THEWILL NEWSPAPER, September 24, 2023

Afew days ago, I received a call from someone; his voice was terrifying, and I stopped dead in my tracks. All he said was, did you receive the WhatsApp message I sent you?

I asked who was speaking and told him I wasn’t going to check my message. Then he hung up, and a message alert came through. I knew it was from him and as much as I tried to ignore it, I couldn’t so I checked to read the message. It read, in summary, that someone had hired him to kill me, but I had been nice to him, so he asked his boys to back down while he spoke to me. He wrote that the person who hired him is someone I‘m close to and that he has a recording of their conversation, both audio and visual. I called family and a friend, and they all assured me it was a hustler trying to get money off me and that I should block his number. I did that.

I can’t believe these scammers now use stories like this to get money off people. Surely, there must be something we can do about this. Maybe report it to the police, and they can trace the phone number and have them arrested. The question is, will the police also expect you to pay for the investigation? Either way, something needs to be done.

Stay alert, everyone.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

OnahNwachukwu Editor, THEWILL DOWNTOWN

COVER

FG Reinstates Fuel Subsidy as Economy Falters

BY AMOS ESELE AND SAM DIALA

Four months after he suddenly announced the removal of fuel subsidy because he was ‘possessed by the spirit of courage,’ President Bola Tinubu went back on his word never to pay subsidy because it benefited “smugglers and fraudsters.” The Federal Government relapsed into subsidy regime by paying N169.4 billion in August to support its new subsidy control last week.

The policy U-turn reflects the knee-jerk approach that the government adopted in unravelling such a crucial policy as subsidy removal in an import-dependent economy that runs on revenue derived from oil production.

THE PROBLEM

For eight gruesome years, former President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC), ruled Nigeria in the most unworthy manner. He did not only fail to deliver on the three planks of his administration – economy, security and corruption, he set the country several decades backward, with the economy as the worst victim.

Today, Nigeria is reeling on the throes of a failed economy where over 133 million people live in multidimensional poverty as the country acquires the notorious status of poverty capital of the world. Amid this sore point, President Bola Tinubu was inaugurated on May 29, 2023 to succeed Buhari and he promised to continue from

where his predecessor stopped.

Since then, Tinubu has shown little concern for the fundamentals of the troubled economy and how to address its numerous challenges. Instead, he has engaged in celebrated globetrotting in search of foreign investors.

From one continent to the other, Tinubu and his team are intensifying their marketing of Nigeria as an Eldorado lying fallow and waiting to be exploited. By doing so, he deliberately overlooked the fact that the domestic economy is in doldrums and that the environment is inconducive and unattractive to foreign investors. On the contrary, many companies are delisting from the Nigerian Exchange and leaving the country.

...Fuel Subsidy as Economy Falters

Now, with things going out of hand as the foreign exchange rate soared to N950 to the dollar, even as the palliative measures adopted by the government floundered, the government had to revert to paying subsidy.

The relapse to the subsidy regime was expected. The Naira has been depreciating, petrol prices threatening to rise above the official N570 rate to N620 much faster than the international price for crude at slightly above $95 per barrel per liter.

BACK TO SUBSIDY

These are fallouts from the floating of the Naira which now inches towards N980/$ in the parallel market, thus widening the gap with the Importers and Exporters’ Window, I&E, where the Naira trades on the average at N775/$.

Reports that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) may have secretly resumed fuel subsidy was revealed through transactions at the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

It was revealed that in August 2023, the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) paid $275m as dividends to the Federal Government through the NNPCL used $220m (N169.4 billion at N770/$) out of the $275m to pay for the PMS subsidy while it (NNPCL) held back $55m, illegally. The revelation by FAAC effectively indicates that the subsidy is back and the NNPC is now using NLNG dividends to pay the subsidy.

UNRESOLVED CHALLENGES

The continuous free fall of the exchange rate of Naira to the dollar from N450 as of May 29, 2023 to N950 at the weekend, coupled with the high price of PMS from N187/250 per litre as of May 29, to N625 at the weekend and the inflation rate at 24.2 per cent has installed an unprecedented economic hardship in the country. The inflation and currency devaluation have not only crippled businesses but also added a shocking 7.1 million poor persons into the already high number of 133 million multi-dimensionally poor Nigerians. The Federal Government’s promise to plough back into the economy, the estimated N1 trillion it saved in two months by scrapping subsidy has only reflected in the increase in statutory allocations to the state and the recent N5 billion loaned to 36 states for palliatives distribution to Nigerians. Even so, reports from many states show that the distribution of palliatives was yet to make a meaningful impact on the lives of most Nigerians.

For one, the government staggered the release of the N5 billion loan to states. The government has its own explanation for doing so. According to the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, the full release and spending of

the N5 billion will worsen inflation.

In addition, the clamour for reduction of the high cost of governance cuts no ice with the government. Prevailing record shows that the Bola Tinubu Administration has appointed the highest number of ministers with a total of 47 ministers, who are mostly politicians and 20 Special Advisers, with the appointments still counting. In a depressed and unproductive economy plagued by high recurrent expenditure and little, if any, capital for investment amid debt payments, this jumbo appointment makes mockery of a government that has been calling on Nigerians to make sacrifices for the country.

Moreover, the government is yet to start paying serious attention to the worsened insecurity situation in the country, particularly in the North-West states of Zamfara, Kebbi and Sokoto and where bandits reportedly control 23 local government areas.

Worse, industrial disharmony looms in the country as the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, plans to embark on an indefinite strike to press home its demand for improved conditions of workers, the turnaround of the parlous state of the economy, poor handling of palliative distribution across the country in the face of hardship occasioned by the sudden removal of subsidy on petrol.

MISPLACED ENTHUSIASM

Unfortunately, the policy thrust of the new government concerning fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange rates unification, triggered the current economic challenges. Experts stressed that the government did not put concrete plans in place before introducing the fuel subsidy removal and going for the unification of the foreign exchange segments. An economist and sustainability expert, Marcel Okeke, told THEWILL on Friday night that much damage was done in the early life of the government when “President Tinubu pronounced the petrol subsidy removal in a haste without thoroughly thinking it through and putting measures in place to cushion the effects. Similarly, the floating of the Naira was inappropriate at the time it was done.”

He said, “There should have been a managed floating system of the currency to avoid the current crisis because we are faced with an acute dollar shortage. What the government did was to throw the Naira into the ring to wrestle with stronger currencies, such as the dollar, the pound sterling and the euro, without a tangible productive base in the domestic economy.”

Okeke, who was the pioneer economist at Zenith Bank, told THEWILL that the wrong steps taken by the Tinubu-led government have plunged the country into a severe economic problem that will take a long time to resolve. According to him, the Federal Government is not keen about fixing the refineries or the power sector to boost domestic production. He also observed that insecurity has continued to retard development, especially in agriculture and agribusiness.

With a weak productive base and the refineries consuming resources without producing, the country is forced to rely on imported petroleum products which are subject to the vagaries of the international market.

This has made subsidy removal a difficult thing to achieve. Notwithstanding the increase in the pump price of petrol up to N560 per litre, there are reports that the government is secretly paying heavily to subsidise petrol.

AN INEVITABILITY

Before now, there was a strong indication that the pump price of petrol might be on the verge of another increase—the third increase in 10 weeks, which will trigger a return to subsidy payment by the government to check the rising cost of living.

This prediction is backed up by new information about the surge in the landing cost of petrol which had gone up by 37.4 percent month-on-month to N632.17 per litre

From one continent to the other, Tinubu and his team are intensifying their marketing of Nigeria as an Eldorado lying fallow and waiting to be exploited. By doing so, he deliberately overlooked the fact that the domestic economy is in doldrums and that the environment is inconducive and unattractive to foreign investors. On the contrary, many companies are delisting from the Nigerian Exchange and leaving the country

...Fuel Subsidy as Economy Falters

in July 2023, up from N460 per litre in June 2023. This cost excludes other additional expenses, such as transportation and taxes, which could push the final price to nearly N700 per litre.

Some oil marketers have predicted that the landing cost for August and September will rise further due to worsening factors, including foreign exchange scarcity and deteriorating exchange rates. “Government is secretly paying subsidies given the disparity between the landing cost of imported refined PMS and the approved pump price,” Okeke noted.

DOMESTIC PARADOX

In the meantime, while the campaign and roadshow are ongoing abroad to impress and attract investors to Nigeria, developments in the country suggest that the exercise amounts to a wild goose chase with some firms closing shop due to an increasingly hostile operating environment.

THEWILL checks show that about N205 billion will be wiped from the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) equities capitalisation, following the planned delisting of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Plc, PZ Cusson Plc, Oando Plc, Coronation Insurance Plc, and Capital Hotel Plc, from the stock market.

The proposed delisting of the companies comes barely two months after the delisting of Ardova Plc’s 1.31 billion shares on July 26, 2023. Ardova Plc had N21.49 billion market capitalisation as at the time of its delisting.

GSK, had in August, 2023 announced plans to cease operations in Nigeria without stating reasons for its decision. Economy experts have, however, linked the company’s decision to scarcity of forex and the forex losses incurred by most companies following the devaluation of the Naira.

FOREIGN BASHING

Recently, FTSE Russell announced the downgrading of FTSE Equity Country Classification status of Nigeria from Frontier to Unclassified market status.

FTSE said it received a feedback from market participants that although Nigeria adopted a floating foreign exchange (FX) rate for the Naira in the ‘Investors & Exporters’ (I&E) FX Window, which is now operating on a “Willing Buyer, Willing Seller” basis, the lack of liquidity in the I&E FX Window continues to adversely impact the ability of international institutions to replicate benchmark changes.

Notwithstanding President Tinubu’s “bold” market-oriented policies, foreign investors have not flooded the economy. Economy experts predict that FTSE Russell’s downgrade of the Nigerian market will make

it even more difficult for foreign funds to gain exposure to the Nigerian economy.

THE CBN CONNECTION

Despite Tinubu’s efforts to woo investors into the country, Bloomberg reports that the plunge in the exchange rate is in contrast with his efforts. Okeke remarked that the high cost of doing business in Nigeria, the ‘generator’ economy, poor infrastructure, insecurity, low consumer demand and inflation are factors that render Tinubu’s assurance to investors unappealing.

Economic experts also cited policy inconsistencies that create disharmony in fiscal and monetary policy implementation. For instance, the manner the Federal Government had treated the former Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, and his team.

The catch is that the fiscal and monetary policies of the government had gone to shreds. Hence, the hurried manner with which the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Dr Olayemi Cardoso and the four Deputy Governors, namely, Mrs Emem Nnana Usoro, Mr Muhammad Sani Abdullahi Dattijo, Mr Philip Ikeazor and Dr Bala Bello, assumed office on Friday, pending their confirmation by the Senate. The President had nominated them in conformity with Section 8 (1) of the Central Bank Act, 2007, which vests in the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,

the authority to appoint the Governor and Four Deputy Governors.

According to THEWILL investigation, there is an urgent need to rein in fiscal and monetary policies because as the Naira depreciates, the country will slip deeper into subsidy regime. The CBN management will have to keep a keen eye on the forex markets because the value of the Naira is also dependent on the rising global price of oil.

Okeke said the new management team has a huge task awaiting them because Nigeria will continue to face foreign exchange challenges until the economy becomes productive.

GOVERNMENT PERMUTATIONS

Meanwhile, a government source with knowledge of the discussions told THEWILL at the weekend, on condition of anonymity, that "The president is earnestly seeking a forward sale of crude and solid minerals deal that will raise foreign exchange and bolster our reserves to enable us clear the backlog of forex obligations which is presently around $8bn,'' adding, ''This is what Wale Edun, the Finance Minister and new CBN Governor, Yemi Cardoso are working on. The NNPC has also been mandated to raise crude oil production."

THE WAY FORWARD

On the way forward, Okeke suggested that the refineries must be fixed quickly and efforts made to increase crude oil production to meet the OPEC’s quota of 1.8 mbpd for Nigeria. He wants the forex reform revisited by introducing a managed floating exchange rate system with adequate transparency. He further opined that the RT200 programme introduced by Emefiele be revisited, rejigged to make it more adaptable because the philosophy is production and export-focused.

Government needs to ensure that crude oil production in the country comes on stream to boost forex earnings while at the same time engaging in aggressive fight against ongoing crude oil theft in the Niger Delta. Unfortunately, the government, say dependable sources, is not forceful enough in tackling the menace of theft being carried on by the unnamed business elite the president in his first televised nationwide broadcast identified as smugglers and fraudsters who squandered over a trillion naira of the unproductive fuel subsidy.

These are the sure way to go if President Tinubu’s three-year economic recovery plan anchored on an eight-point agenda in the area of food security; poverty eradication; economic growth; job creation; access to capital; inclusion; rule of law; and fighting corruption, can drastically turn around the country on the path to genuine development and growth.

'The president is earnestly seeking a forward sale of crude and solid minerals deal that will raise foreign exchange and bolster our reserves to enable us clear the backlog of forex obligations which is presently around $8bn,'' adding, ''This is what Wale Edun, the Finance Minister and new CBN Governor, Yemi Cardoso, are working on. The NNPC has also been mandated to raise crude oil production

Kogi Guber: Ododo, Melaye, Abejide, Others Battle For Lugard House

BY AYO ESAN

Less than 50 days before the Kogi Governorship Election, which is scheduled to take place on November 11, 2023, the jostle for Governor Yahaya Bello’s seat has gathered steam. Yahaya Bello of the All Progressives Congress, APC, will be completing his second term next year.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has cleared 18 political parties and their candidates to contest in the coming governorship election in Kogi State.

The candidates include Usman Ododo of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC); Senator Dino Melaye of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); Muritala Ajaka of Social Democratic Party (SDP); Leke Abejide of African Democratic Congress (ADC); Olayinka Braimoh of Action Alliance (AA); Kingsley Idoko Ilonah of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); Dr Samson Agada Omale of Young ,Progressives Party (YPP) and Admiral Usman Jibrin of Accord Party (AP), among others.

All the candidates are currently going round the state to canvass votes from the electorate. There have also been intrigues, defections across party lines, endorsements and name calling, all aimed at achieving victory by the political parties and their candidates.

One common feature of past elections in Kogi State, which is already giving political gladiators cause for concern, is the issue of violence.

The state is notorious for political violence. Ongoing activities on the political scene already indicate that the forthcoming governorship poll may not be different in terms of violence from past elections.

During the last governorship election in the state, the women’s leader of the Peoples Democratic Party,

Kogi Chapter, Salome Abuh, was burnt alive in her residence, shortly after the results of the election held on November 18, 2019, were announced. The election was won by the incumbent governor and candidate of the APC.

THEWILL recalls that on June 3, 2023, there was a clash between the convoys of Murtala Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party, SDP and Governor Yahaya Bello. Not long afterwards, suspected political thugs reportedly invaded and vandalised the SDP campaign office in Lokoja, the state capital. Later, the hoodlums allgedly returned to the same campaign office and set it ablaze.

An attack on the APC secretariat in IgalamelaOdolu Local Government Area of the state was also reported.

Political analysts and observers in the state are already calling on the security agencies to put on their belts and ensure there is a peaceful election in Kogi State come Saturday, November 11.

Factors That May Shape the Election Power of Incumbency

The governing APC and its candidate, Usman Ododo, are depnding on the incumbent factor to succeed in the coming governorship poll.

Fortunately for Ododo, his party is also in control at the federal level and this may boost his chances in

The state is notorious for political violence. Ongoing activities on the political scene already indicate that the forthcoming governorship poll may not be different in terms of violence from past election

...Ododo, Melaye, Abejide, Others Battle For Lugard House

the election. With federal and state might behind him, watchers of political developments in the country believe that the other candidates have a mountain to climb to defeat the APC candidate.

It is believed that aside Governor Yahaya Bello, who would want to handover to a fellow party man as his successor, all government appointees from the three senatorial districts in the state, be it at the state or federal level, will also work together to ensure that the party wins the governorship election.

Ethnic Inclination

Another factor that may shape the outcome of the forthcoming governorship election in Kogi state is the issue of ethnicity. The big question is which one among the three major ethnic nationalities in the state will produce Yahaya Bello’s successor?

