Dangote set to hit full operating capacity in April 210,000 bpd Port Harcourt refinery allocated three cargoes of crude in April-May medium sweet Obodo, will hit the market in April, according to sources familiar with the matter, as the west African country steadily adds to its crude offering, Argus Media, which provides business
www.thisdaylive.com
for continued engagement between the Economic Community
on page 9
Adedayo Akinwale and Sunday
in Abuja
The Senate, yesterday, passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Electoral Act 2022 by introducing same day elections nationwide.
The bill sponsored by Senator Saliu Mustapha, Kwara Central,
Continued on page 9 was intended to cut election costs, reduce campaign period, and allow elected officials to serve as ad hoc delegates in party congresses. However, at the House of Representatives, yesterday, members got cold feet, and
MAHAMA VISITS TINUBU...
Visiting
L-R: Special Adviser to the Enugu State Governor on Digital Economy and MSMEs, Arinze Chilo-Offiah; Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Industry, Ada Chukwu; Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Engr. Lawrence Ezeh; Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; MD/CEO, NigComSat, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen; Secretary, Universal Service Provision Fund, Mr. Yomi Arowosafe; and South East Zonal Head, NITDA, Dr. Nkem Momah, during a working visit to the Government House, Enugu, by the minister and his team
Says Africa can unlock full potential of $4.3trn market under AfCFTA Backs 2025 Stockholm junior water prize to boost climate adaptation
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The Nigerian government on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating digital trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), urging global partners to support its efforts to expand market access and economic growth.
Speaking at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Aid for Trade Session in Geneva, Switzerland, Special Assistant to the President on Export Expansion, Aliyu Bunu Sheriff, said Nigeria was well positioned as a regional digital trade hub.
According to him, “Nigeria recognises digital trade as a critical driver of economic diversification.
Our goal is to position Nigeria as a regional hub for digital services, streamline trade processes, and expand market access for Nigerian businesses.
“With the right policies and infrastructure, Africa can unlock the full potential of its $4.3 trillion market under AfCFTA,”
Sheriff explained that in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, and the Overseas Development Institute (ODI UK), Nigeria had launched a series of high-impact workshops aimed at streamlining trade processes, enhancing state-level exports, and leveraging digital identity and payment systems for cross-border commerce.
The presidential aide explained, “The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, has played a key role in advancing Nigeria’s digital trade agenda. She recently led discussions with the AfCFTA Secretary-General on enhancing regional trade integration and digital payment systems.
“Her leadership has been instrumental in aligning Nigeria’s trade policies with AfCFTA’s digital transformation goals.”
Sheriff called on WTO, development partners, and private sector stakeholders to invest in broadband infrastructure, support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) capacity-building, and facilitate seamless cross-border digital payments.
“Nigeria is not just participating in Africa’s digital trade transformation; we are leading it. We invite global partners to collaborate with us in unlocking Africa’s digital economy,” he added.
Similarly, on Thursday, the federal government pledged support for the 2025 Stockholm Junior Water Prize Competition aimed at fostering innovation in water and environmental management among young Nigerians. Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, disclosed this at a news conference in Abuja to announce the call for applications for the 2025 Stockholm Junior Water Prize in
Nigeria.
Hadejia said the competition will get the younger generation between the ages of 15 and 20 acquainted with problems and challenges associated with water at their tender age.
Describing the competition as an opportunity to create awareness within this age bracket, Hadejia said, “There is a Stockholm Water Prize, which is different from the Junior Water Prize – this is specifically targeted at the younger generation between 15 and 20 years old.
“It is essentially to imbibe the culture of awareness and responsibility among the younger generation so that they grow up knowing the rudiments of water and environmental issues, especially in this challenging time of climate change.
“It is an international competition covering almost 35 countries, and I have seen participation in the region of 10,000 and it is a wonderful opportunity for the federal government to lend its weight to this year’s event.”
He stated that this year’s competition was most significant given the discussions that resulted from the vice president’s engagement in Oslo
in 2024 and the anticipated visit of the Crown Princess of Sweden later in the year.
Earlier, Head of Political and Trade Affairs, Embassy of Sweden, Abuja, Mr. Fredrik Åhsberg, explained, “The prestigious international competition organised by the Stockholm International Water Institute aims to engage young minds in addressing global water challenges.”
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has approved the nomination of four new members to the Governing Council of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), filling existing vacancies and strengthening the board’s capacity.
According to a release issued on Thursday by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the approved nominees include Mr. Olusegun Omosehin of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and Engr. Wole Ogunsanya of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN).
Others are Mazi Sam Azoka
Ahead of His 73rd Birthday on Saturday, Tinubu to Attend Special Prayer Session for Nation in Abuja Today
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Friday join fellow Muslims at the National Mosque in Abuja for a special prayer session for the nation ahead of his 73rd birthday on Saturday.
According to a release issued on Thursday by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President will also use the occasion to thank God for preserving and supporting him in the onerous task of piloting the nation’s affairs.
President Tinubu’s birthday coincides with the holy month of Ramadan and comes two months before his administration’s second anniversary.
On this significant day, the President will dedicate himself to spiritual reflection and supplication for Nigeria’s continued peace, progress, and prosperity.
Choosing a prayer session reflects President Tinubu’s dedication to Nigeria’s spiritual and moral well-being and his commitment to seeking divine guidance, insight, and strength in leadership.
He believes collective prayer is a powerful tool for guiding the nation towards progress and harmony.
President Tinubu invited the public to join the prayer session in spirit by offering prayers at their places of worship or wherever they may be, reinforcing a nationwide commitment to unity and shared destiny.
He expressed profound gratitude to Nigerians for their unwavering support and goodwill as his administration works tirelessly to advance economic reforms, strengthen national security, and expand opportunities for all citizens.
According to him: “I am deeply thankful to Allah for the gift of life and the privilege to serve this great nation. As I mark another birthday and look forward to our second anniversary, my heart is filled with Renewed Hope for Nigeria.
“I urge all citizens to pray for divine guidance, unity, and healing for our land. Together, we shall overcome challenges and build a nation where every citizen thrives.”
Onyechi, who represents the Nigerian Content Consultative Forum (NCCF), and Barrister Owei Oyanbo from the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. The nominations arose from the exit of previous institutional representatives from the Governing Council.
The NCDMB Governing Council,
established under Section 69 of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, 2010, comprises representatives from key institutions.
These include the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC),
the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), the Nigerian Content Consultative Forum (NCCF), and the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM).
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has said it will solicit the cooperation of the National Assembly to review the laws guiding the enforcement of occupational health and safety in various places of work in the country.
Speaking at an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, yesterday, the Managing Director of NSITF, Mr. Oluwaseun Faleye, said efforts were progressing in various directions to see that the mandate of the agency was fully achieved.
In another related development, the NSITF has identified a welltrained workforce as a panacea for achieving increased productivity in the nation’s economy, and for rapid industrialization.
The NSITF Managing Director, while receiving the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Develop-
ment, Adamson Olawatosin Ayide, and his team on courtesy visit at corporate headquarters of the Fund, buttressed the importances of a trained workforce in the country, saying, “It is the foundation for economic growth and sustainability in the country.”
Meanwhile, speaking on challenges of enforcing occupational safety rules in companies, Faleye said the agency undertakes inspection of workplaces to inspect the work environment and ensure that it’s safe for the employees.
He said most of the time, “We find it a bit difficult to carry out enforcement as mandated by the law.
“In some instances, our enforcement team were prevented from having access to company premises to inspect facilities.
“So, we are engaging with members of the National Assembly to see if we can be given necessary powers to lock premises of such recalcitrant organisations and those
who endanger the lives of their employees,” he said When asked to give reasons for persisting low enrollment of employers and employees into the Fund, the MD said ignorance and lack of awareness were major factors preventing people from embracing the social safety net offered by NSITF. According to him, the management of NSITF was grappling with the challenges and was stepping up public enlightenment and engagement with organisations to increase enrollment.
While responding to concerns over the state of the digitalisation drive embarked upon by previous management, the MD said the project was yet to take off as envisaged He said that the Fund has engaged the services of a reputable consultancy firm - KPMG - to evaluate the stage of execution of the contract and to establish its conformity with the initial contract awarded to the company.
L-R: National President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and Chairman, Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN), Dele Kelvin Oye; President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye; and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, during the inaugural meeting of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Central Coordination Committee, at the Bank of Industry, Abuja, on Tuesday
The Senator representing Kogi Central at the National Assembly, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has commenced moves to see the disbarment of the Chairman, Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, Senator Nedamwem Imasuen, over allegations bordering on fraud and disobedience of court’s order. The move was contained in a petition she filed at the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) last week.
In the petition dated March 20 and submitted before the LPDC on March 24, the Kogi Senator is specifically seeking sanction against Imasuen if found culpable of the above allegations.
Akpoti-Uduaghan in the petition claimed that the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, had previously found Imasuen guilty of fraud, misappropriation of client funds, and failure to comply with disciplinary authorities. She stated that the Senator
representing Edo South Senatorial District was disbarred in the United States on May 10, 2010.
To support her claims, she submitted a copy of the Justia New York Case Law 2010 to the LPDC and promised to provide more evidence during the hearing.
Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that Imasuen’s disbarment stemmed from a complaint by a client, Daphne Slyfield, who accused him of abandoning her case after collecting substantial legal fees without rendering legal
services.
While noting that the U.S. court found Imasuen guilty of multiple violations of professional ethics and permanently revoked his law license, the suspended senator further claimed that after Imasuen’s disbarment, he returned to Nigeria and continued to present himself as a “Helawyer. did not disclose his disbarment either in his Form EC-9 be submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission
The Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) yesterday disclosed that it plans to add about 375 megawatts of power supply to the national electricity grid with the expected completion of the Egbema power plant by the end of 2025.
Managing Director and Chief Executive of the NDPHC, Jennifer Adighije, disclosed that this will considerably boost power supply nationwide.
The plant, which is already about 67 per cent complete, is expected to operate three units and was re-awarded in 2023 to the Chinese Machinery and Engineering Company (CMEC).
Speaking during an inspection of the plant by the House of Representatives Committee on Power, Adighije stressed the company’s commitment
to completing the project despite the financial challenges facing Nigeria’s power sector.
She reiterated the NDPHC’s plan to ensure that the plant is completed this year, explaining that the sector is hoping that the prioritisation of the power sector will see the payment of debts owed to generation companies.
According to her, offsetting the outstanding debts will help Generation Companies (Gencos) service gas payables and ensure that it reaches and delivers quality affordable and reliable electricity to the people.
“This is an ongoing project with three generating units and therefore the installed capacity of the plant is 375MW. This is a contract that was awarded to CMEC in 2023 and we are planning that the completion will be sometime at the end of this year and we are tracking the progress.
“As you can see we are very keen
on the completion of this project to ensure that we are able to scale the generation capacity of our nation which is the mandate of the NDPHC.
“For those who don’t know, we have a current liquidity crisis in the power sector which stems from the fact that the government is owing Gencos over N4 trillion and we are hoping that Mr. President can prioritise interventions in the power sector.
“Interventions will ensure that we are able to complete all our ongoing projects timely and will ensure that we are able to service our gas payables and it will ensure that we are able to reach and deliver access to quality affordable and reliable electricity to the last mile,” Adighije stressed.
However, in his remarks, the Chairman, House Committee on Power, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, expressed concern about the slow
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 4000 personnel across the nooks and crannies of the Federal Capital Territory ahead of the Eid-Fitr celebrations.
A statement on Thursday by the spokesperson of the FCT Command of NSCDC, Monica Ojobi, said the redevelopment was ordered by FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu ahead of the Eid-Fitr Celebrations.
She said the deployment is in a bid to ensure security of lives and property as well as Critical National Assets and Infrastructure in the FCT and its environs before, during and after the celebration.
She revealed that the deployment of officers and men cuts across specialized departments and units such as Female Strike Force, Arms Squad, Operation Adkasu, Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI), Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosives (CBRNE) and Counter Terrorism.
She added that there is also massive deployment to vulnerable locations and soft targets such as prayer grounds, shopping malls, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, amusement parks, city gate, 3 arms zone, government buildings and areas housing diplomatic offices, critical national assets and infrastructure.
She noted that it was in a bid to ensure proactiveness and prevent emergency or unforeseen circumstances, men of our undercover unit have already been deployed for covert operations and surveillance.
She added that black spots like uncompleted buildings that harbour criminals are also covered to avert security breaches.
She said the FCT Commander, accordingly gave matching orders to all Area Commanders and Divisional Officers to ensure their various Area Councils are on top of their game and ensure their presence is felt to avoid security hitches.
pace of work at the power plant, adding that it was giving the committee “nightmares”.
But he noted that funding remains a big challenge, assuring the NDPHC that the committee would continue to ensure that adequate budgetary allocation is made available for the project.
He said: “Egbema power plant is the one giving us nightmares of all the power plants that started the same day. This is the one that has a snail speed. Thank God the President brought in a good management that is tracking the progress of the new contractors.
(INEC) while contesting for office and eventually became the senator representing Edo South Senatorial District. It was her submission that the Edo Senator’s history of professional misconduct makes him unfit to chair the Senate Ethics Committee, a position that requires unquestionable integrity.
Similarly, Akpoti-Uduaghan sought further sanction against Imasuen for disobeying an order of a Federal High Court, Abuja, which had restrained his committee from investigating her over alleged misconduct at the Senate plenary last February.
The order by Justice Obiora Egwuatu was issued on March 4, while the committee recommended her suspension for six months, a day after they were restrained by the court.
Among exhibits she submitted in support of her petition included, “A copy of the video showing the Respondent openly disregarding the Orders of a court of competent jurisdiction under reference along with the Certificate of Compliance with Section 84 of the Evidence Act is herein annexed as Exhibit NATASHA 6”.
She testified that, “the Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions Committee led by the Respondent proceeded, in blatant disobedience of the said ex-parte order, to conduct its investigation on March 5, 2025 regarding my alleged misconduct
during the Senate plenary session of 20 February 2025.
“That in a concerning display of procedural bias, the same Senate committee on Ethics, Privilege and Public Petitions Chaired by the Respondent proceeded with the purported investigation and recommended me for sanctions.
“That the Senate committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions chaired by the Respondent in blatant disregard for the Orders of Court of competent Jurisdiction subsequently submitted its report on findings of its investigation and reported to the committee of a whole of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on March 6, 2025 purporting to suspend me from the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for a duration of 6 months without any of my privilege”.
Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted that
“this blatant disobedience of a binding and subsisting court order under a misguided belief constitutes contempt of court and a clear violation of legal ethics, as enshrined in Rule 31 of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners 2023, which mandates that a lawyer shall always treat the Court with respect, dignity, and honour.
“That I know that the comment by the Respondent that “We do not actually pay much reference to this order that came” does not depict respect for the court and the judiciary as whole”.
Nigeria’s Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Works, Muhammad Bello, led a distinguished delegation to the World of Asphalt trade show in St. Louis, where they explored the latest advancements in asphalt technology and road-building equipment.
The visit underscored Nigeria’s commitment to improving infrastructure through innovation and strategic partnerships, affirmed by the minister who said that innovation is driving Nigeria’s road construction projects. Asphalt technology and roadbuilding equipment were key highlights of the delegation’s tour.
Bello noted that several innovations caught his attention, particularly advancements in sustainable paving materials, intelligent compaction
systems, and next-generation asphalt plants.
According to Bello, “Among the standout equipment, the delegation explored were Automated Pavers and Milling Machines designed to enhance precision and efficiency in asphalt placement and resurfacing; Warm Mix Asphalt Technology which is a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative that reduces emissions and improves pavement performance.
“Others included Recycling and Reclamation Equipment, machinery that allows for the reuse of existing materials, reducing waste and project costs, enhancing Efficiency and CostEffectiveness in Road Projects.
“With infrastructure development being a top priority, the Nigerian
government seeks solutions that optimize cost while maintaining quality.
World of Asphalt provided a platform to examine state-of-the-art equipment and techniques that could be beneficial for Nigeria’s road network.”
On his part, Brittany Schmidtke, Show Director of World of Asphalt, emphasized the importance of hosting international delegations and fostering knowledge exchange.
His words: “We are thrilled to have Minister Bello and his delegation here at World of Asphalt. Our goal is to provide an environment where global leaders can discover the latest equipment, learn best practices, and connect with industry experts to drive progress in road construction and infrastructure.”
for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Cecilia Dada; Deputy Managing Director, Retail South, Access Bank Plc & Convener of International Women’s Day (IWD), Mrs. Chizoma Okoli; Permanent Secretary, Office of the Vice President of Zambia, Ms. Mavis Nkomesha; and Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jenipher Mutembo, during a courtesy visit at Lagos House, Marina, yesterday
Michael Olugbode in Abuja Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, led a high-level delegation on a tour of UROVESA – a renowned Spanish manufacturer of military and industrial vehicles. The visit focused on exploring potential collaboration in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) technology for powering Nigeria’s defence and industrial vehicle fleets.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) said it has dispatched emergency response teams (RRTs) to Kebbi, Sokoto, and Katsina States in response to the ongoing outbreak of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM).
A statement signed by Head, Corporate Communication, at NCDC, Sani Datti, said the deployment followed a significant increase in suspected cases reported from these states.
While giving update on the outbreak, it said that, “As of 26th March 2025, a total of 807 suspected cases and 74 deaths have been reported across twenty-two (22) states, with a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 9.2 percent. Affected states include Kebbi, Katsina, Jigawa, Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa, Borno, Ebonyi, Oyo, Bauchi, Ondo, Kaduna, Osun, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Benue, Ekiti, Niger, Plateau, FCT, and Sokoto.”
NCDC said that Kebbi, Katsina, and Sokoto states have recorded the highest number of suspected cases, deaths, and CFRs, with relatively low sample collection rates, neces-
sitating urgent intervention.
The Director General of NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, said the response team will be in the states for 14 days, adding that, if need be, extension will be given to the team.
He emphasized the importance of personal safety and instructed all team members to strictly observe infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols throughout the response effort.
The deployed teams, comprising multisectoral and interdisciplinary experts - including specialists in case management and lumbar puncture techniques - are already in the affected states and working closely with the state health authorities to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.
The statement said key objectives of the response include: Rapid containment of the outbreak, strengthening case management and IPC measures, enhancing surveillance and sample collection.
The emergency response teams will also conduct risk communication and community engagement activities and identify the outbreak’s source and recommending appropriate public health actions.
Tuggar was accompanied on the visit by key figures, including Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Ekperikpe Ekpo; Presidential CNG Initiative representative, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi; Engr. Henry Oki; and Special Assistant for Gas Business and Investment to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas).
The delegation engaged in detailed discussions with UROVESA executives.
During the visit, Tuggar em-
phasised the longstanding trade ties between Nigeria and Spain, stating that Spain remains one of Nigeria’s top trading partners, with Nigerian crude oil exports reaching $3.64 billion in 2023. He lauded UROVESA’s innovative approach to producing all-terrain, armoured, tactical, and logistical vehicles, and expressed Nigeria’s growing interest in CNGpowered solutions.
Tuggar highlighted Nigeria’s business-friendly economic reforms
under the President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which had positioned the country as a prime destination for investment in clean energy technologies.
The discussions provided a valuable platform for further exploration of future collaborations between UROVESA and Nigeria’s Ministry of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) in CNG-powered vehicle production and supply.
According to a statement by the foreign affairs minister’s spokes-
man, Alkasim AbdulKadir, the engagement not only reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to a green energy future but also laid the groundwork for modernising the country’s defence and industrial fleets with environmentally friendly and cost-effective energy solutions. AbdulKadir said the promising outcome of the discussions set the stage for a strategic partnership that was expected to foster sustainable innovation and drive economic growth for both Nigeria and UROVESA.
Emmanuel Addeh in
Heirs Holdings Founder and Group Chair, Tony Elumelu, has been appointed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to its Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth, convened by IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva.
Elumelu, Africa’s leading advocate of entrepreneurship and whose Foundation has funded, mentored and trained over 25,000 African entrepreneurs since 2015, champions entrepreneurship as the engine for the economic transformation of Africa.
A statement described him as a “ self-made entrepreneur”, noting that Elumelu’s embrace of entrepreneurship is fundamental to his concept of Africapitalism, his belief that Africa’s private sector can and must play a leading role in the continent’s development.
According to the statement last night, this has spurred the business-
man to make long-term investments that deliver social and economic value.
The Advisory Council, the statement said, comprises global business leaders, policymakers, and academics, dedicated to identifying and addressing regulatory barriers to entrepreneurship.
Its mandate, it said, is to recommend policies that enhance resource allocation, stimulate innovation, and catalyse sustainable private sector-led economic growth, explaining that Elumelu will be instrumental in ensuring that Africa’s entrepreneurial potential is central to global economic policymaking.
Other members of the Council include: Harberger Professor of Economics, University of Chicago, Professor Ufuk Akcigit; Saudi Ambassador to the United States, HRH Ambassador Reema Bandar Al-Saud as well as Chair/ CEO, and Co-Founder of Salesforce, Mr. Marc Benioff.
Others are: Executive Chair, Banco Santander, Ms. Ana Botín; Chairman, Tata Group, Mr. Natarajan Chandrasekaran; Chief Executive, Vodafone Group, Ms. Margherita Della Valle; Founder, Chairman and CEO, Vista Equity Partners, Elumelu
Mr. Robert Smith and Argentine Minister of Deregulation and State Transformation, Mr. Federico Sturzenegger.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Advisory Council on Wednesday March 26, 2025, the IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, noted that the views and experiences of the selected persons will impact on how macroeconomic and financial policies can provide a supportive environment for innovation, entrepreneurship, and productivity.
“The Council brings together a group of leading thinkers and practitioners in business, finance, academia, and policymaking to share their views and experiences on how macroeconomic and financial policies can provide a supportive environment for innovation, entrepreneurship, and productivity—key ingredients for a thriving private sector and strong economic growth,” Georgieva stated.
Wale Igbintade
A Federal High Court in Lagos will hear arguments on application priorities on May 12, 2025, in a case filed by the Attorney General of the Federation against a new-generation bank and three others over alleged conversion of over N19 billion.
At the resumed hearing of the matter yesterday, counsel to the first and fourth defendants, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), informed the court that they had preliminary objection applications and that it had been served on the prosecution.
But prosecution counsel Chelsey
Emezina objected to hearing the preliminary objection, saying it was not ripe for hearing. She argued the law provides that the defendants shall be arraigned first before any application can be taken. Emezina cited decided authorities, including the decision on Onnoghen and Sections 221, 396 (1) and 382 (5) of the administration of the Criminal Justice Act.
“My lord will not hear the motion until the defendants submit themselves to the authority of this court,” she said.
However, Justice Ambrose LewisAllagoa cautioned the prosecutor about her line of argument.
Justice Allagoa drew the prosecutor’s attention to the difference between challenging the jurisdiction and that of a defective charge. Consequently, the judge ordered both parties to file their processes on the priority of the application to be taken first.
The defendants in the suit are the Bank, its Managing Director, Victor Ukutt, and Whoba Ugwunna Ogo (who is currently at large).
The federal government, in the suit marked FHC/L/138C/2025, filed eight counts of the alleged conspiracy, conversion, obtaining by false pretenses, forgery, fraud,
and money laundering against the defendants.
They were accused of conspiring between 2011 and 2023 to fraudulently convert about N19 billion from Woobs Resources Limited’s account with the bank. The government claimed the money was unlawfully obtained through theft and fraud.
The alleged offences violate sections of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended).
On the last adjourned date, Emezina informed the court that the case was scheduled for arraignment and that all the defendants have been served with the charge and hearing notices except
the 4th defendant (Whoba Ugwunna Ogo), who has not been served with the charge hearing notice.
The prosecutor requested a bench warrant to be issued on (Whoba Ugwunna Ogo), in accordance with Section 113 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2023.
