MONDAY 17TH FEBRUARY 2025

NUPRC: Nigeria Winning War against Illegal Bunkering, Oil Theft Reduced

Court Dismisses Christian and Shyngle Wigwe's

Interim Administrators/Guardians

Wale Igbintade

Justice A.O. Adeyemi of the Lagos State High Court Family/Probate Court in Ikeja, has dismissed the application filed by Christian Wigwe and Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, seeking the appointment of interim administrators in the estate of the late former Group

Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe. In a ruling delivered on February 6, 2025, the court resolved all issues raised by the applicants and deemed their claims unsustainable.

The applicants, Christian Wigwe and Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, had in an action

Amid Mounting Opposition, Matawalle

Affirms North’s Support for Tinubu

Cautions Babachir Lawal Highlights killing of 8,000 terrorists, rescue of 8,000 kidnap victims as key achievements Arewa think tank says region not divided against president

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, yesterday, pushed back on recent comments by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGoF), Babachir Lawal, regarding the much-talkedabout 2027 presidential ambition of President Bola Tinubu.

Matawalle, in a statement by Director, Information and Public Relations in the ministry, Henshaw Ogubike, emphasised that Tinubu had made commendable strides in governance, and Lawal and his associates will be surprised by the resounding support the president would receive from the north in 2027.

He stated, “President Bola Tinubu, who has been in office for just 19 months, has made significant contributions to all regions of Nigeria, including the north. The people of the north will

ADVOCATING GENDER EQUITY, GOVERNANCE INCLUSIVENESS...

L-R: European Union’s Commissioner for Preparedness Ms. Hadja Lahbib; President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani; CEO International Civil Society Network, Sanam Anderlini; Chairman of Senate Committee on NGOs, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and Ex-Prime Minister of Finland, Sanna Marin, at the 2025 Munich Security Conference in Germany...at the Weekend

Dangote Plans $400m Expansion of Ethiopia Cement Plant

Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, has announced a $400 million plan to revive a second production line at the Mugher cement plant in Ethiopia, aiming to double the facility’s annual capacity to 5 million tons.

The Ethiopian plant that became operational in 2015 has faced challenges, including recurrent violence in the region, Bloomberg reported. This led to the vandalism of

rally behind Mr. President to build upon the achievements and reforms he has initiated.”

The minister highlighted several key areas where he said Tinubu had made impactful reforms that warranted support from the northern electorate, particularly, in the area of security and defence.

He maintained, “In 2024, Nigerian security forces neutralised over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 weapons. This robust action has significantly improved security across the north.

“The successful rescue of approximately 8,000 kidnap victims underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens. Also, the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) in December 2024, in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency, has enhanced strategic coordination in the fight against kidnapping.

'The north remains steadfast in

vehicles and machinery by protesters. The country manager of Dangote Cement Plc and two other staff were shot dead in 2018, the report recalled.

“Despite the ups and downs, we have successfully repaid all our loans and repatriated our profit,” the Dangote Industries Ltd. chairman and chief executive officer told reporters on Saturday in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.

“The expansion project is expected to be operational within the next 30 months”, Bloomberg quoted him

its support for President Tinubu.

Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine our national security.”

From the economic point of view, the minister said initiatives, like the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, aimed to tap into the agricultural potential of the north, promote economic growth, and empower millions, particularly, women and youths in the north.

“This initiative is expected to transform rural communities and contribute to food security. The recent decline in grain prices across the country is a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s agricultural policies,” Matawalle said.

He explained that the Tinubu administration had prioritised infrastructure projects vital for economic growth in the north, including road construction and improvement of the transportation network.

“Also of importance is the local

COURT DISMISSES CHRISTIAN AND SHYNGLE WIGWE'S APPLICATION TO APPOINT INTERIM ADMINISTRATORS/GUARDIANS IN HERBERT WIGWE'S ESTATE

18, 2024, were Uche Wigwe, Aigboje A.I.G. Imoukhuede, and Miss Otutochi Channel Wigwe.

The claimants sought an order for the appointment of Otutochi Wigwe, Uche Wigwe, Shyngle Wigwe, and two professionals – Zedra Trust Company (Isle of Man), a subsidiary of Zedra Corporate Solutions UK Limited (International Professional), and Pricewaterhouse Coopers Limited (Local Professional) – as interim administrators of Herbert Wigwe's estate, pending the resolution of the substantive suit.

Additionally, the applicants requested an order placing Wigwe's minor children (Chituru David Wigwe, Wegu & Hannah Wigwe, and Okachi Great Wigwe) under the joint guardianship of Otutochi Wigwe, Uche Wigwe, Emeka Wigwe, Shyngle Wigwe, and the two professionals, with Shyngle Wigwe overseeing their welfare.

The claimants also sought authorisation for the interim administrators to ensure the maintenance and welfare of Herbert Wigwe's dependents, liaise with third parties regarding financial or property interests, submit monthly reports to the court, and obtain full disclosure from Access Bank Plc, Coronation Merchant Bank Ltd, and United Securities Ltd regarding shares or financial interests held on behalf of the deceased.

After hearing submissions from both parties, Justice Adeyemi ruled that the claimants were not entitled to the reliefs sought.

Justice Adeyemi stated: "The Court has listened to the submissions of the learned Senior Counsel to the parties in this suit, and it is of the view that the issue for consideration is whether the Claimants/Applicants are entitled to the reliefs sought before this Honourable Court."

Referring to Section 24(1) of the Administration of Estate Law, Laws of Lagos State, 2015, the court noted that it had the power to appoint an administrator pendente lite for the estate of a

as saying.

Dangote also announced plans to establish a new greenfield cement grinding unit with a capacity of 3 million tons per annum.

In collaboration with state-owned Ethiopian Investment Holdings, Dangote Industries will invest in the Omo Kuraz sugar factory, he said.

Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, has built a vast business empire through the Dangote Group, which operates in multiple sectors across Africa. His investments are mainly

government autonomy: the local government autonomy signed into law by Tinubu empowers local administrations to function effectively, ensuring accountability and better governance at the grassroots level,” he maintained.

Matawalle urged critics, like Lawal, to evaluate Tinubu’s scorecard objectively rather than dismissing his efforts.

“It is essential for us in the north to assess the tangible benefits of the president’s reforms. The cries of dissent should not overshadow the progress being made,” he stated.

The minister affirmed that the legacy of Tinubu’s reforms was one of hope and progress for all Nigerians—young and old, male and female, in every corner of the country. He urged everyone to unite behind the president as he continued to work towards a prosperous and secure Nigeria.

Lawal had in an interview with a national newspaper affirmed that the north could never forgive Tinubu over the manner he allegedly brought suffering to the region through his nail-biting reforms.

The former SGF reiterated (Nasir) El-Rufai’s warning that the north was massively mobilising ahead of the 2027 polls.

deceased person where there was a legal proceeding touching on the validity of the will or for other related matters.

However, the court found that the claims by the applicants were essentially the same as those raised in the substantive suit.

The court noted that the request for the appointment of interim administrators and guardians, along with related reliefs, were part of the substantive suit, making it inappropriate for the court to rule on the matters at the interlocutory stage.

Additionally, the court referenced an existing judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction, which had already appointed the third defendant as the legal guardian of the deceased’s minor children.

Since there was no pending appeal regarding the judgment, the court held it could not review it at the interlocutory stage.

Justice Adeyemi ruled that the applications for the appointment of interim administrators and guardians were part of the substantive claims, and thus could not be considered at this stage.

"The Contention of Learned Senior Counsel for the Claimants/ Applicants that given the issues involved in this suit, there might be a protracted trial is not only unfounded but also preemptive.

"This is because the issues involved particularly that of the minor children of the estate have prompted the court to grant an accelerated hearing in this sult from the beginning as shown from the abridged days granted to parties,” the court held

The court, therefore, encouraged Learned Senior Counsel to take advantage of this and ensure that the case was not unnecessarily prolonged in the interest of the minor of the estate.

"The issue raised above is therefore resolved against the applicants. Consequently, the application dated 28th November 2024, being unsustainable is accordingly dismissed," it stated.

in manufacturing, infrastructure, and agriculture, with a focus on reducing Africa’s dependence on imports.

Dangote Cement is Africa’s largest cement producer, operating in over 10 countries, including Nigeria, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and South Africa. The company has a production capacity of over 51 million metric tons per year, helping to reduce Africa’s reliance on imported cement, according to estimates.

There is also the Dangote Refinery, located in Lagos, Africa’s largest

2027 election.

“There is no doubt about the consensus. There’s no argument about that. I may not have been supporting El-Rufai’s position. But on this one, I will join him to see how we can stop Bola Tinubu from winning the 2027 election. Because if he does win, you know there will be one large refugee camp.”

Meanwhile, a northern group, Arewa Think Tank (ATT), dismissed the claims in some quarters by critics that the northern part of the country was divided against Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The group said, on the contrary, the north was firmly and in full support of Tinubu for the second term bid, adding that until 2031, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock, Nigeria's presidential seat of power.

In a press statement by Chief Convener of ATT, Muhammad Yakubu, the group said, "If northern people are divided against President Tinubu, they are doing so at their own peril because their own son was in power for eight years without any meaningful impact in the region.

He stated, “The north is seriously mobilising with a consensus that Bola Tinubu must give way in the

“So how wise is it to displace the leader that is walking the talk and giving them hope for a better tomorrow. We want to agree with the Secretary General of Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) that the forum is non-partisan and does not involve itself in promoting or

oil refinery and one of the world’s biggest single-train refineries. It has a 650,000 barrels per day refining capacity, aiming to make Nigeria self-sufficient in fuel production and reduce fuel imports.

One of Africa’s largest sugar producers, Dangote Sugar, also supplies sugar for household use and major industries like beverages and food processing. He also produces flour, pasta, and other food products, playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s food security.

antagonising any candidate for the presidential race.

"Our position also is that the north is not divided, it’s Tinubu all the way to 2031 because the north is always the political stabiliser of Nigeria. Why would anyone start to think of power grabbing barely one year and some months into Tinubu's tenure, when the president is boldly sacrificing his political popularity to rescue the country from economic bankruptcy, which many before him could not achieve.”

ATT added, "Our able resident is really sacrificing his popularity to help our nation from collapsing, he has refused to divide and share style of leadership, he has chosen to revamp our economy and rebuild our industries, agencies and even our international reputation.

"Recently, there have been growing concerns about opposition forces and desperate politicians from various regions, including the north, who are determined to undermine the current administration before the 2027 elections. But it is obvious these factions, within and outside the ruling party, are driven by personal agenda rather than genuine concerns for national progress.”

The group maintained that the northern region remained steadfast in its commitment to the country's stability and progress, stressing that this extends to supporting Tinubu’s

re-election bid in 2027.

ATT stated, "The current members of the opposition, which include some who feel excluded from the corridors of power, are leveraging their positions to destabilise the government. Their efforts are less about advancing northern interests and more about addressing their own grievances and failures.

"It is a known fact the Tinubu administration is undertaking significant reforms aimed at revitalising Nigeria's ailing systems. These reforms, though challenging and sometimes unpopular, are designed to address deep-rooted issues and set a foundation for sustainable growth.

“Real change requires making tough choices that may cause shortterm discomfort but are crucial for long-term improvement. While the immediate effects of these reforms might be harsh, it is essential to understand that such measures are often necessary to correct systemic problems.

“The Tinubu government, despite facing criticism, is working with a vision to steer Nigeria towards a more functional and prosperous future. Recognising the need for sacrifices and understanding the rationale behind hard decisions can provide a more balanced view of the administration's efforts and intentions."

NUPRC: NIGERIA WINNING WAR AGAINST ILLEGAL BUNKERING,

It is also a major boost for the 2025 budget as Nigeria aims to produce 2.06 million barrels per day this year, at an international crude oil price of $75 per barrel. The country also aims to reduce deficit financing for the over N54 trillion budget this year.

Nigeria has long battled to end oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, where it gets its crude, which accounts for up to 80 per cent of its annual export and as much as that percentage in foreign exchange earnings.

Nigeria's oil theft and pipeline vandalism problem remains a long-standing issue that has severely impacted the country's economy, security, and environment. The Niger Delta region, which produces most of Nigeria's crude oil, has been a hotspot for these illegal activities.

The problem of stolen crude is further exacerbated in Nigeria because of the international connection and weak law enforcement, as some of the oil is sold to refineries abroad, creating a lucrative underground market for foreign buyers.

Nigeria loses billions of dollars annually due to oil theft, reducing government revenue and foreign exchange earnings. Oil spills from vandalised pipelines also pollute water bodies, destroy farmlands, and harm biodiversity.

To salvage the situation, the federal government has recently taken some measures, including deploying more military forces and surveillance technology, giving out pipeline protection contracts to local private security firms, like those led by ex-militants, making arrests and continuing to destroy illegal refineries as well as investment in monitoring systems.

But at the Abuja event, Komolafe stated that due to the renewed onslaught on oil theft, crude production in Nigeria now averages 1.75 million barrels per day, with gas production now hitting 7 billion

standard cubic feet per day (scfd).

“Oil theft averaged 108,000 bpd in Q1, 2022 resulting in the shutdown of trunklines (TNP, TFP, NCTL etc).

Production dropped to as low as l million bpd in September 2022 (loss of c. 600, 000 bpd) due to the shutdown of the trunk lines.

“Oil theft has significantly reduced due to the ongoing kinetic and non-kinetic intervention by the government. The oil theft which averaged about 12,000 bpd in the last 24 months further reduced to 5,000 bpd in the last quarter.

“Whereas the production fluctuated around 1.5 million bpd, the sustained fight against oil theft has resulted in steady increase in production. We were able to restore and sustain the production to 1.7 bpd. Efforts are ongoing to increase the production by l million bpd by December 2026,” Komolafe stated.

At the peak of oil theft in 2023, some of those who expressed outrage included: The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Enoch Adeboye as well as the Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Mr Tony Elumelu, an investor in the sector.

However, at the event, Komolafe emphasised the need for a paradigm shift to position Nigeria as a leader in energy security and economic growth, highlighting several reforms and achievements in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

On Nigeria's oil and gas potential and global positioning, he noted that Africa accounts for five of the world's top oil-producing countries, and that the country stands as the continent’s second-largest oil reserve holder.

In the same vein, he stated that Nigeria has the largest gas reserves standing at 209 Trillion Cubic Feet (TCF), with oil reserves estimated at 37.5 billion barrels.

The NUPRC boss stated that since the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021, the

commission had driven several initiatives to enhance regulatory effectiveness and attract investments.

The commission, he said, unveiled its 10-year regulatory and corporate strategic plan (2023–2033) in May 2023, followed by a regulatory action plan for 2024, detailing key industry reforms.

These reforms, according to him, focus on increasing oil and gas reserves and production, enhancing hydrocarbon accounting transparency and achieving cost efficiency and decarbonisation in upstream operations.

Besides, the NUPRC boss noted that the reforms were ensuring stability in host communities, and reducing the carbon footprint of oil and gas activities.

On the 2024 licensing round and investment drive, Komolafe highlighted that NUPRC launched its 2024 round, offering 24 oil and gas assets to investors, explaining that to attract global participation, the commission held roadshows in Houston, Miami, London and Paris, showcasing Nigeria’s energy potential.

Looking ahead, he said the government aims to increase production by 1 million bpd by December 2026 under the ‘Project 1 MMBOPD Initiative’, leveraging collaboration among operators, service providers, financiers and host communities.

Shedding light on the Nigeria Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP), the NUPRC chief executive assured that the project remains at the forefront of the country's energy transition strategy. According to him, it aims to eliminate routine gas flaring, reduce methane emissions, and encourage carbon capture technologies. Additionally, the carbon credits earning framework, he stressed, seeks to monetise decarbonisation efforts while promoting sustainable energy practices.

Giving a brief on revenue growth and financial performance, coupled with industry challenges, he mentioned that NUPRC has consistently exceeded revenue targets. In 2024, the commission, Komolafe said, outperformed its budgeted revenue collection by 84 per cent, marking a strong financial performance for Nigeria’s upstream sector.

To ensure fiscal transparency, the NUPRC, he said, has implemented regulations on hydrocarbon metering, fiscal oil price determination, and cargo declaration systems to curb revenue leakages and crude oil theft.

Speaking on host community engagement and regulatory transparency, the commission, he explained, has incorporated 137 Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs) to foster local participation and stability in oil-producing regions. Furthermore, the Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre (ADRC), according to him, has been established to resolve conflicts efficiently, reducing disruptions to oil and gas operations. In light of all these developments, Komolafe emphasised that Nigeria was more ready for business than ever, citing the government’s commitment to regulatory certainty, investment-friendly policies, and global competitiveness.

“With a stable political environment, a growing gas economy, and a clear roadmap for energy transition, Nigeria positions itself as a prime destination for energy investments in Africa,” he added. He further reaffirmed NUPRC’s commitment to collaborating with global investors, financiers, and energy stakeholders to unlock the nation’s full hydrocarbon potential while driving sustainable development in Nigeria. According to him, N261.8 billion has so far been remitted to host communities, who at the last count had 138 incorporated trusts and 83 settlers.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Dangote

World's Richest Man, Elon Musk Set to Release “Smartest AI on Earth” Today

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja World's richest person, Elon Musk, a key figure in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) race, has pledged to release what he said is the smartest AI, Grok 3, today (Monday).

The South African-born billionaire, in a post on X, yesterday, hinted that the new release will be the smartest

on earth.

“At times I think Grok 3 is scary smart,” Musk said via video conference at the World Government Summit in Dubai.

Musk noted that the model, which was trained on synthetic data, may reflect on errors it makes by iterating over the data to attain logical coherence, adding that the new model was

reportedly trained on 100,000 Nvidia GPUs, with a reported value exceeding $4 billion, suggesting a significant increase in processing power.

A few weeks ago, several X users, including Alexey Shabanov, a reverse engineer, reported using X's Grok chatbot software to access Grok 3, the replacement for xAI's existing model, Grok 2.

The users claimed that they were able to get the model to answer a variety of questions, including those on coding and logical thinking before their access was taken away, TechCrunch reported.

The release of Grok 3 is following a debacle between Musk and Sam Altman, for the ownership of one of the world’s most prominent AI

CPPE: Nigeria Needs Self-Reliance Policy in Response to Emerging Global Economic Nationalism, De-globalisation

The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), has called on the federal government to commit to policy of economic self-reliance and less dependence on other countries in the emerging new global order that is progressively leaning towards economic nationalism, de-globalisation and economic fragmentation.

The CPPE made this call yesterday in a public statement titled “Trump Effect on the Nigerian Economy,” which also warned that Nigeria’s 2025 budget benchmark of $75 per

barrel crude oil could be threatened by the US President Donald Trump’s commitment to achieving lower global oil price by increasing investments in the production of fossil energy in the USA and potential containment of the Russia war on Ukraine and the Israeli’s war in Gaza.

The Chief Executive Officer of CPPE, Dr. Muda Yussuf, pointed out that USA is in a good position to influence global oil output and lower crude oil price in the international market as the world’s largest producer of crude oil with control of 22 per cent global oil production as well as President Trump’s recent signing

of an Executive Order creating the National Energy Dominance Council.

Yusuf said: “There is a need for the government to commit more to the policy of self-reliance and less import dependence in critical areas of the economy, especially energy, food, pharmaceuticals and security. Excessive import dependence poses a major risk to economic and social security of a country.

“A key lesson from the disruption is that no country should be too dependent on others for its strategic needs. Therefore, there is a need to ensure that policies of government are geared towards ensuring economic

tools, OpenAI. But their relationship deteriorated after Musk left the startup in 2018 to create his own AI company, xAI.

In February 2024, Musk filed

a lawsuit against OpenAI and its management, claiming that the company's recent path had gone against its core values, but dropped the complaint shortly after.

Expert Blames Nigeria's Lack of Economic Prosperity on Ineffective Utilisation of Raw Materials

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

resilience that minimises vulnerabilities to external shocks.”

According to him, the emerging new global order is progressively leaning towards economic nationalism, de-globalisation and economic fragmentation.

His words: “domestic economic policies must be framed within the context of this reality. Nigeria's trade and industrial policies are very critical to achieving this resilience.

“The government should urgently address current productivity shortcomings in the real sector to make domestic production competitive domestically and internationally.

Binance Bribery Allegation: Go to Court, HURIWA Tells Named Legislators

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has urged lawmakers mentioned in a $150 million bribery allegation by the Binance’s Head of Financial Crime Compliance, Tigran Gambaryan, to approach a court of law to prove their innocence.

HURIWA in addition challenged the lawmakers accused of demanding the $150 million bribe to prevent

Gambaryan's arrest and prosecution in Nigeria over alleged financial crimes to make themselves available if summoned by any US court.

Agbese who denied the allegation, have threatened to seek redress in court.

HURIWA recalled that in a post on X on Saturday, the Binance executive said: “Many requested that I stay on and provide further commentary on the issues I posted about yesterday. Here’s the hard truth: what I shared was meant to fill in the gaps left by Wired and NPR’s reporting".

"We acknowledge the obvious fact that the legislators named as demanding bribes by Mr. Gambaryan have strenuously denied their involvement in the bribery scam and we don't have contrary evidence for now to doubt them. Says $75 per barrel crude oil price may not hold

Recall that Gambaryan had on Friday, using his X handle (formerly tweeter), mentioned Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, Hon. Philip Agbese and Hon. Peter Akpanke as the lawmakers who demanded the bribe from him. While he had claimed that the legislators asked him to wire the funds to their cryptocurrency; Onwusibe and

Reacting to Gambaryan's post, the pro-transparency and civil society

organization, faulted the approach the federal government has adopted in handling the allegations by simply dismissing it with a mere wave of hand as was done by the minister of Information and National Orientation.

The Director General, Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Martin Ike-Muonso has blamed Nigeria’s ineffective utilisation of her raw materials for the nation's lack of economic prosperity.

Ike-Muonso stated this while delivering a public lecture at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), according to a press release by the RMRDC Director, Mr. Chuks Ngaha.

Speaking at the maiden public lecture themed "Raw Materials Education and Sustainable Development in Contemporary Nigeria,"

Ike-Muonso warned that recession is eminent if Nigeria is unable to effectively utilise and add value to its abundant raw materials before export.

He underscored the critical role raw materials play in national development and sustainable prosperity, identifying several reasons why raw materials are critical to development, including their role as fundamental input in production processes, their impact on the quality of final products, and their potential to create new markets and improve trade balances.

"Africa's underdevelopment is tied to the non-processing of its raw materials on its soil," he said, highlighting the historical factors that have contributed to the continent's underdevelopment, including the transatlantic slave trade, colonialisation, and the exploitation of raw materials.

To achieve prosperity, Ike-Muonso advocated for the development of

raw materials into useful industrial input, stressing that "research and development drive innovation and industrialisation, leading to economic growth and prosperity."

He also emphasised the importance of education on raw materials, citing its potential to promote value addition, reduce dependence on imports, and foster stability and supply chain management.

"Raw materials education is crucial for sustainable development and economic diversification in Nigeria," Ike-Muonso said, calling for its integration into national curricula and strengthening institutions like the RMRDC.

He noted that manufacturers should support raw materials education to ensure long-term resource availability, enhance supply chain resilience, drive innovation and efficiency, strengthen corporate social responsibility, and support circular economy principles.

"As President Tinubu said, 'Africa's natural resources are shaping the future,' but we must add value to these resources to reap the benefits," he emphasised

The Vice Chancellor of ESUT, Prof Aloysius Michael Okolie in his address stated that though the nation is greatly blessed with natural resources, the challenge is harnessing these resources for economic development.

Okolie, who was represented by Prof. Nnenna Nwobodo-Nzeike stressed the need for stakeholders to come together-- the researchers, academia, industrialists and government, to build a vibrant and industrial competitive environment for sustainable national growth.

Dike Onwuamaeze

NACCIMA'S COURTESY VISIT TO FORMER PRESIDENT OBASANJO...

National President

Fundraising: Enugu Security Trust Fund Rakes in N3bn

Arthur Eze: Governor Mbah has transformed Enugu

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

The bid to consolidate the improved security of lives and property in Enugu has gathered momentum with well-meaning individuals and corporate bodies rallying over N3 billion in donations to the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF).

The donations were made both physically and online during a fundraising dinner organised by the fund at the Old Government Lodge, Enugu.

More than N3 billion was realised

from individuals and corporate bodies, as respected business mogul and philanthropist, Prince Arthur Ezeh, commended Governor Peter Mbah for his strides in security and infrastructural development.

In his opening remarks, Chairman of the fund’s Board of Trustees (BOT), and Group Managing Director of Afrinvest West Africa Limited, Dr. Ike Chioke, commended the Mbah administration for the huge impact and investments made in the area of security, including the constitution and inauguration of the Board of

FCMB, Union Systems Renew Partnership to Boost Nigeria’s Trade, Finance

To further strengthen Nigeria's trade finance sector, First City Monument Bank Limited (FCMB) and Union Systems Limited (USL) have renewed their partnership for the bank's continued use of Kachasi, a fully automated, end-to-end platform providing comprehensive local and international trade finance solutions.

This aligns with FCMB's purpose of fostering inclusive and sustainable growth by building a supportive ecosystem that connects people, capital, and markets.

Both organisations stated that the platform developed by USL, Kachasi is Africa's leading trade finance software, designed to meet the unique needs of financial institutions.

The bank's Group Head of International Trade Service, Taiwo Shekoni, said: “The platform facilitates convenient, prompt, and secure trade transactions while ensuring compliance with local and international regulations.

