In Landmark Ruling, Court Affirms FCCPC's Regulatory Authority in All Sectors of Economy
REMEMBERING HERBERT WIGWE, WIFE AND SON...
L-R: Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley; Chairman, Access Holdings Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; his wife Ofovwe; daughters of late Herbert Wigwe, Tochi, Hannah, his son, David, during the first year remembrance of Wigwe, his wife, Doreen, and son, Chizi, held in Lagos ... yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN
NECA, MAN, Saraki Fault Customs’ Fresh
4% Levy, NPA's 15% Hike in Port
and
There was a groundswell of opposition to the introduction of a fresh 4 per cent administrative charge on Free-on-Board (FOB) value of imports by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) as well as the proposed 15 per cent increase in port charges by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) at the weekend.
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and a former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, in separate reactions to the new policies, agreed that they were ill-timed and therefore called for a halt to their implementation.
NECA described the introduction of the 4 per cent levy by the NCS as a desperate attempt by to meet its N10 trillion revenue target contained in the Employers’ association says it's NCS’ desperate attempt to meet N10tn
Charges
SIGNING CEREMONY OF IFC
AT LAGOS FREE ZONE...
L-R: Principal Country Director, International Finance Corporation(IFC), Christian Mulamula; Regional Director, Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa, IFC, Dahlia Khalifa; Regional Vice President, Africa, IFC, Sergio Pimenta; Chief Executive, Tolaram, Haresh Aswani; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Lagos Free Zone(LFZ), Adesuwa Ladoja and Director, Finance and Operations, LFZ, Ashish Khemka during the official signing ceremony of IFC Investment in Lagos Free Zone held in Lagos on Friday
in Abuja
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos
Namibia's 'Founding Father’ Sam Nujoma, Dies at 95
Anyaoku mourns, says he was heroic leader
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Sam Nujoma, the activist and guerrilla leader who became Namibia's first democratically elected president after it won its independence from apartheid South Africa, died aged 95 on Saturday, the Namibian Presidency said yesterday.
Nujoma rose to head the thinly populated southern African country on March 21, 1990 and was formally recognised as "Founding Father of the Namibian Nation" through a 2005 act of parliament.
"The foundations of the Republic of Namibia have been shaken," the presidency posted on X.
2025 proposed national budget, stressing that the new charges would squeeze N2.84 trillion from private businesses and increase duty paid by industries by 80 per cent.
MAN, on its part, urged the NPA to shelve the proposed 15 per cent increase in port charges because it's ill-advised and signalled a departure from the federal government’s commitment to improving the country’s ease of doing business.
Also, Saraki criticised the NCS, observing that the fee will further impoverish Nigerians who will bear the brunt of the new policy to extract additional monies from importers.
Director General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, said in a public statement that the new charges contradicted the ongoing tax reform
The presidency said Nujoma had been hospitalised for medical treatment over the past three weeks, adding: "Unfortunately, this time, the most gallant son of our land could not recover from his illness."
South Africa's President, Cyril Ramaphosa, said Nujoma's leadership of a free Namibia laid the foundation for the solidarity and partnership the two countries share today, "a partnership we will continue to deepen as neighbours and friends."
"Dr Sam Nujoma was an extraordinary freedom fighter who
"Our venerable leader, Dr. Nujoma did not only blaze the trail to freedom – but he also inspired us to rise to our feet and to become masters of this vast land of our ancestors," it added.
CUSTOMS’
efforts led by the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, chaired by Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, aimed at harmonising taxes and supporting business sustainability.
Oyerinde said: “With a revenue target of N10 trillion set for the NCS in the 2025 budget by the National Assembly, this levy appears to be a desperate attempt to meet revenue projections at the expense of businesses and ordinary Nigerians.
“While the government may achieve its revenue goals, the unintended consequences will be severe—higher costs of goods, business closures, rising unemployment, and worsening economic hardship for millions of citizens.”
He further noted that at a time when businesses are calling for a streamlined tax system, the levy undermines reform efforts and sends a negative signal to
divided his revolutionary programme between Namibia's own struggle against South African colonialism and the liberation of South Africa from apartheid," Reuters quoted him as saying in a statement.
In a message sent to THISDAY, former Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, described Nujoma as a truly heroic leader and inspirer of his Namibian people.
“I have just learned with utter sorrow that the great "Iroko tree" of Namibia's struggle for independence has fallen. Dr Sam Nujoma was a truly heroic leader and inspirer of his Namibian people.He was also a remarkable Panafricanist and an
investors.
He added that with Nigeria’s annual imports estimated at N71 trillion, the newly introduced levy will impose an additional N2.84 trillion in costs.
“For industries that rely on imported raw materials, this charge will drive duty payments up by 80 per cent, significantly inflating production cost and eroding competitiveness. The ripple effects will be severe—higher inflation, deeper poverty, and a weakened investment climate.
“The Nigerian business environment is already burdened with multiple taxes, unpredictable policies, and economic challenges. With rising unsold inventories and growing unemployment, policies should support businesses and not further strangulate them.
outstanding member of our common humanity.
“I count him as one of my noble friends as I remember my close association with him and his brave comrades during Namibia's fight for independence. I have continued to treasure the pleasant memory of my visit to Windhoek as his guest during my tenure as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of nations.
“Dr Sam Nujoma has left a huge legacy in Namibia, in Africa, and I dare say, in the world of courageous fight for freedom and human dignity,” he wrote.
African Union (AU) Commission Chair, Moussa Faki Mahamat, hailed Nujoma as one of the continent's
"most illustrious revolutionary leaders" and "the epitome of courage."
Nujoma served his three terms as president from 1990 to 2005 and sought to project himself as a unifying leader bridging political divides.
In a country scarred by the legacy of apartheid and German colonial rule, Nujoma's SWAPO party oversaw a national reconciliation programme under the motto "One Namibia, One Nation".
In his speeches, Nujoma made a point of repeating the phrase: "A united people, striving to achieve a common good for all members of the society, will always emerge victorious."
foreign exchange challenges, and declining industrial capacity utilisation.
“Many businesses are experiencing a worrying downturn due to unsustainable operating costs. Increasing port tariffs is therefore ill-timed and could signal a departure from the government's avowed efforts and commitment to the ease of doing business.
“It is inevitable that this additional strain on industrial activities will ultimately lead to reduced capacity utilisation and possibly job losses. Furthermore, Nigeria must remain competitive in regional trade. Neighbouring countries with more efficient and cost-effective ports will become far more attractive alternatives, leading to increased cargo diversion.”
“This additional levy on importdependent businesses will escalate production costs, fuel inflation, and threaten jobs. Ultimately, consumers will suffer from higher prices, worsening an already challenging economic climate,” Oyerinde argued.
According to him, this will not only reduce revenue for the Nigerian government but will encourage smuggling and other untoward trade practices that weaken our economy.
4% LEVY, NPA'S 15% HIKE IN PORT CHARGES IN LANDMARK RULING, COURT AFFIRMS FCCPC'S REGULATORY AUTHORITY IN ALL SECTORS OF ECONOMY
F.N. Ogazi, was instituted by Emeka Nnubia, a shareholder of MTN and a legal practitioner, who sought to halt the FCCPC’s investigation into MTN Nigeria.
Representing himself, Nnubia argued that the FCCPC’s inquiry could violate data protection laws and that regulatory authority over MTN resided with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) rather than FCCPC.
The ruling, however, clarified that Section 90 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, which granted NCC jurisdiction over competition matters within the telecom industry, must be read alongside Section 104 of the FCCPA 2018, which established FCCPC as the primary regulatory authority on competition and consumer protection across all sectors.
The judge further held that FCCPA, being the later legislation, superseded conflicting provisions of the NCA 2003 to the extent that they sought to exclude FCCPC’s oversight in the telecommunications industry.
The court’s decision further affirmed that NCC did not have exclusive competition regulation authority in telecommunications. It added that both regulators shared concurrent jurisdiction, ensuring a coordinated approach to fair competition and consumer welfare in the telecom industry.
In a statement issued yesterday, Director, Corporate Affairs, FCCPC, Ondaje Ijagwu, also affirmed that Section 105 of FCCPA 2018 provided for collaboration between FCCPC and sector regulators, including NCC. Ijagwu said the approach aligned with global best practices, where consumer protection regulators collaborated with industry-specific regulators.
Moreover, the ruling reaffirmed that FCCPC’s jurisdiction remained paramount in competition and consumer protection matters, while also recognising the role of NCC in regulating telecommunications operations.
Furthermore, the court held that entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with sector regulators was not a condition
precedent for FCCPC’s enforcement of its statutory functions.
Rather, the court maintained that it was the obligation of sector regulators to engage with FCCPC to define working arrangements, not the other way round.
The ruling also confirmed that FCCPC acted within its statutory powers in issuing summons to MTN Nigeria as part of its ongoing inquiry into potential anti-competitive practices.
The summons and request to produce was found to be lawful and within the scope of FCCPC’s investigative powers.
In addition, the court held that the commission's request for information from MTN did not violate any data protection laws, including the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 and the NCA 2003.
No personal data was requested, and MTN’s obligation to disclose information in the public interest is a legitimate basis for compliance with FCCPC’s inquiry, the court added.
Nonetheless, the court commended the excellence of legal arguments presented in the matter and rejected any attempt to restrain a regulatory authority from exercising its statutory functions.
The ruling reaffirmed that preventing a regulator from discharging its duties violated the doctrine of separation of powers enshrined in the constitution.
On the issue of cost, the court acknowledged that the case raised important questions regarding the evolving landscape of competition and consumer protection law in Nigeria.
While the court recognised that costs ordinarily followed events, it declined to award costs due to the public interest significance of the case.
While Nnubia, the plaintiff, appeared in person, Mr. Abimbola Ojenike with Ms. Oluwadamilola Omotosho appeared for the second defendant (Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission), while Mr. Chinonso Ekuma appeared for the third defendant (MTN Nigeria). There was no legal representation for the first defendant, the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment.
The NECA chief also criticised the NCS for prioritising revenue generation over its core mandate of trade facilitation and economic development. According to him, this approach is counterproductive and directly contradicts the government’s ‘Ease of Doing Business’ agenda.
NECA, therefore, called for an immediate reversal of the levy and urged the government to engage with stakeholders to develop a more sustainable and business-friendly approach to revenue generation.
“Government must take urgent steps to ease the financial burden on businesses and citizens, rather than implementing policies that will worsen economic hardship and stifle business growth,” NECA said.
In his reaction to the NPA’s proposed increase of port charges by 15 per cent, the Director General of MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, in a statement said that the association has grave concern over the increase because it is coming at a time when businesses are struggling with the rising cost of operations, high rate of foreign exchange, astronomical energy costs, and general economic uncertainties.
Ajayi-Kadir pointed out that imposing any additional financial burden on manufacturers through increased port tariffs would exacerbate the challenges being faced by operators in the real sector.
He said: “Nigeria's current economic climate is characterised by rising inflation,
and Chief Executive Officer of Access Group, Herbert Wigwe, at his one-year remembrance ceremony held yesterday in Lagos.
Wigwe, alongside his wife, Doreen, and son, Chizi, as well as Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc., Abimbola Ogunbanjo, died in a helicopter crash in the Mojave Desert near the CaliforniaNevada border in the United States of America (USA) on February 9, 2024, exactly a year ago.
In honour of the legacy he left behind, a first memorial ceremony was held yesterday at Eko Hotels and Suites where tributes were entertained from families, friends and other well-wishers from all over the world.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwolu; Minister of
He further argued that port-related charges constitute significant indirect costs to manufacturers as most of their raw materials and industrial machinery are imported through the ports.
“Any increase in charges will have a ripple effect, leading to higher production costs, increased inflationary pressures, and reduced competitiveness of locally manufactured goods.
“Many manufacturers who operate as tenants in NPA facilities will also face escalated costs, which could significantly disrupt the slight moderation in the mounting challenges that has bedeviled the manufacturing sector in recent times,” he said.
The manufacturers’ association suggested that reducing turnaround time for vessels and improving cargo clearing processes could significantly boost revenue instead of increasing port charges.
It also advised the government to address bureaucratic bottlenecks that delay cargo clearance in order to ensure faster throughput and more efficient revenue collection, adding that improving port infrastructure will enhance operational efficiency and attract more business, leading to natural revenue growth.
It argued that aligning Nigerian port charges with global best practices would encourage more trade volume and increase overall earnings instead of raising tariffs.
The MAN, therefore, implored the
Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sanusi Lamido; Consul General of France in Lagos, Laurent Favier; and Prime Minister of Barbados, Mottley.
In his message, Tinubu, who was represented by Edun, described Wigwe as “more than just a banker, he was a builder of institutions and dreams and people”.
The president stated regarding Wigwe, “His tenure of years of Access Holdings saw the transformation of the bank into a global financial powerhouse, raising Nigeria's banking sector to enviable heights. His brilliance, resilience and foresight positioned Access Bank as a major player, not just in Africa, but across the world, symbolising the limitless potential of Nigerian enterprise.
NPA to shelve the proposed 15 per cent tariff increase and instead collaborate with stakeholders to explore sustainable alternatives for revenue generation.
It said that increasing tariffs in the current economic climate would have dire consequences, including increased cost of production, leading to higher prices of goods and fanning inflation.
Besides, the organisation stressed that it will reduce competitiveness of Nigerian manufacturers in local and international markets and increase smuggling due to high costs at Nigerian ports compared to neighboring countries.
MAN also argued that this would bring about a decline in government’s revenue due to lower cargo turn out and manufacturing downturn.
“Rather than imposing additional financial burdens on businesses, we propose a stakeholder dialogue to explore strategies for enhancing port efficiency, reducing operational bottlenecks, and creating a more business-friendly environment that will ultimately lead to increased revenue without undermining industrial growth and competitiveness.
“We earnestly advocate for caution and deep reflection on the part of the NPA, as a key stakeholder in Nigeria’s economic development. NPA’s consultation with key economic actors after it has decided on the increase is tantamount to putting the cart before the horse and does not demonstrate goodwill. We call on NPA to rescind the planned increase in order to avert a monumental downturn in the fortunes of businesses in Nigeria.
“The manufacturing sector can illafford such an increase at this time; it runs against the present administration’s efforts at making Nigeria a trading hub in the West African sub-region, and would definitely constitute a drag in the efforts of government to stabilise the economy in the year 2025,” the group said.
In the same vein, former Senate President, Saraki, at the weekend criticised the NCS for introducing the 4 per cent charge on the FOB value of imports, observing that the fee will further impoverish Nigerians who will bear the brunt of the policy.
Last week, the NCS in a statement, said the directive to implement the 4 per cent charge was in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023.
The service explained that the FOB
“Beyond business, Herbert was a man deeply committed to society, his passion for education, youth empowerment and healthcare shone brightly through his philanthropic works.
“Through the Wigwe University project, he sought to redefine higher education in Nigeria believing that knowledge and skill are the greatest investment in the nation's future.
“His impact was not confined to boardrooms and balance sheets, it was deeply felt in the lives he touched, the opportunities he created and the hope that he inspired.
“The loss of Herbert, Doreen and Chizi has left a void that can't truly be filled. We find solace in the enduring legacy of his work, his values and the institutions that he built. His story reminds us all that vision, hard work
charge, which is calculated based on the value of imported goods, including the cost of goods and transportation expenses incurred up to the port of loading, is essential for driving the effective operation of the service. It urged all stakeholders to comply with the directive, which it said was conceived after extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders and organisations, noting that “All stakeholders are urged to support this legally binding initiative.”
But Saraki, who took to his verified X handle to express his opposition to the move, maintained that the huge administrative funding for customs in a country with the current poverty index was unacceptable.
Aligning with both MAN and NECA, he argued that importers will inevitably pass the costs on to consumers, further straining the budgets of millions of already struggling households.
“With our annual imports estimated at N71 trillion, the new 4 per cent customs administration charge on FOB value will come to N2.84 trillion. Does this mean that the Customs Service requires an additional N2.84 trillion annually to do its job?
“Don't forget they already have a budget and get an incentive percentage on total customs duties collected. Now, they want to spend more than $1.5 billion on running costs in a country with the poverty index we have and with many businesses closing down.
“Importers will inevitably pass these costs on to consumers, further straining the budgets of millions of struggling households,” the former governor of Kwara state pointed out,” he said. To Saraki, the new fee cuts across and is not restricted to luxury goods alone, a development he said will not augur well for the country and its people.
“This new fee of 4 per cent is not even restricted to luxury goods but across all imports, so even for industries that import their raw materials whose duties are only 5 per cent, the customs agency will now charge importers an extra 80 per cent of the duty amount as administrative fees!
“How can this make sense or support the government's policy of promoting the ease of doing business? The government must urgently reconsider this policy and put it on hold immediately. Especially not now with what Nigerians are going through,” he maintained.
and service to humanity are the true measures of greatness.
“On this solemn occasion, I extend my solemn condolences to the Wigwe family, his colleagues at Access Holdings and all who knew and loved him. May his soul and those of his dear wife and son and all those who departed on that unfortunate day continue to rest in perfect peace.”
In his tribute delivered by the consul general of France in Lagos, Favier, Macron described Wigwe as a friend of France.
According to him, “As we commemorate the first anniversary of his sudden death, the government of France salutes an exceptional entrepreneur, a man who served his country and the public interest, a friend of France.
Nujoma
US May Halt Repatriation of ‘Abacha Loot’, Others, as Trump Ends Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The United States may stop the return of monies stolen by Nigerian leaders and stashed away in that country, including the so-called “Abacha Loot”, as President Donald Trump directed the Department of Justice (DOJ) to disband teams working on such anti-corruption cases.
The US Department of Justice will now refocus much of its staff and resources on the "total elimination" of drug cartels and transnational criminal organisations in the US, while disbanding units dedicated to prosecuting white-collar crime and kleptocrats and tracking foreign efforts to influence US elections, the Voice of America (VOA) reported.
Checks by THISDAY showed that the US government had repatriated several tranches of funds stolen by the former Nigerian military ruler, Sani Abacha, and hidden in foreign accounts. These funds, often referred to as "Abacha loot," were laundered
through banks in the US, Europe, and other jurisdictions.
After Abacha’s death in 1998, investigations revealed that he and his associates had embezzled billions from Nigeria, with the DOJ pursuing legal cases to recover and repatriate the stolen assets to Nigeria.
In all, over $700 million had been recovered and returned by the US and other foreign governments since 1999. Additional funds remained under investigation and legal proceedings.
However, the change, announced in a set of memos issued in the outgone week by newly sworn-in Attorney General, Pam Bondi, was part of a major reorientation of a department that Trump said had been "weaponised" against him since the end of his first term in office, the VOA report said.
In a memo issued on her first day in office, Bondi outlined moves to do away with specific units in the department. Among those eliminated were two dedicated to targeting
kleptocrats — public figures who used their authority to steal resources from their own people.
The Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative, established in 2010, worked to identify the assets of kleptocrats, seize them, and return them to the countries from which they were stolen.
Task Force KleptoCapture, a separate unit, was formed in early 2022 in the wake of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The unit targeted oligarchs close to Russian President Vladimir Putin and enforced sanctions against Russia by the US and its allies after the invasion.
"Attorneys assigned to those initiatives shall return to their prior posts," Bondi's memo said, "and resources currently devoted to those efforts shall be committed to the total elimination of cartels and Transnational Crime Organisations (TCOs)."
The Criminal Division's unit focused on bringing prosecutions under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, she said, "Shall prioritise investigations
related to foreign bribery that facilitates the criminal operations of cartels and TCOs, and shift focus away from investigations and cases that do not involve such a connection."
Prosecutions under the Foreign Extortion Prevention Act were also redirected under the new instructions.
But anti-corruption groups expressed concern over the move, with Gary Kalman, Executive Director of Transparency International (AI) US, telling VOA that the changes to DOJ priorities could have dire consequences for the global fight against public corruption.
"The elimination of kleptocracy initiatives is a concern in that those initiatives were providing valuable coordination and informationsharing services amongst different departments and with some of our overseas allies," Kalman said.
"Those networks had some encouraging results and enabled investigations to move more quickly,"
Africa Oil Week Partners NAPE, European Geoscientists to Showcase Nigeria's Upstream Potential
Africa Oil Week (AOW) has announced a game-changing collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) and the European Association of Geoscientists & Engineers (EAGE) to develop an unparalleled programme spotlighting Nigeria’s thriving upstream sector at this year's AOW.
The AOW 2025 will be held on 15th September 2025 in Accra, Ghana.
The event organisers said this strategic alliance marked a new era
for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, reinforcing the progress made by the government, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) in driving investment, competitiveness, and operational efficiency.
