MONDAY 31ST MARCH 2025

Trump Fails to Rule Out Running for Third Term in 2028

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

President Donald Trump yesterday failed to rule out the possibility of seeking a third term in the White House, which is prohibited by the Constitution under the 22nd Amendment, saying in an exclusive interview with NBC News that there were methods for doing so and clarifying that he was “not joking.”

The remarks are reminiscent of leaders of third world countries, actions which America, seen as the global bastion of democracy, has condemned in the past.

“A lot of people want me to do it,” Trump said in a Sunday-morning

TINUBU: NIGERIA

after the Eid-el-Fitr prayers marking the end of Ramadan, at the National Eid Prayer Ground, in Abuja, the president urged Nigerians not to return to the old and unacceptable paths, but to remain steadfast in practising the righteous virtues they had learned during Ramadan.

Receiving a delegation of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) residents, led by the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, at State House, Abuja, the president hinted that he had long warned the minister not to tilt development in favour of his party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), else he would lose his job.

Tinubu emphasised that power was a temporary trust from God, which showed the importance of humility and service to the people.

He stated, “I’m just a custodian of your trust. It is only Almighty Allah that gives power. If I give it to you, you must use it in the righteous way. You must be humane. You must follow my teachings."

Reflecting on the just-concluded Ramadan fasting and ongoing Lenten season, the president emphasised the virtues of discipline, tolerance, and shared responsibility in building a prosperous nation.

He said, “We started with prayers. We end with prayers. We committed ourselves with discipline and faithful supplication, learning the teachings of Allah. Such discipline instils understanding, sharing, and partaking in family values that bring us together as one family."

Tinubu urged the FCT administration to ensure that the rapid infrastructure development being undertaken under the Wike leadership translated into political success for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

He reminded Wike that his position depended on ensuring the political dividends of his administration’s efforts were fully realised.

He stated, “I remember the day Nyesom Wike came to me and said, ‘Please, take us out of this problem of TSA so that I can do more work and achieve more.’ Then I said, ‘Okay, tell me what you're about to do.’

“And he presented it. And I threw in my own political guide, would that give me any opportunity for my party to win the election in FCT?

“I said, ‘I know where you are coming from, your own party or my party. If this thing goes too much in your own favour, you will lose your job.’ Then he said, ‘Okay, we settle that, Oga."

The president praised Wike for his transformational leadership in the FCT, acknowledging his efforts in infrastructure development, civil service reforms, and urban renewal projects.

“I must thank the Minister of the FCT. When we started, he came up with a lot of good ideas to liberate the bureaucracy and bring forwardlooking, progressive-thinking to the administration," Tinubu said He specifically highlighted Wike’s role in resolving long-standing issues relating to property rights, revitalising abandoned projects, and improving public services, such as healthcare and education.

He said, “The health centres are being rehabilitated. The health facilities of the residents of the FCT are being upgraded. Our teachers and schools are being rehabilitated, and buildings are furnished. Thank you, Wike.”

Tinubu urged Nigerians to prioritise national unity over personal ambitions, calling on citizens to embrace peace, harmony, and inclusivity regardless of

phone call with NBC News, referring to his allies. “But, I mean, I basically tell them we have a long way to go, you know, it’s very early in the administration.

“I’m focused on the current,” Trump added, in some of his most extensive comments to date about serving a third term.

When asked whether he wanted another term, the president responded, “I like working. I’m not joking,” when asked to clarify. “But I’m not — it is far too early to think about it,” he added.

When asked whether he has been presented with plans to allow him to seek a third term, Trump said, “There

ethnic or religious differences.

He declared, “We must continue to abide by the lessons of Ramadan. We must continue to share and remember the less privileged, the widows, and the have-nots, believing that we can share both in joy and in times of need. And we can believe that Nigeria is greater than any one of us – including myself as President.”

The president also highlighted Wike’s ability to work effectively in the heart of northern Nigeria, despite being from the south, calling it a testament to the strength of Nigeria’s diversity.

He said, “Surprisingly, Nyesom Wike is not from the north. He’s from the southern part of Nigeria. And his ability to work in the centre of the northern part of Nigeria is bearing fruit. That is a very good reflection of our diversity that we must use for our prosperity."

At the Eid-el-Fitr prayers, marking the end of Ramadan at the National Eid Prayer Ground in Abuja, Tinubu urged Nigerians not to return to the old ways, but to remain steadfast in practising the righteous virtues they had learned during Ramadan.

He stated, "We should give thanks to the Almighty Allah. We saw the beginning; we started together and ended together in good health and happiness, in prayers for our country and all our people.

"We should continue the good deeds as taught during the Holy month of Ramadan: care for the vulnerable, the orphans and the less privileged. Everything that we have observed, we should not revert to the path that is not acceptable to the teachings of this month."

Wike stated that removing the Federal Capital Territory Administration from the Treasury Single Account, establishing the FCT Civil Service Commission, creating two new Mandate Secretariats for Women and Youths, and appointing Permanent Secretaries had all bolstered FCTA’s governance structure and enhanced service delivery.

According to him, these reforms lead to a better quality of life for everyday residents.

Ahead of Tinubu’s second anniversary, Wike invited the president to the inauguration of projects completed in the past 12 months in the FCT.

He said, "As we approach the second anniversary of your administration, we are excited about the array of impactful projects that we have lined up for commissioning.

“These projects, designed to improve infrastructure, economic opportunities, and the overall quality of life, stand as evidence to your administration’s commitment to national development.

“We look forward to hosting Your Excellency in the FCT to witness firsthand the tangible progress that has been made under your leadership over the last 12 months."

Wike pledged the administration’s “unwavering loyalty and support for the Renewed Hope Agenda” and promised to continue cooperating to ensure the success of the economic reforms of Tinubu.

Speaking with reporters after the visit, Wike expressed gratitude for the president’s recognition of his work.

Asked how he felt about being called “Mr. Infrastructure” by Tinubu, Wike said, “I feel very happy that my boss has confidence in me. If your boss, in public, says that you are doing well, that is an encouragement for you to continue doing the job you’ve been assigned.”

He assured FCT residents that his

are methods which you could do it.”

NBC News asked about a possible scenario in which Vice President JD Vance would run for office and then pass the role to Trump. Trump responded that “that’s one” method.

“But there are others too,” Trump added. Asked to share another method, Trump simply responded “no.”

Amending the Constitution to abolish the two-term limit would be exceedingly difficult, requiring either a two-thirds vote of Congress or two-thirds of the states agreeing to call a constitutional convention to propose changes. Either route would then require ratification from

administration would continue to execute transformative projects, promising that the next phase of development would be even more ambitious.

“The committee is working, and you can be assured it can’t be less than what we did last time,” he stated.

Earlier, in his sermon, Chief Imam of National Mosque, Abuja, Dr. Abdulkadir Salman Sholagberu, who led the prayers, reiterated the need for Muslims to continue in the spirit of Ramadan, which included exhibiting a life of love, cooperation in righteousness, and care for the poor and the vulnerable.

Sholagberu stressed that it was imperative to continue in the life of worship, holiness, and obedience to Allah even after Ramadan.

He said, "You worshipped and followed His rules during Ramadan; you contained the Satan (temptations) within you, the Satan from outside, then after Ramadan, immediately, you go back to what you were, sinful servants.

"Allah says in the Quran: 'Your example is like someone who was given paradise, then he got old, became helpless, feeble, weak and turned back against Allah’.

"If you do this, your servitude is like someone who had built for himself a mansion and, unfortunately, by his own hands, he pulled it down.

"We must continue to cooperate in righteousness. During the Fast, we showed love to one another; we cared for people in need, we extended charity, and our country was peaceful. Why should we return to rancour after Ramadan."

Tinubu joined other Muslim faithful at the National Eid Prayer Ground along Airport Road in Abuja to observe Eidel-Fitr prayers, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

The president, who arrived the prayer ground before 9am, was warmly received by top government officials, religious leaders, and dignitaries, who gathered in large numbers for the solemn occasion.

They included Vice President Kashim Shettima; Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin; and National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

After the prayer session, Tinubu received Shettima and other top officials in Sallah homage at State House by noon.

Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, governors and several other Nigerians also greeted the Muslim faithful at Eid-el-fitr.

Atiku: Leaders Must Show Compassion

Atiku congratulated Muslim faithful in Nigeria and around the world on the successful completion of the Ramadan fasting.

Atiku, in a statement by his media office, said the completion of Ramadan fasting was a blessing from the Almighty.

He admonished leaders at all levels to make the wellbeing of Nigerians a priority.

According to him, “the Ramadan fasting of this year came around at a period of excruciating hardship and hunger in the country.

“While the Ramadan season encouraged charity to the less privileged, it becomes imperative on leaders to make sure that after Ramadan, governments initiate interventions that will ensure the wellbeing and welfare of the people is sustained.

“It is important to call the attention of those in positions of authority to the practices of the Noble Prophet Muhammad (SAW) that teach about

three-quarters of the states, the report added.

The president pointed to his poll numbers, saying that “a lot of people would like me to” hold office for a third term.

Trump has previously commented on running for a third term in office, though Republicans have seen these comments as jokes or the president trolling his critics.

Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., recently crafted a resolution calling for the extension of presidential term limits, which would allow Trump to seek another term in office.

Meanwhile, Trump ally, Steve Bannon, said in an interview on

the obligations of leadership to the people.

“It is not enough that the government will ask that the people should brace themselves for harsh economic conditions. It is more sufficient for the leadership to show compassion on the masses and by acting with fear of God.”

PDP Urges Piety, Fear of God

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the Holy Ramadan fasting.

PDP urged Nigerians to allow the divine lessons, virtues of love, unity, peace, patience, tolerance, restraint and total submission to the Will of the Almighty Allah, among other virtues imbibed during the period, to guide their daily dealings with one another.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, PDP said, ''Our party urges Nigerians, especially those in leadership positions at all levels to re-dedicate themselves to the path of selfless service guided by love, truth, fairness, honesty and impartiality in all their activities and put away acts of corruption, arrogance, manipulation and insensitivity to the plight of the people.

''Indeed, the Eid-el-Fitr offers us as a nation and humanity the divine portal to redeem our nation by standing up for justice, strict adherence to the Rule of Law and accountability in the polity.''

PDP said it was deeply disturbed that while citizens of other countries celebrated Eid-el-Fitr in plenty, Nigerians were dampened in spirit due to the unbearable hardship occasioned by the misrule of the APC administration, which had worsened in the last two years.

According to PDP, ''Our party, however, charges Nigerians not to relent but continue to apply the lessons of Ramadan in recharging their resilience, focus and love for one another in the pursuit of a God-fearing, secure and prosperous nation that we once had under the PDP administration.”

Sanwo-Olu to Muslims: Uphold Ramadan Lessons

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, congratulated the Muslim faithful, particularly the Muslim Ummah in Lagos, as they joined the rest of the world to celebrate Eid-el-Fitri.

Sanwo-Olu urged Muslims to uphold the lessons of Ramadan and to continuously show love, compassion and care to the people, particularly the needy and downtrodden in the society.

In his Eid-el-Fitri message, issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, Tinubu wished the Muslim Ummah more of Ramadan festivities in good health and prosperity.

He appealed to Muslim faithful to continue to offer prayers for continued peace, growth, development and stability in Lagos and Nigeria.

The governor urged Muslims in Lagos State and across Nigeria to continue on the path of spirituality and peaceful co-existence. He implored them not to depart from the lessons learnt during the holy month, especially on perseverance, tolerance and being of good behaviour to one another.

Yusuf Calls for Unity, Justice

Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, felicitated with Muslims in Kano and

News Nation that he believes Trump will “run and win again in 2028.” Bannon said in the same interview that he thought “we’ll have a couple of alternatives” in determining how Trump could seek a third term despite the two-term maximum for holding the presidency.

The White House has amplified Trump’s comments likening himself to royalty, posting a picture of a fake magazine cover depicting the president with a crown after the administration shot down congestion pricing in New York City.

The White House’s post to X quoted Trump’s previous comments on Truth Social: “Long Live The King!”

beyond on the occasion of Eid-Al-Fitr, and urged them to uphold the virtues of patience, compassion, and unity cultivated during the Ramadan fast.

In a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa, Yusuf emphasised the importance of sustaining the spirit of sacrifice and selflessness. He encouraged citizens to support the less privileged and promote harmony in their communities.

Yusuf reassured the people of Kano of his administration’s commitment to improving living conditions, and ensuring economic growth, social welfare, and infrastructure development.

He stressed the need for peaceful coexistence among the ethnic and religious groups in the state, describing unity as Kano’s greatest strength.

Addressing the recent killing of Kano indigenes in Edo State, the governor expressed sorrow over the tragedy. He vowed that his government will not rest until the perpetrators were identified and brought to justice.

NSA, CDS, Service Chiefs, PSC, NPF Salute Muslims

National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, the service chiefs, the Police Service Commission (PSC), and Nigeria Police celebrated with Muslims on Eid-el-Fitr.

A statement personally signed by the NSA said their cooperation against threats to national security was necessary.

Ribadu stated, "On behalf of the management and staff of the Office of the National Security Adviser, I wish to extend heartfelt greetings to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

“This sacred period embodies the virtues of resilience, discipline, and sacrifice. As we celebrate, I urge you to bring these virtues to bear in our collective efforts to strengthen national security.

"Your cooperation in the fight against terrorism and other threats remains vital in ensuring peace and stability across our nation, particularly in our commitment to a 'whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach."

He stated that continued collaboration between the government, religious leaders, communities, and security agencies in combating terrorism and extremism remained paramount.

Ribadu said the celebration of Eidel-Fitr served as a moment for deep reflection, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to peace and national unity.

Abbas, Ganduje Rejoice with Muslims

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr.

Abbas, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, urged the Islamic faithful to continue to imbibe the virtues of the Holy Month, which included piety, sacrifice, charity, and discipline among others.

Ganduje, on his part, rejoiced with all Muslims for the spiritual renewal and discipline attained during the sacred month of fasting, prayer, and devotion to Almighty Allah.

The chairman, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu,

urged the faithful to uphold the virtues of piety, selflessness, and compassion that Ramadan represented, while also extending love and kindness to one another, especially the less privileged in society.

Ganduje said, “As Nigeria continues on its path of growth and development, the APC National Chairman calls on Muslims and all citizens to remain steadfast in promoting unity, peace, and national progress.

“He emphasises that the lessons of Ramadan—patience, sacrifice, and perseverance—are essential in fostering harmony and strengthening the nation’s democratic institutions.”

Idahosa Tasks Muslims on Peace

Edo State Deputy Governor, Mr. Dennis Idahosa, charged the Muslim faithful to imbibe the spirit of peaceful co-existence in accordance with the teachings of the holy month of Ramadan. Idahosa's charge was contained in his message to the Muslim faithful to commemorate the 2025 Eid-El-Fitr. He commended the dedication of Muslims to fasting, prayer, and charitable causes, while reaffirming the Senator Monday Okpbebholo administration's commitment to serving the people and working for a new Edo for all. In the statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo, the deputy governor said he remained optimistic that things would change for the better in the state and the country, in general, especially with the special prayers offered during the holy month by the Muslim faithful.

On the killings of some hunters in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, Idahosa called for calm, and reassured the people that the state government would investigate the matter with a view to brining the perpetrators to book.

Niger Governor Seeks Sustained Peace

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, called for sustained peace in the state as hundreds of Muslims thronged the Minna central prayer ground for eid-el-fitr.

Bago, in a message by his deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, called for sustained peace in the state to ensure rapid development. He asked all the security agencies to continue to perform their duties with utmost diligence in order to make the state a destination for investors. The governor urged wealthy individuals to assist the less privileged in the society and also advised the youth to be law-abiding and not use the period of celebration to cause chaos and unrest.

Adeleke Felicitates Muslims

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, congratulated Muslim Ummah in the state and beyond on the successful completion of this year's Ramadan. Adeleke rejoiced with Muslim faithful on the observance of one of the pillars of Islam, charging them to sustain the culture of giving and selflessness that characterised the Holy month. The governor enjoined Osun people to use the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr to pray

Trump

EID-AL-FITR HOMAGE TO THE PRESIDENT...

L-R: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Vice President Kashim Shettima; Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike; and Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the Eid-al-Fitr homage to the President by the FCT administration at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday

Tinubu: I Contemplated Withdrawing From Presidential Race Due to Economic Uncertainty

Explains

difficult decision to appoint known critic as minister Appreciates Nigerians for 73rd birthday greetings

President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that he contemplated withdrawing from the 2023 presidential race due to the economic uncertainty in the country then.

Reflecting on his political journey, Saturday night, at a special Iftar held in his honour at State House, Abuja, Tinubu recounted a moment of doubt during the 2023 election campaign,

when he contemplated withdrawing from the race after an encounter with a close relative.

According to him, "Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns,

one of them came to my living room around 3:30am and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle.

"He told me the currency is gone because of you. People are jumping

Bamidele: Nigeria Must Invest in Education to Produce Global Billionaires

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, at the weekend challenged governments at all levels, corporate organisations and philanthropists to invest more meaningfully in education to produce global billionaires and brands.

Bamidele, currently representing Ekiti Central, highlighted how developed and emerging nations in Asia, Europe and North America leveraged education as a veritable tool of socio-economic transformation to attain their national aspirations.

He made these calls after the Ekiti State University conferred Doctor of

Law (Honoris Causa) on him at its 29th convocation held on its main campus in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State at the weekend, a statement by his spokesman, Babatola Akinsanmi, noted.

Bamidele received the honour alongside the Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji and Chairman, Governing Board, Bank of Industry (BoI), Dr. Mansur Muhtar, thus making it the third honorary doctorate he had received between January 2003 and March 2025.

In his address at the convocation, Bamidele emphasised the significance of education for the socio-economic transformation of nations worldwide, which according to him, had deployed

to attain their development goals and conquer their heinous challenges.

“When I talk about quality education, I mean the kind of education that liberates minds; that meaningfully transforms generations and that unlocks doors to limitless opportunities across all sectors.

“In this sense, education is a veritable tool that all developed and emerging countries the world over have leveraged to get to where they are today. This tool is equally available to us as a people in the pursuit of our national aspiration,” he argued.

o realise significant socio-economic development across all sectors, however, Bamidele noted that this required providing not only an enabling

environment, but also a highly competitive one for the nation to be globally competitive.

“It also entails purposeful public investments in our younger generations, and we act now. It, no doubt, demands sustained and strategic support from private interests across all sectors that produce the global brands and billionaires.

“This is the credible template that produced Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla; Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon Inc; Mark Zuckerberg, Co-founder of FaceBook and Instagram; Larry Page, CEO of Google; Warren Buffet, the proud owner of Berkshire Hathaway Inc and many more.

UN Experts Call on FG to Halt Demolitions of Waterfront Communities in Lagos

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Nigeria must immediately halt a ‘ruthless’ campaign of home demolitions and forced evictions in waterfront settlements in Lagos, independent human rights experts in the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) have said.

In 1967, the UN established a system to promote and protect human rights around the world, selecting independent experts and giving them a mandate to report and advice on specific human rights issues.

“Demolitions must never lead to homelessness of the evicted persons, who should have access to adequate alternative housing, resettlement and compensation for lost property,” the experts said in a statement.

The latest wave of demolitions

and forced evictions in the waterfront communities of Ilaje-Otumara and Baba Ijora on March 7, it said, left over 10,000 people homeless.

Residents, mainly persons living in poverty, were evicted without prior notice and forced to flee with no time to collect their belongings, as bulldozers razed their homes, businesses and places of worship, the report added.

“Individuals and families affected are now displaced and sleeping outside, and many have lost not only their homes and belongings, but also their livelihoods. The destruction of homes, markets, and fishing areas has also severely impacted food security, leaving many struggling to access daily meals.

“Urban development in the city of Lagos must not harm communities living in poverty who are already suffering due to poor government

housing policies,” the experts said. “International engagement is necessary to ensure assistance to those impacted and avoid recurrence,” they added.

The forced evictions at IlajeOtumara and Baba Ijora were carried out by dozens of armed security forces accompanied by unidentified men armed with machetes, clubs, guns and axes, with officials onlooking, the report stressed.

“They descended on the two communities with a Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) ‘Black Maria’ mobile detention vehicle and excavators, beating residents and demolishing homes and other structures from various directions.

“Many of the people impacted suffered injuries, and some families could not find their children amid the chaos. There was no consultation

or information provided about alternative temporary housing options or resettlement available to those affected.

“Mass demolitions of poor waterfront communities, which are considered prime sites for luxury housing development, have become systematic in Lagos,” the experts said.

In 2017, following demolitions and forced evictions of over 30,000 people from their homes in Otodo-Gbame, the Lagos State High Court, it said, barred the state government from evicting residents from Ilaje-Otumara and other communities in Lagos under threat of eviction without providing adequate resettlement.

In spite of this, since mid-2023 forced evictions, they explained, have resumed, with several waterfront communities impacted, such as most recently in the case of Ayetoro and Oko Baba.

over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn't even have N10,000 in cash.

What are you running for?

"I told him, I am running for President, not for you and our uncle. I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, 'I don't think you will make it.'

I replied, 'I will make it.'"

Tinubu disclosed that his uncle later called to confirm receiving the money, but admitted that he had only given the messenger N10,000, and kept the rest.

He said, "I was amazed. At that moment, I almost dropped the idea of running for President. But thanks to Aminu Masari and all of you who encouraged me. When I came to Abuja, Masari told me, 'I am the Chairman of the North West Group; don't look back.'"

The president stated that he assumed office during a time of economic uncertainty and had to make immediate, difficult decisions, including removing the fuel subsidy.

"On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal," he said, and stressed that Nigeria had reached a point of no return on the issue.

Tinubu stated, "The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time. That was the day I declared that the subsidy was gone. The following day, I was hounded and thoroughly abused in the media. But I stood firm, knowing it was the right thing to do for our nation's future."

The president expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians for their outpouring of goodwill and prayers as he marked his 73rd birthday.

He thanked guests for their presence, prayers, and contributions to the country's development.

Acknowledging the challenges he faced on his path to the presidency, Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Nigeria's progress.

The president also said his decision to appoint Dr Bosun Tijani as Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, despite his past criticisms, was a testament to his belief in recognition of talent, even in those who might have once been critics.

In his remarks, Tijani shared a personal experience regarding his appointment by Tinubu, despite his

past activism and criticism of the president and the National Assembly. He stated, "Before my appointment, I had never met Mr. President. But after my confirmation, he told me, 'I have looked at your records and activism, and I have seen there is something in you. I am giving you the opportunity to represent your country and contribute to making it a better place.

"I was expecting a proper scolding because of my records, but the magnanimity of the president is one that I experienced for the very first time in my life.

"I remember that in that meeting, some people brought out my record again and told Mr. President, 'He said this, he did this.’ But the president said, 'Shut it'."

Responding to the minister's remarks, Tinubu confirmed that nominating Tijani as a minister was a difficult decision, given the reservations by his close associates. He stated, "When I picked him, it was tough. My very close confidantes, who had read his comments on social media, came to me and said, 'No, never.' I said, 'Yes, he is talented. Because he criticises me and pours abuses on the parliament, it does not mean he has nothing to offer. Maybe his frustration at that time will drive him to contribute more to governance.’

“And today, he is doing that, and I am very proud of him."

Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the president's ability to forgive his critics, recalling the intense debate that preceded Tijani's confirmation as a minister.

