and maintaining his status as a Super Eagles marksman. Lookman’s African Player of the Year award for 2024, earned through his key role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph, marks him as a creative force, blending skill with decisive impact. Victor Boniface, with his physical presence and goals for Bayer Leverkusen, adds another dimension to Nigeria’s attacking options, showing the variety of talent available, which these Award nominations recognise.

On the women’s side, Asisat Oshoala’s longevity remains impressive. Her fourth Queen of the Pitch win in 2024, after moving to Bay FC, reflects her adaptability and scoring ability, making her a pioneer for Nigerian women in football, although her move to Bay experienced an uncharacteristic dip in form. Rasheedat Ajibade’s versatility at Atletico Madrid Femenino and Chiamaka Nnadozie’s goalkeeping for Paris FC highlight the growing influence of Nigerian women in Europe. These players not only boost Nigeria’s reputation but also inspire the next generation, a ripple effect the awards aim to amplify.

The Nigeria Pitch Awards’ evolution over the past decade shows a commitment to recognising merit while adapting to football’s shifting dynamics. From a 16-category event in 2013 to a 22-category platform with an upcoming conference, it has grown in scope and ambition. Its focus on credibility, upheld by the College of Voters and SIAO Partners, has kept it relevant and trusted. The awards have spurred Nigerian football forward by celebrating excellence and highlighting areas like grassroots development needing attention.

This year’s nominations, dominated by Europe-based stars and strong domestic teams, reveal a sport thriving globally yet still tethered to local foundations. Contenders like Osimhen, Lookman, and Oshoala embody Nigeria’s footballing strength, ensuring the awards remain a vital part.

Lagos at Crossroads over State Assembly Speakership Crisis

The Lagos State House of Assembly, the legislative heart of Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, finds itself in the grip of a deepening controversy that threatens to destabilise governance in the State. This situation, centred on the speakership, has escalated since January 2025, pushing the state to the brink of a major political storm.

Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, a long-serving Speaker, was impeached in a dramatic move by a majority of lawmakers, only to storm the House of Assembly with a team of policemen on Thursday, February 27, asserting his claim to the position.

Mojisola Meranda, elected as his successor, holds firm with significant support, while the withdrawal and reinstatement of her security detail underscores the volatility of the crisis. Allegations of financial misappropriation, internal power struggles within the All Progressives Congress and interventions from national leaders in Abuja fuel this unrest, raising concerns about its implications for the Centre of Excellence.

If not addressed swiftly, this crisis could fracture party unity and ripple into a broader conflict ahead of the 2027 elections, threatening the stability of Nigeria’s most economically vital state. The origin of this turmoil trace back to January 13, when 32 out of 40 members of the House voted to remove Obasa, a sixth-term lawmaker representing Agege Constituency I. He had held the speakership since 2015, overseeing significant legislative milestones, but faced mounting accusations of misconduct.

Lawmakers cited financial mismanagement, including approving billions of naira for questionable projects, alongside claims of intimidation, absenteeism at the signing of the state’s appropriation bill and arriving after the governor was seated at public functions in breach of protocols. One notable grievance was his authorisation of N43 billion for lawmakers’ vehicles, a decision that sparked outrage among colleagues who felt it epitomised his high-handed approach. While abroad, Obasa was replaced by Mojisola Meranda, his deputy from Apapa Constituency I, marking her as the first female Speaker in Lagos history. Her election initially appeared to signal a shift, but Obasa’s refusal to accept his removal set the stage for a prolonged standoff.

Obasa’s return to the House of Assembly complex last week, accompanied by a small group of loyal lawmakers and heavy security, presiding over a plenary session with just four members present is appalling. This bold move came despite a lawsuit he filed at the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, challenging the legality of his impeachment on grounds that it occurred during a recess and without proper procedure.

Meanwhile, 36 lawmakers reaffirmed their support for Meranda, insisting she remains the legitimate Speaker. The withdrawal of her security detail earlier that day, followed by its reinstatement, highlight the chaotic interventions from President Bola Tinubu in the matter to the chagrin of majority of lawmakers. These events reveal deep divisions within the state’s political leadership and the House splitting it into rival factions and paralysing legislative functions at a time when Lagos needs stable governance. Several factors underpin this crisis, with financial allegations forming a critical thread. Obasa has faced scrutiny since 2020, when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission investigated him for alleged fraud, claims he denied. More recently, lawmakers pointed to excessive spending and abuse of office, accusing him of prioritising personal gain over public interest.