With the Nigerian upstream witnessing renewed momentum, the organisers noted that the anticipation surrounding the country’s growing presence at AOW 2025 was at an all-time high.
With a wave of major operators
already confirming their participation, AOW 2025 is set to be the most significant edition yet, the statement said.
It added that international investors and energy stakeholders were flocking to Accra to explore opportunities across the Transform Margin, fueled by Côte d’Ivoire’s massive discoveries and Ghana’s new government reinvigorating its commitment to fostering a competitive regulatory environment.
The statement further informed that the spotlight will be on the
transform margin from a West Africa perspective as the industry attends to look at new licence opportunities in Nigeria’s marginal fields, Ghana’s prolific Tano, Keta, and Voltaian Basins and the true potential of the San Pedro basin further west.
"The fact that we now have governments across West Africa to show a broader view of the transform margin and its conjugates only explains why uptake to join AOW: Energy 2025 is so strong and further amplifying the excitement surrounding this landmark event", the statement added.
FG Issues February 17 Deadline to Civil Servants on Identity Verification
he said.
Kalman added, "Dismantling those programmes will likely have a negative effect on our ability to investigate and prosecute cases."
In a separate memo, Bondi revealed that DOJ will also disband the Foreign Influence Task Force, established in 2017 to investigate efforts by state actors, such as Russia and China, to influence U.S. public opinion, particularly around elections.
Trump had been highly critical of efforts by law enforcement to identify and root out foreign interference in U.S. elections, especially after a report
by special counsel Robert Mueller, in 2019, found extensive evidence that Russian influence operations had been mounted to benefit Trump's candidacy during the 2016 presidential election. In her memo, Bondi wrote, "To free resources to address more pressing priorities, and end risks of further weaponisation and abuses of prosecutorial discretion, the Foreign Influence Task Force shall be disbanded."
She called for a "fundamental change in mind-set and approach" when it came to combating drug cartels.
Global Emission: ActionAid Canvasses Climate Justice, Cancellation of Nigeria, Other Developing Countries’ Debt
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) has called for climate justice and the cancellation of Nigeria's foreign debt as well as that of other African countries to appease the damage done by global emission.
The Country Director of AAN, Mr. Andrew Mamedu, made the call at the weekend in Abuja, while noting that in reality African countries as well as other developing countries across the globe are not owing any debt but rather are owed by developed countries and the Global North.
Mamedu, while calling for conversation around compensation for global emission, expressed concern about the disparity in the interest rate charges on loans between the low-income earners and developed countries.
He said the amount agreed to be paid by developed countries for global emission should be redistributed to disadvantaged countries.
He stressed that the Global North is indebted to the developing countries and should be made to pay.
Mamedu argued that climate change is real and we should be pushing for climate justice, which means that the countries responsible for depletion of the ozone layer and subsequent climate change should be made to pay for their damage.
He said: “So with the global emission conversation, there's an agreement that for global emission, there's a specific amount that each country should pay, and this amount that is being paid should be redistributed to countries that are disadvantaged.
“And surprise you to note that
the Global North contributes over 97% of global emission. So, with that calculation, with what, for instance, I'll pick a country like the United States.
“What the United States is currently doing in terms of global emission, the United States has up to 80 trillion dollars that it owes for global emission. But if you project it between now and 2050, so between 1960 to 2050, the United States alone has about 80 trillion dollars.
“And with that projection, countries like Nigeria, if Nigeria is projected to what Nigeria would get, Nigeria would get 9.9 trillion dollars as payback.
“So, look at the calculation, Nigeria is owing about 50 billion dollars, right? But for our climate emission, Nigeria is supposed to then get paid 9.9 trillion dollars between 1960 and now. So, the question is, who is owing who? I think we need to sit down on the roundtable and renegotiate this.
“It is unacceptable that, particularly the Global North, the high-income countries, they also are indebted because of the level of risk.”
On the disparity issue of interest rate charged between the developed and developing countries, Mamedu said: “So a country like Germany pays an interest rate of 0.8 percent. Why is a country like Nigeria charged 2 to 3 percent?
“You see the difference for their own same loan that we have taken. And what that means is, it is affecting the money's amount available for our social sector, from education to health, to water, and housing.
“So, the social sector is affected. Women, agriculture, young persons are affected. We are not able to have adequate resources to run this.
Peter Uzoho
L-R: National Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma; His wife, Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, and Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan SulaimanIbrahim, during commemoration of the International Day for Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation in Owerri…recently
SIGNING CONDOLENCE REGISTER IN HONOUR OF THE ALAPERU OF IPERU-REMO...
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, signing the condolence register during a visit to the palace of the Alaperu of Iperu-Remo, Oba Adeleke Adelekan Idowu-Basibo on Saturday.
Report: Nigeria to Experience Increased Domestic Market Gas Delivery in 2025
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
With the completion of several new projects in the country, Nigeria will see a rise in domestic gas delivery in 2025, a new report by Bloomfield LP, has indicated.
Titled: “The Nigerian Oil And Gas Sector: 2024 in Review and Outlook for 2025”, the report said its forecast was based, among others, on the completion of Seplat's Sapele gas processing plant and the Assa North Ohaji South (ANOH) gas project.
“We envisage that in 2025, there will be an increase in gas delivery to the domestic market by the completion of Seplat's Sapele gas processing plant which is expected to deliver about 85,000,000 cubic feet of gas daily.
“Also, the Assa North Ohaji South (ANOH) gas project is expected to deliver over 300,000,000 cubic feet of gas daily to the domestic market in the fourth quarter and second quarter 2025 respectively. We hope to experience an increment in the supply of processed gas to the domestic market in 2025.”
Besides, it predicted a further
drive in growth and the utilisation of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for transportation, with the federal government's target being to increase conversion centres from 170 centres recorded in December 2024 to 500 by the end of 2025. While the increase will be driven by private investors, Bloomfield said more conversions are expected in the year 2025, in order to meet President Bola Tinubu's target of 1 million CNG vehicles by 2027.
In addition, the firm mentioned the possibility of amendment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), explaining that while the enactment of PIA was a welcome development in the industry, there are visible lapses, inconsistencies, and flaws in the legislation.
It also foresaw additional divestments by International Oil Companies (IOCs) given the current operating and regulatory environment, in addition to the IOCs' preferred interests in the deep water and offshore sectors over shallow water and onshore assets.
Abba Moro: Opposition's Confrontation with Ruling Party Unnecessary
Abuja
The Minority Leader of the Senate , Senator Abba Moro, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker, representing Benue South, has defended his style of opposition in the 10th Senate, stating that constructive collaboration with those in positions of authority was preferable to needless confrontations.
Moro, who spoke to some journalists over the weekend in his office, said collaborative leadership for good governance was apt and a justification for his style of leadership as a minority leader. He said: "Minority Leadership to me is not for confrontation but constructive collaboration with those in the ruling party for good governance for Nigerians. I want to sincerely say that you have made
some proper observations in the course of time, because as a person, I believe in collaboration.
“I believe that compromise is a very veritable instrument in leadership advancement. I believe that what we call opposition is ordinarily intended to persuade people to act in a manner that otherwise they may not necessarily act.
" Yes , I was elected into the Senate on the platform of PDP but as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I need to work with other Nigerians to advance the cause of Nigeria. "And that is why I think that it is better for me to relate with people amicably, persuasively, to be able to advance the cause of governance instead of unnecessary or avoidable confrontations," he said .
“In addition, some other private refineries are expected to come on stream in 2025 such as the 12,000 bpd Azikel Petroleum Refinery located in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State and the BUA Refinery located in Akwa lbom State. In general, it is expected that 2025 will see a significant increase
in Nigeria's crude refining capacity.
“We further expect to see a full and continuous deregulation of the downstream sector, as key players will leverage the present competition which in turn reflects on the pricing of oil, especially PMS (petrol).
“Further, in 2025, with the
addition of the Dangote Refinery and the expected completion of the rehabilitation of government-owned refineries, Nigeria is poised to become a potential exporter of refined petroleum products. A reduction or stoppage of the importation of refined petroleum products will positively
translate to a reduction in the landing cost of refined petroleum products and possibly in the price of oil.
“Consequently, it is our opinion that the regulatory authorities will issue more regulations in 2025 and most likely finalise some of the regulations that are still in draft form.
Alleged N167bn Project Fraud: SERAP Sues Tinubu over Failure to Prosecute Contractors
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Socio Economic Rights Accountability Project (SERAP) has sued President Bola Tinubu over his failure to prosecute some contractors in the alleged N167 fraud from 31 ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) but failed to execute any projects.
SERAP is asking the court “to compel President Tinubu to direct Mr. Olawale Edun to publish the details of the projects ..." Joined in the suit as Respondent is the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.
In the suit number FHC/L/ MISC/121/2025 filed last Friday at the Federal High Court, Lagos, SERAP is asking the court “to compel President Tinubu to direct
Cyber Criminals
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Nigerian Army has raised alarm over the growing impersonation of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, on all social media platforms.
The Service also stressed these imposters have continued to perpetrate the mischief using the official portrait of the COAS as profile picture on their various social media platforms
Informing the public of the ugly development, the Director Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, in a statement said: "The Nigerian Army has been inundated
Mr. Fagbemi to bring to justice, as appropriate, any companies and contractors who collected over N167bn of public funds from 31 MDAs but failed to execute any projects.”
SERAP is asking the court “to compel President Tinubu to direct Mr. Olawale Edun to publish the specific names of the companies and contractors who collected over N167 billion from 31 MDAs but failed to execute any projects, as documented in the 2021 Audited Report by the Auditor General of the Federation.”
SERAP is also asking the court “to compel President Tinubu to direct Mr. Olawale Edun to publish the details of the projects, such as the locations of the projects for which the contractors and companies collected N167bn, the amount collected by
each contractor and company and the names of the shareholders.”
In the suit, SERAP is arguing that: “The allegations of corruption involving many companies and contractors who collected over N167 billion from 31 MDAs have continued to impair, obstruct and undermine access of poor Nigerians to public goods and services.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “Holding the companies and contractors who collected over N167bn from 31 MDAs but disappeared with the money would prevent and combat waste, fraud, and abuse in the spending of public funds.”
According to SERAP, “There is a legitimate public interest in not shielding or allowing ingrained wrongdoing by companies and
contractors to go unpunished.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “The consequences of corruption are felt by citizens on a daily basis. Corruption exposes them to additional costs to pay for health, education and administrative services.”
SERAP said: “The allegations suggest a grave violation of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), the country’s anticorruption legislation and international anti-corruption obligations.”
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers, Kolawole Oluwadare and Oluwakemi Agunbiade, read in part: “Granting the reliefs sought would ensure transparency and accountability in how any public funds are spent by MDAs, and reduce vulnerability to corruption and mismanagement.
Impersonating COAS on Social Media, Army Raises Alarm
with complaints of increasing number of imposters, claiming to be the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, on various social media platforms.
"The imposters have continued to perpetrate this mischief using the official portrait of the COAS, as profile picture on their various social media platforms.
"It is imperative to state that this is not the first time imposters have attempted to impersonate the person of the COAS on social media platforms to dupe unsuspecting members of the public in one form or the other.
"A new trend observed however, is the fixing of virtual meetings on zoom, WhatsApp, Facebook and other online engagements with demand that participants share specific numbers which appear on their screens during such meetings with which the imposters then engage individually with the participants and subsequently defraud them".
The Nigerian Army, he said has identified over 23 mobile numbers used by these fraudsters to defraud the public using the name of COAS.
While the Nigerian Army, like other sister services of the Armed Forces have peculiar ways of
communication known to all officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, members of the public must be wary of the danger posed by these imposters.
Nwachukwu urged the public to refrain from engaging in any online meeting organised on social media platforms especially using the official portrait of the COAS as the display picture. He further enjoined the public to report such mobile numbers used to fix such virtual meetings through the Nigerian Army toll-free call centre number 193 for appropriate follow-up actions.
Sunday Aborisade in
PARTNERSHIP TOWARDS ENHANCING PUBLIC AWARENESS ON THE RISKS OF TANKER FIRES...
$1 Trillion Economy: FG to Train 10 Million Women by 2027 to Boost Productivity
The federal government is set to empower 10 million women economically by 2027 towards ensuring that they play a vital role in Nigeria’s economic transformation. Revealing this yesterday in Abuja, in celebration of her 100 days in office, Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said the strategy aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of a $1 trillion economy, where women had been earmarked to be key contributors to national productivity.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim said through financial literacy, business development, and cooperative structures, women could be equipped with the tools they needed to build sustainable enterprises and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.
She said, in addition to financial empowerment, “We have launched a food intervention programme for women and vulnerable groups after recognising the economic hardships that many families are facing.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated that economic empowerment remained one of the most effective ways to uplift women and dismantle systemic
barriers that limited their potential.
She added that the MOWASARA Accelerated Skills Acquisition Programme, which had been designated for women empowerment, in collaboration with Wema Bank, will train 500,000 women in key areas, including vocational skills, business entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion.
The minister stated, "At the core of our efforts is a bold and ambitious vision – to empower 10 million women economically by 2027, ensuring they play a vital role in Nigeria’s economic transformation. This aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of a $1 trillion economy, where women are key contributors to national productivity.
"We have already taken decisive steps toward achieving this, with the commencement of implementation of the World Bank-supported Nigeria for Women Scale-Up Project, which targets 4.5 million women across all 36 states and the FCT.
"The first phase of the programme is currently underway in Kano State, with 2,500 women being trained at the Ministry of Women Affairs
Nigeria, Bahrain Work at Improving Economic Ties
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Nigeria and Bahrain have engaged in bilateral discussions aimed at facilitating foreign direct investment, enhancing trade and investment opportunities and equally fostering cooperation in the oil and gas sectors.
A statement on Sunday by the spokesman of the minister of foreign affairs, Alkasim AbdulKadir, said his boss, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has visited Manama, the Kingdom of Bahrain, and while in the Kingdom engaged in bilateral discussions with his Bahraini counterpart, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani.
He revealed that the meeting focused on strengthening diplomatic relations, facilitating foreign direct investment from Bahrain, enhancing trade and investment opportunities, and fostering cooperation in the oil and gas sectors, with particular emphasis on onshore projects
and the development of the 8th train LNG.
He said the ministers also deliberated on the training of Nigerian diplomats and collaboration within multilateral forums.
He disclosed that both ministers signed a Joint Communiqué, officially establishing diplomatic relations between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Bahrain, noting that this agreement marks a significant milestone in fostering closer ties and mutual cooperation between the two nations.
He said this development aligns with Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international partnerships, stating that recently, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, chaired the third meeting of the national committee for monitoring the implementation of the outcomes of the Bahrain Summit Initiatives, underscoring the kingdom’s commitment to global collaboration.
Centre in Dederi and the Kano Hospitality and Tourism Institute in Gyadi-Gyadi.
"In addition to financial empowerment, we have launched a food intervention programme
for women and vulnerable groups, recognising the economic hardships that many families are facing.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim said as part of the ministry's commitment to
ending period poverty, it was also launching a nationwide campaign to provide menstrual hygiene kits to 10,000 young girls towards ensuring they stayed in school and maintained their dignity.
On ending gender-based violence and strengthening global partnerships, she stated that Nigeria remained committed to ending violence against women and children.
Falana Slams $5m Damages against US-based Meta over Alleged Privacy Invasion
Alex Enumah in Abuja
Lawyer and human rights activist, Mr Femi Falana, SAN, has slammed a $5 million suit against a United States of America-based organisation, Meta Platforms Inc., over alleged invasion of his privacy.
The suit filed at a High Court of Lagos State was brought pursuant to Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and section 24(1)(A) and (E) & Section 34(1)(D) of Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023, Order 2 Rule 1 Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure Rules, 2009.
Falana, in the suit filed by his lawyer, Olumide Babalola, alleged that the organisation invaded his privacy, when it
published motion images and voice captioned: "AfriCare Health Center," in their website to the effect that Falana has suffered a disease known as ‘Prostatitis'.
According to the rights activist, the publication constituted an invasion of his privacy as guaranteed by Section 37 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999. Besides, the senior lawyer submitted that the publication and the video as released through the organisation's platform -www.facebook.com, was "false, inaccurate, misleading and unfair to the Applicant and thereby violates the provision of section 24(1)(a) and (e) of the Nigeria Data Protection
Act 2023."
Among the reliefs he sought from the court was an order declaring that the "Respondent's continued publication of the Applicant's name, still and motion images and purported voice on a page and video captioned “AfriCare Health Centre on their platform - www. facebook.com to the effect that the Applicant suffered from a disease known as ‘Prostatitis constitutes an invasion of the Applicants privacy guaranteed by section 37 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999."
He also prayed the court for an order mandating the "Respondent to forthwith remove, erase and delete the video captioned “AfriCare
Health Centre on their platform - www.facebook.com."
In addition, Falana urged the court to order the respondent to pay him the sum of $5 million as compensation for damages suffered as a result of the said publication and a consequential order that the court may deem fit to grant in the circumstance. In the affidavit deposed to in support of the suit, the applicant claimed that the published false video about his health status, which was his private life, has rubbished his image and the name he built over the years. He argued that the publication by the Respondent which was false, offensive and disturbing, painted him in a false light, that has caused him mental and emotional disturbances.
The Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) to enhance adherence to electrical safety in residential, commercial and industrial buildings and to strengthen compliance with insurance policy.
The MoU establishes a collaborative framework between the two organisations to ensure that as a pre-condition all electrical installations in residential, commercial and industrial premises as well as hazard-prone locations, industries and factories are duly certified by NEMSA, before their insurance policy is processed.
Besides, a statement signed in
Abuja by Ama Umoren of the Communications & Protocol Unit of NEMSA, stated that the partnership aligns with the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the reliability and safety of Nigeria’s electricity sector.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEMSA, Aliyu Tukur, emphasised the importance of collaboration in mitigating risks associated with electrical accidents and infrastructure failures.
“This partnership with NAICOM is a significant step towards ensuring that all electricity consumers, operators, and investors adhere to the highest safety and risk management standards.
“By integrating insurance compliance into electrical safety enforcement, we are safeguarding
lives, investments, and the overall integrity of the power sector,” he stated.
Speaking further, Tukur, who is also the Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation said that going forward, to mitigate associated risks, statutory testing of electrical facilities and certification are carried out in such premises.
‘’It will also be a requirement by NEMSA that all facility applicants of its statutory inspection, testing and certification, should ensure that their facilities are insured with insurance companies, for safety and mitigation of risk,’’ he said.
On his part, the Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of NAICOM, Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, reiterated NAICOM’s commitment to ensuring that all power sector players embrace insurance as a critical risk
management tool.
“Insurance plays a crucial role in cushioning the effects of electrical hazards and infrastructure-related incidents. Through this MoU we will work closely with NEMSA to enforce compliance with relevant insurance policies, ensuring that the power sector operates with adequate risk mitigation mechanisms in place,” he said. The collaboration, the statement said, will involve joint awareness campaigns, regulatory enforcement, and information-sharing initiatives to promote electrical safety and insurance adoption across the power sector.
“This strategic partnership marks a milestone in the drive to enhance safety, reliability, and sustainability within Nigeria’s electricity industry and the country at large,” he stated.
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
L-R: Director, Planning Research and Forecasting, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Dr. Onimode Abdullahi Bandele; Director, Legal Services, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr Williams Dogo; Director General, NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar; Director General, NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu; and Director, Special Duties, NOA, Mr. David Akoji, during the visit of the NOA management team to seek a partnership towards enhancing public awareness on the risks of tanker fires at the NEMA Headquarters in Abuja ... recently
Kayode Tokede
Despite challenges and the ongoing reforms, 15 insurance companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), declared N142.2 billion profit before tax in 2024, analysis of their unaudited result and accounts for period in ended December 31, 2024 has revealed.
This is about 75.5 per cent increase over N81.03 billion reported in the 2023 financial year.
THISDAY analysis showed that out of the 15 companies, Guinea Insurance Plc, Linkage Assurance Plc, NEM Insurance Plc, Regency Assurance Plc and Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc declared decline in profit before tax while AXA Mansard Insurance Plc led others as the most profitable listed insurance company on NGX.
While Guinea Insurance reported N162.26 million PBT, about 67.5 per cent decline from N499.63 million in 2023, Linkage Assurance posted N5.3 billion PBT in 2024, a 3 per cent drop from N5.46 billion reported in 2023.
NEM Insurance announced N11.31 billion PBT, a decline of 15.17 per cent from N13.33 billion in 2023. On its part, Regency Assurance posted N955.7 million PBT in 2024, a decline of 54 per cent from N2.1 billion reported in 2023.
In addition, Veritas Kapital Assurance closed the 2024 unaudited financial at N213.7 million, a drop of 92.8 per cent from N2.98 billion declared in 2023.