Akpabio said, "When he came to the Senate for screening, senators said, 'No, no, we can't have him.' One senator quoted from the internet where he described all Nigerian senators as 'morons.'

"I had to stop proceedings and ask Bosun, 'Did you write this?' And he admitted, 'Sir, I did because that was how I felt then.' So, I asked him, 'And you have the audacity to stand before us and expect us to confirm you?'"

The senate president stated that what ultimately swayed the lawmakers was their trust in Tinubu's judgment.

He said, "Mr. President, we confirmed him because we knew you must have seen something special in him. You are never wrong when it comes to your judgment of people.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

GODWIN OMOIGUI

JUMIA’S COURTESY VISIT TO MR GOVERNOR...

NEITI: N9.33tn

Owed FG by Oil Firms Can Offset 72% of N13tn 2025 Budget Deficit

Continues partnership with EFCC to ensure full recovery Gives Q1 report, says it's working with NNPC for full disclosure of forward oil sales

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) at the weekend disclosed that the N9.33 trillion owed the federal government by oil companies operating in Nigeria could offset up to 72 per cent of the total 2025 budget deficit of N13 trillion.

The Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr Ogbonnaya Orji, who spoke during the first quarter press briefing of the organisation on its activities in Abuja, reiterated that of the $8.26 billion indebtedness to Nigeria, converted to N9.3 trillion at the rate of N1,500 per dollar, $4.85 billion had been recovered since 2021.

Speaking extensively on the achievements of NEITI, Ogbonnaya highlighted enhancing industry reporting, strengthening stakeholders’ engagement as well as workforce development as some of its milestones

of NEITI in recent times.

According to him, when paid, the monies owed mostly in unremitted taxes to the federal government will fix several of the funding challenges in the ministries, departments and agencies.

In addition, Orji explained that from NEITI's latest annual report in 2023, Nigeria had earned N831.15 billion in oil and gas revenues since 1999, N1.55 trillion in solid minerals as well as drilled 19 billion barrels of oil during the period.

In addition, between 2007 and 2003, NEITI noted that the country mined 702.6 tonnes of minerals, with 174 total companies audited and 16 extractive industries reports in oil and gas as well as14 solid minerals reports released between 1999 and 2023.

“So far, over $4.85 billion was recovered from the disclosures of $8.26 billion (made by NEITI in its 2021 oil

House Committee

Recovers Additional $14m from Oil Companies

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has recovered an additional $14.2 million (N21.4 billion) from four oil and gas companies as part of its ongoing investigation into financial discrepancies in the sector.

Spokesperson of the House, Akin Rotimi, in a statement issued Saturday, said the latest recovery followed an earlier announcement on March 16 of recoveries amounting to N28.7 billion ($19.24 million), bringing the total money recovered so far to $33.44 million (N50.1 billion).

Rotimi stated, “The breakdown of the latest recoveries is as follows: Platform Petroleum Ltd: $1.9 million (N2.9 billion); Midwestern Oil and Gas Ltd: $1.578 million (N2.3 billion); Universal Energy: $523,845 (N785.7 million); Aradel Energy Ltd: $10.3 million (N15.5 billion).”

He quoted the chairman of the committee, Hon. Bamidele Salam, as saying that the success recorded was due to the unwavering support and leadership of the speaker, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen.

Rotimi said, “The independence granted to committees like ours has enabled us to carry out our mandate

diligently, ensuring that public funds are properly accounted for.

“This approach has been instrumental in our ability to recover these substantial sums, and we remain steadfast in our mission to strengthen financial accountability in Nigeria.”

Salam said the committee had issued a 20-day ultimatum to four companies to remit a total of $23.2 million (N34.8 billion).

According to him, failure to comply within the stipulated time frame will result in the enforcement of appropriate sanctions, including the public naming of defaulters in national newspapers.

Salam said the companies and their required payments were as follows, “Total Energies: $2 million within 7 days; Seplat Energies (SPDC): $6.036 million and N1.5 billion within seven days; Aradel Energy Ltd: $12.1 million within seven days; Network Exploration: $3.1 million within seven days.”

He emphasised the committee’s commitment to enforcing compliance, warning that companies that failed to meet their financial obligations would face the full weight of legislative oversight.

The committee also expressed concern over several companies that had disregarded invitations to appear before it.

and gas report. In the 2023 industry reports released in September 2024, NEITI disclosed liabilities of $6.175 billion and N66.378 billion, showing a significant decline from the liabilities of 2021 reports, yet worrisome because of the need for government to find resources to fund its 2025 budget.

“Analyses of how these liabilities when paid could support the federal government’s domestic revenue mobilisation reveals that the liabilities when converted at N1,500 to one dollar, would amount to N9.33 trillion.

“The sum is more than the federal government’s total budget for health, education, agriculture and food security which totaled N8.73 trillion. Further analyses show that

the sum is also more than the total budget for national security at N6.11 trillion, health at N2.48 trillion and social welfare of N724 billion all put together.

“ The liabilities can also knock off about 72 per cent of the federal government’s budget deficit of N13 trillion for 2025. NEITI is therefore calling on relevant agencies responsible for collecting these revenues to do the needful and support our governments at all levels to provide the muchneeded infrastructure for our citizens,” the transparency organisation stated.

Orji noted that NEITI was continuing its collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to ensure that all

monies owed the federal government are promptly paid.

At the event, NEITI reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s natural resources work for the benefit of all citizens, with the executive secretary, Orji, stressing that when he assumed office, he inherited an institution at a ‘crossroads’.

“NEITI was grappling with serious operational, institutional, and governance challenges that threatened its effectiveness. These included: The absence of a functional National Stakeholders Working Group (NSWG)-a key requirement for sustaining Nigeria’s membership in the global Extractive Industries

Transparency Initiative (EITI) and the threat of eviction from a rented office space.

“(There was) an aging, top-heavy, and disoriented workforce in urgent need of revitalisation; financial constraints, stakeholder apathy, and weak institutional capacity; poor programme content, policy focus, and declining public confidence.

“Beyond these internal challenges, the global extractive industry was undergoing rapid transformation. Issues such as energy transition, beneficial ownership transparency, contract disclosure, and the implementation of Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) were reshaping the sector.

Defunct Heritage Bank: NDIC to Pay Depositors with Balances Above N5 Million Threshold

James Emejo in Abuja

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) yesterday said it has intensified efforts to ensure timely payments to depositors of the defunct Heritage Bank whose balances exceeded the maximum deposit insurance limit of N5 million.

Following the revocation of the bank's operating license by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on June 3, 2024, the NDIC was appointed as the liquidator in accordance with Section 12(2) of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020 and Section 55(1 & 2) of the NDIC Act 2023.

The corporation disclosed this in an update on payment of uninsured sums to depositors of Heritage Bank (In-liquidation).

In line with its statutory mandate, the corporation immediately commenced the bank’s liquidation process, including the verification and payment of insured deposits to all depositors.

However, the NDIC noted that significant progress had been made in reimbursing the insured deposits of the N5 million maximum per depositor.

The clarification came against the backdrop of concerns raised by depositors about the payments.

The NDIC management, in a statement stated that depositors yet to be paid their insured deposits

are largely those without Bank Verification Number (BVN) or alternate accounts in other banks to enable the corporation fetch the accounts from the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) database to effect payment. Other depositors in this category are those with post no debit (PND) restrictions on their accounts.

Additionally, some accounts have Know Your Customer (KYC) limitations such as Tier 1 accounts that places restrictions on the maximum lodgment of funds, while others have name mismatches that require resolution.

It pointed out that some depositors who have been paid may also be unaware that they have received payments due to lack of mobile phone transaction alerts on their alternate accounts into which the insured sums were paid by the NDIC.

It advised depositors to check their alternate bank accounts, as some payments may have been processed without their immediate awareness.

Further on the commencement of payment to uninsured depositors, the NDIC said while depositors with balances above N5 million have been paid the initial insured sums of the amount, the remaining balance in excess of the insured sum of the N5 million already reimbursed, will be paid as liquidation dividends in accordance

with the corporation’s statutory mandate.

The statement added that the corporation had made substantial progress in disposing the physical assets as well as recovering some of the debts of the failed bank to ensure that depositors with balances above the maximum insured limit receive their payments as soon as possible.

The NDIC said, "As a clear demonstration of this commitment, the corporation commenced the realisation of physical assets and investments as well as aggressive recovery of the risk assets, concurrently with the verification and payment of insured sums.

"To ensure transparency and compliance with legal requirements, the NDIC has widely advertised the asset disposal process on its official website, social media platforms, and major national newspapers, as well as through radio and television announcements.

"The corporation's approach of simultaneously paying insured depositors while aggressively pursuing asset sales and debt recovery is designed to accelerate the liquidation process and ensure that all depositors receive their funds without unnecessary delays."

It added, "With the considerable progress recorded in the asset realisation, the corporation

will declare the first tranche of liquidation dividends in April 2025 which will be paid to uninsured depositors on a pro-rata basis, in line with Section 72 of the NDIC Act 2023 on the priority of claims.

"For clarity, the referenced section states that: 'Where an insured institution is unable to meet its obligations or suspends payment, or where its management and control have been taken over by the Central Bank of Nigeria following the revocation of its license, the assets of the insured institution shall be available to meet its deposit liabilities. Such deposit liabilities shall have priority over all other liabilities of the insured institution'.

"Consequently, other claimants of the failed Heritage Bank, including creditors, and shareholders, will be considered for payment of liquidation dividends only after all depositors have been fully reimbursed.

"The NDIC wishes to reiterate its commitment to the safety of depositors’ funds in all licensed banks."

The NDIC however, urged the public to continue their banking activities without fear, as all other banks remain safe and sound. It encouraged affected depositors with further enquiries to contact the Claims Resolution Department of the NDIC for more clarification.

L-R: Head of Legal, Jumia Nigeria, Uche Allison; Regional Head of PR, Jumia Nigeria, Robert Awodu; Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem; Chief Executive Officer, Jumia Nigeria, Sunil Natraj; Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Head of Commercial Operations, Jumia Nigeria, Shola Ositelu; and Head of Commercial, Jumia Nigeria, Oluwafemi Ajulo, during a courtesy visit by Jumia Nigeria to the Governor at the State House, Marina, Lagos, last Friday

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

ACCESS BANK INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CONFERENCE...

L-R: Her Royal Highness, Olori Ivie Atuwase III of Warri; Vice President, Republic of Zambia, Her Honour W.K. Mutale Nalumango; Chairman, Access Holdings PLC, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR; and Executive

Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, during Access Bank’s 2025 International Women’s Day Conference and unveiling of the Power of 100 awardees held in

NCDC: 118 Nigerians Died of Lassa Fever in 1st Quarter 2025

20 healthcare workers infected

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) said 118 lives were lost to Lassa fever, with a case fatality rate of 18.3 per cent.

NCDC said the country had so far recorded 3,465 suspected cases of Lassa fever across 91 local government areas in 33 states.

A statement by NCDC’s Head, Corporate Communication, Mr. Sani Datti, also disclosed that 20 healthcare workers had been infected: eight in Ondo, four in Bauchi, one in Edo, two in Taraba, one in Ebonyi, two in Gombe,

one in Benue, and one in Ogun.

Datti said during the period, January to March 2025, the country recorded 3,465 suspected cases of Lassa fever across 91 local government areas in 33 states.

He stated, "Out of the above figure, 645 cases were confirmed, and sadly, 118 lives lost resulting in a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 18.3 percent.

"Unfortunately, 20 healthcare workers have been infected: 8 in Ondo, 4 in Bauchi, 1 in Edo, 2 in Taraba, 1 in Ebonyi, 2 in Gombe, 1 in Benue, and 1 in Ogun states." NCDC said in line with its commitment to effective

FG Establishes 3,000-hectare Irrigation Farm in Benue

Plans to boost irrigation farming in Nigeria

George Okoh in Makurdi

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, on Sunday said the Makurdi irrigation farm project and Ugondo Community access road were an intervention by the President Bola Tinubu government to boost agricultural production in the country. Ustev said this after inspecting a 3,000-hectare farm at Mbakuv, in Makurdi Local Government Are of the state.

He said the farm had over 3,000 hectares’ irrigable land out of which 1,200 hectares would be used for the irrigation farming while the remaining 1800 hectares would be used for the upcoming Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project.

Ustev explained that 400 hectares were already cleared and in use, adding that contract had been awarded for the study and design of the 600 hectares that was at an advance staged.

The minister also said for the expansion of the existing irrigation farm to take off effectively, contract was awarded for the construction of water channels in the farm.

Ustev stated, "We have given a contract for construction of irrigation channels. We also gave a contract for drip irrigation and contract for the study and design for the expansion of the existing irrigation farm.

"The contractor handling the construction of the channels is doing very well. In fact, the construction of the channel is almost 90%, completed while the drip irrigation is about 67 per cent completed.

"You can see crops that have been cultivated are doing well. We have garden eggs, maize and pepper etc. So, this is what we are doing in a different part of Nigeria."

The minister also disclosed that the Otukpo Multipurpose Dam, which was about 50 per cent completed, was included in the 2025 budget and would be completed.

He said the ministry was also thinking of generating power at the dam to improve power supply in the country.

At the commissioning of the 1.5-kilometre Ugondo Community access road, Utsev said the road would enable the community convey their agricultural produce to the town.

response, the agency deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to 10 states, namely, Kogi, Plateau, Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Taraba, Benue, Gombe, and Nasarawa, for a period of two weeks, between January and March 2025.

The centre also said as a result of the evolving nature of the outbreak in some areas, deployments in Edo and Taraba were extended by 10 and seven days, respectively.

Datti quoted Director-General

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The project coordinator of Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, has assured that the federal government agency will deliver a sustainable clean-up project in Ogoniland.

Zabbey gave the assurance at the weekend, during a courtesy visit by members of the 17th Governing Council of the University of Port Harcourt, led by Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, and Vice Chancellor, Professor Owunari Georgewill, at the agency’s headquarters in Port Harcourt.

Addressing the visitors, Zabbey explained that HYPREP was a project under the Federal Ministry of Environment charged with the responsibility of remediating oil impacted lands and wetlands in Ogoni land and also restoring the

Obi Visits

of NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, as saying regarding effort to respond and strengthen outbreak control, that the agency had activated the Lassa Fever National Emergency Operations Centre (LF-EOC) at Response Level 2.

Idris said the activation allowed for improved coordination across all the stakeholders (federal, states, local government, developmental partners and others).

Idris also said the agency had

livelihoods of the people.

He said, so far, the agency had provided potable water to 30 communities, and assured that at the end of this year it will provide clean water for additional 60 communities.

He said, “We are also straightening the health care system in Ogoni. We have straightened four hospitals; this year we will add four hospitals.”

Speaking further on their achievements, the project coordinator said, “We are building cottage hospital and Ogoni Specialists Hospital. It is important to state that the specialist hospital will have an oncology unit, because the key findings of UNEP is that the Ogoni population has been exposed to carcinogenic contaminants from carbon pollution over the years. So, there was a need to monitor them and take them off cancer and cancer related ailments.

“We are also carrying out our environmental remediation and restoration which we divide into three components: shoreline clean-up,

distributed essential medical supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPEs) and treatment medications, to affected states. He stated, "Also, targeted, state-specific advisories have been issued to guide the prevention and control of Lassa fever.

"Despite these efforts, several challenges have hindered response efforts:

"These include weak

community-level surveillance which impedes early detection, and inadequate human and financial resources for treatment, contact tracing, and active case search at both state and community levels.

"Furthermore, treatment centres are experiencing manpower shortages, and many patients, delay seeking care often resorting to self-medication and unorthodox practices, which ultimately prove ineffective."

soil and ground water remediation and mangrove restoration.”

Zabbey added, “For the first time in this region, we are restoring different species of mangroves. Before now, it was usually the red mangrove, but now we are planting red, white and black mangroves. We have also provided knowledge legacy in the Ogoni land and for the general public.

“We are constructing the Ogoni power project and we are constructing the Centre of Excellence for environmental restoration. We have over 100 projects going on in Ogoni at the moment.

“Last year we provided an educational support grant to 250 Ogoni undergraduate students. This year we issued 300 scholarships to 300 post graduate students from Ogoni extraction, 100 are doing PhD, while 200 are doing Masters.”

Stating that the University of Port Harcourt was the technical backbone of the Ogoni clean-up, Zabbey said, “We appreciate this visit because it is

a major encouragement for the entire team in implementing this project for me and all my colleagues. We appreciate this visit and even the promise to support the bill that will elevate the project to an agency.”

Earlier, Ohuabunwa acknowledged the agency’s effort in ensuring the remediation and restoration of the Ogoni land.

Ohuabunwa, who represented Abia North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, said, “This is a new agency, a child of necessity, but within a short period what we are hearing shows that you are doing well. And we are here to solidarise with you to assure you that as our own we will continue to partner with you.”

He added, “We need a permanent structure like this. When you talk about remediation, it is not only in Rivers or Ogoniland, even in the north we have issues of pollution that require immediate attention in areas of remediation.

Scene of Onitsha Market Infernos, Sympathizes with Victims

David-Chyddy Eleke in

Awka

Former governor of Anambra State, and presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has visited victims of Onitsha Market fire incident.

Recall that a mystery fire incident last week gutted parts of two separate markets in Onitsha - electronics market at Iweka Road and warehouses at Ifejirika Street, within the Main Market.

During the sympathy visit Obi sympathized with the owners of the ware house, and traders who own the shops where the incident happened.

He expressed deep concern over the impact of the disaster on the victims, many of whom rely solely on their businesses for livelihood.

He said: “I am calling on well to do Nigerian, this who can should come to the aide of these people.

He described the experience as heartbreaking, lamenting the magnitude of loss suffered by the traders, noting that goods worth several billions of naira were consumed by the infernos.

“In moments like this, our shared humanity must prevail. Let us come together to restore hope, rebuild livelihoods, and reaffirm the spirit of community that defines us.” One of the affected traders, Mr. Jeremiah Nwabueze, who showed the presidential candidate around expressed gratitude to Mr. Peter Obi for the visit, describing it as deeply consoling.

Vice-Chair,

Lagos, last Friday PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

Much Ado About Immortalising Humphrey Nwosu

Recent calls to immortalise Chairman of defunct National Electoral Commission, Prof Humphrey Nwosu has elicited a lot of reactions. While some believe he deserve a posthumous national honour as one of the heroes of June 12, 1993 presidential poll, others think otherwise. Adedayo Akinwale reports.

While so many things have been written concerning the June 12, 1993 presidential election — as the freest and most transparent in recent history of the country — most stories often center around the presumed winner of the election, late Chief MKO Abiola.

Ironically, Chairman of the defunct National Electoral Commission (NEC), late Humphrey Nwosu, whose ingenuity and his adoption of Open Ballot System popularly referred to as Option A4 in which voters queued up behind the symbol of the party of their choice to vote and to be physically counted, produced the undisputed election in the country.

Before the 1993 poll, several elections had been held in the country that had been disputed. However, the election conducted by Nwosu has remained the benchmark of what a free and fair election should look like — where electorates are given the chance to choose who rules them.

Surprisingly, in June 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari honoured Abiola with the highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), posthumously, while his running mate, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, was awarded Grand Commander of Niger (GCON). The government did not deem it fit to honour the man that made June 12 possible.

It was against this background that the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood at an event last Monday tagged, “Afternoon of Tributes” called on the federal government to honour Nwosu, a Professor of Political Science who died in October, 2024.

Yakubu said Nwosu did his best — which was not always appreciated by many —including those who appointed him under an indefinite transition from military rule to democracy which ended in the annulment of the presidential election held in 1993, resulting in the dissolution of the electoral commission and the emergence of an interim national government.

Yakubu was of the opinion that if it was an oversight on the part of the federal government to honour Nwosu when he was alive and Abiola and Kingibe were honoured, it wasn’t too late to honour him posthumously.

The innocent call by the chairman of the electoral body for Nwosu to be honoured had since generated a lot of controversy in the political space. While some shared the same sentiments with INEC, others thought otherwise.

For instance, former INEC Chairman, Prof. Attaihiru Jega believed Nwosu’s contribution significantly brought integrity to the country’s electoral process. He emphasised that his contribution to the June 12,1993 presidential election was very heroic and deserved to be appropriately appreciated, recognised and honoured.

He pointed out that during the military era, those of them in academia saw evidence of loss of intellectual integrity, courage of conviction and evidence of a lot of pandering to the wishes of the military rulers at that time.

According to Jega: “I must admit, some of us were skeptical that another professor under a transition program of the military regime, piloting elections, which are key aspects of that transition process was again likely to bring us the disrespect, dishonor and shame that we felt for some of those professors that were involved in government at that time.

But I must say, and I think everybody will attest to it that Professor Humphrey Nwosu, did his job with the seriousness that he deserved, focus, passion and at his heart, very clearly, with the interest of the nation at heart. What he did, no doubt, has contributed very significantly to the effort to bring integrity to elections”.

To the former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, Nwosu was someone that knew what to do, how to do it and he did it well.

He said: “The elections that he really worked on came to be celebrated. The President was celebrated, the Vice President was celebrated,

other people were celebrated, but the person who produced the election was forgotten. That was not right, and therefore I conclude by speaking to the powers that be, Humphrey Nwosu must be recognised”.

Nevertheless, last Wednesday a motion to immortalise Nwosu moved by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and several co-sponsors from the minority caucus, largely representing the South-East geopolitical zone led to a heated debate in the Senate.

Presenting the motion, Abaribe argued that Nwosu’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy remain undeniable, despite the challenges he faced, saying he conducted an election that remains a reference point in the country’s electoral history. He added that it was only right that the Senate recognised his role and honour his memory.

But, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibril Barau remarked that the motion was “controversial,” given the divided opinions of Nigerians on Nwosu’s role during the June 12 election.

“It is controversial. Some people see him as one of those who truncated June 12, others say he was a hero of democracy,” he posted.

When it was put to a voice vote, Jibrin ruled in favour of the “nays”, effectively rejecting any further action on the motion.

An emotional Abaribe queried, “What is wrong with this motion? What is wrong with a motion to immortalise Prof. Nwosu?”

At this point, South-East Senators, including Patrick Ndubaeze and Victor Umeh, openly expressed their dissatisfaction with the rejection of the motion.

“What is the meaning of this? We can’t continue to do things this way. What is going on?” Umeh exclaimed, hitting his desk in frustration.

In his contribution, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi accused Jibrin of attempting to silence senators.

“We can interject with personal explanations at any time; we have to allow people to speak; otherwise, we are saying that whenever things go wrong, we cannot intervene to correct ourselves,” he argued.

As tensions continued to mount, Senate President Godswill Akpabio was forced to step in to calm the heated debate, urging lawmakers to approach the issue with a sense of national unity.

“We must handle this matter with sensitivity and respect for history. While opinions may differ, we should focus on strengthening our democratic institutions rather than revisiting past divisions,” he advised.

During Thursday’s plenary, Senator Adeola Olamilekan said he tried as much as possible to

Yakubu was of the opinion that if it was an oversight on the part of the federal government to honour Nwosu when he was alive and Abiola and Kingibe were honoured, it wasn’t too late to honour him posthumously. The innocent call by the chairman of the electoral body for Nwosu to be honoured had since generated a lot of controversy in the political space. While some shared the same sentiments with INEC, others thought otherwise.

avoid contributing to the debate to immortalise Nwosu when the matter came up the previous day at the Senate.

