SATURDAY 22TH FEBRUARY 2025

Nume Ekeghe

Osun: Court Orders State Electoral Body

Reactions

to offer public apology Atedo Peterside: Are we supposed to clap because he told truth after three decades

Chuks Okocha in Abuja, Wale

Igbintade and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

The launch of former military president Ibrahim Babangida’s autobiography, ‘A Journey in Service,’ has continued to generate reactions from prominent lawyers and human rights activists, following his admission almost 32 years after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election which was widely adjudged freest, fairest, and most credible poll in the history of the country, that Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, popularly known as MKO Abiola, was the winner.

Babangida officially launched the book on Thursday, in Abuja and since then questions have arisen as to whether or not the Abiola family, as well as his vice presidential running mate,

Baba Gana Kingibe would get full pension and privileges following the open admission by Babagida that they won the election and the granting of legitimacy to that election by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Some public affairs commentators are asking if the law that allows all former Heads of State, presidents and vice presidents get payment, security, medical services, accommodation, vehicles, vacation, allowances to family members of deceased presidents, Heads of State and vice presidents, and other benefits would be extended to the Abiola family and Kingibe.

Buhari had in 2018, directed that Democracy Day should be marked every year on June 12, rather than May 29, in honour of Late MKO Abiola.

Continued on page 5

Chuks Okocha, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Kalu: We’ve Received Over 200 Bills Seeking Alteration to 1999 Constitution

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has revealed that the constitutional review committee has received over 200 bills seeking alterations to the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as emended).

He said the bills, already categorised into thematic areas, would address a wide range of

issues, including federal structure and power devolution, local government autonomy, public revenue, fiscal federation, revenue allocation, and electoral reforms.

Kalu disclosed this yesterday, in Abuja at the commencement of a two-day retreat for members of the constitution review committee of the House holding at Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.

The Deputy Speaker in a statement

issued by his media office revealed that a situation room would be opened to collate and address other concerns of Nigerians in the course of the constitution amendment process.

Kalu stated: "We have 151 House bills before us. But I'm sure these numbers are the last count before the recent additions. My office has been told that there are about 250 constitutional amendment bills that will pass through the House for

this committee.

“This bill reflects our collective commitment to refining governance in Nigeria. While some have progressed to the second reading stage, others remain at the first reading stage.

“But it is our intention that by the time we are done with our conversation during this retreat, that we progress those bills at the first reading stage for them to be

given expedited hearing.

"The compilation process has revealed instances of duplication— whether by sponsors or overlapping subject matters. "This necessitates meticulous harmonisation to streamline efforts and eliminate redundancy. To aid our analysis, bills have been categorised into thematic areas, and our consultants have conducted thorough reviews, offering insights to guide prioritisation. "The thematic areas include: Federal structure and power devolution, local government/ local government autonomy, public revenue, Fiscal Federation, Revenue Allocation, Nigerian Police and Nigerian Security Architecture, Comprehensive Judicial Reforms, Electoral Reforms, Gender Issues, Human Rights, and State creation."

OSUN: COURT ORDERS STATE ELECTORAL BODY TO CONDUCT ELECTION TODAY

before Justice A. Aderigbigbe by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against OSIEC and Its Chairman, Hashim Abioye, the court ruled that there was vacancy in the 30 local government areas of the state as held by the judgment of the Federal High Court.

The court stated that the election conducted by the first defendant on 15th October, 2022, had been invalidated, nullified and voided, and the purported elected officials produced by the purported election had been sacked by the Federal High Court.

The court further directed and compelled all the security agencies, comprising the Nigeria Police, the Nigeria Army, the Department of

He had also conferred him with the highest national honour, Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) posthumously, in recognition of Abiola as a former president. The GCFR is reserved for President. Also, Kingibe, who was recognised as vice president (VP) had received the second highest national honour, Grand Commander of the Niger (GCON) which is reserved for VPs.

With this and the open acceptance by Babangida that MKO and Kingibe won the 1993 presidential election, questions have sprung up as to if their benefits and privileges would also be given to them and their families.

In his remarks during the book launch, President Bola Tinubu had said Babangida showed unusual courage and patriotism by admitting that the late Abiola won the presidential poll. He described the annulment as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s democratic history, stressing that the former leader’s admission about Abiola’s victory will help to set the record straight.

The president said he would continue to do his best for the country by making tough decisions to reposition the economy.

He called on Nigerians to refocus their time, energy, and resources on building the country that remained their home and be more mindful of changes in global migration laws that could impede their dreams of a better life.

The annulment of the election –widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history – was a seismic event that sent shockwaves through the nation’s political and social landscape. It was a moment that altered the course of Nigeria’s democracy, plunging the country into uncertainty, unrest, and a prolonged struggle for civilian rule.

In a rare display of national unity in 1993, setting aside ethnic and religious divisions, Nigerians elected MKO Abiola, as their president. Hope filled the air, the dawn of a new democratic era seemed imminent, and the people believed that their voices had finally been heard.

But when the military government under Babangida abruptly annulled the results, that hope was replaced by outrage, confusion, and a sense of betrayal. From Lagos to Kano, and other key parts of the country, protests erupted.

Civil society groups, pro-democracy activists, and ordinary Nigerians demanded the restoration of Abiola’s mandate and in the weeks and months

State Security Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Amotekun Corps, the Vigilante group among others in the state to provide adequate security during and after the election.

Meanwhile, the Police said they received credible intelligence indicating a high likelihood of violence and significant security threats should the planned elections proceed.

The Police also averred that joint intelligence gathering revealed that various groups, including political elements and other interested parties, were mobilising to instigate unrest, disrupt public peace, and undermine

that followed, Nigeria teetered on the edge of chaos. The press came under siege, opposition voices were silenced, and the military tightened its grip, leading to a dark era of political repression.

While some have knocked the former president for waiting for over three decades to shed light on issues such as the killing of veteran investigative journalist Dele Giwa and the annulment of the June 12, 1999, presidential election, others commended his contributions to national development and said the book would add to knowledge and support nation building.

Hafsat Abiola-Costello, daughter of the late MKO Abiola and Kudirat Abiola, yesterday responded to the confession by the former military leader, acknowledging that Abiola won the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election.

Reacting to Babangida’s statement, Hafsat welcomed the admission.

She stated, “For those that kept expressing doubt that Nigerians had spoken so decisively on that day, I’m glad that General IBB’s admission that MKO won the election can now lay the matter to rest.”

In a statement yesterday, she reflected on the significance of June 12, noting that whenever the date was mentioned, her thoughts go to her parents, MKO and Kudirat Abiola.

However, she emphasised that the importance of June 12 goes beyond them, as it represents the collective hope of Nigerians for a better and more united country.

She explained, “MKO may have been the symbol of the Hope ’93 campaign, but June 12 was about more than one man, it was about the promise of Nigeria that would deliver for Nigerians.”

Expressing her disappointment over the annulment, she described it as an unjust action that cut short a historic moment.

She added, “It’s sad that such a galvanising statement as the breakthrough vote for MKO should have been truncated by an unjust annulment.”

Despite this, she expressed deep appreciation for the courage shown by her parents, stating, “But I will be forever grateful to both MKO and Kudi for not allowing their fears for their personal safety stand in the way of the people’s desire for a better Nigeria. May such commitment endure.”

Her brother, Abdulmumuni, in his remarks on the development, said it was healing for Nigerians that Babangida,

the democratic order.

A statement by Force Spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, stressed that given this imminent threat to security, the Police strongly advised the Osun State Government to suspend the planned elections forthwith in the interest of public safety and national stability.

According to him, the Force has assessed the current security landscape and determined that proceeding with the elections under these volatile conditions could escalate into widespread unrest, endangering lives and property.

"The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security

expressed regret over his decision to annul Abiola’s victory.

Abdulmumuni said this in an interview on ARISE NEWS, where he noted that Babangida’s admission of Abiola’s victory and his remorse for the annulment validated the long-held truth about the election.

He said, “In the revelations that we heard from the former Head of State yesterday, there were two parts for me. The first part was the acknowledgement that Abiola, my father, had won the 1993 elections. That, for me, I already knew that. And it was, for me, even from the young age of eight when the elections were held, I knew my father had won the elections even before they were announced.

“I think the second part was more important for me, the acknowledgement that he felt remorse for the actions that he had taken at the time and also his expression that if he had the opportunity to do it again, he would have taken a different path. I think it’s important that we understand that we’re human and it’s in humans to err and what we need to do is to acknowledge when we make those mistakes and seek forgiveness. So, for me, I think that was more important to me, the fact that he expressed that remorse towards the decision that he had made.”

Regarding Babangida’s admission, Abdulmumuni went on to say, “I think this also was good because once he announced it, he had put the matter

N1,502 to a dollar.

President of the Capital Market Academics of Nigeria (CMAN), Prof. Uche Uwaleke, who spoke to THISDAY attributed the naira’s improved stability to CBN-led initiatives, including the forex matching system, electronic matching system, and the FX code of conduct.

“I think the stability we are witnessing has a lot to do with some of the measures introduced by the Central Bank measures designed to enhance transparency in the forex market.

“Specifically, I’m referring to the BMatch electronic matching system, and the FX code of conduct. These initiatives have improved transparency and put banks on their toes, knowing that any breach of the code will result in sanctions. That

agencies, is fully prepared to take decisive action to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

"However, to avert unnecessary confrontation and safeguard the democratic process, it is in the best interest of all stakeholders that the elections be stand down.

"Beyond the security concerns, it is also imperative to consider the legal clarification by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice on the extant judicial pronouncements concerning Local Government administration in Osun State with regards to the Court of Appeal judgment delivered on the 22nd of February 2025 which stands to have nullified the Federal High Court's

to rest. Now, the issue is that he was the head of state at the time and now that he has announced that Abiola had won the elections, he has basically put that matter to rest.”

Abdulmumuni then stressed the need to channel efforts into building a better Nigeria rather than dwelling on past injustices, saying, “My father had a vision and a passion for this country. And I think it’s important that their sacrifice is not in vain. And I cannot be discussing my father’s sacrifice all the time, especially knowing that he had a vision, he had a hope for a better Nigeria.”

Weighing in on the matter, renowned constitutional lawyer and human rights activist, Professor Mike Ozekhome (SAN), urged Nigerians to accept Babangida's public expression of remorse over the annulment of the presidential election.

In a statement, Ozekhome called on Nigerians to “let the wounds heal, let the heart melt, and let the spirit of national triumphalism prevail.”

Ozekhome reflected on Babangida’s recent apology, which came 32 years after the devastating annulment.

He praised Babangida for having the courage and humility to publicly acknowledge the wrongs that took place under his watch as president, emphasizing that it takes a strong man to admit past mistakes and seek forgiveness.

previous decision and reinforces the position that the elections, as presently contemplated, lack a firm legal foundation," he said.

Adejobi noted that in light of the combination of heightened security threats and the existing legal complexities, the Police advises the Osun State Government to reconsider and suspend the planned elections immediately.

However, Governor Adeleke told the delegation of civil society that Osun voters were prepared to exercise their voting rights today even as he expressed satisfaction with the level of preparation by the electoral body.

“Our people are prepared for elections tomorrow (today). They yearn to have their choices as chairmen and councilors. OSSIEC has also done marvelous preparatory job according to reports at my disposal. Several political parties are participating and I believe there will be a level playing ground for all to test their popularity with the masses”, the Governor told the visiting activists.

On the controversy over the election, the Governor asserted that democracy is governed by rule of law and that nobody can assume the authority of the courts.

“My advice to all parties including local and national stakeholders is to abide by democratic norms. As for me and my people, we stand by the rule of law, not illegal self- help.

“Election is going to hold and the outcome will be a fast tracked development at the local level. I urge our people to remain peaceful. Osun is a truly peaceful state,” Adeleke noted.

Adeleke ordered restriction of vehicular movement from 5am to 5pm today across Osun State.

Spokesperson to Adeleke, Mallam Olawale Rasheed in a statement urged the people of the State to disregard fake news about the cancellation of the election.

Adeleke, who reiterated his commitment to peace and security said the movement restriction was necessary to prevent importation of hoodlums into the state amidst local elections.

He, therefore, directed security agencies to enforce the restriction and only allow voters and accredited media and civil society organisations for the continued peace and security of Osun State.

has gone a long way in stabilising the market,” Uwaleke said.

He also highlighted the impact of increased remittances and foreign portfolio investments, noting that CBN’s engagement with international money transfer operators has boosted forex inflows.

“Foreign investments, particularly foreign portfolio investments, have also played a role in improving forex liquidity and, by extension, exchange rate stability. So, I would attribute the current stability in the exchange rate primarily to the CBN's reforms,” he added.

When asked about the sustainability of the naira’s stability, Uwaleke expressed optimism, citing rising oil production and steady crude prices as crucial factors.

“Yes, I believe it is sustainable,

especially considering that oil production is increasing. Currently, we are producing about 1.54 million barrels per day. If we can sustain or even increase production in line with the projections in the 2025 budget and if oil prices remain stable, it will support the exchange rate.”

Also speaking to THISDAY, Head of Agusto Consulting, Jimi Ogbobine, echoed similar sentiments, attributing the naira’s appreciation to improved forex supply conditions.

“The naira’s recent gains are largely on the back of improved supply inflows. With the improved production of crude oil, and the increased inflows of foreign portfolio investors who are being incentivised by the undervaluation of the naira there has been a higher level of

But the Osun State chapter of All Progressive Congress (APC) berated the State chapter of the PDP over a purported injunction granted by a State High Court sitting in Ilesa calling on security agents to supervise the “illegal” local government election slated for today.

In a statement by the Chairman of APC in Osun State, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, described as “fake and inglorious”, the court interim order which he dismissed as “a joke taken too far”.

He contended that Nigerian statutes do not prescribe that a lower court should override an Appeal court judgment.

Lawal counseled Governor Adeleke to reduce the incidents of always appearing as being led by ignoramus who are working to always milk him with frivolity.

The APC Chairman expressed shock that a court could yield its courtroom for absurdity and social retrogression all because of being influenced by the executive who lacks respect for the rule of law. APC in Osun therefore called for firmness with which the security agents had been enforcing the February 10, 2025 Court of Appeal judgment that reinstated the sacked local government political functionaries by Governor Adeleke in 2022.

However, members and supporters of the Osun State chapter of the PDP were told to troop out today and exercise their civic right and vote in the scheduled local government election.

The party also condemned in strong terms, the unfortunate comment attributed to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, over the scheduled local government election, describing it as another plot by President Tinubu's led APC administration in Nigeria to destabilise Osun State as a form of vengeance and vendetta against the peace loving people who voted APC out of the State in 2022.

A statement by the media office of the PDP signed by Hon Sunday Bisi, Osun State PDP Chairman described election as fundamental right of the citizens in constitutional democracy and could not be tied to the fair-weather whims of a “vexed individual” like the AGF, Lateef Fagbemi.

foreign currency inflow.

“This improved supply condition has helped with the recent appreciation of the naira to new comfort levels of about N1,500/$.

“Going forward, favourable supply conditions have to remain - especially an average crude oil production level of over 1.55 million barrels per day to sustain the naira’s stability.

“Also, the CBN’s move to allow Bureau de Change (BDC) operators access to the official forex market has also been credited with narrowing the premium between the official and parallel market rates.” However, analysts cautioned that while exchange rate stability was a positive development, further appreciation was necessary to alleviate inflationary pressures.

STrATeGIC ALLIANCe TO SANITISe FX MArKeT…

GIVING NIGERIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE FACELIFT…

FG Targets $72bn Revenue from Livestock by 2030

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Edo APC, State Govt Trade Words over N9bn Fresh Loan Approval

Adibe emenyonu in Benin City

The federal government disclosed its intention to quadruple the number of livestock in the country in the next five years so that the livestock sector can become a major contributor to gross domestic product (GDP) from the current five per cent of $32 billion to $74 billion or 10 per cent of GDP by 2030.

Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), yesterday, urged Governor Godwin Obaseki to stop securing loans, noting that the N9 billion loan recently approved by the House of Assembly was needless and will plunge the state into financial distress.

The Minister of Livestock Development Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, asserted this yesterday in Abuja while speaking at the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing organised by the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

to control the number of animals we have in the next five years. From 1.8 billion ruminants, we want to go beyond that. From that $32 billion livestock industry, we want to get to $74 billion in the next five years. This is what we are looking for. So we have to work across the board through genetic improvement, health management, pasture and fodder as well as peace meetings between everybody,” Maiha said.

has been swindled by Obaseki-led administration with an unassailable, humongous debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion, the governor is unyielding and unstoppable in his characteristic design to leave Edo State in ruin, by asking for a facility of N17.5 billion few days ago, which was said to be N9 billion."

for the international cattle breeds.

captured.

“We want to digitise them and for international cattle breeding, we will put border control posts for disease and international boundary and disease control.

they can only eat the farm residue.

But in a swift reaction, the Edo State Government said it was perplexed to learn of what it termed “laughable and incredibly ridiculous tantrums attributed to the new acting chairman of the Edo State chapter of APC, Jarret Tenebe where he made baseless and spurious allegations on the fiscal management of our dear state by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government.”

He equally disclosed that the government is planning to digitise cattle entering Nigeria to mitigate the spread of diseases.

Maiha, who appeared at the Ministerial Briefing with Regional Development Minister, Abubakar Momoh alongside Minister of State Alhaji Uba Maigari Ahmadu, said the country is capable of hitting that projected target from the 1.8 billion ruminants available in the country.

“It is our intention in the ministry

Maiha noted that Nigeria has the biggest cattle market in Africa and receives different breeds from neighbouring countries as far as Sudan and DR Congo among others, with some of the animals ending in designated grazing resorts and breeding various types of diseases.

“It is correct that the first cases of Anthrax were reported in this country from our neighbours. If we had control posts for these international cattle creeds, we would be in a position to arrest that situation,” Maiha said.

Addressing a press conference yesterday, Tenebe had said the state was already suffering under a debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion.

He said the government will not only tag the livestock but will set up border control posts for diseases

Fraud: EFCC Returns $132,548,

N78m

He said, "While it is a monumental disaster that Edo State patrimony

to Foreign Victims

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has returned a total sum of $132,362.43 and N78,566,324.81 to victims of fraud from the United States, Spain, and Switzerland.

The Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has announced plans to launch a 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in primary schools across the country. He made the disclosure while speaking with journalists in Ibadan during a working visit to Oyo State.

The gesture is in demonstration of its commitment to the fight against economic and financial crimes, The funds, recovered from local fraudsters, were handed over to the foreign victims as part of the EFCC’s commitment to ensuring justice and restitution for those affected by fraudulent activities.

Tenebe, said "It is important to state, that it is now in public and political space that the fiscal budget of Edo State was passed few weeks ago before the Edo State House of Assembly proceeded on leave without the commencement of the execution of the budget by the executive. It is most disheartening that the Edo State Government now is requesting for a facility of N17.5 billion with no corollary of project attached there to the said facility and also that the facility is not contained as loan to be taken in the 2024 fiscal budget just recently passed. A cursory perusal of the entire budget does not reveal where the project for the facility is ever

Olukoyede in addition said it is also a demonstration of the administration's commitment to good governance, as well as commitment to stimulating the economy and a proof to the entire world that Nigeria is not a safe haven for financial crimes.

among the youthful population. He said the government is worried that about 72 per cent of the nation’s youthful population have become foreigners through the influence of cartoons and movies which are foreign in contents, values and cultures.

"Information at the behest of the members of the Edo State House of Assembly is to the effect that they were recalled from their holiday or leave by the Speaker on the request of the state governor for the immediate approval of the said facility which according to them is said to be N9 billion but as event unfolded, after the mammoth request by the opposition in the House as to the rationale for a facility as

The minister equally insisted on having a control of the ECOWAS Protocol so that the number of cattle to be allowed into the country should be by written permission and only after the harvest of farm crops so that

stupendous as N9 billion for fathom projects which only existed in the imagination of the governor, it was discovered that the facility was not even N9 billion but a figure wrapped in secrecy as much as N17.5 billion to which the opposition in the house rejected and or refused to be part of the approval.

“Tagging is key and is important in animals, when you are talking about livestock because you want to know how many animals you have in your ranch. In case of disappearance in whatever form, you should be able to trace those animals and cover them. But beyond that, today, issue of traceability in terms of public health is very, very important. It is what we are trying to do, and this will come to happen, because I am very optimistic.

But in its reaction, the Edo State Government stated that the Edo APC was “obviously pained by the achievements of

“We should be able to trace every piece of meat you buy from the grocery for issues of health that bother on public safety. What we are going to do, we will link up

the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki across all sectors of the state over the past seven years.”

all ranches that are coming up in this country. Each ranch will be dedicated to an abattoir. So we know the history of the animal, we know the medication, we have the record. This animal will have an antenatal inspection before slaughter, meat inspection, meat certification, and then you come to buy. So once you are eating your meat, you know from which farm it is coming. And that is the international standard,” he said.

“Tenebe has been on a frenzy looking for lies to tell since he assumed office as Acting Chairman. Rather than focus on reawakening his completely comatose party, which is unable to provide constructive criticisms expected of a viable opposition, he has resorted to spreading misinformation in a desperate attempt to curry cheap popularity.

Maiha added the ministry was also in talks with institutions from other countries to create a gene bank where all indigenous genetics can be stored as they are adaptive and resistant to diseases.

“In his infertile rambling, Tenebe made wild and completely off-themark comments suggesting that Edo State is owing $35 billion. Even if that was what was written for him, he should have known that the figure is wrong and can't be true.

"In reality, our debt stock is not a secret and in fact, we are ‘under borrowed’. Emperor Tenebe would have known this if he understood the economics of governance, fiscal responsibility and debt-to-GDP ratio.

He also stated that the country wants to put an end to the $1.5 billion it spends on importing vaccines for animals by commercialising the National Breeding and Recycling Institute, Vom to be in a position to supply minimum of 1.2 billion doses of vaccine to satisfy local requirement for vaccine and for export. He also disclosed that the federal government will legislate on abattoir for slaughtering cattle in Abuja, convert cow dung to biogas to power abattoir as well as export cattle bile to China for added value. Maiha also warned against the burning of cow skin with kerosene, saying the consumption of such leather can be carcinogenic.

Mining Development: Nigeria, US Explore Areas of Strategic Partnership

lid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has described the United States as Nigeria’s longstanding ally and strategic partner for the nation’s mining sector development. Speaking while receiving

29 Correctional Facilities to Be Relocated from Urban Centres

also want to be part of the move to reduce global emissions and put our mining sector on the global map. We have critical minerals that are in commercial demand globally,"Alake said.

formalisation of artisanal miners into cooperatives amongst others.

Tunji-Ojo: Tinubu committed to service’s efficiency, reform Inaugurates vehicles, guard booths

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Approval has been given by the federal government for the relocation of 29 of the nation’s 256 custodial centres from urban centres.

Charge d'Affairs, US Embassy, David Greene, in his office on Thursday, Alake lauded the United States’ commitment to fostering cooperation with Nigeria in diverse sectors of the economy, stating that it underscores the significance of the smooth bilateral relations between both countries.

correctional centres, the President has graciously approved the relocation of about 29 of our custodial centres, stating that: “The process has started, and we are determined to complete it.”

He said 1,000 Citizens’ Brigade would be set up in each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to promote national values as of old, stating that the essence of the Brigade was to revive and rebuild the national values and create positive models

The commission used the occasion to reiterate its dedication to tracking down financial criminals and recovering stolen assets, stressing that such efforts strengthen Nigeria’s credibility in the global fight against financial crimes.