In the period under review, AXA Mansard Insurance announced to investing public N30.98 billion PBT, an increase of 96.4 per cent from
N15.77 billion in 2023.
Coronation Insurance Plc, and Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc announced significant increase in PBT last year. Coronation Insurance declared N13.2 billion PBT in 2024, about 495.5 per cent growth from N2.2 billion in 2023, Consolidated Hallmark Holdings closed 2024 with N24.8 billion PBT, a significant increase of 433.4 per cent from N4.65 billion reported in 2023.
Nigeria’s insurance sector is undergoing significant reforms to modernize and enhance its operations. Part of these reforms include: the Nigeria Insurance Industry Reform Bill, 2024 aimed to consolidate outdated laws to provide a more robust regulatory environment, increased capital requirements, focus on deepening
penetration, and claims management and consumer protection.
These reforms represent a significant shift, aiming to modernize the industry and increase its contribution to Nigeria’s economic growth. However, the proposed changes require careful implementation to balance industry development with inclusivity and fairness.
The sector continues to struggle with limited market size, double-digit inflation, and currency devaluation, which affect the ability of companies to meet higher capital requirements, among other challenges.
In the period under review, 14 out of the 15 companies reported N710.36 billion insurance revenue, about 64 per cent growth from N433.5billion declared in the corresponding period of 2023.
However, these 14 insurance companies generated revenue from life and Non-Life businesses (Oil & gas, Agriculture, Investment management, Property development and Health Maintenance).
In the unaudited 2024 result and accounts to the Exchange, Axamansard Insurance again generated the highest insurance revenue, followed by AIICO Insurance, and NEM Insurance.
In 2024, Axamansard Insurance generated N131.34 billion insurance revenue, about 59 per cent increase from N82.8 billion reported in 2023, while AIICO Insurance posted N107.06 billion insurance revenue in 2024, representing a growth of 49.5 per cent from N71.63 billion reported in n2023.
In addition, NEM Insurance posted N97.11 billion insurance
revenue in 2024, up by 86.77 per cent from N51.99 billion reported in 2023. The impressive performance of listed insurance companies has contributed to the NGX Insurance Index, gaining 0.49 per cent in its Year-till-Date performance as of February 07, 2025. The sector has also faced the fluctuation of the naira impacted foreign exchange availability in the economy, causing the exchange rate to rise both in the official and parallel markets.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) raised the interest rate from 18.75 per cent to 27.5 per cent between January and September 2024 to rein in inflation and stabilise the naira.
The British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter has revealed that trade volume between Nigeria and the United Kingdom (UK) has reached £7.5 billion.
Baxter, who revealed this while speaking at the formal launch of Westerfield College, UK , in Lagos, said bilateral trade is a real priority for both countries.
According to him, “As I hope you’re all aware, bilateral trade between the UK and Nigeria is a real priority for both of our countries. And in both countries, we’re looking for economic growth. And from my perspective, we are really proud that Nigeria is an important part of that picture for the UK.
“The trade between our two
countries is worth £7.5 billion and it’s been growing. And we see trade as a cornerstone of a vibrant and deep-rooted relationship between our two countries, often based on strong personal connections and also through institutional links. And we want to see that trade blossom and foster further prosperity, innovation and cooperation.”
However, Baxter emphasised that trade is not just about UK businesses expanding into Nigeria, but also about Nigerian businesses establishing a presence in the UK.
He noted that even though there are fantastic UK businesses operating in Nigeria in so many sectors, energy, financial services, infrastructure, education, adding that importantly, trade was not just about UK businesses coming to Nigeria.
He said, “And that’s why today’s event is so exciting. Because trade is also about Nigerian businesses establishing a presence in the UK. And we think that coming to the UK benefits all companies that come because of the welcoming business environment and our strong, qualified and diverse workforce, which helps to grow, internationalise and create growth in both the UK and Nigeria.
“For every country, including Nigeria, investment has a wide range of benefits, improving productivity by increasing competition, introducing new technology, processes and management techniques, and often jobs in associated companies. So this is just one of the reasons that we are so glad to welcome the launch of Westerfield UK.
“It is an exciting development for the Westerfield brand. But it’s a really, really exciting step for Nigeria to expand its education offering into an international and particularly into the UK market. And for me, that is something we should all be proud of.”
Speaking at the event, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu applauded Westerfield College entry into the British education market.
He said the achievement was not just a testament to the vision and dedication of the institution but also a shining example of the global impact of education and collaboration.
Represented by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Sanwo-Olu, said, the
new campus is a bridge connecting cultures, ideas, and aspirations.
He added, “It gives me great pleasure to join you today to celebrate the launch of the new campus of the Westerfield college in Worcester, United Kingdom. This achievement is not just a testament to the vision and dedication of the institution but also a shining example of the global impact of education and collaboration.”
He noted that the opening of Westerfield campus in the UK, reminds everyone of the boundless possibilities that arise when they invest in knowledge and foster international partnerships.
“This new campus is a bridge connecting cultures, ideas, and aspirations. It represents a shared vision for a future where education
transcends borders and empowers individuals to make meaningful contributions to society. I am confident that this campus will not only enrich the academic landscape in the UK but also strengthen the ties between our nations. As we celebrate tonight, let us reaffirm our commitment to education as a tool for progress, unity, and global understanding that enables us to build a brighter future for generations to come,” Sanwo-Olu stated. On his part, the Managing Director, Westerfield College, Micheal Dosunmu, revealed that the institution, founded in Nigeria in 2011, had been planning its UK expansion for the past four years.
Oluchi Chibuzor
THE GIESSEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VISIT…
L-R: Head of Delegation, Giessen Chamber of Commerce, Germany, Dr Matthias Leder; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu; former Minister of Information and Culture and a member of the delegation, Lai Mohammed; Permanent Secretary, FMBEP, Dr Vitalis Obi and Director, International Cooperation, FMBEP, Dr Sampson Ebimaro, during the visit of the chamber of commerce’s delegation to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja… recently
Tijani: e-Commerce Has Potential to Drive Nigeria’s Economic Growth, Trade Integration
Emma Okonji
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani has said Nigeria’s e-Commerce has the potential to drive the country’s economic growth and regional trade integration, under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), if properly harnessed.
The minister who disclosed this at a stakeholders’ forum in Lagos, said: “E-commerce holds a central place in the global economy, and Nigeria,
with its dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, has the potential to lead in this space. However, realising this potential requires a comprehensive approach to addressing the logistical and infrastructural challenges that hinder the seamless movement of goods and services, particularly in the underserved and rural areas.”
The minister who was represented by the Postmaster General of the Federation (PMG), Tola Odeyemi, said the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), has an unparalleled physical presence
across Nigeria, with over 1,000 post offices and numerous distribution centres, many of which are currently underutilised.
“Leveraging NIPOST assets to support logistics and delivery, while integrating them with digital platforms, offers a transformative opportunity to create a nationwide logistics network that will make e-commerce accessible across Nigeria’s 36 states, significantly boosting inclusion and accessibility in underserved regions,” Tijani said.
Comercio Partners has predicted that in the worst case scenario, the exchange rate is expected to hover at N1700 to $1, while the headline inflation will range between 15 per cent to 21 per cent in 2025.
Equally, it noted that persistent inflationary pressures, fiscal constraints, and elevated interest rates will continue to shape business sentiment and investment flows.
The company in its 2025 macroeconomic outlook advised investors to embrace cautious posture in their investment appetite, as the year presents a dynamic interplay of macro-economic shifts, geopolitical recalibrations, and policy-driven market realignments.
According to the investment firm, the development will shape capital flows and asset performance across the markets, “as Nigerian equity markets remain a landscape of both opportunity and caution.”
Speaking at the launch of the report, titled, “Looking Forward Into The Future,” the CEO, Comercio Partners Capital, Stephen Osho, said
The PMG, in her welcome address, stressed the need for collaboration among stakeholders to enable businesses and Nigerians benefit from the huge potential of e-Commerce.
Speaking to journalists on the sideline, while addressing the challenges around logistics in e-Commerce business, the Postmaster General said the challenges have hindered e-Commerce growth in |Nigeria, and called for collaboration among stakeholders to address the identified challenges.
Abia State, RHG Sign Agreement to Revamp Enyimba Hotel Aba
Oluchi Chibuzor
their team has meticulously gathered and analysed data from various sources to offer valuable insights in the report.
According to him, “As we step into 2025, Comercio Partners remains steadfast in delivering forward-thinking insights to navigate an increasingly complex global and local investment landscape. The year ahead presents a dynamic interplay of macroeconomic shifts, geopolitical recalibrations, and policy-driven market realignments, all of which will shape capital flows and asset performance across markets. So people should be cautious.
“This report is a testament to our commitment to staying ahead of the curve and continually seeking opportunities for growth and innovation. Our team has meticulously gathered and analyzed data from various sources to offer valuable insights that will guide our strategic decisions and also help us better serve our clients.”
Making a presentation on the report, Head of Investment Research and Global Macro Strategist, Comercio Partner, Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah, said headline Inflation is expected to ease significantly in 2025, driven by several factors.
Global Citizens Support Community Health Workers, Maternal Healthcare across Nigeria
International advocacy organisation Global Citizen, in partnership with the Lagos State Government, the Lagos Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Tourism, last week, in Lagos, hosted the Stride for HER Rights Maternal Healthcare Walkathon across Lagos’s iconic Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge.
More information can be found at moveafrika.org.
After 32 Years of neglect and abandonment, the Abia State government and the Radisson Hotels Group have signed an agreement to revamp the 125 room, seven-storey Enyimba International Hotel, Aba. Under the agreement, the Abia State government will provide financial resources through its budget to renovate the hotel and meet Radisson’s standards, while Radisson Hotel Group will manage the hotel, ensuring revenue generation and long-term sustainability.
Governor Alex Otti affirmed that his administration has put all necessary mechanisms in place to ensure the project’s success.
Speaking at the signing of the MoU in Lagos, Abia State
Represented by the state Attorney General, Ikechukwu Uwanna, Otti said the Abia State government would do its best to make the hotel meet the Radisson Group standards in order for the hotel to generate revenue back to the state.
The advocacy event amplified awareness of the vital role of community health workers, calling for increased healthcare funding towards sexual reproductive health rights, and championing the need for equitable access to maternal and neonatal healthcare services across Nigeria.
According to him, “Radisson has very high standards that they want the state to construct the property to. And we know that those standards, the state would do its best to meet those specifications.
Participants who completed today’s walkathon earned tickets to Global Citizen’s Move Afrika: Lagos event on February 25 at The Palms, headlined by EGOT-winning, critically acclaimed, multiplatinum artist and producer John Legend.
The walkathon saw thousands of Global Citizens, leaders from civil society and government representatives from across the region participate, including Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF), Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA), Nigerian Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF), and HelpMum, with all groups calling for enhanced maternal and child healthcare services nationwide. Guest speakers at today’s event included Dr. Kemi DaSilva-Ibru, Founder of WARIF, who shared valuable insights on maternal health in Nigeria, and Mrs. Olukemi Ogunyemi, Special Advisor at the Ministry of Health, who reinforced the government’s commitment to improving maternal healthcare services.
PROMOTING FINANCIAL INVESTMENT…
L-R: Legal Adviser to Smart Treasure Team, Isaac Adediran; VIP 9 Leader, Princewill Otorudo; another VIP 9 Leader, Fola Abiodun; Regional Head, Lagos, Trust Otorudo; and VIP 7 Leader, Samson Aminu, all of Smart Treasure Investment Team (ST Team), during a business banquet held at Vertigo Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos…recently
Agriculture: Kano Govt, World Bank Disburses $250,000 to 10 Communities
Arthur
Eriye
In a drive to enhance climate-smart agriculture in Kano State, the AgroClimatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, has disbursed $250,000 in community revolving funds, with $25,000 allocated to each of 10 beneficiary communities.
The funds are meant for investments in climate-smart agriculture, value chain development, including production, processing, and packaging.
During the cheque presentation ceremony in Kano recently, the Kano ACReSAL Project Coordinator and Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahir Muhammad Hashim, stressed that the initiative aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change and enhance food security through sustainable agricultural practices.
“This fund is not merely financial
aid; it is a transformative resource that empowers farmers, improves livelihoods, and strengthens community resilience,” Dr. Hashim stated.
The 10 selected communities for the climate-smart agriculture —Chiranchi, Diso, Kofar Naisa, Galadanchi, Gwale, Kwankwaso, Garo, Sarigirin, Gobirawa, and Dala—were chosen based on strict criteria to ensure accountability and a commitment to sustainable agriculture.
To ensure transparency and sustainability, the project has established governance structures, including Community Revolving Fund Management Committees (CRFMCs), Community Business Agents (CBAs), and Boards of Trustees (BoTs).
“ACReSAL has made significant strides in addressing environmental challenges,” Dr. Hashim added.
“Under the project, we’ve planted three million trees, rehabilitated 106
kilometers of shelterbelt, and restored 24,865 hectares of degraded land. Over 1,200 farmers have benefited from woodlot plantations and orchards, and two nurseries, which produce one million seedlings annually, have been rehabilitated.”
The project has achieved significant milestone in combating water scarcity, constructing 50 solar-powered boreholes across various communities, and renovating the Soil and Water Laboratory at Northwest University Kano. Additionally, livelihood support has been provided to communities in the Falgore Game Reserve.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf commended Hashim for his exemplary leadership, calling him the most outstanding commissioner in the state. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, and securing further funding to expand the CRF initiative.
NCAA Pushes for Transparent,Technology Driven Procurement System
Chinedu Eze
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) said that it is working to have transparent and efficient procurement system that is accountable and of maximum utility to the agency.
The Director General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Chris Najomo, made this known in Lagos yesterday and explained that the future of Nigeria’s aviation sector depends on NCAA ability to implement a procurement system that is efficient, transparent, and aligned with global best practices.
He said that by embracing due process and procurement best practices, Nigeria can fully align with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic transformation and good governance and the Minister’s 5-Point Agenda,
which emphasizes optimising revenue generation for the federal government and the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPP) guidelines and international procurement standards.
Najomo, who was represented at a Symposium on Understanding Procurement Process for Optimum Organisational Performance, urged all stakeholders in the aviation sector to remain committed to these principles and work collectively towards a future where procurement serves as a catalyst for growth, innovation, and national progress.
Najomo also said that for prudence, maximization of resources and accountability, procurement practices must eliminate waste, curb corruption, and ensure value for money, ultimately leading to increased government revenue and improved service delivery.
“Public procurement is at the core
IXPN Holds Engagement
of government efficiency and fiscal responsibility. In the aviation sector, procurement decisions affect airport infrastructure, air navigation services, safety regulations, and operational efficiency. If done right, procurement has the power to attract investment, enhance aviation service delivery, and maximize revenue for the nation.
“To support Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Honourable Minister’s 5-Point Agenda, we must embrace a procurement system that reduces financial leakages by enforcing strict compliance with due process.; encourages competition and fair bidding to attract credible investors; ensures cost-effective contracts that maximize public funds for aviation development and srengthens public-private partnerships to drive efficiency and boost revenue generation,” he added.
Forum, Harps on Domestication of Internet Traffic
Internet eXchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), the body that promotes seamless connectivity and innovation with peering community, at the weekend in Lagos, held its annual members’ engagement forum, where it further highlighted the importance domesticating internet traffic generated in Nigeria in order to grow local traffic and keep Nigeria’s internet traffic within the country.
Giving an overview of internet traffic in Nigeria, the CEO of IXPN, Muhammed Rudman said the forum provided a valuable platform for collaboration and sharing of milestones with its members, adding that IXPN is dedicated to building a stronger internet exchange ecosystem and advancing Nigeria’s digital landscape through efficient interconnectivity.
According to him, the intention
of setting up Nigeria’s internet exchange point is to keep Nigerian internet traffic within the country, domesticate local traffic, and reduce costs associated with accessing local internet content, thereby enhancing local connectivity and improving overall internet experience for the end users, while promoting and encouraging the creation of local internet content and serving as an efficient centralised launch point for services.
“In 2008, the internet traffic generated in Nigeria was between seven and eight megabits per second and some of the traffic that were domesticated at that time were from Zenith Registries and from some few organisations that had content.
Although the traffic as at then was very minimal, but it kept increasing, until Google peered with IXPN, and the internet traffic jumped from less than 20 megabits per second to 120
megabits per second, and by 2012, the traffic has increased to 600 megabits per second. In 2019, internet traffic further increased to 125 gigabits per second. In 2021, it reached 250 gigabits per second, and by December 2024, internet traffic in Nigeria reached 900 gigabits per second. Based on our current survey 75 per cent of our members said that they were exchanging above 25 per cent of their traffic locally, while about 4 per cent said they were exchanging above 75 per cent of their traffic locally. So the objective is to ensure that we domesticate our internet and make it really cheaper,” Rudman said.
Speaking about the economic impact domesticating local traffic, Rudman said: “In terms of economic impact, apart from the internet banking and other things that we take advantage of, we don’t really benefit much because the traffic is more of download than upload.
Emma Okonji
BPE Applauds APM Terminals for Advancing Port Efficiency, Trade Growth
Eromosele Abiodun
The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) has commended APM Terminals Nigeria for its commitment to the core objectives of Nigeria’s port concession program and its contributions to enhancing service delivery and operational efficiency at the nation’s seaports.
As a leading port operator, APM Terminals manages Nigeria’s largest container terminal at the Lagos Port Complex Apapa.
During a working visit to APM Terminals Apapa, the Director-General of BPE, Ayodeji Gbeleyi, praised the company’s operational excellence, particularly its commitment to safety and environmental standards.
He commended APM Terminals for its work environment and the dedication of its workforce, noting that the staff appeared passionate and excited about their roles.
He further reaffirmed the federal government’s support for APM Terminals, stating that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed
to making Nigeria a leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa.
Gbeleyi assured that the government would continue to support concessionaires like APM Terminals to ensure collaboration in achieving this vision. Speaking, the CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke, highlighted the company’s significant investments in port infrastructure since acquiring the concession for the Apapa container terminal in 2006.
Klinke emphasised that the terminal now serves as a critical gateway for imports and exports in West Africa, operating with a focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability.
He disclosed that APM Terminals has invested over $435 million in infrastructure and process improvements, including the implementation of an automated gating system to enhance security, yard expansion and modernisation, acquisition of state-of-the-art cargo handling equipment, and comprehensive training programs for its work-
force in Apapa.
Klinke also reaffirmed APM Terminals’ commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s push to diversify Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings through increased non-oil exports.
He explained that the company had expanded its yard capacity to accommodate the growing volume of export cargo, a move that has improved efficiency, reduced waiting times, and streamlined operations.
Over the past four years, the terminal has recorded steady growth in non-oil export cargo, rising from 53,000 TEUs in 2020 to 94,000 TEUs in 2023. In addition, the terminal has enhanced its barge capacity, gate access, and dedicated export lanes to further shorten turnaround times for export containers.
Looking to the future, Klinke revealed that APM Terminals is planning an additional substantial investment to redevelop and enhance infrastructure at the Lagos Port Complex Apapa.
Oyetola, Stockbrokers Hold Talks on Nigerian Economic Development
The 13th President and Chairman of Council of Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Oluropo Dada and the Institute’s 1st Vice President, Fiona Ahimie, visited the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola in Abuja, at the weekend to discuss the vital roles that securities dealers , popularly called stockbrokers play in driving Nigeria’s economic growth and development.
The courtesy visit was a success, with the Minister agreeing to attend the Institute’s upcoming National Workshop as the Special Guest of Honour
in April this year in Abuja.
During the visit, the Institute’s Principal Officers, highlighted the significance of stockbrokers in facilitating investments, promoting economic development, and contributing to Nigeria’s financial stability. They emphasized the need for collaboration between the government, financial institution, and stockbrokers to create a conducive environment for economic growth.
“We are thrilled to have the Minister’s support and look forward to his participation in our upcoming National Workshop in April this year
in Abuja as our Special Guest of Honour. The Workshop will bring together key stakeholders in the financial sector to discuss pressing issues, share insights, and explore opportunities for growth and development,” said Dada.
Oyetola who warmly accepted to be the Special Guest of Honour at the upcoming National Workshop of the Institute, underscored the government’s commitment to supporting the financial sector and recognizing the importance of stockbrokers in Nigeria’s economic development.
Accion Microfinance Bank Achieves Triple ISO Certifications
Sunday Ehigiator
Accion Microfinance Bank has announced its achievement of three ISO certifications, ISO 20000-1:2018 (IT Service Management System), ISO 27001:2022 (Information Security, Cybersecurity & Privacy Protection), and ISO 22301:2019 (Business Continuity Management System).