However, Falana opposed this, arguing that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the charge, claiming the case was an abuse of court process. He noted that the matter involved alleged theft from a company, which was already under consideration by the Court of Appeal.
Falana also pointed out that the
fourth defendant, Whoba Ugwunna Ogo, was abroad for medical treatment and had not been served with the charge. The defendants have filed a motion under Section 305(1)(A) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, and Sections 6(A) & (B) and 295 of the Constitution, requesting that the court dismiss the charge due to lack of jurisdiction and abuse of process. They also sought a stay of proceedings, pending the resolution of a dispute over the ownership of shares in Woobs Resources Limited, which is currently before the Court of Appeal in Suit No. CA/L/343/2020.
James Emejo in Abuja
Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has reaffirmed the bank’s mission to achieve a gender-balanced leadership.
Cardoso also disclosed that women currently accounted for 35 per cent of the apex bank’s directors as well as half of its non-executive board – a significant boost compared to previous threshold.
Speaking at the grand finale of the International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations at the CBN Head Office, Cardoso underscored the bank’s commitment to inclusive and representative leadership in the banking and
financial sector of the economy.
The event marked the culmination of a month-long programme celebrating IWD across CBN’s branches nationwide.
Cardoso said, “Increasing women’s representation in leadership is not just ethical; it is a strategic necessity.
“The rise of women in leadership at the CBN mirrors a global shift, where skilled and visionary female leaders are reshaping governance.
“We at the CBN are proud to be part of this progress.”
The appointment of six new female directors sets a new record for CBN, reinforcing Cardoso’s resolve to foster diverse perspectives at the top.
He highlighted the valuable contributions of women across the institution, particularly the newly appointed directors, who joined the distinguished ranks of his advisers. They included Dr. Daphne Dafinone, Dr. Nkiru Balonwu, and Ms. Shola Phillips – whose strategic insight, deep expertise, and steadfast commitment had been instrumental in navigating complex challenges and guiding CBN policy direction, CBN said in a statement.
Cardoso also recognised the leadership of existing female directors, who continued to play critical roles in steering the bank forward.
In her remarks, Deputy Governor, Corporate Services,
e lec TO r A l Ac T: Sen AT e Pr OPOS e S S AM e D AY
rescinded their decision to strip the vice president, governors, and deputy governors of immunity.
The House also reversed its decision on the bill to abolish death penalty.
But the lower chamber passed for second reading a bill seeking to alter the 1999 Constitution, as amended, to create an additional local government area in Imo State to be known as Ideato West Local Government Area.
Leading the debate on the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (SB.701), Mustapha decried the rising financial burden of elections on the government.
He stated that the cost of general elections had surged from N1.5 billion in 1999 to N350 billion in 2023, describing the trend as unsustainable and a major drain on national resources.
“The current staggered election process is expensive and inefficient. Conducting all elections on the same day will save costs, boost voter participation, and reduce political tension,” he said.
Mustapha said Nigeria must take a cue from countries like the United States, India, and Brazil, which have successfully implemented same-day elections, leading to a more streamlined and cost-effective electoral process.
The bill also proposed a shorter campaign period to ease the financial burden on political parties, candidates, and the government.
Mustapha stated that prolonged
campaigns often disrupted governance and fuelled unnecessary political tension.
Another key amendment in the bill was the inclusion of elected officeholders, including the president, vice president, governors, national and state assembly members, and local government chairmen, as ad hoc delegates in their respective party congresses.
The current exclusion of these officials, he said, was an “oversight” that needed to be corrected.
Senators, during the debate, expressed support for the bill, stating that consolidating elections into a single day would curb electoral malpractice, reduce voter fatigue, and enhance credibility in the electoral process.
They also believed it would minimise disruptions to governance caused by staggered elections.
However, while the proposal received backing from an overwhelming majority of the lawmakers, some raised fears on the capacity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to manage such an exercise.
In his contribution, Senator Adams Oshiomhole said the National Assembly should ensure that INEC was well-prepared for the enormous task.
T I nubu, G HA n AIA n Pre SID en T M AHAMA D IS cu SS ec OWAS-S AH el r el ATIO n S
of West African States (ECOWAS) and the breakaway Sahelian nations of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
The two leaders also emphasised security and economic cooperation for the benefit of the ordinary citizens in the Sahelian nations.
Addressing newsmen after a closed-door meeting at the State House, Abuja, President Tinubu, who chairs the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, praised Ghanaian President Mahama for his diplomatic efforts in bridging the divide between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
According to the President: “I feel good that he is here in the first place, and I am indeed very happy with the efforts he has made to have a bridge between the AES countries and ECOWAS”.
He stressed that maintaining dialogue with the breakaway nations was essential for regional stability, not for the benefit of their political leaders, but for the welfare of ordinary citizens.
President Tinubu said: “It’s not a bad idea for us because of the security situation in the Sahel region and the economic opportunities we must embark on to ensure the security of lives and prosperity of our citizens.
“The innocent people in this episode are the citizens of those countries, not much about us, the
Ms. Emem Usoro, expressed appreciation for the collective effort behind this year’s IWD programme, describing it as a powerful reflection of the bank’s shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and institutional progress.
Usoro underlined the urgency of IWD 2025, with the theme, “Accelerate Action,” citing a World Economic Forum report that projected that full gender parity might not be achieved until 2054.
The central bank deputy governor urged institutions to break structural barriers and foster opportunities for women to build sustained momentum in the pursuit of gender equity.
tions for all levels of government in one day,” Oshiomhole said.
He also bemoaned the possibility of several ballot papers in a day creating confusion, especially for the illiterate electorate.
But Mustapha said if passed, the bill would introduce one of the most significant electoral reforms in Nigeria’s history.
He insisted that it would not only cut cost but also deepen democracy by encouraging more citizen participation and reducing economic losses linked to prolonged election cycles.
The senate would subject the bill to further scrutiny in the coming weeks.
House Rescinds Decision to Strip Vice President, Governors, Deputies of Immunity
The House of Representatives withdrew its decision to strip the vice president, governors, and deputy governors of immunity.
The green chamber had Wednesday passed for second reading a bill seeking to remove the immunity conferred on the vice president, governors, and their deputies.
The bill sponsored by Solomon Bob, sought to promote accountability in public office by removing the immunity currently granted to the vice president,
“While the bill has good intentions, we must ensure that INEC is adequately prepared for the enormous task of conducting elecline with Nigerian medium sweet Bonga. Details on production levels were not immediately available, the report said.
leadership. The citizens must be the first beneficiaries and the first point of reason together”.
President Mahama, who visited the Sahel nations as part of ECOWAS’ ongoing diplomatic efforts, said his trip was aimed at fostering dialogue and exploring avenues for cooperation.
According to him: “I came to thank him for the honor done me during my inauguration and also to brief him on the visits to the Sahelian countries—Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—and to bring him up to date with some of the issues and to discuss with him”.
Acknowledging the complexities of the situation, the Ghanaian President noted that resolving tensions between ECOWAS and the breakaway nations would require sustained dialogue.
“Well, it’s a complicated situation, and it’s not as easy as we might think. We just need to continue to dialogue and see how we can continue to cooperate together, President Mahama further said Thursday’s meeting between the two leaders underscored ECOWAS’ commitment to diplomatic engagement as tensions persist between the regional bloc and the Sahel states, which have severed ties with the organization following military takeovers.
Nigerian independent Continental Oil & Gas will produce Obodo from onshore oil block OML 150 in the Niger delta region, and state-owned NNPC will market the crude, according to two sources. NUPRC data shows Continental Oil has a stake in OML 150 under a production sharing contract — typically between the government and a private company.
The newest Nigerian crude will add to a growing supply of medium sweet grades in the country. NNPC restarted production of similar-quality Utapate in 2024, which followed the launch of Nembe in 2023.
Nigerian medium sweets, including Forcados, Escravos and Bonga, have predominantly found an outlet in Europe — the largest market for Nigerian crude. Obodo could also find favour with European refineries, where seasonal maintenance is scheduled to wind down by the end of April and early May.
Nigerian grades have faced tepid demand in the April-trade cycle as ample availability of lower-priced alternatives such as US WTI, Caspian CPC Blend and other Mediterranean grades enticed European buyers. The trade cycle has since shifted to May, with as many as 15 April-loading Nigerian
governors, and their deputies.
But at the plenary yesterday, the House rescinded its decision after House Leader, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, moved the motion.
The House also reversed its decision to abolish death penalty.
The bill, sponsored by Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and six other lawmakers, sought to amend Section 33(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
Section 33(1) stipulates, “Every person has a right to life, and no one shall be deprived intentionally of his life, save in execution of the sentence of a court in respect of a criminal offence of which he has been found guilty in Nigeria.”
The bill proposed to delete the phrase, “Save in execution of the sentence of a court in respect of a criminal offence of which he has been found guilty in Nigeria.”
Similarly, the House passed for second reading a bill seeking to alter the 1999 Constitution, as amended, to create an additional local government area in Imo State to be known as Ideato West Local Government Area.
The bill, sponsored by Hon. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, was passed at the plenary on Thursday.
The House also passed for second reading a bill for an Act to establish the Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, Imo State.
cargoes still looking for buyers, according to market participants. Nigeria’s upstream regulator NUPRC in March outlined a plan to add 1.07 million bpd to the country’s liquids output by December 2026. The plan forecasts an injection of capital into Nigerian oil blocks through joint ventures, production-sharing contracts and sole risk contracts, the report said. Nigeria has struggled to mobilise upstream investment and has consistently fallen short of less ambitious production growth targets in recent years. The country’s crude production fell by 4.5 per cent on the month to 1.47 million bpd in February, according to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Commission (NUPRC) — just under its OPEC+ quota of 1.5 million bpd.
Also, a report by the organisation has stated that Nigeria’s independently-owned 650,000 bpd Dangote refinery is commissioning its alkylation unit, which will enable it to run its Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) at operating capacity “some time next month”, according to a source with knowledge of the matter.
The source said CDU capacity is 550,000 b/d currently, although vessel tracking data suggest it is running some way below that.
Crude arrivals at the refinery to date in March have fallen to between 175,000-235,000 bpd, according to preliminary data from vessel trackers Kpler and
The IWD ceremony ended with the Inspiring Women Award, an initiative of the Change and Culture Transformation Unit (CCTU), aimed at recognising outstanding female staff across CBN’s branches.
Out of 806 nominations submitted nationwide, 28 winners were selected following a rigorous evaluation process.
Awardees were drawn from branches across Nigeria, including Awka, Dutse, Yola, Gombe, Oshogbo, Kaduna, Enugu, and Birnin Kebbi.
Among the honourees, Deputy Governor Emem Usoro received the prestigious Amazon Award from Cardoso, in recognition of her outstanding leadership since
Leading the debate on the bill, the sponsor, Ugochinyere, said education remained the cornerstone of national development, and teacher training institutions played a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainability of a robust education system.
He explained that Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education was already a fully operational federal tertiary institution.
The House of Representatives said the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) (Amendment) Act, 2023, would remain in force until amended.
Spokesman of the House, Akin Rotimi, said the green chamber observed with concern certain media reports on remarks credited to Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, following the Ministerial Consultative Meeting held on March 26 with the Organised Private Sector on the FRC Amendment Act, 2023. He said some sections of the press had misinterpreted Oduwole’s comments, and suggested she had directed a “pause” on certain provisions of the amended Act.
Rotimi stated, “The apparent misrepresentation of the Honour-
Vortexa, from 405,000 bpd in February. Throughput hit a high of 433,000 bpd in December, according to Kpler.
The alkylation line, which produces high octane alkylate for gasoline (petrol) blending, is the last of Dangote’s secondary units to come online. Argus Consulting puts it at a nameplate capacity of 27,000 bpd. Other secondary units could be utilised at their maximum capacity once the alkylation unit is up and running, which would give a boost to gasoline blending component production.
Recent lower runs at Dangote could suggest decreased output of gasoline — a key product in the local refined product market. Nigerian gasoline and blending component imports are around 345,000t to date this month, up from 245,000t in all of February, the report said.
Petrol imports in the wider west African market will be around 450,000 tons in April, a European petrol trader told Argus this week. Nigeria accounts for around three quarters of the region’s imports.
Also, Nigeria’s 210,000 bpd
Port Harcourt refinery has been allocated three cargoes of domestic light sweet crude Bonny Light in April-May, according to traders, suggesting that any issues affecting receipts in February and March might have been resolved.
The refinery — which restarted operations late last year following a revamp — has been allocated a
assuming office. Also, 10 female directors were celebrated as trailblazers, alongside a further 18 inspiring women acknowledged for their exceptional contributions across the bank.
able Minister’s remarks has led to confusion and uncertainty among stakeholders and regulated entities.
“This ambiguity is unnecessary and counterproductive to the stability and clarity needed in Nigeria’s financial reporting and regulatory framework.
“Nigeria is a constitutional democracy governed by the principle of separation of powers among the legislature, executive, and judiciary.
“The National Assembly alone holds the constitutional authority to enact, amend, or repeal laws. No provision of the constitution grants any public officer the power to unilaterally ‘pause’ or suspend any part of a duly enacted law.”
Rotimi added, “For the avoidance of doubt, the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (Amendment) Act, 2023, remains in full force and effect until the National Assembly amends it.
“Any concerns regarding specific provisions of the Act should be formally brought before the legislature for deliberation and possible legislative review.” The House concluded, “The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) is advised to continue executing its statutory responsibilities in full compliance with its enabling Act.
“All Public Interest Entities (PIEs) must adhere to the law as it stands, as there can be no legal vacuum.”
950,000 barrels cargo loading over 5-6 April and two 475,000 barrels shipments loading over 22-23 April and 1-2 May, traders said, citing the latest loading programmes. All three cargoes are to be loaded by the refinery’s operator, state-owned NNPC.
Market sources said last month that Port Harcourt’s February and March crude allocations had been cancelled, with one of the sources saying a crude unit at the refinery was not functioning. This was not confirmed by NNPC. And a source at the company has since told Argus that a 475,000 barrels shipment of Bonny Light had been due to be pumped to Port Harcourt before operations at the grade’s export terminal were briefly disrupted by a fire on the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) last week. The Renaissance Africa consortium — which recently took over operatorship of the TNP and the Bonny terminal from Shell — said pipeline flows were restored on March 19.
Port Harcourt — which is designed to run Bonny Light — was originally built as two refineries, and rehabilitation work has only been completed at one 60,000 bpd section.
Total loadings of Bonny Light have been revised to 209,000 bpd for April across seven cargoes and have been set at 202,000 bpd for May across the same number of cargoes.
L-R:Board Members, Institute of Counseling in Nigeria (ICN), Dr. Austin Ebose; Dr. Olufunso Amosu; Pastor Wale Adefarasin; Executive Director of ICN, Dr. Tolu Oko-Igaire; and
institute’s advisory board meeting held in Lagos…recently
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Operatives of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB), Escravos in Delta State have deactivated three illegal refining sites in Oteghele community in the state.
Oteghele community is located in Obodo-Omadino in Warri South West Local
Government Area of the state.
A source in the Navy confirmed to THISDAY yesterday that the sites contained over 2,700 litres of stolen crude oil and 2,200 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) at the time of the operation.
He disclosed that the stolen crude oil and the refined
Francis Sardauna inKatsina
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has extended the service year of 11 Corps members in Katsina State for committing various degrees of offences.
The state NYSC Coordinator, Ibrahim Sa’idu, made this known in Katsina yesterday during the Passing-out Parade of the 2024 Batch ‘A’ Stream II corps members. Sa’idu, represented by the Assistant Director, Human Resource Management, Allen Charles Chisome, said the affected corps members were given extension of service in accordance with the scheme by-laws.
“Eleven corps members, comprising three females and eight males, who committed different degrees of offences, were given extension of service in accordance with the NYSC by-laws,” he added. He commended the 859 corps members who completed the service year without any disciplinary issue, and urged them to be good ambassadors of the scheme wherever they find themselves.
The coordinator admonished the corps members to also leverage on the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) they have acquired during their orientation course in order to be self-sufficient.
John in Kaduna
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has approved the recruitment of 1,800 workers to fill the personnel gaps across all Primary Health Care(PHC) facilities in state.
The Commissioner of Health, Umma Ahmad, disclosed this in a statement yesterday in Kaduna.
Ahmad said the recruitment would strengthen the state’s leading role in Primary Health Care.
Automotive Gas Oil were concealed in two ovens, 10 dug-out pits, drums, and 26 polythene sacks.
“The successful operation aligns with Operation Delta Sanity 2, which is based on credible intelligence.
“It also supports the strategic directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, aimed at
eliminating all forms of illegal activities within Nigeria’s maritime environment,” the source said.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in abuja
The federal government said it had expanded tuberculosis treatment services, increasing the number of treatment centres from 12,606 in 2019 to approximately 23,000 in 2024, and achieving about 57 per cent coverage of all health facilities in Nigeria.
It said tuberculosis (TB) remained one of Nigeria’s most pressing public health challenges, with the country ranking sixth among the 30 high TB burden countries globally and first in Africa.
Relatedly, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Trinity Challenge, in collaboration with Jhpiego, hosted a high-level workshop in Abuja to address the health challenges posed by stock control and the prevalence of substandard and falsified antibiotics.
The workshop brought together health leaders, researchers, and technology experts to design and test innovative, data-driven solutions to the pressing issues. Meanwhile, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global TB Report 2024, Nigeria was among the eight countries that accounted for over two-thirds of the global TB burden, with an estimated 467,000 new TB cases in 2023.
Daji Sani in yola
The Inspector General of Police (IG) Kayode Egbetokun has said that the state-of-the-art facility is expected to bolster the police’s capacity to maintain law and order, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for citizens in Adamawa State.
The IG made this statement while inaugurating a new police headquarters in Yola, Adamawa State.
He said the edifice would mark a significant milestone in enhancing the Nigeria Police Force’s effectiveness and efficiency. Egbetokun said the edifice is a pride to the police.
The IG emphasised the importance of providing quality service to the public and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to protecting lives and property
He said this development is part of the Nigeria Police Force’s efforts to strengthen its infrastructure and improve service delivery.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by top police officials, including the State Commissioner of Police (CP) Dankombe Morris.
The CP said as the police continue to work towards building a more secure and just society, this new headquarters is a testament to their dedication and hard work.
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin city
The statement noted the ongoing revitalisation of 255 PHC facilities, provision of state-of-the art equipment, and distribution of essential drugs across the state.
The commissioner said all the 255 Primary Healthcare Centres in the state would be remodelled and upgraded to level two status as part of Governor Sani’s determination to overhaul the health sector.
She added that the upgraded PHCs would undertake management of uncomplicated diabetes, hypertension, resuscitation of severe asthma, and assisted delivery as well as other essential services.
According to her, the recruitment will directly address the gaps in human resources at the facilities, leading to a significant reduction in maternal and child mortalities, as well as improve the well-being of Kaduna citizens.
Mary Nnah
The Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria has officially kicked off its 70th-anniversary celebration, marking a significant milestone in the church’s history. The celebration coincides with the International Conference for Ministers and Leaders (ICML) 2025, scheduled to hold from April 14 to 18, 2025.
According to Rev. Sam Aboyeji, the General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, the conference will attract over 8,000 ministers, leaders, and
workers from within and outside the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria. The conference theme is: ‘Faith for Great Exploits’, is taken from Hebrews 11:2 and Daniel 11:32.
The conference will feature renowned speakers, including Rev. Dr. Francis Sey, General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Ghana; Rev. Emiko Amotsuka, President of Koinonia Ministries Ibadan; and Rev. Isaac Omolehin, Founder and President of The Word Commission International and The Word Assembly Churches, Ilorin in Kwara State.
The Edo State Police Command yesterday said three suspects terrorising the peaceful community of Ewato in Esan South East Local Government Area of the state have been arrested and detained at the Ewohimi Police Division in the locality.
The state police spokesperson, DSP Moses Iyamu, who confirmed the incident, said the suspects carried out an attack on a gas station, damaging a machine was estimated to about N3.6 million, adding that the suspects are currently in police detentions.
“The suspects damaged pump machines at the filling station
estimated to the tune of N3.6 million because a sales girl declined his advances,” Iyamu stated. He, however, stated that the matter would be treated with the attention it deserves and ensure that they are prosecuted according to the law.
Meanwhile, elders and members of Ewato community in Esan South East Local Area of the state have alleged that the arrested suspects were part of criminal element terrorising the community.
The action of the community came following the attack and destruction on an oil and gas station owned by the Iyase of Ewato, Chief Kenneth Ezojie.
Gbenga Sodeinde in ado Ekiti
The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has lamented increasing spate of rainstorm causing colossal destruction of buildings and electrical facilities in the state and rendering hundreds of citizens homeless as well as throwing them into perpetual darkness.
Oyebanji stated these, while inspecting some buildings that were destroyed by rainstorm in Oye, Ayede and Ilupeju Ekiti in Oye Local Government Area, where over 300 rooftops were blown off, during a stormy downpour that wreaked havocs last Tuesday’s evening.
The governor was accompanied to the towns by the officials of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency ( EKSEMA) Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, sympathised with the victims, saying the government of Governor Biodun Oyebanji won’t abandon them to suffer.
Commenting on the massive disaster, the governor said he had earlier visited Ipoti, Odo- Owa, Igbemo, Iyin, Ifaki , Ilawe and other affected towns for similar reasons, which heightened the impression that the disaster was becoming a recurrent decimal tormenting the populace.
George Okoh in makurdi
Federal government has earmarked N10 billion for commercial agricultural activities in 10 universities to boost agricultural research and food security in the country.
The Executive Secretary, Tertiary Trust Fund(Tetfund),
Arch. Sonny Echono, disclosed this while inaugurating the Agricultural and BIOS systems engineering building constructed by Tetfund using the Year 2023 annual intervention as part of activities marking the university’s 26th-31st combined convocation ceremony.
He said the N10 billion
intervention fund for commercial agriculture in 10 universities was an initiative of President Tinubu’s administration to make tertiary institutions become self reliance.
“When we met with Mr. President, he specifically gave us that mandate that we should beginning to prepare our universities to become self reliance to explore another relevant avenue to generate revenue instead of relying on government allocations.
“Mr. President asked us to scout for universities with vast land that can be use for commercial agriculture not only for training of their students.
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has assured retirees in the state that pension and gratuity payments are now processed transparently, eliminating the need for personal connections or lobbying before
benefits are paid to retirees.
The Director-General of the Kogi State Pension Commission, Mariam Abedo, disclosed this in a chat with the Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, who was on a courtesy visit to her office in Lokoja.
She explained that the government has introduced a technology-driven payment system that ensures fairness and efficiency. “Once a retiree’s documentation is complete, their payment is processed without any influence.
We currently process over 200 retirees daily,” she stated. Abedo further disclosed that the commission has significantly cleared pension arrears as the state has consistently made funds available to meet obligations of retirees.
www.thisdaylive.com
LET US ‘REWRITE’ BABANGIDA'S MEMOIR
No apologies for “Ä Journey In Service,” writes SULEIMAN ABUBAKAR
DAEMI KUNAIYIAKPANAH contends that the situation in Rivers State highlights the need for equity, justice, and transparency in governance
opinion@thisdaylive.com
The National Orientation Agency’s advocacy against the scooping of petrol indicates its rebound, writes BOLAJI ADEBIYI
It is baffling that despite the apparent danger of scooping petrol from fallen tankers, Nigerians persist in the act. It usually begins with a petrol-laden tanker overturning on the highway or within a city, attracting people to rush in with all sorts of stuff to scoop the highly inflammable liquid. Then, an explosion occurs, consuming thousands of the scoopers and bystanders.