Speaking further, he said. “We are here to demonstrate that the federal government of Nigeria, through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC is ready to do everything possible to prevent financial crimes from being perpetrated in our system. And when one has taken place, to investigate where assets are involved, to trace, to recover and where necessary, prosecute.

Issa-Onilu said as a way out of the malaise, NOA would soon launch a Mobile App containing indigenous cartoons through which local contents, national values and culture would be promoted. According to him, "These various policies are geared towards changing the narratives and the wrong impression that the outside world is having about the country.

“We don't just recover, we restitute the victims. We are here this morning to restitute those who were victimized through the perpetration of economic and financial crimes. It is important to know that once the proceeds of crime are recovered, the most responsible thing to do is to restitute the victims."

“We are establishing, this year, 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in Primary School. 1,000 in each state, including FCT, Abuja. These Citizens’ Brigade are going to be like Boys’ Scout and Girls’ Guild of the olden days.

Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, during the inauguration of some operational vehicles for the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).

“Across the world, Nigerians are known to be the smartest people on earth. This is a positive development but some people mischievously tend to portray us in negative light. But this is not who we are as a people.

Tunji-Ojo during the event noted that paramilitary jobs were not poverty alleviation schemes but rather serious career paths, explaining that the newly established paramilitary academy is aimed at fostering young talent for the Service.

He said in terms of relocating our

“To change the negative narratives, we are setting up the Citizens’ Brigade to produce young Nigerians and create positive models to rebuild the national values."

He cited facilities such as those in Agodi (Ibadan), Ikoyi (Lagos), Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Suleja as those to be affected.

“Some of these facilities were built as far back as 1914. With urbanisation catching up, it is imperative that we relocate them to ensure security and efficiency,” he said.

“I thank you for your visit. I met the US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, Geoffrey Pyatt, on the sidelines of the Mines and Money conference in London past year, and we had a fruitful engagement. I did analyse all our issues, and fundamentally, we just want to diversify our economy from oil. Not just for our own economic survival but also to be in tune with global trends for reduction in global warming. We

He further emphasised that the academy, similar to institutions like the Police Academy and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), would

Alex enumah

The minister welcomed partnership with the US on investments in the mining value chain, expanding access to technology in extracting and processing minerals and securing mining areas.

serve as a degree-awarding institution to help nurture young Nigerians for lifelong careers in paramilitary roles.

He said, “The idea is to catch them young,” while noting that in some areas, custodial facilities are located near state government houses, markets, or residential areas, which calls for the need to relocate them.

Throwing light on reforms embarked upon by the federal government, the minister highlighted revised Community Development Agreement (CDA) guidelines geared towards reducing friction in host communities; on-going plans for new security architecture to secure natural resources; efforts to generate big geo-data; the

The minister also unveiled five Bullet-Resistant Guard-booths stationed at various key locations, including the NCoS national headquarters in Abuja, Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre, and Maximum Security Custodial Centres in Port Harcourt, Kano, and Lagos.

The booths are equipped with long-range surveillance capabilities

and resistance to high-level threats such as 12.7mm ammunition and will bolster security at the facilities.

The minister who reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to reforming Nigeria’s Correctional Service, unveiled 39 operational vehicles.

"The mining sector provides a veritable avenue for increased trade between Nigeria and the United States, especially in the area of value addition, which implies processing of extracted minerals and setting up factories here. We would also require financing from multilateral institutions for our local operators. We are providing incentives for investments like tax waivers for mining equipment, policy of full repatriation of profits to home countries amongst others," Alake emphasised.

The vehicles were part of NCoS’ efforts to address challenges related to inmate transportation and security, especially concerning Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs).

In his remarks, the US Ambassador commended the renewed interest of Nigeria in solid minerals, stressing that the sector has huge potentials to rival the contribution of oil to the nation's economy.

Tunji-Ojo emphasised that the current administration, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was determined to enhance the efficiency and security of the correctional system.

S'Arabia Confirms Move to Finance Major Infrastructure Projects in Nigeria

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

This latest recovery and restitution underscore the EFCC’s resolve to protect both local and international victims of fraud, reinforcing its role as a leading force in the fight against corruption.

The Oyo State Government, yesterday, suspended Oba Gbolagade Muritala Babalola, as the Onido of Ido in Ido Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement on its X handle, Executive Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, who performed the hand over yesterday in Jabi, Abuja, remarked that, “The event is a demonstration of the commitment of the federal government of Nigeria and that of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the fight against corruption and financial crimes."

Handed over in addition to money are vehicles and real estate to citizens of Spain, the United States of America and Switzerland.

Acting Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, Maria Higon Velasco received the sum of $1,300 (One Thousand Three Hundred Dollars) and evidence of N30 million already transferred to the Embassy of Spain in Nigeria for onward transmission to a victim, Maria Del Rosario San Jose.

The government, in a letter dated 2nd of February, 2024 and signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, indicated that Governor Seyi Makinde approved the suspension on 1st of February, 2024. The letter read in part, "I wish to inform you that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State of Nigeria, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Sub-section 1&2 of Section 26 of the Chiefs Law, Cap. 28 Vol I, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000 and by virtue of all other enabling powers in

Saudi Arabia has confirmed its preparedness to finance major infrastructure projects in Nigeria, while proposing the appointment of a designated Nigerian counterpart to streamline project prioritisation and communication for efficient execution.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), Sultan Al-Marshad made

that regard, has approved your suspension as the Onido of Ido in the area of authority of Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State." It directed Oba Babalola to hand over all government properties in his possession to the Chairman of Ido local government. In the meantime, the state government has vowed to hit hard at anyone, no matter how highly placed, who contravenes the law.

Justice Bolaji Olajuwon of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, dismissed the application by two Rivers State indigenes challenging the jurisdiction of the court to try them over alleged complicity in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

the disclosure when he led a highlevel delegation to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun in Abuja, yesterday.

The delegation is part of efforts to strengthen economic cooperation between Nigeria and the Arab country.

The meeting with Edun also included Saudi Arabia's Ambassador to Nigeria, Faisal Alghamdi; Nigeria's

Chime Eguma Ezebalike and Prince Lukman Oladele, were among five persons charged with terrorism and murder. The others are Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga Donald and Ochueja Thankgod. They were last week arraigned on a seven-count criminal charge

Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite.

The discussions centred on key areas of economic collaboration, including industrial development, renewable energy, and infrastructure investments aimed at driving economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.

A statement issued by the

bordering on terrorism and murder. Although, they pleaded not guilty to all the charges, the judge however, ordered that they be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Center, pending the hearing of their bail application fixed for February 2, as well as the motion of the 1st and 2nd defendants challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit against them. Ezebalike and Oladele had argued that by the provisions of the Terrorism Act, it is only the Attorney General of the Federation that can file any charge of terrorism against them. Their lawyer, Mr. Lukman

Fagbemi, SAN, submitted that the charge having been filed by the Inspector General of Police, was incompetent and asked the court to strike out counts 1,3,4,5,6, and 7 of the charge or strike strike out the entire suit for been incompetent. Responding, Police lawyer, Mr. Simon Lough, SAN, urged the court to dismiss the application for lacking in merit.

Director, Press and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga, quoted Edun as saying: "We have laid a strong foundation for collaboration, and over the next six months, we expect to make significant progress on our first joint infrastructure project." He applauded Saudi Arabia's impressive economic achievements under its Vision 2030 initiative, particularly in the tourism and infrastructure sectors.

According to Lough, besides Sections 4 and 66 of the Police Acts that empower them to bring the charge against the defendants, Section 5 and 99 of the Terrorism Act, shows that the police have powers to also initiate terrorism charges against the defendant.

Alex Enumah in Abuja

in Abuja

L-R: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy of Nigeria, Wale Edun; Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede and the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, in a Strategic Alliance to Stimulate the forex market in Abuja…yesterday

R-L: Acting Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Nwakuche Sylvester Ndidi; Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Comptroller General of Immigration Service (CGIS), Kemi Nanna Nandap, and House Committee Member on Reformatory Institution, Rt. Hon. Chinedu Ogah, during the official inauguration of the 39 Operational Vehicles and five bullet-resistant Guard Booths for the NCoS at its headquarters in Abuja…yesterday

First Lady to Empower 18,500 Women Nationwide for Economic Development

Launches scheme in north-central zone through distribution of deep-chest freezers, gas cookers, generators, industrial grinding machine to beneficiaries

In a move to drive women’s economic empowerment and sustainable development in the country especially at the grassroots, wife of the President and National Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Senator Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday launched the Northcentral Zone Women’s Empowerment Programme.

The scheme is aimed at directly impacting 18,500 women across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, starting with 500 beneficiaries from each state in the North-central Zone.

The North-central Zone Women’s Empowerment Programme marks a significant milestone in advancing gender equality and economic inclusion in Nigeria. With plans already underway for similar initiatives in other geopolitical zones, including South-South as the next beneficiary region, this program underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering women as agents of change in achieving sustainable development.

of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs) will provide women with tools and resources to start or grow their businesses, fostering economic independence and contributing to national development.

The initiative, a collaboration between the Renewed Hope Initiative and Office

Delivering her keynote address, the First Lady expressed her commitment to empowering Nigerian women as a

NACCIMA Decries FG’s Move to Impose Taxes on Free Trade Zone

Warns that $200bn foreign investments may leave Nigeria, over 600,000 jobs at risk

Dike Onwuamaeze

Amid the federal government's proposed tax reforms targeting tax imposition on Free Trade Zones (FTZs), the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), has sounded the alarm, warning that the decision could drive away over $200 billion in foreign direct investments (FDI) from the country, and jeopardise more than 600,000 jobs.

The contentious provisions, outlined in the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, seek to introduce minimum tax rates and remove long-standing tax exemptions for businesses operating within FTZs, a move seen as contradicting Nigeria’s industrialisation and investment objectives.

NACCIMA, in a strongly worded statement by its National President,

Dele Oye, expressed grave concern over the proposed amendments, particularly Sections 57, 60, 198(2), and 198(3), which threaten to dismantle key incentives that have sustained FTZ investments since the scheme was introduced through the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Act in 1992.

"Stripping away established tax exemptions is a drastic measure that will diminish investor confidence and jeopardise Nigeria’s standing in the global investment community," said Oye, who is also the Chairman of Nigeria’s Organised Private Sector (OPS).

Since the inception of the FTZ scheme in 1992 through the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Act, businesses operating in these zones have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s economic landscape. With special tax incentives, these zones were designed to attract

investment, promote job creation, and foster industrialisation. Sections 8 and 18 of the NEPZA Act explicitly exempt approved enterprises from all Federal, State, and Government taxes, creating an attractive investment environment.

However, the proposed amendments in the Tax Bill, particularly Sections 57, 60, 198(2), and 198(3), directly contradict this framework by introducing minimum tax rates and eliminating existing exemptions that have been instrumental in attracting investments.

“It is imperative that we understand the potential ramifications of these proposed changes. Stripping away established tax exemptions is a drastic measure that will diminish investor confidence and jeopardize Nigeria’s standing in the global investment community,” Oye noted.

According to NACCIMA, out

of Nigeria’s 50 FTZs, 48 were developed through private-sector investments. The tax exemptions within these zones have been crucial in attracting investors, creating jobs, and generating over N650 billion in government revenue through customs duties and related economic activities.

A major point of contention is the lack of consultation with key stakeholders before the reforms were announced.

According to NACCIMA, “The FTZs association and companies were not formally consulted prior the 20th February 2024, when the Chairman of the Fiscal policies and tax committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, who as a panelist at the 3rd Nigerian Economic Zones Association conference informed the FTZ community of the intended substantial amendment of the rules and laws regulating investment in the FTZ.

Okpebholo Condoles Family of Man Killed by Mast in Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed deep sadness and condolences to the family of Pius Etim, a young man who tragically lost his life due to an unfortunate incident on Thursday evening at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, following a heavy rainfall.

Governor Okpebholo described the collapsed mast that killed Etim during the heavy rainfall as “unfortunate, sad and painful.”

The governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, said, "I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a young man, Pius Etim, during the intense rainfall and collapse of a mast at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.”

Extending his heartfelt condolences to the deceased family during this difficult time, the governor added, “On behalf of the people of Edo State, I offer my deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Pius Etim. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this period of grief.”

The late Etim was said to have met his untimely death when an old radio mast in the stadium fell

on him while he was trying to protect some musical equipment from being damaged when a heavy downpour began on that Thursday evening.

The musical equipment was said to have been mounted in preparation for a praise worship to celebrate the 100 day in office of Governor Okpebholo.

According to an eye witness, the mast fell on him and tore his skull apart and he died on the spot.

cornerstone of nation-building.

According to her, “This empowerment will benefit 18,500 women across our six geopolitical zones. Today, we are equipping our women with essential tools like deep-chest freezers, gas cookers with ovens, generators, and industrial grinding machines to build successful businesses and contribute to our nation’s prosperity.

"Recognising the critical role women play in our society, this initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which prioritises inclusivity, economic growth, and sustainable development for all Nigerians.”

Mrs. Tinubu further emphasised the alignment of the initiative with global development goals.

She said, “Women’s empowerment is central to achieving all the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG-5 on gender equality and SDG-8 on decent work and economic growth. These items are not just tools; they are stepping stones toward financial independence and a better future for Nigerian women.

“To all beneficiaries here today, I encourage you to use these resources wisely to build better lives for yourselves and your families. Let what

FG

you receive today prosper in your hands as you contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress.”

Also speaking, Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, highlighted the broader impact of the programme on sustainable development.

“Today’s programme is not just about distributing empowerment items; it is about unlocking potential, fostering economic independence, and creating opportunities for women to thrive. By equipping 500 women per state and the FCT with tools such as gas cookers, generators, deep freezers, and grinding machines, we are strengthening their capacity to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to inclusive national development.” She commended the First Lady for her visionary leadership through RHI and reiterated OSSAP-SDGs’ commitment to ensuring no woman is left behind in Nigeria’s journey toward achieving the SDGs.

On her part, Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, noted that the nation, especially through the efforts of the First Lady, her ministry and other stakeholders, is set to achieve the economic boost driven by women.

Receives 180 Nigerian Migrants from Libya

The federal government in a coordinated approach facilitated the reception of 180 Nigerian migrants who were stranded in Libya. Their humanitarian return which was facilitated by the Nigerian mission in Tripoli and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) brought back 76 males, 92 females, 8 children and 4 infants on board the IOM chartered flight from Libya.

Representing the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission For Refugees Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, the South-west Zonal Coordinator, Mr. Alexander Oturu in a statement, reiterated that in line with President Bola Tinibu's Renewed Hope Agenda, the returnees would be integrated into various government programmes, as

well as the reintegration programmes of the UN Migration Agency, IOM. He said the migrants were conveyed to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency camp where the NCFRMI and IOM have a tripartite agreement to provide temporary shelter for the returnees before they are provided with onward transportation allowance to enable them get to their final destination.

According to Mr. Oturu, the reception exercise took place at the Cargo terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, in Lagos South-west Nigeria.

"There were 76 males, 92 females, 8 children and 4 infants on board the IOM chartered flight from Libya. "The Edo State Migration Agency, led by the Director General, Lucky Agazuma also attended the reception with a view to conveying Edo State indigenes free of charge to Benin, the Edo State capital.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

One too many...

a waste!

Take

In Praise of President Buhari

Proactive Measures against Witchcraft Accusations

WThen President Muhammadu Buhari took over the reins of power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a broken state in many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad governance and untold level of corruption, government could not live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both the federal and state levels.

Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state governors pay something as basic as workers’ salaries. Granting those bailout funds was a huge boost to national security because the pressure of arrears of unpaid monthly salaries building dangerously all over the country was a ticking bomb.

he Ebonyi State government should take concrete steps to combat abuses and violations linked to witchcraft beliefs and ritual attacks. State and non state actions must take legal and administrative measures, educational and political steps to address this menace. Witch hunting has become a sore on the social and moral conscience of the nation. It has been a source of pain, anguish and embarrassment to all who yearn for the progress and development of Nigeria and all of Africa. Incidentally, the response to abuses linked to witchcraft beliefs and ritual attacks have largely been reactive and ineffective. Witch hunting has not been treated with the urgency that it deserves. It is either there are no interventions or the interventions come too little too late. This has created a situation where perpetrators often get away with their crimes, where witch hunters assume that they are above the law

Ask the naysayers and they would readily remind you of how long it took President Buhari to appoint his ministers and how that contributed to collapse of the economy as if, without ministers, governance was frozen. But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole story was that many of our citizens did not know how decrepit a state President Buhari inherited in 2015.

And this situation must change. And all hands must be on deck to realize this change.

prosecuted as required by law. As usually the case, the police would detain them for some time, extort money from their relatives and then release them. The pattern of combating crimes linked to witchcraft beliefs is not helpful. It encourages impunity. And it has to stop. The pattern of response has mainly been reactive and must change. Proactive measures need to be taken. Witchcraft accusation is against the law All who make accusations should be prosecuted and punished to serve as a deterrence to others. Also to be prosecuted are witch hunting prophets, pastors and diviners, and other charlatans who impute occult harms in families and communities, all witchcraft exorcists who conduct deliverance services, and claim to expel witches and demons.

It was therefore necessary for him to take stock against the background of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full well with the incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover notes. Although President Goodluck Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many of his appointees were still sulking over what they saw as their personal losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Buhari government.

by the EFCC, President Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to the public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level of transparency and accountability.

AAfter keeping treasury looters on their toes and at bay through the EFCC, particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending habits of the nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can be produced at home. One of such items was rice, a major staple among Nigerians. By banning rice importation into the country, the President on one hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency annually.

Stop

The Winner or the Loser?

Ritual Attacks and Killings

quote attributed to Winston Churchill, “History is Written by Victors.” needs an update for the world of social media and ‘alternative facts’.

TThe most recent statement from President Trump, “We want to end it. It’s a senseless war. It should have never happened” is at best half right, in that this and other wars should never happen. He also said “You (Ukraine) should have never started it. You could have made a deal.” History will, or should state that Russia started it and ‘a deal’ to prevent the war would have been only achieved by Ukraine surrendering immediately and no country would do that.

And, on the other hand, the President has boosted domestic production of rice and in the process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in food production. He also created millions of jobs for young people in the rice value chain.

he Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man.

The real concern for negotiating a solution is does the ‘we’ refer to Russia/US or Russia/Ukraine or all three? And therein lies the problem. The war is between two neighbours and until recently Ukraine was strongly supported by America, usually an opponent of Russia until Trump and Putin became great friends.

The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the PDP government but its penchant for imprudence and lack of accountability denied it the courage of implementing the policy. What the President literally did was to gather all the nation’s money into one box and locked it up with a big padlock and watched for any thief to come close.

When it comes to abuses linked to witchcraft beliefs and ritual attacks, impunity must end. The rule of law must apply. Necessary sociocultural shifts must be made. There should be real consequences for witch hunting and related infractions. Justice should no longer be delayed or denied, justice should be delivered right here and right now. Two cases of witch hunting that took place here in Ebonyi reflect the challenging realities of combating these abuses. In the first case, some self style prophet Ubadinma and other christian witch hunters went to a village and staged a witch purging crusade. They incited violence, instigated attacks, caused injuries and displacement of accused persons including destruction of their houses and property. The police intervened, made some arrests, but later released the suspects. Based on what we know at the moment, that matter is virtually dead. There have been no further actions, no more attempts to bring the perpetrators to justice. And there is no good reason for the justice delayed that is slowly turning into justice denied.

The Advocacy for Alleged Witches urges the government and people of Ebonyi state to take proactive measures. We should not wait till another person is killed or attacked for witchcraft before we respond. We should not wait till another person’s body parts are harvested by ritualists before interrogating narratives that motivate ritual attacks.

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches

Even with the obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP appointees and their supporters still in government hell-bent on making things difficult for Buhari, the President moved on with his methodical repair of a broken country. The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources of income to the nation and directed that all inflows be paid into one single account in line with the policy of Single Treasury Account (TSA).

What is most admirable about President Buhari and his government is its frugal management of scarce national resources to attain optimum goals. Recall that since President Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped abysmally as if to sabotage him knowing all the big promises he made to citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could not dream of.

Whatever the final outcome is, so many people have died, so much destruction has occurred and so many lies have already been told, mostly by one person.

History will not remember President Trump well unless he can completely change his approach and the first month of his second Presidency does not suggest this will happen.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic advantages.

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA

Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja

DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE

DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU

Calling on BEDC

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED

NATION’S

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

In another incident here in Ebonyi, the police arrested 17 suspects for murdering one Uromchi Okorocha in Afikpo last month. People accused the deceased of killing some individuals in the community though “witchcraft and spiritual means”.

As we speak there is no report on any progress on the case, no information regarding if and whether these suspects have been charged in a court or will ever be

Who can blame the President for almost developing paranoia over the safeguard of the national treasury with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting that took place in the 16 years of the PDP? With such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting insurgency in the Northeast ended up in the pockets of a few individuals while our gallant soldiers fought with bare hands and on empty stomach, President Buhari was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back in national spending.

Thus, under President Buhari, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had remained comatose for years, was woken up to resume its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

NEWSPAPERS LIMITED EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIVISIONAL

The suspects, who were apprehended in the Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim cleric asked them to procure some human body parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to make money or become wealthy and successful undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians strongly believe in blood money, known in some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they could become rich, or successful through ritual sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, or reality. Home movies known as Africa magic or Nollywood films have not helped matters. These movies continue to reinforce these mistaken notions and other superstitions. Families, churches, mosques, and other public institutions do not encourage the interrogation of these traditional occult beliefs. There are no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these irrational and paranormal claims in schools, colleges, and universities. So millions of Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they could make money through ritual sacrifice of human body parts. The belief has led many Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate atrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed or are undergoing court trials due to ritualrelated attacks and murder.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

e the residents of Ogbe-Ofu,Umuolu,U muisagbaogai,Umuonicha communities of Ogwashi-Ukwu request a meeting with your officials concerning the Ukwu Orji transformer at Ogbe-Ofu Quarters of OgwashiUkwu to be held at Nnabuwa Primary School Ogbe-Ofu Quarters to resolve the dispute concerning epileptic and erratic power supply,and estimated billing for power not consumed.The lack of power supply has affected many businesses negatively. We are tired of the outrageous bills being given to us for electricity we don’t see to use for days.which is why we want you to engage us the communities to resolve these issues. We request that you mandate your Koka Business Unit Asaba as well as BEDC officials in Ogwashi-Ukwu to avail us the date they would be available for the meeting so that we inform members of the respective communities. The communities have resolved that they would not pay any bills until they come and have that meeting because we have been patient enough with BEDC. Feyisetan Akeeb Kareem, Ogwashi-Ukwu

Not too long ago, the police arrested some young Nigerians for stealing female pants, which they intended to use for ritual sacrifice. AfAW is asking all Nigerians to desist from ritual-related abuses because ritual money beliefs are baseless superstitions. Nigerian media, schools, and colleges should help educate and reorient the public. They should assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense.

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged

STRATEGY SESSION...

Ahead of May Presidential Election, AfDB Shortlists Candidates

reviewed nominations and approved five candidates from across the continent.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has taken a crucial step towards electing its next president, as the Steering Committee of its Board of Governors finalised the list of eligible candidates. This was as it emerged yesterday that the multilateral institution has contributed $1 million from its Special Relief Fund to support emergency food response for flood-affected communities in Northeastern Nigeria especially those adversely affected by the devastating floods that hit Borno State in September 2024, On the presidential election, the Bank in a statement on its official website yesterday, noted that at a meeting on February 11 and 12, 2025, at the Bank Group’s headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, the committee

It stated that the election, scheduled for May 29, 2025, would determine the next leader of the premier panAfrican financial institution, which plays a pivotal role in driving economic development, infrastructure financing, and regional integration across Africa.