In a statement, it said, “These internationally recognised certifications affirm the bank’s commitment to excellence, security, and resilience, ensuring that its services consistently adhere to the highest quality standards while effectively meeting customer needs.
“Accion MfB’s decision to work towards these ISO ac-
creditations demonstrates our commitment to continually improving our services. To become ISO compliant, the bank underwent an extensive company-wide audit that included quality management system development, a management system documentation review, pre-audit, initial assessment, and clearance of non-conformances.
“ISO is one of the most rigorous and well-regarded standards in the world. Accion MfB was audited by A4S – Audit, Advisory, Assurance and Assessment Services Limited, and was presented with their certificates in January 2025.”
Speaking on this milestone achievement in a similar statement, the Managing Director/
CEO of Accion Microfinance Bank, Taiwo Joda, emphasised the bank’s commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and customer trust.
“Achieving these three ISO certifications demonstrates our firm commitment to upholding exceptional standards in IT service management, cybersecurity, and business continuity. We consistently seek innovative strategies to optimise our systems, safeguard customer data, and guarantee seamless service delivery.
“These certifications reinforce our commitment to delivering secure and reliable financial solutions that empower customers and businesses across Nigeria,” Joda stated.
NSE Urges Engineers to Lead Digital Transformation for National Development
Funmi Ogundare
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), has stressed the need for engineers to remain at the forefront of digital transformation as the move will enable them enhance their careers and contribute to national development.
Margaret Oguntala, President and Chairman of the Council of NSE, made this call at the opening ceremony of the continuing professional development training for the second cohort of engineers in Lagos.
The training is focusing on digital transformation in engineering practices covering Building Information Modelling ( BIM), Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things( IoT), Data Analytics and Cyber security which will be facilitated by Citadel for Technological and Engineering Development Limited (CITED).
Oguntala explained that the initiative is part of the society’s long-standing mission to cater to the professional growth and welfare of its members, a core objective since its founding in 1958.
According to her, “the programs being launched today, are part of our ongoing initiative aimed at ensuring that our engineers are well equipped to either match or surpass the capabilities of their counterparts around the world so that they can be the very best they can be.”
The training program includes assignments and projects, and at the end, successful participants will receive certification. Follow-up evaluations will be conducted to ensure the knowledge gained is applied in their workplaces.
Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo),
(Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic
Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE)
L-R: Chief Financial Officer, APM Terminals Nigeria, Courage Obadagbonyi; Director-General, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Ayodeji Gbeleyi; CEO, APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke and BPE Director of Post Transaction Management Department, Sutura Aisha Bello, when Gbeleyi and other BPE officials visited APM Terminals Apapa, Lagos...recently
Stock Market Adds N884bn as Investors React to Corporate Earnings
Kayode Tokede
The Nigerian equities market last week sustained its bullish momentum, appreciating by N884 billion as investors reacted to 2024 financial year corporate earnings by quoted firms on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).
Notably, gains in Presco Plc that advanced by 19.77 per cent , FBN Holdings Plc that gained 10.2 per cent ,
and MTN Nigeria that saw its stock price appreciated by two per cent drove a 1.3per cent week-on-week W-o-W) increase in the NGX All-Share Index to 105,933.03 basis points, bringing the Year-to-Date return to +2.9per cent. Similarly, the market capitalisation increased by N884 billion to the week at N65.592 trillion.
The market witnessed a positive performance sectors, except for the NGX Consumer
Goods index, which declined by 0.60 per cent week-on-week.
On the other hand, the NGX Banking index led the gainers with a 4.66 per cent increase W-o-W. NGX-Insurance index followed with a weekly gain of 1.61 per cent, while NGX Commodity index rose by 1.29 per cent W-o-W.
The NGX Industrial and NGX-Oil & Gas indices also posted weekly gains of 0.85 per cent and 0.56 per cent,
respectively.
The market breadth for the week was positive as 58 equities appreciated in price, 34 equities depreciated in price, while 58 equities remained unchanged. UPDC led the gainers table by 38.50 per cent to close at N2.59, per share. Eterna followed with a gain of 32.79 per cent to close at N36.65, while International Energy Insurance went up by 29.53 per cent to close
to N2.50, per share. On the other side, SUNU Assurance led the decliners table by 12.87 per cent to close at N5.01, per share. University Press followed with a loss of 10.00 per cent each to close at N5.04, while Multiverse Mining and Exploration declined by 9.95 per cent to close at N9.05, per share.
Overall, a total turnover of 3.051 billion shares worth N98.350 billion in 72,535 deals was traded last week by
investors on the floor of the Exchange, in contrast to a total of 3.245 billion shares valued at N69.198 billion that exchanged hands previous week in 77,270 deals. The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 2.260 billion shares valued at N52.190 billion traded in 33,724 deals; contributing 74.08 per cent and 53.07 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF FEBRUARY 6/25
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
February-2025, unless otherwise stated.
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
Fight for Soul of the PDP Rages On
Chuks Okocha writes on the current proxy war in the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party and how it has polarised the once vibrant party.
The leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party is symptomatic of the struggle to control the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. Simply put, it’s all about who will control the party structures and organs in the forthcoming polls.
It is a proxy war, where the actors will use all necessary powers to remove anyone seen as an obstacle. It is a shadow fight between the former vice president, Atiku Abubukar over his perceived presidential ambition and some governors of the party who are also nursing the ambition to clinch the party’s presidential ticket in the 2027 election.
Also in this political chess board within the PDP is the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, though he had said severally in the recent past that he will not contest the presidential poll, but will do every thing humanly possible to see to the success of his principal, President Bola Tinubu.
It’s been said that the very day the crisis in the PDP is resolved, Wike would be less attractive in the ruling All Progressives Congress, so, the crisis will by no means abate.
The struggle over who becomes the national secretary of the party, which is a battle between the incumbent, Senator Samuel Anyanwu and the claimant, Hon. Sunday Ude-Okoye reflected where the concerned stakeholders belong. It is generally believed that Anyanwu represents the Wike camp, who is his political man Friday.
On the other hand, Ude Okoye is said to belong to the Atiku camp. If Anyanwu is eventually removed, it will pave way for the Atiku camp to have an in road into the control of the party.
The struggle for the soul of the PDP is three fold. Some governors on one hand, Wike and Atiku camps, all fighting to control the party.
Under the circumstances, both Anyanwu and Ude-Okoye are all pawns in the PDP chess board, This explains why none of the claimants will easily give way to the other.
It is therefore not surprising when Anyanwu, accused PDP governors and the Board of Trustees (BoT) of orchestrating efforts to remove him due to his close relationship with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Anyanwu claimed that the calls for the inauguration of Udeh-Okoye as the substantive National Secretary, following his affirmation by the Court of Appeal, are
part of a “proxy war” led by governors and the BoT against him.
In this internal strife, driven by factions loyal to Wike and those resisting his influence within the party. Anyanwu, has been perceived as a key ally of the former Rivers State governor, who was instrumental to his unsuccessful bid for the Imo State governorship seat.
Anyanwu has insisted that his detractors are solely motivated by his association with Wike. According to the embattled national secretary, “The truth of the matter is that these people are fighting a proxy war. They know my relationship with Wike. That’s all. I don’t have any issue with any of them”.
He dismissed the legitimacy of the Governors’ and BoT’s actions, arguing that neither holds constitutional authority within the PDP.
According to him: “The governors’ forum is a voluntary organization. Any governor can decide to be a member. It’s not a compulsory thing. It’s a social gathering.
Anyanwu emphasized that he has held the position of National Secretary long before most of the current governors took office.
“I know these people. The party gave them tickets to become governors. I was National Secretary before
most of them became governors,” he stated. Anyanwu alleged that the state governors are manufacturing crises within the PDP as a precursor to defecting and establishing their own political parties. He said, “There is no issue in the party. They are just creating tension, causing unnecessary problems for them to go to the respective parties they want to form”.
Anyanwu also cast the same aspersions on the Board of Trustees of the party, claiming that the tenure of most of them have expired and that they are working towards a vested interest. He maintained that the BoT is an advisory body in the party and has no executive powers.
According to him, ‘’executive lies in the NWC, the National Executive Committee and the National Convention”, explaining that any other organ of the party is a ‘mere shadow boxing’.
Polarisation of the party
The party’s proxy war has given rise to all pressure groups and organs trying to identify with either Anyanwu or Ude-Okoye.
In this light, a fierce internal battle now rages within the PDP after last Wednesday’s controversial Board of Trustees (BOT) resolution seeking to unseat Anyanwu.
A blistering statement issued by the party’s South East Zonal Legal Adviser, Ukpai Ukairo leveled a scathing attack on the BOT’s decision taken at a meeting attended by a selectively invited few members as “porous, illegal and lacking foundation in law and morality.”
The struggle over who becomes the national secretary of the party, which is a battle between the incumbent, Senator Samuel Anyanwu and the claimant, Hon. Sunday Ude-Okoye reflected where the concerned stakeholders belong. It is generally believed that Anyanwu represents the Wike camp, who is his political man Friday. On the other hand, Ude Okoye is said to belong to the Atiku camp. If Anyanwu is eventually removed, it will pave way for the Atiku camp to have an in road into the control of the party.
Also, members of the PDP Coalition of Youth for Good Governance have emphatically warned the BoT not to take a position that would undermine possibilities of peaceful resolution of the conflict by respecting the Court of Appeal order which granted Senator Samuel Anyanwu a stay of execution on the Enugu Court of Appeal judgment.
The group leader, Mr. Emmanuel Mba, emphasized on Friday that the tenure of most of the BoT members have expired, in view of Section 32(4) of the party Constitution which states that “all members of the Board of Trustees shall serve a term of five years and no more”.
However, in the opinion of PDP’s South East Zonal Legal Adviser, Ukpai Ukairo, the mere act of taking the PDP BoT’s meeting to an hotel instead of the party’s national secretariat amply recommends the BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, for serious disciplinary sanctions while the purported resolutions is ‘an accursed document’.
Pointing out that the BOT showed a complete disrespect to the office of the National Legal Adviser, and to the offices of all Legal Advisers elected by the PDP at different levels by disregarding or ignoring their advice and functions as stated in Article 42(1)(a) of PDP Constitution, Ukairo submitted that “unless, there is a program to foist lawlessness on and disrespect of the Constitution of PDP, the BOT communique must be thrown overboard.” He went further: “The BOT meeting held at an hotel was not an official meeting of the BOT of PDP, it was, rather, the gathering of like-minded friends who are members of the BOT; I have initiated an immediate legal process under the Freedom of Information Act to compel the hotel to disclose who paid for that venue in order to demonstrate beyond doubt that what happened at the hotel was not a meeting of the BOT of PDP.
“Let me stress that the letter/report of the learned Senior Advocate of Nigeria (Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki) was addressed thus: Senator Adolphus Wabara, Chairman, Board of Trustees of BOT, Peoples Democratic Party, National Headquarters, Wadata, Plaza; regrettably, we were not told why the Chairman took the official meeting of the BOT to an hotel.
Wabara
Ude--Okoye
Anyanwu
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Nigeria: Leading Africa’s Digital Trade Revolution
Introduction
Africa’s digital trade and trade in services landscape has witnessed significant growth in recent years. Indeed, digital trade is transforming the continent’s economic landscape, creating new opportunities for real economic growth, productive job creation, and poverty reduction. This important shift has occurred as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement and its Protocols have begun to play a crucial role in increasing intra-African trade, driving economic growth and development across the continent. In particular, the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade, the first of its kind in the world, and the Protocol on Trade in Services are critical game-changers at this pivotal moment, an inflection point in the continent’s journey.
Digital Trade and Trade in Services: Opportunities for Africa
The AfCFTA is expected to increase intra-African trade from 18% in 2022 to 50% by 2030 (AfDB, 2022). Digital trade is a key part of this, with the internet economy projected to contribute 5.2% of Africa’s GDP by 2025 (Google and IFC, 2022). Already, Digital trade and trade in services are recognized as key drivers of Africa’s economic transformation, helping to diversify economies, increase competitiveness, and improve productivity (UNCTAD, 2022).3 The continent’s digital economy is projected to reach $180 billion by 2025, up from $115 billion in 2020, thus, contributing significantly to Africa’s GDP, creating new job opportunities, and expanding regional trade.
In terms of job creation, the World Bank estimates that digital technologies can create over 10 million new jobs in Africa by 2025, primarily in the services sector. In order for the continent to achieve this, the AfCFTA is expected to catalyse the creation of new job opportunities across various sectors, including services, manufacturing, and agriculture through regional trade expansion. Accordingly, providing new opportunities for small and medium size businesses and individuals to trade in services and goods across borders has been demonstrated by initial AfCFTA implementation, gradually fostering a single market of 1.4 billion people, with the services sector leading in terms of contribution to GDP for most African economies.
Today, Fintech is one of Africa’s strongest services-driven industries, with the market projected to reach $3.3 billion by 2025 (Statista, 2024). The growth of fintech in Africa is driven by the increasing adoption of mobile payments, online banking, and other digital financial services.
Companies like Chipper Cash, valued at over $2 billion, OPay, valued at over $2 billion, and Flutterwave, valued at $1 billion, are leading examples of this growth, providing innovative payment solutions and financial services to millions of users across the continent. Furthermore, the creative economy and e-commerce are significant services-driven industries in Africa. The continent’s music industry alone is expected to generate $1.3 billion in revenue by 2025 (PwC, 2024), driven by increasing demand for African music, film, and other creative content. Africa’s e-commerce market is also growing
rapidly, projected to reach $75 billion by 2025 (McKinsey, 2024). Companies like Jumia, valued at over $1 billion, are tapping into this growth, offering music and video streaming services, as well as a wide range of products, including electronics, fashion, and home goods.
Other leading e-commerce players in Africa include Konga.com valued at over $200 million, and PayPorte valued at over $100 million (Forbes, 2024).
Digital finance, e-health, and e-learning are also growing rapidly in Africa, driven by the increasing adoption of digital technologies and the need for innovative solutions to address the continent’s development challenges. Companies like Andela, valued at $1.5 billion, which provides remote work opportunities for African software developers, and Esusu, valued at $1 billion, which offers credit building services for tenants, are examples of this growth. Furthermore, the rise of African unicorns, such as Interswitch, valued at over $1 billion, Wave, valued at over $1.7 billion, and MNT-Halan, valued at over $1 billion, demonstrates the continent’s potential for creating successful and scalable businesses in services-driven industries. Overall, Africa’s strength in servicesdriven industries is being catalyzed by its growing digital economy fueled by innovative entrepreneurship and increasing demand for digital services.
Despite the significant growth potential of Africa’s digital economy and trade in services, several challenges have hindered their development. Regulatory fragmentation and inconsistent standards across borders are major obstacles, making it difficult for digital service providers to operate seamlessly across different countries (World Bank, 2024).
Limited access to financing for digital service providers, lack of digital inclusion, infrastructure and connectivity deficits, and a digital skills gap all contribute to the challenges facing digital trade and trade in services in Africa (AfDB, 2024). Furthermore, cybersecurity concerns, including increasing threats and data breaches compromise the integrity of digital trade transactions and erode trust in digital services (McKinsey, 2024).
To address these challenges, various solutions are being implemented. For instance, the AfCFTA is currently harmonizing regulations and standards across the continent, facilitating the growth of digital trade (African Union, 2024).13 Moreover, initiatives such as Afreximbank’s Pan-African Payment and Settlement System, the AfDB’s Digital Africa initiative and the World Bank’s Digital Economy for Africa initiative are working to improve digital infrastructure, enhance digital skills, and promote digital inclusion. Additionally, cybersecurity measures, such as the African Union’s Cybersecurity Convention, are being implemented to protect digital trade transactions and build trust in digital services.
Nigeria as Africa’s Digital Trade Champion: From Potential to Leadership
Nigeria is solidifying its position as Africa’s digital trade leader by working towards the ratification of the Protocol on Digital Trade to the AfCFTA Agreement. Beyond this, the country is also working to strengthen policy harmonization by aligning national regulations with AfCFTA frameworks, enhancing trade facilitation through digital customs
processes and e-commerce policies, and expanding digital infrastructure by increasing broadband penetration and fostering public-private investments in connectivity.
Our approach to digital trade facilitation is decisive. With over 109 million internet users and a thriving mobile economy, the country has the foundation to lead Africa’s digital commerce evolution. Expanding broadband access, modernizing customs procedures for e-commerce, and ensuring interoperability of payment systems will be essential for driving inclusive growth. By deepening engagement with regional trade frameworks and harmonizing digital regulations, Nigeria is positioning itself as a continental hub for digital services exports, facilitating cross-border transactions, fostering innovation, and attracting global investment. But that is not all, with its sheer market size, entrepreneurial drive, and rapidly expanding digital infrastructure, has all the right ingredients to be at the forefront of Africa’s transformation. The country has made significant progress in liberalizing key AfCFTA priority sectors—agribusiness, pharmaceuticals, transport and logistics, and automotives—aligning with regional trade integration efforts. With agriculture contributing over 23% to GDP, the country is expanding agro-processing and export capacity to enhance competitiveness and access to global markets. The pharmaceutical sector, forecast by the Goldstein Market Intelligence to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% from 2017 to 2030,14 is strengthening local production to reduce dependence on imports, improving health security. Nigeria’s automotive industry is advancing rapidly fueled by government-led projects promoting Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric vehicles (EVs). In September 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR launched the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), with a target to convert 150,000 vehicles to CNG by the end of 2024 and one million by 2027, thus reducing reliance on petrol. Reinforcing its commitment to clean energy, the government has supported locally produced electric vehicles (EVs) by leading indigenous manufacturers such as Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) and JET Motor Company, marking a bold step toward sustainable mobility and industrial expansion. The country is also strengthening local vehicle production and industrial growth under the National Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) as indigenous companies like IVM lead the charge by manufacturing vehicles with 70% locally sourced parts, bolstering domestic manufacturing capabilities. With a Services sector contributing over 50% to GDP, Nigeria is already a regional leader in financial technology, creative industries, professional services, and digital platforms. The country’s fintech revolution, home to 5 of Africa’s 9 unicorns, including Flutterwave, Interswitch, Moniepoint, and OPay, has driven cross-border payments, mobile money adoption, and financial inclusion, powering digital transactions across the continent. At the same time, Nigeria’s creative economy, home to Nollywood, Afrobeats, a growing gaming industry and digital content exports, highlights the strength of its creative talents. Nigeria’s creative
Jumoke Oduwole
Dr. Jumoke Oduwole
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Nigeria: Leading Africa’s Digital Trade Revolution
economy also demonstrates first hand how digital platforms can turn cultural assets into globally exportable services, shaping and redefining pre-conceived perceptions about the continent.
IT outsourcing firms are expanding into new markets, strengthening the country’s position in Africa’s knowledge economy. Initiatives such as the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment’s National Talent Export Program (NATEP) launched by Mr President in September 2023, the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) backed by the Office of the Vice President, and the Three Million Technology Talents Program (3MTT) of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy are enabling this growth, and opening up opportunities for access to high quality Nigerian talent at a global scale. In professional services, Nigerian legal, consulting, and accounting services, as well as the rise of e-health and e-learning solutions further underscores the country’s role in providing technology-driven services that address continental gaps in healthcare and education.
Reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership in innovation is digital public infrastructure. For instance, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) introduced the Contactless Passport Application System (CONPAS), streamlining passport processing for citizens and enhancing ease of travel. This initiative, alongside other digital trade advancements, including investments in port modernization and the ongoing implementation of its National Single Window Project, are streamlining trade corridors and reducing customs clearance times. These reforms enhance Nigeria’s role in handling a major share of West Africa’s cargo and passenger traffic, and reflects our broader commitment to harnessing technology for efficiency and transparency through ease of doing business.
The road ahead demands deliberate action, it requires bold, forward-looking strategies that bridge gaps and transform challenges into opportunities. Nigeria has the market, the talent, and the digital momentum to lead Africa’s digital trade revolution. Leadership is not just about potential—it is about deliberate, strategic action. By aligning policy, infrastructure, and collaboration efforts, Nigeria can move from being a key player to become the undisputed digital trade leader of and for Africa.
A Roadmap for Implementation: From Vision to Digitally Enabled
NEWS
Trade and Trade in Services
Clearly, the AfCFTA Agreement and its Protocols on Digital Trade and Trade in Services present new hope that captures Africa’s audacious step in driving accelerated trade across borders using homegrown Africa-focused tools and solutions. The development of these innovative tools is only an initial step in the anticipated continental revolution. The test of their potency in transforming Africa from a continent of long reputed potential to a continent buzzing with economic prosperity is dependent on a plethora of factors and pivotal pillars which sit within the purview of the Member States, 3 of which I will focus on in this piece.