Deaths from balls of fire from fallen petrol tankers have, therefore, become a regular occurrence in the country. Official figures put those who went to their early graves in the last four months at 265. The alarm began to blow in September last year when a tanker exploded along Ibadan-Ife Expressway, torching five houses, many cars and other vehicles. A few days after, 48 persons were roasted by another tanker fire in Agai in Niger State. In the middle of the following month, 150 souls went to their graves after a tanker went up in flames in Majiya, Jigawa State.
But the one that occurred early in January at Dikko Junction, near Suleja in Niger State, would jolt the authorities to the need to rise from their slumber. With the death toll put at over 80, it became clear that something urgent had to be done about the malaise that had cut short many people’s lives.
For obvious reasons, President Bola Tinubu took the lead in addressing the matter, setting up an interministerial committee comprising the Ministries of Information, National Orientation, and Humanitarian Affairs and other critical stakeholders like the National Emergency Management Agency, Standard Organization of Nigeria, and the Petroleum Tanker Drivers Association to examine the challenge and proffer workable recommendations to address the problem. He also directed the National Orientation Agency to sensitise the public about the danger of scooping petrol from fallen tankers.
While many observers have attributed the root cause of the rush to death to poverty, it is significant that the National Orientation Agency has taken its assignment with vigour, preferring to engage rather than blame the people for their otherwise silly act. Deploying all the tools of public communication, the agency is on the rebound as its advocacy reverberates nationwide.
Its messaging is deep and simple: “Life has no duplicate. So, don’t risk your life because of a token fuel.” In short video clips and explainers, it tells people, “A small spark can cause a fire that will end your life.” The agency adopted above-the-line and belowthe-line communication strategies to execute its assignment.
With over 76 jingles aired by over 190 local and national radio and television networks, the message has penetrated many urban and rural communities, where potential victims live. The agency also used modern technology, including social media via its X handle, Facebook, and official website
platforms to push its messages.
Its direct messaging has also been impressive. Led by Lanre Isa-Onilu, its Director-General, the agency’s ground offensive is comparable only to the Prof. Jerry Gana-led MAMSER of old as it deployed its structures in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory and the 774 local government areas to organise townhall meetings to sensitise different stakeholders, traditional rulers, market unions, religious organisations, trade unions and youth groups.
The message was clear. “People must prioritise their safety and empathise with the victims of tanker accident rather than exploit the situation by scooping fuel,” Isa-Onilu told participants at the townhall meeting in Lambata, Niger State. His message to traditional rulers and community leaders is, “Public safety is the collective responsibility of community leaders who must educate their citizens on the need for the prevention of loss of lives and property.”
For him, the enlightenment campaign was an opportunity to tie back to the agency’s National Value Charter and Citizens Brigade Initiative to instil patriotism and discipline in young Nigerians through civic education and locally produced animation. It has become a national value reorientation drive needed to reset the citizens' commitment to good values. He told the people that petrol scooping was a direct consequence of value degradation, making an otherwise despicable act acceptable to society. Ordinarily, he said, scooping petrol from a fallen tanker instead of assisting the driver to safety was an act of thievery.
The campaign drive was also extended to the primary source of the problem, tanker drivers. Speaking to the officials of the
for a more effective regulation of the industry to ensure stricter adherence to safety standards. He said the incidence of fallen tankers was traceable to the failure of tanker owners and drivers to maintain their trucks properly. He said that if the regulatory agencies were more diligent, the incidence would be reduced to the barest minimum.
Some regulatory agencies the NOA boss engaged in were NEMA, the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. At the headquarters of the FRSC in Abuja, IsaOnilu emphasised the need for more safety standards enlightenment and enforcement. He urged the corps to improve its accident prevention strategy, road safety regulations and enlightenment education for drivers. The interagency engagements signposted the importance of collaboration to the sensitisation campaign’s success.
So far, the campaign against the rush to death has brought to the fore the NOA’s potential for rekindling the citizens' awareness of their civil responsibilities. Left in the lurch for decades due to varied factors, the agency appears to be getting its groove back under its new leadership. It should not be surprising, though. Isa-Onilu had been in the newsroom of top-notch national newspapers, rising to the top of the ladder. Add that to his stint in public relations, political communication, marketing, and media entrepreneurship, and you will see the rising success emerging in the NOA.
Adebiyi is the media assistant to the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning.
“Ä Journey In Service,” writes
The hoopla generated by General Babangida's memoir, "A Journey In Service" was typically synonymous with his larger than life image; an image that is immersed in "controversy". Anything Babangida, for good or bad, right or wrong is always a piece of news. Babangida comes with several octopoidal parts, representing a community of pro-and anti-Babangida sentiments. The man enjoys such mix as the ideal combination of human emanations. His book has already worn the garment of controversy, a mix of several interpretations and potpourri of ideas, realities and occurrences that factorized the former president's trajectory from birth till date. The man seems to enjoy all the "noises" and "controversies" as he watches the human follies in us, trying to assume his authorial presence in a deliberate effort to "rewrite" the man's memoirs.
The experiences captured in the book are his, the stories told were drawn from his own perspective as an eye-witness, the presentation was a function of his own cognition, the flowery prose was his making, yet the average reader wants to assume the first person narration of the author, quarelling about the author's inalienable right to own an opinion. Speaking introspectively, I would have been pleasantly surprised if IBB's book did not generate such public debates and controversies by the several anecdotes that dominated the narratives. IBB is a subject matter of several magnitudes. He is also a research material with gargantuan spread. He represents a puzzle that is yet unraveled. He cuts the picture of a deep thinker waiting to harness all the knowledge being charted on his criticism boxes, in trying to "rewrite" a book that is called autobiography. His critics have since assumed his authorial deposition, trying effortlessly to brand him in their own borrowed robes, in order to deny him his own unassailable right as a citizen of this great country.
Hate him or like him, IBB has since become the main item on the menu list of most scholars in Nigeria and elsewhere. His thoughts carry the weight of a leader that is least understood, yet occupying a special place in the annals of the nation's history. His experiences are immersed in uncertainties and realities, between fear and suspense, between possibilities and impossibilities. He understands the Nigerian mind and the complexities that co-habit in a country of over 470 dialects and ethnic consanguinity. He has criss-crossed the country in the course of his professional career as a gentleman officer. He has fought a war of unification. He has led the country for eight unbroken years. He has been interacting with several fellow citizens drawn from all walks of life, helping him to form an opinion about the human mind, yet his critics wouldn't allow him to go away with his thoughts. They simply want to think for him, rewrite a memoir that would please their own ears, to certify their unscientific profiling of the issues that had dominated public discourse for such a long time. When the subject matter is IBB, be sure to enter into another level of discourse. It is almost certain that the man's premonition is anchored on "controversies".
Babangida is no doubt, a behemoth; a community of ideas and experiences, of glorious reminiscences and unequivocal anecdotes that make his persona pleasantly unique and indubitably thick. His sneeze comes with unpredictable verbiage, his effusions another litmus test to decipher. His equivocations loaded in puzzles and dribbles, and his delivery always a subject of many colours and interpretations. The man is never flippant having been part and parcel of the power hegemonies, be it military or democracy, in the West Africa sub-region. He remains stoic, unyielding in most cases to the promptings of his critics in trying to unravel him. He chooses his path, not one traveled by many, but one that cultivates his worldview. He probes into your mind trying to provoke a discourse to situate your intentions. He tells you almost disarmingly, in a tone loaded with benevolence, how the human mind works depending on the socio-political milieu of the individual. He acquiesces to your re-
quest trying to please your inner recesses while also ensuring he keeps the larger details for another day. His recall as rich as his memory. His aura, charm and quintessence, enough ingredients that sustain his relevance. Aside from being a problem solver for many, he has ears for all categories of people. No doubt, IBB's Memoir is a journey in itself. It provokes the hearts of those who were the real actors of his journey, those who were part of the inner hegemonies to sustain power oligarch that endures till date. His book, a collector's item, detailing stories that were never told but known; stories that were the bitter truths hardly unspoken of. He raises curiosities and dazzles the reader with eye-witness narration; recalling special events that baked his knowledge about life and its complexities. His critics want to rewrite the man's own story for him, take away his right, capture his experiences as theirs, recount his eye-witness narration, and implant their own stories to suit their impressions about him. We need to rewrite IBB's book as the documentary and encyclopaedia of all the negativities in Nigeria, a thesaurus of the ridiculous geometry of our nation's journey and the summation of all the vices of a nation called Nigeria that has been stymied by anti-development factors. Only such narratives would suit the sheer hollowness of his critics ears. We need to "rewrite" IBB's Memoir to paint him in devil's colours and tar his government with a negative brush of infamy, as the surviving narration of his trajectory. Anything short of such indecent verbiage will always attract the critics hammer.
But IBB doesn't care a hoot. He tells his critics with magisterial gusto that he was fully in charge during his leadership of the country, but that being in charge must come with some subtlety; a government with a human face. He scored first in many aspects of our national life; he liberalized the private media sector, he liberalized the private banking sector, he re-engineered infrastructural development, he opened up the rural areas through DFRRI, sustained public discourse and mobilisation through MAMSER, even as a military government, he tapped into some of the best brains in the country. His primary health care initiative, mentored by Late Professor Olikoye Ramson Kuti remained unparalleled in the area of healthcare development in Nigeria. He was a head-hunter, looking for brightest minds to manage our delicate sub-sectors for optimal growth and development. Till date, his lieutenants remained consistently loyal to the ideals that sustained their participation in IBB's eight year rule. Those lofty narratives are what his critics want to deny him because they are superlative achievements that couldn't be glossed over. Once the narrative centres around negatives, his critics are well at home with that. But his history remains his history, not anyone's history, or anyone's narratives. As we await his critics to rewrite his memoirs and score him in their frugality, we also wait for those who will run the review of what they decided to write. For now, we are very much at home with IBB's Memoir, a book that has become an instant best-seller with the rich flow of anecdotes, stories, references, and nostalgia, captured in lucid prose and poetry. Reading it will suffice, ignoring it will torment.
Abubakar
writes from Kano, and can be reached at suleimanabubakar@yahoo.com.
DAEMI KUNAIYI-AKPANAH contends that the situation in Rivers State highlights the need for equity, justice, and transparency in governance
A ‘CRY FOR MY BELOVED
We are living in interesting times. A convicted felon serves as the 47th President of the United States of America. China stands as the second largest economy in the world. China is the world's largest electricity generating country, followed by the United States and India. India generates almost 500 Giga Watts of electricity of which more than 100 Giga Watts is solar. Nigeria generates under six Giga Watts of electricity while supplying uninterrupted power to Niger, Togo and Benin Republic. A politician of Nigerian descent leads the opposition in the United Kingdom. Closer home, Nigeria witnesses a former pro-democracy advocate assuming the presidency. A past military ruler publishes an autobiography that raises more questions than it answers. The nation mourns the loss of an Ijaw leader - a dedicated champion and relentless fighter for justice and equity. In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of Nigeria deprives Rivers State of its statutory allocations, raising critical concerns about how state employees will be compensated and essential services maintained. The President of Nigeria declares a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspends elected officials, and appoints a sole administrator to oversee the state's affairs for an initial six months. Notably, the statutory allocations that had been withheld from those elected officials were then released to the appointed administrator. The National Assembly determines a two-thirds majority through a voice vote, an action that is as perplexing as it is troubling. Indeed, truth is often stranger than fiction.
Aristotle, the Greek philosopher, once posited that everything happens for a reason, suggesting that our experiences shape who we are. By extension, the events unfolding in our country today must serve a purpose in defining our collective future. Some conspiracy theorists propose that the turmoil in Rivers State is a precursor to the annexation of the state in preparation for the 2027 elections. I, however, strongly disagree. It seems inconceivable that after valiantly opposing the schemes of a certain "Maradona" and his successor, our president (an indefatigable fighter for democracy) would engage in such Machiavellian tactics.
The administration that reintroduced our national prayer - “O God of all creation; Grant this our one request; Help us to build a nation; Where no man is oppressed, and so with peace and plenty Nigeria may be blessed.” - could not possibly descend to such a low!
Building a nation is indeed a monumental task. Without equity and justice however, progress will be elusive. An administration that seeks to disenfranchise its citizens is, quite frankly, heading in the wrong direction.
While I do not believe the president overstepped his authority in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State— regardless of how inappropriate I found it (in everything but name it was a coup de etat ) —the subsequent ratification process however by a parliament of the people’s representatives , particularly the use of a voice vote to determine a constitutional provision requiring a two-thirds majority, is morally questionable.
Furthermore, there is concern regarding the perceived purpose of a state of emergency and the role of a sole administrator in a state of emergency. A state of emergency aims to restore order and stability during a breakdown of law and order. The sole administrator’s primary mandate should be to facilitate this restoration (if there was indeed a breakdown of law and order), not to take on the functions of the governor and the legislature and have unfettered access to unappropriated state funds without oversight.
In summary, while the situation in Rivers State is indeed contentious, it highlights the urgent need for equity, justice, and transparency in governance. These principles are essential if we are desirous of building a nation that truly fulfills our collective aspirations—a nation where no man is oppressed.
Chief(Hon) Kunaiyi-Akpanah is a former Member of the House of Representatives, and Advocate for Good Governance, Peace and Plenty
Editor,
Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
Nwosu, former chairman of National Electoral Commission, dies aged 83
The late Chairman of the defunct National Electoral Commission (NEC), who conducted the annulled June 12 (1993) presidential election, Professor Humphrey Nwosu, will be buried today in Anambra State. He died last October in the United States at age 83. Given the encomiums that have been poured on him in recent days by a cross-section of Nigerians, there is no doubt that Nwosu left a worthy legacy in election management in the country. Although the results of the presidential election he conducted were not released at the time, the principal actors of the era have since admitted that the outcome was free and fair to the eternal credit of Nwosu.
Throughout his eventful four years in office as NEC chairman, Nwosu brought fresh thinking to the electioneering process in Nigeria, though some of his ideas were quite controversial. For instance, through the instrumentality of the NEC, which he chaired, two political parties, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and National Republican Convention (NRC), were registered for politicians to join. Nwosu also introduced the open ballot system in which voters openly cast their ballots, in contrast to a secret ballot. During the same transition to civil rule programme, Nwosu later came up with the Modified Open Ballot System. Under this system, people still had to register and be accredited but during the process of voting, they were issued with a ballot paper with which they exercised their franchise in a manner that would not allow a third party to know who they voted for.
UNN, where he rose to become a full-time tenured professor. In 1986, he was appointed by the Anambra State Government to serve as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters and later Commissioner for Agriculture. Three years later in 1989, Nwosu was appointed Chairman of NEC to replace Professor Eme Awa, his former lecturer and mentor, who had fallen out of favour with then military leader, General Ibrahim Babangida.
Throughout his eventful four years in office as NEC
chairman, Nwosu brought fresh thinking to the electioneering process in Nigeria, though some of his ideas were quite controversial
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
T
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
An astute and charismatic public administrator, academic, and technocrat, Nwosu graduated with a First-Class degree in Political Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and later studied at the University of California at Berkeley where he earned master’s and doctoral degrees in political science ((Magna Cum Laude) in 1973 and 1976 respectively. He subsequently returned to teaching at the
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI
CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
When Nwosu left office in 1993 after the annulment of the June 12 presidential election, he returned to the Department of Political Science at UNN from where he formally retired in 1999. In his lifetime, Nwosu published several books and peer-reviewed articles in both local and international journals. His books include ‘Political Authority and Nigerian Civil Service (1977); ‘Problems of Nigerian Administration’ (edited, 1985), ‘A Book of Reading’; ‘Introduction to Politics’; ‘Moral Education in Nigeria’; ‘Conduct of Free and Fair Election in Nigeria’: ‘Speeches, Comments and Reflections’ (1991), and several others.
Between 2000 and 2008, Nwosu devoted much of his time to reflections on his experience in running elections in Nigeria which resulted in the book, ‘Laying the Foundation for Nigeria’s Democracy: My Account of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election and its Annulment.’ The book provided insights into what transpired before, during, and after the election which the late M.K.O. Abiola of the SDP was adjudged to have won. In 2009, Nwosu presented the lead paper on Nigerian Political Parties to the conference of Nigerian Political Parties held in Sokoto State. That same year, Nwosu’s opinion was sought after at the federal government of Nigeria’s Committee on Electoral Reform in Nigeria, headed by former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mohammed Lawal Uwais.
Nwosu will always be remembered for his service to Nigeria. May God comfort the family he left behind.
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.
Democracy is often eulogized and embellished as a one-stop solution for all human needs, vis-a-vis the citizen's relationship with the State and vice versa. Perhaps, this is why even known despots and pretentious liberals often hide under the open guise of protecting Democracy and its principles, to embark on their diabolic partisanship to achieve selfish desires against the wishes of the rest of the pauperised citizenry.
In Nigeria where the exception has become the rule, political actors thrive in disorder, while they pretend to maintain orderliness in the face of stack and self-induced anomie. And this is becoming nauseating, to say the least.
Political events in the past few weeks have shown stubborn deafness to popular opinion, on the part of the State, to rein in discord and avoid setting a dangerous precedent that attempts to lock democracy and constitutionalism in a bottle only the powerful can unlock. This is worrisome.
It is against this backdrop that one needs to dispassionately understand the looming danger, lurking around as opportunism to unleash terror on perceived "enemies" of the State, nay the government of the day, and its present handlers, all in the name of protecting Democracy and ensuring stability.
There's no denying the fact that there's a growing perception among scholars and political watchers that democracy is on the decline all over the world, little wonder that Nigeria is taking her fair share. Larry Diamond, arguably the foremost authority on democracy worldwide, equally believes that democracy is presently in recession across the globe.
Nigeria, therefore, belongs to the global system where authoritarian leaders masquerading as true democrats bare their fangs if not checkmated by the people it elects to govern, the very reason we must not be quiet at all. The recent action of President Bola Tinubu, when he declared a state of emergency in Rivers State against the constitutional provisions and his recalcitrance to undo the anomaly, is a growing sign of authoritarianism a little above the embryonic stage. It is one key indicators of authoritarian behaviour that must be nipped in the bud.
The guardrails of democracy must be protected from both professed democrats and authoritarians alike, if we must move forward beyond this democratic backsliding to compete favourably among the comity of nations and be respected by all.
A cursory look at the most stubborn political crisis in the nation's "swing states" today, shows a connection with the struggle
for power by the Nigerian gullible elites in 2027. From Lagos, where the majority members ruled for the removal of an overbearing Speaker of the House of Assembly and his diabolic return against the run of play, being orchestrated by a ubiquitous leviathan; to Kano where there are two traditional rulers, one "representing" the federal government while the other represents the state in one indivisible Emirate, to the imbroglio in Rivers State which came to enthrone the dictatorship of the progressives, democracy is continuously been buffeted by those who were elected to preserve it, all in anticipation of a possible power grabbing in 2027.
Until and unless we shout out and continue to shout, even with the risk of being called pitiful and pitiable names, this same democracy will be further endangered by the unwholesome activities of those who want to impose their selfish desires on the rest of us. Any action by any leader in a democracy that undermines constitutional provisions and the general opinion of the people, is a deliberate affront on freedom and the well-being of the people. We must be mindful of this, all the time.
Austen Akhagbeme, Abuja
Chairman of a nambra State Chapter of Peoples d emocratic Party, Mr Chidi Chidebe in this interview explains some of the steps his leadership is taking to reposition the party for the November 12, 2025 governorship poll in the state. David-Chyddy Eleke brings excerpts:
You have been four months in office as the chairman of the party in Anambra, what have you been doing to reposition the party which used to be the toast of all the bigwig politicians in the state?
We have been doing a number of things in the party. The party had challenges before now and we agree, and the challenges led us to where we were, but since then we have been doing things to get the party back on track. We have reached out to members who were indifferent about decisions in the party, some of them aggrieved and some not.
We have reached them, some in Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, Port Harcourt and other towns. Are they all back into the party? The answer is no, but this is a process, and we will keep working on them to build back the party. We will not mention names of those we have approached to avoid calling some and not calling others, but the truth is that we have been getting good feedback.
We have been able to put in standing committees, this is the first time we are having such committees in the party, not adhoc committees that get disbanded immediately after serving their usefulness, and the essence is to see that people who want to do something for the party get the opportunity to serve in any capacity they deem best. We have created five standing committees and the sixth one is the elders committee. In doing so we considered very good areas of interest and we also considered the membership and the committees are working and making sure they reach out to more people who are still aggrieved.
We have the grassroot mobilization committee headed by Tim Egboka which is working to ensure that we mobilize people at the grassroots, we have another on policy development and planning which is headed by former chairman, Ndubuisi Nwobu, we have the media committee headed by Afam Mommah and so on. These five committees were inaugurated in February and the committee was constituted after wide consultations and the members of the committee came from stakeholders.
We did not just sit and write names. We met stakeholders and every stakeholder who was interested made their input in it. The collation of names started from November last year and this was to ensure that we captured all interests. All these was in effort to get the party united, get more people involved so that we can generate activities.
What have these committees achieved so far?
The standing committee have started working. They are just weeks old and as I talk to you, more persons are being drafted into this committees, so they are at their planning stage. I just told you that it was this February that the committee was inaugurated.
We have seen many of the people who made Anambra State PDP thick leave the party. This include former governorship aspirants like Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, and even your candidate in 2021, Mr Valentine Ozigbo. With this exodus, can PDP in Anambra still claim to be formidable?
For us, we are very much formidable. What makes a political party is members not stakeholders. Stakeholders are good but the people are more important, that is why when you have membership you remain formidable. The controversies in the PDP in the past have been from the elite. Today you will see that we are happier because most of the problem was from those so-called stakeholders. They
fight like elephants, they fight like tigers, and when they fight it affects everyone, and the grasses begin to suffer. Today, what we need is a family that is united. Our problem is disunity, bickering, rancour and issue of rights, but as of today we are bringing that into a manageable level. That is why I can
say that we are set for the coming election. The people that are leaving have the right to leave, but what is painful is that those who are leaving are people who the party made whatever they are today. Take Valentine Ozigbo for example, it was the party that moulded him and made him who
he is politically, but whatever the reason for leaving, we wish them well. When next you see him ask him why he left the party that moulded him. Just like many of them, who parade themselves, they still owe their rise to PDP. As a party we are working, we are looking forward and not backwards and we know that it the bear future, whatever we are positioning PDP for will manifest.
As for whether we’re are ready for the election, I can say yes, and that we ready to take over Anambra, and that we want to take over the state because we as a political party have better things to offer. PDP is the only political party in Nigeria with a defined ideology, defined agenda, others don’t. It is only when people feel aggrieved that they go to other political parties. Aside that, we are all PDP and one family. PDP is one party you can stand today and say that is it not owned by any region in any manner. Go to other political parties, you will see that they have leanings and people in one region or the other are always complaining of losing out on power sharing formular and things like that.
Go to the states where there is PDP governors and compare it with places where other political parties are ruling, you will see that the difference is clear. It just that in that mentality of looking for something better, Nigerians revolted and voted for APC in 2015, but what has happened now? They have seen that they were better off under PDP because the current rulling party has totally crashed Nigeria. Insecurity has worsened and everything has gone from bad to worse and this goes to show that PDP was doing very fundamental things while in power, but just that their efforts were not good enough and people decided to try another party.
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Ex-National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples democratic Party, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has won the Thomas Sankara Pan-african Leadership Prize in Leadership.
Aformer presidential candidate and businessman, Dr Gbenga OlawepoHashim has been awarded the Thomas Sankara Pan-African Leadership Prize in recognition of his outstanding contributions to leadership and his alignment with the ideals of the late revolutionary icon, Thomas Sankara.
The award was presented by the Youth Partnership for Africa’s Development (YOUPAD), an African youth organization dedicated to fostering leadership and entrepreneurship across the continent during a recent courtesy visit to Olawepo-Hashim in his Abuja office.