The confirmed candidates include, Mr. Amadou Hott from Senegal, a former Minister of Economy, Planning, and Cooperation in Senegal. Hott previously served as the Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate, and Green Growth at the AfDB. His experience in infrastructure financing and climate policy makes him a strong contender.

Another candidate, Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo from Zambia is the Vice President for Budget, Performance Review, and Strategic Planning at the World Bank. Maimbo

Lagos, Bauchi Assembly Speakers Back DEI Bill, Urge Nationwide Support

Wale Igbintade

The Speakers of the Lagos and Bauchi State Houses of Assembly, alongside lawmakers and experts from across Nigeria, have endorsed the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Bill, championed by the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC).

This unified support emerged during a two-day Co-Creation Workshop with Legislators on the State Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Bill, held in Lagos.

The event, organised in collaboration with UN Women and other development partners, brought together lawmakers from multiple states to discuss the bill's potential impact.

In her keynote speech, Hon. Mojisola Meranda, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, emphasised the

urgent need for laws that promote inclusivity for women and marginalized groups in Nigerian politics.

She highlighted the significant underrepresentation of women in political leadership and stressed the importance of passing a transformative bill that tackles systemic inequalities while promoting fairness and justice for all.

Meranda also pointed to Nigeria’s ongoing gender inequality crisis, referencing the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Gender Gap Report, which ranks Nigeria 125th out of 146 countries in gender parity, particularly in economic participation and political empowerment.

She emphasised that the DEI Bill represents a commitment to ensuring that all Nigerians, regardless of gender, economic status, or physical ability, have the opportunity to thrive.

Senator Musa Adede Loses Sister

Death has occurred of one-time Finance Commissioner of Cross Rivers State, Madam Elizabeth Adede.

The news broken yesterday by her elder brother, Senator Musa Adede, via a brief broadcast on his verified WhatsApp handle. She was 68 years old.

Senator Adede explained that Madam Adede died at the Garki Hospital, Abuja, after a surgical procedure, adding that thae burial arrangement will be announced after due consultations with family

members. The late Madam Adede recently retired as a Permanent Secretary in the Civil Service of Cross River State.

has extensive experience in financial sector development, particularly in Africa. His expertise in monetary policy and financial inclusion could shape his vision for the AfDB’s future.

Thirdly, Mr. Sidi Ould Tah from Mauritania is currently the DirectorGeneral of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA). Tah brings a wealth of experience in international finance and economic development. His candidacy signals a focus on deepening partnerships between Africa and the Arab world.

Also, Mr. Abbas Mahamat Tolli from

Chad, The Governor of the Bank of Central African States (BEAC). Tolli has a background in central banking and regional economic policy. And lastly, Ms. Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala from South Africa who recently stepped down as the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the AfDB, Tshabalala is the only female candidate in the race.

Meanwhile, the AfDB has contributed US$ 1 million from its Special Relief Fund to support emergency food response for floodaffected communities in Northeastern

Wale Igbintade

Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, yesterday denied ownership of the forfeited $4.7 million, N830 million, and several properties recently seized by the federal government.

Yesterday, the Federal High Court in Lagos, under Justice

Yellim Bogoro, ordered the final forfeiture of the assets following an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

However, in a statement issued by Emefiele’s legal team, led by Olawale Fapohunda, the former CBN governor clarified that while DeepBlue Energy Limited, established in 2009, is owned by a

WFP’s Country Director in Nigeria, David Stevenson said: “AfDB’s support is timely and comes as a lifeline for those struggling to feed themselves amidst rising food prices and economic turmoil.”

“Communities which, after years of conflict and violence, started rebuilding their lives were struck by the floods and once again displaced, meaning more and more people cannot support themselves and their families.”

Nigeria especially those adversely affected by the devastating floods that hit Borno State in September 2024, A statement by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), stated that the support comes at a critical time, when humanitarian funding is in short supply and the country faces alarmingly high rates of food insecurity exacerbated by conflict, floods and rising poverty, promising to use this contribution, on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, to provide emergency food assistance to 120,000 women, men, and children. Each household will receive 35kg worth of staple food supply.

Emefiele Denies Ownership of Forfeited Properties

relative of the former CBN Governor, it was not his property.

The statement emphasised that the forfeited assets do not belong to Emefiele or any member of his immediate family.

The statement called on the public and all stakeholders to disregard any claims linking Emefiele to the forfeited properties.

"We urge all stakeholders and members of the public to take note of this clarification and cease associating these assets with Mr. Godwin Emefiele," it added.

Furthermore, the legal team pointed out that Justice Aneke of the same court had previously discharged an interim forfeiture order on the assets in question before the final order by Justice Bogoro.

Akpabio: Senate 'll Promote Progressive Governance, National Development

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has reiterated the commitment of the Senate under his leadership to progressive governance, economic empowerment, and national development.

Akpabio, according to a statement by his media aide, Jackson Udom, stated this in his acceptance speech after his investiture as a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers in Lagos, yesterday.

Akpabio said, "The Senate’s commitment to progressive governance, economic empowerment, and national development remains unwavering.

“I assure you that this honour will not be taken lightly. If anything, it will only spur me to work harder, to push further, and to serve better.

"I stand before you today deeply honoured, profoundly humbled, and immensely grateful.

“To receive the Honorary Fellowship of this distinguished institution is not just a privilege;

it is a testament that there are values we hold dear—the values of service, excellence, and unwavering dedication to building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.

“Over five decades, the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers has stood as a beacon of professionalism, integrity, and nation-building.

“You are the silent architects of Nigeria’s urban transformation, the custodians of our nation’s physical wealth, and the guardians of the principles that sustain our

economy—accountability, due process, and strategic planning.

"Your work ensures that our cities are well-planned, our investments are secured, and our future is built on a solid foundation.

“Without you, the skylines of Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt would remain concepts, not realities.

“Without you, businesses would struggle to find the confidence to invest, and without you, the dream of homeownership for many Nigerians would remain just that—a dream.

FAO: Food Security Vital for Peace, Stability, Human Dignity

Oluchi Chibuzor

The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has reiterated the crucial role of food security to peace, stability, and human dignity in the face of global geopolitical situation.

The Director-General of the United Nation’s body, QU Dongyu, said this to G20 Foreign Ministers gathered in Johannesburg, South Africa to discuss the global geopolitical situation, according to a statement released

yesterday.

“Crucially, food security is not just about policy - it is about peace, stability, and human dignity. That is why “we must act now to ensure political commitment and the necessary investment for nutritious and healthy foods for all,” Qu told the G20 Foreign Ministers.

FAO said that the latest UN figures showed 733 million people worldwide face chronic hunger, 2.3 billion are food insecure, and 2.8 billion lack access to

healthy diets.

The statement said that conflict remains one of the greatest threats to food security, from the Sahel and Haiti to Ukraine and Gaza.

It pointed out that at the same time, the continued neglect of agrifood systems in regions vulnerable to instability accelerates economic collapse and adds to conflict.

“In Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, and Sudan, for example, the degradation of

agrifood systems – intensified by policy failures - has increased tensions between farmers and pastoralists competing for limited resources.

“Beyond conflict and policy failures, the intensity and frequency of extreme climate events add to the challenges. Rising temperatures and extreme weather disrupt food production, increase risks for farmers, affect disease patterns, and accelerate migration, all of which undermine efforts to end hunger by 2030,” FAO said.

Michael Olugbode in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos

L-R: Chairman, Coscharis Group of Companies, Dr. Cosmas Maduka; Independent Non - Executive Director, Coscharis Farms Ltd, Igwe Alfred Achebe, and Deputy Group Managing Director, Coscharis Group, Mr. Fred Amobi, at the strategy session for members of board of directors of all the Companies within Coscharis Group held in Lagos... recently

Madam Elizabeth Adede

PROMOTING INTERNAL AUDIT IN DIGITAL AGE…

FG Opts for Targeted Interventions as Farmers Get More Support

Shettima charges Jigawa, Ebonyi govs to collaborate with Brazilian delegation on agriculture

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting local farmers through targeted interventions as part of efforts to address Nigeria's food security challenges.

According to him, the government will intervene robustly to protect local producers to reduce production costs, including single-digit loans.

Speaking during the steering committee meeting of the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU) at the State House, Abuja,

the Vice President said the economic realities facing local farmers demand strategic government intervention to reduce production costs and support local farmers.

He said, "We need to support our local farmers. Give them single-digit loans. The Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit has metamorphosed into an incubator beyond being an advisory body."

Shettima maintained that the President Tinubu administration is determined to revitalise stalled high-impact agricultural projects.

"In a nutshell, the government will

intervene robustly. We will continue to encourage our farmers," he added.

Referencing how South Korea transformed itself through strategic industrial investments, the Vice President said, "For now, as far as I am concerned, I have read the work of Joe Studwell on How Asia Works, and I am reading it again.

"How South Korea, a former poor nation, was able to become the world's number one steel producer. They gave hefty discounts and single-digit loans to the Daewoos, LGs, and Samsungs, who are now global leaders even in the semiconductor business. They were able

to develop their economy.”

Shettima specifically directed Governors Umar Namadi of Jigawa State and Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State to engage with a Brazilian delegation this Saturday.

"I urge the Governors of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi and Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, as two of the major food producing states in the federation, to be there; have that interface with them and see what we can do," the Vice President said.

Earlier, Governor Namadi of Jigawa State acknowledged the PFSCU's critical role in transforming Nigeria’s agriculture

Military Generals, Family Members, Associates Mourn as General Jemitola is Laid to Rest in Abuja

Linus Aleke in Abuja

It was a sorrowful moment on Thursday afternoon at National Military Cemetery, Abuja, as tears flowed uncontrollably from faces of friends and associates, serving and retired military generals as well as the immediate family of former Aide-De-Camp to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, late Major General Christopher Jemitola (rtd) whose remains were buried. Late Jemitola, who was laid to rest on Thursday afternoon in a brief, colourful and solemn funeral in Abuja, died on 6th of February 2025, while playing golf at IBB Golf Club in Abuja.

Speaking during the funeral ceremony at the military cemetery in Abuja, the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor, said that late General Jemitola was a perfect example of what you call an officer and a gentleman.

General Irabor said, "I had the privilege of meeting him in NDA. He was my senior, and then even in the job, the two of us were in the signal corps. He was my Officer Commanding in Guards Brigade. I was his second-in-command, and all through the service, he showed the character of a professional soldier, an officer true to his essence."

"A man who can be relied upon to

deliver the objectives given to him.

A man who was focused, very calm in his disposition, a man whom you could trust with a task and feel secure. Someone who encourages others, someone who builds wide friendships; actually, he will be missed."

The former CDS recalled his last conversation with the late Jemitola, "Not up to two weeks ago, he called me up and asked after me and my family. What a rare privilege, and also to know that it was going to be my last conversation with him - it is truly sad.

"But my comfort is that he lived a good life, and I pray to God to comfort the family he left behind. He was a gentleman officer and a

general par excellence."

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, who read the funeral oration, said that General Jemitola was a mentor to all.

Represented by the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General Lawrence Fejokwu, the COAS said that the late Jemitola was a calm officer whom his juniors were not afraid to approach for guidance or assistance.

He stressed that the late General would help you understand things in a very calm, mature, and fatherly manner. He admonished those still in service to emulate his human nature by understanding that there is life after service.

Flutterwave: Nigerians Can Now Convert Naira to Foreign Currencies Directly on Send App

In a groundbreaking move set to revolutionise cross-border payments, Flutterwave, Africa’s leading payments technology company, has announced the integration of its foreign currency exchange solution, Swap, into the Send App.

This development allows Nigerians to convert Nigerian Naira (NGN) directly into foreign currencies such as US Dollars (USD), British Pounds (GBP), and Euros (EUR) instantly and at competitive rates. The service, which is backed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), is poised to address the growing demand for accessible and reliable foreign

exchange solutions in the country.

The Swap feature, developed in partnership with Kadavra BDC and Wema Bank, is licensed to facilitate digital foreign exchange (FX) transactions and outbound international payments. It is designed to cater to a wide range of needs, from parents supporting children studying abroad to individuals assisting family members with emergency medical expenses or other overseas financial obligations. With plans to expand its currency offerings in the future, Swap is set to become a vital tool for Nigerians seeking to participate more actively

in the global economy.

Founder and CEO of Flutterwave, Olugbenga’ Agboola, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, stating, “We are incredibly excited to make Swap accessible on Send App, which we believe will be a paradigm shift for Nigerian businesses and individuals alike.

“At Flutterwave, our mission has always been to simplify payments for endless possibilities, and this update aligns perfectly with that vision. Now, more than ever, Nigerians can participate fully in the global economy, sending money across borders with ease and confidence.”

The introduction of Swap on Send App comes at a critical time when access to foreign currencies has become increasingly challenging for Nigerians. Limited availability of foreign exchange has hindered international transactions, investments, and other cross-border financial activities, creating significant obstacles for individuals and businesses alike.

These challenges have not only impacted personal financial goals but have also stifled macroeconomic growth, making it difficult for Nigerians to fully leverage global opportunities.

and ramping up food production, saying, "This committee is a very important committee that has the potential of improving food security.”

On his part, Governor Nwifuru of Ebonyi State called for clearly defined priorities for farmers and adequate preparations ahead of every farming season.

Also, the Technical Assistant to the President on Agriculture (Office of the Vice President) and coordinator of PFSCU, Marion Moon, reaffirmed the unit's commitment to ensuring affordable food for all citizens while incentivising increased production to maintain food stability.

FRC Partners Osadebey University to Promote Actuarial Studies in Nigeria

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

The Anwai campus of the Dennis Osadebey University Asaba (DOU) was a beehive on Wednesday as experts and academics from across the country brainstormed on modalities for addressing the yawning gap in supply of certified or professional Actuaries in Nigeria.

The event was part of the Nigerian Actuarial Development Programme (NADP) Advocacy Outreach, an initiative of the Financial Regulations Council (FRC) in Nigeria aimed at tackling the dearth of Actuarial Science graduates and professionals in the country.

The programme, which was targeted mainly at students in the Faculty of Management Sciences of the university, was attended by more than 500 students, including those of Actuarial Science Department and others, with the capacity of the Main Auditorium of DOA being outstripped by the enthusiastic students.

Speakers at the event included Titus O. Osawe, Coordinating Director, Directorate of Corporate Governance and Inspection and Monitoring Units of

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State will on Thursday, deliver the 6th yearly lecture of Freedom Online newspaper in Lagos.

A statement by the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of the online newspaper, Gabriel Akinadewo, said while Fubara is the Special Guest Speaker, former Governor of Ogun State and Chairman, Senate Committee on Navy, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, is the Keynote Speaker of the lecture with the theme: 'Nigeria’s Socio-Political Challenges: Whose Fault, Leaders or the Led?'

The Chairman of the event is former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George.

Other personalities billed to grace

the FRC; Prof. Osmaila Adeleke of the University of Lagos; Dr. Martin Osawaru Omorodion of Elizade University, Ondo State; Mr. Olasunkanmi Ayinde, who heads FRC's Directorate of Actuarial Standards, as well as Dr M.S. Ladan, the Head of Department of Actuarial Science, DOU Asaba; and, Prof. Irenius Nwaizugbo, Dean of Faculty of Management Sciences of DOU Asaba. Head, Directorate of Actuarial Standards at the FRC, Mr. Olasunkanmi Ayinde, harped on the Council's motivation for the NADP advocacy initiative, noting that unknown to most Nigerians qualified and certified Actuaries were in very short supply in Nigeria, including the Insurance Industry where only two professional actuaries exist to service more than 50 insurance companies in the country. "Embrace, study Actuarial Science and bid good-bye to unemployment," Ayinde charged the students, adding that similar opportunity was available for even lecturers and young graduates in social sciences, computer science and related disciplines who have a flair for mathematics and statistics.

the lecture are former Police Affairs Minister, retired Navy Captain Caleb Olubolade (Special Guest of Honour); Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams and former DirectorGeneral of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr. Dakuku Peterside (Guests of Honour) and Professor Akin Onigbinde, the Executive Secretary, Centre for Policy and Development Studies, Ilepa, Ogun State (Special Guest). President, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Eze Anaba, and President, Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, Maureen Chigbo, are Chief Hosts. Freedom Online is an online news platform published by SWAAYA Limited, Lagos.

L-R: Chairman, Lagos State Audit Service Commission, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Adegbuji-Onikoyi; Member, Lagos State House of Assembly representing Alimosho Constituency 2, Hon. Kehinde Joseph; Head of Service of Lagos State, Mr. Bode Agoro; Permanent Secretary of the Office of Internal Audit, Mrs. Kikelomo Dawodu, and Auditor-General/Permanent Secretary, Office of Auditor General for Local Government, Mr. Obafemi Ogunlana, during the opening session of the 17th Annual Retreat organised by the Office of Internal Audit in Lagos… recently

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L-R: Son of the late Alaperu of Iperu, Adegoke Idowu-Basibo; wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun; Governor Dapo Abiodun; Adeyosola Idowu-Basibo; Adebola Idowu-Basibo and the Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, during the order of Funeral/Farewell Service for Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo, the Alaperu of Iperu at the Alaperu's palace, Iperu, Ogun State, on Friday.

Motherland 2025: Musawa Inaugurates Committee to Drive Nigeria's Tourism, Economic Growth

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has inaugurated the Motherland 2025 Initiative Committee to drive Nigeria's tourism and economic growth. She charged the committee to work assiduously to ensure the success of the project aimed at bringing back Nigerians in the diaspora and drastically curbing the migration of its citizens to other countries.

Musawa stated that the Motherland 2025 Initiative was aimed at positioning Nigeria as a premier global destination where tourism drives economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and national pride.

She added that the initiative, which

is pursuant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and the Destination 2030: Nigeria Everywhere soft power initiative, encompasses many other projects to woo Nigerians back to the country.

“The initiative consists of several key projects, including the Motherland 2025 Festival, which will expose the global diaspora to the peak experiences of Nigerian arts, culture and creative landscape from the 36 states and the FCT, while promoting international and domestic tourism.

“Other projects include the Diaspora City, a thriving tourism hub where members of the diaspora can seamlessly invest and ensure a sustainable connection with their homeland and roots, and a Citizenship Programme,

Council of Chief Back Embattled Traditional Ruler, Oloyede

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Council of Traditional Chiefs in Ipetumodu, Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State, as well as Ipetumodu Progressive Union (IPU), yesterday noted that there was no tension in the community as being insinuated by community detractors over Oba Joseph Oloyede, the Apetu of Ipetumodu which has been causing ripples in his domain.

The traditional ruler was allegedly taken into custody by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) after being indicted for indicted for conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering

In a statement by Dr. Israel Akinjogbin, the President, Ipetumodu Progressive Union noted that there was no tension of whatever type in Ipetumodu, saying the community was at peace.

The president, who also denied that traditional chiefs have refused to go to the palace, said it was a shameless lie from the pit of hell. He also denied the fact

that Ipetumodu has remained incommunicado but noted that he has been communicating regularly with the Elders and other stakeholders in the town. In particular, he has always been in touch with the Traditional Chiefs in their regular weekly meetings.

According to him, "The hatchet job was done by some few unknown disgruntled individuals from the town. Their objective is obviously to ridicule and denigrate the personality of His Royal Highness, the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba ( Prof.) Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede.

"It is not only in Ipetumodu that bitter contests usually follow the succession processes after the death of a reigning Oba. But, in most progressive environments, after the selection, approval and coronation of one of the Princes as the succeeding Oba, swords would be sheathed and all other contestants, including their die-hard supporters, will rally around the chosen Oba in the task of socio-economic and infrastructural development of the town.

which will enable individuals to trace and reconnect with their ancestry, while generating investment in the economy,” she said.

The minister charge the committee members to be diligent and work towards deliverables and timelines

set, to achieve successful outcomes from this initiative.

The Motherland 2025 initiative is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Motherland Africa, and is set to include other

key stakeholders, including federal ministries, government agencies, and private sector organisations.

The committee comprises representatives from various organisations, including Motherland Africa Team, Ministry of Art, Culture,

Tourism and Creative Economy, National Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), and Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN).

Kolade Harps on Adherence to Business Principles

Says he fought to make Cadbury truly Nigerian company

Dike Onwuamaeze

The first Nigerian Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Dr. Christopher Kolade, has called on the current management of the company to always adhere to simple business principles that emphasised that “people are seeking to obtain some value that they consider to be of appropriate quality and worth to themselves.”

Kolade made the call this week at an event with the theme: 'Cadbury@60 Commemorative Event: Fireside Chat with Dr. Christopher Kolade'.

He said that these simple principles emphasised that people make business resources productive and a company does not perform better than its people.

According to him, each person can give or demand his/her best and could do better because they can desire to learn and apply the fruits of their learning, adding that “success, failure and mistakes are opportunities for learning.”

He also highlighted the importance of people to an organisation by stating that no “company performs better than its people” because they “are the most important resource in the management of a business company.”

Kolade also revealed that his overriding vision as the first indigenous chief executive was to “Nigerianise” Cadbury in a manner that would make it a truly Nigerian company by having Nigerians at strategic management and

directorate positions in the company.

He said, “My vision was that Cadbury Nigeria has to become a Nigerian company and we have to work at making it a Nigerian company.

“I came in as director of administration. But four years later I was told that I am going to become the managing director/chief executive, so I had to develop a managing director’s vision.

“My vision then was that if they have ‘Nigerianised’ the chief executive’s position, does that not tell me that I should ‘Nigerianise’ every position because we were having expatriate directors as well then.

“So, my vision was twofold: One, we must try to ‘Nigerianise’ as much as we could because I believed that

Lagos Head of Service Urges Internal Auditors to Embrace Digital Transformation

Bennett Oghifo

The Head of Service of Lagos State, Mr. Bode Agoro, has emphasised the need for internal auditors to adapt to the digital age by acquiring skills in data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.

Speaking at the opening session of the 17th Annual Retreat for Internal Auditors held at Dover Hotel, Ikeja, recently, Agoro noted that technological advancements are reshaping the auditing profession.

According to a statement by the Head, Public Affairs, Office of Internal Audit, Tosin Martins, he stressed that auditors must go beyond traditional financial reviews and evolve into strategic advisors within government processes.

"Auditors who wish to remain relevant must be equipped to analyze vast amounts of data, identify trends, and assess risks associated with digital transformation," Agoro stated.

He commended the Office of Internal Audit for selecting the theme, 'Internal Audit in the Digital Age', noting that

Abia First Lady Commits to Tackling Drug Abuse in State as Drug Control Committee Begins Work

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, has expressed commitment to fashioning a collective action to wage successful war against drug abuse in the state.

She stated this yesterday in her address at the "critical meeting" of the State Drug Control Committee at Government House Umuahia, saying that converted efforts were needed

to combat the menace.

"As the wife of the governor, I'm deeply concerned about the devastating impact of drug abuse on our communities, families, and individuals.

"As a responsible citizen and a concerned individual, I believe it's our collective duty to combat this problem," she said.

The First Lady said that there was no denying the fact that drug abuse

"is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive approach" hence committee members must put on their thinking caps "to address this pressing issue".