“Additionally, it enables businesses engaged in import and export trade to operate more efficiently and access

opportunities in the global market.

"The continued partnership between Union Systems and FCMB affirms the transformative impact of Kachasi on our trade finance operations."

He added that: "The software has become an indispensable tool for our trade finance operations by automating processes, enhancing compliance, and providing insightful analytics. This renewal represents more than just a software agreement; it signifies a shared commitment to innovation, excellence, and the future of trade finance in Nigeria."

Shekoni added that: “FCMB is committed to driving sustainable economic growth in Nigeria. Between January and June 2024, the Bank facilitated over $900 million in export trade flows, supporting the government's economic diversification efforts.”

He disclosed that FCMB is a member of FCMB Group Plc, adding that: “The bank is committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable growth by building a supportive ecosystem rooted in Africa (primarily Nigeria) that connects people, capital, and markets.”

Trustees of the Enugu State Security Trust Fund a year ago.

Chioke stressed that security was everybody’s business.

He said the only way to achieve the $30 billion GDP mark set by the governor was sustaining and consolidating the successes made in securing lives and property through contributions by citizens, corporate bodies and all levels of government.

Chioke said, “So, our target is N20 billion. Our population as a state is well over five million people. We think that two million working adults in the state, assuming each person contributing N1,000 every month, that is N2 billion a month already.

“If you get N2 billion naira a month for 12 months, it means that

the citizens alone can raise N24 billion. That is for individuals alone before adding the government. That tells you our capacity.”

Mbah, on his path, recalled the grave security situation at the time his administration came on board, stating that there is no room for complacency despite the massive successes.

He said, “Back then, criminals gleefully posted bodies of security personnel and the arms they had stolen through their brazenly regular attacks.

“But what difference 20 months make! Such wanton attacks have been pushed to the darkest recess of history. We have gained control of our streets. The outlaws who once

held our people hostage have either been neutralised or fled.

“The pleasant experience arising from the vastly improved security is widespread: The businessman who could not open his shop and incurred losses as a result has found the confidence to do so; the child, who could not go to school every Monday in the past can now confidently do so without any fear; our security men and women can now carry on their law-enforcement duties without any brazen attack.

“But our job is not done yet; it needs to be sustained.”

Highlighting the massive investments of his administration in security, Mbah said there was much more to be done through

concerted effort. He stated, “We have invested substantially in securing our state, and continue to do so, because there are no half measures in the fight against insecurity.

“The Enugu State Command and Control Centre is a logistical novelty built via cutting-edge innovation comparable to what exists in more advanced countries.

“It was a moment of pride for us when it was commissioned in January to national acclaim, by the president.

“Even when no security official is in sight, our round-the-clock surveillance system that covers our streets and neighbourhoods still ensures strict vigilance. The ultimate goal is to nip crime in the bud.

Omokri: How to Stop USAID, Other Foreign Agencies from Funding Terror in Nigeria

Emmanuel

Addeh in

Abuja

Author and Public Commentator, Reno Omokri, has argued that if Nigeria wants to defend her territorial integrity and ensure internal security, the National Assembly must without delay, pass a law that all Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in Nigeria that receive funding from foreign governments, agencies and individuals must declare such monies.

This followed the recent revelations that the Barack Obama and Joe Biden administrations allegedly funded Boko Haram in Nigeria through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

If they do not declare such funds, Omokri argued that their registrations should be reversed and their licenses revoked. Any such funds traced to them will be forfeited to the federal government, he maintained in a statement yesterday.

“If we do not do this, Nigeria will continue to be vulnerable to

external forces who use money to induce unpatriotic citizens to wreak social havoc and undermine our government through activities that weaken the moral fabric of our society, unnaturally change our culture, and create divisions and mutual suspicions amongst the various ethnic nationalities that make up Nigeria.

“#EndSARS was funded from abroad. Look at the damage it did to Nigeria. According to the private ratings firm, Financial Derivatives Company, the infrastructural damage to Lagos State alone was N1.5 trillion.

“The Lagos State Government built the best forensic laboratory in Africa, and that facility was burnt to the ground after Nnamdi Kanu's broadcast to his supporters where he instructed them to "burn Lagos to the ground", Omokri alleged.

That forensic investment, along with other multi-billion Naira public infrastructure, including 80 BRT buses and several courthouses and police stations, he said, were razed during

the #EndSARS protests, stressing that it was why MohBad's autopsy had to be done in America rather than Nigeria.

“And then last year's Days of Rage protest inflicted damage worth N200 billion on Northern Nigeria, and almost destabilised Nigeria to the point where Russian flags were being paraded to instigate a Burkina Faso/Mali/Niger type regime change in Nigeria.

“Many foreign intelligence services are using religious cults and NGOs to further their devices in Nigeria, and we must lift the veil on them by making the funding of these groups transparent.

“We saw the nationwide damage done in Kenya during last year's protests, which, according to President William Ruto, were funded by the Ford Foundation, based in the US. If we do not learn from Congressman Scott Perry's revelations on USAID's funding of Boko Haram, we may end up being the next Kenya. Or even worse, the next Somalia!” he pointed out.

If the National Assembly does not act or is dragging its feet on this matter, Omokri said that President Bola Tinubu may want to borrow a leaf from President Donald Trump, and use executive orders to achieve this in the short to medium term.

“Let it be known that in the United States, Russia, and China, you cannot receive foreign donor funds as an NGO without first registering with the government for that purpose. Therefore, those nations and others ought not to do in Nigeria what they will not tolerate in their homeland.

“The national mood is right and ripe for such an intervention. Nigerians would be united behind the President if he took such action. But if it is not taken now, our people are notorious for their short memories.

“We will move on to the next beef between Wizkid and his lesser-status Afrobeats wannabe rivals, who have repeatedly suffered frustration in their quest to be Grammy-rated like the 001 of music in Africa,” Omokri said.

The

of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye Esq. (left); former President Olusegun Obasanjo (middle), with other members of NACCIMA delegation, during a courtesy visit to the former President at the Obasanjo Presidential Library, in Abeokuta, Ogun State ... recently

Sunday Okobi

10TH ACCESS LAGOS CITY MARATHON THEMED “MILES TO MEMORIES”...

NCAA at 25: Keyamo, NCAA DG Canvass Deeper Economic Regulation, Tech Adaptation for Safer Aviation

Oronsanya’s Report almost killed NCAA, says Keyamo

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and Director-General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, have canvassed technological adaptation and deeper economic regulation to drive safer Nigerian aviation industry.

Keyamo and Najomo spoke at NCAA’s 25 Years Anniversary symposium held in Abuja at the weekend.

The symposium had the theme, "Human Capital Development: Upskilling the next generation of aviators."

At the NCAA 25 years anniversary and gala/award night in Abuja, Keyamo disclosed that save for President Bola Tinubu’s intervention, the much talked about merger of ministries, agencies and parastatals by the Oronsanya's report

SERAP Demands

would have killed NCAA.

The report had suggested the merger of Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and NCAA.

Keyamo, in his speech at the NCAA 25-year anniversary and gala night award in Abuja, said, "We should thank God that is during our tenures as minister, as DG, as directors that we have reached this silver jubilee stretch in the journey of the NCAA.”

Meanwhile, at the symposium, Keyamo, represented by Permanent Secretary in the aviation ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, stressed, "Whilst NCAA has achieved maximum success over the past 25 years, sustaining these accomplishments requires a deliberate focus on safety planning, stakeholders’ collaboration and adoption of innovative practices especially focusing on training and restraining."

Reversal

of ATM Transaction Fees Hike, Slams CBN

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has given the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, a 48-hour ultimatum to reverse the newly announced hike in Automated Teller Machine transaction fees, calling it “unlawful, unfair, unreasonable, and unjust.”

In an open letter dated February 15, 2025, signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation urged CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso to immediately reverse the policy.

The organisation argued that it would worsen the financial hardship faced by Nigerians, particularly lowincome earners.

The letter was titled, “SERAP gives CBN 48 hours to Withdraw ‘Unlawful, Unfair Hike in ATM Transaction.”

According to the CBN’s February 10, 2025 circular, ATM withdrawals made at machines outside a bank’s branch premises will now attract a N100 charge per N20,000 withdrawn, while withdrawals at shopping centres, airports, and standalone cash points will carry an additional surcharge of up to N500 per N20,000 withdrawal.

SERAP contended that the increase contradicts Section 42(1)(a) of the CBN Act 2007, which mandates the apex bank to ensure “adequate and reasonable financial services for the public” in the national interest.

It also cited Section 1(c)(d) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018, which seeks to “protect and promote the interests and welfare of consumers” and prohibits “restrictive or unfair business practices.”

“The increase in ATM transaction fees will hit the hardest those at the bottom of the economy and exacerbate the growing poverty in the country,”

SERAP stated.

It added: “CBN policies should not be skewed against poor Nigerians and in favour of banks that continue to declare trillions of naira in profits at the expense of their customers.”

The organisation argued that imposing exorbitant fees at a time when many Nigerians are struggling economically is “manifestly unfair, unreasonable, and unjust.”

It warned that the policy creates a two-tiered financial system, discriminating against economically vulnerable citizens who may not afford the extra charges.

SERAP said: “The increase in fees contradicts the Tinubu administration’s commitment to addressing poverty.

“The CBN is failing to comply with the Nigerian Constitution, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, and international human rights obligations.”

SERAP demanded that the CBN reverses the decision within 48 hours of the receipt and/or publication of its letter or face legal action.

He stated that NCAA's Silver Jubilee celebration aimed to emphasise the importance of aviation safety as the foundation for the growth and development of aviation.

Keyamo stated that aviation safety was not a one-time achievement but a continuous process of adaptation and improvement with advancement in technology, rising passengers demand and increasing globalisation, adding that the dynamics of aviation safety are evolving rapidly.

Similarly, Najomo said as the authority celebrated its current achievements, "we must also look ahead to embracing new technologies, improving operational efficiencies, and fostering partnerships that will elevate our aviation industry to even greater heights."

He added, "In propelling NCAA to aspirational heights, and in line with this symposium, we are faithfully guided by the Honourable Minister's Five-Point Agenda and ultimately Mr. President's Renewed Hope Agenda, both of which emphasise infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation."

He stated, “As we chart the course over the next 25 years and beyond, let us reaffirm our resolve to uphold the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and global best practices."

To enhance the economic regulatory capabilities of the NCAA, Najomo

announced that a team of ICAO trainers had been invited to train NCAA staff on effective economic regulations.

The keynote speaker and former Rector at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Samuel Caulcrick, said by investing in subsidised aviation training, Nigeria could cultivate a diverse and talented pool of aviators destined to drive growth and innovation within our industry.

"As we envision the future, prioritising human capital development in aviation is paramount. We must invest in the next generation of aviators, equipping them with skills and training that will propel our industry to exceptional heights," Caulcrick said.

Director, Human Resources and Administration, NCAA, Dr. Anastasia Gbem, who was also NCAA @25 Planning Committee Chairperson, said NCAA'S goal was to continue to increase and sustain safety in the skies.

Gbem said, "These we cannot do without human capital. Human capital is one of the most critical assets of an organisation that wants to succeed thus priority is given to human capital development at NCAA."

Chief Operating Officer, Mr. George Uriesi, acknowledged NCAA’s effective regulatory capabilities.

Uriesi said, "I know how effective Ibom Air is regulated but, the NCAA is effective and very professional, and no matter the relationship you have

with the agency, you will have to do what is right."

Meanwhile, at the gala night, Keyamo said from the story of the former minister, “I am sure you have seen that the NCAA is a child of God that despite turbulent waters, an attempt sometimes to kill the NCAA, the NCAA have survived 25 years and I am sure you know that any child that was born 25 years ago, that undoubtedly is at the age of maturity by then you should have graduated, served and would have started working, so 25 years is the age of maturity.”

Keyamo added, "But let me tell you my small story. All this prepared speech, I don't like them. Unknown to a few people, you know the Oronsanya's Report recommended the merger of NCAA and NAMA and so that was another attempt to kill the NCAA.

"That report was passed on from Jonathan's government to Buhari's government and then to the present government. And so throughout the tenure of Buhari's government we couldn't consider that report, coincidentally I was the only surviving minister till this government so I was part of that government and it came up in few times in council but we couldn't consider it.

“But guess what, it was considered in this government. So, the report came up that day and I was ready with my battle axe and so the president went on and on to consider every item in the

Oronsanya's Report, asked council to vote and so they came to a conclusion and the president said merger of NCAA and NAMA and I raised my hand and said, no.”

Keyamo explained, "I spoke for about five minutes and because we have a president who listens to good counsel and good arguments, after I finished speaking, he said item dropped, NCAA and NAMA would not be merged

"So, Sir, like a good son, the baton you passed on to your son, I kept the baton alive by making sure that the NCAA did not die if not, by now we will be talking about the merger of NCAA and NAMA.

"Today we celebrate the heroes and heroines of this very great body that has ensured that our skies remain very safe we thank you so much for your industries, your expertise, for everything you have done to keep the skies in Nigeria safe.

"Today we honour our past DGs and past Directors who are here as Aviation remains a pillar of national development and it facilitate trade, tourism, investment and cultural exchange.”

The minister said, “While the agency is yet to realise it's full potentials in terms of contribution on national and nations gross domestic products (GDP), we must renew our commitment to a more progressive, sustainable, inclusive, innovative and prosperous aviation industry.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State on Saturday advocated increment in the derivation fund for crude oil producing states from13 percent to 30 percent, insisting that 13 percent is deprivation.

should extend the 60 or 30 per cent sharing formular being proposed in the National Assembly on Value Added Tax (VAT).

According to him, over the years, the only excuse the state has for development is the difficulty of the terrain.

100 per cent.”

Inaugurating the OnuebumOtuoke road project, Governor Caleb Mutwang of Plateau State said he was impressed by the pace of development in Bayelsa and also backed calls for increase of the derivation funds to oil-producing states and practice of fiscal federalism.

His words: “They say the terrain is too difficult to develop but in the same terrain, God put oil and gas under the soil. God knew the terrain would be too difficult to develop, so he put abundant resources under our soil.

Infrastructure, Moses Teibowei, explained that the Onuebum-Otuoke road which is a single carriageway measuring approximately 6.5km with six culverts, a sand-filling height of approximately 2 metres and a width of 7.3 metres.

Senator Diri stated this while commissioning the Onuebum-Otuoke Road in Ogbia Local Government Area and Legislator’s Quarters (New Yenagoa City G.R.A) in Yenagoa Local Government Area as part of activities to mark his 5th anniversary in office. He maintained that 13 percent is a deprivation than blessing to the people of the Niger Delta region, noting it represented 85 percent deprivation to the region and therefore demanded that federal government

The Plateau governor said he started coming to Bayelsa State in 1993 when he got married to his wife who hails from the state and noted the project would open up the area for further development. He announced a donation of N15 million to the Onuebum and Otuoke communities as well as students at the Federal University, Otuoke.

The Otuoke and Onuebum communities in an address presented by Chief Elliot Osomu, expressed gratitude to the Governor Diri-led administration for constructing the road, requested more projects and provision of electricity to the area Gov Diri: 13% is Deprivation, Give Oil- producing States 30% Derivation Fund

“But the federal government decided to take the resources while claiming that the land belongs to us but the resources belong to the federal government. Under that injustice, they are giving us 13 per cent of

Earlier, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Works and

He said it was awarded in February 2023 after it was damaged during the 2022 floods, and constructed in fulfillment of the governor’s campaign promise to improve connectivity across communities.

L-R: Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Chairman, National Sport Commission, Alhaji Shehu Dikko; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and former SSA on Sports in the State, Mr. Anthony Adeboye during the10th Access Lagos City marathon themed “Miles to Memories”, at the Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island, on Saturday

WORLD GOVERNMENTS SUMMIT 2025 IN DUBAI...

Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, President & Vice-Chancellor, African School of Governance (ASG) in Kigali, Rwanda, and H.E. Andrzej

Soyinka: How I Wrote ‘Death and The King's Horseman’

Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has revealed that his book, “Death and The King's Horseman,” was written in two and a half days. Soyinka said this on Saturday in Abuja at the unveiling of “CreaTent and Books of Aphorisms” by one of his mentees, Mohammed Bello.

“Death and the King's Horseman” builds upon a true story on which Soyinka based the play, to focus on the character of Elesin, the king's horseman.

According to some Yoruba traditions, the death of the king must be followed by the ritual suicide of the king's horseman as well as the king's dog and horse, because the horseman's spirit is essential

to helping the king's spirit ascend to the afterlife.

Otherwise, the king's spirit will wander the earth and bring harm to his people, it is believed.

Soyinka explained that the idea had been in him for many years before he decided to put it into writing, adding that other people have written about the myth about the king and the horseman.

He said, “Finally, I couldn't help it anymore. So instead of committing, I found pleasure. Which is trying to restore a symbol that is standing right now, which has proved to me one of the most successful plays I've ever written.

“But the important thing, and that's what I want to address, the important

in Two and Half Days

thing is that writing that play did not begin when I sat down. Obviously, it had been there.

“You see yourself in the subconscious, and finally, it is ready. Many people would not believe that I wrote that play in two and a half days. Literally, a month and a half. That was the nature of it. The power to respond to it. Not necessarily immediately.”

The Nobel laureate urged writers not to be discouraged when they were stuck in their writing.

He said, “And don't worry if you wanted to write a play and it just didn't come out and you had to do it. Go and do other things. Go and play soccer, if you like.

“Go and listen to music. Go and see your friends. Have a party. Join a construction gang who occupy themselves with the community. Anything whatsoever.

“Inspiration is not mysterious. It's a question of just opening your mind to take up what others are not. So, I recommend this pamphlet.”

On his part, the governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, blamed the absence of deep thinking and lack of educated analysis on the national discourse by graduates of higher institutions of learning on the dying reading culture.

Sani, represented by his Principal Secretary, Professor Bello Ayuba, said

At 2025 Munich Security Conference, Natasha Advocates Gender Equity Governance Inclusiveness

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has advocated gender equity and inclusive governance to guarantee global peace and security.

She made the call to action at the 2025 Munich Security Conference, over the weekend, according to a statement on Sunday by her media aide, Arogbonlo Israel.

She spoke alongside global leaders like the President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, and former Prime Minister of Finland, Sanna Marin. Akpoti-Uduaghan, the statement added, brought a unique African

perspective to the conversation.

She highlighted the struggles and triumphs of women in politics and decision-making in Nigeria and beyond.

The discussion focused on the increasing challenges faced by women in leadership, the resurgence of gender-based discrimination, and the role of women in peacebuilding efforts worldwide.

The Kogi Central federal lawmaker emphasised the need to break systemic barriers that hinder women's participation in leadership.

She also stressed the need to strengthen policies that protect women from political violence

and discrimination.

The Senator said: "The backlash against gender inclusivity in politics and security is not just a setback for women; it is a setback for global development.

“The world must move beyond rhetoric and take concrete actions to ensure that women are not just included in peace and security discussions but are given equal opportunities to lead and influence policies."

The statement added that the senator's participation at the MSC 2025 reinforces her growing influence as a champion for women's rights, governance reforms, and inclusive security policies.

Part of the statement read:

“Her advocacy aligns with global efforts to push back against gender regression and ensure that women remain at the forefront of decisionmaking in peace and security matters.

“As the MSC concluded, the consensus among panelists and global delegates was clear: a collective and sustained effort is needed to counteract gender backlash and empower women to shape the future of global peace and security.

“The senator's contributions at the MSC 2025 reaffirm her position as a transformative leader, not just in Nigeria but on the global stage.”

Lagos Set to Host Massive Interdenominational Prayer Service

Mary Nnah

Seeking peace and prosperity of Nigeria, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos Branch, has announced its annual InterDenominational Divine Service (IDDS) 2025.

Themed, “Total Restoration”, taken from Joel 2:25, the prayer programme is scheduled for Saturday, February 22nd, at the LAWNA Territorial Headquarters of the Apostolic Church.

According to a press release signed by Rev. Oladapo Emmanuel

Daramola, Special Adviser to the Chairman of Lagos CAN on Media, Public Relations, and Strategic Communications, the event promises to be a momentous occasion, drawing thousands of Christians from across the state to pray for the nation and commit its leaders into God's hands.

The Lagos CAN Chairman, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, stressed the need for Christians to come together and pray for divine direction and lasting solutions.

His words: "The situation in the country makes it imperative for Christians to gather and pray. Whilst

there are noticeable improvements in some areas due to the bold policy direction embarked upon by the current administrations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Federal level and Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu at the State level, we cannot deny there are other critical sectors of the economy that require attention for the yearnings and expectations of Nigerians, including Lagosians, to be fully met."

Bishop Adegbite further stressed that the level of hunger in the land can be reduced to the barest

minimum, and as Christians continue to partner with the government on realistic measures to improve the situation.

He added they must also recognise the need to continue to intercede and seek God's face for divine direction and lasting solutions. "It is him that we trust," he said.

The event will feature the Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, as the guest preacher. Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, cabinet members, lawmakers, and top religious leaders are expected to attend.

he did not expect anything other than a great work from someone who had benefitted from the immense experience of Soyinka.

He stated, “The fact that the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has adopted this literary work for use in the country's public schools is a clear testimony of the worth of the material we are introducing to the public today.

“Writers, young and old, should double up on their efforts to ginger the nation into reviving our reading culture, whose side effect is sadly manifest in the absence of deep thinking and educated analysis that we often see in our national discourse and from the products of our higher institutions of learning.

“We in leadership positions at all levels must see this as a challenge; we must not hesitate to encourage efforts such as this in whatever way we can. That way we would rejuvenate interest

in learning in and out of the school system for the good of the society.”

The author said “CreaTent and Books of Aphorisms” was a literary arts initiative born out of the need to provide a nurturing habitat for young creatives.

Bello said, “It is observable that many parents of artistically gifted children in our part of the world often don't even realize they have a creative child whose gift needs a different kind of attention.” He explained that he started writing from a very young age, though he struggled to find mentors. According to him, “I started writing from a very young age, and although I didn't know what I was writing. During my university education in the United States, I discovered aphorisms - literary philosophy. These are concise expressions of universal truth, and I have published two books about them.

Akume Insists Tinubu Means Well for the Nation

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, has said President Bola Tinubu means well for the nation, pledging to continue to work hard to support the Nigerian leader to achieve his many laudable programmes and vision for the country.

Akume expressed these positions at the weekend when he was decorated as "Star Associate of President Tinubu,” and Grand Patron of the Nationwide Tinubu Connect Associates (NTCA).

The SGF made the declaration while he was decorated as "Star Associate of President Tinubu" by the National Co-ordinator/ President of the Nationwide Tinubu Connect Associates (NTCA), Hon. Henry Nwabueze, who led a delegation of leaders of the Movement to the SGF 's office at the weekend in Abuja.

Akume pledged to continue to support the policies of President Bola Tinubu in his quest to make Nigeria safe and economically viable again.

He also pledged to continue to work hard to support the Nigerian leader to achieve his many laudable programmes and vision for the country.

Nwabueze, on his part said

Akume has given so much in service to Nigeria and in support for the Tinubu Administration that he became the best choice for the position of the Movement's Grand Patron and the first to receive the award of "Star Associate of President Tinubu," an award intended for those in diverse fields of endeavour whose very efforts are promoting the vision of Mr. President for a better Nigeria. According to Nwabueze, a former President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and delegate at the 2014 Nigerian National Conference under Justice Kutigi, initiated by the Jonathan Administration, Sen. Akume represents the Tinubu administration's efforts aimed at injecting competence, maturity as well as discipline and hard work in public governance.

He thanked the SGF for accepting the two honours, revealing that in the weeks ahead Nigerians would see the advocacy campaigns of the movement in support of President Tinubu's efforts at repositioning the country.

He reiterated the advice to Nigerian politicians that anyone who is wishing to contest for the office of president in 2027 should have a rethink, stressing that there will be no vacancy in Aso Rock Villa in that year.

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Duda, President of Poland, at the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai, recently.

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611

Fayemi’s Growing Leadership Strength at 60

former Governor of Ekiti state, Dr. Kayode fayemi recently marked his 60th birthday with Commemorative Symposium and Launch of the amandla Policy and Leadership Institute in abuja. The calibre of people in attendance speaks volume about his influence and leadership style, two years after leaving office.

It is not uncommon in Nigeria for celebrants to celebrate birthdays in a glamorous way or in whatever way they deem fit to mark the joyous occasion.

For some, it’s a day to roll out drums and organise merriment for visitors and well wishers.

But for the former former governor of Ekiti state, Dr. Kayode Fayemi who appeared not to be satisfied with the achievements, the impacts and the indelible mark he had imprinted in the sand of time, it was another opportunity to continue to give back to the society with the launch of Amandla Policy and Leadership Institute.

For close friends and associates, it was not surprising that rather than pumping champagne, the former governor used the occasion of his 60th birthday to organise Commemorative Symposium and the launch of his Leadership Institute.

The gathering which took place in Abuja played host to the high and mighty in the society, including former Presidents, royal fathers, politicians, among others.

Some of the dignitaries in attendance were: Vice President Kashim Shettima who represented President Bola Tinubu; former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd); Governor of Ekiti state, Bidoun Oyebanji; Deputy Secretary General of United Nations, Amina Muhammed; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja ii; Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II and former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun.

Others included former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Labour Party’s Presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi; former Governor Segun Oni; former governor Niyi Adebayo; Deputy Governor, Mrs. Monisade Afuye; wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; the Chairman, Ekiti State council of traditional rulers, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro led scores of other traditional rulers to the event, among others.