His words: “I have tried as much as possible to avoid yesterday, when my brother, Senator Abaribe, brought this matter up, I look up and said, No, I will not allow this to happen because it’s about to remind me of a very sad memory.

“I’m not speaking along party lines or ethnic or whatsoever. As I’ve watched and listened to the contributions thus far, as a result of the action and inaction of Professor Nwosu, I lost my immediate younger brother. He died right behind me for refusing to do or carry out his duty as NEC chairman.

“Mr. President, many of my colleagues have stood up here and said he conducted the free and fairest election. There are three different meanings and three different interpretations that we should look at. Conducting elections, releasing results and announcing results. Yes, he conducted the election; Yes, he released all the results, but you and I know releasing results is not the same thing as announcing results.

“He failed at the critical moment when he’s supposed to salvage this democracy. Today, we celebrate Abiola, or those people who have contributed to the success story of June 12 because they put their lives on the line. If he cowardly withdrew in doing what is right at the critical moment. I think my brothers here should be fair enough.”

In an interview he granted a TV station while alive, Nwosu while reflecting on the June 12 presidential poll, said he had all the results from the states except for Taraba.

He added that he was determined to announce all the election results until a court order was served on him by the Commissioner of Police. Nwosu stated: “You knew all the problems, all the restrictions, in spite of all that, June 12 came, the election was conducted, It was peaceful. Materials were distributed all over Nigeria. When the results started coming on June 13, 14. In fact, it was to be concluded around June 17, 18. The other party, NRC, had even congratulated SDP for winning.

“Suddenly, there was a letter served on me by the Commissioner of Police that we should cease forthwith.

“I summoned an emergency meeting of the commission on June 16. All the results had come in, with the exception of that of Taraba, which the Resident Electoral Commissioner f was on his way to bring, we would have released the result about June 17. So they said, stop. I was served.

“In fact, I was called into a meeting of the National Defense and Security Council and said, “would you release this result?” without knowing, I said, That’s the law. There was no provision of the highest ruling military body to vet the results. The law says results should be announced at each level — the polling station, local government, state and finally, their conclusion at headquarters.

“My commission met and we decided that we will challenge that ruling by the Abuja High Court, because of the Commissioner of Police that served it.”

Nwosu said after a series of meetings with the committee headed by late General Sani Abacha, he insisted that the commission must be allowed to announce the results and whoever felt aggrieved should approach the tribunal.

He added that he declared the election as incomplete and inconclusive because NEC wasn’t allowed to announce the Taraba results, before the commission was later dissolved by the military.

In 2008, Nwosu published a book in which he claimed that Babangida was not to blame for annulling the election. The book was severely criticized for failing to accurately account for what happened.

Although, South East lawmakers are not resting on their oars, following their call on President Bola Tinubu to immortalise Nwosu. To be or not to be, only my time will tell.

Nwosu

Reflecting on WIJAFRICA’s 2024 Nigeria’s 25 Most Powerful Women in Journalism

As the commemoration of 2025 Women’s Month winds up today, it was an opportune moment to reflect on the remarkable strides made by women in journalism in Nigeria. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the Women in Journalism Africa’s (WIJAFRICA), selection of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Journalism in 2024, remains a significant milestone in celebrating excellence, resilience, and mentorship within Nigeria’s media landscape

At the heart of Women in Journalism Africa’s (WIJAFRICA) mission is the recognition of trailblazing women who continue to shape the industry and inspire the next generation. The 2024 list, unveiled during the organisation’s 10th anniversary celebration in Lagos on October 1, 2024, was particularly noteworthy for honouring female journalists, just as it spotlighted emerging voices.

Founder and coordinator of WIJAFRICA, Yomi Owope, underscored the importance of this initiative, tracing its origins to his time at Pan-Atlantic University’s School of Media and Communication. “We set up a think tank on how to impact media, and when I met my project supervisor, he asked me to find a niche. It took a lot of time and many people putting in their ideas, but that was how the initiative was born,” he explained.

The ceremony, hosted by renowned broadcaster Olive Emodi, was a gathering of industry veterans, editors, and media executives, all united in celebrating women’s impact in journalism while paying tribute to seven veteran journalists- Lady Maiden Ibru, Ruth Osime, Eugenia Abu, Bimbo Oloyede, and Aisha Falode, for their unwavering dedication to mentorship.

Doing Good Journalism

Reflecting on the theme “Doing Good Journalism”, Prof Ikechukwu Obiaya, Dean of the School of Media and Communication (SMC), Pan Atlantic University (PAU), who emphasised that technological advancements have transformed journalism, making information more accessible but also increasing bias and distortions, stressed the need to uphold truth.

Veteran journalist Eugenia Abu, who also echoed this, noted that while the digital age has blurred the lines between content creators and consumers, ethical journalism remains essential, the growing influence of women in the field and the need to uphold journalistic integrity despite the push for speed, must be upheld.

Meanwhile, beyond recognition, WIJAFRICA took a step further in fostering the future of journalism by announcing scholarships for young female journalists to study at the SMC, PAU, reflecting its commitment to equipping the next generation with the skills and opportunities to thrive.

Behold 25 Most Powerful Women in Journalism for 2024

No 1- Stella Din Jacob: The Leader of Nigeria’s Largest Newsroom

With more than 30 years of experience,Stella Din Jacob, Director of News and Editor-in-Chief at TVC Communications, leads the largest newsroom in Nigeria. Overseeing news coverage across all 36 states, her leadership during the most extensive election coverage in the nation’s history was lauded across the industry.

No 2- Toun Okewale Sonaiya: Amplifying Women’s Voices

Toun Okewale Sonaiya, founder of WFM, Nigeria’s first women-focused radio station, has been a champion for gender equality. Her station, operating in Lagos and Abuja, addresses critical issues such as gender balance in politics and corporate boardrooms, while also advocating for women’s rights, particularly against gender-based violence.

No 3- Kadaria Ahmed: Voice of Northern Nigeria Kadaria Ahmed, CEO of Radio Now, is known for her fearless journalism and dedication to giving a voice to the voiceless, especially in Northern Nigeria. Through her platform, she highlights security, education, and politics, particularly in conflict-affected regions.

No 4- Maupe Ogun Yusuf: The Respected TV Anchor Maupe Ogun Yusuf, a prominent anchor and interviewer with Channels TV, has risen to become one of Nigeria’s most powerful women in journalism. Her interviews are known for their depth and ability to challenge societal and political issues.

No 5- Azeezat Olaoluwa: The Fearless BBC Journalist

Azeezat Olaoluwa has distinguished herself as a fearless reporter with the BBC. Her work includes groundbreaking reports from Nigeria’s North East, including coverage of the Chibok girls’ abduction anniversary and the Maiduguri floods.

No 6 - Chiemelie Ezeobi: Shaping Security

Journalism

Chiemelie Ezeobi is a Nigerian investigative journalist renowned for her in-depth reporting on defence, security, and conflict issues. She serves as the Group Features Editor at THISDAY Newspaper, a leading national daily in Nigeria. Ezeobi’s dedication to journalism has earned her multiple accolades locally and globally.

No 7- Tessy Ogomu: Advocacy Through Journalism

Tessy Ogomu has built a reputation around her dedication to social justice and human rights journalism in the Punch Newspapers, focusing on challenges faced by marginalised communities, particularly women and children.

No 8 - Amarachi Ubani: Bridging Global and Local News

Amarachi Ubani, an anchor on Channels TV, is renowned for her international affairs reporting. She skillfully brings global news to Nigerian audiences, making complex international issues accessible and relevant to the local context.

No 9- Sharon Ijasan: The Voice of Vulnerable Communities

Sharon Ijasan, a senior correspondent at TVC News, is known for her courageous reporting on issues affecting vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. Through her investigative work, she continues to shine a light on overlooked societal issues, advocating for change.

No 10- Siju Alabi: Inspirational Media Leader

Siju Alabi has made her mark in religious and inspirational broadcasting, using her platform to share stories of hope and positivity. Her faithbased journalism has inspired many, earning her a place as one of Nigeria’s top women in media.

No 11- Doja Allen: Strategic Media Executive

Doja Allen is recognised for her visionary leadership in media. She has played a crucial role in shaping broadcasting and content creation in Nigeria, steering some of the country’s leading media organisations toward inclusive and innovative programming. She is the MD/CEO City1051Fm.

No 12- The “Your View”TVC Team: Amplifying Women’s Voices

The Your View team on TVC News—Morayo Afolabi Brown, Tope Mark Odigie, Nymat Akashat, Mariam Longe, and Obiajulu Ugboh—collectively hold this spot. Their daily talk show tackles important societal, political, and cultural issues from a uniquely female perspective, making it one of Nigeria’s most popular platforms for women’s voices.

No 13- Stephanie Busari: A Digital Journalism Pioneer Stephanie Busari is the digital bureau head for CNN Africa and has been a driving force in digital storytelling. She played a critical role in breaking major stories, including the kidnapping

of the Chibok girls, which garnered international attention. Her work continues to set the standard for digital journalism in Africa.

No 14- Konye Nwabogor: Fashion and Lifestyle Journalist Konye Nwabogor is one of Nigeria’s leading fashion and lifestyle journalists. Her work as Editor of THISDAY Style highlights the intersection of culture and fashion, influencing the way Nigerian fashion is understood and appreciated both locally and internationally.

No 15- Kikelomo Atanda Owo: Transformative Media Leadership

Kikelomo Atanda Owo is recognised for her leadership in creating inclusive spaces in the media for women and youth. Through her platforms, she amplifies underrepresented voices, driving change in Nigerian media.

No 16- Ayo Mairo Ese: Advocacy Challenging Societal Norms

Ayo Mairo Ese uses her platform on Arise TV, where she is Co-anchor of The Morning Show, to challenge societal norms and advocate for women’s empowerment. Her shows address critical issues facing women, helping to push for societal reforms.

No 17- Jasiri Group on News Central: The New Generation

The Jasiri team on News Central—Tolulope Adeleru Balogun, Omotunde David, Blessings Mosugu, and Katherine Obiang—represents a fresh wave of journalism. Their innovative and insightful coverage of pan-African issues has made them rising stars in the media landscape.

No 18- Neya Kalu: Shaping African Narrative through Media

Neya Kalu, Publisher of The Sun Newspaper, is a media entrepreneur focusing on youth-oriented content and African storytelling. She is part of a new generation of women leaders who are using media to shape Africa’s narrative.

No 19- Nancy Iloh: Business and Financial Journalism Pioneer

Nancy Iloh has made her mark as a leading business journalist. She simplifies complex financial issues for her audience, ensuring that critical economic policies are accessible to the general public. She is a Broadcast journalist and host of Moneyline with Nancy.

No 20- Esther Omopariola: Covering Business and Economics

Esther Omopariola is an authoritative voice in business journalism, providing in-depth coverage of economic challenges facing Nigeria. Her work as business news anchor at TVC News, helps the public understand pressing financial matters.

No 21- Kemi Ajumobi: Women’s Empowerment Advocate

Kemi Ajumobi, Associate Editor at BusinessDay Newspaper, has dedicated her career to promoting women in leadership roles

across industries. Her journalistic work showcases the achievements of women, advocating for gender equality and empowerment.

No 22- Ini John Mekwa: Humanitarian Storyteller Ini John Mekwa is celebrated for her focus on human interest stories, particularly those involving marginalised communities. Her storytelling sheds light on critical social issues and pushes for necessary policy reforms.

No 23- Veronica Dan Ikpoyi: A Broadcaster with a Purpose

Veronica Dan Ikpoyi has used her platform to advocate for social justice and equality. Her work as a broadcaster challenges norms and encourages systemic change in Nigeria. She is a news anchor on TVC communications.

No 24- Ireti Bakare Yusuf: Feminist Advocate and Media Strategist

Ireti Bakare Yusuf is a vocal advocate for feminism and gender equality, using her media platform to challenge societal stereotypes. She continues to push for greater representation of women in leadership positions. She is radio and television broadcaster as well as host of Borderlines on Nigeria Info Fm. No 25 - Funke Fayemi: Shaping the Narrative Funke Fayemi has dedicated her career to influencing how women are portrayed in the media. Her leadership and journalistic work ensure that the stories of women in Nigeria are told with dignity and respect.

Honourary Mentions

Victoria Ajayi, the Group Managing Director of TVC Communications; Madam Funke Moore, former General Manager of Lagos Television; Dr. Adeola Ekine, Chairperson of Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter; Mrs. Ifeyinwa Omowole, former president, of Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter; Jemi Ekunkunbor, Editor, Vanguard Allure; and Onah Nwachukwu Editor, The Will Downtown received honorary mentions.

Others include Olive Emodi, Host the Breakfast Show, on News Central; Tewa Onasanya, Publisher Exquisite Magazine and founder Exquisite Woman of the Year; Azuka Ogujiuba, Founder, Media Room Hub; Nkem Onwudiwe, Fmounder, Her Network; and Debbie Larry Izamoje, COO Brilla FM.

Undoubtedly, last year’s WIJAFRICA Top 25 honorees represent some of best of women in Nigerian journalism as they continue to break barriers, mentor the next generation, and shape the media landscape in ways that foster a more inclusive, equitable society. According to Owope, their contributions to the field not only uplift women’s voices but also create a lasting impact on journalism in Nigeria and beyond. Thus, as the media industry continues to evolve, WIJAFRICA’s annual selection serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions of women in journalism. By amplifying their voices and honouring their achievements, the initiative reinforces the importance of integrity, diversity, and mentorship in shaping the future of Nigerian media.

Yomi Owope flanked by the 2024 WIJAFRICA’s 25 Most Powerful Women in Journalism

TRIBUTE

Ayo Adebanjo: The Road Not Taken

By Oma Djebah

By next month, precisely April 30, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a towering elder-statesman, journalistLawyer, federalist, frontline Afenifere leader and one of the behemoths of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), who passed away peacefully in his Lekki, Lagos home, on March 14, will begin his journey home. Though he departed at the ripe age of 96, his death is a big loss to journalism and the media. The late nonagenarian, was first and foremost, a journalist before his transition into law and politics. Even so, he remained on the Board of Tribune for decades, a measure that mirrors and underlines his personality as a valuable gift to journalism. His love for the media, was therefore, understandingly infectious, compelling. He evinced this during the June 12, 1993 struggles by NADECO for the restoration of democracy and late M.K.O Abiola’s electoral mandate.

As a consequence, I find it difficult to pen this tribute. I remember March 14, the day that Pa Adebanjo, whose love for the words, also defined his essence, passed away. It was unsettling, and I came close to bawling like a child. I have not had the opportunity of seeing him, in recent time. The last time I saw him was in 2015, ten years ago, when I visited him in his Lekki, Lagos home. I had gone to introduce the editor of The New Diplomat, a digital newspaper I founded upon completion of my term in the government of Delta State. I met him in company of Otunba Gbenga Daniel, a former governor of Ogun State, ace founder of Krestal Laurel, an electro-mechanical engineering firm, and currently, a Senator, representing Ogun East. That Morning, he was in his usual elements- candid, and plain-spoken.

Pa Adebanjo always stood on the side of press freedom, exemplifying great courage, frankness and consistency, especially during the darkest days of late General Sani Abacha’s regime, when the media operated under severe peril and intense adversities. To journalists, his doors were always open, notwithstanding the risks as the Abacha regime regarded the media as highly adversarial. His influence and deeds resonated far and wide. This was because, Adebanjo believed that good journalism is good for the soul of society. It is incredibly healing, therapeutic. One was therefore naturally crest-fallen, emotional. As I recall, Chief Adebanjo was always available to speak, rail against the military regime at the time. Indeed, his consistent denunciation, candid criticism, and incendiary censure of Abacha’s regime, were rich contents for the media, including TheGuardian where I worked at the time.

Sadly, Pa Adebanjo has joined the list of esteemed members of the depleting league of late elder-statesmen in the pro-democracy community whom I was privileged to have cultivated as engaging news sources during that period in the course of my journalistic career. The late icons include Chief Anthony Enahoro, NADECO leader (alongside Chief Adekunle Ajasin), pivotal nationalist, first Parliamentarian to move the motion for Nigeria’s independence in 1953, and Nigeria’s youngest editor ever at 21 in 1944; Chief Abraham Adesanya, Second Republic Senator and leader of Afenifere; Chief Olu Benson Lulu-Briggs, billionaire founder of Moni Pulo, and a chieftain of NADECO; Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, Secretary of NUPENG and fervent activist; Chief Alfred Rewane, a NADECO stalwart; Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, former governor of Anambra State and an unfaltering NADECO chief; General Adeyinka Adebayo, former military governor

of the old Western Region; Dr Chuba Okadigbo, ex-colourful President of the Senate; Chief Gani Fawehinmi, radical Lagos Lawyer and one of the pre-eminent champions of democracy and the rule of law; Mr Chima Ubani, Executive director of the Civil Liberties Organization, CLO, Senator Kanti Bello, a reformist politician, Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, erstwhile military governor of Lagos State, Air Commodore Dan Suleiman, ex-military governor of old Plateau state, etc.

To help drown my emotions, I picked up a book, which I found very insightful, illuminating, The Age of Voter Rage: The Tyranny of Small Numbers, authored by Nik Nanos, a Professor of Data Analytics at the State University of New York, Buffalo. A richly interesting book, which offers lavish insights into how a slew of propaganda, fake news, and voter sentiments influence elections outcomes across various jurisdictions, the book provides riveting dynamics of how democracy is painfully, ironically being satiated with fake news, spins, trolls, propaganda, and how nanoscopic voters are tragically shaping democratic institutions through voters-rage, spurred by swing votes, and social media nuances. Even so, the emotional unease would not cease. Adebanjo was not just a journalist’s delight, he was a fervent anti-military rule champion. Beneath his frame, laid a bedrock of geniality, principles and vision which attracted him to many journalists covering politics, especially between 1992-1997.

To hark back, I first met Adebanjo in 1992. As a journalist covering politics, I yearned for big stories-news content that would make headlines. As a result, I wanted to interview Chief Enahoro, the legendary journalist, quintessential nationalist, and sublime golfer, who was championing restructuring under the auspices of the Movement for National Reformation (MNR), at the time. One of the preeminent progressive voices who helped me greatly in my early days in journalism was Second Republic governor of Kwara State, Senator Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, whom I am grateful to, for his invaluable support and encouragement during those turbulent years of Babangida and Abacha regimes. Chief Adebayo is congenial, and, to boot, exceptionally media savvy. His profundity of thoughts, rich sense of intellectual wit, openness

was unequivocal and lashed at the Abacha junta. The disruption was so intense that one had thought that Adebanjo would go underground, as many nestled, huddled away in fear, and panic. Conversely, he demonstrated courage at that inauspicious occasion. He was not just plain-spoken, he spoke straight-from-the -shoulder. You didn’t have to forage or scout out for the news content as a journalist. He roared: “ Write it and publish it. Whether Abacha likes it not, it is the position of NADECO that Abacha should quit now and hand-over power to the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential elections, MKO Abiola. We shall not stop speaking, and we in NADECO shall be meeting again. Where was Abacha when I marched on Race Course in the 1940s and 1950s, fighting for independence?” Predictably, Adebanjo’s assertion was the headline on many newspapers the following day.

drew some of us to him, and his Surulere residence was like a rendezvous of a kind.

So, it was Chief Adebayo, later minister of Works, Transport and Communications, respectively, between 2003-2007, who asked that I meet him at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos at about 8;00am one Monday morning in 1992. As a peripatetic journalist, I had just wrapped up an interview with General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, a frontline presidential aspirant of the erstwhile Social Democratic party (SDP), one of the two political parties midwifed by General Babangida’s regime, and I hopped into my Volkswagen Beetles car and headed for Ikeja, navigating through the snail-paced Lagos traffic. I successfully made it to Sheraton Hotel. Without further ado, Chief Adebayo took me under his wings upstairs. Therein, he introduced me to the coterie of Chief Anthony Enahoro ; Chief Abraham Adesanya; Chief Alfred Rewane, and Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

Interestingly, what struck me about Chief Adebanjo were his sense of precision, candour, and impeccable dress sense. He was attired in a well spruced up suit coat, and he drove a clean, white Mercedez Benz car. He spoke precisely as he felt and thought with straightforwardness.

“How do I pronounce your name? Are you from Kwara?,’’ he asked, looking at my complimentary card. “Sir, my name is Oma Djebah, from Delta State. I cover Politics for Classique magazine.”, I replied. Thus, began a relationship which prospered for about 33 years. Chief Adebanjo, was without doubt, one of the most principled, and media friendly personalities of his generation during the June 12, 1993 struggles.

Jovial, pleasant, and very courageous, he represented the best of his age. His infectious personality, contagious and commanding voice were quite thrilling and rip-roaring. He followed up on developments as a figure whose first training was journalism. In the intervening years, when I joined TheGuardian, and later ThisDay, he was among the first to wish me well in my new roles. Always unafraid to address any subject matter under the sun, I recall interviewing him in 1997, when a hail of gunfire by Abacha’s security’s henchmen disrupted a reception in honour of the then outgoing United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr Walter Carrington, at the Surulere homes of Pa Solanke Onasanya and his, respectively. He

Pa Adebanjo was one of Nigeria’s most consequential elder-statesmen, and legendary reformers who stood on the side of principles during that tumultuous period. He believed that the society must be democratic, free and allow the journalist the freedom to function. In an age where opportunism seems to trump logic, industry and forthrightness, and peeve long-term strategic goal and patriotism, it is applaudable that Adebanjo was steadfast in his fervent belief in democracy and federalism. As one newspaper editorialized “ A Great elder-statesman has departed.” Truly, he was. Though, he was often criticized for allegedly being too inelastic and antagonistic to all those who oppose his views, Adebanjo habitually explained that he was simply being consistent as an Awoist and a democrat. Even so, his critics believe he was too inflexible. Born on April 10, 1928 in Isanya Ogbo, a community near Ijebu Ode in present day Ogun State, Adebanjo started off as a journalist, and later studied Law in the United Kingdom. Upon his return, he launched himself into politics, full throttle, in the 1950s, pitching tent under Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Action Group (AG). And he remained an unyielding federalist, heartfelt disciple of Awo and inductile advocate of restructuring. Adebanjo was a very disciplined family man. He relished vegetables, fruits and engaged in physical exercises religiously. In his over 75 years of active political engagements, Adebanjo played various roles and left his marks with admirable dignity and auditable accomplishments.

He is survived by his long-standing wife, Mrs Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, 94, his children, grand- children and great grand-children. As Robert Frost, one of America’s most noteworthy poets of the 20th century, who won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry, four successive times, once put it in the last stanza of his poem entitled, “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”: “The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But I have promises to keep, And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep.”. Pa Adebanjo’s life was a life well lived, a life of great purpose, and sterling accomplishments. He took the path of humanity and noble deeds. He will be greatly missed. May his soul rest in peace.

*NB: Ambassador Oma Djebah, Journalist-Diplomat, Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), former Delta State Honourable Commissioner for Information, and previously Nigeria’s Ambassador to Thailand with concurrent accreditation to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific(UNESCAP), Bangkok, is the author of the book, Niger Delta: Media & Peacebuilding Options.