In a statement, YOUPAD President Henry Nwankwo praised Olawepo-Hashim for his “selfless leadership, astute erudition, and articulate attributes,” highlighting his remarkable influence on the African continent.
“Dr Olawepo-Hashim is one of those rare African leaders writing their names into the very heart of history through their unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and social development”.
According to him, “His leadership style reflects the core values espoused by Thomas Sankara — self-reliance, integrity, and a deep sense of service to the people.”
Olawepo-Hashim, who contested Nige-
ria’s 2019 presidential election, has long been recognized for his role in shaping Africa’s political and economic landscape. His work in promoting leadership, entrepreneurship, and governance reform has been widely acknowledged as a driving force for positive change in Africa.
The Thomas Sankara Pan-African Leadership Prize is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the advancement of African unity, social justice, and grassroots empowerment.
Speaking after receiving the award, Olawepo-Hashim expressed his gratitude, dedicating the honour to young Africans striving to create a better future for the continent.
He ssid: “This award reaffirms the importance of principled leadership and the need to remain committed to the ideals of justice, equity, and self-reliance. Africa’s future rests in the hands of its youth, and we must continue to create opportunities for them to thrive”.
Olawepo-Hashim had previously received prestigious honours from international youth and student movements. In 2003, he received the Kwame Nkrumah Africa Leadership Award from the All-African Students Union (AASU) based in Accra, Ghana. In 2005, he was honoured with the Veteran Award by the World Federation of Democratic Youths (WFDY) in Caracas, Venezuela. Also, In 2000, he received the Award for Professional Excellence from the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
Development Bank of Nigeria PLC 2025 Annual International Women’s Day Celebration & Presentation of the Gender Impac t Repor t
For years N igerian women entrepreneurs have been break ing barriers and driving economic growth, yet many still struggle with issues ranging from lack of �nancial education, limited market access and sub - optimal access to funding
On March 6, 2025, Development Bank of N igeria Plc reaffirmed its commitment t o c o n t i n u o u s s u p p o r t f o r w
m
n o w n e d b u s i n e s s t h r o u g h t h i s y e a r s I nternational Women’s Day celebration, themed ACCELERATE AC TION.
A key highlight of this event which held at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel was the launch of the Gender I mpac t Repor t, showcasing how DBN s suppor t is transforming women-led businesses.
When women rise, businesses thrive, and economies grow.
- Dr. Tony Ok panachi Managing Direc tor/CEO
Development Bank of Nigeria PLC Gender Impac t Repor t provides a comprehensive analysis of the Bank ’s gender-focused initiatives with a special emphasis on Women-Led M icro, Small, and Medium Enterprises ( WMSMEs). I t features the outcomes and transformative impac t of the Bank's targeted �nancing and capacity-building programs
DBN has developed Gender Finance propositions which recognise women as a distinc t yet underser ved
offerings and suppor t to promote and grow their businesses This involves a
grow their por tfolios of women-led MSMEs
These inter ventions focus on empowering WSMEs through tailored nancial and non- nancial mechanisms.
Par tnering with Par ticipating Financial nstitutions to provide accessible and affordable �nancing to women entrepreneurs On-lending
Capacity Building
Equipping WMSMEs with essential business sk ills �nancial literac y, and technical exper tise to enhance their produc tivity and resilience
Providing credit enhancement solutions to reduce the perceived risks of lending to women- owned businesses
Other Value -Add/Non Financial Ser vices
Targeted gender inter ventions include business tools & technology market access and other tailored offerings addressing gender-related concerns.
AFD AND DBN 50M EUROS WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP CREDIT LINE TO ACCELERATE FUNDING TO WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES TO
&
The Nigerian Communications Commission, in exercise of its functions under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 (the Act) , published a Draft Guidance on Unutilized and Unclaimed Recharges in the Communications Sector in Nigeria on its website: www.ncc.gov.ng.
In accordance with Section 57 of the Act, the Commission will ho st a Virtual Stakeholders Forum on the Draft Guidance on Tuesday April 8, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. The Forum will review the Draft Guidance as well as comments received from stakeholders. The Virtual link to the Forum will be available on the Commission’s website on April 7, 2025.
Interested stakeholders are, by this notice, invited to make written submissions on the Draft Guidance and all submissions must reach the Commission by Friday, April 4, 2025 and should be addressed to:
The Executive Vice Chairman
Nigerian Communications Commission Plot 423, Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja
(Attention: Head, Legal and Regulatory Services)
Submissions can also be done via email to: stakeholders@ncc.gov.ng.
Dated this 28th Day of March, 2025.
Signed: Reuben Muoka Director, Public Affairs
Plot 423 Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, Tel: +234-9-461-7000-29 fax: +234-9-461-7514
Toll Free No: 622. E-mail: ncc@ncc.gov.ng www.ncc.gov.ng
www.ncc.gov.ng
Chinedu Eze
As Nigeria grapples with dwindling economy, which has depleted the income of many citizens, including the middle class, fewer passengers now travel by air to domestic destinations, according to THISDAY investigation.
In the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) executive summary of international and domestic flight operations from January to December 2024, the figures indicated that there was significant reduction of passenger traffic on domestic flight service in Nigeria.
By the end of 2024, NCAA recorded a total domestic passenger traffic of 11, 549, 442, made up of 5, 727, 700 inbound passengers and 5, 821, 743 outbound passengers, which is over 10 per cent reduction when compared to 2023 total passenger
traffic of 12, 050, 144, made up of 6024264 inbound passengers and 6025880 outbound passengers.
Reviewing the passenger movement from 2021, one could see progressive reduction of passenger movement in the domestic patronage of air travel, a situation, industry observers attributed to depleting disposable income of the citizens, high cost of air ticket, a diminishing economy and dwindling capacity in the fleet of airlines.
On the international travel, passenger traffic hovers around the same figure. From January to December 2024, the total number of passengers carried on international destinations was 4, 135, 750, made up of inbound passengers of 2, 018, 948 and outbound passengers of 2, 116, 802, which is similar to the number of passengers that travelled overseas from Nigeria in the previous years.
In 2021, Nigeria recorded 14, 249,
542, according to NCAA. This was made up of 12, 050, 264 domestic passenger movement and 3, 199, 278 international passenger movement.
In 2022, air Travel traffic peaked at 16. 2 million in both domestic and international travel with over 12 million on domestic travel, while about four million travelled on international destinations.
But Nigeria recorded a total number of 15, 685, 272 passengers in 2023, which was less than 16, 172, 433 who passed through the airports in 2022.
On delayed flights, Aero Contractors recorded 1, 882 out of 4, 559; Air Peace, 7, 618 out of 15, 413; Arik Air, 5, 027 out of 10, 699; Azman Air, 76 out of 145 flights; Dana Air, 999 out of 1,446 flights and Green Africa, 1, 499 out of 4, 215 flights.
Others are Ibom Air, 2, 739 out of 7, 856 flights; Max Air, 2, 961 out of
4,783 flights; NG Eagle, 600 out of 1, 166 flights; Overland Airways, 1, 978 out of 3, 407 flights and Rano Air, 1, 699 out of 4, 814 flights.
Umza recorded 38 delayed out of 52 flights; United Nigeria Airlines, 4, 559 out of 7, 794 flights; ValueJet, 1, 413 out of 3, 933 flights and Xjet, 146 out of 261 flights.
Also, Aero Contractors cancelled 55 flights out of 4, 559; Air Peace, 333 out of 15, 413 flights; Arik Air, 215 out of 10, 699; Azman zero out of 145 flights; Dana Air, 7 out of 1, 446 flights; Green Africa, 89 out of 4, 215 flights; Ibom Arik Air, 140 out of 7, 856 flights and Max Air, 58 out 4, 783 flights.
NG Eagle also cancelled 19 out of 1, 166 flights; Overland Airways, 76 out of 3, 407 flights; Rano Air, 36 out of 4, 814; Umza, 0 out of 52 flights; United Nigeria Airlines, 125 out of 7, 794 flights; ValueJet, 35 out of 3, 933 flights, and Xjet, 1
out of 261 flights. Reacting to the latest passenger figures, the Executive Secretary of Aviation Round Table (ART), Olu Fidel Ohunayo, acknowledged that disposable income remained one of the factors why less number of Nigerians travel by air. He also agreed that there had been reduction in patronage.
“I agree with you that the domestic travel is not generally improving for Nigerians. And I also agree that disposable income is part of the reason why we don’t have growth in it.But disposable income is not the major reason.
They have seen a serious policy deficiency in place. I can tell you categorically because I just came in from Calabar. Many airlines that operate into Calabar do not operate on a daily basis. Air Peace operates two times a week, Aero, twice a week. It is only Ibom Air
that operates every day and with the 50-seater aircraft.
“So, there is still that mismatch between the product we are offering and the airport itself and the positions available. And we cannot continue to expect any miracle because the disposable income is not enough. We also need to begin to work on the regulations. And in doing that, we have advocated a new regime of licenses should be done to encourage those other airports.
People should be able to go to cities from other cities. Or go to one state from another state. And you can only do that by allowing a new set of regulations that would allow smaller aircraft to operate. These smaller aircraft do not come as brand new anymore,” he said. Speaking in similar vein, the
The United States Coast Guard has commended Nigeria, and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), for what the Coast Guard described as considerable progress in the implementation of the International Ships and Ports Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
This was made known by Joe Prince Larson of the US Coast Guard who led a team from the International Port Security Programme on a
Working Tour of some Terminals and Ports in Nigeria to ascertain the level of implementation of the ISPS Code across Nigerian ports facilities. The team had earlier conducted assessment visits to the Dangote Port and Lekki Free Trade Zones in Lekki, Lagos State, as well as private port facilities operated by Matrix and Julius Berger in Warri, Delta State.
While delivering an interim assessment report to NIMASA Management, Larson noted that Nigeria’s compliance with the ISPS
Code ranks amongst the best globally. He added that his team would report their findings to the leadership of the US Coast Guard accordingly and expressed confidence that NIMASA had the capacity to maintain the high standards attained to date.
According to Larson, “We had the pleasure of visiting Matrix and Julius Berger in Warri, Delta State before proceeding to the Lekki Deep Seaport and Dangote Port in Lagos, with the overall assessment being very positive. We noted that there
is a clear and deep understanding on the implementation of the ISPS Code in Nigeria with the level of compliance observed to be at par with some of the best maritime nations globally. We would report our findings back to US Coast Guard headquarters accordingly.”
Responding, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, assured of the agency’s commitment to sustaining the improved compliance levels at the nation’s ports while noting the effect this has on how Nigeria is perceived
internationally. He added that the agency would continue to support efforts under the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, to improve standards in the Nigerian maritime industry.
According to him, “I must express my happiness at the positive feedback we have received from the USCG delegation as it serves as reward for the Federal Government’s commitment to the develop of the sector, and the work of the Agency, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Marine and
Blue Economy, to ensure international standards are adhered to in the area of port security.”
The USCG has consistently partnered with NIMASA to conduct on-the-spot assessments of the compliance level of Nigerian ports with the ISPS Code. These evaluations, which commenced last year as part of a three-year plan, are geared towards providing actionable insights and data-based decisions to lift the Condition of Entry (CoE) placed on vessels departing Nigeria for the United States of America.
Eromosele Abiodun
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A,’ Ikeja, has announced that it recorded 82 interceptions, including used vehicles popularly known as Tokunbo and others worth N1.7billion within the last four weeks.
The Customs Area Controller in charge of the command, Kola Oladeji disclosed this while addressing journalists at the command in Ikeja.
He mentioned that the contrabands were intercepted within the Southwestern states of Nigeria, including the Oyo and Ogun Border Axis.
Oladeji who added that six suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures, stressed that the contrabands were coming from neighboring countries.
Oladeji highlighted that the seized contrabands include 3,832 bags of foreign rice equivalent to seven trailers.
He pointed out that the unit recovered a total sum of N72.4m as revenue through the issuance of demand notices “as a result of the irregular declaration of consignments.”
He vowed that the unit will continue to enforce the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 as it relates to import and export goods to prevent revenue losses.
Oladeji highlighted that the successes recorded so far were not made on a platter of gold.
“It took the painstaking efforts of our officers who spent hours on patrol and surveillance of our borders to achieve these seizures. Let me reiterate that we will not relent on our oars. Our resolve commitment to tame the activities of illegal trans-border trade and other
He said, “Others include 27 units of used vehicles, also known as tokunbo vehicles, 494 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit equivalent to 14, 820 liters, 27 bales of used clothing, 95 bags of charcoal, 3,643 kilograms of cannabis sativa, among others. These seizures have a cumulative duty paid value of N1.7 billion.”
crime remains sacrosanct,” he said.
According to him, the unit will continue to engage and sensitize the public on the social/ economic implications of smuggling as well as perform the statutory function of enforcing compliance in line with government fiscal policy.
He said that in line with the dictates of the NCS of promoting inter-agency cooperation and synergy, the seized 3,643kg of cannabis sativa will be handed over to the National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency for further investigation and subsequent prosecution.
Oladeji explained that the onslaught against smugglers through their operation codenamed ‘Swift Sting Operations’ trade has continued to record significant successes.
“This unit has since keyed into these laudable initiatives of the CGC by collapsing some patrol teams operating within the Lagos metropolis. This is aimed at removing unnecessary trade impediments and facilitating a business-friendly environment,” he said.
Stories by Chinedu Eze
Overland Airways, Nigeria’s longest serving private domestic airline, in partnership with Niger State government, has announced the commencement of flight services to Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna, the capital city of Niger State from Lagos and Abuja, effective April 23, 2025. According to a statement from the airline, Overland Airways will operate three weekly flights on the Minna-Lagos-Minna route and three weekly flights on the Minna-Abuja-Minna route. These flights will be operated on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays using Overland Airways’
brand-new Embraer 175 aircraft. Flights will depart Lagos to Minna at 8am and Minna to Lagos at 3pm. Flights from Minna to Abuja will depart at 9:30am while Abuja to Minna will depart at 2pm.
Chief Executive Officer and Accountable Executive of Overland Airways, Capt. Edward Boyo, said: “We are excited to commence flight services to Minna from Abuja the Federal Capital and Lagos the Commercial hub of Nigeria. The flight services will facilitate trade, tourism and economic activities in Niger State and its environs and support the government of Niger State in its quest to attract more direct investments and improve the livelihood of citizens of the state. We thank particularly the
Executive Governor of the Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago, for his passionate commitment to the growth and development of the state and for making the dream of a connected Niger State come true.
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the New Niger Aviation, Alhaji Liman Katamba Kutigi, said: “This partnership with Overland Airways will ensure regular and robust flight services from Abuja and Lagos to Minna, Niger State. We are thrilled to partner with Overland Airways, which has a reputation for excellent customer service and reliability, and look forward to working together to reposition the aviation sector and economy of Niger State.”
Finchglow Travels, Nigeria’s leading travel consolidator, has been bestowed with the Agency of the Year in the Platinum Category award.
It was also rewarded with a Certificate of Appreciation at the Air France-KLM-Delta Celebration held in Lagos recently.
The award reflects Finchglow Travels’ consistent performance in the industry, recognising its role in driving travel sales and strengthening partnerships within the aviation sector. As a long-standing partner of Air France-KLM-Delta, the company continues to provide tailored travel solutions that connect businesses and individuals to
destinations worldwide.
Speaking about the recognition, Country Sales Manager, Air France-KLM, Olumide Owolabi, stated: “Finchglow Travels has consistently demonstrated excellence in the industry, contributing significantly to our airline’s success in Nigeria. This award is a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence.”
Also speaking at the event, Managing Director of Finchglow Travels, Ezekiel Ikotun, stated: “This award reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to innovation, service excellence, and industry collaboration.” He added: Our partnership with Air France-
KLM-Delta is instrumental in providing seamless travel experiences for our clients. As the industry evolves, we remain focused on adapting to market shifts and creating more value for our customers and partners.”
Following the recognition, Head of Corporate Sales at Finchglow Travels, Aderinsola Desalu, said: “Receiving the ‘Agency of the Year - Platinum Category award’ is proof of the dedication and expertise of its team. At Finchglow Travels, we prioritise delivering tailored travel solutions to our corporate clients and affiliates. This recognition further motivates us to strengthen our partnerships and continue driving excellence in the travel industry.”
Chinedu Eze with agency reports
Boeing 737 MAX was eulogised as the best mid-size aircraft to come out of the stable of US plane maker, Boeing. That was why airlines all over the world rushed and made firm orders for the aircraft.
But not long after it went into operation two tragic air crashes involving the aircraft, happened.
The first crash on October 29, 2018, in Jakarta, Indonesia, killed all 189 passengers and crew. The second crash, on March 10, 2019, happened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, when the aircraft crashed minutes after take-off and killed 157 people on-board.
According to theverge.com, Lion Air Flight 610 took off from Jakarta, Indonesia on Monday, October 29th, 2018, at 6:20AM local time. Its destination was Pangkal Pinang, the largest city of Indonesia’s Bangka Belitung Islands. Twelve minutes after takeoff, the plane crashed into the Java Sea, killing all 189 passengers and crew.
Nearly five months later, Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 took off from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Sunday, March 10th, 2019, at 8:38AM local time. Its destination was Nairobi, Kenya. Six minutes after take-off, the plane crashed near the town of Bishoftu, Ethiopia, killing all 157 people aboard.
The aviation world was petrified and with trepidation, airlines began to review their commitment with the aircraft which was grounded for five months. But thesetragedies did not take away the fact that Boeing 737 MAX is still adjudged the best mid-size aircraft and the best-selling equipment globally.
Bing.com states that currently, there are 387 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft in operation, 74 of which are operated by US airlines. These planes are operated by a total of 59 airlines. In 2025, Boeing delivered 1, 751 Boeing 737 MAX to its customers, with orders amounting to 6, 486 aircraft.
It was widely reported that Boeing’s decision to use a flight control software fix known as MCAS in its 737 MAX planes was one of the key factors that led to the two crashes that killed 346 people.
MCAS is Manoeuvring Characteristics Augmentation System, which is a flight stabilizing feature developed by Boeing, which is attributed to the major cause of the two tragic crashes involving Boeing 737 MAX.
Insiders explained that because the engine used on the 737 MAX was larger and mounted further forward from the wing and higher off the ground than the previous generations of Boeing 737s, the company discovered that the aircraft had a tendency to push the nose up when operating in a specific portion of the flight envelope. MCAS was adopted and it was intended to mimic the flight behaviour of the previous Boeing 737 Next Generation (NG) type.
Simple flying also reported that In April, during the company’s Q1 earnings call, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Executive Vice President, Finance at Boeing, Brian West, said that while it delivered 67 737 MAX in Q1, it deliberately slowed production below 38 per month to implement quality and safety improvements. This included the progressive elimination of travelled work, which entailed mechanics working on parts of the in-production aircraft not at their intended location.
“Production will remain below 38 per month for the first half of the year and will be higher in the second half, as we move back to 38 per month where the timing of rates beyond 38 is predicated on the work we’re doing with the FAA,” Simple Flying said.
In a statement credited to Simple Flying, the company’s spokesperson said that as it resumed the production of the 737 MAX, 767F , and 777 programmes, Boeing updated its production schedules for these programmes.
“The company will continue steadily increasing its production as it executes its safety and quality plan and works to meet the expectations of the FAA and its airline customers,” the medium reported. New orders are still coming for 737MAX. Boeing announced on March 25, 2025 that Boeing and Japan Airlines finalized an order for 17 Boeing 737-8s to leverage the fuel efficiency and flexibility of the 737 MAX.
Boeing said the airline aims to launch the new 737 MAX jets on its robust domestic network, amid continued record-breaking tourism. This marks JAL’s second order for the 737-8 and nearly doubles its 737 MAX backlogs to 38 firm orders.
“The 737 has been the backbone of our single-aisle fleet for nearly 50 years, and we are honoured to continue its legacy as part of our future fleet. We are excited to add more 737-8s to deliver a safe and secure journey to our valued customers with a sophisticated flying experience,” said the President of Japan Airlines. Mitsuko Tottori.
According to Boeing, JAL will benefit from the market-leading capabilities of the 737-8, which reduces fuel use and carbon emissions by 15 per cent compared to the Next-Generation 737-800s the airline is replacing. Commonality across the 737 family allows JAL to seamlessly integrate the 737-8 into its existing fleet.
“We value our long-standing partnership with Japan Airlines and are honoured by their decision to double down on the 737 MAX for the airline’s fleet modernisation programme,” said Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, Brad McMullen.
Group Business Editor
Eromosele Abiodun
Deputy Business Editor
chinedu Eze
Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji
Asst. Editor, Energy
Emmanuel Addeh
Asst. Editor, Money Market
Nume Ekeghe
Correspondents
Kayodetokede(CapitalMarkets)
James Emejo (Finance)
Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)
reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)
Bank of Industry (BOI) has designated FIC Professionals Network Plc as its Business Development Service Provider (BDSP) to guide and support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) seeking financing to package their applications.
The BDSPs are vehicles designed to support the bank’s core mandate of providing long-term financial and business support services to micro, small, and medium projects.
The Board of the Bank recently approved a mid-term 2025-2027 corporate strategy
plan to drive its operations.
The strategy focused on 18 initiatives that would be executed to place the bank as a market leader and indeed affirm it as the most successful development financing institution in sub-Saharan Africa.
As part of its support to boost the operations of businesses across the country, the bank in 202, disbursed more than N120 billion to MSMEs.
The Bank recently met with all its BDSPs in view of the new corporate strategy to discuss their roles and expectations from them.
After the two crashes, two errors were corrected. The first was related to the poor behaviour of the plane at low altitude. It did not respond to the thrust lever commands until it landed, in addition, the static pressure pitots informed the pilots of the wrong altitude.
According to simple flying, Boeing has laid out a plan to build 38 737 MAX aircraft per month in 2025, with the number of 737 MAXs leaving its Renton, Washington, facilities to increase thrice compared to the present output by 2027.
Throughout 2024, Boeing’s production rate of the 737 MAX was described as sporadic, at best, with the manufacturer having to deal with multitudes of problems throughout the year, starting with the Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 door plug blowout on January 6th.
Shortly after the blowout and the subsequent 737MAX groundings and additional scrutiny from stakeholders, including airlines and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), so the plane maker barely produced 38 737 MAXs per month in 2024.
“By selecting the 737-8, Japan Airlines will gain operational and economic efficiencies, positioning them for success in the years ahead,” Boeing said.
With the 737-8, JAL will debut the Boeing Sky Interior, offering passengers an elevated cabin experience featuring advanced LED lighting, larger windows and spacious overhead bins.
Also, on March 21, Boeing announced another firm order for 737 MAX. Boeing and Malaysia Aviation Group announced an order for 18 737-8 and 12 737-10 single-aisle jets to renew Malaysia Airlines’ fleet with more fuel-efficient airplanes. The order, which booked in January 2025 and was posted as unidentified on Boeing’s orders and deliveries website, will enable Malaysia’s flag carrier to introduce new lie-flat seats and meet growing travel demand in Southeast Asia – one of the fastest-growing commercial aviation markets.
1. INTRODUCTION:
Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) Operator of NNPCL/CNL Joint venture, invites interested and prequalified service providers for this tender opportunity for the Provision of Well Completion Services, at Company's operational areas. The Proposed award strategy is multiple contracts of five (5) years term with an option of two (2) years extension.
2. SCOPE OF WORK:
The scope of Well Completion Services shall include, but not limited to the following:
Contractor must be able to provide equipment and experienced personnel to run completion services.
Contractor shall provide completion equipment and services required to complete deviated or horizontal production and injection wells with casing/liner sizes of 9-5/8” and 7”; open hole sizes of 6” through 8-1/2”; and tubing sizes of 2-7/8, 3-1/2”, and 4-1/2” with materials to include Corrosion Resistant Alloys.