The occasion also saw former heads of states, presidents, associates, colleagues and friends paying tributes and extolling virtues of Fayemi.

Fayemi is an invaluable ally - Tinubu Giving an insight into his relationship with Fayemi, President Tinubu said his relationship with him dated back to their time together in the pro-democracy movement in the 1990s when they mounted local and international campaigns against military dictatorship.

The President recalled that during the challenging late General Sani Abacha era, civil rights and pro-democracy activists, especially those in exile, had to rely on their ingenuity to survive. He added that Fayemi’s brilliance, commitment, and strategic skills were invaluable to the cause.

Continuing, he noted that after serving as Minister in President Muhammadu Buhari’s first term, Fayemi had the privilege of returning to office as the Governor of Ekiti State in 2018. He noted that as a two-term Governor, he served the people amid severe economic challenges.

Nevertheless, Tinubu said there was no doubt that he made his mark in the governance of Ekiti State.

He added: “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.”

Tinubu emphasised that Fayemi has exemplified service as an academic, author, administrator, and development expert.

He’s an excellent researcher with insatiable thirst for learning - Obasanjo

Slso lending his voice, former President Olusegun Obasanjo said Fayemi has lived a fulfilled life worthy of emulation by all who desire the general good of all. He said the nation will not forget his front row role as a pro-democracy activist and patriot.

He believed that Fayemi has left an indelible mark as an energetic, committed, loyal, tested political player and quintessential rights activist whose calling is to inspire others and improve the quality of life beyond personal gains.

Obasanjo stated: “His response to the annulment of the democratic

process by the military attests to his conviction in not giving up on issues of liberty, equality and freedom of choice when they need to be demanded and stood up for.

“Like many of our compatriots who could not cope with the fistic rule of the time, particularly during the regime of General Sani Abacha, he was an active pro-democracy campaigner. As one of the respected members of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), he refused to be cowed and fought tooth and nail to ensure the enthronement of democracy in Nigeria.

“The nation will never forget his commitment and how he endured harassment and threats to his life under despotic administration in his quest to ensure democracy and good governance and improved standard of living for Nigerians.”

The former President said it was worthy of note that the nation has, in recent time, savoured much of Fayemi’s wisdom, experience and resourcefulness through his direct involvement in the national socio-political scene, proffering solutions to various challenges confronting the country.

Obasanjo revealed that by his personal relationship with Fayemi, he could attest to his being an excellent researcher with insatiable thirst for learning and capability for articulation of most ideas.

“He possesses very strong analytical skills

I am a product of grace and I have so many reasons to be thankful to God at 60. I also want to thank our Governor for making me proud. it could have been otherwise. Things could have gone awry but he is also a product of grace and that is why in spite of the travails that one might experience in the world of politics, we have a very cordial relationship based on mutual love and mutual respect. So, all these things you read on social media are for your entertainment.

in managing change and encouraging innovation, complex project management strategies, leadership and mentoring, coalition building and crisis management. He not only adeptly thinks through multifaceted issues but also exhibits a quick grasp of intricate developmental problems,” the former President noted.

Obasanjo pointed out that Fayemi has an innate capability to communicate the most sophisticated thinking in a clear and concise yet engaging manner.

His sense of patriotism is examplary - Babangida

In his tribute, former Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida was of the opinion that Fayemi comes across as one of the intellectual minds that helped to advance democracy through sustained advocacy and public scrutiny engagements.

Babangida said when Fayemi had the opportunity to govern his state, he brought his progressive ideas and ideals to flourish, and left remarkable achievements that presently serve as benchmarks of his interventions in the leadership equation in Ekiti State.

According to him: “Viewing you Kayode, from the binoculars of three scores, therefore calls for celebration to glorify and appreciate God Almighty for keeping you alive in your trajectory dotted by “risky” adventures in the name of political activism. I salute your courage to stay the cause in entrenching the philosophy of the Progressives.”

In addition, the former President stressed that he finds Fayemi very engaging both in discourse and dissection of contemporary issues in Nigeria.

To Babangida, Fayemi’s background has also helped him to deepen conversations around governance and leadership in shared commitment to seek solutions to societal and developmental challenges in the country. He added that his sense of patriotism has been exemplary and his love for his fatherland has been remarkable.

Fayemi (right) with family members during thanksgiving service to mark his 60th birthday

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JOHN MAYAKI reckons that Okpebholo is renewing the hope of Edo people

LINUS OKORIE argues that excellence should be about effectiveness, not flawlessness

PERFECTIONISM VS. PROGRESS: A LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVE

Leadership is often defined by a commitment to excellence, but what happens when the pursuit of excellence morphs into perfectionism? What happens when the desire to be flawless becomes a roadblock instead of a strength? The truth is, perfectionism is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can drive high-quality work and attention to detail. On the other, it can stifle innovation, slow down decision-making, and create a culture of fear and frustration.

And too many leaders fall into the trap of perfectionism, believing that anything less than flawless execution is a failure. This mindset, however, can slow down decisionmaking, demoralize teams, and hinder innovation. While perfectionists may produce high-quality work, they also risk getting stuck in a cycle of over-analysis, procrastination, and fear of failure. If you're a leader struggling to strike a balance between perfection and progress, it's time to rethink your approach. In this article, we’ll explore how perfectionism manifests in leadership, why it holds you back, and how you can shift towards a more effective, progress-driven mindset without sacrificing quality. Perfectionism in leadership is neither about wanting to do a good job nor setting high standards. Let’s address perfectionism as what it is: It is an obsession with avoiding failure at all costs. This mindset manifests in different ways, each of which can hinder both personal and organizational growth:

One, Fear of Failure. Perfectionist leaders often avoid taking risks because they’re terrified of making mistakes. This fear can lead to missed opportunities and a lack of innovation. For example, a leader might delay launching a new product because they’re waiting for it to be “perfect,” only to be outpaced by competitors who are willing to iterate and improve over time.

Two, Over-Control (Micromanagement)

Perfectionists struggle to trust others to meet their high standards. This can lead to micromanagement, where leaders feel the need to oversee every detail of a project. While this might ensure quality in the short term, it erodes team morale and stifles creativity.

Three, Procrastination. Perfectionists often delay tasks because they don’t feel “ready” to start or finish them. This procrastination can create bottlenecks and slow down progress across the organization.

Four, Unrealistic Standards. Setting impossibly high standards can demoralize teams. When employees feel they can never meet expectations, they may disengage or burn out.

Five, Imposter Syndrome. Perfectionist leaders often feel like frauds, believing their success is due to luck rather than skill. This can lead to overcompensation, where they work even harder to prove themselves, perpetuating the cycle of perfectionism.

Six, Analysis Paralysis. Overthinking decisions is a hallmark of perfectionism. Leaders may get stuck in a loop of gathering more data, seeking more opinions, or refining

plans, which delays action and progress.

The problem is that while perfectionism can produce high-quality outcomes, the cost is often too high: slower progress, frustrated teams, and unnecessary stress. The question is, how can leaders shift from perfectionism to progress?

The antidote to perfectionism is embracing a mindset of progress over perfection. Leaders can learn to embrace progress over perfection by redefining what success looks like and creating a culture that values iteration and learning. Here’s how: Redefine Excellence. Instead of striving for flawless work, aim for effective work. Ask yourself: Does it serve the intended purpose? Does it meet the client’s or stakeholder’s needs? Is it good enough to launch and refine later?

Many successful companies prioritize iteration over perfection. Tech giants like Google and Amazon release minimum viable products and refine them based on real-world feedback rather than waiting for perfection before launch. This approach allows them to innovate rapidly while still delivering highquality experiences. Leaders can apply this same principle to their work by defining what must be flawless and what can be iterative to prevent unnecessary over-polishing. Set Clear Boundaries for Perfection. Not everything needs to be perfect. Define what truly requires a high level of precision and what can be iterative. For instance, a financial report might need to be error-free, but a brainstorming document can be rough and ready. Use deadlines to prevent over-polishing unnecessary details. As author Seth Godin once said, “Ship often. Ship lousy stuff, but ship. Ship constantly.”

Encourage a “Done is Better Than Perfect” Mindset. Teach your team the value of speed and iteration. Celebrate progress and small wins to shift the focus from perfection to improvement. Using deadlines to prevent endless refinement fosters execution as constraints drive action. Speed and iteration often create better results than over-polishing something before release. Encouraging your team to ship work that meets key requirements rather than waiting for perfection builds momentum. Viewing mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures fosters a growth mindset. Celebrating progress and small wins helps shift the focus from unattainable perfection to continuous improvement. When leaders model this behavior, teams feel empowered to act, innovate, and adapt. This shift creates a culture where execution matters more than the illusion of perfection.

One of the biggest ways perfectionism holds leaders back is through decision paralysis. In fast-moving environments, waiting for 100% certainty isn’t realistic.

One of the most significant challenges for perfectionist leaders is making timely decisions. The fear of making the wrong choice can lead to analysis paralysis, where leaders overthink and delay action. Here’s how to overcome this:

Use the 70% Rule. Former CEO of General Electric, Jack Welch, popularized the 70% rule: if you have 70% of the information you need to make a decision, go ahead and make it. Waiting for more data or 100% certainty often means missing opportunities. In fast-moving industries, speed is often more valuable than perfection. Leaders must make timely decisions to keep momentum.

Embrace the “Minimum Viable Decision” Concept. Similar to the “minimum viable product” in product development, the minimum viable decision is the smallest, fastest decision you can make to move forward. It allows you to test your approach, learn from the results, and adjust as needed.

Learn to Tolerate Discomfort. Perfectionism is often rooted in a desire to avoid discomfort— whether it’s the discomfort of failure, criticism, or uncertainty. Leaders must learn to sit with this discomfort and recognize that it’s a natural part of growth. As author Brené Brown says, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.”

The best leaders understand that perfection is an illusion. Instead of chasing an unattainable ideal, they focus on delivering results, learning from experience, and continuously improving. Progress-oriented leadership doesn’t mean lowering standards; it means being strategic about what matters most. Perfectionism slows execution, hinders innovation, and burns out teams. Excellence should be about effectiveness, not flawlessness. By shifting from perfectionism to progress, leaders unlock greater potential—not just for themselves, but for their teams and organizations. The future belongs to those who execute, iterate, and adapt, rather than those who endlessly refine in pursuit of an impossible standard. So, which leader will you choose to be?

Okorie MFR is a leadership development expert spanning 30 years in the research, teaching and coaching of leadership in Africa and across the world. He is the CEO of the GOTNI Leadership Centre. www. gotni.africa

Nuhu Ribadu is serving the country diligently, and with positive results, argues UMAR YAKUBU

A REGION IN AWE OF DISTRACTIONS

There is nothing nobler than risking your life for your country – Nick Lampson

One recalls an archival video featuring Dr. Ahmad Gumi where he elucidates the myriad reasons underpinning the North's purported inability to achieve its developmental potential. The term he invoked to substantiate his argument is "hassada," which can be loosely translated to signify "jealousy" or "envy." Amongst the various reasons he enumerated, the most poignant was our proclivity to undermine the ‘best’ within our ranks, thereby contributing to our lag in progress. Though his perspective may appear fatalistic, for indeed and developments have been made in the region, there are kernels of veracity in his assertions.

The premise of this piece is the recent fracas between Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and Hajiya Naja'atu Muhammad, which has entertained those who revel in witnessing clashes between titans. Lest I be accused of partiality— not that unsubstantiated rumours matter —the current National Security Adviser (NSA) was and remains my boss , a figure I hold in high esteem for myriad reasons that an article alone cannot summarize. Although I have not had the privilege of meeting Hajiya and therefore cannot proffer an informed opinion, it is reasonable to surmise that she is a patriotic individual committed to the nation's development.

However, when scrutinizing a public figure, our focus should be on their public record and their actions or inactions. For instance, in Ribadu's case, an examination of his tenure at the Nigeria Police Force, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the United Nations, and now as the NSA is warranted. Let us delve into issues of incompetence, corruption, abuse of office, integrity, and conflict of interest. What was his performance? If we choose not to dwell on the past, we can critically assess the current NSA's performance in coordinating national security. We should utilize data to evaluate their efficacy. Address the pervasive corruption within security and law enforcement agencies. There are profound issues within the national security apparatus that necessitate rigorous introspection and inquiry, yet we frequently gravitate towards facile, intellectually unchallenging matters. If the focus is not on one's private life, then it pertains to their statements or lack thereof.

Despite the clarifications provided by Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, for the sake of argument, let us assume he labeled then-Senator Bola Tinubu a corrupt individual and now finds himself in Tinubu's administration. What is the point being made? That he altered his stance or that he should not serve under someone he once accused of corruption? Or that he is merely a politician capable of serving any administration? Assuming any of these scenarios, what actions should be taken or who should be appointed in his stead? The crux is that some assertions, though potentially accurate, may be inconsequential. Has he suddenly become corrupt, wealthy, or derelict in his duties? Or is his association with corrupt politicians affecting his performance? Or should ‘good’ people serve only under ‘good’ people?

Those inclined to harbor "hassada" should seek data on coordination, terrorism, border security, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and other crimes afflicting our nation. Inquire why oil theft remains rampant and

our oil revenues diminished. If their concern is genuinely for the North, why not address the illegal mining causing fatalities and financial losses? He should be queried about the numerous allegations of illegal mining in the North and the actions taken by governors and his office. What measures are being implemented to combat various forms of organized crime? With his background as a prosecutor and anti-corruption czar, what efforts are being made to address allegations of corruption within security and law enforcement agencies? As an NSA who happens to be Fulani, what initiatives have been undertaken to resolve the farmer-herder conflict? These are the pertinent issues for genuine advocates of the North and the nation. Obsessing over past statements could be seen as a call for integrity but also a distraction and a nuisance to those who have performed and continue to perform well.

To deflect a bit, I have not seen such energy dissipated yet, I have observed a lack of comparable energy directed at the Multi-Dimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which evaluates poverty through various deprivations such as poor health, lack of education, and inadequate living standards, with Northern states often leading in these metrics. Is this data irrelevant to the discourse? Or are we ignoring that the data indicates most crimes in the North are poverty-induced? Can we overlook the poor governance at state and local levels and expect our security not to be overstretched? I personally believe it is more prudent and economical to incarcerate public officers, especially former governors without immunity, than to continually invest in security equipment. The lower the poverty levels, predominantly in the North, the better our national security outcomes.

Alas I fear, most will innately miss the thrust of this viewpoint; claiming his inconsequential and inapplicable statement (true or false), against his proven value to the motherland. Hassada retards one and all! No doubt, if the task is to excavate the fallibility of any man, every encountered molehill can be seen as Kilimanjaro.

Bottomline, the region needs accelerated development and we need to promote our best. The mediocre are currently manning government houses and local government secretariats. We have seen the kind of frivolous people we send to the National Assembly. And yet, instead of those with capacity to form alliances, we want to join the wagon of vilifying some that have lived the best part of their lives, with huge risks - productively serving the country. For Ribadu, he has risked his life - and continues to serve his country diligently, with positive results. Unless one is possessed with envy, then supporting the better amongst the rotten is the dignified thing to do.

JOHN MAYAKI reckons that Okpebholo is renewing the hope of Edo people

TURNING THE TIDE IN

President Bola Tinubu may have run on Renewed Hope, but the slogan is finding fine expression in Edo State, where Senator Monday Okpebholo is restoring power to the people following an eight-year misadventure of the last administration. Okpebholo emerged victorious from an election that tested democracy’s true essence in the state as it challenged the people to answer the question of whether government exists to serve their real interests or those of errant salesmen in suits with forked tongues.

Okpebholo’s pitch was simple but effective. He called on the people: “Come, let us build a government in our own image and for our interests.” They heeded his call and placed their trust in him. 100 days later, they are counting the gains. One event is particularly illustrative - just weeks into his administration, Governor Okpebholo terminated what was effectively the slave contract of 360 cleaners and absorbed them into the state civil service, where they now earn the minimum wage along with other social protections.

He rescued these workers, mostly women, from the grip of foreign contractors who paid them a pittance while billing the government exorbitantly under an outsourcing arrangement. This exploitative and extortionate model, widely adopted by the previous administration, impoverished Edo sons and daughters while enriching outsiders. It funneled money out of the state, depriving its people of real opportunities. Reports even emerged of jollof rice being flown into the state because the government apparently couldn’t trust the culinary skills of Edo indigenes.

Over the past 100 days, Okpebholo has been undoing such anomalies, restoring a system that dignifies, empowers, and invests in the potential of Edo people. The consultants in suits - who offered nothing but glossy reports and graphs that never left the computer screens - have been replaced with citizens of the state who have a deep understanding of local issues and the intelligence to address them. It is no longer a government of consultants, by consultants, and for consultants.

Some say the positive change is felt even in the weather. Perhaps the gods are pleased with the emergence of a governor that truly respects traditions and Kings, and doesn’t covet heirlooms and artefacts that are not his to claim.

Okpebholo has made bold moves to revive the state’s economy and stimulate growth. On infrastructure, he has resumed action on abandoned road projects crucial to economic activity and access to trade centers. The BeninAuchi road, neglected for years despite its importance, is finally receiving attention. The long-forgotten Upper Ekenwan road is now nearing completion, bringing relief to thousands of commuters. The Aduwawa-Upper Mission junction, a vital artery for trade and transport, is back under construction, undoing the damage of years of neglect. In rural areas, long-overdue repairs are opening up communities once cut off from development, reconnecting them to the state’s economic lifelines.

But roads alone do not bring prosperitysafety does. Under Okpebholo, security has taken center stage. He inherited a state where crime festered under the previous administration’s lack of decisive action. Cult-related violence and highway robberies had become the norm, leaving businesses and residents in fear. That tide is turning. Over 70 new Hilux patrol vehicles have been deployed to security agencies, dramatically improving their capacity to respond to crime. Intelligence-sharing among security forces has been strengthened, and collaboration with local vigilantes has brought community-led solutions into the fold.

EDO

Beyond restoring order, Okpebholo is restoring dignity. His administration has put an end to the exploitative grip of market unions that thrived on extortion, inflating prices and making daily survival a struggle for ordinary Edo citizens. By suspending these oppressive groups, he has stabilized market prices, bringing much-needed relief to traders and consumers alike. Recognizing that economic empowerment is key to lasting change, he has also introduced interest-free loans for small businesses, ensuring that Edo’s traders, artisans, and entrepreneurs can grow without being crushed under the weight of exorbitant borrowing costs.

In healthcare, he has moved swiftly to correct the negligence of his predecessor. A modern health center is under construction in Udomi, Irua, expanding access to quality medical services. His N63.9 billion allocation for healthcare in the 2025 budget underscores a firm commitment to reversing years of underinvestment in the sector. Additionally, a N1.8 billion health insurance scheme has been launched, ensuring that the people of Edo no longer have to choose between their health and financial ruin. Education, too, is getting the attention it deserves. The subvention to Ambrose Alli University has been significantly increased to stabilize the institution, which had suffered from chronic underfunding. Decisive action has been taken to resolve the long-standing plight of medical students from the 2015 set, who had been left in academic limbo by the last administration’s failures. Even the controversial renaming of Edo State University has been reversed, restoring its original identity in alignment with the will of the people.

The past 100 days have marked the beginning of a government that listens, acts, and delivers. Okpebholo is proving that governance is not a private business venture or a playground for consultants - it is about real people, real progress, and a renewed hope that Edo State is once again on the path to greatness.

Mayaki is a journalist, farmer and an Oxford University, and Cambridge Universitytrained entrepreneurship, leadership and sustainability expert

Dr Yakubu writes from Abuja

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

LASSA FEVER AS AN EMBLEM OF SHAME

The health authorities should do more to contain the scourge

It is bad enough that the disease was named after a village in Nigeria, but it is even more depressing that since 1969, Lassa fever has continued to claim the lives of hundreds of people in the country. Even though there have been efforts in the past to contain the scourge, Nigeria has been witnessing frequent outbreaks in recent years. This, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) “could be attributed to reduced response capacity in surveillance and laboratory testing.” The symptoms, which include fever, sore throat, vomiting, back pain, cough, abdominal pain, and general body weakness usually appear six to 21 days after contact with the virus.

Latest figures from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reveal a total of 1,552 suspected cases, 358 confirmed cases and 70 deaths from Lassa fever since the beginning of the year. Nigeria, according to the NCDC Director General, Jide Idris, has continued to witness a steady increase in the number of states reporting Lassa fever cases due to environmental degradation from climate change, and other harmful human activities. “Heads of households are unable to work when exposed to Lassa fever and when other household members are infected, the cost of care and treatment of the disease which is often significant strains existing household income pushing households toward poverty in a swift turn of events,” Idris stated.

cult, especially early in the course of the disease. For that reason, steps should be taken by the government, at all levels, to emphasise routine infection prevention and control measures. Healthcare workers should also be advised to always be careful to avoid contact with blood and bodily fluids in the process of caring for sick persons.

The authorities need to do more if we are ever to rid the nation of the disease that claims the lives of dozens of our citizens on an annual basis

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

The onset of the disease is usually gradual, starting with fever. However, because the symptoms of Lassa fever are so varied and non-specific, clinical diagnosis is often diffi-

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Experts have advised that people should ensure their food (cooked or uncooked) is properly covered while regular handwashing should be adhered to always. The bush around the home should also be cleared regularly while windows and doors should be closed especially when it is nighttime. The public should also be adequately enlightened on the dangers posed by rats in their homes. This should be the responsibility of both the federal ministry of environment and that of information that can deploy the National Orientation Agency (NOA) for a public awareness campaign on the issue. Against the background of repeated commitments by various stakeholders to prevent a recurrence of this disease, what the current outbreak has shown clearly is that if indeed there have been any preventive strategies, they were not implemented. And if implemented, they are not working. We therefore believe that the authorities need to do more if we are ever to rid the nation of the disease that claims the lives of dozens of our citizens on an annual basis. With effective coordination, the current outbreak can be contained quickly before it becomes another national epidemic. But the real challenge is to work towards its total eradication from Nigeria. More attention should be paid to developing the Lassa fever vaccines.

NIGERIA MUST BE FIRM AGAINST THE‘TIGRANS’

Nigeria is one of the most important countries in Africa and a key player in the global Black community. Its economic strength, strategic geographic location, and influence in international affairs have made it a major hub for investment and business. It is no surprise, then, that Binance and its leadership were drawn to Nigeria, seeing the country as a lucrative market.

However, recent developments involving Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan have raised serious concerns. His wild and unsubstantiated allegations against high-ranking Nigerian officials and lawmakers are not just an insult to the nation but a blatant attempt to blackmail and tarnish Nigeria’s image. Such reckless accusations should not be ignored, as they undermine the country’s sovereignty and credibility on the global stage.

The Nigerian government must not take this matter lightly. Further diplomatic, legal, and economic measures should be pursued against Tigran and his company, Binance, to ensure that such behavior is met with firm consequences. If Nigeria fails to act decisively, it risks setting a dangerous precedent— one where foreign actors can manipulate narratives, evade re-

sponsibility for economic crimes, and attempt to pressure the country through international channels.

This situation is not happening in isolation. In early 2024, Binance was accused of operating illegally in Nigeria, engaging in forex manipulation, and conducting economic activities that destabilized the Naira. Both Tigran Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla were arrested and charged with money laundering and illicit financial transactions. While Anjarwalla managed to escape, Tigran was released on diplomatic, health, and compassionate grounds—a gesture of goodwill that is now being repaid with hostility.

Nigeria cannot afford to tolerate individuals like Tigran, who not only engage in questionable financial practices but also resort to baseless and outrageous accusations against the country’s leadership. If strong and unapologetic action is not taken, we will likely witness more figures like Tigran exploiting diplomatic loopholes and using ‘below-the-belt’ tactics to evade accountability for their economic crimes.

The Nigerian government must further explore all available

legal options, including international legal action and targeted economic sanctions against Binance, to hold those responsible accountable. Nigeria is not a playground for foreign business entities looking to manipulate its financial system while disrespecting its institutions and high ranking officials including lawmakers . Nigeria has the capacity to defend its interests and safeguard its economic stability. It must act decisively to ensure that those who attempt to undermine its economy and reputation face the full weight of the law. If necessary, international diplomatic channels should be leveraged to demand a formal apology from Tigran Gambaryan.

Nigeria’s sovereignty, financial stability, and international standing must be protected at all costs. Any attempt to blackmail or pressure the country must be met with strong resistance, ensuring that Nigeria remains in control of its economic and political destiny.

Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja

Email: chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 07010510430

Transforming Cross-Regional Trade through the Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit

In a world where global trade is evolving at an unprecedented pace, Africa and the Caribbean are taking bold steps towards strengthening their economic ties. Historically connected through shared cultures, histories, and challenges, these two regions now stand at the brink of a new era of strategic investment and trade partnerships. To unlock these new economic frontiers, promote crossregional investments, and drive business collaborations across vital industries such as technology, agriculture, manufacturing, and finance, Aquarian Consult Limited (ACL), in collaboration with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, is set to hold the inaugural Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit (AACIS ’25) in Nigeria. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that this will position Africa and the Caribbean as powerhouses for trade, innovation, and sustainable economic growth

In a bold move to strengthen economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean, Aquarian Consult Limited (ACL), in collaboration with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, has announced the inaugural Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit (AACIS ’25). Scheduled to take place from 25th – 28th March 2025 at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Nigeria, this landmark event aims to foster cross-regional investment, encourage trade partnerships, and unlock new economic frontiers across key industries.

For Aquarian Consult, a firm with a 16-year track record in strategy development, business advisory, project management, and capacity building, the summit represents a significant step towards facilitating high-impact investment alliances. Over the years, the company has built a reputation for enhancing business performance and supporting sustainable development in an evolving global economy.