Although two ethnic groups have dominated the governorship position since the creation of the state, the current situation seems to be different as the three major tribes have each produced candidates from the party primaries.

PDP produced Dino Melaye from Okun tribe; ADC produced Leke Abejide from Okun; APC produced Usman Ododo from Ebira tribe while the SDP propped up Murtala Ajaka, an Igala, as its candidate.

So, the governorship race is between the Ebira, the Igala and the Okun of Kogi state.

THEWILL recalls that in 1999 the Kogi governorship election drew contest between PDP’s Steven Olorunfemi who is Okun and ANPP’s Abubakar Audu, an Igala. Ebiras were the beautiful bride at the time.

In 2007, it was a contest between PDP’s Ibrahim Idris of Igala and Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN’s Mohammed Salami Ohiare of Ebira. In that election, the Okun were the beautiful bride.

The year 2019 witnessed a governorship contest between PDP's Musa Wada, an Igala and APC’s Yahaya Bello, an Ebira. Wada got the overall votes from Igala land while Yahaya Bello cleaned up Ebira votes in an unimaginable landslide.

Tribal contests are shaping the campaign for the election and the election may result in a supremacy battle between the Ebira, Okun and Igala ethnic nationalities. Political analysts have expressed the opinion that none of these ethnic groups can single-handedly make one of their own governor. Therefore, the ethnic minorities like Bassa Nge, Bassa Kwomu, Nupe, Ogori-Magongo and nonindigenes, mostly based in the urban areas of the state, may likely decide the winner of the election.

The Leading Candidates

Usman Ododo, APC

A former Auditor-General of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, is the governorship candidate of the ruling APC.

Ododo will enjoy the advantage of the APC‘s control of power in the state in the last eight years.

He has an advantage over other 17 candidates because of the spread that his party enjoys across the state. The party’s performance in the 2023 general election shows that the APC is the party to beat in the Confluence State.

APC won the majority in the Senate, House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly

where it won 22 out of 25 seats. But the election may be different because of the deep ethnic politics that it has generated. Perhaps the APC should not relax if it desires to win as Ododo’s zone has the least number of registered voters.

Leke Abejide, ADC

The emergence of Dino Melaye (PDP) and Leke Abejide (ADC) has not only rekindled the hope of Kogi West agitators for power-shift but also balanced the demand for a Christian governor.

Abejide is an Okun from Yagba East and he, like Melaye, is a Christian, a faith that many are rooting for to produce Bello’s successor.

The agitators for power shift are hinging their stand on the fact that the Igala-dominated Kogi East had held power for 17 cumulative civil years, while the Ebira-dominated Kogi Central are on the verge of completing eight years, but the West has never tasted power.

On the other hand, agitators for a Christian governor have said that it was not out of place for people to demand the election of a governor of Christian extraction in a 32-year-old state that has experienced five elected Muslim governors.

Abejide is expected to get the majority of the votes from the western part of the state, if all things remain constant.

A member of the House of Representatives, Abejide has through his widely acknowledged Free WAEC payment for students in Yagba Federal Constituency not only won a resounding second term in the February 25 National Assembly election but also spread his good fortune to another Federal Constituency, Kabba-Bunu/ Ijumu, where his party won the seat.

There are reports that he is the choice of the Okun Development Association, ODA. Political analysts also believe that he has a good relationship with President Bola Tinubu; Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila and James Faleke who is an indigene of the state.

The minus on his part, is his choice of platform to contest the election. ADC as a party does not have a strong structure in Kogi state.

Analysts have recalled that Abejide had twice defeated APC and PDP in Yagba Federal Constituency through coalition. He understands the politics of harvesting aggrieved party members from other parties to work for his victory. He will be taking the same strategyto the governorship poll.

Dino Melaye, PDP

Dino Melaye is from Ijumu Council Area of Kogi West Senatorial District.

A former senator and member of the House of Representatives, Melaye is also a member of the Peoples Democratic Party. He was the Chairman, Senate Committee on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and briefly, the Senate Committee Chairman on Aviation.

Melaye was also the spokesperson of the 2023 presidential candidate of PDP, Atiku Abubakar. Like Abejide, he is a Christian and so has the advantage of receiving the support of those clamouring for a Christian governor for the state.

He is also from Kogi West Senatorial District, which has not produced a governor since the creation of the state.

However, Melaye is going to battle with a bruised party structure. The PDP is seen as weaker than it used to be in the state. Political analysts believe that the leadership of the party has lost steam and the PDP is currently at its lowest ebb.

From one Senate seat and three House of Representatives seats in 2019, the PDP has gone down to zero Senate seats and one House of Representative seat in 2023. They also managed to win two out of the 25 State Assembly seats, that shows the level of decay of the party in Kogi State.

However, the Chairman of the PDP Campaign Council in Kogi, the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has promised that, come November 11, he will deliver Kogi to the party.

“We are marching to victory in the upcoming Kogi State governorship election,” he pledged recently.

Tribal contests are shaping the campaign for the election and the election may result in a supremacy battle between the Ebira, Okun and Igala ethnic nationalities

Plateau Tribunal: Judgment in Public Court

BY UKANDI ODEY

Since Monday, September 11, the Court of public opinion has been sitting indefatigably and robustly, day and night, in an election petition judgment between Justice B. M. Tukur, Chairman of National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal Vs Majority Opinion Beyond Plateau.

In the matter aforesaid, Justice B. M. Tukur, who is accordingly perceived as a provocateur and enfant terrible, doubles as the judge and petitioner, while the boundless Court of Public Opinion is the willing and determined respondent.

The matter for determination is not whether B. M. Haruna did not concede to, and obliged Simon Lalong to procure the tribunal judgment in the matter between him and the APC against Senator Napoleon Bali and the PDP in the Plateau South Senatorial election of February 25, 2023 as it is being alleged, but whether Tukur did not atrophy, or commit judicial Afghanistanism by going outside and beyond the brief of the Election Petition Tribunal, to rule in favour of Simon Lalong who was trounced in the said election by more than 54,000 votes, to the effect that the PDP candidate, Napoleon Bali, was not validly nominated because his Party, the PDP, “had no administrative structure”, and that the massive, convincing, and overwhelming votes scored by PDP’s Napoleon Bali in the same election were “wasted”. Public adjudication and advocacy since the controversial judgment have been pushing the trajectory of the issues that gave cause and foundation to the composition and erection of the Tribunal, which are basically, and subsist strictly, in the stuff of matters or injustices arising from the conduct of the elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission,(INEC).

Those who allege that Justice Tukur sold the judgment to Simon Bako Lalong insist on that position because they believe Tukur knows the position of the law on pre-election matters and the subject of locus standi and whether a petitioner or litigant can loosely benefit from any such claim and go scot free without being seen as a “meddlesome interloper” who is being green-eyed in a farm and context he had sewn no seed. Even legal luminaries say because Tukur actually shot himself on the foot in the case of Simon Lalong & Napoleon Bali, he had to grand stand in a face saving effort and insist on the issue of “no administrative structure” in the cases of Jos South/Jos East federal constituency, and that of Langtang North/Langtang South, to rob Musa Baggos and Beni Lar respectively of their well deserved and well earned electoral victories.

Why even expert opinion on the three judgments made by Justice Tukur in Plateau says they are archaic and dead on arrival is not only because the Appeal Court sitting in Jos has since settled the issue of structure in the Plateau PDP when it ruled and dismissed a matter brought before it claiming and pleading same by ruling that the Plateau State PDP indeed has administrative structure, as is indeed well constituted, but because Justice Tukur, by the desperate judgment stirring controversies and generating concerns, has contradicted his earlier ruling on a matter bordering on the same lack of qualification.

Ruling in a petition between Musa Ahmed Musa & Anor Vs Ali Baba Usman & others at a Tribunal sitting in Kaduna on November 15, 2021, Justice B .M. Tukur held, inter allia, in favour of the respondents, that “we have no hesitation to state that the first respondent was not only qualified but eminently qualified to contest the election into the Kaduna State House of Assembly. The petitioners having not been members of the 2ndRespondent, and not aspirants in Sabon Gari State constituency of Kaduna State, lack the locus standi to institute a case challenging the obedience or disobedience of court order by the second respondent (PDP)”.

Thus, the sane Tribunal headed by Tukur held that “in the circumstances therefore, we hold that this Tribunal lacks jurisdiction to entertain this matter bordering on

nomination of the 1st respondent by the 2nd respondent being a pre-election matter. We accordingly dismiss this petition and affirm the declaration and return of 1st respondent”.

While the Tukur judgment has stoked fires, stirred anxieties, sparked sentiments and generated false expectations and ephemeral celebrations, the question is what are the implications of the unsavoury and unprofessional dimension of this judgement on the integrity and ethical command of the judiciary? Did the Tukur judgment meet the “three-way traffic” test as set by the late erudite jurist, Chukwudifu Oputa - justice for the petitioner, justice for the accused,

Why even expert opinion on the three judgments made by Justice Tukur in Plateau says they are archaic and dead on arrival is not only because the Appeal Court sitting in Jos has since settled the issue of structure in the Plateau PDP when it ruled and dismissed a matter brought before it claiming and pleading same by ruling that the Plateau State PDP indeed has administrative structure

and justice for the society!

The Tukur controversial judgment has heightened tension and sharpened points of disharmony and segregation in Plateau, and unsettled the people who are arguing that choices and resolve to choose their leaders are superior to the technicality invoked by Tukur to achieve the benefits of self contradiction.

While the opposition has been upbeat and eulogises Tukur as its deliverer and leader, the majority of Plateau citizens are resolved to protect their will and heritage. In a well circulated press statement, the State Publicity Secretary of the leading opposition APC, Silvanus Namang, ran short of epithets of praise and glory to qualify Tukur and his disputed judgement.

A faction of the divided Labour Party in the state, in a press conference by its Chairman, Pastor Comrade Mike Audu, has celebrated to the effect that “the Labour Party in

Plateau State received with joy the good news of the victory of the Party at the Election Tribunal. The Labour Party was declared the winner of the two House of Representatives seats of Barkin Lad/Ryom and Jos South/Jos East federal constituencies'.

Another pro-democracy group in the State, the Plateau State Youth Vanguard, in a press statement said “it has watched with dismay the nullification of the elections of the peoples’ elected representatives in the National Assembly by Justice M .B. Tukur”. The statement noted further that “the judgement of the three-man panel of justices came to us as a shock, and not in tune with the wishes of the people of plateau State”. Signed by its chairman, Ambassador Duwam Bosco, and Simon Dung Zih, Secretary, the group has called on PDP supporters and lovers of democracy in Plateau to remain calm.

The Forum of Former Youth Leaders in Plateau State, at a World Press Conference at the Azi Nyako Youth Centre, Dadin Kowa, Jos, expressed worry and concern over the unprofessional and contradictory judgments issued forth by the Elections tribunals. In the Statement by its Chairman, Yakubu Ibrahim Itse, the group noted that “for Justice Tukur to singly contradict his learned colleagues who had earlier upheld the elections of Senator Simon Mwadkon, Hon Musa A. Agah, and Hon. Isaac Kwallu on the same grounds tantamount to sewing a seed of discord and chaos in the state”.

Expressing its dissatisfaction with the justice Tukur judgement, The State Chapter of the PDP, in a statement by its Chairman, Chris Hassan, described the judgement as “electoral robbery which is unacceptable to the people of Plateau State”.

According to the chairman, “the fact remains that the PDP has a valid and solid structure through which our mandate was given”.

In that past one week, the Justice Tukur Tribunal judgments nullifying Plateau South Senatorial election victory of the PDP, and two House of Reps victories of the same PDP, have continued to attract scathing reviews from all over the country, with some law professionals regretting that the output of some judges are a scandal to the memories of judicial forebears like Taslim Elias ,Udoma Udo Udoma, Chikwudifu Oputa, etc.

It is hoped however that in the days ahead, only the Judiciary can bail and redeem itself.

POLITICS NEWS

Thousands APC Members Dump Amosun, Re-Align With Gov Abiodun

Thousands of loyalists of former Governor Ibikunle Amosun from the 20 local government areas of Ogun State have rejoined the mainstream of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun. Receiving the returnees led by the factional Chairman of the Amosun-led party Executive at the Presidential Lodge, Abeokuta, the State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun commended them for their loyalty and being steadfast with what they believed in.

The governor said: "I want to congratulate your sense of loyalty to leadership, which I will say is not only commendable, it is enviable. "This is a culture that we must promote and entrench. It is a culture that is fast eroding; it is a culture that we are fast losing. Loyalty is 100 per cent.

"For some others, they move once things are not working well, but for you, you stay put. This sense of loyalty is worthy of emulation. We must appreciate the fact that there can only be one leader in a party at a time.

"Even when we have ambitions and desires, we must subordinate ourselves 100% to leadership and believe that it is in that subordination that will allow us to flourish and achieve our objectives, our dreams, our desires and aspirations, not by forming factions or by breaking away.

"Because by so doing, it only weakens the fabric of that collective union that we call our party. You must appreciate that there can be only one leader of the party at a time

Ex Minister Tallen Felicitates Tinubu’s Wife at 63 Shettima Assures Fraternal Bond between Executive, Legislature

in the state, and that leader is the governor.

"As the leader of the party, I appreciate the task bestowed on me and it is my duty to work towards individual and collective welfare of our members," the governor noted.

The governor urged all members to put the past behind them and work towards repositioning the party to achieve its aims and work for the socio-economic development of the state.

"Let us the past behind us. Let us promote what unites us as a family. I welcome you back. The future of Ogun State is in your hands and it is for us for the taking. The same joy the father of the prodigal son received his lost son back home, the same way I receive you today.

"To those who did not leave, please let us receive our brothers and sisters back. To those who are joining us, please let us display a sense of loyalty. I can assure you, you will be fully integrated. "

Chairman of the State All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Yemi Sanusi, said in every human relationship, there is bound to be disagreement, adding that even in time of war, there is always a place for peaceful settlement of conflict, calling the returnees to fully integrated themselves with other members of the party.

Leader of the returnees, Chief Derin Adebiyi, said they have all agreed to return to the mainstream to contribute to the development of the party and the State in general, thanking the governor and the party members for receiving them back.

Former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dame Pauline Tallen, has felicitated First Lady, Sen. Remi Tinubu on the occasion of her 63rd birthday.

Tallen, who congratulated the President’s wife in a statement on Friday in Abuja, eulogised the First Lady, who she described as “a rare gem and rare gift to the nation.”

She prayed for more years of God’s exceeding grace on Mrs. Tinubu, describing her as extremely humane, an epitome of humility and an indispensable strong pillar of support to her husband.

Tallen said, “Your Excellency, on this milestone and auspicious occasion of your 63rd birthday, I join millions of your wellwishers across the globe, especially the womenfolk, to celebrate with you, while thanking God for His exceeding grace upon you, while wishing you the best that life can offer in the many decades ahead.

“As a wife, mother, fervent preacher of the gospel, as well as an iconic political leader, who exemplifies the struggle for women in politics, you will remain a veritable source of inspiration and pride for women for generations yet unborn.

“Indeed, we could not have asked God for a better First Lady at this time, considering your rare track record of achievements, as your life has been a gift, not just to Nigerian women after your breaking of many barriers for women and setting a perfect example for young girls over the years.”

The former Deputy Governor of Plateau and one-time Minister of State, Science and Technology, said that the people of Plateau would remain eternally grateful to Mrs. Tinubu, particularly for her recent visit to the state and donation of a whopping sum of N500 million to families of crisis victims in the state.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians of continued fraternal bond between the executive and the legislative arms of government.

Shettima gave the assurance when he declared open a two-day retreat for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly (NASS) in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom on Friday.

The vice president said that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.

Shettima also assured the leadership of the National Assembly of Tinubu’s avowed commitment to entrenching democratic ideals and values through collaborative partnership with all arms of government.

He said the unrivalled democratic credentials of Tinubu, which include legislative experience, would continue to rub off on his governance style.

This, he said especially as it borders on respect of the rule of law, adherence to separation of powers as well as deference for constitutional rights.