She noted that the problem of drug abuse would not be solved using kinetic approach by way of law enforcement or even by provision of quality healthcare services.

Instead, the Abia First Lady said that measures that would tackle the

root causes of the menace should be adopted. She listed education, prevention, and community engagement as effective approaches to combat drug abuse.

"We must work together to create awareness about the risks associated with drug abuse, provide support to those struggling with addiction, and advocate for policies that prioritize prevention and rehabilitation over punishment.

it reflects the ongoing shift towards technology-driven governance.

A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Alimosho Constituency 2, Hon. Kehinde Joseph, in his goodwill message, lauded the initiative of the retreat, emphasising that participants would gain valuable knowledge essential for government efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Internal Audit, Mrs. Kikelomo Arinola Dawodu, underscored the importance of embracing digital advancements in the auditing profession.

"As digital transformation accelerates, internal auditors must continuously learn, innovate, and integrate new technologies to remain relevant and effective," she noted.

She encouraged participants to engage actively, network, and explore transformative solutions that would shape the future of internal auditing in Lagos State and beyond.

"As the eyes of governance, we carry the responsibility of upholding integrity and ensuring fiscal discipline. Let us use this gathering to learn, network, and explore transformative solutions," she urged.

Cadbury Nigeria should become a Nigerian company rather than an adjunct office of an international business.”

Kolade said that he was convinced then that the company was never going to succeed if it continued to depend on expertise from abroad. He also recalled that he and his colleagues had a rough time pursuing this vision to “Nigerianise” the company.

“The last position to be ‘Nigerianised’ was that of the technical director because it was the belief of the international group then (Cadbury Schweppes) that the technical expertise needed for a company like this could not be found in Nigeria and, therefore, had to be someone from abroad.

“But we found a Nigerian with everything you will consider the right qualification to be a technical director. This is in fulfillment of my vision,” he said.

EMPOWERING NIGERIAN WOMEN...

L-R: Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Adejoke

PSC Elevates 138 Senior Police Officers to Their Next Ranks

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the promotion of 38 Assistant Commissioners of Police to the next rank of Deputy Commissioners. The commission also elevated 100 Chief Superintendents of Police to Assistant Commissioners of Police.

A statement by Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said the Commission took the decision Thursday, February 20th 2025 at the continuation of its extraordinary plenary meeting holding at its Corporate Headquarters in Jabi Abuja.

The new Deputy Commissioners, he said are; Emmanuel Deenom, Olufemi

Takeet, yusuf Doki Sani, Joseph Habakkuk Anche, Faruku Umaru, Danladi Daura, Benedict Omotomilola Olomo, Bernard Adedayo Ojewale, Aminudeen Mohammed, Mohammed lawal Bello, and Mohammed sabo Haladu.

"Others are; Baba Gana Saje, Maman Bello Tambuwal Abubakar Bello Mustapha, Haruna Adamu, Uzairu Abdullahi, Dashuwar Tepnyakas, Braide Elekima, Usman Garik, Musa Abdullahi, Kabiru Salisu, Uchenna Ani, Innocent Oguejiofor Umuerie Mathew Obiuwevbi, Gabriel Odiaka Dibie and Olufemi Olabanji Kayode, State CID, Osogbo, Osun State Command.

"Ikenna Kenneth Ezeani, Force Secretary's Office Afolaranmi Omotayo, Ibrahim Yidi, Isyaku Usman, Rasaq Abdulsalam, Olajide Agboola, Chioma Onwukaike, Abayomi Agbana, Ibrahim

Miringa Musa, Umar Sokoto Abubakar, James Ekanem Usen and Dauda Buba Fika were the other Assistant Commissioners promoted to the rank of Deputy Commissioners," he said.

He noted that some of the Chief Superintendents of Police who were promoted to Assistant Commissioners are; Ibrahim Mohammed Agava, Akinloye Joseph Oyegade, Rilwanu

Adeparusi: My New Poetry Collection Explores Life’s Contradictions

The author of the newly released poetry collection 'A Throw of a Lemon', Tunde Adeparusi, yesterday, described his work as an exploration of life’s unpredictability, weaving together themes of love, loss, resilience, and self-discovery.

“The book is a mesmerising tapestry of poetic reflections that captures the unpredictability of life with remarkable

depth and nuance,” Adeparusi explained in a statement yesterday.

He added that through striking imagery and lyrical storytelling, the book invites readers to reflect on the complexities of life, embracing both hardship and transformation. According to Adeparusi, the collection juxtaposes the bitterness of struggle with the

Ts t a

sweetness of triumph—much like the sharp tang of a lemon.

He noted that each poem peels back layers of human existence, delving into themes of identity, encounters, and perception, while drawing on nature, culture, and survival as recurring motifs.

“In other words, the book explores various themes that are central to the

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We strongly advise the public to avoid engaging with this fraudulent website or sharing any personal, nancial, or business-related information through it. Any transactions or communications conducted via www.dtmbltd.com are at the individual's own risk, and Delta Trust Mortgage Bank Limited will not be

human experience, offering a thoughtful and introspective examination of life’s complexities,” he explained. Beyond poetry, Adeparusi is also the CEO of Idea-Hub Ireland and Idea-Hub UK, organizations dedicated to fostering innovation and artistic collaboration between Irish and Nigerian creatives.

responsible for any losses or damages that may arise from such interactions.

We have notied the appropriate authorities and are taking the necessary steps against the operators of this fraudulent website.

For verication or further inquiries, please contact us through our ofcial channels: Website: www.deltatrustmb.com

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Customer Service: 08025531467

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain the integrity of our bank and protect the interests of our customers.

Mohammed Dutse, Ibrahim Aliyu Jauro, Abdulmajid Isah, Fidelity Lohya Labong, Anthony Olusola Ojo, Ibrahim Muktar, Abdulrahaman Idris and Aminu Hamza.

Orelope-Adefulire; Minister of State, FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud; First Lady of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Wife of the Senate President, Mrs Unoma Akpabio, and wife of the Chief of Staff to the President Mrs Salamatu Gbajabiamila, during the Presentation of Empowerment Items to 500 Women in Each State of the Federation and FCT, North Central Zone, held at the State House Conference Center, Abuja...yesterday

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Jaywon: Nigerian Music at Its Peak, Getting Recognised in Spaces Never Imagined

Professionally known as Jaywon, Oluwajuwonlo Iledare, is a multiple-award winning Nigerian artist and the force behind a number of hit songs including Mandantin, Facebook Love, This Year, Aje and the remix. The CEO of Next World Entertainment, and co-founder of AfroTunes Fest, recently partnered with CTDA Media to uncover fresh new talents and promote these artistes to the world. Jaywon who was live at the 67th Grammys as the Academy member, speaks to Ferdinand Ekechukwu on his experience of the prestigious awards, and offers a sneak peek into his upcoming projects and more. Excerpts…

Whatwastheexperiencelikeatthe 67thGrammysthisyear?

attending the Grammy event was an invaluable experience that exceeded my expectations. The strategic visit allowed me to achieve my objectives, and I was thrilled to connect with like minded individuals who share my passion for music. The networking opportunities were particularly fruitful, as I had the chance to meet influential people and exchange contacts, setting the stage for potential future collaborations.

WhatdoesyourjobasaGrammyAcademymemberentail?

What’s interesting is that many people aren’t aware that music enthusiasts, specifically Grammy members like us, get to cast the final votes in the Grammy Awards. This is a crucial part of the process, as we help determine the winners in each category.

WhatdoyoumakeoftheBestAfricanMusicPerformance categorywhichmanyfeelisjustforafrobeats?

Honestly, I think the body needs to expand their scope in that category. It’s starting to seem like it’s exclusively tailored for Nigerian artists. I believe we deserve more representation, perhaps in a dedicated hip hop category. as africans, we bring more to the table than just music performances.

Canyouspeaktousabouttherecentpartnershipbetween yourNextWorldEntertainmentandCTDAMedia?

This partnership is a game-changer the industry has been eagerly anticipating. We’re excited to uncover talented artistes and leverage our robust social media presence to catapult them

Jaywon

into the spotlight. While Next World entertainment focuses on scouting and signing new talent, CTDa Media will be the driving force behind promoting these artistes to the world.

Whatprojectareyouworkingonatthemoment?

There’s a lot in the works, but I’ll give you a sneak peek. For instance, our state-of-the-art recording studio is almost complete, with 75 percent of the production setup ready to go. This will provide our artists with a seamless recording experience. additionally, we’re gearing up for a tour, with Uganda being our first destination. This will be an incredible opportunity for us to capture exclusive content, both for myself

and for CTDa Media as a whole.

“Ourartistes”yousaid.Doesitmeanyouhavegotsome artistessignedtoNextWorldEntertainment?Andwhereis thisstudiobeingsetup?

yes, Next World entertainment has always been about supporting and nurturing talent. We’ve got some artistes we’re working with, both emerging and established, who fit the vision of pushing african music forward. as for the studio, we’re setting it up in Houston Texas. It’s going to be a creative hub, not just for recording music but for collaborations and storytelling that go beyond just sound.

What’s your take on the ongoing rivalry among leading AfrobeatsartistesinNigeria?Isitmoreofthecultureorjust needlessandunhealthy?

Competition has always been part of the music industry—it drives artistes to be better. but when it turns into unnecessary rivalry, it takes away from the bigger picture. afrobeats is at a global level now, and unity will only make the movement stronger. A little healthy competition is fine, but when it gets toxic, it doesn’t help anyone.

What’syourperspectiveaboutNigerianmusicontheglobal stageatthemoment?

Nigerian music is at its peak right now, and we’re still going higher. Afrobeats is influencing sounds worldwide, and our artists are headlining major international festivals, collaborating with global stars, and getting recognised in spaces we never imagined before. The only thing now is to make sure we keep ownership of our sound and also start telling our stories and culture while expanding.

Portable and His Many Controversies

For several weeks, controversial singer, Habeeb Okikiola Olalomi has been making the headlines for various reasons ranging from his back and forth with some of his women which he constantly speaks ills of whenever the chance presents itself and how they also try to shield themselves from his onslaughts. beyond doubt, the theatrics have been one many social media users have just either laughed away or didn’t take seriously.

but things took a different turn a few days ago when the Ogun State Police Command declared, Portable officially wanted after he and nine of his associates allegedly assaulted and obstructed officers of the Ministry of Physical Planning and urban Development.

On the 17th of February 2025, the OSPC shared via their X account a notice of the singer declared wanted tracing the journey of this case to the 5th of February 2025, when some officials of Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and urban Development were conducting an enforcement

exercise at Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota. according to their post, they encountered an elderly man, later identified as Portable’s father, at Odogwu bar in the area. upon identifying themselves and requesting the approved building plan, the father informed them that his son was unavailable.

However, moments later, Portable, armed with a firearm and other dangerous weapons, led a gang of nine thugs in a violent attack on the unarmed officials. The enforcement officers sustained various bodily injuries but managed to escape and reported the incident to the Ota area Command, which subsequently escalated the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further action.

Nine accomplices were arrested, but Portable fled the scene and has since gone into hiding. Multiple formal invitations were sent to him, requesting his presence at the Ogun State Police Command Headquarters, eleweran, abeokuta, which he deliberately ignored without cause or legal representation. Following his repeated evasion, the Ogun State Police Command obtained a valid court order declaring him wanted.

Portable took his Instagram a day after to call out Nigerians, saying he doesn’t look for trouble but that trouble comes looking for him. Switching between english and yoruba languages he expressed his fear for the government and in a not so surprising speech he declared himself to be insane and currently undergoing treatment at the Federal Neuropsychiatric, aro, abeokuta with drug prescriptions he also uses. In a third slide from what he posted, he also stated that his problem was spiritual as those around him where he lives and those he bought properties from paying parts are all out for him spiritually. and on the last slide he states how he feels pain all over his body and continues to plead with Nigerians to help him. He later shared this via his Instagram stories, “Oba anu am going out today God turn my battle to blessing’s Let your Grace Speak for me God don’t let my enemy shame me Open my ways because of my children and family and those people I dey help God help me send my own helper to me....

Ogun State Government am sorry na fear make me dey run Thank God police is our friend and family God dey everywhere God forgive me I believe in you any disappointment is a blessing portable

if you believe wait for God anu Olohun Grace no dey finish.”

The controversial Nigerian singer, was however yesterday granted bail by the Isabo Magistrate Court in abeokuta following his arraignment on charges of assault and obstruction of government officials. This was after he surrendered himself to the police at the Lagos State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) on Wednesday after being declared wanted.

AY Zed Gets Headies Nominations for Hit Song Twe Twe Stella Monye Relishes Lagos City Marathon Experience

Ferdinand ekechukwu

after a stellar 2024, music producer ay Zed, (azuka adaeze), has made a statement with two Headies awards nominations in the categories for Single of the year & Collaboration of the year for the hit song ‘Twe Twe’ remix by Kizz Daniel. Last year began with ay Zed’s productions topping the charts for the first three months with ‘Twe Twe’ and the remix feat. Davido. He then followed up with ‘Showa’ off Kizz Daniel’s TZa Project.

The Headies, Nigeria’s most prestigious music award show recently released the much anticipated nominations list for its 17th edition. It is fitting that 2025 started on a good note with his efforts

being recognised with the Headies nominations. It is also interesting that ‘Showa’ is also nominated for the Headies’ Video of the year which is set to a highly competitive one as TG Omori & Kizz Daniel brought the record to life in spectacular fashion.

Over the years, ay Zed has honed his sonic proficiency with productions and collaborations with some of afrobeats & africa’s biggest stars including Timaya, Flavour, Davido, Patoranking, black Sheriff, ajebo Hustlers and many more. He has also built a potent sonic partnership with Kizz Daniel that has proved to be a winning formula. With productions that have crossed over 1 billion Streams across all platforms, ay Zed feels that’s only a glimpse of what he has in store.

Veteran singer, Stella Monye has had a long career in music which dominated the national scene and participated in several tours, both at home and abroad, representing Nigeria. Stella would have taken to sports if she hadn’t ventured into music as she disclosed in an interview years back.

During her days in secondary school in the 80s Stella Monye was very much active in sports; participating in track and field events like hurdle and high jump. Stella Monye who recently started modifying her name to be Stella addahm has done it again a second Marathon race within the space of 5 months.

First, it was Lagos Women Marathon, then Access Bank Marathon. She officially registered for the 42 kilometers race but the organisers were worried that she should make do with the 10 kilometer race instead which is understandable. She was also considered for the entertainment aspect.

This year’s race tagged “Miles Memorial” was in honour of the CeO of access bank who passed on with his family. So the entertainment aspect was reconsidered for this year. Note that Stella who has always been part of the sport arena since her secondary school days had a stint with the Falcons in the year of formation but she chose music against sports.

Tosin Clegg

Ferdinand ekechukwu

How Businesses Can Thrive During Ramadan

as ramadan, Muslims’ holy month of prayer and fasting worldwide approaches, its impact is expected to be felt not only on spiritual life but also on businesses.

Indeed, this period is usually considered a downtime season for players in the entertainment and lifestyle sector, fitness centers, corporate cafeterias and daytime eateries, amongst others.

at the same time, it could mean a oncein-a-lifetime wealth opportunity for strategic players responding to seasons and times. While some businesses may not respond in the holy month, providers of even the most needed services or commodities require some levels of creativity and tactics to break even, given the lowness that characterises this time.

Once commenting on recent research by Meta on Nigerian shoppers’ behaviour during ramadan, the company’s regional Director for Sub-Saharan africa, enitan Denloye, highlighted economic prospect of the season, noting that it is a period businesses could meaningfully connect with consumers and unlock new pathway for discovery.

She identified however that business owners would need to play smart and innovatively to experience financial windfall at this time.

“It is important to understand the behaviour and attitudes of shoppers, doing this, businesses can leverage the shift in mindsets and effectively reach their vast and diverse communities, “ she stated.

Similarly, Harding Loevner’s Frontier emerging Markets analyst, babatunde Ojo, advised that investors or entrepreneurs have a thorough understanding of ramadan’s nuances before committing their resources, adding that the season is characterised by various effects that vary from year to year.

“ramadan can have a particularly detrimental effect on sales when it coincides with a seasonal product’s peak period.

“For instance, beer sales typically plummet as daytime consumption is halted where bars and restaurant close shops, and nightly consumption declines as well due to the month’s encouragement of personal purity and piety. Many would-be drinkers heed Islam’s ordinance against alcohol consumption, at least temporarily,” he pointed out.

For some of the ventures that boom this season, including eid Hamper, Muslim Clothing, fruits and quick food for breaking fast, amongst others, below are some specific sales gimmicks to help entrepreneurs make the most of the season and smile to the bank.

understand What People buy During ramadan

During ramadan, shopping habits shift. People focus on food and beverages for Iftar (breaking the fast) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), as well as gifts, clothing, and donations to charity. Think about how your product or service fits into these needs.

Choose the Right Customers for your Business

Once you have decided what you are to sell,

figure out exactly who you are selling to. This is a crucial step to ensure sales go smoothly and make the most of the season. Think carefully about who your ideal customer is.

Time Your Sales Right

Picking the right time to sell is another key to success. For example, if you are selling takjil (food for breaking the fast), the best time to sell is right before sunset. Trying to sell it at dawn or during the day probably will not be as profitable, as people are not yet thinking about breaking their fast.

Create an Emotional Connection ramadan is deeply personal and spiritual. Connect with your audience by emphasizing family, gratitude, and togetherness. use storytelling in your marketing to show how your product enhances their experience.

Offer Ramadan-Themed Products and Services

Consider launching limited-time products or bundles that cater to the season, such as special food packages, ramadan planners, prayer mats, or modest fashion collections.

Consider Selling Online and Offline

To boost business, consider selling both online and offline. This dual approach can increase offerings’ visibility, reach more customers, and ultimately drive sales.

In today’s digital age, online marketplaces offer unparalleled convenience, with benefits like wide product selection and competitive pricing, amongst others. use social media, email marketing, and targeted ads to highlight special promotions and engage with your audience.By selling online and offline, you can cater to different customer preferences and stay ahead of the competition.”

Prioritise Fast and Friendly Customer Service

With busy schedules and fasting, customers appreciate quick and efficient service. Ensure your team is prepared to handle inquiries and orders smoothly, especially around peak shopping hours.

Be Mindful of Cultural, Religion Sensitivities

Since ramadan is a sacred time, avoid marketing that feels overly commercial or insensitive. Keep your messaging thoughtful, avoid scheduling food-related ads during fasting hours, and acknowledge the significance of the season in a genuine way.

Offer Discounts and Special Deals

Generosity is a key theme of ramadan, making it the perfect time to introduce special promotions, bundle deals, and discounts that encourage customers to buy. you could also donate a portion of sales to charity to build goodwill.

Prepare for the Eid-Al-Fitr Shopping Rush

The final days of Ramadan see a surge in shopping as people prepare for eid celebrations. Ensure you have enough stock and staff to handle the increased demand smoothly.

PERSONAL FINANCE

Key Takeaways from MPC Meeting

The Central bank of Nigeria’s (CbN) Monetary Policy Com- mittee (MPC) concluded its 299th meeting on Thursday, with a decision to retain key monetary parameters.

The meeting, which was closely watched by investors and economic analysts, reaffirmed the CbN’s commitment to maintaining price stability and fostering a more transparent foreign exchange market.

The MPC unanimously voted to hold the Monetary Policy rate (MPr) at 27.50 percent, maintaining the asymmetric corridor at +500/-100 basis points. additionally, the Cash reserve ratio (Crr) was kept at 50 per cent for deposit money banks and 16 per cent for merchant banks, while the Liquidity ratio remained at 30 per cent.

CbN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, in his statement, emphasised that the decision was based on available data indicating a moderation in inflationary pressures and improvements in foreign exchange stability.

“as far as the central bank is concerned, we are data-driven, and that will continue. Our decision matrices will be focused accordingly,” Cardoso said.

Market analysts interpreted the decision as a signal that the CbN remains cautious despite recent improvements in key economic indicators.

Inflation and the Rebasing of CPI a key development discussed at the meeting was the rebasing of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) by the National bureau of Statistics (NbS), which revised the consumption basket to better reflect current realities.

With this update, headline inflation stood at 24.48 per cent year-on-year in January 2025, down from 34.80 per cent in December 2024 under the previous base year.

The Governor praised the NbS for this improvement, noting, “We will, you know, continuously look at data, and our decision matrices will be focused accordingly. Of course, we have a CPI, which reflects the reality of consumption patterns.

“and that’s a good thing. For example, the previous one that we had took account of black and white television which we all know is no longer relevant. So to that, to that extent, really, one, commends the efforts of the NbS in bringing.”

Exchange Rate Stability and FX Reforms

a major highlight of the MPC meeting was the progress in stabilising the foreign exchange market. The Committee noted the convergence of rates between the official Nigeria Foreign exchange Market (NFeM) and the bureau de Change (bDC) segment, attributing the improvement to the recent introduction of the electronic Foreign exchange Matching System (b-Match) and the Nigeria Foreign exchange Code.

Cardoso stated, “We are ensuring a foreign exchange market that is deep, open, transparent, and allows for easy entry and exit. We have seen significant improvements in diaspora remittances, and the differential between the official rate and the bDC rate has narrowed to less than one percent.”

Economic Growth and External Reserves

The MPC reviewed economic growth data, with real GDP expanding by 3.46 percent in Q3

2024, up from 3.19 percent in Q2. The non-oil sector remained the primary driver of growth, although improvements in oil production, which stood at 1.54 million barrels per day in January 2025, were seen as positive for Nigeria’s external balance.

The external reserves were reported at $39.4 billion as of February 14, 2025, providing an import cover of 9.6 months. The balance of Payments remained strong, with a positive current account balance of $6.06 billion as of Q3 2024.

Collaboration Between Fiscal and Monetary Authorities

The MPC stressed the importance of ongoing coordination between fiscal and monetary policymakers. The Committee lauded the recent Monetary Policy Forum, which brought together key stakeholders, including the Minister of Finance, Minister of budget and Planning, and representatives from the private sector. Cardoso reaffirmed the need for continued engagement, stating, “Coordination between fiscal and monetary policy is crucial to sustaining the progress we’ve made. Our recent engagement with fiscal authorities and private sector leaders ensures that our policy actions are aligned to drive economic stability.”

ATM Charges and Consumer Impact another key topic that emerged from the discussions was the recent adjustment in aTM withdrawal charges. The CbN reiterated its stance on ensuring fair banking practices and addressing consumer concerns regarding excessive fees.

While some may perceive this measure as adding to economic burdens, it is, in fact, a strategic step to ensure better cash accessibility for Nigerians. This policy emerged from our efforts to address cash shortages, particularly during the peak demand period around the holidays, when many faced undue hardship. and long-term solutions to ensure cash availability.

“Fundamentally, banks need to be incentivised to keep aTMs stocked and accessible, ensuring that customers can withdraw money conveniently. While access has improved, it must become seamless and reliable. This measure encourages banks to invest in expanding aTM networks and maintaining efficient cash distribution.”

“Importantly, customers withdrawing from their own banks will not incur charges, and those who frequently use another bank’s aTM can apply for a card from that institution at no extra cost.

“ultimately, this policy aims to enhance financial access, increase ATM deployment, and eliminate exploitative cash withdrawal practices, fostering a more efficient and consumer-friendly banking system.”

Outlook and Policy Direction

Looking ahead, the MPC highlighted that while inflationary pressures have moderated, food prices remain a concern. Members expressed optimism that improved security in agricultural regions and other supply-side interventions would help sustain the downward trend in food inflation.