Contractor shall provide single and dual tubing completion equipment for 7” and 9-5/8” casing, for both carbon steel and corrosion resistant alloy (Chrome) and/ or Internal Plastic Coated.
Contractor will be expected to provide the following but is not limited to:
1. Production packers and sump packers and associated accessories including setting/pulling tools.
2. Open-hole swellable packers.
3. Mechanical and hydraulic fluid loss control valves.
4. Hydraulic flapper, ball, and multi-positional type valves and all the necessary accessories to run different completion types (gravel/frac packed, non-gravel packed, stand-alone screens) including singles, duals, and horizontals.
5. Upper completion accessories to include gas-lift mandrels, gas-lift valves, chemical injection mandrels and valves, water injection valves, hydraulic control lines & spoolers, cross coupling clamps, surface controlled subsurface safety valve (SCSSV) and associated specialty clamps, water injection valves, landing nipple-plug profiles, sliding sleeves, flow couplings/pups, blast joints, seal assemblies, crossovers, space-out pup joints proven with API and premium threads.
6. Hydraulic flapper type SCSSV (metal-to-metal sealing ability) with wireline lock-out protective sleeves, wireline SCSSV inserts, and associated running tools.
7 Slick-line deployed equipment to include straddle packers, bridge plugs, tubing isolation plugs (both nipple-less and for nipple profiles), elements for circulating plugs, plug packings and re-dress kits, well suspension barriers, lock mandrels, storm chokes, insert safety valves, and associated running tools.
8. Through-tubing gravel packing equipment: Vent screens, pack-off equipment, elastomers, and associated running tools.
9 Gravel/frac packing equipment: wire wrapped (8 through 12 gauge) and premium (including 250 micron) screens, blank pipe, packers rated for at least 10 ksi, circulation and gravel pack and frac pack completions, including uni-directional and bi-directional fluid loss devices capable of min. 10ksi burst and collapse. Complete service tool assemblies including crossover tools with proven rate and slurry test and in – country performance records showing erosion rates over time for specific conditions. Crossover systems must include proven and interfacing tracer and density logging systems, with dimensional spaceouts recorded for gravel/frac packing in 7” and 9-5/8” casing. Wash pipe both plain and blast joint type, for high rate and high erosive velocity flow. Coatings that are proven compatible with given erosion rates per fraction simulations. Handling tools, screen tables and all associated accessories. Gravel/Frac pack service tools with weight down circulating and 6-inch packer bore capability. Downhole washpipe gauge systems.
Contractor will provide fulltime Lagos-based Completions Technical Services Representatives required to consult with COMPANY Drilling & Completion Engineers and Logistical Coordinators to design, plan, and execute completion installations as per COMPANY's direction.
Contractor will provide Senior Completion Specialists, Field Supervisors, Gaslift Specialists, and Wireline Supervisors to install completion equipment at the well sites on call out basis.
Contractor will be expected to maintain a base in Onne, Port Harcourt and/or Escravos to support Company's operations.
Contractor will supply a Quality Plan outlining procedures to ensure that Company receives equipment that has been properly prepared for utilization. Dedicated QA personnel will be supplied by contractor to ensure rigorous adherence to Contractor's Quality Plan. Quality Plan will define shop equipment required to makeup and test completion equipment prior to shipment offshore
3. MANDATORY TENDER REQUIREMENTS:
A. To be eligible for this tender exercise, interested bidders are required to be pre–qualified and 'live' in the 3.04.17 (Well Completion Services, Sand control services, Tubulars and accessories.) category in NipeX Joint Qualification
System (NJQS) database. All successfully pre-qualified and 'live' vendors in this category by the bid close date will receive Invitation to Tender (ITT).
B. To determine if you are pre-qualified and to view the product/service category you are listed for: Open www vendors.nipex-ng.com and access NJQS with your log in details. Click on Products/Services tab to view your status and product codes.
C. If you are not listed in this product/service category, and you are registered with Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to do business for this category, please contact NipeX office at 27b Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi Lagos with your NUPRC certificate as evidence for verification and necessary update
D. To initiate the JQS pre-qualification process, please access www.nipex-ng.com click on services tab followed by NJQS registration.
E. To be eligible, all bidders must comply with the Nigerian Content requirements in the NipeX system.
: 4. NIGERIAN CONTENT REQUIREMENTS:
Chevron Nigeria Limited is committed to the development of the Nigerian Oil and Gas business in observance with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act 2010 (NOGICD Act) enacted by the Federal Government of Nigeria in April 2010
Pursuant to enactment of the NOGICD Act, the minimum Nigerian Content in any project, service or product specification to be executed in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry shall be consistent with the level set in the schedule of the Act and any other target as may be directed by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
Contractors shall comply with the provisions of the NOGICD Act and all applicable regulations. Bidders that do not meet the Nigerian Content criterion will not be allowed to participate in next Tender Stage
The following are the Nigerian Content requirements bidders are expected to comply with in their technical bid submission.
I. Tenderer shall provide evidence of being a Nigerian indigenous company with greater than 51% Nigerian shareholding. Tenderer shall provide form CO2 and CO7, registration on NOGIC JQS and NUPRC certificate
ii. Tenderer shall provide detailed description of the location of in-country committed facilities & infrastructure (technical office, and administrative space, maintenance workshop) in Nigeria to support this contract.
iii. Tenderer shall provide evidence of Category 1,2,3,4 or 5 Service and Support group NCEC demonstrating ownership of well completion equipment to execute the work scope
iv. Provide a Nigerian Content Execution Plan providing a detailed description of the role, work scope, man-hours and responsibilities of all Nigerian personnel that would be involved in executing the work. Also provide details of Nigerian Content focal point or manager
v. Tenderer shall comply with the latest approved version of NCDMB HCD guideline by committing (via a letter of undertaking) to providing Project-Specific training, manhour, budget, skill development and understudy plan for Nigerian personnel utilizing OGTAN registered trainer(s) or other approved NCDMB training institution (s).
5 CLOSE DATE:
Only bidders who are pre-qualified and 'live' with NJQS Product/Category 3.04.17 (Well Completion Services, Sand control services, Tubulars and accessories.) by 16:00 Hours, April 14, 2025, being the advert close date shall be invited to submit technical and commercial bid.
Additional Information:
1. Suppliers eligible for this tender opportunity are expected to be pre-qualified and “live” in NJQS under the product/service category
2. The Invitation to Tender (ITT) and any further progression of this tender shall be via NipeX.
3. All costs incurred in preparing and processing NJQS prequalification shall be to the contractor's accounts.
4. Meet the requirement of Static and Dynamic Reservoir Studies.
5. This advertisement shall neither be construed as any form of commitment on the part of Chevron Nigeria Limited to award any contract to any company and or associated companies, sub-contractors or agents, nor shall it entitle prequalified companies to make any claims whatsoever, and/or seek any indemnity from Chevron Nigeria Limited and or any of its partners by virtue of such companies having been prequalified in NJQS.
6. The tendering process shall be the NNPC Ltd contracting process requiring prequalified companies to submit technical tenders first. Following a technical review only technically and financially qualified contractors will be requested to submit commercial tenders.
7 Chevron Nigeria Limited will communicate only with authorized officers of the prequalifying companies and NOT through individuals or Agents.
Bennett Oghifo
Chairman of the FCT Civil Service Commission, Engr. Emeka Ezeh has assured the Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors of an increase in the employment of Quantity Surveyors when there are openings.
Engr. Ezeh stated this in response to a request made by the President of NIQS, QS Kene C. Nzekwe, who led a delegation of their members on a courtesy call on the Chairman of the FCT Civil Service Commission at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja, recently.
Ezeh welcomed the NIQS delegation and acknowledged the vital role of Quantity Surveyors in the construction and infrastructure sector.
He provided context regarding the FCT Civil Service Commission, stating that while the Commission’s Enabling Act was signed into law in 2018, its operational activation occurred under the current administration, with the Commission formally established on March 18, 2024. He further elaborated on
the Commission’s operational procedures, noting that it currently oversees approximately 32,000 employees and conducts recruitment exercises only upon the declaration of vacancies by user agencies.
He assured the NIQS President that their request would be duly considered when relevant opportunities arose.
In making the request of the NIQS, QS Nzekwe had recognised the FCT Civil Service Commission as “a pivotal institution in the governance and development of our nation’s capital.
“Our visit today is not merely a formality; it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration and contributing meaningfully to the advancement of our society. The NIQS, as the professional body responsible for promoting the practice of Quantity Surveying in Nigeria, is driven by a clear and compelling mission.
“The core mission of the NIQS is to promote and uphold the highest standards of professional competence and
ethical conduct in Quantity Surveying. We strive to advance the science and practice of cost and procurement management, ensuring that projects across all sectors are delivered efficiently, effectively, and with utmost value for money.
“We are dedicated to: Setting and Maintaining Professional Standards: Ensuring that our members adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards in their practice.
Capacity Building: Providing continuous professional development opportunities to enhance the skills and knowledge of our members.
Advocacy and Collaboration: Advocating for the recognition and utilisation of Quantity Surveying expertise in all sectors of the economy.
“Promoting Best Practices: Driving the adoption of best practices in cost and procurement management to ensure project success.”
He recognised the crucial role the FCT Civil Service Commission plays in the development and administration of the Federal
Capital Territory, saying, “The Commission’s commitment to ensuring efficient service delivery aligns perfectly with the NIQS’s core values.
“We strongly advocate for the employment of more qualified Quantity Surveyors within the FCT Civil Service Commission.
We believe that Quantity Surveyors are indispensable
professionals in ensuring the success of capital projects.
“We propose that the Commission consider employing Quantity Surveyors in the following roles: Quantity Surveyors: To provide expert cost and procurement management services throughout the project lifecycle of projects embarked on by the FCT.
Procurement Officers: To ensure that procurement processes are conducted efficiently, transparently, and in compliance with best practices.
Planning Officers: To contribute to the strategic planning and development of infrastructure projects, ensuring that they are economically viable and sustainable.
Bennett Oghifo
The Lagos State Government has urged property owners and developers to embrace its free planning information service to avoid undue challenges with planning approvals.
This was disclosed in Alausa on Monday by the Commissioner for Physical Pianning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide during a weekly briefing of senior man-
agement staff of the ministry.
According to a statement by the Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Mukaila Sanusi, the Commissioner noted that urbanisation and population explosion had precipitated physical planning challenges, including housing gaps and planning infractions as property owners and developers try to exploit the gaps without doing due diligence with the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban
Development before buying lands.
“However, it is disturbing to see people have their planning proposals turned down by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, LASPPPA, simply because of the inappropriateness of the proposed uses and similar planning requirements, which would have been resolved by making initial recourse to our planning information service,”
he said.
He emphasised that the Lagos State Government, in line with its vision of Making Lagos a 21st-century Economy as indicated in the T.H.E.M.E.S.+ agenda, had invested heavily in Operative Development Plans,which designated the appropriate landsuses and different approval orders for various areas in the State to bring about organised, orderly and sustainable development
across Lagos State.
“In tandem with the above, government has also established the planning information service, obtainable free of charge either at the Ministry or LASPPPA. All a developer needs to do is to write and request for the service, which will aid the decision to purchase a land,” he said.
He added that planning information would remove doubt and assist property owners and developers to act
with knowledge and confidence as the service would adequately spell out the planning details of the land in question, such as its status, permissible uses and approvable heights among others.
He enjoined all Lagosians to abide by planning regulations and support the development agenda of Mr. Babajide SanwoOlu Administration in the State for the wellness and wellbeing of all.
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
A chief lecturer of the department of building technology, Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Dr. Emmanuel Olufemi Akinsola has underscored the importance of facilities maintenance of infrastructures in the country.
Akinsola stated this at YABATECH’s 16th inaugural lecture with the theme, “Facilities Maintenance Management of Public Infrastructures: A Cinderella Without a SuitorAbsit Culture of Waste.”
According to him, the
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) estimated that the construction of 1,000 singlefamily homes generates 2,448 full-time jobs in construction and construction-related industries.
He said facility maintenance was needed particularly in the housing industry, stating that the housing sector was the bedrock of the economy of any nation as it impacts the economy at all levels.
He said, “Furthermore, NAHB estimates that roughly 30 per cent of the new home occupants’ income is spent on items produced by local
businesses, such as hospitals, daycares centres, dry cleaners, and auto repair shops.
“The construction of low-cost houses is more labour intensive as compared to high end houses for users. It is important to note that houses are labour intensive or less expensive does not it will not fulfil the qualities of a home. This is because more labour is used in the construction of these houses. This is in-turn provide employment with low wage for any member of the family involved in the project thereby, putting food on their table. Apart from
putting food on their table, it has a multiplier effect in other areas. This is because majority of these houses are constructed with locally made materials as compared to imported materials.
“Also, this can stimulate labour employment because majority of the low wage income earners will probably use their house as their place of employment as most of them display their goods outside their residential apartments.”
He said maintenance operations are significantly and positively correlated to facilitates performance such
as improvement of quality of living, enhancement of productivity and impactment of national economy.
Maintenance operation of the public infrastructure, he said, is ineffective in the country of which there is culture of waste arising from delayed maintenance operation.
Akinsola highlighted the importance of periodically surveying of facilities assets that determine if they are still functioning as designed and commissioned.
He suggested that the maintenance tools like maintenance
manuals, facilities condition assessments and building surveys should be carried out at five years interval to know where attentions are required. In his lecture, Akinsola revealed that public building designs does not meet the design standard parametres nor users need. He stated that hostels are designed without projection of future student population; there are no adequate toilets and convenience facilities. Students are issued hostel allocation with induction of how facilities are to be used.
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
The Lagos State Government has sealed some building construction sites in parts of Obalende, Ikoyi, and Lekki for alleged illegal documentation.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, who led an enforcement exercise in the area on Thursday, said “the exercise was aimed at addressing the
menace of illegal developments and ensuring compliance with the state’s physical planning laws,” according to a statement by the Deputy Director, Public Affairs Mukaila Sanusi.
The Commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to providing a safe and sustainable built environment for the wellness and well-being of all Lagosians.
He expressed strong displeasure over the rampant
disregard for laws governing physical planning and urban development, citing instances of building without government approved plans and renovation without permits.
He stated that the untoward action of erecting buildings without approval or building without complying with the granted permit undermines the T.H.E.M.E.S + agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, particularly the Making Lagos
a 21st century economy pillar.
“I implore all property owners and developers in the state, particularly those intending to carry out construction or renovation work, to obtain necessary approvals and permits from the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, LASPPPA. It should be noted that unpermitted development and renovation will no longer be tolerated in the state”, he said.
Building construction sites were sealed for lacking the requisite permits in the axis, including Rummens Road and Bourdillon Road in Ikoyi, Wole Olateju Crescent, Ogbunike Street, Hilary Onikogu Crescent in Lekki Phase 1 and others in Obalende area.
He urged all well-meaning residents to provide valuable information that would assist the government discover physi-
at
their infancy and act promptly in the interest of all to sustain the state’s development agenda as it relates to the physical planning sector. With the Commissioner on the exercise was the General Manager, Lagos States Planning and Environmental Monitoring Agency(LASPEMA), Tpl. Daisi Oso, who identified and sealed off illegal developments on informal spaces in the axis.
ambassador Halima Sadiya Hadi is a dynamic businesswoman, philanthropist, and the Chief Executive Officer of HalHad Foundation. With a deep passion for youth empowerment and social impact, she has dedicated her life to creating opportunities for underserved communities. Born and raised in Nigeria as the eldest of four children, she holds degrees in Business Management and Political Science. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of leadership, responsibility, and compassion—qualities that continue to drive her commitment to nation-building. In this exclusive interview, she shares insights on her journey, the impact of her foundation, her views on politics and governance, and her vision for a more inclusive and empowered society. esther oluku brings excerpts
Let me into your background. Who is Ambassador Halima Sadiya Hadi? Tell us about your growing up, family, and education.
Iam Amb. Halimat Sadiya Hadi, a businesswoman, philanthropist, and advocate for youth empowerment.
I was born and raised in Nigeria, the first of four children. I have degrees in Business Management and Political Science. My upbringing instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility, leadership, and compassion, shaping my commitment to nation-building and societal impact.
I am aware you have a foundation called HalHad Foundation. What is its focus?
Yes, HalHad Foundation is dedicated to empowering vulnerable groups, particularly women and youths, by providing skill acquisition, mentorship, financial literacy, education, and economic opportunities. Our goal is to create sustainable solutions that uplift communities, fostering self-reliance and development.
Growing up, I witnessed the struggles of so many individuals—brilliant minds full of potential, dreams that could change the world, yet held back simply because they lacked opportunities. I know this reality all too well because I lived it.
I didn’t grow up with opportunities either. I had to fight, strive, and push through doors that were never opened for me. I had no shoulder to lean on, no hand to pull me up. But by God’s grace, I made it through and am still on the path to success. And because I know what it feels like to walk that lonely path, I never want another woman or child to feel alone in their journey.
That is why HalHad Foundation was born—not just as an organisation, but as a movement, a safe space, a lifeline. I have seen how a single act of kindness can change someone’s life. Recently, during our outreach in Masaka, Nasarawa State, I saw the raw struggles of women who just needed a little support, a little hope. They poured out their hearts, their pain, their challenges, and as much as we gave that day, I still felt the weight of those we couldn’t help. That feeling stays with me, and it fuels my drive to do more.
We want every child to know they are leaders, that their circumstances do not define their future. We want every woman to stand strong, to thrive, to know her worth—to understand that she is capable, powerful, and deserving of every success she dreams of.
At HalHad Foundation, we are here to uplift, educate, and empower. We are here to remind every struggling soul that they are never alone, that their dreams are valid, and that together, we can build a nation where women contribute to the economy, where they stand for themselves, and where no one is left behind.
By God’s grace, I will keep pushing, keep giving, keep holding on to every hand that needs lifting. Because helping others is not just a duty, it is my joy, my purpose, my calling.
How have you been able to impact people, and what are your plans for the future?
Through HalHad Foundation, we have trained young people in various skills, provided financial assistance, and engaged in community development projects. Moving forward, I plan to expand the foundation’s reach, establish skill acquisition centers, and collaborate with both government and private sectors to create more opportunities for economic and social empowerment.
From your profile, I noted that you are passionate about politics, governance, and national development. Tell us more about your perspectives on these. I strongly believe that good governance is the foundation of national development. Politics should be about service, integrity, and inclusivity. Nigeria has immense potential, but we must prioritize visionary leadership, youth inclusion, women inclusion, and policy-driven reforms to harness our resources effectively.
A lot of people see politics as a dirty game, but to me, it’s not. Make no mistake, there’s dirt on it, just like every other sector of the country. But I don’t see it as an embodiment of it. Politics is actually a powerful tool for creating positive change—not to enrich our pockets or to escape from poverty, but to shape our country’s future and make a real difference in people’s lives. Every nation of the world needs strong and competent governance for national development. This is because good governance provides an enabling environment for development to take place. It is critical to have effective leadership that can drive progress and improve the lives of citizens. Politics, governance, and national
development are interconnected and interdependent. Politics provides the framework for governance, governance ensures the effective management of resources and institutions, and national development is the ultimate goal of these efforts.
Do you intend to aspire for an elective office in the future, and why?
The focus now is on the Foundation—giving meaning to people’s lives and helping young people discover themselves. Giving the underprivileged in society a shot at life and helping them see beyond their limitations.
I believe leadership is about service, and if given the opportunity, I would be open to a role where I can directly contribute to impactful policies and national development. However, for now, my focus remains seriously on empowering people through my foundation and business initiatives.
What’s your take on the current administration of President Bola Tinubu?
The administration has shown efforts towards economic reform and policy restructuring. However, governance should always be about delivering tangible results to the people, addressing economic challenges, security issues, and youth unemployment. A lot has happened since the President assumed office. Change comes with a lot of sacrifices. Sometimes it may not seem like it, but it will eventually happen. Let’s hope our country is going through such a phase and that
there will be light at the end of the tunnel. There is still work to be done in ensuring that the policies directly benefit the common man.
And what’s your projection of this administration at the end of its four-year tenure?
Let’s revisit this question by the end of the four-year tenure, okay?
Do you think youths are having their way in this administration?
The level of youth involvement is increasing, but it is still not enough. We need more young people in decision-making positions—not just as assistants or spokespersons but as actual policymakers. Youths are the backbone of any nation, and their voices should be actively shaping policies, governance, and national development. Some youth initiatives have been put in place, and I believe more will follow before the end of the current administration.
Education is vital for young ones to realize their ambitions. How will you rate the education sector in the country?
The education sector in Nigeria is facing serious challenges, from underfunding to outdated curricula and inadequate infrastructure. While there have been efforts to improve it, much more needs to be done.
We need increased investment in education, better training for teachers, modernized learning facilities, and policies that align education with industry needs. Our educational sector is nothing to write home about—very sad. This country needs to prioritize education. There are more kids in the streets here in Nigeria than in so many underdeveloped countries in Africa, yet we parade ourselves as the giants of Africa.
I will implore the current administration to come up with programs to help children understand the importance of education and also to make it easier for the average Nigerian to gain quality education. The survival of our country greatly depends on our educational system, and it is sad that we are paying little or no interest in it.
A lot of Nigerians are leaving the country in droves for greener pastures. What’s your take on the Japa syndrome?
Leaving the country in search of greener pastures is never the best solution. A lot of Nigerians are stranded over there. Some are too ashamed to return home after realizing that it’s not always what it seems like.
What is fashion to you, and how do you manage advances from the opposite sex? Have you ever been a victim of sexual harassment?
Fashion, to me, is a form of self-expression and confidence. It is a way to communicate who you are without speaking.
across Nigeria, a new wave of reform is sweeping through the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) as it intensifies its fight against corruption. From Lagos to Kano, Plateau, and Rivers, immigration officers have taken to the streets, leading sensitisation walks and engaging the public on the agency’s renewed commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accountability. With the 3rd Nationwide Sensitisation and awareness Campaign against Corruption now in full swing, the NIS is not only raising awareness but also implementing bold reforms to eliminate corruption and improve service delivery. Chiemelie Ezeobi reports
Across major cities in Nigeria, a powerful movement is gaining ground. In Lagos, Kano, Plateau, Rivers, and other states, officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have taken to the streets in a bold push against corruption. The message is clear: transparency and accountability are now at the heart of immigration services in Nigeria.This intensified campaign is part of the 3rd Nationwide Sensitisation and Awareness Campaign Against Corruption, a drive designed to reform immigration operations and build public confidence. With the theme “Increased Digitalisation and Consolidated Innovations for Efficient and Transparent Services,” the NIS is signalling a radical shift towards automation, efficiency, and zero tolerance for corrupt practices.
Speaking at the official launch, Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nana Nandap, reaffirmed the service’s commitment to tackling corruption head-on. She stressed that the agency’s strategic partnerships with key anti-corruption bodies—including SERVICOM, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)—are vital in strengthening internal control mechanisms and upholding ethical standards.
“We made a firm commitment last year to mitigate corruption in all its forms,” Nandap said. “It is on this basis that we have increased digitalisation and consolidated innovations to improve service delivery and eliminate corruption in the system.”
Marching for a Corruption-Free NIS
In Lagos, the anti-corruption campaign took the form of a sensitisation walk at Alausa, led by Assistant Comptroller General M.E. Onilede. She was joined by senior officers, including Comptroller Adebambo CIS of the Lagos State Command, as well as Passport Control Officers from Ikoyi, FESTAC, Alausa, Alimosho, and Ikorodu.
Similar events were mirrored in Kano and Plateau States, where officers marched in unison, engaging the public in discussions about the NIS’s new approach to service delivery. In Rivers State, Comptroller Abdulmajid Yabaji led the campaign, reinforcing the service’s commitment to rooting out corruption at all levels.