The first pillar requires prioritization of the national regulatory framework for implementing the Protocols. For instance, to bring the one-of-its-kind Protocol on Digital Trade to life, African States need to prioritize its ratification and domestication after the adoption of its 8 annexes at the upcoming 38th Ordinary Session of the Summit of the Heads of State and Government in Addis, Ababa, Ethiopia from 15-16 February 2025. Beyond that, decisive steps must be taken to ensure vertical regulatory and statutory alignment as well as harmonization at the national and regional levels. This ameliorates the frustrations in dealing with the ‘spaghetti bowl’ of fragmented frameworks from country to country.
Closely related is the establishment of horizontal coherence between the national strategies and the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade to essentially ensure that government initiatives are drawn from the same proverbial hymnbook as the strategies for implementing the Protocol. This will include paying deliberate attention to initiatives that advance the provision of public digital infrastructure, development of tools for a digital marketplace, digital inclusion for MSMEs and other underrepresented groups, as well as providing the enabling environment for digital innovation to thrive.
As with other key aspects of the AfCFTA multifaceted mandate, the second pillar requires multi-stakeholder collaboration in the implementation of both the Protocols on Digital Trade and Trade in Services. This entails leveraging on strategic partnerships including with the private sector, the AfCFTA Secretariat, regional organizations, development partners, DFIs and other transformational alliances. Honing these high impact collaborations will help with mobilization of resources, policy harmonization and access to finance
in addition to enhancing e-commerce/ digital trade platforms and generally make cross-border trade more efficient.
The third pillar is capacity building. It is a critical requirement given the fast evolving and changing dynamics of the digital trade and trade in services ecosystem. Trained negotiators and regulatory bodies are required to design and implement AfCFTA-aligned policies as well as harmonize trade standards and support efficient customs procedures. In the same vein, awareness creation among African businesses, (as well as investors globally), sensitizing them about the benefits of the AfCFTA Protocols on Digital Trade and Trade in Services, will enhance their capacity to leverage opportunities in those sectors. Scaling digital skills programs to equip African youth for high-demand service job, strengthening innovation ecosystems to enhance service sector competitiveness and expanding regional digital marketplaces for seamless trade in services, are a few examples of what is possible when capacity building is embraced.
Conclusion and Call to Action: Coordinated Multi-stakeholder Collaboration
The Protocol on Digital Trade is receiving global attention, deservedly, I must add. Of all the AfCFTA Protocols, it is particularly ground-breaking. It is the first ever continental digital framework and it covers modern technology, new economic opportunities, data protection and cross-border digital connectivity in an innovative manner, different from the traditional protocols.
With the enormous opportunities under the Protocol on Digital Trade come the corresponding need for capital-intensive investment in public digital infrastructure to enable seamless cross-border trade, strengthen financial inclusion and support digital skills development for job creation. Given the evolving digital space, there is a sense of urgency for Africa to keep ahead of the curve and work collaboratively to strengthen the digital trade potential across the continent.
The sad reality is that some African countries are still at the start-line of this digital race, even as the rest of the world is already adapting to various levels of artificial intelligence. There is, therefore, an imperative for the upcoming 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly of the Heads of State and Government to establish a coordinated framework for championing the entrenchment and advancement of digital trade under
the AfCFTA and supporting member states to strengthen their capacities to embrace and expand digital trade across the continent. In particular, the designation of a Continental Champion for the implementation of the Protocol on Digital Trade will go a long way in advocating for and ensuring support for African States and the private sector for increased digital trade.
I am cognizant of the fact that the vision and promise that the Protocol on Digital Trade holds can only be realized through coordinated multi-stakeholder collaboration. To that end, my call to action for Governments is the prioritization of ratification and domestication of the Protocol as well as alignment of legal frameworks to support digital trade.
The role of a proposed designate AU Champion on Digital Trade is to drive resource mobilization, technical support, financing and automation of specific private sector projects for accelerated employment generation, in addition to designing programmes and leading investment promotion to foster digital transformation and inclusion in Africa.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has already publicly verbalized his willingness and commitment to taking up this important responsibility, if given the opportunity.
On its part, the AfCFTA Secretariat, which has demonstrated strong commitment to implementation, should provide handheld support through awareness creation and guided regulatory alignment for African States, while providing its platform to support the Digital Trade Champion. To development partners, your technical assistance, capacity building support and resources are essential in moving the expansion of digital trade and trade in services under the AfCFTA from vision to reality.
I have no doubt that the private sector in Africa, particularly our talented youth, will take full advantage of the platform for Digital Trade presented under the AfCFTA, with the enormous possibilities in a market of over 1.4 billion people and beyond. Indeed, some of them are already doing so!
As we all key into the commitment to lead Africa’s digital economy through Trade in services and Digital Trade, let us move rapidly from the text of the Protocols to the actuality of a continent leading in digitally-enabled trade as a catalyst for prosperity for all.
Innovate! Invest! Digital Trade Now!!
•Dr Jumoke Oduwole MFR is Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment, Nigeria.
Masari: Over-dependence on Imported Goods, Services Bad for Nigerian Economy
The Chairman of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Board, Aminu Masari, at the weekend urged Nigerians to support in-country production of goods and services, arguing that Nigeria cannot make significant economic development if it continues to rely too much on imports.
Speaking at the Nigeria Talents Exploration Challenge (NTEC) media launch in Abuja, which was organised in partnership with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Masari highlighted
the importance of domestic production in bolstering the country’s economy.
The NTEC is a programme designed to help young Nigerians enhance their abilities, creativity, and inventiveness. It is an extension of a similar initiative that Masari started in Katsina State as governor that has since spread across the country.
The initiative is open to Nigerian youths between the ages of 10 and 40 covering various talent categories, including automotive modelling, art and craft design, ICT, technology and innovation, construction,
literary arts and poetry.
Masari, a former Governor of Katsina State, said: “We have the population, there are future markets. We have off-takers, but who are entirely, if not 100 per cent, over 90 per cent dependent on imported goods and services that can be produced locally.
“You can never make progress with importation. Your currency can never have meaning with importation. Your energy needs will never be affordable if they are totally dependent on what comes from outside,” he said.
The former Speaker of the
House of Representatives, emphasising the value of equipping young people with technical and vocational skills, recalled programmes he oversaw as governor that trained more than 10,000 youths in a variety of skills.
“The idea of talent hunt and empowering the youth came about because we recognised that they are the future,” he added.
Also speaking, national coordinator of NTEC, Faisal Rafindadi, noted that the challenge is in line with the federal government’s goal of promoting economic growth through technical
and vocational education
“Our partnership with the NBTE underscores our commitment to excellence in technical education. We aim to create a platform that inspires and empowers Nigerian youths to become leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs,” Rafindadi said.
In his welcome remarks,the Executive Secretary of NBTE, Prof. Idris Bugaje, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s growing role in global skills development.
“We are happy that this talent hunt, which started in Katsina, has been sustained
and is now a national programme. With Nigeria’s admission into World Skills International in 2024, we now have a platform to showcase our talents on a global stage,” Bugaje said. According to him, winners of the talent hunt will have the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the World Skills Africa competition in Zambia in 2025 and the World Skills International event in South Korea in 2026.
“Africa is full of talent, and Nigeria, as the continent’s most populous nation, must take the lead,” he added.
Championing the Call to Unlock Africa’s Creative Economy through Digital Transformation
In an era where digital innovation is reshaping global industries, Africa stands at a crucial intersection of culture and technology. With a rich cultural heritage and a rapidly expanding creative sector, the continent has a unique opportunity to harness its artistic and historical wealth for economic growth and global influence. Recognising this potential, Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) recently convened its 2025 Public Lecture to explore how Africa’s cultural assets can be leveraged in the digital age
On January 28, 2025, the Exhibition Pavilion at the International Conference Centre in Abuja witnessed the gathering of intellectual and cultural discourse as the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) hosted its annual public lecture.
Themed “Cultural Renaissance and the Creative Economy: Harnessing African and Diaspora Cultural Resources for Digital Transformation,” the event brought together scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and industry leaders to explore the synergy between Africa’s rich cultural heritage and the fastgrowing digital economy.
In attendance were the DG of the National Gallery of Art, Mr. Ahmed Sodangi; Dr. Ali Nuhu, the Managing Director, Nigerian Film Corporation; Ms. Nmadili Okwumabua, the Executive Director/Founder, Community Planning & Design Initiative Africa (CPDI); and the guest Lecturer, Professor Victor S. Dugga.
Also contributing to the rich discourse were the Executive Director, Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board, Dr. Shaibu Hussaini; the Head, Department of Fine and Applied Arts, University of Abuja, Dr. Tochukwu; and the DG, National Council for Arts and Culture, Dr. Obi Asika.
Highlighting the Immense Potential of Africa’s Cultural Wealth
In her welcome address, Hon. Aisha Adamu-Augie, the Director-General of CBAAC, set the tone for the discussions by highlighting the immense potential of Africa’s cultural wealth as a driver of innovation and economic expansion.
She posited that as they gathered at the intersection of culture, creativity, and technology to explore the vast potential of Africa’s cultural resources in driving digital transformation and
economic growth, they “recognise that our cultural heritage is a treasure trove of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship, waiting to be further harnessed and showcased to the rest of the world.”
Hon. Adamu-Augie also reflected on Africa’s long history of cultural ingenuity, from the ancient pyramids of Egypt to contemporary expressions of Afrofuturism, stressing the role of cultural identity in technological and creative advancements.
She noted: “From the ancient pyramids of Egypt to the vibrant Afrofuturism of contemporary Africa, our cultural expressions have always been at the forefront of human innovation and creativity.”
She further emphasised that digital transformation presents a unique opportunity for Africa to use its cultural heritage not only for economic growth but also for greater cultural exchange and global recognition.
“The digital revolution now offers us a unique opportunity to leverage our cultural resources to promote cultural exchange and collaboration, and to drive economic growth and development.”
Exploring Strategies to Boost Africa’s Creative Economy Potentials
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Dugga, a leading scholar in African studies, who provided a deep analysis of the African creative economy’s potential. He explored the vast opportunities within the sector and how digital tools could help expand its reach. Professor Dugga remarked: “By leveraging digital tools, we can amplify our cultural narratives, making them accessible to a broader audience while preserving their authenticity.”
Following his lecture, a panel discussion featuring industry experts and cultural entrepreneurs further dissected the theme. Panelists explored practical strategies for transforming cultural assets into economically viable digital products.
One panelist discussed how African fashion brands have successfully used e-commerce platforms to break into global markets, capitalising on the growing popularity of Afrocentric designs. Another panellist delved into the evolution of Nollywood, highlighting how digital streaming services have enabled Nigerian films to reach wider audiences, boosting the industry’s global influence.
Challenges and Opportunities in Africa’s Creative Economy
As we explore some of the themes and ideas discussed today, I implore you all to join us on this journey of discovery and innovation. Let us work together to unlock the full potential of Africa’s creative economy, and to promote a cultural renaissance that celebrates our diversity, creativity, and resilience
Despite the enormous potential of Africa’s creative economy, several challenges persist. The discussions at the lecture touched on critical issues such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to funding, and the need for capacity building. The panelists and attendees agreed that these barriers must be addressed for the industry to thrive.
There was a strong call for greater collaboration between governments, private sector stakeholders, and cultural institutions to create a more enabling environment for Africa’s creative industries. Discussions also pointed to the importance of policy reforms that encourage investment in cultural and creative enterprises.
A Call to Action
As the event drew to a close, Hon. Aisha Adamu-Augie reaffirmed the need for Africa to fully embrace its creative economy, ensuring that culture remains at the heart of technological advancements. She encouraged all stakeholders to work together towards a cultural and economic renaissance.
“As we explore some of the themes and ideas discussed today, I implore you all to join us on this journey of discovery and innovation. Let us work together to unlock the full potential of Africa’s creative economy, and to promote a cultural renaissance that celebrates our diversity, creativity, and resilience.”
The CBAAC 2025 Public Lecture not only deepened discussions on the role of culture in digital transformation but also reinforced the urgent need to preserve and monetise Africa’s cultural heritage. As digital platforms continue to redefine the global creative landscape, Africa is well-positioned to harness its artistic and cultural wealth to drive economic growth and global recognition.
L-R: The DG of the National Gallery of Art, Mr. Ahmed Sodangi; Dr. Ali Nuhu, the Managing Director, Nigerian Film Corporation; Ms. Nmadili Okwumabua, the Executive Director/Founder, Community Planning & Design Initiative Africa (CPDI); the guest Lecturer, Professor Victor S. Dugga; CBAAC DG, Hon. Aisha Adamu-Augie; the Executive Director, Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board, Dr. Shaibu Hussaini; the Head, Department of Fine and Applied Arts, University of Abuja, Dr. Tochukwu; and the DG, National Council for Arts and Culture, Dr. Obi Asika
STRATEGIC MEETING ON NEW INITIATIVES TO DRIVE PROGRESS...
Akpabio: We Must End Out-of-School Syndrome, Provide Education to Urban, Rural Children
Inaugurates Amadeus University, Abia State
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, urged political leaders, elected and appointed, to work together to eradicate out-of-school syndrome across the country, saying that it is an accomplishable task.
Akpabio made the call at the weekend in Abia State when he inaugurated Amadeus University, the sixth private ivory tower in the state, located at Amizi Ikwuano Local Government Area.
He expressed his conviction on the power of education in nation building in a keynote address, titled, “The Unyielding Power of Education: Forging a Nation's Future,” which was delivered by Senator Austin Akobundu.
The Abia Central senator represented the senate president at the double event of the official opening and maiden matriculation ceremony of Amadeus University.
Akpabio stressed that every Nigerian child, whether residing in the big cities or in the rural areas,
must have access to good education.
He said political leaders should make it a priority assignment by virtue of the mandate they got from the masses.
The senate president stated, "As for the present custodians of this great republic by (people's) kind mandate, our duty is clear: we must guard, strengthen and expand the frontiers of education with unyielding determination.
"We must ensure that every child from the bustling streets of Lagos to the quiet hamlets of Abia, has
the opportunity to learn, to grow, to excel."
According to him, making education available to every child "is not a choice" for the Nigerian nation but "an imperative (because) a nation that fails to educate its youths has already written its obituary".
The former Akwa Ibom State governor said he believed in the transforming power of education and expected his fellow political leaders to toe the same line.
"We in government must not only enact policies, but ensure that
Arewa Group Lauds Sacking of INEC RECs, Says It's Good Omen for 2027
The Arewa Think Tank (ATT) yesterday said that the sacking of three Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Adamawa, Sokoto and Abia States by President Bola Tinubu was a good omen for the conduct of the 2027 general election.
To this end, ATT lauded Tinubu's decision to fire the electoral commissioners, saying that it was a sign that there will be no room for electoral malpractices in the next election.
This was contained in a statement at the weekend by the Chief Convener of ATT, Muhammad Yakubu, who described Tinubu's action as a step towards restoring public trust in the nation's electoral
process.
The group also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that the move will help sanitise the electoral system.
Tinubu had penultimate week asked the Senate to approve the termination of the suspended RECs' appointments, in regard to constitutional provisions.
"We at Arewa Think Tank want to say that the action of President Tinubu is a reflection of the commitment of his administration to strengthening electoral integrity in the country. We also want to applaud the recent conviction of Ignatius Uduk, a former electoral official found guilty of fraud during the 2019 elections.
“This will serve as a deterrent to others in subsequent general elections in the country. From the action of Mr. President, individuals working for the system must be ready to account for their actions, either negatively or positively. The confidence in the INEC will be restored and citizens can have faith in the fairness and transparency of future elections,” the group said.
As Nigeria moves gradually towards the next election, it called on security agencies and political parties to enforce internal disciplinary measures against those engaging in electoral misconduct.
"We want to emphasise the importance of following due process in maintaining the credibility of the electoral system whenever
an election is being held. We are delighted to note that INEC's decision to investigate and follow proper procedures demonstrates its commitment to integrity and transparency.
"By taking time to investigate and follow proper procedures, INEC has demonstrated a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in its operations, which is crucial in building public trust in the electoral process.
"We believe that adhering to due process ensures that actions taken are justified and transparent. This, in turn, reinforces the credibility of the electoral system, as decisions are based on established norms and legal frameworks rather than arbitrary judgment,” the think tank said.
Sokoto Confronts Illegal Mining, Warns Against
Unauthorised Operations
In
operatiions. The warning was handed down during the Commissioner's assessment visit to Lambara town in Shagari
Local Government Area, where a company was found to have commenced mining activities without obtaining the necessary authorisation from the state government.
Alhsji Maccido emphasized that no entity or individual has the right to engage in mining activities without the explicit consent and approval of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
He reiterated that the ministry is
tasked with overseeing all mining operations in Sokoto State and will not tolerate any form of illegal mining.
“The ministry will ensure that due process is followed at all times. We are committed to reviving and improving mining activities in the state, but this must be done in accordance with the law,” Maccido stated.
He further highlighted the state government’s efforts, under the
leadership of Governor Ahmad Aliyu, to boost the mining sector and foster partnerships with organizations willing to operate within the legal framework.
The commissioner’s intervention was commended by the local government chairman of the area, Barrister Maidawa Kajiji, who revealed that the company had been stopped from continuing its operations until proper clearance was obtained.
they are (implemented) with vigour, vision and veracity," Akpabio said.
He called for support and encouragement of private tertiary institutions of higher learning, like Amadeus University, "to thrive, to innovate, to stand as bastion of intellectual might".
In his welcome address, founder and Chairman of Board of Trustees, Amadeus University, Dr. Godwin Nwabunka, said the institution was a testament to the truth that "with God, all things are possible".
Nwabunka said Amadeus University was established to contribute to furthering the expansion of Nigeria's frontiers of knowledge, adding that "education has the power to transform lives".
he said, "Amadeus University is
more than just classrooms, lecture halls, hostels, and offices. It is a home for those who think outside the box and seek to make a difference in the world."
Vice Chancellor of Amadeus University, Professor Samuel Nzotta, underlined the significance of the maiden matriculation ceremony for the pioneer students, describing it as "a significant milestone in the history of the University".
Nzotta said, "Amadeus University is founded as a world-class educational institution where research, innovation, and a culture of excellence are emphasised.
"The goal is to produce self-reliant, globally competitive graduates ready for the 21st-century digital world."
Plateau Governor Defends Arrest of Over 100 Illegal Miners
After recent arrest of over 100 illegal miners in Plateau State, the state Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to continue to tackle illegal mining, which he said has significantly contributed to school dropouts in mining communities across the state.
He has therefore called on community and religious leaders, as well as all patriotic citizens to join hands with the government in addressing the menace that has become a serious threat to the state’s values and future.
The governor made the call during a church service at the COCIN Headquarters Church in Jos, where he emphasized the need for unity among believers as a foundation for sustainable development in the state.
He said: “Last week, I ordered a raid on all illegal mining camps across the state. I urge you to help our people understand that we are not trying to deprive them of their livelihoods. The devastating consequences of illegal mining are beyond imagination.
“We conducted research and discovered that school dropout rates in these areas are distressingly high. Many classrooms are virtually empty. Just last month, we also uncovered cases where parents in Bassa were
sending their children out for child labour; we are tracking them.”
The governor urged community leaders to take responsibility in sensitizing their people, stressing that the government, in collaboration with religious institutions, will embark on an intensive enlightenment campaign to address the issue.
“I appeal to all of you, as leaders in your communities, to take up this cause. May God burden your hearts with the urgency of this struggle so that you will rise above all affiliations to address your people. The church will play a pivotal role, and we will stand by our religious leaders in this effort”, the governor pleaded.
The governor also highlighted the environmental hazards posed by illegal mining, including land degradation, the destabilization of residential areas, and threats to government institutions.
On the security situation in the state, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to resist any attempt to destabilize Plateau. He emphasized that the people of Plateau are hospitable and accommodating, but they expect their traditions, values, and institutions to be respected.
He said: “All Plateau people seek is recognition and respect for their cultural values and traditional institutions. We will not allow any deliberate attempt to undermine our state.”
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
a bid to regulate mining activities and ensure compliance with state laws, the Sokoto State Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Yusuf Muhammad Maccido, has warned that the state will not tolerate illegal mining
Seriki Adinoyi in Jos
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
L-R: Managing Director of the Milk Value Chain Foundation Kaduna, Dr. Ishaq Bello; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Mr. Sani Sabiu; Commissioner for Agriculture of Kaduna State, Mr. Murtala Dabo; Governor of
Kaduna State, Senator Sani Uba; Managing Director, Arla Foods Nigeria, Mr. Peder Pedersen; Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jens Ole Bach Hansen; Sector Counsellor Food and Agriculture,Danish Consulate Nigeria, Ms. Sanne Chipeta; Snr. Manager Corporate Affairs and Communication Arla Foods Nigeria, Mrs. Elele Ogunsanya; and Snr. Manager Raw Milk Production Arla Foods Nigeria, Mr. Snorri Sigurdsson, at a strategic meeting to discuss initiatives to drive progress in Kaduna State's dairy sector in Abuja…recently
SEMINAR ON GAS FLARING AND ELIMINATION...
