FRIDAY 7TH MARCH 2025

Cardoso: National Theatre Catalyst to Unlocking $25bn Potential in Creative Industry

Massive transformation to world-class structure, again, testimony to Nigerian spirit ...we

Speaking

Committee,

www.thisdaylive.com

Senate Suspends Akpoti-Uduaghan, Akpabio Gives Window for Reconciliation

Strips her of security aides, banned from National Assembly premises, warned against parading self as senator while suspended Injustice won't stand, Kogi senator vows Akpabio explains his Obajana experience during Natasha's wedding First Lady says senate a mature institution, deserves respect, charges women on excellence Ezekwesili: it’s vicious abuse of power

OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF ABUJA CREATIVE CITY...

L-R:

Nume Ekeghe Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has said

Mr. Bayo Omoboriowo, founder, The Creative Park, and Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, at the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of Abuja Creative City in Abuja, yesterday

L-R: Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, during the inauguration of the newly constructed Demurin/Agidi and Church Roads in Agboyi-Ketu, yesterday

United Kingdom (UK) Foreign Secretary, David Lammy (left), and Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, during bilateral engagements between Nigerian and UK delegations at Wilton Park, England… recently

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate, yesterday, suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, for

LAUNCH OF THE NATIONAL HEALTH FELLOWS PROGRAMME...

L-R: Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate; and Honourable Yusuf

Uzoka-Anite: National Electronic Assets Register Will Boost Nigeria's Rating with Creditors, Unlock Investments, Others

FG committed to transparency, accountability, efficient asset management, says AGF

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, yesterday, said the National Electronic Assets Register (NEAR) will improve the country's capacity to access funding from development partners and creditors, as they would see it as a "going concern and place to invest".

The register is expected to boost transparency and provide real-time access to information about assets owned by the federal government.

Uzoka-Anite said the register, which was long overdue, would also help to address debt sustainability issues.

Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein, also described the register as a milestone in the federal government's commitment to transparency, financial accountability, and efficient asset management.

Madein stated that the initiative will provide real-time public access to the federal government's Property, Plant, and Equipment (PPE).

Uzoka-Anite and Madein spoke in Abuja at the official launch of the National Electronic Assets Register (NEAR) and a compendium of Federation Account Revenue Allocation: Federal, States, and Local Governments in Nigeria.

Uzoka-Anite lamented that 65 years after independence, the country was yet to produce a good balance sheet, and had been reporting huge negative assets.

She said though Nigeria had

quality assets, it was difficult to trace and record them to better gauge the true health of the country.

But Uzoka-Anite said the advent of NEAR will ensure that assets were adequately tracked and recorded. She said this would further boost the country's fiscal position by improving liquidity inflows and unlocking more investments into the country by leveraging its fixed asset.

The minister also commended the AGF for choosing to have a record of Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) disbursements published so that it would be readily accessible to data users.

Madein said the launch of the register was not only a digital initiative, but also a "journey of transforming the way we manage public resources, a journey that is essential for the sustainability of our nation's finances and the integrity of our financial systems".

She said, "This initiative aligns with the federal government's commitment to ensuring that the management of public funds and assets is carried out in the most transparent and accountable manner."

Madein stated that assets remained the backbone of any economy, adding that for any government, public assets are a significant part of its balance sheet, influencing not just the financial position but also its ability to deliver services to the citizens.

She said, "The importance of transparency in asset management cannot be overstated. It ensures that we know what assets we own,

where they are located, and how they are being used. This is not just an accounting exercise; it is a matter of public trust.

"The National Electronic Assets Register is designed to give real-time access to information about the assets owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

"This digital registry will increase transparency and will serve as a central point where the public, policy makers, and government agencies can access and track the nation's assets.

"By doing so, we are fostering greater accountability, which is es-

sential to prevent mismanagement, fraud, and corruption."

The AGF also said, "When citizens can see how public assets are being managed, they can hold their government accountable. Whether it is infrastructure, equipment, or other forms of public property, every asset must be accounted for.

"This register is a step toward ensuring that the government's assets are being put to the best use for the benefit of the Nigerian people."

On the FAAC publication, the AGF disclosed that the compendium took account of disbursements from January 2020 to December 2023.

She said the compendium was a testament to her office’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of its finances.

Madein said, "It provides a detailed breakdown of the revenue allocation to the three tiers of government serves as a vital tool for policymakers, researchers, students, national and state assemblies and the public.

"The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Section 162, stipulates that all federally collected revenues should be paid to the Federation Account monthly and shared to the three tiers of governments and the revenue components are made

up of oil and non-oil revenues.”

According to her, the compendium provides a comprehensive analysis of the revenue allocation to the federal, states, and local governments, including detailed tables, charts, and graphs that illustrate the trends and patterns in revenge allocation. "A similar compilation was made 1999 to 2019. This publication is a follow-up to the effort of the earlier editions," she explained. Madein decried the slow pace of legacy asset rendition by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), which had negatively affected the federal government’s fiscal position.

Nigeria Becomes 77th Member of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

Ndubuisi Francis

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, has officially received Nigeria’s membership certificate as the 77th member of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

A delegation from EBRD, led by Heike Harmgart, presented Nigeria’s membership certificate to the minister in his office in Abuja, Thursday.

The presentation featured discussions on future collaboration, a statement issued by Director,

Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga, said.

The EBRD delegation, reportedly, conducted an investment assessment to explore potential areas of support, and as part of its commitment to Nigeria, it introduced Hamza AlAssad as the first Country Director to be based in Lagos.

While welcoming the delegation, the minister alluded to the macroeconomic reforms under the President Bola Tinubu administration, including fuel subsidy removal, fiscal deficit reduction, exchange rate stability, and tax reforms, to

FG Unveils Policy to Regulate Organ Transplant in Nigeria

To begin certification of health institutions

The federal government yesterday launched a regulatory framework for organ and tissue transplantation in Nigeria.

The policy document provides guidelines on such areas as ethics in transplantation, donor protection, transplant patients' safety, minimum standards in organ transplant as well as the procedure to ensure compliance.

Speaking in Abuja at the official launching of the "Standards and Guidelines for Establishing and Coordinating Transplantation Services in Nigeria", Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle

Salako, said the guidelines will restore trust in organ donation in Nigeria by promoting transparency, accountability, and adherence to international best practices.

He said that government will begin mapping and certification of all health institutions engaged in organ donation and transplantation to ensure they meet the highest standards of practice.

The minister also said the government will establish an organ donation and transplantation registry and banking system to streamline the management of organ donations across Nigeria.

"This document which was validated on November 13, 2024, represents a

significant milestone in our collective efforts to enhance organ donation and transplantation practices in Nigeria.

"As we know, organ transplantation is not merely a medical procedure; it is a life-giving opportunity that offers a second chance to individuals suffering from end-stage organ failure.

"For many patients, it is a matter of life and death, but organ transplantation provides hope and the possibility of returning to a fulfilling life," he said.

Salako said the initiative is a testament to our commitment to saving lives through ethical practices and robust oversight mechanisms.

The minister said the production of the document involved extensive

collaboration among healthcare professionals, legal experts, professional bodies, media organizations, and other key stakeholders. According to him, every detail was carefully scrutinized during the validation process to ensure the guidelines address the unique challenges we face in Nigeria.

Against the background of troubling incidents of unethical organ harvesting and other excesses within the organ transplantation workspace, Salako said the guidelines aims at restoring trust in organ donation in Nigeria by promoting transparency, accountability, and adherence to international best practices.

attract investment.

He highlighted Nigeria’s potential as a regional production hub, with growth targets set to reach seven per cent annually.

EBRD, an international financial institution established in 1991, sup-

ports economic development, private sector growth, and infrastructure investments in emerging markets. Its main focus is financing projects in energy, financial institutions, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and infrastructure.

FG Urged to Establish Research Development Council, Increase Investment in Research

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The federal government has been urged to set up Research Development Council (RDC) to coordinate research activities and ensure "effective utilization of funded research outcomes" in Nigeria.

This was part of the recommendations contained in a comminique rolled out at the end of the second edition of Research and Innovation Fair/Conference of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, (MOUAU), Abia State.

Government and industry stakeholders were also enjoined to increase investment in research and development "to foster innovation in local industries", adding that researches should be market-driven.

According to them, such researches that are governmentapproved and have outcomes should "be ready to be deployed

in industrial operations".

The conference participants identified "stronger collaboration between academia, industry and government (as) essential for translating research findings into practical solutions".

The experts drawn from fields of engineering, technology and agriculture stressed the need for Nigeria to leverage the endogenous (home-grown) technology for sustainable development of the oil and gas sector of the economy, as well as agro-allied industries.

"There is a need for government policies and incentives to support homegrown technological solutions and innovations in the Nigerian oil and gas and agro-allied industries," the communique said.

The conference noted that climate change "remains a significant threat to Nigeria’s agricultural and industrial sectors, necessitating (the need for) proactive mitigation and adaptation measures".

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Adamu Gagdi, during the launch of the National Health Fellows Programme and other priority health interventions, held at the Conference Center of the Presidential Villa, Abuja… yesterday

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI.

RESTORATION OF THE NATIONAL THEATRE...

Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso (middle), flanked by two of his Deputies, Ms. Emem Usoro (Corporate Services) and Mr. Phillip Ikeazor (Financial System Stability), and members of the Bankers’ Committee after a tour of the iconic National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, renovated by the CBN in collaboration with the Bankers’ Committee… yesterday

Alleging Economic, Political Motives, TCN DG Flays Recurring Vandalism of Power Infrastructure

Reveals advanced SCADA system for real-time monitoring, control of power infrastructure

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Director-General of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Sule Abdulaziz, yesterday, expressed deep concern over the persistent vandalism of the company’s power infrastructure, saying it is a major challenge to its operations.

Abdulaziz identified reasons for the acts of sabotage as both economic and political, saying they are posing significant threat to power supply in the country.

He spoke at a news briefing at State House, Abuja.

Abdulaziz was, however, quick to announce that TCN's Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, designed to enhance real-time monitoring and control of power infrastructure, was

now 69 per cent complete.

Commenting on the alarming rate of sabotage of TCN's infrastructure, the director-general said, “This is one of the greatest problems TCN is having, this vandalism.

“By the time they destroy our towers, it is very expensive for us to repair them, and the worst thing is that you did not envisage this will happen, so you don't have it in the budget.”

He explained that funds meant for expanding Nigeria’s power grid were often diverted to repairing damaged infrastructure, forcing the company to deprioritise much-needed upgrades.

According to him, "The money you are supposed to use to expand the grid, you will use it to go and repair those towers because people will be talking. Just after two or three

days, people will forget about the vandals, but they will be talking about TCN."

Abdulaziz cited a recent incident in Abuja’s Millennium Park, where vandals destroyed an underground cable linking Katampe to the Central Area.

He stated, "That is a very sophisticated cable. Only we know how much it costs us, apart from the revenue we lost for not supplying light to Abuja. Even the materials we used to repair that cable, we have to import them from China, we don't have it here."

He categorised the acts of vandalism into two – economic and political – saying some of the saboteurs steal components, like wires and sell them cheaply at scrap markets, unaware of their

true value.

Others, he said, intentionally targeted infrastructure to undermine government’s efforts.

He said, “There are some that are sabotaging the government because they don’t want the government to achieve something. Just like the one I said now, it is during this government that we generated 5,801MW.

"Somebody who is working against the government will not want to hear this, so they will go and bring down a tower so that they will say the government is not performing."

Despite efforts to curb the menace, Abdulaziz admitted that securing TCN’s vast network of transmission towers across the country was a daunting task.

He said, “We have done our best,

Alleged N138m Fraud: Former Women Affairs Minister, Uju Ohanenye, in EFCC's Custody

UN Climate Chief: Nigeria Needs Climate Action for Growth, Prosperity

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

UN Climate Change Executive

Secretary Simon Stiell has declared that a strong new national climate plan would "supercharge the Nigerian economy'', building on the country's climate leadership and economic progress.

The comments on Thursday capped the four-day visit of the UN climate chief to Nigeria, during which he met with senior government officials, civil society, and business leaders to discuss how ambitious climate action can drive forward the country’s economic growth and living standards, protect the environment, and power innovation.

Speaking at a symposium convened by Nigeria’s National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos, Stiell said bold climate action is vital to avert the disastrous human and economic impacts of global heating, but also to seize vast human and economic benefits for Nigeria and its people.

He said: “A strong new national climate plan can be the gateway to a new Nigerian era of growth and prosperity, fueled by clean and affordable energy, available to all.

"Clean energy and sustainable agriculture will create jobs, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s global and regional competitiveness.

"With 90% of Nigerians employed in micro, small, and medium enterprises, the ripple effects of green growth will be felt in every local community and economy.”

Stiell while highlighting that US$2 trillion was invested in clean energy and infrastructure in 2024 alone, said:

“It’s abundantly clear now that the countries who will seize the biggest benefits of the USD 2 trillion global boom in clean energy are those that invest in their people and their strengths.”

He emphasized that Nigeria has huge opportunities to benefit, through a national climate plan that promotes investment in clean energy, critical minerals, and domestic manufacturing.

According to an authoritative source at the Commission, the former minister is being quizzed over her roles in the alleged misappropriation, violation of procurement process as well as the diversion of public funds to the tune of N138, 413, 253.89. She was said to have committed the alleged infractions in the course of disbursing the 2023 budgetary provisions for the ministry.

Mrs. Ohanenye, according to the source arrived the Abuja

headquarters of the Commission around 11:00 am on Thursday and was received by a team of interrogators.

"Investigations by the EFCC showed that funds donated for the funding of P-Bat Cares for Women Initiative were diverted for her self- enrichment", the source said.

As at the time of filing this report, investigations are still ongoing and the minister was yet to be admitted to administrative bail.

we have engaged so many people, we have engaged the security forces, but it's not possible.

“If you look at the terrain of Nigeria, it's not possible to go and put a policeman on every tower."

Abdulaziz said TCN had partnered with security agencies, including the National Security Adviser’s office, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the police, to strengthen surveillance.

He said the firm was also engaging local communities to take ownership of power infrastructure by reporting suspicious activities.

He stated, “We are sensitising them and telling them, this is your own property. We are giving some peanuts, even some of them, we buy them phones...

“If you see anything abnormal here, this is the number you'll call."

He said TCN was exploring technological solutions, such as drones, to enhance monitoring.

According to Abdulaziz, the authorities have begun to recognise that ensuring security goes beyond the company’s core mandate.

“They have seen that when these things happen, the money we spend is too much, and we don't have enough manpower to man all these installations," he said.

Abdulaziz also disclosed that TCN's SCADA system was 69 per cent complete.

He emphasised that once fully operational, the SCADA system will strengthen Nigeria’s electricity grid, improve outage management, and help combat vandalism of power lines.

He stated, “From our work programme, in six months, we are going to finish SCADA. I mentioned that it is 69 per cent completed, and this project is funded by the World Bank. The World Bank was funding NETAP. In that NETAP, we have $486 million. It is out of it that we are doing the SCADA."

He added that the project was progressing well, with significant installations already in place at TCN’s new substation in Gwagwalada. Abdulaziz said, "By the time we have that SCADA completed, we will be able to see in real time whatever is happening on the grid.”

Commenting on power generation and distribution, Abdulaziz reaffirmed TCN’s ability to transmit up to 8,500 megawatts (MW), a capacity that remains underutilised due to lower generation levels.

He revealed that Nigeria’s highest recorded power generation stood at 5,801MW, well below TCN’s transmission capability.

He stated, “For the first time in our nation’s history, the power sector recorded a new and unprecedented peak generation of 5,801.84 megawatts of electricity on March 4, 2025, at 21:15 hours. The Transmission Company of Nigeria efficiently evacuated this bulk power to distribution load centres nationwide."

Abdulaziz expressed optimism that with continued investment, power generation companies (GenCos) could increase output to 10,000MW within the next two years, allowing TCN to fully utilise its expanding transmission capacity.

FOCAC Agreements: FG Moves to Implement MoUs Between

Olawale Ajimotokan in

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reiterated Nigeria's dedication to the full execution of the two Memoranda of Understanding, MoUs, established between the China Media Group and two prominent Nigerian public broadcasters - the Nigerian Television Authority and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria - during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing.

During a courtesy visit from the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, yesterday, the minister emphasized that these agreements

NTA, FRCN, China Media Group

aim to enhance bilateral collaboration in the media and communication sectors, thereby promoting a more profound partnership between Nigeria and China.

He noted that the MoUs cover essential aspects such as information sharing, content exchange, and technology transfer, which will bolster Nigeria's broadcasting capabilities and enrich the nation's media landscape with international best practices.

He explained: “China and Nigeria now on the bilateral level have a very comprehensive level of relationship. Meaning that we have taken it to the highest level possible and this has also led to the signing of about 10 Memoranda

of Understanding in Beijing and two of those MoUs are actually related to this ministry.

“The Nigerian Television Authority, which is the largest television network in the whole of Africa with 100 stations covering this vast territory and reaching over 200 million people.

“It’s a very important station and what NTA seeks to do with the relationship with China is to share not just news item but also technology and information sharing that will benefit both countries and we intend to do that.

“We also have the same thing with also one of the largest radio networks in Africa, the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria. These

two Memoranda of Understanding have already been signed and Nigeria intends to keep its own part of these agreements.”

He noted that factual and accurate information dissemination will further strengthen bilateral ties among nations and he sought partnership with China to fight fake news, misinformation and disinformation.

Idris also urged Chinese companies to take advantage of the reforms being implemented by the Tinubu administration and invest in the Nigerian economy.

In his remarks, Ambassador Dunhai promised to spare no effort to deepen the existing ties between Nigeria and China.

Abuja

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The immediate past Minister for Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy

Ohanenye, is currently being investigated by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

COMMEMORATION OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY...

L-R: Minister for Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Director, Administration & Protocol, Office of the Leader of the Senate, Ms. Tabitha I. Sallah; Special Assistant to the Senate President on Public Hearing and Events, Ms. Munis Abisola; President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; and Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, at the commemoration of the 2025 International Women’s Day, held at the Old Senate Chamber, National Assembly Complex, Abuja, yesterday

IWD: FG Okays Tech Committee on Financial Education for Women

Senate restates support for gender equality, talks up 35% affirmative action in parliament

Ndubuisi Francis, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Funmi Ogundare in Lagos

The federal government has approved a technical committee to streamline a robust mechanism for the provision of financial education for women as part of measures to empower them.

Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, made the disclosure in Abuja, Thursday, at an event organised by the commission to commemorate the International Women’s Day.

The event had the theme, “Accelerate Action - Empowering Women Through Financial Literacy and Inclusion.”

At the National Assembly, the senate pledged to initiate legislations that would remove all barriers to the progress of women in the federation.

The upper chamber, according to a statement by its media office, made the pledge when it marked the International Women’s Day.

It also pledged to ensure a 35 per cent affirmative action for women in the National Assembly and all governance processes consistent with the country’s National Gender Policy (NGP) and United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

SIFAX Group, also yesterday, empowered 500 female students through training, mentorship, and donation of essential supplies, including sanitary pads and educational materials, to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025.

This year's theme, “Accelerate

Action”, highlights the importance of investing in girls’ education and fostering future female leaders.

The outreach programme held at Apapa Senior High School, Lagos, featured motivational talks from senior female executives at SIFAX Group, who shared their career journeys, emphasising resilience, hard work, and the importance of education.

The SEC event to commemorate the International Women’s Day was co-sponsored by United Capital Asset Management Limited and Stanbic IBTC Asset Management. It witnessed the convergence of financial leaders and various women groups committed to advancing financial education and empowerment.

Describing women as pillars of the nation because of the very critical roles they played at all levels, Agama said the day was important as women were the ones to move the capital market to the next level.

He said, “What do we do in the capital market? We do so much, distribution of wealth. Every woman that has N10 makes sure she multiplies that N10 to N50. That is the nature of a woman.

“The objective of this government is to empower women; we must educate women and we will bring them to the fore of national recognition when it comes to the capital market.

“I also speak about the vulnerabilities of women, most of the ponzi schemes that we have in Nigeria, majority of the victims of these schemes are women, and the reason is very simple-the woman's heart is empathetic.

“All that she thinks about is how

to help her family; how to grow the provision of her family; that is all she thinks about.

“She thinks about her children, she thinks about her husband, she thinks about her father, she thinks about her mother. These are practical issues that we all are facing as we live our lives in this country.

“And so, it is very important why we speak about stock market and the ability to multiply investor and to grow investors and we also talk about the commodity market especially the stock commodity. we speak about the women.

“So, here we are celebrating the International Women’s Day, we want to provide enlightenment that the capital market can be of help to you and how it becomes of help to you?”

Agama stated that as part of SEC's partnership with the Ministry of Women Affairs to provide financial

House

education for women free of charge, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, had approved a technical committee in that regard.

While commending the minister for the partnership between SEC and her ministry, Agama said this would help in providing financial education for women.

In her address on the occasion, Sulaiman-Ibrahim solicited for an urgent and decisive action by all stakeholders to enthrone the empowerment of Nigerian through financial inclusion and literacy.

The minister commended SEC for its pioneering efforts in championing women’s financial inclusion and literacy.

"This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ is more than a slogan; it’s a call to all of us to turn conversations into concrete actions," she said.

The minister stressed the transfor-

Probes

SIFAX Group empowers 500 female students

mative power of financial knowledge, explaining that financial literacy is not just about understanding money but about providing women with the tools to make informed decisions that affect their future.

She stated, “When women are financially literate, they have the power to influence their own economic destiny, secure their families’ future, and become change-makers in society.

"However, despite the growing role of women in driving Nigeria’s economy, the minister pointed out that many Nigerian women still face significant barriers to accessing financial resources and participating fully in the economy.

"These barriers include limited access to credit, exclusion from formal financial systems, and susceptibility to fraudulent schemes. As a result, the minister emphasized the need for urgent action to address these

challenges.

"The federal government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has set an ambitious goal to empower 10 million women by 2027 as part of its broader strategy to transform Nigeria into a $1tn economy by 2030."

The minister stated that Nigerian women were already a driving force in the economy, owning around 40 per cent of small businesses in the country, a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and resilience.

In response to the challenges women face, the minister outlined key initiatives aimed at promoting women’s financial empowerment.

She highlighted the need to increase financial literacy among women, equipping them with the knowledge to make informed decisions about savings, investments, and wealth creation.

Take-off Grants, Bailout Funds, Allocated to MDAs from 2015 Till Date

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives has resolved to conduct an immediate investigation into the utilisation of take-off grants, bailout funds, and interventions allocated to Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDA’s) government institutions, and Government Owned Enterprises (GOEs) from 2015 to present.

The House resolution of the House followed the adoption of a motion moved at the plenary on Thursday by Hon. Kingsely Chinda pursuant to Order 8(5).

Moving the motion, Chinda said provisions of Section 88(2) (b) of the Constitution empowers the House to expose corruption, inefficiency or wastage in the management of public funds appropriated by the National

Lenten Season: Tinubu Tells Nigerians to Show Compassion, Empathy to All

Deji Elumoye

President Bola Tinubu has called upon Nigerians, in the spirit of the season of Lenten season, to show compassion and empathy to those around them.

In a message signed by him yesterday to signify commencement of the Lenten season, the President stressed that "beyond fasting and prayer, I urge all Nigerians to embrace the love of Jesus Christ by showing compassion and empathy to those around us.

"Let us extend a helping hand to those in need, comfort the griev-

ing, visit the sick, and uplift the marginalised. The Scriptures remind us that our love for one another is a true testament of worship.

"Let this season deepen our commitment to selflessness and service as we strive to build a nation where empathy and generosity shape our daily interactions".

President Tinubu in the Lenten season message stated, inter alia: "As the Lenten Season commences, I extend heartfelt wishes to all Christians in Nigeria and worldwide who partake in this sacred time.