With its theme “Bridging Continents – Africa and the Caribbean: A Partnership for Prosperity”, the summit is designed to drive dialogue among business leaders, policymakers, and investors interested in viable investment opportunities across both regions.

A Vision for Economic Growth

The Summit Coordinator, Hyelsinta Linda Ojo, emphasised the importance of this initiative, noting that the event will provide unparalleled access to credible investment prospects.

“This summit marks a pivotal step in strengthening Africa-Caribbean trade relations and will provide an unparalleled platform for high-level dialogue, strategic networking, and impactful partnerships among policymakers, investors, and business leaders,” Ojo stated.

Further elaborating on the summit’s key mission, she said “The Aquarian Consult Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit ’25 is a strategic initiative aimed at deepening economic integration, enhancing cross-border investment, and fostering sustainable business collaborations.”

Beyond investment, the summit will serve as a hub for knowledge exchange, providing insights into market trends, investment risks, and growth sectors that can benefit from African-Caribbean collaboration.

Key Objectives of AACIS ’25

The Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit ’25 is designed to be transformative, with a focus on fostering cross-regional partnerships that will benefit both continents. Some of its core objectives include: Showcasing African investment opportunities to Caribbean investors; African investment opportunities to African investors; and Caribbean investment opportunities to African investors.

With the participation of key stakeholders from both regions, AACIS ’25 is poised to strengthen economic alliances, create new markets, and support collaborative business ventures that will redefine Africa-Caribbean trade relations.

A Summit with a Difference

Unlike traditional business forums, AACIS ’25 is designed to offer a comprehensive investment ecosystem, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and investors under one roof.

The summit will feature Insightful keynote addresses from global leaders; High-level plenary sessions exploring trade, policy, and investment dynamics; Sector-focused breakout discussions on industries such as technology, agriculture, manufacturing, and finance; and dynamic exhibition floor, where businesses of all sizes can showcase innovative products and services to potential investors.

According to Ojo, the event is structured to bring policymakers together to discuss ways to facilitate ease of doing business and investment, adding that “the idea is to bring both policymakers into the same room so that they can have a discourse on how to facilitate ease of doing business and investment”.

This high-level engagement is expected to bridge existing investment gaps, enhance policy alignment, and promote bilateral agreements that will drive sustainable economic growth across both regions.

Meanwhile, AACIS ’25 will host an impressive lineup of speakers, including Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, who will deliver the keynote address alongside his official delegation; and Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former President of Mauritius, who will also take the stage to share her expertise in economic development and international investment.

With such esteemed personalities in attendance, the summit is expected to offer unparalleled insights into policy-driven economic transformations, business expansion strategies, and investment incentives that can benefit both African and Caribbean stakeholders.

Investment Benefits and Economic Impact

One of the most highly anticipated aspects of AACIS ’25 is the opportunity for investors to explore citizenship-by-investment schemes, particularly through St. Kitts and Nevis. This unique programme offers high-net-worth individuals the ability to secure Caribbean citizenship in exchange for qualifying investments in the country’s economy.

According to Ojo, this is an added benefit for attendees looking to expand their business footprint in the Caribbean. “It’s part of what they are also going to try and sell here because it’s one of their major sources of revenue. This is as passports making does not come cheap,” she said.

The summit will also highlight key investment sectors in the Caribbean, including real estate, tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy, offering African investors the opportunity to diversify their portfolios and leverage Caribbean

This summit marks a pivotal step in strengthening Africa-Caribbean trade relations and will provide an unparalleled platform for high-level dialogue, strategic networking, and impactful partnerships among policymakers, investors, and business leaders

markets for greater profitability.

Ojo further emphasised the potential for collaboration, stating that “There’s such a vast area in the Caribbean where investment is possible. So, the idea is to collaborate for more economic gains. They have large pieces of land, and in Nigeria, we have very innovative minds and businesses that require investment. So, it’s going to help foster that.”

This cross-regional collaboration is expected to drive economic diversification, reduce trade imbalances, and create sustainable employment opportunities in both Africa and the Caribbean.

Creating Opportunities for Entrepreneurs

Another crucial aspect of AACIS ’25 is its focus on empowering entrepreneurs. By facilitating strategic partnerships, the summit will provide a launchpad for startups, small businesses, and medium-sized enterprises looking to expand beyond their domestic markets.

Speaking at the press briefing, Interim Chief Operating Officer of Aquarian Consult, Abisola Bamtefa, highlighted that the summit presents a significant advantage for African and Caribbean entrepreneurs, offering them a rare platform to attract investors.

“Who knows, we might just get someone who is interested in investing,” Bamtefa remarked.

With venture capitalists, institutional investors, and government agencies expected to be in attendance, AACIS ’25 will open doors for funding opportunities, market expansion, and business growth strategies that can elevate African and Caribbean enterprises to new heights.

A Bold New Era of Economic Engagement

AACIS ’25 represents a bold new era of economic engagement, poised to redefine Africa-Caribbean trade relations. The event is expected to result in Stronger economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean; New business deals and investment commitments; Improved trade policies and diplomatic cooperation; and more dynamic investment landscape for both regions.

As a leader in business and economic development, Aquarian Consult Limited remains committed to ensuring the success of this historic summit with the invitation on participation, sponsorship, and investment opportunities on corporateservices@aquarianconsult.com.

L-R: Media Professional, Mr. Senator Iroegbu; Interim Chief Operating Officer, Abisola Bamtefa; Summit Coordinator, Aquarian Consult, Mrs. Hyeisinta Linda Ojo; Project Development Manager, Aquarian Consult, Ms. Serumun Ubwa; during the press briefing on Aquarian Consult Aquarian Consults Afri-Carribean Investment Summit in Abuja, on Tuesday PHOtOs: KINGsLEY aDEBOYE

L-R: Interim Chief Operating Officer, Abisola Bamtefa; Summit Coordinator, Aquarian Consult, Mrs. Hyeisinta Linda Ojo; Project Development Manager, Aquarian Consult, Ms. Serumun Ubwa; during the press briefing on Aquarian Consult Aquarian Consults Afri-Carribean Investment Summit in Abuja

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian equities market sustained 2025 rally at the close of trade last Friday with MTN Nigeria Communication Plc and 10 others contributing about 70.1 per cent to overall market capitalisation as of February 14, 2025.

THISDAY’s investigation showed that the market capitalisation in its Year-till-Date (YtD) performance appreciated by N4.66 trillion, helped by demand for MTN Nigeria Communication, Dangote Cement Plc and 10 other fundamental stocks.

The market capitalisation that opened in January 2025 at N62.763 trillion, gained 7.42 per cent to close on February 14, 2025, at N67.418 trillion with 11 blue-chip companies contributing a combined N47.3 trillion.

THISDAY analysis showed that Dangote Cement earned the

top spot as the most capitalised firm with N8.18 trillion market capitalisation, followed by Airtel Africa with N8.11 trillion market capitalisation and MTN Nigeria Communication with N5.55 trillion as of February 14, 2025. However, MTN Nigeria Communication has been the major driver in the stock market growth so far in 2025 amid federal government moves to hike tariffs. The stock price of the telecommunication giant recorded the highest gain, of about 32.1 per cent or N1.35 trillion in its YtD performance as of February 14, 2025.

The stock price of MTN Nigeria opened this year for trading at N200 per share and closed last week at N264.20 per share on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

For Dangote Cement, it has gained 0.3 per cent in its YtD

to close at N480 per share as of February 14, 2025, from N478.80 per share it opened for trading this year.

The cement maker has not announced its 2024 financial statement on the floor of the exchange, but capital market analysts foresee impressive earnings and robust dividend payout to shareholders.

The multinational cement manufacturer had reported N2.5 trillion in revenue for the nine months of 2024, largely fueled by increased local market sales.

According to the cement maker’s result, its revenue grew by 69.1 per cent from N1.5 trillion reported in the same period of 2023 with Nigeria’s sales volume rising by 9.5 per cent and Pan-Africa market sales declining by 1.6 per cent.

A breakdown of figures shows Dangote Nigeria’s EBITDA rose by

37.25 per cent to N506.11 billion while the Pan-African regions were up 45.35 per cent to N170.01 billion. In addition, after-tax profit during the period increased by a single-digit 0.55 per cent to N279.09 billion from N277.5 billion.

Further findings revealed that the stock prices of Airtel Africa, Seplat Energy, Geregu Power Plc and BUA Cement Plc have traded flat at N2,156.90, N5,700, N1,150 and N93 per share, respectively.

These four companies have contributed a sum of N17.48 trillion to the market capitalisation as of February 14, 2025.

The research by THISDAY revealed that BUA Food recorded N6.7 trillion market capitalisation, while Seplat Energy and BUA Cement’s market capitalisation stood at N3.35 trillion and N3.15 trillion, respectively.

THISDAY findings also show

that as of February 14, 2025, Geregu Power had N2.88 trillion; Transcorp Power, N2.74 trillion; Aradel Holdings Plc, N2.3 trillion; Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, N2.17 trillion and Zenith Bank, N2.12 trillion.

Findings showed further that these firms are defying the odds by tightening their belts, and applying cost optimisation strategies and innovative solutions to navigate Nigeria’s weak macroeconomic environment and optimise the risk attached to it.

The stock market in 2025 has continued on a positive trajectory, attributable to President Bola Tinubu’s foreign exchange policies, the removal of fuel subsidies that have attracted more foreign investors’ participation, and impressive corporate earnings by listed companies.

A Professor of Capital Market

with the Nasarawa State University Keffi, Prof. Uche Uwaleke recently expressed that the Nigerian capital market is over-concentrated with the attendant ‘keyman’ risks, part of what are major barriers to market development.

“This is demonstrated by the fact that only seven out of over 155 listed companies account for over 60per cent of equities market capitalisation. Many eligible companies including multinational companies particularly in the telecom and oil and gas sectors remain unlisted. Out of the over four million companies registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission as of 2020, only 155 companies on NGX, and less than 50 on NASD and nine on the NGX Growth Board,” he said.

The federal government has assured Nigerian industrialists that it would address the numerous challenges facing the industrial sector of the Nigerian economy in order to unleash the industrial revolution drive of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

This assurance was delivered by the Minister of State for Industry, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, during his tour of strategic industrial locations in the South-west.

Some of the industries Enoh visited in Lagos State during the tour were the Sunflag Nigeria Limited, the GB Foods Nigeria,

Berger Paints Plc, Friesland Campina WAMCO Plc and Mojec Group while those he visited in Ogun State included the TGI, Veenocks Nigeria Limited, Coleman Cables and Wires Limited, Equipment and Protective Applications International Limited (EPAIL) and Mikano Industries.

Speaking to the media during the tour of Sunflag Nigeria Limited in Lagos, the minister acknowledged that the decline in the textile industry has negatively impacted productivity and job creation in this critical sector of the economy. He assured the company that under his leadership, the ministry is determined to provide the support needed for local

manufacturers to thrive again.

He announced that the ministry would be convening a session for Cotton Textile Garments (CTG) stakeholders, which would address the challenges hindering their growth and also establish the Industrial Revolution Work Group (IRWG) that would be comprised of representatives of different sectors, including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

He said: “I have the immediate mandate to promote Made-in-Nigeria goods and services. My visit here is to assure you that if there is a government that is committed to doing that, it is the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. You can see that this government has

continued to show a lot of courage and energy. And that is what this country requires now.”

He revealed that the government has put in place various incentives to lessen the challenges affecting the ease of doing business in Nigeria and would continue to encourage those still in operation to drive their growth and expansion.

Enoh praised the companies he visited for the resilience in the face of daunting economic challenges.

He said: “We commend the resilience of these companies for believing in the country despite the challenges; we want to assure them that the goal of the government is to lessen challenges that continue to impact the ease

of doing business in Nigeria.” According to him, the IRWG group would serve as a think tank and a bridge between the industries and the government to understand key issues hindering industrial activities in the country and collaboratively propose and implement solutions.

He stated that the IRWG is part of his six key priorities, which also include the Nigeria Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP), Special Agro-Processing Zones (SAPZ), Cotton, Textiles and Garments (CTG) Industry, Petrochemical, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Manufacturing and MSME Census.

Senator Enoh also meet with

the Governor of Ogun State, Mr. Dapo Abiodun, who briefed him on the state’s proposed cotton and apparel industry that is billed to the biggest in West Africa, with a capacity to employ up to 40,000 people.

Governor Abiodun said: “We are planning to house the biggest cotton and apparel industry, perhaps in West Africa, and the groundbreaking is scheduled to take place soon. That industry promises to employ about 40,000 people when it starts, and they are all in our Special Processing Zone.”

Dike Onwuamaeze

WACT-APM Terminals, CMA CGM Launch Direct Shipping Service to Onne Port

The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT)-APM Terminals Nigeria has said that it is excited to receive the Europe Afrique 4 (EURAF4) service, providing a weekly direct shipping to Onne Port in Rivers State.

The service was inaugurated at Onne Port, with the arrival of the containership MV LETO. EURAF4 aims to enhance connectivity, improve transit times, and provide comprehensive cargo-handling solutions for Nigeria’s trade with Europe and Asia.

The introduction of EURAF4 is a response to the increasing demand for efficient and reliable shipping solutions.

The new service will enable Nigerian importers and exporters to benefit from streamlined logistics, cost reductions, and enhanced supply chain efficiency.

CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke, described the launch as a testament to the trust placed in WACT-APM Terminals and the strength of the Nigerian economy.

He also praised the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and other stakeholders

for their role in launching the service and successfully berthing MV LETO.

“This launch is a strong vote of confidence from CMA CGM in the world-class capabilities WACT-APM Terminals has developed over the years. We have invested over $115 million in upgrading the terminal with Mobile Harbour Cranes, Rubber-Tired Gantry Cranes, an expanded yard, and cutting-edge IT infrastructure,” Klinke stated.

He reassured all stakeholders of WACT-APM Terminals’ unwavering commitment to high-quality service delivery.

“We are fully committed to servicing your business at the highest level. More importantly, we have the capacity to support your growth in the East Nigerian market. This milestone not only strengthens international business confidence but also encourages shipping lines to inject additional capacity into the region. With these enhanced capabilities, we anticipate increased trade volumes, which will, in turn, drive further economic growth in Eastern Nigeria,” Klinke added.

Head of Operations of WACTAPM Terminals Nigeria, Fanick Atchai, reinforced this commitment,

FG Begins Construction of Emerging Technologies Institute in Kano

The federal government, last week, began the construction of the Sustainable and Emerging Technologies Institute (SETI), through the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

The Executive Vice Chaiman/ Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, during the ground-breaking ceremony held at the Bayero University Kano (BUK), said the new institute would 30 hectares of the BUK land, featuring state-of-the-art facilities, including innovation hubs devoted to Artificial Intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies, complemented by reliable power supply.

“NASENI will fully build and equip and support the new Institute,” Halilu said, adding that the future of socio-economic development for nations rests on human creativity, innovation and cooperation, Artificial intelligence, robotics amongst others.

According to him, the establishment of SETI in Nigeria is to rapidly respond to the waves of young people globally revolutionising world economies with unprecedented emergence of socio-economic frontiers as by-products of innovations and ingenuities of these young minds.

“We in NASENI are firm believers in the potential of young Nigerians to be the prime catalysts of the type of transformation that Nigeria requires. And we will do everything within our powers to support them to fulfil this important responsibility.

“We are gathered here today to kickstart a project that will transform the lives and careers of future generations of young Nigerians. This is very much in line with our operating principles; what we call our 3Cs: Collaboration, Creation, and Commercialisation. These 3Cs are the principles that passionately drive us and guide the work that we do to ensure the industrialisation of Nigeria in line with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Halilu further said.

SETI will produce innovators, technologists, entrepreneurs who will make their mark not just in Nigeria but around the world. “I’m eagerly looking forward to the day, not too long from now, when the Institute’s first set of beneficiaries will astonish the world with what they’re capable of accomplishing. These stories will put not just BUK on the global innovation map, but also Kano State and the entire Nigeria,” Halilu added.

stating, “Our promise is simple: we commit to excellent service delivery for all our customers. With the best people, processes, and equipment in place, we ensure reduced port stay, safe operations,

and top-notch cargo handling.” Managing Director of CMA CGM Nigeria, Hinelder Ferreira, also praised all stakeholders at the port for the successful berthing of MV LETO.

“Today, with the arrival of MV LETO, we mark the first call for the EURAF4 service, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to the Eastern port. As a group, we pledge to enhance service quality,

reduce transit times, and ensure competitive rates. This service will significantly improve connectivity between Europe, Asia, and Onne, strengthening both import and export trade routes,” Ferreira said.

NAICOM, World Bank Deliberate On Challenges Facing Insurance Sector

Ebere Nwoji t

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), and the world Bank have deliberated on key challenges confronting the insurance sector.

According to NAICOM, the challenges are: Poor perception of Insurance, poor insurance penetration and lack of effective enforcement.

The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Ayo Omosehin, stated this when a team of World Bank delegation paid him courtesy visit in his office in Abuja.

Omosehin, acknowledged the challenge of changing public perception of insurance in Nigeria, citing past experiences of non-claim payment as a major factor. He introduced the Commission’s new mantra, “find a reason to settle claims,” which has led to increased compliance from industry players. He also discussed the recent collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant agencies on compulsory insurance enforcement, which began February 1, 2025.

He also highlighted NAICOM’s efforts to educate the public on the benefits of third-party insurance through various media channels.

Also speaking, Deputy Commissioner Technical Dr. Usman Jankara, added that NAICOM aimed to operate on a value proposition, meeting the needs and aspirations of Nigerians through sustainable insurance products.

Jankara disclosed NAICOM’s plan to develop cyber insurance guidelines and engage stakeholders. He noted that there were

insufficient actuarial capacity in the Nigerian insurance sector a situation which he said poses great challenge to the industry.

He informed the World Bank delegates that NAICOM has started its automation process but faced a number of challenges in achieving full automation.

NAICOM Director, Mrs. Aisha Bashir highlighted the importance of microinsurance regulation, pointing out the Commission’s efforts to serve low-income earners and those in rural areas.

Customs Launches AEO Programme to Boost Trade, Reduce Cost

In an effort to modernise trade facilitation, ease cost of doing business and enhance supply chain security, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), over the weekend in Lagos launched the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme.

The launch follows a successful pilot phase in April 2024 involving six companies.

Speaking at the event, Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi announced that the AEO registration portal would open on February 17 for eligible companies.

He highlighted the remarkable success of the pilot phase, noting

that collective trade value of the six participating companies increased from N185.8 billion in 2023 to N563.8 billion in 2024.

He said NCS revenue generated from the companies also increased significantly, rising from N18.4 billion in 2023 to N 51.1 billion in 2024, contributing to NCS overall revenue growth from N 3.2 trillion in 2023 to N 6.1trillion in 2024. On the programme’s impact on operational efficiency, Adeniyi said, “We set an ambitious target to reduce clearance time from 168 hours to 48 hours. By December 31st, 2024, our AEO-certified companies were achieving an average release time of 43 hours – surpassing our target by 5 hours.

Sophos Expands Operations, Acquires Secureworks for $859m

Agnes Ekebuike

Sophos and Secureworks two global cybersecurity pioneers that have innovated and redefined services and technology solutions for defeating cyberattacks, have announced the completion of Sophos’ acquisition of Secureworks.

The all-cash transaction values Secureworks at approximately $859 million. With the completion of the acquisition, Secureworks’ common stock has ceased trading on Nasdaq.

Sophos is backed by Thoma Bravo, a leading software investment firm. With this acquisition, Sophos is now the leading pure-play cybersecurity provider of Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services, supporting more than 28,000 organisations of all sizes worldwide.

Speaking about the acquisition, CEO at Sophos, Joe Levy, said: “The market is embracing MDR as a clear means to deliver positive cybersecurity outcomes, and this has meant rapid growth in the

category. Sophos is differentiated by our very mature competencies in ransomware detection, malware analysis and threat actor tradecraft. These defenses are further augmented by Sophos’ native artificial intelligence (AI), first innovated by our globally peer recognized AI team nearly a decade ago, and embedded in our MDR, endpoint, network, email, and cloud security to more effectively neutralize and stop threats. With the integration of Secureworks, our expanded services and product

portfolio will provide even stronger end-to-end security solutions that will include identity threat detection and response (ITDR), next-gen SIEM and managed risk, all in a single open platform.”

According to him, “We will also be able to further advance our AI, threat intelligence and attack research through more diverse and deeper global telemetry that is analyst-tuned for the real-world. At every level, we are very excited about this next accelerated chapter for Sophos.”

Expert Extends USA Remote Jobs Training to Enugu

Agnes Ekebuike

Real estate development expert, Kene Onyia, has stressed the importance of virtual real estate and remote jobs to peoples’ development, especially now that the economy is striving.

Onyia, who is a USA Property Consultant and the Chief Executive Officer of Kenburger Homes, an estate firm with presence in Nigeria and USA, disclosed that the firm planned one-day training for the citizens of Enugu on real estate and remote jobs.

Impressed by the remarkable strides made by the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, in creating jobs through innovative initiatives like fashion skills training and partnerships with organisations such as ANAMCO, Onyia said he was inspired to extend the remote training to Enugu as a result of the governor’s vision and commitment to empowering Ndi Enugu. According to him, in today’s digital age, the concept of remote work has opened up a world of

possibilities, saying the virtual real estate industry, in particular, offers a plethora of job opportunities that can be explored from anywhere in the world. He said with over 10 different job roles available; the sector has the potential to provide employment for thousands of individuals.

To tap into this vast potential, “I’m excited to announce an intensive oneday training programme in Enugu, scheduled for April 2025. The initiative aims to equip Ndi Enugu with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in

virtual real estate and remote jobs. By providing access to these opportunities, we hope to empower the people of Enugu State to take control of their economic futures,” he stated. He said Enugu State was been selected for the pilot scheme, with plans to expand the initiative to Lagos and Abuja by the end of the year, adding that the strategic approach will enable the firm to refine its training programme, gather valuable feedback, and create a scalable model for replication in other regions.

Emma Okonji

Eromosele Abiodun

Eromosele Abiodun

L-R: Director at Grimaldi Group, Salvatore Califano; Andrea Grimaldi of the Grimaldi Family; Master of the MV Great Cotonou, Capt. Graziano Facondini and the Managing Director, Ports and Terminal Multiservices Ltd (PTML), Ascanio Russo, aboard the MV Great Cotonou, the first container-roro vessel offering direct service from Shanghai to Lagos, during the ship’s maiden call at the PTML Terminal, Tin Can Island Port Complex, Lagos… recently

Oloyede: 97% of Informal Sector Exempted from Paying Tax in New Bill

The Chairman of the Presidential Tax Reform Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, has said that the bill when passed would exempt 97 per cent of the Nigerian informal sector, hinting, “we are quite optimistic that sooner rather than later, the bill will be passed.”

This is as economic experts in

the country advised that the federal government must improve its deficit to gross domestic product (GDP) ratio and its daily oil production figures to three million barrels per day to meets its industrialisation ambition.

Oyedele who stated this at the Agusto&Co 2025 Economic Roundtable, held in Lagos, said that the informal sector must be

allowed to thrive before they can be taxed.

According to him, “We just have to have a mindset shift that the money we are looking for is in the informal sector. It’s wrong and not supported by data. There is no evidence to show that our revenue is in the informal sector. That is why with the tax reform bill, we have exempted almost 97 per

cent of the informal sector. “They are trying to survive. Let them be. When they grow and they have the capacity to pay tax, then let them pay. Someone says, but all the companies in Nigeria will now be small businesses. I say, no, that’s because they are not using technology. If they’re using technology, the system will tell me. So certainly, there is a big role for

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Modion Communications/Nigerian Partner, agrofood & plastprintpack, Odion Aleobua; Secretary, Organisation for Technology Advancement of Cold Chain in West Africa (OTACCWA), Chinedu Allinson; General Manager/Head of Human Resources and Administration, DGIC International Business and Services Limited, Catherene Nwaiku; Exhibition Director, Fairtrade Messe, Freyja Detjen; Head of Foreign Trade Office, Polish Investment & Trade Agency, Justyna Sitarska and Founder/Chairman, Global Ambassador for World Packaging Organisation, Ameh Alex Omah, at the agrofood & plastprintpack Nigeria pre exhibition stakeholder engagement in Lagos…

technology. Informal sector should be allowed to thrive; Let’s support them. They are all our people. They are us.

“So the 30 to 40 million small businesses and households are just trying to find meals to put on the table, to buy exercise books and pencils. So chasing them to pay taxes is wickedness, and we have to stop that now.”

For the Managing Director, Agusto&Co, Mrs. Yinka Adelekan, the country must work towards improving its deficit management and inflation which is affecting businesses.

“So in terms of the reforms, we think that some critical areas have been positive. Where would we want to see more? We like to see more in terms of deficit management. We are looking at a deficit to GDP ratio of 4.5 percent, whereas the fiscal responsibility act says the guidance

is 3 percent. So we need to do more to moderate that.

“The persistent inflation, despite what we’ve already seen, it’s a concern, and it’s affecting a lot of businesses, it’s affecting the real sector, because of the high interest rates being used to combat inflation,” she said. Commenting on the macroeconomic environment, a Senior Lecturer at Lagos Business School, Dr Doyin Salami said the economy is unstable, adding output growth must exceed population growth.

“To begin with, the economy is unstable. Stability in any economy has four conditions. Condition one is output growth must exceed population growth. You cannot have the agri-sector growing at about 1.5 percent and population growing at anything between 2.5 percent and perhaps 3 percent. You will run into trouble,” he said.

SMEs Urged to Leverage Industry-Specific Networks to Forge Positive Collaboration Nigerian Breweries Holds Distributor Awards, Rewards Trade Partners

Oluchi Chibuzor

Small, medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country have been urged to leverage industry-specific networks to position their business better and forge positive business collaboration against macroeconomic fluctuations in the country.

Speaking in Lagos ahead of their 10th FATE Business Outlook and Alumni General Meeting (AGM), Dean & Director, The FATE School, Bambo Adebowale, said businesses must learn to ultilise industry-specific networks related to their sector for insights and. opportunities.

Adebowale said, “Over the past decade, this platform has grown into a powerful avenue for entrepreneurs

within our alumni community, providing them with invaluable insights to drive sustainable growth in their businesses. When we launched Business Outlook in 2016, our vision was to create a knowledge-driven forum that would equip entrepreneurs with the tools to navigate the everevolving business landscape.

“We recognized the need for a strategic gathering where real-life business challenges and opportunities could be analyzed with practical solutions. Today, that vision has materialized into an impactful event, fostering innovation, resilience, and market positioning for hundreds of businesses.”

On the conference themed, “The Good, The Bad, and the

Opportunities,” Adebowale said it was timely for businesses to recognise and understand the power of networks in the face of macroeconomic fluctuations.

“Given Nigeria’s dynamic economic landscape, entrepreneurs are constantly faced with both challenges and possibilities. The 2025 Business Outlook will provide practical strategies to help businesses adapt, innovate, and scale in the face of macroeconomic fluctuations. It will also be a celebration of ten years of impact, insights, and transformation within the FATE Alumni community,” he said.

For the, Senior Programs Manager and Head, Growth & Alumni Services, FATE Foundation, Oluwaseun Oshoniyi explained that “we are

committed to equipping business owners with the knowledge and networks they need to thrive.”

She noted that over the years, the business outlook has addressed critical issues such as market positioning, policy changes, revenue growth, and economic trends.

“Beyond the insights, this event is about community. We recognize that entrepreneurship is a journey best navigated with support, shared experiences, and continuous learning. This 10th-anniversary edition is both a celebration of past successes and a springboard for future opportunities. The event will allow attendees to connect with likeminded people and forge positive business collaborations.,” she said.

Cadbury Celebrates Operational Resilience, Pledges Value Creation for Stakeholders

Dike

The Cadbury Nigeria Plc, a subsidiary of Mondelez International, has marked its 60 years of operational resilience in Nigeria and pledged to sustain value creation to its stakeholders.

Cadbury Nigeria evolved from repackaging imported bulk products into a full manufacturing operation to meet growing local demand following its incorporation in January 1965. It later became a publicly listed entity on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), in 1976.

According to the Chairman, Cadbury Nigeria, Mr. Adedotun Sulaiman, “Cadbury Nigeria has come a long way from its humble beginnings to what it has become today. We are proud of our achievements in the last six decades.

“We know the journey has often been turbulent, but we will continue to demonstrate the resilience that we are known for and keep offering value to our shareholders. I express my sincere gratitude to all our employees, past and present, for believing in the vision of Cadbury Nigeria, and for making the Company a household name in Nigeria.

“I would also like to thank our suppliers, business partners, shareholders, and other stakeholders in the business, for their loyalty. Finally, I would like to especially thank the government for the immense support that we have enjoyed over the years.”

Speaking in the same vein, Managing Director, Cadbury Nigeria, Ms. Oyeyimika Adeboye, said that although the company currently operates in a challenging

economic environment, it remains committed to delivering value for its stakeholders.

Adeboye added: “We understand what is required to operate in a volatile market like ours. We are agile, innovative, resilient, and extremely focused on operational excellence.

As we celebrate our Diamond anniversary, we are reminded of what it takes to operate in this market and look forward to many more successful years in Nigeria.

“We will continue to nourish and delight our consumers with the right snacks and provide value for our shareholders and other stakeholders. We will continue to focus on the well-being of our employees, who remain our valuable assets. We are excited about the future and the opportunity to grow our portfolio of brands.”

The Head, Corporate Communications and Government Affairs, Cadbury Nigeria, Dr. Frederick Mordi, said that Cadbury Nigeria is recognised as a ‘Top Employer in Nigeria’ by the Amsterdam-based Top Employers Institute. The Company is also listed Among ‘Top 100 Companies in Nigeria’ and ‘100 Best Companies to Work for in Nigeria.’

According to Mordi, the company has a cocoa-processing factory located in Ondo Town, Ondo State, Nigeria that provides the cocoa powder required for manufacturing Cadbury Bournvita and processes cocoa beans into several high-quality cocoa by-products, such as cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and cocoa cake, for local and export markets, thereby contributing to the growth of non-oil exports in Nigeria.

Quotations for Sugar, Vegetable Oils Drive Food Price Index lower

The significant decreases in the international quotations for vegetable oils and sugar, has caused a decline in the benchmark for world food commodity prices.

This is coming as the Food and Agriculture Organization ( FAO) food price index declined in January, averaging 124.9 points during the month, down 1.6 percent from its December level, the United Nations body reported on its website.

The index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of a set of globally-traded food commodities, was 6.2 percent higher than its corresponding level one year ago but remained 22.0 percent below its peak reached in March 2022.

According to the index, vegetable oil price index decreased by 5.6 percent from the previous month, reversing a recent increase, though it remained 24.9 percent higher than a year ago.

“The decline in January was

mainly driven by lower world prices of palm and rapeseed oils, while those for soy and sunflower oils remained stable,” FAO Index stated.

However, the FAO Sugar Price Index was down 6.8 percent from December and 18.5 percent from its year-earlier level, mainly due to improved global supply prospects as a result of generally favourable weather in Brazil and the Indian Government’s decision to resume sugar exports.

The FAO Meat Price Index also

dropped, falling by 1.4 percent in January, as lower international ovine, pig and poultry meat prices outweighed an increase in bovine meat quotations.

Meanwhile, the FAO Cereal Price Index increased by 0.3 percent from December but remained 6.9 percent below its January 2024 level. Also according to the report, Wheat export prices dropped only slightly, while maize prices increased, partly due to lower production and stock forecasts for the United States of America.

Nigerian Breweries Plc, the foremost brewing company in Nigeria, rolled out the drums to celebrate and reward its esteemed trade partners during the 2025 Distributor Awards.

The annual distributor awards event also witnessed the re-launch of a refreshing new-look for Life Lager Beer, into the Nigerian market.

Delivering his keynote address at the ceremony, which had the theme “Winning Beyond Limits,” the Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Hans Essaadi, explained that the event was organised to celebrate trade partners who have played their part in ensuring that the company records remarkable business success despite the odds in 2024.

According to Essaadi, the awards mark the celebration of distributors, transportation companies and the company despite all the headwinds. “As one team, we learn as one family that collaboration or finding the way forward together is the name of the game. Tonight, it

is all about looking back. It is a little bit about winning. But more importantly, it is about winning together. Of course, there’ll be prizes and awards. And we will celebrate everybody on stage, but we’re in it together. We celebrate you all tonight. We celebrate you, our distributors and transportation companies,” he said. He acknowledged that the company’s success in 2024 would not have been possible without the invaluable role of the trade partners. He congratulated all the award recipients for their achievements, stating that the feat recorded bears testimony to the power of collaboration between NB Plc and its esteemed partners. In his welcome address, the Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Emmanuel Oriakhi, expressed deep appreciation to trade partners, including distributors and transporters, for their unrelenting support for the company in 2024 despite the challenging business environment.

Oluchi Chibuzor

Oluchi Chibuzor

Onwuamaeze

recently Photo: KoLAWoLE ALLI

POLITY

Olukoyede’s Record-breaking Strides in EFCC & Olu Fasan’s Errors of Analysis

By Dele Oyewale

Olu Fasan’s opinion piece in the Vanguard of Thursday, February 13, 2025 entitled: “ EFCC’s Failure: Olukoyede’s BlameShifting is Mere Shadow- Boxing”, clearly brought to the fore precipitate desperation to deny, ignore, lampoon and disregard the obvious and undeniable achievements of the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede since he assumed office more than a year ago. Besides, the piece equally exposed Fasan as lacking total grasp of the position of Olukoyede on the character traits of many Nigerians in their disposition to the fight against corruption.

Recently, Olukoyede decried the hypocritical tendency of some Nigerians towards the vexed issue of corruption in the land. He rightfully observed that “ Everyone is crying that Nigerians are corrupt, that the system is corrupt, that corruption is killing us and destroying our system, but when we investigate high- profile cases and arraign people in court, the same poeple will carry placards and be supporting corrupt leaders. It doesn’t show that we are serious about this fight”.

Nothing can be more factual than this. There is no “ blame- shifting” or “shadow- boxing” in this but ungarnished reality about the attitudinal trajectory of many Nigerians regarding the issue of corruption. Fasan’s backgrounding of his visceral attacks of Olukoyede and the EFCC on such a disclosure clearly shows malice, prejudice or a naked dance to please some paymasters. We all know that corruption has leprous fingers contaminating the masses of our people. A recent show of shame in Okenne where a former governor standing trial for suspected money laundering charges drew tumultous cheers from the same people he allegedly defrauded, is enough cause for concern.

Across the country, the EFCC is sensitive to the unhelpful embrace and canonisation of many suspects of corruption cases. Rather than hold them at arm’s length, we regularly offer them front seats in social gatherings, religious meetings, tribal festivities and other public functions. Our social media is always awash with rationalisations, justifications and shameful defences of even convicts of corruption. Fasan’s tirade and gratuitous insults on the EFCC and its hard- working Chairman is another parade of corruption in bold statements. How do we make progress in such a society where anti- graft fighters are seen as enemies and their genuine

efforts are treated as smelly trash cans? Talking about the mud Fasan splashed on the EFCC and its operations. How on earth will anyone dismissively describe Olukoyede’s EFCC as a failure? In recent times, it is public knowledge that the Commission uncovered several underhanded dealings across the country, resulting in unprecedented recoveries, arrests, arraignments and ongoing trials of many suspects of economic and financial crimes. It is also clear as crystal that such operational dynamics are without comparison locally and globally.

Is it the Lokogoma, Abuja’s recovery of 753 duplexes and other apartments? Or the arrests and arraignments of 792 suspected cyber terrorists, investment and romance fraudsters? Or the several high- profile cases the Commission is prosecuting in our courts? To denigrate such open attainments, Fasan may either be living in Mars but if he is on planet earth and denied such global records of the EFCC, then, every fair- minded

Nigerian should be able to discern mischief and calumny in his commentaries.

Now, let’s get to the brass tacks. Since assuming office in October, 2023, Olukoyede has turned the anti- corruption war into a redemptive engagement. The three-pronged agenda which has become his blueprint for fighting economic and financial crimes is all too known. So far, the EFCC under his watch is witnessing steady turnaround. In 2024 alone, the Commission achieved monetary recoveries in billions and unmatchable convictions and advances in all the cases it is handling. His policy thrust of tackling corruption through preventive frameworks has birthed a full- fledged department, Fraud Risk Assessment and Control, FRAC, in the Commission. There is no time in the annals of the EFCC that such progress has been made.

Fasan’s diatribe that Ola Olukoyede “ is full of hot air on corruption in Nigeria” is not true. Evidently, Nigerians are feeling the impact

of the policy drives he has initiated. The onslaught on Naira abuse and dollarisation of the economy is gaining traction. Till date, more than 50 Nigerians from all walks of life have been convicted on this matter. The whole issue is protecting the local economy from heamorrage and reversing age- long traditions pulling back growth and development. The courageous tackling of internet fraud and associated criminalities is re- building the foreign direct investment profile of Nigeria. Steadily, our nation is bouncing back and it is owing to the relentless efforts of the Commission Olukoyede is heading. At this point, Fasan’s claims that “ the EFCC is too incompetent, corrupt and politicised to tackle endemic corruption in Nigeria” deserve closer examination. To all intents and purpose, these claims are without any sound basis or empirical strength. Only last year, four former governors were brought before the courts to answer charges of corruption preferred against them. Four former ministers followed the same route and are standing trial on their stewardship. All these are outside ongoing investigations which will soon be made public. So, where is incompetence in all these? Can a lameduck anti- graft agency achieve such a feat? To the credit of Olukoyede, internal corruption is becoming a taboo in the EFCC. For the umpteenth time, the Commission has come out clearly on its ethics and integrity policies which have since sent 27 officers out of its workforce. A corrupt agency will not go that far. The EFCC’s boss has never claimed to be heading an angelic agency. Rather, he has been forthright in driving internal cleansing to make the Commission free of compromisers and sharp dealers. Fasan glossed over this important credit of the Commission in his hurry to cast aspersions on its works.

Nigeria is better with EFCC. Every well- meaning Nigerian knows this. The international community knows it. We know that corruption fights back. However, calling white black or driving chariots of warfare against the Commission owing to some vested interests would not serve any purpose. Olukoyede is drawing meaningful local and international accolades everyday owing to verifiable proofs of his achievements on all fronts. We can only advise Nigerians like Fasan to be more positive and see the stars on the sky rather than its dark clouds. Olukoyede will continue on his winning strides and Nigeria will surely get better.

•Oyewale is Head, Media & Publicity of the EFCC

Some Northern Elite Feel Excluded from Tinubu’s Govt, Buhari’s Ex-Aide, Ahmed

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

A former All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Leader, Ismael Ahmed, has said some members of the northern elite feel alienated from the administration of President Bola Tinubu, despite mobilising chunk votes for him to win the 2023 presidential election. Ahmed, a former Senior Special Adviser to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on Social Investment Programmes, made this known on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, a socio-political programme aired on Channels Television.

extraction yet Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was able to get four states in the North Central, three states in the North-West, one state in the North-East and with enough votes.

“A lot of people from the north believe that they have put in all they can to get President Tinubu into government. Atiku (Abubakar) ran, (Rabiu) Kwankwaso ran, both are Nigerian politicians from the northern

“In Kano State alone, we gave Asiwaju over 500,000 votes. That clear difference that Atiku gave us in the whole of the north is by winning five states. Now, they (northerners) are saying: ‘Are we fully represented?’

“The president can bring out all the list of appointments but I think there is a sense of alienation from government, from those people, from some sort of elite in the north, that has cascaded down to the average northerner. There is also a feeling of alienation in the East. The easterners might not be as vocal as the northerners because of the votes.”

The former presidential aide said

Tinubu must manage all interests to be successful as Nigeria’s president. According to him, “The Nigerian presidency is always about managing interests – your ability to manage interests of all kinds that you can think of – regional interest, class interest, all kinds of interest – your ability to manage all the interests will determine how successful you are as the head of state.

Olukoyede

This Week In Tech

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Ogunbanwo: Empowering Africa’s Beauty Industry with Seamless, Growth-driven Solutions

Layo Ogunbanwo, founder and CEO of Splice, is leading a revolution in Africa’s beauty and wellness industry. In this interview, she discusses how many businesses in the sector still rely on outdated, fragmented systems, creating inefficiencies and hindering growth. Splice offers a comprehensive solution, combining booking, payments, and business management into one platform tailored specifically to the needs of African beauty professionals. With a deep understanding of the local market, Ogunbanwo recognised a critical gap and developed Splice through extensive research and firsthand experience to help businesses streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and foster growth. As Splice continues to expand across Nigeria and beyond, Ogunbanwo’s vision remains clear: to provide beauty and wellness businesses with the tools to thrive in a competitive and ever-evolving market while staying adaptable to the changing needs of their customers. Nosa Alekhuogie presents the excerpts

What inspired you to create Splice, and why did you focus on Africa’s beauty and wellness industry?

Splice was created to solve challenges faced by beauty and wellness businesses in Nigeria and across Africa. The idea sparked in 2020 when I helped a friend streamline operation at her Lagos salon. I saw how disconnected tools and manual processes made her business unnecessarily complicated. Soon, I realised many beauty businesses faced similar issues, and I wanted to create a solution. Africa’s beauty and wellness industry is booming but underserved in terms of modern management tools. This inspired Splice, a platform designed to simplify operations while fostering growth and customer retention. By addressing these pain points, we aim to empower businesses to reach their full potential. For now, we are focused on Nigeria, building the foundation for a solution that can transform the industry, one business at a time. Splice is here to make beauty and wellness businesses more efficient and successful.

How did your global experience in Latin America, Africa, and the US shape the vision and strategy for Splice?

My experiences across diverse markets have shaped my understanding of tailoring solutions to meet the unique needs of specific audiences. In Latin America, I saw how digital banking transformed lives on a large scale, while in the United States, I witnessed technology streamlining in-home patient care. In Nigeria, I contributed to building and scaling one of its most beloved fintech products, gaining deep insights into the local market. These experiences influenced my vision for Splice. I wanted to develop a solution that combines local insights with the scalability and sophistication of global platforms. By blending global best practices with local relevance, Splice is designed to meet the unique demands of Africa’s beauty and wellness industry while remaining innovative and forward-thinking. Our mission is to create a product that not only addresses current challenges but also positions businesses for long-term success in a competitive and evolving market.

Having impacted over one hundred million users worldwide through your previous roles, how did that experience influence your approach to building Splice?

Building and scaling products that serve millions across continents has taught me one vital lesson: success lies in truly understanding the end-user’s needs. Whether at PiggyVest, Nubank, or Axxess, the goal was always to create intuitive, impactful solutions that simplify lives. This same philosophy drives Splice. It is more than just software—it is a solution to real problems. Every feature is carefully designed to make the lives of beauty professionals easier, their operations more efficient, and their businesses more profitable. In less than three months since launching, over one hundred beauty and wellness businesses now rely on Splice to manage their operations effortlessly. Together, they serve more than 30,000 customers, proving that innovation tailored to specific needs can have an immediate impact. At Splice, we are not just building tools. We are empowering beauty professionals to thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.

Splice is tailored to beauty and wellness businesses in Africa. What makes your platform uniquely suited to this market?

The short answer is that we deeply understand the African beauty market, its

“Ultimately, Splice aims to be more than just a platform—we want to be a trusted partner in the growth and success of Africa’s beauty and wellness industry.”

businesses, and its customers. Splice is designed by Africans, for Africans, with a sharp focus on the unique needs of local beauty and wellness businesses. Unlike generic solutions, every feature of Splice is tailored to address specific challenges, whether it is enabling payments through local channels or providing tools that simplify salon and spa operations in Africa. Our mission is not just to deliver another software solution; God knows a hundred other startups are already doing that. Instead, we aim to empower beauty and wellness businesses with a platform that feels uniquely theirs because it truly is. By combining local expertise with thoughtful innovation, Splice provides businesses with tools to thrive, grow, and serve their customers better. It is more than software; it is a solution built to uplift an industry that deserves tailored support and sustainable success.

How does Splice address some of the specific pain points faced by small businesses in the beauty and wellness sector?

Small beauty businesses often face challenges with fragmented systems for bookings, payments, client management, and staff scheduling. Splice addresses this by consolidating these essential functions into one intuitive platform, helping businesses save time, minimise errors, and improve efficiency. For example, our automated SMS reminders reduce no-shows and ensure smoother scheduling. Our built-in loyalty programs help increase customer retention,

while detailed financial reporting provides valuable insights to support better decisionmaking. Additionally, seamless payment processing options simplify transactions for both businesses and their clients. Splice is designed to take care of repetitive, time-consuming tasks, allowing beauty business owners and their teams to focus on what truly matters—delivering exceptional service. By streamlining operations and empowering professionals, Splice not only simplifies the daily grind but also helps businesses grow and thrive in an increasingly competitive market. It is the all-in-one solution beauty businesses have been waiting for.

What role does technology play in bridging gaps for underserved industries in Africa, and how does Splice contribute to this? Technology is a powerful equaliser, particularly for small businesses. It empowers underserved industries to overcome traditional barriers, giving them access to tools that drive efficiency, growth, and innovation. In Africa’s beauty and wellness sector, technology has the potential to revolutionise how businesses operate, enabling them to compete effectively in an ever-evolving market. By simplifying processes, improving efficiency, and enhancing customer experiences, technology can boost client satisfaction, leading to higher retention rates and valuable referrals. Splice is at the forefront of this transformation. Our modern, user-friendly platform is designed specifically for Africa’s beauty

and wellness businesses. Splice streamlines daily operations, helping businesses manage bookings, payments, and customer relationships with ease. Beyond that, it empowers businesses to build stronger client loyalty and drive sustainable revenue growth.

What are some of the most common challenges you’ve seen African startups face, and how do you advise them to overcome these?

In my experience, African startups face significant challenges, particularly in access to funding, customer acquisition, and talent retention. I’m not sure I can advise on how to overcome it as I am still navigating these issues myself. I have, however, observed a few strategies that seem to work and have tried to apply them in my journey. Building strong networks and communities for mentorship and collaboration is invaluable. These connections provide guidance, open doors, and create opportunities for mutual support. Additionally, focusing on customer-centric products can drive organic growth and help businesses adapt quickly to market feedback, ensuring they remain relevant and competitive. It is also essential to prioritise lean operations, especially in the early stages. This allows startups to maximise resources, remain agile, and sustain momentum even during tough times. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, a combination of adaptability, collaboration, and a relentless focus on customer needs can help navigate these challenges.

What unique gap in the market does Splice Nigeria address, and how did you identify it?

Splice was created to address the lack of a centralised, tailored solution for beauty and wellness businesses in Africa, starting with Nigeria. Many businesses rely on manual processes or fragmented tools, which are inefficient, costly, and limit growth. Through extensive research, including interviews with dozens of salon and spa owners, we gained firsthand insight into the daily challenges they face—booking mishaps, payment delays, and operational inefficiencies. These insights shaped Splice, an all-in-one solution designed specifically for the African market.

What is your long-term vision for Splice, and how do you see the platform evolving in the next five years?

Our vision is to be the leading platform for beauty and wellness businesses across Africa. Over the next five years, we plan to expand our features, integrate AI-driven insights, and embed financial services to better support our users. Our goal is to grow our user base across the continent, providing tools that empower beauty professionals to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and achieve their business objectives. Ultimately, Splice aims to be more than just a platform—we want to be a trusted partner in the growth and success of Africa’s beauty and wellness industry.

Are there plans to expand Splice beyond the beauty and wellness sector or into new markets outside Africa?

For now, our focus remains on the beauty and wellness industry, where there’s significant opportunity and work to be done. However, as we grow and expand, we aim to explore new markets beyond Africa and potentially venture into other industries. Our long-term vision is to bring Splice’s innovative solutions to a broader audience while continuing to empower businesses with tools that drive efficiency, growth, and success.

Ogunbanwo

HomeS & Design

A&A Towers, Pride of Eko Atlantic City

The A&A Towers, designed and rendered by Arkland g roup, is an A-list masterpiece in e ko Atlantic City in Lagos. Bennett o ghifo writes

The Arkland A&A Towers is a 22-floor edifice consisting of two- and three-bedroom homes, shops, and offices constructed to the highest specifications.

A&A Towers nestles on the serene waterfront off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, and it is fondly described as the pride of Eko Atlantic City by its developer.

It is strategically located within the innovative new metropolis. This elite Oceanfront District is one of 10 expertly

created residential and business zones.

The Oceanfront neighbourhood, located near Eko Atlantic’s commercial sector and Lagos’ new financial centre, offers fashionable and premium seaside living with a multitude of state-ofthe-art amenities and facilities in a curated, smart community maximised for optimal living conditions.

Amenities in A&A Towers include breathtaking views, spacious floor

plans, fitted kitchens, upscale bathroom fittings, a fitness centre, spa, restaurants, swimming pool, retail and office spaces, 24-hour concierge service; and 24-hour power supply, valet and drop-off.

Arkland Group is a full-service real estate organization operating in major cities with core competencies in property development, advisory, facility, and project management.

“At Arkland Group, we specialise

in acquiring, developing, and investing in sustainable housing properties in cities across Nigeria.

“With 300 developed housing units, and over 2,000 ongoing, we have earned our reputation as one of the leading real estate companies and property developers in this market.

“Our focus is longevity and sustainability, with a goal to deliver value to our clients on every investment made,” the company stated.

Business Special

With resilience, efficiency, aradel Holdings s ustains Impressive p erformance

Peter uzoho writes that with resilience, value optimisation, operational and financial efficiencies, a radel Holdings p lc has sustained its impressive performance for the full year ended d ecember 31, 2024

Aradel Holdings Plc, a leading Nigerian integrated energy company quoted on the Nigerian Exchange Limited(NGX) recently announced N247.8 billion profit after tax (PAT) in its unaudited financials for full year ended December 31, 2024, representing about 361.1per cent increase over the N53.7 billion reported in December 2023.

The company from its profit & loss figures also announced N321.6 billion profit before tax (PBT) in 2024 unaudited results, representing an increase of 186.7 per cent from N112.2 billion recorded in 2023.

The Nigerian oil and gas industry as well as the capital market recorded an eventful year in 2024 with some entities playing major roles in shaping activities in the two sectors in remarkable ways.

For the oil and gas industry - the upstream sector in particular, there were divestment transactions where some assets or businesses were sold by the international oil companies (IOCs) and bought by Nigerian independent oil companies. In some cases, new companies and asset holders emerged, while in others, some existing companies bought new assets to expand their portfolios and streams of income and ultimately emerge bigger players.

In the year under review, new wells were drilled and first oil production milestones achieved, even as new partnerships were formed.

On other hand, for the capital market, some companies last year, asserted their position and their resolve to make a lasting impact on the economy and society by boldly listing on the NGX where their shares contributed in significantly shaping the market in 2024.

