MONDAY 21TH APRIL 2025

Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah, and Archbishop of Abuja Catholic Archdiocese, Most Reverend Ignatius Kaigama, yesterday,

in their Easter messages, made a case for suffering Nigerians under the administration of President Bola Tinubu. That was as prominent Nigerians, including governors, businessmen and women, as well as corporate

organisations and charity groups urged peace and unity among Nigerians in the spirit of the season.

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in his Easter message, advised Christians to remain strong in the face

As Investors Target Money Market, Foreign Capital

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of challenges. Okoh also urged Christians to always promote unity, dialogue and reconciliation in the country. He advised all Christians to use this Easter season as a time for deep

reflection, earnest prayer, and spiritual renewal.

According to a statement he personally signed, the CAN president

Senate Leader: To Battle Insecurity,

Frameworks

Shun terrorism, northern senators caution perpetrators FG must treat killer herdsmen as terrorists, says David Mark

kidnapping, and armed herdsmen devastating Nigeria.

Relatedly, Northern Senators’ Forum (NSF) cautioned individuals behind banditry and terrorism in Nigeria to put an end to the evil act. Bamidele, who dropped the hint on state police in his Easter message, pleaded with leaders across the country to shun divisive agenda and narratives that could compound the country’s challenges.

The senator for Ekiti Central disclosed that the National Assembly

2027: North Will Decide Its Stand

Six Months, Says Hakeem Baba-Ahmed

Insists no one can win presidency without

L-R: Dr. Atinuke Uwajeh, Ms. Abiola Okoya, Kate Henshaw, Mrs. Lola Omotayo-Okoye; the celebrant, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo; Pastor Dayo Ekong, Mr. Felix Uwajeh, Mrs.

during the birthday thanksgiving of Pastor Ighodalo held at Trinity House in Lagos ...recently

and Senator

Miriam Olusanya;

Tolu Odebiyi,

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Michael Olugbode, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Linus Aleke in Abuja, Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo, Mary Nnah in Lagos, Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia and Onuminya Ochoechi in Sokoto

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, yesterday, disclosed

As Investors Target Money Market, Foreign Capital Inflows Rise to $2.06 Billion

Nume Ekeghe

As investors’ appetite for domestic financial instruments, particularly money market assets, reached a new high, foreign capital inflows into Nigeria surged to $2.06 billion in January 2025, marking a 31 per cent increase from $1.57 billion in December 2024. This was disclosed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in its latest Economic Report for January, posted on its official website at the weekend.

The latest figures indicated that the increase was primarily spurred by favourable returns in the Nigerian financial market.

A breakdown of the inflow data showed that portfolio investments dominated, rising sharply to $1.85 billion in January, from $1.23 billion in December. This accounted for 89.6 per cent of the total inflows, as investors piled into short-term debt instruments amid attractive yields.

our own way. One thing is clear: nobody can become President of Nigeria without Northern support,” he asserted.

Immediate past Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has said the north would declare its stand on the 2027 presidential run in the next six months He also boasted that no politician could win the Nigerian Presidency in 2027 without the support of the Northern region.

Speaking in a video interview obtained by THISDAY, Baba-Ahmed, who appeared alongside Professor Usman Yusuf, former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), emphasised that the North would soon define its political direction as it was tired of identity politics.

This was as a former AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, accused former governors of Nasarawa and Katsina States, Senator Umaru Al-Makura and Bello Aminu Masari, of declaring support for the Bola Tinubu government for personal gains, saying they could not speak for the bloc of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC).

But the National Vice Chairman of the APC, North West, Hon. Muhammad Datti, has described Malami as a paper tiger, and a politician without any electoral value.

However, Baba-Ahmed, who was once Chief of Staff to the former Senate President said, “In the next six months, the North will decide where it stands.

“If the rest of the country wants to join us, fine. If not, we will go

said, “On behalf of the national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend heartfelt greetings to all Christians in Nigeria and across the world. This is a moment of deep spiritual significance as we commemorate the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

“Let us strengthen our bonds of fellowship, extend compassion to those in need, and strive to build a more just and caring society. This Easter, let us be intentional in acts of kindness and charity, reaching out to the marginalized and the suffering. Let us also promote dialogue and reconciliation, working towards greater unity within our communities and across the nation.

“In the spirit of Easter, may we reach out to neighbours of other faiths, fostering mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. May this season be one of harmony and goodwill for all Nigerians. May it inspire us to live out the values of love, peace, and forgiveness in our everyday lives.”

Okoh added, “Easter stands as the

He stated, “While the Authority of the National Assembly is in the process of developing legal frameworks for the establishment of state police as one of the measures to address insecurity in the country, we urge security agencies to work together as a team to track and apprehend all the masterminds and sponsors of terror attacks nationwide.

“We appeal to some political actors that always lash on the country’s challenges to push divisive narratives

According to CBN, “Capital inflow increased due to favourable returns in the domestic financial market. Capital inflow rose to $2.06 billion, from $1.57 billion in December 2024.

“A breakdown by type of investment showed that portfolio investment inflow increased to $1.85 billion, from $1.23 billion due, mainly, to higher purchases of money market instruments.

“On the contrary, foreign direct investment declined to $0.07 billion from $0.12 billion in December 2024.

heaven, we just want someone who will solve our problems,” he said.

He lamented the state of the nation and urged Northerners to resist divisive and deceptive politicians ahead of the next general election.

“We want a government that understands our problems and can address them. After Buhari’s eight years, we became wiser. Now, we are in another government, and we are still crying. Is crying all we know how to do?” he asked.

Reflecting on past experiences, he said the North had suffered greatly during the Boko Haram terrorism, which affected all groups – Muslims, Christians, Fulani, Baju, and others – highlighting the need for unity.

“Before Buhari became president, Boko Haram was bombing mosques, churches, Abuja, and Lagos. That was a time Northerners had to unite. Today, no politician can just show up and expect northerners to fall in line. Who are you?” he questioned.

He warned against further marginalisation of the North, noting that continued disregard for the region would have consequences.

“If they plan to rig the election, they should be careful. It won’t be good for Nigeria. The North is watching. Elders, masses, and interest groups will soon say ‘enough is enough.’ The injustice and sidelining must stop,” he said.

Baba-Ahmed also urged the region to look beyond identity politics, stressing that competence and integrity should guide voter decisions.

“We are tired of being deceived into voting based on religion or ethnicity. That era is over. We just want a right leader let him falls from

cornerstone of our faith, reminding us of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ for the redemption of humanity. His resurrection is a powerful testament to the might of God, offering us hope, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life.

“As Apostle Paul affirms in 1 Corinthians 15:14: ‘And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.’ This verse encapsulates the essence of Easter and the very foundation of our belief. Let us reflect on this divine mystery and renew our commitment to living in accordance with His teachings.

“In Nigeria, Easter is not only a religious observance but also a vibrant cultural celebration. From the colourful parades in the streets of Lagos to the solemn processions in the villages of the North, some of which begin with the waving of palm branches a week before, this period reveals the rich blend of our nation’s diverse expressions of faith and tradition.

“It is a time when families gather,

to learn from the example of Jesus Christ.

“Such actors are no longer playing opposition politics, but simply taking advantage of the country’s internal conditions in the pursuit of their own parochial political outcomes.

“Nigeria is our ultimate project.

As a parliament, we are committed to the actualisation of this project.

“This is evident in all the legislative initiatives we are pushing since the birth of the 10th National Assembly.

Other investments, mainly loans, also decreased to $0.14 billion, from $0.22 billion in the preceding month.”

In terms of share, portfolio investment inflow constituted 89.60 per cent, while “other investment” and direct investment accounted for 7.01 and 3.39 per cent, respectively.

CBN said, “Analysis of capital importation by sector showed the banking sector as the highest recipient of foreign capital, accounting for 45.22 per cent of total inflow. This was followed

He concluded by asserting that the Northern electorate had learned hard lessons from past choices and would approach 2027 with a new mindset.

Malami: Al-Makura, Masari, Others Can’t Speak for CPC Bloc

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, has derided the former governors of Nasarawa and Katsina States, Senator Umaru Al-Makura and Bello Aminu Masari for declaring support for the Tinubuled All Progressives Congress (APC) for personal gains.

Malami, a strong member of the Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) and a close political ally of former President Muhammadu Buhari, declared that the Al-Makuraled members of the CPC within the APC had no mandate whatsoever to speak for the bloc by insisting that they were not pulling out of the APC.

The former Attorney General specifically said Al-Makura and his co-travelers, like Aminu Masari were not in a position to speak for and on behalf of the CPC bloc, stressing that they did what they did basically for personal reasons.

Malami, who stated these through his Special Assistant on Media, Muhammed Bello Doka, explained that the CPC bloc, which was the platform former President Buhari used, remained the only bloc that could speak on whether or not it is leaving the APC and not Al-Makura’s group.

“When you say CPC bloc, one

communities unite, and our rich cultural heritage is showcased through music, dance, and festive gatherings. These celebrations beautifully reflect both our faith and our shared identity.

“We remain mindful of the many challenges faced by our brothers and sisters in Christ, especially in regions where they endure persecution for their beliefs. Yet, even in the face of adversity, the spirit of Easter endures. It reminds us that, just as Christ rose from the dead, we too can rise above trials through faith, resilience, and unity.”

The CAN president said, “The resurrection affirms that light will always triumph over darkness, and love will conquer fear. Let us draw strength from this truth and continue to support one another in faith. As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord, may our hearts be filled with the message of victory that it brings to strengthen us in the face of adversity.”

Kukah Urges End to

And our goal is to build a federation that will be noted for peace, progress and prosperity anywhere in the world.

“Regardless of their ethnicity, politics and religion, all actors should shun all forms of divisive utterance and join forces against the common foes of Nigeria and not to subvert our effort to build a strong and virile federation.”

Bamidele urged Nigerians “to consciously reflect on the virtues

by the financing sector 44.32 per cent, telecommunication, 3.86 per cent, production and manufacturing sector 3.01 per cent, shares 1.57 per cent, and trading 1.43 per cent, while other sectors accounted for the balance.”

It added, “Capital inflow by originating country showed that the UK was the major source of capital, accounting for 65.65 per cent of the total.

“This was followed by the United States, 8.15 per cent, Republic of South Africa 7.66 per cent; United Arab

needs to know who they are referring to. Is it the likes of Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, Adamu Adamu, Masari, and Faruk Adamu Aliyu, who a few months ago had been throwing Buhari under the bus in desperate attempts to gain relevance that should decide for the bloc?”

Malami described the duo of Al-Makura and Masari-led group as purely personal, with no connection with CPC bloc whatsoever.

The former Attorney General of the Federation noted that the group were merely seeking relevance in the APC for personal benefits.

Commenting on the rumours of his possible defection to the Social Democracy Party (SDP), Malami said it was not true but only in the realm and imagination of those peddling the rumours.

APC Chief to Ex-AGF: You’re Paper Tiger

The National Vice Chairman of the APC, North West, Hon. Muhammad Datti, has described Malami as a paper tiger, and a politician without electoral value.

He added that Malami could not speak for the leaders of the defunct CPC, being one of the legacy parties that formed the ruling APC

Following the recent defection of a former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasi El-Rufai — a CPC member — from the APC to the SDP, there were insinuations that some key members of the defunct CPC bloc within the ruling party would follow suit.

However, some key figures from the CPC bloc within the APC had last week declared that they had no plans to abandon the APC. They also declared their unalloyed

Suffering, Brutality

Calling on President Bola Tinubu to bring an end to the suffering and afflictions plaguing Nigeria, Bishop Mathew Kukah, in his message, decried the culture of brutality and savagery that has become rampant in the country, stating that it had placed Nigeria outside the purview of human civilisation.

"The sufferings of our country have been marked by a culture of brutality and savagery never witnessed in our history," Bishop Kukah said, adding: "Every day, innocent citizens are kidnapped and held under inhuman conditions."

Bishop Kukah's message painted a stark picture of a nation in crisis, with a pervasive sense of death and fear hanging over the country, and therefore, urged the president to take decisive action to address the suffering and restore peace and security to the nation.

The Bishop's Easter message was a call to action, urging Nigerians to come together to demand change and an end

of Jesus Christ; learn from His consecration and live His life of purpose rooted in the pursuit of justice, love and redemption for humanity.”

He stated, “As we celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ our Lord, it is exigent we reflect on His virtues; learn from His consecration and live His life of purpose rooted in the pursuit of justice, love and redemption for humanity.

support to the APC-led government under the able leadership of President Tinubu.

The CPC bloc included a former governor of Nasarawa State, Tanko Al-Makura; a former speaker of the House of Representatives and ex-governor of Katsina State, Hon. Aminu Masari; for Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu; and a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Faruk Adamu Aliyu, among many others.

But Malami, in a statement, said the CPC bloc leaders should only speak for themselves and not the entire bloc.

However, Datti, in a statement issued Sunday said Malami lacked any merit to attack the CPC leaders.

"I was utterly stupefied when I saw the statement credited to Malami. What he tried to do was to deride and denigrate the key figures of the CPC bloc in the APC.

"It is laughable that Malami had the temerity to castigate Al-Makura, who was the only governor elected on the CPC platform in 2011. Maybe he should also be reminded that Masari was the Deputy National Chairman of the APC during its formation — the highest office held by a CPC bloc member during the merger.

"Both Al-Makura and Masari are political heavy weights, who won governorship elections twice. They are not like Malami, who is a political lightweight, a paper tiger, and a politician without electoral value.

"During the CPC struggles, the party did not win even a councillorship seat in Kebbi, Malami's home state. Lest we forget, Malami had obtained the APC governorship forms to contest for the governor of Kebbi State in 2023.

“But he chickened out, having

to the suffering.

The revered cleric lamented that Nigeria has been overrun by bandits and kidnappers, who have become embedded in every sphere of life, threatening to destroy the very fabric of Nigerian society.

"We are in a dilemma now, and the question is simple: is the persistence of insecurity a statement of the lack of capacity of our men and women in uniform, or is it evidence that those at the top are reaping the fruits of funding their own war machine?" Bishop Kukah asked.

He urged the President to "step up" and take decisive action to bring an end to the insecurity, saying Nigerians were "hanging on the cross" at the mercy of forces of darkness.

He emphasised that Christians must face life's challenges with confidence, equipped with the light of Christ to drive out the darkness threatening to engulf the country.

“Despite the animosity He suffered and opposition He faced, Jesus Christ consciously sought and secured freedom for the captives, peace for the troubled, comfort for the sorrowful, love for the dejected, justice for the oppressed and hope for those who are in despair.

“In Nigeria, today, Christ’s example clearly presents us a glimpse of how we should live together as compatriots and not competitors, collaborators and not combatants,

sensed that he did not possess the electoral value to clinch the ticket. So, of what benefit is he to any political movement?," Datti quoted. The APC chieftain, who served as the CPC House Caucus Leader between 2011 and 2015, added that Malami and his co-travelers were only trying to reap where they did not sow, having worked tirelessly against the APC during the presidential election — for President Bola Tinubu to lose the polls. He added: "It is still fresh in our memories that the likes of Malami constituted themselves as the powerful cabal under the Buhari government, and worked vigorously against the candidature of President Tinubu.

"Even before the 2023 presidential contest, right from Buhari's first term in office, they made sure that Tinubu was effectively sidelined and marginalised in the scheme of things. But Asiwaju did not rock the boat; he stayed put in the party and remained committed to its ideals.

"Today, the Malamis of this world, having realised that they could not eat their cake and have it, have now resorted to political gyration, all in an attempt to dump the same party that made them what they are today. Why not emulate Tinubu?"

Ekiti APC Caucus Backs Tinubu, Oyebanji

Meanwhile, Ekiti State Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday, unanimously endorsed President Tinubu and Governor Abiodun Oyebanji for a second term in office. It cited their exemplary leadership

Kaigama: Families Facing Severe Hunger

Archbishop of Abuja Catholic Archdiocese, Most Reverend Ignatius Kaigama, while raising the alarm over the worsening economic conditions, also expressed concern over the spate of violent attacks in parts of the country leading to numerous deaths.

In his Easter message, Kaigama, who said hunger now stalks homes across Nigeria, added: "We are also alarmed by the continual hunger and economic hardship gripping our people. Families struggle daily to put food on the table, and children go to bed hungry in a nation so richly blessed.

"The desperation in the land is palpable, and it calls for immediate action from all levels of government, faith-based institutions, and citizens. As Jesus fed the multitudes with compassion, so must we work together to ensure

comrades and not contenders in the task of building a viable and virile federation that will serve the interest of all.”

The senate leader stressed, “The recent killings in Benue and Plateau states outright negated the virtues of peace and love that Jesus Christ taught during His days.

“The recurrent utterances by

Chuks Okocha Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Group Managing Director/CEO, Nigerian Exchange Group, Mr. Temi Popoola Emirates 7.18 per cent; Mauritius 2.87 per cent; Belgium was 2.28 per cent and other countries accounted for the balance.

Bakare Berates Tinubu, Tells Him to Stop Playing God, Declares His Govt Tyrannical

Says he’s turned National Assembly into haven for legislative rascality Criticises Akpabio, calls senate ‘carry go legislature’ We note your criticisms, presidency replies Atiku to Tinubu: An inept administration can’t suddenly discover competence

Chuks Okocha in Abuja, Segun James, Sunday Ehigiator and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos

The Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC), Pastor ‘Tunde Bakare, has berated President Bola Tinubu over his leadership of the country, asking him to stop playing God.

Bakare, who is also the Convener of Save Nigeria Group (SNG), accused Tinubu of tyranny, and influencing the National Assembly into becoming a “haven for legislative rascality”.

In a 33-page “State of the Nation Address,” yesterday, Bakare also took a. swipe at Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and labelled the National Assembly under him a “carry-go legislature” that prioritised loyalty to Tinubu over good governance. But, responding, the presidency last night said it noted what it described as the objective criticisms of Bakare, even though it viewed the issues differently.

Yet, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the administration of Tinubu as inept and one that could not suddenly discover competence.

In his “State of the Nation Address”, Bakare stated, “Can Nigeria live? Let's think of the mass grave in Bassa, Jos, into which over 50 of our citizens were lowered on Tuesday. If we think of the sense of foreboding, hunger, sorrow, shame, and of utter hopelessness, we may be moved in our broken humanity to answer, ‘No’.

“Yet, it is precisely in moments such as this, when hope, far from being renewed, is depleted; it is in moments like this that truth becomes as precious as oxygen to our body politic.

“Those responsible for steering the course of our nation lack the humility and character this moment demands of leaders. Instead, what we have seen since the beginning of the year is a descent into tyranny and the brazen abuse of power.

“Those entrusted with power appear determined to destabilise what is left of our political institutions and have committed themselves to obliterating the guardrails of constitutional governance.

“From the theatre of the absurd staged in Rivers State, with puppets on strings controlled by directors in Abuja, to the dance of shame performed by the National Assembly in their rush to suspend the constitution and endorse, through the backdoor the usurpation of powers by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“From the Senate’s shameless bid to silence Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan for demanding that the President of the Nigerian Senate uphold the moral standards required of that office.

“To the uncouth outbursts of an undistinguished senatorial misfit, who tried in vain to silence the distinguished citizens attempting to testify on behalf of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, it is clear that our so-called leaders are determined to turn Nigeria into a mafia state.

“While it is not in dispute that our institutions and constitution are inadequate, it has become obvious that our biggest problems are the occupiers of these institutions and executors of the constitution.

“The quality of leadership in Nigeria has become so repugnant that citizens must declare a state of emergency on governance, demanding that every

aspiring public officeholder undergo rigorous psychiatric evaluation before seeking election.”

Bakare said, “The two main contenders in the ongoing institutional immorality Olympics are the executive and the legislature. The events that unfolded on the floor of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, are an apt and timely illustration of our leadership deficit.

“Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi’s descent into street-level vitriol was an affront to the essence of the Senate.

Instead of engaging the visiting citizens in reasoned, factual debate, he chose to drag the hallowed chambers through the mud.

“Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, in recognition of her accomplishments in political reform and gender inclusion advocacy, was appointed Chairwoman of the Board of Women Political Leaders (WPL), a global body based in Brussels, Belgium, in February 2023.

“In that capacity, it is her responsibility to speak up whenever a female Nigerian politician is subjected to the misogynistic idiosyncrasies of politics in Nigeria. It was in that capacity that she appeared to speak for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has levelled allegations of sexual harassment against the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

“There is clear evidence in reports and recordings from the occasion that there were repeated attempts to intimidate and silence Dr. Ezekwesili and her team.”

Bakare lamented the quality of elected officials in the country,

stressing, “The institutional collapse and the failure of our leadership recruitment process were summed up in Senator Nwebonyi’s statement to Dr. Oby Ezekwesili: ‘People like you cannot be here’. People like who, exactly?

“What that means is that the Senate is not a place for the best, brightest, fittest, and most competent in our country. What that means is that our political institutions are not designed for people of character, competence and capacity, as Dr. Oby Ezekwesili often puts it.

“What that means is that our legislature is not designed for people who are sticklers for accountability and due process, but for a band of legis-looters. Fellow citizens, at the centre of this political banditry are the motor park brand of politics nurtured by the old brigade politicians and, in recent times, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Mr. President, it is through your influence that the Nigerian National Assembly has become a haven for legislative rascality. Mr. President, it is under your watch that the National Assembly has become an extension of the executive, grossly violating the principles of separation of powers, and rubber-stamping the whims and caprices of your office, all while singing the international anthem of sycophants: ‘On your mandate we shall stand’.

“Mr. President, thanks to your political machinations, Nigeria is now bedevilled by a captured National Assembly, the most ineffective in its checks-and-balances role since the start of the Fourth Republic.

Certificate of Occupancy: Edo Govt Registers 9,000 Certificates

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Edo State Government has said it has registered over 9000 Certificates of Occupancy in the state between February and April 17, 2025.

Managing Director, Edo State Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS), Dr. Tony Ikpasaja, disclosed this when the Executive of the Correspondents' Chapel of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Benin City.

Ikpasaja said the feat was achieved despite the challenges of shutting down the agency's system by the

consultant employed by the immediate past administration of Godwin Obaseki to run the operations of the agency.

The new EdoGIS boss, who was appointed by Governor Okpebholo in January 2025, said the feat was achieved within the period with the new software as against 1000 recorded by the immediate past government of Godwin Obaseki between 2023 and February 2025. He also disclosed that the agency has recently purchased more sophisticated equipment to improve its productivity and to ensure that applicants' applications are attended

to as quickly as possible.

He also disclosed that the agency under his leadership inherited Over 7500 files that were not attended to, adding that the files belong to applicants who want their land to be registered and captured in the EdoGIs database.

Ikpasaja, who assured applicants that their files for Certificates of Occupancy would be treated and captured into the database, however, advised property and land owners to legalize their property.

He noted that any landed property that is without a Certificate of Occupancy is not a legal asset

"As of today, I can boldly tell you that we have captured and processed over 9000 files of certificate of Occupancy. We have also been signing and issuing out Certificates of Occupancy.

"Over 9000 Certificates of Occupancy have been registered from February 2025 to date with the new software against 1000 registered from 2023 to February 2025.

"When I came on board, I met about 7500 total files of applicants that were not attended to. It is disheartening that people will pay for registration will just leave the files there unattended.

“In 2006, the Fourth National Assembly dared to reject the tenure extension bid of a sitting president.

In 2010, the Sixth National Assembly summoned the courage to stand against a power-hijacking cabal and restore Nigeria to the path of constitutionality by invoking the Doctrine of Necessity.