Adebanjo

This Week In Tech

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Ikponmwosa: Automation Boosts Efficiency, but Human Touch Is Irreplaceable

Roberta Ikponmwosa is a trailblazer in the technology sector, blending visionary leadership with a deep commitment to diversity, innovation, and growth. With nearly a decade of experience driving organisational change, she has become a key figure in shaping the future of workplace culture in tech. Currently, as Chief People Officer at Risey AI, Roberta is at the forefront of revolutionising customer engagement through cuttingedge artificial intelligence. In this interview, Roberta reflects on her journey, her passion for fostering inclusive work environments, and her vision for the future of tech innovation. Nosa Alekhuogie presents the excerpts.

You have successfully scaled tech teams from early-stage startups to larger organisations. What are the key factors that determine whether a team can grow sustainably?

From my experience over the years working in core tech companies globally, scaling tech teams sustainably requires balancing strategy, culture, and execution. A key success factor is hiring for long-term fit rather than just immediate needs. Many companies struggle with this due to the fast-paced nature of tech. Talent acquisition should prioritise adaptability, problem-solving, and alignment with the company’s vision. Given the rapid evolution of skills in fast-scaling teams, hiring for learning agility and resilience is crucial.

Strong leadership and a clear organisational structure are also essential. As teams grow, well-defined roles and career progression frameworks help retain talent and improve engagement. Losing key talent is a major risk, so leadership development programs, mentorship, and structured growth pathways are critical for sustaining success. Company culture also plays a vital role in scaling. High-performing tech teams thrive in environments that encourage innovation and psychological safety, where they can experiment, take risks, and share ideas freely. As an HR leader, I focus on fostering trust and collaboration to ensure innovation remains a priority.

Scaling is not just about hiring. It is about evolving processes, onboarding, and performance management to support larger teams. My experience with automation in onboarding, performance tracking, and engagement strategies has demonstrated their impact on efficiency and team mindset. Ultimately, scaling isn’t just rapid expansion; it’s about building a high-performing, sustainable team that continuously innovates and drives business growth.

With the rise of AI and automation, how do you see the role of HR evolving in the tech industry over the next decade?

This is a great question, as the role of HR in tech is a subject of ongoing debate. Over the next decade, AI and automation will reshape how businesses operate, but rather than reducing HR’s relevance, these advancements will elevate its strategic impact. HR leaders will shift from administrative tasks to high-value, people-focused initiatives.

For example, AI-driven analytics will enable predictive decision-making, helping organisations attract, develop, and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive landscape. HR will also play a key role in personalising employee experiences, leveraging automation to tailor career development, performance management, and continuous learning.

With the demand for specialised tech talent outpacing supply, strategic workforce planning will be critical. HR will lead upskilling and reskilling efforts to future-proof organisations.

Additionally, as AI becomes more embedded in hiring and performance evaluation, HR must ensure these processes remain ethical, unbiased, and inclusive, reinforcing diversity and equity. My stance is that while automation will enhance efficiency, the human element remains irreplaceable. HR will continue to foster creativity, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring technology serves as an enabler rather than a substitute for meaningful human connection and culture.

How can performance frameworks and leadership training drive innovation in tech organisations?

Throughout my career, I have seen firsthand how detrimental it is to tech teams when performance frameworks are either absent or poorly implemented. Without a structured approach, employees lack clarity on expectations and struggle to assess how their daily work contributes to the organisation as a whole. This often results in confusion, duplicated efforts, and a misalignment with business objectives, stifling innovation and growth.

Performance frameworks and leadership training serve as powerful levers for driving innovation in tech organisations. Their importance cannot be overstated, as innovation thrives in environments where employees are empowered, supported, and equipped with the right tools. A well-structured performance framework provides clear goals, expectations, and career progression, ensuring employees understand their role in the broader company vision. When employees see a defined growth path, they become more engaged, motivated, and willing to take risks—critical factors

in fostering a culture of innovation.

For instance, in my current role at a startup with fewer than ten employees, a key priority is developing a structured performance framework that aligns employee goals with the company’s mission of making AI more accessible. My initial focus is on defining innovation metrics such as contributions to AI model optimisation, efficiency improvements, and creative problem-solving. This approach ensures employees are evaluated not only on technical execution but also on their ability to push boundaries in AI development.

One of the most significant projects in my career was leading the de-merger of a large company into two separate startups. Leadership training played a pivotal role in navigating this transition. I successfully implemented change management strategies, leadership alignment sessions, and performance recalibration, ensuring innovation did not stall. Instead, teams were empowered to take ownership of new responsibilities, explore different approaches, and drive technological advancements that ultimately secured significant seed funding.

I would also like to add that leadership training also plays a key role in breaking down silos and encouraging cross-functional collaboration—essential in tech, where innovation often emerges at the intersection of multiple disciplines. In my experience, the most effective leaders promote continuous collaboration between software engineers, product designers, and business strategists. This ensures that products and services are not only technically robust but also aligned with real-world business needs.

What are some of the most significant barriers women face in tech leadership, and how can they be dismantled?

Creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace in Nigeria’s tech industry requires cultural awareness, systemic changes, and intentional leadership. Unlike Western economies, where Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) policies are often regulated, Nigeria’s corporate culture struggles with deep-rooted biases, hierarchical structures, and limited work-life balance policies.

To drive real change, companies must integrate DEI into business decisions and make inclusivity a competitive advantage.

One key step is implementing flexible work policies. Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges, such as traffic congestion and unreliable power, make rigid work structures impractical. Hybrid or remote options improve productivity and retention, especially for women balancing caregiving roles. Paid maternity and paternity leave, flexible hours, and on-site childcare support can prevent talented professionals from leaving the workforce. Some Nigerian tech companies have successfully introduced hybrid models, enhancing employee satisfaction and retention.

Another crucial intervention is reforming hiring and promotion processes to eliminate bias. Many tech companies lack leadership diversity, with women and underrepresented groups hitting a “glass ceiling.” Organisations must adopt clear, structured promotion criteria to ensure fairness. Blind recruitment, where candidate details like gender and name are hidden during screening, reduces bias in hiring. Structured interviews with standardised questions further promote merit-based decisions.

To drive lasting change, leaders must be accountable for diversity goals. Nigerian businesses are hierarchical, so executives must actively champion inclusion. Setting measurable targets, such as 30 to 40 per cent of leadership roles held by women and linking them to performance reviews, fosters commitment. Leadership development programs can help close representation gaps.

How is Risey AI revolutionising customer engagement with voice AI?

Did you know that 70 per cent of online shoppers abandon their carts before completing a purchase?

Or that most follow-up emails go unread? In today’s competitive e-commerce space, businesses are not just losing customers because of product issues. They are losing them due to a lack of personal connection. That is where Risey AI comes in. We are revolutionising how e-commerce stores engage with customers through innovative voice AI. Our technology enables businesses to send personalised audio messages at key moments, whether it’s recovering abandoned carts, preventing page exits, or requesting reviews.

Imagine this: A shopper is about to leave your site when they suddenly hear your voice: ‘Hey there, we noticed you were checking out our best-

selling skincare kit. Just a heads up, it is almost out of stock!’ That simple, human touch makes customers feel recognised and valued, significantly increasing the chances they will complete their purchase. As an avid online shopper myself, I know firsthand how powerful this kind of interaction can be.

Risey AI was designed to bring warmth and authenticity to digital shopping experiences, ensuring customers feel like more than just another transaction. With our platform, businesses do not just recover lost revenue and generate more reviews; they also build lasting customer relationships that drive loyalty and long-term growth.

Unlike impersonal texts or pre-recorded messages, Risey AI lets businesses use their own voice, creating a truly authentic connection. From cart recovery and exit prevention to testimonial requests, Risey AI covers every critical customer touchpoint. With AI-powered automation, we make engagement seamless, scalable, and highly effective. Whether you are a small brand or a fast-growing retailer, Risey AI ensures every customer interaction is an opportunity to connect, convert, and grow.

What are the biggest challenges in integrating AI into mainstream business, and how can they be overcome?

Integrating AI into mainstream business comes with several challenges, ranging from technical and ethical concerns to organisational resistance and regulatory constraints. One of the biggest hurdles is the lack of high-quality data. AI systems require vast amounts of clean, unbiased data to function effectively, yet many businesses struggle with fragmented or inconsistent datasets. To overcome this, companies must invest in strong data governance, proper labelling, and continuous monitoring to maintain data integrity.

Resistance to change is another common challenge. Employees often fear AI will replace jobs rather than enhance them, slowing adoption. The key to overcoming this is change management. Leaders must position AI as a tool for augmentation, not replacement while offering upskilling opportunities to help employees adapt. AI should be seen as automating repetitive tasks, allowing humans to focus on strategic work. Bias in AI models is also a pressing issue. If trained on biased data, AI can reinforce inequalities in hiring, lending, and beyond. Businesses must implement fairness audits, diverse training datasets, and ethical AI frameworks to minimise discrimination.

From a regulatory standpoint, companies must navigate evolving AI laws and compliance requirements. AI ethics, data privacy, and accountability should be central to governance strategies. Finally, scalability remains a challenge. Many organisations pilot AI but struggle to scale it. Success requires a clear AI strategy, executive buy-in, and cross-functional collaboration. Companies that address these challenges proactively will gain a significant competitive edge in the AI-driven future.

Where do you see the AI-driven customer experience heading in the next five years?

The integration of artificial intelligence into customer experience is poised to significantly transform how businesses interact with their customers. While this may still be up for debate, I strongly believe AI is set for remarkable advancements over the next five years. One of the key areas where AI is already making an impact is hyper-personalisation. AI’s ability to analyse vast amounts of data allows businesses to predict consumer behaviour and tailor interactions, leading to more relevant product recommendations and marketing messages. This enhances customer satisfaction while driving loyalty and sales. AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants are also becoming more sophisticated, handling increasingly complex inquiries with greater accuracy. Although they may seem like an inconvenience as the first point of contact, they provide instant support, reducing wait times and improving overall customer satisfaction. I believe these systems will continue to evolve, handling a broader range of customer service tasks allowing human agents to focus on more strategic activities. Moreover, AI will enable businesses to seamlessly integrate various customer touchpoints, ensuring a consistent experience across channels. Whether customers interact via social media, in-store, or through mobile apps, AI will help maintain context and continuity, enriching the customer journey.

Ikponmwosa

Peter Uzoho

The present hunger in Nigeria may worsen as acute food insecurity looms with agricultural production in the Middle Belt region of Benue, Nasarawa and Plateau have dwindled due to the escalating conflict between herders and the farming communities.

The farmer-herder clash has been a major issue of great concern confronting the country owing to its political, social and economic implications, and has defiled all measures and attempts aimed at resolving it.

In its latest report on the intractable farner-herder conflict in Nigeria, titled: “A Threat to National Stability,” SBM Intelligence, an Africa-based

geographical research and strategic communications consulting firm, said the conflict in the Middle Belt has spread South while maintaining its grip on the country’s food basket.

The report put the human cost of the conflict to a staggering: over 2.2 million displaced nationwide, with 300,000 in Benue’s overcrowded camps alone.

It warned categorically that, “Nigeria’s food security hangs in the balance as the Middle Belt’s agricultural output plummets, exacerbating inflation.”

The report revealed how Nigeria’s pastoral conflict has evolved from localised grazing disputes into one of the country’s most pressing security challenges, now affecting multiple regions and threatening

national stability.

It said the violence, primarily between Fulani herders and farming communities, has spread southward from its Middle Belt epicentre, intensifying in states like Edo and Ondo while maintaining its devastating grip on Benue, Nasarawa and Plateau.

“The crisis stems from complex interlocking factors. Climate change and desertification in northern regions have diminished grazing lands, forcing pastoralists south into Nigeria’s agricultural heartland. This migration, coupled with population growth and uneven development, has fuelled competition for dwindling resources,” SBM pointed out.

It noted that the conflict’s nature

has transformed dramatically since 2010, with traditional disputeresolution mechanisms collapsing as sophisticated weaponry flooded the region.

“What were once minor clashes mediated with sticks now involve AK-47s and military-grade firearms, enabling systematic violence, including crop destruction and land appropriation.

“The human cost is staggering: over 2.2 million displaced nationwide, with 300,000 in Benue’s overcrowded camps alone. Nigeria’s food security hangs in the balance as the Middle Belt’s agricultural output plummets, exacerbating inflation. The crisis has also metastasised, merging with banditry and kidnapping

networks,” the report stated.

Disturbingly, it maintained that complicity within affected communities – including alleged intelligence-sharing with attackers for financial gain – has complicated counter-violence efforts.

It observed that government responses have proven inadequate, pointing out that the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP) remains poorly implemented, while anti-open grazing laws face enforcement challenges and political resistance.

The report also posited that security operations provide temporary relief but fail to address root causes, adding that the conflict’s ethnic and religious politicisation, including accusations

of “Fulanisation”, has further entrenched divisions.

The SBM Intelligence recommended that a sustainable resolution demands a multifaceted approach, suggesting urgent land reforms to clarify grazing rights, robust arms control measures, climate adaptation programmes, and depoliticised dialogue.

With attacks spreading southward and displacement figures rising yearly, it warned that Nigeria faces a narrowing window to prevent this pastoral conflict from becoming an irreversible national catastrophe.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Deposit money banks and merchant banks borrowing from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) dropped by 34 per cent to N16.49 trillion in March 2025 from N24.82trillion in February 2025, attributable to access liquidity in the financial system.

The CBN provides the Standing Lending Facility (SLF), a short-term lending window for banks and merchant banks, to access liquidity to run their day-to-day business operations.

Financial data released by the CBN showed that banks and merchant banks have borrowed an estimated N50.46 trillion in first quarter of 2025, about 161.5 per cent increase when compared to N31.25 trillion in Q1 2024.

According to CBN, Nigeria’s Money Supply (M2) closed

February 2025 at N110.3 trillion, 17.3 per cent Year-on-Year (YoY) from N93.97 trillion in the corresponding period of 2024.

Meanwhile, the interest rate at which these banks and merchant banks borrow from CBN has not changed in 2025 amid the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) maintaining status quo on rates at its first MPR this year. In 2024, the MPC members voted to increase interest rate from 18.75 per cent to 27.50 per cent amid its mandate to tackle inflation rate and unstable Naira at the foreign exchange market.

The Director of the Financial Markets Department, CBN, Dr. Omolara Duke in a circular had stated that the apex bank allowed banks to borrow at a rate of 31.75 per cent when the MPR was at 26.75per cent.

Banks can access the SLF

through the Scripless Securities Settlement System (S4) within the specified operating hours of 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Additionally, authorised dealers are permitted to access the Intraday Lending Facility (ILF) at no cost, provided it is repaid on the same day.

He stated: “The MPC adjusted the upper corridor of the standing facilities to five per cent from 1.00 percent around the MPR, at its 296th meeting. Consequently, the suspension of the SLF is hereby lifted and Authorised Dealers should send their request for SLF through the Scripless Securities Settlement System (S4) within the operating hours of 5.00pm to 6.30pm.

“To this end, Authorised Dealers are permitted to access the SLF at 31.75 per cent; Permitted to access Intraday Lending Facility (ILF) to avoid system gridlock at no cost

if repaid the same day; The five per cent penalty (as stated in the S4 business rules) is retained, for participants that do not settle their ILF, which the system will convert to SLF at 36.75 per cent;

“Collateral execution (the rediscounting of instruments pledged by participants at the penal rate by CBN) is reintroduced as stipulated in the approved repo guidelines. “The circular takes immediate effect.”

The CBN data also revealed that banks and merchant banks deposited N5.19 trillion in March 20255, representing 11 per cent increase over N4.65 trillion in February 2025.

Analysis of the data showed that financial institutions in the country have deposited an estimated N19.2 trillion in Q1 2025, up by 957 per cent from N1.82 trillion in Q1 2024.

Banks and merchant banks use

the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) to deposit excess funds with the apex bank.

The CBN has shifted to a singletier remuneration structure for the SDF. Previously, deposits up to a certain threshold for example N3 billion, earned a higher interest rate, while amounts exceeding that threshold earned a lower rate.

Under the new policy, all SDF deposits are remunerated at the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) minus 100 basis points. With the current MPR at 27.5 per cent, this results in an SDF rate of 26.5 per cent.

Analysts attribute the increasing banks borrowing from CBN to dwindling naira at the foreign exchange market, coupled with rising inflation rate and apex bank mopping up excess liquidity in the financial sector.

Speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Promotion

“This may not necessarily indicate that the banks are stressed or unstable. Meanwhile, the recapitalisation of banks is long overdue. The minimum capital requirements of N25 billion is no longer adequate, if discounted for inflation.”

On his part, The Vice president Highcap Securities, Mr. David Adnori, said, “The development points to lack of liquidity on the part of banks. Monetary policy has been tightening and this has led to low liquidity. It is cheaper for banks to borrow from the CBN.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com of Private Enterprises (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf had stated that, “This is a reflection of liquidity pressure some of the banks are going through. The facility is typically short term.

Kayode Tokede

Wema Bank At 80; Testament to Growth, Innovation and Legacy

Wema Bank, which started from a very humble and modest beginning has made a name for itself not just as Nigeria’s oldest indigenous and most resilient bank but also a beacon of hope and empowerment for Nigerians, writes Oluchi Chibuzor

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Wema Bank, founded by the late Chief Matthew Adekoya Okupe, is an indigenous financial institution created by dint of hard work, modesty, resilience and innovation, was formerly known as Agbonmagbe Bank. Prior to its establishment, the financial institution which is now known as Wema Bank, had gained huge patronage of many people and entities.

One of these entities was the Western Marketing Board. At one point, the Western Marketing Board (WMB) had deposited close to 200,000 pounds in a fixed deposit account in Agbonmagbe Bank.

It happened that at that time, the money was converted into shares and coincidentally, the government raised the capital base of banks at that period. But unfortunately, the time was too short for the bank to raise that money to meet the condition set by the government, the Western Marketing Board decided to convert the money it saved in a fixed account in Agbonmagbe Bank to shares and on converting the money, automatically become the majority shareholder and thereafter took over the bank.

According to Alaba Adegboyega Okupe, the eldest surviving son of the late founder of Wema Bank, Chief Matthew Adekoya Okupe, who witnessed the bank’s transformation stated that the bank thereafter changed its name from Agbonmagbe Bank to Wema Bank and that the bank was duly incorporated on May 2, 1945. Alaba added that the bank commenced operations as a legally licensed bank two days later.

He also said that the bank which is today known as Wema Bank started from a very humble and modest beginning has made a name for itself not just as Nigeria’s oldest indigenous and most resilient bank but also a beacon of hope and empowerment for Nigerians.

He submitted that Wema Bank has transformed from championing innovative solutions that bridge gaps to delivering of practical and impactful services to banking the unbanked across the length and breadth of Nigeria, thereby setting the pace for other the banking industry to thrive and empower the next generation.

ADEGBOYEGA OKUPE’S OPTIMISM

According to him, “I believe that Wema Bank is equipped to carry for another century, perhaps even more. I see the work Wema Bank is doing and it is highly commendable to say the least. The bank had previously reached about a decade ago during its 70th anniversary celebration in 2015, extending an invitation to us to attend the event and Wema bank made a courteous gesture by giving us 2,000,000 of ordinary shares of 50 kobo each which is commendable.

“More recently, I got a visit from some of the staff and executive of Wema Bank and we had some very insightful discussions and they also extended a verbal invitation to us to the 80th anniversary celebration ahead of the physical invitation. I look forward to celebrating this great milestone with Wema Bank.”

“Honestly, I am happy and grateful to be alive in my 80s to see the vision that my father foresaw in 1945 also become 80 years strong. What my father’s trailblazing act of service to his indigenous people has not only grown to become the longest standing indigenous bank in Nigeria but also a trailblazer in innovative banking and financial services. It is a beautiful thing to see such resilience, growth and impactful transformation

“It is a pleasure to see that Wema Bank is flourishing and growing from strength to strength. It is God who implanted the idea in 1945 and it was from a humble beginning. I wish Wema Bank a happy 80th anniversary. More grease to your elbows, future developments and limitless growth. The sky is your stepping stone.” He concluded.

Beyond the above, the bank has achieved some

milestones, which includes: the renaming of the of the bank from Agbonmagbe bank to Wema Bank in 1969, securing regional banking in 2009, transition to a national bank in 2015 and pioneered Africa’s first fully digital bank with the introduction of ALAT F

FORMER BOARD

CHAIRMAN’S

TESTAMENT

Also speaking on the Wema Bank At 80: A Testament To Growth, Innovation And Legacy, the former Chairman of the Board of Directors, Wema Bank (December 2012 to May 2017), Adeyinka Asekun, stated that he was at Wema Bank during at a time he described as not only a consequential period but also a period that was very pivotal to the making or the breaking of the bank. He added that it was a time of great challenge in Wema Bank and that he believed God helped the institution to overcome the challenge.

“I always like to recall that during that period, there were several key things that took place that were important and I give the credit to the management and the board. The management was very professional, very focused, very disciplined, and capable of thinking strategically. The board on its part was very cohesive, very united, and very trusting. The board trusted members trusted one another, which I thought was important. So several key things took place. The first thing I would like to mention is that the bank was able to recapitalise. We had a problem with capital, which was resolved. We were able to get a strategic investor. We were able to recapitalise the bank. That was one.

“The second thing is that during that period we returned to profitability. The bank had been making losses but during that period we were able to start making a profit again. During that period the bank was able to upgrade from a regional banking license to a national banking license which also was a very, very significant thing.

“During that period also, exactly to be precise, when the bank turned 70 in 2015, we were able to rebrand the bank and breathe fresh life into the brand. So from previously looking like a grandfather bank, we became a more vibrant, dynamic bank,” he said.

MAJOR

MILESTONES

Adeyinka posited that the final thing which happened before he stepped down as Chairman in 2017 was that on May 2, 2017, when the bank turned 72 years old, it launched Nigeria’s first fully digital bank;

ALAT, which according to him was in a sense the crowning glory of that period. He pointed out that it was a very pivotal time during the affairs of the bank, and it changed the trajectory of the bank altogether.

“I look back at that period with fondness. I went on to become Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Canada, which I did for another six years. But I look back at this period with great fondness. I am really thrilled with the management; I describe the management in very glowing terms, and it is for a reason. I think the results speak for themselves. Beyond the profitability, you are looking at viability. You are looking at a bank which has redefined itself. The bank has been transformed.” he said.

Speaking further on the bank’s innovation ALAT, Adeyinka said, “ALAT has won all manner of awards, over 30 awards, for being surely innovative, and successful, and impactful. And Wema Bank ‘s transformation is being studied as a case study in Lagos Business School and the George Business School, University of Cambridge.”

Still speaking on innovation, the former Chairman said that Wema Bank was able to survive, make profit and return to viability despite the challenges.

“We were once again a viable growing concern. But you need to move beyond just surviving. How do you now thrive? And we were in an industry that had a lot of very heavy hitters. There were some banks with massive balance sheets that were obviously able to do all kinds of big transactions and big business. So we needed to define a niche for ourselves where we could be viable and thrive and technology was a means to an end because by that time one of the challenges the bank faced was that it needed to capture a younger target market. And what did those people require?

“They required convenience. They required solutions that were nimble and worked for them. Technology was a means to an end. Technology was our means of being able to reach out to these people and meet their needs because you are looking at a generation that is very tech-savvy. We know that the youths who are at the bulk of our population are very much into technology. But the idea was to get the right technology so it is not just about deploying technology but deploying it properly. And a digital bank made a lot of sense.

“There was a lot of research that was

done by the bank. It was not just a question of pie in the sky. There was research that was conducted that made it quite clear that the digital bank was something that the market was waiting for. And ALAT was birthed.” Adeyinka said.