The CbN reiterated its commitment to maintaining orthodox monetary policies, with Cardoso stating, “We will stay the course. Inflation has been too high for too long, and our objective is to bring it down from double digits to single digits over the medium to long term.”

Nume ekeghe

Inside Nigeria’s Bold Plan to Empower 10 Million Women, Protect Its Children

Otega Ogra

Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan SulaimanIbrahim had been in office for just a few days when she cradled a terrified 4-year-old girl—shaking, traumatised— after surviving brutal abuse.

That moment, she says, changed everything.

“I looked into her eyes, and I knew—this cannot be business as usual,” SulaimanIbrahim told reporters in Abuja during a briefing marking her first 100 days in office under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

“The time for slow progress is over. It is Women O’Clock in Nigeria.” And she’s not kidding.

In just over three months, Sulaiman-Ibrahim has rolled out an ambitious plan to economically empower 10 million Nigerian women by 2027, overhaul child protection laws, and put Nigeria at the frontlines of global gender leadership.

Her message?

Policies are not enough. It’s action time.

Big Moves: 10 Million Women By 2027.

At the center of the Minister’s plan is a major push to unlock the economic potential of Nigerian women—more than 100 million strong—as drivers of the country’s future.

“We’re not just talking about women’s empowerment as charity,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim said. “We’re talking about building a $1 trillion economy, and women will be at the center of it.”

The Ministry launched the Nigeria for Women Scale-Up Project, backed by the World Bank, to reach 4.5 million women across all 36 states and the capital, Abuja.

The goal?

Equip women with business skills, financial literacy, and cooperative funding to start and grow businesses.

But that’s not all.

A partnership with WEMA Bank is rolling out the MOWA-SARA Skills Acquisition Program—targeting 500,000 women for training in vocational skills, entrepreneurship, and digital finance.

In Kano State, the pilot program is already training 2,500 women in tailoring, catering, and hospitality.

And coming next—a National Microfinance Framework for Women Entrepreneurs to give women affordable loans and investment tools to build their futures.

No Child Left Behind

Economic empowerment is only part of the story.

The other half?

Protecting Nigeria’s most vulnerable—its children.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim made it clear: The nation’s children are now a top priority.

A Child Rights Act Review Committee is already working to toughen laws against child abuse, trafficking, and underage marriage—

problems that have plagued Nigeria for years.

“We’re closing the loopholes. We’re making sure no abuser escapes justice,” the Minister said.

But she’s not stopping at laws.

Her Ministry is developing a National Child Protection Framework—a first-of-its-kind nationwide system to safeguard children—and is exploring the creation of a dedicated institution focused solely on child welfare.

In the meantime, Sulaiman-Ibrahim is tackling the everyday struggles holding girls back.

Her national menstrual hygiene campaign is distributing 10,000 menstrual kits to girls, aiming to keep them in school and break the stigma around periods.

Violence? Not On Her Watch

Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s message on gender-based violence is blunt: Enough is enough.

Representing Nigeria at the Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children in Bogotá, Colombia, she unveiled bold targets:

•2 million children at risk of violence will receive support services by 2030.

•10 million families will get evidence-based parenting support to prevent abuse at home.

“Nigeria is standing up,” she said. “We are saying—we will protect our children.”

Clean Energy for Survival

Content Piracy: Initiative Against Global Enemy

Temiloluwa Olajide

It’s no longer news that piracy is a global enemy, one that has destroyed and continues to destroy the work and livelihoods of countless creatives.

From film and music to sports broadcasts and television series, piracy robs rightful owners of their earnings and threatens the sustainability of entire industries.

As a global scourge, it requires a global response and fortunately powerful partnerships are being forged across the planet and across sectors to protect content creators and the industry they work in. These partnerships involved digital content platforms, law enforcement bodies, cybersecurity firms and tech companies, all working together to ensure the viability of the industries that inform, educate and entertain audiences.

At first glance, piracy might seem like an easy way to access free entertainment, but its consequences run deep, affecting

both individuals and society. On a personal level, streaming a sports event or show from an illegal site can expose users to serious risks, such as malware infections, identity theft, or financial fraud. Hackers can gain access to sensitive information, including bank details, potentially wiping out accounts. The damage caused by such crimes far outweighs the satisfaction of watching a football match for free.

Beyond personal risks, piracy also cripples the creative sector by siphoning revenue away from legitimate rights holders. When movies, music, and sports events are illegally distributed, producers and creatives do not receive their due earnings. This lack of compensation disrupts the industry, leading to fewer productions, job losses, and weakened investment in new content.

Nigeria has one of the most vibrant entertainment industries in the world, with Nollywood ranking as one of the biggest film industries globally and Afrobeats taking center stage in international music charts. The potential for even greater suc-

cess is huge, but piracy poses an obstacle. MultiChoice, a key investor in local content, has spent years bringing high-quality productions to audiences, yet piracy continues to threaten the industry. Illegal streaming of sports events, reality TV shows, and locally produced series remains a major concern. This is particularly critical as the platform regularly broadcasts live feeds of many of the most popular sporting events on earth—F1, the Olympic Games, Euro, World Cup, and Champions League football, as well as popular local leagues. Beyond sports, Africa Magic and Showmax Originals have become home to some of Africa’s most beloved entertainment shows, including hits like The Real Housewives of Lagos (RHO Lagos), Big Brother Naija, and Nigerian Idol. With content available in 40 languages and a growing library exceeding 84,000 hours, these platforms play a vital role in African storytelling. However, the rise of illegal streaming not only impacts revenue but also threatens the sustainability and growth of the creative industry.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s focus also extends to climate survival, knowing that women in rural areas bear the harshest burden. Her team is pushing to transition 1 million households from firewood cooking to clean energy solutions, reducing health risks and environmental damage.

Taking Nigeria to the World

But Sulaiman-Ibrahim isn’t just shaking things up at home—she’s putting Nigeria on the global map for gender equality leadership.

To counter this, MultiChoice has joined forces with Partners Against Piracy (PAP) and cybersecurity firm Irdeto, actively tracking and shutting down illegal operations in multiple African nations. With piracy tactics evolving, the fight against content theft must also advance. Strong collaborations, advanced technology, and public awareness are key to protecting the creative industry. By shutting down illegal operations and promoting legal alternatives, organizations like MultiChoice, PAP, and Irdeto are ensuring that content creators receive their rightful earnings and that audiences can continue to enjoy high-quality entertainment. Ultimately, safeguarding creative content is not just about protecting businesses—it’s about securing the future of storytelling, preserving jobs, and ensuring that Africa’s thriving entertainment industry continues to grow. The fight against piracy is a shared responsibility, and by supporting legal content, we all contribute to a stronger, more sustainable creative economy.

Olajide, a intellectual copyright advocate, writes from Lagos

Cybersecurity in Nigeria and Beyond: Major Incidents and What Lies Ahead

The year 2024 was a defining period for cybersecurity, marked by escalating cyber threats, regulatory changes, and the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in both attack and defense mechanisms.

Globally, organisations faced more sophisticated cyber-attacks, while in Nigeria, a surge in cyber fraud, ransomware attacks, and data breaches underscored the urgent need for enhanced security strategies. As we step into 2025, businesses and governments must brace for evolving threats while leveraging AI-driven cybersecurity solutions.

According to IBM’s 2024 Cost of a Data Breach Report, the global average cost of a data breach reached $4.67 million, a 5% increase from the previous year. Additionally, ransomware attacks accounted for 27% of all cyber incidents, with the financial and healthcare sectors being primary targets. The rise of AI-generated phishing attacks and

supply chain vulnerabilities contributed to the growing complexity of cyber risks. A report by Cybersecurity Ventures projected that global cybercrime damages exceeded $10.5 trillion in 2024, driven by increasing nation-state attacks, insider threats, and deepfake-enabled fraud. The use of zero-day exploits also surged, as attackers leveraged vulnerabilities before patches could be implemented.

In North America, one of the notable incidents involved an espionage group known as “Salt Typhoon,” believed to be originated from China infiltrated major telecommunications providers in the US, including Verizon and AT&T. This breach allowed unauthorised access to the private communications of numerous Americans, highlighting the susceptibility of critical infrastructure to sophisticated cyber espionage campaigns.

Europe faced its share of cyber challenges, with the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) experiencing significant incidents. In June 2024, a

ransomware attacks targeted Synnovis, a pathology services provider, compromising patient and clinician confidential data and disrupting NHS services. Later in November, the Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust declared a “major incident” due to a cyberattack, leading to the cancellation of outpatient appointments and delays in emergency care.

In Asia, the healthcare sector was notably impacted. In May 2024, Ascension Health System, a non-profit organisation operating across multiple states, suffered a ransomware attack that disrupted clinical operations.

The breach began when an employee inadvertently downloaded malware, leading to the diversion of emergency care from some hospitals and highlighting the vulnerabilities within healthcare IT systems. In addition, In June 2024, Indonesia’s Temporary National Data Center was paralysed by a ransomware attack, impacting 282 public services, including immigration, tax, and government portals. The attack, carried

out by an unidentified cybercriminal group, led to widespread disruption and national panic. While authorities eventually obtained a decryption key, significant data loss had already occurred, making it one of the most damaging cyber incidents in the region.

According to Checkpoint, Africa experienced a substantial increase in cyber threats, with organizations facing an average of 3,370 attacks per week—a 90% rise from the previous year. This surge affected various sectors, including telecommunications and financial services, emphasising the need for enhanced cybersecurity frameworks across the continent.

The financial sector was a primary target in South America. A significant incident involved a ransomware attack on a major Brazilian financial institution, leading to substantial data breaches and financial losses. This event highlighted the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals targeting the region’s financial infrastructure.

anthony Fakiyesi

Sulaiman-Ibrahim

Ogra is the Senior Special Assistant on Digital/New Media to the President

Nandap Rebranding Immigration Border Control: The Sokoto Experience

The apparent rebranding of the Nigeria Immigration Service by the current Controller General, Mrs Kemi Nandap who is putting round pegs in round holes, calls for more projection and indeed commendation by immigration stakeholders across the country and in the diaspora.

The case of Illela Border Frontier in Sokoto state, serves as a model for effective leadership and institutional reform, perharps setting a new benchmark for other border commands across Nigeria. No doubt inspired by the remarkable cutting edgev innovations from the Hon Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji Ojo and the elegant Controller General of Immigration, Mrs Kemi Nandap, the NIS at Illela is well on its way to becoming a reference point for border security excellence and Migration management in Nigeria.

From proactive management of men and materials, to non kinetic engagement of the host community, the NIS Controller in charge of Illela Border Command, Tony Akuneme, has demonstrated a new benchmark for efficient border security and effective control of the activities of cross border criminals.

A closer peep by our reporter revealed a high degree of efficient security enforcement, deployment of available infrasture, well trained and well dresssed personnel as well as a general atmosphere of positive synergy with other security agencies like customs, DSS, Port Health, NDLEA and even the Nigerien border police called Gerndames.

Nandap

According to independent investigations and physical interactions with frequent users of the Nigeria/ Niger Republic border, the hi tech reforms being driven by the Federal Government, represented here by the Interior Minister, Dr Tunji Ojo, is fast taking root given the smart and courteous manner in which the NIS staff at the Sokoto frontiers are discharging their duties.

A chat with the Command Spokesman, Muhammad Abdullahi, a soft spoken but intelligent Deputy Superintendent of Immigration, revealed that a new dawn had befallen the command since June 2024 when CGIS Kemi Nandap deployed CIS Tony Akuneme to their command.

“Our new oga truly represents everything the Controller General stands for, from staff motivation, to zero tolerance for corruption, war against human traffickers, effective border management using the newly introduced electronic systems, as well as capacity building and leadership by example”

He mentioned that the selfless leadership style of the Controller has greatly inspired not just the workforce but also stakeholders like the Illela Local Government Council which has donated a staff clinic to the command. In the same vein, a US based NGO had recently organised a free medical outreach for both the officers and the natives, just as a retired senior Immigration officer named Tony Lukas Elumelu had donated a borehole and solar panels for the barracks.

The Command PRO was full of praises for the Honourable minister and the CGIS for the recent high level training on E- gates organised by Huawei Technologies in Abuja which he personally benefitted as well as the recent Award to outstanding officers and men of the NIS also in Abuja, which he was equally one of the recipients.

Indeed, the rebranding of the NIS at the Sokoto border is a toast to Mrs Nandaps ability to deploy square pegs to square holes.

TUGAR Presents 6-Year Review of TI-CPI Assessments of Nigeria

The Technical Unit on Governance, and Anti-Corruption Reforms (TUGAR), has urged the government, anti-corruption agencies and other critical stakeholders to digest the Report of the Review of six years (2019-2024) of Transparency International Corruption Perception Index (TI-CPI) Assessments of Nigeria.

This is with the hope that it would provide a better understanding of the Corruption Perception Index in the country and help identify elements of the assessment that may provide an opportunity for remedial action and support the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2022 –2026.

The Head, Technical Unit on Governance, and Anti-Corruption Reforms (TUGAR), Mrs.

Jane Onwumere, stated this in her welcome remarks during the Public Presentation of the report aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability and improving Nigeria’s ranking on the Index.

The report’s presentation, which was held in Abuja, recently, had representatives from all the anti-corruption agencies, including Dr. Abdullahi Usman Bello, Chairman, Code of Conduct Bureau; the Executive Secretary, Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji; the Chairman, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede; the Auditor General of the FCCA, Mr. Shaakaa Kanyetor; Hon Prince Kayode Masha, representing Chairman House commons, Anti-corruptions; and AIG Okon O. Effiong, Special Protection Unit Representative of the Inspector General

of Police, among other stakeholders and distinguished personalities. TUGAR is a research, monitoring and evaluation unit setup to respond to the critical need for a rigorous approach to policy-making grounded on empirical data collection and analysis; and in-depth country specific diagnostics on corruption and related governance issues.

The initiative is part of the federal government’s policy to design country specific strategies to monitor and evaluate anticorruption and other governance initiatives, and to implement corrective actions as needed. Global experience has shown that timely and periodic generation and dissemination of data and information are key elements of building capacity, enabling reforms and ensuring transparent and accountable governance. Empirical information and civil society to

mobilise public opinion and effect change.

The TI-CPI is an annual ranking published by Transparency International that assesses the perceived levels of corruption in the public sector across 180 countries and territories. This year, Nigeria was ranked 140 out of 180 countries. The CPI is widely regarded as one of the most authoritative global measures of corruption, drawing on a variety of data sources, including assessments from organisations like the World Bank, the World Economic Forum, among others. It seeks to measure levels of corruption using 13 independent assessments conducted by 12 global governance institutions.

L-r: regional Marketing Manager (North), Indomie Noodles Nigeria, abraham elukpo; Principal, Senior Secondary School, Sabo Tasha, esther asabe Zakka; executive Secretary Kaduna State Scholarships and Loans board, Professor yahaya Saleh; asst. Director (admin and Finance), Ministry of education, alexander Musa; at the Indomie back-to-School Scholarship Initiative, held at GJSS Sabo Tansha, Kaduna State….recently

L-r: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, ambassador Nura rimi; Honourable Minister, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Honourable Minister of State Industry, Senator. John Owan enoh; executive Vice Chair of the aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Mrs Ofovwe aigImoukhuede; and Director of Programmes of the aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Chioma Njoku; during the signing of an Mou to support the digitalisation of the Ministry and enhance the capacity building of its staff in abuja.. recently KINGSLey aDebOye

Commissioner, Lagos State Ministry of agriculture & Food Systems, abisola Olusanya; flanked by Permanent Secretary, emmanuel audu; and Senior Special assistant to the governor on agriculture, Gbolabo Olanihun, at the presentation of a cheque to Dadi Luis Farmers in badagry in support of the 25% Ounje eko Food Subsidy Programme Land Preparation in Lagos... yesterday

L-r: State Commissioner, boy Scouts, Mr. adebesin Olohuntoyin Oyeyemi; Chairman, Ikosi-ejinrin LCDa, Hon. akogun Wale raji anomo; First Lady of Lagos State and Convener, Lagos boy Child Initiative (LbCI), Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; and Wife of the Chairman, Imota LCDa, Mrs. Funmilayo agoro with the winners of the LbCI boys Cooking Competition, during the closing ceremony of the 3-Day residential Workshop for boys, organised by the Office of the First Lady, at Lagos State Model College, agbowa,… recently

bennett Oghifo

Mohammed abdullahi

FOCuS

Rethinking Involvement of Military in Election Security in Nigeria

Linus aleke

Though the use of the military in election security is considered an aberration in a democracy, it has become inevitable in Nigeria due to the notoriety, unexplained violence, and volatility of elections in the country.

Often, politicians recruit thugs who assist them in carrying ballot boxes in a desperate bid to win elections at all costs, unleashing mayhem on opposition political parties and, of course, the innocent electorate.

This act of election brigandage necessitated the involvement of the military, whose primary responsibility is to defend the nation’s territorial integrity against external aggression or internal insurrection, in election security to tame the insatiable appetite of political actors to win elections at all costs.

From the days of Western Nigeria’s political crisis in 1962, which compelled the then-federal government to involve the military in managing the violent political crisis, the use of the military in every election cycle was institutionalized, despite its unacceptability in a democracy.

Recall Operation Wet , which was a violent protest that took place in Western Nigeria between rival political factions, the Hausa-Fulani natives and some members of the Nigerian National Democratic Party during the First Republic.

Although it began in 1962, it set in motion a chain of events that eventually led to the first military coup in Nigeria on January 15, 1966.

The term “Operation Wet was coined from the practice of setting politicians and their properties ablaze with petrol, with many victims of the political violence killed by “necklacing.”

During the early 1960s, violence was on a rapid rise in Nigeria’s political system, leading to the introduction of Operation Wetie, whereby political gangs were used to disrupt elections

Operation Wet was significantly utilized in 1962 when Chief Ladoke Akintola and Chief Obafemi Awolowo were embroiled in a protracted battle for supremacy, resulting in a high rate of violence and lawlessness, including vicious physical combat among lawmakers in the Western regional parliament.

Regrettably, these negative political traits, which compelled the government to deploy the military to control the unbridled violence, still persist. However, former President Goodluck Jonathan is leading the voices advocating for the discontinuation of military deployment for election security, to improve the nation’s electoral system.

Speaking at the public presentation of two books, “Readings on Election Security Management and Selected Readings in Internal Security Management,” authored by former Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, the former President, averred that deployment of military personnel for election duties overstretches the military. He stated that elections should be primarily managed by the

police and the Independent National Electoral Commission.

According to him, in most other countries, the Air Force and Army are used to transport election materials to dangerous areas, and not providing security at polling units as done in the country.

Jonathan said, “Having been the president of this country before, when you talk about internal security, it’s an area that touches my heart. And especially when you talk about election security, again, it’s an area that touches my heart. One gets worried when it comes to Nigerian elections.

“In fact, here we overstretch the Army. In most other countries, the military doesn’t get involved in the day-to-day management of elections.

“Some countries use them to manage strategic systems, such as transporting election materials to dangerous areas. But manning polling booths and staying around polling stations— military personnel are never used for such duties.”

Jonathan cited examples from Botswana and Senegal, where elections are conducted with minimal security interference, allowing the electorate to vote without intimidation.

He noted that in Botswana, police officers manage election security while the military secures government facilities, and in Senegal, polling stations are run by electoral officials with police stationed outside, intervening only when necessary.

He said, ” I just came back from Botswana some months back during the election. It’s a very small country with a small population, so almost all the police officers were used for the election.

What the military does is that those regular duties that the police officers were doing, including securing the police headquarters, the military took over… So the military high command posted military officers to secure government assets and facilities.

“That’s what they do. And you don’t hear stories. Go to a country like Senegal, which is a West African country, their election last year.

“We talk about technology, technology, and still, with the technology, we have problems. And I said that they use the simplest form of voting. There was a table there. They put the ballot box for every candidate. And you, the voter, you go and you just go and pick. Of course, you must pick from all the candidates. They just put a long table. Every candidate has his ballot papers put there.

“You don’t see any police. The electoral management officers, polling agents and so on were just sitting there and watching. The police were outside because they used secondary schools and primary schools as polling stations.

“Then, each of the classrooms has different polling units. So the police stay here. If there is an issue, they will call them in. Otherwise, you don’t see police wherever you go. And that is a standard in so many countries. But here, we fully do the wrong thing.”

Jonathan, however, stated that the political class would adapt once society starts demanding that the right things be done.

He said, “We, Nigerians, celebrate the wrong thing. And I believe one day, the country will get to the level where people will reject bad behaviour. And when we get to the level that we reject bad behaviour, this issue will not happen again.

Also, the immediate past Chairman of Police Service Commission (PSC) Solomon Arase tasked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), to deploy all their endowments, strengthen, networks, and galvanise intellectual potentials towards advancing the cause of democracy and deepening the credibility of the electoral cycle in the country.

Arase also stressed that beyond the critical driving role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the quality of the legal framework governing the democratic process and the conducts of political actors, the professional output of the Police and the extended policing family within the democratic space remains a fundamental variable in the nation’s democratic journey.

He added that for the nation’s democracy to thrive, the security governance element must be effective.

This, he said requires that the Police and other complementary security agencies must be mentally mobile to act with knowledge of not just the laws of democracy, but to have the critical thinking and intellectual robustness needed to guarantee that that they understand well enough the democratic space

Kidnapped Anambra Businessman Recounts Ordeal, Says Only Money Saves Victims

David-Chyddy eleke sat with a recently released victim of kidnapping in Anambra State, who pleaded to remain anonymous. He revealed his experience staying with his abductors for four days

Tell us what you do for a living?

I’m a businessman, I am into the fabrication of empty plastic containers and I’m also a poultry farmer.

Can you tell us how you were kidnapped, and what your experience was while you were with your abductor?

On the 10th of December 2024, I was going to my village in Ozubulu to supervise a building project when the incident happened. I was driving in my car, a Toyota Camry, and somewhere around Mmili John, close to Ojoto in Idemili South Local Government Area I noticed that a Mercedes Benz SUV was following behind me. If I speed up, they speed, if I slowed down they slowed down too. I didn’t suspect anything because I felt someone driving a Mercedes Benz SUV could not be after someone driving a Toyota Corolla car, but as I approached Mmili John, they sped up, overtook and double crossed me. They started shooting immediately and dragged me out of my car, blindfolded me, and put me in their car. They were five in number. While three stayed with me in their car, two drove my car after them. They blindfolded me and drove for a long distance before we entered into the bush. When I got there, I met two other young boys who

had earlier been kidnapped earlier. The information I got from the boys was that they were kidnapped from Ifite in Awka on Monday night, while they kidnapped me on a Tuesday morning. They kept us there from 10th December to 14th December. When they took me there, they asked me how much I had in my account, and I told them I had just N2.2 million, but they told me they needed nothing less than N15 million from me before I would be freed. While they placed N15 million ransom on me, they said the other two boys would pay N10 million each before they would be released. They first took the N2.3million in my account.

How did they take it?

How they collect money is that they will take it from your account and put it in an Opay account, and now go out to withdraw it through POS operators. They did it to me and now gave me the phone to be calling my family and friends to send money. I first called my brothers and sister, then I called my brother Jeff Udemba who lives in Australia, and they contributed money to me, which was paid to the kidnappers. We stayed there for four days, together with the other boys I met in the forest, and it was not funny.

How did they feed you people?