"Beginning on Ash Wednesday, the 40-day period is a time of fasting,

prayer, and repentance, preparing believers for the joyous celebration of Easter.

"During Lent, Christians engage in earnest prayer, self-denial, almsgiving, and deep spiritual reflection. It is a solemn reminder of life's transient nature, echoed in the Holy Scriptures: "By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground since from it you were taken; for dust you are, and to dust you will return." (Genesis 3:19)

"This year's Lent, a time of devotion and reflection for Christians, coincides with the holy month of

Ramadan for Muslims, a season that similarly emphasises devotion, sacrifice, and acts of kindness. This convergence of religious observances is a testament to the unity in diversity that characterises our nation.

"Beyond fasting and prayer, I urge all Nigerians to embrace the love of Jesus Christ by showing compassion and empathy to those around us.

"Let us extend a helping hand to those in need, comfort the grieving, visit the sick, and uplift the marginalised. The Scriptures remind us that our love for one another is a true testament of worship.

Assembly.

The lawmaker said the effective utilisation of public funds was paramount to fostering accountability, transparency, and trust in the MDA’s, Government Institutions and GOEs

He noted that over the years, government has allocated take-off grants/ intervention funds to existing and newly established agencies and institutions to support their foundational operations, as well as bailout funds to various agencies designed to facilitate specific services and settle outstanding liabilities.

Chinda expressed worry that persistent allegations of the diversion and mismanagement of these funds, as well as the potential failure to utilise them for their intended purposes thereby undermining the effectiveness of vital public services and projects;

He expressed concern that the significant financial losses resulting from the mismanagement of these funds represented a substantial drain on public resources that could have been used for essential services and national development in-line with Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution.

Chinda emphasised that the misuse of Take-off Grants, Bailout Funds, and other interventions has severely compromised national development goals, hindering progress towards critical social and economic objectives.

He further argued that the misappropriation of these funds has led to a demonstrable deterioration in the quality of public services delivery and compromised the security of the nation thereby undermining public trust in government effectiveness.

The lawmaker lamented that the lack of stringent oversight and monitoring mechanisms might contribute to the inefficiency in the deployment of these resources, resulting in wasted funds that could otherwise be utilised to improve the good intended government policies and as well protect lives of citizens.

To this end, the House resolved to “Conduct an immediate investigation into the utilization of Take-off Grants, Bailout Funds, and interventions allocated to MDA’s, Government Institutions, and GOEs from 2015 to present.

“Assess compliance with existing regulations and guidelines regarding the management and reporting of these funds, including any instances of diversion or misappropriation.”

The House also resolved to make recommendations for the enhancement of regulatory frameworks, sanctions, monitoring systems, and accountability measures to ensure the effective and intended use of public funds in all relevant sectors and report back to within four weeks for further legislative action.

in Abuja

President Tinubu Offers Automatic Employment to 774 Health Fellows

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows, a pivotal initiative led by the Federal Ministry of Health to foster sustained improvements within Nigeria's healthcare system.

Tinubu announced the fellows' employment during the programme's launch at State House, Abuja, attended by Nigeria's development partners, senior government officials, and traditional leaders, including the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.

Speaking at the event held at State House Conference Centre, Tinubu told the fellows, who will monitor Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the country's 774 local

government areas, “You are hired,” emphasising his administration’s commitment to strengthening the country’s healthcare system.

The employment of the fellows, one from each of the 774 local government areas in the country, followed the recommendation of Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate.

Pate lauded their selection as the best among 360,000 applicants, underscoring the merit-based nature of the process.

The president's surprising gesture drew wild applause from the fellows and other guests at the event.

Tinubu praised the bold initiative and the rigorous selection process, and highlighted its significance.

He stated, “This programme

is a transformative initiative that underscores my administration's commitment to harnessing the immense potential of Nigeria's greatest asset—its young people. With over 60 per cent of Nigerians under 30, we boast one of the most energetic, resourceful, and dynamic youth populations globally. This presents unparalleled opportunities to drive innovation, economic prosperity, and social transformation."

The president said the National Health Fellows initiative was one of several platforms provided by his administration to empower Nigerian youths, and enable them to excel and contribute to national development.

He encouraged the fellows, pioneers in the health service programme, to fully embrace the

opportunities and view themselves as future leaders of Nigeria's health care system.

He told them, “Your selection is more than a recruitment; it proves our commitment to creating a nation where equal opportunities are available to every Nigerian, irrespective of social status, gender, or creed. You are this country's greatest asset, and we are committed to fostering a bright future where Nigeria stands as a nation of pride for all.”

The president emphasised the programme's vision to cultivate a pipeline of health leaders to drive meaningful, sustained change and innovation within Nigeria's healthcare sector.

He stated, “Healthcare is a critical pillar of national development. No

country can thrive if its people are unhealthy. An unsustainable health programme poses risks, while sustainable development hinges on a robust healthcare system. “You are the pillars of this vision, and I am proud to be here with you today."

Earlier, the health minister expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative and the crucial role the 774 fellows will play in revolutionising Nigeria's health sector.

He said, "I am here to inform you that the social movement to improve the health of Nigerians has begun, and we are already witnessing positive results."

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; youth minister, Ayodele

Militants Threaten to Halt Oil Production if FG Refuses to Wade into Rivers Crisis

A militant group, Niger Delta Rescue Movement (NDRM), has warned the federal government to bring a lasting solution to the political crisis in Rivers State or face a harsh attack on the major source of economy of the country.

The group also warned various players involved in the crisis to sheathe their swords, saying if the allocation due the state waas not released timely, it would hit the nation’s oil production.

The threat, THISDAY observed, has created tension in thestate, as

non-indigenes were also directed to consider their safety and leave the state as hostilities were just about to escalate.

A trending video from a social media platform saw the militants numbering about eight armed with AK-47 and other assorted riffles in an unknown forest, yesterday, chanting “asawana, asawana”, a common slogan among the Ijaw people of the Niger Delta region.

The Supreme Court had in its judgment of last Friday upheld the decision of the lower court by stopping the state allocation until a valid House of Assembly which

has Martin Amaewhule as Speaker, was constituted.

In a follow-up to the judgment, Amaewhule on Monday issued a 48-hours ultimatum to Governor Siminalayi Fubara to present the 2025 budget before the House. The ultimatum had since expired on the midnight of Wednesday.

A supposed leader of the group, though masked declared in a letter he read: “We the Niger Delta Rescue Movement wish to express our deep concern regarding the recent development in Rivers State threatening the smooth governance of our beloved state

under the leadership of Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara.

“It has come to our attention that certain individuals proclaim as lawmakers have issued a 48-hours ultimatum to the state governor to present the 2025 state budget.

“This blatant attempt to destabilise the state is not only alarming but also a clear attempt to a coordinated effort to incite hell potentially to lead to a state of emergency or even an impeachment."

The group called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene immediately and "put a stop to the action of the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike,

and his associate, whose intent was to drag Rivers State to avoidable crisis. The people of Rivers state like stability, progress and a conducive environment for governance.

“Furthermore, we must make it abundantly clear that the youths of Rivers state will not sit idly while our state is dragged into tumult. If the federal allocation due to Rivers state cannot be released promptly, we will have no choice but to take a decisive action including hitting oil production.”

The video also showed the militants saying, “We can’t generate money into the federation account

SENATE SUSPENDS AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN, AKPABIO GIVES WINDOW FOR RECONCILIATION

The resolution was sequel to the consideration and adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions during plenary.

Chairman of the committee, Senator Neda Imasuen, presented the report, signed by all the 14 members of the panel, which recommended a seven-point punishment for the Kogi Central senator.

The committee’s report indicated that Akpoti-Uduaghan was guilty of all allegations against her, as she failed to attend the public hearing and defend herself.

The panel also recommended that Akpoti-Uduaghan might not serve the entire six months’ suspension if she tendered a formal apology to the senate for actions deemed disrespectful.

During the deliberation on the matter, seven motions, based on the recommendations of the ethics committee report, were tabled for voice vote. The second motion stated that if Akpoti-Uduaghan apologised, there will be reconciliation. On this the voice vote was overwhelmingly no, but the senate president countered and ruled yes.

In addition to the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s salary and security details would be withdrawn, and she would be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises.

Her office would also be locked, but her legislative aides would continue to receive their salaries during this period.

The senate, however, ruled out the panel's recommendation on tendering of apology by ruling that such action would only be entertained after the six-month suspension and if she submitted a formal apology.

But Akpoti-Uduaghan, who briefly interrupted the proceedings, after the adoption of the report, said, “This injustice against me will not be sustained. I will fight against it.”

Interestingly, it was Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who moved for the amendment of the recommendation that sought to withhold the salaries and allowances of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s staff on the grounds of empathy.

Akpabio, who described AkpotiUduaghan’s husband as his friend,

explained how he slept for three days in a hotel located within the premises of Dangote Cement factory in Obajana, Kogi State, during the suspended senator’s wedding.

He also stressed that his attendance at the wedding signified his closeness to the family.

But sounding a bit different, First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, said the red chamber remained a mature institution that must be treated with respect.

At the same time, former presidential spokesman, Laolu Akande, raised concern about what he claimed were attempts to silence Akpoti-Uduaghan over her sexual harassment claim.

The seven-point Senate recommendation read by Imasuen included, “One, that the Senate does suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months for her total violation of Senate standing rules, bringing the presiding officer and the entire Senate to public opprobrium.

“Two, that for the Senate to consider lifting or reducing the duration of the suspension, Senator Natasha Uduaghan shall submit a written apology to the Senate before reconsideration.

“Three, that the Senate suspends Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan with effect from March 6, 2025, from all legislative activities.

“Four, that her office be locked up for the duration of her suspension and that she hands over all Senate properties in her possession to the Clerk of the National Assembly.

“Five, that for the duration of her suspension, she must not be seen within the vicinity of the Senate or the National Assembly, including her staff.

“Six, that her salaries and allowances, including those of her legislative aides, be suspended, and that all security details assigned to her be withdrawn for the period of her suspension.

“Seven, that during her suspension, she be barred from representing herself locally and internationally as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Chief Whip, Tahir Monguno; Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro; and senators Jimoh Ibrahim, Sunday

Karimi, Francis Fadahunsi, Mohammed Dandutse, Cyril Fasuyi, and Adams Oshiomhole, who contributed to the debate, commended the panel for a perfect job.

They also chided Akpoti-Uduaghan for disobeying the senate rules and lamented that the development had brought the image of the institution into disrepute.

They warned that not carrying out the recommendations of the panel would lay a bad precedent that could tarnish the reputation of senators.

But it was Kalu, who moved for the amendment of the recommendation that sought to withhold the salaries and allowances of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s staff on the grounds of empathy.

Kalu stated, "We cannot punish the aides of Senator Natasha for an offence they did not commit. They are staff of the National Assembly and they have no other farm or means of livelihood apart from the salaries they earn from the senate and, as such, it will be wrong for us as a senate to deny them and their families their salaries.

"I move that we should, please, amend that recommendation and allow them to earn their salaries."

The senate then agreed with Kalu’s suggestion and saved the Kogi senator's aides from losing their salaries for six months.

After a lengthy debate on the report by senators, all the recommendations were adopted by through a voice vote, with a slight amendment to the sixth recommendation, allowing her aides to receive their salaries and allowances in order not to suffer unduly.

Attempts made by Former President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, to stop the red chamber from withdrawing the security aides of the suspended senator failed as the senate president rejected them.

After the adoption of the report, Akpoti-Uduaghan briefly interrupted the proceedings.

She said, “This injustice against me will not be sustained. I will fight against it.”

She was thereafter escorted out of the chamber by the Serjeant-At-Arms personnel in the chamber.

Akpoti-Uduaghan quickly hastened

to her car, and rebuffed press interview, as she hopped into the black SUV already waiting for her and sped off.

But in her verified Facebook page last night, Akpoti-Uduaghan vowed to continue to discharge her duties as the daily elected federal lawmaker of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. She also pledged to provide quality representation to her constituents till 2027 and beyond.

She stated, “Against the culture of silence, intimidation and victimshaming; my unjust suspension from the Nigerian Senate invalidates the principles of natural justice, fairness and equity.

“The illegal suspension does not withdraw my legitimacy as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and I will continue to use my duly elected position to serve my constituents and country to the best of my ability till 2027 … and beyond.”

Earlier, before the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan had resubmitted a sexual harassment petition against Akpabio during plenary, this time on behalf of her constituents, led by one Zubairu Yakubu.

After confirming there were no legal barriers, Akpabio directed her to formally lay the petition before the senate.

Her petition was then referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, chaired by Imasuen, with a mandate to report back within four weeks.

Akpabio later told the senate that he once slept in a hotel located within the premises of the Dangote Cement factory in Obajana Kogi State during the wedding of Akpoti-Uduaghan for three days.

He described Akpoti-Uduaghan’s husband as his good friend, stressing that his attendance at their wedding demonstrated his closeness to the family.

The senate president said, “The person we are talking about here is the wife of my very good friend or so I thought. I slept in Dangote cement factory in Obajana, Kogi State, on the night of Senator Natasha’s wedding because the Kogi airport lights were in a poor state.”

He said as Senate President, he

had the responsibility to look at the rules of the senate.

Akpabio stated, “The rules give me the power to give ruling on points of order. I’m in the best position to interpret the rules of the senate.”

Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, denied threatening Akpoti-Uduaghan during a midnight conversation with her and challenged security agencies to investigate his claims.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s colleague from Kogi West Senatorial District, Senator Sunday Karimi, apologised to Akpabio for backing her for a leadership role.

The senate warned the Kogi

and not have our own share. Our workers deserve their salaries, our government needs the necessary resources to carry out essential development projects.” They, therefore, "urge all non-indigenes in Rivers State to consider their safety and leave the state promptly as the situation may escalate. We cherish the safety of all residents and urge for a peaceful resolution to this crisis.

“Enough is enough. We stand united for the rest and future of Rivers State. We demand respect from our leaders and focus on the development of our region."

Central lawmaker to stop violating the Standing Rules of the upper chamber.

Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Mohammed Monguno, gave the warning after reporting to the senate that Akpoti-Uduaghan had persistently refused to stand to her feet anytime the senate president led procession to commence the days plenary, in clear violation of the Senate Standing Orders 55(1).

Monguno said Akpoti-Uduaghan could not hide under a session of the rules to air her opinions and at the

CARDOSO: NATIONAL THEATRE CATALYST TO UNLOCKING $25BN POTENTIAL IN CREATIVE INDUSTRY

He said, "It is estimated that the creative sector can potentially generate about $25 billion, and this, to my mind, will be a great catalyst for that to happen. As this unfolds, it will drive prosperity, not just for creatives, but for all Nigerians.

“It will also serve as a powerful signal for collaboration once a project of this scale succeeds, others will take a cue."

Commending the Bankers’ Committee’s commitment to completion of the project, the CBN governor highlighted the depth of Nigeria’s cultural heritage embedded in the structure.

He said, "This is not just an edifice; it represents our history and culture.

The transformation of this landmark into a world-class facility is a testament to the Nigerian spirit.

“If you took people from here and placed them in top-tier arts venues globally, they would feel at home."

Cardoso reflected on the state of the National Theatre, once a symbol of national pride, before years of neglect led to its deterioration. He stated, "So, for me, as a Lagosian, I grew up here. I saw this in 1977, when we had FESTAC, and subsequent times from that, we used to come here for different events and activities, and we were very proud of what we had as Lagosian.

“Sadly, years later, due to lack of

maintenance and a whole host of things, the edifice, which was iconic at the time, unfortunately, fell into a state of disrepair and, then, abandonment.” He added that the transformation of the National Theatre from a state of neglect to a world-class facility stood as a testament to Nigeria’s resilience and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

Cardoso said beyond the impressive infrastructure, the upgraded venue met global standards, offering a space that rivalled top arts centres worldwide.

“So, to have been able to live today, to see this massive transformation to a world-class structure is, again, a testimony to the Nigerian spirit,” he stated.

He added, “And I think beyond just the structures, which is world class. And, to be frank and I've been to many activities in the arts internationally, if you are to take people out of here and push them to somewhere else in the world, they will feel very comfortable.”

Cardoso said, “For those who are going to be using this and for those whom this is going to be home to their profession, it's a giant step forward, and it is something that we all, as Nigerians, should be extremely proud about. The transformation of the national title itself is just the first stage in a bigger plan around Lagos, the creative industry around the state.”

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Olawande; and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III offered the fellows additional encouragement with inspiring messages.

President Bola Tinubu

Obituary

With total submission to the will of God, the family of Late Mr. Mark Nneji Anyanwu of Umunwoko Amato Avuvu in Ikeduru Local Government Area, Imo State, announce the death of their mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother

NNEOMA CELINE UCHAMMA

ANYANWU (NEE ADJAERO)

AGED: 102 YEARS

SHE IS SURVIVED BY:

Mrs Theresa Chizomam Diala

Mrs. Martina Achodor

Engr. Ignatius Okechukwu Anyanwu

Ms Magdalene Ngozi Anyanwu

Mr. Francis Chukwuma Chukwu

Mr. Innocent C. Diala

Mr. Raymond Okechukwu Achodor

Dr. (Mrs) Anuli Ngozi Anyanwu

24 Grandchildren, among whom is Rev. Fr. Ekeoma Chukwu.

21 Great Grandchildren, and numerous other relatives

AT THE MANGROVES ART EXHIBITION...

L-R: Painting Artist, Dr. John Debebs; His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, Olu of Warri Kingdom; and Curator & CEO of Crimson Fusion, Mr. Oriiz Onuwaje, at the Mangroves Art Exhibition themed “Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, The Mangroves, and Art” in Lagos, yesterday

NAFDAC Reopens Onitsha Drug Market After One Month Closure

Says volume of narcotics in Onitsha market enough to destabilise Nigeria

‘We've confiscated over 50 trailers of fake, banned, substandard drugs’

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has finally announced the reopening of the Onitsha Drug Market, located just before the Niger Bridge Head, in Onitsha, Anambra State.

South East zonal director of the agency, Mr. Martins Iluyomade, revealed reopening yesterday, after a meeting between officials of the agency, Anambra State Government,

and leaders of market unions.

The reopening came about one month after the market and six other adjoining markets in the area, including plumbing materials market, timber market, surgical materials market, science laboratory materials market, and many others, were closed down.

Iluyomade, who addressed government officials and leaders of the market before announcing the reopening, said, "What is happening here goes beyond only Ogbogwu (drug) market, it extends to other

markets around this area, and that was why we took the steps we did by closing down everywhere.

"I know the apprehension was much and people were asking why lock other markets that have nothing to do with drugs, and it was as if we were out to punish those who had nothing to do with drugs.

“We did not respond because we did not want to join issues, but we found drugs in all the markets we closed.

"What we found in other adjoining

markets was just as much as we found in Ogbogwu Market. We did what we did because if we did not, we would not cover the grounds we were able to cover.

"We had been here last year for an operation, but our men were beaten and even an officer of the federal republic was stripped naked for doing his legitimate duty.

“We had to lock up everywhere because if we did not, there will be a collateral damage. This is a major drug market, and if something goes

Sanwo-Olu: Lagos to Foster Environmental Sustainability Through Collaboration, Innovation

Segun James

The Lagos State Government on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to continually foster environmental resilience through collaboration and innovation for environmental sustainability.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu made this known at the Art Exhibition and Symposium titled: "the Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, Mangrove and Art" held at the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, Lekki, saying that the title of the event underscores the critical connection of environmental sustainability and creative expression.

The governor who spoke through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said the event represents a fusion of

culture, creativity, and commitment to address one of the most urgent challenges which is climate change through art.

According to him, we witness a powerful medium for advocacy - a means to highlight the fragility of our natural ecosystems while inspiring action.

He said mangrove forests are among nature’s most underappreciated ecosystems and they act as natural barriers against coastal erosion and flood surges while supporting local fisheries as well as providing livelihoods for many communities. He added that beyond their ecological services, mangroves play a critical role in combating global warming by storing vast amounts of carbon dioxide.

He emphasized that protecting mangroves is not just about conserving biodiversity but about safeguarding the future by preserving these ecosystems and strengthening the defenses against climate threats while honoring an essential part of the heritage.

"Let me reaffirm the unwavering commitment of Lagos State to combating climate change, protecting our ecosystems, and fostering a sustainable future. Our strategic initiatives - from mangrove restoration to progressive environmental policies - underscore this resolve" he said.

The governor encouraged everyone to continue to foster collaboration and innovation to create a greener, more resilient Lagos that will thrive for generations to come saying the State historic partnership with the

Nigeria Conservation Foundation has further amplified these efforts.

In his keynote address, Vice President Kashim Shettima said everyone stand at the confluence of three worlds which are the world of climate change policy, the world of mangrove ecosystems, and the world of art and creativity.

Shettima who spoke through the Special Adviser to the President on NEC and Climate Change, Mrs. Rukayat El- Rifai, added that at first glance, these realms might seem unrelated. But in truth, they are deeply connected, and their intersection may hold the key to tackling the greatest challenge of our time.

wrong here, drug supplies all over the country will be contaminated.”

He added, "We know that since the federal government was determined about sanitising this market, if there was any attack on us, our security men would have reacted and the damage would have been high.

“We thank Governor Soludo for his visit. When he heard what we did here, he called to express interest about the welfare of his people, and when we explained to him, he backed to sanitise the market. He later visited us and reiterated the same support as far as what we are doing is right.

"People were already bringing ethnic coloration into it, but I thank the governor for not listening to them.

In fact, the governor said there was need for us to save us from ourselves because if you use fake drugs, it will kill you without asking your ethnicity.

"The DG of NAFDAC took this assignment as if her life depended on it, and every day she kept calling to know the state of operations.

NAFDAC has also committed a lot of resources into this and she has made a commitment for fake drugs to be exterminated in Nigeria."

Speaking on the findings of the agency in the markets, the zonal director said, "It is saddening to see that we have people amongst us whose only way of making money is by destabilising the country and killing people.

"We have confiscated over 50 trailers of fake and substandard drugs.

We have many still in warehouses in town and we are coming after them. The volume of narcotics we saw here are enough to destabilise any nation.

“There is a link between the circulation of narcotics and insecurity. Check any country that there is insecurity and breakdown of law and order, you will see that narcotics is in high supply.

"This is a sad story the number of narcotics we have found here. The people dealing in it know the effect, but they are doing it because people say the sale of narcotics is more lucrative than cocaine.

"We have also seen people who deliberately go and bring substandard and fake drugs. People import tablets in nylon bags with no label and they will bring it here and put it in packs and put label on them for sale. We saw a lot of it. We saw medicine that had been banned as far back as 2007, but people are stocking it.

"Many of them were banned because they cause cancer, and new replacement produced, but people still stock them. That is wickedness.

“Another category is unregistered drugs. The volume of those medicines is usually small on the counter, but has large cache of them in warehouses outside the market."

Iluyomade said even some genuine drugs were stored in a manner that made them lose their efficacy and even become harmful, long before their expiration date.

Growing Economic Burden: Concern Grows in Abia as State Records 2,949 Glaucoma Cases in 2024 FG to Establish DDR Camp in Northwest to Rehabilitate Low-risk Terrorists

The federal government yesterday unveiled its plan to establish the second Operation Safe Corridor's Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) Camp to deradicalize and rehabilitate low-risk terrorists who willfully laid down their arms in the North-west zone.

The National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), Major General Adamu Laka, made this disclosure while addressing

a delegation from the Alliance of Sahel States, who were on a study tour at the Centre.

General Laka also stressed that the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has dislodged Boko Haram from its former strongholds and successfully degraded their capacity to wage large-scale insurgency in the region.

He said, "It is heartening to inform you that we are in the process of establishing the second Operation Safe Corridor Camp, which will soon be operational in the North-west zone.

"Various states are complementing the government's efforts; for instance, the Borno State government developed the Borno Model for managing the mass surrender situation in the state.