The future of Wema Bank he insisted, is very, very bright, as the bank has displayed an ability to reinvent itself and an ability to innovate, adding that its ability to innovate is very, very important and that the bank has shown itself able to do that.

According to him, “If you look at what the bank has done, you look at ALAT for Business, you look at SARA, ALAT Xplore, Coop Hub, Hackaholics etc. you see an ongoing effort to keep on doing new things, to take on new segments, and meet new needs. And as far as you keep the customer as your focus and the center of what you are doing, the sky is the limit. The bank has also shown itself to be able to respond quickly to situations and circumstances. So, I am very, very optimistic about the future for the bank.”

WEMA BANK’S LEGACY

On Wema Bank’s legacy, the ex-Chairman of the Board of Directors posited that several banks have gone under between the year 1988 till the 2017, when he stepped down as the Chairman of Wema Bank, adding that Wema Bank over the years has not only deployed technology to make its operation seamless but that beyond that it has also embraced innovation which, he said has won several awards because of its acceptance.

He commended the bank for weathering the regulatory storm and for demonstrating resilience and adaptability to operate for 80 years, adding that the feat is an uncommon one and deserves commendation for the enviable legacy

“In looking at an industry, if you look at the number of banks, I worked in the banking industry effectively from November 1988 till I stepped down as chairman of Wema from 2017. The number of banks that I have seen that have failed in Nigeria, and I can think of at least 79 banks that have failed. So, for a bank to be around for 80 years is a legacy. It is something to look back at with a lot of pride and to hope that the future will certainly be bright, and I believe it will be,” he said.

Congratulating Wema Bank on its 80th anniversary celebration, Adeyinka said, “I say 80 looks good. I say the best is yet to come. I say that we have achieved a lot of things in the past, but the future is much brighter. Keep on innovating. Keep on keeping the customer at the focus and keep on winning.

God bless”

Alaba Adegboyega Okupe, the eldest surviving son of the late founder of Wema Bank, Matthew Adekoya Okupe

Former Chairman, Board of Directors, Wema Bank (December 2012-May 2017) Adeyinka Asekun

Currency in Circulation Declines First Time

in 2 Years, Now 89.63% of COB

Nume Ekeghe

Data released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has showed that Currency in circulation (CIC) in Nigeria declined for the first time in two years, falling to N5.037 trillion in February 2025 from a record N5.235 trillion in January 2025.

Despite the decline, CIC remains significantly higher than the N3.693 trillion recorded in February 2024, underscoring sustained demand for cash transactions.

The data named, “money and credit statistics” also reveal a decrease in cash held outside the formal banking system, which dropped by 4.7 per cent to N4.515 trillion in February from N4.737 trillion in January. This brings the proportion of CIC held outside banks to 89.63 per cent, down from 90.4 per cent in the previous month.

The decline suggests a slight shift away from cash transactions after months of consistent growth. However, a substantial portion of liquidity remains outside the banking system, reflecting continued public

preference for cash over digital or banking channels.

The broader money supply (M2) also contracted, falling to N110.307 trillion in February from N110.93 trillion in January. Quasi-money, which includes near-money assets like savings deposits and money market instruments, declined from N74.163 trillion to N72.738 trillion. Meanwhile, demand deposits funds held in bank accounts accessible on demand increased to N33.053 trillion from N32.029 trillion, indicating heightened banking activity despite the dip in overall money supply.

A review of currency circulation trends over the past year highlights a steady increase in CIC throughout 2024 before the recent dip. In February 2024, CIC stood at N3.69 trillion, with N3.41 trillion (92.5 per cent) outside the banking system. By March, CIC had risen to N3.87 trillion, with N3.63 trillion outside banks. April saw a slight decline in the proportion of cash outside banks, with N3.92 trillion in circulation

and N3.61 trillion (92 per cent) held outside banks. However, this trend reversed in May, as CIC rose to N3.97 trillion, with N3.71 trillion outside banks. June saw a continued increase to N4.05 trillion, maintaining a 93.5 per cent share of cash held outside banks.

By July, currency outside banks dipped slightly to N3.67 trillion (90.6 per cent), while total CIC remained at N4.05 trillion. In August, both figures climbed again, with CIC reaching N4.14 trillion and N3.87 trillion outside banks. September followed this trajectory, with total CIC at N4.31 trillion, of which N4.02 trillion was held outside banks. The trend continued into October, with CIC rising to N4.55 trillion and N4.29 trillion outside banks. November saw another increase, peaking at N4.88 trillion in circulation and N4.65 trillion outside banks—the highest proportion recorded in 2024. By December, the figures had yet to be released, but January 2025 set a new record at N5.24 trillion before February’s decline.

Arise News Channel Honours Shade Okoya Amongst 65 Outstanding Nigerians Female Leaders

The expansive Hall of Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos will welcome crème de la crème of the Nigerian society to a glittering night during an award ceremony tagged, “The Arise Gala, Women Making Impact 2025,” put together by one of Africa’s authoritative news channels, Arise News Channle as it honours 65 women in the grand finale of the International Women’s Month commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Among several women to be honoured at this night of glitz and glamour is an outstanding entrepreneur and industrial magnate who is often described a symbol of a valuable asset, Chief Dr. (Mrs.) Folashade Okoya, Managing Director, Eleganza Industrial City Limited.

According to the letter written to the industrial diva by the Arise News Channel’s Management, “It is our privilege and pride to convey to you the decision of the Board of Editors of the Arise News Channel to celebrate and honour you, for your contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria, Africa, and the world at the grand gala of the International Women’s Month.

“The Board recognises your exceptional achievements as one of Nigerians female leaders and change makers. This award holds a profound significance as we

commemorate 65 years of Nigerian independence by honoring 65 outstanding women whose impact: leadership, resilience, and influence continue to drive progress and transformation

“As part of our commitment to highlighting the contributions of women shaping our collective futures, we bring together during International Women’s Month, pioneers and powerhouses who have significantly shaped various industries, professions, and communities.”

This coming from the Arise News Channel is not surprising as those who have followed honouree’s business acumen under the tutelage of her industrial giant husband, Chief Rasaki Akanni Okoya will attest to the fact that her stunning beauty aside, Mrs. Shade

Okoya has always stood out as an outstanding entrepreneur whose contributions to the Nigeria’s industrial landscape cannot be overemphasised.

Under her watch, the company has grown in production capacity with over 3,000 workers thereby providing employment to the citizens of Lagos State and its environs; the Company has the vision of being the foremost indigenous producer of various household items in Nigeria and West Africa.

With eyes for excellence, Mrs. Okoya is a good team player with high understanding of team’s objectives and has a great skill in tapping into the strengths and abilities of team members towards achieving common goals. She is a highly well educated and experienced senior level manufacturing executive with specialisation in project management, quality assurance, marketing, sales distribution, material/logistics and human resources administration. The Eleganza Industrial City Limited boss is an intelligent and hardworking wife and mother for whom her busy schedules have not led to the neglect of being a parent and also her responsibility to domestic obligations. She has built a commendable bridge of good relationship not just with her family but also across the society.

AFDB Unveils Country Strategy Paper for Nigeria’s Agriculture, Infrastructure Growth

Arthur Eriye

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has unveiled a new Country Strategy Paper to boost agriculture and enhance economic growth in Nigeria.

A delegation led by the Director General of AfDB’s Nigeria Country Department, Dr. Abdul Kamara recently met with Finance Minister Wale Edun to deepen collaboration in key sectors of the economy. Kamara announced the launch of a new Country Strategy Paper, reaffirming AfDB’s commitment to transformative projects in Nigeria.

These include the second phase of the National Agricultural Growth Scheme (NAGS), which focuses on food security and rural development. He also highlighted infrastructure progress in the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ), with advancements in Sokoto and planned expansions in Cross River and Kaduna States.

Speaking during the Conference on Scaling Finance for Smallholder Farmers in Nairobi, Dr. Adesina outlined the Bank’s innovative approach, which includes trade credit guarantees, blended finance mechanisms, and first-loss

coverage to close the financing gap for farmers. These instruments aim to reduce the high transaction costs of supporting enterprises, with the backing of technical assistance. The conference, organised in partnership with the Pan African Farmers’ Organization (PAFO), addressed Africa’s critical $75 billion annual financing gap for farmers and agribusinesses.

Adesina, who recently received Kenya’s highest national honor from President William Ruto, called for global action to unlock Africa’s agricultural potential.

Okoya

Sage Grey Deepens Commitment to Drive Financial Solutions

Emma Okonji

Sage Grey Finance Limited and its sister company, Sage Grey Technologies, have reaffirmed their commitment to driving financial inclusion, SME growth and technological innovation through strategic partnerships and product development.

At a recent press briefing in Lagos, the executives of both companies gave detailed explanations about their ongoing efforts to expand financial access for SMEs, drive technological advancements, and contribute to sustainable economic development through solutions aligned with Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs) and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) frameworks.

Executive Director of Sage Grey Finance, Mr. Jumo Atiba, who spoke about the company’s mission, said: “At Sage Grey Finance, we believe in the transformative power of impact financing. Our unique position in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem allows us to unlock opportunities that generate both financial returns and meaningful social impact. As a licensed and regulated entity by the Central Bank of Nigeria, we seamlessly blend profitability with social impact. Our integration into the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System ensures we deliver secure,

efficient financial services, setting us apart. Our journey is rooted in empowering businesses, fostering sustainable development, and creating enduring value for our stakeholders and communities.”

Speaking about the company’s approach to digital innovation, the Chief Operating Officer of Sage Grey Technologies, Mr. Yemi Jinadu, said: “We are committed to building technology solutions that not only enhance business operations but also create social impact. Our goal is to bridge efficiency gaps in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem while ensuring that businesses and individuals benefit from technology-driven opportunities.”

Ilorin Aviation College Graduates 10 Officers from Nigerian Army

Chinedu Eze

International Aviation College (IAC), Ilorin has graduated 10 Officers from the Nigerian Army Aviation and 9 Civilians who have successfully completed their Private Pilot License (PPL) Training.

Speaking on behalf of the State Governor, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibo Kawu congratulated the Graduands and urged them to uphold the virtue of aviation industry.

Kawu commended the

Management and members of the Staff of the College for the collaborative efforts geared towards the success story. The Commissioner pledged the State Government continued support for the College with a view to sustaining the tempo. She wished the Graduands good luck in their future endeavours.

Speaking earlier, the Rector of the College, Captain Yakubu O. Okatai expressed joy about the day’s ceremony which he described as another milestone-stone recorded by the College.

He expressed his profound gratitude and appreciation to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kwara State for making the College environment conducive for the training. Captain Okatai congratulated the Graduands and enjoined them always exhibit professionalism in their future undertakings. In his key-note address, the Chief of Army Staff who was represented by Brigadier General E Bakins applauded the Galant Officers of the Nigerian Army Aviation for their patience and perseverance in the course of the training.

FAAN MD Attends 1st ACI WGB Meeting as Regional Ad viser for Africa

Chinedu Eze

The Managing Director/ Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku has attended her first meeting as the Regional Adviser for Africa at the recently concluded Airports Council International (ACI) World Governing Board meeting in Milan, Italy, at the weekend.

Kuku was nominated for the position at the ACI Africa Conference held in Johannesburg in September 2024.

Chair of the ACI World Governing Board, Mrs. Candice

McGraw, formally welcomed FAAN’s MD/CE to the WGB. She highlighted the growing importance of Africa in global aviation and acknowledged Nigeria’s leadership in driving regional progress. The meeting was also attended by Mr. Ali Tounsi, Secretary General of ACI Africa; Mr. Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World; and other board members representing various regions worldwide.

FAAN described her appointment as a crucial milestone for Mrs. Kuku and agency, as it signposts FAAN’s growing role in shaping global aviation policies and enhancing the representation of

African airports on the international stage.

The ACI World Governing Board comprises 28 CEOs from regional board members, ensuring that the collective interests of ACI’s global membership are represented. The board defines strategic directions for the airport industry, focusing on capacity building and fostering sustainable growth across the global airport community.

Kuku’s participation in the ACI World Governing Board meeting marked a significant milestone in enhancing Nigeria’s influence in global aviation.

TD Africa Aligns with EcoFlow to Boost Clean Energy

Emma Okonji

EcoFlow, in partnership with TD Africa, at the weekend in Lagos, launched its operations in Nigeria, with the introduction of River 3 Max Plus, a portable power station that has the capacity to power residential homes and business environment, thus marking a significant step in the company’s commitment to Africa’s renewable energy sector.

Speaking at the product launch, Managing Director, Technology Distributions (TD Africa), Chioma Chimere, said: “EcoFlow is the first of its kind in Nigeria, operating in over 140 countries in the world. From the beginning of time, energy generation has played a permanent and indispensable

role in our day-to-day activities.

Millions of Nigerians today are hungry for a country where power is within their reach, where power is affordable, where power is clean and usable. This is the vision that drives EcoFlow and indeed TD Africa has aligned its mission with EcoFlow to bring its innovative products from portable power stations to gas power generators that are affordable and usable across Africa. We want Nigeria to embrace clean energy and we want to reduce the carbon footprint.”

Speaking about how the solution will address Nigeria’s energy crisis, through technology innovation, Business Development Manager, EcoFlow Nigeria, Isaiah Umoh, said the

solution was designed to provide reliable, eco-friendly energy access, adding that EcoFlow seeks to empower millions of Nigerians to overcome the limitations of the power grid, thus enhancing quality of life and supporting economic growth.

“With energy reliability being a constant challenge in Nigeria, we recognise the urgent need for a solution that is both practical and sustainable. EcoFlow is here to redefine the power landscape, offering advanced battery-powered solutions that eliminate the noise, pollution, and high running costs of traditional generators. Our goal is to make clean, efficient power accessible to everyone, whether for homes, businesses, or outdoor use,” Umoh said.

LPVTechnologies Expands Solar Panel Production

Agnes Ekebuike

LPV Technologies, an indigenous solar energy company, has called for a shift in government policy that will promote zero-import for solar panels, insisting that only through local manufacturing can Nigeria truly secure its renewable energy future.

Speaking at a press briefing

at its newly unveiled stateof-the-art facility in Lagos recently, its Executive Director, Yinka Adelodun, explained the company’s vision that hinges on local production, quality assurance, and supportive government policies.

According to Adelodun, “It’s one thing for you to say you have a facility like this; it’s another

thing to actually see it and confirm it exists. The journey for this facility started almost two years ago, with the mission of deploying solar infrastructure at scale. Today, while many are putting solar panels on their roofs as a band-aid, the real solution lies in harnessing solar and gas to power our economy sustainably.”

YEIDEP: Keystone Bank Lauds FG for Empowering Nigerian Youths

Oluchi Chibuzor

Keystone Bank Limited has lauded the President Bola Tinubu-led administration for its undying support towards youth development in Nigeria.

The bank expressed its appreciation at a solidarity dinner held in honour of the Minister for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande and the Coordinator-General of the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Program (YEIDEP), Comrade Kennedy Iyere in Lagos.

A statement by the bank said the event was organised to recognise the minister and the YEIDEP coordinator for their unwavering commitment to empowering Nigerian youths by fostering job creation, financial independence, and economic productivity.

Speaking at the event, the

Executive Director of Keystone Bank, Nnenna Anyim-Okoro, acknowledged the visionary leadership of President Bola Tinubu for initiating YEIDEP.

She lauded the appointment of Iyere as youth minister, stressing the minister understands the realities and challenges faced by the Nigerian youths.

“We want to appreciate the federal government and the Minister of Youth Development for t heir continued commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of the youth, ensuring that their challenges are tackled effectively. At Keystone Bank, we recognize that financial inclusion is a critical pillar to the journey of youth empowerment and productivity; hence, this strategic collaboration.

“We believe that access to financial services is not just a privilege but a fundamental right

that fosters entrepreneurship, wealth creation, and economic stability. This belief underscores our partnership with the Ministry of Youth Development to support the YEIDEP initiative.” She stated.

In his remarks, the Minister of Youth Development emphasised the importance of empowering young people with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

He highlighted the ministry’s commitment to collaboration in various forms to support Nigerian youths, ensuring that they are guided, protected, and empowered for the future.

He also expressed his appreciation to Keystone Bank for the partnership and reaffirmed the ministry’s readiness to work closely with the bank in advancing youth empowerment initiatives.

Smallholder Farmers Benefitting from TracTrac Agricultural Mechanisation Revolution

TracTrac, a Nigerian agricultural mechanisation service provider, has said that it is transforming farming for smallholder farmers in Nigeria, bridging the gap between farmers and modern mechanisation.

At a virtual press briefing in Lagos, the CEO of TracTrac Mechanisation Services Limited, Godson Ohuruogu said, “Our mission at TracTrac is to provide smallholder farmers with the tools, knowledge, and financial solutions they need to succeed in a modern agricultural landscape.

“By leveraging technology, strategic partnerships, and policy advocacy, we are not just delivering mechanization services but building a resilient ecosystem

that empowers farmers for future generations.”

He said, “Through technologydriven solutions, financial accessibility, and strategic partnerships, TracTrac enhances farm productivity, promotes economic growth, and drives sustainable agricultural development.

“Despite agriculture being Nigeria’s economic backbone, 133 million people (63% of the population) live in multidimensional poverty, with most in rural areas relying on low-productivity, subsistence farming. Only 16% of smallholder farmers have access to mechanized equipment, hindered by high costs, limited financing, and weak supply chains.”

TracTrac, a technology-driven

company founded in 2019, is changing this by deploying tractors and mechanization services to over 135,000 farmers this year, increasing efficiency, productivity, and access to sustainable farming solutions while supporting over 3,900 young MSPs. Empowering Farmers with digital innovation, TracTrac’s success is its TracTracPlus platform, a real-time digital booking system connecting farmers with Mechanization Service Providers (MSPs), enabling real-time asset tracking, farm mapping, payment, demand aggregation and order fulfilment. This technology optimizes service delivery by reducing delays, increasing mechanization access, and ensuring efficient use of resources.

STL Trustees Empower 30 Women Entrepreneurs with N3m

STL Trustees has awarded a total of N3 million in grants to 30 women-led businesses through its newly launched FundHer initiative, reinforcing its commitment to empowering female entrepreneurs in Nigeria.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Head of Trust Services at STL Trustees, Adeshola Aramide Aje, emphasised the significance of the initiative in fostering business growth for women.

“We are giving out a total of N3 million to 30 people as part of our commitment to supporting women in business. Each selected entrepreneur will receive N100,000, which we believe will make a meaningful impact on

their businesses,” Aje stated. She explained that the selection process was rigorous due to the overwhelming number of applications received.

She said, “Our selection criteria focused on the impact and potential of each applicant’s business. We assessed their achievements, the strategies they employed to reach their current level, and their vision for the future. The size of the business was not a determining factor; rather, we sought out women who have demonstrated thoughtfulness, resilience, and innovation in running their enterprises.”

Aje further noted that while the inaugural edition of FundHer was limited to 30 recipients and that STL Trustees plans to

expand the program in future editions.

On her part, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of STL Trustees, Funmi Ekundayo, applauded the beneficiaries for their dedication and perseverance despite economic challenges.

“Today is about celebrating you, strong, hardworking, and determined women who are building businesses and creating opportunities for yourselves and others. At STL, we believe that women are builders; we build homes, families, businesses, and communities. We started STL FundHer to support women like you who are pushing forward despite the economic challenges,” she said.

FUNDQUEST Empowers Women Entrepreneurs, Fueling Economic Growth

Nume Ekeghe

FundQuest Financial Services

Limited marked this year’s International Women’s Month with a renewed commitment to economic empowerment, hosting the inaugural FundHER by FundQuest Conference. This initiative brought together over 100 women-led Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), providing them with actionable business insights, high-value networking, and, most importantly, access to funding.

Delivering the first keynote address, Dr. Jennifer Seidu, Principal

Consultant, JV Management Consulting Limited, underscored the critical hurdles female entrepreneurs face: constrained access to funding, market expansion limitations, regulatory roadblocks, and operational inefficiencies.

She lauded FundQuest’s decisive intervention through FundHER, recognising the initiative as a timely and much-needed response to the financial inequities that women-led businesses encounter.

Group Head, Brand Communication and Customer Experience at FundQuest, Joan Ediagbonya, also reinforced these concerns with data, pointing out that

while women own 45 per cent of SMEs in Nigeria, only 10 per cent have access to formal funding.

Quoting Michelle Obama, she emphasised, “No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens.”

Similarly, Ms. Olubukola Olaigbe, CEO of Veedic Nigeria Limited, shared how accessing financing from FundQuest facilitated her logistics firm’s expansion, proving that with the right financial support, women entrepreneurs can achieve remarkable business growth.

Saharan Blend

Djeno

(Equatorial Guinea),

(Gabon), Iran Heavy

Republic

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

L-R: Group Head, Private Banking, Keystone Bank, Joan Enukorah; Group Head Industrials & Emerging Sectors, Chinyelu Ogufere; Group Head Retail & Digital Banking, Olayemi Sule; Hon. Minister of Youth Development & YEIDEP Chair, Comrade Ayodele Olawande; Executive Director South & Corporate Bank, Keystone Bank, Mrs. Nnenna Anyim Okoro; Coordinator General of YEIDEP, Comrade Kennedy Iyere and Unit Head General Commerce CBD Keystone Bank, Obinna Uwadoka at a solidarity dinner held in Lagos…recently

Bennett Oghifo

Nume Ekeghe

Chapel Hill Denham Securities, Others Trade Stocks Worth N1.47trn in Q1 2025

Kayode Tokede

Chapel Hill Denham Securities

Limited and nine other Stockbrokers traded N1.47 trillion worth of stocks between January and March of (Q1) 2025 as the stock market closed positive in the period under review.

THISDAY had reported that the stock market in first quarter of 2025 gained N 3.49 trillion by market capitalisation as average investors return rose by2.66 per cent to 105,660.64 basis points

from 102,926.40 basis points it opened for trading this year.

The growth in stock market Q1 2025 has been driven by demand for banking stocks amid the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) banking sector recapitalisation.

The nine other stockbroking firms are: Cardinalstone Securities Limited, APT Securities and Funds, Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers Limited, Meristem Stockbrokers Limited and Cordros Securities Limited

Coronation Securities Limited, Global Asset Management-Nig Limited, Apel Asset Limited and First Securities Brokers Limited joined the list.

These 10 stockbroking firms were responsible for 65.79per cent of the total value stocks traded on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) from January to March, according to recently released broker performance report by the bourse.

Chapel Hill Denham Securities traded stocks worth N680billion

or 30.41per cent of the total value traded on the NGX in Q1 2025. Also in the review period, Cardinalstone Securities traded N196.billion or 8.79per cent transactions, followed by APT Securities and Funds that accounted for stocks worth N144.5 billion or 6.46per cent in Q1 2025. Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers was responsible for N107.5billion or 4.81per cent worth of stocks trade, , while Meristem Stockbrokers accounted for N83.7billion or 3.74per cent

value of transactions in the period under review.

The report also shows that Cordros Securities traded stocks worth N81billion or 3.62per cent of the total value report in Q1 2025.

It was followed by Coronation Securities which traded stocks worth N58.04billion or 2.50per cent, and Global Assets Management which accounted for N42.64billion or 1.91per cent of the total value of stocks traded on the

Exchange between January and March 2025. Also, on the top 10 brokers list by value include: APEL Securities which traded N39.33billion worth of stocks or 1.76per cent and First Securities Brokers that traded N38.11billion or 1.70per cent worth of stocks.