Beyond money, political ambitions amplify the tension. Observers suggest Obasa’s recent comments hint at a potential run for governor in 2027 and this has alienated party leaders who see it as a challenge to established hierarchies. This rift ties into broader struggles within the APC, Lagos’s dominant party, where loyalty and succession often dictate power dynamics. The impeachment, some argue, was less about funds and more about curbing Obasa’s growing influence ahead of future elections.

Key figures shape this unfolding drama, each wielding significant influence. Obasa, a seasoned politician with deep roots in Agege, commands a loyal base and retains backing from some party elders. His legal challenge and dramatic return reflect a determination to reclaim his position, bolstered by claims of support from President Tinubu, the party’s national leader and the most powerful figure in Lagos politics, whose own son’s alleged ambitions for the governor’s post is growing.

Meranda, from a prominent Lagos family, has solidified her standing with majority support in the House, earning praise for her resolve despite pressure to step down. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, while publicly neutral, faces accusations of quietly opposing Obasa’s reinstatement, possibly to assert his own authority. The Governance Advisory Council, an influential body within the party, struggles to mediate, with reports of internal splits—some members back Obasa, others Meranda—leaving it unable to enforce a unified stance.

National intervention adds another layer of complexity. President Tinubu reportedly expressed displeasure at Obasa’s removal, directing party leaders to swiftly resolve the crisis.

Heavyweights like former governors Bisi Akande, Segun Osoba and Akinwunmi Ambode have joined efforts to broker peace, engaging both

Obasa and Meranda in talks to end the crisis. There are suggestions that they could both step aside for a neutral candidate, possibly David Setonji from Lagos West, to become speaker. This suggestion aims to balance power across the state’s senatorial districts, addressing grievances from Lagos West lawmakers who feel sidelined. However, negotiations remain stalled, with Obasa’s court case looming as a potential flashpoint that could override political solutions if it rules in his favour.

The fallout from this crisis carries serious risks for Lagos and beyond. Legislative work has ground to a halt, delaying critical policies in a state that drives Nigeria’s economy. The House of Assembly’s inability to function undermines public trust, already strained by perceptions of political infighting over public service. Within the APC, divisions deepen, with Obasa’s Mandate Group faction clashing with supporters of Sanwo-Olu and Tinubu’s broader camp. If unresolved, this fracture could weaken the party’s cohesion, exposing vulnerabilities ahead of local government elections and the 2027 General Election. Lagos, a bellwether for Nigerian politics, risks losing its reputation as a model of governance, which could deter investors and stall economic progress.

Public reaction underscores the urgency of resolution. Many see the situation as a betrayal of democracy, pointing to security agencies’ involvement—such as the Department of State Services sealing off the Assembly—as evidence of overreach. Lawmakers loyal to Meranda condemned these actions as an assault on legislative independence, urging Tinubu to intervene decisively.

Meanwhile, Obasa’s supporters, including hundreds who rallied during his return, frame his removal as a coup against a grassroots leader, amplifying the narrative of a power grab. This polarisation risks spilling into the streets, where Lagos’s volatile political history could turn rhetoric into unrest.

Options for resolution remain on the table, though each carries challenges. A political settlement, brokered by party elders, could see a compromise candidate emerge, allowing both Obasa and Meranda to step back gracefully. Alternatively, the court’s ruling could settle the matter definitively, though a decision favouring Obasa might alienate the majority, while upholding Meranda could provoke his camp to escalate defiance. Either way, time is short—prolonged uncertainty benefits no one and heightens the chance of broader conflict.

The stakes extend beyond the Assembly’s chambers. Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic heartbeat, cannot afford a crippled legislature or a divided ruling party. A fractured party risks ceding ground to opposition forces, a scenario Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, and other leaders can ill afford in Lagos. Beyond politics, the crisis tests Lagos’s claim to excellence, challenging its institutions to rise above personal ambition and deliver for its people.

Swift action is essential to prevent this situation from spiralling out of control. Party leaders must prioritise dialogue over division, ensuring the Assembly resumes its duties without further disruption. The court process should be swift but should not delay political efforts to stabilise the state. Lawmakers, too, bear responsibility to set aside factional loyalty for the public good. If this crisis festers, its effects could echo into 2027, undermining governance and party strength at a pivotal moment. Lagos stands at a crossroads—resolution now can preserve its stability; delay invites chaos. The Centre of Excellence must prove it can weather this storm through decisive, unified leadership.