For the NIS, these public demonstrations are not just symbolic gestures. They are part of a broader institutional shift aimed at changing the public perception of immigration services. By taking their campaign beyond office walls and into the streets, officers are sending a strong message: corruption will no longer be tolerated, and transparency is the new standard.
Revolutionising Immigration Services
Beyond sensitisation walks, the NIS is backing its words with action. Under Nandap’s leadership, several initiatives have been introduced to eliminate corruption and improve efficiency in immigration services.
The Passport Automation Programme is one such reform. With its introduction, the lengthy and bureaucratic passport processing system has been overhauled, significantly reducing delays and closing loopholes that previously allowed corruption to thrive. The Contactless Passport Application Process is another innovation, allowing Nigerians to apply for passports entirely online, thereby eliminating physical interactions with officers and reducing opportunities for bribery.
Nandap also highlighted the deployment of e-Gates at Nigerian airports, a move designed to streamline immigration checks and minimise human interference. These automated gates ensure faster processing of passengers while reducing the potential for extortion at entry and exit points.
“The introduction of body cameras for our officers is another major step towards accountability,” she added. “These cameras
will provide real-time evidence in cases of misconduct, helping to rebuild public trust in the service.”
The NIS is also finalising the launch of an electronic visa (e-Visa) system, which will enable travellers to apply for Nigerian visas online. By eliminating human contact in visa processing, the service hopes to put an end to bribery and exploitation that have plagued the system for years.
A Fight Beyond Nigeria’s Borders
The campaign against corruption is not just a domestic effort; it extends to international collaborations. The NIS is working closely with Interpol, sharing intelligence and best practices to combat transnational crimes.
“I am very proud to announce that, of the only five Interpol trainers recently certified for Nigeria, one is an NIS officer,” Nandap revealed. “This is a testament to our commitment to strengthening global partnerships in our fight against corruption.”
Domestically, the NIS is reinforcing its internal anti-corruption mechanisms through its collaboration with SERVICOM, ICPC, and the EFCC. Officers found violating ethical standards, Nandap warned, would face severe disciplinary action.
The Public’s Role in the Fight Against Corruption
While the NIS is taking significant strides towards reform, Nandap was
clear that the fight against corruption cannot be won by the service alone. She called on the public to support the campaign by refusing to engage in bribery and reporting corrupt practices whenever they occur.
“To the general public, I urge you to join us in this fight,” she said. “Let us work together to create a society where corruption is unacceptable and efficiency is the norm.”
With more training sessions, stakeholder engagements, and awareness initiatives planned, the NIS is not relenting in its mission. The message from the agency is loud and clear: the era of corruption in Nigeria’s immigration services is coming to an end.
Kemi
Olaitan
in Ibadan
Stakeholders in the manufacturing sector have expressed worry over the non-patronage of locally made products while calling for the empowering of local industries and positioning Nigeria’s manufacturing sector for global competitiveness.
The stakeholders which include government officials, industry leaders, manufacturers, trade associations, technology innovators, and policymakers, said this in Ibadan at a focus group meeting, organised by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), calling for accessible loans for small businesses, ease of registration with government agencies, product packaging, and the general perception of Made-in-Nigeria goods.
At the gathering, which served as a platform to examine the challenges facing Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, highlighting the immense opportunities available to
local manufacturers in country, NASENI disclosed its ongoing efforts to drive innovation in the industrial sector, enhance local manufacturing capabilities, and encourage greater support for homegrown products.
The Overseeing Officer/ Managing Director of NASENI Oyo State Office, Mr. Ahmed Hamzat, who outlined the agency’s 3-C agenda - Creation, Collaboration, and Commercialisation, said the engagement was to advance local manufacturing and boost the adoption of Made-in-Nigeria products.
He emphasised the agency’s commitment to policies and partnerships that foster selfreliance and technological growth, describing the gathering as a pivotal step toward promoting Nigerian-made goods.
A Deputy Director in the Oyo State Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Mr. A. O. Williams, who represented the Permanent Secretary, reaffirmed the conmitment
of the state government to creating an enabling environment for local manufacturers, highlighting the state’s strategic efforts in this regard, including capacity building, improving road networks, and ensuring better market accessibility.
While reiterating the importance of local manufacturing in economic growth, Williams referenced a quote from renowned Nigerian industrialist, Aliko Dangote, “An import-dependent economy is equivalent to importing poverty and exporting jobs.”
He further stressed that strengthening local industries is essential for creating sustainable jobs, enhancing technological innovation, and boosting Nigeria’s global competitiveness, lauding NASENI’s role in driving industrial development and urging manufacturers to take full advantage of available government initiatives, partnerships, and funding opportunities to scale their operations.
The Managing Director of New Horizons Nigeria, Mr. Tim Akano, has offered lifetime employment to a visually impaired corps member, Olayinka Akinbiyi as part of New Horizons’ Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) towards transforming Nigeria into a more inclusive society where physically challenged individuals are given equal opportunities.
Olayinka lost her sight completely at the age of two to measles and also lost her mother at birth. Despite these challenges,
she remained determined and worked hard to complete her education, earning a B.Sc. in Psychology from the University of Benin in 2024. She met Akano during his courtesy visit to the new NYSC state coordinator and was deeply moved by her resilience and as part of his commitment to empowering individuals through technology, he decided to support Olayinka by providing her with ICT skills.
New Horizons, an ICT institute awards over 20,000 ICT scholarships to students annually, some
of which cover 100 per cent of tuition and this initiative has been ongoing for the past 15 years.
In the same vein, the Tim Akano Foundation, which was recently launched, has embarked on several projects. One of the projects was the renovation of Baptist Day School, Oluponna, which was the primary school Akano attended. The foundation provided the school with a borehole, secured fence and writing materials and each of the 300 students also received a pair of uniforms.
The UNICCON Group of Companies has launched an AI-driven telemedicine healthcare, known as ‘MySmartMedic’ to help in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
The Chairman of UNNICON Group Prof. Chuks Ekwueme, said healthcare should be convenient, not complicated, adding that ‘MySmartMedic’ will ensure access to quality medical advice in minutes to anyone, regardless of location or financial status.
The group piloted the AIpowered telemedicine software, at Galadimawa Village in Abuja, aiming to expand access to quality healthcare in rural communities.
According to Ekwueme the solution will revolutionise Nigeria’s healthcare and will address its accessibility challenges, with
seamless offers that will enable Nigerians to speak with licensed doctors, get e-prescriptions, and receive AI-powered health recommendations anytime, anywhere.
Ekwueme therefore urged the federal government to integrate the solution across government hospitals.
“It will be a very good initiative for government owned hospitals to collaborate with telemedicine providers, by integrating the solution across hospital management system.
“With a doctor-to-patient ratio far below WHO’s recommendations, MySmartMedic’s AI system will help to analyse symptoms and recommend next steps, significantly reducing consultation times and improving diagnosis accuracy.
“The platform also offers instant Doctor consultations via video, audio, or chat prescription refills, drug delivery for seamless medication access, specialist Access for chronic disease management, dermatology, mental health, and more,” Ekwueme said.
“Given the shortfall in healthcare workers, health centres and funding, telemedicine remains the easiest, fastest and affordable means of offering a certain category of health services to the rural communities. MySmartMedic aligns with Nigeria’s digital health transformation goals, aiming to support government and private healthcare initiatives in improving nationwide healthcare accessibility,” Ekwueme further said.
The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd is set to commence its Regional Space-Tech Hackathon and VSAT training programme in the NorthWest region of the country.
The event will be hosted in Dutse, from April 7 to April 11, 2025 and it is open to participation for start-ups, local innovators, students across the region.
The Space-Tech Hackathon and VSAT training programme initiative is designed to engage and empower young Nigerians
by bringing together university students, local innovators and young professionals from the North-West states, including the host state, Jigawa. The programme aims to nurture innovation and foster creative solutions to realworld challenges using space technology.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NIGCOMSAT Limited, Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, who announced the five-day hackathon, said it would allow
L-R: Director, Wholeshield Pharm. Ltd, Fatima Shuaibu
participants ample time to identify community challenges, develop ideas and build prototype solutions to address these challenges using advanced satellite technologies, as well as receive mentorship.
According to her, the winning team from the hackathon exercise would earn a spot in the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme Cohort 2025, providing the participants with further opportunities to refine and implement their projects.
Kayode Tokede
The stock market yesterday extended its losing streak as the major market indicator was down. Y 0.05 per cent.
The Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) depreciated by 49.26 basis points or 0.05 per cent to close at 105,426.12 basis points. Also, market
capitalisation declined by N31 billion to close at N66.110 trillion. Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth closed negative as 22 stocks advanced, while 28 declined.
The Initiates Plc (TIP) emerged the highest price gainer of 9.85 per cent to close at N4.46, while Universal Insurance and Mutual
Benefits Assurance followed with a gain of 9.09 per cent each to close at 60 kobo and 96 kobo respectively, per share.
Royal Exchange increased by 8.99 per cent to close at 97 kobo, while Learn Africa up by 8.14 per cent to close at N3.32, per share. On the other side, John Holt led the losers’ chart with
10 per cent to close at N7.74, per share. Chams Holding Company followed with a decline of 8.52 per cent to close at N2.04, while Secure Electronic Technology lost 8.47 per cent to close at 54 kobo, per share.
May & Baker Nigeria depreciated by 7.95 per cent to close at N8.10, while UPDC down by
6.90 per cent to close at N2.70, per share. However, the total volume of trades decreased by 92.65 per cent to 423.618 million units, valued at N9.181 billion, and exchanged in 11,393 deals. Transactions in the shares of Access Holdings led the activity with 64.962 million shares worth N1.431 billion.
Zenith Bank followed with account of 41.504 million shares valued at N1.972 billion, while Fidelity Bank traded 40.704 million shares valued at N773.216 million. Secure Electronic Technology traded 38.420 million shares worth N20.833 million, while Tantalizer traded 31.504 million shares worth N89.914 million.
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.
An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 26 March-2025, unless otherwise stated.
Offer price: The price at which units of a
or ETF are bought by investors.
Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a
or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an
ANNOUNCING THE AFARA INITIATIVE...
A report by SBM Intelligence, an Africafocused security intel gathering and consulting firm, has said the Middle Belt security crisis must be handled strategically to avert national instability.
It said for over a decade Nigeria had grappled with an increasingly violent pastoral conflict that had evolved from localised grazing disputes into a complex national security crisis.
The report stated, “What began as occasional clashes between nomadic herders and settled farmers has transformed into a multi-faceted threat to the country’s stability, food security
and social fabric, with particularly devastating consequences in the Middle Belt region.
“The roots of this crisis lie in environmental pressures in Nigeria’s northern regions, where progressive desertification and shrinking grazing reserves have forced Fulani pastoralists to move their cattle southward into the fertile Middle Belt, the nation’s agricultural heartland.
“This migration brought them into inevitable conflict with farming communities, especially in states like Benue, Plateau and Nasarawa.”
The intelligence gathering group stressed that by 2015, clear patterns
of systematic violence had emerged, including deliberate destruction of crops and food stores and a disturbing strategy of land appropriation, where herders would occupy abandoned farmlands after displacing local populations through violence.
The situation, the group said, deteriorated markedly between 2017 and 2018, as the conflict spread southward while becoming significantly more lethal.
SBM said the nature of violence had now changed fundamentally, as sophisticated weaponry flooded the region and disputes once settled with sticks and machetes now involved
AK-47s and military-grade firearms, completely overwhelming traditional conflict resolution mechanisms.
It stated, “In Benue State, the epicentre of the crisis, the conflict has taken on additional complexities. Beyond the actions of Fulani herdsmen, there are troubling reports of internal complicity, with some residents allegedly providing intelligence to attackers in exchange for financial compensation.
“This dynamic has significantly complicated efforts to curb the violence and identify those orchestrating attacks. The political response has to identify those orchestrating attacks. The political
The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF) has congratulated former President Goodluck Jonathan for winning the prestigious 2025 Founders Sunhak Peace Prize (FSPP).
The congratulatory message was contained in a statement issued by the Director-General of the PDP-GF, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, behalf of the Chairman, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State.
Mohammed said the award being one of the highest global honours reserved for men of outstanding initiatives across the world was well deserved.
He said that since leaving office in 2015, Jonathan had been very visible on the global scene advocating and propagating peace towards the development of humanity.
He said that the global recognition could not be fully appreciated without recalling days of Jonathan as Nigeria president between 2010-2015.
He recalled how Jonathan in no small measure transformed Nigeria and Nigerians’ lives with impactful policies, projects and programs in every nook, cranny of the country.
He said that Jonathan’s administration recorded several outstanding and yet to be broken achievements.
These, according to him, include rebasing of Nigeria’s economy and
its gross domestic product for the first time in over a decade, making the country becoming the largest economy in Africa by overtaking South Africa and Egypt.
Mohammed prayed for divine protection upon Jonathan and his family as he continues to lead and serve by example beyond borders.
THISDAY reports that Jonathan, made history as the winner of the 2025 Founder’s Sunhak Peace Award, a prestigious recognition by the Sunhak Peace Prize Foundation in Seoul, South Korea.
With this win, Jonathan becomes the first African leader and only the third recipient of the Founder’s Prize, following in the footsteps of
The Lagos State Government on Thursday charged the citizenry to imbibe an attitudinal change in the waste management and disposal culture in order to collectively achieve a sustainable environment.
Speaking while featuring on a television interview programme and an X Space live about the viral insinuation of a smelly city, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, reiterated that proper waste disposal culture is an intentional behaviour that must be adhered to by all concerned. Wahab said most cosmopolitan
cities around the world have specific areas that emits offensive odours such as New York, Beijing and London amongst others saying Lagos is not an exception but this can only be experienced around the landfill sites at Olusosun in Ojota and Solous 3 in Igando area. In his words: “let me ask this question, if you stay around or you drive past Olusosun, Solous 3 amongst other landfills and you perceive some offensive odours does that mean the whole of Lagos is smelling; I have taken the statement “Lagos is smelling” as a political tool to latch onto and set the record
straight by saying Lagos is not smelling but evolving.
The commissioner said Lagos generates between 13,000 to 14,000 tonnes of waste daily, highlighting that Lagos has creatively proffered ways to reduce the quantum of waste that ends up at the landfill sites.
“We have an arrangement that brings waste to wealth where organic waste becomes composite fertilizers, plastics waste will be recycled to big plastic dustbins and all these is just to encourage Lagosians to build a proper waste disposal culture as done in other climes,” he said.
former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen.
The Sunhak Peace Prize Committee lauded Jonathan’s relentless peace efforts, highlighting his prodemocracy initiatives and mediation roles across Africa, according to the committee:
response has also been inconsistent.
“While the previous administration under Governor Samuel Ortom was vocal in its opposition to the violence, often clashing with the federal government, the current state government has adopted a more cautious approach, likely due to its alignment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Several interlocking factors continue to drive this escalation.”
According to SBM, climate change has further accelerated desertification in the north, while population growth puts pressure on dwindling land resources, in addition to weak governance and inconsistent responses that have failed to establish workable solutions, and the proliferation of arms, which has transformed local disputes into massacres.
Perhaps, most damaging, according to the group, is that the conflict has become dangerously politicised along ethnic and religious lines, with accusations of “Fulanisation” poisoning intercommunal relations across.
It stated, “The humanitarian consequences have been catastrophic. Entire communities have been displaced, with over 2.2 million people forced from their homes nationwide and more than 300,000 crowded into makeshift camps in Benue State alone.”
As a result of the conflict, SBM stated that Nigeria’s agricultural output had suffered dramatically,
particularly in the Middle Belt, which produced much of the country’s food, contributing to dangerous levels of food price inflation across the country. It said the conflict had also become entangled with other criminal activities, including cattle rustling and kidnapping for ransom, creating a security nightmare that defies simple solutions. Despite government interventions, like the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP) and anti-open grazing laws in several states, the report stated that sustainable solutions remained elusive, while implementation had been patchy at best.
The report said displacement figures had kept growing while food insecurity worsened, with the geographical spread of attacks – now reaching southern states, like Edo and Ondo – demonstrating the conflict’s relentless expansion.
The intelligence group stated, “Addressing this crisis requires a coordinated, multi-faceted approach that goes beyond temporary military solutions.
“Land use reforms must establish clear guidelines for grazing reserves and farmland protection, while the security sector needs an urgent overhaul to control arms proliferation and improve community policing.
“Climate adaptation programmes could help reduce resource competition by supporting alternative livelihoods.
The management of Edo State-owned Ambrose Alli University (AAU), has commended the favourable government policy initiated by Governor Monday Okpebholo which it said has repositioned the institution as against what obtained in the past.
The university management spoke through its Head of Corporate Communication, Mr. Mike Aladenika, during a thank you visit to journalists in Benin City for their solidarity and support for the institution.
According to Aladenika, Ambrose Ali University is rising again due to efficient management of the Governing Council appointed by Governor Okpobholo.
In a related development, 39 medical graduating students of AAU are urgently seeking Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Minister
of Health’s intervention with respect to delayed induction.
Despite reportedly completing their course of studies, the students said they been inexplicably denied induction, leaving them with an uncertain future.
An open letter addressed to the State Government and the Minister of Health, titled “Urgent Appeal for the Induction of Qualified Medical Doctors from Ambrose Alli University,” highlighted the plight of the students.
Meanwhile, speaking on the dilapidated structures in the tertiary institution, AAU’s Head of Corporate Communication, Mr. Mike Aladenika, pointed out that it is not in the place of government to bring in engineers to renovate the structure but the role of the university management.
He advised that the university management should be allowed to
renovate the buildings as it falls within their modus operandi. Aladenika revealed that the position of principal officers have been declared vacant and are urging those with the prerequisite qualifications to apply for the various positions as advertised by the Governing Council.
He added that with the governing council on board, the school environment is peaceful as students and lecturers are all carrying out their teaching and learning activities in a friendly environment.
Meanwhile, in open letter addressed to the State Government and the Minister of Health, signed by Abu Ibrahim, Bawal Mohammed Awal, and Daniel Igbafe on behalf of the affected students, the letter expressed their exhaustion, demoralization, and desperation for swift intervention.
L-R: Minister of state, Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Uba Amadu Magari; Minister of state, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Yusuf Tanko
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda; United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malik Fall; and members of the
Committee showcasing the signed copy of the communiqué on the National Humanitarian Roundtable held in
Commission lacks powers to fix, regulate prices of goods, services, MultiChoice insists FCCPC alleges abuse of dominant position, exploitative pricing
Alex Enumah in Abuja
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has fixed May 8 for judgement in a suit filed by MultiChoice Nigeria Limited against the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
Omotosho fixed the date for judgement on Thursday, shortly after lawyers representing parties adopted and argued their written addresses for and against the suit.
Recall that the court had some days back restrained FCCPC from taking “any administrative steps” against the plaintiff following increase in the service price of two of its brands, DStv and GOtv.
The restraining order was sequel to a formal request by MultiChoice seeking the court’s protection from planned sanction by FCCPC over the increase in price of DStv and GOtv.
At the resumed hearing on Thursday, the court granted the commission’s request for extension of time to regularise its processes and also allowed the plaintiff to withdraw its application for interlocutory injunction, which had been overtaken by events.
Arguing its case, MultiChoice through, its lead counsel, Onigbanjo, submitted that the bone of contention
was “whether the defendant have the right to control the price at which the plaintiff offers its services to the public”.
While acknowledging the regulatory powers of the commission, the senior lawyer argued that the Act establishing FCCPC did not confer on it the powers to regulate price or prevent anyone, including the plaintiff, from increasing its prices.
Onigbanjo stated that the issue of whether the defendant could regulate price had been litigated before between the two parties. He added that the tribunal had held that the commission has no powers to regulate prices of goods and services in the country, except the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The plaintiff’s lawyer also submitted that even the president, who was clothed with the powers to regulate prices, had maintained “that his government does not believe in price control” but, that prices were determined by market forces of demand and supply.
The plaintiff, in addition, submitted that if FCCPC had no powers to control price, “where does he have the powers to prevent the plaintiff from increasing price.”
MultiChoice subsequently accused
the commission of discrimination, stating that all businesses in the country have been increasing their prices in line with economic conditions and inflation without the commission raising an eyebrow, save with the plaintiff.
He urged the court to grant all the reliefs sought in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/379/2025.
However, in adopting his counter affidavit in opposition to the suit, lead
counsel for the defendant, Professor Joe Agbugu, SAN, urged the court to first address the cause of action; which was the issue of increase in the price of DStv and GOtv.
Agbugu disclosed that the commission, on February 25, wrote the plaintiff after it announced price increase effective from March 1, 2025.
The senior lawyer said MultiChoice was summoned to appear before the commission on February 27, but “they
wrote that it was not convenient and proposed March 6. We then said that in the interim they should hold on with the price increment.” Agbugu further stated, “There was no issue of price regulation or fixing as at the time the action commenced.”
Besides, he stated that the statute establishing FCCPC gave it “powers to check exorbitant pricing” and also powers to “regulate abuse of dominant
position in the market” as it related to prices and passing of cost to the consumer.
“The plaintiff occupies a dominant position in the television and entertainment,” Agbugu stated. He added that the case before the court was not price regulation but the powers of the commission to investigate prices that were deemed exploitative and an abuse of dominant position.
Insists such words undermine party’s efforts to win governorship poll
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
Anambra State Chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC) condemned the works minister, Engr. Dave Umahi, for openly praising the governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, for his strides in infrastructural development in the state.
The party, at a press conference
Rights Group: NAFDAC Must Account for Activities in Onitsha Drug
A rights group, International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has called for public enquiry into the activities of officials of National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Onitsha drug market.
The agency had continued to keep the market closed, sending traders away and barricading it with soldiers, while breaking into the shops to search for fake, prohibited and counterfeit drugs.
In a protest on Wednesday, the traders lamented that even genuine drugs in their shops were looted by the agency, while some shops that had nothing to do with drugs too were broken into and looted, including a boutique.
In a press release by Intersociety, the leader of the group, Mr. Emeka Umeagbalasi, called for urgent legislative Public Hearing and Judicial
Commission of Enquiry to evidently ascertain various “outside-the-law roles played by deployed field operatives of the NAFDAC and its deployed security agents.”
The group said: “The two Public Hearings under demand are expected to frontally and comprehensively address five key disturbing issues.
“Hear the voices of genuine drug traders and ascertain losses incurred during the looting of their shops, hear how their shops were broken into in their absence and billions of naira worth of genuine drugs confiscated and carted away, unmask operational illegalities of NAFDAC and its deployed soldiers and police personnel.
“Also prevent looming crisis and imminent loss of lives and properties in the Market, and find short-term political solution through all-inclusive legislative public hearing to re-open the Market.”
The group said the claims by
NAFDAC that the market has been reopened is false as the closure of the market is already in its 47th day.
He said: “Emerging facts have further shown that the NAFDAC blanket closure of Onitsha Drug Market has taken incalculable toll on traders and members of their nuclear and extended families as well as members of the public at large. “The market’s closure has also entered its 47th day today being Wednesday, March 26, 2025, owing to stringent and glaringly extortionist terms and conditions imposed on traders as conditions for re-opening of the market.
“It is also shocking that NAFDAC has been transformed from public food and drug security regulatory and sanitizing agency of the federation to revenue generation or extortionist agency of the federation; brought about by the agency’s decision to impose sundry extortionist fees on traders of Onitsha Drug Market.
addressed by the state publicity secretary, Dr. Valentine Oliobi, said the words used by the minister undermined the efforts of the party he was serving, which was also fielding a candidate for the governorship contest coming in November.
Umahi had within the week, during a working visit to the state to flag-off a federal road, also toured some of Soludo’s projects and concluded that the governor will not have opposition in the coming election because of his godd works.
Addressing a press conference in Awka, Oliobi described Umahi’s comments as mere flattery meant to placate the governor, insisting that in the real sense of governance,
Soludo has failed the people of Anambra State.