"Currently, the Technical Working Group to harmonize these models into a hybrid model has been inaugurated.

"Nigeria is your brother; we are facing the same threats. Let us come together as a team to solve the threat of terrorism, which is affecting the sub-region and preventing development."

Alarm bell has been set off in Abia State following increasing number of cases of glaucoma eye disease as the state recorded a total of 2,949 glaucoma patients out of 10,251 people tested in 2024.

Administrator of the Abia State Eye Health Management Bureau (AEHMB), Dr. Betty Emeka-Obasi, gave out the troubling statistics Thursday in Umuahia at the flagoff ceremony of World Glaucoma Week 2025.

She said the high figure of glaucoma cases emerged "at our Diagnostic Hospital Eye Centre (where) records show that we treated an average of 50 confirmed glaucoma patients every week from January to December 2024".

Mrs. Emeka-Obasi, who is also

the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Abia Governor on Special Projects, lamented that "glaucoma has become a prevalent health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in the South East region, including Abia State".

According to her, the situation in Abia was alarming because 90 percent of these individuals (diagnosed with glaucoma) were unaware they had the disease until it was too late".

Dr. Emeka-Obasi, who is an Optometrist, regretted that "by the time of diagnosis, over 50 percent of patients have already suffered irreversible vision loss".

"This is not just a health crisis; it is a societal and economic burden that affects families, communities, and our state at large. Another reason

why we must act now," she stated. According to the ABEHMB Administrator, the prevailing economic challenges in Nigeria "have further exacerbated the situation as many people find it increasingly difficult to access appropriate medical care, leading to a dangerous trend of seeking untested alternative treatments."

"These unproven remedies not only fail to address the disease but often worsen the condition, resulting in compounded visual impairments," the Optometrist said.

She called for community action in tackling the menace of glaucoma, noting that this year's theme, 'Let’s Beat Invisible Glaucoma', "underscores the urgent need for collaboration, awareness and action".

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Politics

Appraising Bagudu’s Scorecard as Budget and Economic Planning Minister

Raheem Akingbolu takes a critical look at the performance of the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator atiku Bagudu, since assuming office in august, 2023.

At the beginning of the current administration, a few political juggernauts who played pivotal roles in the triumph of President Bola Tinubu at the polls in 2023 were already singled out by members of the public as likely cabinet members.

Top among them were; Senator David Umahi, a former Governor of Ebonyi State; Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, the immediate Governor of Jigawa State; Senator Atiku Bagudu, the immediate past Governor of Kebbi State; and, of course,Mr Dele Alake, a two-term commissioner in Lagos State.

As predicted by analysts, Tinubu appointed some of the suggested names, but the President caught the political forecasters unaware of the portfolio assigned to the ministerial nominees. For instance, Alake, who most assumed would be appointed Minister for Information, was named Minister of Solid Minerals. Similarly, Abubakar Bagudu was posted to the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

Judging by his qualifications, Senator Bagudu, a 1983 graduate of Economics from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, who acquired his first Master’s Degree in Money and Banking from the University of Jos in 1989, was no doubt a round peg in a round hole. In 1992, he was a World Bank Scholar at Columbia University, New York’s pioneer Program in Economic Policy Management (PEPM). At Columbia, he obtained a second Master’s degree in International Affairs with specialization in Economic Policy Management.

Besides, his experience and giant strides as Governor of Kebbi State were also a pointer to what to expect from him as a minister.

In Kebbi, records show that Bagudu didn’t only manage the economy of the once-sleepy state, he reconciled it with the adequate sheer scale of development, which gave birth to a wellplanned layout, a beautiful aesthetic network of tarred roads and other legacy projects in the cities and villages.

Again, looking back at his antecedents, it was easy to conclude that the Minister was on familiar ground, though, having served as a special assistant to the Minister of National Planning, Mr. Kalu Idika Kalu, under President Ibrahim Babangida’s military government.

His roles and mandates were well spelt out at his new duty post. First, he must determine and advise on policies that will best promote national unity and integration and sustain the Nigerian nation. He must ensure social justice and human welfare at all levels of Nigerian society and be expected to focus on key national development issues and suggest ways for their efficient resolution.

In particular, Senator Bagudu was expected to determine how best the fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy contained in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 could achieve the significant goals of optimal development and suggest amendments that may be required from time to time to achieve those objectives in the light of encountered realities. Along with this, the new Minister was given the mandate to provide a national focal point for coordinating and formulating national policies and programmes by occasionally drawing up national economic priorities and programmes and mapping out implementation strategies. Under this, he was also expected to coordinate formulating and implementing government programmes in annual plans, budgets, and medium-term and prospective plans at Federal, State and Local Government levels.

Perhaps central to the aforementioned is the need to enhance the efficiency of public sector spending and general national economic management by continuously visualizing the international economic system in target horizons and identifying how best Nigeria can adapt to realizing the objectives and competing efficiently in the global system.

Sworn in on 21 August 2023, Bagudu saw his mission as coordinating the recovery of a dying economy that needed life-saving oxygen to survive and move on the path of the macroeconomic stability required for domestic and foreign investment inflow.

Less than two years after assuming office, it’s clear that Bagudu has lived up to expectations as the economy has seen significant improvements under his leadership at the helm of affairs of the budget Ministry. His legislative experience as a senator, representing Kebbi Central, 2009-2015,

and executive experience as Governor came in handy as he quickly settled down to his primary task of planning the economy through systematic budgeting and coordination of consensus around issues of national concern.

In budget function, Bagudu used his experience as a former federal legislator to successfully negotiate the 2023 Supplementary Budgets and the 2024 fiscal estimates and their amendments with the National Assembly. All were passed and assented to without the usual rancour that attended such exercises in the past.

Also, to his credit, under the leadership of his principal, President Tinubu, the 2024 budget was submitted to the National Assembly as and when due. The President assented to it on 1 January 2024 in line with the budget cycle of January-December.

The N28.77 trillion budget achieved its objective of reducing the fiscal deficit to support macroeconomic reform objectives of addressing low investments and low revenue issues, increasing capital expenditure, supporting the vulnerable populations affected by reforms, and increasing allocations to key sectors and innovative schemes.

The 2023 Supplementary Budget of N819 billion was re-negotiated to provide N500 billion for agricultural intervention, energy transition, presidential conditional grant to NANO businesses and MSME credit support. Another N2.17 trillion 2023 Supplementary Budget focused on Security, Infrastructure (Roads and FCT), Agriculture, Wage awards to public servants, and cash transfer provisions were successfully negotiated.

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FG Enters into Partnership to Develop Creative City in FCT

The Federal Government has taken steps to develop a Creative City in the Federal Capital Territory through the Public-Private Partnership Scheme.

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy (FMACTCe) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Creative Park Limited to establish The Creative Park, Idu.

The 30-hectare Creative City in Abuja is aimed at transforming Nigeria’s creative, and cultural industries.

The MoU, signed on Thursday in Abuja by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa and the Chief Executive Officer of the Creative Park Limited, Mr Bayo Omoboriowo, sets the framework for a public-private partnership (PPP) designed to drive economic diversification, empower creative talent, and boost cultural tourism.

Conceived as a world-class hub, the Creative Park, Idu will offer state-of-the art infrastructure, training, and investment opportunities, positioning Nigeria as a global leader in the creative economy.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for the creative sector to thrive.

According to Musawa: “Today is a day I am extremely proud of because I can see President Tinubu’s vision coming to fruition. Being Nigerian is one of the greatest honours of my life.

“The vision President Bola Tinubu is not just about building the creative industry, it is about empowering future generations.

“When you step into Nigeria, you feel a different energy. We are a great people, and it is because of our content and creativity.

“We are a kaleidoscope of cultures and ethnicities, and that is what makes us one

of the greatest people on earth”.

The Minister stated that the creative industry has the greatest power of messaging with the ability to reach and empower Nigerians across socio-economic backgrounds.

“Not every Nigerian can be a lawyer, benefit from oil wealth or attend on Ivy league schools. But every Nigerian, whether in a rural or urban community, has the ability to create content on their phone, become an influencer, or express their cultural identity. This industry that has the ability to change Nigeria’s image and reposition the country on a global stage,” she said.

Musawa commended Omoboriowo, former official photographer to President Muhammadu Buhari, for his dedication to the creative industry and his commitment to national development.

“This PPP is in safe hands because it is in the

hands of people who care about the creative industry and are deeply rooted in the industry. This park is going to be the direct personification of the great vision for Nigeria as Africa’s creative and cultural hub,” she said.

Also speaking, CEO of The Creative Park Limited, Mr Omoboriowo, described the initiative as a transformative step toward unlocking Nigeria’s creative potential.

‘’Through Abuja Creativity City, we are laying the foundation for a thriving ecosystem where creativity meets opportunity, where ideas become industries, and where culture drives economic growth.

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TAX REFORM BILLS: THE VERDICT

At last, the bills received considerable support at

BADENOCH AND CHIMAMANDA: WORDS AND VULTURE

Kemi got the desired flogging, but they got it wrong with Chimamanda’s new book, reckons JOSHUA J.OMOJUWA

· Who got the people’s mandate in Edo State? asks AUSTIN ISIKHUEMEN

MANDATE: IMPLICATIONS AND APPLICATIONS

A political mandate is the authority to carry out a policy, regarded as given by the electorate to a party or candidate that wins an election. As elections are the only accepted mode of leadership attainment in a democratic setting, this definition is therefore a reference to nations (and sub-nationals) who have chosen the democratic route to governance. This is a requirement by the grundnom called the constitution, whether written, as in the United States and Nigeria, or unwritten, as applies in Britain. This does not apply, for instance, to Kim Jung Un’s North Korea where the ruler is the law.

The mandate is assumed given once election is won, legally, by a political party or candidate. A mandate is not given in a vacuum or carte blanc. It is based on the sum total of what the candidate and his party, the platform for political power contestation, promise the electorate during electioneering. Such promises are documented in a manifesto. The campaigns provide the opportunity for the candidate and his/ her party to share these promises and plans with view to convincing the voters to give him/her their mandate to better their lot through the implementation of his/her manifesto.

It therefore implies that the election of a political party is an indication that majority of the voters believe that that party’s manifesto, when faithfully implemented, will improve their living conditions and take their polity to a better place. It is also a repudiation by the majority of the voters of the manifestoes of those who lost, or, at best, a verdict that their plans are less likely to take the people to where they want to be. A loss could also be interpreted as a rejection of the candidate or his party based on antecedents and voters' impressions, no matter how subjective.

A mandate, freely given, is a solemn trust by the people who put their immediate future, based on the constitutional tenure, in the guiding hands of the elected, with the implicit belief that he will, in all his/her decisions, policies and programmes, put their interest first. The instrument for checking faithful adherence to the promises is that document, the manifesto, and a fearless legislature which is unfazed by the executive to demand accountability on behalf of the people they represent.

What if the mandate was not freely given? What if leadership was taken at gunpoint as in a military coup, or stolen via election manipulation and rigging? Does a valid mandate exist in such situations? What is the basis of

commitment to the people when in such cases a real mandate does not exist or is, at best, tenuous? The power holder, knowing he/she was really not elected by the majority of voters, or that he/ she got the leadership mantle through a risky self-help that could have cost him his life had it gone wrong, is likely to ride roughshod over the people or merely pretend to have their interest at heart. Pandering to other forces will inevitably become an attractive, even feasible, recourse.

The manifesto of a candidate can be populist, and designed to persuade the general public and the voters that utopia is within reach through his/ her leadership. They can play on primordial sentiments and crude calls to obfuscating, meaningless mantra cloaked in nationalism, sometimes, religious bigotry or ‘traditional’ ethos. It is when the manifesto unfolds through the unveiling of policy thrusts and implementation that, sometimes, people begin to realise that elections have serious implications. As seen in Washington DC last week.

Even for a leadership whose election, and consequently, mandate, is not in dispute, the electorate can get surprises that make them rue the thought process that made them vote the way they did.

Some US Republicans are in this mode following the catastrophe that played out at the White House when uncouth bullying took the place of diplomatic discussions with a supposed ally. That finger-pointing, cantankerous, pugnacious duo are the mandate bearers and are doing what they promised but in a way the sane voters and allies across the Atlantic pond never expected. But the crude methodology may yet yield the result, injured egos and aghast allies not withstanding.

Nearer home in Edo, the matter of

who actually got the mandate reached a landmark crescendo at the litigation stage 3rd March 2025. The venue was far away from Benin City due to fear for the lives of the adjudicators and, lets face it, the plaintiffs and their legal team. The shootings close to the Tribunal’s seating venue, the rowdy atmosphere in the premises where known faces pursued security providers in broad daylight with government security agents looking on helplessly or even being threatened themselves, made the relocation to Abuja inevitable. It is a shame that Edo could not provide a secure environment for a civil litigation process.

The majority of the citizens of Edo expect the tribunal to do justice and make known the true mandate holder in the September 21 elections. INEC said it was the current office holder that the people elected and gave their mandate. Did INEC prove so at the tribunal? Did the party and the said winner - Senator Monday Okpebholo - and their witnesses, successfully, legally buttress that assertion? Did the plaintiff, Dr. Asue Ighodalo and his legal team, successfully debunk the INEC conclusion and pronouncement which they assert were based on incorrect computations and deliberate non-adherence to their own rules and the Electoral Act 2022? Only the Tribunal can tell, legally speaking. The people wait.

They wait for the Tribunal to do justice, not technicality. They wait, trusting that the expected pronouncement when finally made, would satisfy the majority who voted on 21st September 2024. The real winner, based on facts and law, should be pronounced, without fear or favour. They wait to see whether justice, at any stage in this judicial process, is beholden to influencing potentates as widely threatened by some or feared by others. They wait, to see whether the Judiciary will redeem itself by being seen to adhere scrupulously and fearlessly to the rule of law, both the letters and the spirit.

They wait, because Edo’s forward match to a future of hope and prosperity or matching on the same spot, even reverse motion to underdevelopment, depends on giving the mandate to the people’s choice. Their faith in the electoral process and institutions, and consequently, the nature of their future participation, whether it is going to be enthusiastic or cynically tepid, currently hang in the balance. They wait.

Isikhuemen writes from Benin City

At last, the bills received considerable support at the public hearings, writes ABDULLAHI ISMAILA AHMAD

TAX REFORM BILLS: THE VERDICT

The public hearings conducted recently by the two Chambers of the National Assembly have elicited positive responses from a broad spectrum of Nigerians, cutting across regional interest groups, government agencies, civil society groups, concerned individuals, the academia, and Labour Unions, among diverse others. Contrary to a few dissensions hitherto expressed in the media, almost all the stakeholders who spoke during the week-long sessions were unanimous in their declaration that the hallowed Chambers should pass the tax reform bills after a clean-up of the grey areas.

The public hearings were auspicious for all Nigerians desirous of economic growth and fiscal responsibility. They were also a watershed moment for the Federal Inland Revenue Service, which had been upbeat about the tax reforms. Indeed, the public hearings had rekindled hope in the tenets of democracy that guarantee freedom of expression and equitable space for cross-fertilisation of ideas. Without gainsaying the fact, the tax reform bills have been unarguably about the most thought-provoking issues in Nigeria today, drawing variegated perspectives and commentaries from even unlikely quarters such as the faith-based leaders, student bodies, and trade unions, which speaks much about the importance of the bills.

In the build-up to the public hearings, not many people believed that the bills would make it to the second reading, much less the public hearings. Even the Northern stakeholders who seemed unlikely to support the passage of the bills have softened their stance and have given valuable suggestions that would enrich the substance of the bills.

The Arewa Consultative Forum came to the public hearings well-prepared with a printed booklet that addressed their concerns. It concluded with an advisory that the bills should be "Well planned, properly communicated, strategically implemented and ample dialogue and political consensus allowed for the reforms to be accepted."

The concerns of ACF ranged from the composition of the proposed Nigeria Revenue Service Board as contained in Part 111, Section 7 of the bill, the unlimited Presidential power to exempt/wave tax payment as proposed in Section 75(1) of the bill, the family income or inheritance tax as contained in Part 1, Section 4(3) of the bill, to the issues around development levy and VAT. On the development levy, the ACF stated that unless the federal government is considering budgetary funding for TETFUND, NASENI and NITDA, it does not see the "wisdom behind the plan to replace (them) with NELFUND".

The position of the North was equally reinforced by the Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria, Northern Elders Forum, Kano State Government, Professor Auwalu Yadudu, and the FCT Imams. Like the ACF, these stakeholders lent their respective voices to the Section on the Inheritance Tax in Part 1 of the bill and the use of the term 'ecclesiastical', which, in their views, undermines certain religious rights and beliefs. The Kano State Government, represented by Mahmud Sagagi, affirmed that "we support tax modernisation” but cautioned that "we must ensure that this process does not come at the expense of states’ constitutional rights

and economic stability". Professor Auwalu Yadudu, a constitutional law professor, drew attention to the use of the ‘supremacy clause’ and cautioned that the repeated use of “notwithstanding” in the bills would undermine the supremacy of the Nigerian constitution if passed as such.

Other stakeholders that made contributions at the sessions included the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas, Fiscal Responsibility Commission, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Nigeria Customs Service, and a host of others. While most of their concerns bordered on technical issues requiring fine-tuning, they were unanimous in their support for the bills. They aligned with the position of the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji and the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, which is that the extant tax laws and fiscal regulations are obsolete necessitating reforms aimed at creating a fair and equitable tax and fiscal space to grow Nigeria’s economy.

In one of the sessions, Zaach Adedeji expounded on the criss-cross of trade activities in the Free Trade Zone whereby companies misuse tax waivers as exporters to sell their goods or services in the Customs Area at an amount usually less than the price the operators in the Customs Area who pay VAT and other taxes sell theirs thereby disrupting business transactions. This way, the operators in the Free Trade Zone shortchange the government in paying their due taxes by circumventing extant regulations, which are inimical to the economy's growth.

Overall, the presentations were forthright, foresighted, and helpful in elucidating the issues contained in the bills. According to the statistics read out at the end of the hearings at the Senate, 75 stakeholders were invited, 65 made submissions, and 61 made presentations. At the House of Representatives 53 stakeholders made presentations. By all means, this is a fair representation. Given the presentations, it is evident that the National Assembly has gathered enough materials to guide its deliberations on the bills. As we look forward to the passage of the bills, we commend the leadership of the National Assembly for their unwavering commitment to making the bills see the light of the day.

Abdullahi

is the Director of the Communications and Liaison Department, FIRS

Kemi got the desired flogging, but they got it wrong with Chimamanda’s new book, reckons JOSHUA J.OMOJUWA

BADENOCH AND CHIMAMANDA: WORDS AND VULTURE

Vulture published an attempt at reviewing Chief Chimamanda Adichie’s new book, Dream Count that ended up being anything but. In an unrelated event, the United Kingdom Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, launched a brutal takedown of Kemi Badenoch during a parliamentary session in the UK, via what in football terms would be a counterattack. Nigerians engaged both issues passionately, albeit, from opposing ends.

The Vulture review, if we insist on calling it that, was an attempt to burn Chimamanda and her book at the stake, but it instead ignited a renewed demand for the book. As it should. It was a not-so-subtle call on the herd to cancel the Nigerian author afresh. However, people are learning to read between the lines.

What was advertised as a book review got delivered like a “refresh cancellation” hit piece. I was hoping to see a writer’s take on the book, instead half the piece was a direct attack on the author.

Intellectualism used to be an avenue to debate, without the danger of death for opposing or unpopular views. Now, it is about falling in line with ideas pushed by certain privileged people - often gatekeepers, without daring to test them against rationality.

It is like 1984, but with the force and power of social media’s ubiquity.

This is the problem with these holier-than-thou moralists. They want you to suffer for not toeing their line, to bear the burden 24/7/12 for breaking the line. They want your head on a platter, every now and then. They deliver that sense of justice from what they believe is the ultimate altar of morality — their laptops.

Clearly, Chimamanda has had to pay for her views, that transwomen are not women. That has been obvious enough through these years. So, this Vulture piece was not another attempt to make her to just pay again, it was something even more sinister. They sought to delegitimise her. The intent was to suck out every juice from her image as a legitimate and an exceptional writer.

This Vulture reviewer called Chimamanda a bad writer.

They can say anything about J. K. Rowling, they’d never call her a bad writer. And getting a person of colour to deliver the message doesn’t hide the owners of the voice and their intentions. You know their voice when you hear it, irrespective of what skin they come in.

How can a civilian who has never written anything worthy of note say Chimamanda is a bad writer? Okay, they probably have written something of note to their fans, but they aren’t worthy of such a call on Chief Adichie’s talents.

You can say you don’t like her writings. There are people who don’t like Beethoven’s compositions. You can say you find her book boring or too much for you. No art in this world enjoys universal love. You can’t say she is a bad writer. Everyone has a right to their opinions, and their delusions, I guess. But don’t pass them off as some elevated truth.

There is a myriad of adjectives you can call CNA, a bad writer? Even in your dream, that won’t count.

Do you know the thing with people who are great at their craft? They can disagree with you. They can even admit their hatred of you, declaring their bias without fear or regret. What they will never do is deny your greatness or talent. Because they are incapable of calling a phenomenon what it isn’t, just so they can fall in line with the morality mob!

They know where to separate science - that is, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, etc ., - from

bare desires and delusions. Here, I refer to the science of declaring one’s bias against an author before setting out to review their work. I guess, other universal scientific truths apply too.

Nigerians may not agree on the person that is Chief Chimamanda Adichie, Vulture found out that they share a consensus when it comes to anyone looking to diminish her; we no go gree!

Not Kemi though. Kemi Badenoch got whipped by the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer. It was celebrated by Nigerians on social media. You should watch the video. He called her “Defender of the Western Civilisation”, a brutal but apt representation of Kemi’s obsession with being seen as the strongest voice on immigration, often times doing so whilst attempting to ridicule Nigeria.

In case you are wondering, you shouldn’t, I don’t like Kemi Badenoch.

Nigeria and Africa’s challenges are apparent enough. Matter of fact, if I were a politician in the UK today, I’d likely be seated on her side of the hall. I believe immigration needs to be managed. I think developed countries must be strategic when it comes to who they admit, especially on a long-term basis, to their countries.

I understand. Kemi is a politician clearly focused on becoming the first Black female British PM. Even if she ends up achieving this dream, it’d be hollow and pyrrhic. It will be without the support of her own people and when the time comes, the very people she insists on forcing herself into becoming, they will remind her, subtly or overtly, “Saviour of the Western Civilisation” a mockery of her desperation to be who she can never be. Ever.

I am allies with some Conservatives abroad. Often, I am the only Black person in the room. But guess what, no matter how much our views intersect, no matter how often and how long I stay in those rooms, even if I bleach my skin, I will always be a Black person.

In fact, I am in those rooms because someone needs to see things from an angle only being Black can make one see it. To get into those rooms and to denigrate and disrespect my origin is to be Kemi Badenoch. I hope I spelt her name right. Relevant Kemi. Saviour of the West. 1st of her name. Someone called her Temu Margaret Thatcher. I don’t know what this means, seriously, but whatever it means, it does appear fitting.

Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

STATE OF HEALTHCARE IN NIGERIA

There is need for huge investment in the health sector

The recent increase in the retirement age from 60 to 65 years for doctors and healthcare workers in the country has been hailed as a welcome development by critical stakeholders in the sector. But it is also our hope that medical practitioners will examine all the issues impinging on healthcare delivery in the country, including the increasing rate of medical tourism on which the nation is losing hundreds of billions of Naira annually. What drives the compulsion to go abroad to seek medical help for those who can afford it has to do with excellence. People troop to places where the standard of healthcare delivery reflects the general way of doing things. We therefore hope that the various associations in the health sector will also look at this factor.