Shettima described the composition of the Federal Government as well as the leadership of the National Assembly as historical, unique and a major pathway to Nigeria’s unprecedented development. This, he said, was more so that the expectations of Nigerians would be met regardless of the present challenges.

“For the first time in our history, all the elected heads of our branches of government are produced by the hallowed halls of the National Assembly.

“For the first time in our history, the heart of the executive branch of our government is serviced by the alumni of the National Assembly.

“Both the Chief of Staff and the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President are proud alumni of the National Assembly. The Secretary to the Federal Government is one of us.

L-R: Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, the leader of former Governor Ibikunle Amosun's political group, Chief Derin Adebiyi; Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olakunle Oluomo; Governor Dapo Abiodun; Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state; Chief Yemi Sanusi; former Deputy Governor in the state, Alhaja Selimot Badru during the integration of the Senator Ibikunle Amosun's political group from the 20 local government areas of the state into the mainstream of the APC in the state on Friday.

Bandits Hone in on Soft Targets

On the golden jubilee of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, last May, prominent Nigerians made a passionate plea that the one-year programme for Nigerian graduates of universities and polytechnics be scrapped. Others argued in favour of trimming down the number of corps members and making it voluntary rather than mandatory.

One of those in favour of paring down the number of corps members is Prof Attahiru Jega, erstwhile Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. He had his reasons. First, serving corps members are grossly underpaid, according to the former head of an institution relying majorly on the services of serving corps members for carrying out most of its electoral duties and responsibilities.

Describing the allowance paid corps members as “very shameful,” Jega then went on to suggest that “government should substantially increase the funding provisions and ensure security of corps members in their areas of deployment.”

The former INEC boss should know that the security of corps members matters a lot, considering that some of them were consumed by electoral violence when he was the presiding officer of the electoral body.

To the dismay of Nigerians, violence against the young men and women of NYSC has not stopped. If anything, it has escalated and alarmingly so. Just last week, suspected bandits abducted eight NYSC members somewhere in Zamfara State.

The corps members were on their way to an NYSC orientation camp in Sokoto

State. They never got to their base. The kidnappers ambushed the vehicle in which they were travelling and then took the hapless corps members away. Not long afterwards, they demanded the sum of N4 million to release them.

On March 9, 2020, terrorists abducted four youth corps members along Funtua/ Guasau Road. Like last week’s inhuman abduction, the corps members were on their way to orientation camp. Thankfully, security personnel rescued the kidnapped corps members, two days later, on March 11.

For as the spokesperson for Katsina Police Command, Isa Gambo, said at the time, the release of the corps members could not have been effected without the cooperation of repentant bandits who helped to smoke out their comrade-inarms.

The recent abduction is proof that such spontaneous acts of violence against youth corps members is still a national security challenge. Bandits honing in on soft targets is as old as terrorism. Faced with the superior firepower of the military, bandits sometimes keep themselves in action by focusing their sightlines on innocent, non-combatant citizens. It is reprehensible and condemnable on the part of the bandits.

Although seeking maximum damage in their misguided ideological fight against Nigeria and Nigerians, bandits, terrorists, Boko Haram or whatever name they go by have perfected the art of surprising and raiding out-of-the-way schools in far-flung places. Chibok, Dapchi, Kankara are just a few examples.

Now, with security beefed up in such institutions across the country, the bandits have turned their attention elsewhere: youth corps members in transit. In an opinion article published soon after

the abduction, Ejiofor Alike, writing in THISDAY blames NYSC’S insensitivity.

“The controversy trailing the recent abduction of eight members of the National Youth Service Corps by bandits on a highway in Zamfara State is a reflection of the insensitivity on the part of the leadership of the NYSC, which has sustained its old policy of deploying young graduates to far-flung locations when the country’s highways are no longer safe,” he stated.

So, what is to be done to prevent future abductions of corp members? The Federal Government must now consider, as a matter of top priority, the safety of corps members anywhere in the country – on the road to orientation camps and while serving in their places of primary assignment. Without that, guardians may not be too enthusiastic about sending their children for national service in other parts of the country only for hard-eyed bandits to pick them up for ransom . In other words, however much the scheme means to Nigeria, no sane parent will prefer the option of terrorists literarily holding a gun to their head, forcing them to pay up or else…

In addition, in Jega’s view when NYSC turned 50 in May, “the future prospects of the NYSC would depend on addressing the identified challenges and constraints and appropriately repositioning it, consistent with global best practices. We should learn from such best practices to reposition the NYSC for a more impactful contribution to Nigeria’s national development in the decades to come.”

Outside viable security measures in place for corps members provided by the relevant authorities, the scheme might just witness an unexpected end, thus defeating the purpose for which it was set up in May 1973.

The future prospects of the NYSC would depend on addressing the identified challenges and constraints and appropriately repositioning it, consistent with global best practices. We should learn from such best practices to reposition the NYSC for a more impactful contribution to Nigeria’s national development in the decades to come

THEWILL NEWSPAPER TEAM

Celebrating Gawuna's Tribunal Victory

BY ABDULLAHI YUSUF

There is a legendary Hausa proverb that says, “Ba a san maci tuwo ba,sai miya ta kare." In plain language, it means: "In a game, only the real the rugged and the dogged player eventually wins."

After six months (March to September 2023) of prayers, humility, doggedness, persistence, patience and perseverance, the real player, in the person of Dr Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, has won the game.

ONE OF THE REASONS GIVEN BY THE TRIBUNAL FOR NULLIFYING YUSUF’S ELECTION WAS THAT HIS NAME WAS NOT IN THE NNPP REGISTER SUBMITTED TO INEC

Gawuna, who served as Deputy to the former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has been declared the rightful winner of the March 18,2023 governorship election by the Kano Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, amid jubilation and supplication to God by the APC faithful in the state.

Delivering its judgement via Zoom on Wednesday,the threemember tribunal chaired by Justice Oluyemi AkintanOsadebay, voided the election

of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the NNPP and ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) to issue a fresh Certificate of Return to Gawuna of the APC.

The Returning Officer of the election, Prof Ahmed Ibrahim, had on March 20,2023, declared Abba Yusuf winner of the governorship election, having polled 1,019,602 votes.

Prof Ibrahim had said that Abba Yusuf defeated his closest rival, Nasiru Gawuna, who scored 892,705 votes. But the tribunal deducted 165,663 votes from Governor Yusuf’s total as invalid votes, stating that the ballot papers were not stamped or signed and therefore, declared them invalid, thereby returning Gawuna as the rightful winner of the election.

One of the reasons given by the tribunal for nullifying Yusuf’s election was that his name was not in the NNPP register submitted to INEC. The leaders and members of the APC in the state celebrated the "sweet victory" at the tribunal in grand style, as they embarked on special prayers thanking God "for enabling the tribunal to deliver its judgement in our favour."

The State Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Abbas, led thousands of supporters of the party in special prayers at the Kofar Mata Eid Ground.

Abbas,who spoke immediately after the prayer session, said the purpose of the supplication

was to thank the Almighty God for the party’s victory at the Tribunal.

He said the people of the state had every reason to celebrate the return of APC because the party and its government were the only ones that knew their plight and therefore addressed them.

We are back to correct the wrongs and the imperial tendencies meted out to you, our beloved Kano citizens. Be assured that things will return to normal and your businesses will boom again,” he said.

The chairman also noted that Kano, the commercial nerve centre of northern Nigeria, had been relegated to the background during the 100 days celebration of the NNPP administration in the state and promised that sanity would be restored with the return of the APC to power.

Other forms of celebration continue across the state, though quietly, as the State Command of the Federal Roads Safety Corps had, ahead of the landmark judgement, banned wild celebrations and urged APC and NNPP supporters to "remain calm and resist the temptation of wild celebrations during and after the tribunal judgement, especially with vehicles or causing any forms of obstruction on the roads."

It said that wild celebrations, which result in breach of traffic rules and regulations, obstruction of highways and road accidents, would not be allowed and warned that perpetrators would be made to face the wrath of the law.

Similarly, the State Police Command had, few hours after the Tribunal judgement, imposed a 24-hour curfew on the state to maintain law and order.

The command said that the curfew took effect from 6 p.m. on Wednesday, September 20, to 6 p.m. of Thursday, September 21, warning that violators of the order would "be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law."

The measures employed by the two security commands in the state have helped to douse the palpable tension that enveloped the state before, during and after the Tribunal judgement, leading to a general calmness in the state.

The resultant calmness being experienced in the state now, would allow the APC faithful and indeed other well-meaning residents of the state to continue to pray for peace and harmony, as they digest the Tribunal's verdict.

The ensuing tranquil atmosphere will also enable the APC leadership to effectively focus on matters arising from its victorious outing at the tribunal, including the vow by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to appeal the judgement.

•Yusuf is a former Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Information to the immediatepast Governor of Kano State

Tinubu’s 100 Days of Steady Progress And National Rejuvenation

BY MOHAMMED IDRIS

Exactly 100 days ago, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office, following the popular mandate graciously bestowed by the good people of Nigeria, who elected him as the 16th leader of our country.

Since May 29, President Tinubu has been at his duty post, working assiduously to deliver on his campaign promises as enunciated in his Renewed Hope Agenda for a better and greater Nigeria.

The President began the journey to rebuild our battered economy, realising that our country was in a difficult situation with our public debts – both local and foreign – coupled with an unsustainable fuel subsidy regime that created, for several decades, a galling hole in our public finance, rendering the three tiers of governments insolvent and incapable of meeting the needs of the citizens.

President Tinubu took a bold and courageous decision to remove the fuel subsidy in order to avert a national economic catastrophe of epic proportions. Fuel subsidy was a Sword of Damocles that hung over Nigeria for decades. It stunted growth and set the country a-borrowing.

In addition to subsidy removal, President Tinubu took further steps to unify the multiple foreign exchange markets.

While these two vital steps to save the country from hitting the rocks brought momentary discomfort to Nigerians, President Tinubu has never failed in his appeal to Nigerians to see the current inconveniences as a price we must all pay to save our country from disappearing.

Considering the people’s pains, the government rolled out intervention programmes to help cushion the unintended negative impacts of the reforms. These interventions include working out a minimum wage and salary increase, supporting states and local governments to enable them to cater for the most vulnerable among us, providing fertilisers to farmers, grains to households, cash transfers to people with low incomes. In addition to these, there are plans to roll out over 11,000 CNG buses for affordable public transportation among others. While striving to reduce the impact of the high cost of living on the citizens, President Tinubu has focused on redirecting our economy and removing the impediments to productivity and competitiveness so that the real sector can grow and create millions of decent jobs that are essential for long term economic growth.

In the last 100 days, the government set up a Tax and Fiscal Reforms Committee that is fully at work to deepen the ongoing reforms and reposition the national economy for long-term sustainability. A renowned Tax and Fiscal Policy expert is leading this committee. Part of the committee’s mandate, working with the state governments, is to simplify our complicated tax system, eliminate multiple taxes, streamline regulations that negate the ease of doing

business, and close the over 20 trillion annual tax gap.

To ensure that Nigerians and businesses are not burdened with new taxes, the administration will promote efficiency in revenue collection. It will expand the tax net by ensuring that those not paying are made to pay while those not paying the correct amount are made to pay their fair share.

Within the last 100 days, President Tinubu has worked to promote political stability in Nigeria because he understands that there cannot be any meaningful progress and development without peace.

The administration has stabilised the polity and reduced tensions associated with ethnic and religious agitations by better managing our diversity.

President Tinubu believes Nigeria’s heterogeneity is a strength to harness for national development. To strengthen the bond of national unity and social harmony, President Tinubu ensured balance in all the appointments into key government positions including that of service chiefs from diverse parts of the country.

While promoting peace and political stability within the country by carrying along every segment of our country, the President also prioritises adequate information about government activities and policy direction.

President Tinubu emerged as the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government within his 100 days in office. In this role, he has commendably raised the profile of Nigeria globally and within the West Africa sub-region, promoting the rule of law, defending constitutional order, and standing as a bulwark against military incursion into governance, especially in the Republic of Niger, where a democratic government was toppled recently.

It is not by accident that Nigeria continues to enjoy the respect of the rest of the world. It is so because of the firm and principled stand of President Tinubu for the ideals of democracy, rule of law and good governance.

•Mallam Idris is the Minister of Information and National Orientation

FUEL SUBSIDY WAS A SWORD OF DAMOCLES THAT HUNG OVER NIGERIA FOR DECADES. IT STUNTED GROWTH AND SET THE COUNTRY A-BORROWING

GREENER TOMORROW: TRANSCORP CHAMPIONS ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT IN MAJOR CSR PROGRAMME

EDITOR Sam Diala

Transnational Corporation Plc (“Transcorp”), Nigeria's largest listed diversified conglomerate renowned for its investments in the Power, Hospitality and Energy sectors, has embarked on a groundbreaking environmental Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project.

On Wednesday, September 20th, the group launched an initiative aimed at sensitising schools across the country on proper waste management and recycling, fostering a greener and more sustainable future for Nigeria.

Employees from various Transcorp Companies in Nigeria; Transcorp Plc, Transcorp Hotels Plc, Transcorp Power Limited, Transafam Power Limited, and Transcorp Energy Limited passionately participated in the project. The dedicated staff members visited two schools each across the different states they operate in, engaging with students and educators to raise awareness about the importance of responsible waste disposal and the advantages of recycling. The project is aligned with Transcorp's Africapitalism philosophy, which is embedded in its vision to power positive change within the environment the group operates. In executing this environmental initiative, the Group has chosen to work through the leaders of tomorrow, by partnering with secondary schools, to instill a

N18.4 billion 47.01

NNPCL Signs up to UN Global Compac

AI: Proof of NCC Commitment to Harness Power of Technology – Danbatta

Zenith Bank Plc: N967.25bn

Revenue Haul Excites Bargain Hunters in Equities Market

SAM DIALA

Zenith Bank Plc, Nigeria’s largest financial services institution by market capitalisation (currently N1.04 trillion), raked in N967.25 billion revenue in the first half of 2023.

This has put it on a spotlight at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) where excited investors have bought heavily into it as a mark of increased confidence in the lender’s stock.

Although bargain hunters are on the lookout for wellperforming stocks at the equities market, the unusually high revenue impacted favourably on the institution’s profit, asset base and earnings per share – among the key metrics that attract investors. The result is that the stock value has soared among its peers.

Zenith began the year with a share price of N24.00 and has since gained 37.5% on that price valuation, ranking it 69th on the NGX in terms of year-to-date performance. The current share price is N33.00. The stock closed its last trading day (Wednesday, September 20, 2023) at N33.00 per share on the NGX.

“Zenith Bank was not the only financial services institution that recorded huge earnings from the recent forex revaluation policy. However, the development boosted investors’ confidence in the stock which is listed in the special Premium category of the NGX”, said Peter Akalonu, a financial analyst.

According to Akalonu, the stock has been ‘fiercely active’ in the past few months because of the huge volume it traded on the Exchange, better than where it started at the beginning of the year.

Checks showed that Zenith Bank is the 11th most traded stock on the NGX over the past three months (Jun 22 - Sep 20, 2023).

The stock has traded a total volume of 1.35 billion shares—in 25,216 deals—valued at NGN 46.2 billion over the period, with an average of 21.5 million traded shares per session.

A volume high of 75.4 million was achieved on September 4th,

and a low of 4.62 million on August 28th, for the same period. The 2023 half-year results showed that the earnings per share (EPS) rose to N9.29 from N3.55 in the corresponding period of 2022.

“You can see the impact of the phenomenal revenue growth on the stock performance”, Akalonu pointed out in a telephone response.

The revenue haul, driven majorly by the forex revaluation windfall for the banks, exceeded the N404.72 billion posted in HY 2022 with N562.53 billion, representing a 139 percent increase.

This pushed the Premium Market quoted Tier-1 lender’s bottom line to a phenomenal level. Its profit before tax (PBT) rose by 177.2 percent to N360.36 billion in HY 2023 from N130 billion it had in HY 2022. Consequently, it comfortably coasted home with a profit after tax (PAT) of N291.73 billion from N111.41 billion in the equivalent period of 2022 which is a 161.8 percent increase. Obviously, investors took note of the assets tremendous rise in one swoop, from N12.85 trillion as of December 31, 2022 to N16.03 trillion in six months ended June 30, 2023 representing a 24.7 percent increase. As usual, investors have taken position towards the imminent earning season effectively commencing in the fourth quarter through the first quarter of next year. This largely accounts for the impressive performance of Zenith Bank’s stock.