“In 2011, the House of Representatives of the Seventh National Assembly dared to elect its leaders, as did the Senate of the Eighth National Assembly in 2015, defying executive interference.”

Bakare said, “This National Assembly, the 10th, has by its unconstitutional endorsement of the president’s abuse of powers proven to be the most spineless in our recent history.

“Through its actions and inactions, the National Assembly has, in effect, become the 48th member of the president’s cabinet, while a cabinet minister has, more or less, become a third-term state governor in Rivers State, pampered by the indulgences of the president.

“To the President of the Nigerian Senate, who has not heeded the call to subject himself to an unbiased investigation to clear his name of the allegations levelled against him, and under whose leadership the National Assembly has become a ‘carry go’ legislature, hiding under the umbrella of technicalities and a dubious voice voting system, I leave you and your conscience with the words of Frédéric Bastiat, former Deputy of the French National Assembly: ‘When plunder becomes a way of life for a group of men in a society, over time they create for themselves a legal system that authorises it and a moral code that glorifies it’.

“To the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, under whose brand of politics the institution of legislative oversight is collapsing and our democracy is faced with an existential threat, I say: Mr. President, Nigeria is too delicate for this kind of politics.

“If this state capture was what you meant by emi lo kan, it is an anti-climax that can only be counterproductive in the end. I urge you, Mr. President, to think deeply and reflect on these words: ‘No man is wise enough or good enough to be trusted with unlimited power’. Please, stop playing God!” Advising the president on ways to reposition the country on a recovery course, Bakare urged him to emulate the Biblical Joseph’s model of governance, and create a Consolidated Value Investment and Development Fund

(COVID Fund).

He also asked the president to create a new value system, a new constitutional order, a multilevel policing system across the federal, state and local government levels, and reengineer the country’s structure.

According to him, “The state of our nation today warrants revisiting a leader who simplified the complex socioeconomic problems of his country of residence and turned that country into the world’s economic capital.

“The two enigmatic dreams which Joseph interpreted for Pharaoh were a predictive model of a boom-and-bust cycle characterised by seven years of economic surplus, subsequently replaced by seven years of famine.

“The vulnerable condition of the people gave the state newfound powers which Joseph deployed to achieve the four main landmarks of what I call the ‘Cutting Edge Nation’.”

Joseph's leadership, Bakare said, helped Egypt survive a famine by implementing a new value system, reengineering the national structure, promoting prudent financial management, and establishing a new constitutional order.

He concluded that Nigeria needed leaders with wisdom, humility, and courage to address its current challenges, stating that these “Joseph-type” leaders, who may not be part of the current power structure, must prioritise justice, equity, and reconciliation to foster economic growth and national development.

He stated, “The fact that the economic blueprint of Joseph was capped with reconciliation with his brothers and the laying of a foundation for nationhood is a reminder that the divisive and unjust brand of politics that seeks to exclude women and values-based competent leaders cannot foster economic growth and national development. It will only stagnate the economy.

“It is time to heal and unite the nation, not divide it. The question remains: Will Mr. President respond to the call of history?

“To execute this mandate, these visionary leaders should oversee the establishment of what I called the Consolidated Value Investment and Development Fund (COVID Fund) when the pandemic brought the economy to a halt; a situation we are yet to recover from five years later. This fund, which I will now simply call ‘The Fund,’ is not based on volatile factors such as the price of oil.”

L-R: Peoples Warden, Lagos Diocese, Anglican Church Prince Dapo Opeaye; Provost, Very Revd. Dr. Adebola Ojofeitinmi; Registrar, Barr. Olusegun Ajayi; Chancellor, Hon. Justice Adedayo Oyebanji; Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Rt. Revd. Senasu Gabriel Okupevi; His wife, Roseline Okupevi; and Deputy Provost, Olumide Sofowora, during the 2025 Easter Sunday Anglican Church Service at Anglican Cathedral Church, Marina, Lagos, yesterday

FIDAU PRAYER...

L-R: Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, consoling Mrs. Aishat Oladunjoye and Robiat Oladunjoye, widow and daughter, respectively, of Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ogun State, Ambassador Olatunde Oladunjoye, during the Fidau prayer held for the deceased at the St John's Community Primary School, Ijebu-Itele, Ogun State, on Sunday

New York Attorney General, Letitia James, Facing Criminal Investigation Over Alleged Mortgage Fraud

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

New York Attorney General, Letitia James, who won a $454 million judgement against President Donald Trump last year, claiming he lied about the value of his assets on financial statements given to banks, has been accused of bank fraud in a mortgage case. In the summer of 2023, James helped her niece buy a modest house in Norfolk, Virginia, by becoming a co-borrower on the mortgage loan, The Associated Press (AP) reported.

But a top housing official in the Trump administration, William Pulte, now seized on a document in that transaction to argue that James should be prosecuted for bank fraud, asking the U.S. Justice Department in a letter to open a criminal investigation into the Democrat.

The request for an investigation came as the administration pursued

a campaign of retribution against Trump’s long-time foes in the legal world, the AP report added.

James called the allegations against her “baseless.”

She said in an interview on the New York cable news station NY1, “It is nothing more than a headline, nothing more than retaliation against all the actions I have taken successfully against Donald Trump.”

In an April 14 letter to Attorney General, Pam Bondi, asking for an investigation, U.S. Federal Housing Finance Agency Director, Pulte, cited “media reports” claiming James had falsely listed a home in Virginia as her principal residence, which he hypothesised was an effort to avoid the higher interest rates people often paid for mortgages on second homes.

As evidence, Pulte cited a legal form James signed on August 17, 2023, in which she gave her niece, Shamice Thompson-Hairston, the authority

NYCN Inaugurates New Executives in Rivers, Four Other States

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has inaugurated new executives in Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Osun, Kano and Kaduna States.

During the inauguration, the NYCN national leadership empowered the new executives to steer the affairs of the council in their respective states for the next four years. The new state executives emerged from elective congresses of the NYCN held in each of the states except AkwaIbom where a caretaker committee was constituted pending the conduct of an elective congress.

The move aims to provide inclusive, equitable and effective youth leadership in the states following the expiration of the tenure of the former executives.

In Rivers State, Ambrose Okpor emerged as chairman alongside other seven executive members.

Also, in Osun State, Akinbode Olakolupo Oluwasegun emerged as chairman alongside seven executive members. While in Kano State, Muhammed Sule emerged as chairman alongside other seven key members of the executive.

It was also noted that in Kaduna State, Umar Abubakar emerged as chairman alongside other seven executive members.

In Akwa-Ibom State, Uduak Reuben was appointed as the chairman of the newly constituted caretaker committee

making her the first female to head the youth council in the State, while Isaac Ebrewong is the Secretary, Usen Johnson, Public Relations Officer with other four executive members.

The President of NYCN, Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, who oversaw the elective congresses in the various states alongside members of the national executives, charged the newly elected state leaders to provide innovative, impactful and exemplary leadership.

He tasked them on transparency, accountability, and inclusivity while urging them to promote peace, cohesion and youth development as they assume their new roles in their various states.

Sukubo further urged them to form strong collaboration with government agencies, corporate organisations, and well-meaning individuals to attract employment opportunities and economic empowerment for the well-being of the youths in their states.

The youth president also warned the new state executives against involving in politics or engaging in acts that could undermine the constitution of the youth council and tarnish its image.

“We can support and work with government at all levels, the federal, state and local governments to secure the interests of young people. We promote youth agenda, ensure youth inclusion in governance, and mediate between the government and youths to foster peace and stability in the society.”

to sign documents on her behalf in connection with the sale two weeks later. Those forms are required when a person involved in buying a house can’t be present for the closing.

That form included a line that said, Pulte wrote in the letter asking for an investigation, “I hereby declare that I intend to occupy this property as my principal residence.

“At the time of the 2023 Norfolk, VA property purchase and mortgage, Ms. James was the siting Attorney General of New York and is required by law to have her primary residence in the state of New York — even though her mortgage applications list her intent to have the Norfolk, VA property as her primary home.”

James’ office, however, shared a partial copy of a loan application in which she appeared to disclose that she didn’t intend to live in Virginia.

On the application, James was asked the question, “Will you occupy the

property as your primary residence?”

She checked the box that said “no.”

“Donald Trump’s weaponisation of the federal government continues to careen out of control – and now they are using cherry-picked information to attack the Attorney General,” her office said in a statement.

On another part of the loan application, James indicated she was applying for joint credit with Thompson-Hairston, who intended to use the home as her primary residence. That kind of arrangement is not uncommon between family members, such as when parents help their children buy a starter home.

Real estate lawyers who spoke to AP said it was difficult to tell, based on the limited number of documents available publicly, whether anything improper had taken place or whether James had tried to deceive anyone about where she intended to live.

One Virginia lawyer told the AP he had never seen a power-of-attorney form before that had a reference to a primary residence. Bondi said in an interview on Fox News that her office would review Pulte’s letter.

Pulte also accused James of lying about the number of apartments in a New York City town house she has owned since 2001.

Pulte’s letter cited a certificate of occupancy issued to a previous owner authorising up to five living units in the Brooklyn building, where James lived and had rented apartments to some tenants.

Multiple other city records indicated that the town house had four units.

James had indicated in building permit applications and in mortgage documents for years that the building had four units. Past news articles about the building had also referred to it as having four units, the report confirmed.

Pulte speculated that James had

misrepresented the number of units in order to qualify for federally backed mortgages offering interest rates unavailable to the owners of buildings with more than four units. Experts in New York real estate said discrepancies about the number of units in a building aren’t uncommon when property changes hands and typically only drew scrutiny from regulators when the change allowed an owner to reap some improper advantage, such as skirting rent regulations.

“For regulatory and incomegenerating purposes, going from five units to four units doesn’t really help her,” said Andrew Scherer, a professor at New York Law School focused on housing law. “It seems highly unlikely that this kind of a difference would in and of itself be legally consequential.” James’ office said the building had four units and stated that the certificate of occupancy listing it as having five predated her ownership.

Umahi: Tinubu Has Ended Marginalisation of Igbo People

Urges South-east to reciprocate gesture in 2027

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, at the weekend argued that President Bola Tinubu has ended the alleged multi-decade marginalisation of the South-eastern part of the country.

Umahi made the remarks during a civic reception organised for him by the Okposi Okwu people in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, during which he was honoured by the community ‘for his contributions to the social harmony, economic empowerment, and infrastructural development of Okposi Okwu community.’

In all spheres of national life, especially

Niger

politically and infrastructure-wise, the Igbos have often argued that they are underrepresented, despite being one of the three major ethnic groups in the country.

In terms of infrastructure, the southeastern region also maintains that they have faced consistent neglect from the federal government, further contributing to a strong sense of alienation.

But Umahi, in a statement in Abuja by his spokesman, Uchenna Orji, quoted him as commending the people of Okposi Okwu for their commitment to the values that foster social integration and economic development.

“The minister thanked the President

of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for breaking the jinx of marginalisation in the South-east through equitable distribution of the dividends of democracy among the six geopolitical zones of the nation,” the statement added.

He said one of such efforts by the president was the appointment of a South-easterner as the Minister of Works, a decision he described as the ‘first ever’ in the history of Nigeria’s independence.

The minister recounted with appreciation the ‘numerous road infrastructural interventions’ of the president in the South-east and urged

the people to mobilise massively to reciprocate the gesture in the 2027 general election.

The event witnessed the presence of the Governor of Ebonyi, Francis Nwifuru; Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah and the Governor of Ogun state, Dapo Abiodun.

Also present were: A former Senate President and ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Pius Anyim, former Governor of Ebonyi, Martin Elechi; former Ogun state Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba and National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), South East, Chief Emma Enukwu.

Delta Group Lauds Tinubu for Reconstitution of NNPC Board

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

A leading Niger Delta group, Community Development Committees (CDC) of Niger Delta Oil and Gas Producing Areas, has commended President Bola Tinubu for changing the leadership of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

The body tasked Bayo Ojulari’s team to fashion out the best ways to make the corporation more viable and functional in consonance with

the expectations of Nigerians.

In a statement signed by Chairman, Board of Trustee, Community Development Committee of Niger Delta Oil and Gas Producing Areas, Comrade Joseph Ambakederimo, weekend, the group said the change of the management of the organisation was long over-due since the beginning of the Tinubu administration.

It blamed the sacked board for not enforcing fair pricing policy after the federal government’s decision to remove fuel subsidy.

CDC stated that for the company to thrive and be at par with other national oil companies around the world, it must, among others, see to it that the cost of production of a barrel of crude oil was brought to an acceptable level that will compete favourably with other producing countries.

The group said there was a need for increased production of Nigeria’s crude oil per day.

The body advised that the four national refineries should be made to function optimally to make petroleum

products available to Nigerians. It expressed the need for a review of the surveillance contract, saying apart from the fact that many Nigerians are worried about the over four hundred billions naira paid yearly on it, it is carried out by non-state actors with little or no technological know-how and capacity to handle such a complex work in a volatile region, many pipeline breaches still occur and are becoming rampant across the region.

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

SCREENING EXERCISE FOR BARAU POSTGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS PROGRAMME...

L-R: The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I Jibrin and the Vice Chancellor of the Bayero University Kano (BUK), Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, during the screening of the beneficiaries of the Domestic Postgraduate Scholarships program of Senator Barau at the Convocation Arena of BUK, yesterday

Nigeria, UK Deepen Ties to Boost Gas Sector Regulatory Framework

Peter

The federal government has taken a significant step towards strengthening its gas sector regulatory framework through a strategic partnership with the United Kingdom's Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem).

The partnership was sealed during a high-level meeting in London between the Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, officials from Ofgem and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

Spokesman to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr. Louis Ibah, disclosed this in a

statement issued yesterday.

According to the statement, the collaboration aims to enhance regulatory innovation and capacity development in Nigeria's gas sector, with a focus on domestic utilization, regional energy integration, gasto-power projects, expansion of infrastructure through targeted investment and innovation, including pipelines and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) networks.

The federal government also seeks to draw insights from Ofgem's practices in promoting investor confidence and consumer protection.

During the meeting, Ekpo emphasized the need for strong collaboration between Nigerian and UK-based firms to boost investment in gas development, stressing that

Aide: Tinubu's Commitment

to Young People, Unmatched

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Print Media, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, has described the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to youth development as unprecedented, Speaking at a graduation ceremony of first batch of ICT training he sponsored for youths and students in his native Fagge Local Government Area of Kano State, Abdulaziz said the President has redefined the idea of youth engagement and empowerment.

"Mr. President has prioritised young people through many initiatives aimed at making our young people self-reliant. The President doesn't want to give you food; he is giving you means to get your own food," he said. He listed the administration's initiatives such as training of three million young Nigerians in IT skills, the Scale Up Artisans project, the Nigeria Youths Academy, among other interventions.

Abdulaziz also said the President has given young people voices by appointing young Nigerians into his cabinet and other important positions.

"For the first time we have a truly young Nigerian as minister of youths development. We have other young people in the cabinet

and key appointments. We have to appreciate that."

Abdulaziz said the IT training he sponsored was a way of giving back to the community and uplifting the underprivileged to attain their full potentials as part of his ongoing commitment to community development.

During the event, Abdulaziz also presented computers to some of the best-performing students in recognition of their dedication and excellence.

This initiative, he noted, is part of a broader vision to equip the youth with relevant digital skills, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration.

He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the empowerment of the youth and overall development of Fagge LGA and Kano State.

He emphasized that such initiatives are essential in actualizing the aspirations of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes inclusive growth, innovation, and self-reliance.

A representative of the community, Alhaji Suleiman Ibrahim, expressed the community's appreciation to the Presidential aide for his consistent support and developmental strides.

He assured that the community will reciprocate through continued support and prayers for the success of the Tinubu administration.

partnerships between the two countries could attract investments to bolster Nigeria's gas infrastructure.

The gas minister also highlighted the importance of developing regulatory frameworks that support the integration of renewable gases, such as hydrogen, into Nigeria's energy mix.

"By fostering partnerships

between Nigerian entities and UK-based firms, we can attract investments that will bolster our gas infrastructure, ensuring efficient delivery and utilization.

"Nigeria is committed to reducing methane emissions and promoting decarbonization in our upstream operations," Ekpo added, while seeking Ofgem's experience in

overseeing emissions management.

"Let us continue to forge pathways that lead to a more prosperous and energy-secure future", he said.

The Chief Executive of NMDPRA, Mr. Farouk Ahmed, commended the engagement, describing it as a timely intervention for Nigeria's regulatory development.

“With Osprey Investments

bridging the gap, we are tapping into global expertise to build a resilient, transparent, and investor-friendly midstream framework,” he said.

Both the ministry and NMDPRA have reiterated their commitment to sustained collaboration with Ofgem to drive reforms that align Nigeria's gas sector with global sustainability and economic goals.

Ponzi: SEC Warns Influencers, Bloggers Against Promoting Unregistered Schemes

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has warned influencers and bloggers, against promoting unregistered investment schemes.

In a statement, the Commission explained it is working closely with law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant government bodies, to investigate and prosecute violators of unregistered schemes..

Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, stated that the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 specifically targets promoters of unregistered schemes, urging celebrities, social media influencers, and bloggers to steer clear of endorsing such ventures to avoid legal consequences.

"The law also targets influencers and bloggers who promote fraudulent schemes, with clear penalties including imprisonment. We are therefore using this medium to warn such persons to desist from promoting unregistered entities," he explained.

Agama said the SEC was intensifying efforts to combat Ponzi schemes following the enactment of the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, a landmark law signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The new legislation explicitly defines Ponzi schemes and introduces stringent sanctions, including a minimum fine of 20 million and a 10-year jail term for promoters of such fraudulent schemes.

Agama emphasized the Commission's capacity and readiness to tackle Ponzi schemes, stating, "SEC is capable, has the capacity, has the

know-how and of course will be able to deal with anyone caught in this mess".

He stressed that the SEC has dealt with similar schemes before and will continue to do so, leveraging the new powers granted by ISA 2025 to protect investors and develop the market.

"The recent collapse of CBEX, a digital investment platform accused of defrauding Nigerians of over 1.3 trillion, has underscored the urgency of this crackdown. CBEX promised unrealistic returns, doubling investments within a month, and deceived many with false claims of global affiliations."

Agama noted: "We will shut down their operations and the promoters will be made to face the full weight of the law," adding that the ISA 2025 also brings digital assets under the SEC's regulatory umbrella for the first time,

recognizing virtual assets as securities. This inclusion, Agama said, means that Virtual Asset Service Providers and Digital Asset Exchanges must register with the SEC and comply with regulations, closing previous legal gaps exploited by fraudulent operators. According to him, "Education is a key pillar in the SEC's strategy. The Commission has launched podcasts, social media campaigns, and is integrating capital market education into schools and universities.

"We have launched a podcast where we educate and enlighten Nigerians on the dangers of investing in unregistered schemes".

The SEC also urged Nigerians to verify any investment opportunity with the Commission before committing funds, warning that once it is too good to be true it certainly is not true".

Ogun Pensioners Laud Abiodun as Gov Releases N6.7bn for Payment of Gratuities

James Sowole in Abeokuta Pensioners in Ogun State, have lauded the Governor Dapo Abiodun for releasing a sum of N6.7bn for payment of gratuities for some retired workers in the state.

The amount was released to settle part of gratuities for retired workers in both the state and local government services. While a sum of N3.2 billion, was meant for payment to state pensioners while N3.5 billion, was earmarked for the local government pensioners.

The appreciation of the governor, was contained in a letter written to Governor Dapo Abiodun and signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Ogun State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Comrades W.O Oloyede and Bola Lawal, respectively.

The letter read in part: "The Chairman, the Executive Council and the entire membership of the Nigeria Union Of Pensioners, Ogun State Council, hereby express heartfelt appreciation to our loving and compassionate pensioners-friendly Executive Governor, Prince Dr Dapo Abiodun, CON, for the approval

and release of a total sum of N6.7 billion to the Ogun State Pensioners, thereby further reducing the backlog of accrued gratuities.

"This gesture demonstrates your commitment to the welfare of the senior citizens whose entitlements have been denied over the years.

"We are deeply grateful for the milk of Godly kindness and generosity in you towards us, the elderly.

"No doubt, the payment of the gratuities will bring great relief and succor to many individuals and families.

"We also wish to use this medium to express our sincere appreciation to you for prompt and timely payment of monthly pensions which has aided our plans towards the procurement of sustainable health services.

"We also express immense appreciation for the various palliatives and subsidies directed towards us pensioners in the recent past to cushion the effects of the present harsh economic realities. We are not taking these gestures for granted our beloved governor, but to express deep sense of gratitude.

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Uzoho

INAUGURATION OF THE NEW MANAGEMENT BOARD OF GARKI HOSPITAL...

Polio Campaign: Nigeria, Chad, Niger, Others to Vaccinate 83 Million Children

As UNICEF, Adamawa govt urge parents to immunise children against polio

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja and Daji Sani in Yola

In a renewed effort to eradicate circulating polio variant type 2 in the Lake Chad Basin, Ministers of Health from Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, Niger and Nigeria have launched a synchronised regional vaccination campaign aimed at protecting 83 million under-5 children.

The initiative is a crucial milestone in the fight against variant poliovirus type 2, which continues to pose a threat to millions of children across the region.

In a related development, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Adamawa State Government called on parents and guardians to ensure their children, aged zero to five years, were immunised against polio during

the upcoming immunisation exercise.

UNICEF and Adamawa State Government, in an interactive session with journalists in Yola, yesterday, said the exercise was scheduled for April 26-29, as part of a national routine aimed at boosting the immune system of children against polio.

Meanwhile, a statement by Head of Press Unit at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mr. Alaba Balogun, quoted the World Health Organisation (WHO) as saying, "Over the past 12 months, variant poliovirus type 2 has been detected both in the environment (wastewater samples) and among affected people in Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria.”

The report said that a total of 210 detections had been reported across these four countries, 140 of which

resulted in paralysis.

The report stated, "Although no cases have been reported in Central African Republic so far, these findings underscore the ongoing risk of crossborder transmission and the pressing need for coordinated regional action.

"Over 50 per cent of the polio cases reported in Chad in 2024 are linked to the strain circulating in Cameroon, underlining the importance of coordination and synchronization of polio response efforts."

The statement said nearly 12 million children were vaccinated last year through mass immunisation campaigns to halt the spread of the virus.

Chad’s Minister of Health, Dr Abdelmadjid Abderahim, said, "To further strengthen immunity and curb transmission, a synchronized

polio vaccination campaign will take place from 24 to 28 April 2025, targeting high-risk and mobile populations in border areas where surveillance indicators have remained below target.

"This campaign is part of a broader strategy to ensure all children are protected, regardless of location or movement patterns.

"The round is supported by an estimated 1.1 million frontline workers (including vaccinators, social mobilisers, and monitors) dedicated to protecting every last child.

“The Lake Chad Basin remains a critical area in our fight against polio. By coming together as a region, we reinforce our commitment to ending polio once and for all.”

As part of the launch, the health ministers will hold a closed-door

China Calls on Nigerians to Develop Interest in

The China Cultural Centre has asked for more Nigerians to pick interest in Chinese language as it could further cement relationship between Nigeria and China.

Speaking at the 2025 Chinese Language Day Celebration at the weekend in Abuja, the Deputy Director of the China Cultural Center in Nigeria, Liu Zhaping, noted the International Chinese Language Day is a global celebration for Chinese language aimed at promoting Chinese language and cultural exchange.