L-R: Vice President, AKD Digital Solutions, Mr. Ronak Patel; Global Product Specialist, Midstream & Downstream, ITT Bornemann GmbH, Mr. Rene van Scholl; Chairman, PANA Holdings/Group CEO, PE Energy Limited, Dr. Daere Akobo; Global Product Manager, Oil & Gas, , ITT Bornemann GmbH, Mr. Jeroen Olde Monnickhoff; Vice President, PE Energy Limited, Mrs. Daisy Maduagwu; and Group Vice President, PANA Holdings, Mr. Lalit Zavar, during a seminar on gas flaring elimination and CAPEX reduction for oil and gas players organised by PANA Holdings in conjunction with ITT Bornemann GmbH in Lagos ... recently
NAFDAC DG Defends Call for Death Penalty for Fake Drug Peddlers
Says they are murderers deserving no mercy
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, has defended her position that fake drug dealers should face the death penalty.
Adeyeye described illicit drug barons as merchants of death who prioritised making huge illicit money at the expense of the lives of their fellow human beings.
In a statement signed by NAFDAC's spokesman, Sayo Akintola, the director-general said her call for the introduction of the death penalty for drug peddlers, particularly those whose actions resulted in the death of children, was due to the magnitude of damage their actions brought upon the society.
Adeyeye made the call for more punitive measures against fake drug peddlers at a programme on Friday. She emphasised that only severe
penalties would effectively deter drug peddlers, especially those selling harmful substandard medications.
According to the spokesman, Adeyeye cited the case of a person importing a highly dangerous dose of Tramadol, which could cause severe harm or death, yet only receiving a minimal sentence of five years in prison or a fine of N250,000.
“Who wouldn’t pay a fine of N250,000 and go on to commit
the same offense? That’s part of our issue – there are no stringent measures in place to prevent repeat offenses,” Adeyeye added.
Akintola said lawmakers had promised to partner with NAFDAC to make penalties for drug peddling far more severe.
NAFDAC said in the statement, "While NAFDAC works tirelessly to address these issues, Adeyeye also highlighted the agency’s struggle with limited staffing and resources. With just around 2,000 employees
Olawepo-Hashim’s $4trillion Economic Plan Resurfaces Online, Sparks Renewed Interest After Six Years
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
A video of former presidential candidate, Hon. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, discussing his ambitious economic plan for Nigeria in 2018 has resurfaced online.
The development has sparked widespread admiration for his deep understanding of the country's economic challenges and his strategic vision for national growth.
In the now-trending video obtained by our correspondent in Ilorin, Kwara State on Sunday, Hon. Olawepo-Hashim outlined a bold strategy aimed at expanding and diversifying Nigeria’s economy to achieve a minimum Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $4 trillion within a decade.
Funmi Ogundare
As the country struggles with the growing challenges of cancer care, Dr. Habeeb Yakub, Chief Clinical Coordinator at the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) Idi-Araba Cancer Centre, weekend, called for a comprehensive approach to address the rising burden of the disease.
Dr. Yakub who made this call
The former presidential candidate’s economic blueprint emphasized reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil, leveraging the country’s vast agricultural and solid mineral resources, and boosting industrialization.
He said: “The key to Nigeria’s economic transformation is integrating agriculture and mineral resources with manufacturing. We must create an industrial base that contributes at least 40% to GDP, which will in turn generate millions of well-paying jobs".
He also highlighted the need to improve Nigeria’s business environment by removing bureaucratic bottlenecks and ensuring policies that attract foreign and domestic investments.
His economic plan
at a program to commemorate the 2025 World Cancer Day, in Lagos, expressed concern about the significant obstacles facing the country’s cancer care system, including insufficient funding, limited access to quality treatment, and a worrying trend of brain drain among healthcare professionals. Yakub who also leads the oncology teams stressed the importance of enhancing insurance coverage and raising awareness to effectively combat
proposed major infrastructural investments, power sector reforms, and policies that would enhance the ease of doing business.
As the video gains traction across social media platforms, many Nigerians are revisiting his ideas, with some expressing regret that such a comprehensive vision was not implemented at the time.
Commentators have praised his foresight, especially in light of Nigeria’s current economic struggles, including high inflation, unemployment, and a weakening currency.
Beyond his 2018 campaign proposals, Olawepo-Hashim has remained active in economic empowerment initiatives.
His foundation, the Gbenga Hashim Foundation, disbursed
the disease.
He believes that with collective efforts, Nigeria can improve cancer care outcomes and ease the burden on its citizens.
He identified key challenges including widespread cultural misinformation and financial barriers that hinder access to treatment, stressing the need for a robust insurance system to ensure that patients can receive quality care without the financial strain of
N100 million in grants to small businesses in Kwara State in 2024, aiming to strengthen grassroots economic development.
His N200billion Magboro Power Plant in Ogun State is also set to supply 24hours electricity to Magboro, Mowe, Ibafo areas of Ogun State in partnership with Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).
With renewed interest in his economic plan, some political analysts suggest that his vision could still serve as a model for Nigeria’s economic revival.
Whether policymakers will take cues from his proposals remains to be seen, but the resurfacing of his 2018 economic agenda has reignited discussions on practical pathways to national economic transformation.
out-of-pocket expenses.
“There is a cultural misinformation that is widespread among the population, but the financial challenge is also significant. We need a strong medical insurance system. If people can access treatment without paying out of pocket, more individuals will seek care,” Yakub stated.
The oncologist, who also lectures at the University of Lagos, lamented the high rate of doctors leaving the country, stating, “over 50 per cent
nationwide (equivalent to one NAFDAC staff serving 119,000 citizens, based on 238 million population), the agency faces significant challenges in carrying
out its enforcement duties. “We are understaffed, and our funding is limited. I hope things will improve so we can strengthen our efforts.”
ATBU Matriculates 4,364 New Students
For 2024/2025 Academic Session
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
A total of 4,364 students have been matriculated into the various programmes of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Bauchi for the 2024/2025 academic session.
The oath and covenant of the university was administered on the students by a lawyer, Barr Zakariya Jubrin, from the Legal department of the university at the brief ceremony held yesterday at the 1000-seater Lecture Theater at the Yelwa Campus of the ATBU.
While addressing the new students, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Hassan Garba, warned that any student who engaged in indecent dressing outside the dress code of the university will be dealt with in accordance with the rules and regulations of the university.
He stressed that, "One key aspect of our university culture is our dress code. I urge you all to observe this code, which is designed to promote modesty, respect, and professionalism.
“Your appearance reflects not only on yourself but also on our institution and its moral radar, and we expect you to take pride in representing ATBU."
He declared that the lecturers and other class managers have been
of our graduates are leaving the country. The 'Japa syndrome' is a serious issue.”
He also pointed to the lack of facilities and equipment as another major hindrance, saying: "even the equipment we do have is limited to a few centers, and many do not have the necessary facilities to treat cancer, such as linear accelerators or brachytherapy machines."
Dr. Yakub emphasized the significance of Public-Private
empowered to send any student who violates the dress code out of the lecture hall no matter his or her status.
The VC also warned against cult and cultism activities declaring that such activities remained barred in the university stressing that anybody who is found belonging to any such groups will be summarily expelled and handed over to the law enforcement agencies. He stated that, "Furthermore, I must emphasize the importance of avoiding destructive behaviors such as drug abuse and cultism. These vices have no place in our university, and we will not tolerate them."
According to him, "Not only do they pose a threat to your physical and mental health, but they also undermine the values of our institution and the trust that your parents and guardians have placed in us."
He advised: "Instead, I encourage you to dedicate yourselves to your studies, to explore your passions, and to develop your talents. Surround yourselves with positive influences, and avoid bad company that can lead you astray. Remember, the choices you make today will shape your future, and we want to see you succeed."
Partnerships (PPPs) in strengthening cancer care, citing the NSIA-LUTH Cancer Centre as an example. He revealed that the center has treated over 12,000 patients since its opening and highlighted the role of Siemens Healthineers in improving care at the facility. The partnership with Siemens Healthineers has provided the center with cutting-edge equipment, including four linear accelerators, the highest number in West Africa.
INAUGURATION OF SWIMMING POOL...
L-R: Director General, Lagos State, Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu; Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Lagos State, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende;
of
and Special Adviser to Lagos Governor on Works, Engr. Adeyinka Olayinka, at the inauguration of the newly renovated Olympic-size swimming pool/warm-up pool at Rowe Park Sports Complex, Lagos ... recently
Atiku Warns $1.07bn Earmarked for Health in 2025 Budget Mustn’t Be Misappropriated
Says
Chuks Okocha
tales of animals eating public funds must never be fate of funds budgeted for sector
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has cautioned that the $1.07 billion appropriated for the health sector in the 2025 budget must be transparently and accountably spent to ensure realisation of the targeted benefits.
Atiku said fables of animals, such as snakes, termites, gorillas and monkeys, swallowing public money, as had been heard lately, should not be told about the budgeted sum.
“Some of these fairy tale-like claims were never investigated or punished to deter future offenders,” he said in a statement personally signed.
According to him, “Against the backdrop of dwindling resources that have been exacerbated by the withdrawal of support in certain
areas of our healthcare services, it is important that every kobo budgeted for in the health sector has to be maximally utilised.
''To this end, the federal government has to be deliberate about putting mechanisms in place for public audit and accountability in its US$1.07 billion budgetary appropriation in the health sector.”
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election specifically queried the federal government for not providing comprehensive information on how it planned to expend the over one billion dollars in the primary health sector.
Atiku stated that while healthcare, especially the primary sector, deserved rapid investment in order to promote access to quality and affordable health services to Nigerians, it would be immoral
of the government not to provide extensive details of how the money allotted for the purpose would be dispensed.
He said, “We have read that the federal government has a plan to expend a whooping sum of $1.07 billion in the primary health sector. This amount is in addition to the N2.48 trillion, which had earlier been proposed for the health sector in the initial draft of the budget.
“This development gets even more troubling when the government equally announced that the $1.07 billion it is adding to the health sector at the subnational level was mainly sourced through foreign loans and a fraction of it being provided through an international donor agency.
“In other words, Nigeria is expected to pay these loans back and it is required that the Nigerian
people know the details of these loans and that its expenditure must be conveyed in a policy envelop that will explain how it will be spent.”
The former vice president said the government had stated that "the funds will be directed towards improving governance in healthcare and enhancing primary healthcare services nationwide. This financing will support recruitment, training, and retention of healthcare workers and teachers at the sub-national level”.
He stressed, “For an administration that has been known to have a deficiency of trust in the administration of its humanitarian services, Nigerians cannot take the risk of accepting a shoddy explanation on a budgetary provision that lacks a mechanism of tracking how the money is to
I Have Evidence Binani Won Adamawa Guber Poll, Dismissed INEC REC, Ari, Says
Swears with Qur’an he acted in good faith
Denies taking N2b bribe to influence election Explains INEC ICT head, Bala Aji, sold out
Dismissed Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Adamawa State, Hudu Ari, has insisted he has enough evidence to prove that the candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Aisha Binani, defeated Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the last governorship election. Ari, one of the three RECs the senate approved for sack, had declared Binani winner of the election in controversial circumstances, contrary to the position of the returning officer.
But speaking with journalists in Bauchi, Ari said both the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmud Yakubu, and the election tribunal dismissed all his evidence regarding irregularities in the controversial governorship election.
He said there was pressure on him and other officials of INEC to return the incumbent, Fintiri, or their security could not be guaranteed. Ari, who swore by the Holy Qur’an, said he did all he did in good faith and in line with the election guidelines.
He stated, “It came to my notice that my ICT head, Bala Aji, conducted himself not in the manner of a good civil servant, or an honest civil servant, as far as the elections were concerned. He surrendered election documents, about 20,000 copies, to the governor of Adamawa State.
“We received a report, myself, the Commissioner of Police, and all the paramilitary agencies operating in Adamawa State. We went to that place, it’s a private house of the governor. We went there, it took us time to open that door. The door was opened, we met the SSG and some government officials.
“We met them working directly,
directly with these documents. These documents cover the whole of the state. So, we wrote a report. This is what is happening. And not only that, Bala Aji (ICT Head of INEC in Adamawa) misappropriated some of our papers. He took them somewhere, and the worst of it, on the day of the election.
“Bala Aji, the ICT head, was busy dashing away BVAS. He was giving our staff money in foreign currency. The thought came to me, I was shocked. To me, it’s an abuse of his own responsibility. So, I called him, I took strides against all that had happened, all the allegations against him. So, I expected the headquarters to respond quickly.
“They should have acted on those vote buying. So, they should have immediately come in and let us know about it. What would be the next line of action. Unfortunately, the report that I had sent (to INEC headquarters) was swept under the carpet. This is one of the most unforgettable
experiences I have ever had.”
The former INEC REC said he was not given fair hearing and all his evidence to justify why he declared the female candidate winner was ignored by the commission and the election tribunal.
Ari said he was consulting with his family on the next line of action, whether or not to seek redress in court.
He said his sack by the president did not bother him, but the media trial had dented his image, even as he denied collecting N2 billion from any politician.
Ari stated, “We are Nigerians, Nigeria belongs to all of us, it behoves us all to either make or mar it. This is very important and we must all choose what to do with it.
"I conducted the presidential and National Assembly elections successfully and was in the process of the gubernatorial and state Assembly elections when the problem began. It was in 69 polling units.”
be expended.
“It is difficult for Nigerians to believe this current federal government given its proclivity to alternative truths – especially on their claims about investments in the social infrastructure.
“It is worrisome that the Tinubu administration continues to lie to Nigerians on the status of our tertiary hospitals, when the sorry state of those hospitals lay bare for Nigerians to see.
“Just recently, the government began a campaign of improvements in the standard of our tertiary health institutions, but Nigerians know that these teaching hospitals often lack basic amenities, such as access to a steady supply of electricity.
“Undoubtedly, the Tinubu administration has failed woefully in the health sector because of the poor funding of the sector. The major diseases in the primary health sector remain malaria, tuberculosis,
and HIV/AIDS treatment. If President Bola Tinubu's administration meant well in its claim to prioritise the health of Nigerians, his government should explain how it plans to spend this intervention fund in addressing these diseases in the primary health sector.”
Atiku stated, “What the government announced in its panic response to President Donald Trump’s announcement of the cancellation of American aids for the treatment of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria was a paltry N5 billion. “If the Tinubu administration fails to provide a comprehensive framework to safeguard its purported huge investment in the health sector nor subject the appropriations to the scrutiny of the National Assembly, it may be safe to conclude that this is another episode of the administration committing a fraud in the name of public interest.”
Security Operatives Arrest Popular Native Doctor in Anambra, Akwa Okuko Tiwara
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
Popular Anambra State native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, has been arrested by operatives of newly launched Security services, Agunechemba.
Akwa Okuko was said to have been picked up on Saturday evening in Oba his base, and quickly taken to the office of the Deputy Governor, Dr Onyeka Ibezim, who interrogated him. Nwangwu became popular on Facebook and other micro-blogging sites for his activities, which advertises how people can become rich by engaging in money rituals.
Most of his videos portrayed him throwing bales of money at social functions, and in others, he spoke on the need for people to perform rituals as a means of getting rich.
He advertised a particular brand of ritual known as Oke Ite, which he said has the capacity to bring unlimited wealth. He is also very well adored by young people, who flock his shrine. He has also had
controversies involving his clients accusing him of fake charms. In the recent arrest, videos of his appearance before the Deputy Governor, which were posted on social media showed where he denied his involvement in preparing Oke Ite charms.
"I have long stopped doing Oke Ite. That thing is not a charm, we just gave it the name Oke Ite because we put it in a pot," he said. In Igbo language, Oke Ite means big pot.
Meanwhile, in the video, Ibezim the deputy governor quoted relevant sections of the newly passed Anambra homeland security law to the native doctor, telling him of the need to be able to prove what he alleged he does or be ready for prosecution.
Addressing security operatives in his office, Ibezim said, "Guys, you have heard him. We need to take him to where he does these things. We will investigate him, and of course we need to know where he does this things. If he can not prove it, he will have to go in for it."
in Abuja
Member, Lagos House
Assembly, Hon. Abiodun Orekoya;
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
PRESS CONFERENCE ON LAGOS Y2025 BUDGET BREAKDOWN...
R-L: Commissioners, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso (Information and Strategy); Mr. Tokunbo Wahab (Environment and Water Resources); Mr. Ope George (Economic Planning and Budget);
Ogunleye (Energy and Mineral Resources) during a press conference on the Y2025 budget breakdown in different sectors, at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja, at the weekend
and
Tinubu: Fayemi’s Brilliance, Commitment, Strategic Skills Sustained June 12 Struggles
Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, rejoiced with his ally and former comrade in the trenches, former governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, on his 60th birthday, saying his brilliance, commitment, and strategic skills helped to sustain the June 12 struggle.
Tinubu made the comments in a congratulatory message titled, "Tribute To Dr Kayode John Fayemi On His 60th Birthday," which he personally signed. The president traced his political relationship with Fayemi to the 1990s, in the wake of the annulment of the June12, 1993 presidential poll, when pro-democracy groups emerged to fight the then military junta of the late General Sani Abacha.
Recalling the role of Fayemi during the period, Tinubu stressed that Fayemi’s intelligence and tactical skills helped the struggle against the military government.
Describing Fayemi as an able lieutenant, invaluable ally, and committed patriot, the president said the former governor's decision to step down for him during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential convention in 2023 demonstrated humility and
comradeship.
Tinubu stated, "My relationship with Dr Kayode Fayemi dates back to our time together in the pro-democracy movement in the 90s, when we mounted local and international campaigns against military dictatorship.
"During the challenging General Sani Abacha era, civil rights and pro-democracy activists, especially those in exile, had to rely on their ingenuity to survive. Kayode's brilliance, commitment, and strategic skills were invaluable to our cause.
"The struggle for Chief MKO Abiola's release from incarceration and the de-annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, then considered the freest and fairest in Nigeria, led to the constriction of the civic space by the military.”
Tinubu added, "The military government routinely raided and proscribed newspapers, such as the Concord, Punch, Guardian, and magazines, such as Tempo/TheNews and TELL.
“General Abacha was running amok, arresting activists, jailing journalists, and instilling fears in anyone opposed to his oppressive regime. There was a need to have a radio station covering the activities of the pro-democracy movement at home and abroad and putting more significant pressure on
the Abacha junta.
“Dr Fayemi and other activists actualised the birth of the prodemocracy radio, Radio Kudirat, named in honour of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, who agents of the Abacha regime murdered.”
He explained, "The deaths of General Abacha and Chief Abiola in 1998 changed the course of events for all of us. The engagement strategy needed to be re-appraised.
“When General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who succeeded Abacha, announced a short transition programme, many of us in the pro-democracy movement decided to return home to participate.
"Dr. Fayemi returned to Nigeria in 1999 to establish the Centre for Democracy and Development, an organisation dedicated to promoting democracy, peace-building and security in Nigeria and Africa. He also operated the centre in Accra, Ghana.
"In 2006, Dr. Fayemi transitioned from being a public intellectual to a political leadership role as state governor. After a keenly contested party primaries, Fayemi became our party's candidate for the 2007 governorship election in Ekiti State against the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Engr. Segun Oni.
“Though the PDP candidate was
declared the winner of the election, it was clear that Dr Fayemi and our party, Action Congress, had been cheated out of an apparent victory. We decided to challenge the election at the Election Petitions Tribunal.
“After a long-drawn, painful, rigorous and emotionally draining court process that lasted over three years, Dr Fayemi was declared the winner in 2010 after a court-ordered re-run that also ended up at the Election Petitions Tribunal and the appeal court.”
The president said, "Fayemi also played a pivotal role in the merger of opposition parties, which crystallised into the All Progressives Congress in 2013. He chaired the panel that conducted the presidential primaries in Lagos, which produced President Muhammad Buhari as the candidate.
“Fayemi then deployed his energy and organisational ability as the Director of Policy of the APC/Buhari Campaign Council, which successfully prosecuted the 2015 presidential election.
"Our party's victory in the 2015 presidential election, defeating an incumbent president and a ruling party that had vowed to rule Nigeria for 60 unbroken years, was a fitting reward for the hard work, teamwork, and capacity demonstrated by Fayemi, other campaign council members, and
APC Protests APGA, Soludo's Dominance in Federal Government Affairs in Anambra
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State, has protested the dominance of the Prof Chukwuma Soludo-led All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), in the affairs of the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government.
He said all appointments coming to Anambra from the federal government had nominees from APGA, while even rice distributed to all states to cushion the effect of hardship, had Anambra's share rebagged with the picture of the governor and distributed to only APGA members last Christmas.
inimical to the growth and success of the party in our state, as these appointees do not reckon with the party at the state level.
or motivation to party members, but threatening its strength and enthusiasm of emerging victorious in the Anambra 2025 project.
party leadership.”
Tinubu recounted, "After serving as minister in President Muhammadu Buhari's first term, Dr. Fayemi had the privilege of returning to office as the governor of Ekiti State in 2018.
As a two-term governor, he served the people amid severe economic challenges.
“There is no doubt that he made his mark in the governance of Ekiti State. With our long years together in the trenches and years of party and national politics collaboration, Fayemi has been an able lieutenant, an invaluable ally, and a committed
patriot.
"In exercising his democratic right, Dr Fayemi joined the presidential race as an aspirant on the platform of APC ahead of the 2023 elections. I was also an aspirant in the party. I announced my ambition well ahead of other aspirants in our party.
“After crisscrossing the country seeking the support of party delegates, Dr Fayemi, on the party convention night, was gracious when he openly announced that he was stepping down for me. His decision demonstrated remarkable humility and comradeship.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Seeks Creation of Two Additional States to Get South East Parity
Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called for the creation of additional two states in the Southeast zone.
In a statement by the Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the apex body said the current imbalance evinced by the northern region, which possesses 19 states exemplified an unjust numerical disadvantage to the South, which is limited to 17 states.
Ohanaeze added that this inequitable distribution has engendered a political structure that disproportionately empowers the North, thus serving as a tool of intimidation against the aspirations of the Southern populace.
Southeast, currently comprising only five states, achieves parity with other geopolitical zones, particularly the Northwest which boasts seven states.
"The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, as the quintessential voice of the Igbo people, hereby expresses its vehement opposition to the House of Representatives' recent proposal concerning the creation of thirty-one new states.
"This initiative is not only a farce but also an exercise in futility, lacking the credibility and thoughtful consideration that befits such a significant constitutional matter.
The party chairman in the state, Mr Basil Ejidike, while speaking in an event at the weekend, said the dominance of Soludo in affairs that concerned Anambra even at the federal level, had become a challenge to them.
"Sir, may I seize this opportunity to draw your attention to some challenges confronting the APC in Anambra State, that require your kind intervention.
"The issue of appointments made by the federal government without recourse to the party is
“Whereby, most of those who have made and are still making heavy sacrifices for the party have not been adequately rewarded and appreciated, many of those who have gotten juicy federal government appointments in the past were mainly non-party members, drawn especially from our rival All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)," he said.
He said the trend has not served as a source of inspiration
"This arrangement has continued to diminish our party’s influence and reach within the state, and we are terrified to say the least. APC in Anambra has come with a passionate appeal, asking that you (Ganduje) intervene and save our members in Anambra from neglect. Your kind intervention, Sir, will bolster the morale of our committed party men and women towards the task ahead," he said.
"In light of these historical injustices, we passionately implore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to exhibit the political will and moral courage required to rectify this imbalance.
"The time has come to create two additional states in the South, with an immediate priority accorded to establishing a sixth state in the Southeast.
"This urgent measure is not merely a suggestion but a requisite action to ensure that the
"The bold assertion made by the leadership of the House, particularly through the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who has succinctly dispelled the notion that the proposed states meet requisite constitutional criteria, is commendable and necessary.
"We acknowledge his clarification as an essential step in restoring the dignity of our revered legislative body. It is both premature and juvenile for the House of Representatives to entertain such an ill-considered proposal, one that reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of what constitutes a viable state within our great nation," he said. Says he’s an able lieutenant, invaluable ally, committed patriot Describes stepping down for him at APC's 2023 presidential primary remarkable humility, comradeship Ex-Ekiti governor hails successor, Oyebanji
Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi (Finance)
Mr. Biodun
AIYEDOTO POULTRY FARM ESTATE EXCO INAUGURATION...
L-R: Mrs. Funmi Odegbami; Mrs. Funke Obafemi; Director, Agricultural Services, Lagos State, Mr. Olufemi Ogunseye; New President, Aiyedoto Poultry Farm Estate, Mr. Foluso Adams; Director, FADAMA, Mr. Jonathan Obayemi; Mr. Kadiri Lamina, and Mr. Saheed Aro, during inauguration of the new executive council of Aiyedoto Poultry Farm Estate in Lagos…recently
Police Intensify Crackdown on Vandals, Recover 10 Manhole Covers in FCT
Linus Aleke in abuja
In a decisive move against infrastructure vandalism, the FCT Police Command has recovered an additional 10 stolen manhole covers, bringing the total number of retrieved covers to 125.
A statement by Police Public Relations Officer, FCT Command, SP Josephine Adeh, said the crackdown of the vandals underscored the Command’s
relentless pursuit of criminals engaged in the destruction and theft of public assets.
According to her, the latest recovery, made on February 4, 2025, followed intelligence-led operations in the Dei-Dei area, where officers uncovered the stolen items concealed in a pit.
This breakthrough, she said was made possible through a tip-off from a vigilant informant, reaffirming the critical role of
Kano Governor Appoints New SSG
Ahmad SorondinkiinKano
Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has appointed Umar Farouk Ibrahim as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG), with immediate effect.
The appointment was announced in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature.
According to Bature, Ibrahim was selected based on his track record and expertise, having been in the civil Service for over three decades.
The statement said Ibrahim’s career spanned from 1987 to 2023,
in which he held key leadership positions that significantly contributed to the governance and administrative structure of the State. “From March 2001 to May 2015, Ibrahim served as the Permanent Secretary for Research, Evaluation, and Political Affairs in the Office of the Secretary to the State Government.”
“In this capacity, he was instrumental in analysing key policy options, advising the government on viable alternatives, and overseeing the implementation of these policies across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).”
Niger Civil Service Jobs: 53,128 Apply for 2,500 Spaces
Laleye Dipo in minna
The high unemployment rate in Niger State came to the fore last week when 53,128 applications were received for placements into 2,500 job vacancies in the state.
The state government had asked indigenes of the state to apply for the jobs as a way to reduce the level of unemployment, especially among fresh graduates.
A breakdown of the disturbing statistics showed that 32,498 applications were received from applicants from the Niger South senatorial zone;
13,837 from Niger East, and 7783 from Niger North. Specifically for the health sector with 1000 vacancies 15,081 applications were received. Interestingly of the 53,128 that applied and sat for the Computer Based Test (CBT), 48089 scored 50 percent and above.
Disturbed by the situation, the Investigative Committee on Civil Service Recruitment set up by the government and headed by the state Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, had to scale up the requirements to enable the panel get the number needed to fill the existing vacancies.
Dun & Bradstreet Wins Buyer’s Choice Award
Dun & Bradstreet, one of the world’s leading suppliers of business information and research, has secured the Buyer’s Choice Award 2025 for D&B Hoovers™ and Finance Analytics. According to the company, D&B Hoovers™, a sales acceleration platform, helps business decision-makers drive growth through advanced market insights and high-quality lead generation. Finance Analytics, an AIpowered credit-to-cash solution, is designed to enhance financial decision-making, optimise
cost efficiency, and strengthen operational performance. The award was conferred by TrustRadius, a leading buyer intelligence platform that recognises products and vendors rated highest for capabilities, value, and customer relationships by over 75 per cent of buyers.
Dun & Bradstreet said that D&B Hoovers™ had previously received the Best Relationship, Best Value for Price, and Best Feature Set awards from TrustRadius, while Finance Analytics earned Top Rated and Tech Cares accolades in 2024.
public cooperation in crimefighting efforts.
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Olatunji Disu, issued a stern warning to all perpetrators of vandalism and
those complicit in the illicit trade of stolen public property. He reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to eradicating infrastructure theft and dismantling criminal
networks operating within the FCT.
“We will not relent in our search for stolen public assets. Our operatives are intensifying efforts to locate and dismantle
illegal warehouses and storage sites where vandals may be stockpiling stolen infrastructure. The FCT must be free from the grip of these criminal elements,” he said.
UNUEDO Renaissance Raises the Alarm over Worsening Political Crisis in
Wale Igbintade
UNUEDO Renaissance, an association of Edo State professionals both within Nigeria and in the Diaspora, has raised serious concerns over the escalating political instability and unrest in the state.
The association issued a statement following an
emergency meeting, during which members reviewed the current political climate, particularly the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal and the dismissal of the 18 Local Government Area chairpersons.
The association expressed its belief that a swift resolution of these issues is critical to easing political tensions and preventing
further violence between political factions and their supporters.
In a statement signed by the President, Mr. Nuhu Yakubu, and the General Secretary, Mr. Nelson Wilbert, the association welcomed the decision of the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal to relocate to Abuja, citing threats to law and order in Benin.
Edo
They called on the judiciary to act swiftly and fairly, ensuring justice is both delivered and perceived to be delivered, as it is the last hope for the common people.
The association condemned the actions of non-state actors who have contributed to the disruption of peace and electoral processes in the state.
Ubani Applauds Labour Party for Endorsing Otti, Urges Resolution of Disputes
Sunday Ehigiator
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dr. Onyekachi Ubani, has commended the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Labour Party for endorsing Governor Alex Otti as the party’s gubernatorial candidate for the 2027 general election in Abia State.
The NWC of the party had on
Friday said it had endorsed Otti, the presidential candidate of the party in 2023, Peter Obi and the Lagos State governorship candidate in 2023, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, as candidates for the 2027 general election.
The party expressed confidence that Obi will unseat President Bola Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 presidential election.
Ubani described the decision as a step in the right direction, emphasising that it reflects the party’s commitment to good governance and the overall interest of Nigerians.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Dr. Ubani, who was recently appointed as Chairman of the Electoral Reform Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), lauded the
NWC for recognising Governor Otti’s capacity and dedication to the development of Abia State. He described the endorsement as a strategic move, considering the governor’s performance and the expectations of the people. Ubani, however, urged the Labour Party’s leadership to go beyond endorsements and actively work to resolve internal conflicts within the party.
Vitel Wireless Becomes First MVNO to Receive Number Series from NCC
Vitel Wireless (Vitel) has become the first Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in the country to be issued a mobile number series by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The allocation of the 0712 mobile number series marks a significant step in Nigeria’s evolving telecom landscape.
The Nigerian MVNO market has historically been tightly regulated, with only a few players entering under stringent licensing requirements. Vitel’s emergence as a fully licensed MVNO, complete with its own number series, highlights the country’s growing openness to competitive and innovative telecom solutions aimed at improving service delivery and accessibility.
Chairman and CEO of Vitel Wireless, Kenneth Nwabueze, said that the company’s acquisition of its unique mobile number series, 0712, demonstrates the trust and confidence of the NCC in the company’s vision and readiness to serve the Nigerian market.
“As part of its international readiness, Vitel was also issued by NCC its own international routing code, enabling seamless international connectivity and positioning the company to offer high-quality global telecommunications services.
Community Blocks Federal Road as Police Kill Father of Six in Rivers
Rivers State Police Command said it has arrested police officer who alleged killed a father of six children in Omagwa, Ikwerre Local Government Area of the State. THISDAY gathered that the
victim, Bright Chukwuma Egbule, was allegedly shot dead by officers from Omagwa Police Division on Saturday 8 February, 2025 in his compound.
This incident, THISDAY learned led to demonstration by hundreds of youths in the area yesterday, who blocked the Omagwa session of the Port Harcourt - Owerri Road in protest of the brutal killing of the victim.
It was gathered that the angry youths took their protest with the corpse to the Omagwa Police Station with the intention to set station ablaze
when the Chairman of Ikwerre local government area, Israel Agbosi intervened. The LGA chairman, who tried to calm the situation, promised to ensure the officers responsible for the killing are fished out and be made to face the law.
Tinubu’s Leadership Style Attracting Opposition Politicians, Says Lawmaker
A lawmaker at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for the giant strides so far recorded by his administration, saying this performance is now attracting top opposition elements to All Progressive Congress(APC).
Bonu, who represents Badagry Constituency I, gave the commendation while addressing his colleagues on the floor of the Assembly during plenary. According to the lawmaker, it takes only a leader as Tinubu to attract top opposition elements from other political parties to the APC.
Bonu, while speaking against the backdrop of the recent defection of Senator Ned Nwoko of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed optimism that before 2027, APC would have garnered increased support from other parties.
Senator Nwoko presented his resignation letter addressed to the PDP leadership in Ward 8, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State on January 30, 2025. In the letter, Nwoko complained about the state of the PDP.
‘Ododo is Committed to Media Training for Effective Public Policy Communication’
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
Kogi State Government has expressed commitment to building capacity of the present crops of the media team for effective public policy
communication.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Ismailia Isah, stated this at a specialised training for members of the government house media team on innovation in public
policy communication held at the Government House Media Centre in Lokoja at the weekend. He explained that the training is part of efforts to enhance public policy
communication and foster transparency and accountability in governance in commemoration of the first anniversary of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in office.
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
AMERICAN LAND GRAB IN GAZA?
seas, will now be resolved by force of arms. What are the Western powers fighting for in Ukraine? Why not simply allow Russia to gobble up Crimea, which was Russian anyway until Nikita Khrushchev donated it to Ukraine in 1954? Vladimir Putin should throw out all non-Russian speakers from eastern regions of Ukraine and build a Sochi-like holiday resort there.
Look, the big power nations of Asia should solve the continent’s numerous land disputes using the Trumpian principle of daylight land grabs. China, for example, should end its territorial dispute with India by sending the 2.3-million strong Peoples Liberation Army to seize Aksain Chin. PLA should evict all Indians from the country’s Arunachal Pradesh State and annex it to the Peoples’ Republic. If South Korea can manage it, using hi-tech equipment made by Daewoo and Samsung, it should grab Baekdu Mountain from China and evict the Chinese.
Other Asian territorial disputes need simple Trumpian solutions. Taiwan, for example, should send its army to grab East Turkestan from China. What is Taiwan waiting for, that it will not grab Heixiazi/Bolshoy Ussuriysky from Russia? Indians, who recently overtook China as the world’s most populous country, are wasting time by not grabbing several disputed enclaves from Bangladesh. What about Kashmir? It is time to end that old dispute, if Pakistanis can throw out the Indians and unify the territory under their own rule.
Where are Burma’s Senior Generals? This their old dispute with China, they should end it by grabbing back Kachin State, throw out rebels from Kayin State and invite American developers to turn it into a Riveira along the Irrawaddy River. China is wasting time with decades-old territorial disputes; it should borrow a leaf from Trump, grab Pamir Mountains from Tajikistan and grab Wakhan Corridor from Afghanistan. Donald
Trump’s old friend, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, is also wasting time; he should send his 1.3 million man, nuclear-armed army to grab disputed islands from South Korea. Philippines, a former American colony, should be inspired by Trump and should seize the Pattani region from Thailand. Right now, China claims ownership of 64 Russian villages situated east of the Heilongjiang River; it should throw out the Russians to Mongolia and claim the villages! How about Taiwan? It should send troops to grab Russia’s Tannu Uriankhai region as well as China’s Trans-Karakoram Tract, and consolidate them under the Kuomintang. The Japanese are also coming to grab South Korea’s Liancourt Rocks, while China is looking to grab Macclesfield Bank from North Korea. Vietnam, with its battle-tested army that once routed the French and Americans, is looking to grab Paracel Islands from South Korea.
All these are preludes to the mother of all Asian land grabs. While Trump’s troops are landing in Gaza, China’s Peoples Liberation Army will elude the US Navy’s Seventh Fleet and fulfill the Chinese Communist Party’s longest ambition of invading Taiwan and finally bringing it under CPC rule in a united China.
Racial, cultural and religious affiliations notwithstanding, Arabs should solve their territorial claims Trump style. Bahrain and Qatar should resolve their claims to Hawar Islands in the Persian Gulf by military means. Saudi Arabia should send soldiers to seize Qaruh and Umm al Maradim Islands from Kuwait. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards are more than enough to seize Lesser Tunb Islands from United Arab Emirates, Burj Khalifah’s glitzy heights notwithstanding. That old dispute between Iran and Iraq over Shatt al-Arab waterway; what are their soldiers waiting for?
In Central and South America, we should
THOUGHTS ON THE OPPOSITION
ineffective leadership. Under Umar Damagum'suninspiring leadership, the party has become factionalised, with many state chapters experiencing disunity. Instead of acting as a formidable opposition, the PDP appears to be an extension of the ruling party, unable to mobilise effectively against APC's policies. Defections by key PDP figures to the ruling party have further weakened its national standing and influence.
LP and NNPP, which emerged as alternative forces in the 2023 elections, are embroiled in leadership crises. The Labour Party, which garnered significant support from young and urban voters, struggles with internal disputes, legal battles, and power struggles. Similarly, NNPP faces significant internal crises at the national and Kano state levels. The absence of institutional structures and the prevalence of patronage politics have weakened these parties, making them ineffective in consolidating opposition forces.
There is widespread suspicion that APC uses state resources to co-opt opposition leaders through inducements or coercion. Some opposition figures are believed to have been compromised, leading to a lack of trust in the opposition's leadership. When opposition leaders are seen as moles or agents of the party in power, it undermines their ability to present a serious challenge to the ruling party.
The National Assembly, which should serve as an oversight body, has become a "rubber stamp" for the Executive. Opposition lawmakers have failed to challenge government policies effectively, allowing even the most controversial bills to pass without robust debate. The gale of opposition lawmakers' defections to the ruling party has further exposed our opportunistic politics.
Additionally, the APC-controlled National Assembly drowned out any form of alternative voices. This has further entrenched the APC's dominance, as policies are implemented without meaningful alternative options. In 2024, the National Assembly passed multiple overlapping supplementary budgets with minimal scrutiny, raising concerns about the legislature's independence.
Despite the current dormancy, there are emerging signs of opposition figures
soon see Guatemala and Belize militarily resolving a border dispute. Bolivia should grab back an Atacama Desert tract that Chile seized in 1884. Peru and Ecuador should militarily resolve their three disputed border points. Although the Falkands War ended 43 years ago, where is Argentina’s General Basilio Lami Dozo to go back there, sink the HMS Hermes and HMS Invincible and retake Las Malvinas, South Georgia and Sandwich Islands from the Brits?
The former Soviet states of Moldavia and Ukraine should resolve the ownership of Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina militarily. When Ukraine throws out Russian troops, it should also throw Romanians out of disputed areas of the Black Sea. Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and China’s tripartite claims to the Isfara Valley area should be settled by force. Remember Nagorno-Karabakh? Azerbaijan should grab it and throw out all the Armenians. Since 1945, Japan has been demanding that Russia returns to it the Kurile Islands. What is Japan’s Self Defence Forces waiting for, that it cannot drive the Red Army out of there in 80 years?
Here in Africa, please forget about African Union [AU] with its ponderous mechanisms for resolving territorial disputes. The Ogaden Region of Ethiopia, whose ownership is long disputed, should be simultaneously invaded by Ethiopian, Somali and Eritrean troops and whoever can grab it, should go ahead. Egypt is wasting time over the 20,000 sq km Hala’ib Triangle; while Sudan is currently in turmoil with two Generals fighting for control, why not send its million-man army to seize the Triangle using Trumpian principles? Any Sudanese living there should be sent to Darfur.
To the southwest of Sudan, we have this old dispute between Gabon and Equatorial Guinea over Corisco Bay Islands; one of them should send troops to seize it, damn
regrouping. Recent socio-political gatherings have brought together opposition leaders and dissenting voices within the APC who share common criticisms of President Bola Tinubu's neoliberal policies. One of such events was the two day national conference on strengthening democracy organised by Centre-LSD and other civil society organizations. These events indicate the potential for new alliances ahead of future elections. If effectively mobilised, this could begin a stronger, more unified opposition movement, which would be good for democratic consolidation. For example, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi have recently been seen attending similar political events, sparking speculation about a possible alliance for the 2027 elections. The recent meeting between Kwankwaso
AU and UN Security Council. It is even because Libya is in turmoil right now; when it gets back on its feet, it should use the remaining weapons left by Gaddafi to grab northern parts of Niger Republic, Chad’s Aouzou Strip, parts of south-eastern Algeria that it claims, as well as maritime areas of Tunisia that Libya long covets. What is Mauritius, Seychelles and Comoros waiting for, that they will not, with the help of an African High Command, invade Diego Garcia Island in the Indian Ocean and Chagos Archipelago, throw out the Brits and Americans with their long-range nuclear-armed bombers?