Chapel Hill Denham Securities also led others in 41.05 billion volume of stocks traded in Q1 2025 as the firm traded 9.47billion volume of stocks or 11.92per cent.

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 27 March-2025, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF.

Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

INVESTOR ROADSHOW...

L-R:

Reuters: Niger Withdraws from MNJTF in Blow to Fight Against Terrorism

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Niger Republic has quit an international force fighting armed Islamist groups in West Africa's Lake Chad region as it seeks to shore up security around oil assets at home, a Reuters report has said, quoting the government’s bulletin on state television.

The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which also includes soldiers from Nigeria, Chad and Cameroon, has been working to stem the insurgency since 2015, but progress has been hobbled by division and poor coordination, allowing armed groups to flourish across the region's sparsely populated scrublands.

In March 1994, the Lake Chad

Basin Commission (LCBC) set up the MNJTF – comprising Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Nigeria, joined by Benin – to combat insecurity in the region.

The regional force symbolised LCBC member states’ ability to overcome the mistrust and friction that had characterised their bilateral relations, particularly around boundary issues, the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) reported at the time.

However, in the past two years, rifts have weakened the MNJTF –while the jihadist threat remains acute and demands regional, not just national, responses.

After a lacklustre first 10 years, the force was reactivated in 2014 in response to the rise and spread

of Boko Haram attacks. Backed by the African Union (AU), its mandate focuses on combating Boko Haram and other terrorist groups to enable stabilisation and humanitarian operations.

In all, the MNJTF represented a cornerstone of the holistic approach envisaged by LCBC member states, who quickly understood the need to work together as a region against a transnational threat.

The force’s record since 2014 has been generally encouraging, with successes achieved in halting Boko Haram’s territorial expansion. At its height, Boko Haram controlled large areas in North East Nigeria and directly threatened cities like Chad’s capital N’Djamena, Cameroon’s Far North Region capital Maroua, and

The insurgents are currently enclaved in three main areas: Lake Chad’s islands, Cameroon’s Mandara Mountains, and Sambisa Forest in Nigeria. Through several operations, such as Lake Sanity, the MNJTF has regularly disrupted Boko Haram by dismantling its bases, arms caches, weapons and armour manufacturing workshops. Fighters – including commanders – have been neutralised, liberating occupied communities and enabling the seizure of military and logistical equipment

But Reuters said that the MNJTF has yet to comment on Niger's withdrawal, and it is unclear how the step will affect the mission's

Enugu Strengthens Roll-Out of 260 Healthcare Centres

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

The Enugu State Government has strengthened the roll-out of 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the 260 wards in the state as part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery across the state. This was even as the administration said it had reduced by over 400 per cent, the national average maternal mortality of 512 deaths per every 100,000 live births, which it inherited.

Speaking when he visited one of the facilities at Otukwu community in Emene Enugu, at the weekend, state governor, Peter Mbah stressed that his administration was intentional in disrupting the unacceptable poor state of the primary healthcare system from the outset, as a healthy population

and workforce was at the core of his government’s vision to grow the state’s economy from $4.4bn to $30bn.

He explained that the PHCs were not just about the buildings, but about world-class equipment, including staff quarters and renewal energy to ensure availability of manpower and electricity 24 hours of the day in the 260 PHCs in the state.

“Some of the data that we saw when we came in were very disturbing. The data on maternal mortality was unacceptable and we immediately recognised that we had to do something very quickly, particularly in our primary healthcare subsector,” he said.

Speaking further, he said “we recognise that there is no reason our women, who are pregnant will not be

able to get quality healthcare at any time of the night or day, hence the staff quarters and renewable energy.

This is essentially responsible for the intervention you are seeing in the primary healthcare space,”.

He maintained interventions at the primary level are also going on at the secondary facilities, adding that his administration was also revamping 22 cottage and general hospitals.

Mbah emphasised that the Otukwu, Emene, PHC, was in line with his administration’s inclusive governance model where people did not need to know anyone in government for development to get to them.

He added that his administration would in addition build a Type-3 healthcare facility in their area to ensure full access to healthcare

services by the dense population.

He commended the Council Chairman of Enugu East LGA, Hon. Beloved Dan Anike, for enrolling 5,000 persons into the Enugu State universal health coverage and urged other chairmen to do the same.

In her address, the Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, described the governor’s interventions in the primary health subsector as radical and life-saving.

She explained that the state-of-theart PHC Otukwu, Emene, which had commenced work about three weeks ago had registered 140 residents, while two babies, named Peter and Ndubuisi by their parents, had been delivered in the facility.

Religious, Traditional Leaders to Play Key Role in Eradicating Malaria, Says ACOMIN

Onyebuchi

As Nigeria seeks better ways to address the malaria scourge, the Civil Society in Malaria Control, Immunization and Nutrition (ACOMIN), a key player in the malaria elimination effort, said it is implementing a collaborative programme with religious and traditional institutions to ensure the its message gets to people.

ACOMIN said that since malaria has been identified as a community-

based disease, it makes sense for government to tailor efforts at its eradication towards the people living in various communities.

Speaking to THISDAY shortly after the Quarterly Advocacy-Focused Media Dissemination Meeting of the group last Friday, ACOMIN National Coordinator Ayo Ipinmoye said religious institutions and community leaders can be immense value if they join in spreading key messages meant to keep our environment safe from

mosquitoes.

His words: "We are currently advocating a whole society approach to tackling malaria scourge. Everyone has a role to play and everyone's role is important and should be accentuated.

“Prior to this time, we had treated malaria as an issue for the medical community but experience has shown us that the medical community alone cannot resolve this problem.

"We have to understand that malaria is a community-based disease, all of the

breeding sites are in the communities. It is in the communities that people have slept under mango trees and are bitten by mosquitoes and malaria is transmitted.

"It is in the community that they are treated with whatever means either "Agbo" or at the nearby healthcare centres. So if we must eliminate malaria, communities have for o play a primary role while other segments like the government, health professionals and media do theirs as well."

future.

The Lake Chad region has been repeatedly attacked by militant groups, including Islamic State in West Africa and Boko Haram, whose insurgency erupted in northeast Nigeria in 2009 and has killed tens of thousands of people. Last year, Chad threatened to pull out of the MNJTF after about 40 soldiers were killed in an attack on a military base. Niger Republic has become increasingly withdrawn since a military junta overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum in 2023. Along with Burkina Faso and Malineighbouring states where juntas also snatched power in recent years

- it withdrew from the regional bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in 2024. Niger's junta, which last week announced a five-year transition to constitutional rule, has promised to restore security in the country, whose vast desert north is crossed by migrants and traffickers. But the army has little control over large parts of the country. Islamist militants killed at least 44 civilians and severely injured 13 others during an attack on a mosque in the southwest this month. Its energy infrastructure, including an oil pipeline that links the Agadem oilfield to Benin's coast, has come under attack.

Mrs Otti Mobilises Stakeholders to Save Abia Children from Measles

K Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has urged stakeholders to brace up for the campaign to ensure full vaccination coverage to save Abia children from the measles rubella, a major childkiller disease.

She made the clarion call weekend during a crucial meeting with stakeholders on the MeaslesRubella Vaccination Campaign held at government house Umuahia.

Mrs. Otti decried the negative impact of misinformation in undermining efforts to achieve full immunisation of children against measles rubella.

But she galvanised stakeholders, including wives of local government Mayors and community leaders to rise up and use the "right information" to spread the benefits of vaccinating Abia children against measles.

"Your voices carry influence, and we need your leadership to correct the falsehoods that are preventing families from vaccinating their children," she said.

The Abia first lady lamented that "too many lives have been lost to vaccine-preventable diseases" hence "we cannot allow misinformation to stand in the way of a healthier future for our children".

"As mothers, community leaders, and role models, we have a shared responsibility to protect the health of our children," Mrs. Otti stated.

She assured Abia mothers and

caregivers that "measles-rubella vaccine is safe, effective, and saves lives", adding that it has continued to face resistance "due to myths, fear, and misinformation".

Reeling out statistics from the World Health Organization(WHO), as of 2023, Mrs. Otti noted that approximately 83 percent of children globally received their first dose of a measles-containing vaccine by their second birthday, and 74 percent received two doses.

However, she regretted that in Nigeria, the rate of vaccination coverage "are significantly lower" as only about 60 percent of children received the first dose and just 38 percent receiving the second dose. According to her "this suboptimal coverage has led to frequent outbreaks", citing the reported 297 measles outbreaks in the first half of 2023 alone, and which resulted in approximately 16,000 suspected cases and at least 70 deaths.

"These statistics underscore the urgent need for increased vaccination coverage and accurate information dissemination,".

The Abia Governor's wife commended the Community Wellness Initiative Nigeria (C-WIN) and dedicated health professionals "for their tireless efforts in making this campaign possible".

"Your work is invaluable, and I assure you that the government of Abia State fully supports this mission to immunize every eligible child against measles and rubella," she told the campaigners.

southeast Niger’s Diffa.

Ezigbo in Abuja

Regional Lead, Institutional Client Group, RMB, Eyitope Owolabi; Special Adviser to the Minister of Finance, Kikelomo Longe; EM Sovereign Credit Analyst, Thrivent, Matthew Greenman; Specialised Finance Analyst, Sanlam, Mpho Mbuyazi; Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Federal Ministry of Finance, Raymond Omachi; Honourable Minister for Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Nigeria CEO, RMB, Bayo Ajayi; Africa Structured Debt Financier, Sanlam, Zuko Hewana; Senior Country Risk Analyst, Sanlam, Candy Van Der Walt; FI Strategist, BankInvest, Jakob Christensen; and Senior Portfolio Manager, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, Ron Raychaudhuri, at the RMB Nigeria and Ministry of Finance Investor Roadshow facilitated by Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria in Abuja… recently

WORLD MANAGERS APPRECIATION DAY CELEBRATION...

L-R: General Manager, Teksight Edge Ltd, Mr. Odinaka Mbonu; Founder/CEO, Business Leadership and Innovation Management, Dr. Ajiborode Abiodun; Chief Executive Officer, Ideas House Marketing Communication Management, Mr. Kehinde Salami; and Host, Classic FM Brand and U, Mr. Benjamin Okoh, at the World Managers Appreciation Day Celebration, an initiative between Business Leadership and Innovation Management and Ideas House, held in Lagos, yesterday

SUNDAY ADIGUN

Edo Killing: Northern CAN, PFN Condemn Bloodshed, Rule out Revenge, Demand Justice for Victims

Call for calm, felicitate Muslims for successful Ramadan, Eid-el-Fitr sallah PDP alleges Okpebholo has lost control Party distorting facts, govt counters Reps spokesman condemns lynching

in Bauchi, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City, John Shiklam in Kaduna and Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has condemned recent the gruesome murder of 16 persons of northern Nigeria extraction in Uromi, Edo State.

But CAN said revenge was not the next thing to do.

The condemnation was contained in an Eid-El fitri Salah goodwill message to felicitate with Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the successful completion of the 2025 Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

The goodwill message was signed by CAN Chairman in the region, Rev Dr John Hayab, and Secretary, Bishop Mohammed Naga.

Meanwhile, National Secretary of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop David Bakare, strongly condemned the killing of the 16 travelling hunters.

In an interview with journalists on Sunday in Kaduna, Bakare called for

thorough investigation into the act to ensure that the perpetrators were fished out and brought to justice.

The clergyman appealed against reprisal attacks, pointing out that two wrongs cannot make a right.

He expressed condolences to the families of the victims and urged the authorities to ensure that the culprits were brought to book to serve as deterrent to future occurrences.

The statement said, "We strongly condemn this barbaric and ungodly act of killing travellers under any circumstances.

"Even if they were kidnappers; that does not warrant taking the law into our hands; the right thing was to hand them over to law enforcement agents for proper investigation and legal action.

"We urge that thorough investigation must be carried out on this matter to ensure the culprits are brought to book, no matter who they may be.

"We appeal against reprisal act because two wrongs won't make a right. Our prayers are with the families of the victims.

"Nigeria needs all the peace at this time."

On March 27, the hunters, said to be of northern extraction, were travelling from Elele, Rivers State, to Kano for Sallah, when they were intercepted by a vigilante group in Uromi area.

Edo State chapter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Sunday, said the administration of Senator Monday Okpebholo had lost control following the killing of travelling hunters in the state.

The party, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, made available to journalists, said even the recent classification of the perpetrators as illegal vigilante group further exposed the absence of a coherent security network under the present administration, stressing that it is a continuation of the blame game that the current administration has mastered.

Besides, the party stated that the suspension of Commander of Edo State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), was a clear admission by the government that the security architecture of the state had failed.

On his part, the spokesman for the House of Representatives and

lawmaker representing Ekiti North I (Ikole/Oye) Federal Constituency, Akintunde Rotimi, condemned the lynching of a group of travellers by a local vigilante group along the Uromi-Obajana Road in Edo State. Rotimi expressed his displeasure over the weekend in Ayede-Ekiti during the Second Ramadan Annual Lecture, organised by him in honour of National Vice President of Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Aare Sulaiman Ogunlayi.

Northern CAN stated, "These spiritual activities are significant and rewarding to every faithful, especially those who embrace the teachings as instructed in the Holy Books."

Northern CAN expressed grief as the country mourned the killing of the 16 travellers in Uromi, stressing, "The pain and anguish their families and loved ones must endure are unbearable, and we can only imagine the depth of their suffering. May God grant them comfort, strength, and solace during this darkest of times."

It added, "This heinous act of violence is a stain on our collective humanity, and CAN condemns it in the strongest terms. The brutal taking of innocent lives is a tragedy

CDS, CSO Decry Extrajudicial Killing of 16 Hunters in Edo

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and a civil society organisation (CSO), Global Rights Nigeria, have condemned in the killing of hunters while on transit in Edo State.

Musa said the incident, which occurred on March 28, could have been avoided if the appropriate authorities had been notified and involved in ascertaining the identity of the victims.

A statement by Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, stated that the CDS commiserated with the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, and the families of those who lost their lives.

The CDS also urged Nigerians not to take the law into their own hands but to always refer to constituted authorities in matters that affected security. He stressed that the Nigeria Police, military, and other security agencies were

well-trained to handle such matters.

Musa assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) would work closely with the police and other relevant security agencies to bring the perpetrators of the dastardly act to justice.

He also warned that all local hunters and vigilante groups should register with the police, DSS, AFN, and any other agencies mandated by law to regulate the possession of firearms, while calling on vigilante groups to always refer matters to the police for appropriate action.

He also called for calm and sought citizens' support for the AFN and other security agencies to continue performing their constitutional duties with diligence.

Meanwhile, a civil society organisation - Global Rights Nigeria - expressed outrage over the killing and lynching of the 16 hunters.

A statement by Executive Director of Global Rights, Abiodun Baiyewu, stressed that the individuals were allegedly mistaken for kidnappers by local vigilantes, who, instead of

adhering to the rule of law, took justice into their own hands and unlawfully ended their lives.

According to her, "This gruesome act is yet another example of the increasing disregard for the sanctity of human life in Nigeria. The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) is unequivocal in its protection of the right to life, stating in Section 33(1) that 'every person has a right to life, and no one shall be deprived intentionally of his life, save in execution of a court sentence."

She stated that the extrajudicial killing of the hunters was a blatant violation of this fundamental right and an affront to the rule of law.

According to her, "Furthermore, Section 43 of the Constitution guarantees the right of every Nigerian to own property and reside in any part of the country. Every Nigerian is entitled to their full array of rights in any part of Nigeria's territorial borders, whichever part of the country they hail from.

“The unlawful targeting of individuals based on unfounded

suspicion of their ethnicity and way of life contravenes this constitutional provision and underscores the dangers posed by unchecked vigilantism.

“While we acknowledge the growing frustration of citizens in light of the government's seeming inability to curb the menace of banditry and kidnapping, nothing justifies this act of jungle justice."

The executive director stated that the absence of effective law enforcement could not serve as an excuse for individuals to usurp the role of the state and engage in extrajudicial executions.

She stated that the incident posed a grave risk of exacerbating ethnic and religious tensions, potentially resulting in devastating consequences for national peace and security. Global Rights called on the Nigerian government and its law enforcement agencies to launch an immediate, full-scale investigation into this barbaric act.

Those responsible, both the perpetrators and those who aided and abetted them must be identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, the group said.

that should unite us all in our outrage and our determination to ensure that justice is served.

"As Christians, we stand in solidarity with their families, recognising that this act of violence is not only an attack on any region but on our shared humanity."

Northern CAN stressed, "In this moment of unimaginable pain, we pray for peace and calm to be restored and for an end to violence and bloodshed in our nation.

"We pray for the healing of our land, for the rebuilding of trust and understanding between people of different faiths, and for the protection of all Nigerians from harm. We weep with you, we mourn with you, and we pray with you for an end to this senseless violence."

Northern CAN extended condolences to the families and relatives of the victims. It added, "As we mourn the loss of these innocent lives, we appeal to those who are calling for counter-reaction to reconsider their actions.

“Revenge is not a solution but a recipe for further chaos and destruction. It is the innocent who will suffer again, and the cycle of violence will only continue to worsen.

"Furthermore, we condemn the stereotypes and generalisations that seek to demonise Nigerians based on the actions of a few. Nigerians must rise in unison to reject such stereotypes and generalisations, whether based on religious, ethnic, or regional grounds. “Evil is evil, and criminals must be treated as such without recourse to

Court Halts Transfer of Archlight Nigeria’s Shares to Third Parties

Wale Igbintade

Justice Musa Kakaki has issued an interim injunction restraining Archlight Nigeria Limited or its agents from transferring 50% of its equity shares, which have already been signed, to 86 Gardens Limited.

The order followed an ex parte motion moved by Seni Adio, SAN, on behalf of 86 Gardens Limited in suit number FHC/L/CS/418/2025.

Justice Kakaki ruled that the injunction remains in effect pending the determination of the motion for interlocutory injunction.

The suit listed the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as third defendant.

Adio argued that the application was pursuant to Order 26(A) Rules 1, 2, and 3, and Order 26 Rule 6 of the Federal High Court Civil Procedure Rules 2019, as well as the court’s inherent jurisdiction.

The motion was supported by an affidavit from Oladipo Lawore, an investment analyst and a promoter of 86 Gardens Limited, along with a written address and documentary exhibits.

After reviewing the submissions and documents, Justice Kakaki granted the injunction, prohibiting Archlight Nigeria Limited and its representatives from transferring the 50% equity stake outlined in the Custody Agreement, Share Sales

Agreement, and Share Transfer Forms.

The transfer remains contingent upon Archlight Nigeria Limited emerging as the preferred bidder in AMCON’s sale of a 60% stake in Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).

In an originating summons brought under Order 3 Rule 6 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019, 86 Gardens Limited seeks the court’s determination on "Whether Archlight Nigeria Limited breached the Share Sales Agreement (SSA) by failing to transfer the agreed 50% equity stake.

"Whether Synergy Attorneys failed in its obligation under the Tripartite Custody Agreement by not releasing the Share Transfer Forms to 86 Gardens Limited or filing them with the CAC.

"Whether Synergy Attorneys acted in a conflict of interest by refusing to register the documents with the CAC if Archlight Nigeria Limited was selected as the preferred bidder.

"Whether Synergy Attorneys should be mandated to register the documents with the CAC. Besides, 86 Gardens Limited seeks the following reliefs: “A court order compelling Archlight Nigeria Limited or Synergy Attorneys to register the Share Transfer Forms with the CAC.

Segun Awofadeji

PHOTO:

I Refused N5bn Bribe to Impeach Fubara, Former Rivers Speaker, Edison Ehi, Reveals

Denies bombing assembly complex Ogbeh:

Military appointments during emergency rule

undermines democracy How police intensified security deployments ahead of eid-el-fitr celebrations in state

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Chief of Staff to the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, Hon Edison Ehie, has alleged that he was offered a N5 billion bribe to support the impeachment process of his principal, then as a speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Ehi, who did not mention the person that made the attempt to bribe, and disclosed this yesterday night on Channels TV interview, described Fubara as a man of peace, saying he turned down the money when he realised the purpose for the offer.

Also, a former national chairman of

the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and erstwhile minister of agriculture, Audu Ogbeh, has faulted the practice of replacing civilian governors with military appointees during state of emergency.

In a related development, the Rivers State Police Command had hinted about how it intensified adequate security deployments across the state ahead of yesterday’s Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

Speaking, Ehi reiterated that, "The governor is a man of peace. The governor decided to follow the way of conflict resolution. In October, I was approached with N5 billion bribe against the governor but I refused.

The bribe was for impeachment, but I turned it down," he said.

Reacting to the accusations by the former Head of Service, George Nwaeke, on the bombing of the State Assembly, Ehi said he had no hand in the arson, accusing Nwaeke of monetary compromise to implicate him in such crime.

Ehie, who expressed surprise that Nwaeke after serving for about 35 years could be allowed to be bullied to make such allegations, said what the former HoS presented to the public was a script allegedly written to him to implicate the governor and him in the political crisis in the State.

Mother’s Day: Soludo,

He disclosed that he had directed

his lawyer to file a suit against the former HoS, saying, it’s "Very important to clarify that I was not, had no hand in the burning down of the Rivers State House of Assembly. "I have no hand, not privy, no information. We just woke up and heard that the Assembly had been bombed. We have finished screening commissioner and left the complex. We didn't adjourn to 30 October, 2023 when we finished sitting. 29th October was being a Sunday."

He alleged that the security operatives during investigation said they saw the convoy of the Speaker, coming out of the Assembly.

"Once it is 6pm, it is only one

person that has access to the complex, and that is the Speaker," he said.

Ehie revealed that, "George Nwaeke resigned on March 24, 2025, by Tuesday, March 25, 2025, he was appealing that the governor should give him money, that he doesn't have a better house and other helps. The problem is that of contentment. He is not a contended man. He was requesting for money.

"The governor wouldn't have given him money as at that time because he has already tendered his resignation letter, stating that he cannot work with a government that is not led by Governor Siminalayi Fubara."

The bribe was for impeachment, but I turned it down."

Ogbeh: Military Appointments During Emergency Rule Undermines Democracy

A former national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and erstwhile minister of agriculture, Audu Ogbeh, has faulted the practice of replacing civilian governors with military appointees during state of emergency.

Wife Extol Mothers, Describe Them as

Sacrifice that Hold Families

Obaseki celebrates mothers

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, and his wife, Nonye, have felicitate with mothers in the state on this year's occasion of Mother's Day.

In separate press releases, the governor and his wife described mothers as this who make the sacrifices that keep families going at tough times.

On his part, former Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has celebrated Nigerian mothers on the 2025 Mothers’ Day, Governor Soludo, in a press release by his Press Secretary, said:

"Profound appreciation to all mothers in Anambra State and across Nigeria on the occasion of today's Sunday Mothering Day.

"I laud their unrelenting dedication, selfless love, and irreplaceable contributions to our families and society.

"Motherhood is the purest form of love and sacrifice. We extol the strength, resilience, and compassion demonstrated by mothers daily from the foundation upon which our communities thrive. It is thus most deserving to honour the extraordinary women who nurture dreams, instil values, and shape the future through their children."

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, yesterday, blasted former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a liar and someone without character.