He stressed that Chinese is not merely a tool for communication but a bridge

Chinese Language

connecting cultures and hearts.

His words: "The China Cultural Center has been dedicated to advancing Chinese education and cultural exchange in Nigeria since its establishment.

"The center offers diverse courses tailored to all proficiency levels, ages, and professions, with professional and passionate instructors providing high-quality teaching.

"The center's cultural activities, such as calligraphy exhibitions, traditional opera performances, and martial arts demonstrations, immerse participants in China's artistic heritage, deepening both linguistic skills and mutual understanding."

Liu also noted that Nigeria plays a key role in fostering China-Africa cultural ties, and the celebration aims to inspire more Nigerians to join this journey.

"Through International Chinese Language Day, the China Cultural Center hopes to strengthen the bond of friendship between China and Nigeria, enriching global cultural diversity," he said.

Liu expressed his hope that every Chinese language enthusiast would gain knowledge, joy, and continued inspiration to write their own extraordinary chapters in this linguistic adventure.

"The celebration is a testament to the growing interest in Chinese language and culture in Nigeria, with a growing

number of friends embracing Chinese learning.

"The China Cultural Center's efforts have contributed significantly to promoting multicultural dialogue and cultural exchange between China and Nigeria," he added.

The Acting Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Mrs. Akudo-Nwosu, who was represented by the Assistant Director, Nseno Sunday Emiem, explained that language is more than just a tool for communication – it is the soul of a people, the vessel of their history and the bridge that connects civilizations.

VC Prescribes Optimal Market Awareness for Informed Investment Decision-making

The Vice Chancellor, Prime

underscored the need for investors to embrace optimal market awareness as the bedrock for informed investment decision-making. He said this provides them with essential insights to navigate the complexities of financial markets effectively.

Mainoma, a professor of accounting and finance, as well as a former Vice Chancellor, Nasarawa State University, stated this while delivering the Capital Market Association of Nigeria's (CMAN) fellowship inaugural lecture, in Abuja.

The academic whose lecture dwelt on "Managing An Investment Needs Optimal Market Awareness (MAINOMA)", which he creatively coined from his name, explored the

pivotal role of market awareness across various spheres, emphasising its impact on investment performance, the importance of information availability, strategies for enhancing awareness, and its influence on asset pricing dynamics.

According to him, investors rely on market awareness to embrace opportunities, manage risks, and achieve sustainable returns in dynamic market environments.

"By staying abreast of market

dynamics, trends, and factors influencing asset prices, investors can make prudent decisions that align with their financial objectives and risk tolerance.

"This paper delves into the symbiotic relationship between awareness and investment performance, highlighting how informed decisions driven by comprehensive market insights contribute to superior investment outcomes.

meeting to discuss challenges, review epidemiological data, and strengthen cross-border cooperation.

The event aligns with the Africa Regional Polio Eradication Action Plan and the Polio Eradication Cross-Border Coordination Plan 2024–2025, endorsed in August 2024 and updated in February 2025 to adapt to the evolving epidemiological situation on the ground, underscoring the region’s united commitment to protecting every child.

Global health partners, including WHO, UNICEF, the Gates Foundation, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and Rotary International, will join the effort, reaffirming their commitment to polio eradication.

Community health workers, local leaders, and volunteers will also play a vital role in ensuring the campaign’s success.

The event will coincide with African Vaccination Week, under the theme, “Immunisation for all is Humanly Possible.”

Health Officer of the UNICEF Bauchi field office, Oluseyi Olosunde, said the federal government had directed all states to embark on a nationwide campaign on polio eradication.

According to Olosunde, "This is

to ensure every child receives the appropriate vaccine according to their age."

Olosunde stated that while Adamawa State was currently polio-free, precautionary measures were still necessary to sustain this achievement.

He said the UNICEF Bauchi field office had been working closely with the state government, providing support in areas such as vaccine doses, cold stores, and technical assistance.

Executive Chairman of Adamawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ADSPCDA), Dr. Suleiman Bashir, urged all stakeholders to contribute to the success of the exercise. Bashir emphasised that the polio immunisation exercise was free and safe, appealing to parents and guardians to avail their children of the vaccination.

Bashir highlighted that over 1,070 facilities, 2,778 teams, and 74 additional teams for mop-up, surveillance, and follow-up exercises had been trained for the four-day immunisation exercise. The teams comprised vaccinators, recorders, and community mobilisers.

According to Bashir, "The Adamawa State Government and UNICEF are working together to ensure the success of the immunization exercise.

Board Member: TETFund Committed to Reposition Nigeria’s Tertiary Institutions, Meet Global Standards

A board member of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Engineer Nurudeen Adeyemi, at the weekend said the agency remains committed to reposition Nigeria’s tertiary institutions to meet global standards and equip students with the skills needed for a competitive and evolving world.

Adeyemi stated this in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital while speaking at the 5th Strategic Media Stakeholders’ Seminar organised by the Sobi FM Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council, in collaboration with the Nigeria Media Parliament.

The seminar, held in Ilorin, focused on the theme: "The Role of TETFund in Repositioning Nigeria’s Higher Education".

He also said the agency has become a central driver of the federal government’s reform efforts in the tertiary education sector.

According to him, "TETFund’s sustained interventions in infrastructure development, academic training, research funding, and innovation have positioned it as a transformative force within the nation’s education sector.

“TETFund has been strategically deployed by the President as a vehicle for transformative change across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

“Through targeted investments in infrastructure, human capital, and research, the Fund is advancing the administration’s vision for a modern, accessible, and future-ready education system.”

He further highlighted TETFund’s role in the implementation of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), stating that the agency serves as the primary financier of the initiative. NELFUND, launched as part of President Tinubu’s commitment to student financial support, aims to improve access to higher education through a sustainable, long-term financing framework.

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

University, Abuja, Prof. Mohammed Akaro Mainoma, has

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

L-R: ED, Financial Services, Tijani Baba; Permanent Secretary, Health Services & Environment, FCTA, Dr Baba-Gana Adam; Barrister Garduya Bawa Gamiya; Charman, Garki Hospital Board, Dr Peter Nmadu; Chairman, Nisa Medical Group, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman; CEO, Nisa Medical Group, Dr Ibrahim Wada; Medical Director, Garki Hospital, Dr Kenneth Ityo; Director, MDS, FCTA, Dr Abubakar Ahmadu; and ED, Corporate Services, Mrs Rabi Wada at the inauguration of the new management board for Garki Hospital, Abuja....recently

GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE SENSITISATION ORGANISED BY LAFARGE AFRICA...

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, The Re-Direct Academy, Helen Oladele; Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Director, Lafarge Africa Plc, Viola Graham-Douglas; Head Girl, Onitolo Community Senior High School, Surulere, Adetunji Timilehin; Principal, Onitolo Community Senior High School, Surulere, Adelagun Adetola; Head, Audit and Internal Control, Lafarge Africa Plc, Olanike Olakanle; and Chief Executive Officer/Co-Founder, Famasi Africa, Adeola Ayoola, during the gender-based violence sensitisation and defence workshop organised by Lafarge; Africa Plc and held in Lagos ...recently

Falana Hits Back at Wike, Says Only a Corrupt Lawyer Wins All Cases

Says Wike never handled a case despite being a Life Bencher Political prostitution may rise if Supreme Court’s defection ruling stands, he warns

Wale Igbintade

Renowned human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, has hit back at Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing him as "the only Life Bencher in Nigeria who has never handled a case in any trial or appellate court."

Wike also taunted Falana for allegedly losing the case and labelled him “a television lawyer.”

In a statement titled "I Did Not Lie Against the Supreme Court of Nigeria," Falana dismissed the

Falana’s response follows Wike’s recent media attack, where he accused the senior advocate of lying about a Supreme Court judgment on the defection of 27 lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

allegations, stating “It is no crime for a lawyer to lose a case in court. Only a corrupt lawyer wins all cases in all courts.”

He noted that while he regularly appeared before domestic and regional courts across Africa, he chose not to previously respond to Wike’s jabs out of respect for public discourse.

But he felt compelled to issue a rebuttal after Wike's renewed outburst

during a recent FCT press briefing.

Wike had referenced a Supreme Court ruling and accused Falana of lying about the defection issue during a Channels TV appearance.

However, Falana clarified that his comment merely acknowledged that the apex court had raised and determined the defection matter suo motu (on its own initiative), while the issue was still pending before the

Ooni of Ife Hosts Grand Book Presentation Honouring Oyeweso for Scholarly Excellence, Cultural Preservation

Funmi Ogundare

The ancient town of Ife, weekend, witnessed a grand convergence of royalty, academia, and cultural enthusiasts as Siyan Oyeweso, a Professor of History, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, was celebrated with the public presentation of four significant books authored and edited by him.

The program held at the Oodua Heritage House, Ooni's Palace, Osun State was attended by His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and other dignitaries from academia, politics, and traditional institutions.

The books, titled, 'Perspectives on Higher Education and Good Governance in Nigeria', Expanding the Pantheon of Yoruba Gurus', 'Ede Mapo Arogun', and the reissued 'Eminent

Yoruba Muslims of the 19th and Early 20th Centuries', reflect decades of Oyeweso’s scholarly commitment to national development, cultural identity, and historical preservation.

In his remarks, the books reviewer, Dr. Saheed Balogun Amusa of Obafemi Awolowo University, described the presentation as “a rare academic and cultural milestone.”

He commended the author for “offering deep, multifaceted insights into Nigeria’s governance, educational system, religious heritage, and Yoruba nationalism.”

While commending Oyeweso’s scholarly reach and influence across institutions like Obafemi Awolowo University, Lagos State University, and Osun State University, Amusa noted the professor’s unique ability to bridge academic excellence with cultural advocacy.

The books, according to him,

exemplify the synergy between historical hindsight and developmental foresight.

"The first book, Perspectives on Higher Education and Good Governance in Nigeria, edited with Prof. Sola Akinrinade, brings together scholars from Nigeria, the US, and the UK, dissecting themes from education funding to anti-corruption efforts.

"The second, 'Expanding the Pantheon of Yoruba Gurus, is a powerful biographical compendium of iconic Yoruba figures; monarchs, intellectuals, military heroes, and business pioneers; emphasising the Yoruba contributions to nation-building, "Ede Mapo Arogun' is a tribute to Oyeweso’s hometown, showcasing the town’s political and cultural evolution, while 'Eminent Yoruba Muslims', reprinted after 30 years, spotlights overlooked Muslim pioneers in Yoruba history, from traditional

rulers to Lagos-based Islamic scholars," Amusa stressed.

Highlighting the value of the publications, Dr. Amusa stated: “these works are not only historical texts but cultural beacons. They offer processed data that field researchers would struggle to gather over decades.”

Chairman of the Organising Committee, Prof. Adeola Shobola, who spoke on behalf of the Ooni, described the launch as a remarkable contribution to the Nigerian and African scholarship.

She commended Oyeweso for his enduring commitment to knowledge, scholarship, and national development, describing him as a towering figure whose work transcends the classroom.

Shobola also acknowledged his close historical collaborations with the late Ooni Okunade Sijuwade and his continued contributions to cultural knowledge production.

Deputy Senate President, Barau, Unveils Scholarship Programme for 300 Kano Students

As part of its educational support initiatives, the Jibril Barau Foundation, under the leadership of Deputy Senate President, Jibril Barau, has unveiled a scholarship program for 300 students from Kano, spread across various institutions in the country.

Barau announced at Bayero University on Sunday that the scholarship will target students studying science-based courses.

His words: "Well, we're here in a pursuit to bring development to our region, to bring development to

our state and to bring development to our nation because education is a bedrock of every society.

“And any society desirous of development must take its educational system seriously. And to build a sound and effective educational system in the country, that is not what a government alone can do.

"It's what everyone, all households must participate in getting that done. From the government to religious bodies, to high network individuals, in fact, even the ordinary person, everyone must come on board.

And that's why we are executing this initiative.

"We started with sending our students outside the shores of this country to study AI, Artificial Intelligence and other courses, other programs, so that they will bring the knowledge acquired to be in a desire to develop our country.

“I felt that that was not enough, that we have to also look at our institutions in this country that have established themselves comparable to what we have overseas.

"Example is this university, Bayero University. It has established itself

under the leadership of the UN to the attainment of that level that can be compared to any university in the world.

"So also, universities like Abu Dhabi University, University of Ife, University of Ibadan, UN, University of Nsuka, and the rest, that we need to have those that were not able to make it to. I mean, within the program that we did to send our students to outside of this country, that we need to have these other ones to study at home, particularly in those areas that are really needed in our country.

Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.

He added that contrary to Wike's claims, there is video and affidavit evidence confirming the lawmakers’ defection to the APC.

“It is public knowledge that Mr. Wike celebrated the Supreme Court judgment with a thanksgiving service.

Yet, he attacks me for commenting on the same ruling,” Falana said.

Falana emphasised his constitutional right to critique judicial decisions, citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

He accused Wike of attempting to incite the judiciary against him with baseless allegations, and challenged the minister to report him to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee if he believes there was any professional misconduct.

“Unlike Mr. Wike who insults judges when rulings don’t align with his politics, I’ve always critiqued court decisions with respect and good

faith,” Falana asserted.

He also pointed to legal precedents and past statements by respected jurists, including the late Justice Oputa and former Chief Justice Tanko Muhammad, who welcomed critical engagement from the bar. Falana warned that the recent Supreme Court position on defection—requiring the production of a political party’s register—could embolden “unpatriotic politicians” and encourage “political prostitution.”

“In the interest of political stability and national morality, I urge the Supreme Court to continue to uphold its earlier positions in cases like Attorney-General of the Federation v. Abubakar and Dapialong v. Dariye,” he added.

Falana added that Wike’s attack had failed in its “desperate bid to incite the Justices of the Supreme Court” and urged that the minister be stopped from parading himself as the unsolicited defender of the judiciary.

Kogi CJ Inaugurates Committee to Review High Court Rules

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Josiah Majebi has inaugurated a committee for the review of the State's High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules.

Justice Majebi stressed the importance of the high-powered committee during the inauguration ceremony at the state's judiciary headquarters in Lokoja, the state capital during the weekend.

Justice Abdul Awulu was selected as its Chairman, while Justice Moses Gwatana is expected to act as the Vice Chairman of the Review Committee respectively. .

The Chief Judge disclosed the current rules guiding procedures in the High Court of Justice were enacted into law 19 years ago when the pioneer Chief Judge of the state, Justice Umaru Eri (Rtd) made and brought the Rules into effect introducing "some remarkable innovations into the civil litigation landscape" in the state.

He stated further that as with most systems of law, there is always room for further innovations, modifications and improvements aimed at achieving better degree of conformity with contemporary practices".

"The review of the Rules was therefore an urgent reform needed for administration of justice in the state

to adapt to evolving technological developments with a view to enhancing civil litigation process that would meet modern civil litigation procedures.

"These reforms will prioritize technology integration, procedural efficiency and case management flexibility fostering a more robust and accessible Justice system," he said. While expressing confidence in members of the committee to deliver on the responsibility entrusted on them, Justice Majebi enthused on expecting to receive all-encompassing rules at the end of the one-month given to the committee while also reckoning with the credibility and pedigree of the committee members.

He was thus optimistic that the involvement of the calibre of those engaged in the committee would further show direction to others on how best to collectively attain goals that would be beneficial to the legal institution and future generations of lawyers.

"You have been carefully selected to review the Kogi State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2006, and your appointment is born out of your sterling records of progressive sacrifices and commitment to the legal sector and the administration of justice" he disclosed.

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano.

NIGERIAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS' VISIT TO ARISTON GROUP...

Chapter, NIA, Arc. Ojo

Insecurity: Kanu’s Family Decries FG's ‘False Narratives’ against IPOB Leader

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The family of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has called for an international probe of the insecurity situation in the South East zone of Nigeria.

Kanu's family made the call in a statement issued weekend by the spokesman, Emmanuel Kanu, saying an independent international investigative panel has become necessary because of the "relentless and orchestrated campaign of misinformation" against IPOB.

He said his family specifically wanted "immediate establishment of a joint panel of investigators from the United States and the European Union to address this injustice and uncover the true genesis of insecurity in the South East.

"This independent body must be tasked with conducting a thorough, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the root causes of insecurity in Igboland and identifying those truly responsible.

"We call on all well-meaning individuals, organisations, and governments to support our demand for an independent investigation and to ensure that justice prevails in Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s case," Prince Emmanuel said.

the insecurity in the zone.

He regretted that the federal government and its security agencies had become fixated with linking IPOB to insecurity in South East, thereby masking government’s failure to address

According to him, the federal government was intentional in "this deliberate effort to falsely link IPOB to alleged insecurities and crimes in the South East."

He stated that the false narratives and media propaganda were being perpetrated with "the clear intent to influence judicial proceedings in Abuja courts and tarnish Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s reputation before the international community. "The Nigerian government’s reliance on false narratives and media propaganda to influence judicial outcomes and discredit a high-profile case like Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s is a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in democratic institutions," he said.

SENATE LEADER: TO BATTLE INSECURITY, WE’RE CREATING LEGAL FRAMEWORKS

some political and sectional figures also belied the values of courage, perseverance and tolerance He evidently lived for. No country develops as a result of one section rising up against another vice versa.”

Mark: Treat Killer Herdsmen as Terrorists

Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, called on the federal government to be more proactive in its effort to tackle insecurity and violent crimes, especially kidnapping and the menace of armed herdsmen.

Mark, in a message to commemorate Easter, suggested that such violent and murderous groups should be declared as terrorists and treated as such.

He bemoaned the incessant violent crimes, especially in the North-central states of Plateau and Benue, that had claimed dozens

of lives and countless property.

"We must not shy away from the truth. If they are not terrorists, why are they killing people? Why are they destroying communities? Why are they chasing people away from their ancestral homes?” he said.

Decrying the activities of armed herdsmen, generally believed to be behind killings and kidnappings, Mark said, "Their activities are unacceptable and should not only be condemned but be prohibited in entirety as nobody has the right to take anybody's life."

On the attacks on several communities in Benue and Plateau states, Mark called on the federal government to proscribe open grazing in all parts of the country. In the place of open grazing, he suggested the establishment of enclosed ranching, which is the best practice worldwide.

The former senate president, whose Otukpo, Benue South country home had been under

suspected herdsmen attacks, called for more inclusive approach to tackling insecurity in all ramifications.

Mark also called for the establishment of a well-equipped Border Security Force (BSF) to halt the influx of criminals into the country.

He pointed out that most of the “suspected herders killing our people took advantage of the porosity of our borders by streaming into the country from our neighbouring countries”.

He said, "We must not allow criminal elements to stream into our country. We must, therefore, change our strategy. Maybe, we can begin to think of fencing our borders like India, Israel, the United States, and Mexico."

When established, he said the National Border Security Force (NBSF) would not only be saddled with the mandate of policing the country's porous borders but would

also have the mandate of fighting terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

Mark decried the carnage going on in Benue and Plateau states, saying a debilitating disease deserves a more serious medication if it must be cured.

He commiserated with the people and governments of Benue and Plateau states and all those who lost their loved ones.

Northern Senators Warn Terrorists, Sponsors

Northern Senators’ Forum (NSF) cautioned individuals behind banditry and terrorism in Nigeria to put an end to the evil act.

They also urged all and sundry to reject hate speech, bigotry and corruption, among other vices.

The views were contained in a statement issued on their behalf by NSF chairman, Senator Abdulaziz

FOR STATE POLICE

Musa Yar'adua, in Abuja, yesterday.

The Easter message also urged the leaders to prioritise the well-being and happiness of others to foster a more harmonious and tolerant society.

The statement said, “By embracing the values of love, forgiveness, and compassion, we can collectively reject vices such as hate speech, bigotry, corruption, banditry, and terrorism.

“By prioritising the well-being and happiness of others, we can foster a more harmonious and tolerant society.”

NSF stated that the Easter celebration served as a reminder of the triumph of good over evil and life over death, as embodied in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

It stated, “This period calls for introspection, love, forgiveness, and compassion, underscoring the importance of nurturing our relationships with God and fellow human beings.

2027: NORTH WILL DECIDE ITS STAND IN NEXT SIX MONTHS, SAYS HAKEEM BABA-AHMED qualities and impactful policies as reason for their endorsement.

The endorsement, passed at a special Caucus meeting of the state chapter of APC held at Iyin Ekiti, was attended by the first civilian governor of the state, Otunba Niyi Adebayo; the immediate past governor of the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi, and Oyebanji.

Also in attendance were the state Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Senator Yemi Adaramodu; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, former Deputy Governor, Prof Modupe Adelabu;

serving and former members of the National and State Assembly, Party Chieftains, Among others.

Speaking while moving the endorsement motion, which was ratified through a very loud voice vote, Adaramodu, commended Tinubu for his decisive economic reforms that have revitalised the country’s economy as well as his comprehensive security strategies that have addressed the root cause of insecurity in the country within one and half years in office.

He said for these reasons and several other positive outcomes, the president deserved to be supported

for re-election in order to sustain the gains and ensure their long term effect.

While moving the motion for the endorsement of Oyebanji for re- election, Speaker Aribasoye, said the governor had demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities characterised by his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ekiti people and all round development of the state.

He praised the governor for making the party acceptable to the people through his sterling performance, people-oriented policies and programmes as well

as consistently prioritising the needs and aspirations of the citizens, thereby fostering trust and unity across the state.

Earlier, the State APC Chairman, Sola Elesin, who thanked Oyebanji for making the party attractive and acceptable to all indigenes of the state through his remarkable development strides, maintained that no town in the state was left out of various government’s interventions which included infrastructure development, rural electrification, healthcare improvement, agric revolution, and youth empowerment, among others.

Also, Fayemi, in his remarks, said, “Generally speaking, I think we have a lot to thank God for and we must thank our Governor, everywhere we turn to its BAO. Our leader and I do exchange notes regularly. When I was coming back to the country, yesterday morning, I travelled with somebody from the Senate from London and he said thank you very much for the Governor.

“He said I went to Ekiti for Senator Bamidele's conferment of honourary degree, you need to extend Ekiti magic to the rest of the country to help us. This is all due to the way our Governor has conducted

“The Holy Scripture reminds us that true fulfilment in life stems not from material wealth but from cultivating meaningful spiritual and human connections.

“As we celebrate Easter, we are encouraged to reflect on how to apply the teachings of Jesus Christ in our daily lives with renewed dedication.

“On behalf of the Northern Senators Forum, I am delighted to extend warm greetings to our Christian compatriots as they commemorate this year's Easter celebration.

“We express profound gratitude to the Almighty God for granting us another opportunity to celebrate this significant occasion.

“As we celebrate this Easter, let us strive to love our neighbours and demonstrate increased spirit of tolerance and accommodation. By doing so, we can build a nation where everyone can live in peace and prosperity.”

himself and how he conveyed his sense of humility and service to the party both at the national and the state levels, and that is why we are all gathered here to happily work together with him to accomplish the task of greater development for the people,” he said.

Responding, Oyebanji expressed his gratitude to leaders of the party for their belief in his leadership acumen and also thanked President Tinubu for his support and for creating a conducive environment that has allowed states to thrive through bold national policies and reforms.

L-R: Chairman, Lagos State Chapter, Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Arc. Abiodun Fatuyi; Managing Director, East, West, & Central Africa, Ariston Group, Mr Solomon Vincent Umoh; and Assistant General Secretary, Lagos State

Oluwatimileyin during a courtesy visit of the NIA Lagos Chapter to Ariston Group, Lagos on Friday

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

08033025611 SMS ONLY

Will the over Two Decades-Old Killings on the Plateau Abate?