Interestingly, in many of the developments highlighted above, Aradel Holdings appeared prominently, attesting to its rising profile over the past years of its existence.

Impact of LIstIng on ngX

Aradel Holdings Plc’s listing by introduction on the NGX on 14th October last year increased the market capitalisation by N3.4 trillion as its stock price closed for the day’s trading at N772.90 per share, up from its listing price  at N702.69 per share.

The successful listing on the NGX  capped a landmark year for the company and was a significant milestone towards fulfilling its promise to enhance shareholder value.

“This will mark a historic milestone for Aradel as we list on the NGX, underscoring our commitment to creating long-term value for our shareholders and deepening our contributions to Nigeria’s economic landscape.

“This listing is a testament to our resilience, adaptability, and our unwavering dedication to providing sustainable energy solutions that drive growth across our communities and industries.

“As we embark on this new chapter in Aradel’s transformation journey, we remain focused on operational excellence, strategic expansion, and delivering returns that reflect our track record and vision for an energised future”,  the chief executive officer  (CEO) of company, Mr. Adegbite Falade,  had  stated while speaking during the ‘Facts Behind the Listing” at the time.

Similarly, Chairman of  Aradel Holdings, Mr. Ladi Jadesimi, highlighted the company’s focus on innovation and sustainability, noting that Aradel was poised to expand its footprint in the renewables space while maintaining its leadership in the oil and gas sector.

“The listing of Aradel Holdings on NGX represents a pivotal moment for us,” Jadesimi said.

“We are committed to driving sustainable growth in Nigeria’s energy industry, particularly in the renewables space, while continuing to excel in petroleum product exploration and refining.

“This listing provides us with the platform to unlock further value for our shareholders,” he added.

ngX HaILs aradeL HoLdIngs

While delivering his speech at the listing exercise, the Group Chairman, NGX Group, Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga, stated that Aradel had been a key player in Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly in the exploration, production, and refining of petroleum products.

He said the successful listing of Aradel Holdings underscored the strength and viability of NGX as the preferred platform for companies looking to unlock value and achieve their growth potential.

According to him, Aradel’s commitment to

innovation, strategic investment, and sound governance sets a benchmark for the oil and gas industry, showcasing the immense opportunities that our capital market offers to businesses.

He maintained that the achievement was not only a win for Aradel, but also a strong signal to both local and global investors that Nigeria’s capital market remained dynamic, resilient, and full of opportunities.

Kwairanga further said: “We are proud to serve as a trusted partner in facilitating capital raising, supporting companies like Aradel that contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth.

“Moreover, Aradel’s listing aligns with Nigeria’s broader national objective of building a trillion-dollar economy.

“By enhancing its visibility, governance, and access to capital, Aradel is well-positioned to scale its operations and create value for shareholders while contributing to Nigeria’s economic diversification.

“The oil and gas sector remains a critical driver of our economy, and companies like Aradel are expanding the sector’s footprint. Their success demonstrates that local capital and content can propel the industry to new heights, contributing to Nigeria’s broader economic transformation.

“As Aradel Holdings joins the NGX Main Board, we celebrate a story of resilience, innovation, and ambition. We are confident that Aradel’s growth will further strengthen Nigeria’s capital market and reinforce the critical role of NGX in supporting the aspirations of companies across all sectors.”

The Group Managing Director and CEO of NGX Group, Mr. Temi Popoola, emphasised the broader significance of Aradel’s listing.

“The benefits of an equity market listing for the upstream sub-sector of the oil and gas industry is especially crucial in light of its dire capital requirements and chronic underinvestment.

“Aradel has come to the market at a critical time as this and we are confident that our infrastructure here at NGX, both market and technology, can unlock the capital flows needed to ensure the sector thrives”, Popoola said.

The Chief Executive Officer of NGX, Mr. Jude Chiemeka echoed similar sentiments,

stressing the role of NGX in supporting corporate growth and innovation.

“Aradel’s listing highlights NGX’s ability to support leading companies in their growth journey. This is not just a milestone for Aradel, but a key moment for the energy sector, demonstrating how the capital market can fuel efficiency and development in critical industries,” Chiemeka noted.

sustaInIng ImpressIve fInancIaL performance

A look at Aradel Holdings Plc’s 2024 financial performance showed that the growth in profits was driven by N581.2 billion revenue in 2024, a growth of 162.7 per cent from N221.1 billion declared in 2023.

The company explained that the growth in revenue was driven by  “244.6 per cent increase in export crude oil revenue (64.31per cent of total revenue) to N373.7 billion in 2024 from N108.4 billion in 2023; 49.03 per cent of total).

It attributed these to increased production levels, significant impact of improved utilisation of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) on which there has been reduced crude losses, and additional value from the Alternative Crude Evacuation (ACE) route with resultant higher crude oil lifting of 3.1 million barrels in 2024 (FY 2023: 2.1 mbbls).

Aradel reported growth in gas revenue with an increase of 174.7per cent to N28.0 billion in 2024 (4.8per cent of total revenue), due to higher production volumes ( 2023: N10.2 billion; 4.6 per cent of total revenue).

It pointed out that “74.9 per cent increase in refined products’ revenue (30.9 per cent of total revenue) to N179.3 billion (FY 2023: N102.5 billion; 46.4 per cent of total revenue) due to increased sales volumes of 240.5 mmltres, up by 14.47 per cent (FY 2023: 210.1 mmltres),” contributed to the significant increase in revenue.

Increased topLIne and BottomLIne

Commenting on the financials,  Falade said: “The company sustained its strong operational and financial performance in 2024, building on the improvements achieved in 2023.

“We recorded increased topline and bottomline, driven by significantly higher hydrocarbon production, the successful re-entry of Well 2ST in the Omerelu Field, which resulted in the attainment of First Oil on 31st May 2024 and increased sales volumes from our refinery operations. We successfully drilled Wells 14 and 15, marking the conclusion of our Phase 1, four-well turnkey drilling campaign with favourable results.

“We kicked off the second phase of the drilling campaign with Well 16, which is approaching completion. To support the anticipated production growth, we expanded the throughput capacity of our evacuation channels, positioning us to maintain strong output and efficiency levels throughout the year.

assets acquIsItIon/

eXpansIon

However, to increase its asset base and expand its portfolio, Aradel was involved in the some of the divestment transactions that were witnessed in the Nigerian oil and gas industry last year where most of the multinationals put their onshore and shallow water businesses on sale.

Specifically, Aradel completed the acquisition of the Olo and Olo West Marginal Fields from the TotalEnergies/NNPC Joint venture, and entered an agreement to acquire a minority equity interest in Chappal Energies Mauritius Limited – an energy company focusing on investments in deep value and brownfield upstream opportunities within Africa. Moreover, the company is also an equity participant in the Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, the acquirer of Shell’s 100 per cent equity interest in the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Limited, for which Ministerial Consent has been obtained.

“These acquisitions further enhance our portfolio and create new opportunities for future production growth.

“They will complement our existing operations and provide significant long-term value, aligning with our broader strategy of expanding our asset base to multiple assets across different locations, and increasing the resilience as well as sustainability of our business”, Falade stated. Presently, the company’s total assets stood at N1.7 trillion in 2024, a growth of 89 per cent from N923.4 billion in 2023 and it was driven by increase in Property, plant and equipment by 77.9per cent to N684.2 billion in 2024 from N384.6 billion in 2023.

“This was impacted mainly by increased capital expenditure and higher FX rates. Increase in the value of assets of ND Western, the Company’s associate, to N489.5 billion, up 81.2per cent year-to-date (FY 2023: N270.2 billion) due to share of profit and other comprehensive income for the period,” the company added.

future pLans

While hoping to sustain its impressive performance going forward, Aradel’s plan for 2025 is to commence the development programmes for Olo and Olo West as well as the Omerelu Fields.

“These are in addition to optimising production from Ogbele, with a target annual production of 16kbbis per day and 50mmscf per day”, the company noted.

aradeL WIns ngX aWard

At the 2024 NGX Made of Africa Awards held last December in Lagos, Aradel Holdings Plc won the Listing of the Year (Equity) Award, which recognised the highest value of a new listing in the period under review.

The award was presented to Aradel Holdings CEO, Falade, by the NGX CEO, Chiemeka in recognition of the company’s listing, which was viewed as a major step towards achieving its vision of providing energy solutions that foster economic growth.

The listing also marked a significant milestone in the company’s operations and fulfilled a key promise made by the founding fathers of the company, to democratise access to the energy sector and contribute to the wealth creation of the nation.

The Made of Africa Awards recognise companies and individuals within the capital market ecosystem that demonstrate exceptional performance in value delivery and sustainable impact, while acting as key drivers in strengthening the Nigerian and African capital markets.

Falade

PTML Receives First Direct Ship From China to Lagos

Oluchi Chibuzor

PTML Terminal, the largest multipurpose terminal in West Africa, made history last week with the arrival of the MV Great Cotonou, the first Con-Ro (Container-Rollon/Roll-off) vessel offering a direct service from Shanghai to Lagos. This milestone marks a significant advancement in maritime trade between China and Nigeria, reducing transit times and enhancing logistics efficiency.

Owned by global shipping giant Grimaldi Group, which also operates PTML Terminal, the MV Great Cotonou is set to transform regional trade by offering the fastest transit time on this route—just 27 days. Unlike other shipping services that require transshipment at intermediary ports, this direct service ensures faster and more reliable delivery for Nigerian importers, eliminating delays

and additional handling costs.

With this innovative service, Nigerian businesses can now receive not only containerised cargo but also vehicles—including cars, vans, trucks, and project cargo—all on the same vessel. This unique multimodal transport solution presents a substantial logistical advantage, streamlining supply chains and reducing overall costs for importers.

The vessel’s arrival was commemorated with a high-profile welcoming event attended by key figures in the maritime industry. Among those present were Andrea Grimaldi, representing the Grimaldi family, alongside Giampaolo Vitale, Line Manager, and Salvatore Califano, Director of Grimaldi. PTML’s Managing Director, Ascanio Russo, also attended the event, emphasising the significance of this milestone.

Speaking at the event, Russo stated: “The arrival of the Great Cotonou at PTML represents a

pivotal moment for Nigerian importers. This service will significantly reduce transit times and logistics costs while offering unmatched convenience by accommodating various types of cargo in a single shipment.”

“We have the infrastructure, the expertise, the human capital and we will offer a great service to our importers and exporters. The arrival of this ship and this new service will definitely create many more opportunities for our terminal, workers, host community and Nigeria as a whole.

“This is the largest containerroro ship coming to Africa and we have upgraded our facilities to receive this kind of ship. We have recently acquired a massive mobile-harbor crane which cost more than USD10 million. Also, we had to upgrade our infrastructure, quay side with investment in excess of USD5 million just to accommodate these ships,” Russo said.

Lasaco Assurance Announces N1.89bn Profit

Lasaco Assurance Plc, said it recorded significant growth across key financial metrics in its unaudited financial results for the year ended 31st December 2024.

In the 2024 financial year, the Lasaco group posted a profit before tax (PBT) of N2.17 billion and a profit after tax (PAT) of N1.89 billion. The goup’s shareholders’ fund at year-end was N12.05 billion, demonstrating a strong financial base. With the successful completion of the N10.8 billion private placement, the company is now better positioned for enhanced stability and strategic growth.

The Managing Director of Lasaco Assurance, Mr. Razaq Abiodun, commenting on the result said Lasaco group’s total assets for the year stood at N30.47 billion, while total liabilities amounted to N18.42 billion. He said the group also recorded an impressive net investment result of N8.77 billion, indicating a strong performance in its investment activities. “Additionally, Lasaco Assurance’s insurance revenue grew to N22.6 billion, reflecting solid progress in its core operations.

“The Lasaco group, comprising Lasaco Assurance Plc, Lasaco Trading & Investment, and Lasaco Properties Limited, demonstrated strong individual growth, col-

lectively making a significant impact on the group’s overall financial performance. Each subsidiary played a strategic role in driving revenue, expanding market reach, and strengthening the group’s diversified portfolio. Their combined contributions reinforced the company’s financial stability and positioned the group for sustained growth in an increasingly competitive market” he said..

According to Abiodun, Parent company’s profit before tax (PBT) increased by 11.3 percent to N1.87 billion, while profit after tax (PAT) grew by 20.7 per cent reaching N1.59 billion. Shareholders’ fund for the parent company stood at N11.75 billion as of 31st December 2024,” he stated.

KBL Insurance Launches Motor Insurance Awareness Campaign

KBL Insurance is launching an extensive awareness campaign on the Third-Party Motor Insurance to draw the attention of the public to road safety and regulatory compliance .

The company said the initiative was Predicated on the move to ensuring compliance with Section 68 of the Insurance Act 2003, and is designed to educate motorists on their legal obligations, the benefits of coverage, and the consequences of non-compliance.

Addressing the media on this, Managing Director of the company, Lawal

Mijinyawa, emphasised on the Company’s commitment to customer convenience and regulatory compliance, and called on the general public to comply with the regulation, detailing the importance of Motor Insurance.

He assured customers, saying:”At KBL Insurance Limited, we believe insurance is more than just policies. It is about protecting lives, securing assets, and ensuring peace of mind. Our goal is to simplify Third-Party Motor Insurance so that every vehicle owner in Nigeria remains compliant with the law while benefiting from seamless insurance coverage and top-tier customer support.”The Third-Party

Motor Insurance is mandatory for all vehicle owners, as it is now enforced by the Nigeria Police Force and the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM). The policy provides financial protection by covering liabilities for damages or injuries caused to third parties in the event of accident.

According to the KBL Insurance boss, despite its legal requirement, many motorists are unaware of the serious risks of driving without valid insurance.

He said a defaulter could pay a fine of N250,000, which may include impounding the vehicle along other strict sanctions.

Providus Bank Appoints Mahmud Tukur as Non-Executive Director

Providus Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Mahmud Tukur as a NonExecutive Director. His appointment was ratified at the Bank’s Annual General Meeting, held at the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos

Mr. Mahmud Tukur who is the Founder and GCEO of Ashgrove Group, is an Award-Winning Global Business Leader, with three decades of experience across the energy, maritime, infrastructure and technology sectors.

The Executive Management of

Providus Bank, in a statement, expressed confidence in Mr. Tukur’s appointment, stating:

“We are delighted to welcome Mr. Mahmud Tukur to our Board. His extensive experience and multifaceted skillsets including corporate governance, risk management, strategy and performance management will be invaluable as we strengthen our strategic direction and drive sustained growth.

His leadership acumen and deep industry insights align with

our vision for future forward banking.”

Mr. Tukur became the Youngest CEO of a Publicly Listed Company in Nigeria at age 37 when he was appointed to lead Eterna Plc, an indigenous downstream oil company listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX). He spearheaded a remarkable transformation of the company’s fortunes, twice earning him recognition as one of the top 25 CEOs of publicly listed companies in Nigeria as well as the prestigious Downstream CEO of the Year award.

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo),

(Equatorial Guinea), Rabi

(Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic

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

L-R: Representative of the Customs Area Controller, Area 2 Command, Assistant Comptroller Martin Okpokpo; Managing Director of CMA CGM Nigeria, Hinelder Ferreira; Port Manager, Onne Port, Raymond Abdulraham; CEO, APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke and Controller of Immigration, Onne Marine Command, Comptroller Emeka Eneh, at the official launch of the Europe Afrique 4 (EURAF4) shipping service, at Onne Port, Rivers State...recently

Ebere Nwoji

Ebere Nwoji

2024FY: Nigerian Breweries Crosses N1trn Mark in Revenue

Kayode Tokede

Nigerian Breweries Plc, has released its audited group financial statements for the financial year 2024, recording an unprecedented and impressive revenue of N1.1 trillion.

This represents a massive 81per cent increase on the N599.6 billion recorded in the corresponding period in 2023.

A further breakdown of the audited results revealed a significant 51per cent growth in

group gross profit from N212.6 billion in 2023 to N320 billion in 2024.

The operating profit equally grew significantly by 59per cent from N44 billion to N70 billion during the period in spite of the challenges of huge increase in input costs.

Speaking on the results, Managing Director/CEO, Nigerian Breweries, Mr. Hans Essaadi in a statement said the impressive year-on-year revenue growth was largely driven by strategic pricing

initiatives, market expansion, successful innovations, and operational efficiencies.

”Despite macroeconomic headwinds faced by the company, group operating profit surged by 54per cent, reflecting the success of cost management, process optimization and strong operational performance,” he noted.

He added that the 34 per cent increase in the net finance costs, and the 36% increase in the net loss recorded by the company were driven by the

rise in interest rates as well as the impact of the devaluation of the naira. The net loss went up from N106.3 billion in the previous year to N144.9 billion.

According to a statement signed by the Company Secretary/Legal Director, Mr. Uaboi Agbebaku, the company took some bold steps in 2024 to deal with the issues that impacted the net profit and to strengthen its financial position. The Board obtained the support of shareholders for the company’s business recovery

plan including a successful Rights Issue.

Agbebaku disclosed further that the bold steps have started to yield positive results with the company demonstrating strong recovery and positive momentum in the last quarter of 2024.

“In Quarter 4, Revenue grew by 89per cent while operating profit increased by 145per cent. Notably, net finance costs went down by 75per cent leading to a return to profitability in the

quarter, the first time in two years.

“The return to a positive net profit position marks a major step in the company’s journey towards long term profitability and financial stability. It also reinforces the effectiveness of ongoing transformation initiatives. The proceeds from the right issues have been utilised to significantly reduce future currency risks and the board remains committed to maintaining the improved financial position,” he said.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF FEBRUARY 13/25

BISHOP TAIWO 60TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION...

World Cancer Day: NGO Tasks Govt on Stronger Tobacco Control Policies to Avoid Harm on Children

Hammed Shittu in

A non-governmental organisation in Kwara State, Bundies Care Support Initiative at the weekend stressed the need for the government to adopt a stronger tobacco control policies so as to protect nation's children against harms of tobacco exposure.

The group also called for full implementation of Nigeria’s National Tobacco Control Act in the country in order to make life safer for the children.

The Health Advocate and Bundies Care Support Initiative Executive Director, Mrs. Funmilayo Osiegbu, stated this in Ilorin, Kwara State capital, during the sensitisation programme to commemorate the World Cancer Day in the state.

The event was organised in collaboration with Protecting and Activating Communities

against Tobacco.

The theme for this year is entitled, "United by Unique", with subtheme: "Mothers Voices Against Tobacco in Our Children".

The sensitisation event was witnessed by mothers from various pressure groups like, the Women Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN), Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN) and Kwara Ministry of Health, among others

They moved across all major streets of Ilorin, the state capital to educate children against the harmful of taking tobacco.

The mothers were armed with placards with inscriptions like, "Government move against smoking", Smoking and Lung cancer are husband and wife", "No smoking, no cancer, don’t burn your life", among others.

However, Osiegbu said that the mothers are advocating for government to push policies that safeguard young people from tobacco industry interference.

She said: "In Nigeria, tobacco use remains a significant public health challenge, with increasing exposure to second hand smoke posing risks to children and families.

"The Kwara march amplifies the call for full implementation of Nigeria’s National Tobacco Control Act.

"This includes stricter enforcement of bans on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship, as well as stronger measures to prevent youth access to tobacco products".

Osiegbu explained that the mothers’ campaign is inspired by similar initiatives worldwide, such as the impactful advocacy efforts of Tobacco-Free Jordan.

According to her, the mothers

successfully campaigned for stronger regulations to prevent tobacco marketing to children, and that Nigerian mothers are also joining forces to demand urgent action.

cigarettes and other tobacco products.

She also commended the Kwara mothers for the initiative

She said: “We cannot stand by while our children are exposed to harmful tobacco products.

“We are calling on our government to prioritize public health over the interests of the tobacco industry.

Also speaking, the Kwara Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Afolashade Opeyemi, reiterated the resolve of the state government towards ensuring the health of all citizens.

The commissioner, represented by the Director Personnel, Finance and Supply, Mrs. Ramat Akanni, stated that the administration have zero tolerance for smoking of any substance such as Shisha,

APC: Tambuwal Has No Moral Rights to Question Politicians Defecting to Our Party

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

while expressing the support of the state government to ensure the youth are protected from smoking harmful substance.

NDLEA Busts Trans-border Drug

Cartel, Arrests 4 Members in Onitsha, Keffi

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have busted a trans-border drug trafficking syndicate, arresting four members during which multi-million-naira worth of tramadol pills were recovered.

According to the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi, in a statement on Sunday, the operations which was intelligenceled resulted in the interception of drugs concealed in the bumper and false bottom of sienna buses heading to border towns.

where a total of 190,960 pills of tramadol were concealed and, in the space, designed to house the spare tyre of the vehicles.

Babafemi said investigations revealed that an Onitsha, Anambra State-based dealer, Kingsley Mbaeri, was the supplier of the seized tramadol consignment, adding that a swift follow-up operation led to the arrest of Mbaeri at his Uga Street, Onitsha home on 29th January.

He said two vehicles: a Toyota Corolla car marked FGG 948 MF and a Toyota Sienna bus marked GWA 23 HH were recovered from his house.

The All Progressives Congress (APC), has said former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, lacked the moral rights to comment on the intentions of politicians, who have defected from a crisisridden PDP to the ruling party. The former governor recently asserted that no politician with conscience would join the APC. But the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, in a statement stated that his comment described his antecedents as a serial defector.

vainglorious party defector.

“There remains profound wisdom in the saying that people who live in glass houses should not throw stones. That wisdom has clearly eluded Tambuwal, a notorious and

“His comments more aptly characterised his own convoluted record of defections from the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) to the Democratic People’s Party (DPP) in 2007 and back to ANPP and then off to the PDP, and decamping in 2014 to APC and finally crawling back to PDP, ignominiously, in 2018.

“By his assertions,

Tambuwal’s itinerant defections were in chase of ‘stomach infrastructure’, purely selfserving and without any conscience.

“A wandering politician like Tambuwal lacks the moral turpitude to comment on the intentions of politicians who have defected from a crisisridden PDP to our great Party,” he said.

Babafemi said following weeks of intelligence and surveillance operations by operatives of the Directorate of Intelligence in NDLEA, a Sienna bus marked ABJ 452 HG was intercepted at Nasarawa-Toto Road, Keffi, Nasarawa State on Tuesday 27th January 2025 at 6a.m.

Two suspects: Zahradeen Adamu, 27 and Abubakar Usman, 44, were arrested in the vehicle coming from Onitsha, Anambra state enroute Yola, Adamawa state. Also, a second Sienna bus driven by Abba Usman, 48, was also intercepted.

He said during a search of the two vehicles, specially constructed steel compartments were discovered after the removal of the back bumper

The spokesman said in another interdiction, operatives of the Intelligence Department intercepted a commercial bus coming from Onitsha, Anambra State at Abaji checkpoint, FCT Abuja on 4th February, adding that a passenger in the bus, Chimezie Ojingwa, 32, carrying motor spare parts in a black bag was arrested. When his bag was searched, 404.47 grammes of methamphetamine; 506.49 grammes of Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis and 262.32 grammes of dimethyl sulfone, a precursor substance for mixing meth, all of which were concealed in the motor parts were recovered, the spokesman further revealed.

Rivers Govt Upgrades Port Harcourt Airport Before Planned Certification By NCAA

Chinedu Eze

The Rivers State Government has embarked on the renewal of the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, as the facility awaits certification from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

In addition to upgrading some of the existing facilities, the Rivers State Government is building extensive car park and remodeling and expanding the access road to enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience and this ambitious project aims to modernize the airport facilities and

improve safety standards.

THISDAY learnt that this will enhance the planned certification of the airport by NCAA, which has the oversight function on nation’s airports and certifies the international airports in line with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.

Already two international airports have been certified by NCAA in Lagos and Abuja, remaining the Port Harcourt, Enugu and Kano airports.

According to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the

key project initiatives by the Rivers State Government include expansion of the access road to the airport and rehabilitation of internal roads.

These include the internal roads in front of the domestic terminal, currently in a deplorable condition but now it is being rehabilitated to make the airport more accessible, in order to ensure smooth traffic flow and safety of travelers.

Also, the Rivers State Government is remodeling the toll gate, as a significant milling work is being undertaken near the toll gate area as part of the airport access road

expansion to enhance accessibility to the airport.

Another construction embarked by the state government is the work on the drop-off zone. It is a dedicated drop-off zone at the Domestic Terminal Zone (DTZ), which is currently under construction and the plan is to streamline passenger dropoffs and enhance overall convenience and provide a more comfortable and efficient experience for travelers.

There is also road construction in front of the terminal building, described by FAAN officials as comprehensive road construction

in front of the terminal building aimed at creating a welcoming and efficient environment for all-arriving and departing passengers.

According to top FAAN official at the airport, “The massive infrastructure upgrade at Port Harcourt International Airport signifies the Rivers State Government's commitment to enhancing the modernization of the airport facilities to meet international aviation standards in the South-South region.

“This initiative by the Rivers State governor not only promises

to elevate the airport's status but also aims to contribute positively to the economic growth of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole, while promoting Port-Harcourt as a key travel hub in the south/South region.

“Travelers and stakeholders can look forward to a more modern, efficient, and safer airport in the coming months. The project is expected to be completed timeously, minimizing disruption to airport operations while delivering a more efficient and attractive environment for travelers.”

Ilorin

Prelate Emeritus, Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Samuel Kanu-Uche; wife of the celebrant, Mrs. Esther Taiwo; Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr Oliver Ali Aba and the celebrant, Secretary of Conference, Methodist Church Nigeria, Bishop Babatunde Taiwo during the 60th Birthday celebration of Bishop Taiwo held at the City-Mission Methodist Church, Surulere, Lagos at the weekend

MINISTER OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY VISITS SON...

L-R: Special Adviser to the President on Industry and Trade, John Uwajumogu; Director General, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, Dr Ifeanyi Okeke; Hon Minister of State for Industry, Trade and

Enoh; and Director, SON, Talatu Ethan, during the minister’s tour of SON facility in Lagos on Friday

Despite Recent Political Differences, Tinubu Celebrates Ex-Kaduna Gov, El-Rufai at 65

Acknowledges his role in APC formation, party’s electoral successes, democracy, Nigeria Sanwo-Olu says he’s a committed public servant President at AU Summit, declares Libya's instability inflaming insecurity in the Sahel

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

In spite of the recent political differences between a former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, rejoiced with El-Rufai on his 65th birthday.

The president, in a release by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, celebrated ElRufai and commended his endeavours for democracy; his meritorious service to the nation, and mentorship of the younger generation.

Tinubu acknowledged El-Rufai's role in the dialogues leading up to the formation of the APC and his contributions to the success of the party in the three consecutive elections of 2015, 2019, and 2023.

The president wished El-Rufai good health and strength for continuous service to the nation.

El-Rufai had recently taken a swipe on the APC and President Tinubu saying the relationship between the President and the north had deteriorated in less than two years into his administration.

He, therefore, warned that Tinubu

might be given the Goodluck Jonathan's treatment ahead of the 2027 elections.

Also, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, while congratulating El-Rufai, on his 65th birthday, described him as a committed public servant, who served his state, Kaduna, and Nigeria with dedication. Sanwo-Olu, in a congratulatory message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said el-Rufai, contributed immeasurably to governance and politics in Nigeria with honour in all the public offices he occupied.

"Malam el-Rufai is a committed public officer. He turned around Abuja during his tenure as Minister of FCT. Kaduna State also witnessed phenomenal growth and development in many sectors during his eight years as governor.

"On behalf of my family, the government, and good people of Lagos State, I congratulate former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir el-Rufai, on his 65th birthday.

"I pray to God to grant former Governor Nasir el-Rufai a long life, good health, and renewed energy for more service to humanity, his State,

Kaduna, Nigeria and mankind in years to come," he said.

Meanwhile, Tinubu, yesterday, expressed concern that the instability in Libya, a North African country, has continued to worsen security challenges in the Sahel and therefore, called on the Assembly of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to back initiatives to restore law and order.

He also called on the Africa Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) to prioritise the establishment of a combined maritime task force to enhance security in the Gulf of Guinea.

Speaking at the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, President Tinubu expressed Nigeria's readiness to host the task force's headquarters in Lagos.

He, however, conveyed Nigeria's position as the AU considered the report on the AUPSC, focusing on peace and security in Africa, and the biennial report on the implementation of the Master Roadmap of Practical Steps to Silence the Guns in Africa (2023-2024).

In the statement delivered on behalf of President Tinubu by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, the pre3sident said, "The Sahel cannot enjoy peace as long as Libya does not."

Tinubu highlighted the severe insecurity affecting countries grappling with democratic transition, including Sudan, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Gabon.

"It would not be out of place to explore the possibility of extending the inherent benefits of UN Security Council Resolution 2719 to support AU Peace Support Operations," he said.

In doing so, he added that the AU must try to prevent the increasing incursion of extra-continental forces, including private military companies, into African security matters.

According to the President: "The time has come for the African Union Peace and Security Council to prioritise the creation of a Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea.

"I wish to announce that Nigeria would like to host the headquarters of the task force in Lagos," he said.

Nigeria's recommendation of a maritime task force came on the same day it signed an agreement

Ooni, LP, Ngige Hail Adebanjo in Death

Chuks Okocha, Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja and Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, weekend, joined the Yoruba people and all proponents of justice, democracy, and good governance, to celebrate the passage of an iconic nationalist and elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who died at 96.

Also, the leadership of the Labour Party, has said it received with a rude shock, the passing of Adebanjo.

This was as a former governor of Anambra State, and Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, described Pa Ayo Adebanjo, as unapologetic and unrepentant Awoist and social crusader

As the custodian of the Oduduwa heritage, the Ooni of Ife, a statement stated, never mourns but celebrates

the legacy and indelible impact of those who had walked the path of honour and left behind footprints of greatness.

“Pa Ayo Adebanjo was more than a political figure; he was a guardian of Yoruba ideals, a relentless advocate for fairness, equity, and the true federalism upon which Nigeria was envisioned.

“Throughout his life, he remained unwavering in his commitment to the principles of Afenifere, the revered Yoruba socio-political movement.

“His voice, always firm and unrelenting, was a moral compass for generations of leaders and followers alike. He lived and fought for democracy, justice, and the welfare of the common man, standing tall even in the face of opposition.

“Pa Adebanjo's transition is not an end but a passage into the realm of the ancestors, where he joins the

league of great Yoruba forebears like late Obafemi Awolowo, late Ooni Adesoji Aderemi and all other true Awoists, who shaped the destiny of our people.

“His exemplary life serves as an eternal blueprint for leadership, courage, and selfless service. The House of Oduduwa celebrates his legacy, praying that the ideals he upheld will continue to guide our leaders and inspire the younger generation to embrace the values of truth, justice, and unity.”

On its part, the Labour Party, in a statement by its National chairman, Julius Abure, said, ''For us in Labour Party, Pa Ayo Adebanjo was more than a father and a leader, who stood by our party during thick and thin.

“He was most vociferous in his beliefs in the ideals of the Labour Party and he never gave up on us until his last moment. When we look

back at his past political disposition, we saw a man who saw the future of Nigeria and who gave his all to ensure that a Nigeria where equity, justice and fair play evolves.

''We saw a fearless leader, who shunned all manner of trivialities and tribal sentiments; we saw a great advocate for united Nigeria who fearlessly canvased for true federalism, knowing that a Nigeria with its multi ethnic nationalities as presently constituted would thrive better when power is not confined but liberalised.

''This courageous enigma stood out during the days of the military dictatorship. He along some of his compatriots led the famous National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) during the struggle to reclaim democracy after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

with the AU to provide Strategic Sea Lift Services for AU peace support operations, natural disaster support, humanitarian actions, and personnel movement.

Nigeria's Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, signed the agreement. Under the agreement, the Nigerian Navy would provide a vessel for the operations on a cost-recovery basis.

Nigeria's Attorney-General and Justice Minister, Lateef Fagbemi; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar; Naval Chief, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla; and DirectorGeneral of the Nigerian Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Muhammed Muhammed, witnessed the agreement signing.

Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, signed for the AU.

Tinubu expressed satisfaction that

the AUPSC had already adopted the outcomes of a high–level meeting, including the decision to upgrade the Nigerian National CounterTerrorism Centre to a Regional Counter–Terrorism Centre. He also appreciated the Peace and Security Council's decision to renew the mandate of the Multinational Joint Taskforce, addressing the twin challenges of terrorism and violent extremism in the Lake Chad Region. The president welcomed the progress in operationalising the African Standby Force, reiterating Nigeria's support, and appealed to all AU member countries as well as delegations to show the necessary flexibility and allow the draft MoU on the operationalisation of the standby force to be adopted.

Tinubu also supported an Africanled credit rating agency (ACRA), noting that it would provide fairer, more transparent credit assessments for African economies.

Dogara Appeals to Tinubu to Revisit Oil Exploration, Bagel Dam Project Ahead 2027

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

A former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Yakubu Dogara, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to revisit the issue of oil exploration discovered in Bauchi State as well as commence the construction of the Bagel Dam in Dass LGA, saying such interventions would drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve infrastructure.

Dogara, who stated this, weekend, while speaking at the commissioning of a road project in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State courtesy of the efforts of the Senator representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, Shehu Buba, noted that the projects when executed would encourage the people to support Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

The former Speaker called for the construction of the Bagel dam in Dass LGA of the state, pointing out that it wouldopen up the area,

create sources of employment for the population and increase revenue generation opportunities.

“If President Bola Ahmed Tinubu awards and commences the Bagel Dam and revisit the oil exploration in Bauchi State, he does not need to come for campaigns in Bauchi State for the 2027 presidential campaign as we will all vote for him,” he said Dogara pointed out that that the Bagel multipurpose dam would provide electricity to all local governments in Bauchi South, driving industrialisation and boosting the local economy, and stressed that joining the league of oil-producing states would significantly increase federal revenue allocation to Bauchi.

According to him, “If done, the Bagel multipurpose Dam will generate electricity power for all the LGAs in Bauchi South Senatorial District .It will lead to economic activities in the area and the State by extension.”

Investment, Senator John Owan

TURNING THE SOD FOR BUILDING NEW FACULTIES...

L-R: Registrar, University of Ibadan, Mr Ganiyu Saliu; Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan,Prof. Kayode Adebowale; Agbaakin of Iru Land, Chief Tunde Fanimokun; Chairman Central Planing Committee of the Project, Prof.

Gbadamosi during the signing of Memoranda between the Divine Sterling Enterprise Foundation (DSE) Foundation and University of Ibadan, The Premier University on the building of some infrastructural project and turning of sod for the buildings at the faculties of Economics and Management Sciences at the institution in Ibadan on Friday

PDP Dismisses Allegations of Forgery of Primary Election Guidelines, Blames APC

Ude-Okoye denies alleged detention,

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Debo Ologunagba, has refuted allegations of forgery in the primary election guidelines, blaming it on the handiwork of certain individuals, who were agents of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This was as the National Secretary of the party, Sunday Ude-Okoye, has dismissed reports of his alleged arrest and detention by the Nigeria Police Force over accusations of forging the party’s documents.

According to Ologunagba, ''The

PDP states in clear and unequivocal terms that its Primary Election Guidelines as approved by the Party have not by any means whatsoever been compromised by forgery as being peddled in the said reports.

Ologunagba, said the party was aware that the misleading reports were at the instance of certain resentful individuals who, as agents of the APC, were seeking ways to create a scandal, discredit the integrity of PDP’s internal processes and bring the party to public ridicule.

''Our party is shocked by the level of desperation being displayed by these individuals reportedly with the

says he’s at home in Enugu

backing of a particular top official in the APC administration, who had on several occasions vowed to destroy the PDP to enable the APC entrench a totalitarian and oppressive one-party system in our nation to the resentment and detriment of Nigerians.

''The PDP has also been made aware of the involvement of these disgruntled individuals in inducing disagreements in some chapters as well as the intimidation, threats and police harassment of some officials, staffs and members of the Party.

''Our party is appalled by the scandalous and reprehensible attempt by these desperate individuals to drag

the police and a magistrate court in Abuja into the party’s internal affairs despite pronouncement of various Courts of higher hierarchy including the Supreme Court stating that issues touching on the nomination of candidates for elections are strictly internal affairs of political parties over which the courts have no jurisdiction,'' he stated.

Meanwhile, while Ude-Okoye, has dismissed reports of his alleged arrest and detention by the police, the Southeast National Vice Chairman of the party, Ali Odefa, has also told THISDAY that he was not under any arrest, and arrived in Abuja.

Abure: Labour Party Still Available for Ndigbo to Realise Presidential Bid in 2027

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, has said the party was still ready and available to support Ndigbo to realise their ambition of ruling the country in future. Abure, who said the Labour Party, had no regret zoning the presidency to the Southeast, however, tasked the leaders of the zone on the need to pursue realignment with other sections of the country and to also priorities unity and togetherness to be able to win presidential election in 2027.

Abure, who spoke yesterday in Abuja at the Labour Party rally organised by the South East party members, ahead of the Area Council election slated to hold early next year also assured aspirants, who came in their numbers that the party would not impose candidates on them.

"Before 2023 general election, I used to believe erroneously that Igbo were not united but by the time Peter Obi joined the party and I had the privilege of campaigning for him across the wards and across Nigeria, I discovered that the Igbo are the most united, most

formidable, most industrious, most hardworking and most fearless, and that is why today, I have no regrets that in spite of all odds, we zoned the presidential ticket of our party to South East.

"We decided that we are going to clean the tears of the Igbos. And we powerfully and courageously did that in 2023 general election. But I think that the Igbo must also go back to the drawing board.

"The Igbo need more realignment with the other sections of the country. Over the years, students of history will agree that the Yoruba at some point were

like the Igbo who were doing it all alone and they were unable to capture power.

“Before, during and after independence, the Yoruba couldn't make it to the presidency but when they realigned, it was easy for them to make it to the presidency. It is a lesson for the Igbos to learn.

"I also think that the Igbo should be strong, firm and united with a leadership. I still believe that the Igbo need to be more united and speak with one voice. I know that every body might not need to be together.

Ohanaeze Condemns Continuous Detention of Nnamdi Kanu, Berates Southeast Govs

for "playing the ostrich" and sluggishness in the release of the IPOB leader.

Governors can only be accurately described as ‘playing the ostrich’.

In

"Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands resolute in condemning the intolerable stalemate surrounding the continued incarceration of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the esteemed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

"It is a stark reality that the inaction exhibited by the Southeast

This unwillingness to confront pressing issues has not only betrayed the trust of the Igbo people but has also become a disgraceful chapter in our collective history.

"In unequivocal terms, Ohanaeze Ndigbo demands that the Southeast Governors relinquish their avoidance tactics and

sluggishness. The time has come for decisive leadership that reflects the pressing expectations and aspirations of our communities.

"Should they continue to ignore the pressing calls for action, they will inevitably face consequences at the ballot box come election time—a judgment that the electorate will pass based on their unwavering commitment to the people."

Some reports (not THISDAY) had claimed that Ude-Okoye and Odefa, were arrested for allegedly altering the party’s primary election guidelines in the Imo State governorship primary.

A PDP chieftain, Mike Iheanaetu, had petitioned the police, alleging that documents presented in court, leading to Ude-Okoye’s affirmation as National Secretary, were forged.

Speaking from his base in Enugu, Ude-Okoye refuted the allegations, stating, “I am not in any detention. I am in my house in Enugu and am not under any form of arrest. “I am not involved in any forgery of a document, and I will not get involved in forgery of any document. I did not tell anybody to forge any document, and nobody forged any document for me.”

Adeleke Alerts Presidency, Others on Plan to Install Sacked Council Chairs, Councillors

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo and Chinedu Eze in Lagos

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, yesterday, alerted the national and global audience about an alleged plot by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola, to create chaos and anarchy in the state.

This, he claimed, his predecessor planned to do by installing the sacked local government chairmen and Councillors today (Monday) across 30 local government areas of the state.

He further called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to instruct the National Security Adviser, and the Attorney General of the Federation, to personally verify the fact that the Court of Appeal judgement did not reinstate the sacked local government chairmen and councilors.

But the minister and his party, the All progressives Congress (APC), have denied any such thing, and advised the governor to do the right thing instead.

Adeleke recalled that there was a subsisting judgement of court that sacked the chairmen and the Councillors produced by the 2022 local government polls in the state.

The governor noted that he would expose a fascist anti-democratic agenda designed to enforce a non-existing court judgment on local governments in the state.

"This evil plot is being spearheaded by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola in active collaboration with the Osun

state Commissioner of Police, the Osun state Director of DSS and the State Commandant of the Civil Defense Corps," he said.

Adeleke affirmed that he knew President Tinubu to be a true democrat, a lover of rule of law, and a believer in the sanctity of the judicial process.

“I know, as a matter of fact, that Mr. President will never authorise a dictatorial violation of the constitution irrespective of who is involved. It is crucial to add that Mr. President will never support any action that is capable of generating bloodbath and bloodshed," he said.

But Oyetola, has urged Adeleke to respect the recent ruling of Court of Appeal, which on February 11, 2025, reinstated the sacked local government chairmen and councillors in the state.

Oyetola, also dismissed the allegation that he was plotting to destabilise the state, saying his antecedents, pedigree and track records of public service in the last 15 years did not support the allegation by Adeleke.

Oyetola, therefore, appealed to the governor, saying, instead of resorting to cheap blackmail, which has no place in law, he should respect the Appeal Court judgement.

This was contained in a statement by the Media Office of the Minister, which described Oyetola as a man of peace, who has tremendous respect for the judiciary, rule of law and constituted authority, and as such would never be party to any breakdown of law and order.

Oyetola, APC deny allegation

Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki

The apex Igbo Sociocultural Organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has condemned the continuous detention of the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

a statement by the Deputy President General of the body, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze berated the south east governors

Tajudeen

AUSTRIAN LACE APPRECIATION EVENT...

L-R: Austrian Commercial Councillor, Barbara Lehninger; Adesoji Olafunke; Oluseun Mobolaji of Goldpodfabrics; Chief Mosunmola Masha of Wilmos Ent.; Morayo Ishola of SAS Textile; Emily Oyeneyin of Jummhy Fabrics; Austrian Ambassador, His Excellency Thomas Schlesinger, and Adedoyin Shittu of Bolatsh Fabrics at the Austrian Lace Appreciation Event in Lagos…recently

Alleged N96bn Fraud: Edo Panel Indicts Obaseki, LG Chairmen

Goddy Egene

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo yesterday received the report of the Administrative Panel of Inquiry set up on December 18, to investigate the financial activities of the removed local government councils chairmen.

The report of the panel was said to have indicted former

Governor Godwin Obaseki and key leaders of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state over alleged N96 billion fraud involving the 18 removed local government councils chairmen.

Speaking on the report, Okpebholo disclosed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) would prosecute some of the indicted

Youths Protest, Raze Police Station in Ondo

Fidelis David in akure

Crisis has erupted in Ifon, the headquarters of Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, following alleged torture of a boy to death by the police.

THISDAY gathered yesterday that the crisis started on Valentine’s Day following a fight between two young men.

It was learnt that a young man was arrested and allegedly tortured to death by the police.

This development was said to have angered youths in the community who protested the killing at the police station,

allegedly chased away policemen on duty and set ablaze the police station.

However, another account indicates that some young individuals got into a fight on Valentine’s Day.

The source said: “One party went to the police station to report the incident, which led to the arrest of two members of the opposing group. These two arrested individuals were brutally tortured; unfortunately, one died in the cell yesterday morning, while the other was rushed to the hospital and still in coma.

Rivers Women Urged to Unite Ahead of 2027 Elections

Women from the 23 local government areas of Rivers State has been urged to unite in support of the state Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, ahead of the 2027 general election in the State.

The call was made at the weekend during a Valentine programme organised for women in the state by a feminist group, Rivers Women Unite for Sim (RWUS), in collaboration with Toby Jug Foundation, in Port Harcourt.

officials for misappropriating public funds.

The governor expressed satisfaction with the panel’s professionalism and reaffirmed his

administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public office.

He said: “Nigerians need to start demanding accountability

from elected public office holders. It is the only way to fight corruption and ensure development.

“I want to thank you for a job

well done. I carefully listened to the submission of the report. The truth is that the administration of former governor Godwin Obaseki took Edo people for granted.”

RULAAC Writes PSC, Demand Investigation of Operatives of Enugu Police Command over Abuse of Power

Linus Aleke in abuja

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has written the Police Service Commission (PSC), demanding an investigation into alleged extortion and abuse of power by operatives of Enugu State Service Command.

In a letter addressed to the Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), the Executive Director, RULAAC, Okechukwu Nwanguma, said that he wrote to bring to the chairman’s urgent attention a deeply alarming incident of alleged kidnapping, extortion, and abuse of power involving

members of the Enugu State Command of the Nigeria Police Force.

“Recently, one Mr. Olu Agwu, a businessman, was reportedly abducted in Abia State, blindfolded, and taken to the Enugu State anti-kidnapping unit, where he was subjected to threats and unfounded accusations of being associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

“He was coerced into paying a staggering sum of N62 million to secure his release, with claims that part of the extorted amounts was intended for senior police officials, including yourself.

BAT Ideological Group Hails Defection of PDP Members to APC in Kaduna

PDP reconciliation committee chairman says devt worrisome

John Shiklam in Kaduna

Some supporters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the aegis of BAT Ideological Group(BIG), have commended the governance style of Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani for reversing the trend where the All Progressives Congress (APC) did not have a foothold

in Southern Kaduna with the defection of the political bigwigs from the zone to their party.

According to the group, this reversal of the trend by Sani led to the defections of some prominent chieftains of the party in Kaduna to the ruling APC recently.

About 50 prominent members of Peoples Democratic Party

Convener of the RWUS, Sotonye Toby Fulton, described the gathering as a well-deserved moment of relaxation, fun, and fellowship.

She emphasised the importance of self-care, noting that women play crucial roles in society and should take time to rejuvenate. Participants danced, celebrated, and expressed gratitude for the leadership of Governor Fubara, whom they described as a blessing to the people of Rivers State.

The event with the theme: ‘Recreating Our Childhood’, provided an opportunity for women to unwind, share joyful moments, and strengthen bonds while reminiscing about the innocence and excitement of childhood.

Board Room Guru, Bode Emanuel, for Burial

The family of the late board room guru and foremost accountant, Justin Olabode Emanuel (Esq) has announced his funeral rites. According to the press statement signed by his wife, Mrs. Anana Bode Emanuel, activities celebrating his life and times will kick off on the evening of tomorrow, February 18, 2025 with a Night of Tributes at Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, where family and friends will play glowing tributes to the accomplished accountant. Christian wake and service of songs will hold on Thursday 20th February at Harbour Point, Victoria lsland, Lagos.

A week-long ceremony celebrating this man of distinction would be rounded off with a funeral service on Friday 21st February 2025 at Holy Cross Cathedral, Catholic Mission Street on Lagos Island. Time is 10am. Private interment and reception will follow immediately after the service.

Born on April 20, 1935 into the distinguished Family of Pa Lydio Durojaiye Emanuel of the Brazillian Quarters, a renowned and pioneer Pharamacist and his mother Alhaja Nusirat Amope Shonibare the daughter of a Muslim Cleric and Imam both of Lagos Island.

Emmanuel Addeh inabuja

Isaac Fayose, a younger brother to former Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Ayo Fayose, at the weekend accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as well as his (Isaac’s) elder brother, Ayo, of destroying the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for their selfish personal interests.

Stressing that the PDP is now a shadow of its old self, Isaac Fayose, who spoke on ‘Mic On’’, an online podcast anchored by Seun Okinbaloye, stressed that it was ‘evil’ that after using the party to achieve their political aims, including becoming governors at different times, both politicians now seek

(PDP) in Kaduna state were received into the APC by Governor Uba Sani. The defectors included: a former Governor of the state, Ramalan Yero, Senator Shehu Sani, Senator Danjuma Laah, Hon Godfrey Ali Gaiya, a former member, House of Representatives, four serving federal lawmakers, and three members of the state assembly among several others.

However, the Chairman of the Kaduna State PDP Appeal and Reconciliation Committee, Shuaibu Miqati, has described the defection of the prominent chieftains of the party to APC as “a sad and worrisome development.”

It’s Evil that Wike, Fayose Are Destroying PDP, Says Ex-Ekiti Gov’s Brother

to run down the party.

Since the last presidential election, which the PDP lost, it has failed to put its house in order, a development further fuelled by the alleged attempt by the former Rivers governor, Wike, to control the levers of power in the opposition party. This is despite taking up an appointment with the ruling All

Progressives Congress (APC) at the federal level. But Isaac Fayose argued that Nigeria is currently a one-party state due mainly to the activities of the duo as well as the near incapacitation of the Labour Party (LP), the special Purpose Vehicle, under which former Governor Peter Obi contested the 2023 presidential poll.

Abia Moves to Stimulate Interest of Tertiary Institution Students in NELFUND

With the South-east still lagging behind in the students loan scheme set up by the federal government, Abia State has initiated plan to carry out sensitisation

programme on the merits of the National Education Loan Funds (NELFUND).

Governor Alex Otti made this known weekend when he received in audience a delegation of NELFUND led by Director, Regional Advocacy, Nneamaka Okafor,

saying that adequate advocacy was needed to stimulate students’ interest in the education loans.

He said that if students and their parents were properly informed about the loan scheme more students in tertiary institutions would

likely key into the programme and access the available loan to fund their education.

Otti particularly stressed the need for optimal advocacy on NELFUND in the South-east zone because of the attitude of an average Igbo towards loan.

Bauchi Gov Calls for People-oriented Policies for National Stability

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Government has applauded security agencies for their commitment to public safety through strategic responses to crimes in the state. It also acknowledged the

positive impact of the federal government’s Food Security Agenda in boosting productivity and addressing poverty and hunger among citizens.

The state Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, made these remarks at the 2024 awards

presentation organised by the Bauchi State Police Command yesterday.

Mohammed emphasised governments’ need to implement people-oriented policies and programmes to tackle sociopolitical and security challenges nationwide.

The governor praised the police and sister security agencies for making Bauchi one of the safest states in the country, and pledged his administration’s continued support to sustain the achievements.

Group Carpets Binance Executive, Gambrayan over Attacks on Nigeria

A political pressure body, Accountability Group has condemned the embattled Binance Director, Tigran Gambrayan for attempting to tarnish the image of Nigeria’s institutions after using diplomatic channels to secure freedom from detention.

A statement by the group’s Executive Director, Atoyebi Bamidele titled, “Ignore the Riffraff called Gambrayan” lamented that the attitude and mannerisms of Gambrayan reeked of outright dishonesty.

The Binance executive had

been arrested and detained over sundry financial infractions where attempts to put him through trial met with theatrics suggesting not being fit enough to stand trial. Gambrayan has recently filled the media space with spurious allegations targeted at the office

of the National Security Adviser and the National Assembly. Integrity group also faulted the re-tweeting of Gambrayan tweets by former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, wondering if he was in cahoots with detractors of the country.