He chastised Atiku in a statement by his senior media aide, Lere Olayinka, in response to Atiku's claim that he picked former Delta State governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, as his running mate in the 2023 presidential

election based on report of the committee set up by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to select its Vice Presidential candidate. Olayinka insisted that Wike was never keen about being Atiku's running mate because the former vice president was a liability. He added that Wike had no regret working against Atiku in the 2023 presidential election, even as he likened the statement issued by Atiku's media office as face-saving and an attempt to use further lies

The governor also acknowledged the exceptional role of the First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, whose humanitarian initiatives continue to transform lives across the state.

On her part, Mrs Soludo said: "Mothers are the heart and conscience of every home and society. Motherhood is a crown of pride worn with grace, fulfilment, and responsibility. There’s a special reason for the aura and pride that comes with motherhood.

"Today and always, mothers deserve all the love, support, and affection. Wherever you are today, take out some time to celebrate every mother in your life. Make them feel really special."

to defend his previous lies.

According to Olayinka, the report of the committee was released so as to set the records straight, and this has made Atiku and his men to confess that in selecting his running mate, he (Atiku) did not follow the report of the committee set up by the PDP.

While saying Atiku picked whom he wanted, not who the party wanted, he said, "By saying that there were no laid down rules or laws on the selection

In a press statement, Ex-Governor Obaseki said: “As we commemorate the 2025 Mother's Day, I celebrate our women and mothers for their unwavering dedication, resilience, and sacrifices in shaping our families and society.

“Their ability to balance multiple responsibilities, from nurturing families, excelling in their careers, and contributing to their communities remain a testament to their strength and selflessness.

“We must all prioritise initiatives that empower and support mothers, from improving maternal healthcare to expanding educational and economic opportunities for women.

process of a running mate. Committees, consultations, and recommendations are advisory in nature.

“The final decision rests solely and exclusively with the presidential candidate, in this case, Atiku Abubakar. It is a constitutional and strategic choice, not a popularity contest. Atiku's Media Office has confirmed that their principal actually lied and never had any regard for the PDP as a party," he said.

On the allegation that Fubara allegedly pulled down the assembly complex and refused to reconstruct it, Ehie said,"The job is 80% completed and the contractor fully paid. The administrator on visit to the complex confirmed that is almost completed.

"The governor is a man of peace.

The governor decided to follow the way of conflict resolution. In October, I was approached with N5billion bribe against the governor but I refused.

Speaking on a television programme, he said President Bola Tinubu and his predecessor, Olusegun Obasanjo, had taken similar steps, raising concerns about a return to military-style governance.

Ogbeh warned that the practice could send a damaging message to Nigerians about the ability of civilian leaders to govern themselves.

“The only other thing that I’m asking is: Why is it that each time there is this suspension of a governor, a military person is put back in place?

APC National Sec: S/West Devt Commission Will Address Infrastructural Deficits, Creates Jobs for Youth Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

National Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Bashru, has said the recent assent of the President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to the South West Development Commission Bill would address the infrastructural deficits of the state's that make up the South West part of the country.

Senator Basiru, a former spokesman of the 9th Senate also said it was three times while he was at the senate that his seat was relocated by the former Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawan without any controversy from any quarters at the National Assembly.

The former lawmaker who represented Osun Central Senatorial District of Osun State at the National Assembly during the 9th Senate stated this in Ilorin over the weekend while speaking with THISDAY on the state of the nation.

The former lawmaker who lauded the transformational leadership

of President Tinubu for assent to the South West Development Commission Bill and other regional developments commissions bills said there was no doubt that the gesture would bring necessary socio economic and infrastructural transformation of the people of the South West part of the country.

He said: "Every federation has its own peculiarities. At the inception of Nigeria, there were 3 regions, West, North and Eastern regions in the country before the creation of Mid-Western region in Nigeria.

"And with the incursion of military government in Nigeria, the country was divided into 12 states, to 19 states, to 21 states and now have 36 states and FCT.

"But with the balkanisation of so-called federating units, the competence of those units to drive meaningful development and growth within the context of modern development has been hampered by the balkanisation of those units’ entity.

HUMPHREY NWOSU'S BURIAL...

L-R: Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo; Former Imo State Governor, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha; and Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, during the burial of the former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission in his hometown, Ajali, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, last Friday

David-Chyddy Eleke

CELEBRATION OF 2025 WORLD PEACE DAY...

L-R: Country Director, Chartered Institute of Business Managers and Administrators, USA

Make Integrity Your Watchword,

Oborevwori Charges Public Servants

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta state has charged public servants to render service with integrity, diligence, and a deep commitment to the betterment of the state and country.

He gave the charge at the retirement thanksgiving of the Delta State Head of Service (HoS), Mr Reginald Bayoko, held at the Grace and Progress Family Church, Asaba.

The governor lauded Bayoko for achieving a resounding success as HoS by remaining steadfast through trials and triumphs and thanked God with

the outgoing chief public officer, for sustaining him throughout his remarkable and illustrious career in public service.

The governor was in company with his Deputy, Monday Onyeme, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, and many senior government functionaries,. He said that it was worthwhile to celebrate with Bayoko and thank God Almighty for his remarkable service and well-deserved retirement.

Oborevwori said, "It is a moment of reflection, appreciation, and thanksgiving for a man who has given 35 years of his

life for the noble cause of public service.

"Within the 35 years, he was a permanent secretary for almost 10 years. In that 35 years, he was Head of Service for almost 10 years, almost 19 years and we give God all the praise. I always encourage people to cultivate a heart of gratitude, especially towards God. Today, there are people who have been in this service for 10 years, but they want to be like Bayoko.

"They want to be like a permanent secretary. Why don't you wait for your turn? Because it's turn by turn. Some are due for retirement. They will not give space for the young ones to grow, they

will change their date of birth," he stated.

To Bayoko, the governor said: "You have run your race with honour, courage, and humility. You have not only led but also mentored and inspired countless young Deltans who now look up to you as a role model.

"As you step into this new chapter of life, I have no doubt that your work and experience, wisdom and passion for uplifting others, will continue to shine in new and meaningful ways. As we partake in this thanksgiving service, let us all be reminded of the sacred duties we hold to our communities and our state.

"Let us strive to emulate the selfless

and faithful service that Bayoko exemplified throughout his career. In whatever capacity we serve, let us do so with integrity, diligence, and a deep commitment to the betterment of our state."

In a sermon titled, "Don't forget", Bishop Chuka Agwuegbo charged Christians and people in authority to always remember that all they have attained and achieved in life were by God's mercy.

While congratulating Bayoko on his successful retirement as Head of Service, he described him as a wonderful and brilliant administrator

who contributed his quota to the growth and development of the civil service.

In his remarks, Bayoko thanked God for a remarkable career in the civil service and expressed appreciation to Oborevwori and former governors of the state for the opportunity to serve the state in several capacities.

A week-long programme of activities to celebrate Bayoko's retirement as the youngest and longest-serving head of service in Delta was concluded on Saturday with a formal disengagement and Christian thanksgiving held in Asaba, the state capital.

TINUBU: NIGERIA IS GREATER THAN ANYONE OF US, INCLUDING THE PRESIDENT, URGES BROTHERLY LOVE AT EID-EL-FITR

for enduring peace and sustainable development in Osun State and Nigeria, as a whole.

He urged Muslims to use their respective "ground of prayers and homes to seek the face of Allah subhanawatahallah to frustrate renewed efforts of some selfish political actors to throw our state into chaos out of desperation to seize power through the backdoor".

NUJ Sokoto Council Greets Muslims

Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, congratulated Muslims in Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.

In a statement by the chairman, Muhammad Usman Binji, and secretary, Nasir Bello, the council extended special congratulations to Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu; the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar; and Senator Aliyu Wamakko. NUJ urged Muslims to continue practising the lessons of Ramadan, including compassion, kindness, and selflessness.

Ododo Harps on Unity, Peace

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, charged Muslim faithful to reflect on the lessons of the holy month Ramadan to foster unity and peace among the diverse ethnic groups in the state.

Ododo gave the charge yesterday at Muhammadu Buhari square in Lokoja, where he observed the two rakat prayers with his people to mark the end of Ramadan fast.

Ododo said, "My message to the people as they cerebrate Eid-el-fitir, is for them to continue to reflect on the lesson of compassion, lesson of peace and lesson of progress."

‘Eid Celebration Brings Food, Joy’

In the spirit of Eid celebration, a remarkable act of kindness unfolded in the Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State.

On Friday, Mr. Sudeep Ramnani and Mr. Jai Mahtani, international businessmen and foreign investors, partnered Pukka Logistics and Support Services Ltd to bring much-needed food items to the community.

The outreach, led Managing Director of Pukka Logistics and Support Services Ltd, Beulah Akingbelu-Banjo, was part of a larger mission to alleviate hunger and food poverty across Nigeria.

According to Beulah, the outreach has already reached thousands of Nigerians across several local government areas to date, and the mission is to reach out to the 774 local government areas in Nigeria, one local government at a time.

Tuggar Asks Nigerians to Embrace Peace, Compassion, Unity

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, asked Nigerians to embrace of peace, compassion, and unity that the Eid al-Fitr festival, which marked the end of the month of Ramadan, represented.

Tuggar, in his message to commemorate the festival, said, “On this joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr, I extend my warmest greetings to all Nigerians, both at home and abroad.

“As we mark the completion of the holy month of Ramadan, let us embrace the values of peace, compassion, and unity that this sacred period represents.

“Eid is a time of gratitude and reflection, a moment to strengthen our bonds as a nation and reaffirm our commitment to love, kindness, and generosity toward one another. It is also an opportunity to pray for continued

progress, stability, and prosperity in our beloved country.

“To our fellow Nigerians living abroad, we recognise your contributions to our nation’s development and appreciate your role in fostering the good image of Nigeria globally. May this Eid bring you renewed hope, joy, and a deeper connection to home.”

AbdulRazaq, Saraki, Danladi-Salihu, Egbewole Pray for Country’s Unity, Peace

Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq joined Muslims across the world to felicitate the Muslim community in the state on the celebration of Eid-ul-fitr.

AbdulRazaq prayed to Allah to give every fasting believer the full rewards of the spiritual exertion in the month.

In a statement issued in Ilorin, the governor also joined the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the entire Muslim community to thank Allah on the completion of Ramadan and the dawn of Shawwal, the 10th month, which ushers in the festivity.

He stated, “As we bid bye to the honoured month of Ramadan, I call on our brethren not to relent in all aspects of ibaadah (worship), in giving alms to the poor, or in refraining from actions and inactions that lessen our standing as believers or as good members of the human community.

“We ask Allaah to accept our supplications and prayers, purify our deeds, bless our families, state, and country, and give us the grace to dutifully observe many Ramadan fasts in the future.”

In his Eid-el-Fitr message, former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, called for unity and peace of the country.

In a statement in Ilorin, Saraki said, "As we come to the end of the holy month of Ramadan, I join Muslims

across Nigeria and the world to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

"This Ramadan, like so many before it, has been a time of deep introspection, reminding us that true leadership is rooted in compassion, humility, and service.

"For me, Eid has always been a time to reflect on our spiritual journey, recommit to the values that unite us, and spend much-needed time with my loved ones.

"Guided by these values, now more than ever, let us pray to Almighty Allah to protect our courageous men and women on the frontlines.

"Let us also ask Him to provide for the millions of families across our nation who cannot celebrate this year’s Sallah with the usual festivities due to the rising cost of living."

Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, also congratulated Kwarans and Nigerian Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan 1446AH and the celebration of Eidul Fitr.

In a statement, Danladi-Salihu thanked Allah for the grace to complete the marathon fast and commended the Muslims for their steadfastness, praying for acceptance of all their acts of Ibaadah during the sacred month by the Supreme Being.

He stated, "It is important for us to sustain the lessons of love and kindness to others, charity and good neighbourliness, compassion and selflessness, forgiveness, and tolerance with one another learned during the sacred month.”

Vice Chancellor of University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole, SAN, congratulated members of the institution’s Muslim community and the entire Muslim Ummah on this year’s Eid-el-Fitri festival.

In a statement by the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, the vice chancellor said the occasion called for celebration as it

marked the successful conclusion of the fasting.

FFS Places Firefighters on Red Alert

Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Abdulganiyu Jaji, said fire fighters had been placed on red alert to address any emergencies across the nation during the celebration.

Jaji also highlighted the need for the installation of onboard cameras on tankers and other articulated vehicles transporting flammable materials.

He said the precautionary measure was aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring public and infrastructural safety, especially during the high-traffic period of Eid celebrations, and called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to implement these safety features to reduce risks and enhance overall road and critical facility safety.

Jaji, in his message, extended heartfelt congratulations to the Muslim Ummah for successfully completing their Ramadan fast.

He explained that those safety measures were vital for preventing accidents involving fuel tankers, particularly given the risks associated with festive period travel.

Obi Congratulates Muslims

Presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in 2023, Peter Obi, prayed for Nigerian Muslims to allow the love and spirit of Ramadan to guide them.

Obi, in a message, said, "I sincerely join the Muslim faithful in Nigeria to celebrate the Eid-el-Fitr 2025, which marks the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan. It is our earnest prayer that Almighty Allah will accept our prayers, fasting, and supplications now and always.

"It was, indeed, very fulfilling for me to break the Ramadan fasts with different Muslim Communities across

the nation. Sharing our blessings and joys with one another is not just an act of Ramadan but should form part of our everyday lives.

"We pray that the blessings and lessons of Ramadan will forever remain and abide with us - that love will live in our hearts, that peace and unity will flourish in our nation, that security of lives and property will again be celebrated within our borders, and that our nation will experience growth and development.

'Once again, I congratulate our Muslim brothers and sisters for completing the Ramadan. May the blessings of Almighty Allah remain with you and your families now and always. Eid Mubarak!”

Inuwa Yahaya Harps on Unity, Peace

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, emphasised the need for enduring unity, resilience, and a renewed commitment to building a society rooted in love, peace, and moral integrity.

In his goodwill message, Yahaya, who is also Chairman of the Northern States Governors' Forum, urged the Muslim faithful to carry forward the spiritual lessons and values learned during the Ramadan into their daily lives.

In a press release by Director-General, Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, Yahaya emphasised that the teachings of compassion, self-discipline, and devotion should be woven into every aspect of life for the betterment of the society.

The governor called on the people of Gombe to remain steadfast in unity and collective prayer, especially as the country gradually overcame its economic challenges. He also assured the people that brighter days laid ahead for Nigeria, saying the country would emerge stronger.

He pointed out that Nigeria, at this critical juncture, required citizens of high moral character to counter the negative actions of a few individuals undermining the country’s progress.

(CIBMA), Dr. Christopher Ike; Awardee, Ambassador for World Peace (AMBP-UN), United Nations ECOSOC Peace and Positive Living Awareness Centre, Dr. Izuka Elkanah Okeke; and Member, AMBA-UN, Yusuf Tanko, during the conferment of AMBP-UN on Dr. Izuka at the celebration of the 2025 World Peace Day in Abuja at the weekend

PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN

TROUBLE PRETENDING TO SLEEP

Thursday’s session, said the volte face was to enable MPs to conduct a more robust debate. In reality, that bill had zero chance of becoming law. Why because, every state governor in Nigeria, except Simi Fubara of Rivers, is in full control of his State Assembly. Even when a constitutional amendment bill garners two-thirds majority support in both chambers of the National Assembly, it must still be passed by simple majority votes of at least 24 state assemblies. This will never happen when it offends governors. In years past, state assemblies rejected bills to amend the constitution and grant themselves financial autonomy because governors opposed it. How about this one, which is a direct shot at governors?

Hot on the heels of that failed trouble awakening attempt, the House of Representatives on Wednesday tried to arouse another trouble that has been pretending to sleep. It passed for second reading a bill seeking to stop anyone above 60 years of age from vying for election for President, Vice President, Governor or Deputy Governor. In one fell swoop, if this bill makes it into the Constitution, it will sweep away all the major contenders to the Nigerian presidency in the foreseeable future, notably incumbent President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former [and possibly future] Labour Party presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi, former [and possibly future] NNPP presidential candidate Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, as well as many current state governors and future aspirants.

Sponsored by Imo lawmaker Ikenga Ugochinyere, this bill is a stunning case of youth fighting back. Back in 2018, after a frenetic campaign by the Not Too Young To Run movement, the Constitution was amended to reduce to 35 the age at which one could vie for the presidency and to 30 for governorship. This time, we will have a Not Too Old To Run Campaign! The main argument for holding youngsters back from top leadership positions is that they haven’t finished their

schooling and NYSC, are inexperienced, lack maturity, are often overzealous, tend to overdo things, and they make up in zeal what they lack in wisdom. Here comes the counter argument. Trying to keep people over 60 away from leadership positions is because they lack energy and dynamism, are beset by health challenges, underwent outdated education with chalk and blackboards instead of computers, they most often lack IT skills, are absent from social media, are married to the past, they nurse too many grudges from past quarrels, are often steeped in regional and sectional politics, are often weighed down by the size of their families, and they do not know the problems of the youths, who are the overwhelming majority in the population. Between a 35-year old President and an 85-year old one, which one will you pick?

Not done with waking up trouble that is only pretending to be asleep, House of Representatives on Thursday passed for second reading a bill seeking to return Nigeria to a parliamentary system of government. This bill, which seeks to create a Prime Minister as Head of Government and a President as Head of State, seeks to throw overboard all the constitutional gains of the last 45 years and take Nigeria straight back to January 1966, constitutionally speaking.

It was General Murtala Mohammed, while inaugurating the Constitution Drafting Committee [CDC] headed by Chief F.R.A. Williams in 1975, who put forward a suggestion by the Supreme Military Council that we could try the American-style presidential system since our experiment with the British-style parliamentary system in the First Republic came to grief. CDC and later, the Constituent Assembly apparently took Murtala’s suggestion as an order and enshrined it wholesale into the Constitution. Since 1979, the main criticisms against presidential system are that it is very expensive and that it is winner takes all. More recently, added criticisms are that its enshrined check-and-balance system has collapsed,

democratic rule is absent at the local government level, state assemblies and National Assembly have become lapdogs of the Executive, with the Judiciary increasingly trending in the same direction, and with “Fourth Estate of the Realm” pretending to sleep. How will parliamentary system improve things? Maybe the MPs will serve part-time, ministers will be appointed from among MPs and Presiding Officers wouldn’t be this overwhelming [and may not be accused of sexual harassment]. Otherwise, if budget padding, constituency projects, N150 million official jeep per MP and shakedown of agency heads in the name of “oversight” are carried into parliamentary system, there won’t be noticeable change. Soon afterwards we may proceed to try the Swiss system of Federal Council, Iranian theocratic system, Burmese system of Senior General, Chinese one-party system, until we will finally arrive at the Saudi monarchical system.

While the House was busy last week trying to awaken many troubles that pretend to be sleeping, the Senate, not to be outdone, attempted one of its own by seeking to amend the Electoral Act to empower Independent National Electoral Commission [INEC] to hold all elections on the same day. The bill’s sponsor, Saliu Mustapha of Kwara, said staggered elections are expensive, inefficient and contribute to voter fatigue and that the bill aims to curb rising election costs and shorten campaign periods. He said “the unsustainable cost of elections has ballooned from 1.5 billion in 1999 to 350 billion in 2023.”

This trouble has been pretending to sleep historically, politically, logistically and financially. Logistically because, it is not certain that INEC can hold all the elections on the same day. While it may reduce the cost of having to pay election officials, security agents and party agents, it could easily lead to logistical chaos, given the volume of materials that will be needed.

Historically because, to usher in the Second Republic

in 1979, we held elections on five different dates, in that order for Senate, House of Representatives, state assemblies, governors and then President. To usher in the Fourth Republic in 1999 we held three elections, in that order for Governors and state assemblies, for President and then National Assembly. Since 2011 we have been having two elections, for President/ National Assembly and then for Governors/state assemblies.

Politically because, incumbent presidents want their election to come first. In my opinion, it is the order of elections that needs to change. Why not settle issues in our states first, before moving on to national issues? In 1979 the presidential election was held last, but in 1983, NPN prevailed on FEDECO to make it first. The worry for an incumbent president is that if the party’s governors secure their own election, they may not worry so much about the presidential election, or at least, the president will be beholden to them.

Collapsing the elections into one day may not really address the central reason for costly elections in Nigeria. Just before the 2003 elections when we interviewed then INEC chairman Dr. Abel Guobadia, he said, memorably, that 90% of the cost of Nigerian elections is because “we are paying for our indiscipline as a society.” Having to mint instead of print ballot papers, for that matter abroad, flying them in by Airforce planes under heavy guard, storing them in Central Bank vaults, Resident Electoral Commissioners coming to Abuja with two truckloads of Mobile Policemen each to collect election materials, not distributing so-called “sensitive election materials” until the last minute in order to avoid their hijack by politicians, posting policemen to each polling station and deploying military strike squads in each LGA are all unnecessary in most countries. Senate, don’t bother to try to wake up this trouble that pretends to be sleeping.

10 YEARS OF JONATHAN'S HISTORIC CALL: REMEMBERING WATERSHED MOMENT FOR NIGERIA'S DEMOCRACY

with one whose naked ambition drives his nation to ruins but with the visionary leader who gives it all up to save his people.

At the official handover ceremony in the Executive Council Chambers in Aso Rock Villa, an elated Buhari had told the outgoing President, on the eve of his swearing in, that "since that famous telephone call you made, you have changed the course of Nigeria's political history." He went ahead to praise Jonathan for his selflessness and deep sense of patriotism, noting that his decision to concede defeat saved countless lives that would have been lost in post-election violence.

Nobody, perhaps, understood what fire was averted more than Buhari, especially after the grisly threat from his flank ahead of the polling that ‘both the baboon and the dog would all be soaked in blood.’ It is to the glory of God that it did not happen. That was because Jonathan served as the agent God deployed to save the country from disaster.

It was this carefully considered action that instantly shot up Jonathan’s image globally, a spotlight he magnanimous shared with Buhari as both of them made history being the first time ever in Nigeria that an opposition candidate had won an election against the incumbent, with both men displaying enormous goodwill for the historic transition. It proved to the rest of us that in our clime also, power could change hands without chaos, thereby reinforcing public trust in the electoral system.

It is quite telling that ten years down the line, the star of this momentous event has continued to be celebrated. Last Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu decided to give Jonathan fresh flowers for the heroic act. While congratulating

the former President who has just been announced as the winner of the prestigious Founder’s Sunhak Peace Prize, Tinubu rightly referenced his “historic acceptance of the results of the 2015 presidential election and his peaceful handover of power “, noting that “the action bolstered the nation’s democratic profile.”

It is therefore people’s expectation that President Tinubu, as an acclaimed prodemocracy champion, and other leaders coming after him will, by their actions, continue to illuminate the paths of democracy in a manner that enhances the dignity of the citizens.

It may be convenient for some people to say, probably out of political mischief, that Jonathan had no other choice, having lost an election. Those who make light of the significance of the Jonathan doctrine seem to forget where Africa had been and where it was headed before the call. In a region where the hangover of military dictatorship still looms thickly on the horizon, and where incumbent leaders often cling to power with desperation, Jonathan's decision to concede defeat was in deed a breath of fresh air. The fact that he chose to put the interests of the nation above his own, needs no gainsay. For that reason, Jonathan has continued to stand as a towering symbol of democracy, statesmanship, humility and peace.

Beyond Nigeria, Jonathan’s decision sent a powerful message across Africa. In the past, many African leaders had refused to concede defeat, leading to prolonged crises in countries like Côte d’Ivoire, Zimbabwe, and The Gambia.