In this piece, Seriki Adinoyi wonders if the persistent killings in Plateau State which dates back to over two decades will abate soon.

In the wake of recent consecutive attacks that claimed over 100 lives in Plateau State, President Bola Tinubu, Governor Caleb Mutfwang and indeed all Nigerians of good conscience roundly condemned the gruesome act on innocent lives, especially women and children.

Expressing profound sorrow over the bloodshed, the President who condemned the killings as a tragedy ordered that the criminals be unraveled and brought to book.

He said, “I have instructed security agencies to thoroughly investigate this crisis and identify those responsible for orchestrating these violent acts.

“The Federal Government remains committed to supporting Governor Mutfwang and the Plateau State government in promoting dialogue, fostering social cohesion, and ensuring accountability; crucial steps towards permanently resolving the conflict in Plateau.”

On his part, Governor Mutfwang who visited the attacked villages, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, admitting that despite efforts made, the government fell short in preventing the tragedy.

According to him: “The whole nation mourns with you, the international community mourns with you. I have cried since yesterday. All arrangements were put in place to avoid this, yet we failed you. On behalf of the government and security agencies, please forgive us.”

The governor condemned the continuous attacks that have plagued the Irigwe land and promised renewed commitment towards ending the violence. He lamented the state of infrastructure, including poor roads, attributing it to years of neglect due to insecurity and terrorism.

But he said, “We are more determined than ever to ensure that no more innocent blood is shed on the Plateau. There’s no reason for anyone to take the law into their hands. While we continue to invest in security, communities must also rise to defend themselves. We can no longer afford to sleep while the enemy strikes at night.”

During his visit, the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun also condemned the attacks and threatened to deal with the attackers. He also warned that their days are numbered.

On his part, Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluyemi Oluyede who led a delegation of senior military officers to assess the level of destruction caused by the assailants in Bokkos, assured the people that the perpetrators would be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.

He said, “The senseless acts of violence that was witnessed in some of our communities must stop. Let me make it unequivocally clear that any further attacks on innocent civilians, destruction of property, or acts of lawlessness will be decisively dealt with.”

The Army boss warned that “the military alongside other security agencies, will not stand by idly while criminal elements destabilize our communities. Those who think they can take the law into their hands and go unpunished should have a re-think of their actions because the full weight of the law will be brought upon them.”

But in less than five days after his visit and warning, the assailants dared him with another deadly attack on Bassa LGA killing at least 52 people. His warning and condemnation are not

enough to deter the dare-devil criminals.

For over two decades, this is what Plateau people have had to live with; attacks and killings every other day. Governments on their part would always condemn the attacks, promise to scale up security, and threaten to deal with attackers. No serious arrest has been made. Even when few arrests were made, nothing came out of them, the criminals got away with their acts.

No one can point to one criminal or their sponsor that has been arrested from these persistent Plateau killings that has been severely dealt with to serve as a deterrent to others.

In a few cases where arrests were made, they were transferred from the state and that was the end of it; nothing was heard anymore.

In 2010, some foreign militia were arrested in Jos with weapons and were taken to the state Police command headquarters. Directives came from above that they should be transferred to Abuja.

Nothing more was heard of them

till date.

This has given credence to the belief that there are high profile persons in the society that sponsor these killings, who would always intervene to ensure that criminals that are arrested never get to face prosecution. Until government stands up to address these forces behind the killings, it will continue.

Governor Mutfwang recently vowed to address this when he said, “As your Governor, I make this solemn promise: anyone involved in spilling the blood of a Plateau citizen will be pursued and brought to justice. None of them will go scot-free.” It is only hoped that it will not end in solemn promise, as action must be taken to back the promise.

Recently, Mutfwang observed with distress that villages from where natives were displaced by attackers two years ago are now being occupied by strangers.

According to him, Tyop community in Mangu LGA which was violently attacked two years ago is now being forcefully occupied, with some intruders erecting new buildings using materials taken from properties belonging to the original inhabitants.

The Governor directed security agencies to collaborate with community

For over two decades, this is what Plateau people have had to live with; attacks and killings every other day. Governments on their part would always condemn the attacks, promise to scale up security, and threaten to deal with attackers. No serious arrest has been made. Even when few arrests were made, nothing came out of them, the criminals got away with their acts.

leaders and local government enumeration staff to document all structures in the area, noting when they were built, ownership of land, duration of settlement, and means of acquisition of the land.

He warned that any form of unlawful occupation or insubordination that could spark further violence would not be tolerated.

The Governor reiterated his charge to security heads to ensure the enumeration exercise is conducted peacefully, fairly, and with a sense of justice to all parties involved.

With this development, how can government sincerely say it does not know who the attackers are? People are violently chased out of their villages by ‘unknown gunmen’ and the same villages are now being occupied by ‘strangers’, yet government claims it does not know the attackers. Government must show sincerity if it truly wants to fight the insecurity in Plateau.

During his visit, the Inspector General of Police agreed that the attackers took advantage of the limited security manpower across the local governments, but reassured the people that the tide would soon turn.

“I assure you that these criminal elements will soon be outnumbered. I appeal to the people of Plateau to remain calm and peaceful”, he said.

Likewise, the Chief of Army Staff, during his visit also promised that more troops will be deployed to the state.

With security challenge confronting the nation on every side, how many personnel can Plateau State alone be given; what happens to other parts of the country that equally needs security attention?

This brings back the long quest for the establishment of State Police. The call for state police has over the years been repeatedly discussed yet nothing has been done about it.

The Federal Government has not advanced any reasonable excuse for not buying into the idea of allowing state police thrive. The fear that state Governors could use state police to perpetuate political crimes against opposition is not enough to jettison the idea, especially at this point when the IGP himself has owned up to the obvious numerical deficit in manpower of the force.

Now, the farming season is here but the farmers are scared to go to their farms because they feel unsafe.

Bokkos, one of the attacked LGAs is a Nigeria’s and Plateau State’s food basket. The council is known to produce the majority of Irish potatoes and corn. With the current crisis, which has displaced farmers from their farms, production of these crops will surely be impacted.

The attackers not only kill, they also destroy farmlands and cart away farm produce. The ultimate aim is to displace the people from their ancestral lands and cripple the economy of the state.

The buck stops at the desk of the Federal Government; it cannot pass it to anyone else seeing that the security of Nigerian citizens is its primary responsibility. Nigerians are not asking for too much by saying they should be protected.

Where the government is failing in this all-important responsibility, and prompting citizens to take arms to defend themselves, then anarchy ensues. God forbid that Nigeria is thrown into such chaos.

Muftwang

‘Underfunded Justice’ Highlights Need for Strategic, Increased Funding for the ACJL

CLEEN Foundation, a non-governmental organisation focused on justice and security in Nigeria, recently hosted a pivotal media dialogue that addressed the urgent need for increased budgetary allocations for the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL). The event, held in Lagos, underscored the critical role that adequate funding plays in ensuring the efficient implementation of this law. As the Nigerian criminal justice system continues to face severe challenges, including delays in legal proceedings, widespread inefficiencies and alarming inadequacies in the current funding model, Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that this dialogue called for a rethinking of how justice is financed in the country because without a strategic and holistic approach to budget allocation that prioritises justice and public safety, the potential of the ACJL to drive meaningful reform will remain unrealised

Financing the administration of criminal justice in Nigeria has long been a government-driven endeavour, with funds allocated through the federal and state budgets. However, Nigeria’s complex approach to criminal justice reform, particularly through the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) and its state-level implementations, is riddled with challenges. These include inadequate funding allocations, ineffective resource distribution, and difficulties in managing criminal justice institutions efficiently. Despite the provisions outlined in the Nigerian Constitution and the ACJA, there are significant gaps in translating these provisions into practical, equitable funding for courts, investigations, prosecutions, and adjudication processes.

Challenges with ACJL Implementation

According to Dr. Salaudeen Hashim, the Program Director of CLEEN Foundation, the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) framework cannot reach its full potential without adequate financial backing. In a recent media dialogue held at the CLEEN Foundation Conference Room in Lagos, Dr. Hashim spoke passionately about the state of the law, underlining that the 2025 budget must place a stronger emphasis on judicial reform.

“Adequate funding is not just a matter of money, but a matter of efficiency and justice,” he said. “When courts are underfunded and lack the necessary infrastructure, delays in justice become inevitable. This creates a vicious cycle where the backlog grows, and litigants suffer.”

Dr. Hashim further stressed the importance of allocating funds to the ACJMC, the statutory body tasked with overseeing the implementation of ACJA. “For many years, the ACJMC has been underfunded and under-resourced. Without it, the promise of a swift and effective criminal justice system is simply not achievable.”

The Impact of Underfunding on Justice Delivery

Dr. Hashim did not mince words in his critique of the underfunding of the justice system, noting several key issues that hinder the proper functioning of the ACJL. He pointed to the poor response from the Ministry of Justice, the lack of resources within the ACJMC, and the rise of plea bargaining as a tool for settling politically exposed persons (PEPs).

“When there is no adequate budget for the Ministry of Justice, the system becomes vulnerable to manipulation and corruption,” he said. “We have reached a point where justice is often up for sale to the highest bidder. This is an alarming state of affairs, and it must change.”

Dr. Hashim also highlighted the dilapidated custodial centres, which he described as “crime scenes in their own right.” Increasingly, suspects escape police facilities, further undermining the effectiveness of the justice system. With little investment in forensic laboratories and lack of skilled professionals, investigation and prosecution of criminal cases are rendered inefficient.

“The criminal justice system is woefully under-resourced,” Dr. Hashim explained. “We have a deficit in human capacity, such as profilers, and there is also a lack of mental health support for those working within the system. Without addressing these issues, we cannot expect significant improvements.”

The Role of Media in Advocating for Change

As part of the dialogue, Dr. Hashim called on journalists and media practitioners to engage deeply with the subject and report on the inadequate funding and poor implementation of the ACJL.

“Media plays a crucial role in holding

the government accountable, especially when it comes to public funds and budget allocations. Journalists must not only report the facts but also delve deeper into the issues of corruption and mismanagement that continue to plague the justice system,” he said.

The media’s role, he argued, is to raise awareness about the reality and potential of the ACJL, track the incoherence in its implementation across various states, and highlight examples of states that have made notable progress, such as Delta State.

“We need to shed light on the states where implementation is strong and where the ACJL is truly making a difference. We must also highlight the negative impacts of underfunding and how it undermines the promise of justice for all.”

Dr. Hashim also pointed to transparency, accountability, and open governance as areas where the media could make a significant impact. He encouraged journalists to investigate the impact of political influence on justice processes and to call out corruption whenever it is detected.

Budgetary Allocations and their Consequences

During the dialogue, Dr. Hashim provided a sobering example from the 2024 budget, which allocated a mere 73 million Naira to the ACJMC, despite the body’s critical role in the implementation of ACJA. In contrast, 971.9 million Naira was earmarked for renovations, and an

eye-watering 480 million Naira was allocated for other non-prioritised items.

“How can we justify such disparities in budget allocations?” Dr. Hashim asked. “This is a clear indication that the government is not taking the criminal justice reform agenda seriously. We need a coherent, focused approach to funding that reflects the urgency of the task at hand.”

Critique of State Government Budgeting Corruption and Plea Bargaining in the Justice System

Also, CLEEN Foundation has been outspoken in its criticism of the inadequate budgetary allocation for the implementation of the ACJL, urging state governments, in particular, to make intentional efforts to support the justice process. At the media dialogue, Peter Maduoma, acting Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, called on the media to continue highlighting the critical issues preventing the law’s success.

“The media is essential in pushing for reforms,” Maduoma said. “The ACJA is being implemented by many individuals who lack full understanding of its provisions, which presents a significant challenge for the media to focus on educating the public and ensuring stakeholders are well-informed.”

He also pointed out the flaws in Nigeria’s budgeting practices. “Funds are generally allocated to projects with

visible returns—things like bridges and roads—which politicians can easily inaugurate. But vital social changes, like securing lives and ensuring justice, often suffer from poor funding. The unrest in Uromi, Edo State, is a clear example of citizens taking justice into their own hands because they feel the state is not providing the necessary security.”

Maduoma also condemned the practice of plea bargaining, calling it a breeding ground for corruption, extortion, and miscarriages of justice. He argued that plea bargaining is often misused to secure favourable outcomes for powerful individuals, undermining the integrity of the judicial process.

The Case for Systemic Change and Adequate Resourcing

Dr. Hashim, echoing Maduoma’s sentiments, reiterated that adequate funding for the ACJL would expedite judicial processes, reduce backlogs, and prevent unnecessary delays in litigation. He expressed frustration at the reluctance of states to sufficiently resource the implementation of the law, suggesting that funds are often diverted to capital projects that benefit certain individuals, rather than systemic reforms. Hashim also pointed to the absence of Administrative Criminal Justice Monitoring Committees in many states, emphasising that these committees are essential for monitoring the compliance of criminal justice actors.

“Why are funds not being properly allocated to ensure the proper functioning of the criminal justice system?” Hashim asked. “Instead, states often invest in capital projects that benefit certain individuals. Meanwhile, critical components like monitoring committees are either absent or inactive.”

He further noted deficits in infrastructure, with the ACJL requiring modernised interrogation rooms. Yet, according to Hashim, only Katsina State has met this requirement at its police headquarters.

A Call to Action In conclusion, both Dr. Hashim and Maduoma called for more in-depth reporting, analysis, and collaboration between the media, civil society organisations (CSOs), and justice sector actors to ensure the effective implementation of the ACJL. The media, they stressed, must maintain a central focus on the issues, follow up on projects, and evaluate government performance.

“We must keep the people at the centre of our coverage,” Dr. Hashim emphasised. “It’s essential that we stick to the issues, follow up on projects, evaluate performances, and collaborate with others in the justice sector to ensure that the ACJL achieves its full potential. The future of justice in Nigeria depends on it.”

Cross section of participants at the media dialogue

L-R: Dr. Salaudeen Hashim, Mrs Blessing Abiri, Mr Peter Maduoma and Mrs Justina Johnson

www.thisdaylive.com

TINUBU: A MID-TERM ASSESSMENT

BAMIDELE ATOYEBI

reckons that the President has done relatively well

75 BOUQUETS FOR MAURICE IWU ANDY EZEANI pays tribute to Iwu, former INEC Chairman at 75

See page 21

MISERY

opinion@thisdaylive.com

Do not narrate your trauma to prove your humanity, argues LINUS OKORIE

LEADING WITH TRUTH WITHOUT BLEEDING IN PUBLIC

Many years ago, I was at a speaking engagement where someone from the audience was spontaneously called to speak on a subject. He got on the podium, and he start lamenting on how he was unprepared for the topic. The room went quiet, not out of awe, but discomfort. It was not the vulnerability that was unsettling. It was the lack of boundaries. What should have been a moment of connection became a moment of confusion. Why did he start with such great lamentation? What was his motive? Was he seeking pity or sympathy? No one was out to judge him or punish his poor delivery. That encounter stayed with me. It reminded me that while people are drawn to sincerity, they are not always prepared to hold your wounds, especially when you have not yet held them yourself.

Is that not similar to what is playing in today’s world of content creation, everyone wants to share something in the name of vulnerability? Some hope it goes viral, turning them into the next social media influencer. To attract large following and preoccupy people’s minds, we’re told to “own our story,” “be authentic,” and “share our truth.” And in a world filled with filters and polished facades, it makes sense. People are tired of perfection. They want the messy, the honest, the behind-the-scenes. But here's the tension: where does authenticity end and oversharing begin? Where’s the line between showing your scars and bleeding in public for likes?

We’ve created a culture that glorifies vulnerability. Yes, your voice is your brand. Yes, your story is your bridge. But you do not have to strip yourself bare to prove you're real. You do not have to narrate every painful detail to be seen as honest. There’s wisdom in restraint. There’s power in privacy. This is especially true for leaders. People may admire your strength, but they trust your stability. And that trust is often built in what you choose not to say. So let us talk about what it means to be authentic without sacrificing your dignity to the demands of visibility.

Open your feed and you’ll see it. Heart-wrenching confessions. Raw videos of breakdowns. Grief turned into captions. Struggles packaged for public sympathy. We’ve made it easy to confuse openness with emotional nudity. But not everyone sharing is doing it from a place of healing. And not everyone watching is capable of holding what’s being shared.

Do you know the worst part? It works. Posts that pull at heartstrings go viral. The algorithm rewards pain. But at what cost? Your peace? Your process? Your privacy? Are these really worth losing? Stella Young, the late disability rights

activist, coined the term inspiration porn to describe how society often consumes stories of hardship, especially from disabled people, just to feel better about themselves. The storyteller becomes a tool for someone else’s motivation. Their humanity gets reduced to a headline. It’s happening again, only this time, it’s cloaked in “vulnerability.”

Let’s be clear that being real does not mean being raw at all times. You can be authentic and still have boundaries. Telling your story does not mean you owe the world every chapter. The truth can be told without full exposure. You can inspire others without packaging your pain for performance or applause. Vulnerability is about honesty. Before you share, pause and ask yourself: Is this for me or them?

Am I sharing this because it’s processed or because I’m hoping someone else will help me process it? Have I healed enough to speak from strength, or am I still in the middle of it, needing support instead of feedback?

Sometimes people say, “I’m just being real,” but what they’re really doing is outsourcing their healing. Hoping the crowd will help them make sense of the mess. Hoping strangers will affirm their pain. But healing is not a group project and social media is not a therapist’s couch. Constantly turning your struggles into content comes at a cost. It distorts your process. When your pain becomes your platform, it’s hard to let go of it. You begin to define yourself by your struggle. Instead of moving forward, you’re stuck in an endless cycle of revisiting the same story because it keeps the engagement coming.

It exposes you to the wrong audience. Not everyone scrolling has the emotional maturity to hold your truth. Some people will not get it. Others will mock it. A few will even weaponize it. It creates performance fatigue. You’re always thinking about how to shape your suffering into a shareable post. You start managing your image more than your emotions. Your timeline becomes your timeline for people like you who are seeking sympathetic resonance, and that’s dangerous for your brand.

And here’s the kicker: when the applause

fades, you might start believing your pain no longer matters. That your worth is tied to how deeply you’ve suffered, how publicly you’ve shared it, and how loudly people clapped. That’s not authenticity. That’s entrapment.

Real vulnerability is not about how much you share. It’s about why you share. It looks like speaking from a scar, not an open wound. It means you’ve processed the experience, pulled the lessons from it, and can now offer a clearer, more grounded perspective to others. It means choosing intentionality over impulse. You're not posting while emotions are raw or wounds are fresh. You've taken a step back, sat with the pain, and now you're choosing to share with clarity. It also means you share with the goal of helping, not just venting. The intent behind the message is service, not sympathy. You’re saying, “Here’s what I went through, and here’s what I learned,” instead of “Here’s my mess—please affirm me.” And it means knowing what to keep sacred. Not everything you go through is for public consumption. Not every struggle is meant to be turned into a teachable moment. Some stories are still unfolding. Some are not ready. And some are just for you, or for trusted ears behind closed doors. One of the most powerful things you can say is, “I’ve been there, and here’s what helped me.” That comes from healing. That’s where real power lives.

You are not your pain. You are not your worst day. Your brand is built on your truth, not your trauma. On your lessons, not your losses. On your growth, not your grief. Share your story from a place of strength. The most magnetic brands are not the ones constantly bleeding. They’re the ones that show up whole. The ones that say, “Here’s what I’ve been through — and here’s who I’ve become.” That’s what people remember. That’s what earns respect.

So, no — you do not owe the world your wounds. You do not have to bleed in public to be seen as real. You can be authentic and still have boundaries. Do not narrate your trauma to prove your humanity. You are not content. Remember: realness is showing up with honesty and wisdom. Tell your story when you are healed. The one that uplifts. The one that reminds someone else: “You can make it through too.” That’s real authenticity. And it’s more powerful than any viral post.

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.

BAMIDELE ATOYEBI reckons that the President has done relatively well

TINUBU: A MID-TERM ASSESSMENT

When former President Muhammadu Buhari transferred power to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he made it clear that he did not envy his successor. This sentiment didn’t stem from a diminished prestige of the office, but rather from the numerous challenges it entailed. The nation was burdened by excessive subsidy payments, which even the recipients deemed unsustainable, while many acknowledged the grim fiscal situation, signaling an economy on the brink of collapse.

The currency exchange rate was extremely unstable, with the Naira losing value to the point that it was nearly worthless. Nigeria struggled to secure trade agreements, often settling for unfavorable terms, akin to a drowning individual grasping at anything for survival. Economic analysts widely agreed that there was no simple solution to this dire situation, which was perceived as irretrievable.

The government had exceeded its borrowing limit and resorted to excessive Naira printing, which further devalued the currency. Transparency was lacking in governance, with revenue announcements failing to yield visible economic benefits and loans taken with little to show for them. Essentially, the economy was in a critical state, existing only on life support.

Our trade balance was virtually nonexistent, saved only by our reliance on oil, which had seen production levels plummet to less than half of Nigeria's OPEC quota. Illegal oil bunkering exacerbated this issue, contributing to significant economic losses.

When President Tinubu took office, he initially stumbled but soon demonstrated clear vision and decisiveness. He swiftly eliminated oil subsidies, a move that was more effective than the gradual phase-out suggested by some economists, comparably akin to ripping off a bandage to cleanse a festering wound.

Tinubu has further propelled economic di-

versification with tangible actions, moving beyond mere rhetoric. Under his leadership, Nigeria's oil output rose from under one million barrels per day to approximately 1.5 million, with a future goal of 2.5 million barrels. This increase is crucial for maintaining foreign exchange liquidity, even amidst declining market prices.

Moreover, the country’s monthly petroleum product imports have decreased from $18.31 billion to $14.06 billion, while the monthly subsidy expense of $3.6 billion is now zero due to robust economic policies. Gas exports rose from $5.84 billion to $8.68 billion, and foreign investments jumped from around $6 billion to $17 billion due to improved investment conditions.

Before Tinubu's tenure, Nigeria had fewer than 10 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, but this number has surged to 248, alongside the number of CNG vehicles increasing to over 100,000. The revival of public refineries has also been significant, with Port Harcourt and Warri now operational.

Trade figures with international partners reflect these improvements. Exports to the United States soared from $170.36 billion in 2020 to a striking $5.79 trillion in 2024. Similarly, exports to China fluctuated but ultimately rose to N2.37 trillion in 2024.

Even critics who dismiss Tinubu's effectiveness cannot overlook these positive statistics, indicating that conditions are improving. While we're not yet where we need to be, the first two years of his presidency show promising progress. Supporting him to continue these efforts is essential; we must acknowledge the advancements we've made as we emerge from challenging times into a more hopeful economic landscape.

Atoyebi, a philanthropist, public commentator and human rights activist writes from Abuja. He is of the BAT Ideological Movement

ANDY EZEANI pays tribute to Iwu, former INEC Chairman at 75

75 BOUQUETS FOR MAURICE IWU

In the wake of the 2007 general elections and the strident criticism of the polls by opposition parties especially, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who won the presidency, made a terse admission and conciliatory statement, that the polls through which he just got to office, were not perfect. That, ordinarily, was not an earth-shaking declaration, considering that no election ever claimed perfection. That statement, however, became a convenient axe, waved by those who were ready to reference Yar’Adua. Interestingly, none of those who easily quoted Yar’Adua on this score, was willing, or fair enough, to acknowledge that the man never said that he did not win the election. Indeed, no other presidential candidate ever laid claim to being the winner of the 2007 presidential election, imperfect as it may have been.

Enter Professor Maurice Iwu, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), at that critical juncture in history. Iwu never said the election he conducted was perfect. He did say something, however, which got opposition politicians raving. In the heat of the passion over the polls, Prof. Iwu declared, somewhat defiantly, that if the presidential election was conducted ten times over, the prevailing political environment of Nigeria at that period being constant, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would still win. More hell was let loose from the corner of critics, but that was, and still remains Prof. Maurice Iwu. He holds on tenaciously to his conviction and hardly backs down. The passion of that moment did not allow many to understand the point he was making. It took a while before many, including those who savaged him earlier, came around to appreciate Iwu’s thesis.

In the first decade after democracy was restored in Nigeria in 1999, PDP was not just the ruling party, it was a behemoth of sorts. The gap between the party and all other parties combined, was unassailable. PDP was dominant in every other zone of the country, but one. That was the point Prof. Iwu was making when he said that opposition parties, contending individually, would never win, that PDP would always prevail, even if elections were held donkey times. The truth was evident, but as one of the critics asked, why should Iwu say it?

Prof. Iwu was appointed Chairman of the INEC in May 2005. He had served briefly as a National Commissioner, before being appointed Chairman. Iwu came to INEC with a glittering profile as a renowned scientist, in the area of pharmacognosy, with many global scientific laurels to his name. He had his early education at Christ the King School, Aba and St. Pius X College, Bodo, Ogoni, Rivers state. He subsequently schooled at the University of Bradford, United Kingdom, where he obtained PhD.

He was, at various times, a World Health Organization (WHO) visiting scholar to the Dyson Perrins Laboratory, University of Oxford (1908); Fulbright Scholar at Ohio State University, Columbus Ohio (1983); Senior Research Scholar Award winner at the U.S. National Research Council, Washington, DC (1993-1995); Vice President, Research and Development, Tom’s of Maine, as well as member of the board of directors, Axxon Biopharm Inc, USA. In 1999 he won the US National Research International Prize for Ethnobiology.

He worked at the Division of Experimental Therapeutics of the highly regarded Walter Rees Army Institute of Research, Washington, D.C, where he was a Senior Research Associate. At the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, he was a professor of Pharmacognosy Prof. Iwu brought a remarkable spirit of innovation to INEC. He not only elevated the place of technology in the electoral process, he totally overhauled the electoral systems management. To his credit are such landmarks in the electoral management system in Nigeria, as the establishment of The Electoral Institute (TEI), which has become the hub of research and documentation in INEC. He presided over the acquisition of the exquisite building that houses the TEI. Iwu introduced the use of National Youth Service Corps members in the electoral process, using the young citizens on national service to replace ad hoc staff who had hitherto been drawn from the open

society, an arrangement that became problematic, when politicians started fronting their agents as election ad hoc staff.

Under Iwu also, electronic registration of voters was introduced. He ushered in the era of Direct Data Capture, through which registered voters had their finger print and images captured during registration, for the first time in Nigeria. INEC under him partnered with Chams to establish a voter’s card production facility in Abuja. The idea of a permanent voter’s card matured only after he left office.

On the administrative level, Prof. Iwu as chairman, fought and won a free hand for INEC to appoint its secretary, who is the head of administration of the Commission. Until Iwu’s advent, the Federal Government used to second a senior permanent Secretary to function as Secretary of INEC. He found that awkward, knowing that such a secretary can only owe his or her allegiance to those who appointed them.

While for many politicians and critics, Prof, Iwu’s tenure at INEC is essentially seen from the prism of how the 2007 presidential election went, inside the gates of the electoral commission, Iwu remains something of a cult hero. His bonding with the personnel of the Commission, cemented by his innovations and premium on staff welfare remains unparalleled.

In June 2010, Iwu completed his five-year tenure as INEC Chairman and left office. One year after, in 2011 another general election was held, under a different chairman. Once more, PDP prevailed. Leaders of the opposition parties then remembered that Prof. Iwu once told them that unless they joined forces, PDP will continue to win. The opposition parties faced reality and forged a common front. The rest is history.

In the years after managing Nigeria’s electoral process, Prof. Iwu settled back into the ambience he is used to. He returned to research and production of natural health products that promote wellness. He was also appointed into the board of Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals. As president of Bioresources Development Group (BDG), Prof. Iwu is actively involved in promoting national policies that seek to accord due recognition to natural products and medicine, as a viable approach to achieving a healthy society. Professor Maurice Mmaduakolam Iwu, eminent research scientist, former Chief Electoral Officer of Nigeria and a philanthropist, turns 75 years today, April 21 2025. His, has surely, been a fulfilling, eventful life. He often smiles through challenges, but hardly leaves unsaid that which he believes he must say. Here, are 75 bouquets for Professor Maurice Iwu. He has lived an impactful life. Thankfully, his hands are still on the plough.

Ezeani, columnist, was a newspaper editor and head of the Publicity Division at INEC

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

ADDRESSING THE INCREASING

MISERY

The authorities must do more to reduce the prevailing poverty

The much-touted economic reforms have not generated much employment, nor has it addressed the growing gap between the rich and the poor 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

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

Letters to the Editor

Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LETTERS

NUHU RIBADU’S ROAD TO SECURING NIGERIA

Before the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria’s security architecture was grappling with deeply entrenched challenges, particularly in the Northwest and Southeast regions. The situation had deteriorated to alarming levels, with criminal elements and secessionist movements establishing a disturbing level of control in certain areas.

In the Northwest, banditry had evolved from sporadic attacks to the full-scale occupation of territories. Vast stretches of land, especially in states like Kaduna, Zamfara, and Niger, fell under the which was once a vital economic and commuter route, became a perilous stretch, notorious for frequent kidnappings and ambushes. The security threats extended further, with the Kaduna–Birnin

cease operations under the pressure of violence and extortion. Meanwhile, in the Southeast, the situation was compounded by the secessionist agitation led by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Through fear and coercion, IPOB succeeded in enforcing a weekly sit-at-home directive across several states in the region, par-

alyzing economic activities every Monday. Businesses were shuttered, schools closed, and the freedom of movement was severely

This was the grim reality inherited by the Tinubu administra-ty stands a strategic recalibration: what many now refer to as the “Nuhu Ribadu Formula.” As National Security Adviser, Ribadu brought a fresh, intelligence-driven approach to tackling Nigeria’s security woes. With an emphasis on coordination among security against criminal enclaves, his methods have begun yielding tangible results. While challenges persist, especially in remote and hardincreasingly clear. The Ribadu-led security strategy has not only focused on reclaiming territory but also on addressing the root grievances. It is this multidimensional and proactive approach that Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, has been pivotal in reshaping Nigeria’s national security framework through a clear and strategic vision built on three foundational pillars.

(military force) and non-kinetic (dialogue, reconciliation, and development) strategies. This dual-pronged method recognizes that not all security threats can be resolved through force alone. By combining targeted military operations with community engagement while addressing the root causes of violence.

The second strategy is a shift from rhetoric to action, a delibertowards concrete, measurable outcomes. Under Ribadu’s watch,formance. The focus is on restoring peace, reclaiming lost territories, and enabling displaced persons to return to their communities. Third is the promotion of synergy and intelligence sharing among security agencies. Previously plagued by inter-agency rivalry and fragmented operations, Nigeria’s security forces are now structures and shared intelligence platforms, responses have become faster, more precise, and increasingly proactive.

Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja

UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN, NIGERIA

P.M.B. 1515, ILORIN, NIGERIA.

Website: www.unilorin.edu.ng

E-mail: pgschool@unilorin.edu.ng

Phone: +234-803-361-6086, +234-806-551-3950

POSTGRADUATE SCHOOL

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR ADMISSIONS INTO POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES IN THE 2025/2026 ACADEMIC SESSION (GENERAL ADVERT)

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for admission into various Postgraduate degree programmes at the University of Ilorin.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

(i) Only courses available for the session are advertised, and as such, candidates are advised to select courses available in this advertisement.

(ii) Candidates are advised to PRINT out the advertisement and STUDY thoroughly before COMMENCING the application procedure.

(iii) Applicants are to note that the University will not be liable or responsible for any mistake made arising from a wrong application

(iv) The Postgraduate academic session for Postgraduate programmes is 12 calendar months, commencing on 2nd October and ending on 30th September of the following year. The 12 calendar months start to count automatically from the date of first registration.

(v) Applicants are to note that programmes automatically lapse at the expiration of the prescribed maximum duration for each programme. A candidate may, however, apply for an extension of not more than 12 months, in the first instance, subject to a maximum of two such extensions.

POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES OFFERED

1. Ph.D. Degree Programmes

These are available to holders of M.A.; M.Ed.; M.Eng.; M.Sc.; LL.M; and M.P.H degrees, with a minimum score of 60% or a minimum of 4 points on a 5 points

Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) scale in their Master degree programmes. A Ph.D. degree programme runs for a minimum period of 36 calendar months and a maximum period of 60 calendar months for full-time candidates OR a minimum period of 48 calendar months and a maximum period of 72 calendar months for part- time candidates. Relevant Courses will be taken for the Ph.D. studies where prescribed, and a Thesis is required at the end of the Ph.D. programme.

2. M.Phil./Ph.D. Degree Programmes

Candidates who scored between 55.00 and 59.99 percent or 3.50 – 3.99 CGPA score on a 5-point scale can apply for admission into the Master of Philosophy (M.Phil./Ph.D.) degree programme. The M.Phil./Ph.D. degree programme is available only to full-time candidates. It runs for a minimum period of 12 calendar months and a maximum period of 24 calendar months, and a Dissertation is produced after the research work. Candidates in this category are eligible for conversion to Ph.D. programme, following a progress assessment report to be made by a Panel of Examiners at the end of the first session of registration. To be eligible for conversion to the Ph.D. program, candidates are expected to score not less than 60% (aggregate) at the end of the first session.

3. M.Phil. Degree Programmes

Candidates who scored between 50.00 and 54.99 percent or 3.00 – 3.49 CGPA score on a 5-point scale, can apply for admission into the Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) degree programme. The M.Phil. degree programme is available only to full-time candidates. It runs for a minimum period of 18 calendar months and a maximum period of 24 calendar months on a full-time basis, and a Dissertation is produced after the research work.

4. Master Degree Programmes

M.A.; M.Ed.; M.Eng.; M.Sc.; LL.M and M.P.H. degrees run for a minimum period of 18 calendar months and a maximum period of 24 calendar months for full-time candidates OR a minimum period of 36 calendar months and a maximum period of 48 calendar months for part- time candidates. All Master degree programmes are by course work. This is in addition to a research report at the end of which a Dissertation is produced.

5.Postgraduate Diploma Degree Programmes Postgraduate Diploma degrees are available to candidates with Third Class (honours) degrees.

ELIGIBILITY FOR ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES

General Requirements:

i. All entry certificate requirements shall be available at the point of purchasing the application form. The National Youth Service Corp Discharge Certificate OR Exemption Certificate should be dated and presented on or before September 30th, 2025.

ii. Applicants are expected to submit their application forms online, together with scanned copies of their credentials.

iii. After the submission of the application forms online, as stated in (ii) above, all supporting documents in (i) above and the hard copy of the application form should be forwarded to the Secretary, Postgraduate School, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria between Monday, 2ndJune 2025 and Friday, 6thJune 2025, while the submission of Transcripts of Academic Records should be addressed and forwarded to the Head of Department where the admission is being sought. The Postgraduate School will not be held liable for any misdirected transcript.

iv. All applicants must have 5 O/L Credit passes in the relevant subjects, which must include English Language and Mathematics. In line with Senate directives, applicants who had their O/L results before the year 2015 may have a pass in English or Mathematics depending on the programme applied for.

v. Applicants for the Master degree programmes who are graduates of the University of Ilorin and other recognized universities must have a minimum of Second Class Honours Degree (Lower Division) and must be applying for programmes in which they had their first degrees. However, applicants with Second Class Honours Degree (Lower Division) and those with higher classes of degrees seeking admissions into programmes outside those in which they had their first degrees may be admitted, provided they satisfy the University of Ilorin Senate’s requirements in a qualifying examination to be conducted. The least class of first Degree for all academic programme applicants is Second Class Honours Degree (Lower Division).The Bachelor degrees should be obtained from the University of Ilorin or any other university recognised by the Senate of the University of Ilorin. ALL applicants shall apply early for their official Bachelor degree transcript to be sent to the Head of Department where the admission is being sought, before the expiration of the stated deadline in B (iii) above. Again, the Postgraduate School will not be held liable or responsible for any misdirected transcript.

vi. Applicants for the Ph.D. degree programme shall have obtained a relevant Master degree of the University of Ilorin or from other recognized Universities, with an average weighted score of at least 60% or a 4.0 points CGPA on a 5-point scale. Short-listed applicants would be required to satisfy the Postgraduate School in the qualifying interviews and assessments by the relevant Department. Applicants are, therefore, expected to interact with the department to which they have applied to ascertain the interview date for the Ph.D. degree programme. Regardless of the institution where the Master degree was obtained, all candidates must apply early for the official copy of their academic transcripts to be sent to the Head of Department where the admission is being sought for the purpose of this admission and before the expiration of the stated deadline. Applicants must note that the Postgraduate School will not be responsible for any misdirected transcript.

vii. All Higher Degree applicants that attended foreign Universities, where English language is not the medium of instruction, should submit to the Head of Department where the admission is being sought, evidence of their English Language proficiency, e.g. TOEFL or IELTS scores obtained within the validity period of such certifications.

viii. Applicants for the Postgraduate Diploma and Master Degree Programmes will be subjected to a qualifying examination, irrespective of the class of degree obtained. However, applicants from the University of Ilorin with a First Class or a Second Class, Upper Division (Honours), provided such applicant is not applying to a department that is different from the one in which he/she graduated from at the undergraduate level, will be exempted from the qualifying examination.

ix. International applicants (who are domiciled outside Nigeria and non-Nigerians applying from outside the country) shall be exempted from the qualifying examination irrespective of the class of degree. All applicants are requested to submit a proposal of not more than 5 pages, giving details of their intended areas of research interests. This should be sent electronically to pgschool@unilorin.edu.ng no later than Friday, 3rdMay 2024.

x. Applicants applying for any of the full-time programmes of the University are expected to present a letter of release from their employers at the point of registration.

APPLICATION FEES

The non-refundable application fee for all programmes is N25, 000.00 (Twenty-five Thousand Naira) only for applicants within Nigeria OR $200.00 only for international applicants.

PLEASE NOTE:

While this advertisement serves as the invitation for the Qualifying Examination, which will be held on Saturday, 21st June 2025, all applicants are strongly advised to provide their functional GSM number and e-mail addresses for further information and necessary communication. The University shall not be held responsible for any disappointment occasioned by wrong information on the part of applicants. You are hereby required to be checking your e-mails and phones frequently.

METHOD OF APPLICATION

Application forms are to be completed online and will close on Friday, 23rd May 2025. Note that the latest date for receipt of supporting documents is Friday, 6th June 2025. Successful applicants will be notified through their University of Ilorin application portal.

*Interested applicants are advised to check the University website: www.unilorin.edu.ng for details on available programmes.

M.A. ALFANLA Registrar

BUSINESS SPECIAL

Editor: Goddy

Wema Bank N150bn Rights Issue: Shareholders’ Opportunity to Participate in Transformative Growth

Wema Bank Plc is currently raising N150 billion through Rights Issue that offer existing shareholders an opportunity to participate in the banks’ current transformative growth, writes Kayode Tokede

As part of strategies to comply with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) banking sector recapitalisation policy by 2026, Wema Bank has commenced its rights issue with the plan to raise N150 billion.

In view of macroeconomic conditions, the CBN in March 2024, launched a recapitalisation programme requiring commercial banks to raise fresh capital in alignment with the minimum requirement for their respective banking licences, within a 24-month timeline spanning April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026.

Some banks have already raised fresh funds in efforts to meet the apex bank’s required level of capitalisation. Wema Bank Plc has started its process to ensure it beats the deadline set by CBN.

The rights issue capital raise exercise is part of Wema Bank’s broader initiative to enhance its capital adequacy, and position the bank for new opportunities across key markets. The offer, which opened April 14, 2025, will run through May 21, 2025, marking a major step in the bank’s strategy to strengthen its capital base and drive sustainable growth.

The Rights Issue comprises 14,286,785,417 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N10.45 per share, on the basis of two new ordinary shares for every three ordinary shares held as at the close of business on March 5, 2025.

As of April, 2025, the stock price of Wema Bank stood at N11.95 per share and it has gained an average 31.3per cent or N2.85 per share in its year-till-date performance from N9.10 per share it closed for trading in 2024. In 2024, the stock price appreciated by 62.5 per cent or 3.5 per cent to close at N9.10 per share from N5.60 per share it opened for trading in the year under review.

The bank in 2024 successfully completed the first tranche of its recapitalisation exercise having secured all relevant regulatory approvals for the allotment of its N40 billion Rights Issue which was initiated in December 2023.

Wema Bank is at the forefront of meeting the recapitalisation requirements of the CBN for banks with the final phase of its capital raise of N200 billion of N150billion by rights issue and N50 billion through private placement. The capital raise will strengthen the bank’s position to play a big role post-recapitalisation for banks.

Managing Director/ CEO, Wema Bank, Mr. Moruf Oseni in a statement reiterated the bank’s resolve in retaining its Commercial Banking licence with National Authorisation, adding that the first N40 billion rights issue is a step in that direction.

“We are delighted to announce the conclusion of the 1st tranche of our Capital Raise Programme, after obtaining the relevant approvals of all regulatory authorities.

“Our move to commence our capital raise programme very early demonstrates our push

for excellence and with a strong emphasis on our digital play, we are set to amass more successes in the coming months,” he said.

The current rights issue is open exclusively to existing shareholders, providing an opportunity to increase their stake and participate in the bank’s future growth. Full details, including the offer price, rights ratio, and subscription process, are available through official channels, on the bank’s website, and via its appointed stockbrokers and Wema Bank branches nationwide.

Wema Bank’s board of directors and executive management have expressed their appreciation to all stakeholders and transaction partners whose efforts have been instrumental in progressing this capital raise. As the bank enters this transformative phase, it remains focused on transparency and active engagement with shareholders.

UTILISATION OF THE N150BN PROCEEDS

The proceeds will be utilised to reinforce the bank’s balance sheet, scale up investments in digital infrastructure, expand its customer base, and continue delivering long-term value to shareholders and customers.

Specifically, the bank intends to utilise the capital raised through this rights issue: to increase its lending capacity to the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector; deepen the bank’s retail and commercial loan portfolio; to deepen corporate loan portfolio and improve IT infrastructure and strengthen its digital play (ALAT).

“This is a key step that will consolidate the bank’s vision of becoming a Systematically Important Bank (SIB) and creating value for our esteemed shareholders.

“Our consistent growth in key performance indicators and market share reflects the success of our strategic initiatives and the trust our shareholders have shown us,” the bank said in its April 10 corporate announcement signed by Johnson Lebile, company secretary/ general counsel.

“Upon conclusion of this Rights Issue, the board will ensure that the bank remains well-positioned to seize new opportunities in the evolving Nigerian banking landscape particularly by increasing lending to the Nigerian SME, retail, commercial and corporate sectors respectively.

“In addition, we would improve the bank’s IT infrastructure and strengthen the bank’s digital platform- ALAT, which has facilitated our market penetration in great measures while also creating access

to financial services to the young and tech-savvy generation in Nigeria.

“By doing so, you will not only contribute to the bank’s future success but also solidify your stake in our long-term vision,” Wema Bank further noted.

CURRENT PERFORMANCE THAT BOOST CONFIDENCE

The lender has lived up to its promise of improved return on investment for shareholders with the declaration of a N1 dividend per share for its 2024 financial year, a 104 per cent increase over the previous year’s to be approved by the shareholders during the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

The management of Wema Bank had paid shareholders N0.49 dividend in 2023 financial year and in 2022 and 2021, shareholders took home N0.29 and N0.23 dividends, respectively.

By the bank’s 2024 financial performance, submitted to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), the N1 dividend for the 2024 financial year amounts to a 20.69per cent payout ratio.

“From 22 per cent dividend growth in 2019, Wema Bank hit an all-time high of 104per cent in 2024, an indication of consistency and generous dividend policy. The bank also outperformed competitors in the banking sector last year with over 60 per cent capital appreciation, thus emerging as the best-performing stock in the banking sector on NGX.

The bank’s GMD, Oseni, said to shareholders recently that “You can trust us always that your investment in bank will produce exceeding returns. This is our promise to you.”

He also assured the banking public that the bank would be developing platforms and supporting initiatives that prioritise the needs of their customers, leveraging technology in solving problems across all sectors.

The bank’s stock price has gained nearly 18 per cent in first quarter (Q1) 2025 from N9.10 per share it opened for trading to close March 28, 2025 at N10.70 per share.

The group posted a profit before taxation (PBT) of N102.517 billion in 2024 financial year as against N43.663 billion in the previous year, an increase of 134.7per cent. Profit after tax (PAT) shot up by 140.13per cent to N86.29 billion in 2024 from N35.93 billion reported in 2023.

This was made possible by the gross earnings of N433.434billion in the year compared with N226.914billion in the corresponding year, amounting to 91per cent and reflecting a cost-efficient operational structure in the bank during the review period.

Amid growth in profits, Wema Bank’s Return on Equity (ROAE) stood at 43.60per cent, as Return on Assets (ROAA) at 2.96 per cent. Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 19.67per cent and Cost to Income ratio of 56.23per cent underscore the commercial bank’s resilience and financial strength. Despite the inclement operating environment, total deposits grew by 35.65per cent in 2024 to N2,523.82 billion from N1,860.57 billion reported in 2023, while loans and advances to customers closed 2024 at N1,201.21 billion, about year on year by 36 per cent growth from N801.10 billion in 2023.

Similarly, Wema Bank’s total assets stood at N3,585.05 billion in the year under review, an increase of 60.04per cent over N2,240.06 billion recorded in the corresponding year.

Commenting on the 2024 performance, the GMD/CEO of the bank, in a statement said that the strong performance stemmed from the commercial bank’s focus on strong strategy execution in the key areas of risk management, customer relationship management and digital banking.

“Our people are committed to the institution’s founding ethos of supporting Nigerian businesses and individuals with the most innovative banking products and services. ALAT our flagship digital platform continues to lead in the adoption of digital banking services across the increasingly young Nigerian populace.

“An example of this innovation is ALAT XPlore, the first licensed banking App for teenagers designed to help teenagers ages 13-17 build their money management skills, achieve their financial goals and become financially responsible.

“Despite the constrained operating environment, the bank continues to experience strong growth across all its financial indices reflecting the quality and resilience of the workforce.

“The performance is headlined by impressive improvements in Profit before Tax which grew strongly by 135per cent. The growth of gross earnings by 92 per cent, Total assets by 60 per cent and earnings per share at 483.20kobo shows the core improvements to our balance sheet.

“In addition, our cost-to-income ratio of 56.23 per cent has witnessed significant improvement from the previous period. The bank’s approach to business is hinged on partnership, progress, service, innovation, and efficiency, informed by an understanding of customers’ businesses and objectives, such that it can anticipate and meet their needs as they fulfill their financial goals and aspirations. Wema Bank has always maintained leadership position in the digital banking space while enhancing corporate and commercial presence on a global scale.