They fed us once a day, and throughout that period, they tied our eyes. They will tell you that if you open your eyes, they will waste you. For me, I choose not to open my eyes, so that I can remain alive, so I left my blindfold the way it was. Usually, how they feed us is just once every day. It is either they bring garri and egusi soup, or they bring rice and pour palm oil on it and sprinkle salt on it. That was how we were surviving. They will also warn you that if you refuse to eat and you die of hunger, they will still collect ransom from your family. They will tell you it is better for you to remain alive, so that they collect their ransom and send you back to your family.

How much did you pay at the end?

At the end of the day, they took N5 million from me and also collected my car, my gold and three of my phones.

What part of the state were you kept, and how were you released?

They tied our eyes all the time we were there, so I did not know the location where we were, but I was always hearing planes flying over our heads. The day they released us, they put us in the booth of their car and they got to a road by a bush where they stopped and removed us from the car,

removed our blindfold and ordered us to face the bush and run into the bush. As we did, they shot into the air and drove off. We later saw a tricycle and we told him to take us to the nearest junction where we can find a vehicle to Awka, and to our greatest surprise, we were dropped at Igbariam junction. What it means is that we were kept around the airport area in Umueri because planes were flying over our heads.

Those boys do not believe that there is anything like God. One day in the forest, I was praying in the morning when they came in. One of them asked me what I was doing? They told me there was nothing like God, and that if there was truly God and if he hears prayers, He would have saved me from being kidnapped. They told me that as long as I had been kidnapped, the only thing that can save me is money. In fact, one of them said to me that if God is truly in existence, why can’t he descend and take away his gun from him?

Are there lessons you learnt from your experience?

Yes, there are lessons Iearnt. On the day they left us, they brought us together and tutored us. They told us we should not be leaving our houses very early in the morning, or staying late at night as those are the periods they carry out their operations. They also told us that we should not be using expensive cars while moving around town because those are the things that attract them. Within the days I stayed there, they were always beating us. They beat me until I thought I would die. One day, while they were beating me, their commander came and stopped them. He scolded them so hard, asking if they wanted to kill me. The leader even said sorry to me to placate me for the beating.

Kayode

•Tourism •Arts&Culture

• 08064268968 • ajunwacharles@gmail.com

Ikechi Uko: Nigeria Needs National Calendar of Festivals to Promote Tourism

Travel expert and organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ikechi Uko told Charles Ajunwa, that Nigeria needs a comprehensive national calendar of festivals to attract tourists and promote tourism. He also said despite currency crisis and power issues, hospitality in Nigeria in the last five years has shown resilience, while noting that Governor Peter Mbah is trying to make Enugu State a destination of choice, among other issues

ThehospitalitysectorinNigeria hascontinuedtoshowsomuch resilienceamidstglobaleconomic meltdown. What is your take on this?

The hospitality in Nigeria, at least, in the big cities of Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, were the first to restore to good health in Africa based on reports immediately after COVID-19, because Nigerians weren’t travelling abroad, so they started patronising the hotels and restaurants within the country and this was a very positive thing. It led to a robust return to profitability for most of the hotels in these cities, compared to other cities in Africa. So, hospitality has shown quite a lot of resilience in the last four or five years, and a lot of them are doing extremely very well. Despite the currency crisis and the power issues of last year, they still did very well. Even with the success stories of those hotels, we still don’t have a lot of quality hotels in most of our cities, compared to other big cities across Africa. Even small cities, when you’re talking about three, four star, five star hotels, I don’t see any Nigerian city that has quite a lot of them. Then if you go outside the big cities and take smaller cities, like Calabar, Jos, Akure and others, the quality and the quantity of hotel rooms, are not commensurate with the size of those economies.

Owerri,thecapitalofImoState,issaidto havethehighestnumberofhotelsinNigeria. What do you think is responsible for this astronomical growth?

I don’t know if Owerri has more hotels than other cities, but it has quite a lot of new hotels that grew in the last eight to 10 years. From the years of Rochas, the hospitality environment in Imo State exploded and everybody in South-east and South-south knows that Owerri is the town where the hotels and entertainment centres are full every weekend. There’re quite a lot of factors responsible for this - the food, the companionship, the social life, and the air of hospitality in Owerri draws people into the city and those have to be catered for. When I did a survey there six or seven years ago, we counted more than 75 new hotels a year, and that’s quite a lot. Most of the hotels are not in the five star range, they are two, three star quality hotels. But for a town like Owerri, you do have quite a lot of hotels. You can do with some standards.

Then the other thing I found out most of the hotel managers in Port Harcourt, Calabar, all relocated to Owerri. So, Owerri has some good managers who came from other towns with some experiences, but they need to actually skill off the standard. If it has to be the hospitality hub of the South-east, then it has to raise the bar of qualities. Not just coming Thursday, Friday, Saturday, then everything goes. Owerri is appropriate for a MICE and entertainment hub, and quite a lot of investments not just from Imo citizens, but a lot of people from the South-east and South-south who had invested in hospitality projects. And with the New Arena being built by one of those people, I think Owerri will be a hot place to be for hospitality business in the coming years.

ATQNewsandSevenWondersofNigeriahave

uko

launchedacomprehensivesurveytoidentify the top 100 hotels in Lagos and Nigeria,as partofeffortstoshowcaseNigeria’sleading hospitalityandtourismdestinations.Canyou throw more light on this?

You know, ATQNews and Seven Wonders decided to do this project because after the celebrations of Detty December and all the noise, the question came up. Where will people stay if we double this number in 2025? How do we accommodate people? Nobody actually knows the number of hotel rooms that are available, the quality of hotel rooms that are available, the quantity, the standards, restaurants and bars.

When you are planning to have people, you have to also plan to have the products. You have a city that receives a million people last year and everywhere was stretched to the brims. This 2025, you are expecting more people, are we prepared for it? Part of what we want to achieve is to have a comprehensive idea. How many hotels in Nigeria have more than 100 rooms? How many in Lagos have more than 30 rooms? Can we count a100 quality hotels in Nigeria? Can we count basic hotels that can serve the basic tourists in Lagos?

You know, Airbnb, shortlet apartment, all these other types of accommodation are being pushed to accommodate everybody. There is a limit to what shortlet apartment can handle. You still need regular hotels because the security, the services can be measured against stated benchmarks.

So, part of all we want to achieve is to produce a list and I am expecting that we can get up to 100 and 200 hotels in Nigeria that have more than 100 rooms. We will publish it in our shortlist, then we can choose the best from there. And part of the survey we are doing is trying to provide basic information for people in travel business. ATQNews

does that regularly. Seven Wonders of Nigeria, we’ve done True Niaja Seven Wonders. We’ve done Best Waterfalls, and Best Destinations. But now, we want to provide some basic data for people to work with. Not just for 2025, but for years to come. You’reoneoftheconsultantsassistingthe EnuguStategovernmenttoreviveitstourism sector.How much progress has been made in this direction?

Enugu State is one of the states that had legacy products from pre-colonial and post-colonial times. Then, when the state creation started, everybody moved and Enugu wasn’t in the main news again as a destination. I grew up in Enugu, I knew there was a zoo and a botanical garden next to it. We’ll go to the coal mines. We also had beach experiences. But now, some of those things, the zoo has been parceled out into a very beautiful housing estate though but you still need a zoo. The governor has this vision of building a $30 billion economy or more and he is trying to make the state a destination of choice.

Some of us were invited to contribute our knowledge to what he’s doing. If you see, he has handed over Nike Lake Resort to Landmark and that’s big. Landmark, we all know what they did in Lagos and how they transformed the beach environment. So, that’s big for Enugu State. If Landmark would make investment and bring the same energy and audience to Enugu that they had in Lagos, that would be massive. He is doing the airports, in the area of infrastructure, Enugu State is one of the leading states now. I’ve seen the bus terminals, I’ve seen quite a lot of plans, even a plan about Enugu airline. So, in the area that we’ve been invited to look at, we chose like 10 locations, natural tourist attractions that would be enhanced for tourists.

Tourism Expert, Alain St.Ange Runs for President in Seychelles

The Vice President for International Affairs in World Tourism Network ((WTN) and former president of the African Tourism Board, Dr. Alain St.Ange, has declared interest in the September 27, 2025, Presidential elections in the Republic of Seychelles.

St.Ange’s vice, Daniella Payet, another well-known personality in tourism, were declared independent candidate for President in Seychelles.

St.Ange and Payet also pledged to serve only a single term, focusing solely on meaningful reforms without the distractions of personal or party-driven agendas.

St.Ange was one of the three candidates that vied to be the President of Seychelles in the 2020 election

“a friend of all and enemy of none”, a philosophy he demonstrated clearly the resilience and role tourism has in world peace.

A statement by his team, said amid growing calls for change that the duo are stepping forward with a bold vision for transparency, unity, and pragmatic leadership.

“Alain St.Ange, a distinguished figure in Seychelles’ political and economic development, has officially announced his independent candidacy for President, with Daniella Payet as his Vice Presidential running mate. Together, they aim to usher in a new era of inclusive governance, breaking away from the constraints of traditional party politics. St.Ange and Payet were prompted to enter the political arena following pressure from the business community, urging them to bring their expertise and leadership to Seychelles at this critical juncture,” it stated.

The tallest cross in Africa will be sighted at a Okpato Hill, which is the highest hill in Enugu which is 580 meters. Then there are canopy walkways in different locations, the longest in Africa will be sighted at Nsude Pyramids. The first zip line in Nigeria will be at Ngwo Pine Forest. There are water parks at Akuke Beach, with infinity pools, boardwalks, promenades, all the walks. There will be Enugu Garden and planetarium at Iva Valley. Yes, the old Iva Valley of the coal camp of the coal mining era is being brought back to life. Then there’s Ovu Lake, one of the finest lakes we’ve seen, a real golf and tourism resort. One of the biggest tourism attraction in Enugu, Ohu Waterfalls. One of the best falls with mystical powers in Nigeria. A lot of things would be built around there, linking it to Okpato Hill with the cross there, because there’s already a monastery nearby. So it will be a place for a retreats, and other things.

Enugu State is ready. The governor is building roads to all the tourism attractions that are being developed. I think seven will be done in the first phase and other tourist attractions will be upgraded in the second phase of the project. You have the Ngwo Pine Forest, Nsude Pyramids, Okpato Hills, Iva Valley, Ohu Waterfalls, Akuke Beach and Ovu Lake. These ones are in the first phase of the project. And the city planning, upgrade of the roundabouts that they’ve already done for Christmas and they are doing more. So, I’m impressed with what Enugu State is doing.

What’s is your take on tourism sector in Nigeria?

I saw quite a lot of positive changes in tourism in the last one year. But the sad part was we lost the Ministry of Tourism that was given to us. Even without releasing the take-off grant, the minister was able to make some little impacts, but it’s sad that the ministry had been scrapped. Some states appointed knowledgeable people into positions of authority and this is impressive. Kogi State has a former president of NATOP in charge of their tourism board. Ekiti State had a former Tourism editor in charge of tourism. And the differences are clear. Akwa Ibom State has the president of FTAN and former president of NATOP as Special Adviser to the Governor. Cross River is already on its own doing very well. Lagos State, oh, they did fantastically very well last year. You have Oyo State, Edo State, Enugu State and others that did quite a lot last year and this is impressive. Then private sector, you have those hikers bringing people to Plateau and showing that Plateau is still the home of tourism. If we have 10 states playing at this level, then tourism in Nigeria will be better. But the federal government on its own didn’t do much. They didn’t leave much impact. I don’t know if it’s funding. I don’t know what the problem was. The minister was a lone-ranger with the past NIHOTOUR DG, Nura. But Nigeria is bigger than just two people. So, we need more attention from the government. I’m happy with what has happened so far in the last two or three years.

Stakeholdersinthearts,cultureandtourism sectorareadvocatingforanationalcalendar of festivals as obtainable in other countries. Don’tyouthinksuchisneededatthistimeto promotethecountry’srichculturalheritage?

The national calendar is imperative. The first book I ever wrote was on national calendar festivals. I compiled over 300 festivals in Nigeria. The dates, the time, the relevance. It was published and NTDC in 1999 sponsored part of that. That was the second time there was a calendar of festival in Nigeria. A lot of people took from that and built platforms out of that. Then when Ogbuewu came in 2004 and said we should convert November, December to the Harmattan tourism season. That led to the formation of Abuja Carnival and Carnival Calabar. They came out of that vision. Now, what has been happening in the South-east, you had people come back home every December and the Igbos must go home. There was always a calendar on what to do, on 26 December everybody knows it’s the village game - football final and house warmings. So, Nigeria is finding itself back in the tourism groove.

NOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

St.Ange

Charles Ajunwa

was not successful.

FeATureS

CBN: Attracting Global Investors Through Reforms

With its harvest of reforms, resulting in investment inflows totalling $3.48 billion in six months, compared with $756.1 million in the pre-reform era, the Central Bank of Nigeria has continued to enhance Nigeria’s position as an attractive investment destination, writes Festus Akanbi

For the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) there has never been a better time to prioritise price and exchange rate stability, catalyse sustainable economic growth, and protect the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians through reforms than now.

Its policies, including the exchange rate unification, have led to significant foreign capital inflows to the economy while reducing its intervention in the forex market.

The floatation of the naira and the clearing of over $7 billion FX backlog improved the country’s outlook with foreign investors as well as multilateral organisations, like the World Bank describing it as a bold intervention to improve the economy’s sustainability in the long run.

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso disclosed that upon assuming office, his leadership prioritised rebuilding Nigeria’s economic buffers and strengthening resilience.

Inflation, which had surged to 27 percent, was one of the most pressing challenges, partly driven by excessive money supply growth. While the GDP growth had stagnated at a meagre 1.8 percent over the previous eight years, the money supply expanded rapidly, averaging about 13 percent growth annually.

This imbalance not only fueled inflation but also contributed to a significant depreciation of the naira. He explained that inflation creates uncertainty for households and businesses, acting as a silent tax by eroding purchasing power and driving up living costs.

The nation was also grappling with a fiscal crisis, marked by unsustainable deficit financing through the Central Bank’s Ways and Means advances, which had reached an unprecedented N22.7 trillion by 2023— equivalent to almost 11 per cent of the GDP. In addition, quasi-fiscal interventions by the CBN, totalling over N10 trillion, undermined market confidence and weakened the effectiveness of its policy tools.

Against these odds, the CBN under Cardoso has brought new hopes in the management of the financial system and economy. The current macroeconomic stabilisation efforts support Nigeria’s ability to attract foreign investors to its markets.

For instance, at the end of 2024, Nigeria leveraged its improved economic fundamentals to re-enter the Eurobond market, seeking to address its fiscal deficit. The move marked the country’s return to the international debt market in November after a two-year absence. In a dual-tranche Eurobond issuance, investor demand surged, with subscriptions exceeding $9 billion.

Despite the strong interest, the government chose to raise $2.2 billion. The issuance included $700 million in 6.5-year bonds set to mature in 2031, carrying a 9.625 percent coupon rate, and $1.5 billion in 10-year bonds with a coupon rate of 10.375 percent.

The high-interest rate environment also attracted higher foreign portfolio investment inflows, which totalled $3.48 billion in the first half of 2024 compared to $756.1 million during the same period in 2023. This trend reflects growing investor confidence in the country’s ability to manage its external debt burden, a positive signal for Nigeria’s Eurobonds.

Although inflation remains a significant challenge, with consumer prices reaching 34.80 percent in December, CBN’s aggressive tightening, which raised the monetary policy rate (MPR) by a cumulative 875 basis points to 27.50 percent in 2024, was a move to anchor inflation expectations.

The high policy rate, which is expected to extend through 2025, albeit some rates cut within H1 of the year, could attract more foreign portfolio investors to the country’s fixed-income market, which offers juicy yields. While inflationary pressures persist, especially from fuel price deregulation and exchange rate adjustments, the overall trajectory suggests potential gradual improvement.

In the midst of these developments, Cardoso announced during the last Bankers’ Night in Lagos: “I want to assure you that at the Central Bank, every decision we make is driven by a commitment to serving the best interests of the people. This is why we will continue strengthening our internal capacity and processes to ensure our decisions remain firmly rooted in evidence-based analysis.”

Head of Investment Research - Global Macro Strategist, at Commercio Partners, Ifeanyi Ubah, said the government will continue to meet its obligations through a mix of multilateral loans, syndicated facilities, and potentially new Eurobond issuances.

In a report, “Nigeria’s Eurobond Outlook: Resilience Amid Global Uncertainty” he explained that the country’s Eurobond performance in 2025 will hinge on a delicate balance between domestic improvements and global monetary conditions.

“The country’s strengthening foreign reserves, improving fiscal revenues, and progress in structural reforms provide

a robust foundation for managing its external debt. However, global headwinds, particularly a potentially hawkish Federal Reserve amid rising U.S. inflation, could weigh on market sentiment,” he said.Ubah explained that if the Fed maintains restrictive rates, investor appetite for emerging market assets, including Nigeria’s Eurobonds, may weaken, pushing yields higher.

On the other hand, he added that continued reform momentum and effective management of external liquidity risks could offset some of these pressures, ensuring that Nigeria’s Eurobonds remain a relatively attractive option within the SSA space.

He said that for now, the outlook is cautiously optimistic, contingent on both domestic policy coherence and external economic developments.

“While there are uncertainties over the size of net reserves—owing to FX swaps with local banks—Nigeria’s gross reserves provide an estimated nine months of imports, well above the median for peers in the ‘B’ rating category. The country’s ongoing security challenges, particularly in oil-producing regions, could undermine efforts to boost crude production, which could average 1.4mn barrels per day in 2025—still below pre-pandemic levels,” he stated.

Nigeria’s dollar-denominated Eurobonds enter 2025 on a cautiously optimistic note. While global macroeconomic dynamics exert significant influence, the country’s domestic reforms and improving fundamentals provide a supportive backdrop for debt sustainability and investor confidence.

Economy gets Positive Fitch Ratings

The Fitch Ratings last year revised upward Nigeria’s long-term Foreign Currency Issuer Default Rating (FCYIDR) outlook to “Positive” from “Stable” previously. It also affirmed IDR at “B-”.

Fitch Ratings hinged the upward outlook review on ongoing fiscal and monetary policy reforms, notably, the reduction in fuel subsidy burden, the scale back on deficit financing through Ways & Means, the reduction in official vs parallel market FX rate distortion, forex backlog clearance, as well as the notable improvement in crude oil output in the first quarter.

Analysts at Afrinvest West Africa Limited, the favourable review of Nigeria’s IDR would support local banks’ plan of raising foreign currency capital in the race to

meet up with the recapitalisation benchmark set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for different licensing categories.

Analysts from the research firm called on the fiscal and monetary authorities to reignite their commitment and double down on efforts to boost crude oil output, temper inflation, and stabilise the exchange rate.

Nigeria’s move to issue Eurobond follows several successful issuances by other African nations including Benin Republic and Ivory Coast that signalled renewed investor appetite for the continent’s debt instruments.

Monetary Policy Committee Mem- bers speak

A member of the CBN-led Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), Bala Bello, listed key indicators that have over time, kept domestic and domestic investors attracted to the domestic economy.

He said the external reserves position have grown remarkably to $40.88 billion as of 21st November 2024 from $40.06 billion at end-October 2024.

The upsurge in reserves levels, he said strengthens the needed buffer to mitigate unforeseen risks and reinforces the importance of ongoing efforts at sustaining improved foreign exchange supply.

Bello said the rising reserves position, alongside the relatively stable exchange rate, would enhance Nigeria’s position as an attractive investment destination.

He maintained that the resilience of the domestic economy, bolstered by a strong financial system with robust soundness indicators, instils confidence in the economic structure.

“Major prudential ratios, such as capital adequacy, liquidity, and Non-Performing Loans ratios, were within prudential limits, reflecting proactive regulatory oversight and strong industry risk management practices. Significant credit was extended to growth-enhancing sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and general commerce, as well as individuals and households,” he said.

According to the MPC member, this credit played a crucial role in stimulating economic activities and supporting output performance, emphasizing the role of financial institutions in the economy.

He disclosed that the results of stress tests showed that bank’s solvency and liquidity ratios remained resilient in scenarios of potential severe macroeconomic shocks. Continued vigilance is, however, required to ensure that the banking system remains strong and stable amid lingering risks.

He added that everyone has a role to play in this, and our collective vigilance is crucial for the stability of our financial system.

Continuing, he said that notwithstanding, Nigeria’s Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has maintained a positive trajectory, with a growth rate of 3.46 per cent in the third quarter of 2024, compared with 3.19 and 2.54 per cent in the preceding and corresponding periods, respectively.

“This growth, driven by both the oil and non-oil sectors, with a notable contribution from the Services sector, is a testament to the resilience of our economy. The non-oil sector grew by 3.37 per cent in the third quarter, compared with 2.80 per cent in the second quarter, while the oil sector grew by 5.17 per cent (year-on-year), compared with 10.15 per cent in the preceding quarter,” he said.

Another MPC member, Aloysius Ordu, said CBN staff presentations show noteworthy green shoots since the era of tight money began.

“First, there has been a marked improvement in the current account balance. Q3 2024 data shows a surplus of US$6.29 billion vis-à-vis US$5.14 billion in Q2 2024; and the overall balance of payment position recorded a surplus of US$3.79 billion,” he said.

On his part, another member of MPC, Bandele Amoo, said Nigeria’s Balance of Payments (BOP) position remained stable to support our external sector stability.

The BOP provisionally recorded a surplus in the 3rd Quarter of 2024 driven by positive balances in the current account and net asset acquisition positions.

The overall account positively stood at US$3.79 billion as at Q3 of 2024. Meanwhile, portfolio inflows remain high, recording a net inflow US$0.59 billion as at November 2024.

“The total foreign exchange flows through the economy stood at US$6,175 billion in September 2024 compared with $2,570.6 billion in August 2024. Furthermore, foreign reserves at the end of October 2024 stood at $39.68 billion, equivalent to several months of import cover”.

“External reserves have projected to further increase by year-end due to expected reduction in import demand pressures arising from the full deregulation of the downstream oil sector, reduced petroleum products importation regime, increased inflows and other process management by the CBN,” he said.

Cardoso

Carloha, Nigeria Football Federation Seal Strategic Partnership

Carloha Nigeria, the official franchise holder and assembler of Chery vehicles, has formalized a groundbreaking partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), representing a major milestone for both the nation’s sports and automotive industries. The signing ceremony, which took place on February 19, 2025, at the Carloha Showroom, was a momentous occasion attended by top dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Nigerian Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, CeO of Carloha, Mr. Liang Long, Mr. Sola adigun, Managing Director, Carloha Nigeria, alhaji Sharif rabiu Inuwa, Chairman of the NFF Technical and Development Committee and, Ms aisha Falode, Member of the NFF executive Committee, sports journalists, motoring journalists, and key stakeholders.

The partnership solidifies Carloha’s commitment to supporting Nigerian football, aligning with its vision to promote excellence, mobility, and national development through sports. This collaboration is set to enhance the development of football in Nigeria, and reinforce Carloha’s presence as a key player in Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.

During his welcome address, the Managing Director of Carloha Nigeria, Mr. Sola adigun, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating that the partnership aims to have a long-lasting impact on football’s growth by providing essential support to grassroots and professional football initiatives. He emphasized that Carloha’s association

l–r: Ceo, Carloha Group, Mr. liang long; Managing Director, Carloha Nigeria, Mr. Sola Adigun; Chairman, Nigeria Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko; president, Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau; and Chairman of the NFF Technical and Development Committee, Alhaji Sharif rabiu Inuwa, during the official signing ceremony of the partnership between Carloha and the NFF, held at the Carloha Showroom, lagos… recently

with the NFF extends beyond vehicle provision; it is about building a long-term relationship that drives success for Nigerian football both locally and internationally.