There is a psychological aspect to seeking cures. For the many Nigerians who travel abroad to seek medical solutions to whatever ails them, they already have a basic belief that Saudi, German, English, American or even Indian doctors will, in their care, reflect the values that make those nations great. Even in terminal cases, the dignity of going to die in these places is satisfying enough for the “colonial” mindset of affluent Nigerians. That perhaps explains why it has become fashionable for some colourful obituaries to announce that the deceased passed away in an American or German hospital.

rians on medical bills abroad is so staggering as to make domestic investment in healthcare a sound business proposition. Our public policy should be driven from the perspective of canvassing this sector as one worthy of increased private investment and government support with the assurance that such ventures would be profitable. There needs to be a commitment to supporting investors especially in the tertiary healthcare delivery sector through more attractive credit windows by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Health is no less important than agriculture, power, aviation, etc., that have been granted massive financial concessions.

· The aggregate amounts being spent by rich Nigerians on medical bills abroad is so staggering as to make domestic investment in healthcare a sound business proposition

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

The implication of such a state of affairs is that it does not matter how many health institutions we build, especially in the public sector. For as long as the standard of practice in those facilities reflects our general Nigerian way of “anything goes”, we might just be wasting resources. More unfortunate is the fact that the problem is most pronounced in our public sector health facilities where some fancy equipment is acquired and allowed to break down a few months after commissioning.

The aggregate amount being spent by rich Nige-

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

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

Like in most other sectors, the challenge of healthcare delivery in Nigeria also comes with tremendous opportunities. Last year, then minister of state for health who now handles the education portfolio, Tunji Alausa, said people are travelling from Europe, India, and sub-Saharan Africa to access healthcare services in Nigeria. “Go to the hospital in Lagos, people are coming from India, sub-Saharan Africa, and even Europe to get health care in Nigeria,” the minister said. “Getting surgical operations is cheaper; you will be glad to know that today we have almost 900 aesthetic hospitals all around Nigeria. People are coming to get plastic surgeries.”

It would require proper planning and the coming together of all the stakeholders to take advantage of this situation. Let us encourage the establishment of good health facilities, preferably as a collaborative business venture with experts from nations whose professionals have excelled in this area. The point here about medical tourism is that we simply do not have a hospitality industry nor have we done anything significant to make our country attractive to sensible visitors. Tourism thrives on decency, security, basic essential services and infrastructure that encourage free movement of people and backpacks.

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.

BETTER DAYS AWAIT NIGERIANS AS ECONOMIC HARDSHIP EASES

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, he took a different approach to governance. Two major decisions that attracted significant criticism were the removal of the fuel subsidy and the floating of the Naira. These policies were widely seen as anti-people, as they led to significant economic hardship for many Nigerians. However, the government consistently acknowledged the difficulties faced by the populace and assured them that these measures were short-term sacrifices necessary to revive the Nigerian economy, which had been in comatose for years.

Given the failures of previous administrations, many Nigerians were skeptical about the sincerity and effectiveness of the current government's economic reforms. Indeed, 2024 proved to be a tough year for many, with rising costs making it harder for citizens to meet their basic needs. Yet, the government showed sensitivity to the challenges, providing palliative measures such as foodstuffs, CNG buses, and conversion kits, as well as increas-

ing the national minimum wage from N18000 to N70000, with state governments following suit with varying rates.

As I mentioned last year, the economic reforms implemented by the government are grounded in proven economic theories that promote market efficiency and the optimal use of resources. The government deserves commendation for not backing down despite public outcry. These reforms have freed up resources that the government can now invest in critical sectors, which in turn fosters economic growth and national development and the country’s ability to address security challenges.

Last year, I projected that Nigeria would experience significant economic improvement in 2025, with the Naira gaining value and the price of PMS (Premium Motor Spirit, or fuel) dropping, leading to a ripple effect on the prices of goods and services. Although it is only March 2025, early signs indicate my projection is becoming a reality. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, headline inflation dropped to 24.48% in January 2025

from 34.8% in December 2024. It is important to note that the January inflation rate was calculated using the rebased Consumer Price Index (CPI). Beyond the numbers, the Naira now exchanges for about 1,500 Naira to the US dollar, and PMS sells for under 1,000 Naira. More importantly, food prices—the primary driver of Nigeria’s headline inflation—are beginning to drop, bringing hope and excitement to citizens.

Critics of the economic reforms are gradually being proven wrong, and some have even reversed their stance to support government policies. Therefore, Nigerians should continue to be patient, as things are expected to improve further. The Naira is anticipated to appreciate even more, and inflation to decrease. The government should remain committed to its reforms and continue engaging with Nigerians to ensure they understand government policies and their benefits.

Kenechukwu Aguolu FCA, PMP, CBAP

BUSINESS WORLD

February PMI: Nigeria Experienced Fastest Productivity Growth in 14 Months

Dike Onwuamaeze

Nigerian economy experienced its fastest growth in productivity since January 2024 in February 2025 when the PMI headline figure rose to 53.7 from 52.0 it recorded in January 2025, the Stanbic IBTC Bank’s Purchasing Manager’s Index (PMI) report has revealed.

The report said that the growth signalled a solid monthly improvement in business conditions and one that was the most pronounced since January 2024.

It said: “February data pointed to improved growth momentum in the Nigerian private sector. Rates of expansion in output, new orders and purchasing activity all quickened as demand picked up and inflationary pressures showed

Domestic

It has emerged that recent flight disruptions on domestic routes was caused by a major factor known as bird strike.

Bird strikes have been a bane to flight operations over the years and despite efforts to keep the birds away, they have constituted a big menace in flight operations in Nigeria. Airlines put the cost of replacing lost engines damaged by bid strike to about N3 billion annually.

Bird strike is when a bird hits an aircraft that is airborne, and it happens often when the aircraft is taking off or landing and more often than not, the birds usually enter the engines of the aircraft. During flight, the engines suck in air and when birds come around the engine, they are also sucked in.

Last week Air Peace announced that it grounded three aircraft in less

signs of moderating. “The headline PMI rose to 53.7 in February from 52.0 in January, signalling a solid monthly improvement in business conditions, and one that was the most pronounced since January 2024. The health of the private sector has now strengthened in three consecutive months.”

According to the report, “stronger customer demand and higher sales meant that Nigerian companies increased their output again in February, thereby extending the current sequence of growth to three months.”

It added that all the four monitored sectors, namely agriculture, manufacturing, services, and wholesale and retail, posted a rise in activity, although the increase

than 48 hours due to bird strike and the grounding of the three aircraft significantly disrupted its operations; that many passengers experienced flight delays and cancellations.

The airline also said that in 2024, it recorded about 43 bird strikes and the airline is a major victim of bird strike because it has more aircraft in the air, being the operator with the largest number of aircraft fleet in Nigeria.

Head of Corporate Communications Air Peace Limited, EjikeNdiulo, said: “Earlier today (Thursday last week), two of our aircraft also suffered bird strike incidents, resulting in the grounding of the affected aircraft for safety checks and necessary maintenance.

“As a safety-conscious airline, Air Peace prioritizes the well-being of our passengers and crew above all else. In line with our strict safety protocols, we have immediately commenced the

in the wholesale and retail category was only fractional.

According to the report, “output was up in agriculture, manufacturing, services and wholesale & retail, although in wholesale & retail the rise was only fractional.New orders also increased at a marked pace, with the latest rise the most pronounced in just over a year.

“Customers were reportedly more willing to commit to new projects. Signs of strengthening demand coincided with moderating inflationary pressures. Overall input costs increased at the slowest pace in ten months, although the pace of inflation remained elevated amid higher prices for raw materials and a rise in staff costs that was the sharpest since March 2024,”

requisite inspections and maintenance procedures to ensure that the aircraft meet the highest safety standards before returning to service.”

The Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, who confirmed the bird strike incidents to three of its aircraft last week, also disclosed that in 2024, Air Peace recorded about 43 bird strikes, up from 14 bird strikes it suffered in 2021.

Few years ago, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), the umbrella body of indigenous carriers in the country took the matter of bird strike up with concerned authorities and disclosed that it recorded a loss of $60 million to bird strike incidents in Nigeria, under 21 months.

THISDAY learnt from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) that Nigerian and foreign airlines recorded at least 127 bird strike incidents in

Commenting on the PMI report, Head of Equity Research West Africa at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Muyiwa Oni, said that activity in Nigeria’s private sector improved for the third consecutive month with the latest.

Oni attributed the growth that was recorded in February to relatively stable exchange rate and moderation in fuel prices, which supported the ease in inflationary pressures and in turn helped to strengthen consumer demand in the month.

He said: “Thus, new orders increased for the fourth consecutive month, with survey participants noting a greater desire on the part of customers to commit to new projects. In line with the increase in new orders, output also increased sharply in February as the output

21 months across the nation’s 26 airports between 2021 to 2022.

This was part of the statistics released by participants at an event by the Search and Rescue Mission of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), which indicated that the industry experienced 34 bird strike incidents in 2021, but grew massively to 93 as at September 17, 2022, across the country’s airports.

Out of the 93 incidents arising from bird strikes, 58 of such happened at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos, within the period.

Speaking at the event, Head Bird/Wildlife Hazard Control, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Mr. Azike Edozie, decried the high incidents arising from bird strikes in the industry and said that the responsibility of keeping the airspace safe from bird strike incidents lied with

index settled at 56.9 points from 53.7 points in January.

“That said, input price inflation eased further in February to its weakest level since April 2024. However, about 39.0 per cent of respondents increased their output prices in the month, with less than 1.0 per cent lowering their charges.”

He also said that “Nigeria’s real GDP growth improved further in Q4:24, rising by 3.84 per cent y/y, from 3.46 per cent y/y in Q3:24.

Growth in Q4:24 was the highest since Q4:21 when this economy grew by 3.98 per cent y/y in real terms. Q4:24 GDP now brings 2024 full-year growth to 3.40 per cent, from 2.74 per cent in 2023, supported by both the oil and the non-oil sectors.”

Oni remarked that in terms of

every stakeholder in the industry, including airline operators, security agencies and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

He expressed hope at the meeting that the respective agencies would find a lasting solution to the menace soon, decrying that airlines were losing millions of dollars to the incident annually.

He said: “My record shows that we have had at least 93 bird strike incidents in all our airports between January this year (2022) to June. And out of this number, 54 of it happened in Lagos Airport alone, which represents about 70% of the total occurrences. We all have to proffer a solution to this menace and I do hope we have a lasting solution to it because everyone, especially the airlines are losing money.”

However, FAAN, which is in charge of the airports said it is

contributions to the overall GDP growth in Q4:24, services continue to dominate with a 79.0 per cent contribution to the country’s GDP growth (same as Q3:24), followed by agriculture with an 11.9 per cent contribution while industries contributed the remaining 9.0 per cent of the real GDP growth in the review quarter.

“The non-oil sector of the Nigerian economy is now poised to improve further in 2025 as the lingering FX stability and improved FX liquidity bodes well for the real sector activities, including manufacturing, trade and real estate. This, in addition to the anticipated reduction in borrowing costs should further support the growth of the non-oil sector in 2025,” he said.

doing its best to curb the spread of the incidents through the procurement of modern equipment, which it said had gone a long way to reduce its impacts. But the Managing Director, Flight and Logistics Solutions Limited, Amos Akpan, said that whatever FAAN is doing to curb the menace of bird strike is not enough, as records indicate a continued increase in the number of incidents over the years. He said that if FAAN had planned to bring the incident of bird strike to zero level, it would have significantly curbed its menace in Nigeria’s airspace, noting that nobody knows what FAAN is doing; so, you cannot assess whether it is improving or not.

Chinedu Eze

NCAA Reinstates Omni-Blu’s Operating Certificate

Stories by Chinedu Eze

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reinstated the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) of Omni-Blue Aviation Limited and allowed the airline to resume operation in Nigeria.

About a month ago NCAA revoked the AOCof the company over an allegation that was later discovered to be false.

The restoration of the airline’s AOC was confirmed in a statement by the Chief Executive Officer of Omni-Blue Aviation Limited, Akin Olateru, who said NCAA has cleared the compnay of any wrongdoing.

Olateru stated that the airline had successfully appealed the suspension and its AOC number: OBA/ AOC/12-15/002, was reinstated and emphasised that NCAA vide its letter dated February 28, 2025 with ref: NCAA/DGCA//DLS/ CS/2025/013, stated that Omni-Blu

Aviation provided further evidence to prove its innocence.

The statement read in part: “Omni-Blu Aviation deduced further evidence to prove that the download analysis and issuance of the falsified readout report for avionics equipment on the Sikorsky S76C+ helicopter with MSN 760486 and Reg. Mark 5N-BQG was facilitated by the aircraft Owner/Operator Eastwind Aviation Limited.

“Consequently, the NCAA determined among other things that: there was no active participation by Omni-Blu Aviation in the series of events leading up to the falsification of the readout report. - there was no intention to falsify or knowledge of the falsification on the part of OmniBlu Aviation.”

“We wish to thank the NCAA appeal review panel and the Director General NCAA for painstakingly and dispassionately undertaking this

administrative review and reaching a most equitable decision.

“We also wish to thank our client’s, customers, stakeholders, industry friends and well-wishers, and everyone who through calls, text messages and visits showed solidarity, believing in us and our avowed integrity through this most difficult experience,” Olateru said.

Olateru stated that 2025 would be the 10th year since OBA obtained its AOC and started commercial flight operations.

Olateru noted that since the airline started operation it has never been implicated in any sharp practice or cutting of corners in order to obtain any certifications or approvals from the NCAA.

He insisted that the airline continued to be particular about safety, and compliance with all regulation, assuring that it would continue to abide with ethical standards.

Emirates SkyCargo, Astral Aviation Sign MoU

Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo arm of the world’s largest international airline, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Astral Aviation, one of the leading cargo airlines in Africa, to explore ways to boost global trade to and from the continent.

Air WAtCh

Emirates: Africa Represents Heartbeat of Global Trade

The agreement was signed recently at Air Cargo Africa by Badr Abbas, Emirates SkyCargo’s Divisional Senior Vice President and Mr. Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation Limited. Under the terms of the MoU, Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Aviation will work closely on a number of initiatives, which include expanding cargo interline

The partnership will support the aims of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), and the recently signed UAE-Kenya CEPA agreement, facilitating seamless global trade Astral Aviation operates an extensive intra-Africa network of 50 destinations served via scheduled and adhoc charters. Matched with Emirates SkyCargo’s vast global network of over 145 destinations and fleet of passenger aircraft and dedicated freighters, the partnership underscores the growing prominence of Africa as a competitive player in world trade. Both airlines bring particular experience in handling sensitive cargo, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and lifesaving pharmaceuticals, which are key commodities transported to and from the market.

options and block space agreements, to enhance connectivity and boost the reach of African businesses.

Commenting on the partnership, Badr Abbas said, “Home to 11 of the 20 fastest-growing economies, coupled with bold trade ambitions, there is immense growth potential in Africa. Given the breadth of our network, our all widebody fleet and specialist product portfolio, we are well placed to support businesses reach new suppliers and customers in every corner of the globe. This partnership with Astral Aviation solidifies our longstanding commitment to the market, creating mutually beneficial economic opportunities to keep goods flowing quickly, reliably and efficiently.”

SAHCO Enhances Cargo Security

Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has unveiled its acquisition of the Rapiscan Itemiser 5X, the newest breakthrough in Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) technology.

This makes SAHCO the first and only ground handling company in Nigeria to integrate this advanced system. The state-of-the-art machine will significantly boost SAHCO’s cargo screening capabilities, ensuring precise detection of explosives and narcotics—meeting crucial safety standards for both importing and exporting cargo

to the United States and other Western countries.

The Itemiser 5X is widely recognized and recommended by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for its superior security screening capabilities. By integrating this advanced technology, SAHCO strengthens its position as a leader in aviation ground handling and security compliance. This investment underscores SAHCO’s unwavering commitment to ensuring safe, efficient, and internationally compliant cargo operations.

Furthermore, the Itemiser 5X represents a major advancement in security screening, featuring an optimized detection library that can identify a wide range of explosives and narcotics. Its advanced software algorithm enhances accuracy and efficiency, making it a crucial addition to SAHCO’s security infrastructure. To further strengthen security measures, SAHCO has strategically deployed three units of the Itemiser 5X across its major operational hubs, reinforcing its commitment to global security standards.

At 100th Year Anniversary, Delta Partners Taittinger

Delat Air Lines is partnering with Maison Taittinger as the airline

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)

celebrates its centennial year, supporting the airline’s commitment to world-class service with the Champagne house’s legacy of luxury and craftsmanship.

Speaking on the development, Kristen Manion Taylor, S.V.P of Inflight Service, said: “Not all Champagne is created equal.

Taittinger is Champagne for those who know – it represents a quiet, sophisticated elegance that will ‘wow’ our Delta One customers, a family-owned Champagne house, Taittinger’s reputation for excellence mirrors our own, and we’re thrilled to partner with them as we elevate your travel experience.”.

Taittinger Brut la Française is a delicately balanced Champagne known for its consistent, superb quality. It has a subtle, pale gold color with fine, persistent bubbles; it is delicate, with aromas of peach, white flowers, vanilla pod and brioche on the nose and flavors of fresh fruit and honey on the palate.

“At Delta, we are never satisfied with the status-quo. Our teams are consistently pushing, testing and elevating our offerings with the

goal of providing a best-in-class onboard experience. We are always working to surpass our own high standards. Similarly, Taittinger is known for having the highest-quality production, exceeding minimum aging requirements and embodying sustainable practices in addition to creating excellent Champagne. “, Taylor added.

“At Taittinger, we take great pride in sharing our Champagne with those who appreciate craftsmanship and elegance. This partnership with Delta – especially in such a milestone year – is a beautiful opportunity to bring our heritage to travelers around the world. Together, we are elevating the art of hospitality, one glass at a time.

“Taittinger will be presented on the Delta One bar cart and offered as a pre-meal beverage on international flights. Like all Delta’s premium beverage offerings, it will be available throughout the flight. And we’d be remiss not to suggest some meal pairings that will taste even better, thanks to a glass of Taittinger.”, said Vitalie Taittinger, President of Champagne Taittinger.

Chinedu Eze

The Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo, Badr Abbas, has said Africa represents the heartbeat of global trade, with immense potential and untapped opportunities, adding that Emirates is committed to enabling the continent’s businesses to reach global markets with efficiency and trust.

Abbas made this known in a recent interview at Air Cargo Africa, held in Nairobi, Kenyan capital, disclosing that on average, Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo division of Emirates Airlines, uplifts 3,820 tonnes of cargo every week from Africa, which shows the high demand from the market.

Abbas also said that shipping delays and tight freight capacity and strength in cross-border e-commerce, has pushed an increase in the demand for air freighting of cargo for quicker deliveries, as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) projects that from 2024, cargo volume will reach 80 million tons, an increase of 5.8 per cent.

Abbas said Emirates SkyCargo would expect demand to remain consistently high, with notable volume contributions from strong Chinese e-Commerce traffic, and a rise in shipments bound for Dubai.

“We continue to strengthen relationships with both longstanding and new customers, who value our innovative product portfolio, extensive global wide-body network and world-class capabilities. This momentum reaffirms our strategic vision and underscores our readiness to navigate emerging opportunities,” Abbas said.

According to him, the biggest positive trend for air freight industry is e-commerce which he described he described as one of the biggest trends reshaping the global economy.

“Without a doubt, e-commerce is one of the biggest trends reshaping the global economy, and we are at the forefront of this transformation. By investing in specialized infrastructure and expanding our fleet, we are building the capabilities to support growing hubs like the Middle East and South Asia. Our mission is to enable businesses to thrive in the digital age, ensuring that goods reach consumers with speed, reliability, and care,” abbas further said.

Despite challenges like political changes which influence policies in some countries, policy somersault, high tariffs (especially in Africa), supply chain diversification, Abbas said the secret of Emirates SkyCargo had been adaptating to disruptions, which is “in the DNA of the airline.

He noted that at Emirates SkyCargo, every challenge is an opportunity to innovate and lead.

“We have reinforced our resilience by diversifying our network, embracing technology, and strengthening customer partnerships. By staying agile and forwardthinking, we are ensuring that even in times of uncertainty which undoubtedly will present themselves in the future or geopolitical events, our customers can rely on us to keep the world’s supply chains moving,” Abbas remarked.

The Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo, also spoke about the growth plan of the Cargo division of the airline, its 10-year strategic plan and the partnerships it assembled to actualise the targeted growth. Speaking about that mandate, he said: “Emirates SkyCargo is the benchmark for excellence in the global logistics industry—a trusted partner that seamlessly connects the world. My vision is to elevate this further, creating new and exciting opportunities for us to solve the transportation challenges of our customers. Our immediate priorities center on empowering innovation, strengthening our relationships with customers, and driving sustainable growth. By

embracing cutting-edge technology, expanding our network, and building a culture of resilience, we aim to redefine the future of air cargo and contribute to the prosperity of the global economy.”

According to him, “As part of our 10-year strategy, we aim to add 20 new destinations to our global freighter network, and Copenhagen was the first. Next financial year, we are expecting delivery of multiple aircraft and aim to operate a fleet of 21 dedicated freighters by December 2026. This will unlock more capacity and the possibility of expanding our network, enabling us to better facilitate global trade. Our team of experts will continue to work closely with our customers to develop products and solutions that solve their industry’s transportation challenges. We have big plans, and we aren’t slowing down now.”

To buttress the report in rapid growth in cargo, Abbas said that Emirates SkyCargo has reinvigorated its specialist product portfolio, noting that all wide-body fleet and extensive global network have remained in demand throughout the year, adding that the growth in tonnage reflects the trust “our customers place in us and the strength of our vision.”

To sustain this momentum, Abbas said Emirates SkyCargo would continue to innovate, expand, and anticipate market needs, ensuring that the cargo division of the airline remains the trusted partner for businesses worldwide.

Reiterating Emirates SkyCargo market in Africa and its future role on the continent, Abbas said: “We harness the entire fleet of Emirates’ aircraft to serve our customers with a mix of dedicated freighters and via the belly-hold of passenger aircraft. This means that we also benefit from the 172 passenger flights per week, which complement our eight weekly scheduled freighters enabling the swift, efficient and reliable movement of goods from Africa to the world.

“Another example of how we enable our customers to more seamlessly connect with our product and services is via a trucking system. We move general cargo from Johannesburg to Cape Town and Durban via trucks, to ensure goods move on our customer’s timelines.

“By investing in infrastructure, fostering partnerships, and understanding the unique needs of African industries, we are not just adapting—we are championing Africa’s growth story and building bridges to connect its vibrant markets to the rest of the world.”

According to him, “Emirates SkyCargo over the years has excelled with its marketing strategy of creating unique cargo products to meet the changing demand of shippers. Abbas assured that this trend in addition to other marketing tools, will continue, noting that Emirates SkyCargo is in a more specialised, more advanced and more technical world than ever before.

“If we take healthcare as a case study, the future of medicine is in personalised treatments, engineered to be patient-specific. As these treatments become more specialised, they also become more priceless and harder to replace, meaning there can be no mistakes when transporting them from doctor to patient. We created a fit-for-purpose solutions, Emirates Vital, which I’m sure you’re all familiar with. This was designed in coordination with customers, to understand the challenges and customise a solution that would work every time.

Aviation Industry Under Tinubu’s Administration

Last week key stakeholders in the aviation industry met with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo in Lagos to interact and appraise the industry under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and also to review the policy direction of the government in the sector. The meeting brought to the fore, the efforts government is making to reposition the industry, writes Chinedu eze

During President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, Nigerian domestic airlines allegedly suffered several setbacks, some of them caused by government policies, the fall of the naira and the general economic situation of the time.

In addition to that, the impact of COVID-19 substantially brought the aviation industry to its knees globally and Nigeria’s airline sub-sector was not spared.