Kayode Tokede

In an audacious move to reduce the negative impact of macroeconomic challenges on their risk assets, a total of 10 banks hiked their loan loss provisions to N2.38 trillion in 2024, representing about 59.5 per cent increase from the N1.49 trillion reported in the 2023 financial year.

Loan loss provision, which is also referred to as impairment charge, is an expense set aside to cover potential losses from unpaid loan, or a bad loan. Impairment captures a reduction in the value of a firm’s assets.

The 10 banks are: Access Holdings Plc, Guaranty Trust Holdings Plc (GTCO), First Holdings Plc, Wema Bank Plc, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, and Zenith Bank Plc. Others include: Ecobank

Transnational Incorporated (ETI), United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), Fidelity Bank Plc, and FCMB Group Plc.

In 2024, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) hiked the country’s benchmark rate from 18.75 per cent to 27.50 per cent.

While banks increased their lending partly due to the CBN’s policy on loan-to-deposit ratio (LDR), which is put at 65 per cent, macroeconomic challenges in Nigeria and sub-Saharan African countries where they operated have disrupted economic activities, a threat to affect to risk assets.

THISDAY analysis of the banks’ 2024 financial results showed that Zenith Bank, ETI, and First Holdco significantly increased their loan provision in 2024. In the full year under review,

Zenith Bank recorded N658.81 billion impairment charges, an increase of 60.8 per cent from the N409.62 billion in 2023, while ETI posted impairment charges of N482.43 billion, showing an increase of 126 per cent from the N213.67 billion in 2023.

In its audited results for the full year ended 2024, First Holdings announced N426.29 billion as impairment charges in 2024, up by nearly 89 per cent from the N224.95 billion reported in 2023.

Among the 10 banks, Wema Bank and Stanbic IBTC Holdings also declared a significant increase in impairment charges in 2024. For instance, Wema Bank declared N21.64 billion impairment charges in 2024, representing an increase of 105 per cent from N10.56 billion in 2023 while Stanbic IBTC Holdings announced N99.4billion impairment charges in

2024, a significant increase of 543 per cent when compared to N15.45 billion declared in 2023.

Stanbic IBTC Holdings in a presentation said impairment charge on loans and advances was due to the impact of expected credit loss (ECL) charges on new loans booked and additional provisioning on existing NonPerforming Loans (NPLs).

The bank said, “the impairment on Stage 1 loans increased due to increase in new loans booked. Impairment on Stage 1- others increased from N2.04 billion to N18.49billion due to increased provisioning on aged receivables. Credit loss ratio however increased to 3.5 per cent in FY 2024.”

Capital market analysts stated that the growing impairment charges do not come as a surprise

given the headwinds in the economy, stressing that banks are battling with rising inflation rate, unstable foreign exchange and hike in interest rate.

Speaking, Investment Banker and Stockbroker, Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka, stated that the rising cost of risk of banks is a reflection of the weakening fundamentals of the economy.

“The NPL growth in some banks is higher in nominal terms, except that the double-digit growth in the loan book partly masked the effective rise in the NPL ratio. More so, the relatively weak fundamentals of the economy, exacerbated by the inflation rate and unstable foreign exchange, resulted in higher portfolio impairment charges on stage 1 loans, despite being performing assets,” he stated.

He added that the percentage of stage two loans, which though performing but had shown stress and likelihood of delinquency over the near term, had increased across the industry. He said, “Therefore, deserving the conservative stance of banks and their auditors to proactively take a higher anticipatory impairment charge on such loans.”

On his part, the Vice President, Highcap Securities, Mr. David Adnori said banks operating in Nigeria, and other SSA countries recorded significant increase in impairment losses due to the macroeconomy challenges of 2024 despite Nigerian economy showing notable signs of recovery and resilience.

The Director General of the NigeriaChina Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Mr. Joseph Tegbe, has revealed that Nigeria has received over $30 billion in investment commitments and 300 expressions of interest from different Chinese companies within the last five months.

He said the country will soon sign a pact on ‘Digital RMB’ with China to enable a direct conversion of Naira to Chinese Yuan, thereby reducing the country’s dependency on the Dollar.

Tegbe said that this is in furtherance of the transition of

Nigeria’s relationship with China from a trade relationship to a mutually-beneficial development partnership.

He emphasised that the objectives of the NCSP is to, “drive infrastructure development, scale up investments from China, strengthen Nigerian-China trade and economic relations, promote knowledge and economic transparency, and also advance cultural exchanges between the two nations.”

He said this at the recent, “Digital Asset Markets Strategy Masterclass Series,” that was held in Lagos to deliberate on the Investment and

Securities Act (ISA) 2025, which was signed into law in March 2025.

The ISA 2025 empowers the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to oversee digital assets, virtual asset service providers (VASPs), and tokenised securities, thereby bringing clarity to a space that has operated in a legal grey area for years.

Experts and policy makers have stated that the ISA has placed the country as a major player in the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Tegbe noted the importance of leveraging Chinese technology, particularly in digital asset market and knowledge transfer.

He assured that the NCSP

is dedicated to supporting the globalisation of Nigeria’s capital market.

Speaking during the event, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Lagos State Commissioner of Finance, Abayomi Oluyomi, revealed that the state would be the first sub-national to monetise idle assets and raise a green bond to fund infrastructural development within the state.

In his address, the Convener of the Masterclass, Dr. Nicholas Okoye, noted that the digital transformation driving the fourth industrial revolution has touched

every industry and is projected to create monumental fortunes for wealth-conscious investors, institutions, nations, and subnationals.

Okoye, who is an investment advisor, stated that the most strategic ecosystem of this digital transformation has got to be Digital Asset Markets, which includes investment in cryptocurrencies as well as the tokenisation (digitisation) of traditional asset classes.

He said: “The proposed full adoption of ‘Digital Asset Markets’ in Nigeria’s capital markets and subsequently across Africa is going to be a game changer for wealth

creation and economic growth sustainability. In addition, it will completely redefine the future of African finance, investment and capital market industries.”

According to him, the digital assets provide a golden opportunity for Africans to create wealth for all her people, regardless of their vocation and regardless of wherever on the planet they may live.

“The Digital asset markets will provide, for the first time in Nigeria and Africa’s history, a rare and unique opportunity for a true measure and a true reflection of Nigeria’s and subsequently Africa’s entire wealth position,” he said.

Dike Onwuamaeze

From Legacy to Legend: How Wema Bank is Always With You All the Way

In a world where banks advertise size, Wema advertises commitment. Not in catchphrases but in decades-long relationships with customers, partners, regulators, and the ambitious, underserved segments many others overlook. Youth, women, and small business owners find a bank and partner in Wema, writes Oluchi Chibuzor

In a banking landscape where legacy sometimes lulls institutions into comfort zones, one bank has consistently refused to sit still. For Wema Bank, turning 80 isn’t a curtain call; it’s a runway. Eight decades of history could have made it slow, stiff, or steeped in tradition. Instead, it’s become sharper, younger, and, frankly, more ambitious. Somewhere between boardroom decisions and branch-level conversations, Wema has fine-tuned the art of balancing heritage with hustle. The mandate? Build Nigeria’s most relevant, connected financial institution without losing the ‘humanness’ in the process. It’s a curious thing to say about a bank, but Wema is less of a building and more of a behavior. A behavior that says we’ll walk with you, not just lend to you. “We’ll listen before we advise. We’ll go regional when it makes sense and national when it’s time to scale, and if the future demands a ‘Systemically Important Bank (SIB) status, we won’t just chase and earn it,” said an Executive Director at Wema Bank, Tunde Mabawonku in a chart with newsmen in Lagos recently. In a world where banks advertise size, Wema advertises commitment. Not in catchphrases but in decades-long relationships with customers, partners, regulators, and the ambitious, underserved segments many others overlook. Youth, women, and small business owners find a bank and partner in Wema. They find a co-pilot and champion. “With you all the way” isn’t just the tagline. It’s the tattoo beneath the suit.

There’s something almost poetic in the way Wema grows. Like a jazz band improvising with precision, its growth plays out through deliberate riffs - from branch renovations that turned dilapidation into delight and digital experiments that became industry benchmarks to staff transformation programs that replaced hierarchy with heart. They are methodical moves made by a leadership team that understands that legacy is not what you inherit; you build it. If Wema were a person,

it wouldn’t talk about the good old days. It would be the one leaning forward at the table, asking, “What’s next?”

Tunde Mabawonku remembers how it felt to step into that kind of culture. “When I joined in 2011, the transformation had already started. I was one of the last entrants into the team brought in to rebuild,” Tunde Mabawonku said. “But it was clear what the mandate was: transform this organization into a youthful, vibrant, and dynamic institution.”

And they worked hard to transform. Within a few years, branches were no longer just financial service points. They became symbols of a refreshed identity. “In 2012, we took a view that we’d renovate five branches yearly. And over time, we’ve achieved that,” Mabawonku recalled. Today, Wema Bank’s corridors speak a different language of clean, modern, intentional design that reflects the bank’s forwardfacing posture.

But the physical transformation was only the beginning. The profound change happened at the people level. “In those days, the best we saw of the younger ones was during training school,” he said. “But now, they’re in committees and meetings, leading initiatives. They’re everywhere.” Wema’s evolution from a conventional institution to a youthful engine of ideas is no accident. It’s what Mabawonku calls “a deliberate culture of learning and inclusiveness.” The bank didn’t just recruit younger people; it empowered them. It didn’t just celebrate diversity; it made it standard operating procedure. “Let’s get them in, let’s engage them, and let them be part and parcel of the decision process,” he explained. That mindset is how ideas like ALAT, Africa’s first fully digital bank, became a reality. It’s how ALAT Xplore, which targets younger Nigerians with an ecosystem of financial literacy, community, and gamified banking, emerged as a product and movement.

“There’s something almost poetic in the way Wema grows. Like a jazz band improvising with precision, its growth plays out through deliberate riffs - from branch renovations that turned dilapidation into delight and digital experiments that became industry benchmarks to staff transformation programs that replaced hierarchy with heart. They are methodical moves made by a leadership team that understands that legacy is not what you inherit; you build it. If Wema were a person, it wouldn’t talk about the good old days.”

But innovation at Wema isn’t flashy; it’s functional. It meets people where they are and takes them further. That’s why the bank introduced SARA, a financial platform that supports women-led businesses with access to funding, mentoring, and community. It’s also why Wema launched CoopHub as a digital platform designed to manage the financial operations of cooperatives with tools tailored for transparency, tracking, and trust. These aren’t pilot programs designed to impress a boardroom; they are working solutions that address gaps in real lives.

“We deliberately do not go after the big, big customers,” Mabawonku further stated. “But the mid-sized, small customers we could work with on the journey.” That philosophy has earned Wema trust from customers, regulators, and other stakeholders who recognize the bank’s strategic focus on economic inclusion.

And the impact is visible. In the youth space, Wema is not just a player - it’s a pioneer. Its Skillnovation initiative, in collaboration with government partners, has trained thousands of young Nigerians in digital and entrepreneurial skills. Hackaholics, its annual innovation challenge, invites startups and tech thinkers to co-create solutions with winning ideas, sometimes finding their way into Wema’s service portfolio. For women, programs like SARA aren’t just about banking. They are about confidence, access, and long-term economic participation. Mabawonku stressed, “So our mantra, ‘with you all the way,’ it’s no joke. We are the bank that connects. We are the bank that resonates. We’ve had a lot of impact on women, small businesses, and the youth. Wema is working with you and not abandoning you. We are staying with customers all through the journey.”

And behind all these achievements is a leadership team that leads with heart. “Transforming the organization helped me shape my leadership skills,” Mabawonku reflected. “It helped me understand the value of mentoring and putting people first.” That people-first philosophy is contagious. It’s why KNIGHTS, as they proudly call themselves, see the bank as a workplace and a mission. From the executive suite to entry-level staff, there’s a shared understanding that transformation is everyone’s job. The results are evident in employee engagement, performance, and pride. It’s no surprise that Wema has won the title of Best Place to Work in Nigeria twice.

The future? Bold, by design. With Nigeria’s financial landscape moving toward tighter regulation, digital-first services, and a push for banking institutions that can handle systemic responsibilities, Wema is not content with just being a strong player. It is positioning itself to be a stronghold. The bank’s re-expansion from national to regional

“As Wema marks 80 years, the celebration isn’t just about the past. It’s a stake in the ground for the next generation. A declaration that tradition and innovation don’t have to be at odds and that legacy can live comfortably beside disruption. If the past was about surviving and stabilizing, the future is about leading and multiplying. Leading industries, multiplying impact, and Inspiring confidence in every customer, regulator, and Nigerian.”

and back to national wasn’t a back-and-forth. It was a strategic test of resilience, operations, and service delivery. Now, conversations around SIB status aren’t far-fetched. The bank is laying the foundation through digital infrastructure, inclusion strategies, customer-focused innovation, and human capital excellence. Wema closed 2024 with over N104 billion in profit before tax. ALAT continues to scale. MSME adoption of CoopHub is growing, and the bank’s digital transaction volume is steadily climbing yearly. The data aligns with the vision. The path is charted.

As Wema marks 80 years, the celebration isn’t just about the past. It’s a stake in the ground for the next generation. A declaration that tradition and innovation don’t have to be at odds and that legacy can live comfortably beside disruption. If the past was about surviving and stabilizing, the future is about leading and multiplying. Leading industries, multiplying impact, and Inspiring confidence in every customer, regulator, and Nigerian. Because if you ask Wema Bank what the next 80 years will be like, the answer is simple. They look like you. They look like us. They look like a future that’s with you all the way.

Bank Recapitalisation: Aligning Monetary, Fiscal Policies with FG’s Economic Vision

Eromosele Abiodun Posits that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s decision to embark of recapitalisation of banks was to align monetary, fiscal policies with the federal government’s vision of prosperity for Nigerians, businesses

Building bigger and stronger banks comes with great benefits to the banks, their customers and the wider economy. For a government that wants to grow its economy to $1 trillion mark, the support of the financial services sector led by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso is crucial.

The CBN boss had explained that bank recapitalisation ensures that lenders are well-capitalised, enabling them to take on greater risks, particularly in underserved markets. With stronger capital bases, banks can provide more loans and financial products to Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), rural communities, and other vulnerable segments that have previously struggled to access formal financial services. The CBN had on March, 28, 2024 announced a two-year bank recapitalisation exercise which commenced on April 1, 2024, and is expected to end on March 31, 2026. The plan requires minimum capital of N500 billion, N200 billion, and N50 billion for Commercial Banks with International, National, and Regional licenses respectively.

Others included merchant banks N50 billion; noninterest banks with national license N20 billion and non-interest banks with regional license will now have N10 billion minimum capital. The 24-month timeline for compliance ends on March 31, 2026.

The recapitalisation exercise, which is far underway, is recording significant successes, with successful capital raising by many banks and surge in credit expansion to the domestic economy. Recently, Cardoso explained that with stronger capital bases, banks can provide more loans to businesses and support government’s quest for $1 trillion economy.

Cardoso said the recapitalisation policy not only strengthens financial stability but also serves as a catalyst for inclusive growth.

“By enabling banks to extend more credit to MSMEs, we enhance job creation and productivity. Furthermore, with increased capital, banks can invest in technology and innovation, crucial for driving digital financial services such as mobile money and agent banking. These technologies are key to breaking down geographic and economic barriers, bringing financial services to even the most remote areas,” he stated.

He said Nigeria has what it takes to deepen financial inclusion, and support the growth of business and economy. He said the recapitalization exercise will also support government’s efforts to achieve $1 trillion economy.

The CBN further underscored the importance of banking recapitalisation as a major catalyst for the achievement of the $1 trillion economy agenda of the government.

BANKING SECTOR REMAINS

ROBUST

Cardoso explained that the banking sector remains robust with key indicators reflecting a resilient system.

“The non-performing loan ratio remains within the prudential benchmark of five per cent, showcasing strong credit risk management. The banking sector liquidity ratio comfortably exceeds the regulatory floor of 30 per cent, a level which ensures banks are maintaining adequate cash flow to meet the needs of customers and their operations. The recent stress test conducted also reaffirmed the continued strength of our banking system,” he said.

“I am pleased to note that a significant number of banks have raised the required capital through

right issues and public offerings well ahead of the 2026 deadline! I believe that the banking sector is in a strong position to support Nigeria’s economic recovery by enabling access to credit for MSMEs and supporting investment in critical sectors of our economy,” he said.

On her part, Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, CBN, Ms. Emem Usoro said the journey to $1 trillion economy requires structured planning, clearly defined policies, unwavering implementation, and an inclusive approach that aligns public and private sector interests.

In her Keynote address in Abuja at a seminar organised by the CBN for business editors and financial correspondents, Usoro said that one of the key components of the $1 trillion ambition is the recapitalisation of Nigerian banks.

She noted that banks must be sufficiently capitalised to meet the financial demands of a larger and more dynamic economy.

“As we work towards building a $1 trillion dollar economy, we must consider the recapitalisation of our banks to be able to fund, finance and power the economy, and to favourably compete globally,” Usoro said.

She further called for a collective effort from all stakeholders, adding that the financial system must be prepared to play its role in powering development.

“We should particularly pay significant attention to bank recapitalisation to ensure that our banks are strong, resilient and stable enough to carry out financial intermediation, and the much-needed financing of development projects and programmes,” Usoro said.

Supporting her position, Director of the Banking Supervision Department at the CBN, Dr. Olubuka Akinwumi, provided insights into the state of the banking sector. He disclosed that banks have so far remained within the prudential thresholds stipulated by the regulator, including benchmarks for capital adequacy ratio and non-performing loans.

“As we speak, all our banks are still within the prudential thresholds that were set. And they are actively pursuing various recapitalisation efforts,”Akinwunmi said.

MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS

On the possibility of mergers and acquisitions, Akinwumi said such developments may occur naturally as banks assess their positions and seek strategic alignments.

“Banks are currently focused on raising their own capital, but engagements are ongoing and when the opportunities arise, they will be taken,” Akinwunmi added.

Regarding the licensing of new banks, he confirmed a recent uptick in applications and approvals, noting that the apex bank continues to monitor and support institutions that align with national development goals.

He said priority sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and manufacturing are receiving attention from both the government and financial institutions, as they are key to achieving a trillion-dollar economy.

“If you look at this year’s national budget, it reflects a clear emphasis on critical sectors like health, education, infrastructure and agriculture.

Banks are taking cues from these priorities, recognizing them as viable areas for business expansion,” Akinwumi said.

Responding to questions on how many internationally active banks had met the new N500 billion capital requirement, he noted that substantial progress has already been made.

“We are halfway through the journey in terms of timeline, and in terms of capital already raised, we are also at least halfway through. That is a positive signal,” he said.

He added that the decision to start the recapitalisation process early has helped insulate the financial system from emerging global and domestic shocks.

“The emerging global economic shifts and pressures were not lost on the management of the CBN. We started early. If we had waited till now, the challenges would have been greater. But we acted in time,” he remarked.

Akinwumi expressed confidence that the recapitalisation requirements will be met, stressing that existing shareholders’ funds continue to serve as a buffer. However, the CBN deliberately opted for fresh capital inflows, particularly from foreign investors who have shown renewed confidence in Nigeria’s financial system.

“International perception of Nigeria’s banking sector is improving. The reforms over the past year, especially around the foreign exchange regime and improved transparency regarding reserves, have boosted investor confidence,” he said.

He cited recent disclosures on Nigeria’s net reserves and improvements in regulatory credibility as key factors that are reshaping the outlook for foreign direct investment in the banking sector.

On the Loan to Deposit Ratio (LDR), Akinwumi explained that the current 50 per cent benchmark does not reflect a reluctance to lend but rather a contextual response to inflation and other macroeconomic challenges.

“As the macroeconomic environment stabilizes, banks will naturally increase lending. It’s a cautious approach to ensure that lending supports sustainable growth,” he said.

He also touched on the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR), stating that there has been marked improvement in transparency. Banks now have a clearer understanding of CRR computations, unlike in the past, which enhances predictability and compliance.

SUPPORT FOR SMES

Addressing Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) funding, he confirmed that banks continue to make provisions, but the CBN remains actively engaged to ensure proper disbursement and sectoral targeting. Supervisory oversight, he explained, is being deployed to verify compliance and effectiveness of disbursed funds.

On incentives, he said the most powerful incentive for banks lies in the opportunities provided by a growing economy.

“A stronger bank can take on big-ticket businesses, including infrastructure financing. The current reforms, such as the infrastructure concessioning plans, present viable business opportunities for well-capitalized banks,” Akinwumi explained.

The capital verification process, according to him, is thorough and designed to ensure that only legitimate, unborrowed funds are used for recapitalisation. An industry-wide tracking mechanism has been established to streamline verification across institutions and enhance collaboration.

“Our examiners follow each capital trail meticulously, moving from one bank to another as necessary. Even if it’s not your bank under verification at that moment, we expect full cooperation to trace the sources of capital,” he said.

On the broader question of resilience to global shocks, he maintained that Nigerian banks are being positioned to remain attractive to investors and capable of withstanding external disruptions.

“CBN is monitoring developments closely and adjusting where necessary. The recapitalisation process is not just about compliance — it’s about long-term stability, competitiveness, and economic transformation,” he said.

EXPERT’S VIEW

Speaking, the Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Oliver Alawuba, described the CBN ongoing bank recapitalisation policy as both timely and essential in positioning the financial system to meet the demands of a growing and globally competitive economy.

According to Alawuba, the initiative is expected to boost the resilience of the banking sector by strengthening its capacity to withstand economic shocks such as inflation, currency volatility, and global geopolitical disruptions. He noted that the policy will also place Nigerian banks on a stronger footing to finance the country’s long-term economic transformation, including funding of large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects.

Alawuba stressed that the recapitalisation policy goes beyond regulatory compliance. It is a forwardlooking strategy aimed at equipping Nigerian banks to operate at the scale and sophistication required by a trillion-dollar economy. He said the move would enhance the sector’s ability to support both traditional economic drivers such as oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing, as well as emerging sectors like fintech, green energy, and infrastructure development.

“Nigerian banks need adequate capital buffers to meet the evolving demands of these sectors. Without this, the industry cannot effectively rise to the challenge,” he said.

Alawuba pointed out the sharp contrast between Nigerian banks and their counterparts in more advanced economies, where bank assets typically range between 70 to 150 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In Nigeria, bank assets accounted for just 11.97 percent of GDP as of 2024, a gap he said must be addressed if the country’s financial system is to align with international standards.

He commended the CBN’s recent directive mandating a significant increase in minimum capital thresholds, describing it as a recognition of the urgent need for stronger financial institutions capable of delivering on national priorities such as infrastructure expansion, digital transformation, inclusive financial services, and economic diversification.

Alawuba concluded that a robust, well-capitalised banking sector is critical for Nigeria’s aspiration to become a one trillion-dollar economy, and the recapitalisation drive is a step in the right direction to achieve that goal.

Cardoso

OPENING CEREMONY OF THE WORKSHOP ON SECURITY...

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hajiya Aisha Muhammad Maikurata; Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Tafida; Kebbi State Deputy Governor, Umar

Tafida; Chief Executive Officer, Shegs Communications, Segun Adebowale; Chairman, ALGON, Kebbi State, Muhammad Dahiru Nayaya Ambursa;

during the opening ceremony of the workshop on

Trumponomics: Renowned US Economist Predicts

$10tn Global Wealth Loss, Says Trump's Tariffs Childish

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

World renowned Economist, Jeffrey Sachs, has launched a scathing attack on Donald Trump's tariff strategy, describing the US president’s trade policies as childish and so “delusional” that even Mickey Mouse would know better.

Speaking during a panel discussion on the topic: “Protectionism: The End of Globalisation”, at the 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum in the resort city of Antalya, in Turkey, Sachs argued that Trump’s trade policy agenda remains one of the worst in history.

The United States recently announced what it termed “reciprocal tariffs” affecting trade with countries across the world, including Nigeria, China close to 100

nations globally.

Rather than blame trade imbalance, Sachs maintained that the United States trade deficit was because of reckless government spending that has surpassed national income.

“If you pick up a credit card and you go shopping and you end up with a large credit card debt, you’re running a trade deficit with all those shops. It will be strange if you then blamed all the shop owners for having sold you all those things.

“That’s the level of understanding of the President of the United States. All that is happening is the United States is out-spending its national income. We have a big credit card in the United States, it’s called the government,” said Sachs.

World leaders were gathered at the forum, including heads of state, academics, diplomats, youth leaders and lawmakers to reevaluate diplomacy and find solutions to pertinent global issues affecting the world. It was held with the theme: “Reclaiming Diplomacy in a Fragmented World”.

But Sachs delivered a harsh critique of Trump’s trade policies during, declaring that Trump’s understanding of trade is so fundamentally flawed that “he wouldn’t pass a basic economics class.”

He condemned the president’s fixation on trade deficits as both “childish and dangerous.”

Sachs attributed a staggering $10 trillion loss in global wealth to Trump’s economic strategies and cautioned that

the United States is edging toward authoritarianism, characterised by “one-man rule by emergency decree.”

Rejecting Trump’s accusations that other countries are “cheating” the US, Sachs argued that the real issue is not trade but excessive US government spending.

According to Sachs, overnight, Trump’s team then scrambled to create a formula to impose tariffs on countries as small as Lesotho based purely on the trade imbalance.

“They made some absolutely stupid formula that you would not accept in a first-year, third-week economics class. It came out of the US Trade Representative’s office. They probably were told, ‘Do it overnight, the boss wants it,’” he said.

Sachs described the result as a list of tariffs calculated on a country-by-country basis, an approach he deemed utterly senseless. “You cannot make this stuff up,” he said. “This used to be not a Mickey Mouse country, my country.

“But this is Mickey Mouse. And I apologise to Mickey Mouse—he would not do this. Mickey Mouse is smarter than this,” the Columbia University Professor stated.

The former Special Adviser to the United Nations Secretary General, and long-time critic of both major US political parties’ failure to tackle inequality, accused Trump of selling “a pseudo explanation” and “a pseudo remedy” for economic discontent.

“What Trump is doing is giving a

story to swing states like Michigan and Ohio—it’s China’s fault, it’s Mexico’s fault, it’s Lesotho’s fault,” he explained. He also pointed out that the loss of manufacturing jobs in the American Midwest was driven more by automation than trade. “Now if you go to an automotive plant, it’s all robots,” Sachs said. “That’s not because the jobs went overseas—it’s because the assembly line itself became an automated phenomenon,” Sachs argued.

Speaking on broader global challenges, Sachs expressed alarm at Trump’s decision to pull out of the Paris Climate Agreement and promote coal, characterising it as “willful destruction of wellbeing.

AT EASTER, CAN, KUKAH, KAIGAMA SPEAK FOR SUFFERING NIGERIANS; GOVERNORS, OTHERS SEEK PEACE, UNITY

that no Nigerian goes hungry in the midst of plenty," he said.

The Bishop called on governments and religious institutions to urgently tackle the crisis with compassion and purpose.

"We mourn the tragic and reckless killing of innocent travellers in Uromi, Edo State. Lives cut short without reason or mercy. We grieve the repeated violence and massacres in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas of Plateau State, where entire communities are being decimated.

"These attacks have left families shattered and dreams destroyed, and they underscore the urgent need for a sincere and coordinated response to insecurity across Nigeria.”

The Bishop, therefore, called on Nigerians to rise above despair and work together to heal a nation battered by insecurity, economic hardship, and political instability.

Police Affairs Minister, CDS, COAS, IG Salute Christian Faithful

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, while felicitating the Christian faithful, said, "As we mark the celebration of Easter, I extend my heartfelt greetings to each and every one of you, those at home, on duty, and in various theatres of operation across the country and beyond."

A statement by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, described Easter as a season of reflection and renewal.

According to the CDS, "It reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice made by our Lord Jesus Christ, and His resurrection, which brings hope to all humanity. This is a message of sacrifice, courage, and triumph over adversity, which is especially significant to the members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

"Let us remember our fallen comrades, men and women who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. May their memories remain eternal, and may their service never be forgotten. We also pray for the quick recovery of those wounded

in action and for strength and comfort for their families," he said.

In his message, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, said, prayed that the season brings love, peace, and prosperity to the Nigerian Army family and the nation.

Wishing Christian faithful a blessed Easter filled with love, the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, said Easter whispered hope at every new dawn.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, extended his warmest felicitations to the Christian community on the occasion of Easter celebration.

The IG acknowledged the significance of the celebration, which symbolised hope, renewal, and sacrifice; and encouraged Christians to reflect on these values and continue to promote peace, unity, and goodwill in their communities.

Egbetokun, however, directed Commissioners of Police across all state Commands and Formations, and their supervising Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, to enhance visible policing, extended vigilance, and intelligence gathering to ensure a safe and secure festive celebration for all citizens.

He also emphasises the critical importance of enhanced patrols and strategic deployment of personnel to places of worship, recreation centres, major highways, and other public spaces to deter criminal activities and provide swift responses to any security challenges that may arise.

The IG called on members of the public to cooperate with the police and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist in preventing the breakdown of law and order during this period.

Sanwo-Olu Preaches Love

Among Nigerians

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rejoiced with Nigerians, particularly the Christian faithful as they celebrated this year’s Easter.

Sanwo-Olu, in an Easter message by his Special Adviser on Media and

Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, urged Lagos residents, particularly Christians, to emulate virtues of humility, perseverance and compassion of Jesus Christ, which made Him die on the cross for the atonement of our sins and reconciling us with God.

He also implored Christians to continue to live in peace, love and harmony with believers in other faiths, noting that good neighbourliness, selflessness, patience, and love were among the several lessons taught and exemplified by our Lord Jesus Christ.

“Today, I wish all Lagosians and Christians across the country and other parts of the world a Happy Easter as we remember the sacrifice and love of Jesus towards mankind.

“As we commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, I want Lagosians and Nigerians in general to make togetherness and unity of the country the central goal of our nationality.

“Let us all emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ by simply impacting the lives of friends, colleagues, associates, neighbours and family members, as well as contributing to the growth and development of our dear Lagos State and Nigeria," he said.

Otti: Let’s Love, Sacrifice, Forgive

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has enjoined the people of the state and Nigerians in general to make this year's Easter celebration worthwhile by imbibing the eternal virtues of love, sacrifice and forgiveness.

He made the appeal in his Easter message entitled: "Living the joy of the resurrection", noting that, "Easter season is an evergreen reminder that God does not abandon His own, that light cannot be buried."

While wishing Ndi Abia Happy Easter celebration, Otti alluded to the visible manifestation of divine intervention in the ongoing transformation of the state making it possible for the emergence of a "new Abia".

"For us in Abia, a state dedicated entirely to the supreme wisdom of the Almighty God, our joy is infinite because we are witnesses to the truth of the faithfulness of the One who rules in the affairs of men.

"Today, we rejoice like the early believers did when the news of the resurrection first got to them but more fundamentally, we celebrate in the knowledge that we had not believed in vain - that our mockers did not have the last word," he said.

The Abia Governor also called on the people to keep "providing sacrificial support to those in need, direction to the lost and comfort to all who suffer the shipwrecks of life."

Keep Hope Alive, Adeleke Tells Osun

People

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has enjoined people of the state not to waver in their hopes for better days ahead in the face of prevailing challenges.

He described Easter as a momentum reminder that tribulation was a temporary condition that would give way for everlasting relief.

Adeleke, who recognised the spiritual bearing of Easter, particularly the power of hope and the promise of new possibilities for humanity, congratulated Christians in the state and beyond for the festive period, which was the very foundation of their faith.

The governor underscored the message of sacrifice that the story of Easter conveyed as a challenge “we must all accept in the shared hope for a better tomorrow,” calling for a renewed commitment to work for enduring unity, sustained peace and a society that meets the aspirations of all.

Abiodun Felicitates

Christians, Urges Hope

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has congratulated Christians in the state and Nigeria as a whole on this year's

Easter celebration, even as he reiterated the commitment of his administration to forging ahead with its numerous developmental strides.

The governor, in his Easter message, in Abeokuta on Sunday, called on Nigerians to look forward to a brighter future in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The governor, who acknowledged the sacrifices of Christian faithful and the sanctification and purification they went through during the 40-day Lenten period marked by fasting and abstinence, prayer and reflection, and acts of charity amidst the economic and other challenges facing the country, said that the exercise would greatly assist in transforming the country spiritually and help it achieve great things.

He urged Christians across the country to continue praying for the government and fellow citizens and not allow evil people with diversionary tactics to prevail, adding that just like Christ prevailed over adversity, Christians must continue to pray for the country to overcome its challenges.

"As we celebrate Easter, a time-honored tradition that symbolises renewal and hope, let us reflect on the profound lessons this holiday imparts. Easter, observed by millions, transcends its religious significance, offering valuable insights into the themes of love, forgiveness, and new beginnings,” he said.

Obaseki: Let’s

Reflect on Power of Hope

Former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has extended felicitations to Christians as they commemorated the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“As we celebrate Easter, let us take time to reflect on the many lessons of the season, particularly the power of hope in the bleakest of times and the joy of renewal.

“As Nigerians, our resilience has always seen us through difficult and challenging periods in our history. Despite the current challenges we face,

we must remain resolute and hopeful. The present state of the nation cannot be an exception—we shall overcome.

“May this Easter rekindle our faith, strengthen our resolve, and inspire us to foster love, unity, and patriotism, as we strive for a better state, nation, and world,” he stated.

PDP Preaches Optimism, National Rebirth, Urges Introspections by Nigerian Leaders

The leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has felicitated with Nigerians on the occasion of Easter.

PDP urged the people to use the period to renew their hope in the assurance of God’s unfailing love and intervention in the affairs of the country and humanity. The main opposition party charged Nigerians to use the import of Easter, which signified the ultimate triumph of God’s saving grace over adverse circumstances to reawaken their determination and hope for the much-desired national rebirth as solution for the quagmires of hardship, insecurity and uncertainty pervading the nation under the antipeople All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.

In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the party said Easter “must also redirect us as a nation to the imperatives of the virtues of forgiveness, forbearance, mutual respect, obedience to the Rule of Law and love for one another without regard to sectional, tribal, religious or political considerations, as this is the only way our nation can survive this perilous time.

''Our Party charges all leaders at all levels, sectors and spheres to use the occasion for deeper introspection and rededicate themselves to a life of selfless service and pursuit of the good of the people as exemplified in the life, teachings, sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection ofJesus Christ to bring redemption to mankind,” Ologunagba stated.

Abubakar

and the Special Adviser on Local Government Affairs to the Governor, Muhammed Na'Allah,

security, organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Shegs Communications in Birnin Kebbi…recently.

BLAKEY’S NATIONAL ECONOMIC CONFERENCE…

L-R: Guest Speaker, Charles Fakrogha ; Kyenote Speaker, Chief Blakey Okwudili Ijezie; Chairman, Otunba Kenneth Odusanya; Guest Speakers, Emeka Atuma, and Anthony Chinwe, during the second Blakey’s National Economic Conference in Lagos…recently

Tension Grips Two Kwara Communities over Invasion of Suspected ‘Mahmuda’ Terrorists Group

Hammed Shittu inIlorin

Palpable tension has gripped the residents of Kaiama and Baruten Local Government Areas of Kwara State over the invasion of suspected terrorist group, identified as ‘Mahmuda’ in the communities in the state.

The suspected terrorists, according to THISDAY investigations, have allegedly kidnapped many innocent people while many others have been killed in the invasion.

THISDAY investigations further

revealed that the suspected terrorists allegedly operate in thick forests in the two local government councils in the state.

It was reliably gathered that the terrorists group were said to have been carrying out their heinous acts in Kemaanji, Tenebo, Baabete, Nuku, and Nanu in Kaiama LGA in the state.

It was further learnt that the suspected terrorists also operated in Yashikira district in Baruten and Borgu LGAs in the neighbouring Niger State.

A resident of Kaiama LGA, who

Foundation Brings Hope to Agodi Inmates at Easter

Mary Nnah

The Royal House of Excellencies Humanitarian and Empowerment Foundation yesterday marked the Easter celebration by serving meals to 1,500 inmates at the Agodi Correctional Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Addressing journalists on the kind gesture, the President of the foundation, Rasaq Abayomi Isiaka, said the initiative aimed to share joy, comfort, and love with those often forgotten.

He said: “We join in prayer,

asking for divine blessings upon all members of our foundation and those we serve. May peace, love, and kindness continue to be our guiding principles, inspiring us to bring positive change to the lives of many.

“Our plans are to continue humanitarian and empowerment programmes, including educational programmes, vocational training, healthcare outreach, and community development projects. We welcome everyone to join our mission of hope and transformation.”

ASELGON Appoints Ilaboya Award Committee Chairman

The immediate past Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area, Hon Frank Ilaboya, has been appointed to chair the maiden edition of the Association of Past Local Government (ASELGON) Award Ceremony billed for August this year.

The notice of his appointment was conveyed to him by the National Secretary of the body, Hon Sahabo Aliyu Gurun on Easter Saturday.

sought anonymity, told THISDAY yesterday that the terrorists group have their base in the thick forest from where they ride out their

motorcycles to the affected towns to kill and kidnap residents, adding that: “It’s true that they have killed and kidnap several residents.”

He, however, said that the state government, irked by their criminal activities, last year mobilised soldiers from Sobi barracks in Ilorin to

flush the terrorists out from the thick forest but later regrouped to perpetrate their deadly act in the affected areas.

NDLEA Intercepts Cocaine in Saudi-bound Religious Books

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted a shipment of cocaine concealed in 20 sets of religious books going to Saudi Arabia.

The spokesman of the antinarcotics agency, Femi Babafemi,

in a statement issued yesterday said the cocaine consignment consisting of 20 parcels with a total weight of 500 grammes and buried in the pages of the religious books was uncovered at a courier company in Lagos last Tuesday when NDLEA officers of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation (DOGI)

were searching through export cargos going to Saudi Arabia at the logistics firm. Babafemi said at another courier company same day, NDLEA officers intercepted five parcels of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis weighing 2.8 kilogrammes hidden in a carton coming from the United States of America.

Mass Defection Hits APC, PDP as

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

Mass defection has rocked the major political parties in Gombe State as 1,083 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lawanti town of Akko local government area of Gombe

State left for the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

The new defectors were said to have been inspired by a renowned politician in the area, Honourable Usman Barade El-Lawanti who recently also joined the SDP.

Speaking during a grand event to publicly announce

In Kano, a 22-year-old alleged supplier of illicit substances to bandits, Muhammad Mohammed, has been arrested by NDLEA operatives on patrol along Bichi - Kano road while heading to Katsina with 277 ampoules of pentazocine injection tied to his thigh and private part with Sellotape.

1,083

Join SDP in Gombe

their defection to SDP yesterday, they described El-Lawanti as “a humanitarian, grassroots leader, and true community builder.”

They expressed frustration with the APC’s “bad governance” and accused the PDP of “lack of direction,” declaring the SDP as the only credible alternative for the people.

The new members were officially received by the State SDP chairman, Comrade Adamu Abubakar Modibbo, who, alongside other party executives and stakeholders, assured them of inclusive leadership, fairness, and opportunity for all.

Police Extradite Murder Suspect, Nnayereugo, to Face Trial in Nigeria

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigeria Police Force yesterday said they had successfully extradited a fugitive murder suspect, Benjamin Nnayereugo, also known as “Killaboi,” from Doha, Qatar to Nigeria to face trial.

A statement by the Force

Spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, said the fugitive, who had been on the run for the murder of Miss Augusta Oseodion Onuwabhagbe, was returned to the country early on Saturday, 19th April 2025, through the coordinated efforts with the Ministry of Justice, INTERPOL

National Central Bureau (NCB), Force Headquarters Abuja, and the Qatari judicial authorities.

He stated that the extradition followed a petition from the family of the deceased, submitted through their legal representatives, dated 29th September 2024.

Stating that the matter was assigned to INTERPOL NCB Abuja for investigation, Adejobi noted that investigations revealed that the suspect, Benjamin Nnayereugo, murdered Miss Onuwabhagbe, a 21-year-old first-class student of Lead City University, Ibadan, at his residence located at No. 24A Abiola Apooyi Street, Oral Estate, Ajah, Lagos, on 13th July 2023.

Otuaro Urges Niger Delta Stakeholders to Love One Another at Easter

Other members of the Committee are: Hon. Sabo Bako Sade Vice Chairman; Hon. Abayomi Tella; Hon. Gonana Kinka; Hon. Scott Ogbemudia, and Hon. Kawu Idris.

The Award Committee also has: Hon. Fidelis Odo; Hon. Yomi Ayorinde; Hon. (Mrs) Obi Okoeyim; and Hon. Garba Adeniyi; Hon. Dance Obama Member; Hon. C N Haruna and Mr. Oladale Ogunsola who will serve as the Secretary.

According to Hon Gurin, “your appointment is as a result of your vast knowledge in this area and your contribution to ASELGON as the Chairman, Media & Publicity Committee.

Olorunsola Delivers EKSU’s 89th Inaugural Lecture Tomorrow

Education management professor, Mrs. Edith Olufunmilola Olorunsola, will tomorrow deliver the 89th inaugural lecture of the Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. According to the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof J.B. Ayodele, the lecture will hold at the university auditorium. He gave the lecture’s title as “Revitalisation of Nigerian universities: A fulcrum for workers’ job satisfaction and performance.” Expected at lecture are members of the varsity’s governing council, senate and lecturers among others.

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has called on the people of the Niger Delta to reflect on the essence of Easter and show love to one another.

He noted that the Easter season was a period to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as God’s precious gift of peace to the world and reconciliation to Himself.

Otuaro urged the people of the region to use the season to deeply reflect on the virtues of the

In his Easter message yesterday, Otuaro urged stakeholders of the region- men, women, youths and all ex-agitators- to imbibe the spirit of peace, unity, and sacrifice embodied by the Lord Jesus Christ.

Lord and walk in them to ensure peace, stability and harmony in the Niger Delta.

He stressed that Easter called for a re-commitment to the cherished values of peace, forgiveness, kindness and service. The PAP boss expressed the unwavering commitment of his leadership to the implementation of the programme’s mandate for sustainable peace, security, stability and development of the region.

He also enjoined stakeholders of the Niger Delta to continue to support President Bola Tinubu and his administration’s noble reforms aimed at achieving economic recovery and shared prosperity for all.

Arewa Group Backs Gov Sule on Call to Return Tinubu in 2027

Emmanuel Addeh inAbuja

A Northern group, Arewa Think Tank (ATT), yesterday, said that it was supporting the Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule’s stance that the North would work for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Sule, according to a statement signed by the Convener of ATT, Muhammad Yakubu, had said recently that it was imperative for the North to work towards the actualisation of Tinubu’s return bid in the next general polls.

On the killings in Plateau and Benue States in recent times, the

group said that the ‘political enemies’ of Nigeria were doing everything possible, including using foreigners to perpetuate the crimes in order to frustrate the conduct of the 2027 elections, vowing to work for the return of the president.

“We are in tandem with the position of governor Abdullahi

Sule of Nasarawa State and by the grace of God we are bringing back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue as President of Nigeria. We know that supporting the second term bid of President Tinubu would be a fulfilment of the promise the region’s leaders made on the matter ahead of the 2023 general election.

Agricultural Commodity Associations Unite to Boost Food Security

The leadership of various agricultural commodity associations in Nigeria converged on Abuja for their inaugural joint meeting, where they reaffirmed their commitment to advancing food security and national development through strategic collaboration.

The high-level meeting held at the weekend brought together key stakeholders from across the country, including: President, Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Aminu Muhammad;President, National Cotton Association of Nigeria (NACOTAN), Anibe

Achimugu; President, Maize Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Bello Abubakar Anoor, and President, Cotton Producers and Merchants Association of Nigeria (COPMAN), Dr. Florence Edwards. Others present were: President, Soya Beans Farmers Association of Nigeria (SOFAN), Umar Muhammad Baba; President, Nigeria Cassava Growers’ Association (NCGA), Mustapha Othman; President, National Association of Sorghum Producers, Processors and Marketers of Nigeria (NASPPAM).

THIS TERROR GROUP CALLED MAHMUDA

fountain pen can match the weapons in the hands of Dogo Gide, Ado Aleiro, Bello Turji or Gwaska Dan Karami, not to mention ISWAP’s bombs, IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades mounted on gun trucks?

“You don’t understand,” he said. “The new terror group is named after you. It is said that you founded it, just like Abubakar Shekau founded Boko Haram, Uwazurike founded MOSSOB and Nnamdi Kanu founded IPOB. That is why it is named after you. You gave your name to it as a brand.” In one split second, I proceeded from half asleep to lying down to sitting up in bed to kneeling on the floor to standing by the window and then rushing to the balcony. “Named after me? Which name did they use?” “Mahmuda,” he said. “That is the new terror group’s name.

I quickly began mental preparation for a possible summon to DSS headquarters for interrogation. My first alibi will be, that is not my real name. It depends on who you ask. Most of my grandparents, parents and siblings call me Mamudu. My father called me Adibu. One grandma, Shayau, used to call me Yar Mudanya. My late uncle Sule Jega, who died in the January 1973 hajj plane crash, used to call me “Gargada maza ci taya,” after a popular 1960s radio song. A few slip-tongued mates call me Mamuda. In my primary school register, my name was Mamudu. In secondary school, I modernised it to Mahmoud, after the then Arab League Secretary General Mahmoud Riad of Egypt. In secondary school, I was variously known as Debate Captain or House Prefect. At university I was called President [of the Students Union] and later Speaker [of the Students Parliament]. Later on, some people began to write my name as Mahmood. During my NYSC service year at Nnobi Girls in Anambra State, fellow teachers called me Mr. Mohammed while the students called me [Biology] Master. Later on during my working life, it occurred to me that

I no longer needed any fancy spelling, so I simplified my name to Mahmud. My students at UDUS called me Malam. Other people variously call me Alhaji, Editor, Oga; one media Oga called me Living Encyclopaedia; the Deputy MD of Arise TV calls me Sheikh, while Bishop Kukah calls me Elephant Memory.

The new terror group that adopted Mahmuda as their name, did they register it at the Corporate Affairs Commission? If it is not in the comprehensive list of registered companies published by CAC, how do they claim any patent to the name? Assuming another person assumes the same name, can they claim that he infringed on their copyright? Did they publish the name in three national newspapers as required by CAC before they could register the name? My name has been with me for several decades. Quite alright it was not registered at CAC, but it was publicly announced by the town crier during my naming ceremony at Mubi. It was my father’s friend and colleague, Khadi Mahmud from Katsina, who brought a huge ram to my naming ceremony when I was seven days old and named me after himself. Was that not better than CAC registration? When CAC registers a company or an association, do they slaughter even a chicken, not to mention a whole ram?