In same vein, the CeO of Carloha, Mr. Long described the partnership as auspicious, say-

ing the company is determined to drive the Super eagles to overtake their opponents and qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals, as a priority project. “Football is the most popular sport in the world. The Super eagles is the best team in africa and we are happy to have the

opportunity to support Nigeria football, as the best car company in Nigeria.”

also speaking at the event, President of NFF, alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, highlighted the significance of private sector involvement in sports development: “We are excited to welcome Carloha on board as a key partner in our mission to elevate Nigeria football. With their support, we can further develop programmes that will benefit our teams and the millions of football lovers across the country.”

During his keynote address, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), alhaji Ibrahim Gusau expressed excitement about the partnership, emphasizing its strategic importance to Nigerian football. He commended Carloha for its unwavering support and investment in the sport, noting that the collaboration will contribute significantly to the smooth running of the federation’s activities.

The event also witnessed engaging interactions between sports journalists, motoring journalists, and key stakeholders, who discussed the impact of such partnerships on sports and business development in Nigeria. attendees were given an exclusive tour of the Carloha showroom, where they experienced the latest Chery models and learned about the brand’s innovative automotive solutions tailored for Nigerian roads.

A key highlight of the ceremony was the official signing of the agreement, a symbolic moment that signified the beginning of a transformative journey between Carloha and the NFF. The event was further amplified by a media briefing, where both parties reiterated their shared vision of driving progress through this collaboration.

Mastering Transformation: Making Mercedes-Benz Leaner, Faster, Stronger

Mercedes-benz Group aG (ticker symbol: MbG) delivered solid financial results for 2024 and unveiled its biggest ever product and tech launch programme, as well as performance enhancement measures designed to deliver exceptional value to customers and shareholders, the automaker has said.

“as the custodians of this iconic brand we ensure that Mercedes-benz continues leveraging its full potential. “We’re launching the company’s biggest ever product and tech campaign and a comprehensive performance enhancement programme,” said Ola Kaellenius, Chief executive Officer of Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

Building the most desirable cars

“a Mercedes-benz is a Mercedes-benz – no matter how it’s powered. This means: every Mercedes is extraordinary. Its status derives from exceptional design, advanced technology, superb refinement and craftsmanship, a sublime ride and drivetrain, world class safety systems and outstanding digital solutions – be it a battery-electric vehicle (BEV), a hybrid, or a car with an electrified high-tech combustion engine (ICe). Mercedes-benz will apply a coherent, status-oriented design across the entire portfolio and customers will primarily decide on a model – and then choose

Making Mercedes-Benz leaner, Faster, Stronger

their preferred drive type. The all new CLa, which will be offered as both a BEV and an ICe variant, takes a big step in this direction. and there is more to come.”

The concept offers drivetrain flexibility in the form of a pure electric car with benchmark range, consumption and charging performance;

Lagos Reduces Red Line Fare By 30%

Lagos State Governor, Mr. babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced a 30 percent reduction in the fare of the Lagos rail Mass Transit (LrMT) red Line just as he commissioned the newly constructed abule egba bus Terminal, a key infrastructure project designed to enhance public transportation in the State.

With the new fare, a trip between agbado and Oyingbo will now be N1000 as against N1,500 before the announcement.

“We have looked at the numbers and have therefore decided to have 30 per cent reduction on the fare paid on the red Line. This means that a trip from agbado to Oyingbo will now cost N1000.

“Today because it is about transportation, we’ve done our numbers we feel good and so I want to announce that today we’re reducing fares on our red Line immediately, we will be doing

a 30% reduction to bring down the price from N1500 to N1000,” the Governor said.

This rebate, he explained, is aimed at encouraging wider adoption of the red Line and providing some relief to commuters amidst current economic realities.

The red Line commenced passenger operations on 15 September 2024 with six trips daily but increased to nine trips a day on 10 February 2025. at the commissioning of the terminal, located along the Oshodi-abule egba expressway, and strategically positioned to complement bus rapid Transit (brT) operations along the Oshodi-abule egba corridor, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of the new terminal in improving connectivity and easing commuting challenges for residents of the area and Lagos at large.

in addition to a highly efficient ICE variant using small transverse high-tech electrified engines. even though the designs will be almost identical, in the Core and Top-end Vehicles (TeV) segments, the rear-wheel drive cars will be based on separate, uncompromised beV/ICe concepts. Cutting-edge beV and ICe models

can exploit their respective strengths, without sacrificing space, elegance, convenience, or efficiency. Thanks to intelligent modularization, Mercedes can offer best-in-class roominess and perfect proportions while keeping a tight grip on costs and manufacturing flexibility. by focusing on the most promising segments, Mercedes-benz retains the ambition to defend margins as the beV share increases. Mercedes-benz plans to expand and protect the share of Top-end Vehicles (TeV) and aims to leverage the potential of its luxury brands such as G-Class, as the undisputed icon of adventurous luxury; Maybach as the epitome of sophisticated luxury and Mercedes-aMG as the performance luxury brand. The legendary G-Class family will be expanded with a new smaller version. Mercedes-aMG plans to outgrow the performance market, thanks to a heavily refreshed model lineup from 2026 onwards and a strategic evolution of its portfolio, which will include a next-generation, high-tech electrified V8 and dedicated high-performance electric models based on aMG.ea

Biggest ever product launch campaign beginning with the all-new CLa this year, Mercedes-benz will start the most intense product launch program in its history, including the major upgrade of the S-Class in 2026 as well as a string of launches at Mercedes-aMG.

l-r: lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr oluwaseun osiyemi, lagos State Commissioner for Tourism,Arts and Culture,Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, San Francisco State representative, Mr. Matthew Haney, Chief executive officer, empire publishing Distribution, Mr Ghazi Shami, president, empire publishing Distribution, Tina Davis, lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr. olatubosun Alake and regional Director, empire publishing and Distribution, west Africa, Mr Mobolaji Kareem, during presentation of Certificate of recognition to Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu for visionary leadership and Sustainable development of lagos State at San Francisco, uSA… recently

REDUCING THE DANGERS OF MICROPLASTICS

‘no right away’. To the second question, the answer is ‘yes’. This would mean limiting, or at least minimizing the number and type of plastic products we use in our daily lives. It is now officially estimated, based on current research findings, including the submissions of researchers at the University of New Mexico, that plastic particles accumulating in human brains has increased by 50% in the last eight years. Now, that says a lot. Because it means that foreign bodies are accumulating in this location that helps us to make sense of the world around us.

Some budding research has confirmed the negative health impacts of microplastics, especially the fact that some chemicals added during plastic production has been linked to such conditions as endocrine system disruption and heart disease. It has also been confirmed that people with dementia had up to 10 times more plastic in their brains than those who have no such debility.

Strange as it may sound, microplastics can leach through the skin. Yes! So, watch out: your lotions, shampoos and much more may be doing you in quietly based on this composition; especially as some of them contain petroleum-derived ingredients. We should be aware that for every plastic-based container we use for one purpose or the other, for every body-beauty accessory, for sundry beauty product and food item out there, we stand a relatively high chance of getting into our body something that the body is incapable of breaking down; and which will add to general environmental microplastic pollution.

One way out is avoid eating anything that remotely traceable to plastic contact and contamination. has touched plastic. Just minimize your chances of getting some microplastic into your system, by staying away from so many plastic-related things. Think of your toothbrush, makeup

accessories, including face powder and others. Now, tell me who is going to listen to any talk about shedding these everyday accessories. Listen, many ladies will come for you!

Avoid the use plastics-based cooking utensils if you can. Reduce the chances of plastic-based utensils inflicting themselves on your food and other edibles. This includes our beloved plastic cutting boards. They easily deposits microplastics into the meat, vegetables and whatever food you are cutting up. A serious project of de-plasticizing our lives involves a lot that we are not likely to be comfortable with.

Think of our now-popular crockery, cookware and utensils. It is matter of scientific record, as published in 2024 by researchers in Europe and the United Kingdom, for instance, that nonstick pans, are star sources of microplastics. This is especially with reference to older versions of these kitchen and cooking accessories, with worn or pealing coatings. So, watch out as you flip those eggs, or stir your massive pots of soup with plastic-depositing accessories.

Lest we forget, these materials can, and do, introduce unhealthy and arguably toxic substances to our food – and into our bodies. Think also of all the flame retardants we use regularly here, which have since been banned in the US, even if only recently. It is back to the good old cast iron utensils, metal, or ceramic cookware, wooden accessories, silicone, or other metal-based wares. In all of this, that is while switching to de-plasticization, we are to avoid using metal on ceramic materials, since such will scratch the ceramic coating and expose something else.

Away with plastic containers, then! Glass, or metal, would be ideal as replacement when thinking of food storage facilities. Try chewing stick, bamboo toothbrush and silk floss for your teeth. Last year some Indian researchers discovered that plastic toothbrushes and

LEVERS FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH

and the weight assigned to each of the products in the basket are not the same. The exercise is basically to make adjustments to developments within the economy over time and capture improvements, innovations and changes in consumption patterns therein.

The rebased data are expected to reflect present inflationary pressure within the economy to support policymakers, firms, and analysts in decision-making.

Accurate data allows for more effective interventions to control inflation and promote economic stability. With this, businesses and investors can make informed decisions about investments and pricing. This will enable the government to identify high-growth sectors for scaling and low-growth areas that require targeted interventions for balanced development.

Now to the MPC decision. Monetary policy plays a stabilising role in influencing economic growth through a number of channels. Inflation expectations are (an) important factorS in monetary policy decisions. And with actual inflation far off target in the country, there has been an increased focus on inflation expectations and whether they remain anchored. That was why after the unveiling of the rebased CPI figures for January, the general expectation was for the MPC

plastic floss shed some microplastics as a matter of course. They also found out that, when assessed against other products, toothbrushes had the highest number of microplastics, at 30 to 120 particles per brush. Some of the particles were found to be small enough to be considered nanoplastics. And the smaller a particle is, the easier it is to become lodged in tissues.

Non-Plastic Reusable Water Bottles, for instance, reduce microplastic exposure; as studies have shown that a people in an urban area who drink bottled water regularly may consume more than 200,000 nanoplastic particles in one liter of bottled water. It was also found that much of the nanoplastics in bottled was there before the bottling process. And that the plastic packaging only made its own fair contribution to the overall volume of nanoplastics.

Since clothing materials like polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex are all plasticbased fabrics, it is easy to understand that bits of the plastic would penetrate the human body through the skin. Since, also, such particles do not subsequently break down and get thrown off, washing the materials introduces some of the plastic into the water systems when they are washed. What are we to expect in the next few years?

Danger looms for all humanity, because of the wide and continuous penetration of microplastics into our bodies and our environment. As pointed out in the aforementioned article of last years, “A relatively recent study published in the journal Toxicological Sciences by a team led by Matthew Campen, reported finding microplastics in all 62 donated placenta samples tested. The most readily available polymer in the placental tissue they were experimenting with was polyethylene. This is the thing used for the manufacturing of plastic bags and plastic bottles. It was found to constitute 54% of the total plastics detected in the sample human placenta.

A poison does not become a threat to life until it has built up to a lethal dose. As things stand now, we may well be building up enough microplastics in our bodies to create physiological, or even possibly also physiognomic, Armageddon. And the phenomenal increase in the use of plastics all over the world, over the last six decades, has translated into millions of metric tons of plastic waste. This is a general environmental hazard, a specific threat to natural waterways, and also an emerging menace to plant and animal life”.

Also as observed here last year: “While it is true that plastics, over time, break down from exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, as well as other agents of chemical denudation, it is also true that this only accentuates the problem. Some of the plastic ends up aerosolized, making them part of the combination of gases and radiations in the air we breath. Some of it also seeps down into natural water tables and become part of the groundwater we later pump up to drink”.

It continued: “Many plastic products take between 50 and 300 years to fully degrade into simple elements and original compounds. The question here for us are these: (1) How long will it take the microplastics everywhere today to fully degrade? What will be happening to us and our environment as this business of being degraded is going on? Is the global health community paying attention? What is not clear, as I write, is what damage it is doing to us and what possibly unmanageable health problems it is brewing without our knowing”.

In sum, it is rationally impossible to have the growing concentrations of microplastics in living human tissues without consequences. As we rose from the aforementioned meeting, my take was that the dangers posed by microplastics are too real to be ignored. He who has ears....

to pause its aggressive restrictive monetary policy. As expected, the CBN retained the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), the benchmark interest, at 27.50 percent, with the asymmetric corridor of +500/-100 basis points around the MPR. It also left all monetary policy parameters unchanged, including the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) of Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) at 50 percent, and that of Merchant Banks at 16 per cent, as well as the Liquidity Ratio (LR) at 30 percent.

CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, said the committee was unanimous in its decision to hold rates at current levels, having expressed satisfaction with recent macroeconomic developments, which were expected to positively impact price dynamics in the near to medium term.

Cardoso also said there had been greater confidence in the markets, a key ingredient that was missing in the equation.

He also said CBN was now in a better position to begin the process of moderating rates, adding that stability remains important, and “if investors do not see stability, they do not come to those markets.”

Cardoso said MPC was particularly impressed by the stability in the FX market.

The CBN governor said the

committee recognised the recent rebasing of the CPI by the NBS, adding that following major policy measures undertaken by the monetary and fiscal authorities, the flow of foreign direct and portfolio investments, as well as diaspora remittances are expected to increase as investor and stakeholder confidence improved.

Cardoso also pointed out that the improvement in oil production, which was 1.54 million barrels per day (mbpd) at the end of January 2025, will enhance the current account position of the balance of payments with the attendant positive impact on external reserves.

Clearly, the pause by the MPC can achieve the dual goals of buying time to assess more economic data and continue to control inflation and inflation expectations. This also provides businesses and consumers with some breathing room, allowing them to adjust to existing higher rates, potentially leading to increased borrowing and investment, which can stimulate economic activity and stabilise growth trajectories.

Also, with the inflation rate now below the benchmark interest rate, the decision to hold was positive for the economy as the real rate of return is now positive in Nigeria with the MPR higher than inflation.

With this, investors can now derive value from their financial assets.

However, beyond the two macroeconomic indicators that have been largely viewed as levers for economic growth, the federal government needs to also focus on policies that would encourage local production of goods and services, as well as to aggressively drive exports to increase foreign currency inflows to the country.

Similarly, policies that discourage imports should be introduced, while encouraging productivity, both in terms of tax incentives. There is also a need to address the structural issues that have continued to impede growth and discourage investments in the country, such as insecurity, and crude oil theft, to unlock dollar liquidity inflow and encourage productivity.

Additionally, beyond the CPI rebasing and hold on interest rate, there should be efforts to improve fiscal transparency and reduce costs of doing business, which would be helpful not only in terms of their favorable effects on nominal stability and growth but also through positive effects on broad institutions.

Finally, there is also a need for better coordination between the fiscal and monetary policies to win the battle against inflation and lower interest rate.

“POLICE arrest 19 over (for) Owo cult clash”

“We arrested 18,500 drugs (drug) traffickers, seized 2.6m kg drugs last year—NDLEA” ‘Drug’ is used adjectivally here.

“The amount (a comma) though sounds big, might not make any impact in (on) the education (educational, preferably) sector in the 2025 fiscal year.”

“While defence and security understandably got the lion (lion’s) share of….”

“Okpebholo approves nomination of 6 commissioner-designate (commissioners-designate)”

“We want to take a moment to express our heartfelt wishes on the special occassion (occasion) of your 50th birthday (Birthday).”

“MWUN debunks reports of NPA, other external interference (interferences) in upcoming elections”

“Telecomms (Telecom, telecoms) tariff hike sparks widespread fury”

“7 benefits of 5G that impacts (impact) your day-to-day life”, and

“We are grateful for your quality, passion, (sic) and achievement (achievements) that blows (blow) our minds.”

“PDP further slips (slips further) into crisis (crises)”

“…their commitment to instil discipline among (into) staff….”

“Plugging $500m annual (yearly, preferably) losses through Cargo Tracking Note” Get it right: Cargo-Tracking Note

“It not only establishes our new vigilante (vigilance) architecture…”

“…endeared himself to the hearts of majority (a/the majority) of Lagosians who have come to see him as a performer.

“In the build up (build-up or buildup) to 2019 governorship election when….”

“Migration of Nigerian doctors to foreign lands” (Editorial Headline) Yes, a doctor can migrate from

Insecurity: Get Our Villages Back Lion’s, Not Lion, Share

It is an old story now, this ceaseless lamentation about Nigeria’s security collapse. Except, in the way of old stories, the misery multiplies, and the actors change masks but never roles. Banditry, terrorism, and unvarnished criminality have evolved beyond roadside skirmishes into a full-blown theatre of war. While we were preoccupied with our electoral exercises, bickering over who gets to preside over the ruins, insurgents were busy upgrading their arsenals and diversifying their sponsors. A curious new twist has now emerged - the allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been complicit in funding Boko Haram. Yes, the very agency that drapes itself in the noble robes of humanitarian aid is now being accused of feeding the monster that has held Nigeria hostage. In a world where geopolitics is a chessboard of intrigue, should this really shock us? Not if we are honest. The audacity of these insurgents, the way they march into towns like unwanted landlords, levying farmers and kidnapping students, suggests a level of impunity that cannot be self-sustaining. The typical ragtag terrorists of old could not shoot down military jets, let alone establish parallel governance in captured territories. Yet, here we are, contending with criminals who have transitioned from local nuisances to internationally enabled militants. If the claims about USAID’s complicity hold any water, what does that say about the sanctimonious lectures we receive on human rights and governance from the West? Before we go too far in our righteous indignation, let us not forget that local culpability remains the bedrock of this disaster. Where are our security

Aba to Lagos. But, in communications, context is cardinal. So, ‘to foreign lands’ is otiose and illiterate! ‘Migration’ here basically and essentially presupposes going to other countries—which we all know. Do you understand, my dear reader?

“On behalf of myself, my family, the government and the good people of Bauchi State, I am delighted to warmly welcome my colleagues….” In writing, there is sequence lest you put the cart before the horse! A rewrite: On behalf of the government and the good people of Bauchi State, my family and myself, I am delighted to warmly welcome colleagues of mine…. (Please note the structural changes).

“…to prevent abuses resulting into (in) the kind of….”

“…Nigeria is currently experiencing.” Insurgency war without end: there is no need for ‘currently’.

“We aim at making Nigeria’s upstream sector investors (investors’) destination—NUPRC boss”

“Commissioning of Amal Technology Production Facility for Gas Leak (Gas-leak) Detection Device and Printed Circuit Board”

“NNPCL, TotalEnergies sign MoU on adoption of methane detection (methane-detection) technology”

Daily Trust of January 16 circulated a few mistakes: “Delta State sets (set) to pioneer medical tourism”

“He, in addition, assured that the NHIS would be improved to make it more productive.” Who did he assure?

“…as we use (used) to do every year.”

“FG projects N1.4trn yearly from crop processing (crop-processing) zones”

Let us welcome THISDAY, THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER, of January 26 starting with this school-boy faux pas: “The PPRO died in a ghastly (fatal) motor accident….” There is even no point for ‘fatality’ inclusion in the circumstance because of the fact that he died! That is one of the hallmarks of tight news reportage—for other illustrative, prose writings we can be explicitly demonstrative. Once an accident results in death, it is fatality—not ghastliness.

“Nigerian banks’ cost to income (cost-to-income)

ratio still the highest in emerging, frontier markets”

“We got a marching order (We got marching orders) on N11.5bn Dutse Airport”

“When jokes goes (what!) sour”

“A new purpose-built gallery in (on) Victoria Island….”

The last contribution from THE SUNDAY NEWSPAPER under review: “The expectation of the people was that the deputy governor would have be (been) the first person to follow his boss to APC….”

THE NATION ON SUNDAY of January 26 goofed right from one of its major pages: “We have restored hope in (to) Lagos”

From The Nation online come the next four infractions: “How 75 per cent of Nigeria (Nigerian) workers are stressed—study”

“…for continents like Africa (for a continent like Africa) to attain a higher economic growth, the continent need (needs) to mix-up” For the umpteenth time, phrasal verbs abhor hyphenation!

“…revealed that economic volatility has increased pressure on Nigerian workers with 75 per cent reportedly seeing more stressed-related illness (illnesses) since the downturn.”

“2003 was a beehive of activities (a hive of activity) for the small and medium scale (medium-scale) enterprises….”

Lastly from THE NATION ON SUNDAY under review: “Former CAR president en route Benin Republic (en route to Benin Republic)”

DAILY Independent Online of January 13 comes next with two improprieties: “ALGON passes confidence of vote in president” Fixed expression: vote of confidence/confidence vote

The next three contributions are by Mr. Charles Okogene: “Terrorists bury arms in Abuja cemetary (cemetery)” (Sunday Vanguard, January 26)

“…he said the vehicles destroyed were the ones used during the attack and was (were) sited (sighted) through air surveillance….” (Source: as above)

“A few weeks ago, there was some news report (a news report) about the involvement of….”

“...all the major roads in the Eastern part of the country have become pure death traps and for challenging his (President’s) non-challant attitude and doing anything positive in Igboland (Igbo land).” Get it right: nonchalant.

“...there have been series of polemical attacks of (on) the commission and its activities by an obscure and often fictitious section of the public.” This way: a (take note) series of polemical attacks.

“The president and commander-in-chief of the armed forces also addressed the nation same evening.” Get it right: the same evening.

“The almost impassible (impassable) roads accentuate the usual hectic traffic of motorists, making business transactions in Lagos a herculean task.”

“…robbers who held residents and commuters to ransome for hours….” Spell-check: ransom.

“I doff my hat for.…” The right mix: I doff/take off (preferably) my hat to (not for).

“Out of lawyers’ population estimated at about 40,000, only 10 females have been opportuned (opportune) to adorn the silk.”

“This is another scintillating edition for the matured (mature) mind.”

“Preponderant of the views aired by the people centre (sic) around (upon, on) issues like corruption, unemployment.…” Running a true federation: preponderance...centres.

“Benue assures on abandoned project” Just tell readers who the state assured. Enough of nightmarish banners….

“A recent report on food related (a hyphen) ailments show (shows) that in many parts of the world….”

“Besides, these storage facilities should be provided together with necessary agric inputs.” Taming hunger: ‘input’ is uncountable in British English, but takes an inflexion in corruptive American English! Unnecessary input?

apparatchiks in all of this? Why do our intelligence units always seem to be two steps behind? Reports of Boko Haram appointing ‘governors’ in parts of Borno State, laughable as they may seem, are stark reminders of how lawlessness has gained legitimacy under our watch. How do criminals acquire weapons sophisticated enough to challenge a sovereign nation? The answers to these questions lead us in a grim direction - one that exposes a lethal cocktail of corruption, collusion, and chronic incompetence.