Analysts believe that the revenue haul will have a lasting positive effect on the performance of the bank for the rest of the year as the key metrics favour it. “The figures speak to the fact that the lender is in a good stead notwithstanding the regulatory checks by the monetary policy authorities,” said Akalonu.

The forex reform introduced by Nigeria’s new government on June 14, 2023 abolished the multiple forex channels which had created lots of distortions.

TOTAL ASSETS OF NIGERIA BANKS 2017-2022

Elumelu

...N967.25bn Revenue Haul Excites Bargain Hunters in Equities Market

The revenue haul, driven majorly by the forex revaluation windfall for the banks, exceeded the N404.72 billion posted in HY 2022 with N562.53 billion, representing a 139 percent increase

...Transcorp Champions Environmental Project in Major CSR Programme

Unifying the several segments under the aggregated official Investors’ and Exporters’ (I&E) window initially narrowed the wide gap between the official and parallel markets. But it resulted in a 63 percent devaluation of the Naira which traded at N473/$ before the new policy.

Along the line, the Naira traded at par with the parallel market before taking a huge dive into the devaluation stream. The local currency closed at N773/$ on Thursday at the I&E window while it plunged to N965/$ at the parallel market - a significant gap of N192. This has rekindled the worry that attended the former forex regime where dollar scarcity was in vogue. Unfortunately, the economy is back to ‘square one’.

“Until we address the supply type, the gap will continue to increase because Nigeria’s appetite for imports has become chronic and little is being done to boost local production.

“The refineries are not functioning; there is low electricity supply, non-oil export is not significant to earn the required fore. The entire business environment is in a disarray. How do you earn forex?” queried Dr Kelly Esimugo, a Developmental Economist. Giving further insight into the half-year result, Zenith Bank said the growth in gross earnings arose from both interest income and non-interest income. Interest income grew by 72 per cent from N241.7 billion in H1 2022 to N415.4 billion in H1 2023, while non-interest income grew by 246 per cent from N149 billion to N515.7 billion. The growth in interest income is attributed to the impact of both the growth and repricing of risk assets. The liberalisation of the foreign exchange market during the period spurred the growth in non-interest income as revaluations gains improved significantly.

In terms of efficiency, cost-to-income ratio improved from 58% to 38.5% in the current period on the back of an enhanced income line. The liberalisation of the foreign exchange market coupled with the heightened risk environment resulted in cost of risk growing from 1.4 per cent to 8.8 per cent. Cost of funding also grew YoY from 1.4 per cent in H1 2022 to 2.6 per cent in H1 2023 because of the spike in interest rates between both periods as interest expense grew from N57 billion in H1 2022 to N153.6 billion in H1 2023.

Loans and advances also grew by 32 per cent from N4.12trillion in December 2022 to N5.38 trillion in June 2023 partly due to the revaluation of the foreign currency denominated loans as well as growth in local currency loans. Non-performing loans ratio improved from 4.3 per cent to 3.9 per cent in December 2022 despite the deterioration of the macros and heightened risk environment because of the currency mix of risk assets. Capital adequacy ratio improved from 19.8 per cent to 22.0 per cent, while liquidity ratio reduced from 75 per cent to 61 per cent in the current period. Both prudential ratios are still well above regulatory thresholds.

sense of environmental responsibility among the young generation, inspiring them to become champions of sustainable practices. During the engaging sessions representatives effectively communicated the significance of proper waste management techniques and the positive impact recycling can have on the environment. Students were educated on various waste segregation methods and the significance of reducing, reusing, and recycling materials to minimise their ecological footprint.

To reinforce the importance of recycling, Transcorp Group partnered with Recycle Points, one of Nigeria’s foremost waste recycling and social benefit company and an alumnus of the Tony Elumelu Foundation. Transcorp also donated segmented dustbins to each school, designed to facilitate and streamline the recycling process.

These specialised dustbins will empower the students and staff to segregate different types of waste effectively, encouraging a culture of recycling within the school premises. They have also collaborated with a strategic partner who will ensure that the recyclables are collected, and proceeds used to train out-of-school children.

Speaking at the occasion, President/GCEO of Transcorp Group, Dr. Owen Omogiafo OON expressed immense pride in the Group’s commitment to environmental stewardship. She stated, "At Transcorp, being the Africapalists that we are, we firmly believe that sustainable development is a shared responsibility. Actively engaging with local schools and investing in educational initiatives, allows us to create a lasting positive impact on our environment and inspire the younger generation to adopt eco-friendly practices."

In his closing remarks, the representative of the School Principals, on behalf of Lagos State Government, Permanent Secretary, teachers and other staff, expressed his appreciation for this initiative. He encouraged students to imbibe the culture of environmental consciousness and the habit of recycling.

Transcorp’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond this project, as it continues to explore innovative solutions for reducing its own environmental footprint. Earlier in the year, the Group Chairman Mr. Tony O. Elumelu CFR planted trees at Transcorp Hilton Abuja to commemorate World Environment Day. Combining the resources and expertise of its subsidiaries in the Power, Hospitality, and Energy sectors, Transcorp seeks to lead by example and inspire other organisations to embrace environmentally responsible practices.

Transnational Corporation Plc (Transcorp Group) is a publicly quoted Conglomerate, with a diversified shareholder base of approximately 300,000. Its portfolio comprises strategic investments in the power, hospitality, and oil and gas sectors. Its businesses include Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Transcorp Hotels Calabar, Aura by Transcorp Hotels, Transcorp Power, Transafam Power, and Transcorp Energy.

CBN Postpones Sept 2023 MPC Meeting Amid Rates Hike Speculations

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced that its bi-monthly Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, September 25 and 26, has been deferred. Although no reason was given for the shift in the date for the 5th MPC meeting in 2023, there are indications that the deferment was not unconnected with the recent changes in the leadership of the apex bank.

In a release on Thursday signed by Dr Isah AbdulMumin, Director, Corporate Communications Department, titled “CBN Defers September 2023 MPC Meeting”, the apex bank stated:

“The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has deferred its 293rd meeting scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, September 25 and 26, 2023, respectively.

“A new date will be communicated in due course.

We regret any inconvenience this change may cause our stakeholders and the general public.”

President Tinubu on September 15, nominated Dr Olayemi Cordoso as the new Central Bank governor for a term of five years at the first instance.

Four deputy governors were also nominated, namely Mrs Emem Nnanna Usoro, Mr Muhammad Sani Abdullahi Dattijo, Mr Philip Ikeazor and Dr Bala M. Bello.

Their nominations are subject to confirmation by the Nigerian Senate. When approved, Dr Cardoso will assume duties as the substantive 11th indigenous CBN Governor and will take over from Mr Folashodun Shonubi who has been supervising the apex bank on acting capacity since June 9, 2023 when Mr Godwin Emefiele was suspended from office by President Tinubu, about 12 months to the end of his second term as

the CBN Governor.

Analysts predict that the MPC would hike rates when it holds its next meeting considering developments in the domestic and international economies.

In a note to its clients, Cordros Research stated on Wednesday that “The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is expected to hold its penultimate meeting of the year on the 25th and 26th of September.”

“Like the previous meetings, we expect the Committee to consider developments in the global and domestic economy since the last policy meeting.

“Conclusively, our baseline expectation is for the MPC to (1) raise the MPR further by 25bps, (2) remove the NGN2.00 billion limit on the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF), and (3) retain other policy parameters.”

NNPCL Signs up to UN Global Compac

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on Thursday announced it has signed up as a participant of the United Nations Global Compact.

The NNPCL said in a statement by management on Thursday that by the signing it became the first state-owned oil company to join the global initiative.

The UN Global Compact, formally launched in July 2000, is a voluntary UN agreement designed to encourage companies around the world to develop, implement, and disclose responsible and sustainable corporate policies and practices.

The NNPCL explained that in a short ceremony on the sidelines of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s session during the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, the NNPC Ltd Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, signed the letter of commitment, signifying NNPC Ltd’s participation in the UN Global Compact.

The statement said speaking shortly after signing the dotted lines, Mr Kyari said that as a dynamic global energy company with businesses and operations across the entire spectrum of the energy value chain, NNPC Ltd.’s participation in the UN Global Compact wad further testimony to Nigeria’s commitment to working with global partners towards attaining a just energy transition.

He said with this development, NNPC Ltd supports the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact on human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption.

“We are committed to making the UN Global Compact and its principles part of our strategy, culture and day-to-day operations of our company, and to engage in collaborative projects which advance the broader development of goals of the United Nations, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Mr Kyari was quoted by the statement as saying.

In her remarks shortly after signing on behalf of the UN Global Compact, the Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network Nigeria, Naomi Nwokolo, described NNPC Ltd.’s move to become a participant of the UN Global Compact as a pivotal step in fostering a culture of ethical business conduct, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility.

“With Nigeria being one of the largest producers of crude oil in Africa, a transition from an energy system driven by fossil fuels to one based on renewable energy will have a far-reaching positive impact, serving as a catalyst for sustainability in-country, on the continent and the world at large,” the statement said.

THEWILL recalls that NNPCL declared a profit of N18.4 billion in the first quarter of 2023 through its retail outlets, according to Kyari.

AI: Proof of NCC Commitment to Harness Power of Technology – Danbatta

The Executive Vice Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) ot th Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta has officially declared that Artificial Intelligence technology reiterates NCC’s commitment to harnessing the power of technology to drive economic growth, social development, and innovation across the African continent.

The declaration made at the opening ceremony of the 11TH edition of the Digital Africa Conference and Exhibition (DACE), from September 19 to 21, 2023 AT REIZ Continental Hotel, Abuja, Nigeria.

In his speech, the NCC boss who was represented by at the event by the Head, Consumer Information and Education, NCC, Dr. Emilia Nwokolo emphasised on the remarkable achievements and advancements the Commission has witnessed in AI across various sectors.

These include healthcare, agriculture, finance, transportation, education, and even governance, that AI-powered solutions have the potential to address some of Africa’s most pressing challenges, such as limited access to healthcare, food security, financial inclusion, and infrastructure development

He however said “for Africa to fully embrace the benefits of AI, we must address several critical factors. First, we must invest in building the necessary digital infrastructure. This includes expanding broadband connectivity.”

Danbatta said Nigeria’s broadband penetration stood at 47.01 percent as at July 2023, while he urged the continent to continuously ensure reliable power supply and fostering a conducive regulatory environment.

“Without robust infrastructure, the potential of AI will remain untapped, and the digital divide will further widen”, Danbatta.

The NCC boss elaborated more on the fact that AI technologies require a skilled workforce capable of developing, deploying, and maintainance in Africa.

“We need to invest in education and training programs that equip our youth with the necessary skills to participate in the AI-driven economy. By nurturing a generation of AI experts, we can elevate Africa’s position in the global AI landscape and create job opportunities for our youth”

In conclusion, Artificial Intelligence and Africa according to the theme, is meant to offers Africans a glimpse into the immense possibilities that lie ahead, noting that AI holds the power to transform societies, drive economic growth, and improve the well-being of Africans; asking Africans to seize the opportunity and work together to build an inclusive, sustainable, and AI-powered Africa.

L-R: Group Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Oscar N. Onyema, OON; FIoD, Outgoing President, Chartered Institute of Directors Nigerian (IOD), Dr. Mrs. Ije Jidenma; FIoD, President and Chairman of Council, IOD, Alhaji Tijjani M. Borodo; FIoD, Chief (Dr) Olusegun Osunkeye, CON, OFR and, Chief of Staff, Zamfara State Government, Hon. Mouktar Lugga, during Investiture Ceremony of the 18th President and Chairman of Council of IoD Nigeria at Eko Hotel in Lagos on September 15, 2023.

How to Boost Living Standards, Quality of Life at This Time!

BY TIMI OLUBIYI

The growing cost of living is having an effect internationally. In various ways, it is certain that costs and bills are continuing to climb sharply, including the number of Impoverished on the African continent.

Though the cost of food, household products, and other necessities has risen widely in recent years, from Delhi to Shanghai, Rome, Manchester, Dubai, Houston, Mexico City, Belfast, Islamabad, Dublin, and Manila, to mention a few, the effect has been greatest in Africa.

Here, the standard of living and the quality of life continue to deteriorate. This price increase has been on the rise as a result of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) in some parts of the world and the conflict in Ukraine. It is continuing to reduce the population of those with accessible discretionary income.

In Nigeria for instance, a quality loaf of bread that was N350 in 2020 is now over N1,000 which is a 300% increase in just three years. Similar percentage increases are in the cost of flight tickets, health care, rent and energy cost (fuel).

A bag of rice, a crate of eggs, a kilo of chicken or turkey and many other essentials have increased their prices due to inflation. Yet, income has remained the same or even less. Nothing is cheap, and everything is out of reach for the majority of people.

Given the country’s current position, which is similar to that of many other African countries, and the fact that many individuals have not experienced an increase in their income, this has resulted in lower or no savings, increasing irritation, mental health difficulties, and unhappiness with meeting basic needs among many.

Regardless of the length of service, experience gained, or available connection, there is always the chance and fear of losing jobs or firms closing down, and the effects may be more severe. Employers, in fact, are hesitant to implement any wage increases for economic reasons.

Inflation continues to have a severe negative impact on man’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being, as well as on marriages and livelihoods. Currently, even with a steady, regular salary, living has become costlier with heightened uncertainty, high inflation, and weak purchasing power. This impacts more the masses, including civil servants, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. As a result, one of the ways to have protection is by diversifying sources of income and having multiple streams at this time. You have multiple bills; why not have multiple streams of income to support the inadequacy?

Therefore, in addition to salary or business income, it is important to source other income avenues to satisfy the rising needs, poor business performance and inflation. Because if financial capacity is weak and daily expenses continue to rise, individuals, businesses, and even households will be threatened with sustainability.

Therefore, there is a need to take action because having multiple streams of income has proven to be priceless.

According to my observations, the majority of people and homes on the continent rely solely on earned income, be it salary or daily income from a business, and they are always hoping that nothing bad happens. It is critical to understand that if salary is the sole source of income, you are on the verge of

financial pressure.

With the high inflation, unemployment crisis, and unstable economy, having many sources of income may help spread the risk and guarantee that homes and businesses are stable and financially protected. We live in a world where one source of income is insufficient and becoming increasingly unsustainable. If you ask me, having multiple sources of income is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity.

To be safe, it is never rational to depend on a single income source, full-time job, or a single market. Remember, change is the only constant thing in life, and this change happens rapidly in this period and is always unpredictable. Living paycheck-topaycheck, can severely affect mental health, and increase anxiety, depression, and stress and many are unaware of the implications on their health.

Consequently, having multiple sources of income is the best way to protect yourself, your business, and your family against drastic financial change at this time. The tools for generating these multiple streams of income are readily accessible on the internet or by engaging a professional.

We have greater access than ever before to information, people, ideas, and opportunities with social media, so tap into this. If the average billionaire or millionaire has more than one way to make money, it is important for professionals and business owners to think the same way and have stable passive income streams to stay on top of financial and economic woes.

While active income will require your full attention and effort, like being available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, passive income is generated with no or insignificant effort and attention; it can work while you sleep. So, to complement active income, passive income such as investing can generate income through dividends, interest, and return on capital.

Depending on the market and your financial circumstances, investing in real estate might provide you with high returns and rental income. But if you cannot construct to generate rent, acquire a piece of land and protect it; no matter how far away it is, it will rise in value. If you have years of experience in your field, you can start giving paid advice and consulting services or giving lectures as a means to earn another stream of income from your regular job or business.

Another reliable way is by acquiring assets that can generate consistent and steady cash flow. Looking inward might just help as well, talents, abilities, and passion can be used to create potentials that can give income streams.