I managed to ask the man, where is this new terror group located? He said their camps are based near the Kainji Lake National Park, somewhere astride Niger and Kwara states. Very good. Me, have I ever been to Kainji Lake National Park? During my secondary school days, a visit to the park was planned by the Quiz and Debating Society, of which I was the captain, but it was cancelled at the last minute. All the park rangers that are inside that park today, even the Airforce base at Kainji, plus the hundreds of Boko Haram members that are undergoing trials three, including the fishermen and trappers that are

all over the Niger riverside, and even the engineers of Mainstream Energy genco that is operating the Jebba and Kainji dams, did anyone of them ever see me there? Just because I used to teach undergraduate courses in Chordate Biology, Embryology, Hydrobiology, Fish Biology, Ecology, Taxonomy, Systematics and Evolutionary Biology, is that enough reason to link me to River Niger, Kainji Lake Park and any terrorist group lurking alongside them?

Am I the first person in Nigeria whose name resembled that of a terrorist group? Why are people not making jest of Brigadier General Muhammadu Buba Marwa? Is it because he is a soldier, who heads the Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and you fear that its agents can rope you in for alleged drug offences, and it will take you years to wriggle out of it? His name closely resembles that of the late Alhaji Muhammadu Marwa, alias Maitatsine, who in 1980 turned Kano City’s Yan Awaki Quarters into a living hell, until Army Brigade Commander Colonel Y.Y. [Yohanna Yerima] Kure and Operations Commander Major Haliru Akilu moved in and dislodged him.

Even after Yan Awaki, Maitatsine’s supporters staged violent uprisings at Maiduguri’s Bulunkutu ward and at Kaduna’s Tudun Wada quarters in 1982, followed by a major uprising in Yola in 1984, and then another one in Gombe in 1985, and finally one at Funtua in 1993. I covered the latter as a reporter for Citizen magazine. There was a motor mechanic in Sokoto called Musa. I once went to him in the late 1980s and said, “Musa Mechanic, please come and check my car.” He flared up! The leader of Yola 1984 uprising was Musa Makanike!

I know a man in Kaduna whose name was Mohammed Yusuf. After the Boko Haram founder was extra-judiciary executed in 2009, the man raced to an Imam’s house, bought a ram, collected nine brothers and friends and asked

the Imam to announce his new name as Mukhtari Idris Dangaladima Rijau, as far away from the former name as possible. There was a young man on social media who used to stylishly call himself al-Barnawi, meaning from Borno. When his namesake emerged as leader of ISWAP, he hurriedly changed his name to Mai Modu Idirissa Maiduguri. Among the people who called at the weekend to make jest of me as a new terror group leader is the Chief Executive Officer of Daily Trust, Ahmed Shekarau. Remove the “ra” from his surname and it becomes Shekau, the most blood thirsty terrorist leader that ever walked the Nigerian landscape. During a visit to Rwanda in 2012, the hotel desk man printed Shekarau’s name on the room keycard as Shekau! He picked race and demanded a change, lest Interpol come after him as an internationally wanted terrorist. I have already sent a letter to the Daily Trust editor, asking her to change the company’s management staff line up on the editorial page and reflect the GCEO’s new name as Abu Muhammad ibn Muhammad Ahmad al-Shekarawi. Is it only in Nigeria? You mean there is no one else in USA called Jim Jones [of People’s Temple], no one else in Texas called David Koresh [of Waco], no one else in Britain called Gerry Adams [of the Provos], no one else in Germany called Andreas Baeder or Ulrike Meinhoff, no one else in Italy called Renato Curcio [of Red Brigades] and no one else in Japan called Shoko Asahara [of Aum Shinrikyo]?

I have now sent a petition to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, By The Grace of God the next Governor of Bauchi State, to help me send a diplomatic circular to all the foreign embassies in Nigeria and advise that Mahmud Muhammadu Jega is NOT the founder of the new terrorist group Mahmuda, and that any assumed similarity in the two names is purely coincidental.

CHOICES, NOT CHANCE: WHY CHINA IS RICH, AND NIGERIA IS POOR

deciding where to put a steel mill or a chip assembly plant, the difference between a twenty-year horizon and a four-year horizon is the difference between "build" and "walk away."

Infrastructure magnified that gap. Beginning in the early 1990s, China poured roughly eight per cent of its GDP every year into roads, ports, airports and—most outstandingly—rail. A lattice of 45,000 kilometres of 250 to 350 km/h track now links almost every provincial capital; freight versions of those lines move 10,000-tonne trains from Chongqing to Shenzhen in a single day. One academic study finds that high-speed rail access lifts a connected city's GDP by more than fourteen per cent within five years, mostly by slashing logistics times and widening labour catchment areas for firms. Nigeria, meanwhile, rehabilitated a few colonial-era lines and launched several standard gauge projects, but even its showcase Abuja–Kaduna and Lagos- Ibadan routes move fewer passengers in a week than China's busiest corridor handles before breakfast. Most cargo still crawls along cratered highways where police checkpoints and kidnappers impose an unofficial "fear tax" on every bag of cement or basket of tomatoes.

China achieved rapid growth by heavily investing in manufacturing. This is unlike Nigeria, where manufacturing contributes less than 12.68% in Q2 2024 and more than 8.21% in Q3 2024. China's investment in High-Speed Rail (HSR) has led to a significant drop in the cost of goods. Recent initiatives like “Made in China 2025” focus on advanced manufacturing sectors such as robotics, aerospace, new-energy vehicles, and biotechnology to increase the value chain and reduce reliance on foreign technology.

Reliable energy is the next Faultline. Guangdong province alone generates more electricity than the entire Nigerian grid, and it does so continuously; Chinese aluminium smelters, textile mills and data centres are designed around the assumption that the power will stay on. Nigerian manufacturers assume the opposite. They buy diesel

gensets, pay triple the Asian price for each kilowatt hour they consume, and pass that cost on to consumers—who already face some of the steepest logistics markups in the world. When energy constitutes thirty per cent of a product's ex-factory price, no patriotic marketing can keep that product competitive abroad.

China’s factories also had people who could keep the machines running. A high school graduate in Jilin can programme a PC and interpret a process control chart because technical and vocational colleges occupy a place of prestige that academicheavy universities once monopolised. As a result, Chinese employers can field 3,000-strong shifts of technicians able to retool a smartphone assembly line on the weekend. Nigeria's educational culture remains firmly certificate-oriented; private surveys suggest that more than four-fifths of recent university graduates lack basic spreadsheet or coding competence. The mismatch forces multinationals to fly expatriate engineers into Lagos or—more often—to put the factory in Ethiopia, Vietnam or Guangdong instead.

Automation sharpened the divide still further. In 2024 alone, Chinese firms installed nearly 300,000 industrial robots—more than Europe and the Americas combined. Robots weld car bodies and ship parts, insert smartphone cameras and package frozen dumplings; the technicians who maintain them earn multiples of the average urban wage. Nigeria ordered only a few hundred units that same year, primarily for soft drink bottling plants in Lagos and Ogun. Without automation, productivity plateaus; without productivity, wages stagnate; without rising wages, the domestic market stays too shallow to justify mass production. The cycle feeds on itself.

Oil dependence made everything worse. Crude accounts for well over half of Nigeria's government revenue but employs fewer than one per cent of its labour force. When Brent prices soar, ministries hire, contractors splurge, and imports surge; when prices crash, capital projects halt, debts pile up,

and Naira devaluations wipe out household purchasing power. Chinese planners did court commodity cycles—the country still consumes half the world's copper and iron ore—but their fiscal lifeline was value-added, not raw rents. Tax receipts rose in tandem with factory output, giving Beijing a steadily expanding pool of local currency resources to finance the next port or rail line.

Insecurity compounds Nigeria's structural costs. Hundreds of lives and thousands of work hours vanish each year due to armed robbery, terrorist attacks or kidnaping along the Lagos–Kano highway. Firms pay for private guards, convoy fees and kidnap insurance; those outlays translate directly into higher shelf prices and lower margins. China indeed grapples with crime and corruption, but industrial zones in Shenzhen or Suzhou are patrolled, litigated and powered in ways that let a container leave the factory gate and reach the port with minimal friction or added cost. Logistics is the key enabler of manufacturing.

Yet none of these gaps is destiny. Nigeria's poverty is a product of a mix of bad leadership and bad choices. Nigeria’s heavy reliance on oil causes economic vulnerability. Nigeria's education system emphasises certificates over practical skills, creating a gap between what is taught in schools and what employers need. Over 85% of Nigerian graduates lack digital skills, making them less competitive in the job market. The SMART schools championed by the Enugu State government aim to start closing the IT gaps, and other states in Nigeria are expected to create more of these schools.

Nigeria still has an unreliable electricity supply, inconsistent fiscal policies, shifting regulations, and excessive bureaucracy. Years of focus on ease of doing business have improved things, but we are far from average. Nigeria's service-led growth has benefited the educated middle class and corrupt government officials and is less employment-intensive. Despite having a young population, massive arable land and growth potential, Nigeria has remained a

country of poor people.

Nigeria still possesses assets China would envy: a median age under twenty, vast swathes of uncultivated arable land, abundant sunshine for solar power and a coastline perched between the Atlantic trade lanes and Africa's interior. What it lacks is the deliberate sequencing that China pursued. Reliable baseload power and a north-south freight rail spine must precede, not follow, any talk of mega parks or local content mandates. Technical colleges must receive the same prestige and funding as universities. We applaud the efforts of the Minister of Education in creating and masterminding the technical and vocational school strategy. Special Economic Zones must specialise in textiles in Kano, agro-processing in Benue, and light engineering in Aba so suppliers and toolmakers can cluster rather than scatter. Nigeria must adopt Industrial clusters as a potential strategy. Industrialisation breeds employment, alleviates poverty, and creates high income and GDP growth, which creates wealth and a better quality of life for citizens.

If those choices are made and sustained, the virtuous cycle that lifted China is also ready to spin in Nigeria: hard infrastructure lowers cost, factories sprout, wages rise, domestic demand deepens, tax receipts multiply, and the next round of infrastructure becomes easier to finance. History shows that such cycles do not begin with genius inventions or windfall resources; they start when governments decide that electricity at midnight and freight trains at dawn are more important than oil rents at noon. China made that decision decades ago and grew rich. Nigeria still can. President Widodo of Indonesia grew their economy within ten years by furthering an export-oriented strategy with in-country value addition, embarking on expansive infrastructure development, reducing poverty to 1%, and almost doubling per capita income. Can we do this in Nigeria? Yes, we can! Today's dismal rankings will look like a brief preface to a more prosperous chapter

Ndidi, Leicester City Relegated from Premier League

Duro Ikhazuagbe with agency report

Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, and his club Leicester City have been relegated from the Premier League for the fifth time.

Yesterday, they fell 1-0 at home to champions-in-waiting Liverpool to seal their return to the second-tier English Championship.

They have 18 points from 33 points with five matches still to play to the end of the season.

Ndidi started Sunday’s game

before he was replaced late on by Oliver Skipp.

Southampton, who parade Super Eagles stars Paul Onuachu and Joe Aribo, were the first club to be relegated from the Premier League this season.

Elsewhere, Pedro Neto fired a spectacular winner in stoppage time as Chelsea’s late show secured a 2-1 win over west-London rivals Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobii’s goal was not enough as Chelsea defeated Fulham 2-1 to

go fifth in the Premier League standing.

However, substitute Tyrique George grabbed an equaliser seven minutes from time to cancel out Iwobi’s 20th-minute strike.

Then Neto’s half-volley clinched a victory that took the Blues above Forest on goal difference in the battle to secure Champions League football.

The result will alleviate some of the pressure on under-fire manager Enzo Maresca.

Raul Jimenez dominating

Chelsea’s Levi Colwill in the air was a common theme early on as Fulham mounted pressure.

Then Chelsea skipper Reece James was caught in possession by Fulham’s press and, after Ryan Sessegnon drove forward, his pass to Iwobi saw the Nigeria international use his weaker left foot to find the bottom left corner from the edge of the area.

Chelsea’s lack of confidence was clear to see but they did create a handful of chances which a striker in a better form than nine-goal man Nicolas Jackson

could have converted.

The first came a minute before Iwobi’s strike when Noni Madueke’s ball across the box was touched by Jackson into the hands of Bernd Leno. The Senegal striker was then caught on his heels in the area despite an inch-perfect delivery from Neto.

Maresca turned to the bench at half-time with Jadon Sancho coming on for Madueke but the changes initially failed to spark his side into life.

A speculative effort by another substitute Malo Gusto was all

the Blues truly had to show for themselves by the hour mark. Fulham on the other hand remained strong and resolute. The physical prowess of Sander Berge and Calvin Bassey snapped up loose balls against Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer as they gave their rivals little or no space to attack in behind their deep block.

Manager Marco Silva brought on Harry Wilson late on to inject energy but it was 19-year-old Chelsea substitute George who made the impact.

Ankle Injury Nothing Serious, Says Arteta

Bukayo Saka’s ankle injury is “nothing serious” after he was forced off during Arsenal’s 4-0 Premier League win at Ipswich on Sunday, manager Mikel Arteta said.

image and yeah, he cuts him from the back.

NPFL: Remo Stars Stun Shooting Stars to Inch Close to Title

RESULTS

NPFL

The winger was injured by a high challenge on the back of his ankle in the 32nd minute by Leif Davis, who was sent off.

England international Saka was substituted early in the second half and was pictured with strapping on his ankle.

Remo Stars are coasting to what will be their greatest moment ever, a win of the Nigeria Premier Football League title, as they recorded a 1-0 win over Shooting Stars in Ibadan in a match played behind closed doors.

In doing so, they achieved their sixth double of the season, having earlier beaten Shooting Stars in the first stanza of the league.

After a ding-dong affair, Alex Oyowah scored the vital goal for Remo Stars from a right-wing cross from Ismail Sodiq.

They maintained the sevenpoint lead over second-placed Rivers United, who also beat Sunshine Stars 1-0 in Port Harcourt.

In another match, Ikorodu City continued to work tenaciously to obtain a continental ticket as they held El Kanemi to a 1-1 draw.

El Kanemi 1-1 Ikorodu Tornadoes 1-1 Bayelsa

Heartland 0-0 Kwara Utd Plateau Utd 1-0 Akwa Utd Rivers Utd 1-0 Sunshine Shooting 0-1 Remo Stars B’Insurance 1-1 Nasarawa

Sharks Squad Wins Ibadan Swimming Championship

Sharks Squad has won the second edition of Ibadan age grade swimming championship, which was held on Saturday at the University of Ibadan.

Sharks Squad claimed the championship with 24 gold, 9 silver and 9 bronze medals ahead of Harmony Aquatic Club which got 11 gold 20 silver and 12 bronze.

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) swimming team claimed the third position with 9 gold, 8 silver and 6 bronze, while Jossy swimmers got 9 gold 17 silver and 27 bronze to claim the fourth position.

While speaking, the convener of the championship, 15-year-old Oluwatimilehin Olaiya, expressed satisfaction with the turn out, just as he lauded the participants for their love for swimming.

Olaiya appealed to

government at all levels to invest in training facilities, coaching, and youth programme to enhance performance in swimming.

He said the aim of the championship is to encourage more young people to embrace swimming, especially in Oyo State.

“I represent Oyo State at the last Youth Games in Asaba but I was not happy about our participation because we ddin’t have enough swimmers to represent the state and that motivated me to do something about this with the championship.

“What we saw today, I believe Oyo State will do better at the next National Youth Games because I could see a lot of new stars.

“I just want to urge the state government to do the needful to our swimming pool at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba,

Ibadan so as to encourage the young ones to exercise and keep fit.

“Investing in swimming not only fosters talent development but also promotes physical fitness and health among the youth and our is target is to nurture the next generation of champions,” said Oluwatimilehin, who won two silver and one bronze at the last National Youth Games for Oyo State.

Also, the cordinator of the programme, Folusho Ayo Olaiya, said she was impressed with the outcome of the championship saying over 100 swimmers participated in the two days event.

She said there were a lots of improvement compared to last year’s edition adding that the joy the swimmers showed for this year is far better than we they experienced last year.

The coordinator disclosed

that last year, many swimmers dropped off during the event but this year a lot of them concluded and finish and also did multiple events.

She thanked the sponsors like MTN, Rite foods, GB Agboola, among others.

Also, a parent of a contestant, who brought her ward from Ilorin, Mrs Tokunbo Obajolowo, lauded the organiser of the championship, saying it’s an amazing opportunity for the younger ones go embrace swimming as a sport.

“I will just charge both state and federal governments to recognise the value of swimming as a medal-winning sport and to allocate resources accordingly.

In their seperate remarks, Tofunmi Ibidapo and Pelumi Adeosun said they had no regrets in choosing swimming as they target to representing Nigeria at the Olympics level.

Arteta said the winger was “sore”but added that the decision to take him off was just a precaution, with Arsenal facing the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris St-Germain on 29 April.

“He was a bit sore, but it’s nothing serious, so it’s good,” Arteta said.

“I haven’t seen the slow motion, I’ve just

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Osaze Urhoghide, a top defender for FC Dallas in the MLS, has expressed his desire and availability to represent his fatherland Nigeria, if called upon anytime soon when he spoke with sports writers in Benin City.

The 24-year-old strong and talented defender who previously played for Celtic in Scotland, has reportedly informed family and friends of his readiness to join the Super Eagles when the opportunity comes.

“I don’t think it’s intentional at all, but it’s dangerous because he cannot really react to anything, because you cannot see him coming.” Arsenal have suffered an injury-hit campaign, with Saka, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus all absent for long periods. And Arteta acknowledged that because of that, he does get concerned when he sees one of his players struggling during a match.

“I do,” he said, “especially with the numbers that we have right now and especially when they are back to goal, because normally it’s the moment when the foot is planted, your weight is there, and you cannot really react to it, but he’s fine.”

Known for his defensive prowess and counter-attacking ability, the Benin boy Urhoghide is often compared to legendary Austin Eguavon. His versatility allows him to play various defensive roles, including defensive midfield.

With the Super Eagles’ defensive line facing stability issues, particularly with captain William Troost-Ekong’s advancing age and Samuel Ajayi injury-prone nature, Urhoghide’s inclusion could provide a valuable boost to the national senior team.

Bukayo Saka receives treatment following the tackle from Ipswich’s Leif Davis

e kayo o Saka’s ankl Bu seen

EASTER SUNDAY SERVICE AT THE TRINITY METHODIST CHURCH...

L-R: Proto Presbyter, Methodist Church Nigeria (MCN), Very Rev. Dr. Jonathan Osin; Bishop 0f Trinity Church Council, MCN Lagos, Rt. Rev. Oladapo Babalola, Prelate MCN, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Ali-Aba; and Secretary of Conference, MCN, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abiodun Babatunde Taiwo, during the 2025 Easter Sunday Church Services at Trinity Methodist Church, Tinubu, Lagos...yesterday.

MAHMUDJEGA

VIEW FROM THE GALLERY

This Terror Group Called Mahmuda

Iwas planning to have an extended morning sleep last Saturday, to make up for the rest I lost the day before on Good Friday. For where! First, I saw WhatsApp and Facebook messenger chats trickling in, which I ignored. Then came text messages, quickly followed by phone calls on my two main lines and even a call on my phone line of last resort. I wondered what the fuss was all about. Could they all be calling to wish me Happy Easter in advance? I finally saw a call that I could not ignore, from a senior politician. I sleepily answered it, and he urgently said, “Where are you now? Are you in the bushes or have you come into town”?

Which bush? I wondered. The last time I wandered in any bush was more than forty years ago, when as kids we roamed the bushes around my hometown to hunt birds, catch rats and climb wild trees to

pick whatever fruit was in season. This oga solved my mystery when he said, “Have you seen the story that online

newspapers posted? It is also there in Weekend Trust.” Story? Unlike in the old golden days of print newspapers when stories were only broken once a day, online newspapers in this age are posting stories 24/7. If one were to try to remain “current” with online newspaper stories these days, he will never go to sleep because every minute they have one story or another to break, many of them of dubious authenticity.

He then said, “The story that you have just founded a new terrorist group.” At that point, sleep hurriedly abandoned my eyes. What are you talking about? Me, founded a terrorist group? It suddenly reminded me of the old journalism teachers’ maxim of Five W’s and H: Who, what, where, when and how?

He finally gave me the run down. On top of Boko Haram, ISWAP, IPOB, Lakurawa, bandits, communal warriors, pipeline vandals and all other terror

DAKUKU PETERSIDE

groups that we have in this country, a new one has just been unveiled in the North Central states of Niger and Kwara, along the shores of River Niger bordering the thick forests of the Kainji Lake National Park. I said ok, if there is a new terror group in Nigeria, what has that got to do with me? Why not call National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu and Chief of Defence Staff General Chris Musa?

A common newspaper man like me, and before that a common Fish Biology lecturer, how is it part of my remit to fight bandits and terrorists? With what? With pen or, these days, with computer keyboards? Because old timers used to say that the pen is mightier than the sword, do you believe it? Which pen, whether a Bic biro or a Cartier, Rado or Rolex

Continued on page 30

Choices, Not Chance: Why China is Rich, and Nigeria is Poor

China and Nigeria, two continental giants that entered the late 1970s with similar per capita incomes, have since taken opposite economic trajectories. In China, the decisive moment was Deng Xiaoping's 1978 decision to "open the windows" and let the world's capital know-how to blow in. In Nigeria, the same decade ushered in the oil boom that encouraged governments to depend on volatile export rents rather than the hard grind of production. Nearly half a century later, the contrast is stark: China ships $3.58 trillion a year worth of merchandise each year to the US, runs the world's biggest high-speed rail and electricity networks, and has reduced extreme poverty to the low single digits, whereas Nigeria still relies on diesel generators to power most factories and holds the unfortunate record of hosting the planet's largest pool of people living

revolutionise rail freight. We toured Chinese rail manufacturing factories and saw the cumulative effect firsthand. At Yiwu, a market city once famous only for cheap toys, outbound trains roll directly into the customs yard, clear export formalities in hours and join a trans-Eurasian schedule that reaches Madrid in eighteen days. We counted five layers of the process—terminal handling, port queue, ocean leg, inland haulage, and warehouse sorting—that would each add days and dollars back home. We also noticed that the Chinese yard foreman carried a tablet tracking real-time wagon diagnostics; the Nigerian equivalent would be on a clipboard waiting on a generator to restart the Wi-Fi.

and continues to fall. Chinese logistics costs average seven to nine per cent of a retail item's final price; Nigerian goods often surrender a quarter to a third of their value to the road, the checkpoint and the generator. The pertinent question is, what made China succeed and Nigeria fail?

Policy consistency is the first, and perhaps most underrated, source of that divergence. Beijing’s five-year plans differed in detail but never in direction: everyone sought deeper industrialisation, more export capacity, and a higher rung on the technology ladder. By contrast, Lagos, Abuja and the thirty-six state capitals have veered from import substitution to outright deregulation to state-owned "transformation agendas," each abandoned as soon as the next political cycle arrives or the oil price slumps. For investors on less than $3 a day.

I was recently in China as part of a Nigerian business delegation that wanted to

The macro numbers simply crystallise what we observed on the ground. Manufacturing generates roughly twenty-seven per cent of the Chinese GDP and employs more than one hundred million people. In Nigeria, the share by 2024 has slid below ten per cent

Continued on page 30

Tinubu

Ribadu