However, in subsequent years, his action became a model for other African leaders, influencing peaceful transitions in countries like Ghana, Senegal, Liberia,

Zambia and Botswana where defeated incumbents stepped aside without resistance.

Today, Jonathan’s action has become a case study in democratic maturity, inspiring hope that peaceful transitions were possible and desirable.

Although this is about the anniversary of this epic act, it is important to point out that Jonathan’s legacy cannot be defined by the call alone. His administration was one that exemplified inclusive governance, respect for democratic institutions and the rule of law.

Unlike many African leaders who appropriate critical institutions for personal aggrandizement or manipulate electoral processes to extend their rule, Jonathan reformed the process and allowed free and fair elections, even when the outcome was not in his favour. Under his leadership, the 2011 and 2015 elections were widely regarded as one of the most transparent in Nigeria’s history, despite challenges.

Jonathan also expanded political freedom by maintaining a free press and tolerated dissent. There was no Nigerian on political exile, during his time.

He promoted Youth Empowerment and Education by introducing key reforms including the establishment of new federal universities, the Almajiri education programme for out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria and the Presidential Special Scholarship Scheme for Innovations and Development (PRESSID), a programme designed to improve the technical skills of brilliant graduates and place them on the forefront of innovation and development.

He introduced an economic Transformation Agenda with which he repositioned Nigeria for unprecedented growth. Under him Nigeria became the largest economy

GOVERNORS, FEDERALISM, AND CONSTITUTIONAL TENSION

the power to declare a state of emergency, but the criteria remain broad and open to interpretation. Key questions include: What constitutes a “clear and present danger” to justify an emergency declaration? Should there be legislative oversight beyond the National Assembly’s approval? How does Nigeria’s standard compare to international best practices? The governors argue that the Supreme Court should establish precise conditions under which emergency powers can be invoked. The governors want the Supreme Court to define what circumstances justify a state of emergency. In 2004, former President Olusegun Obasanjo declared a state of emergency in Plateau State, leading to the removal of Governor Joshua Dariye. A similar scenario occurred in Ekiti State under President Goodluck Jonathan in 2014. These instances highlight the pressing need for judicial clarification to prevent arbitrary use of emergency powers, which, if unchecked, could be used as a political weapon against opposition-controlled states. A critical aspect of this case is whether the president’s emergency powers extend to suspending or removing elected state officials. The governors contend that the Constitution does not grant such authority. Their argument is grounded in Section 1(2), which establishes Nigeria as a democracy where sovereignty belongs to the people; Section 5(2), which limits executive powers by constitutional provisions; and Section 305, which does not explicitly provide for the removal of elected officials. The Supreme Court’s ruling will set a precedent for the extent of presidential authority during emergencies. It will either reaffirm state autonomy or expand federal executive powers, shaping the balance of power in Nigerian governance. Many legal scholars have argued that the power to remove a democratically

elected governor lies with the electorate and, in extreme cases, the legislature—not the president.

The Constitution mandates a two-thirds majority vote in each chamber of the National Assembly to approve a state of emergency. The governors question whether the voice vote method used in recent emergency approvals met this requirement. The Court’s decision will determine whether procedural irregularities can invalidate emergency rule declarations. If the Supreme Court rules that a voice vote is insufficient, it could impose stricter legislative oversight on emergency declarations, ensuring greater accountability and preventing unilateral executive actions from circumventing constitutional processes.

Regardless of the outcome, this case highlights the importance of legal challenges in refining Nigeria’s constitutional framework. Nigeria’s judiciary is responsible for addressing constitutional ambiguities to prevent future conflicts. The Supreme Court had a previous opportunity to clarify constitutional provisions regarding local government elections in Rivers State and more specifically the place of the Electoral Act 2022. However, the ruling did not address critical ambiguities, leaving unresolved questions in electoral jurisprudence. The current case presents another chance for the Court to provide much-needed legal clarity. The judiciary plays a crucial role in resolving ambiguities that could otherwise lead to executive overreach or political instability.

If the Court delivers a well-reasoned judgment, it could serve as a touchstone for future constitutional conflicts, reinforcing the judiciary’s role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic evolution. According to a 2022 survey by Afrobarometer, 73% of Nigerians believe that

the judiciary should have more substantial independence to check executive excesses. This reinforces the importance of Supreme Court rulings in maintaining democratic integrity and ensuring that political expediency does not override constitutional safeguards.

This case will establish whether the president’s emergency powers include suspending elected officials. A ruling in favor of the governors could reinforce state autonomy while limiting federal intervention in state affairs. Conversely, a ruling in favor of the president could expand executive powers, setting a precedent for future emergency rule declarations. If the Court upholds broad presidential discretion, state governments may need constitutional amendments to safeguard their authority.

This decision will serve as a benchmark for defining the limits of emergency powers, shaping Nigeria’s governance structure for years to come. In India, the Supreme Court’s ruling in S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994) curtailed the central government’s power to dismiss state governments, establishing a critical precedent for federalism. Nigeria’s Supreme Court has a similar opportunity to develop safeguards against potential executive overreach.

This case could prompt the National Assembly to reconsider the discretionary powers granted to the president through constitutional amendment . Potential reforms could include defining emergency conditions more precisely, requiring judicial review of emergency declarations, and strengthening legislative oversight to prevent executive overreach. Eminent lawyers have argued that the lack of clear constitutional guidelines on emergency powers leaves too much room for executive discretion, which is dangerous for democracy.

in Africa with a GDP of over half a trillion dollars, attracted the highest foreign direct investment (FDIs) on the continent and kept inflationary pressure at single digit.

Since leaving the state House on May 29, 2015, Jonathan has continued to push a new path, proving to others coming behind him that there is a beautiful life after office. His stature as a global advocate for democracy, peace icon and conflict resolution expert has only grown. He has continued to lead peace mediation missions and international observation missions to ensure credible elections across Africa.

Through the instrumentality of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), and the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) which he founded, he continues to advocate for peaceful elections, youth empowerment, and good governance across the continent.

As Nigeria and Africa seek to deepen democratic consolidation, Jonathan’s 2015 decision stands as a reminder that true leadership is not about holding on to power but about doing what will improve the lives of the people and knowing when to let go for the greater good.

His legacy is, therefore, not just in the democratic ideals he embodied but also in the people-oriented policies he enacted. While challenges still remain, there is no doubt that Jonathan’s legacy has contributed so much to a growing culture of political accountability in Africa. His name will forever be etched in history as the man who chose peace over power, setting a high standard in selfless leadership for generations to come.

*Mr. Eze is the Special Adviser, Media and Communications, to His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

The Supreme Court’s ruling will test its ability to separate partisanship from jurisprudence and focus on constitutional text, precedents, and democratic principles. If it prioritises technicalities over substantive legal interpretation, it risks weakening public trust in the judiciary. A 2022 report by the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House) on “Tackling Judicial Bribery and Procurement Fraud in Nigeria” found that about 61% of respondents believe that judges in Nigeria are likely to be politically influenced or accept bribes to influence their decisions, highlighting the need for impartial rulings.

The Supreme Court’s decision will be a defining moment for Nigeria’s constitutional democracy. If it upholds the governors’ argument, it will set a strong precedent affirming the independence of state governments, ensuring that executive powers remain within constitutional limits. If it rules in favor of expansive presidential authority, it risks tilting the balance of power. Legal challenges like this one are essential for deepening Nigeria’s democratic institutions. Testing constitutional provisions ensures that governance is rooted in law rather than arbitrary power. The outcome of this case will have far-reaching implications for federalism, democracy, and the balance of power in Nigeria. Whatever the outcome, this case has forced a crucial legal reckoning, compelling Nigeria to confront the ambiguities in its constitutional framework. The judiciary must rise above partisanship, deliver a judgment that reinforces the rule of law, and safeguard Nigeria’s democratic evolution. A well-reasoned ruling will not only settle the immediate dispute but will shape the nation’s legal and political trajectory for generations to come.

2026 World Cup: Chukwuma Blasts NFF for Failing Nigerians

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Chukwuma accused the NFF President of ignoring well-meaning advice of patriotic Nigerians to engage a world-class manager for the Super Eagles to ensure qualification for the World Cup.

He lamented that rather the NFF contracted Eric Chelle, who has not won any laurels for Mali or any

A former Vice-chairman of the Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) and Proprietor of Gabros International FC, Gabriel Chukwuma, has accused the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) led by Ibrahim Gusau of bungling Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup to be jointly hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico.

One of Nigeria’s foremost international football scout, Paul Ojo Omamomo, is looking forward to discovering the country’s next football stars at the Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF) which will commence on April 1 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Ojo, who has had the privilege of scouting and transferring players outside of Nigeria, is a member of the NDSF Scouting and Mentorship committee and is reputed to have facilitated the transfer of over 200 Nigerian players to various leagues globally.

“With over a decade of experience in scouting and players transfers across various leagues and countries, I have developed extensive expertise in identifying and nurturing football talent.

“My in-depth knowledge of football in Nigeria, coupled with a vast network within local and international football communities, makes it very easy to achieve an all-round success in the forthcoming festival,” Ojo promised.

The Chairman of the NDSF Scouting and Mentorship Committee, Godwin Enakhena, is elated to have an experienced hand in the person of Paul Ojo Omamomo in the committee.

The committee will be assisted

to unearth new football talents by the NDSF Ambassadors made up of former footballers like Nwankwo Kanu, Victor Ikpeba and Emmanuel Amuneke, all former Africa Player of the Year winners.

“The presence of Paul, Kanu, Ikpeba, Amuneke and that of other ex-internationals in the Scouting and Mentorship committee will help us achieve the major objectives of this festival, which is to discover, harness ,expose and give a platform to pursue a career at the top”, Enakhena stated.

Football is one of the 17 sports showcasing at the Niger Delta Sports Festival proudly sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The festival kicks off on the 1st and ends on 8th of April, 2025 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Meanwhile, Team Ondo State arrived Uyo on Sunday evening to become the first state contingent to hit the Akwa Ibom capital for the Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF).

The team made up of 313 athletes and 56 coaches was received on arrival by a combination of members of the Festival Accommodation, Transport and Administration Committees that ensured a stressfree transition to their camp after undergoing accreditation process.

other team in his career.

The Gabros Proprietor derided Chelle as the coach his assistants poured chilled water on his head to revive him during the last Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, when it dawned on him that Mali had been knocked out of the competition.

“In short, let him get ready for another chilled water baptism because it is all over for Nigeria,” he said.

Chukwuma wondered why a football giant like Nigeria could not beat a winless Zimbabwe at home but managed for a draw,

Nottingham Forest will take on Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley Stadium. City, who last won the trophy in 2023, booked their spot in the last four after coming from behind

stressing that it was a big insult to President Bola Tinubu, the Senate, House of Representatives and the entire country, adding that there was nothing again to offer since Zimbabwe could not be beaten at home in Uyo.

“The Enyimba team or even Gabros, when we were playing, could easily have beaten Zimbabwe because they have stayed together as a team. On match day, the Eagles I saw were running round the pitch like “ojuju” (masquerades), playing individual football,” he recalled.

to beat Bournemouth.

Aston Villa, who dispatched the only remaining Championship side Preston 3-0, have been drawn against Crystal Palace - who beat Fulham convincinglyin the

Chukwuma added Nigeria opted for defeat the day it engaged Chelle, saying stakeholders had expected a quality coach for the team and not this Franco- Malian.

“I even volunteered to assist in paying his salary and many Nigerians were also interested in that because money was not the problem. But Gusau and his NFF held Nigerians in the neck. We talked and talked and suggested, but they could not listen. It is very painful that out of 9 slots given to Africa by FIFA, Nigeria will not pick anyone and will not

quarter-finals.

Forest reached their first FA Cup semi-final since 1991 by overcoming Brightonin a penalty shootout.

Aside from 2023 winners Manchester City, Nottingham Forest

be in a position to fight for the 10th ticket in the World Cup playoffs. Yet, our leaders are there watching and looking like “aba na anya” with no attempt to do anything.

“The money that President Tinubu gave the football authorities to prosecute the World Cup is a pure waste. I said it earlier that it was a “dash money” to the officials as they were not going to deliver. And instead of telling the President the truth, they were deceiving him, making him to believe that they would deliver the World Cup ticket.”

are the most recent FA Cup victors (1959) left, while Palace are bidding to win their maiden FA Cup. The semi-finals will take place on the weekend of Saturday, 26 April.

WINNERS...

Manchester City’s duo of Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush provided the goals as the Etihad team defeated Bournemouth 2-1 to cruise into the semis of the English FA Cup...yesterday

Impressed by the outcome of the inaugural edition of the South West Games, the Games major sponsor, FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, has pledged its continuous support to any sporting initiative that targets youths and sports development across the country.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the maiden South West Games, Seyi Oyefeso, Executive Director; Retail Banking of FistBank said supporting sports is in line with the bank’s belief in engaging and encouraging youths to put their energy into things that are positive and rewarding.

“We will always support anything that is targeted at youths. At FirstBank, we will continue to embrace anything that engages our youth positively

and things that encourage them to put their energies into things that are position and rewarding”, he said.

He however added such support is not limited to South West alone, explaining that FirstBank is a national financial institution that operates across off the states of the federation and will support any initiatives geared towards encouraging youth nationally.

While urging the corporate world to help sports grow, he said doing so will greatly improve sports development across the country.

“If there is anything that unites the nation the most, it is sports. Therefore, it’s important for the Corporate Nigeria to begin to support it and encourages them to organise properly”, he added.

The former WABU champion died in the ring in Ghana on Sunday morning

GOtv Boxing Night, Africa’s premier boxing event sponsored by GOtv, and Flykite Productions, the show’s organisers, have expressed deep sadness over the passing of Segun “Success” Olanrewaju.

The former national and West African Boxing Union (WABU) champion tragically collapsed and died in the ring early on Sunday morning in Accra, Ghana.

In a statement released yesterday, Flykite Productions described Olanrewaju’s untimely death as a significant loss to Nigerian boxing, noting that he was a boxer from whom great expectations were held.

Flykite Productions highlighted that Olanrewaju participated in five editions of GOtv Boxing Night.

“We are deeply saddened by the news of Olanrewaju’s death,” the statement said. “He was not only a highly promising boxer but also a valued member of the GOtv Boxing Night family.

“He was a regular presence at GOtv Boxing Night, both as a boxer and as a fan. He would have attended the next edition on 26 April, but for this unfortunate

development.

“We express our heartfelt condolences to his family, the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control and Nigeria’s boxing fraternity as a whole. We pray to God to give the family the fortitude to cope with

Benue

the loss,” concludes the statement. Olanrewaju made his debut at GOtv Boxing Night 20, where he triumphed over the highly rated Adewale “Masevex” Masebinu. He continued his success at GOtv Boxing Night 22, defeating

Commission McCarthy Stadium May 29

Benue State Government has said the ongoing reconstruction work on McCarthy Stadium, Makurdi is expected to be completed before May 29, 2025 for commissioning.

The assurance was given by the state’s Commissioner for Sports, Youth and Creativity, Hon. Terkimbi Ikyange, at an inspection of ongoing work.

He said the McCarthy Stadium is the second total sports complex work being embarked upon by the Governor Hyacinth Alia-led administration in less than one year.

He described Rev. Fr. Alia, as a sports loving governor, who is interested in unearthing talents and nurturing them to stardom.

He, however, lamented that this

will not be possible without sports facilities.

“You know that for football, particularly, you must have playing pitches before this can be done. A lot of people have come from outside the state and country who tried to scout for talents. “But it was difficult in the state because we do not have pitches that will be played on. Playing on the sandy pitch cannot bring out the true potentials of the players. This is not just about football,” Ikyange said. He also disclosed that aside Makurdi, the present administration will extend sports infrastructural development to the various local government areas of the state.

with

Construction Company, the firm handling the McCarthy Stadium work, Olayiwola Ibrahim Bidemi, said the project is being executed with top quality materials in line with FIFA specifications and standard. He said: “We met the entire stadium in a very dilapidated state. When we came here to McCarthy Stadium, the pitch was just ordinary sand. In fact, the grass was dead and gone. We met only topsoil. “So, we had to start all over by bringing down every part of the complex including regrassing of the pitch, remodeling of the pavilionbefore now it was one pavilion but now we are expanding from VIP to regular seating arrangements”.

Timothy “Nsiefinagajie” Gonze, and at the 23rd edition, he overcame Fatai “Hit Man” Balogun. In the 24th edition, he claimed victory against David “Awosika Cosmos” and also defeated Victor Bennett at the 25th edition.

TRUTH & REASON

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Kaduna SDP to El-Rufai

“IthascometoournoticethatcertainindividualsincludingNasirEl-Rufai,are beingrumoured tohavejoinedtheSDP. However,neitherthechairmanoftheKadunaNorthLGchapterin KadunaStatenortheleadershipofUnguwarSaikiwardhasanyrecordofthesememberships. Weadvisehimandanyotherinterestedindividualtofollowtheproperproceduresiftheywish toofficiallybecomemembersoftheparty"–SDPAssistantNationalSecretary,North-WestZone, IdrisInuwa,revealsthatNasirEl-Rufaiisnotyetamember of the party.

MAHMUDJEGA

VIEW FROM THE GALLERY

Trouble Pretending to Sleep

He was not exactly famous for quotable quotes during his five years as President of the Federal Republic, except perhaps for “ordinary stealing, you call it corruption.”

Last week however, former President Goodluck Jonathan enriched Nigeria’s national vocabulary with what he said is a quote from India. Indian sages say that it is easier to wake up a person who is sleeping than it is to wake up a person who is pretending to be sleeping.

It was Fela who said trouble dey sleep, yanga dey wakeam. Last week, the House of Representatives defied both Fela and Indian sages by trying to wake up many troubles that were pretending to be asleep. In two days, under the dubious routine of “constitutional amendment,” the House passed for second reading a whopping 81 bills seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution.

The most instantly controversial case of waking up trouble was the bill that sought to remove the

immunity conferred on the Vice President, governors and their deputies. The bill’s sponsors said it is in order

to curb corruption, eradicate impunity and enhance accountability in public office. Ok, but why did the bill omit the President, the most potent force on the political horizon who is in the best position to perpetrate corruption, impunity and who could potentially exhibit the highest lack of accountability? Pray, what corruption and impunity can deputy governors do with the little constitutional power in their kitty?

It has even been difficult to determine the territorial expanse of immunity. In 2006, when security agencies were trying to help Plateau State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Joshua Dariye, they stormed a guest house in Jos belonging to the governor, but his aides argued that a governor’s guest house is immune from search. Similarly, in 2013, when nPDP Governors were holding a meeting at the Kano State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, hosted by then Governor Rabi’u Kwankwaso, the police DPO of Asokoro barged in and said he had orders from above to stop the meeting.

IKECHUKWU EZE

GUEST COLUMNIST

The governors protested that both the Lodge and themselves were immune from arrest and prosecution. From day one, immunity for executive chiefs was an unpopular prospect in Nigeria because it was feared that top officials will use it to perpetrate all kinds of corrupt acts and cannot be brought to book during their tenure in office. On the other hand, the main justification for it was that top officers should not be distracted from their duties by political opponents filing frivolous court cases. Anti-corruption agencies try to get around the problem of governors’ immunity by seeking to bring to book people around them, lower officials, kinsmen or businessmen [more recently, businesswomen] that are believed to have abetted the crimes. State governors promptly criticized this bill and within 24 hours the House of Representatives reversed itself. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over

Continued on page 46

10 Years of Jonathan's Historic Call: Remembering Watershed Moment for Nigeria's Democracy

In the annals of Nigeria’s political history, few moments stand out as defining turning points for democracy. One such moment occurred on March 31, 2015, exactly ten years ago. That was when then-President Goodluck Jonathan placed a phone call to his rival, Muhammadu Buhari, conceding defeat even before the final results were officially announced. Many believe that single act of statesmanship not only strengthened Nigeria’s fragile democracy but also sent a powerful positive message to the entire African continent.

The build up to that notable event was a tense and

charged political atmosphere, one delicately tethered on a tinderbox. It will be recalled that Nigeria’s 2015 presidential election was one of the most fiercely contested in the nation’s history. Ahead of the elections tensions were high, with unprecedented saber-rattling and aggressive blustering across regional and religious divides.

While the results were being collated, supporters of some of the candidates were literally up in arms, threatening fire and brimstone. Fears of post-election violence loomed large.

This was coming on the back of recent experience

of many African countries where cases of disputed elections led to chaos, coups, or civil strife.

The long wait for the final tally exacerbated the tension in the land and sparked national debate. Goodluck Jonathan is the genial, gentle, and selfless one. But will he cave in to the pressure from his party’s power mongers or defy the typical ‘win-at-all-costs’ mentality that had plagued African politics for decades?

However, in that tension-soaked moment on the appointed day, against the backdrop of a din of voices and divergent opinions from aides and close associates seated in his expansive living room in the State House,

DAKUKU PETERSIDE

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Jonathan quietly disappeared into his study, made peace with himself, his conscience and his God, and placed the historic call.

Instantly, his action calmed tensions across the country, preventing what could have been a bloody conflict between supporters of rival parties. His mantra “My political ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian,” resonated afresh across the nation and the world. By his action, Jonathan proved that power is in deed nothing without control, and that real strength lies not

Governors, Federalism, and Constitutional Tension

Tensions between Nigeria’s central and state governments have long been the fault lines of its federal system; it is like a simmering struggle between authority and autonomy. The 1999 Constitution, though intended as a compass for governance, is riddled with ambiguities—grey areas that have, time and again, become battlegrounds for political and legal duels. Among the most contentious debates is the reach of Section 305(1), which grants the president the power to declare a state of emergency. But does this mandate extend to the unilateral removal of democratically elected state officials?

For years, this question has lingered like an unspoken riddle in the corridors of power, whispered in legal

chambers and political gatherings alike. Now, it erupts into the open, thrust into the unforgiving glare of the Supreme Court by seven opposition governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Their challenge is more than a legal contest; it is a reckoning—one that may redraw the contours of Nigeria’s federalism, recalibrate executive authority, and probe the very essence of democracy in the nation.

The Supreme Court, under Section 232(1) of the 1999 Constitution, has original jurisdiction in disputes between the Federal Government and state governments. This means it can directly adjudicate conflicts concerning constitutional interpretation. The ongoing case will test the limits of this jurisdiction, mainly whether the Supreme Court can provide

clarification in the absence of a specific dispute between a state and the Federal Government. If the Court rules that interpretation alone is insufficient to activate its jurisdiction, it could set a precedent discouraging proactive legal resolutions, potentially allowing constitutional ambiguities to persist until conflicts escalate. However, if the Court determines that a general ambiguity affecting multiple states warrants judicial intervention, it will pave the way for a more dynamic constitutional review process that ensures legal clarity before crises arise.

This kind of legal battle is not unique to Nigeria. In advanced liberal democracies, governors often act as checks on presidential power. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. state governors

resisted federal directives from President Donald Trump, asserting their constitutional authority over public health measures. Similarly, governors challenged President Jair Bolsonaro’s handling of the pandemic in Brazil, leading to significant legal battles that strengthened jurisprudence. Argentina has also seen multiple instances where state-level leaders acted against federal overreach, reinforcing the principle of decentralized governance. Nigeria’s case aligns with this broader global trend, underscoring how federalism functions as a check on executive authority.

Section 305 of the Constitution grants the president

Ugochinyere