Clearly, research has shown that having multiple streams of income as a plan aids retirement and provides the necessary comfort in old age. Hear this: if a solid retirement plan is your goal, savings alone will be insufficient; instead, the objective should include developing numerous streams of income sufficient to replace your principal active income (salary).

The main benefit or advantage of having multiple streams of income is that when one stream is challenged or things are very volatile, there is a backup for extra income to attain financial stability. That can give the necessary hedge against uncertainties in a business as well as during illness, and disability of the entrepreneur.

In conclusion, it is reasonable to live below your means to make room for savings and then investment, no matter how little it helps along with side hustle. Relying on a salary or daily business income alone is a danger at this time.

In an environment where job loss and unemployment are chronic, the decision to create multiple streams of income and secure financial stability is expedient. However, do not let your sideincome streams put the primaryand a full-time job or business at risk unless you can survive without it.

Because if financial capacity is weak and daily expenses continue to rise, individuals, businesses, and even households will be threatened with sustainability

SHOTS OF THE WEEK

Photo Editor: Peace Udugba [08033050729]

Chair, Committee on Governance, Alhaji Azzez Olubiyo; MD, Mr Oluyemi Ejidiran; Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji; Chairman of the Board, Mr Emmanuel Efuntayo; Directors, Chief Oluropo Akinsanya and Engr. Kehinde Akinola, during the Governor’s meeting with the Directors of WEMABOD in Lagos on September 21, 2023.

L-R: Chairman, Apapa Community Development Association, Mr. Ewunmi Regal; Head, CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Chioma Okolie; Secretary, Apapa Community Development Association, Babatunde Raji; Regional Operations Director (Lagos), Airtel Nigeria, Chika Obanor; representative of Baale of Ajagbe Town, Yusuf Ojola and Head, Public Relations, Airtel Nigeria, Sam Adeoye, during the presentation of a community borehole and other items to Sari Iganmu community, Lagos on September 21, 2023.

L-R: Keynote Speaker, Mrs Moji Makanjuola; United Nations Ambassador of Peace,  Mrs Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack; Chief Executive Officer, One Percent International Management Services, Amb. Stephenie Nnadi and Director, Digital Media, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Hajia Sani, during One-day Symposium in Commemoration of the United Nations International Day of Peace in Abuja on September 21, 2023.

L-R: Chief Operative Officer, AA Holdings, Johnnie Eni; President, Arrupe Jesuit, Fr. Asogwe C. Emeka SJ; Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido; Founder, AA Foundation, Mr. Austin Avuru and Principal, Arrupe

Jesuit College, Fr. Oluwadare A. Micheal SJ, during the opening and blessing ceremony of the Arrupe Jesuit College Campus, held in Delta State on September 15, 2023.

L-R: Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), Mr. Tony Elumelu; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and GMD/Chief Executive Officer, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Oliver Alawuba, during Tony Elumelu Foundation breakfast roundtable, at the 78th UNGA meetings in New York on September 20, 2023.

L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Kohath Investment Group, Thomas Eloramo; Trade Marketing Manager, The Edrington Portfolio (NBC), Tsolaye Everett-Eleoramo; The Macallan Brand Ambassador, Abuja, Adeyinka Adepetun and Brand Manager, Edrington Portfolio, Nigeria, Hammed Adebiyi, during the exclusive launch of The Macallan Double Cask 30 Years Old at Tar Tar, Abuja, on September 15, 2023.

Oyo Warns Schools' Land Encroachers

The Oyo State government has warned trespassers against the encroachment of landed properties belonging to public schools across the state.

The Commissioner for Education Science and Technology, Prof. Abdulwaheed Adelabu gave the warning during a routine check at St. Agnes Basic School, Iluju, Ogbomoso, at the weekend in Oyo State. The commissioner decried the alarming rate at which the premises and properties of the school, had been encroached upon by a neighboring church and land grabbers.

"Government's policies on encroachment on land still remain the same. Encroachment of any nature will not be entertained by the Oyo State Government", he said. He emphasized that the environment of learning was supposed to be totally void of any form of distraction. The Commissioner stressed the need to go back to the basics and enforce discipline in order to bring about quality education in the state.

He directed the Education Secretary, Oriire Local Government, to ensure proper investigation into the matter and report back to the Ministry, through the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board.

In a related development, Prof. Adelabu has urged Head teachers of the 21 Better Education Service Delivery For All (BESDA) Public Primary schools to put in innovative measures in the day-to-day administration of their schools.

The Commissioner said this today during a series of meetings with some BESDA focused school head teachers in the State.

Stressing the importance of basic education to any country, Prof. Adelabu said most Development partners focus more on supporting primary education in the country.

The Commissioner, who thanked all teachers for their support to the Governor Seyi Makinde led administration, said the State Government will not relent in its efforts to make the basic education subsector more attractive for better education.

Speaking earlier, the Executive Secretary, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr. Jacob Dairo warned against illegal collection of fees, adding that it is totally prohibited in Oyo State.

Local governments, the visiting team, led by the Commissioner; the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Adeniyi Olusanjo and top management team of OYOSUBEB visited include, Iseyin; Saki West; Igboho; Oriire; OyoWest among others.

Kogi APC Raises Alarm Over Vandalization of it’s Campaign Office in Dekina

The Kogi State All Progressives Congress, (APC), has said that it’s campaign office in Dekina Local Government Area has been vandalized by suspected hoodlums

The Spokesman of the Kogi State APC Governorship Campaign Council, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, also alleged that members of the SDP, who were unable to sell their ethnic agenda, became frustrated and decided to result to self help.

Fanwo called on APC supporters in Dekina LGA to avoid the temptation of launching a reprisal, saying as a peace loving party, they have made a preliminary report to the law enforcement agencies.

He added that their Legal Directorate is filing a more comprehensive report with the hope that law enforcement agents will do what is right, investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure perpetrators are prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others nursing such acts, the described as cowardice.

"This is to bring to the attention of the general public and law enforcement agents that our Campaign Office in Dekina LGA has been vandalized by some hoodlums known to be supporting the Governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party.

"It is unfortunate that after realising that their ethnic jingoism is not achieving desired results for them, a handful of supporters openly associating with the SDP Governorship Candidate, Yakubu Muritala are visiting their livid frustration on our campaign offices across Kogi East.

"We want to commend the people of Kogi East for standing by the candidate which signposts the unity of our dear state and for believing in a united and prosperous state.

"In the face of the obvious provocation and violation of the civil way of playing politics, we urge our supporters in Dekina LGA to avoid the temptation of launching a reprisal as our party stands for peace. We are widely accepted across the state and only the losers are displaying cowardice.

Okonkwo Urges Tinubu to Tackle Unemployment With Apprenticeship

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been urged to tap into the benefits of the Igbo apprenticeship system in order to tackle the scourge of youth unemployment in Nigeria.

Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines Limited, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has called on President Bola Tinubuwho made the call at the sidelines of a public book presentation by The Sun in Abuja, Thursday, said the apprenticeship scheme has the potential to positively engage many youths and make them selfreliant within the lifetime of the Tinubu administration. Okonkwo, who had sponsored a study at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Business School on reinvigorating the Igbo apprenticeship scheme as a tool for mass employment, said the outcome of the study indicated that the system is still a viable option to addressing unemployment.

According to Okonkwo, with proper policy administration, the scheme could be adapted to modern trends and used to engage youths towards a relf-reliant future.

He stated that engaging youths at the point of graduation and attaching them to their trades of interest would empower them with the relevant skills to live by. He said, "When a youth is engaged as an apprentice, he not only learns the nitty gritty of the trade type or how to buy and sell, but also character formation as well as resource management skills."

"Don't forget that a young boy that is engaged to a trade master, who teaches him how to trade, is also learning how to manage financial resources; he will learn aspects of home management and when he grows to become the head apprentice, he also learns how to manage human resources.

"Apprenticeship will also expose him to the knowledge of banking and stock management and supply chain management. He will learn bookkeeping and product sourcing. He will also be introduced to his master's business partners abroad, thus improving his network. If he is interested in transportation and is attached to a transporter, he will learn every aspect of the business, including fleet management, spare parts sourcing and management, etc. The benefits are huge and interestingly, these are some of the subjects that people pay millions of naira to learn in business schools here and abroad. So, you see that even an apprentice who goes to learn welding has much more to learn than cutting and welding irons.

President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR (4th Right); Minister for Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite (3rd Left); Chairman, Coronation Capital, Aigboje AigImoukhuede, CON (4th Left); Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group, Alhaji (Dr) Umaru Kwairanga (Middle); President, U.S. Africa Business Center, Sr. Vice President, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Scott Eisner (3rd Right); Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Limited, Mr Temi Popoola (2nd Right) and Minister of Finance and CME, Mr. Wale Edun (Right) and others, during the Closing Bell Ceremony at NASDAQ Headquarters, New York on September 21, 2023

The Yayi Factor: Why Dimeji Bankole Wasn't Made Minister

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

EDITOR Ivory Ukonu

It is no longer news that Dimeji Bankole, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and a former presidential aspirant on the platform of All Progressives Congress, APC, lost out in the race for a ministerial position. Bankole expected to be rewarded for stepping down for President Bola Tinubu during the party’s presidential primary last year and for always accompanying him during the campaigns. Several factors however worked against him. 0ne of such factors among several, is his lack of political deftness. Those who are better at playing the political game pulled the rug from under his feet.

Continues on page 41

ADEJOKE

ORELOPE-ADEFULIRE ADVISED TO ‘HANG HER BOOTS'

There have been dissenting voices over the choice of a former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, as one of the Senior Special Assistants appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs for the South-West. The appointment came about three months

Continues on page 41

Afrobeats is Not The Problem Here

BY FEMI ADERIBIGBE

Ican't remember how many people asked for my assistance in helping to get their children some mileage in the music industry. My response has always been based on two standard templates.

"I really don't know much about the industry anymore, but I'll ask a few people what is possible and what's not,” if I'm not very close to you.

"Please tell your kid to do music as a hobby and not as a career because it's not a very healthy space for any young person to be these days," if I am relatively close to you.

I should know because I have run a record label, Strictly Next Level Records, that gave the world one of the best female rappers out of Nigeria, Bukola Folayan otherwise known as Bouqui. That was in the mid 2000s, before I decided to face the broadcast media space fully.

Back then, it was a little crazy, but trust me, these days, it's more dangerous and a lot more toxic than you know and imagine. The subliminal nature of music makes it a dangerous tool that can penetrate your subconscious mind without much resistance and can take over your thoughts without your permission.

It is therefore frightening to see that such a powerful communication and indoctrination tool has been allowed to become a cesspit for drug abuse and drug trafficking, money laundering, youth indoctrination, gang wars, cultism, human sacrifices, all types of voodoo, Internet fraud practitioners, organised prostitution, and many more scary social vices.

What has been revealed to you in the past few days after the death of Ilerioluwa Aloba, otherwise known as Mohbad, is just a tip of the iceberg really. Many of your favourites in the industry may be social media sweethearts, but a lot of them are absolutely ruthless and borderline psychopaths in real life.

All you need to do is listen deeply to the lyrics of a lot of the songs out there and you will hear hidden messages and violent street codes that you didn't take note of before now.

Ironically, churches have bred most of the biggest artistes out there, but the lack of requisite support structures and platforms, as well as systemic exploitation and under appreciation of these talents make them lose most of their 'flock' to the 'world'.

Since nature abhors vacuums, a legion of unsavoury and shady characters have stepped up to fill that vacuum and are subliminally indoctrinating our kids into all sorts of vices right under our noses.

It is okay to support your kids in any venture they wish to undertake, but unless you own N30 billion like an Adeleke or your surname is Dangote, which will help you build a protective cocoon around them, make sure you do a deep dive into the company they keep in the industry.

A word is enough for the wise.

In many ways, we have all contributed to creating this allpowerful monster that is now feeding on our children with reckless abandonment and threatening to rip apart the very fabric of our society.

We danced to 'Soapy' without any inhibitions, despite the fact that it made our young boys masturbate their lives away.

We gleefully danced to 'Ko s'ewe, ko s'egbo..' even when we knew that the chemicals being mixed were crack, such as Fentanyl (also spelt as fentanil, a highly potent synthetic piperidine opioid drug), Skoochies (or skuchies), a household name in night clubs and parties both in the streets, as well as highbrow areas of Nigeria, containing a combination of boiled

marijuana extract, codeine containing cough syrups, tramadol, alcohol, sometimes herbal tinctures, some juice/ drink like zobo or cranberry, as well as the scoochies brewer’s secret ingredient which may just be another substance you know nothing about); colorado (a combination of strong marijuana variants but with a strong indication of potency beyond any synthetic drug) etc.

We joyfully chanted 'If you no get money, hide your face' even as we know it is insensitive, oppressive and likely to cause depression and anxiety amongst the financially vulnerable and the impressionable youth population.

We were quick to defend incredibly bad behaviour, such as a celebrity's security team shooting a club patron just because his woman refused to be 'toasted' by a 'god' of music, and people reinforcing someone boldly claiming he 'has no manners.'

We bully, threaten, insult, attack, maim and even kill those who have the decency and courage to say anything negative about our favourites even when they glaringly mess up in the worst ways.

We are quick to disrespect and cancel even our own legends who put in the work and helped to create the platforms and pathways that all these 'new cats' are using to shine on a global scale.

We still have relative disdain for the entertainment industry as a whole and the music business in particular, often seeing them as necessary nuisances, without us having a proper understanding of the power music has to indoctrinate even our own children, right under our noses. We preach, in churches and mosques, against these young people who just want to express themselves, and keep them at arm's length, thereby reducing the potential influences and guidance that could have been provided.

We refuse to mentor these kids, often deriding them as unserious and lazy youths because they choose to be entertainers instead of lawyers, doctors, engineers, and other respectable professions.

We seek elective offices without understanding the subliminal messaging potentials of music and the power of entertainment as a whole and the need to create buffer zones in our media spaces and platforms against the influx of local and foreign threats and destructive influences.

We tax these celebrities EVERYWHERE, on radio and TV via

payola, at locations via area boys, at events, family, friends etc, making their lives miserable and making it harder for people with incredible talent, but without a pile of money to be heard or be seen.

We created a lawless society where bad behaviour is now the new norm and often vigorously defended, while good behaviour is frowned upon, treated with disdain, and sometimes even punished.

Afrobeats is not the problem here!

It is a solution to unemployment, youth empowerment, wealth creation, increasing Foreign Direct Investment and Diaspora remittances, and much more.

It is a platform that a lot of us invested our youth and talent to help build and develop to where it is right now, but like whatever good thing you don't protect, a large chunk of it has been hijacked by some of the worst amongst us.

Almost all of us are culpable, one way or another and the sooner we own up to our part in this whole mess, the sooner we can start exploring ways to tame this monster we have fed, groomed and cuddled for the longest time.

It's not too late to start correcting the mistakes of the past, at least for now.

Rest in peace, Imole. May your light shine on all the darkness and right so many wrongs in our beloved music industry. God bless.

Fashola

Aloba

STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

ERNEST AZUDIALUOBIEJESI SHOPS FOR PRIVATE JET

Five years after his private jet, a GulfStream G200 with registration number, 5N-BTF crash landed and skidded off the Abuja International Airport runway, badly damaging the fuselage, billionaire businessman and founder of Nestoil PLC, one of Nigeria’s foremost indigenous Oil and Gas Company, Dr Ernest Nnaemeka Azudialu-Obiejesi, has gone shopping for another luxurious jet. Although Azudialu-Obiejesi's company has a fleet of aeroplanes and helicopters, this new purchase will be the star of his conglomerate, having relied heavily on an older Gulf Stream to ferry him around these past few years and spending billions in maintenance. In 2018, his gulf stream skidded off the runway after the pilot discovered that the landing gear was not operational and had to land the aircraft with a broken landing gear, which severed from the aircraft upon landing. The aircraft landed on its belly at the airport with four passengers and three crew members on board. Luckily all seven people on board escaped unhurt, but the incident forced planes that were due for landing to return to where they departed from and prevented several other planes from taking off from Abuja airport. In turn, hundreds of passengers became stranded at the airport as the airport management tried hard to get the aircraft off the runway. A lot of planes had to land at the nearest airports.

Shopping for a replacement, Azudialu-Obiejesi has his eyes set on a Gulfstream G-700 aeroplane, which will set him back by about $76 million, which is about N60 billion, thus making him one of the very few to put that kind of luxury in the air. The ultra-long-range bespoke

Continued from page 38

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

Continued from page 38

Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire Advised to ‘Hang Her Boots'

There have been dissenting voices over the choice of a former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, as one of the Senior Special Assistants appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs for the South-West. The appointment came about three months after the United Nations in Nigeria honoured her with the ‘DGs Champion Award in recognition of her commitment and visionary leadership in promoting the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development in Nigeria under former President Muhammadu Buhari. While many hailed her recent reappointment to the same position as

proof that she delivered excellently on her job in former President Muhammadu Buhari's government, not a few, particularly from her region, are of the opinion that she ought to have 'hung her boots' rather than lobby for the position. This set of people who feel she should bow out when the ovation is loudest, consider her recent appointment as a 'third term in office,' having served in the same position all through Buhari's government, thus making her the longest-serving SSA to the President on SDGs. With the budget of SDGs in billions of dollars, these people consider it dangerous for her to spend 12 years in a particular political office and inadvertently attracting

ROTIMI AMAECHI RESURFACES

Azudialu-Obiejesi

private jet with Rolls Royce engines offers the largest cabin in business aviation, carrying up to 19 passengers and having up to five living areas. The man of means, who also owns Energy Works Technology Limited, B&Q Dredging Limited, Gobowen Exploration and Production Limited, Century Power Generation Limited and Time Power Global Dynamics Limited, Smile communications, is a philanthropist who has done his best to elevate his Ihiala community with modern infrastructures and amenities. From building a multi-million naira state-of-the-art medical facility, Obijackson Women and Children’s Hospital (OWCH), to the construction of the St. Peter’s Stadium as a facility for social integration and youth empowerment to several other amenities for the benefit of members of his community. He is currently strategising on how to expand his business dealings with American businesses in Georgia, Texas, Louisiana, California, and other states in the US.

Why Dimeji Bankole Wasn't Made Minister

It is no longer news that Dimeji Bankole, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and a former presidential aspirant on the platform of All Progressives Congress, APC, lost out in the race for a ministerial position. Bankole expected to be rewarded for stepping down for President Bola Tinubu during the party’s presidential primary last year and for always accompanying him during the campaigns. Several factors however worked against him. 0ne of such factors among several, is his lack of political deftness. Those who are better at playing the political game pulled the rug from under his feet. Also, THEWILL had reported how the current Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, then a ministerial nominee, was moved as a former nominee from Lagos State to Ogun State. Bankole was reportedly supposed to make up the third nominee from Ogun State which had the highest number of ministerial nominees. The other nominees were Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Dr Isiak Salako, Minister of State for Environment and Ecological Management. But Edun getting moved to make up the third nominee ended Bankole's chances of being the third ministerial nominee.

Another factor that worked against Bankole is the Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, aka Yayi, factor. Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State had allegedly put in a word on behalf of Bankole to a member of Tinubu's inner caucus for him to be made minister.

Abiodun had hoped that making Bankole who nurses a gubernatorial ambition, a minister, would give him (Bankole) the sort of leverage and influence he (Bankole) needed to succeed him as governor.

He had found an ally in Yayi, who is currently representing Ogun West and together they both allegedly approached this influential politician to put in a word on behalf of Bankole. The influential politician had agreed to make it happen only for Yayi to allegedly go behind Abiodun to the same politician with another request.

Yayi also desires to become governor someday and he figured that making Bankole a minister would erode his own shine and influence. He was afraid that if they both had any reason to slug it out at the polling booths, Bankole might likely floor him.

So, he allegedly asked this influential politician to jettison Abiodun's request and ensure that Bankole isn't made minister. He made a case for himself as having more political experience than Bankole, having spent more time than Bankole in the National

The immediate past minister for transport, Rotimi Amaechi has returned to the limelight after a long absence from the public space. The former Rivers State governor will be gracing the annual The Niche Lecture series where he will delve into the enigmatic question of 'Why we Stride and Slip: Leadership, Nationalism, and the Nigerian Condition.’ He is expected to captivate the audience

and provide valuable perspectives with his insights. The lecture, which is 'The Niche' newspaper's contribution to national discourse, aimed at fostering the much-needed renaissance in the society, will take place next month at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Once very ebullient and one of the most powerful politicians during his second term as governor and during the tenure of the Muhammadu Buhari Administration, Amaechi recoiled into a cocoon after failing to clinch the 2023 presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress, APC, during the party's primary last year. This was made further worse after his lackey, Tonye Cole, the governorship aspirant of the APC in Rivers State, failed to make an impact during the polls. On May 29, he reappeared briefly but quietly when he chose to attend the inauguration ceremony of Alex Otti, the Abia State governor rather than be at the Eagles Square for his party's candidate, Bola Tinubu's inauguration as president.

Save for experimenting with gospel singles, perhaps in a bid to chart a new career course as a gospel singer, Amaechi is rather contented with enjoying his own company and staying away from politics.

Tosin Alobo-Bakare Waltzes Into The 60s Club

Tosin Alobo-Bakare is the eldest daughter of late Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas and she recently celebrated her 60th birthday in a very modest way. The day started out with her giving thanks to God for her new age at New Dawn Baptist Church in Victoria Island, Lagos. She was joined by very close friends and family members with support from her children. Later in the day, she held a very intimate party again with only close friends and family in attendance. Some of those who honoured her with their presence include, Tunde Fowler,

former boss of Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS; his daughter, Funke Fowler-Imokhuede; Bola Awolowo; comedian, Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome aka Alibaba; Yemisi Wada etc. Surprisingly, her estranged husband, Hakeem Alobo-Bakare, a property expert, former governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC in the 2015 general elections and a member of A-List social clubs in Lagos, took some time out of his busy schedule to celebrate the milestone with her.

Alobo-Bakare

Amaechi

STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

MATHEW KUKAH TO RECEIVE AWARD IN SPAIN

The Catholic Diocese of Sokoto and founder of the Kukah Centre, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, has been chosen to receive the Mundo Negro Fraternity Award in Madrid, Spain. This award comes with a cash prize of €10,000, that is N8.4 million. The Mundo Negro magazine annually dedicates its award to individuals and institutions of African descent that have made significant contributions to the advancement of their nation and continent.

The award will be formally presented to Kukah in Madrid in February 2024.

Popularly known for his boldness in airing his views about any government in power, Kukah is a tireless advocate for justice, democracy and human development. A political scientist, he has served as a member of Nigeria’s Truth Commission, as secretary of the Political Reform Conference for Nigeria, and as a member of Nigeria’s Electoral Reform Committee. He played an important role in negotiating an end to the Shell-Ogoni conflict in Nigeria’s delta region. A champion of respectful Christian-Muslim relations, Kukah served as chairman of the Committee

on Interreligious Dialogue in Nigeria and West Africa and was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI as a member of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. Named vicar general of the Archdiocese of Kaduna in 2004, he became bishop of Sokoto in 2011. Besides being a member, Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, Vatican City, Kukah holds a diploma in religious studies from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, a Bachelor of Arts in Divinity from the Urban University, Rome, a Master’s in peace studies from the University of Bradford, UK, and a PhD in political science from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. He was a senior Rhodes fellow at St. Antony’s College, University of Oxford and an Edward Mason Fellow at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.

Where is Mrs Helen Oritsejafor?

This was the question on the lips of guests who graced the Esama of Benin kingdom, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion’s 89th birthday celebration. Pastor Ayodele Oritsejafor who was a onetime President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, and later Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, an umbrella body for Pentecostal churches, was one of the special guests at the lavish birthday ceremony where he spoke a few words of adulation about the celebrant. Conspicuously missing by his side was his wife, Pastor Mrs Helen Oritsejafor. Instead, a dark skinned, slim looking woman was his companion at the birthday party. Mrs Oritsejafor's absence naturally re-ignited talks about the state of their marriage.

THEWILL recalls that late last year, there were talks that the 25-year marriage of the founder and Senior Pastor of Word of Life Bible Church, located in Warri, Nigeria had shockingly collapsed. The former couple was alleged to have been bickering these past few years over allegations of infidelity and fraud, which compelled Mrs Oritsejafor to move out of her matrimonial home and relocate to the United Kingdom.

Toyin Saraki Bags Panel Appointment With Terra Carta

The rumour that the marriage was troubled began when Mrs Oritsejafor shunned church activities, including the weeklong celebration of her husband’s 50th anniversary in ministry. She released a statement, claiming that all was well with her marriage. But later, she spent the Christmas holiday with her three children abroad away from her husband. She shared photos taken while having fun with them and posted it on her Instagram page. She captioned the photos "Christmas time out with my kids". Today, a glance at their individual social media pages says it all. They have only photos or videos of themselves individually without the other. Perhaps, it is safe to say, they prefer their arrangement this way. Pastor Oritsejafor got married to Helen in 1997, 13 months after the death of his late wife Stella with whom he founded the World of Life Bible Church on November 15, 1987.

MEET KUNLE OLAYIWOLA, AFRICA’S FIRST CHARTERED MASTER MARINER

During the week, Captain Kunle Olayiwola reached the highest level of professional certification in the maritime industry when he was decorated as a Chartered Master Mariner making him the first African to achieve the feat.

A Chartered Master Mariner is an experienced and highly skilled mariner who has demonstrated expertise in ship navigation, safety, and management. This award is usually presented annually to acknowledge outstanding achievements, contributions, or leadership in the maritime field.

The award of Chartered status is a gold standard for those who deserve the accolade of eminence. It recognises Master Mariners who have not only benefited the industry but have also improved capability and demonstrated a willingness to help others. Chartered Masters are technical partners to the International Maritime Organisation and many others.

Capt. Kunle was in the Nigerian Navy for over a decade before switching into the Merchant Navy, after voluntary retirement from the Navy. He sailed on many types of ships and worked as District Surveyor, Zonal Coordinator and Head of Enforcement Monitoring Unit, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

He is the first Fellow of the Nautical Institute, who is keen to see Nigeria as one of the leading maritime nations in the world, transparent maritime operation activities and operators to keep to honesty, integrity and good ethical conduct standard.

Toyin Saraki, a former first lady of Kwara State and wife of former Senate President, Bukola Saraki has been appointed as one of the seven panelists who will evaluate and select the 2023 Terra Carta Seal Award winners. Launched in 2021 COP26 by King Charles III when he was Prince of Wales, the Terra Carta Seal recognises global companies that are actively leading the charge to create a climate and nature-positive future. A global group of experts from the environmental, business, political, and philanthropic worlds formed the panel. In May, the Sustainable Markets Initiative announced its partnership with Verdantix, an independent research firm that acts as a thoughtleader for world-enhancing innovation. The Expert Review Panel will work with Verdantix to evaluate nominations and assess their alignment with the 10 Terra Carta articles.

Toyin who is the founder and president of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) has on several occasions served as a judge on the annual MIT Solve competition of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and as a judge of the Cannes Lions Film Festival. She also recently adjudicated as a Grand Global Jury Member of the Fight for Access Accelerator Nigeria, led by Reckitt and Yunus Social Business (YSB).

Alake of Egbaland Honours Bola Shagaya's Son

former chairman of Sovereign Wealth Fund.

About two weeks ago, Hakeem Shagaya, one of the sons of businesswoman and socialite, Bola Shagaya, was bestowed with a chieftaincy title by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo III.

Hakeem was honoured with the chieftaincy title during the weeklong activities held to celebrate the Alake’s 80th birthday alongside 30 other people. He was one of the young entrepreneurs deemed worthy enough to be honoured by the traditional ruler.

Although he is from Kwara State, perhaps, Hakeem’s philanthropic acts must have been one of the many reasons he was chosen to receive a chieftaincy title. On hand to support him was his wife of 11 years, Amina, a medical doctor and daughter of Alhaji Mahey Rasheed, a

Progressive, smart, and forward-looking, Hakeem who is the Managing Director/ CEO of Asolar Systems Nigeria Limited belongs to the class of 21st century business revolutionists. A philanthropist, he partners the London School of Economics on mentorship and development in Nigeria with focus on universities. Prior to his present position as CEO Asolar Systems, Hakeem was and still is the CEO/Managing Director, Karmod Nigeria Limited from June 2014 till date. There, he effectively managed a team of over 40 employees in three locations across the country with a $500,000 annual operating budget. He has been on the Board of Caverton Helicopters since 2017, an Executive Director at Afrihealth Solutions Ltd since 2020, and a onetime NonExecutive Director at Unity Bank PLC etc. A graduate of King’s College London, where he bagged a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Management and Business Studies, he also has a Masters Degree from the University of Sheffield in Management of Science, Technology and Innovation and is an alumnus of the University of Manchester Business School.

Olayiwola

Kukah

The Oritsejafors

Saraki

Shagaya

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

NED NWOKO TO INTRODUCE BILL FOR MANDATORY AUTOPSY

Senator Ned Nwoko has said that he hopes to introduce a bill that will make it mandatory nationwide to carry out an autopsy on a corpse within a specific time before it is buried.

Noting that the untimely death of Ilerioluwa Aloba, aka Mohbad, had raised many issues that should be addressed promptly, Nwoko said the circumstances surrounding his death and that of other people should not be left to speculation.

“As a matter of fact, I hope to introduce a bill that will make it mandatory nationwide for an autopsy to be done within a specific time before anyone is buried and the cost of such reports must be paid by the

governments (local and state governments).

“The cause of death of anyone should not be left to the wild imaginations of people. The innocent should be protected and the guilty punished. Situations like this give rise to new laws for the good governance of the country.

“The police and the DSS should wade in immediately but more importantly, the state government should order for an autopsy report without further formalities. This should have been done and reported to the station for clearance before he was buried,’’ he said. This development is coming on the heels of the death of singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba aka MohBad who died on September 12 at the age of 27 in Lagos.

Senate Commission For Resolving Artiste/Manager Disputes Underway

The Senate may establish a commission that will focus on the resolution of disputes and conflicts between record labels and their signees.

According to Senator Elisha Abbo who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Creative Economy, the Senate, in collaboration with the Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, will see to the creation of the commission.

“I have received petitions from Nigerians calling for either a creative economy or entertainment economy commission where disputes that arise between record labels and their signees would be settled.”

He added that the creation of the commission will help

Opetodolapo Badmus Recalls Ugly Encounter With Naira Marley

to ensure that no one takes the law into their hands between record labels and their signees.

“When we have this commission, nobody will start taking things into their own hands. This does

not exist in this country and I am assuring you that the Senate of the 10th National Assembly, in collaboration with the minister for creative economy, will come up with a commission called creative economy commission,” he continued.

“The Senate just passed a bill and it has scaled third reading. We have also done a public hearing about setting up a fund for victims of such incidents where the families can benefit like the EndSARS victims and other victims of violence. The FG is interested in setting up the fund. The creative industry is a very big one. It is a multi-billion economy and I am sure the current administration will ensure that the sector has a conducive atmosphere,” he added.

This latest development is coming on the heels of the mysterious death of singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba aka Mohbad at the age of 27.

Ikazoboh

OLUKOREDE IKAZOBOH APPOINTED HEAD OF VIRGIN MUSIC NIGERIA

The global demand for the incredible musical talents emerging from Africa has been stronger than ever before prompting Virgin Music International, a leading independent artist and label services company, to extend its services to Lagos, Nigeria.

Olukorede Ikazoboh, a highly respected music executive and the head of the Nigerian branch of the company, will supervise the brand’s operations in this pivotal music market. She will be in charge of the company’s activities in the region.

Virgin Music Group’s initial ventures in Nigeria encompasses collaborations with Dvpper, a prominent Afrobeats label in Nigeria, the solo artist Reekado Banks and a track featuring Darkoo and Ayra Starr. Olukorede is the owner of Kimani Moore Entertainment. She is a respected music manager known for guiding the careers of artistes, such as Odunsi the Engine, Mowalola, and Taylwar. She has also held various roles in Emerging Markets at Warner Music Group.

Virgin Music Group established its presence in Africa in 2021 when it acquired South Africa’s Electromode, a leading independent music distributor. In 2022, the company inaugurated a dedicated label services division in Côte d’Ivoire, boasting over 15,000 titles, 50 label partners, and more than 100 artists from across 25 African countries. Virgin Music Group has played a pivotal role in nurturing various emerging global music genres, including Afrobeats, música Mexicana, K-pop and more.

Aformer Police Public Relations Officer of the Lagos State Police Command, Opetodolapo Badmus, has recalled how she was severely criticised after speaking up against the lifestyle of singer Azeez Fashola, aka Naira Marley. Her recollection came on the heels of the untimely and mysterious death of singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, aka MohBad, who was signed on Naira Marley’s record label, Marlian Records. Badmus who was known for her active presence on social media, had in 2019 on her Instagram page condemned Naira Marley’s lifestyle and his post concerning women’s bodies. Naira Marley had in a tweet said, “Having a big booty is better than having a Master’s degree.”

In response, Badmus said, “So having a big body part is now better than having educational or vocational qualifications? I still can’t get over this! We need to restore sanity to our system and stop tolerating public nuisance. It is mediocrity for anyone to applaud an obviously delinquent and unproductive dead duck hiding under the guise of making music, obnoxious music for that matter.

My advice to the younger ones is that they should never let anyone confuse them. Having a good body part is great, but educational or vocational qualifications are more important. In fact, they are non-negotiable. Your body part cannot give you sustainable existence only good educational or vocational

qualifications will do. Be guided! #saynotoharddrugs #harddrugdestroys.”

Firing back at her, Naira Marley wrote, “This Instagram police want to have sex with me, but she is really ugly.”

In the wake of MohBad’s death, Badmus posted on her Instagram page, saying that she was criticised when she stood up for herself against the character he depicts and the impending threat it represents, which will become hydra-headed if not contained.

“So many tags on me. I plead that I’m left out of tagging. The relevant authorities are on this matter, when I singlehandedly spoke up against this character and the danger that he portended, I was bashed both inside and out. A danger not curtailed will become hydra headed. My heart is with the departed and everything that represents him,” she said.

Badmus

Abbo

Nwoko

ENTERTAINMENT &SOCIETY WEEKLY

STORIES BY IVORY UKONU

CHIOMA NNADI BECOMES FIRST BLACK WOMAN TO HEAD BRITISH VOGUE

Fashion journalist , Chioma Nnadi, has been appointed as the new head of editorial content at British Vogue. The 44-year-old of Nigerian and Swiss-German descent is expected to take over from Edward Enninful, the editor-in-chief. Enninful, who enjoyed a six-year tenure as both the prestigious fashion magazine’s first male and first black editor, announced his resignation in June. It is understood that Nnadi will be known as head of editorial content, rather than editor-in-chief. Nnadi’s appointment also makes her the first black female head of the industry-leading fashion magazine.

Meet Inioluwa Raji, Nigerian on Time’s 100 Influential People in AI

Twenty Seven-year-old

Inioluwa Deborah Raji, a Nigerian-Canadian computer scientist and activist, has made an indelible mark in the world of AI through her tireless efforts to combat algorithmic bias and promote accountability.

In what seems like a testament to her influence and impact, Raji was recently honoured as one of the inaugural members of Time Magazine’s 100 list of the most influential people in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Placed in the ‘thinkers’ category, Raji’s recognition is well-deserved, given her unwavering commitment to making AI fairer and more equitable. Her journey into the world of AI activism began when she was a fellow at the Mozilla Foundation, focusing her research on algorithmic auditing and evaluation. It was during this time that she stumbled upon a critical issue: a content moderation model that she was assisting in training was disproportionately flagging content containing people of colour as explicit, even when it wasn’t.

This revelation shook Raji to her core, as it highlighted the stark reality that AI systems were inadvertently perpetuating biases, rendering the world “whiter” than it truly is. This pivotal moment marked a shift in Raji’s career trajectory. She redirected her passion and expertise towards the mission of ensuring that AI companies take responsibility for the harm their models may cause.

Raji believes that transparency and accountability are crucial, and it’s up to developers to provide a clear

Jimmy Odukoya Steps Into Father’s Shoes, Justifies Keeping Locks, Beards

evaluation of their products and the potential harm they may inflict. Her commitment to ethical AI has taken her to some of the most esteemed institutions in the field. She has worked closely with Google’s Ethical AI team and served as a research fellow at both the Partnership on AI and the AI Now Institute at New York University. Her focus has been on operationalising ethical considerations in machine learning engineering practices, contributing to the development of ethical AI standards.

One of the most noteworthy collaborations in Raji’s career has been with Joy Buolamwini, a GhanaianCanadian computer scientist, and Timnit Gebru. Together with the Algorithmic Justice League, they conducted groundbreaking research on gender and racial bias in facial recognition technology. Their efforts have had far-reaching consequences, prompting IBM and Amazon to not only support facial recognition regulation but also temporarily halt the sale of their products to police.

Raji’s dedication to creating a more ethical AI ecosystem has garnered her widespread recognition and accolades. She has been named one of the world’s top young innovators by both MIT Technology Review and Forbes. Her work on auditing commercial facial recognition technologies from tech giants like Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, Face++, and Kairos was prominently featured in the eye-opening 2020 documentary, “Coded Bias,” directed by Shalini Kantayya.

In the past year, Raji’s contributions to the AI field have earned her a slew of awards, including the 2019 VentureBeat AI Innovations Award in the category of AI for Good, shared with Joy Buolamwini and Timnit Gebru. She also received the 2020 MIT Technology Review 35 Under 35 Innovator Award, the 2020 EFF Pioneer Award, the 2021 Forbes 30 Under 30 Award in Enterprise Technology, and the prestigious honour of being named a 2021 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics Hall of Fame Honoree.

Last week, Jimmy Odukoya, the first son of the late Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, was declared as the new Senior Pastor of the Fountain of Life Church. He has also assumed the office of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Church. His sister, Tolu Ijogun was also chosen as the new associate Pastor of the Church. With his elevation as pastor, tongues have been wagging over his physical appearance. The Nollywood actor who got his education at the Oral Roberts University, United States has a muscular body, grows his beard and his locks. He however has a spiritual backing to his mode of dressing. He said that he was called by God, adding that it is quite a big responsibility for him. He said after he was ordained as a pastor in 2009, he became a pastor in the church three years later. The senior pastor gave several examples as backing for different modes of dressing, citing God’s instruction to Samson not to cut his hair in the Holy Bilble as the reason he still keeps his dreadlocks. He said, “God has called me into this new season of my life. This new position is a big responsibility. All of my focus is here (on the church). As for my dreads, most people don’t know I can back up everything I do with scripture.

“If you say I’m wrong to keep my hair as a pastor, I can tell you that God told Samson not to cut his hair in the Bible. That means long hair is not a bad thing. Also, if you say the pastor is keeping a beard, I can

tell you that the Bible says that when Jesus was tortured, they pulled hair from his face.

“If you say this pastor is putting on earrings, I can tell you that in the book of Exodus, when the children of Israel got out of Egypt and wanted to do golden calf, they collected jewelry, rings, and earrings from their sons and daughters.

“Anybody can do what they want. A personal opinion is different from saying something is sinful. You should not use your own personal opinion to judge me.”

Odukoya stated further, “I was ordained as a minister in 2009 and became a pastor in the church in 2012. I was the lead pastor of the youth church until 2020 or 2021. With the things I’ve witnessed in life, there’s nothing that can shake me. I’ve lost two of the closest people to me—my father and mother—and, to an extent, some members of my family, including my aunt and grandparents. When the thing you feared most happens, then there’s nothing again. In all of this, my father was a strong man. He was full of life and energy,” Jimmy said.

Jimmy has also said that he will not stop taking roles from Nollywood despite his new calling. He said initially, many people doubted his ability to balance both roles. He, however, revealed how God moved him from Nollywood to Hollywood in six years, adding that with God nothing is impossible. He said he believes that acting can still be a means to teach important life lessons.

His father, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya passed away on August 7 in the United States at the age of 67. He was buried in Lagos on September 9.

VENITA AKPOFURE UNDER FIRE FOR COMMENTS ON TIV NATION

displeasure a trending video which purportedly captured a housemate of the globally popular reality television show, Big Brother Naija (BBN), referred to as VENITA AKPOFURE, who on the international television show reportedly said that the Tiv of North Central Nigeria, arguably the fourth largest ethnic group, give out their wives to their guests for nuptial pleasure.|

“This statement is not only a falsehood taken too far, but an aspersion cast on an entire tribe. We take a very strong objection to this unwarranted provocation against our Tiv tribe.

Akpofure

The apex Tiv socio-cultural organisation, Mdzough U Tiv, Lagos State Branch, has asked Big Brother Naija All Stars housemate, Venita Akpofure, to public apologise for defaming the Tiv Nation.

Venita had allegedly said, during a live broadcast of the reality television show, that Tiv men were wont to offer their wives to visitors for entertainment.

Reacting, the organisation’s President, Engr. Theophilus Ukaa, and the Secretary, Anagbe Terungwa, in a statement demanded an incontrovertible and unreserved public apology from her whilst she still has the global media platform.

The group described Venita’s statement as falsehood taken too far and an aspersion cast on an entire tribe.

The statement read, “Mdrough U Tiv, Lagos State Chapter received with absolute

“The said Venita Akpofure is reportedly a former wife of a Tiv man from an important family in the Tiv Nation. They are now divorced. So, we expect her to know better. She is said to have children from her former marriage. For that reason, we expect that she should be an ambassador of truth for her children’s sakes.

“That the said Venita Alpeture has decided to team up with evil conspirators who are intent on battering the image of the Tiv Nation. We demand an incontrovertible and unreserved public apology from her whilst she still has the global media platform.”

The group added that it had directed its lawyers to start legal action against Venita Akpofure towards seeking legal redress for this libelous infraction against an entire tribe.

Meanwhile, Hon. Dickson Tarkighir, the member representing Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency in Benue State in the House of Representatives, has threatened to file a N10 billion lawsuit against Venita and the reality show’s organisers for the defaming comment.

Taking to his Facebook page, he wrote: “#Venita AkpofureSlam a 10BN defamation suit on her, the Big Brother brand, and its promoters, they provided her with the mega platform to defame an entire tribe and are equally liable for not disowning her.”

Odukoya

Nnadi

Raji

Governors And Deputies at War

BY MICHAEL JIMOH

The relationship usually starts on a buoyant note with lots of backslapping, clinking of champagne flutes after securing their party’s nomination and, of course, mutual respect between both parties. They speak with one voice at campaign grounds, raise one another’s hands in total support, woo and court the same crowd of potential voters and sometimes wear the same traditional dress adorned with party logos. But once in office, the once promising friendship gradually turns sour, resulting in a bitter contest of will between them.

Governors and their deputies having a showdown while in office have been part and parcel of Nigeria’s political space. In many of the instances, only one of them come out unscathed, leaving the other completely emasculated and most times consigned to political oblivion thereafter.

Who remembers Mrs. Kofoworola BucknorAkerele today? Yes, she was running mate to Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Lagos state from 1999 – 2003. Both of them were in Alliance for Democracy at the time, handily winning the governorship election. But before her term ended in 2003, something snapped between BucknorAkerele and her principal.

She plainly became a pariah at Government House Alausa in the heat of the face-off. Her invitations to government functions became fewer and fewer leaving the hapless supposed second-in-command of the state to just sit around in her office practically doing nothing. She seldom had a one-one-one meeting with the governor let alone discuss state matters with him. It got so bad at some point that whoever was in charge stopped supplying the sheaf of daily

newspapers due her office as deputy governor. Against that backdrop, Bucknor-Akerele had no chance for re-election. The same fate befell her replacement Femi Pedro, who also had a fallout with Governor Tinubu for his second tenure from 2003 – 2007. Mr. Tinubu has moved on and up to become president of Nigeria and Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces. Though Pedro made a stab at becoming governor of Lagos state back in time, nobody talks about him these days as a political heavyweight in the state he was once deputy governor.

Two of Pedro’s colleagues in government today are likely to go the same way he did in Lagos state back then. And it could happen anytime from now. They are Philip Shaibu and Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Edo and Ondo states respectively. In Shaibu’s case, he may be technically out of a job as the number two man in the state with the inspiring motto “Heartbeat of the Nation.”

Ever since he instituted a suit at a High Court in Abuja against his boss and the two principal officers of the Legislative and Judiciary arms in Edo state, all has not been well with Shaibu. He’d claimed that Governor Obaseki, Blessing Agbebaku Speaker of the House and Joe Acha Chief Judge had concluded plans to impeach him as deputy governor. Therefore, he prayed the court for an order of mandamus to stop the impeachment proceedings.

It turned out there was nothing of such by the parties in question, leading to the strained relations between Shaibu and Obaseki. A notoriously reticent politician seen more as a technocrat, Obaseki took his deputy’s action for

what it was: disloyalty of the highest order and even backstabbing. After all, here was someone he personally handpicked as his running mate when he defected to the Peoples Democratic Party from the All Progressives Congress for his re-election in 2020.

The divide between the formerly comradely pair is now so deep it is impossible to see them uniting as before. Shaibu tried to gatecrash a highprofile meeting Governor Obaseki convened in his private residence in Benin sometime in July, insisting that his position as the deputy permits him to attend. Obaseki coolly rebuffed him, telling the beleaguered politician he was not invited to the gathering at his private quarters.

In August during the historic 60th anniversary of the creation of Midwest Region, Edo State Government barred Shaibu’s media crew from the venue and then deployed them to the Ministry of Information and Orientation from where they are to take instructions regarding covering government functions and events.

Not long after that, the state government relocated Shaibu’s office to less dignifying quarters outside Denis Osadebay Avenue (Government House) GRA in Benin. In a bold attempt to reclaim his official quarters at Government House, Shaibu bee-lined it there last week only to be locked out with stern security officers barricading his way.

Hoping for public sympathy, Shaibu quickly called up a television crew from Channels to record him at the security checkpoint while he put a call through to the HoS who promptly reminded him that a new office had been provided for his use.

“I have not received any letter to that effect,” the deputy governor replied, inadvertently participating in his own public humiliation. No problem. He got his letter of

Shaibu’s carefully calibrated defenestration is ongoing with some predicting the very thing he feared in the beginning: impeachment. If that happens, he stands to lose all the benefits and entitlements that should accrue to him as deputy governor for nearly eight years

Deputies at War

relocation that evening, effectively cutting him off from his previously princely office in Government House.

Shaibu’s carefully calibrated defenestration is ongoing with some predicting the very thing he feared in the beginning: impeachment. If that happens, he stands to lose all the benefits and entitlements that should accrue to him as deputy governor for nearly eight years.

His current travails has elicited responses from politicians and political analysts in and outside Benin City, many of them laying the blame squarely at the doorstep of the deputy governor. Erstwhile governor of the state Adams Oshiomhole and now a senator recently publicly scuttled his former godson’s plan to defect to APC, (“APC is not a rehabilitation camp for losers,” Oshiomhole famously said.)

Onetime Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Oshiomhole but now Communications & Development Expert, Tony Iyare, weighed in on the matter with an opinion headlined “Edo: Shaibu’s Burden of Bearing His Cross” published in THISAGE of September 17.

“Who will save him from a self-inflicted conundrum?” Iyare began in his well-presented article and then went on to relate how rosy the relationship was between Obaseki and his deputy in the early days compared to the iciness between them now.

“It will be intriguing,” Iyare continued, “to see how Shaibu saunters through this debacle even after withdrawing the ill-advised suit against Obaseki and other principal officers from the court. He’s not only stripped of his larger than life image of a political dinosaur but now has to operate from a less fancied office from a precinct of Government House. In short, he’s now been made to devour the humble pie. Here was Shaibu who had a flowery leeway with Obaseki and was endowed with privileges and power that no Governor either in the history of Edo or the country has ever conferred on their deputy, yet he squandered it on the altar of pride, ego tripping, pigheadedness and inordinate ambition.”

As the case stands, Shaibu has since accepted his wrongdoing in the matter, on account of which he tendered an apology last week to his boss but after consulting with politicians and sundry advisers in Edo state. Meant to be a mea culpa, he said last week that “I am sorry, please forgive me,” directed at Obaseki for sure.

Despite the belated apology, some still question Shaibu’s sincerity, that he has not shown any remorse whatsoever, any act of wrongdoing by himself but that he was only apologising because he was advised to do so after wide consultations. Whether Obaseki will accept his deputy’s apology is another matter entirely.

Also seeking to appease his boss at the moment is Shaibu’s counterpart in Ondo state Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa equally facing charges of disloyalty to Governor Arakurin Rotimi Akeredolu who only recently returned to Nigeria after convalescing in a hospital in Germany for three months.

There was bound to be some friction between Aiyedatiwa and Akeredolu once the latter left the “Sunshine State” to attend to his health in Europe in June. Like Obaseki did with Shaibu, Akeredolu handpicked the current deputy in place of the impeached one. It has also been bandied around that Shaibu and Aiyedatiwa had plans to succeed their principals as governor come 2024. Not anymore!

For now, both deputies are fighting the toughest battles of their lives with no hope of winning. Headlines in newspapers all through last week and on social media point to a possible impeachment of the deputy governor of Ondo state.

Already, some of his media aides have since been relieved of their duties by Ondo State Government. Part of the reason for their sack is anti-Akeredolu campaign while he was recuperating in Germany. Thinking the governor might just not make it back to State House in

Akure, they quickly pitched tent with Aiyedatiwa, urging him to look out for himself as a possible successor. Some were incautious in their campaign against the governor, leaving behind incriminating evidence on social media platforms.

Last week, Ondo State House of Assembly initiated proceedings to impeach Aiyedatiwa for “gross misconduct” though the lawmakers said the letter itself does not equate to impeachment. Chairman of the House Committee on Information Olatunji Oshati pointedly noted that “an allegation letter does not equate to an impeachment verdict.”

Continuing, Oshati let on that “the allegation letter served to the Deputy Governor marks the initiation of the impeachment proceedings…it is essential to remember that this is a procedure rooted in due process, not a hastily conducted impeachment.”

For governors once described by former President Olusegun Obasanjo as wielding power like emperors in their respective states, there is a predictable end in a duel with running mates. It is not hard to see why.

There is no clearly defined Constitutional role for the deputy governor thus making his office more or less a tagalong, “follow, follow” to the governor or, as one former deputy governor uncharitably put it, “spare tyre.”

But can anything be done to dignify the office of the deputy governor? Yes, says Senator Adegbenga Kaka of the APC. In an interview last week with The Punch, the former deputy governor to Olusegun Osoba of Ogun state suggested that “it may be necessary to give a definite role to deputy governors in the Constitution.”

More important to the politician is “mutual trust” which he considers the only way out.

“If as a governor, any party man, even an outsider, should come to badmouth their deputy, it is important for the governor or the deputy to reach out to one another, and possibly in the presence of the character so that they will know that the behaviour doesn’t pay. If some of them are disgraced, others will not engage in such a thing because the bottom line is what do they want to gain?”

On the current rift between Obaseki and Shaibu, Kaka says he is not surprised about it.

“I am not surprised at all because the two of them had a marriage of convenience and when it seemed they were not getting the ticket of the APC, in togetherness they moved to the PDP, forgetting that those who were in the PDP that gave them the platform might also have candidates as of that time and still have aspirants within their folks.”

Once political bedfellows in rain or shine braving the storms together from the onset in 2016 in Edo state, it is now clear the political ties binding Obaseki and Shaibu has since been severed with no hope of ever coming together anytime soon.

Once political bedfellows in rain or shine braving the storms together from the onset in 2016 in Edo state, it is now clear the political ties binding Obaseki and Shaibu has since been severed with no hope of ever coming together anytime soon

Aruna Quadri: African Table Tennis Champion Who Keeps Making History

BY JUDE OBAFEMI

Aruna Quadri is a name that resonates with table tennis fans across the world, especially in Africa, where he has been dominating the sport for years.

The Nigerian star recently retained his title in the men’s singles of the 2023 ITTF African Championships, defeating Ahmed Saleh of Egypt in a resounding 4-0 win in the final match last Sunday, September 17, in Tunis, Tunisia. This was his third consecutive title in the continental event, and his eighth overall, making him one of the most successful African table tennis players of all time.

However, how did Quadri become the table tennis legend he is today? What are the challenges and achievements that shaped his career? And what are his future prospects as he prepares for the next Olympic Games in Paris 2024? It will be apposite to take a trip down memory lane for answers.

Quadri was born on August 9, 1988, in Oyo, a town in southwestern Nigeria. He was the youngest of five

children of a teacher mother and a farmer father. He grew up in a modest environment, where he had to share a single room with his siblings. He attended a public primary school, where he was introduced to table tennis by his physical education teacher, who noticed his talent and encouraged him to pursue the sport.

At about 10 years of age, the young Quadri often accompanied his older brother, Femi, to the table tennis hall in Oyo. As their house was beside the hall, Aruna was known to peep through the door to watch older boys play with Femi, who had a good hand in the game. It was not long before his interest was noticed and he began to get invited to join in and play with the other boys. As long as he did not allow his studies to suffer because of his newfound love for table tennis, his mother allowed him to continue.

Quadri's initial tutelage came from Abolarin Oluwole, a tennis player who turned trainer and is credited with discovering the Nigerian tennis superstar. After being granted permission by Quadri's mother to train him, the trainer honed the boy's skills and focused his determination through dedicated fidelity to the sport.

Credited to the careful ministrations of trainer Oluwole and the tender attention of Quadri's mother, efforts were focussed on keeping the player still as dedicated to his studies as he was to

Quadri is not showing any signs of slowing down, as he continues to challenge himself and improve his game

Quadri

...African Table Tennis Champion Who Keeps Making History

perfecting his service game. Tennis sessions were off limits during examination periods and the young boy had the presence of mind to follow this guidance.

Quadri quickly developed a passion for table tennis, and started playing regularly at a local club, where he met his mentor and coach, Segun Toriola, who is also a Nigerian table tennis legend and seven-time Olympian.

Toriola took Quadri under his wing and helped him improve his skills and technique. Quadri’s dedication and hard work paid off, as he started winning local and national tournaments at a young age. He also represented Nigeria at various international junior events, such as the African Junior Championships and the World Junior Championships.

He won his first continental title in 2004, when he clinched the cadet boys’ singles gold medal at the African Junior Championships in Mauritius. He also made his debut at the senior level in 2004, when he participated in the ITTF World Championships in Qatar.

Aruna Quadri’s breakthrough came in 2009, when he won his first senior African title in the men’s singles at the ITTF African Championships. He defeated his compatriot Monday Merotohun in the final, becoming the youngest African champion at 21 years old. He also won the men’s doubles gold medal with Toriola at the same event. Quadri continued to impress at the continental level, winning three more titles in 2010 (in Congo), 2012 (in Morocco), and 2014 (in Mauritius). He also qualified for his first Olympic Games in London 2012, where he reached the second round of the men’s singles event before losing to Bora Vang of Turkey.

However, it was at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games that Aruna Quadri made history, becoming the first African player to reach the quarter-finals of the men’s singles event. He stunned two top-10 players on his way to the last eight: Chuang Chihyuan of Chinese Taipei (4-0) and Timo Boll of Germany (4-2). He also put up a brave fight against the world number one and eventual champion Ma Long of China, losing 0-4 but entertaining the

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crowd with some spectacular rallies.

Quadri’s performance in Rio earned him widespread acclaim and recognition, both at home and abroad. He was named the ITTF Star Player of the Year in 2016, and received a hero’s welcome when he returned to Nigeria. He also became an ambassador for his country, continent, and sport, inspiring many young players to follow his footsteps.

After Rio 2016, Quadri continued to excel at the highest level of table tennis, reaching new heights and breaking new records. In 2017, he became the first African player to win an ITTF World Tour title, when he triumphed at the Polish Open. He also reached the semi-finals of the Bulgaria Open and the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

In 2018, he achieved another milestone by becoming the first African player to be ranked

My Thoughts on President Tinubu’s Foreign Economic Diplomacy

some of his press statements have turned out to contain misstatements and exaggerations. Because of these inconsistencies, I am unable to expressly cite the numbers which he said the president got as commitments from investors in India during his trip.

Nonetheless, President Tinubu's leadership provides an inspiring example of how visionary thinking and effective diplomacy can reshape a nation's trajectory. State Governors across the country can borrow a leaf from the president's book. They must begin to see themselves as the Chief Executive Officers of their domains as they truly are. They must begin to think as business leaders, with a vision and a mission to meet and deliver. What resources exist within their domains that can be exploited for the purposes of revenue generation, job creation and financial growth? How

can they create a more conducive economic climate to drive business growth? How can they industrialise to come into the 21st century and make themselves not just consumers of Nigeria's oil wealth but contributors to Nigeria's drive to diversity? That is the lesson from President Tinubu's shuttle diplomacy and one that not just they must learn from.

Still, the path forward requires not only a continuation of these strategies but also a nuanced approach to address the complex challenges that come hand in hand with transformative change.

In conclusion, President Tinubu's aggressive approach in seeking foreign investments into Nigeria serves as a compelling model for our other leaders. It is a win for all when it translates to real term investments and jobs for our teeming young population.

in the top 20 in the world. He also won his first Commonwealth Games medal, a silver in the men’s singles, after losing to Gao Ning of Singapore in the final. He also defended his African title in Mauritius, beating Omar Assar of Egypt in the final. In 2019, he reached the quarter-finals of the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, matching his best result at the event. He also won his second ITTF World Tour title at the Portugal Open. He also retained his African title in Lagos, Nigeria, beating Saleh Ahmed of Egypt in the final.

In 2020, he qualified for his third Olympic Games in Tokyo 2020 by virtue of his world ranking. He also moved to a new club, FakelGazprom Orenburg, one of the top teams in the Russian league and Europe. He also showed his philanthropic side by donating equipment and support to young and para table tennis players in Nigeria. In 2021, he participated in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where he reached the third round of the men’s singles event before losing to Gustavo Tsuboi of Brazil.

In 2022, he achieved another historic feat by becoming the first African player to be ranked in the top 10 in the world. He also reached the quarter-finals of the World Table Tennis Championships Finals in Houston, USA, where he lost to Tomokazu Harimoto of Japan.

In 2023, he retained his title in the men’s singles of the ITTF African Championships for the third time in a row, and the eighth time overall. He defeated Ahmed Saleh of Egypt in a convincing 4-0 win in the final match on Sunday, September 17, in Tunis, Tunisia12.

Quadri is not showing any signs of slowing down, as he continues to challenge himself and improve his game. He is currently ranked 16th in the world (as of August 2023), and is still the undisputed number one player in Africa. In addition to improving his world ranking, Aruna has enhanced his chances of securing a spot in the highly anticipated end-of-year tournament in Germany next month. The top 16 players in the world receive automatic qualifications for the prestigious Frankfurt elite tournament. He is also one of the most active and consistent players on the international circuit, participating in various events and tournaments. He has already set his sights on the next Olympic Games in Paris 2024, where he hopes to win a medal for Nigeria and Africa. He is also aiming to win more titles at the continental and global level, and to maintain his status among the elite players of table tennis.

He is also aware of his impact and influence on the lives of many people across the world, especially young and aspiring table tennis players. He is a role model and a mentor for many of them, providing them with guidance, support, and inspiration. He is also a humble and generous person, who gives back to his community and country through various initiatives and donations.

Quadri is a true legend of table tennis, who has made history and broken barriers for himself and for Africa in a sport often dominated by the Asians. He is a champion on and off the court, who has shown that nothing is impossible with hard work, self-confidence, and passion. He is a pride of Nigeria, Africa, and table tennis.

Quadri

My Thoughts on President Tinubu’s Foreign Economic Diplomacy

In the intricate world of international diplomacy and economic policy, where the interplay of global forces can shape the destiny of nations, visionary leadership emerges as the irreplaceable linchpin for fostering progress, prosperity and transformative change.

At the helm of Nigeria's intricate journey through the complexities of the modern world stands President Bola Tinubu, a formidable business-minded persona whose tenure has so far been marked by an unyielding commitment to bold economic decisions, though implementation has been greeted by some challenges that should have been factored prior to deployment.

In his post-100 days in office, President Tinubu, who assumed office on May 29, 2023, has orchestrated a symphony of audacious initiatives that have not only garnered global attention but also ignited intense debates, scrutiny and controversy.

The administration’s nascent tenure is underpinned by an ambitious economic vision, characterised by resolute and daring measures designed to breathe new life into Nigeria's troubled economic landscape. Foremost among these transformative decisions is the bold elimination of crude oil subsidies, an emblematic move that serves as a testament to Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to ushering in profound change. This policy however appears to have encountered a hitch and is technically suspended with the government blocking fresh increase in price of fuel as crude pushed towards $100bpd and the naira tanking to almost N1000 - $1. Although it is a popular decision, which has the support of several top economists, the IMF & World bank, the private sector, media and interestingly the two main opposition parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), this audacious decision has ignited fervent discussions and impassioned debates centred around the mode of implementation.

Clearly, the scrapping of the subsidy regime heralds the liberation of vital financial resources, affording both the federal and state governments the much-needed flexibility to redirect funds towards sectors clamouring for investment. The Bola Tinubu Administration recognises that this subsidy elimination is an indispensable stride in the journey to properly diversify Nigeria's economy. By removing the artificial cushion on petroleum prices, it incentivises domestic refineries to ramp up

their production, thereby significantly diminishing the nation's reliance on imported fuel. This strategic manoeuvre not only bolsters Nigeria's economic resilience against the capricious fluctuations of global oil markets but also paves the way for a more stable and selfsufficient economic foundation while eliminating a fraudulent regime that has haemorrhaged the country's treasury for so long.

ultimately fostering a more vibrant and inclusive society.

I must admit that I am impressed with President Tinubu’s messaging and hands-on approach to attracting foreign investments, underscoring his exceptional diplomatic finesse. A compelling illustration of his diplomatic chops can be seen in his trips to New Delhi, his economic negotiations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and his recent trip to the 78thUnited Nations General Assembly in New York where he pitched investment opportunities in Nigeria with assurances of removing bureaucratic bottlenecks at business events on the sidelines.

Unlike the past presidential efforts to lure foreign capital into the country by a president, Tinubu being a businessman, appears to be the perfect salesman to market the huge investment potentials that the country offers.

The influx of capital resulting from such efforts serves to rejuvenate sectors that have long grappled with chronic underinvestment. For example, in the realm of defence, augmented funding can bolster national security, ultimately fostering a more secure environment conducive to sustained economic growth. Investments can also go into building important roads, bridges and good hospitals.

Tinubu must also pay attention to crude production, which is still about 500, 000 barrels below the about 1.8mbpd OPEC approved production for the country. The president must also focus on security for the country’s residents. No investor will put money where lives and businesses are not safe. Beyond economic fortification, this move carries the potential to become a catalyst for job creation on a substantial scale. With the newfound financial resources, President Tinubu's government will be well-positioned to embark on labour-intensive public infrastructure projects, offering gainful employment opportunities to a multitude of Nigerians. This not only addresses the acute issue of unemployment but also contributes to the overarching welfare and prosperity of the nation's citizens,

In the agriculture sector, the infusion of capital can usher in modernised farming practices, significantly enhancing food security— a critical concern for Nigeria's prosperity and the well-being of its citizens. President Tinubu's diplomacy and ability to secure big deals will mark a defining moment in Nigeria's journey towards economic and social progress. Tinubu's administration, in addition to its economic sustainability drive, can stand as a shining example of unwavering commitment to secure Nigeria's economic future. His resolute determination to explore alternative funding sources, particularly from non-traditional Western allies, underscores his forward-thinking and innovative approach.

What is however unclear is how much foreign direct investments the President’s outreach and sojourn abroad will bring. This is the million-dollar question. His spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale has not helped us gauge the success of Tinubu’s investment drive properly because

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President Tinubu's leadership provides an inspiring example of how visionary thinking and effective diplomacy can reshape a nation's trajectory