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

BACKPAGE CONTINUATION

A NIGERIA WITH 67 STATES

Majority Leader, Majority Whip, Minority Leader, Minority Whip, Clerk and Deputy Clerk. States have a minimum of 24 and a maximum of 36 legislators right now, so by the time they increase to 67, the number of state legislators will double, to more than 2,000. In the National Assembly and in many states today, every legislator chairs at least one standing committee, so the number of legislative committees will have to double. In 2000AD Nigerian legislators invented what they call “constituency projects,” a crude version of what Americans call “pork barrel” projects. You find hundreds of millions voted to buy Keke Napeps in an Education agency, for example; multiply that by two when 31 new states come on board.

Civil service is Nigeria’s biggest industry. Each Ministry must have a Permanent Secretary, sometimes more than one; a dozen Directors with two or three dozen deputy and assistant directors. There will be in Nigeria 67 state Accountants General, 67 state Auditors General, 67 state Attorneys General and 67 state Solicitors Generals. Each state must have a Revenue Board with many commissioners and directors, even if what it generates cannot fuel their official vehicles.

Not only ministries. Every new state in Nigeria must create more agencies than you can count, including a Civil Service Commission, Legislative Service Commission, Judicial Service Commission, State Universal Basic Education Board, Secondary Schools Commission and Primary Health Care Agency. Most of the states will have Pilgrims Welfare Boards, so-called Hotels and Tourism Boards, Water Board even when the taps are dry, a Rural Electrification Board in the midst of darkness and a Health Services Management Board, even when hospitals under it are mismanaged.

The Judiciary cannot be left behind. Each state must create its own High Court with a Chief Judge and many High Court Judges. Many states will have Shari’a and Customary Courts of Appeal, in addition to lots of magistrate, area and customary courts. Creation of new states will soon be followed by a clamour for the creation of more local governments. Bayelsa State today has only eight LGAs; if you split it, you mean two states will have only four LGAs each? The number of first-class traditional rulers will also multiply. When Zamfara State was created in 1996, it did not have a single emir; today it has 19 of them. When the states multiply to 67, there will be a ripple effect on the Federal Government and its agencies. Since the Constitution says each state must have at least one minister, the Federal Cabinet must increase to at least 67. People complained when President Tinubu appointed 48 ministers, saying it is the largest cabinet in Nigeria’s history. Wait until the number of states hits 67. In addition to satisfying the constitutional requirements, presidents often like to add zonal representations in order to accommodate friends who couldn’t make it through their state party chapters, in addition to accommodating some technocrats. The number of ministers could then approach 100.

National Economic Council will become unwieldy. With a Chairman, 67 governors as members in addition to other statutory Federal officials as members, it can no longer meet in a small conference room and must move to the Presidential Banquet Hall. Ditto the Council of State, in which all 67 governors are members, plus National Assembly heads, former Heads of State and current and former Chief Justices. Even the Police Council, with all governors as members, will be hard put to find adequate space for its meetings.

The Constitution stipulates that each state has three senators while the Federal Capital Territory presently has one. When states increase to 67, the number of senators will increase from 109 to 201. At present there are 360 House of Representatives members, or three and a half times the number of senators, so a way must be found to maintain the current balance. We will then end up with at least 700 Representatives.

Many agencies of the Federal Government will move quickly to open offices in all the new states. The first will be Police Force. Every state must have a State Police Command with a Police Commissioner and several Deputy and Assistant Compols to head Operations, Force Intelligence, Force CID, Mopol, Force Animals etc. Customs, Immigration, Department of State Services, Correctional Service, Civil Defence, Drug Law Enforcement, Road Safety Corps, Central Bank, Nigeria Television Authority, Federal High Court, Bureau of Statistics, National Population Commission, JAMB, WAEC, NECO and INEC must immediately open branch offices in every new state. As must many Federal Ministries, such of Federal Controller of Works and Zonal Education Inspectorate. Some Federal agencies do not have offices in every state but they group some states into zones. Well, with 67 states, they must increase the number of zones and divisions, such as Court of Appeal, Corporate Affairs Commission [CAC], National Broadcasting Commission [NBC] and Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN.

With nearly double the number of states and the consequential increase in government agencies and their state and zonal offices, private sector will be playing catch up. Banks, especially, cannot afford not to have branches

IS REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSIONS THE NEW DEAL?

and widespread environmental degradation. Youth unemployment is rampant, contributing to social unrest and militancy in the region. The inability of the NDDC to address these issues has fueled public disillusionment and increased agitation for alternative development models. In 2020, protests erupted across the Niger Delta, with communities demanding accountability and transparency from the NDDC. These protests highlighted the growing frustration among the region’s inhabitants, who felt betrayed by an agency supposed to improve their lives.

The need for targeted regional interventions became even more pronounced in the aftermath of the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East. The insurgency, which began in 2009, devastated the region, displacing millions and destroying infrastructure. In response, the North East Development Commission (NEDC) was established in 2017 to rebuild communities, resettle displaced people, and drive the region's development. Its mandate included reconstructing schools, hospitals, and other public facilities, reviving the local economy, and promoting peace and stability. However, despite its noble intentions, the NEDC has faced significant challenges. Security concerns have hindered project execution, while corruption and bureaucratic inefficiency have undermined its impact.

In 2022, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) report revealed that over 100 billion Naira allocated to the NEDC was unaccounted for, sparking public outrage and calls for greater transparency. Investigations uncovered inflated contracts, ghost projects, and political patronage, leading to questions about the commission’s commitment to its mandate. Additionally, the NEDC’s projects have been criticised for being poorly targeted, with many communities most affected by the insurgency receiving little or no support. This has created a sense of neglect and abandonment, exacerbating regional social tensions.

In 2024, the quest for regional development took a new dimension with the establishment of three more RDCs: the North West Development Commission (NWDC), the South East Development Commission (SEDC), and the South West Development Commission (SWDC). Additionally, plans are underway to create the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) and the South-South Development Commission (SSDC). This unprecedented expansion of RDCs was driven by the belief that targeted, region-specific solutions are necessary for addressing Nigeria's diverse challenges. Proponents argue that these

commissions represent a new deal for Nigeria's regional growth, providing the framework for decentralised governance and fostering regional collaboration, offering a ray of hope for the country's future.

Supporters of RDCs further argue that regional development agencies are necessary because different geopolitical zones face different challenges that require targeted solutions. For example, the environmental degradation and oil pollution in the Niger Delta require a different approach than the rebuilding of communities devastated by insurgency in the North East.

The SEDC could promote industrialisation and entrepreneurship in the South East, while the NEDC could prioritise educational rehabilitation and security in the North East.

RDCs are also seen as a step towards regionalism and political restructuring, enabling greater autonomy and self-determination. By tailoring programmes and projects to leverage regional strengths, RDCs can stimulate economic growth, foster collaboration among states, and

in any state, since most deposits come from state governments. Telecom companies, media houses, major NGOs, trade unions and religious bodies must all scramble to open offices in new states. How can a major media house not have a correspondent in any state, however new, when the best news items could suddenly come from there?

Pity political parties. Even for the major ones, there isn’t enough room in Wadata Plaza or Legacy House for their NEC meetings, since 67 state chairmen and 67 state secretaries will be attending, in addition to National Working Committee and Board of Trustees members. Even the zoning formula of political parties will be severely affected. Politicians being what they are, each of 67 states may demand that a certain Working Committee office be zoned to it, necessitating the committee’s expansion. Ok, with so many states at hand, even the Federal ruling party will have many failed governorship candidates, which it must compensate with federal appointments.

My final, real pity is for our primary school pupils. How will they be able to recite “States and their capitals” of 67 states? During my own primary school days, there were only 12 states and we easily recounted their names, their capitals and even their military governors. When the states increased to 36, despite the best efforts of teachers, many pupils could not recite “Abia, Umuahia. Adamawa, Yola. Akwa Ibom, Uyo. Anambra, Awka. Bauchi, Bauchi. Bayelsa, Yenagoa…” to the end. In our primary school days, we were also made to recite the regions of Ghana, only eight of them. Today they have increased to sixteen, still a manageable number. Nigerian primary school pupils and teachers seriously envy their Ghanaian counterparts.

actors outside the respective regions control decision-making processes, prioritising personal interests over regional needs. This undermines accountability and reduces public trust. Furthermore, the standardised template used for all RDCs, regardless of the unique challenges faced by each region, is counterproductive. A one-size-fits-all approach fails to leverage the comparative advantages of each region. The harsh reality is that RDCs have become centres of corruption that add little value to genuine development. They have evolved into extractive institutions in the mould of what Economist Daron Acemoglu described as institutions created to enrich select members of the elite political class at the expense of the general populace. From the NDDC experience, intervention agencies can function as alternate states, duplicating projects for other government tiers, such as waste management and road construction. This results in resource wastage and project duplication. In many cases, RDCs engage in projects outside their mandate, straining already scarce public funds.

enhance synergy with federal development agencies. Advocates argue that this decentralised model can bridge regional inequalities and promote national unity by giving marginalised areas a sense of inclusion and ownership.

However, the optimistic vision of RDCs as drivers of regional transformation is not universally shared. Critics argue that RDCs are often politically motivated, serving as elite channels to siphon public resources. They contend that these commissions are another layer of bureaucracy, adding administrative costs without delivering tangible results. Corruption, patronage politics, and political interference are rampant, with RDCs frequently serving as tools for political manipulation and agents for funding the ruling party's elections rather than vehicles for genuine development.

Another major criticism is that RDCs are plagued by a democratic deficit. Although they are perceived as regional initiatives, they often lack the power to make critical policy decisions. Instead, powerful political

Fundamental reforms are necessary for RDCs to fulfil their promise as regional growth drivers. First, patronage politics must be eradicated through stringent anti-corruption measures and enhanced transparency. RDCs should not serve as political slush funds but as accountable entities focused on real development. Second, strategic planning and effective project execution should replace poor planning and haphazard implementation. Development models should be context-specific, reflecting the unique challenges of each region rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. Public accountability must be prioritised by involving local communities in decision-making, ensuring that projects reflect the people's needs. Finally, robust monitoring and evaluation systems should be implemented to assess performance and impact.

Regional Development Commissions were conceived as catalysts for equitable development and regional prosperity in Nigeria. However, they have often fallen short due to corruption, inefficiency, and political manipulation. For RDCs to genuinely serve as engines of sustainable development, they must be adequately conceptualised, and we must prioritise transparency, accountability, and effectiveness. It is time to confront the failures of the past and reimagine RDCs as genuine vehicles for regional empowerment and national unity. Whether they rise to this challenge or remain tools of political patronage will determine the future of regional development in Nigeria.

NDDC Chairman, Chiedu Ebie

Juventus to Meet Napoli President on Osimhen

Italian Serie A giants, Juventus, are not letting up in their quest to sign Victor Osimhen next summer transfer window.

According to Italian journalist, Niccolo Ceccarini of Tuttomercatoweb, Juventus plan to meet

with Napoli President, Aurelio De Launrentiis on Osimhen’s transfer in the summer.

France international, Kolo Muani, has made an immediate impact at Juve since his loan transfer from PSG. Both the club and the player

are happy with how things have gone since his arrival last month, however, the price tag of 75 Million Euros placed on him by PSG could be a major stumbling block on a permanent transfer.

His salary is also high – around

Six Million Euros-a-year.

Juventus star striker Dusan Vlahovic has yet to agree a new contract, which makes his transfer possibly to the Premier League the even more likely.

Osimhen transfer to Juventus will

not be without its own constraints, though.

“Osimhen will return to Napoli from Galatasaray at the end of the championship. The negotiations will not be simple, but the Bianconeri will try to find an agreement with

Liverpool Restore Seven-point Lead over Arsenal

league games

PREMIER LEAGUE

Organisers of Niger Delta Sports Festival Peg Age Limit at 25 Years

The maiden Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF) scheduled to hold in April in Akwa Ibom State is not going to be an all-comers affairs as its organisers have pegged age limit at 25 years.

Chairman of the Project Consultant, Dunamis Icon, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, revealed at the weekend in Lagos that the idea behind limiting the age of athletes to compete for the nine states involved in the NDSF is to ensure that only young talents are projected through the festival.

Ikpokpo who is also co-chairman of the Main Organising of the NDSF, stressed that modalities have been put in place to ensure that there are no cheats during this maiden edition.

“We are limiting the ages of athletes to compete in this maiden edition to between 16 and 25 years. There will be consequences for any cheat caught. We hope and pray that we achieve the purpose of instituting this festival which is to make the Niger Delta states the hub of talent discovering for Nigeria.”

He also hinted that only indigenes of the nine states that include; Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, Imo and Abia states are allowed to compete in the festival scheduled to hold between April 1 and 9 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom featuring 17 sports with about 3,000 athletes in attendance.

The co-chairman further stressed that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) which is the sole sponsor of the festival “is not taking over the functions and responsibilities of the various states but is only supporting them to ensure that the region maintains its leadership role in Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.”

Meanwhile, the Main Organising Committee (MOC) of the maiden edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival will be inaugurated on Friday at the headquarters of the NDDC in Port Harcourt.

Ikpokpo said that inauguration of the MOC comes comes in the wake of the inauguration of the state liaison committees for the nine states expected

to take part in the festival.

Ikpokpo, who conceived the idea of the sports festival, further stated that facilities scheduled to play hosts to the event have been inspected and “work will start this week on facilities where there are challenges.”

“All the relevant committees have been set up after the Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has graciously accepted to play host.

“The Chairman of the Main Organising Committee is one of you, a three-time sports commissioner (in Rivers State) and currently the Executive Director, Finance/Administration of the NDDC, Alabo Boma Iyaye. I co-chair that committee that will be inaugurated on Friday (February

21, 2025).

“We have set up state liaison committees that are already functioning so as to ensure the process that will lead to the state trials. There is trials at the local government and state levels to produce competing athletes before the festival in Uyo.

“So we are getting set. Facilities have been inspected and work will start this week on facilities where there are challenges.

“We want the World to know that the NDDC is ready to take up more responsibility of producing top talents for Nigeria in the area of sports,”

Ikpokpo said.

Also at the media parley in Lagos with the cochairman were; Head,

started well at Anfield and opened the scoring after 15 minutes thanks to the determination of Luis Diaz.

The Colombia forward ended a run of 10 games without a goal as he bundled the ball over the line after Salah's pass was deflected in the box by Wolves defender Toti Gomes.

Twenty two minutes later, referee Simon Hooper pointed to the spot as Diaz was felled in the box by Wolves keeper Jose Sa and Salah slotted down the middle for his 23rd league goal of the campaign.

The game looked set to be a routine Liverpool win at the break but Wolves striker Matheus Cunha made it anything but as he beautifully curled home his 12th league goal of the season in the 67th minute - meaning Slot's side are without a home clean

sheet since 1 December. Elsewhere, James Maddison scored the lone winner as Tottenham defeated Manchester United 1-0 for Spurs to climb up to 12th while the Red Devils dropped to 15th on the English Premier League table.

Uyi Akpata Bags Sportsville Sports Personality of The Year Award

President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, Dr Uyi Akpata, has emerged as the Sports Personality of the Year at the 2025 Sportsville Special Recognition Awards scheduled to hold next month.

Akpata whose tenure in charge of cricket in Nigeria has turned the country into one of the powerhouses of the sport in Africa, recently led the Junior-Yellow Greens to a comfortable finish at the U19 Cricket World Cup in Malaysia.

That feat of defeating New Zealand and Ireland has earned Nigeria automatic qualification for the 2027 U19 World Cup.

According to a statement issued by organisers of the award, Akpata is one of the over 15 top sports personalities and corporate organisations that have been pencilled down for the various award categories.

Meanwhile, AriseNews Television Anchor, Oseni Rufai, has been selected as the Chairman of the Sportsville Awards Day for the 2025 edition of

the ceremony.

The appointment of the highly sought after Rufai was made public via a release signed by Frank Ilaboya , the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sportsville Comm Services, the organisers of the yearly award.

“We're extremely delighted to announce Oseni Rufai as the Chairman of this year's edition of Sportsville Special Recognition Awards. We want to use this opportunity to express our thanks and appreciation to him for accepting to chair this year's ceremony.

"Rufai has been a keen follower and supporter of the award ceremony since inception five years ago and agreeing to be part of this year's edition is no doubt a huge plus to the integrity of the event which is fast becoming Nigeria's most reliable and prestigious award ceremony," Mr Ilaboya further stated. This year's ceremony comes up on Friday, March 21st, 2025 at the Prestigious Eko Club, Surulere Lagos.

Okpekpe Race Organiser Hails Lagos City Marathon @10

Pamodzi Sports Marketing, organiser of the historic Okpekpe international 10km Road Race, has congratulated Nilayo Sports Management, Access Bank, and Lagos State Government on the successful organisation of the 10th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

Zack Amodu, the Okpekpe international 10km road race Director, is thrilled organisers of the Lagos Marathon have been steadfast and focused on delivering an event that grew from bronze to a gold label race

“We at Okpekpe international 10km race can only be happy that organisers of Lagos City Marathon have been able to successfully navigate the path we cleared as the first road running event in

West Africa to have its race course measured by a World Athletics certified course measurer.

“We are also the first to be officially recognised as a world-class event by World Athletics with the granting of a bronze label status in 2015, eight years after the world governing body started classifying road races,” said Amodu. Okpekpe race organisers celebrated 10 years of organising the label race in 2024, and Amodu stressed that he understands how organisers of the event in Lagos must be feeling after delivering another successful race on Saturday. Amodu believes organisers of road races in Nigeria have helped in laying a solid foundation in Nigeria and want the appropriate authorities to take it a step further.

De Laurentiis,” reported Niccolo Cessarini at the weekend. It is also not certain if English topflight strugglers, Manchester United will return to bid for the Nigerian star striker after their efforts in January window failed.

Mohamed Salah scored his 23rd goal of the 2024/25 Premier League season against Wolves yesterday as Liverpool moved up seven points ahead of second placed Arsenal

L-R: Head, Special Projects, Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF), Onome Obruthe; Chairman of the Project Consultant and Co-Chairman, NDSF, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo; and Head, Media, NDSF, Harry Iwuala at a media parley in Lagos...at the weekend

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Mohamed Salah continued his hot scoring streak as a nervy Liverpool dispatched Wolves 2-1 to move seven points clear at the top of the Premier League. The Egypt forward converted from the penalty spot to make it five goals

in four

with boss Arne Slot watching on from the bench. Reds boss Slot was given a red card in the aftermath of Liverpool's Merseyside derby draw with

Evertonbut the Dutchman has until Wednesday to respond to a Football Association charge. Putting Everton's 98th-minute midweek equaliser behind them, the Reds

MISSILE

Fani-Kayode to Donald Trump

“YouarethegrandsonofaGermanimmigrant,thesonofaScottishimmigrant,the husbandofaSlovenianimmigrant,andtheex-husbandofaCzechimmigrant.You wereabeneficiaryofAmerica'simmigrationpoliciesyetyouhateimmigrantswitha passionandseektonotonlystopthemfromenteringyourcountrybutalsotodeny foreignersthatareborntherecitizenshiprights..." –FormerAviationMinister,Femi Fani-Kayode'sstinkertoUSPresident Donald Trump.

MAHMUDJEGA

VIEW FROM THE GALLERY

A Nigeria with 67 States

Citizens’ loud complaints in recent times about the high cost of living in the country, about the high cost of governance while leaders live in splendour, the reluctance of governments to pay a living wage and the inability to provide or maintain basic infrastructure and services suddenly took a back seat last week when the House of Representatives announced that its constitution review committee had received requests for 31 additional states. One of the requests seeks to turn the Federal Capital Territory into a state, thus throwing away nearly all the reasons that General Murtala Mohammed advanced in 1976 for creating a constitutionally queer, District of Columbia-style FCT. To do so, General Murtala’s military government grabbed ancestral land from the old North Western, Benue/Plateau and Kwara states. Some people will support this idea of a new Abuja State because it will send Minister Nyesom Wike back to Rivers State, there to continue his fight against Governor Simi Fubara.

Sixty-seven states in the Nigerian Federation, up from the present thirty-six and a half states. I was supposed to be resting in a

Sokoto hotel room at the weekend, but I sat up and did a rough tally of what it will entail when we have so many more states. Right now, with only 36 state governors and one additional Governor in all but name, we have so many long motorcades and so

many siren cars that throw commuters off the roads and people in the neighbourhoods of Government Houses find it hard to sleep.

A state Governor is the juiciest political position in Nigeria after the Presidency. No wonder that tens of thousands of politicians are dreaming, scheming and plotting to become governors, either when the tenure of incumbents expires or if possible, by denying current office holders their second terms. If the number of governors increases to 67, many more citizens will be pushed off the roads by convoys and many more neighbourhoods will be denied sleep due to VIP movements.

The governor of a new state’s top priority is to build a befitting Government House, with spacious living rooms and bedrooms, lush gardens and furniture and a coterie of cooks, butlers, cleaners and a battalion of guards. Next, there must be Commissioners to match. Back in the 1980s when soldiers ruled in this country, I remember that we had but ten commissioners in the old Sokoto State, which is three states today. With the arrival of civilian rulers from 1999, some states now have up to 30 commissioners. If we take an average of 25 and multiply it

DAKUKU PETERSIDE

BENEATH THE SURFACE

by 67, we will have 1,675 commissioners in the country, each with two or three official cars, a hefty salary and several assistants. For each commissioner, there must be a ministry. Governors in some states struggle to provide portfolios for the commissioners they appointed, often ending up with absurdsounding names. Some states, for example, have Commissioners for Student Affairs. I often wondered what remained of Ministry of Education without students. What is a Governor without Special Advisers and Special Assistants? In the Second Republic, governors had no more than 5 Special Advisers and even President Shehu Shagari had only ten, three of them assigned to Vice President Alex Ekwueme. From 2003 however, some states appointed more than 1,000 Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants and Community Liaison Officers. Most of them have no schedules of duty, only salaries. When the states increase to 67, there will be nearly twice as many advisers and assistants as there are today.

State Assemblies will increase to 67, each one of them with a Speaker, Deputy Speaker,

Continued on page 37

Is Regional Development Commissions the New Deal?

Before and since Nigeria gained independence, the quest for balanced regional development has been a persistent challenge. The vast disparities between the country's geopolitical zones, each with unique socio-economic needs, have fueled ongoing debates about the most effective development models. Over the decades, Nigeria has experimented with various strategies, yet the gaps remain, feeding a sense of marginalisation and underdevelopment in many regions. The need for tailored solutions to address these disparities is not just pressing, it's a necessity. One prominent approach has been the establishment of Regional Development Commissions (RDCs), agencies designed to address the peculiar challenges of each region. But as the number of these commissions continues to grow, a fundamental question arises: Are Regional Development Commissions the new deal Nigeria needs, or are they merely political tools serving the interests of an elite few?

The idea of regional development agencies in Nigeria is not new. It dates back to 1960 when the outgoing British

colonial government established the Niger Delta Development Board (NDDB). This initiative responded to the recommendations of Sir Henry Willink's Commission Report of 1958, which identified the Niger Delta as a region requiring special intervention due to its challenging terrain and historical neglect. The Willink Commission was a landmark in Nigeria's pre-independence political history, tasked with investigating the fears of minorities, particularly the ethnic groups in the Niger Delta, and proposing solutions to address their concerns. Its findings were clear: the Niger Delta faced unique environmental and developmental challenges that would require special attention. Thus, the NDDB was born, intended as a special-purpose vehicle to drive development in the oil-rich but underdeveloped Niger Delta. However, despite its promising start, the NDDB failed to achieve its objectives. Seven years after its creation, it was dissolved without having made any significant impact. Historical records indicate that political interference, inadequate funding, and a lack of clear strategic direction contributed to its failure. Moreover, the NDDB lacked the legal authority

and institutional framework to implement large-scale projects, rendering it ineffective. This failure highlighted the complexities of centralised regional development and set the stage for decades of agitation for more effective solutions. From that period until now, demands for creating region-specific agencies have persisted, with each region clamouring for a development model tailored to its unique needs. This agitation was further fueled by the discovery of vast oil reserves in the Niger Delta, which, while contributing significantly to national revenue, left the region impoverished and environmentally degraded.

and promote peace and security in the region, the NDDC was envisioned as a catalyst for positive change.

However, over two decades later, the NDDC has become synonymous with corruption, political interference, and mismanagement. Numerous audits and investigative reports have exposed how political elites siphoned funds for the region's development. For example, a 2020 forensic audit revealed that over 6 trillion Naira allocated to the NDDC between 2001 and 2019 was largely misappropriated. The commission's projects were often abandoned or poorly executed, reflecting a pattern of waste and inefficiency. In 2021, the Nigerian Senate's investigation into the NDDC's activities uncovered 12,128 abandoned projects across the Niger Delta, raising serious questions about the commission's effectiveness and accountability.

The NDDC’s failure to deliver on its mandate has had far-reaching consequences. The Niger Delta remains underdeveloped, with high poverty rates, poor infrastructure,

The return to democratic governance in 1999 rekindled hopes for a more equitable distribution of national wealth and balanced regional development. It was against this backdrop that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was established in 2000 to replace the defunct NDDB and its successor agencies. The NDDC was conceived as a bold solution to the peculiar development challenges of the Niger Delta, which had been plagued by environmental degradation, poverty, and social unrest. With a clear mandate to drive sustainable development, alleviate poverty, Continued on page 37

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