He said, “Ndi Anambra are not carried away by minister Umahi’s sugar coated words for Soludo. Inbetween the lines of those so-called praises are nothing but a diplomatic way of expressing disappointment, especially as the governor’s newly constructed roads are already washing away.
“What he saw in Anambra is not impressive but underwhelming. His remarks were not a validation of success, but subtle reminder that Anambra is not where it should be. It is amusing that Soludo and his cohorts are yet to get to read the handwriting on the wall.”
The party added that such words by Umahi, even though not meant to be true, reeked of lack of discretion by the minister, who knew that he worked for an APC government, and that his party was in a governorship election with the same man he was praising.
Oliobi stated, “Minister Dave Umahi’s unguided utterances were in support of his business ally, Prof. Soludo. Umahi and Soludo have a joint interest on most of the federal road construction in Anambra.
“But unfortunately for Soludo, the days of empty promises are over, as Anambra cannot reinforce failure by renewing unfulfilled contracts through another tenure in office.”
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The House of Representatives has passed for second reading bills seeking to set a timeline within which civil and criminal cases are heard and the conduct of census.
The proposed legislations sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and some other lawmakers were passed at the plenary on Thursday.
The Bill seeks to provide for the alteration of the Constitution to set time within which the matters are heard and determined at trial and appellate courts in order to
eliminate unnecessary delays in justice administration and delivery.
According to the synopsis of the bill, “In any civil or criminal matter except in election petition, a trial superior court of record shall deliver its judgement in writing within 270 days from the date of the filing of civil or criminal matter.
“In any civil or criminal matter except in election petition, a trial inferior court of record or tribunal shall deliver its judgement in writing within 210 days from the date of the filing of the civil or criminal matter.
“Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (1) and (2) of this
section – (a) a trial superior court of record may deliver its judgement in writing within 330 or more days having regard to the circumstances of the matter and in particular to the complexity of the matter, number of parties, number of witnesses, number of documents or other exceptional circumstances; and a trial inferior court of record may deliver its judgement in writing within 270 or more days having regard to the circumstances of the matter and in particular to the complexity of the matter, number of parties, number of witnesses, number of documents or other exceptional circumstances.
The United States has suspended contributions to the World Trade Organization, Reuters was reporting late yesterday night claiming information from three trade sources.
As U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration ramps up efforts to cut government spending.
The Trump administration is retreating from global institutions it sees as at odds with his “America First” economic policies. It plans to quit some, such as the World Health Organization, and has cut contributions to others as part of a broad review of federal spending.
The WTO has already been hobbled by a U.S. move in 2019 during Trump’s first term to block new judge appointments to its top appeals court, which left its key dispute settlement system only partially functional. Washington had accused the WTO Appellate
Body of judicial overreach in trade disputes.
The Geneva-based trade watchdog had an annual budget of 205 million Swiss francs ($232.06 million) in 2024. The United States was due to contribute about 11% of that based on a fees system
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Senate yesterday directed the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to immediately halt the planned sale of Lafarge Cement Plc to a Chinese company on grounds of national security and economic sovereignty.
The Senate explained that this would ensure that the divestment process prioritises national security and economic sovereignty. The company is located in Ewekoro Local Government Area in Ogun State.
Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central, noted Lafarge Cement Plc strategic importance to Nigeria’s construction and industrial sectors, stressing that it is not just another company but a key pillar of Nigeria’s infrastructure development which provides jobs and supports economic growth.
He noted that Holcim AG, which holds an 83.8 per cent stake in Lafarge Africa, is set to sell its shares to Huaxin Cement Co., a Chinese cement manufacturer, in a deal valued at $1 billion in a transaction that is set for completion in 2025, pending regulatory
approval. According to him, there are concerns, as the deal could lead to capital flight, job losses, and reduced regulatory oversight over a sector vital to national development.
Afolabi added: “We cannot afford to wake up one day and realise that our cement industry, one of the backbones of our economy, is entirely in foreign hands. Local investors have shown willingness to participate, yet they face unnecessary barriers. This is a matter of economic patriotism.
“This is about protecting Nigeria’s economic future. We must ensure that strategic assets like Lafarge Cement remain in the hands of those who have the country’s best interests at heart.”
Senator Olamilekan Adeola, in his remarks, said: “What we are asking for, this is one company that has been in existence for over 50 years. This is one company that is the largest cement company in the whole of Nigeria and sub Saharan Africa.
“This is one company that in one way or the other, has impacted on Nigeria’s economy through
various involvements in various sectors of the Nigerian economy. The company is about to be divested and the transaction has been shrouded in secrecy. What the motion is simply asking for is that we want this transaction to be as transparent as possible.
“Where Nigerian investors and stakeholders can be given equal level of participation in the sale of this all-important company. We are seeking the leave of this Senate to get involved to the extent of involving our various committees in the Senate which includes the Committee on Capital and Security and Exchange Commission.
“The Committee on Trade and Investment should look into this transaction to ensure that all that needs to be done to the level that every Nigerian who is capable and who is also interested can be given a level playing field.
“By the time the eventual sale of this company is done, we will be fully satisfied that it has been done with much level of transparency, much level of cooperation and to the extent that Nigeria’s economy will be protected.”
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
A grassroots mobilisation group, The New Associates (TNA), linked to a former governor of Rivers State and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, has said it plans to hold a mega-rally in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The group, in a statement yesterday, noted that part of the agenda during the programme, is to drum up support for President Bola Tinubu as well as inaugurate
the group in Bayelsa and unveil its officials.
The organisers of the planned rally noted that aside from asking for support for Tinubu, it will use the rally to express appreciation and solidarity with the former Rivers governor, especially for his ‘bluntness and good leadership.’
According to one of the organisers and former spokesman of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Ebilade Ekerefe, the group has been activated in Bayelsa to galvanise support for Tinubu, especially in
the rural communities.
According to organisers, as Nigeria moves gradually towards the 2027 election, there is a need to mobilise South-south youths to support the president.
They pointed out that the group which is grassroots-oriented was created by Wike to be used as a mobilisation for the president’s reelection in 2027, adding that part of the strategies to be adopted by the group is to showcase projects the federal government has initiated in the South-south geo-political zone.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim said as good and as well crafted as the motion was, the Senate must be guided. He said: “Whether we are in tandem with the submissions made, we have to be guided as a Senate. We cannot convert the Senate to a sales company or Bureau of Public Enterprise.
“The laws are very clear, agencies of government have been established by law, one of which is the Bureau of Public Enterprises and we cannot sit as a Senate to judge them as being unfair or transparent in commercial transactions.
“I do think that there should also be the right to enter into a contract freely and the right to leave at will. The Senate should not be an impediment to a free flow democratic sale of any company in Nigeria. The Senate should converge to see the sanctity of contracts, not to be an impediment to the contract or be a sales agent.
that is proportionate to its share of global trade, according to public WTO documents.
A U.S. delegate told a March 4 WTO budget meeting that its payments to the 2024 and 2025 budgets were on hold pending a review of contributions to international organisations and that it would inform the WTO of the outcome at an unspecified date, two trade sources with direct knowledge of the meeting said.
A third trade source confirmed their account and said the WTO was coming up with a “Plan B” in case of a prolonged funding pause, without elaborating.
All three sources asked for confidentiality because the budget meeting was private and the U.S. funding pause has not been formally announced.
The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A spokesperson for the U.S. mission to the WTO in Geneva did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
WTO spokesperson Ismaila Dieng referred questions to U.S. authorities.
“Generally, arrears can impact the operational capacity of the WTO Secretariat. But the Secretariat continues to manage its resources prudently and has plans in place to enable it to operate within the financial limitations imposed by any arrears,” he said.
As of end-December 2024, the United States had arrears of
22.7 million Swiss francs ($25.70 million), according to a WTO document obtained by Reuters marked “RESTRICTED” and dated February 21. Under WTO rules, any member that fails to pay its dues after more than a year is subject to “administrative measures” - a series of punitive steps that get progressively stricter the longer the fees go unpaid.
The country is now classified as being in the first of three such categories, two of the trade sources confirmed to Reuters, which means its representatives can no longer preside over WTO bodies nor receive formal documentation.
Reuters could not immediately establish if the WTO was already applying these measures to the United States.
WTO spokesperson Dieng confirmed that the chair of the budget committee had informed WTO members that the United States was currently in “Category 1 arrears”, along with other countries. “It remains the responsibility of WTO Members to implement the consequences associated with arrears,” he said.
As of end-2024, five other member countries - Bolivia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Gabon and Gambia - were in that category, the WTO restricted document showed.
A total 38.4 million Swiss francs ($43.47 million) of contributions were outstanding, including unpaid fees from 2024 and prior, it showed.
In a memorable night, award-winning journalist Stephanie Busari, alongside co-visionary Ifeanyi Abraham, officially launched the groundbreaking project, “Her Story: Taking Root, Sparking Change”, at the prestigious Balmoral Hall, Victoria Island, Lagos on Tuesday.
This monumental event celebrated the extraordinary contributions of over 40 trailblazing women across Africa, the Middle East, and the diaspora.
These women, who have broken barriers and redefined leadership, were honored through a powerful convergence of leadership, storytelling, art, and recognition.
The book launch was led by Chief Launchers Tonye Cole, a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, and
Ms. Aiki Odiawa, Executive Director of the Oba Saheed Elegushi Foundation, representing His Royal Majesty, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, Kusenla III.
In a historic gesture, the Oba pledged a seven-figure donation towards the ‘Her Story’ initiative and announced that copies of the book would be distributed across schools in Lekki, ensuring that young girls have access to the stories of pioneering women who have paved the way before them. The event was a proof of the impact that women can have when given the opportunity to lead and make a difference.
From government leaders to business innovators, philanthropists to creative powerhouses, educators to activists, the women featured in
Her Story have paved the way for future generations.
The evening also featured the Her Story Art Exhibition, which raised over 10 million Naira, with a percentage of proceeds going directly to girl-child education initiatives. The art pieces on display were thought-provoking and inspired by female resilience, serving as a reminder of the strength and determination of women.
Adding to the momentous occasion was the launch of HerStoryGlobal. com, an innovative platform that will serve as a hub for mentorship, leadership development, and storytelling. The site will also offer access to Her Story: Taking Root, Sparking Change, allowing a global audience to purchase the book and engage with its powerful narratives.
Head, Business Development, Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Mr. Rotimi Olatunji; Director, Administration and Human Resources, LASHMA, Mrs. Olufunke Longe; Permanent Secretary, LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba; Director, Information and Strategy, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Kayode Oyekanmi; and Head, Client Service, LASHMA, Mr. Lanre Green, during LASHMA’s Year 2025 First Quarter Media Parley on the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme and strategic plans for strengthening healthcare access in Lagos State, held in Alausa, Lagos… recently
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
A coalition of 24 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), which says it’s advocating for the political and economic welfare of the people of Nigeria, has written to the United Nations, accusing the Nigerian government of usurping democratic structures in Rivers state.
It therefore urged the global body to sanction Nigeria if the country fails to restore democracy to the oil-rich Niger Delta state immediately.
The coalition made the demand in a petition they filed to the Secretary of the Human Rights Committee of the UN in its New York headquarters yesterday. In another petition to the UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, Margaret Satterthwaite, the group of 24 decried Wike’s alleged closeness to Nigerian judges.
In the petition signed by Egondu Esinwoke (Convener) and Courage Nsirimovu (Coordinator), the coalition asked the UN to prevail on the President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, to restore democratic governance in Rivers state, failing which the UN should place sanctions on Nigeria for defaulting in her obligation to promote democracy and democratic institutions within her territory.
The petition also implored the UN to advise Nigeria’s president to limit his actions within the confines of the nation’s constitution which they
said is the ultimate law and from whence he derives his powers and authority.
Stressing that it is guided by certain fundamental principles which are the fulcrum of the constitution, the coalition stated that the freedom of expression and the press is being threatened as well as the right to peaceful assembly.
According to the group, the people cannot currently exercise their right to demonstrate or protest because the military has warned against any form of procession against the president’s action, while officials of a democratic government were being forced to resign and/or removed.
“Consequently, it is our prayer that you use your good office to: Prevail on the president of Nigeria to restore democratic governance in Rivers State. Place sanctions on Nigeria for defaulting in her obligation to promote democracy and democratic institutions within her territory.
“Advise the president to limit his actions within the confines of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which is the ultimate law and from whence he derives his powers and authority,” the coalition added.
The document was tagged:
“Petition Against the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the National Assembly of Nigeria for the Crass Usurpation of Democratic Structures In Rivers State and Ostentatious Desecration of
the Nigerian Constitution Contrary to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.”
The concerned civil society organisations, said they recognise that advancing the rule of law, human rights and the basic tenets of democracy rest at the core of the United Nations’ basic values and principles, chief among which include the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant
on Civil and Political Rights.
The CSOs further raised issues over the alleged relationship between the FCT Minister, Wike and the judiciary, noting that this was well captured in the article of a foremost Human Rights lawyer in Nigeria, now based in the United States of America, Chidi Odinkalu.
They stated that the ‘perverse’ decision of the supreme court, on the Siminalayi Fubara and House
of Assembly case, was part of the basis for the declaration of State of Emergency by the President of Nigeria who the group said is a major ally of Wike.
“ Apparently the president wants Mr. Wike to control the political structure and resources of Rivers State and give him block votes for his second term bid. Hence the use of the judiciary as an instrument to achieve their ambitions.
“The president’s declaration of State of Emergency and suspension of the elected governor of Rivers State was purely political and unconstitutional. In declaring a state of Emergency, the President quoted the decision of the Supreme Court,” the CSOs added. The group urged the UN organisation to immediately visit Nigeria to investigate the alleged corruption in the Nigerian judiciary.
IYC alleges state under military dictatorship Fubara’s suspension has solved 90% of Rivers political crisis, says factional APC chairman
Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Founding National Secretary of the Alliance for Democracy, Prof Udenta Udenta, has accused the Bola Tinubu presidency of dismantling democratic values and weaponing the judiciary, and the 1999 Constitution (as amended) against Nigerians. Udenta, a fellow of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, said the suspension of Governor
Vows to always stand by constitution
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
Oyo State Governor, ’Seyi Makinde, yesterday, said the idea of Sharia law is an alternative dispute resolution that would help reduce the cases that go to courts and also, the pressure on judges.
He, however, noted that his administration would not oppose anything in line with the Constitution.
The clarification came against the backdrop of a media report that the Oyo State Government would go to court to challenge the plan. Makinde declared that members of the public couldapproach the Sharia Panel if they felt like doing so.
The governor, who stated that the panel could be an alternative dispute resolution mechanism, noted that the court of law was still empowered by the Constitution to settle all disputes and that his administration would always follow the dictates of the Constitution.
Makinde stated this at the 2025 Iftar Programme organised by the Oyo State Government, the sixth since he became governor of the state in 2019, held at the frontage of the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan. According to him, his administration was focused on ensuring religious harmony and total unity in the state and would, therefore, not allow anyone to cause disaffection in the state.
He added that while some people wanted to use any means to win elections, including causing religious disharmony, his government has remained focused on developing the state sustainably for the good of its residents and future generations.
“I read in the newspaper that I would go to Court for interpretation on the Sharia Panel, which is ongoing in Oyo. That is not my position.
“My position is that we will support anything that is in our Constitution. I made a statement when Muslims in South Western Nigeria (MUSWEN) came to my office that we should not encourage discord among ourselves no matter how little.
Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State was a distortion of democratic institutions by the Tinubu government.
This was as the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, has also lamented that Rivers was under military dictatorship on alleged selfish interest by some politicians from the state and at the presidency.
But factional chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Tony Okocha, has said the suspension of Fubara has solved about 90 per cent of the political crisis in the state.
Addressing the situation, Udenta said, “The system that should protect democratic governance, you are weaponising them; the judiciary, the apparatus of the state, you are distorting, diluting and transmogrifying them in a way and manner that is shutting down democratic conversations.
“That is what you find as the legacy of the Bola Tinubu president and his political agents,” Udenta said on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme.
The scholar said dismantling democratic principles isn’t by shooting guns but by misusing democratic instruments like the constitution and the judiciary.
“When you abandon the foundational norms of democracy and then you begin to use instruments you acquired in power to dismantle the guardrails that govern the democratic system, then democracy dies.
“It is not by firing a shot that democracy dies or crumbles, it is leveraging the guardrails like the constitution, like what was done
in Rivers State, to abort democratic rules,” he said.
He also accused Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral IbokEte Ibas of dismantling the levers of democracy with his suspension of all political appointees in the oil-rich state.
“You find the sole administrator strutting around Port Harcourt, dismantling democratic infrastructure,” he said.
Udenta described what is practised in Rivers State as a “hybrid regime which is a part of competitive authoritarianism” being deployed to “manacle the spirit of a nation and abort democratic institutions at all levels” including labour unions, media houses, political parties, and civil societies.
He regretted that the quality of the lives of Nigerians in the last two years has so depreciated, lamenting that there was widespread hunger and poverty in the land with escalating food inflation usurping the income of average Nigerians.
“There is poverty in the land, there is hunger everywhere, inflation is soaring, criminality and terrorism and all manners of insecurity pervade the nation, and the government is bemused like this current one,” he said.
IYC Alleges Rivers Under Military
Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, has decried that the state is under military dictatorship on alleged selfish interest by some politicians from the state and at the presidency.
In a statement by its Secretary General, Maobuye Nangi Obu, he
tackled Ibas of allegedly contradicting the law by suspending appointees of an elected governor.
The group said the suspension of commissions and boards with clear tenures in the state is an affront on the rights of Rivers people.
It stated further that the administrator in his recent actions, showed he was allegedly executing the agenda of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, adding that the battle was for the economic soul of the state.
“It was President Thomas Jefferson who said we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights, among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, that to secure these rights governments are instituted among men.
“The latest announcement by the Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, suspending statutory commissions and boards with clear tenures in Rivers State is an affront on the rights of Rivers people and nothing short of a full-blown military dictatorship in action.
“This reckless move, executed under the guise of presidential authority, is a desperate attempt to remove all possible checks and balances to facilitate the looting of Rivers State’s resources.
“It is now beyond doubt that the Administrator is merely a puppet executing the agenda of former Governor Nyesom Wike, who remains hell-bent on controlling the state and draining its wealth.”
L-R:
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
A coalition of over 350 women groups has condemned the attack on former Minister of
Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, by Senator Peter Nwaebonyi on March 25, during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges.
The coalition said Nwaebonyi’s use of highly insulting and vulgar language against Ezekwesili, a respected leader and an invaluable asset to the country, was
unacceptable and must not go unaddressed.
A statement by their media and communications officer, Ms. Caroline Osang, on behalf of the
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is working extra hard to improve the country and make life better for the citizenry.
Speaking on Thursday evening while breaking the fast (Iftar) with former first ladies, female National Assembly members, wives of national assembly members, among others, Mrs Tinubu stressed that the present government at the centre is concerned primarily about how to make life better for an average Nigerian.
350 groups, said the hearing, which was meant to deliberate on critical issues related to justice and governance, degenerated into a spectacle of disrespect and arrogance by the senator.
It stated that instead of maintaining the dignity and seriousness that the senate hearing demanded, Nwaebonyi opted to derail the proceedings, mocking the petitioners and disregarding the importance of the matters at hand.
“Senator Nwaebonyi’s actions were not simply a difference of opinion; they were an intentional and calculated attempt to undermine the credibility of women speaking out in pursuit of justice.
“This is an example of the abuse of power, rooted in gender-based violence, that seeks to intimidate and silence women who dare to challenge the status quo.
The First Lady who noted that Ramadan and Lent coincided this year, said it is something that God had ordained before time.
She said: “It is the time of sober reflection for our Muslim brothers and sisters and even the Christian
She admonished everyone to take one person at a time and lend a helping hand to such, as this will go a long way in ameliorating the hardship of others.
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, said yesterday that there has been no record of presidential communication leakages in the Red Chamber in the eight months that Senator Basheer Lado has been serving as the liaison officer between President Bola Tinubu and the upper legislative chamber.
Akpabio, who stated this in the office of Lado, described his performance as unprecedented in the area of making communication between the Senate and Tinubu easier than in the past.
He added that with Lado, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje, the party will win the 2027 general elections.
Akpabio said: “Let me put on record that since Senator Lado’s assumption of office as Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed
Tinubu on National Assembly (Senate Matters), we have not had a single leakage of official communication between the presidency and the Senate.
“We have not had a single incidence of leakage. Because in government, that’s what we call the right to know.
“The right to know. And then of course, where government business is done, on pages of newspapers and on social media through leakages of information , it negatively rubs on national security.
“So I want to thank you for upholding the tenets of what the government should be, what separation of powers is all about.
“Your performance in office generally within the last eight months, is unprecedented by transforming the office itself and making the synergy between the executive and legislature more robust and rewarding for the good of all .
“You are no doubt, a man of
colour, man of excellence, and a man of style who stepped into an office and transformed it for better result delivery as it is clearly with the way you keep track of all the bills passed by us and those assented to by the President .
“Ahead of 2027, with the Deputy President of the Senate, the National Chairman of APC , Dr Abdullahi Ganduje and your strategic self , Kano is already in the kitty of APC,” he said .
Lado in his welcome speech said in Akpabio, Tinubu has found not only a dependable ally but a statesman who understands the delicate art of governance and the importance of cooperation over confrontation .
“Mr. Senate President, your presence here is not only symbolic of the harmony between the Executive and the Legislature; it is a testament to the power of unity, the strength of shared vision, and the boundless possibilities when leadership is anchored on service.
brothers and sisters. They are having the Lent. God had ordained it to be so even at this time in a nation”.
Mrs Tinubu urged the Muslim umah to continue in the virtues they exhibited during the Ramadan, while always praying for God‘s mercy.
Earlier, the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, in her welcome remarks thanked the First Lady for the Iftar.
She urged everyone to remember President Tinubu and indeed the nation in prayers at all times.
Vice chancellor of Azman University, Kano, Professor Fatima Mukhtar gave the lecture on the spiritual significance and teachings of Ramadan Special prayers were also offered for the nation, the president and the entire citizens.
The coalition said such condescending and dismissive rhetoric was an open attempt to silence the voices of women advocating justice, saying it is wholly unbecoming of a public official.
The statement said, “We, as a coalition, demand an immediate and unequivocal apology from Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwaebonyi for his actions, and we call upon the senate committee members present to take responsibility for failing to call him to order during the hearing.
“The failure of the committee to intervene not only condoned this egregious behaviour, but also perpetuated a culture of disregard for women’s voices in the political space. This cannot and will not be tolerated.
“It is a stark reminder of how women continue to be marginalized in political and public discourse. Senator Nwaebonyi’s behaviour reflects an alarming disregard for the values of fairness, dignity, and respect.”
Osang further stressed, “Oby Ezekwesili is the former Minister of Education and currently the Chairperson of Women Political Leaders (WPL), who always stood firm in defending the right of women to be heard and respected in all spaces, particularly in politics.
“We will not allow this assault on our dignity to stand. Senator Nwaebonyi’s actions were an affront not only to Oby Ezekwesili but to every woman who believes in fairness, equality, and justice. Women across the country are watching, and we will not accept this disrespect.”
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced the arrest of three individuals suspected of vandalising power line installations in Agbogugu, Enugu State.
This achievement, the company said, is the result of a collaborative effort between community members and law enforcement agents on Sunday, March 24, 2025.
“The suspects were initially held at Agbogwugu police
station, Ozalla, then moved to the state CID and finally transferred to prison after their first court appearance. TCN officials are working closely with the police to ensure the vandals face justice.
“This incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to fight vandalism,” the company stated in a statement by its spokesperson, Ndidi Mbah.
It urged all host communities to remain vigilant and report
any suspicious activity to security operatives or to the TCN office to close them.
Vandalism, the TCN said, is an offence that affects everyone, undermining the nation’s efforts to provide a reliable and efficient transmission grid.
“By joining forces, we can protect our communities and ensure a robust transmission grid. Prompt reporting of suspicious activities will greatly contribute to preventing such incidents and bringing perpetrators to justice,” the TCN stated.
L-R:
The China Chamber of Commerce, early this morning, has denied report that a security officer attached to a Chinese firm in shot a Nigerian immigration officer on duty in Niger State.
In a statement by its Director General, China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, Dr. Cui Guangzhen, it said response was sequel to a statement credited to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
“Our attention has been drawn to the reports that Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior condemned the shooting of an immigration officer allegedly on the orders of a Chinese company operating in Nigeria in a briefing on March 27.
“Based upon the findings of police authority in Niger State, the incident mentioned by the Minister of Interior happened on the 21st of February, 2025 in Minna, Niger State.
“During a police action, the state police force was trying to effect an arrest of some local citizen who was suspected of stealing iron rods from a Chinese company.
“When encountering stiff resistance of the suspect, one of the police officers fired a shot and the bullet accidentally hit a passerby who was later identified to be an immigration officer,” the statement stated in part.
“The China General Chamber of Commerce attaches great importance to the reports and carried out an immediate investigation.
Fidelis David in akure
Students across all the tertiary institutions in Ondo State yesterday shut down Akure, the state capital over alleged rising
I formerly known and addressed as Solola oyemi now wish to be known and addressed as Solola oyemi miSan, ereomayemi. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.
I formerly known and addressed as oriPeloye olUWaSeyiTan omoTayo now wish to be known and addressed as oriPeloye olUWaSeyiTan PraiSe. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.
I formerly known and addressed as FarUk kabirU now wish to be known and addressed as FarUk mohammed kabir All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.
This is to notify the general public that my names Gloria ebele oSSai,oSSai ebele Gloria, ebele Gloria oSSai, Gloria oSSai, oSSai, and Gloria ebele All refers to one and the same person. Henceforth, I wish to be known and addressed as Gloria ebele oSSai. All documents remain valid. The general public should please take note
I, oGbU okoraFor iheanachor had my name and date of birth wrongly entered as oGbU okaFor iheanachor and date of birth as 11th September 1961 instead of 21st September 1961 and wish to state that my correct name is oGbU okoraFor iheanachor and my date of birth 21st September, 1961. All former documents bearing the wrong name and date remain valid. General public please take note
cases of kidnappings and other criminal activities in the state.
The protesters, who were led by the NANS South West chairman, Oluwarotimi Joshua, carried placards with different inscriptions, chanting solidarity songs.
Particularly, they blocked major roads in Akure, the state capital, obstructing vehicular movements for several hours as they called on the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa and security agencies to be sincere in addressing various security challenges in the state.
Notably, the students accused the state governor of neglecting their safety and demanded urgent action to address the worsening situation.
Also, they accused the state governor of paying lip service to the security of lives and property in the state.
On their welfare, the students lamented the government’s failure to address their demands despite multiple engagements and peaceful dialogues.
More so, the protesters highlighted the deteriorating conditions of tertiary institutions in the state, the lack of studentfriendly policies, and insecurity affecting students, particularly those undergoing the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme.
Meanwhile, attempts by the state Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi to disperse the protesters and clear the roadblocks were met with resistance by the students.
The China General Chamber of Commerce, therefore stated as a matter of its findings.
“Neither Chinese citizens
nor Chinese companies were involved in the incident. The allegation that a Chinese company employee ordered
the shooting of a Nigerian immigration officer is utterly false.
“The Chinese companies in Nigeria abide by the laws and regulations of Nigeria and are committed to the economic and social development of Nigeria.
Gbenga Sodeinde in ado Ekiti
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has approved a major increment in the monthly subvention to the judiciary and the legislative arm of government as well as the subverted institutions in the state.
A statement signed by the Special Advisor on Media to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, explained that the increment
which amounts to N438.9 million monthly is to enable the institutions take care of the new minimum wage and the attendant consequential adjustment for workers.
Beneficiaries of the increment include the Ekiti State Customary Court of Appeal, Ekiti State High Court of Justice, Ekiti State Judicial Service Commission, and Ekiti State House of Assembly Service
Commission. Others are Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, (EKSU). Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Ikere Ekiti; Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti; College of Health Technology, Ijero-Ekiti and Non Academic Staff Union of Educational and associated
institutions. Similarly, the governor has also approved the payment of the outstanding 2020 leave bonus to local government workers in fulfilment of his promise to defray all outstanding entitlements of workers inherited from previous administrations. While restating the commitment of his administration to the wellbeing and welfare of workers and retirees.
Nume Ekeghe
Access ARM Pensions has reinforced its commitment to deepening customer relationships and improving service efficiency as it navigates the evolving landscape of Nigeria’s pension industry.
Speaking at the Human Resources and Pension Desk Officers (HR/PDO) Forum themed “The Pension Industry in the Next Five Years” in Lagos, the company executives unveiled strategic
initiatives aimed at modernising pension administration, integrating technology, and expanding financial security for contributors.
Associate Director of Access ARM Pensions, Adaora Ude, emphasised the company’s focus on a customer-first approach. She highlighted the rapid expansion of Access ARM Pensions’ client base following the merger of Access Pensions and ARM Pensions.
“We are here because we
hope this will be one of many conversations. We are learning together and building relationships. Previously, we served just over a million customers, but now we serve more than two million. This growth is exciting, but it also means we must ensure that our processes are efficient.”
Ude reaffirmed the company’s commitment to high service standards, emphasising the importance of responsiveness.
“Our approach is different. Some say we go the extra mile. That is because we understand that our customers are our priority. When a customer raises an issue, we do not rest until it is resolved,” she said. Ude added that Access ARM Pensions is investing in cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency recognising the transformative role of digital solutions in pension administration.
Segun Awofadeji inBauchi
The Bauchi State Multi-Sectoral Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition (BSMSPAN) 2024 -2028 has been officially unveiled with the aim of fighting unavailability of food and promoting nutrition in under-5 children and women.
The initiative, supported by Catalyzing Strengthened Policy
‘Nigeria’s Political
Gideon Arinze in Enugu
Action for Healthy Diets and Resilience (CASCADE), is a strategic approach to combat malnutrition and improve food security for a healthy society.
Launching the plan yesterday, the state Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau, stated that Bauchi State is poised to implement the National Strategic Plan of Action for Nutrition to help
the state move forward.
The deputy governor, who is the chairman of the State Nutrition Council (SNC), noted that the present administration, under the leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed has taken crucial steps to accelerate the reduction of hunger and malnutrition in the state.
According to him, “Having realised that malnutrition and hunger
cannot be eliminated through efforts of one sector, the state government has begun the development of nutrition-sensitive interventions in the agriculture, health, social protection, early child development, education, and water and sanitation sectors, in order to achieve the Zero Hunger Challenge (ZHC) including zero stunting among children under the age of five years.”
A former Minister of National Planning, Osita Ogbu, has blamed the culture of poor budget implementation across states on the political system in Nigeria which allows individuals to win elections not on the basis of their performance but ability to manipulate the process.
Ogbuo was speaking during a presentation on the research output from analysis of the 2025 budgets of various state governments in Nigeria by a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Development Studies (IDS), University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Dr. Uzochukwu Amakom.
In his address, Ogbu, a former director at the institute, said that some governors do not care about the budgets in their states and how it is implemented because they did not win in the first place with the support of the people, hence they are not committed to working for them.
“From the first day in office, many governors are already focused on re-election, they don’t care about their performance and that is why they only make budget provisions but fail to release funds for implementation,” he said.
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Coca-Cola Foundation has announced that it has improved access to safe water for over 16,000 people in Borno State.
In a statement to mark the World Water Day, the foundation said that it had
been advancing solutions that were helping to provide safe drinking water to those living in vulnerable communities and water-stressed regions, through its “Strengthening Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Service Delivery (S-WASH) initiative.
The World Water Day raises
awareness of the approximately 2.2 billion people living without access to safe water, according to the United Nations.
It said that the S-WASH initiative had impacted communities, healthcare facilities and public schools in Borno State, which is a water-stressed area in Nigeria that is experiencing a severe water crisis.
The foundation said that through the S-WASH initiative, which is implemented locally by the Global Environment and Technology Foundation (GETF) and WaterAid.
Duro Ikhazuagbe with agency report
Napoli President, Aurelio De Laurentiis, appears not relenting in his quest to reap bountifully before allowing Victor Osimhen to leave the Italian Serie A club on a permanent basis in summer.
The Super Eagles striker who was frustrated in last summer transfer window but the Napoli Chief but got a lifeline with a loan move to Turkish Galatasaray, is wanted again by top clubs in Europe.
According to Sky Sport Switzerland, as another window is approaching, De Laurentiis is sounding out a note of warning to Premier League clubs like Manchester Unite and Chelsea who wish to sign Osimhen that the striker will be sold to the highest bidder.
De Laurentiis is staking a bidding war for Napoli to get as much money as they could from the Osimhen transfer.
The release clause for the 26-yearold 2023 African Player of the Year is 75 Million Euros and he still has a year left on his contract with Napoli. Osimhen himself has insisted he is focused on winning a third straight Turkish Super Lig title on
Victor Osimhen...Napoli
loan at Galatasaray and will not be drawn into any transfer talks when reporters sought his opinion on the matter.
Besides admirers in the Premier League, Juventus in Serie A are also interested in Osimhen, PSG could also make another bid for him. Just yesterday, it was reported that Barcelona were also interested the Nigerian marksman.
Saudi Arabia Pro League sides,
The battle for Africa’s sole ticket to the 2026 ICC Men’s U-19 Cricket World Cup in Namibia and Zimbabwe begins today as Nigeria hosts five other contenders in Lagos.
Six of Africa’s most talented youth cricket teams—Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, and hosts Nigeria will compete for the ticket in a 50-over tournament over eight days.
The matches will be held at two iconic venues: the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Cricket Oval and the University of Lagos (Unilag) Cricket Oval, both facilities have been optimised and certified ready for the cricket action.
The qualifiers will kick off with two thrilling opening encounters today as Nigeria will face Namibia at the TBS Oval, while Kenya will take on Sierra Leone at the Unilag Oval.
Following the arrival of the six teams on Wednesday ahead of the tournament, the teams took to the TBS Oval for practice as the captains also faced the media to talk up their ambitions in Lagos.
As the six captains took turns to field questions from the Nigerian media, the underlying tone of their modest speeches was the desire to achieve.
Nigeria’s Captain, Kareem Gafar, Yash Gohil of Kenya, Laksh Bakrania of Tanzania, Olipa Gerald of Uganda, Francois du Plessis of Namibia and Sierra Leone’a Raymond Coker all expressed their enthusiasm ahead of the tournament.
President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Uyi Akpata, expressed his excitement about hosting the event, stating, “Nigeria is thrilled to welcome these talented young cricketers and their supporters to Lagos.
A Hilal and Al Nassr have also not given up on the player who missed moving to the Middle East last summer.
Meanwhile, Galatasaray Vicepresident, Abdullah Kavukcu, has revealed that the Istanbul side are making moves on how to seal Osimhen’s permanent stay in the Turkish capital city.
Kavukcu revealed that his side will do everything they can to sign
the 26-year-old but will definitely face some tough competition from Premiership clubs.
“Osimhenwill announce his decision in April. At the moment, five of the world’s top clubs are interested in him.
“His arrival here was a dream - he came, and for now, he is playing with us. In January, there was talk of a transfer, but he stayed.
“He loves Galatasarayvery much.
Right now, he is the dream of all our rivals. Although we are focused on winning the title, we have not had direct discussions with Victor yet. There is no point in talking about it now.
“Galatasaray are a top-level club - if it weren’t, Victor wouldn’t have come. His stay at Galatasaray is not as impossible as it may seem,” concludes the top official of the Turkish champions.
Onyeocha
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for initiating the Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF), noting that it wil help boost and promote sports tourism in the region while also discovering talents for national and international competitions.
“This is a huge opportunity provided by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC),
and I want to encourage everyone of you to take this seriously.
From here, talents could be discovered for national and international competitions,” the governor said during a visit to the state’s athletes camp at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre (DASAC) in Ikot Ada Idem in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area.
The NDSF host state is also aiming to top the medals table
as the state Governor during the visit promised cash reward for podium finishers.
He made the promise when he addressed some athletes from the state during an unscheduled visit to the DASAC camp.
Eno said his administration remains committed to sports development and urged the athletes to reciprocate the gesture by making the state proud at the games, assuring that the
government will reward all the medalists.
“We cannot host this event and don’t win medals, so for every Gold, Silver or Bronze medal, there will be reward. I will receive you immediately after the games and I will reward the winners.
Over 300 athletes will represent Akwa Ibom in 17 sports at the Niger Delta Games starting from April 1 to 9 across different centres in the state.
This April, the Abuja Guards Polo Club is bringing double the excitement with two back-to-back tournaments, giving polo lovers and socialites a spectacular way to celebrate Sallah and Easter.
From April 3rd to 6th, 2025, the Sallah Tournament will open the month, bringing together members of the prestigious club for an exciting display of skill, camaraderie, and the timeless tradition of polo.
For four days, top players from within the club will take to the field, engaging in a highly competitive and exhilarating showcase of speed, precision, and strategy.
The energy will be electric, with the unmistakable sounds of galloping ponies and the sharp crack of mallets filling the air.
Beyond the competition, this tournament offers something even more—an opportunity for families, friends, and polo enthusiasts to celebrate Sallah in a truly memorable way.
The best part? It is completely free. Polo fans will witness intense matches, while those seeking a sophisticated social scene will enjoy a refined atmosphere of hospitality, networking, and engaging conversations.
Speaking on the upcoming tournaments, Acting President of Abuja Guards Polo Club, Col. Yusuf Bello, expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “The Sallah and Easter Tournaments are more than just a competition; they are a celebration of tradition, sportsmanship, and community. Every year, we come together not only to showcase our passion for polo but to strengthen the bonds that make this club a family.
“This year, we are dedicated to delivering an unparalleled experience, combining the thrill of the sport with the elegance and camaraderie that define the Abuja Guards Polo Club. We eagerly anticipate welcoming our members and guests to Asokoro for an unforgettable four days of polo and festivity.”
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has recognised the role of sports in the unity of a nation, and the employment of youths.
“All over the world nothing can unite a nation faster and better than sports,” he said noting that “the upcoming NDDC Sports Festival will permanently unite all the States that make up the commission.”
The governor spoke yesterday at the Government House Owerri when he received the Torch of Unity of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) sponsored Sports Festival scheduled to hold in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital from April 1 to 9, 2025.
Addressing the sports men and women and Imo citizens who had gathered to witness the ceremony, the governor, ably represented by his Deputy, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, thanked the leadership of NDDC for instituting the Sports Festival,
maintaining that “the programme will help engage the youths into sustainable and gainful employment.”
He expressed delight in receiving the Torch of Unity, and welcomed all sports men and women present at the occasion to Imo State Government House, and promised to give all necessary support for the Festival to succeed, and for the participants to come back with many Gold medals.
Ekomaru disclosed that Uzodimma as a youth friendly governor has done a lot in the Ministry of Youths and Sports, emphasising that he has invested a lot in the development of youths in Imo State. She said the governor created the Ministry of Youths Development and Talent Hunt in the bid to ensure that the youths are gainfully and sustainably engaged.
She therefore reminded the contingents, on behalf of the Governor Uzodimma, that their Grand Ambassador, Emmanuel Amuneke is an Olympic Gold Medalist and enjoined them to follow his footsteps. “Go
Gov Diri to President Tinubu , NASS
“Again, I restate that this is the time for dialogue because it is a lose-lose situation for people of Rivers State. I urge Mr. President and the National Assembly to waste no time in inaugurating a committee of eminent personalities that will immediately intervene and bring back peace and the constituted government of Rivers State back to office” --BayelsaStateGovernor,SenatorDouyeDiri,urgesPresidentTinubuandtheNASStoset upreconciliationcommitteetoresolvetheRiversStateimpasse.
The plight of oil host communities and the need to ensure that funds allocated to them under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) are effectively utilized to deliver meaningful development in host communities came into sharp focus at a recent stakeholder engagement session held with the KEFFESO Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT). The KEFFESO HCDT serves as the representative body for various oil producing communities including Koluama 1 and 2, Ezetu 1 and 2, Okumbiri, Foropa, Fish Town, Ekeni, Sangana, Opu, Okumbiribeleu and Oginibiri in Bayelsa State, under the NNPCL/First Exploration & Petroleum Development Company (FIRST E&P) JV.
The Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, which consigned Petroleum Act and Petroleum Tax Act of 1967 to history allocated 3 percent Host Community Development Fund for the development of oil host communities. This significant legislation which brings the oil host communities into sharp focus is imbued with revolutionary fervor; for the first time, it created a special fund which ensures that allocated funds are properly channeled to foster tangible development in the oil producing communities of the Niger Delta and elsewhere. Given the pivotal role he played in the birthing of the Petroleum Industry Act, his tireless advocacy, strategic engagements with critical stakeholders within the legislative branch and the oil and gas sector, it incontestable that the PIA Act has the imprimatur of Mele Kyari. This assertion is without prejudice to the unwavering commitment and strong political will exhibited by the Buhari administration which broke the over two decades stalemate of the bill. The Act created a Host Community Development Trust Fund with the aim to cushion the negative impact oil exploration may have on oil producing communities. The fund would be managed by a Board of Trustees. Funding for the Trust Fund will be secured from holders of Licenses or leases who will contribute three per cent of the operating expenditures of the previous year in respect of all petroleum operations affecting the host communities.
Kyari’s unbridled enthusiasm and full support of the allocation to oil producing communities is driven by his strong passion to drive development in oil producing states, who suffered decades of neglect. In giving ringing endorsement to the Act, he believes that emplacement of the Act will galvanize massive development for oil producing communities. As corporate leader with human face, Mele Kyari, even before the PIA was deeply committed to interventions that would impact the lives of oil host communities as part of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of NNPC. It mattered so much to him that the Act would cure observed anomalies of the past by ensuring that the host communities take full responsibility and ownership of development projects that would be sited in their communities. This is in furtherance
of the commitment of NNPC to improve physical and material wellbeing of the people. Under this arrangement, only projects with direct developmental impact on the people would be implemented through the fund. The active participation of members of the host communities in the power structure of the organization emplaced to manage the fund will ensure that the resources will be used in a manner that conforms to the aspirations of the host communities. According to the spirit of the Act, the fund will be deployed in such a manner to engender sustainable development for the benefit of the host communities. Also, the fund will be used to advance and propagate educational development of the people, support healthcare and local initiatives that will enhance protection of the environment.
According to Kyari, “The whole concept of the Host Communities was the creation of the executive and the government decided that the PIB must have a provision in the law where the welfare of host communities is taking back to them.
“The Host Communities Fund is in control of the host communities; it is not one that will be managed by the oil companies. It is our responsibility as government to ensure that those funds are set up.
“The data along how much oil companies are spending in a year is no longer secret, the PIB has made it clear that you must disclose your spending for the purpose of taxation to the FIRS and therefore your cost of operation is no longer secret.
“Let us not forget that every attempt in the past to ensure that development comes to the host communities failed. Without any contradiction, I can tell you that the 13 per cent derivation was designed to make sure development comes to the Niger Delta region and by implication the host communities.
“Secondly, we have the NNDC to ensure that development comes to the Niger Delta Region and more so by implication the host
communities.
“So, this is an addition to complement what is on ground and we will make sure the existing structure delivers what it is meant to achieve. While the NDDC is doing what it should do according to its Act, the Host Communities Fund will drive massive development that will be driven by the communities.
“We know what the host communities go through, there are villages that are just 200 metres away from a flow station that don’t have drinking water, no hospitals, the schools are not operating and yet there are massive provisions that we have made as an industry to make this work but this won’t happen. Going forward, these communities will decide what they want and it will be done because the funds are available.”
The insight provided by Mele Kyari captures succinctly the neglect of oil producing communities particularly in the Niger Delta and underpins his determination to turn the page with the inauguration of the PIA. For decades, this neglect has led to environmental degradation, lack of basic amenities and social unrest. Government cannot be totally blamed for doing nothing to ameliorate the problems of the oil producing communities. Critical interventions to cure this systemic problem has recorded minimal progress at odds with billions of dollars that has poured into their operations by the federal government and players within the oil and gas ecosystem.
Even interventionist agencies such as Niger Delta Development Commission (NNDC) continues to be mired in lack of transparency and accountability. Instead of fulfilling its core mandate, over the years, the commission has turned out to be a cesspool of corruption, to enrich a few persons. At inception, NNDC was saddled with the mandate which included the formulation of policies and guidelines for the development of the Niger Delta region, conception, planning and implementation, in accordance with set rules and regulations, of projects and programmes for sustainable development in the areas of transportation (roads, jetties and waterways), health, employment, industrialization, agriculture and fisheries, housing and urban development, water supply, electricity and telecommunications. The commission was also saddled with the responsibility to survey the Niger Delta and come up with measures that will promote its physical and socio-economic development, prepare masterplans and schemes designed to promote the physical development of the region.
The achievement of these lofty objectives has remained a pipedream. As at 2022, a study and the forensic report, commissioned by the Social Action in conjunction with MacArthur Foundation on the activities of the commission spanning 20 years revealed that 12,000 contracts were abandoned. Among other underhand dealings, the study found that personnel of the commission diverted the larger chunk of payments made to contractors who as a result abandoned the projects. The
report also discovered that the region lost over N15 trillion or $40 billion to 13,377 contracts awarded and 12,000 abandoned.
After NNDC gulped trillions with modest impact, the consensus of opinion is that everything should be done to ensure that KEFFESO Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) does not go the way of the commission. The deepening of NNPCL’s activities in this sphere underscores its belief in the importance of stakeholder collaboration in driving socio-economic growth within oil producing communities. In furtherance of this objective, NNPC is leaving no stone unturned; Mele Kyari is resolute in directing PIA funds towards key development projects in education, healthcare and infrastructure. Attempts in the past to ensure that oil companies provided for the host communities were impaired because it was not carried out in the right manner in the name of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects.
As the team leader in NNPCL, he has left no one in doubt about the sustenance of robust strategic engagements by the company. According to him, “Our mission is clear. We are committed to fostering lasting peace, creating economic opportunities and transforming the Niger Delta into a model of unity and progress. NNPCL stands with the Niger Delta as it builds a prosperous future that is driven by mutual respect and collaboration.”
After initial delays in getting the Trust to take-off, NNPC and other critical stakeholders have put in place, processes to ensure that oil host communities enjoy projects covering infrastructure, social, economic and human capital investments that will lead to sustainable development of the people and the communities. Recently, in Rivers state, HCDT in conjunction with joint venture operators, Green Energy International Ltd. (GEIL) and Lekoil Oil Joint Venture kicked off several projects in the first phase of the implementation of the five year development plan in three of their host communities namely Ugama Ekede, Ayama Ekede, Asukama and Asukoyet in Ikuru Town of Andoni Local Government Area of the state. The projects include 1Km access road into Ugama Ekede, scholarship for students in primary, secondary and tertiary schools, bursary for university students in Ugama Ekede, a town hall, a box culvert in Asuk-ama and a road project in Asukoyet.
NNPCL under Kyari strongly believes that the institutionalization of the community development trust initiative and constant stakeholder engagements will engender the much needed governance, transparency and accountability in community development efforts. NNPCL has already stamped its leadership footprint on these initiatives and for the foreseeable future, will continue to provide remarkable guidance which it hopes will usher in a new era of lasting peace and economic prosperity to the oil producing communities in the Niger Delta.
•Sotonye Princewill contributed this comment from Port Harcourt, Rivers State.