As for me, honestly, there are only four land disputes that I want to see resolved using the Trumpian principles. Brexit or no Brexit, Irish troops should march across the border and grab Northern Ireland, which Brits illegally excised from their country before it gained independence in 1919. I know that our Chief of Defence Staff General Chris Musa has his hands full with Operations Fansan Yamma and Lafiya Dole but he should spare troops to reclaim Bakassi peninsula from Cameroon, damn the Green Tree Agreement that Obasanjo signed in 2004. Since Donald Trump so much desires that Israelis live in peace, why not evacuate all of them to Wyoming, North Dakota or even Alaska, there to rebuild their kibbutz on more fertile soil? Afterall, like the Yankees, all the Ashkenazi Jews came to Israel from Europe, whereas Gazans have never been to any other place.
Finally, Mexico should stop pussyfooting and send its soldiers across the Rio Grande to reclaim Texas from the United States. Just because it lost the US-Mexican War in 1848, should it sit askance and allow cowboys with their long hats to be treading all over Texas and awarding undeserved right-wing votes to Donald Trump?
For the opposition to be taken seriously, it must bring together reform-minded elements from the PDP, progressive factions of the Labour Party and NNPP, and disillusioned APC members. This coalition should not be built on personal ambition but on a shared vision and clear ideological principles that differentiate it from APC.
Beyond mere criticism of the ruling party, the opposition must invest in policy research and articulate superior governance strategies. Highlighting the failures of APC is not enough; opposition leaders must provide viable alternatives that resonate with the electorate. This requires intellectual rigour and extensive economic, security, and governance engagement. A 2023 report by SBM Intelligence indicated that 70% of Nigerians believe that opposition parties fail to present clear economic policies, reinforcing the need for a well-articulated alternative governance strategy.
Additionally, smaller parties, which currently lack the national reach to be impactful, must be incorporated into a broader opposition framework. Although these small parties represent distinctive voices and ideologies, they must align under a bigger opposition ideology that will be sold to the people to challenge the ruling party at the centre. That is the only way they can make a meaningful impact on politics at the centre.
and Aregbesola has been argued as being unsettling to the ruling party.
PDP seems to be bending the corner in its perennial internal conflicts. The parties BOT and the governor's forum have jointly taken a stance on the crisis of who the National secretary is. They are working hard to resolve the many cases in court and gain the public's confidence as a serious party, but whether this will succeed is another matter. The Labour Party, the country's second leg of strong opposition, faces a significant internal crisis. Abure-led Executive and the party's galvanising forces led by the party's personality emblem, Peter Obi, are on different lanes. There is no love lost between all key actors in the party. Today, the Labour Party is a shadow of its 2023 form that rattled the ruling party.
A successful opposition must go beyond elite politics and engage directly with the grassroots. Without a strong grassroots presence, any opposition movement will struggle to gain widespread legitimacy and support.
The opposition’s survival and relevance in Nigeria depend on unity, strategic policymaking, and grassroots engagement. A fragmented and ineffective opposition only strengthens APC’s dominance, undermining democratic accountability. However, the signs of reawakening provide hope that a more vigorous opposition could emerge in the coming years. For this to materialise, opposition leaders must prioritise coalition-building, develop apparent policy alternatives, and engage in extensive grassroots mobilisation. Only through these efforts can Nigeria’s democracy be revitalised, ensuring a governance system that is responsive to the needs of its people.
PDP National Leader, Umar Damagum
Pinnick: Removal of Regional Blocks Will Allow for the Best to Represent Africa in FIFA
Duro Ikhazuagbe
With the FIFA Council seats up for grabs during the next CAF elections slated for March 12, 2025 in Cairo, Egypt, Nigeria’s Amaju Pinnick will be one of the 10 candidates to battle for the six tickets at stake.
Of the six tickets, one is reserved for women’s representatives from the continent on the 37-member FIFA Council. It is presently occupied by Isha Johansen of Sierra Leone who has been challenged by the duo of Lydia Nsekera of Burundi and Kanizat Ibrahim of the Comoros Island.
Pinnick will be seeking re-election
for another four-year term on the FIFA Council where he has become a major voice from the continent. Presently representing Africa as one of the six Vice Presidents on the FIFA Council is Patrice Motsepe, the South African billionaire businessman who is CAF President. The former NFF President will battle nine other contestants that include; Hany Abou Rida (Egypt) who is seeking re-election; Fouzi Lekjaa (Morocco) is also seeking re-election; Yahia Ahmed (Mauritania); Souleiman Waberi (Djibouti); Idriss Dialli (Cote d’Ivoire); Mathurin Chakus (Benin Republic);
Plymouth Shock Liverpool out of FA Cup
Plymouth Argyle produced a classic FA Cup giant-killing as the Championship's bottom club stunned Premier League leaders Liverpool 1-0 at a raucous Home Park.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot made 10 changes from the side that swept Tottenham aside to reach the Carabao Cup final - and paid the price as Plymouth made the most of the opportunity to secure a place in the fifth round.
A scrappy tie came to life eight minutes after the interval when Plymouth were awarded a penalty
after Harvey Elliott's handball, Ryan Hardie drilling home the spot-kick in emphatic fashion.
Hardie almost added a second shortly afterwards when his shot was turned on to the post by Liverpool keeper Caoimhin Kelleher. Liverpool applied some pressure in the closing stages, keeper Conor Hazard saving superbly from Diogo Jota then miraculously from substitute Darwin Nunez's header, but Plymouth closed out a landmark win under new manager Miron Muslic.
Ayomike Wins Femi Pedro @70 Golf Kitty
A tournament put together in honour of former Deputy Governor of Lagos State and the Grand Patron of Ultimate Golf Challenge, Femi Pedro came to a thrilling end at the golf section of Ikoyi Club 1938 on Thursday with former Club Champion, Tim Ayomike emerging the winner.
The tournament which was a rollcall of who-is who in the section saw the high flying Ayomike ending his game with a score of 69-net, beating the second placed Emmanuel Olayiwola Ogunrinde, who also carded 69-net on countback. Kayode Adejumobi was further down in the winners chart ducking in the third position.
The celebrant who played in the same group that comprises former Golf Captain and Nigeria Cup defend-
ing Champion, Tayo Babalakin and 18-handicap Akin Semowo also gave a good account of himself.
The all-white tournament had the likes of Toye Sode, former Captain and former Ikoyi Club 1938 Chairman on the course. So also was Gen. Muftau Balogun (rtd), also a former Club Chairman on the course.
Tafa Zibiri-Aliu, current Club Chairman, Fred Coker, former Golf Captain, Uyi Akpata, former Golf Captain, Bayo Ali, former Golf Captain, Gen. Musbau Amolegbe, former Golf Captain, Babatunde Johnson, also a former captain, Meckson Innocent Okoro, former Golf Captain, Uwen Udoh and the current Captain, Tade Adekunle and his Vice Captain Tunde Oni.
Coronation Returns as Sponsor of the 2025 Lagos Polo Tournament
Coronation, Africa’s leading financial ecosystem, proudly reaffirms its title sponsorship of the Coronation Silver Cup at the 2025 Lagos International Polo Tournament, underscoring its commitment to sustainable wealth creation, innovation, and community empowerment.
As a premier partner in Africa’s financial services landscape, Coronation continues to provide transformational solutions that drive long-term prosperity for clients and communities.
The tournament, which kicked off on February 4, 2025, will once again showcase the best of African and international polo, blending tradition, excellence, and high-level competition.
The Coronation Silver Cup, the centrepiece of the tournament, will take place from February 18 to 23, will attract elite players and distinguished spectators from across the continent.
Other key matchups include the
Open Cup and the Majekodunmi Cup, both of which promise thrilling action and high-stakes competition.
At the official press briefing, Olugbile Holloway, representing the President of the Nigeria Polo Association, stated: “This year’s tournament will feature an impressive lineup of international players, reinforcing polo’s legacy. With strategic partners, we are enhancing the tournament's prestige and elevating its experience to new heights.”
Speaking on Coronation’s sponsorship, Paul Abiagam, MD/CEO of Coronation Merchant Bank, remarked: “Coronation is more than a financial institution; we are a prosperity partner committed to helping individuals and businesses transform aspirations into enduring legacies. Our sponsorship of the Lagos Polo Tournament reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence and sustainable wealth creation.”
Augustine Senghor (Senegal); Djibrilla Pele Hamidou (Niger Republic); and Andrew Kamanga (Zambia).
The March 12 contests in Cairo will be very different from the past FIFA Council elections in Africa with the removal of languages in voting for FIFA Council members. This was a resolution from the most recent 46th CAF General Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The removal of language blocks brings an element of fairness and also increasing the level of competition from the nominations.
Previously, The Arab/Luso-Spanish speaking region has strong contenders like Abou Rida and Faouzi Lekjaa who will be seeking a second term.
But in his first official interview on the FIFA Council elections, Pinnick said at the weekend that he has nothing against throwing the contests open without regional encumbrances.
“It was a conventional decision to remove the bottleneck of ethnicity and allow the best five to represent Africa no matter where they come from. If the best five come from the Anglophone region, so be it. If they come from the Arab zone, that is
alright. They are all representing Africa,” observed Pinnick who is also a CAF Executive Committee member.
Asked to clarify a statement in the media where he was quoted to have said that he was sure of re-election with no less than 18 votes from the COSAFA and CECAFA region, Pinnick insisted it was news to him as he did not grant any interview to any reporter.
“When I saw the publication that I have 18 votes , I just laughed. There are investigative journalists all over the continent and I think somebody looked at the elections and came out with that number. Even if I have 18 votes, I will not come out to say that I have 18 votes,” stressed Pinnick.
He however admitted that both COSAFA and CECAFA have a total of 26 votes and if the reporter was from that region, it may be from his investigation which has nothing to do with him.
“The truth is that COSAFA and CECAFA have 26 votes and the same 26 voters will vote for all the candidates, including Amaju. They can vote for anybody they want.
I know my friends and I can tell you for free that I have friends all over in all the zones and I believe my friends will not let me down, they have never let me down. But everything depends on what God almighty wants us to achieve this time around.”
On the press statement from COSAFA and CESAFA jointly endorsing the candidature of Zambian FA President Andrew Kamanga for a FIFA Council seat, Pinnick said It is all part of the politics of the contest. “A. Appadorai, in his book Substance of Politics, defines politics as politics is politics. This means that it is a definition where the definiens (that which is to be defined ) do not tell us about the defiendum ( that which has been defined) i rest my case.
“Well, I saw the joint press conference by COSAFA and CECAFA and I knew instantly it is all politics and we understand it. We have seen it before and we are happy that the unions made that statement. But one thing I know is that I have friends all over Africa and this election is not between Amaju and Andrew Kamanga, no. Amaju is running against nine persons
and Kamanga is running against nine persons. Like in Athletics, the first five to breast the tape win the race. It is not me against Kamanga. Kamanga is my friend, an amazing guy. He has uplifted Zambian football. We have done things together several times and I will be shocked if Kamanga doesn’t vote for me. Honestly, I will be shocked.
He stressed that all the 10 contestants for the five seats were eminently qualified to represent Africa. Mali’s Maumoutou Toure is the only one not seeking re-election as he has stepped down.
“We have friends in COSAFA, CECAFA, WAFU A, WAFU B, in North Africa and I must say that the 10 contestants are all competent and it is within their right to want to run for the office. It is normal, inevitable and it is our ability to convince them to allow us to continue. Power resides with God and it is not a do or die affair. So long as everybody is looking at ways to advance African football it is ok with me. When I see people trying to create bitterness, it is unfortunate,” observed the FIFA Council member.
Six States, Stakeholders Declare Readiness for South West Games 2025
All the six Southwest states have officially declared their readiness to participate in the highly anticipated South West Games 2025 (SWG 2025).
This unanimous commitment followed an intensive marathon meeting between state sports directors and event organisers, Practagali Partners, at The Colossus Lagos Conference Hall last Friday.
The meeting, hailed as high-calibre and strategic, underscored the states' eagerness to ensure the maiden edition of SWG 2025 is a resounding success.
The sports directors from Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Ekiti states expressed satisfaction with the level of preparation by the organisers and pledged full participation in the tournament.
Adding to the excitement, the event will feature a premier sub-tournament, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games (BATSWAG), designed to showcase the region’s most talented U18 athletes.
With competitions spanning seven sports—football, basketball, table tennis, boxing, athletics, volleyball, and archery—the games promise to be a landmark event for youth sports development. The declaration of readiness from all participating states has set the stage for what is expected to be one of the most thrilling
and transformative sporting events in the region’s history.
The sports directors commended Practagali Partners for their meticulous planning and commitment to delivering a world-class tournament.
“We are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that the South West Games 2025 surpasses expectations,” stated Funmilola Adedipe, Managing
Director of Practagali Partners. “The overwhelming support and readiness from the state sports directors have further energized our resolve to execute a truly historic competition.”
Director of Media for the Games, Victor Ganzallo, reinforced the broader significance of the event beyond competition. “This tournament is about legacy. It is about giving young
athletes a sense of purpose, a platform to excel, and an opportunity to dream beyond their immediate environment. BATSWAG and SWG 2025 will serve as a vehicle for talent discovery and national sports development.” The meeting laid the foundation for crucial agreements regarding the event’s structure, logistics, and execution.
FIFA President, Gianni Infantino (left) FIFA Council Member, Amaju Pinnick shortly after one of their meetings in Zurich, Switzerland
L-R: Mr. Uthman Ola Okunnu, Head of Technical, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Ogundele Lawrence, General Manager, Ekiti State Sports Council, Mr. Sunday Fagite, General Manager, Ondo State Sports Council, Mr. Rotimi Dunmoye, General Manager, Osun State Sports Council, Mrs. Funmi Adedipe, MD, Practagali Partners, Mr. Travih Nunayon, Director, Sports Development, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Victor Ganzallo, Director of Media, Southwest Games, Mr. Dehinde Fajana, Project Coordinator, Southwest Games, Mr. Tunde Ajibike, General Manager, Oyo State Sports Council and Mr. Oluseyi Sonde, Director of Sports, Ogun State Sports Council shortly after their meeting in Lagos ...last Friday
Rewane to Nigeria
“Nigeriaislikeamorgueofabandonedprojects.Easytostartandeasiertokill.InQ1'25, inflationisprojectedtoeasemarginallytowards33.1percent, reflectingastableNaira andfairlylowerfoodandfuelprices.WhileNigeriamayperceiveitselfasaneconomic giant, itsrelevanceontheglobalstagehasdiminishedconsiderably,comparedtowhat it once was or what it thinks it is"–MD,FinancialDerivativesCompanyLtd(FDC),Bismarck Rewane,urgestheFederalGovernmenttobuildaresilienteconomy of the country.
MAHMUDJEGA
VIEW FROM THE GALLERY
American Land Grab in Gaza?
No statement caused as much international wonder, shock and consternation last week as US President Donald Trump’s suggestion, with a beaming Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by his side during a Washington press conference, that Palestinians should be evicted from the Gaza Strip, into Egypt and Jordan, so that Israelis will live in peace, United States will clear the rubble and build a French style Riveira on Gaza’s Mediterranean shores.
No American president in living memory has ever made such an outlandish statement or proposed such an outrageous solution to a land dispute. As many American observers quickly pointed out, Trump is a career property developer, so his view of a waterfront piece of land is how many Trump Towers, plazas, hotels, shopping malls, casinos, holiday resorts, boulevards, conference centres and tourist camps can be erected in there. Historical attachment to homeland, nationhood claims, cemeteries of ancestors, monuments, places of worship, United Nations resolutions and all other considerations are of no consequence to Mr. Trump. The only other thing that matters
is the presence of vast oil and gas fields off Gaza’s Mediterranean coast, which the Israeli occupiers prevented its natives from exploiting all these decades.
Actually, an American land grab of Gaza was a small Trumpian afterthought after all
the other land grabs he proposed in the only two weeks that he has been President of the United States. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter negotiated a treaty to hand the Panama Canal back to Panama and, with great difficulty, got the US Senate to ratify it. Trump now declares that he must grab back the Canal, allegedly because the Chinese are running it, though reporters who went there firmly assert that Panamanian officials are running it. Trump declared an intention for Denmark to sell Greenland to US in the same manner that the Russian Czars sold Alaska to it in 1867. And then, wonder of all wonders, Trump proposed that Canada should become the 51st American state. Canada has only a small army, so Trump might soon send the 101st Airborne, 82nd Airborne and US Marine Corps to seize Ottawa, Montreal and Vancouver, force the Canadians to “apply” for incorporation into USA, get the US Congress to “admit” it as the 51st state, the way it admitted Alaska and Hawaii in 1959. Trumpian land grabs and re-grabs might not end there. Thirty-two years ago, the US handed Clark Air Base and Subic Naval Base back to the Philippines after 90 years. If Mr. Trump were to find any Indians on
DAKUKU PETERSIDE
BENEATH THE SURFACE
those bases today, he will probably try to grab them back. The US still hangs on to Guantanamo Bay in Cuba, and has refused to hand it back since 1959 when Fidel Castro chased out old dictator Fulgencio Batista. Others copied from the American example. Spain clings on to the coastal enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, as well as Pennon de Alhucemas, Penon de Velez de la Gomera and Islas Chafarinas islands, brushing aside all demands from Morocco to hand them back. While clinging on to these two Moroccan enclaves, Spain shamelessly demands that Britain return to it control of Gibraltar, which the Brits snatched from the Spaniards in 1713. The French borrowed a leaf from them and are holding on to Mayotte Islands, which belong to Comoros; are also holding tightly to Glorioso Islands, which rightly belong to Madagascar. I am just thinking. If this incipient Trump Doctrine of land grabs becomes the governing principle of international relations of the 21st century, hundreds of territorial disputes that dot the world’s map, on all continents and all regions of the world, including the high
Continued on page 46
Thoughts on the Opposition
Like other liberal democracies, Nigeria's democratic system thrives on the existence of a vibrant and functional opposition. However, the current state of our political parties, as I discussed in a recent television appearance, is concerning. One of the key parameters to measure the efficacy of a political party is its organisational capacity and policy choices. Unfortunately, these elements are acutely lacking both in the ruling party and the opposition. Today, this column addresses the opposition's role in deepening democracy.
An effective opposition serves as a watchdog, providing checks and balances to the ruling party while offering alternative policies that enhance governance. However, in the nearly two years since the 2023 general elections, Nigeria's opposition has been largely dormant, fragmented, and ineffective. This situation demands immediate attention and action.
The absence of a strong opposition
has left Nigeria's democracy vulnerable to unchecked executive power, resulting in governance that often lacks accountability.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has faced minimal resistance in executing its policies, which has, in turn, weakened democratic engagement. The lack of credible opposition has led to a decline in democratic norms and a slide to "electoral autocracy." This is neither inthe best interest of democratic consolidation nor the Nigerian people.
In contrast, in other African democracies, such as South Africa, the opposition has played a more significant role in holding the ruling party accountable. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the Democratic Alliance (DA) continuously challenge the African National Congress (ANC), demonstrating the impact of a functional opposition. The Nigerian opposition must regain footing to ensure a balanced and competitive political landscape. A diverse political landscape is not just a luxury; it's a necessity for a healthy democracy. The potential for change is within reach, and it's up to the opposition to make it
a reality.
Opposition parties have failed to articulate distinct policy alternatives, leaving governance unchallenged and unresponsive to citizens’ needs. Without meaningful policy debates, decisions are made that lack depth, often without proper scrutiny or public engagement. For example, when President Bola Tinubu removed fuel subsidies in 2023, opposition parties failed to present an alternative plan, leaving civil society groups to lead protests against the consequential economic hardship.
The opposition space in Nigeria has remained fractured, allowing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to operate with little or no alternative voices and cruising as the political Octopus. APC has effectively established itself as the dominant political force, often unchallenged in policymaking and governance. The failure of opposition parties to unite under a common goal has further entrenched APC's political control, making governance almost a one-party affair.
One of the most frequently cited reasons for the opposition’s weakness
is Nigeria’s patronage-based political culture, often referred to as 'stomach infrastructure.' This term encapsulates the tendency of politicians to prioritise personal gain and short-term benefits over long-term policy engagement. In such an environment, voters are more likely to support politicians who provide immediate material rewards rather than those advocating for institutional reforms. This system disproportionately favours the ruling party, which controls state resources and uses them to maintain loyalty. A 2022 survey by Afrobarometer revealed that over 40% of Nigerian voters admitted to receiving financial or material incentives from politicians before elections, underscoring the deep entrenchment of patronage politics. This trend is evident in many states, where political parties rely heavily on financial inducements to secure electoral victories. The PDP, once Nigeria's dominant political force, has suffered from internal divisions, sabotage and