When the naira crashed and forex became extremely scarce, it became very difficult for airlines to acquire aircraft, carry out major maintenance of their aircraft overseas. The situation became more deplorable when the airlines paid billions of naira to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), with the hope to secure foreign exchange that never came. Their naira was trapped and they never secured the dollar exchange. This became more hopeless when it dawned on the operators that despite the huge investment in their businesses, they could be forced to close shop.

At that time, over $800 million of foreign airlines revenue was trapped in Nigeria, which catapulted airfares for international travel and left frustration and despair in their wake. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned Nigeria severally that some airlines could withdraw their operation to Nigeria. At the early morning of this economic morass in 2016, Iberia and United Airlines left Nigeria, citing difficult circumstances (the later returned and has been operating in Nigeria since then).

During the period also, it became obvious that lessors and international financiers have blacklisted Nigeria due to obnoxious activities of some airlines who reneged on leasing agreement with some lessors. So, Nigerian carriers were no more exposed to dry lease but to the costly wet lease with stringent operational conditions that practically made it extremely difficult to make profit from such ventures.

Also, scarcity of aviation fuel and its undulating high prices made it frustrating operating schedule flight service in Nigeria. These painted a grim and despondent outlook on the aviation industry and made flight operations precarious and air travel a costly experience at that time.

DAWN of NeW eRA

The minister at the meeting, recalled the status of the aviation industry when Tinubu’s administration took over government and some of the things that have been done to revamp the industry, including the introduction of policies to put the sector in the path of progress.

Keyamo also recalled when he directed that airlines on international flight service should relocate to the newly built terminal at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos. At that time fire had gutted the baggage movement area of the old terminal and made passenger processing and flight operations difficult.

“First of all, let’s go to the beginning, from day one, when we came to office, I think it was the first one week. If you remember, that was when we said, move to the new terminal. Remember when we came to the new terminal, there were a lot of questions. They told me the new terminal could not be used. That was the word they used. They said it could not be used. There were a lot

of deficiencies, a lot of professional problems, and they could not move. The airlines also, international airlines, they all said no, they would not operate from there. The counters also, there was a problem with the checking counters and all that. Like a proper private sector person, what happened, I blocked my ears to all those complaints. I didn’t listen to the complaints and the excuses.

“I said, move, whether you like it or not. Move. And in fact, they moved, and we are enjoying it today, despite all their excuses,” Keyamo recalled.

Keyamo also remembered that one significant accomplishment of the Tinubu administration was when the CBN collaborated with the Ministry of Aviation to offset the foreign airlines trapped funds, amounting to over $800 million.

“The money was there, the naira component was there, but we were not liquid enough. We didn’t have the liquidity to raise the foreign exchange to pay the foreign airlines from the sale of tickets. The President, because of his twin policies of floating the naira and removing subsidy, they worked like magic. And so, liquidity began to rise. And if you understand what has happened now in terms of our foreign exchange obligations, not only in the aviation industry, in many of the sectors,

The truth is that we went through a lot, except the airlines do not want to tell themselves the truth. All those things have been reversed 360 degrees, positively. We thank the minister for this. You may not know that the Nigerian airline industry was facing deliberate extinction until the regime of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu came on board. And thankfully, the kind of person he appointed as the Minister and the kind of good patriotic people we have in Senate and the House of Representatives, especially the Committees that oversight this industry.

Nigeria began to meet its obligations, foreign exchange obligations. So, within the first six months, we are happy to report that we cleared all our obligations to foreign airlines.

“And if you go to the website of IATA, there was a commendation issued by IATA. Not one, not two, but series of commendations. And IATA was pleasantly surprised that Nigeria could rise up to the occasion and clear its debts,” he noted.

LoCAL AIRLINeS foRex CHALLeNge

As stated earlier, it was not only the foreign airlines that had issues with repatriating their revenues in foreign currency; Nigerian airlines faced similar challenge. They could not source forex to acquire aircraft, buy spares and maintain their aircraft. However, Keyamo said that the matter has been improved upon now because of open buyer and open seller policy, but compared to the value of the naira, dollar dominated expenses is still a challenge in any business that earns revenue in naira and does most expenses in dollars, as it is the situation with the airlines.

“One challenge we still have in this regard, before, but I think the policies have made it easier now, is that while we are taking care of the foreign airlines, we still had the problem of the local airlines. We also had the challenge of making sure they also have access to forex, because I understood their problems when I came, that they could not easily access forex to get most of their parts in, not only that, to meet up their obligations on their ACMIs (aircraft wet leasing, Aircraft Maintenance and Insurance) or some other arrangements they have to bring in their aircraft, but because of the willing seller, willing buyer policy of these governments, access to forex is no longer a problem to even the local airlines.

“They can access forex because you don’t have to depend on CBN alone. Willing seller, willing buyer, anywhere you get your forex, raise your forex. So, it is a credit to the policy of these governments, to the financial wizardry of Mr. President, that these things have been eased in terms of our foreign exchange obligations,” Keyamo said.

He also spoke about his actions and policies which helped to tame the high cost of airfares on international routes, especially on the busiest and most lucrative Lagos-London route.

“With the doggedness of one of our greatest local airlines with the largest fleet, Air Peace, their doggedness, and with some help from us, we opened up the Lagos-London route that had since been suspended, and Nigerians were groaning under the monopoly of some foreign airlines on that route. But people have been giving credit to us. We just did our job as public officers. We must support our local airlines. And so, with the doggedness of Air Peace and its chairman, that route has now come back again to one of our local airlines. And that brings me, of course, to our five-point agenda,” he said.

IMPRovINg SAfeTY, SUPPoRTINg LoCAL CARRIeRS

The minister spoke about the improvement made at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), noting that the agency is in complete control of safety regulations but with oversight by the ministry, just as the National Assembly oversights the ministry.

Keyamo said Tinubu’s administration made a 10-point policy that it must support domestic airlines and mobilized policies and resources to do so.

“And it’s very simple, and we are very unapologetic about this. Why do I say so? In the whole of Africa, I mean check all the major airlines are either owned by government or subsidized by government. Rwand Air, South African Airways, Egypt Air, Air Maroc, name them. It is only in Nigeria that you have strong private sector participation, only in Nigeria, in the whole of Africa. 23 vibrant local airlines, incredible. And you know it is not a tea party to run an airline, governments must be involved. So, in Nigeria we have 23 different governments running airlines,” he observed.

Keyamo also noted that when a country has strong private sector participation, literally all the routes domestically are set by local airlines and some international routes.

“If you are the Minister of Aviation and you are fighting them (domestic airlines), you are not supporting them, what are you ministering over? Tell me, what are you ministering over? Because that is your sector, those are the players in your sector,” he pointed out.

vALIDATIoN

Speaking on behalf of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), the Vice Chairman of the association and the Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, commended the Minister of Aviation, the Director General of NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, saying that Tinubu’s administration brought a lot of positive changes in the industry.

“We in AON have never had it so good. Since the coming of this administration, I am sure everyone knows me very well; that I am not afraid of anybody irrespective of whatever is thrown at me. So, when I praise, I praise out of conviction, and when I criticize, I criticize out of conviction. And I have to say it sincerely and honestly, that Festus Keyamo is a huge success and a blessing to the nation. You may not know what we have been going through until this administration came.

“The truth is that we went through a lot, except the airlines do not want to tell themselves the truth. All those things have been reversed 360 degrees, positively. We thank the minister for this. You may not know that the Nigerian airline industry was facing deliberate extinction until the regime of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu came on board. And thankfully, the kind of person he appointed as the Minister and the kind of good patriotic people we have in Senate and the House of Representatives, especially the Committees that oversight this industry,” he stated.

Many of the stakeholders who attended the event also commended the minister and the federal government for the positive turnaround that has happened in the aviation industry and expressed hope that the sector would continue to get better and better.

Keyamo

Nigeria’s 2025 Economic Outlook, Progress and Prospects

Adaeze Obi-Umeofia

The World Bank forecasts Nigeria’s economy will grow by 3.5 per cent in 2025 and 3.7 per cent in 2026, up from an estimated 3.3 per cent in 2024.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) predicts a slightly higher Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 4.17 per cent.

This growth is expected to boost production, job creation, and help reduce inflation by increasing the supply of goods and services.

Compared to other African nations, Nigeria’s growth remains strong, with Egypt projected at four per cent and South Africa at 1.7 per cent. Globally, the economy is expected to grow by 2.8 per cent in 2025, putting Nigeria in an optimistic position.

INflatION:

Nigeria’s inflation dropped to 24.48 per cent in January 2025, down from 34.80 per cent in December 2024. The CBN expects further declines due to government reforms and strategic economic activities.

One of the key reasons for this expected decline is increased oil production, particularly due to the operationalisation of the Dangote

Refinery, which began full-scale refining in late 2024 (Reuters, December 2024).

Higher domestic refining capacity reduces dependence on imported refined fuel which is going to stabilise fuel prices and reduce inflationary pressures.

A stronger naira due to increased foreign reserves from oil exports may also reduce inflation (CBN, February 2025).

However, even with recent and predicted declines, inflation may still remain a significant concern for consumers.

ExPENdIturE:

GOvErNmENt

In February 2025, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu approved an increased budget of 54.2 trillion naira, up from 49 trillion naira (Federal Ministry of Finance, February 2025). This additional government spending aims to improve critical infrastructure (roads, energy, and healthcare) which is hampering productivity, boost social welfare programs and stimulate job creation in key sectors. Now, if we look at economic history, government spending has played a crucial role in economic growth. According to the World Bank, increased infrastructure investment contributes significantly to GDP expansion. However, it remains to be seen how efficiently

these funds will be allocated and whether fiscal discipline will be maintained.

INtErEst ratEs:

Nigeria’s interest rate is currently at a record high of 27.50 per cent (CBN, February 2025). High interest rates make loans and credit cards expensive, reducing consumer spending and business expansion. Interest rates are directly linked to inflation. When inflation is high, the central bank raises interest rates to curb excessive spending. As inflation declines in 2025, the CBN has indicated the possibility of interest rate cuts in the latter half of the year (CBN Monetary Policy Report, February 2025). If this happens, borrowing costs for businesses and consumers will decrease, stimulating economic activity.

OthEr EcONOmIc cONdItIONs.

1. Lower Tax Burdens: The government’s 2025 tax reforms aim to reduce corporate and individual tax burdens.

2. Sectoral Reforms: Economic reforms are improving productivity, particularly in oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing (Ministry of Industry, Trade, and

Investment, January 2025).

3. Currency Volatility: The naira has shown some stability but remains vulnerable to external shocks.

4. Low Purchasing Power: Despite wage increases, the cost of living remains high. Overall, Nigeria’s economy remains heavily dependent on oil and gas, with the expansion of production and refining capacity. The Dangote Refinery aims to reduce fuel import reliance, while the government is diversifying into renewable energy and agriculture. Despite modest GDP growth and reduced inflation projections for 2025, Nigeria still faces significant economic challenges.

Job creation, infrastructure development, and inflation reduction will shape the economy’s future. However, long-term stability will depend on sustained reforms, investments, and sound policies. With increased government spending, monitoring fund allocation is crucial, as Nigeria’s future and economic success relies also on effective policy execution and fiscal discipline. Therefore, staying informed, developing relevant skills, and adopting strong financial planning will be key to navigating these changes.

• Adaeze is an accounting and finance expert with Techno Oil Limited, and an ex-PwC Senior Consultant.

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 5th March-2025, unless otherwise stated.

‘Wema Bank’s $200,00 Grants to Position Nigeria for Greater Digital Future’

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Chief Transformation Officer of Wema Bank, Babatunde Mumuni, has stated that the bank’s youth empowerment programme, Hackaholics, will to position Nigeria for a greater digital future.

Under the initiative, he said Wema Bank has awarded a total of $200,000 in grants to 18 innovative startups that emerged victorious in previous editions of its premier hackathon.

The initiative, he added, is designed to foster technological advancements and entrepreneurship, aligns with the bank’s commitment to empowering startups with funding, mentorship, and market access.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos to announce the call for applications for the sixth edition of Hackaholics, Mumuni, reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to supporting innovative enterprises.

From inception to date, we’ve had a total of 18 winners at Hackaholics, and we have given out about $200,000 in grants to all the winners. Over the years, we have continued to increase the prize money to empower these innovators to progress,” Mumuni stated.

Executive Director, Retail and Digital Business, Wema Bank, Tunde Mabawonku, said the bank, through the initiative, was positioning and supporting the country in its digital journey by working on solutions to grow the economy.

He said it was not a case of celebrating the past bust positioning for the future.

According to him, the Hackaholics is designed to identify technology startups that provide viable solutions to challenges encountered in agriculture and various other sectors while also promoting their growth on both national and international levels.

He emphasised that the event had become a transformative force in the economy, delivering innovative responses to emerging challenges, and highlighted the significant potential it has revealed within the economy.

He said Wema Bank was dedicated to fostering innovations that improve the value and resilience of smallholder farmers, adding that this would be achieved by increasing access to technological solutions and markets, addressing inefficiencies, accelerating transformation, and supporting various priorities within agri-food systems.

Through collaboration with other organisations, Mabawonku noted that the initiative seeks to enhance cross-border collaboration, facilitate knowledge sharing, and attract investments to support impactful technology innovations, thereby improving the efficiency, resilience, and sustainability of business practices.

Godwin Ehigiamusoe Returns as LAPO Board Chairman

Sunday Ehigiator

Previously retired founder and Chairman of LAPO Microfinance Bank, Dr Godwin Ehigiamusoe, has been reappointed chairman of the bank’s board of directors. Ehigiamusoe succeeds Mrs. Osaretin Demuren, who provided excellent leadership for the institution, particularly in consolidating the microfinance bank’s leadership position in the sub-financial sector.

A statement by the company reveals that Ehigiamusoe, “brings into the position his rich experience and institutional memory

that will be of immense benefits to LAPO Microfinance Bank and national financial inclusion efforts.

“Ehigiamusoe is an acknowledged microfinance practitioner who has for over three decades pioneered several initiatives that have contributed to the expansion of the frontiers of finance in Nigeria and beyond. In the late 1980s, he initiated Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO) as a non-governmental response to the spike in poverty as a result of the implementation of the Structural Adjustment Programme-SAP. LAPO has

evolved into several mutually reinforcing institutions in microfinance, healthcare, insurance, micro-leasing, technology and agriculture.

“He earned a doctorate in policy and development studies with emphasis on policy instruments and financial inclusion. He is a chartered microfinance banker and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. Dr Ehigiamusoe sees his appointment as an opportunity to build on the achievements of LAPO Microfinance Bank and contribute to deepening financial inclusion.”

Nigerian Agribusiness Leaders to Be Trained on Value Chain Devt

No fewer than seven Nigerian agribusiness entrepreneurs are set to begin a two-week highlevel training on agribusiness value chain development and expansion in Paris, France.

The training will covers key areas of agribusiness, including livestock management, value chain optimisation, winery, crop production, food processing, food safety, farm waste management, product packaging, and marketing strategies.

Tagged, “Agric-Tech & Food Business for Africa,” the training programme is a product of the partnership between Nigerian agribusiness firm, JR Farms, and the French government, which was signed in 2023, with the support of

Ms. Sonia Darracq, agriculture attaché at the French Embassy, Abuja.

In a statement, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founder of JR Farms,Mr. Olawale Rotimi-Opeyemi said that the participants are part of the second cohort of the programme and will undergo hands-on training across three leading training institutes in France

According to him, the programme seeks to equip African agribusiness owners with industrial networking opportunities, exposure to global best practices, and access to key stakeholders in international business circles.

He disclosed that the programme covers key areas of agribusiness, including livestock

management, value chain optimisation, winery, crop production, food processing, food safety, farm waste management, product packaging, and marketing strategies.

“Over the two-week period, participants will visit worldclass agribusiness firms in France, engage with industry experts, policymakers, and investors, gaining insights into innovative farming techniques, sustainable agricultural solutions, and global market opportunities,” Olawale added.

According to him, the initiative seeks to enhance the capacity of the participants to scale their businesses, improve productivity, and income and contribute to food security and economic growth in Nigeria.

DavoDani MfB Reaffirms Commitment to Innovation, Business Empowerment

In commemoration of its 10th anniversary, DavoDani Microfinance Bank Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to driving innovative solutions and empowering Nigerian businesses through inclusive services tailored to meet the needs of micro, small and medium-scale enterprises in the country.

The Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the bank, Mr. Austin Isiri, pledged while delivering his keynote address during a dinner to mark the bank’s 10th anniversary in Lagos.

The event, themed, “A Decade of Transforming Lives,” also introduced stakeholders and friends of the bank to the rebranded identity of the bank while outlining its growth trajectory for the coming years.

Isiri, while thanking shareholders, partners, clients and staff of the bank for their loyalty over the years, stated that in recognition of the evolving technological and financial landscape, the bank would adopt strategies to streamline its processes to make transactions seamless and customer friendly. He said, “As we stand here

today, we must acknowledge that DD mfb’s success is not just an achievement for the shareholders alone, but for the hundreds of thousands of individuals and corporate organizations, market women and young entrepreneurs, who have been given the tools to build a better future for themselves and their families.

“The world is changing; the financial landscape is evolving, and DD MFB will continue to lead the way, innovating and adapting to meet the needs of our customers, our operating environment, and our country in general.

Saharan Blend

(Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic

Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

L-R: Chief Digital Officer, Wema Bank, Olusegun Adeniyi; Executive Director, Retail and Digital Business, Tunde Mabawonku; Head of Innovation, Solomon Ayodele and Chief Transformation Officer, Babatunde Mumuni at the Wema Bank Hackaholics 6.0 Press Conference in Lagos...recently

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Esther Oluku

Buy Interest in Transcorp, 34 Others Lift Stock Market by N216bn

Kayode Tokede

Halting its three-day downbeat performance, the Nigerian stock market yesterday gained N216 billion, inspired by investors buying interest activities in Guinness Nigeria Plc and 34 others.

As Transcorp appreciated by 9.8 per cent, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NG ASI) rose by 344.24 basis points or 0.32

per cent to close at 106,780.72 basis points.

As a result, the Month-toDate and Year-to-Date returns printed -1.0per cent and +3.7per cent, respectively. Similarly, the overall market capitalisation value gained N216 billion to close at N66.869 trillion.

As measured by market breadth, market sentiment was positive, as 35 stocks gained while 15 stocks lost. Transcorp and SCOA Nigeria

recorded the highest price gain of 9.98 per cent to close at N51.80, per share. SCOA Nigeria followed with a gain of 9.88 per cent to close at N3.78 and Africa Prudential up by 9.87 per cent to close at N30.60, per share.

Tantalizers rose by 9.72 per cent to close at N2.37, while Caverton Offshore Support Group appreciated by 9.52 per cent to close at N2.76, per share. On the other hand, SUNU Assurance,

MRS Oil Nigeria and Red Star Express led the losers’ chart by 10 per cent each to close at N4.77, N166.50 and N5.94 respectively, per share.

Lasaco Assurance followed with a decline of 7.99 per cent to close at N2.65, while UPDC lost 6.76 per cent to close at N2.62, per share.

The total volume traded declined by 5.9 per cent to 375.725 million units, valued at N10.185 billion, and exchanged

in 11,447 deals. Transactions in the shares of Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) topped the activity chart with 49.946 million shares valued at N2.913 billion. Access Holdings followed with 43.866 million shares worth N1.033 billion, while Zenith Bank traded 36.511 million shares valued at N1.727 billion. Fidelity Bank traded 27.105 million shares valued at N468.652 million, while United Bank for Africa

(UBA) transacted 19.437 million shares worth N705.132 million. On market outlook, Afrinvest Limited said that “we anticipate a sustained positive performance on the bourse, underpinned by improved investor sentiment as well as declining attraction in the fixed income market following the further yield correction at the last Treasury bills Primary Market Auction (PMA).”

L-R: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Executive Chairman; Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zachh Adedeji; and NNPC Group Managing Director,

L-R: Team Member, Provider Management AXA Mansard Health, Abdulkadir Umar; Unit Head, Provider Management AXA Mansard Health, Titilope MacFadden; Executive Director, Business Development AXA Mansard Health, Adeola Adebanjo; Group Head, Medical Services, AXA Mansard Health, Olamide Lawal; and Team Member, Provider Management, Chukwunonso Nweke, during the AXA Mansard 2025 Providers forum held  in Sokoto...recently

Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle  Salako (middle), flanked by the Country Lead of Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Oyefunke Jaiyesimi,  and the management team members, Uchenna Ugwuleke, Margaret Mendie-Sawyerr, and Chibuike Uzor, during an official visit. On the roll call are: the Minister’s Aide, Dr. Obiajulu Ugbo, Dr. Uche Nwokwu, Mrs. Grace Ogunleye, Dr. Kehinde Ololade, Mrs. Rosemary Oyewole, and Dr. Femi Adegoke, during the courtesy visit to the minister  in Abuja... recently

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, AfriGOPay Financial Services, Ebehijie Momoh; Co-Founder/Group CEO, Moniepoint Inc, Tosin Eniolorunda; Managing Director/CEO, Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS), Premier Oiwoh; and Managing Director, Moniepoint MFB, Babatunde Olofin, during a strategic stakeholders’ engagement session by Moniepoint at the NIBSS office in Lagos¬ recently

Osun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry,

Governor,

Miles Kyari, at the public hearing on Tax Reform bills by the Senate in Abuja… recently

L-R:

Revd. Bunmi Jenyo (celebrant); Osun State

Ademola Adeleke; Mrs. Olusola Jenyo; and state Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Sunday Bisi, during the birthday ceremony of Revd. Bunmi Jenyo held in Osogbo...recently

L-R: Community Manager, Ogle Properties, Tomisin Olukotun; Chief Operating Officer, Rita Unegbu;  Chief Executive Officer/ Founder, Ebun Fatoyinbo; Operations Lead, Mimi Jones;  Engineering Lead,  Fortune Bekee; and Brand and Marketing Manager, Joseph Suleimann, at the official launch of Ogle Properties in Lagos… recently PHOTO: SUNDAY

2025 INTerNATIoNAl WoMeN’S DAY

Tolagbe Martins on Women, Work & Worth, While ‘owning the Narrative’

Tolagbe Martins is a seasoned strategy and communications professional based in Lagos, Nigeria, with extensive experience in guiding small businesses and government entities toward achieving their goals. Her expertise in public-private partnerships has driven successful projects across diverse sectors, including environment, technology, healthcare, and emergency services. Beyond her professional work, she is also a Business English coach, helping emerging business leaders articulate their visions effectively. In 2023, she launched Africurate, a pioneering initiative dedicated to advising micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) on business development and market expansion through collaboration and diversification. In 2024, she introduced The Language of Nigerian Women, an innovative web TV series that explores the diverse narratives, relationships, and unique linguistic expressions that shape Nigerian women’s identities. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that in line with this, to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day 2025, Tolagbe curated an evening of powerful conversations, networking, and thought-provoking discussions on confidence, career growth, and influence. Held at RF Garden, Ikoyi, the event brought together a dynamic group of women—her “Tribe”—to explore themes such as “Breaking Barriers, Not Spirit” as well as “My Work, My Impact, and My Presence Matter”

Just this Wednesday, a group of accomplished and ambitious women gathered at RF Garden, Ikoyi, Lagos, for an event unlike any other. Organised by Tolagbe Martins, a seasoned strategy and communications professional, the gathering was designed to be more than just a networking session.

It was a space where women could challenge the limiting narratives that often hold them back, assert their worth, and step into their full potential. This high-impact event, held in commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD), was aptly titled “Women, Work & Worth: Owning the Narrative.”

At the heart of this initiative was a pressing question: How do women reclaim their stories, redefine their professional and personal journeys, and carve out space for themselves in a world that frequently underestimates them?

Martins, whose expertise spans publicprivate partnerships, business development, and communication, understands the power of storytelling. Through Africurate, a platform she launched in 2023, and her web TV series, The Language of Nigerian Women, she has been actively amplifying the voices of women across different sectors.

Breaking Barriers, Not Spirits

The evening’s discussions revolved around two powerful themes: “Breaking barriers, not spirit” and “My work, my impact, and my presence matter.” Too many women, no matter how skilled or experienced, still second-guess their worth, shrink their ambition, and hesitate to take up space. Martins was clear—this had to change.

“Women are not lacking in talent or ambition,” she noted. “But they are often conditioned to wait for permission to lead, to negotiate for better opportunities, or even to simply take up space.”

For keynote speaker and co-host of ISaidWhatISaid podcast, Jola Ayeye, a key part of “Owning the Narrative” is about dismantling these limiting beliefs.

While some of the women shared their personal stories of workplace discrimination, navigating male-dominated industries, launching successful businesses, and fighting for policies that support other women, it was testimonies that reinforced the need for women to boldly assert their achievements and stop downplaying their contributions.

The Power of Collaboration

One of the recurring themes of the evening was the importance of collective success. Martins passionately spoke about how women can overcome imposter syndrome by stepping into the driver’s seat of their own stories.

“Encourage other women. Pull people together. Tell your story together. We can do so much more when we collaborate,” she urged.

“How will you raise money if you don’t show what you’ve done properly?” she asked. “People fund stories they can believe in. If you’re not telling yours, who will?”

One striking example came from a participant, Funmi, who successfully raised funds for chartered flights by consistently sharing her journey on the radio for over a decade. Her story was a testament to the power of repetition and visibility.

“You might think everyone has heard your story already, but the truth is, someone new is listening every day. Keep telling it.”

Championing Women’s Success

Martins also tackled one of the most damaging stereotypes—the idea that women are their own worst enemies. She strongly refuted this, stating that she has seen more women supporting each other now than ever before.

“That whole narrative is a lie,” she declared.

“Women are championing women every day. We see it in communities like this, in businesses, in organisations.”

However, she acknowledged that challenges

remain, particularly in political spaces. Reflecting on recent events involving women in Nigeria’s Senate, she noted the disappointment of seeing female leaders fail to support one another.

But she also saw it as an opportunity.

“We are witnessing this in real-time, and we will tell the story. We will not let history be rewritten,” she asserted.

For Martins, the fight for women’s empowerment is not just about individual success but about breaking systemic cycles that have held women back for generations.

Redefining Mentorship

Another key discussion was the evolving nature of mentorship. Martins challenged the

traditional one-way model of mentorship, advocating instead for peer mentoring and reverse mentorship, where younger professionals also guide and teach those with more experience.

She highlighted a harsh reality—women are often over-mentored but underfunded. While mentorship is valuable, real change happens when women also have financial backing, visibility, and influence. She encouraged the women present to not only seek guidance but also build strategic alliances, share opportunities, and support each other financially.

She encouraged the women in attendance to seek mentorship in unconventional ways—whether through social media, professional communities, or even from

their own children. “If you admire someone’s work, reach out to them. Learn from them. Collaboration is the new currency of success?”

Owning the Future

As the night wound down, it was evident that “Owning the Narrative” was more than just an event; it was a movement. The women left with a renewed sense of purpose, equipped with practical strategies to rewrite their success stories on their own terms.

For Tolagbe Martins, this was just another step in her broader mission—to amplify the voices of Nigerian women, celebrate their achievements, and ensure that they are seen, heard, and funded. “Women in Nigeria achieve. We know this. Now, it’s time the world knows too,” she stressed.

BOROKIRI FIRE SERVICE STATION GETS A BOOST...

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara

the

to inaugurate the

former Deputy

Military Challenges Credibility of Global Terrorism Index

The Nigerian military has queried the credibility of the current Global Terrorism Index, which was released on 5th of March.

The current index ranks Nigeria sixth globally, with a score of 7.658, moving up from eighth place in 2023 and 2024. It also recorded 565 terrorism-related deaths in Nigeria in 2024.

According to the 2025 report, Burkina Faso topped the index with a score of 8.581, followed by Pakistan (8.374), Syria (8.006), Mali (7.907), and Niger (7.776), which ranked second to fifth, respectively.

Somalia (7.614), Israel (7.463), Afghanistan (7.262), Cameroon (6.944), Myanmar (6.929), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (6.768), Iraq (6.582), India (6.410), Colombia (6.381), and Russia (6.267) ranked 7th to sixteenth.

But responding to a question on the report, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, stressed that reports from the Nigerian military provide a more accurate account of the country's counter-terrorism efforts than external sources.

General Kangye insisted that

information provided by those directly involved in a situation is more credible than that from outsiders.

According to him, "Something is happening in my house. I'm the head of the house. I have children, I have a wife, and someone else is reporting what is happening in my house to me. Which one would be more correct? The one that I will tell you as the head of the house or the one that is reported from outside?

"The one I think will give you the correct information is that of the head of the house. As members of the media who attend this meeting every week, you should be able to stand and correct what they are giving Nigerians."

He urged the media to give the correct version of happenings in the country.

Regarding the sit-at-home order in the South-east, Kangye said residents, out of fear, still stay indoors on Mondays.

He stated that the military was working to free the region from IPOB/ESN fighters.

General Kangye added: "Who gave the order? IPOB/ESN criminals. Because of what is happening

in the South-east, Operation Udo Ka was set up, just like Operation Hadin Kai in the North-east.

"I want to tell you that the commanders we have in the South-east have been doing very well. If they give a "sit-at-home"

order, the commanders will tell the locals to go about their normal business.

"However, in some areas, locals will stay at home due to fear of being attacked or killed. The commanders under that operation are

doing their best".

He stated that they are doing exceptionally well to ensure that the Southeast is freed from IPOB/ ESN.

Earlier in his brief, General Kangye revealed that troops across

all operational theatres killed 92 terrorists, including terrorist Commander Abba Alai, popularly known as Amirul Khalid of Alafa. He added that they also arrested 111 criminal elements and rescued 75 hostages in one week.

Anambra Women Pledge Support for Soludo's Re-election Over Free Delivery in Govt Hospitals

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Women in Anambra State have said they will support the re-election of the governor of the state, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, because of his free antenatal, childbirth and postnatal policy in the state.

The women, over 2,000 of them endorsed the governor during the 2025 Anambra State Women Summit, convened by the State Women leader of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Lady Esther Onyekesi.

The women who were drawn from various backgrounds, political parties, tribes, ethnicity and religion said the endorsement was to en-

able the governor complete his humanitarian and development projects in all the 179 communities in the state.

Their leader, Lady Esther Onyekesi said: "The governor has done tremendously well in all sector of the economy, particularly, in the health and security sectors.

"Today, every pregnant woman in Anambra State irrespective of tribe, ethic and religion gets free antenatal, childbirth and postnatal services in any government hospital of her choice.

"Our children are going to school free of charge, we now sleep with our two eyes closed, our youths are being trained and empowered free of charge through the one youth, two skills acquisition programme

of the government. "We, the women in Anambra State are calling on his co-contestants from other political parties to consider stepping down for him to enable him actualize his vision 2070 of making Anambra a clean, green, peaceful, secure, livable and prosperous homeland in Nigeria."

The women said since the launch of the free hospital services by the governor, several of their counterparts have received free antenatal, delivery and post Natal services in all government hospitals in the state.

One of the women, Mrs. Nchedochi Eze, said: "My younger sister had her baby through cesarian section, a complicated surgery that would have cost her over N500,000, but

she had it free of charge in Onitsha government hospital.

"How could they have paid if it was not for such a policy. That is why we are asking that the governor continues in office, so that we will continue to enjoy this services."

Addressing the women, the governor's wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, said what her husband’s administration has been able to achieve in the area of women empowerment so far is phenomenal and has greatly raised the living standard of women in the state to an enviable status. She thanked the women for endorsing her husband for a second term, assuring that the present government will continue to work towards improving the welfare of women in the state.

Routine Affair

A respected scholar in the department of philosophy Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Professor Jimoh Olanipekun Famakinwa, has been reported dead.

The sudden death has thrown the university community into a state of confusion due to his sudden departure.

The tragic incident was said to have occurred during a departmental meeting on Wednesday, 5th March 2025, when the late professor was noticed breathing abnormally by his colleagues.

Worried about his condition, he was immediately rushed to the University Health and Medical Centre for urgent medical attention.

According to a statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, the medical team at the health centre promptly examined him and, upon

assessing his condition, referred him to the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife. Sadly, upon arrival, he was pronounced Brought In Dead (B.I.D.).

THISDAY learnt that the shocking news has left the university community in deep sorrow, with many students and staff struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of the esteemed academics

Reacting to the development, the Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Simeon Bamire, led other members of his management team on a condolence visit to the family of the deceased.

Expressing his shock and disbelief, Professor Bamire described the late professor as a brilliant scholar whose sudden passing is a huge loss to the university, his department, and the academic world.

According to him, “It is difficult to comprehend how someone so

full of life and dedication to his work could depart so suddenly. However, we take solace in the fact that he lived a fulfilled life, making a positive impact on those around him.”

He urged the bereaved family to remain strong, emphasising that as Christians, they should take comfort in the divine will of God.

“The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. May He grant the family, the Department of Philosophy, the Faculty of Arts, and the entire university community the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” the Vice-Chancellor prayed.

THISDAY learnt yesterday that the remains of Professor Famakinwa have been deposited at the Department of Anatomy within the university for necessary procedures.

The university management has assured that details regarding his burial arrangements would be communicated in due course.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The invitation by the operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel was purely a routine affair without negative intention.

Media Aide to the past governor, Barrister Stephen Abia, who offered the explanation in a statement said: "This, he did, seamlessly in his undaunted spirit of patriotism and sense of responsibility.

"It is worth emphasizing here that this invitation has been extended to thousands of Nigerians, both the rich and the not-so-rich, political and corporate titans. An invitation, therefore, is not a conviction.”

He said Mr. Emmanuel had since left the EFCC headquarters in Abuja to his home.

Further according to the statement:

"He was not detained, it must be emphasized, as was reported by a section of the press.

“Mr. Udom Emmanuel presided over a robust growth in Akwa Ibom State. He faced two harsh economic environments: the economic meltdown that occurred shortly after he was sworn-in in 2015, which saw the price of oil drop to historic lows, and the COVID-19 pandemic that ravaged the world shortly after he was sworn in for a second term.

"In spite of these, he presided over eight years of economic growth that saw many expansions in the infrastructural profile of the state, earning Akwa Ibom the singular distinction of the state with the best road network of all the subnationals in the nation.

"He established Ibom Air, which today, has been adjudged the best airline in Nigeria, and ran a deeply transparent government where the

budgets and government expenditures were regularly published.

“His performance was applauded across party lines, leading to the award of the Commander of the Order of Nigeria (CON) bestowed on him by the immediate past President and Commander-in-Chief, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, despite being a governor elected on the platform of the PDP.

"The teeming admirers of the unassuming personality, a God - fearing leader, blessed with a peaceful disposition and nationally celebrated superlative performance which Mr. Udom Emmanuel epitomized while he was the governor of Akwa Ibom State, should, disregard the antics of detractors.

"God did not only call Mr. Udom Emmanuel, CON, to lead Akwa Ibom State at the time He did, He qualified him, squarely leading to the legacy of impact he left in Akwa Ibom State."

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

(2nd left);

Governor, Dr. Tele Ikuru (2nd right); and Senator Lee Maeba (left), assisting while the former Transport Minister, Dr. Abiye Sekibo (middle), cuts

tape

Borokiri Fire Service Station and Vehicles in Port Harcourt Township, Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, yesterday

IKEDC Invasion: Airforce to Investigate, Sanction Erring

Personnel, as FG Pledges to Offset N4bn Unpaid Bills

With over 10 staff injured, properties damaged, AOC appeals to aggrieved victims IKEDC commends NAF leadership for emotional intelligence in response to rage by soldiers

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has condemned the invasion of the Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IKEDC) headquarters in Alausa by its armed personnel, describing the incident as unfortunate, while promising to investigate and hold those responsible accountable.

Following the impasse between the Sam Ethnan Base and Ikeja Electric over N4billion unpaid bills and the 13-day disconnected electricity supply to the base, some armed soldiers, numbering about 64, were said to have stormed the premises of Ikeja Electric to demand for their light to be turned back on.

In the chaos that erupted, the soldiers were said to have overpowered the IKEDC Staff, injured over 10 of them, and left vandalised property in their wake.

When THISDAY visited the premises, some of the staff showed the unhinged doors that were broken through, shattered award plaques, and even photocopier that was damaged with the staff alleging that their phones, laptops, and other personal belongings were taken by the armed personnel.

Some of the drivers, who were made to initially drive off with 14 cars belonging to IKEDC, were seen on the premises still shaken by their ordeal as they were only allowed to return to their office with the cars

after the due intervention of of NAF hierarchy.

Also perturbed by the terrifying experience were IKEDC Chief Executive Officer, Folake Soetan; Head of Corporate Communications, Kingsley Okotie; and Chief Technical Officer Olajide Kumapayi, and many others who were manhandled in the show of rage.

After a five-hour meeting between the leadership of the NAF in Lagos and IKEDC led by the Chairman, Mr. Kola Adesina, both parties sued for peace while stressing the need for accountability and payment of owed debt.

Confirming the attack on IKEDC office with 10 brutalised employees,

Mr. Adesina, while commending the emotional intelligence exhibited by NAF leadership in response to rage by personnel, said the federal government has promised to expedite payment of the outstanding N4 billion debt.

While lamenting the financial burden faced by the power company over the debt, he said: “We had to pay visits to the Air Force base, and we were not only kept abreast with the sad situation at the base itself in terms of the criticality of the infrastructure, as well as the fact that there are morgues out there, and a large number of other critical infrastructure that didn't have electricity.

“We were told all these. We were shown evidence of why it is

Fubara Convinced Us in Atiku's Camp to Back Tinubu’s Ambition, Says Ex-Minister

Governor vows to continue prioritising welfare of Rivers people CISLAC says actions against Fubara contain elements of treason

Former Minister of Transport, Chief Abiye Sekibo, has disclosed that he and other leaders abandoned former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to support President Bola Tinubu because the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, prevailed on them to do so.

Sekibo, known as a strong Atiku ally, disclosed this in his remarks yesterday, while performing inauguration of the Borokiri Fire Service Station rehabilitated by Fubara, in Port Harcourt.

Speaking as a special guest of honour at the inauguration, Sekibo appealed to President Tinubu not to listen to persons telling him that the Rivers State governor was surrounded by Atiku's loyalists.

Sekibo said the project reflected purposeful leadership that has prioritised the wellbeing of the people because they would get assistance to tackling fire incidences when it occurs.

"There might be persons telling you stories, especially when they see people like me, who was a core Atiku man. They will say, don't you see, it is Atiku people that are with the Governor.

“There are also Atiku people that are with them there in Abuja. But, the Governor has convinced us that the place to be is to be with our President. So, Mr President, we stand with you.

“We stand with you because that is the right thing to do. The election delivered you as our President, and so, we stand with you. The election also delivered our Governor, our son, and we stand with him."

Sekibo advised Rivers people, who felt demoralised by the Supreme Court judgment, to brace up and give unalloyed support to Governor Fubara, who has assured of obeying the ruling to the latter.

In his remarks, Fubara said the purpose of government was to provide services to the people and protect lives and property.

"So, when we are doing those things that we are elected to do and we start showcasing it sometimes it doesn't make any sense. But you have to show the world what you are doing so that they will know that you are working.

“Some will commission borehole and advertise it. But for us we have chosen to showcase to the world vital and most needed item of service," he said.

CISLAC: Actions against Fubara Contain Elements of Treason

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), has described as treasonable felony, actions perpetrated against Fubara since he assumed office.

Legal Manager of the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG), CISLAC, Mr Gimba Hassan, made this assertion in a statement in Abuja.

According to him, the actions targeted at the governor violate the Criminal Code of the 1999 Constitution.

“It is my belief that some of the actions against Fubara contain elements of treason under Section 37 of the Criminal Code Act and treasonable felony under Section 40 of the same Act.

“When you examine the use of violence against the governor, the burning of the State House of Assembly, the withdrawal of his security, and the deployment of thugs to take over local government councils during elections, it becomes clear that these acts were intended to intimidate and overpower the governor, which falls within the legal definitions of treason and treasonable felony.

“This is especially worrisome in a country where even peaceful protests by minors are sometimes treated as treason,” Hassan said.

important we have a facility that's strategically, appropriately electrified. Unfortunately, on our own side of the business, we're being owed a significant chunk of money, about $4 billion plus, for which we've not been able to receive revenue.

"We've been discussing this for some time now, about seven years that we've been at it, but somehow the money wasn't coming through.

“Sadly, because of the fact that we have a system whereby, as a distribution company, the responsibility of collection lies primarily with us, and remission of that money into a common account, which is excess crude, of course, with that responsibility of it being upstream.

"The gas suppliers, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), and other critical market participants. Of course, that has led to liabilities in our books that we've been carrying in our balance sheet, and it has made us quite a bankrupt organisation.

“Somehow, we've been riding the wave, but it's been very difficult and challenging, and if we cannot collect, how do we pay our staff? How do we incentivise them to be able to do what they are paid to do? So this unfortunate situation arose, and of course, we woke up to this sad event.

“This is a traumatic day in the life of our organisation, because as an organisation, one of the things we

pride ourselves for is the safety of our people first, safety of our assets, and ensuring that we give electricity to our customers alike. But somehow, that has been impaired today.”

Estimating the company’s losses at over N1 billion over the invasion, Adesina described the incident as “a traumatic day” for IKEDC, adding that even though the federal government has promised to ensure the money being owed the DISCO would be paid speedily, operations were disrupted and they had to evacuate the building as the workers were not in good state of mind.

Acknowledging the enormous sacrifices military personnel make for the safety and security of all Nigerians, Adesina commended the NAF leadership for their intervention. “The leadership not only accepted that certain things ought not to have happened, but they also visited us to assess the damage. This level of engagement is unusual and appreciated.

"We've gone around the offices, and he has even had the privilege of addressing some of our staff that were injured in the course of the rage that we saw today. So one would want to say that we say thank you, at least, for the response of the leadership, and thank you for the emotional intelligence and empathy that has been shown today in terms of the conversations we've had.”

NECO Purchases N500m Optimal Mark Registration Machine

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has acquired a high-performance Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) Scanner worth N500 million which it says will enhance efficiency, credibility and security of its examinations.

The Registrar/Chief Executive, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi at the inauguration of the newly installed scanning machine at the ICT Department in Minna on Thursday, said it was part of the Council’s efforts to improve accuracy, speed and reliability in its examination process.

Prof. Wushishi disclosed that the Scantron Insight 1500c is a

high-performance OMR Scanner known for its precision, speed and ability to handle large volume of scripts efficiently.

He explained that, “with this new addition, we will significantly enhance our data processing capabilities, ensuring faster and more accurate results processing for millions of candidates across the world”.

"The scanning machine cost about N500 million. It has the capacity to simultaneously scan and score OMR sheets, and this is to enhance efficiency, Credibility and Security of its examinations.

According to him, the newly acquired scanner has the capability to scan over 15,000 OMR sheets per hour and 250 per minute.

Prof. Wushishi explained that the acquisition of the high-speed scanner is a testament to NECO’s commitment to leveraging technology in all its examination processes.

The Director ICT Department, Mr. Goddy Usioboh, in his address, said the acquisition of the new scanner aligns with NECO’s vision of delivering world-class examination services while maintaining the integrity of its assessment.

The technical adviser from Scantron Company, Minessota, USA, Mr. Tom Harry, who trained the staff of the ICT Department on the Operations of the new scanning machine, expressed satisfaction with the staff high level of dedication and diligence during the training.

WIKE IN MILAN...

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike (R) with the President of Lombardy Region, Attilio Fontana, during a meeting in Milan, Italy... yesterday

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Chiemelie Ezeobi

MEET WITH PRESS PROGRAMME AT THE PRESIDENTIAL VILLA...

L-R: Special Adviser to President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga; Managing Director/CEO of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Dr, Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz; Executive Director of the Transmission Service Provider (TSP), Oluwagbenga Ajiboye, and general manager Program Coordination for Donor Project, Engr. Aminu Tahir during the Meet with Press Programme at the Presidential Villa Abuja... yesterday

Adeleke Briefs Traditional Rulers on Crisis, Insists No Court Reinstated Sacked Chairs

Eulogises Obasanjo at 88, brother at 68

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, yesterday, held a special briefing session with the State Council of Traditional Rulers, affirming that there was no court order reinstating the court-sacked Yes/No council chairmen.

The briefing was a continuation of the governor’s statewide consultations with elders and opinion moulders on the recent uproar over the leadership of local governments, including a visit to Chief Bisi Akande, a former governor of the state, at his Ibadan residence.

At the meeting attended by top traditional rulers under the chairmanship of the Ooni of Ife, Arole Oodua, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, both the Commissioners for Justice (Jimi Wole Bada) and Information (Kolapo Alimi) presented the four judgements to prove to the kings that the court order sacking the chairmen remained valid and in force.

Adeleke, in his briefing paper, widely shared among the monarchs, declared that statesmanship and divine intervention had saved Osun from major calamity, lamenting that, “our state just survived a major

threat to the democratic space.”

His words: “As one of the highly literate communities in Nigeria, we have a duty to avoid misinformation and disinformation, hence my coming here to present all details about the recent local government face off.

“We are all aware that after I defeated Gboyega Oyetola in July 2022, he hurriedly organised a Yes/ No local government election.

Two political parties, PDP and APP went to Court to challenge the arrangement for the election.

“So, there were two separate suits. PDP’s case was filed before the promulgation of Local Government Election Law of 2022. In both of these cases, the Federal High Court decided that the process and procedure leading to the election was flawed.

“The court, in both cases, declared the election null and void and of no consequences and removed the persons who were purported to have been elected through that flawed election. The court nullified and ordered that those who were purportedly elected vacate the office.

“In the first appeal against the APP judgement which sacked the Yes/No Council chairmen, the APC and the APM, filed an appeal but

did not pursue the case.

“They went to sleep as lawyers would say. The respondent in the case which included the PDP, sought to dismount the appeal. So, the Court of Appeal dismissed the APC appeal.

“Our fathers, since the appeal was dismissed, the judgement sacking the Yes/No chairmen remains valid. As of today, the sack order has never been vacated by any court of law.”

Meanwhile, Adeleke has eulogised former President Olusegun Obasanjo as on his 88th birthday anniversary.

In the same vein, he prayed for good health, long life and expanded prosperity for his elder brother, and global business mogul, Dr

Adedeji Tajudeen Adeleke, as he also celebrates his birthday as well. Adeleke described the former president as a true and one of the most patriotic Nigerian leaders, who did their best and has continued to work for the development of not just Nigeria and Africa but global peace and development.

The governor, who gave the eulogies during his remark at the 88th birthday celebrations of Obasanjo in Abeokuta, Ogun State, commended Baba for his undeniable belief in democracy which he said was evident in his handover of power to a democratically elected government as a military Head of State in 1979.

Also, in a personally signed felicitation message he described

his brother as “an angel in human shape, a deeply kind hearted destiny helper and an unassuming sponsor and supporter of innumerable souls irrespective of tribes and religion.

“At every hour, day and month, our souls supplicate for your continuous progress and further enhancement of divine mercy and grace on you and all your loved ones. The lives you positively touch sing and praise God to further bless you as you devote your wealth and riches to uplift the weak and the powerless.

“As my elder brother, you symbolise divine blessings from angel-like figure who care, support, nurture and uplift your siblings, your extended family, your town, your state and your dear country.

You stand for purity, philanthropy and exceptional dedication to the growth and advancement of humanity.

“In your private and public life, your humility is contagious, your honesty is unrivaled and your wisdom is exceptionally indescribable. On a daily basis, we drink from your wealth of experience as our guide and our benefactor.

“As you add another year, I, Governor Ademola Adeleke, on behalf of the government and people of Osun state pray to Almighty God to answer all your secret prayers, to protect you and all your loved ones, to further enhance your coast and strengthen your divine shield.”

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), has admitted to killing civilians in the Zamfara community during an air bombardment of suspected

bandits’ hideouts.

The service stated that its findings confirmed 11 members of the vigilante group were unintentionally killed, while another 11 sustained injuries

ranging from fractures to minor shrapnel wounds.

In a statement, Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, said the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, made this admission when he visited Zamfara State to meet with victims and families affected by the recent airstrike, expressing deep regret over the tragic incident.

Vows not to visit them for negotiation

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

Katsina State Governor, Dikko

Umaru Radda, has said his administration would accept and reintegrate terrorists, who voluntarily renounce violence and become law-abiding citizens into the society.

He said any terrorist that wholeheartedly renounced nefarious activities would be accepted by the state government, but would not visit their enclaves in the forest for negotiation.

Radda, who spoke during a com-

munity empowerment programme at Jibia Local Government Area of the State, insisted that his government had no plans to negotiate with the marauding criminals.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Radda explained that if the forest-dwelling terrorists were ready to surrender and abandon their criminal activities, “we are ready to receive you.”

He said, “We will not seek out terrorists in the forest to negotiate. However, if they voluntarily surren-

der, renounce violence, and choose to become law-abiding citizens, we are open to reintegrating them to society.”

Suing for the importance of unity, and shared responsibility in tackling security challenges, the governor commended the Jibia Local Government Chairman and security agencies for their ongoing efforts in maintaining regional peace. He, however, praised the N50 million food and financial empowerment for youth, women and the less privileged by Hon. Mustapha

Yusuf, Member representing Jibia Constituency at the State House of Assembly.

Radda reiterated that his administration had commenced a Ramadan feeding programme for 72,000 individuals daily, with projections to feed approximately 2.2 million people before the end of Ramadan.

In his remarks, Yusuf explained that the empowerment programme was designed to arrest the hardships experienced by the beneficiaries during the month of Ramadan.

During his visit yesterday, the CAS acknowledged the grief and pain suffered by the victims, their families, and the entire community, describing the event as a painful departure from the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) commitment to protecting Nigerian citizens.

He revealed that the NAF had earmarked financial support for the families of those who lost their lives, while also committing to the reconstruction of the damaged building in the affected village.

"Additionally, he assured that the two motorcycles destroyed in the airstrike would be replaced. In further efforts to support the affected community, he directed

the NAF Director of Services to provide a solar-powered borehole in Kambarawa Village, which would serve the local community as well as neighbouring settlements," he said.

He explained that while these efforts could not undo the loss suffered, they demonstrated the Air Force’s resolve to make amends and provide relief to those affected.

NAF Admits Killing Civilians in Zamfara, Pledges Compensation to Affected Families Radda: We'll Accept Terrorists Who Voluntarily Forsake Violence, Adopt Peace

The CAS also used the opportunity to highlight the NAF’s Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (NAF CHMR-AP), which was recently developed to enhance operational precision, improve assessments and investigations, and ensure effective response mechanisms when civilian harm occurs.

He noted that the plan was designed to be flexible and scalable, making it relevant to both kinetic and non-kinetic operations. According to him, the initiative would improve strategic outcomes, refine operational assessments, and strengthen the NAF’s capacity to mitigate civilian harm while ensuring success across the full spectrum of military operations.

Linus Aleke in Abuja

PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI

LAUNCH OF THE NESG 2025 PRIVATE SECTOR OUTLOOK...

Anambra 2025: Only 12 Out of 19 Parties Sent in Schedules of Primaries, Says INEC

APC settles for indirect primaries PDP aspirants yet to purchase guber forms

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),has revealed that only 12 out of the 19 registered political parties had submitted detailed schedules of their primaries, ahead of the Anambra State governorship election scheduled to hold on November 8, 2025.

This was as the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has adopted the indirect mode of primary to elect the candidate of the party for the election.

At the same time, all Anambra

same time disregard other provisions in the Standing Orders.

Monguno said, “Senator Natasha has been consistently and persistently in breach of this rules. He who comes to equity must come with clean hands. If you are seeking refuge always under order 10, you cannot approbate and reprobate. We urge her to study the rules and comply in observance and not in breach.”

Senate is a Mature Institution, Deserves Respect, Says First Lady, Charges Women

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, reacted to the recent controversy trailing the Nigerian Senate, saying the red chamber remained a mature institution that must be treated with respect.

Her remarks came amid allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of office levelled against Akpabio by Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Speaking to newsmen at State House, Abuja, while commemorating the International Women’s Day, Mrs. Tinubu dismissed concerns over the senate’s handling of issues, insisting that the lawmakers are "doing what is needful".

The first lady, who served in the senate for 12 years from 2011 to 2023, said the upper legislative chamber should be a place of honour, not controversy.

She said, "I know with what is going on in the Senate, you'll say, why am I not taking a position? I believe that Senate is doing what is needful, because that's what it is, it's an inside place, and it's a mature chambers.

"We shouldn't be hearing things like that. It's a mature chamber, and it should be treated with respect. It's an honour for you to be in that place alone.

"I was there for 12 years, even in my younger days, and I'm still trying to look young, but people compliment you all the time."

Reflecting on her 12-year stay in

State governorship aspirants in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP had agreed to suspend their suspense of purchase of nomination governorship forms pending the Supreme Court resolution of who was the authentic national secretary. INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, in a statement, urged the seven parties that were yet to submit the required information to do so immediately. He recalled that in line with the provision of Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, the Commission published the Notice of Election on

the senate, Mrs. Tinubu encouraged women to carry themselves with dignity and confidence, urging them not to allow themselves to be in positions where they could be treated as second class citizens.

She said, "Women, raise yourself. Don’t be in a position that men will be talking to you in ways that are unacceptable. You can always shut them down before they start."

Ex-Presidential Aide, Laolu Akande, Alleges Gang-up against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan

A former presidential spokesman, Laolu Akande, has raised concern over what he claimed were attempts to silence Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan.

Weighing in on the issue during an interview on a television programme, Akande urged the Senate to stop what he described as gang-up against the lawmaker.

“They need to stop all these images, meetings, and ganging up against this woman. That has to stop. The leadership of the Senate needs to show us that there is going to be a dispassionate consideration of her allegations.

“Once that is sorted, if you think that there is a need to punish her for violating the rules, it is the better way to handle it. This idea of all of the men coming out and brandishing the rules is not looking pretty at all.

“This woman has said to the whole world that she has been sexually harassed. We have to be careful, the Nigerian Senate has to be careful not to create an impression that we are trying to silence her.

“What we have been seen so far is a lot of men holding meetings, speaking out, coming to the media to run this woman down. It is a poor reflection on the Nigerian Senate,” he stayed

It’s an Aberration for Courts to Stop Senate from Performing Its Duty , Says Ex-Speaker

13th November 2024, over 360 days before the date fixed for the election.

Olumekun explained that by the provision of the timetable and schedule of activities for the election, the conduct of primaries for nomination of candidates by political parties commences in the next two weeks — 20th March 2025 and ends on 10th April 2025.

“As agreed at our last consultative meeting with Political Parties held in January, doing so early will enable the Commission to plan for the effective monitoring of the primaries in line with the provision of Section 84 of the Electoral Act 2022.

“The seven parties that are yet to

Former Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly and Professor of Law, Ali Ahmad, has faulted the interim injunctions from courts stopping the National Assembly from performing its constitutional function.

He spoke against the backdrop of the lingering feud between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The Senate had referred AkpotiUduaghan to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions over her altercation with Akpabio.

The Federal High Court in Abuja, however, an order restraining the 2nd Defendant (Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct from proceeding with the purported investigation against the Kogi senator for “alleged misconduct, sequel to the events that occurred at the plenary of the 2nd Defendant on the 20th day of February 2025, pursuant to the referral by the 2nd Defendant on the 25th of February 2025, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice for interlocutory injunction.”

But Ali Ahmad, who also asked the Senate President to step aside to allow for a proper investigation of the allegation of sexual harassment levelled against him by the Senator expressed concern over the court issuance of interim injunction to stop another arm of government from performing its constitutionally donated duties.

Ahmad, in a chat news men said, “It is unfortunate that the court has just issued an interim order stopping the Senate from performing its constitutional function. This is an aberration.”

According to him, Section 456 of the constitution grants each of the arms of government its distinct powers, adding, “It’s wrong for an arm of government to purport to stop another arm from exercising its constitutionally donated powers, it cannot do that.

“When a court stops Senate from performing its constitutionally guaranteed powers, it’s not done anywhere, it’s just like the assembly

submit the required information are hereby reminded to do so in earnest,” he said.

The commission also urged political parties to adhere strictly to their proposed schedules, saying sudden changes to the dates, venues and modes of the primaries lead to avoidable demobilisation and remobilisation of monitoring staff, thereby disrupting the Commission's workflow.

APC Settles for Indirect Primaries

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives

and the executive passing a law and assenting the law.

“To say that the court cannot pass the judgement, that is unconstitutional or National Assembly passing a resolution that the president cannot sign a budget or cannot present a budget.”

Ijaw Youths Decry Calls for Akpabio’s Ouster

The Ijaw Youths Network (IYN), has condemned calls for the impeachment of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, over the controversy involving him and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The group described any impeachment move against Akpabio as unnecessary, stressing that some paid agents and vested interests were working round the clock to ignite instability in the Senate with the ongoing drama.

"We are constrained to vehemently condemn the unnecessary calls for the impeachment of the Senate President by paid agents motivated by interests other than patriotism.

"A willful attempt to foment instability in the Senate cannot be the right way to approach any controversy. We are against it," the IYN stated in a statement signed by the president and the secretary, Frank Ebikabo and Federal Ebiaridor respectively.

IYN called for transparency and objectivity in the handling of the matter, saying it has implicit confidence in the leadership abilities of the former Governor of Akwa Ibom State.

Labour Party Urges a Revisit of Her Case

The Labour Party (LP), has called on the Senate to reconsider the six-month suspension slammed on Akpoti-Uduaghan.

In a telephone interview, LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, described the Senate’s decision as disheartening, particularly as it coincided with International Women’s Day.

Congress (APC), has adopted the indirect mode of primary to elect its governorship candidate for 2025 Anambra governorship election.

National Secretary of the party, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, made this known while addressing newsmen at the end of the NWC meeting held at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja.

He stated, “Our meeting also considered the processes in the ongoing Anambra governorship election which is scheduled to be held by November 8, 2025.

“The national working committee of the party took cognizance of the fact that advertisement had been made

While acknowledging that the suspension was based on alleged breaches of Senate rules, Ifoh noted that the allegations of sexual harassment Akpoti-Uduaghan made against Akpabio had not been properly investigated.

According to Labour party, “What the Senate has done is illegal and unlikely to stand. They suspended the senator without granting her fair hearing and disregarded a court ruling that barred them from taking such action.”

He further emphasised that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has denied the people of Kogi Central their constitutional right to representation, as she was elected to serve their interests, not just her own.

Ezekwesili:

It’s Vicious Abuse of Power

A former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has described the six-month suspension slammed on Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, by the Senate as a “vicious abuse of power”.

Ezekwesili, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), said instead of probing the sexual harassment allegations levelled against Akpabio, the red chambers “decided to choose the ignoble path of vicious abuse of power and desecration of our public institution.”

She stated, “When men because of little power fleetingly acquired start speaking like they are God, we all must remember what history reveals of their kind.

“Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan. You have inspired a Generation. You have inspired all credible citizens. You will never walk alone,” she stated.

''Investigate the accusation of sexual harassment is all that sensible Nigerians have collectively asked the @NGRSenate to do, but no, they have decided to choose the ignoble path of vicious abuse of power and desecration of our Public Institution @nassnigeria.”

and it seems the advertisement was seemingly projecting that the NWC had adopted direct mode of primary, but in actual fact no positive resolution of the NWC had been taken before today as to the mode of primary.

“At the NWC today it was put into consideration and now formally decided that the mode of emergence of the candidate for that election will be through indirect primary.” Bashiru added that the NWC would convene a stakeholders meeting with the State Working Committee, state caucus and all the aspirants next Tuesday at the national headquarters of the party.

PDP Aspirants Suspend Guber Forms Until S’Court Verdict on National Secretaryship

All Anambra State governorship aspirants of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had agreed to suspend their purchase of governorship nomination forms pending the Supreme Court resolution on who is the authentic national secretary.

Senator Samuel Anyanwu and Sunday Ude-Okoye are laying claims to the office of the national secretary. Moreover, the office of the national secretary is a signatory to the submission of the nomination forms to the independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The supreme court has adjourned to March 10 to adjudicate on the authentic National Secretary.

It was against this backdrop that all the governorship aspirants had snubbed the collection of nomination forms, awaiting the Supreme Court directive on the authentic national secretary, because the office of national secretary was recognised and statutory signature to the nomination forms.

The PDP had initially scheduled the sale of forms between February 24 and March 5, with a March 7 deadline for submission.

The Anambra PDP governorship primary is set for April 5, followed by an appeal committee sitting on April 8.

Inside sources confirmed that aspirants were avoiding the party due to internal crises.

A reliable source said the ongoing leadership crisis had made aspirants hesitant to invest in the platform.

“As of now, no aspirant has purchased the PDP Anambra governorship nomination forms. They are hesitant due to the party’s instability. The crisis has weakened the party’s influence across different levels, making aspirants cautious about spending such a huge sum,” he stated. PDP National Deputy Legal Adviser, Okechukwu Osuoha, acknowledged the party’s crisis but remained optimistic about its chances in Anambra.

L-R: CEO, Aruwa Capital, Adesuwa Okunbor-Rhodes; Chairman, Organised Private Sector of Nigeria, Dele Kelvin Oye; CEO, NESG, Tayo Aduloju; Partner, Sahel Capital, Tosin Ojo; and Strategy Leader, West Africa, Safrik Investment Group, Dr. Vincent Nwani, during the launch of the NESG 2025 Private Sector Outlook: “Adapting to Economic Uncertainties for Growth and Resilience” in Lagos, yesterday

Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

MONIEPOINT STAKEHOLDERS’ ENGAGEMENT SESSION…

L-R Managing Director/CEO, AfriGOPay Financial Services, Ebehijie Momoh; Co-Founder/Group CEO, Moniepoint Inc, Tosin Eniolorunda; MD/CEO, Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS), Premier Oiwoh and Managing Director, Moniepoint MFB, Babatunde Olofin, during a strategic stakeholders’ engagement session by Moniepoint in Lagos…recently

Witness: Yahaya Bello’s Name Not in Kogi Govt House Bank Documents

Says former gov paid children’s school fees in advance

Alex Enumah in abuja

A witness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday admitted that the name of former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, did not feature in any of the account opening packages for the Government House Bank account with the United Bank for Africa (UBA). The witness, Mrs Abimbola Williams, a Compliance Officer with UBA also admitted before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, that Bello’s name did not feature in all the withdrawals made from the account number 1003889575 managed by UBA for the Kogi Government House Administration while Yahaya

Sit Up, Governor Bago Tells AEDC

Laleye Dipo in minna Niger State Governor, Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Bago, has tasked the Abuja Electricity Development Company (AEDC), the organisation responsible for the supply of electricity to homes and businesses in the state to sit up by performing its assignment diligently.

Bago’s charge to the AEDC came against the backdrop of continuous epileptic power supply across the state in the last couple of months and the outcry by consumers.

The governor, who received the Chief Business Officer of AEDC, Mr. Sam Odekina, expressed displeasure with the epileptic power supply in Niger State, and therefore, asked the company to improve power supply in the interest of “the common man and the sufferings they face due to the hot weather.”

The governor also told the organisation “to work closely with the state Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy to look

at the average consumption of customers on the service base lines in order to finalize plans for subsidy.”

The Chief Business Officer AEDC, Odekina, assured the governor that the organisation would improve power supply in Niger State, but blamed the present situation on more consumption by consumers as a result of the hot weather

The quantum of electricity that comes to the state is not sufficient to be supplied to everyone at the same time, Odekina said.

He explained the various service-based tariffs and that availability of power supply is based on the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, but admitted that one of the challenges being faced is the refusal of customers to pay electricity bills.

Odekina, however, expressed optimism that the subsidy to be paid by the state government will help to address the situation and improve power supply across the state.

NCS Seizes N279.5m Worth of Contraband in Ogun

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, has seized contraband with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N279,595,038 between January and February 2025.

The Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, made this known at a news conference, yesterday in Abeokuta.

Shuaibu listed the seized smuggled goods to include 2,145 bags of foreign rice, equivalent of four trailer load; 612 bales of second hand clothing and 843 units of used tyres.

Other items are: 6,625 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 1,057 parcels of cannabis sativa in coconut sizes, 159 parcels of cannabis sativa in bread sizes, 2,074 parcels cannabis sativa in book sizes and 75 sacks of cannabis sativa.

The controller said that the NCS Act, 2024, specifically

Sections 6, 212, 226, 233 and 245, provides its officers significant powers, including the authority to patrol freely, seize smuggled goods, illegal goods, and enter premises.

He said that the command also generated a total of N9,694,072 as revenue from baggage assessment and auction sales of Premium Motor Spirit.

“The achievements of this milestone were made possible through implemented strategies that have resulted in numerous successful seizures.

“In addition, this contribution to national revenue is an important aspect of our duty to support the financial objectives of the federal government,” the controller said.

Shuaibu restated the command’s relentless commitment to fight smugglers, adding that his officers were resolved to foil every tactics employed by criminals to circumvent security checks.

Bello was the governor. Bello is standing trial on allegations bordering on money laundering to the tune of N80.2 billion.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge and was admitted to bail to defend the charge brought against him by the EFCC.

At the last proceedings on

February 24, Mrs. Williams had testified several documents relating to the Government House account with the bank.

Oyebanji Lauds Ekiti Procurement System, Contractors’ Capacity to Deliver

Harps on maintenance culture as rainstorm damaged buildings

Gbenga Sodeinde inadoEkiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has commended the state’s procurement process for ensuring efficiency in selection of contractors for government projects, stressing that the system has enabled his administration to engage contractors with capacity and ability to deliver projects to specification.

Governor Oyebanji, who gave the commendation yesterday during inspection of some projects in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, said the inspection was to validate the independent reports gotten from

Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), Independent Projects Monitoring Office, and Ministry of Budget.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the inspection, the governor expressed satisfaction on the quality and pace of work done at the various projects visited.

Speaking about the Central Business District at Atikankan, the governor said transforming Atikankan into a modern business district would not only uplift the face of the town but also create opportunities for businesses to thrive thereby further boosting the state’s internally generated revenue.

CJN Tasks Judges to Lead Fight against Financial Crimes

The Chief Justice of Nigeria(CJN), Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has called on judges to remain at the forefront of the fight against financial crime, and ensure that the nation’s legal system does not become a conduit for illicit financial flows.

Kekere-Ekun made the call

in Abuja at a sensitisation programme on anti-money laundering, combating the financing of terrorism, and countering proliferation financing risk assessment for the judiciary.

The Honourable Chief Justice therefore, called on the judiciary, lawyers, law enforcement and anti-graft agencies to work together to ensure that Nigeria is removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), list of Jurisdictions Under Increased Monitoring otherwise known as ‘Grey List.’

She said: “The success of any AML/CFT regime hinges on synergy among key stakeholders. The Judiciary, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), law enforcement agencies, anti-graft institutions, and financial regulators must work in concert to ensure a holistic and coordinated response to financial crimes.”

Kidnapped Students of J. S. Tarka University Rescued by Police

George Okoh in makurdi

The Benue Police Command

yesterday confirmed the rescue of three female students of J.S Tarka University Makurdi who were abducted at the school premises a forthnight ago. According to a statement

issued by the police and signed by the Police Public Relation Officer, CSP Sewuese Anene, she stated that the three female student were freed as a result of investigation and trailing by the police.

She disclosed that on the February 26, 2025, at about

2134hrs information was received from J. S. Tarka University, Makurdi, that the students were kidnapped within the school premises by unknown persons.

Swiftly, a team of police officers were deployed for investigation.

During investigation, she said it was gathered that three female students were held hostage by their kidnappers.

“On /3/2025 following continuous trail of the kidnappers, the victims were released at about 2134hrs and are currently receiving medical attention at Benue state university Teaching Hospital, Makurdi.”

Student’s Murder: Kwara Takes over the Prosecution of Principal, Other Suspects

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Kwara State Government yesterday said that it has taken over the prosecution of one self acclaimed Islamic cleric, Abdulrahman Bello, and other accomplices that allegedly involved in the killing and dismembering a final year student of the state College of Education, Yetunde Lawal Hafsoh.

Also yesterday at the Magistrate Court, the principal suspect, Mr. Bello narrated more facts on how he allegedly killed late Hafsoh on that fateful day.

The court was full to capacity with the family and well wishers in Ilorin besieged the court to witness the commencement of the trial of the principal suspect and other accomplices in the dastardly killing of the final year student.

The principal suspect, Bello was arraigned along other suspects: Ahmed Abdulwasiu ‘M’, 41 years of Zone C, No 47, Adualere Area, Ilorin; Suleiman Muyideen ‘M’, 28 years, Neolife Business, No. 7 Adualere Area, Amilere Milengbe, Ilorin; Jamiu Uthman ‘M’, 29 years, Phone repairers, Adualere Area, Ilorin and Abdulrahmon Jamiu, ‘M’, 31 years, farmer, Elemere Village via Malete Town in Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State.

Benue APC Crisis: Group Seeks Tinubu, Ganduje’s Intervention

Adedayo Akinwale inabuja

As the crisis rocking the Benue state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) continued unabated, a group, Forum of APC Support Groups’ Leaders, has called on President Bola Tinubu and the national chairman of the party, Dr. Abdulahi Ganduje to immediately intervene.

The call was made by the Director-General of the forum, A.K Peters, while addressing a press conference yesterday in Abuja.

Peters recalled that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, acting on the powers of National Executive Committee (NEC) dissolved the Benue State Executives and constituted a unity caretaker committee in February 2024, to bring an end to the crisis in the party.

chairman, Austin Agada went to court to challenge the decision of the national leadership of the party.

He explained that following the inauguration of the Caretaker Committee, the former state

The forum stressed that the dissolved Exco went ahead and forwarded a list of candidates to the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC) challenging the leadership of the party.

EU Funded SCGN Trains Bayelsa Youths on Alternate Dispute Resolution

Olusegun Samuel inyenagoa

In continuation of its communitycentered approach to transforming and preventing criminality and violence in the Nigeria Delta, a non-governmental organisation,

Search for Common Ground Nigeria (SCGN), organised a two-day workshop for youths in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.

In partnership with Stakeholders Democracy Network (SDN) and The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives

in the Niger Delta (PIND) funded by the European Union (EU), the workshop is a continuation of SCGN peace building process in the Niger Delta region.

The two-day workshop tagged: ‘Refresher Peer Exchange for Youth

Inclusion and Participation in Decision Making’, according to Kengkeng Ati, Capacity Building and Training Officer, SCGN, the workshop was to train youths on using alternative dispute resolution to address communal conflicts.

PROJECT INSPECTION…

L-R: Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Rt Hon Karounwi Oladapo; Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji; Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS, Land and

Olaleye; and Commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, during the inspection of the Central Business District project at Atikankan, Ado-Ekiti...yesterday

Prof

2027: Labour Party Woos 36 Lagos Pro-Meranda Lawmakers

James Sowole in abeokuta

The Labour Party (LP), has said that its door is open to the 36 members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, who on January 13 supported the removal of Hon Mudasiru Obasanjo and installed his deputy, Hon Monisola Meranda as the new speaker.

The LP said the 36 lawmakers should join the party and its candidate in the 2023 Governorship Election, Arc. Gbadebo RhodesVivour, to rescue Lagos State from the All Progressives Congress (APC), which it said was populated by “democracy assassins”.

According to the LP, APC should be voted out power in Lagos to prevent complete annihilation of democracy by

APC political family

Addressing journalists in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the National Publicity Secretary of LP, Mr. Abayomi Arabambi, said it was undemocratic for the APC to have worked for the return of Obasa as speaker despite various allegations against him.

Arabambi said: “Lagos State is now a captured territory by groups of “democracy assassins” and it is therefore, expedient that APC must be voted out in Lagos State to prevent complete annihilation of democracy by APC political family.

He said: “We cannot continue to pretend that all is well with our democracy today and you will particularly agree with me that there is a bold confirmation that in the political trajectory of Lagos

Trade Minister Applauds Brands for Resilience as ADVAN Holds Awards

Raheem Akingbolu

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has commended promoters of various Nigerian brands for their resilience and belief in the Nigerian market. Giving her remark in Lagos recently at the 12th edition of the African Awards for Marketing Excellence, an annual recognition award of the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), Oduwole commended the ingenuity and resilience demonstrated by brands and professionals in advancing the marketing industry in Nigeria.

She emphasised the awards as a powerful chance to honour outstanding excellence and

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as MISS HANNAH OLUSEGUN now wish to be known and addressed as MRS HANNAH OLUSEGUN

OLUSOJI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS UNOGU CONSTANCE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ANYANWU CONSTANCE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I formerly known and addressed as WILLIAMS FRANkLIN CHUkWUEMEkA, now wish to be known and addressed as NJOkU WILLIAMS CHUkWUEMEkA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

leadership in the marketing and advertising sectors across Nigeria and Africa.

The annual ADVAN Awards, renowned for celebrating innovation and excellence within the marketing and advertising landscape, was held in Lagos and was used to recognize exceptional marketing campaigns, outstanding brands, and distinguished professionals within the marketing communications industry who have raised the bar of excellence with their work in 2024.

The ceremony was attended by a distinguished audience, including top marketing professionals, government officials, industry leaders, and CEOs of companies; making it a key gathering for Africa’s marketing elite.

This year’s ADVAN Awards centered on the theme ‘Controlled Chaos: Mastering Marketing in a Hyper-Connected World.’

The theme reflects the rapidly evolving marketing landscape, where brands must navigate fragmented consumer attention, unpredictable trends, and overwhelming digital content.

The rigorous selection process for the ADVAN Awards winners was overseen by a distinguished panel of judges, comprising seasoned professionals and academics with extensive expertise in marketing and communications.

The panel included Prof. Bolajoko Nkemdinim Dixon-Ogbechi, Professor of Marketing & Decision Science and Head of the Department of Business Administration at the University of Lagos; amongst others.

State politics, there is always one god whose one vote trumps a million ballots, as encapsulated by the shameful, despicable,

and unconstitutional harakiri deployed by the APC and its leadership in Lagos to overthrow a democratically elected Speaker of

the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda.”

The LP condemned what it described as undue silence of

the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo on the Lagos State House of Assembly speaker impeachment saga.

Sule Inaugurates Nasarawa’s Printing Press

Igbawase Ukumba inLafia

The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, yesterday inaugurated a remodelled Government printing press at the state Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.

The governor called all MDAs to

make effective use of the facilities.

Speaking during the inauguration, the governor explained that the project is in -line with his administration policies and programmes geared toward efficient and quality service delivery to the people of the state, especially in the area of printing government

ministries documents easily.

According to him, “You know that this printing press was built in 2001 and inaugurated by the previous administration.

“We must appreciate the initiative. But most of the equipment went obsolete. Today, we are able to fix the modern equipment that can print

quality materials that can compete favourably with the outside world.

“I have directed the Head of Service to give directives to MDAs to make efficient use of the government printing press to print their documents. We have all the machines welled equipped and ready for production.”

Newly Employed 1000 Healthcare Personnel in Rivers Tasked on Professionalism

Blessing Ibunge in Port harcourt

The Rivers State Government Commissioner for Health, Dr Adaeze Oreh, has urged the newly employed 1,000 healthcare personnel of the State Hospital Management Board to to treat their patients with care and exercise the best standard of professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

Oreh gave the charge during a one-day orientation for newly employed staff at the Ministry of Women Affairs in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

The health commissioner, who stated that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s vision in the healthcare sector cannot be realised without their inputs, urged the new employees to count themselves lucky to be among those selected for the employment among those that applied for the job.

“We cannot do anything without you and that’s the reason why with the approval of the governor we convene this orientation to bring you together, to say to you that there is much hope in what we can contribute to the work that we are doing. His Excellency has a grand vision for what healthcare in Rivers State should look like but that vision cannot be accomplished without the work that you will do.

NSCDC Links Banditry to Illegal Mining Activities

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has said there is a strong connection between banditry and illegal mining activities in the country.

NSCDC Commandant-General (CG), Ahmed Audi, said this during his first quarterly meeting with senior officers of the corps, yesterday at the NSCDC headquarters, Abuja.

Audi stated that investigations indicated that illegal miners collaborated with suspected bandits to carry out their nefarious activities.

“These bad guys collude and connive with illegal miners and they hibernate in our environments to unleash mayhem and cart away our resources.

“These are really issues that we need to face head on and so we need to restrategies on what we have been doing and buckle up,” the C-G said.

According to him, the corps need to do more and add some bite to its operations and make it more robust.

Audi tasked senior officers of the corps to put in more efforts in the discharge of their duties, stressing that the Federal Government was fully committed to ensuring the mandates of the corps were achieved.

“We have been receiving various support from government and so it is expected that we reciprocate by putting in our best.

Enugu Bans Unlawful Pasting of Posters, Places N50m Fine

The Enugu State Government has banned the pasting of posters on any outdoor surface or space in the state without approval.

The government said it would no longer tolerate the defacing of outdoor surfaces and spaces, warning that defaulters would face a fine of up to N50 million.

AAJ

Raheem Akingbolu

According to him, it is unlawful to paste or display posters on any outdoor surface or space in the state without first obtaining written approval from the agency.

The General Manager, Enugu State Structures for Signages and Advertisement Agency (ENSSAA), Frank Aninwike, stated this in a statement yesterday in Enugu.

“This is to inform all the political parties, churches, schools, printers, advertisers, marketers, producers and the general public that henceforth, no person or entity should paste or display any poster on public or private structures without permission from the agency.

“Nobody is allowed to paste posters on buildings, walls, highways or any outdoor surface or space within Enugu State without first obtaining the written approval from ENSSAA,” he said.

The general manager stressed that failure to comply with the directive amounts to a violation of Section 4(1,g), Section 33, and Section 34(4,9) of the ENSSAA Law, 2016.

Express Introduces Direct Export Service to US, Europe, Others

A leading logistics firm, AAJ Express Logistics Limited has launched its Direct Export Service (DES) to the United Kingdom(UK), United States(US), Canada and 11 countries across Europe. The achievement makes AAJ

Express the first indigenous Nigerian logistics company to independently offer such a service, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

With a significant investment in cutting-edge technology and infrastructure, AAJ Express is

set to redefine export logistics, offering affordable, seamless, and efficient delivery solutions. Customers can now enjoy a hassle-free export process, with real-time tracking and delivery times ranging between three to seven working days.

Speaking on the launch,

Founder/CEO of AAJ Express, Adekunle Adeyemo, highlighted the company’s dedication to advancing Nigeria’s logistics landscape. He said the company is partnering with a number of airlines locally and globally to deliver seamless services.

Rewane, Adedipe, Others for RCCG Economic Summit

Renowned economists Bismarck Rewane, Dr Abiodun Adedipe and others are billed to attend the 2025 edition of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Christ the Lord Parish, Lekki Economic Summit which is scheduled to

hold on Saturday 15th March in Lagos.

Rewane, the CEO of Financial Derivatives Company Limited, who is the keynote speaker, is expected to give an indepth analysis of Nigeria’s macroeconomic challenges

and opportunities. He will also discuss the importance of policy-driven solutions in mitigating economic volatility.

According to a statement, Ms Olive Emodi will moderate the panel discussion featuring esteemed economists as

panelists. Founder/Chief Consultant, B Adedipe & Associates, Dr Abiodun Adedipe, Founder/CEO of Nairametrics, Mr. Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, and CEO, RTC Advisory Services Limited, Mr. Opeyemi Agbaje.

Survey,

James

Dessers Celebrates Super Eagles Recall with Stunning Win at Fenerbache

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Super Eagles invitee, Cyriel Dessers scored a goal, had another disallowed and contributed an assist as Glasgow Rangers snatched a two-goal advantage against Fenerbache in the first

EUROPA LEAGUE

leg of UEFA Europa League Round of 16 tie. Rangers won 3-1 away in Istanbul.

Dessers who was listed in Nigeria’s

FIFA Ranking: Super Falcons

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have retained their status as Africa’s best women’s football team in the latest FIFA Women’s World Ranking released yesterday.

The nine-time African champions remain unmoved in 36th place globally, despite inactivity for the greater part of the year aside from participation at the football event of the Olympics in Paris last summer.

The absence of competitive action due to club football commitments has not affected the Super Falcons’ standing as the continent’s highest-ranked side.

Meanwhile, the reigning Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions South Africa hold on to second place in Africa but slipped four spots in the global rankings to 54th position.

And Morocco completes the continent’s top three, sitting in 60th place worldwide, while Zambia dropped two places to 64th but remains fourth-best in Africa.

However, South Africa could pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s dominance later this year, with the next WAFCON tournament offering a chance for the Banyana Banyana to close the gap.

A successful title defence could see the South Africans overtake the Super Falcons as Africa’s number-one team.

With an array of talents like, Gift Monday, Rinsola Babajide, Tony Payne, Ifeoma Onumonu, Rasheedat Ajibade, and the legendary Aishat Oshoala, Nigeria, though will be keen to reclaim the title they last won in 2018.

On the global level, the United States continue to lead the standings, with reigning world champions Spain in second. Germany and England retain third and fourth places, while Japan climb to fifth, pushing Sweden down to sixth.

The next FIFA Women’s World Ranking will be released on 12 June 2025, with the Super Falcons aiming to climb higher ahead of the highly anticipated WAFCON tournament.

39-man squad for the double header clash against Rwanda and Zimbabwe later this month, got Rangers going as early as the sixth minute, before he gave his fourth assists of the competition for his team to lead 2-1 on 42 minutes.

It was a wonderful performance orchestrated by Dessers to give a wonderful result for Barry Ferguson's Rangers, who take a two-goal advantage back to Glasgow for the second leg.

Dessers was replaced by Hamza Igamane, and had a big grin on his face as he applauded the travelling Rangers fans.

Another Nigerian defender, Leon Balogun, had a decent performance

also for the Scottish giants when he was introduced in the 28th minute.

Fellow Eagles star defender, Bright Osayi-Samuel, did not feature for Fenerbache as he was suspended for the clash.

The return leg will be played next Thursday in Scotland with the overall winners advancing to the quarterfinal of the Europa League.

Meanwhile, Europa Conference League favourites Chelsea took control of their last-16 tie against Copenhagen with a narrow 2-1 first-leg win in Denmark.

After failing to register a first-half shot on target, Enzo Maresca's side took the lead within a minute of the restart.

Marc Cucurella, on for the injured Malo Gusto, ran down the left and pulled the ball back with captain Reece James scoring with a fine low strike from 30 yards out. Copenhagen almost equalised a few minutes later but Viktor Claesson's angled strike bounced off the inside of the post and back into the hands of grateful Blues goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.

But Chelsea doubled their advantage in the 65th minute.

Cucurella was again involved as he won the ball close to the left touchline and Christopher Nkunku released Tyrique George whose cut-back was side-footed into the net by substitute Enzo Fernandez.

All roads will today, Match, 7, 2025 lead to Eko Club, Surulere, Lagos for the inaugural Newstap/ SWAN Five Star Sports Award.

The event which will kick off by 6pm under the Chairmanship of number one sports person in the country, Mallam Shehu Dikko, will attract prominent sports stakeholders from across the country who have all indicated interest to be part of the event being organised to honour prominent Nigerians and corporate organisation that have contributed to sports development in the country. Those to be honoured includes, the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, GTI Assets Management and Trust Limited, a company that has turned around the nation’s premier league, the NPFL, President of Remo Stars,

Shittu in Ilorin

Federal and State governments have been urged to intensify more efforts in the discovery of talented sports men and women at the grassroots so as to move sports development forward in the country.

The proprietor, Mercy Dew Models School, Lanjorin, Ilorin, Kwara state, Tosin Olawepo, stated this in Ilorin on Wednesday during the maiden inter- house Sports competition of the school.

The event was held at the Rashid Yekini Sports Stadium, Ilorin.

He said that, "there are alot of abundant sports and men at the local levels that are untapped for

Kunle Soname, Chairman of Benue State Football Association who is also the only founder of two women clubs in Nigeria - Naija Ratels and Benue Queens, Barrister Paul Edeh and the Chief Executive Officer of Africa’s leading stadium construction outfit, Monimichelle Sports Facilities Limited, Chief Ebi Egbe.

There will also be Special Recognition for all the various factions of the Supporters Club namely; The Nigeria Football Supporters Club(NFSC) the Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC) the Super Eagles Supporters Club (SESC) and the Football Fans Club of Nigeria (FFCN) for their immense contributions to the development of football and other sports in Nigeria over the years and also to encourage them to broker peace among themselves.

13th Edition of ECOWAS Wrestling Tournament Opens with Celebration of Culture

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

West African culture was on celebration in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital yesterday as the 13th edition of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) African Wrestling Tournament commenced in grand style.

The event which kickstarted on Thursday which will draw to a close on Saturday at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, has a total of 55 athletes from 11 countries competing for top honours, with each nation represented by five wrestlers and four technical officials.

The colourful opening ceremony had various culture displays and dances from across the region showcasing their rich traditions.

future sports outing".

Olawepo added that, "if the federal, state and other sports agencies can take this chance to move inwards to bring them into national outlook, there is going to be opportunity to show their talents for the sports growth of the country'.

The proprietor stated that, the inter House sports competition was organised so as to boost the sports development among the students of the school.

At the end of the competition, Yellow House came first, follow by Red House while Green and Blue House came third and fourth positions respectively.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director of Youth and Sports Development for ECOWAS, Ambassador Francis Njoaguani, expressed his appreciation and highlighted the importance of the tournament in fostering cooperation and unity among the 12 ECOWAS member states.

Although Cape Verde is absent from this year's event, Njoaguani stressed the significance of sports as a powerful tool for regional integration.

He said: “This programme brings together wrestlers from all our member states," noting that: “It strengthens collaboration among nations and showcases the unifying power of sports. We believe this will enhance

the integration efforts that ECOWAS advocates."

He said with young people making up 54% of the ECOWAS population, the vital role sports play in economic development and youth engagement cannot be wished away.

He said: “Sports not only connect participants but also drive economic growth," he stated. "We aim to leverage sports to spread the message of ECOWAS regarding integration and youth development, which are essential to our goals of development and human capital enhancement."

The tournament opened with team

events, while individual bouts across weight categories of 65kg, 75kg, 85kg, 100kg, and 120kg are scheduled to follow in an elimination format, leading to the semi-finals and finals.

Njoaguani also extended an invitation to the public to attend the tournament's grand finale on Saturday, where medals and prizes will be awarded to the champions.

Dikko further commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who currently chairs the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, noting his dedication to using sports as a vehicle for peace and regional cohesion.

"This tournament is a testament to our collective commitment to promoting cultural ties and strengthening the bonds that unite us," he emphasized.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, restated the Commission's commitment to using sports as a platform for youth empowerment, regional integration, and economic growth. This year's tournament also coincides with the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS, adding greater significance to the event.

Niger Delta Sports Festival MOC Chairman Thrilled by

Chairman of the Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF) Main Organising Committee (MOC), Alabo Boma Iyaye, has expressed satisfaction at the impressive buildup to the event scheduled for between April 1 and 8 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Iyaye, who is the Executive Director Finance and Administration at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) spoke against the backdrop of spike in the online registration numbers and the unveiling of the festival mascot and Ambassadors in Owerri on Friday, March 7.

Dunamis Icon, project consultants to the NDDC on the festival released an updated figures in the registration indicating that over 15000 entries have hit the portal which closes at midnight of Friday, March 7.

"I am personally happy and excited at the enthusiasm our youths have shown in embracing the very first festival being organised in the region", the former Rivers State Commissioner for Sports told the NDSF Media. He also commended the Organising Committee for creating

Buildup

talking points that have built huge awareness for the festival.

"The festival has only been made public not quite three weeks but look at the numbers that has applied through the portal.

"I want to commend those charged with the organisation of the festival for a good job so far and it has gained traction through such innovations as the logo competition, the naming of festival Ambassadors and the planned unveiling. These are all add-ons that has made the festival a topic in online and physical communities", Iyaye also noted.

Cyriel Dessers was in fantastic form last night as Rangers defeated Fenerbache 3-1 in the first leg of their Europa League Last 16 clash in Istanbul

Hammed

MISSILE

Gov Soludo to Native Doctors

“They (native doctors) are the root cause of insecurity in the society today. They make you believe that they can make charms for you and you get a crown without a cross. They have ruined a lot of our young boys. They make youths believe they can prepare charms for them, and they will carry drugs abroad and will not be detected. Because of this deceit, many of our young people have remained in several prisons across the world” --Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, declares war against native doctors in the state.

OLUFEMI SONEYE GUEST COLUMNIST

NNPC’s Landmark Partnership Advances Self- Sufficiency and Global Competitiveness

Before the advent of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, successive regimes had shied away from taking bold steps with a view to engaging sustainable reforms.

But with a clear vision, the President set out to engage a paradigm that is at once swift and beneficial.

Focusing on the wastelands of untapped potentials that were supposed to have created avenues of connectivity between a burgeoning Blue Economy, its deliverables on a sustainable basis and a thriving oil and gas sector, the president birthed an alluring environment that has enabled the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC Ltd, ably led by GCEO Malam Mele Kyari, to tap into and build on the potentials.

Because of this, Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors are entering a new era of transformation, driven by President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to economic growth, self-sufficiency, and global competitiveness.

The recent strategic joint venture between NNPC Shipping, Stena Bulk, and Caverton Marine Limited is a landmark initiative that underscores his vision for a stronger, more resilient Blue Economy.

This partnership is more than a business deal - it is a bold step towards revolutionising Nigeria’s crude oil and gas transportation infrastructure.

By modernising the country’s shipping fleet, enhancing local participation, and reducing dependence on foreign-owned vessels, this initiative positions Nigeria as a dominant force in global energy logistics.

Maximizing Nigeria’s Blue Economy Potential

President Tinubu has placed the Blue Economy at the heart of his administration’s economic agenda, recognising Nigeria’s vast coastline, strategic location, and rich maritime resources as key drivers of national prosperity.

This joint venture between NNPC Shipping, Stena Bulk, and Caverton Marine is a direct response to this vision, ensuring that Nigeria fully capitalizes on its maritime potential.

By establishing a modern, efficient, and sustainable shipping fleet, the partnership comes with the potentials to:

1. Strengthen Nigeria’s crude oil and LNG transportation infrastructure;

2. Boost economic diversification by keeping more revenue within Nigeria;

3. Create jobs and enhance capacity development in the maritime sector;

and

4. Enhance Nigeria’s self-reliance in energy logistics

For decades, Nigeria has relied on foreign-owned vessels to transport its crude oil and petroleum products, leading to revenue leakages and missed economic opportunities. This partnership marks a shift toward self-sufficiency, ensuring that Nigerians benefit directly from the nation’s oil wealth.

Strengthening Crude Oil and LNG Transportation for Energy Security

Nigeria’s energy security is a top priority for President Tinubu. The transportation of crude oil, refined products, and LNG has been a long-standing challenge, with inefficiencies in logistics affecting both exports and domestic supply. This joint venture will bridge the gaps, ensuring a more reliable, cost-effective, and efficient energy supply chain.

With local refining capacity expanding through projects like NNPC’s refinery rehabilitation efforts, the need for Nigeriacontrolled tanker operations has never been greater. This partnership will:

1. Ensure seamless crude supply to domestic refineries;

2. Support the export of refined petroleum products to regional and global markets; and

3. Enhance efficiency in LNG shipping, strengthening Nigeria’s position as a global gas powerhouse

According to Panos Gliatis, Managing Director of NNPC Shipping, this venture represents a “transformational step” in Nigeria’s maritime industry. The ability to transport crude oil and

gas independently will not only reduce costs but also increase Nigeria’s influence in global energy logistics.

Expanding Nigeria’s Influence in Global Energy Trade

Nigeria is one of the world’s largest oil producers and a key supplier of natural gas, yet its influence in global energy transportation has been limited by dependence on foreign shippers.

This joint venture changes the narrative, positioning Nigeria as a leading force in Africa’s maritime and energy logistics industry.

Erik Hånell, President and CEO of Stena Bulk, a global leader in tanker shipping, emphasized Nigeria’s strategic importance: “Nigeria is a vital player in the world’s oil supply, and we are excited to contribute to the modernization of its shipping industry.”

This collaboration will introduce cutting-edge maritime technology, operational excellence, and global best practices, enabling Nigeria to compete on the world stage as a top-tier energy logistics hub.

Creating Jobs and Building Local Capacity

A thriving maritime economy means more jobs for Nigerians.

This joint venture is set to generate thousands of employment opportunities for:

1. Nigerian seafarers and maritime professionals;

2. Engineers and technical specialists in shipping logistics; and

3. Supply chain managers and port operators

Bode Makanjuola, CEO of Caverton Offshore Support Group, highlighted the shift toward local capacity building: “For decades, Nigeria has relied on foreign-owned ships to transport its crude. This partnership represents a shift toward self-reliance, ensuring that more Nigerians benefit from the enormous potential of our maritime sector.”

By investing in training, capacity development, and knowledge transfer, this initiative will help nurture a new generation of maritime professionals, reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership in the Blue Economy and global shipping sector.

Driving Innovation and Sustainability in Maritime Logistics

Beyond boosting shipping capacity, this partnership is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The initiative will introduce:

1. Modern, fuel-efficient vessels that reduce carbon emissions;

2. Advanced maritime technology to improve operational efficiency; and

3. Sustainable logistics practices that align with global environmental standards

This focus on sustainability ensures that Nigeria remains a responsible player in global energy logistics, attracting more international investments into its maritime industry.

A New Era for Nigeria’s Shipping and Energy Logistics

President Tinubu’s administration is delivering bold, forward-thinking policies that prioritise local participation, economic resilience, and national prosperity. This joint venture is a landmark achievement, demonstrating Nigeria’s ability to take charge of its maritime destiny.

As Nigeria continues its journey toward economic diversification and global competitiveness, initiatives like this will be key drivers of sustainable growth and long-term success.

Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is not just keeping pace with global trends, it is setting the standard for Africa’s maritime and energy revolution.

The future is bright, and with NNPC Shipping, Stena Bulk, and Caverton Marine leading the charge, Nigeria is firmly on course to becoming a dominant force in global shipping and energy logistics.

A Bold Step into the Future

The partnership between NNPC Shipping, Stena Bulk, and Caverton Marine is a historic milestone in Nigeria’s maritime and energy journey.

By modernising shipping infrastructure, strengthening energy security, creating jobs, and embracing sustainability, this initiative is a clear reflection of President Tinubu’s commitment to a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.

As the nation continues to build a self-sufficient, globally competitive Blue Economy, this joint venture stands as a shining example of the progress and innovation shaping Nigeria’s future. The road ahead is filled with opportunities, and Nigeria is ready to lead the charge in Africa’s maritime and energy revolution, a product of some bold initiatives of Mr. President being effectuated by Malam Kyari, and the dynamic board steering the firm.

•Soneye is the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd.

Group Managing Director, NNPC, Mele Kyari