For years, we have been told that terrorists fund themselves through ransoms, illegal mining, and drug trafficking. But that only explains the foot soldiers, the expendable tools. Who buys them their assault drones? Who supplies the logistics that enable coordinated ambushes on military convoys? The porous borders of the Sahel provide an obvious pathway, but a route is nothing without financiers. This is where the accusations against international agencies demand serious scrutiny. Nigeria has been on the receiving end of foreign ‘aid’ for decades, yet somehow, the more the dollars flow, the worse our security situation becomes. Coincidence? Perhaps. But the patterns are too glaring to ignore. While we demand accountability from foreign players, let us not pretend that our own hands are clean. Too many governors have ceded their territories to warlords under the guise of negotiated peace. Too many high-ranking officials have turned national tragedy into private enterprise,

benefitting from inflated military contracts while soldiers fight with outdated weapons. The symbiotic relationship between insecurity and political survival is a dangerous one - disaster breeds dependence, and dependence keeps people distracted. A distracted population does not question why billions in security budgets yield no tangible results. A nation in perpetual crisis will always be too busy surviving to demand real governance.

But even the most resilient of people have their limits. In the recent past, we have had hints of growing discontent among military ranks - rarely breaking through official channels - which suggested an undercurrent of frustration. How long before such disillusionment, if it still exists, and unchecked, translates into a security collapse of irreparable magnitude? If insurgents are already setting up administrative structures, what stops them from making even more ambitious moves? Afghanistan should have taught us that an emboldened terrorist network does not simply stop at controlling villages - it pushes until it reaches the capital. The solution is neither abstract nor impossible. Security architecture must be restructured in ways that prioritise intelligence, rapid response, and local engagement. The military cannot win this war alone. They need the cooperation of citizens, who, in turn, need assurances that reporting suspicious activity will not earn them a visit from the very criminals they are exposing. Community policing should not be an empty phrase. It should be a reality backed by training, funding, and a clear mandate. Additionally, the government must stop this farcical approach of throwing money at

problems without addressing the root causes. If unemployment and poverty remain the fertile grounds upon which terrorism thrives, then those issues must be tackled with the same urgency as any military campaign.

As for the USAID allegations, our government cannot afford to play ostrich with its head buried in the sand. A robust, no-holds-barred investigation is not merely desirable - it is an urgent imperative. Our diplomats must engage with resolute clarity, demanding straightforward explanations from all parties involved. Whether these claims prove to be unfounded or, disquietingly, bear a grain of truth, they must be met with unequivocal accountability. Sovereignty is not a theoretical abstraction but a living, breathing boundary that demands defence at all costs - even when the adversary wears the guise of an ally. Nigeria now stands at a defining crossroads. Every moment of indecision in reclaiming lost territories and dismantling terror networks edges us closer to a future too grim to envisage. The cost of inaction is measured not just in lost lands or resources, but in the very soul of our nation. We must ask ourselves with unflinching honesty: do we still possess the collective will to fight for this country? Our future hangs in the balance, and if we continue to dither while threats multiply, we risk consigning our beloved nation to a legacy of perpetual insecurity and despair. The time for half-measures has long passed - it is now a call for decisive, unyielding action.

GLOBAL SOCCER

e mmanuel Olisadebe

No r egrets Dumping Nigeria for p oland

.Says Nigeria has lost her football identity

While Nigeria presented a dilapidated team in the 2002World Cup after the likes of Sunday Oliseh, Finidi George and others pulled out of the team,and failed to register a goal at the tournament,Poland were playing in the Japan/Korea Mundial for the first time since they last qualified in 1986.Propelling the Polish team was a young Nigerian striker,Emmanuel Olisadebe,whose eight goals in 10 matches helped the team qualify for the competition and was on target for the Eastern European country against USA.Kunle Adewale caught up with the former striker of Jasper United FC of Onitsha,and he explained why he opted to don the colours of Poland against Nigeria,gave his opinion why the Super Eagles are struggling inspite of the array of talents in their midst and other salient issues concerning Nigerian football

For those who were familiar with the Nigerian League in the ‘90’s, Emmanuel Olisadebe was already becoming a household name while playing for Onitsha-based Jasper United before taking his football trade to Poland and signed for Polish top flight club, Polonia Warsaw in 1997.

At Polonia, he helped the club win Ekstraklasa Title, Ekstraklasa Cup and Polish SuperCup. After meeting the residency requirements, Olisadebe became a Polish national in 2000 making him available for selection for Poland’s national football team. He was subsequently called up to the national team and in the process became the first black player to represent Poland. His eight goals in 10 qualification matches helped coach Jerzy Engel’s team reach the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals jointly hosted by Korea and Japan, the first by Poland since 1986.

Asked what informed his decision for opting to play for Poland rather than his fatherland, Nigeria, he said, “It was a very difficult decision for me to take, but it was one decision I never regretted taking. It was a great feeling playing for Poland at the World Cup, it’s every player’s dream to play at the world stage, so when I had the opportunity, I decided to take it and I never regretted it.

“Deciding to play for Poland was a split decision. I was contacted if I would like to play for Poland. Initially, I thought it was a joke, but when I realised they were serious about it, I said yes. I was then asked if I had starred for Nigeria before and I told them no and, after carrying out their investigation, I was given the go ahead and at that point there was no going back.”

While for most players, such decision as changing nationality usually involved the family, but for Olisadebe, his parents had no input in his decision to play for Poland against his country of birth. “My parents were not involved in any decision I took concerning playing for Poland,” he said.

For the former striker of Jasper United of Onitsha, playing in the World Cup remains his best moment in football. “Playing in the World Cup would always be the best moment for me because every player aspires to go to the World Cup because that is the highest level of football. It would always be up there for me.”

On if he could have equally achieved his dream of playing in the World Cup if he had not changed nationality, Olisadebe reacted thus: “I don’t know. I had a teammate (Ifeanyi Ekwueme), whom I played with in Poland but featured for the Super Eagles. Maybe if I had been a little bit patient and did my homework and considering the Nigerian factor maybe I would have played (laughter).

If there is one match Olisadebe cannot forget in a hurry in the colours of Poland, it was his World Cup qualifier match against Ukraine that featured the likes of Andriy Shevchenko and his two goals gave Poland a good start to the World Cup proper. “Before the match there were a lot of criticism as to why a black guy should be featuring for Poland but after

my brilliant performance in my first game, there was a rethink among the fans and from then it was a smooth ride,” he noted.

It was not indeed all Eldorado for Olisadebe while in Poland as he suffered racism from fans. “I suffered a lot of racism to the extent that prosecutors were asking me to take some clubs to court which I refused, because I was raised to be proud of myself. Where I am from in Delta State, we don’t feel anybody is superior to us. So, I was not bothered about their racist comments because I was the one earning the money, they are paying to watch me. Though it bothered me initially, but after some time I realised they’re doing it to sway me off my game so that I won’t play well,” he said.

As a product of grassroots football, Olisadebe believes the best way to develop Nigerian football is through grassroots. “I played grassroots football, most of the present internationals played grassroots football; so grassroots football can never stop growing and I believe it’s the best avenue to find future stars for Nigerian football,” Olisadebe expressed.

Recently, the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has been trying to lure Anglo-Nigerian Arsenal teenage sensational, Ethan Nwaneri, to play for Nigeria and the question was put to Olisadebe on whether poaching Nigerians of European descent is the best way to go about building a solid national team or is developing talents at the grassroots the best way forward.

“I think it boils down to the players themselves. Coming from a situation like that is just a matter of choice. I was faced with the choice of playing between Nigeria and Poland and I decided to play for the latter. The player has to look deep, find out what is best for him. If he feels playing for England is the best for him, then fine. But we all know how the English do;

they might just dump him after playing one game. It’s a very difficult decision to make but I hope he makes the right one,” the former Poland Footballer of the Year said.

Despite the array of stars making waves in Europe the Super Eagles is fifth on the six-team log of the 2026 World Cup qualifier group. For Olisadebe, it boils down to where football is moving towards. “The Nigerian football, for me now, does not have an identity. We try to play very efficient football like the Europeans and it’s sad to watch a 90-minute game and it’s all about passes and passes. Nigerian football is noted for its wing play. Nigerians want to see good wingers. Most of Nigerian best attackers are wingers. We should therefore return to our traditional wing play because it’s affecting our football. Maybe having anAfrican coach for the Super Eagles now, can return the country’s football to the traditional wing play we are noted for,” Olisadebe expressed. With Nigeria’s next two World Cup qualifier matches slated for next month (against Rwanda March 17 and against Zimbabwe March 24), Olisadebe is not too optimistic that the country’s flag would be hoisted in the Mundial. “If I have to be sincere, I think it’s a very uphill task for us to qualify. We can only hope that the players from henceforth win all their matches and qualify for the World Cup,” an obviously pessimist 46-year-old said. Reacting to why many of the country’s ex-internationals are not into administration of Nigeria’s football, the 25-cap Poland international, said it all boils down to Nigerian politics. “In my own opinion a lot of politics in involved in our country. If you look at most European countries, the ex-footballers are always involved in the affairs of football. Like in Poland, the FA Chairman is an ex-

footballer and Nigeria should be following that route. However, here in Nigeria some of the administrative officers are being appointed from the top. But I hope we can do better by involving the ex-players to help in the administrative work,” he opined.

emmanuel Olisadebe celebrating one of his goals for poland

Olisadebe

Napoli, Juventus Scramble for Lookman’s Signature, Liverpool Set to Offer £60m for Nigerian

According to reports from Calciomercato.com, both Napoli and Juventus are interested in picking up a deal with Atalanta for Nigeria international, Ademola Lookman, who seems sold on the idea of a new adventure away from Bergamo next season.

Yesterday’s report claims that Atalanta value the 27-year-old in the region of €60m, but with a contract that expires at the end of next season, La Dea are reportedly aware that they will likely have to lower the asking price if they are to cut ties with the Nigerian this summer.

Juventus could restructure their attacking department over the next transfer window, which could be partly funded by a sale of Dusan Vlahovic, while Napoli are still on the lookout for another option in attack following the departure of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in January.

Meanwhile, six-time UEFA Champions League winners, Liverpool, are considering placing a £60m offer for the Super Eagles and Atalanta star.

According to Spanish outlet, Fichajes, Lookman is

on Liverpool’s radar should Luis Diaz leave Anfield in the summer.

Arne Slot’s side are aware that the Colombian’s departure is a real possibility, with multiple teams showing interest in him, most notably Barcelona, who have had Raphinha playing out of position due to the absence of a prominent left winger in the side.

The 27-year-old attacker was voted as the 2024 African Player of the Year, and has justified the prize with 15 goals and six assists in 28 games across all competitions for Atalanta this season.

Awoniyi to Wear Protective Mask against Newcastle

Nottingham Forest manager, Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed that Taiwo Awoniyi is available for selection ahead of their Premier League clash against Newcastle United at St James’ Park tomorrow.

However, the Nigerian forward will have to wear a protective mask as he continues his recovery from injury.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Espirito Santo provided an update on Awoniyi’s condition following his recent absence due to a head

injury. “Yes, yes, it is clear on the concussion protocol,” the Forest boss stated, according to the BBC. “So, he is available. He will have to wear a mask, but he is available.”

Awoniyi suffered a facial injury after a collision in an FA Cup match against Exeter City, which led to him being substituted and undergoing medical assessment.

The striker has since made progress in his recovery, but the club’s medical staff have recommended that he wear a

protective mask while playing.

When asked about how Awoniyi is adjusting to the mask, Espirito Santo admitted that the forward is still getting used to it. “He is trying to get used to it,” he said.

The return of Awoniyi will be a significant boost for Nottingham Forest as they prepare to face Newcastle.

Awoniyi’s return will provide Nuno Espirito Santo with additional attacking options as Forest aim to get a result against Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side.

Ocean Glory Cup Gets March 3 Date asTeams Jostle for N10m Prize Money

Ocean Glory Commodities Limited has announced the launch of the first-ever Ocean Glory Cup, a remarkable soccer competition with a prize pool of 10 million.

Thecompetitionaimstonurture talents,encouragepersonaldevelopment, and provide a platform for emerging players to showcase theirskills.

Thecompetitionwillfeatureboth GrassrootsandAllstarsteamsand is a key element of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. It is designed to support the growth of soccer and empower young athletes to advance in their careers.

Chief Executive Officer, Emmanuel Cole Chiori stated,

“We are proud to introduce the Ocean Glory Cup 2025, a platform that reflects our commitment to community development and the transformative power of sports.

“This competition is not just about winning; it’s about creating opportunities for young athletes to grow, learn, and achieve their full potential. We believe that every player deserves a chance to succeed, and we are eager to see the incredible talent that will emerge from this initiative.”

The Ocean Glory Cup 2025

will award 4 million, with 2 million each for the winners of the Grassroots and Allstars categories. In addition to cash rewards, participants will receive mentorship opportunities, exposure to scouts and professional clubs, and a pathwaytoachievetheirdreams.

The tournament will take place, startingonMarch3,atFestac 23rd FHA Stadium in AmuwoOdofin,Lagos.

Ocean Glory Commodities Limited is dedicated to using the power of sports to inspire, uplift, and develop talent within the community.

NDDC Inaugurates MOC for the Niger Delta Sports Festival

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has officially inaugurated the Main Organising Committee (MOC) for the upcoming Niger Delta Sports Festival, set to take place from April 1st to 5th, 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

During the inauguration, Hon. Alabo Boma Iyaye, the Executive Director of Finance and Administration, encouraged committee members to work diligently to ensure a successful and seamless event. He

emphasised that the Niger Delta region has historically produced many outstanding individuals who have brought pride to the area. “You have been carefully selected because of your expertise and knowledge in sports development and the organisation of large competitions. This committee is responsible for planning and executing a successful event. The Niger Delta region has produced numerous athletes who have

Man

City, Liverpool Blockbuster Clash Live on Showmax

Manchester City hosts Liverpool tomorrow, in a highly anticipated clash, which kicks off at 5:30 pm, and will be available to stream live on Showmax Premier League mobile.

City and Liverpool have been the standard setters in the Premier League for much of the last eight years. While City are ahead in the trophy count, Liverpool have pushed them to the limit in title races, including their 97-point campaign in 2019.

The landscape has shifted this season, with Liverpool sitting

After a very competitive but colourful atmosphere, Oluwole House (Purple) emerged winner of the 2025 CMS Grammar SchoolAnnual Inter-House Sports festival held at the school ground on penultimate Thursday.

To come out tops, Oluwole House amassed 10 gold, 12 silver and three bronze medals, Kale House (White), came second with six gold, six silver and four gold medals, Babington Macauley House (Orange), was third with five gold, five silver and four bronze medals, closely followed by Livingstone House (Green), with five gold, four silver and

comfortably at the top of the table. On the other hand, City have already suffered seven league defeats and sit in an unfamiliar fourth place, 17 points adrift. A win for City would disrupt the title race, giving Arsenal and other contenders hope, while a Liverpool victory would reinforce their grip at the summit.

Beyond the title race, the weekend offers plenty of intrigue across the league. Arsenal host West Ham, as they look to keep the pressure on Liverpool. The Hammers, who have lost their last two

eight bronze medals.

Crowther House (Red), came fifth after amassing four gold, three silver and five bronze medals, while Stanley House (Brown), with three gold, five silver and six bronze was only good for a sixth position.

Wilberforce House (Yellow) and Gordon House (Blue) emerged seventh and eight position, respectively after both houses could only manage three gold, two silver. It was the bronze medals they garnered that separated the two houses.

In his speech after the games, the school principal, Reverend Jacob Ayokunle Ogunyinka, thanked everyone involved for

games, face a difficult task against an in-form Gunners side. Chelsea, still struggling for consistency, travel to Aston Villa after a humbling 3-0 defeat to Brighton. Meanwhile, Manchester United face Everton in today’s early kick-off, with both teams looking to climb out of mid-table mediocrity. With the season entering a decisive phase, every point matters. Fans can catch all the weekend’s action, including tomorrow’s high-stakes clash between City and Liverpool, live on Showmax Premier League mobile. Sign up at www.showmax.com.

making the day a memorable one.

“Your contributions towards the events made it to become so successful even beyond what we envisaged. We thank the Parents’ Patrol Commandant, PPC, Mrs. Sarah Popoola and all those who supported her. This is what teamwork can do. We will never forget your labour of loveandthespiritofcamaraderie that was displayed today,” an appreciative Ogunyinka said.

One of the highlights of the event was the parents march past.Theparents of JS2 students came first, SS1 parents were second, while JS3 parents came third.

Season 6 of Dolphin Swimming League Reaches Final Lap

The battle for the top spot in Season 6 of the annual Dolphin Swimming League is reaching its climax, as Grange School prepares to host the participating teams today.

To make the Nigerian contingent to the International School Sport Federation (ISF) Gymnasiade in Serbia this April, this weekend’s final promises to be fiercely contested by the 12 participating schools. Organised by Dynaspro Sports Promotion in collaboration with Advanta Interactive, the league is technically supported by the

Stakeholders

made our country proud, but there has been a gap in the development of such talents for some time. The NDDC aims to fill this void,” he stated.

Representing the nine sports commissioners from the NDDC’s mandated states present at the inauguration, Hon. Daniel Igali, the Commissioner of Sports for Bayelsa State, expressed gratitude to the commission for organising this inaugural sports festival in the region.

Lagos State Swimming Association and the Nigeria Aquatic Federation. It is endorsed by the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) and the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF). Rite Foods, the tournament’s official sponsor, has pledged unwavering support for grassroots sports development in Nigeria.

This season, the league has received substantial backing from sports philanthropist Olugbenga Agboola, CEO and co-founder of Flutterwave. Agboola has provided trophies, medals, and other logistics

as part of his commitment to sports development in Nigeria. League coordinator, Oluseyi Oyebode expressed gratitude for Agboola’s support, noting that it has significantly enhanced the tournament. He also appealed for more support from corporate individuals and organisations for future editions.

Former President of the Aquatic Federation of Nigeria, Babatunde Fatayi-Williams, praised the league organisers for their consistency and called for additional support.

Rally Support for Lottery Initiative, ‘Owo-Ojumo’

Stakeholders in the gaming and entertainment industries have rallied support for innovative lottery initiative, ‘Owo-Ojumo’, at its grand launch.

The launch which was attended by top Nollywood filmmakers, including respected Producer Patrick Doyle, marked a significant milestone for the architect of the initiative, Raffle Lottery Investment Limited. Doyle, a veteran and respected Nollywood producer, expressed his enthusiasm for the

initiative, stating that it has made him reconsider his stance on lotto staking.

“I had promised myself never to stake my money in any bet, but when the Owo-Ojumo model was explained to me, I had to reconsider my stance. I now have committed to this lottery because of its model and the demography of people it is targeted at,” he said.

Chairman of Raffle Lottery Investment Limited, Tayo Orekoya emphasised the initiative’s potential to positively impact

the lives of Nigerians. “Owo-Ojumo is a concept that we are grateful has finally come to light, many thanks to the Lagos Lottery Board for their support and certification. Our goal is to help extend the value a N200 ticket can give the ordinary guy on the street.”

The initiative’s unique features, including daily, state-wide, and national draws, as well as a loyalty draw, were highlighted by Orekoya. Winners of the draws will receive their winnings directly into their bank accounts.

Living Stone House taking its turn in the match past

L-r: Member Organising Committee, Cassius Osuji, competition sponsor, Daniel Chiori-Cole, former Nigeria international, Friday ekpo, emmanuel Chiori-Cole (Sponsor) and Technical Director, Marshall Mbre at the official press conference of the Ocean Glory Cup 2025 in Lagos recently

Saturday, February 22, 2025

MISSILE

Natasha to Senate

“I just wanted to be given the chance to work. A lot of my privileges have been denied. I have been pulled out of many international activities that I have been part of since that whole nightclub incident that happened last year. In fact, there was even a United Nations event that I was supposed to attend, which I was nominated for, but my name was struck out that they would not promote me in any event internationally.” – The lawmaker representing Kogi Central in the National Assembly, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, claimed that a lot of her privileges as a Senator have been denied.

Reducing the Dangers of Microplastics

The subject of microplastics, those tiny, invisible pieces of plastic in circulation all around us, became the subject of some protracted discussion among a few scientifically minded individuals about a week ago. I was invited to the meeting because of an article titled “Tremble, Microplastics on the Prowl”, which appeared on this page on 24th February last year. The event was necessitated by overwhelming contemporary scientific evidence, showing two things, namely: (1) That microplastics can be found in practically every organ in the body; especially in places no one expects to find them; (2) That we need to make some lifestyle changes, for our own good as individuals.

Let us consider the following. Natural materials like wood and wood derivatives like paper, break down into the soil and get converted into minerals, in obedient to the laws of nature. But it is not so with plastics. They do not break down into the soil, to become organic natural nutrients and substances that are readily

reintegrated into the cycle of being. Plastic do not break down completely into soil. They break down in the soil, but not as part of the soil.

Imagine what happens, when you bury used plastic materials in a landfill site, or expose it to the atmosphere or weeks or months. The plastic material breaks down into nano and microscopic particles. Some of these sinks into the soil. Some get taken up by the wind, to be dispersed and for us to inhale without knowing it. But much of it also gets carried around, in the immediate environment and everywhere, on the planet.

A recent report from the organization PlastChem shows that there are not less than 16,000 chemicals in the different types of plastic we use regularly all over the world. Worse still, over 4,200 of these chemicals are dangerous to human health and the environment. And they are everywhere. Yes, everywhere!

Deep underground water tables, the Arctic permafrost, the flesh and internal organs of marine and terrestrial animals, the vegetables and forest plants play host to this ubiquitous affliction. So, there is hardly anything we can pick up and eat without getting some microplastics

into our system. That is why we now have it in all our organs. It was when researchers discovered microplastics in every organ, including arterial plaque, the human bloodstreams, and the placenta of babies, as mentioned in the earlier referenced article, that everyone switched on Panic Mode.

Microplastics can get into our bodies because of the broken-down plastics entering our bodies through the food we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe. We use plastic wraps and containers for storage and all sorts of things. The bits that “disengage” due to oxidation or other causes end up in our body. And this raises two important questions at this point: (1) Can we completely get rid of plastics and microplastics in our lives? (2) Are there measures we can take to minimize the perceived damage and health risk associated with microplastic invasion of the human body?

To the first question, the answer is

Continued on page 27

This week, the Nigerian economy experienced two major incidents that are critical building blocks for sustained long-run economic growth. The first was the rebasing of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the average change over time in the prices paid by consumers for a representative basket of consumer goods and services, and the other was Thursday’s decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to pause its monetary tightening regime and (left) leave all its key monetary policy tools unchanged. The decision to halt the tightening regime, which had been in place since 2022, followed recent stability in the foreign exchange market and gradual moderation in the price

of petrol.

Inflation in the past 18 months has significantly dealt with Nigerians, causing a sharp rise in the cost of living and making it difficult for many to afford basic necessities like food, leading to widespread struggles and hardship. High inflation distorts consumer behaviour. It also destabilises markets by creating unnecessary shortages. Likewise, high inflation, which is not the desire of any economy, leads to income redistribution and brings about weak purchasing power. That is why central banks globally are never comfortable with a rising inflation rate, usually seen by them as ‘evil.’

Following the rebasing exercise, the CPI declined to 24.48 percent year on year in January, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS),

compared with the 34.80 percent in December, which was printed under the old template. The rebasing meant updating the reference year used to

gauge price levels in the country by essentially changing the basket of goods and services used to measure inflation. This was done to better reflect current consumer spending patterns and ensure the inflation data accurately reflects the economy’s current state.

It involved replacing outdated items with new ones that better represent what people are buying today. What this meant was that unlike in the past, where the base year was 2009, the base year for the current template is 2024, meaning that the NBS now compares prices in 2025 with that of 2024 instead of 2009 which was being used previously.

Under the new CPI base year, there are 960 items in the basket, whereas in the 2009 basket, there were 740 items,

TRUTH & REASON

Price: N400

Mrs Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment