Set to rework electricity subsidy structure to benefit the poor Says Nigeria's wealthiest among 25% enjoying huge tariff underpayments
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The federal government at the weekend remained upbeat about
fresh upward trajectory of the country's oil and gas sector, disclosing that an additional $2 billion in new investments would be expected by
Abiola Family Tackles Babangida, Says Memoir Reopens Wounds, Painful Memories
Insists lessons from June 12 have not been learnt Ishola Williams counters Babangida, says he prepared Abacha to succeed him
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Wale Igbintade in Lagos
The controversy surrounding the former military President, retired General Ibrahim Babangida's memoir continued yesterday as the family of the winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, the late Chief MKO Abiola, led by Mr Kola Abiola, has stated that the memoir, 'A Journey in Service', has reopened painful memories of the
events of the annulled election. The Abiola family insisted that the lessons from the annulled June 12 election have not been learnt.
A former Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), the think-tank of the Nigerian Army, Major General Ishola Williams (rtd), has also countered Babangida’s claims in the memoir, Continued on page 5
My Wife Confided in Me About Her Interactions with Akpabio, Natasha’s Husband Reveals
Says harassment persisted despite his intervention Urges Senate, Akpabio to treat his wife with respect, dignity Saraki calls for transparent investigation Let your husband defend himself, Natasha advises Senate president’s wife Akpabio’s wife slams N250bn suit against
Chuks Okocha, Alex Enumah, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja, and Wale Igbintade in Lagos
The verbal exchanges between the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, took a fresh turn yesterday as her husband, Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, revealed that his wife had confided in him about her interactions with Akpabio.
Chief Uduaghan, who is the Alema of Warri Kingdom, also disclosed that despite meeting with Akpabio and reaching an agreement with him on an amicable settlement of the issue, his wife continued to express concerns about Akpabio’s harassment.
While urging the Senate and
L-R: Pro-Chancellor, Summit University, Offa, Kwara State, Alhaji Rafiu Ebiti; former Secretary-General of Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Donor, Chief Tunde Fanimokun; Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; and Founding Father, Summit University, Offa, Alhaji Femi Okunnu (SAN), at the groundbreaking ceremony of Lateef Olufemi Okunnu School of Law and International Jurisprudence and Folawiyo International School of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Digital, Humanities and Oriental Studies donated to the university Offa in honour of Okunnu and Folawiyo by Fanimokun in Lagos...yesterday
Skype to Shut down After Two Decades in Operation
Windows Phone.
Emma Okonji
Microsoft is shutting down Skype, the internet-based phone and video service that was once the dominant way of staying connected in the mid 2000s.
Skype’s shutdown comes 14 years after Microsoft bought the service for $8.5 billion in cash, marking the company’s largest ever acquisition at the time.
Microsoft integrated the service into its other products, such as Office and its ill-fated mobile operating service
Skype will “no longer be available” to use starting in May, the company confirmed on X, telling users that their log-in information can be used on Microsoft Teams’ free tier in the “coming days.”
“Skype has been an integral part of shaping modern communications and supporting countless meaningful moments, and we are honored to have been part of the journey,” Jeff Teper, president of Microsoft 365 collaborative apps and platforms, said in a blog post.
“We’re excited about the new
opportunities that Teams brings and are committed to helping you stay connected in new and meaningful ways.”
Skype’s popularity has faded in recent years, despite a pandemic bounce that lifted other competing products, including Zoom, Google Meet and Cisco Webex.
Skype has also faced increased
competition over the last decade and a half from apps like Apple’s FaceTime and Meta’s WhatsApp.
Plus, Microsoft has been investing heavily in Teams, which offers many of the same services.
The service quickly became popular, leading eBay to buy it in 2005 for $2.6 billion.
However, the partnership did not work out, and eBay sold its 65% stake in Skype to an investor group for $1.9 billion in 2009 before Microsoft bought it in 2011.
Skype launched in 2003 in Estonia and quickly caught on as a way to make free calls worldwide, a notable perk considering international calling on traditional phones used to be expensive.
MY WIFE CONFIDED IN ME ABOUT HER INTERACTIONS WITH AKPABIO, NATASHA’S HUSBAND REVEALS
Akpabio to accord his wife the respect and dignity she deserves, Chief Uduaghan expressed his unwavering faith in his wife’s loyalty and full commitment to their marriage, which he described as being grounded in love, compassion, and mutual respect.
This is just as a former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has called for a transparent investigation into the allegations levelled against the Senate president.
Meanwhile, Senator AkpotiUduaghan has also called on the wife of the Senate President, Mrs. Unoma Akpabio, to stay out of the allegations and allow her husband to defend himself.
However, Mrs. Akpabio has filed multiple lawsuits at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, against AkpotiUduaghan, seeking N250 billion in damages for alleged defamation.
terrain since TotalEnergies’ Egina project launched in 2013, noting however, that President Bola Tinubu's issuance of Executive Orders 40, 41 and 42 in February 2024 marked a turning point.
Special Adviser on Energy to the president, Olu Verheijen, in an interview with Energy Year, an energy intelligence platform on emerging markets, stated that Tinubu’s administration has significantly reduced time-tomarket project execution timelines, production costs and also enhanced fiscal competitiveness of projects.
The $2 billion expected investments will add to TotalEnergies’ $550 million investment in the Ubeta gas field as well as Shell’s $5 billion Bonga North project.
Verheijen, who revealed the $2 billion investments, noted that the Bonga North milestone was significant not only for its scale but also for its 350 million barrels of estimated crude reserves, which will enhance Nigeria’s oil production, revenue, and standing as Africa’s leading producer.
The presidential aide said that to attract investment, Nigeria was benchmarked against 13 other countries where International Oil Companies (IOCs) actively invest, with Nigeria ranking ninth in investment attractiveness.
To secure capital inflows, she explained that Nigeria needed to move into the top three as shown by thorough research done by the federal government's team.
“This is just the beginning. We anticipate further major investments from IOCs and other stakeholders in deep offshore and gas. With the implementation of recent reforms, Nigeria has repositioned itself among the top three most attractive deepwater investment destinations.
“By the end of Q1, 2025, we aim to unlock $2 billion in new investments, closely monitoring key projects while creating favourable conditions for long-stalled developments, such as Eni’s Zabazaba project, to progress once legal issues are resolved.
“By the end of President Tinubu’s first term in 2027, Nigeria’s upstream sector will operate under a clear and stable regulatory framework. In the downstream, its full potential will be realised, with the Dangote Refinery operational, state-owned refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri undergoing rehabilitation, and modular refineries emerging across the Niger Delta, fostering a dynamic downstream ecosystem,” she said.
Beyond fiscal and regulatory
In a statement issued yesterday, Chief Uduaghan stated that he would never trade his wife for anything, adding that she is the greatest joy of his life.
"I have unwavering faith in my wife's loyalty and am fully committed to our marriage, which is grounded in love, compassion, and mutual respect. I would never trade her for anything, as she is the greatest joy of my life,” he explained.
He added: "My wife is a devoted partner, and the bond we share is deep and unwavering. She has always remained truthful, even in the face of adversity."
Chief Uduaghan stated that he had initially resolved to refrain from commenting on the ongoing dispute between his beloved wife, and the Senate president. He, however, added that recent developments prompted him to
adjustments, coordination and transparency among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and government agencies, she said, would remain paramount.
“A case in point is the drill-or-drop principle already embedded in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), with regulatory bodies considering its enforcement. However, enforcing such measures without first creating a competitive investment climate would be counterproductive.
“The priority must be to establish the right conditions for investment. Only then does it become justifiable to impose compliance mechanisms,” Verheijen added.
On the midstream sub-sector, the special adviser noted that targeted incentives for non-associated gas have enhanced the supply reliability for Nigeria LNG, reinforcing Nigeria’s top-10 global LNG export capacity and driving power-sector growth, industrialisation, and economic diversification.
With 80 per cent of Nigeria’s on-grid electricity powered by gas, she said that the aims of the government are securing investments to meet domestic energy needs while expanding exports.
At the same time, Verheijen explained that ongoing IOC divestments were reshaping the industry, creating a new class of onshore investors acquiring their assets and ensuring they have the requisite technical and financial capacity to deliver Nigeria's near-term production targets.
“These indigenous firms are poised to play a pivotal role in the sector’s future. By securing substantial dollar-denominated financing, their production, whether oil or gas, is expected to contribute significantly to foreign exchange earnings. Additionally, their domestic investments will bolster Nigeria’s energy security and improve the national trade balance.
“As these companies expand their presence in Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain, their products will drive local currency earnings, reducing the reliance on imports. The monetisation of natural gas, including Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and petrochemicals, will enable domestic sales in naira, thereby curbing demand for imported commodities, such as fertilisers and automotive gas oil.
“This strategic shift will not only strengthen the energy sector but also foster a positive trade balance, enhancing Nigeria’s economic resilience,” she added.
In the power sector, she stated that
issue a statement, stressing that certain sentiments were being unnecessarily stirred, distracting from the serious underlying issues, which should concern all individuals with strong family values.
Chief Uduaghan further revealed that his wife had confided in him about her interactions with the Senate president, whom he considered a family friend.
"I had initially resolved to refrain from commenting on the ongoing dispute between my beloved wife, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
"However, recent developments have compelled me to issue this statement. It is clear that certain sentiments are being stirred up unnecessarily, distracting from the serious underlying allegations, which should concern every
the Tinubu administration was set to restructure its huge yearly subsidy payment on electricity to ensure fairness, explaining that as it stands currently, much of the subsidy benefits the wealthiest 25 per cent rather than low-income households.
Under the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI), the special adviser stated that the federal government aims to deploy 5 million meters and associated infrastructure to eliminate estimated billing, close the metering gap, and enhance revenue collection.
By reducing losses and improving financial stability, the initiative, she said, will enable distribution companies to reinvest in infrastructure upgrades,
discerning individual with sound family values.
"Without prejudice to the ongoing legal proceedings, I wish to emphasise that my wife was duly elected by her people due to the immense love, respect, and confidence they have in her and she is committed to delivering quality representation to her district and the nation at large.
"She is a devoted wife, and the bond we share is deep and unwavering. She has always remained truthful, even in the face of adversity.
"My wife has confided in me about her interactions with the Senate President, whom I considered a family friend. In response, I approached the matter with the utmost maturity and responsibility, as it is my duty as a traditional leader who has immense respect for constituted authority
ultimately improving power supply reliability.
“The second is clearing legacy debt to restore financial stability. The government is addressing outstanding debts owed to power-sector stakeholders, which have hindered investment and weakened liquidity. By resolving these financial obligations, power companies will regain the capacity to upgrade infrastructure, ensuring a more stable electricity supply.
“The third is transitioning to affordable and cost-reflective tariffs. Currently, the government spends… annually on electricity subsidies, much of which benefits the wealthiest 25 per cent rather than low-income
and upholds core family values, fostering peace and harmony.
"I personally met with the Senate President and respectfully urged him to extend the courtesy and respect my wife deserves, while also honouring the friendship between us. We reached an understanding and agreed to resolve the issue amicably.
"However, despite this agreement, my wife continues to express concerns about the harassment she has endured from the Senate President,” Uduaghan explained.
He urged the Senate and Akpabio to treat his beloved wife with the respect and dignity she truly deserves “while the relevant authorities and the court determine the underlying issues."
Saraki Calls for Transparent Investigation
Meanwhile, a former President of the Senate, Dr. Saraki, has called for a transparent investigation into the allegations made against Akpabio by the Kogi senator.
In a statement issued at the weekend, Saraki emphasised the importance of a fair and transparent inquiry to uncover the truth and safeguard the integrity of the Senate.
He warned that the Senate, as a vital institution, must be protected from any actions that could tarnish its reputation.
Saraki expressed his sadness over the negative impact it has had on the Senate’s image.
He called for all parties involved to carefully consider the consequences of their actions,
ensuring that nothing undermines the institution’s credibility.
He also urged adherence to the Constitution, Senate rules, and parliamentary conventions in resolving the issue.
Saraki called on the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to conduct an open and transparent investigation, with both parties fully cooperating.
He recalled a similar situation during his time as Senate President when he faced allegations but allowed for a transparent investigation, which ultimately cleared his name.
"Let me make it clear without any ambiguity that I am neither stating that Akpabio is guilty of anything nor am I expressing the opinion that Senator AkpotiUduaghan is right in her actions and claims. My position is that an investigation is needed to find out the truth and protect the integrity of the Senate,” Saraki added.
The dispute between Natasha and Akpabio began after she refused to sit in a designated seat during a Senate session, citing Order 10 of the Senate Standing Rules. Tensions escalated further when she appeared on ARISE NEWS Channel on Friday, accusing Akpabio of blocking her motions, maligning her, and intimidating her after she allegedly rejected his sexual advances.
In response, Mrs. Akpabio held a press conference in Abuja and dismissed the allegations of sexual harassment leveled against her husband.
She asserted that both families had shared a cordial relationship for years, long before Natasha’s marriage, and suggested that the claims were baseless.
ABIOLA FAMILY TACKLES BABANGIDA, SAYS MEMOIR REOPENS WOUNDS, PAINFUL MEMORIES
insisting that the former military president had groomed the late General Sani Abacha to succeed him before his controversial annulment of June 12, 1993.
This is just as an ex-Minister of Culture and Tourism, and Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, defended Babangida’s account of the June 12 crisis and challenged those who disagreed with it to present counter-evidence.
In a statement issued yesterday, Abiola expressed the family’s disbelief at how long it took Babangida - 32 years - to publicly acknowledge what the world already knew—that MKO Abiola won the 1993 election.
"It took the former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, an incredibly long 32 years to confirm what the whole world knew all along—that Bashorun MKO Abiola won the 1993 presidential election," Kola said.
Kola added that since the memoir's launch, there have been growing calls for a response from him as the head of the Abiola family.
Abiola pointed out that in June 1993, many people were either not yet born, very young, or lacked a clear understanding of the facts surrounding the presidential election.
He emphasised that the trauma and devastation of that period, which united so many families, resurfaced with the release of the book.
Abiola also noted that the June 12 election’s significance extended beyond just his family, stressing that many other families were directly impacted by the annulment, and numerous lives were lost in its aftermath.
He highlighted the enduring effect
on Nigeria's unity and economic development.
Abiola stated that his family must take more than a cursory glance at the confirmation of known facts, and carefully consider the public's response.
He said for these reasons, his family has decided to take additional time before issuing a full response.
While describing himself as an active participant in the campaign, the election, and the subsequent fight to protect his father’s mandate, Abiola said he was not sure whether Nigerians have truly learned any lessons from the tragic events of June 12.
"There were so many other families directly affected and lives lost as a result of the annulment, not to mention the profound impact on the unity and economic development of our great country, Nigeria, to date.”
Ishola Williams Counters Babangida, Says He Prepared Abacha to Succeed Him
Meanwhile, an insider in the intrigues surrounding the annulment, Gen. Williams, who was one of those mentioned in Babangida’s 420-page memoir, has countered Babangida’s account.
On page 296 of the book, where Babangida described the reactions that trailed the annulment of the election, he wrote: “Within the military leadership, there was palpable outrage. The best of us, like Lt-General Salihu Ibrahim and Major-General Ishola Williams, were alarmed, and Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar threatened to resign.”
But narrating what transpired, Williams stated that Babangida had prepared Abacha to succeed him before he annulled the election.
Williams, who was a guest of Inside Sources, a socio-political programme anchored by Laolu Akande, explained that the interim government headed by the late businessman, Chief Ernest Sonekan, was just a ruse.
The retired general, who resigned after the annulment, said he attended a meeting of generals with Babangida and Abacha in attendance where the plan was hatched.
According to him, “General Babangida forgot to mention that he used to call General Abacha the ‘Khalipha’ (an Arabic word meaning one who leads with competence and wisdom), which meant that he was encouraging Abacha to succeed him.
“And to a certain extent, in my conversation with General Babangida, just before he stepped aside, one midnight in Minna, he could not answer a question that I asked him: ‘Did you have a blood oath with Abacha that he would succeed you?’
“I asked him that question but he refused to answer. In Minna, one-onone, at the Presidential Guest House in Minna.
“Before that, there was a group of civilian governors in his regime that came to visit him and encouraged him not to hand over power. It was when they left that I asked him the question and told him not to mind the governors, that the best thing is for him to leave.”
Williams said he wrote a letter to Babangida in August 1993 to the effect that the best thing for the military to
do was to hand it over to civilians.
“I told him that we were preparing to receive him in Minna with full military honours after he stepped aside. And I did that. I was a Commander in Minna at that time. “He came to Minna with his wife. Many officers came with him. These officers knew that he had stepped aside but put pressure on him to appoint a new CDS (Chief of Defence Staff) and service chiefs.
“He (Babangida) appointed new service chiefs and when those ones came to tell me, I said you are not going to last very long. Shortly after that, General Abacha flew in, met with General Babangida in his house and when he came out, he changed all of them (service chiefs).
“There was a meeting before the Interim National Government where officers from Brigadier General and above of the Armed Forces met in the Villa. The late Attorney General, Clement Akpamgbo was the only civilian at the meeting.
“When the discussion started about June 12, I was alarmed and I said: ‘What are we discussing? I thought we came here to discuss the handover process?’ Gen. Abacha was sitting to my right and in between us was General Diya. General Abacha said ‘Ishola don’t talk like that’ but I said we should be discussing handing over, not annulment. On what basis will the election be annulled? But nobody answered me.
“It was only General Ikonne who supported me. By that time, the election had not been annulled yet but the
LAUNCHING CIBN LEGACY PROJECT...
Adesanya Writes Tinubu for Amicable Settlement of $2.3bn Mambila Hydro Project Dispute
Seeks negotiated exit of Sunrise from 3,050MW power project Says ICC president supports amicable settlement by both parties
Following the intervention of some elder statesmen and influential royal fathers, the Chairman of Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited, Mr. Leno Adesanya, has in a show of patriotism, written President Bola Tinubu, seeking an amicable settlement of the dispute between the federal government and his company over the Mambilla Hydropower project in Taraba State, THISDAY has learnt.
The dispute is a subject of arbitration at the International Chamber of Commerce Court of Arbitration in Paris, France, where the promoters of Sunrise are said to be seeking a compensation of $2.3 billion for the Nigerian government’s alleged violation of the $6 billion contract agreement and to defray what it had spent on financial and legal consultants.
Efforts made by THISDAY to get the details of Adesanya’s letter said to have been written in early February were unsuccessful as a source privy to it refused to reveal the details, citing both the arbitration and the letter’s
confidentiality.
The source however informed THISDAY that Adesanya told Tinubu that he was willing to explore a negotiated exit of his company from the power project given the president’s commitment to the project, which will positively touch the lives of 50 million residents of the northern part of the country.
Adesanya, according to the source, told Tinubu that he was willing to work with him to settle all the disputes in a win-win manner in the interest of Nigerians and the country’s economy.
While hailing Tinubu’s efforts to ensure an amicable settlement of the legal dispute, the promoter of Sunrise, the source further disclosed, also reminded Tinubu that the President of the ICC Tribunal had on many occasions encouraged the two parties to explore an amicable settlement.
Adesanya had reportedly claimed that former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration had on or about May 22, 2003, awarded a $6billion contract for the construction of the 3,050MW Mambilla Hydropower Station on a Build, Operate, and
Abducted Corps Member Freed after N1.1 Million Ransom Payment
Sunday Ehigiator
A member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Rofiat Lawal, who was kidnapped along the Benin-Ore Expressway on Tuesday has regained freedom after her family paid a ransom of N1.1million.
Lawal was kidnapped while en route to Ibadan, Oyo State from Benin City, Edo State to resume at her place of primary assignment.
The abductors were said to have demanded an N20million ransom, which her family appealed that they could not afford.
Following back-and-forth negotiations, the kidnappers reportedly reduced the N20 million ransom to N5 million.
Giving an update on the incident, Lawal’s friend identified as Agbakwara, who was privy to the incident, disclosed yesterday that Aminat has regained her freedom.
Sharing a video of the victim in a Facebook post, Agbakwara wrote: “In the early hours of Friday, the kidnappers pressured us, warning that if we failed to meet their demands, we should not expect her return.
“In desperation, I reached out to everyone I could, her colleagues in school, the Muslim association, her friends from her hometown, my fans, and her family.
“Through the collective efforts and generosity of so many, we were able to raise N1.1 million, which was sent at 4:20 pm on Friday to an account provided by the kidnappers.
“The recipient, Isaac Ayo, claimed that his sister had also been kidnapped and assured us he would deliver the ransom alongside his own.”
He stated that Lawal was finally reunited with her family on Saturday morning.
“For hours, we anxiously waited. Finally, at around 10 pm, we received the long-awaited call: they had been released and taken to the hospital.
“This morning, we got another call confirming that Rofiat was on her way home, and the others had also safely returned to their families.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed, shared the news, and tagged the necessary authorities.
Your support made this possible,” he concluded.
Transfer (BOT) basis to his company.
But Obasanjo accused the Minister of Power and Steel, under his administration, Dr. Olu Agunloye, of fraudulently awarding the contract for the project without the approval of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
Agunloye rejected the former president’s accounts, alleging that the Nigerian government was using him as a scapegoat to escape sanction for abandoning the contractual agreements on the project.
Agunloye insisted that the contract for the project was duly awarded in 2003 by the Obasanjo’s administration on a BOT basis.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had sought to arrest Adesanya and charge him with bribery and economic sabotage, for allegedly offering bribes to Agunloye for the contract.
But Adesanya denied the allegations and proceeded to arbitration in France, seeking $2.3 billion as compensation.
Sunrise had insisted that the compensation demanded was meant to defray what it had spent on financial and legal consultants.
Testifying for Nigeria in January at the International Chamber of Commerce Court of Arbitration in Paris, France, Obasanjo and former president Muhammadu Buhari told the panel that the federal government, at no time, awarded the contract to Sunrise.
According to the two former leaders, Sunrise got the purported letter, reportedly signed by a former Minister of Power, Agunloye about 24 hours after the FEC rejected the award of the contract to the firm.
While a former Minister of Power, Works, and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), also testified for Nigeria, a former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Mr. Mike Aondoakaa (SAN) made a brief appearance in Paris but did not testify at the hearing.
Agunloye is currently standing trial by the EFCC, while Adesanya’s absence has stalled his trial by the anti-graft agency.
The promoter of Sunrise has been away from Nigeria for over a decade due to fear for his life and harassment by security agents.
Investigation however, revealed that his daughter is set to wed in Nigeria, necessitating his proposal to Tinubu for an amicable resolution to the dispute to enable him to return to the country for the event.
“It happens that Adesanya’s adorable daughter, an international graduate, would be getting married to Asika, Davido’s wealthy manager, who was previously engaged to Cuppy Otedola.
“Mr. Adesanya is hopeful of the settlement earlier than May so that he can safely return to Nigeria and give out his daughter’s hand in marriage both traditionally and at a white wedding,” a source privy
to the negotiations told THISDAY. The source added that some elder statesmen and respected royal fathers have continued to lend their voice toward an amicable resolution. One of the key issues that arose at the arbitration court was the refusal of a former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN) to testify though he was present in Paris.
While a source sympathetic to Adesanya stated that Malami withdrew to not to contradict himself, another source working for the Nigerian government said that he withdrew in order not to contradict his former boss, Buhari. Aondoakaa’s departure from Paris shortly after his arrival, had also raised dust as speculations were rife that he was intimidated by the agents of the Nigerian government not to testify, a claim the former minister has denied.
Lagos Assembly Crisis: Lawmakers Lack Absolute Powers to Remove or Install Their Leaders, Says GAC
Segun James
The Chairman of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos State, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, has opened up on the controversy in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Speaking for the first time since the removal of Mr Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker and his replacement with Mrs Mojisola Meranda on January 13, 2025, the APC leader stated that whereas the lawmakers have no absolute powers to remove or install their leaders, neither the GAC nor the party was consulted.
Both Obasa and Meranda are now laying claim to the Speakership of
the House of Assembly.
The GAC is the highest decisionmaking organ of the APC, which has held a series of meetings with the aggrieved lawmakers since the crisis started.
Speaking with journalists Olusi said: “Members of the GAC are not members of the Lagos State House of Assembly to allegedly be behind the removal of Obasa. It can’t be true.
“We read it also that morning. The lawmakers carried it out without consulting the party and those of us in the GAC. That is our position.
“We invited all of them and insisted that all of them are products of the party. They lodged their
complaints and we listened to them.
“I blamed them for one thing and that is for not lodging the complaints earlier before the party. It is for the party to decide; they (lawmakers) have no absolute power to remove and install their leaders.
“Nobody can become a member of the House of Assembly unless sponsored by a political party and the sponsors are the inspectors.”
He however added that discussions were ongoing to resolve the crisis.
“The problem is the speaker (Obasa) and his colleagues, which had led to his removal. It is a dispute among them.
“Currently, there is a high-powered committee of the party led by Chief Bisi Akande and members, including Aremo Olusegun Osoba, and former APC National Vice Chairman, South-west, Chief Pius Akinyelure and others.
“They are working and making efforts to resolve the matter. I know they are in consultation with the House of Assembly, Obasa and the other Speaker, Mrs Mojisola Lasbat Meranda.
“Those of us in the GAC and the Chairman of the party, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi are doing all within our power to assist the committee,” he added.
Court Stops Enforcement of Wabara’s Purported Suspension from PDP
Wale Igbintade
Abia State High Court sitting at Obehie, Ukwa West Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, has stopped the enforcement of the purported suspension of the former Senate President and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Adolphus Wabara. The court presided over by Justice LTC Eruba, in an order, restrained Abraham Amah, laying claim to the Abia State chairmanship of the PDP, from enforcing the said suspension.
Senator Wabara had in a suit marked HUK/8/2025, dragged Amah to the court, seeking the order of the court to restrain the defendant from enforcing the purported suspension.
Granting the prayers of the claimant, the court ordered: "The defendant is restrained from enforcing the suspension of the claimant/ applicant from the Peoples Democratic Party, or in any way, affecting his position as the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the PDP till the motion on notice is determined “.
Recall that Amah, a former Vice Chairman of the PDP, Abia North, had a penultimate week, in Umuahia,
announced the purported suspension of Wabara, accusing the former Senate President of engaging in anti-party.
Amah cited a complimentary remark by the BoT Chairman on Governor Alex Otti for awarding a contract for the reconstruction of the long-abandoned Port Harcourt Road Aba, in October 2023, as anti-party.
But the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, had in a swift response, declared the purported suspension as “null and void and of no effect”.
The NWC posited that the said suspension was a violation of the party’s constitution.
Similarly, a pressure group known as PDP Frontiers for Change and Progress had also said that Amah lacked the constitutional powers to suspend the BoT Chairman of the party. Meanwhile, the PDP Frontiers for Change and Progress has blasted a former Commissioner for Information, Abia State, Chief John Okiyi Kalu over his recent media attacks on Wabara. Kalu on a live radio programme in Umuahia alleged that Senator Wabara had a secret meeting in London with Gov. Alex Otti, to perfect plans to bring the Governor to the PDP ahead of 2027.
Ejiofor Alike
L-R: Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Akin Morakinyo; First Vice President, CIBN, Mr. Dele Alabi; Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Prof. Olumiyiwa Omotola Odusanya; President/Chairman of Council, Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju; and Deputy Vice Chancellor, LASUSTECH, Prof. Abiodun, at the groundbreaking ceremony of Denloye of CIBN Legacy project at LASUSTECH in Ikorodu, Lagos …recently
FOOD SECURITY ON THEIR MINDS…
Senator Omisore Seeks Adherence to Global Standards in Nigeria's Engineering Education
A former National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Iyiola Omisore, has urged tertiary institutions in the country to elevate the quality of Nigeria's engineering education to meet global standards and promote competition.
Omisore, an engineer and former deputy governor of Osun State, spoke on the theme: ‘Enhancing the Competitiveness of Nigerian Engineering Education Through Global Benchmarking’, during a presentation at the Fellows’ Forum of the 2023/2024 Academy Year of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering (NAE).
Omisore, who insisted that engineering education remains inseparable from the national interest of any nation, explained that when vibrant, engineering serves all other professionals and sectors in national development.
He stressed that engineering
education ensures a solid foundation in science, research, product development, and equipment standardisation as well as project management.
According to him, engineering graduates are thus able to effortlessly integrate scientific and engineering principles into processes that
At State Burial, Tinubu Eulogises Nujoma's Legacy as Warrior, Nation-builder
Says founding Namibia’s president sacrificed comfort for his people's freedom, dignity, justice
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Bola Tinubu yesterday paid glowing tribute to the late founding President of the Republic of Namibia, Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, describing him as a warrior who galvanised Nigeria and other African nations to fight for his country's freedom.
The late Nujoma, a revered figure who led his country to gain independence, and steered the nation on the path towards democracy and stability, passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 95 at a hospital in Windhoek, where he had been confined for weeks due to illness.
Speaking during a state burial for the Namibian leader held at Heroes’ Acre, Windhoek, Namibia, President Tinubu who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, noted that Dr. Nujoma's demise was not an exit from space and time, but the wake of his immortality in the minds of Africans.
Shettima, in the company of several African Heads of Government, joined President Nangolo Mbumba of Namibia at the state burial where
he paid Nigeria's last respect - on behalf of President Tinubu - to the late Nujoma.
President Tinubu eulogised the foremost African statesman, saying he was not just a national hero but a warrior who defied oppression and inspired an entire continent.
According to him, "we have not come to this sacred ground to bury a man. We have come to enshrine a legacy. We have come to salute a life that was lived not for itself, but for the people, for the land, for the ideals of freedom. For him, Africa stands still today.
"Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma was not just the founding father of a nation that needed a hero; he was a warrior in the age of chains. He looked into the face of oppression in the most dangerous time to do so and declared that no African shall ever be a second-class citizen on his own soil."
He praised Nujoma’s leadership beyond independence, noting that he built Namibia from the ashes of occupation and ruled selflessly for his people.
"But even after victory, you did
not rest. Independence was not the destination; it was only the beginning. You built this nation from the ashes of occupation. You turned resistance into governance, turned a dream into reality. You did not rule for yourself; you ruled for your people. You sacrificed your comfort for the freedom, dignity, and justice of all Namibians," the president noted.
Acknowledging Nujoma’s legacy, which he said transcends time, President Tinubu declared that he now lives on in Namibia’s freedom and Africa’s collective history.
He highlighted Nigeria’s support for Namibia’s liberation struggle, stressing that the bond between the two nations was forged in the fight against apartheid and colonial rule.
His words: "Nigeria was not a bystander in the Namibian struggle. When the world turned its back, we stood. When your voice was drowned by the guns of apartheid, we spoke.
"When your hands were tied, we reached out. We did not do this as charity. We did not do this as a favour. We did this because your struggle was our struggle. Your pain
was our pain. Your freedom was our freedom."
President Tinubu reassured the people of Namibia of Nigeria’s solidarity, asserting that the struggle that united both countries has become the foundation of an unbreakable friendship.
He further said: "Nigeria is here today not only to honour you but to remind the world that the bond between our nations is unbreakable. That the struggle that brought us together is now the foundation of a friendship that will never fade.
"Namibia, you do not grieve alone. Africa grieves with you. The free world grieves with you. But more than that, we celebrate you. Because in this land, in this soil, we did not just lose a man. We gained a legend."
The burial was also attended by Presidents of South Africa, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa; Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa; Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi; Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan; Malawi, Lazarus Chakwera, and Ghana, John Mahama, as well as some former Presidents, and heads of missions.
Obi Urges FG to Prioritise Road Repairs over New Projects
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has urged the federal government to prioritise improving existing road infrastructure in the country over building new ones.
Obi disclosed this in a post on X yesterday, citing the tanker explosion that occurred on the Ilorin-Jebba expressway in Kwara State on Friday.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the tanker, which was conveying
33,000 litres of petrol, collided with a truck that was loaded with fertilizer, causing a fuel spill that ignited the fire.
In his post, the former Anambra State governor stated that a greater percentage of road accidents are “caused by the deplorable condition of our road infrastructure.”
He wrote: “The tragic collision on February 28, 2025, along the Ilorin-Jebba expressway in Kwara State, which claimed over 60 lives, is a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need to prioritize the reconstruction of existing road infrastructure across
the country, improve road safety, and regulate the transportation of hazardous materials, rather than embarking on new road infrastructure that might never be completed.
“The alarming frequency of such road traffic accidents demands immediate and decisive action to prevent further loss of innocent lives.
“I recently visited the site in Suleja, where over 100 people were burnt—a tragedy resulting from the poor state of the roads.”
Obi added that during his recent trip to Kafanchan, over three and a
half hours were spent “navigating dangerous, death-trap roads, further underscoring the urgent need to improve existing road infrastructure.”
In his post, Obi extended his condolences to the victims’ families, urging the government and citizens to unite in building safer roads.
He wrote, “As we mourn this loss, I extend my condolences to the families and the good people of Kwara State. May God Almighty grant eternal rest to the departed and provide strength and comfort to their grieving loved ones.
contribute to advances in medical care, enhanced national security systems, ecologically sound resource management, and economic growth.
Omisore, who is also a fellow of NAE, stated that students who graduate with engineering degrees bring highly prized skills into a wide spectrum of sectors in a country’s workforce, with the diversity of engineering graduates' backgrounds and viewpoints contributing to their ability to achieve the advances in innovation, productivity, and effectiveness.
Speaking on the importance of technical competencies, Omisore stated that contemporary development and innovation are technology-driven, with an increasing need for higher levels of engineering capacity to be deployed across all sectors.
However, he maintained that broad indicators of huge gaps in developing technical competencies are reported across the African continent, adding that in 2021, companies spent huge amounts of funds on training in basic skills that should have been learnt in school.
Africa's poor performance in teaching Science, Technology,
Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), he said, eliminated many of the best and brightest school children from the ranks of future scientists and engineers.
“There are nearly 70 universities that offer engineering education with over 23 different programmes. This robust resource, if managed diligently, can produce at least 10,000 engineering graduates in the various fields of the noble profession.
“The question is, how skillful and competent are these student engineers? Are they passing through the global procedure right from the time of enrolment up to graduation? Do they observe the mandatory internship under a certified mentor and work in relevant engineering organisations during the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)? These are the basic questions that require truthful answers,” he added.
According to him, the demand to promote engineering education as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is imperative if the country is to catch up and remain relevant in the global stage and harness her endowments and resources.
ABIOLA FAMILY TACKLES BABANGIDA, SAYS MEMOIR REOPENS WOUNDS, PAINFUL MEMORIES
election had taken place.”
General Williams said a decree for an interim government was designed at the meeting by Babangida.
“I said we don’t need the transitional government but it was ruled out. The whole decree was planned in such a way so that Abacha could take over,” Williams alleged.
Babangida Deserves Praise, Not Condemnation, Fani-
Kayode Insists
However, Fani-Kayode has defended Babangida’s account, insisting that the former military President showed humility and remorse while taking "full responsibility" for the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
In his article, "A Book That Stirred A Nation", Fani-Kayode stated that Babangida should be commended, and not condemned, for shedding light on the darkest chapters of Nigeria’s history.
He noted that the former military president’s acknowledgment of the
pressures that led to his decision, particularly from the late General Sani Abacha, played a significant role in the annulment of the June 12 election.
While objecting to the harsh criticisms targeting Babangida, he explained that the former military president’s public reflection on the event was not an attempt to make excuses, but rather an effort to provide context for historical accuracy and clarify the individuals and circumstances behind the controversial decision.
He said some critics have labeled Babangida a "coward" and "weakling" for revealing the role of General Abacha in the annulment, contending that this criticism is misplaced.
Fani-Kayode emphasised that Babangida was caught between a difficult decision and chose to preserve the fragile unity of the country.
He also invited those from the Abacha camp who disagreed to share their perspective, stressing that until they provided evidence to dispute Babangida’s account, many would be inclined to accept his narrative.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
L-R: Special Adviser on Political Matters to the President, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed; Official of the Flour Mills Nigeria, Macdonald Ukah; President, NASME, Dr. Abdularasheed Yerima; Executive Director, Ernest Shonekan Centre for Legislative Reforms and Economic Development, Dr. Uche Ogbonna; Director, Corporate and Regulatory Affairs, Olam, Mr. Ade Adefeko; Special Adviser, General Duties, Office of the Vice President, Dr. Aliyu Modibbo Umar; Director, National Bureau of Statistics, Ayodele Babalola; and Executive Secretary, Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit, Marion Moon, at the stakeholders’ workshop on Agriculture and Food Security, at the State House, Abuja…weekend
EVENING OF PRAISE AND WORSHIP...
Atiku, FEC, Govs, Saraki, Wike Pray for Peaceful, United Nigeria at Ramadan
Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, Atiku Abubakar; Federal Executive Council (FEC); a former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo; Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke; Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, and Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu have urged
Muslims to pray for a peaceful and united Nigeria.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has also extended his warm felicitations to all Muslims faithful as they commenced the holy month of Ramadan yesterday.
In a statement on his official X page, Atiku highlighted the economic hardship facing Nigerians and urged governments at all levels to take concrete steps to ease the burden on citizens.
“I urge that we remember Nigeria in our prayers and call on governments to provide the necessary succour that will ease the pains in the lives of Nigerians
No Vacancy in Aso Rock in 2027, Says APC Secretary, Seeks Support for Tinubu
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Bashir Ajibola, has stated that there is no vacancy in Aso Rock in 2027 and urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the next general election.
Ajibola stated this in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital at the weekend while speaking at a multi-billion agriculture and human capital development empowerment programme organised by Senator Saliu Mustapha, who represents Kwara Central in the Senate.
Addressing the beneficiaries and APC supporters, Ajibola emphasised the need for continued support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that the administration’s food security reforms were yielding results.
“The programmes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his renewed Hope Agenda are yielding fruits and turning the country into a self-dependent nation. The food security reforms are yielding good results. I enjoin you all to support President Tinubu and Senator Mustapha in the elections with your votes. I repeat, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock in 2027,” Ajibola stated.
The programme was attended by top government officials, including the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari; Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau,
and some senators.
In his speech, Kyari hailed President Tinubu’s agricultural reforms, noting that they were making food more available and affordable.
“The reform President Tinubu initiated in terms of food security is working; we have seen and are feeling that food is not only available, but prices are gradually becoming affordable,” the minister said.
On his part, Barau also praised Mustapha for his role as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, describing him as a key figure in advancing the president’s agenda.
Mustapha, in his address, said the event was in alignment with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying that, “if we must align with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, we must play key roles in the education of our people, and empowering them to contribute significantly to the nation’s economy.’
“I have always consulted with my brothers in the senate. Today’s programme is a symbolic one to flag off work with the people we have trained. We have given over 200 youths scholarships to the university level, including accommodation.
“I was fascinated the other day, seeing women climbing poles when they were being trained about how to fix and repair solar when I went to check them during the training session.
during the Ramadan fasting and beyond,” he added.
On his part, Saraki admonished the Muslim Ummah to observe the holy month of Ramadan with conscious acts of compassion, piety, kindness, and generosity, especially towards the less privileged. Saraki, in a statement issued in Ilorin yesterday signed by his Press Officer on Local Matters, Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir, congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the commencement of the Ramadan fasting and charged them to embrace and manifest the lessons of Islam in this holy month of Ramadan.
The FEC also felicitated with Muslim faithful on the sighting of the moon, which signaled the commencement of fasting in the holy month of Ramadan.
A statement issued yesterday by
the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, on behalf of FEC, urged Muslims to use the one-month-long holy month to reflect on the purpose and lessons of Ramadan.
Similarly, Oyo State Governor, Makinde, urged Muslim faithful in the state and the world over to rededicate themselves to God as Ramadan commences.
The governor, while felicitating with the Muslims on witnessing another Ramadan, urged them to seize the opportunity presented by the holy month to pray for the state and the nation at large.
Edo State Governor, Okpebholo, equally urged Muslims to pray for peace in the state and Nigeria as the holy month of Ramadan commenced yesterday.
The governor in a press statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred
Itua, while congratulating all Muslim faithful, urged them to extend love to their neighbours, the needy, and the less-privileged in the society.
The Governor of Lagos State, Sanwo-Olu, also extended his warm felicitations to all Muslims faithful as they commenced the holy month of Ramadan.
In a post via his X page yesterday, the Lagos State governor described Ramadan as a sacred month and a time for deep reflection, renewed faith, and acts of kindness.
Similarly, the Cross Rivers State Governor, Otu extended his warm felicitations to all Muslims faithful as they commenced the holy month of Ramadan and urged them to continue to pray for a peaceful and united Nigeria.
FCT Minister, Wike has also called on Muslims in the country
to use the Ramadan fasting period to offer prayers to Allah (SWT) for the peaceful co-existence of the country while also giving their minds and hearts to teachings by Islamic Scholars during the fasting period.
Wike, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, noted that it was important for Muslims, especially those in the FCT to assist the country with prayers during this Ramadan period.
Osun State Governor, Adeleke, called for prayers for the sustenance of peace and upholding godliness in national politics.
This is contained in a statement issued by his media aide, Malam Olawale Rasheed, to mark the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.
Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri
The United Nations (UN) SecretaryGeneral, Mr. António Guterres, has said the United States’ decision to cut humanitarian and development funding will have dire consequences for millions of vulnerable people worldwide.
Guterres said the cuts threatened humanitarian assistance and development projects, which he noted were essential programmes.
Kayode Tokede
The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) yesterday said it recorded a profit before tax of N13.6 billion, marking 157.3 per cent year-on-year growth.
The group said this in its 2024 audited financial results sent to the Exchange as corporate disclosure and signed by the Acting Company Secretary, NGX, Mr Izuchukwu Akpa, in Lagos. Akpa said the performance was driven by robust revenue expansion, strategic cost optimisation, and increased market participation, reflecting the group’s resilience and financial strength.
He said reducing US financial support would worsen conditions for those in need and undermine global stability.
“These cuts will be especially devastating for vulnerable people around the world. From war-torn regions to areas struck by natural disasters, the loss of support will leave millions more at risk,” Guterres said.
“American funding directly supports people living through wars,
According to him, the group’s gross earnings surged by 103.2 per cent to N24.0 billion in the 2024 financial year, up from N11.8 billion in the previous year.
He said this was propelled by significant growth across key revenue streams as transaction fees rose 64.0 per cent, driven by heightened market activity.
“Listing fees increased by 397.1 per cent, reflecting stronger capital market participation. Technologyrelated income grew by 105 per cent, reflecting the success of the group’s digital transformation efforts.
“Other fees recorded a 174.8 per cent growth, reinforcing the group’s diversified revenue base. Treasury
famines, and disasters, providing essential healthcare, shelter, water, food, and education—the list goes on.
“The generosity and compassion of the American people have not only saved lives, built peace, and improved the state of the world. They have contributed to the stability and prosperity that Americans depend on.
“Going through with recent funding cuts will make the world less healthy, less safe, and less prosperous.
investment income climbed 45.6 per cent, highlighting NGX Group’s effective asset management.
“Market data revenue grew by 100.5 per cent, contributing to a 102.6 per cent rise in other income, which now accounts for 29.6 per cent of gross earnings,” he said.
Akpan noted that the group also recorded the highest dividend in its history.
He said that in recognition of the exceptional performance, the Board of Directors (BoD) had approved a final dividend of N4.4 billion, translating to N2.00 per share which was the highest dividend payout in the group’s history.
“I can only hope that these decisions can be reversed based on more careful reviews. The same applies to other countries that have recently announced reductions in humanitarian and development aid.”
The UN chief highlighted how critical programmes in countries like Afghanistan, Syria, South Sudan, and Ukraine are severely affected. In Afghanistan, over nine million people risk losing access to healthcare and protection services.
“This decision reaffirms NGX Group’s commitment to delivering value to shareholders while maintaining a strong capital position,” he added.
Commenting on the results, its Group Chairman, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, said: “These results mark a pivotal moment in NGX group’s post-demutualisation growth journey, reinforcing investor confidence in our long-term vision.
“The approval of a record N4.4 billion dividend demonstrates our unwavering commitment to rewarding shareholders while positioning NGX Group as a key driver of capital market development.
L-R: Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji; his wife, Olayemi; Deputy Governor, Mrs. Monisade Afuye; and Deputy Speaker, state House of Assembly, Hon. Bolaji Olagbaju, at the February edition of Evening of Praise and Worship at Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti...weekend
Will CBN Embark on Monetary Easing Amid Inflation Moderation?
With a relative decline in headline inflation, the Central Bank of Nigeria is under pressure to cut interest rates, James Emejo writes
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) recently rebased the Consumer Price Index (CPI) which measures the rate of change in prices of goods and commodities, putting headline inflation at 24.48 per cent year on year in January 2025 compared to 34.80 per cent in preceding (using the old template).
The decline in inflation is a major relief to the economy given the unprecedented inflationary pressures occasioned by global and domestic headwinds including structural challenges in the country.
In response to inflation, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) embarked on the tightening of monetary policy to rein in rising prices of goods and services and achieve its main mandate of price stability.
Under CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, the apex bank had increased the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), the benchmark interest by a total of 850 basis points as well as adjusted other monetary tools to curtail inflation.
The MPR is the rate at which the CBN lends to commercial banks and often determines the cost of borrowing in the economy.
The continued inflationary concerns had expectedly made borrowing from commercial banks expensive as manufacturers including small businesses groaned under high interest rates, with its attendant implications on the economy.
On the other hand, the CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, had repeatedly vowed that the apex bank would not consider cutting MPR if inflation persisted.
He said the bank has a primary duty to maintain price stability, arguing that it would make no sense to pursue growth amid a high inflationary environment that ends up weakening the Naira and discouraging investments.
Essentially, the CBN’s major reason for hiking MPR was to respond to inflation, with Cardoso assuring that the bank would consider a downward review of rates when it is satisfied that inflation was no longer a threat.
Long Sought Relief
However, following the rebasing of CPI which saw the headline index drop remarkably, the CBN for the first in over two years, retained the MPR at 27.50 per cent with the asymmetric corridor of +500/-100 basis points around the MPR at its last meeting.
The apparent halt in the bank’s tightening regime came against the backdrop of recent stability in the Foreign Exchange (FX) market with the resultant appreciation of the exchange rate and the gradual moderation in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The central bank also left all monetary policy parameters unchanged including the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) of Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) at 50 per cent, and that of Merchant Banks at 16 per cent as well as the Liquidity Ratio (LR) at 30 per cent.
Before the meeting, analysts had prevailed on the apex bank to halt further hikes in interest rates as the previous increases had already crippled most businesses.
However, Cardoso who addressed journalists after the meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), explained that the committee was unanimous in its decision to hold rates at current levels, having expressed satisfaction over recent macroeconomic developments which are expected to positively impact price dynamics in the near to medium term.
The MPC also acknowledged the successes of the various policies by the CBN aimed at anchoring inflation expectations, easing exchange rate pressures, deepening financial inclusion, and improving the transmission mechanism of monetary policy.
The CBN governor had emphasised that but for the several interventions of the bank, inflation would have been much unbearable given
the volume of liquidity in the economy before he assumed office.
He said, “So, our objectives have been and will continue to be to achieve stability in the foreign exchange markets and the financial markets. That’s our objective. And as long as that happens, we are confident that we will begin to see more investments coming in, which should spur the badly needed growth.”
Macroeconomic Improvements
Cardoso further acknowledged that there’s been greater confidence in the markets, a key ingredient that was missing in the equation, declaring that the CBN was now in a better position to begin the process of moderating rates.
He stressed that stability remained important, adding that” if investors do not see stability, they do not come to those markets”.
According to him, the Naira is a lot more competitive, with increasing interest from international investors who seek to invest in the country, adding that the MPC was particularly impressed by the stability in the Foreign Exchange (FX) market with the resultant appreciation of the exchange rate and the gradual moderation in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
However, he said the central bank was still not oblivious to the risk of persisting inflationary pressures driven largely by food prices.
Justification for Monetary Easing
Only recently, Renowned economist and Chief Executive Officer of Financial Derivative Company Limited, Bismarck Rewane, commended the recent interventions by
the CBN in the foreign exchange market, saying the policies are effectively stabilising the naira.
Rewane stressed that CBN’s core mandate included maintaining external reserves to safeguard the Naira’s value, a responsibility it was currently fulfilling.
He stated that the policies embarked upon by CBN had made the foreign exchange market more transparent, thereby bringing confidence into the market and reducing speculative activities.
Speaking on ARISE TV, Rewane said, “When the CBN or the federal government intervenes to stabilise or protect the value of the naira, that is exactly what they are supposed to do.
“Secondly, we must understand what happened in line with economic objectives. The fair value of the naira, based on purchasing power parity (PPP) analysis, is 1,002.15/$1. This means the naira is 26.35 per cent undervalued.
“If you intervene to protect an overvalued currency, that is bad, but if you intervene to support an undervalued currency, you are correcting a misalignment. That is what the CBN is doing, and we applaud them for it.”
Rewane underscored key economic data supporting the effectiveness of the CBN’s interventions, saying the spread between parallel and official exchange rates has narrowed from 15-20 per cent to less than one per cent.
He said market price discovery had improved, fostering investor confidence. According to him, Nigeria’s balance of trade has reached $18.6 billion, its highest in years; and depreciation of the naira has encouraged export growth and made import substitution more viable.
Rewane highlighted the CBN’s role in unifying multiple exchange rates, which previously created a fragmented market.
He said, “There were five or six exchange rates before now. The market was segmented, with price discrimination, CBN selling at one rate while others sold back at a different rate. The CBN has now de-segmented the market,
increasing transparency and price discovery. Policies on zero-placement levels and other measures have reduced speculative activities and arbitrage, leading to stability.”
Analysts’ Perspectives
Following the macroeconomic achievements, experts believe 2025 will be characterised by a low-interest regime as the apex bank is expected to embark on a gradual easing of monetary conditions.
Nigeria’s Professor of Capital Market, Prof. Uche Uwaleke, told THISDAY that the MPC’s hold on MPR, coming at the beginning of the year, will most likely “witness a relatively low interest rate environment and a change in monetary policy stance which are pro-growth.”
He said, “It is a good decision by the MPC. It marks the end of an era of aggressive policy rate hikes against the backdrop of the rebased Consumer Price Index and stable exchange rate.
“It also signals stability in monetary policy which is good for planning purposes on the part of firms and households in particular.”
Also, renowned economist, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu, said the financial system had experienced an overstretched tightening for a long time for various reasons, some of which were outside the control of the CBN.
According to the former Director General, of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), “I am comfortable with the hold on MPR. This will ease the pressure on the money market, which has been experiencing hot foreign portfolio investments that were volatile and uncertain. “With the hold on MPR, there will be stability. I expect gradual easing in subsequent MPC meetings as the economy grows and the inflation rate decelerates.”
Although the CBN has expressed willingness to reduce interest rates, this will largely be determined by the continued success in taming inflation in the coming months.
Naira notes
EnErgy
Reviewing Solewant Group’s Strong Showing at SAIPEC 2025
With over 25 years of stellar reputation in providing advanced coating solutions to the African oil and gas industry, production of steel pipes, and metals fabrication, Solewant Group made a significant impact in the recent Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) 2025 held in Lagos, Ejiofor Alike reports
The relevance of Nigerian oil and gas services companies in the global oil and gas business was necessitated by the increasing competitiveness of Nigerian-made solutions.
Major Nigerian companies gathered in Lagos recently showcasing game-changing solutions at the Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) 2025.
SAIPEC, the largest event in the centre of Africa’s energy, oil and gas hub, is organised in partnership with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and NNPC Limited.
Solewant Group, a leader in the provision of steel pipes, pipe coating solutions, metal fabrication, manufacturing and supply of specialty protective paints, and specialty coating application solutions, showcased its latest technological innovations at the conference.
The company has also established a reputation on energy training and providing cutting-edge solutions for Africa’s oil, gas, and water industries.
It is not only a giant in the Nigerian oil and gas industry but an African success story.
As a leader in Nigerian Content Development, it aims to lead a pan African agenda with a mission: “To be a first-rate, world-class steel pipes and coating service provider to the oil, gas and water industries in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.”
A team of experts from the company was led by the Group Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Solomon Ewanehi.
The company’s delegation included top executives from its five subsidiaries: Solewant Nigeria Ltd. (SNL); Solewant Specialty Protective Coating and Paints Ltd (SSPC); Fields Joint Coatings Ltd. (FJC); Pipes and Metals Industries Ltd (PMI), and Solewant Energy Training Institute (SETI).
Key highlights of Solewant Group’s participation include the exhibition of cutting-edge technologies used in providing the company’s products and solutions for the energy industries in Africa.
At the conference, the company presented its diverse portfolio.
It emphasized PMI - engineering design, metal fabrication, pipeline structures, integrated water systems, and elevated tanks.
The company also showcased FJCL - heat shrink sleeve applications and advanced pipeline coating solutions in compliance with ISO 2016.
In the area of SSPC, the manufacturing and distribution of protective paints, specialty coatings and thermal insulation solutions were showcased.
The company also emphasised SETIindustry-relevant training programmes for oil and gas professionals, the upcoming Solewant Group 9th Energy Summit scheduled for November 27 – 28, 2025, and the Solewant Journal of energy Innovation call for paper from authors and industry professionals.
The company also participated in strategic discussions on local content and technology partnerships and collaboration.
Solewant Group also actively engaged in discussions on regional energy collaboration, local content policies, and technology-driven partnerships, aligning with SAIPEC 2025’s mission to drive Africa’s energy transition.
The company also took part in networking and business expansion opportunities
Executives from Solewant Group held strategic meetings with government agencies, multinational energy firms, and local industry leaders, fostering partnerships that will enhance Africa’s oil & gas infrastructure and energy workforce development.
The company also reiterated its commitment to delivering world-class steel pipes, pipe coating application, supply of coated pipes, fabrication of pipe/metals, provision of specialty protective paints/ coatings, engineering design and energy training solutions.
By expanding its footprint in Africa’s energy sector and forging strategic partnerships, the company aims to drive innovation,
sustainability, and technological advancement, ensuring long-term value creation for the industry and its stakeholders.
Speaking on SAIPEC, the Group Managing Director of the company, Mr Ewanehi, had stated that the company would continue to pioneer new technological innovations.
According to him, technology is a powerful enabler that drives both operational efficiency and strategic growth.
Ewanehi added that Port Harcourt-based award-winning company’s commitment to technological innovations stems from a deeply rooted belief that the future of the oil and gas industry, particularly in Africa, hinges on the continent’s ability to adapt, evolve, and integrate advanced solutions.
Before the advent of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, successive regimes had shied away from taking bold steps with a view to engaging sustainable reforms.
But with a clear vision, the President set out to engage a paradigm that is at once swift and beneficial.
Focusing on the wastelands of untapped potentials that were supposed to have created avenues of connectivity between a burgeoning Blue Economy, its deliverables on a sustainable basis and a thriving oil and gas sector, the president birthed an alluring environment that has enabled the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC Ltd, ably led by GCEO Malam Mele Kyari, to tap into and build on the potential.
Because of this, Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors are entering a new era of transformation, driven by President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to economic growth, self-sufficiency, and global competitiveness.
The recent strategic joint venture between NNPC Shipping, Stena Bulk, and Caverton Marine Limited is a landmark initiative that underscores his vision for a stronger, more resilient Blue Economy.
This partnership is more than a business deal - it is a bold step towards revolutionising Nigeria’s crude oil and gas transportation infrastructure. By modernising the country’s shipping fleet, enhancing local participation, and reducing dependence on foreign-owned vessels, this initiative positions Nigeria as a dominant force in global energy logistics.
Maximizing Nigeria’s Blue Economy Potential
President Tinubu has placed the Blue Economy at the heart of his administration’s economic agenda, recognising Nigeria’s vast coastline, strategic location, and rich maritime resources as key drivers of national prosperity.
This joint venture between NNPC Shipping, Stena Bulk, and Caverton Marine is a direct response to this vision, ensuring that Nigeria fully capitalizes on its maritime potential.
By establishing a modern, efficient, and sustainable shipping fleet, the partnership comes with the potentials to:
• Strengthen Nigeria’s crude oil and LNG transportation infrastructure;
•. Boost economic diversification by keeping more revenue within Nigeria;
• Create jobs and enhance capacity development in the maritime sector; and
• Enhance Nigeria’s self-reliance in energy logistics
For decades, Nigeria has relied on foreignowned vessels to transport its crude oil and petroleum products, leading to revenue leakages and missed economic opportunities. This partnership marks a shift toward self-sufficiency, ensuring that Nigerians benefit directly from the nation’s oil wealth.
Strengthening Crude Oil and LNG Transportation for Energy Security
Nigeria’s energy security is a top priority for President Tinubu. The transportation of crude oil, refined products, and LNG has been a long-standing challenge, with inefficiencies in logistics affecting both exports and domestic supply. This joint venture will bridge the gaps, ensuring a more reliable, cost-effective, and efficient energy supply chain.
With local refining capacity expanding through projects like NNPC’s refinery rehabilitation efforts, the need for Nigeria-controlled tanker operations has never been greater. This partnership will:
• Ensure seamless crude supply to domestic refineries;
• Support the export of refined petroleum products to regional and global markets; and
• Enhance efficiency in LNG shipping, strengthening Nigeria’s position as a global gas powerhouse
According to Panos Gliatis, Managing Director of NNPC Shipping, this venture represents a “transformational step” in Nigeria’s maritime industry. The ability to transport crude oil and gas independently will not only reduce costs but also increase Nigeria’s influence in global energy logistics.
Expanding Nigeria’s Influence in Global Energy Trade Nigeria is one of the world’s largest oil producers and a key supplier of natural gas, yet its influence in global energy transportation has been limited by dependence on foreign shippers.
This joint venture changes the narrative, positioning Nigeria as a leading force in Africa’s
maritime and energy logistics industry.
Erik Hånell, President and CEO of Stena Bulk, a global leader in tanker shipping, emphasized Nigeria’s strategic importance: “Nigeria is a vital player in the world’s oil supply, and we are excited to contribute to the modernization of its shipping industry.”
This collaboration will introduce cutting-edge maritime technology, operational excellence, and global best practices, enabling Nigeria to compete on the world stage as a top-tier energy logistics hub.
Creating Jobs and Building Local Capacity
A thriving maritime economy means more jobs for Nigerians.
This joint venture is set to generate thousands of employment opportunities for:
• Nigerian seafarers and maritime professionals;
• Engineers and technical specialists in shipping logistics; and
• Supply chain managers and port operators
Bode Makanjuola, CEO of Caverton Offshore Support Group, highlighted the shift toward local capacity building: “For decades, Nigeria has relied on foreign-owned ships to transport its crude. This partnership represents a shift toward self-reliance, ensuring that more Nigerians benefit from the enormous potential of our maritime sector.”
By investing in training, capacity development, and knowledge transfer, this initiative will help nurture a new generation of maritime professionals, reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership in the Blue Economy and global shipping sector.
Driving Innovation and Sustainability in Maritime Logistics
Beyond boosting shipping capacity, this partnership is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The initiative will introduce:
• Modern, fuel-efficient vessels that reduce carbon emissions;
• Advanced maritime technology to improve operational efficiency; and
• Sustainable logistics practices that align with global environmental standards.
Group CEO of Solewant Group, Mr Solomon Ewanehi
Olufemi Soneye
HATS OFF TO UMEOJI A COMMITMENT TO ACCOUNTING INTEGRITY
NNPCL is a transparent custodian of public funds, argues ALEX OKURENMETA
In the complex world of corporate finance, the integrity of accounting practices is paramount. There is no doubting the fact that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Nigeria’s national oil company, has at all times demonstrated its stand for transparency and accountability. This is highlighted by the recent remittance of N264 billion out of a total of N528 billion to the Federation Account. This significant financial transaction not only underscores the company’s commitment to its fiscal responsibilities, it also reflects its meticulous attention to detail in accounting practices.
Before last week’s meeting of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), there was the misleading story of how the NNPCL illegally withheld huge funds that ought to have been remitted to the federation account. But all the figures bandied about have been found to be false in the light of what the Chairman of the Finance Commissioners Forum, Akin Oyebode, confirmed on Thursday.
Speaking against the background of the FAAC meeting which held in Abuja on Monday, Oyebode explained that NNPCL was supposed to remit N528 billion but opted to pay half of the amount while reconciliation efforts were still ongoing to determine the actual amount that is due to both the federation and the NNPCL, particularly regarding fuel subsidy payments. At the least, contrary to the humongous amount being bandied around by mischief makers, a competent authority has made a firm pronunciation on the matter.
Globally, financial integrity is the cornerstone of any reputable organization, especially in the public sector where the implications of financial mismanagement can be far-reaching. For NNPCL, a stateowned enterprise that plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s economy, maintaining a high standard of financial integrity is essential. The remittance of N264 billion to the Federation Account is a testament to the company’s adherence to ethical accounting practices and its commitment to contributing to the national treasury.
The Federation Account serves as a central pool of revenue for the Nigerian government and other sub-national governments which include the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory and the 774 local government areas. By remitting a substantial portion of its earnings, NNPCL not only fulfills its legal obligations but also demonstrates its role as a responsible corporate citizen.
The process of financial reporting and remittance is intricate and requires a high level of precision. NNPCL’s ability to accurately account for its revenues and expenses is indicative of its robust accounting systems and practices. The company employs a team of skilled accountants and financial analysts who are dedicated to ensuring that every transaction
is recorded accurately and transparently. Attention to detail in accounting is not merely about numbers; it encompasses a comprehensive understanding of the financial landscape in which the company operates.
NNPCL’s financial team meticulously tracks oil production, sales, and associated costs, ensuring that all figures are reconciled and verified before any remittance is made. This rigorous process minimizes the risk of errors and discrepancies, which can have significant implications for both the company and the broader economy.
Moreover, NNPCL’s commitment to transparency is further enhanced by its adherence to international financial reporting standards (IFRS). By aligning its accounting practices with globally recognized standards, the company not only enhances its credibility but also facilitates easier scrutiny by regulatory bodies and stakeholders. This level of transparency is crucial in an industry often scrutinized for its financial practices.
In today’s digital age, technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of accounting practices.
NNPCL has embraced advanced financial management systems that automate many aspects of the accounting process. These systems reduce the likelihood of human error and provide real-time data analysis, allowing for more informed decision-making.
The integration of technology into NNPCL’s accounting practices also facilitates better tracking of financial transactions. With sophisticated software, the company can monitor cash flows, manage budgets, and generate financial reports with remarkable accuracy. This technological advancement not only streamlines operations but also reinforces the company’s commitment to maintaining high standards of financial integrity.
The remittance of N264 billion to the Federation Account for the month of January is more than just a financial transaction; it is a statement of accountability. NNPCL understands that its actions have a direct impact on the lives of millions of Nigerians. By ensuring that funds are accurately reported and remitted, the company plays a vital role in supporting government initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Accountability is a two-way street. While NNPCL is responsible for its financial practices, it also expects transparency and accountability from the government in how these funds are utilized. This mutual understanding fosters a collaborative relationship between the corporation and the government, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Nigeria.
The NNPCL under the leadership of Mallam Mele Kyari, it must be stated, has consistently delivered remarkable results that counter the ill-informed narratives of inefficiency and opaqueness being sponsored by industry competitors.
INGRAM OSIGWE writes that Zenith Bank is experiencing remarkable growth under the leadership of Adaora Umeoji
With the THISDAY Bank of the Year 2024 award in its kitty, Zenith Bank under the dynamic leadership of Dame Adaora Umeoji has further established itself as an unassailable leader in the industry. On the international banking stage, Zenith bank has left an exhilarating mark in France with the opening of its Paris branch.
Umeoji who is the bank’s first ever female Group Executive Officer took over the affairs of the bank last year, bringing with her innovation, transformation, skill leadership, rock-solid experience and unwavering commitment to sustainable banking.
Under her the the bank has been recording exponential growth, a testament to dedication and doggedness.
Zenith is evidently outpacing other banks and this is happening less than one year after Dame Umeoji took charge of the bank.Through her managerial acumen and sound strategic policies, Zenith Bank, according to the bank’s audited halfyear financial results presented last year recorded an impressive 117 per cent in gross earnings from N967. 3 billion reported in the half-year (H1) of 2023 to N2. 1 trillion in H1 2024.
5.23bn ordinary shares of 50 kobo each, priced at N36.00 per share, and was fully subscribed.
In the same vein, Zenith Bank’s public offer of 4.44bn ordinary shares at N36.50 per share recorded an oversubscription of 160.47 per cent.
The bank’s phenomenal growth also brought about a 108 per cent year-on-year (YoY) increase in profit before tax, from N350 billion in H1 2023 to N727 billion in H1 2024.
Profit after tax also grew by 98 per cent from N292 billion to N578 billion in the same period, leading to growth in earnings per share (EPS) by 98 per cent from N9.29 in H1 2023 to N18.41 within the period. The rise in gross earnings was conditioned by an acceleration in both interest income and noninterest income. Fired by the growth of and by the effective pricing of risk assets, Zenith Bank’s interest income shot pass the N1 trillion mark, a half-year record, growing by 177 per cent from N415.4 billion in H1 2023 to N1.1 trillion in H1 2024, while non-interest income grew by 74 per cent from N515.7 billion to N899.3 billion.
Having won the confidence of stakeholders and shareholders via its burgeoning growth and performance, Zenith Bank recently listed extra 9.67bn ordinary shares on the Nigerian Exchange Limited. This came on the heels of the successful completion of its hybrid offer, which comprised a rights issue and a public offer. The rights issue was
The bank’s total issued and fully paid-up shares have now increased from 31.40bn to 41.07bn ordinary shares of 50 kobo each. Dr. Umeoji has nearly three decades of cognate banking experience and over 20 years of extensive executive management expertise in Zenith Bank. She has established herself as one of the leading figures within the banking sector. She is the Chairperson of Zenith Nominees Limited and she sits on the board of Zenith Bank (Ghana) Plc as a nonexecutive director. Prior to her appointment as GMD/ CEO, Umeoji June last year, Dame Umeoji had served as the Deputy Managing Director of Zenith Bank from 28 October 2016 to 31 May 2024. On 9 October 2012, Umeoji was appointed to the Board of Zenith Bank, further solidifying her position as a key leader within the organization. As a board member, she contributed valuable insights and expertise, helping to shape the bank’s strategic direction and drive sustainable growth. Dame Umeoji obtained a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Jos, and another Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Baze University, Abuja. She completed the Advanced Management Program (AMP) at Harvard Business School, United States and earned a Certificate in the Global Banking Program from Columbia Business School, United States. Umeoji also received Master of Laws from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Calabar. She also holds a doctorate in business administration from Apollos University. Dame Umeoji earned a Certificate in Economics for Business from MIT Sloan School of Management, and completed the strategic thinking and management programme at Wharton Business School.
Okurenmeta, a public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
OBASA AND THE CRISIS IN LAGOS ASSEMBLY
Why is Obasa being enabled to take the law into his own hands?
Last Thursday’s invasion of the Lagos State House of Assembly by former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, backed by a phalanx of armed policemen and personnel of other security agencies constitutes an assault on the nation’s democracy and the rule of law. According to reports, Obasa forced his way into the premises and seized control of the Speaker’s office occupied by his successor, Mojisola Meranda. Declaring himself the “authentic” Speaker, he then proceeded to hold a “plenary session” with only four of the 40 members of the assembly who are in his camp.
The well reported invasion does not only capture the violent audacity of Obasa and his supporters; it is also an indictment on law enforcement and political authorities at the state and federal levels whose actions and inactions are directly and indirectly fueling the crisis in the legislative arm of the nation’s economic capital. It would be a mistake to treat Obasa’s actions with levity. Apart from the terrible example it sets, it has the potential to inspire similar anarchic actions in other states which would be extremely unhelpful to the nation’s democracy.
Obasa, who represents Agege Constituency I, was removed on 13 January 2025, by 36 out of the 40 members of the House, in an emergency plenary, citing allegations of misconduct, abuse of office and financial impropriety. He was promptly replaced by his (former) deputy, Meranda. Although Obasa has gone to court to challenge the constitutionality of his removal, he is being aided by some rogue security agents to use extrajudicial powers not only to intimidate colleagues but also to cause confusion in the House. More unfortunate is the insinuation that Obasa is being emboldened by some political godfathers from the state whose consent was not sought before the lawmakers removed him as Speaker. It is difficult to reconcile Obasa’s actions with the well documented facts. It is clear that his support within the Assembly that he led for a decade is largely gone. In the aftermath of the invasion, a majority of his colleagues – about 36
according to reports – came out to condemn his actions and rejected his leadership. He is, in effect, attempting a minority coup against the majority. The whole issue also signposts the dubious roles of the forces and tendencies which support his effrontery, not least the leadership of the law enforcement agencies whose failure to take any action against the policemen who accompanied Obasa on his unholy mission suggests their complicity. Since it is obvious that the former Speaker no longer commands the trust of his colleagues, his enablers must also understand that recourse to blackmail, intimidation and all forms of coercion is unconscionable.
SUNDAY NEWSPAPER
editor DAviDSoN iRiekpeN
deputy editors FeSTUS AkANBi eJioFoR ALike
Managing director eNioLA BeLLo
deputy Managing director iSRAeL iwegBU
chairMan editorial Board oLUSegUN ADeNiYi
editor nation s capital iYoBoSA UwUgiAReN the oMBudsMan kAYoDe koMoLAFe
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
editor-in-chief/chairMan NDUkA oBAigBeNA
group executive directors eNioLA BeLLo, kAYoDe koMoLAFe, iSRAeL iwegBU divisional directors SHAkA MoMoDU, peTeR iwegBU ANTHoNY ogeDeNgBe deputy divisional director oJogUN viCToR DANBoYi snr. associate director eRiC oJeH
associate director pATRiCk eiMiUHi controllers ABiMBoLA TAiwo UCHeNNA DiBiAgwU, NDUkA MoSeRi
director, printing production CHUkS oNwUDiNJo to send eMail: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
The unfortunate saga has raised pertinent questions. How is it that someone removed as Speaker could be given so much security protection to break into a House of Assembly to ‘preside’ over a kangaroo session? What kind of democracy are we practicing if lawmakers cannot assert their own independence even on matters as simple as who presides over their affairs? Since Obasa has already gone to court over his removal, why is he being enabled to take the law into his own hands? What we are witnessing in Lagos, according to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and candidate of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the 2023 general election, “is a calculated attempt to subvert the will of the legislature through backdoor tactics and the deployment of state-backed security forces to strong-arm elected representatives.”
Now that Obasa and his estranged colleagues have returned to court over various aspects of the issue, we can only hope that the matter will be resolved quickly. But the presidency should be worried about the negative optics and unhealthy speculations that the matter has inspired. It is time to seek a resolution that recognises the rule of law and constitutionality as well as the norms that anchor healthy democratic practice. Public trust in government and institutions is currently low. The priority should be to encourage policies and interventions that deepen and sustain our democracy. Not those that escalate doubt and cynicism.
Letters in response to specific publications in THiSDAY should be brief(150-200 words) and straight to the point. interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. we also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer
LETTERS
RESTORING NIGERIA’S ENERGY SECURITY
For over a decade, Nigeria endured severe losses to its oil reserves due to theft and vandalism. The Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) documented that between 2009 and 2020, 619.7 million barrels of crude oil, valued at $46.16 billion, were illicitly removed from national custody. The zenith of this crisis occurred in 2016, with 101.6 million barrels lost—equivalent to 278,356 barrels daily—resulting in a revenue shortfall of $4.6 billion at an average price of $46.07 per barrel. Between 2017 and 2021, NEITI recorded 7,143 incidents of pipeline sabotage, leading to the theft of 208.639 million barrels, worth $12.74 billion, while the nation expended N471.493 billion on pipeline restoration. These losses deprived Nigeria of vital resources for public infrastructure.
A significant shift transpired in 2023. NEITI reported a 79% reduction in oil theft, from 36.69 million barrels in 2022 to 7.68 million in 2023, attributing this to enhanced resource governance. By January 2025, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission announced theft had declined to 5,000 barrels daily, elevating crude production to 1.75 million barrels per day—a testament to effective policy.
This progress commenced with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s inauguration in May 2023, followed by the appointment of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as National Security Adviser on 19 June 2023. Ribadu’s expertise swiftly addressed the underpinnings of oil theft. In March 2024, President Tinubu appointed Dr. Dennis Brutu
Otuaro as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Departing from prior politically motivated selections, Otuaro’s strategic acumen enabled him to serve as a unifying figure for former militants and disenfranchised youths—key constituencies exploited by oil thieves—thereby fostering stability in the Niger Delta.
Collaborating with Ribadu, Otuaro supported the formation of a 20-man Energy Security Working Group, chaired by Ledum Mittee, targeting two million barrels daily. Guided by the watchful eyes of the National Security Adviser, bolstered by the efforts of Tantita Security Limited, an indigenous security outfit and augmented by military diligence,
these measures have curtailed losses as NEITI has affirmed.
The success achieved by Tantita Security, has shown without any doubt that deepening community engagement and driving community participation is critical to protecting and managing the nation’s oil and gas assets.
The administration’s focus on competent leadership offers Nigeria a path to global energy prominence. The Niger Delta Energy Security Forum calls for unwavering commitment to this course, essential for national prosperity.
Kerley Sowunari George, Convener, Niger Delta Energy Security Forum, Port Harcourt
ResJudicatain Law and Diplomacy and the Emerging CCC Doctrine: The Challenge of Juridico-Political Abuse
The dispute between the Board of Trustees (BOT) of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Worldwide and the Pastor of the Church worldwide, Reverend Emmanuel Mobiyina Oshoffa, took a new dimension with the mediation efforts of the incumbent President of the Republic of Benin, Mr. Patrice Talon. Some members of the BOT took the Pastor to court over whether he can always act unilaterally on the basis of Section 108 of the CCC Constitution to the detriment of several other provisions of the same Constitution.
Section 108 of the CCC Constitution says ‘the Pastor, as the ultimate Spiritual Head of the Celestial Church of Christ worldwide, shall be vested with the sole, ultimate, and unchallengeable authority on all matters affecting church life be it planning, organisation, doctrinal standards and spread of doctrines, education, legislation, or discipline, the provisions of this constitution notwithstanding.’
The BOT worldwide has no qualms until the advent of CAMA 2020 which requires the submission of financial situation report twice in a year (June and December) to the Corporate Affairs Commission, failure to comply with the requirement attracts a jail term or fines. When the BOT asked those charged with the management of the financial resources of the Church to provide information on church resources, they refused to comply, arguing that they were only responsible to the Pastor.
The BOT made it crystal clear that the Constitution of the Church cannot take precedence before the Law of the Land because it contradicts the law of Nigeria. Any church constitution that disregards any law of Nigeria cannot but be faced with nullity. Like no sovereign state is allowed to derogate any peremptory norm of international law, no church constitution can override the laws of Nigeria. The Pastor, ill advised, unilaterally dissolved the BOT and the Pastor-in-Council contrarily to the Constitution. The BOT, in the larger interest of the CCC worldwide, referred the matter to the court for legal interpretation of Section 108. It is against this background that the emerging CCC doctrine and the mediation efforts of President Patrice Talon of the Republic of Benin are explained in the context of res judicata.
Res Judicata and Emerging CCC Doctrine
Res Judicata is a doctrine whose origin has been traced to the Roman Law and traced back to the 1774 Case of the Duchesse of Kingston 20 Howell’s State Trials 355. It has three defining features: judicial economy, consistency, and finality. Res Judicata is the Latin word for ‘the thing has been judged.’ It refers to an issue before a court that has already been decided upon by another court, between the same parties. Consequently, Res Judicata is not simply an issue considered to have been judged by a competent court, but also one that does not deserve revisiting again. The principles of res gestae and res ipsa loquitor lend much credence to this observation. Res gestae simply means ‘things done’ in terms of all circumstances surrounding and connected with an event, happening, or a crime. Res ipsa loquitor refers to ‘the thing speaks for itself.’
And true enough, Res Judicata is a resultant from the maxim nemo debet bis vexari pro una eteadem causa, meaning ‘no one should be troubled twice for the same cause.’ The origination of the principle under the Medieval Canon Law was basically to prevent endless disputes. In the same vein, under English Common Law, Res Judicata underscores judgment to have finality in order to protect judicial integrity and unnecessary redundant litigation. More importantly, Res Judicata has not only become a fundamental legal principle under civil law tradition but has also been generally applied in international tribunals and arbitration courts.
From the foregoing therefore, Res Judicata prevents double jeopardy in criminal law. It promotes legal certainty across borders, as well as enhances fairness and finality of litigations. In other words, when a thing or an issue has been judged, it necessarily speaks for itself thereafter, especially along with its definienda. If it is to be revisited for whatever reason, the judgment can only be appealed to, but not to the applicable principle per se. This is why the desire of the legal team seeking to defend the Pastor of the CCC worldwide, Reverend Emmanuel Mobiyina Oshoffa, at the Federal High Court, in Ikoyi, Lagos, is quite thought-provoking. Very
thought-provoking because it is a direct assault on the principle of Res Judicata, which is a critical principle of international law and diplomatic practice.
Put differently and interrogatively, what happens to the principle of precedence? The quest to have the doctrine of res judicata thrown into the garbage of history in Nigeria’s legal system largely explains why the Celestial Church of Christ is always fraught with mountainous problems and setbacks that have always impeded the spiritual progress of the church. By intending to submit an application to the court with the ultimate objective of an alternative dispute resolution, Pastor Mobiyina Oshoffa’s legal team cannot but have the potential to taint the good image of the Pastor and that of the CCC worldwide. It particularly has the potential to destroy whatever the principle of precedence stands for in judicial settlements. This is why the Pastor and the CCC must learn to admit that the laws of the CCC cannot override the laws of Nigeria or of Benin Republic. The Pastor must admit that darkness and light cannot be friends as darkness readily gives way to light to rein. In other words, parallel lines of truth can never meet with parallel lines of untruth and remissness. This is the missing point in the mediation of the dispute by President Patrice Talon.
The Pastor has the major problem of surrounding himself with people who purport to know more than he does, and by so doing, his kitchen cabinet is consciously misleading him. And joyfully too, the Pastor prefers to be misled and therefore continues to be wrapped up in the glory of making one step forward, but two steps backward. The progress he claimed to have made has actually
What President Talon has done, as good as it may look, cannot be helpful to a truly united church. It only has the potential to unite the Francophones against the Anglophone and Lusophone members of the Church. In essence, thousands of Nigerians want to eke out a good living by simply passing most of their precious time in churches and mosques but without accepting dint of hard work as the first clue to good life, safety, and security. Nigeria is one of the leading religious countries in the world. Yet Nigeria still remains a fantastically corrupt country. The court is believed to be the last hope for justice but lawyers use technical arguments to undermine justice in the courts. People who are elected to make laws for the purposes of good governance are the very people leaving at home their own wives and running after other married women and promoting promiscuity as a legislative business. The CCC is supposed to be the last boat of salvation but it is divided against itself. Churches are worshiping money and pastors but not God. It is sex for marks in the universities. It is sex for acceptance of passage of bills in the National Assembly. It is now an offence to be honest and patriotic in Nigeria. If President Talon of Benin Republic makes Benin Republic, especially Agongue, the CCC route, a new world tourist centre, who is to blame? Who is to be blamed if the already approved Celestial International University is relocated from Imeko to Benin Republic? Nigerians should learn how to worship God with common sense
and sharply divided the church irreconcilably as of today. The intervention of the Beninois president, Patrice Talon, has worsened the matter by ignoring what led to the court litigation in Nigeria. Before expatiating on this, let us look into the status and argument of the legal team of the Pastor in the court.
Please let me note for the avoidance of doubt that I am an ‘educated’ but not ‘learned’ like lawyers in law. However, I observe that Pastor Mobiyina Oshoffa’s legal team has been acting contrarily to the provisions of the Legal PractitionersAct (CAP.20 LFN 1990).Arguing as a layman, I also observe that the team is creating more problems for the Pastor than it is seeking a more harmonious understanding. First, as clearly provided in Section 17(5) of the Act, ‘a lawyer shall not appear as counsel for a client in a legal proceeding in which the lawyer is himself a party.’ In this particular litigation, the lead counsel to the Pastor is precisely the newly appointed secretary of the unregistered Board of Trustees, one major reason for the court litigation. He has generally been so presented in many Church advertorials and he has not denounced the adverts. The lead counsel, therefore, has a vested interest.
Secondly, there is complete disregard for the requirements of CAMA 2020. Why should lawyers be encouraging disrespect for rule of law? Are they no longer agents and instruments of justice? Thirdly, the disregard for rule of law has destabilized and fragmented the CCC worldwide in various ramifications. The Church is now in disarray which should not be the case. Will there ever be an end to conscious misleading of the Pastor? Time will tell.
Fourthly, paragraph (6) of the same Section 17 of the Legal Practitioners Act says ‘where a lawyer is required to decline employment or to withdraw from employment under any of these rules, no partner, associate or any other lawyer affiliated with him or his firm may accept or continue such employment.’ This is the law but the situational reality on the ground is the contrary. Baron de Montesquieu, the French political philosopher who theorized the separation of powers, that power should be decentralized, and that all men are born equal but society makes them lose their equality, could not have been more correct when he also observed that ‘there is no greater tyranny than that which is perpetrated under the shield of the law and in the name of justice.’
As noted earlier, the registered BOT of the CCC worldwide has no problem whatsoever with the person of the Pastor but fundamentally disagrees with any conscious disregard for the rule of law that impedes rather than promote better entente and spiritual progress of the CCC in all ramifications. For instance, the Pastor’s legal team informed the presiding judge at the last court session about an impending application that would ask for the possibility of setting aside an earlier judgment of Justice Peter Lifu in the strong belief that the presiding judge was not pretty bound to accept or continue with the judgment of Justice Lifu. The background to this is necessary at this juncture.
It was Justice Lifu that began with the trial of the case more than two years ago. During the period, he made a number of rulings as a result of unending tactical preliminary objections by the defendants. The objections were aimed at not enabling justice to be quickly done. The legal team tried to secure the transfer of the case to Alternative Dispute Resolution to which the BOT worldwide was not against. But as the French often say, order and counter-order always amount to disorder. Whenever an order is countered, it first and necessarily engenders an encounter. It is when the encounter is not promptly and effectively managed that it finally results in disorder.
When it became very apparent that unending adjournments was creating more problems than solving them, and also because apparently but deductively, Justice Peter Lifu handled all the litigants under transparency and fear of God, he decided that the case should go for trial in light of the inability of both the appellants and defendants to reach agreement on the matter. It is precisely the judgment of not going through the alternative dispute resolution process that Pastor Mobiyina Oshoffa’s legal team is asking the new trial judge to undo what Justice Peter Lifu, who was transferred from Lagos to Abuja, and was therefore unable to conclude the trial of the case. Deductively, the legal team appeared to want to take advantage of the newness of the Judge on the matter by suggesting that it intended to come up with a fresh application in which he would be asking the judge to review the earlier judgment of his learned colleague contrarily to the rule of res judicata. As if this is not enough a problematic, President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic has added salt into the injury with his offer of mediation and actions.
Challenges of Juridico-Political Abuse
President Patrice Guillaume Talon, a successful business entrepreneur elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2022, played host to a meeting purportedly accommodating all diocesan delegates in Benin Republic. Pastor Mobiyina Oshoffa was there but it was not clear in what capacity he was there and in what capacity President Talon offered his mediation of the dispute and strategy for unification of the CCC. Is the mediation initiative that of Pastor Mobiyina Oshoffa or that of President Talon? What makes the Pastor to believe that there could be any constructive way out after refusing the more authentic mediation of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo? The mediation by Chief Obasanjo, held in his Presidential Library, was a major strategic miscalculation by the Pastor for not listening to the former Nigerian leader. The conversations were very frank and the principal disputants were all there.
Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com
Talon
Builder of A Sustainable Future Habeeb Okunola
Habeeb Okunola, a man of infectious optimism, is the brains behind TILT Group, one of the leading construction companies in the country. His rollercoaster journey to success bears testimony to triumph over adversity. In a chat with Bayo Adeoye, he shares insights into what drives him in the real estate and construction sectors.
I Hate Procrastination, It’s Dangerous and Kills
People often assume that Habeeb Okunola, the Chairman of TILT Group, was born with a silver spoon, an impression reinforced by his polished appearance and privileged social standing. However, in reality, Okunola has experienced his own share of grass-to-grace moments.
Okunola grew up in Surulere where he lacked most of the comforts of life. To be sure, he is never shy to disclose those humbling experiences that fired him up to aim higher and refused to be defined by his environment. To achieve this required him to be strategic about the kind of people he associated himself with. Rather than engage in palmwine bar conversations that would derail him from his future plans, he spent most of his days in libraries in his neighbourhood, where he pored over books that offered nuggets of information on how to be a successful entrepreneur as well as autobiographies or biographies of globally acclaimed personalities.
For a man who displayed entrepreneurial qualities early in life, many were surprised when he chose to study Philosophy at the University of Lagos, Akoka. For a while, he faced criticism from those who believed his choice might hinder his entrepreneurial ambitions. However, unbeknownst to his critics, studying Philosophy provided him with a strong foundation, shaping him into a critical thinker and strategic planner.
When asked if he had any regrets studying Philosophy, he quickly quipped: “Philosophy is the foundation of life. You apply philosophy to everything you do in life. There is the philosophy of life and there is the philosophy of work and business. Everybody has a potential that he or she is born with and it will continue to hunt you until you do the right thing.”
There couldn’t be any greater evidence that Okunola was totally immersed in his area of study as an undergraduate, having been convinced about its potential benefits. No wonder, he graduated with good grades, a feat that would later propel him to further his studies at a University in London, United Kingdom.
Buoyed by a clear vision, he returned to Nigeria, and aggressively pursued his business plans. Interestingly, of all the thriving businesses he was introduced to, only the real estate business caught his fancy. Before entering the sector, he conducted feasibility studies and was convinced it had great potential. Confident in his findings, he acquired large plots of land near educational institutions in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State. Many who knew of his plans gave him their approval. Unfortunately, things took a wrong turn when he later discovered that the land was classified for agricultural use by the state government, thwarting his business intentions.
Reflecting on the situation, Okunola described it as “a big setback,” as it left him burdened with significant debt.
Despite the doleful experience, he expressed an infectious stoicism, saying: “I have the belief that every setback is an opportunity to learn a lesson and garner experience. My philosophy has been that failure can often lead to valuable insights and future success. Despite the financial losses incurred from this experience, I did not allow it to deter me. Instead, I shifted my focus to new developments and opportunities. You don’t see every failure as failure; rather, you see every failure as
a stepping stone to success.”
Not one to give up easily on his cherished dream, Okunola subsequently made a strategic investment with the purchase of about 200 plots of land in Mopo Onibenju located in the Ogombo axis of Ajah, Lagos. After negotiating a manageable down payment, he cleverly employed aggressive marketing strategies to sell the land. The trick worked wonders, as he paid up his debts to the community and made huge profits.
Flashing a winsome smile, Okunola, the Aare Tayese of Iseyinland, stated unequivocally that the project was like the launch pad to greatness for him. At that point, he didn’t need any soothsayer to tell him that he was already on the right path.
“The journey to big businesses started from there,” he said. “Thereafter, we moved to Epe; we moved outside of Lagos and then to Akwa-Ibom. We bought large expanses of land and resold them to real estate companies, cooperative societies and unions.”
It was a defining moment for him, as he was able to join the fold of the big players in the real estate business in the country.
Okunola, who described himself as the greater risk taker, emphasised that “I am not afraid of risks. My appetite for risks is extremely high. I love risk, but it has to be calculated. I am the greatest risk-taker around. Risk is part of our life. If you don’t take the risk, you will never achieve your purpose on earth.”
At some point, Okunola felt he had conquered the world of real estate business and began to tinker with the idea of going into the construction business. Anyone around him saw
that he meant business. So, when he eventually came on the scene, the world couldn’t help but notice his existence. He branded the company in a way that set tongues wagging about it. He named the new construction outfit TILT, an acronym for Trust, Integrity, Loyalty and Transparency.
But beyond this, the company’s competitive advantage lies in its famed value creation and procurement, among others.
In the little time that he ventured into the construction business, he grew his clientele. It is on record that he built, constructed and reconstructed many government roads across Lagos State. He also left his imprint on several projects dotting the length and breadth of the country.
In 2015, TILT Construction recorded a landmark achievement when the Federal Government beat a path to its door. It was a fruitful partnership, as the company was contracted to build housing estates for the Nigeria Air Force in Benin, Akure, Ibadan, Osun and Gombe states, among others. This was in addition to building housing estates for the Nigerian Navy.
His winning streak, in the testimonies of those who have been following his rising profile in the industry, revolves around his ability to think out of the box, while also employing the virtues of patience and trust in his dealings.
TILT Construction has metamorphosed into the TILT Group, which has now expanded beyond the shores of Nigeria.
Speaking on the phenomenal growth of the company, he said: “One thing we have over our competitors is our
honesty, integrity and transparency. This has stood us out. Whatever dealings you are involved in, you must have integrity and be honest, no matter the situation.
“It’s about adding value and ensuring a win-win scenario for both the government and myself.
“We are among the biggest construction companies in Nigeria today. But we didn’t achieve this in one day. It was due to our integrity and, of course, the grace of God.”
With this singular act, he wormed himself into the hearts of those in government as he was honoured with two national awards in quick succession: Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
TILT Group is not totally insulated against the inclement business environment in the country. But rather than lamenting the perceived harsh policies of the government, Okunola sees it as a necessary sacrifice to birth a better Nigeria. He sees light at the end of the tunnel. His conviction, he said, is based on the fact that “Nothing good comes easy. The government policies affect everyone. But are they good policies that will benefit everyone in the long run? Yes, I believe so. Is it something that will make us happy at the end of the day? Yes, it is. Anyone who complains now without looking at the future is not being realistic. We will all benefit from these economic policies in the future. This, I believe absolutely. The economy is driving towards the right direction.”
For Okunola, the Akosin of Yorubaland, life is not all about making money, even legitimately. A meaningful life, he believes, impacts the lives of others around. So, he always tries as much as possible to inspire the people around him through his deeds and utterances.
Though he doesn’t claim to be a motivational speaker, he leaves you with a lasting impression whenever he offers his candid advice on how to live a meaningful life. He said: “If you want anything good in life, you must work for it and have it at the back of your mind that Rome was not built in a day. You don’t achieve your heart’s desires in a day; rather, you can achieve them with hard work and more work. You must be a critical thinker; don’t be mentally lazy. The problem with many people is that we don’t prepare for what we pray for. I also tell the youths to take advantage of time and chance. I mean 24 hours is a long time for you not to achieve anything.
“For me every minute counts. I hate procrastination; it’s dangerous and it kills. Also, I keep emphasizing to the youth about collaborations.”
In a concrete demonstration of his abiding service to humanity, Okunolah also launched the Habeeb Okunola Foundation (HOF) which caters to the downtrodden and provides financial support to indigent students across various tertiary institutions, among others.
Last December, Okunola distributed assorted items to over 1,000 indigent people. His rationale behind his philanthropic gestures is that “one can’t claim to be wealthy until one is able to make positive impacts in people’s lives.”
As he continues to dazzle under the klieg lights of both the local and international media for his feats in the construction business, with projects spreading as far as Dubai, the United Kingdom, Benin Republic, and Singapore, among others, Okunola never fails to appreciate his wife—whom he met while an undergraduate at the University of Lagos for her unconditional love and ceaseless prayers over him and their lovely children.
Okunola
HighLife
North and 2027: A House Divided or a Unified Front?
As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 presidential election, discussions on zoning and regional unity have taken centre stage. Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has given the strongest nod to the zoning principle, urging northern political leaders like Atiku Abubakar, Bala Mohammed, and Nasir El-Rufai to cool down and give zoning a chance.
Akume’s remarks come amid reports that some northern leaders are strategizing for a return to power in 2027, despite President Bola Tinubu’s tenure still in its first term. With the South likely to push for a full eight-year cycle before power rotates again, the North’s political manoeuvers could trigger tensions.
Against Akume’s position, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has asserted that the North lacks a unified plan and is grappling with internal divisions. According to him, the region’s economic struggles and governance failures are lamentable, ergo, the need for a clear vision.
These conflicting positions expose a critical dilemma: Is the North rallying behind a common goal, or is it fragmented by competing interests? Some leaders seem to be focused on reclaiming the presidency, but others are arguing that governance, economic growth, and social development should take precedence over power struggles. Without question, this divide could weaken the region’s bargaining power, especially if southern political forces consolidate around the principle of power rotation.
If a consensus is not reached, the North could enter the 2027 elections with multiple candidates, splitting its votes and reducing its chances of success. Meanwhile, a strong southern bloc could capitalize on this division to strengthen its grip on power.
In the coming months, power brokers in the North will have to decide whether to pursue unity or allow internal rivalry to dictate their fate. Political history shows that divided factions rarely succeed in securing high office. If Northern leaders remain at odds, the 2027 election could mark a turning point where regional influence is diminished by a lack of cohesion.
with KAYoDe ALFreD 08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com
...Amazing lifestyles of Nigeria’s rich and famous Sanusi and Kano’s Crown of Thorns
Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II’s return to the Kano throne last May was meant to be a moment of triumph, a restoration of dignity after his unceremonious removal in 2020. Instead, like a king summoned back to the battlefield, Sanusi now finds himself in yet another power struggle.
The Emir’s 2019 removal was widely seen as politically-motivated, orchestrated by thenGovernor Abdullahi Ganduje, who carved the historic Kano Emirate into five smaller emirates to diminish Sanusi’s influence. The fairly recent repeal of this law reinstated him, but the legal battle over the legitimacy of his rule is far from over.
Sanusi is no stranger to adversity. When he was the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, he made powerful enemies by exposing corruption in the petroleum sector. His economic reforms stabilized Nigeria’s
Bayo Onanuga has an admirable skill: the ability to tell a story so confidently that one
banking system during the 2009 financial crisis, but his outspokenness ultimately cost him his job, according to some. His tenure as emir seems to be following the same script.
There is surely still legal and political uncertainty, but Sanusi is wasting no time asserting his authority.
Once, the Kano throne was a seat of unquestioned influence; now, it seems to have become a battleground for political control. Some yet see Sanusi’s reinstatement as justice served, others view it as an attempt by Governor Abba Yusuf’s administration to erase the legacy of Ganduje’s reforms. So, new troubles are over the horizon.
A proverb says, “He who wears the crown must carry its weight.” Sanusi, a man who has always carried his burdens with defiance, is once again at the mercy of forces determined to unseat him. Whether he can hold onto his throne or if Kano’s crown of thorns will pierce him more deeply than he can recover from is something that only the passing of time can reveal.
Between Bayo Onanuga and Osinbajo
might momentarily doubt their own memory. This time, his argument is that former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo was wrong to call Ibrahim Babangida a tormentor of Bola Tinubu. Onanuga insists that Babangida was, in fact, an inspiration, not an oppressor.
Now, history might have something different to say. In the early ’90s, Tinubu, then a senator, was among those who opposed the military’s dissolution of the Senate. That military was led by Babangida, who, after annulling the June 12 elections, effectively sent democracy packing. However, according to Onanuga, this was all part of a grand mentorship programme.
One has to wonder: If Babangida’s actions indirectly pushed Tinubu towards a political career, does that erase the reality of what happened? By this logic, a person thrown into exile by a dictator should be grateful for the “opportunity” to become a freedom fighter. It’s not a very accurate way to frame history.
Onanuga also claims that Tinubu’s real troubles only started under Sani Abacha. Fair enough—Abacha was a harsher enforcer. But does that absolve Babangida of his role in
setting the stage? Was it not Babangida’s actions that created the political chaos that made a dictator like Abacha inevitable?
Former Vice President Osinbajo, for his part, seems to have merely stated what most people already know. His comment at the book launch was not a revelation but a widely accepted recollection of events. Yet, Onanuga appears determined to refute even the most straightforward of historical accounts—perhaps out of duty, or perhaps because loyalty demands it.
There is something almost amusing about how Onanuga defends Tinubu. If tomorrow someone claimed Tinubu was a mythical creature from folklore, one gets the feeling Onanuga would appear on national television to confirm it, as long as it was framed positively. A spokesman’s job is to defend, but sometimes, a little restraint might do wonders. Why does this matter? Well, when the rewriting of history happens in real-time, it forces people to question what they know. And when history is constantly reshaped to suit political narratives, the truth becomes just another opinion. And that, more than anything, is worth thinking about.
AbdulSamad Rabiu: Redefining Philanthropy Through Legacy
At the launch of ‘A Journey in Service,’ the memoir of former military President Ibrahim Babangida, AbdulSamad Rabiu emerged as one of the most significant contributors to the IBB Presidential Library project. With a single donation of 5 billion, he showed how much of a commitment he has towards preserving Nigeria’s political and historical legacy.
The event, held at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, brought together past and present leaders, business magnates, and dignitaries. While others contributed, Rabiu’s donation was the largest single commitment, reinforcing his belief in documenting governance and leadership. General Babangida himself acknowledged Rabiu’s unwavering support, recognizing his role in keeping historical narratives alive.
For Rabiu, libraries are more than just buildings; they are symbols of knowledge, continuity, and national identity. His financial pledge was not merely about erecting a structure but about ensuring that future
Fayose Brothers No Longer on
Once upon a time, the Fayose brothers stood together like a wellfortified castle. Ayo, the political warlord; Isaac, the outspoken businessman; and Otunba, the ambitious contender. But now, their family WhatsApp group is probably quieter than a graveyard—no morning greetings, no forwarded prayers, just cold, hard silence.
Isaac fired the first shots recently, accusing Ayo of wrecking the PDP alongside Nyesom Wike. In his eyes, his elder brother was like a tenant who burns down the house after years of rent-free living. Betrayed and
generations have access to Nigeria’s history. He sees education and historical preservation as investments in the country’s long-term development.
His philanthropy extends far beyond this single act. Through the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa), he has channelled significant resources into healthcare, education, and social development. Whether through funding research institutions, equipping hospitals, or supporting young entrepreneurs, his approach reflects a structured vision for national growth.
What sets Rabiu apart is his ability to balance business success with social responsibility. His decision to lower cement prices, despite market resistance, was driven by a desire to make homeownership more accessible. For those benefiting from his generosity, he represents more than wealth— he is a force of change, making prosperity more inclusive.
Talking Terms
furious, Isaac declared his political divorce, stating that Ayo’s actions were “evil” and unacceptable.
Meanwhile, Otunba Fayose had his own battle to fight. He set his sights on the Ekiti governorship, promising victory with or without his elder brother’s blessing. According to observers, Ayo seemed more interested in befriending the APC governor than backing his brother’s ambition. For Otunba, this was the ultimate act of betrayal.
With Isaac condemning Ayo’s politics and Otunba questioning his loyalty, the once-powerful family alliance has crumbled. Ayo, who was once the family’s
rabiu
unchallenged leader, now finds himself surrounded by dissenting voices. It is only natural when the walls of a house crack, the gecko will find a way in.
But the drama aside, Ayo appears unbothered. While his brothers rage, he continues to endorse his new political allies. Isaac, on the other hand, warns that PDP is now a “carcass” thanks to his brother’s actions, while Otunba presses forward, determined to carve his own political path.
In all of this, one thing is clear: the Fayose family is now a house divided. Once bound by blood and ambition, they now throw accusations like traders in a heated market. If there is any hope for reconciliation, it is buried beneath layers of bruised egos and political grudges.
Sanusi
Ayo and Isaac Fayose
Tinubu
onanuga
Aiyedatiwa
In the storm that follows, power, grief, and ambition rarely mix well. Betty Akeredolu, the widow of the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, has taken up a new battle—this time, against his successor, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. From fiery statements to social media outbursts, she seems determined to keep Aiyedatiwa in check, but at what cost?
Who will Settle the Animosity Between Betty Akeredolu and Governor Aiyedatiwa?
Her grievances appear rooted in legacy— she insists that her husband’s name must not be erased. Reacting to the inauguration of Ondo Investment House and new fire trucks by Governor Aiyedatiwa, she accused the latter of delaying the distribution of the trucks, calling it a callous act meant to score cheap political points.
Analysts believe that Betty’s anger is personal. After all, she has often ridiculed the governor, dismissing his administration as “rudderless.” Her contempt was clear when she questioned the return of a finance commissioner once removed by her late husband. Thus, putting her actions together, the message is unmistakable: decisions made under Akeredolu should remain untouched, even in his absence.
But power does not operate on sentiment. Aiyedatiwa, now firmly in the driver’s seat, has to govern without seeking permission from a former First Lady. Betty, however, refuses to accept this reality. Her accusations have grown wilder—she sees every move as a conspiracy
Tokunbo Wahab Spreads the Gospel of ‘Keep Lagos Clean’
Lagos is not just a city; it is a living, breathing giant that never sleeps. Keeping it clean is no small task, yet Tokunbo Wahab has taken it upon himself to instil order. From courtrooms to government offices, he has moved seamlessly, proving that true leadership adapts to any terrain.
Recently, he was seen personally appealing to traders to vacate drainage areas and keep Lagos clean. Unlike the usual approach of issuing faceless orders, he engaged them directly, speaking with the patience of a teacher and the urgency of a leader. Many were surprised— authority figures rarely take such a humane approach.
His visit was not just about words; it was a statement of intent. Traders were urged to leave the roads and move into the markets, ensuring
The battle over the estate of the late Herbert Wigwe, former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, has exposed deep divisions within his family. While his will clearly outlined his wishes, his father, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, and cousin, Christian Wigwe, have repeatedly challenged its execution. Amid
that the city remains unclogged and functional. Lagos, after all, aspires to be a mega city, and a mega city cannot function in disorder.
Wahab’s method blends persuasion with enforcement. He knows that people respond better when they feel respected. However, he also understands that goodwill alone won’t keep the streets clean. This is why his advocacy will soon be backed by strict enforcement to ensure compliance.
Environmental sustainability requires both structural reforms and behavioural change. Wahab is tackling both. By engaging traders directly, he plants the seed of responsibility. By enforcing regulations, he ensures that the message is not just heard but followed. The combination is what makes his leadership effective.
to erase Akeredolu’s name, even as the state organises a memorial in his honour. Ironically, the same event she condemned as political theatre is one that should have preserved the very legacy she claims to protect.
Yorubas say that an elder who refuses to act with wisdom is merely an old child. Betty’s relentless attacks on Aiyedatiwa have gone beyond political disagreement—they have become the angry echoes of a woman who refuses to let go. There is a line between defending a legacy and clinging to the past. She has long since crossed it.
At this point, the question is not whether Aiyedatiwa will respond—he has wisely chosen silence. The real question is: who will convince Betty to put down her sword? If she is truly fighting for Akeredolu’s memory, then perhaps she should consider an approach that commands respect rather than fuels unnecessary chaos.
Late Herbert Wigwe’s Associates and Friends Rally Around Daughter
this conflict, Herbert’s close associates and friends have quietly supported his daughter, Otutochi Wigwe, as she fights to uphold his legacy.
Following his tragic death, Wigwe’s will named his cousin Uche Wigwe and business partner, Aigboje AigImoukhuede as trustees responsible for managing his assets and ensuring his children’s well-being. But his extended family soon contested this arrangement, filing lawsuits that directly challenged Otutochi’s authority as the eldest child and guardian of her younger siblings.
The legal battles took a troubling turn when Pastor Shyngle and Christian filed a motion seeking control over the estate. However, the Lagos State High Court dismissed their claims, ruling that they had no legal standing to challenge Wigwe’s will.Despite the court’s ruling, tensions within the family have escalated. A video that surfaced online showed Emeka Wigwe, Herbert’s brother,
allegedly attempting to prevent Otutochi and her siblings from visiting their father’s grave. This incident raised concerns about the emotional strain and hostility the children continue to face from within their own family.
Amid this turmoil, Wigwe’s closest associates have stepped in to provide quiet but crucial support for Otutochi. Whether through legal assistance, financial stability, or moral encouragement, they have helped her withstand the relentless pressure from opposing family members. Their involvement is not widely publicised, but it is there, offering a ground for the Wigwe children to stand on.
The struggle over Wigwe’s estate is not just about wealth—it is about respect for his final wishes and the well-being of his children. In the end, those who genuinely cared for him in life remain the ones working to ensure that his legacy endures.
El-Rufai, Nuhu Ribadu… Friendship Gone Sour
Once upon a time, Nasir El-Rufai and Nuhu Ribadu were inseparable in the corridors of power. Both were seen as fearless reformers under President Olusegun Obasanjo with El-Rufai bulldozing Abuja into shape and Ribadu waging war against corruption. They shared victories, whispered secrets, and dined at the same political table—until the music stopped.
Their first fallout came in 2011 when Ribadu accepted the Action Congress of Nigeria’s (ACN) presidential ticket without El-Rufai’s blessing. It was an unspoken betrayal, analysts claim, one that left wounds beneath the surface. Still, they kept up appearances, attending weddings and burials together. But behind the smiles, their friendship had apparently started to rot. Fast forward to 2023, and their paths crossed again under President Bola Tinubu. Ribadu landed the coveted National Security Adviser role, while El-Rufai’s ministerial dream crumbled at the doorstep of the Senate. Many expected Ribadu to
intervene. Instead, he stayed silent.
El-Rufai was not one to take such things lightly. He went on television, pointing fingers at Ribadu, claiming he orchestrated his political downfall. He even accused him of plotting a 2031 presidential bid. Ribadu, in response, dismissed the allegations, saying he had neither time nor interest in El-Rufai’s grievances.
Their feud took another twist when the Kaduna State House of Assembly accused El-Rufai’s administration of mishandling 400 billion. The EFCC and ICPC swooped in, and El-Rufai cried foul. He blamed Ribadu for pulling the strings behind the investigations, painting him as the mastermind of his woes.
But politics is like a revolving door— today’s friends are tomorrow’s foes, and vice versa. In 2007, El-Rufai had once mediated between Ribadu and Governor Shekarau over corruption allegations. Now, years later, Ribadu holds the power, and El-Rufai finds himself on the other end of the fight. Irony never takes a day off.
If history teaches anything, it is that
alliances shift like the harmattan wind. El-Rufai and Ribadu may be at war today, but who knows what 2027 holds? In the game of power, there are no permanent friends or enemies—only permanent interests.
A remarkable milestone has been achieved at the University of Ilorin with the rise of Professor Nusirat Elelu as the first female Professor of Public Health and Preventive Medicine. Her appointment is not just a personal triumph but a defining moment for women in academia and public health leadership in Nigeria.
Elelu’s career is built on years of dedicated research in infectious diseases, vector-borne zoonoses, and global health. Her work has not only advanced scientific knowledge but has also shaped public health policies. From her work can be clearly seen the spirit of excellence. With her, it is being proven that expertise and commitment can break longstanding barriers.
Elelu’s academic journey has been marked by resilience and groundbreaking achievements. As a Fellow of the College of Veterinary Surgeons of Nigeria and an affiliate of the Africa Academy of Sciences, she has contributed significantly to the field. Her membership in the Africa Research Excellence Fund further cements her influence in shaping research in Africa.
Beyond research, Elelu has held key administrative positions, including Head of Department and Faculty Postgraduate Coordinator. These roles best demonstrate her commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists. Her presence in leadership spaces is a reminder that women can excel not only in academics but also in governance within institutions.
Securing research grants is no small feat, yet Elelu has successfully competed for and won prestigious funding from organizations like the African Research Excellence Fund and the International Foundation for Science, Sweden. These grants have fueled studies that address real-world health challenges, benefiting both Nigeria and the global scientific community.
As the University of Ilorin celebrates its 20 new Professors and 31 Associate Professors, Elelu’s journey is an inspiration. Indeed, the impact of her achievement extends beyond her department. It signals progress, inclusion, and the growing recognition of women’s contributions to science and public health.
wahab
ribadu
wigwe
eneral Ibrahim Babangida: Stepping in the m ud
You see the problem with our egbon Onanuga. As he cannot address the issues surrounding Mallam, he comes out like a fish seller in Shomolu market – it is paining him because he did not get ministerial appointment and he should stop crying like a child that someone took his bread. You see how this baba drops to a very primordial level on very serious national issues because he cannot engage. Mallam has been talking about very serious and credible issues that affect his party, the government and Nigerians. He is asking relevant questions and demanding answers and all we can say is that he is crying because he was not made minister.
The Mallam that we know would still ask these same questions even if he was vice president. It is obvious where the ship of state is headed and the man is shouting. Instead of us to face him on the issues, it is these mundane things we are
I don’t even know how to start this one sef. But let me first ask Baba to sack his strategists, adviser and ghost writer. These people have done him a great disservice. Nigerians have already started forgetting about him and his shenanigans, he now in one fell swoop reminds us of his role in our country’s fate and the abuses and curses starts all over again in the twilight of his life. His mess up even come dey make Abacha look like a saint to the point that Abacha’s children who were hiding in various caves in Kano have come out to abuse him and rightly so.
A General that has done all that, now claiming “it wasn’t me, they wanted to kill me, I had to run away.” In fact, this is a shame, not only to him but to the Nigerian
trying to engage him with.
The man may truly be motivated by the snub or even be driven by ambition but if he now decides to use stuff that is giving us sleepless nights as his main weapon of choice, then I think we should then engage him at that level. And if our spokesman cannot engage him at that level, then the administration should throw egg-heads like Dr. Oduwole, Dr Fasua and even Demola Oshodi at him.
Even that tribal marked FIRS man will tear Mallam apart on the issues, talk less of that Communications Minister or even Cardi B. If he wants to go “roforofo,” then you throw Wike at him but not this veteran guerilla journalist who really is not helping matters.
Mallam is facing Nuhu, Mallam is facing Kaduna State Government, Mallam is facing ICPC, boldly calling them out and seems to be winning in the court of public opinion. Oya, there is nothing like a healthy debate. Oya Mallam
Army that brought him up. Which kind General is this one?
They want to kill you and you knew those who wanted to kill you and as Commander-in-Chief, you cannot kill them first?
You do Vatsa o. That one that was just thinking, you show am pepper but this one that is wearing dark goggles and looking at you and warning you, you run away and come and be writing book. Which yeye book?
This whole thing is just a very messed up thing. Nigerians are very angry and sad. Videos of MKO have started circulating, Vatsa too is looking like a hero and Falana has dusted his law books. Who advised IBB o? Mbok who sent him
Nuhu, let’s have your own Arise TV interview or let’s have a full televised debate with Dr Abati who has just bought some new bow ties moderating, and let’s have fun doing it.
Mallam has challenged –Nuhu wants to be President and he wants to decimate all Northerners ---- Oya Chief Nuhu let’s go at his throat. Oga Bayo stand clear, this no concern you, you no go understand. I don buy popcorn.
Kai! They will soon beat me in this Nigeria, the way I am looking for trouble like this.
AlIko DANgoTe: A SpoIler AND SporTSmAN
Alhaji is spoiling things o. He is dropping fuel prices like the way a Shomolu prostitute is dropping her undies. From the first N60 drop and another N60 drop again on the back of an announcement that they have over 600m litres in stock, Alhaji has broken all tables and is annoying people o. My own is that he should not
message? Shebi when it was announced, I shouted o – we don’t want to hear o, but did he listen? He carried all his people to Hilton and collected over N17bn and placed himself very firmly in the dark halls of national shame. Same place Buka Suka Dimka have their portraits displayed.
IBB has done with this book a great disservice to himself and the nation and even if he returns all of that N17bn, Nigerians will still not be satiated. The sad thing is that we never learn our lessons because before you know it, another person will climb and do worse and then write a book, and we will still carry another N17bn and give him and call Professor “Yemo” to come and eulogise him. Pity.
rest until the thing reaches the N600 and below. Na that time we will now start pushing for his picture to be put on a new N10,000 note.
Some shady people have said that we have only 50% of the quantity needed locally and as such, will need to continue importing. If not that they are mumu, will they not see that this Dangote refinery is one of the biggest in the world and that it is even exporting, so why continue importing?
They should go and refurbish their own so that supply will be massively marked up, process will drop, and horizontal growth will be achieved, then we ramp up exports to bring in more forex which will now shore up the Naira and better the economy.
Let me state it here categorically that Aliko by these actions is working very stringently for the second term aspirations of the president and government officials who insist on importing and keeping the process at those levels are working against the president because when the
wHo STole NASIr el-rUfAI’S BreAD?
Babangida
Dangote
rufai
rone
Ashiru
time comes, Tinubu will climb stage and say – ohhh, we have brought fuel down, we have killed subsidy and Nigerians no longer have to queue for fuel. But if the situation continues with fuel at over N1,000, what will Tinubu use to campaign? So mbok, let every fuel importer just know that they are jeopardising daddy’s chances at the polls. Thank you.
BImBo ASHIrU: IT’S “BImBo” AgAIN
This my egbon is the chairman of the massively reverberating Odu’a Investments. Let me tell you guys why I get very emotional about this company. It is defying the Nigerian style of institutions dying with its founders. Odu’a is not only defying it but moving with strength.
At the recent meeting of the South-west Governors’ Forum held in Lagos, Odu’a was commended for its service to the region and their renovation of the iconic Premier Hotel in Ibadan and the redevelopment of the heritage Airport Hotel were marked out as perfect examples of the massive strides of the conglomerate which was set up in the First Republic. Most of these achievements at this point can be credited to the present Board and management led by Otunba Ashiru. Otunba who will only give you Cocacola when you visit, and that is if he is in a good mood, is a very well-respected businessman and industrialist. A former banker who also served very sweetly as an award-winning Commissioner in Ogun State and who has brought a lot of depth, managerial sagacity and a huge network into Odu’a which is now really showing.
Guys, I think you should all go visit the Cocoa House headquarters of this huge firm and visit the museum there and see its historic pedigree and come and thank me.
Well done Otunba and staff and management of Odu’a, and also well done to the South-west governors for standing aside and not meddling.
JUlIUS roNe, THe gAS CzAr
If you have not met Julius before, I think you should make it a priority to. This man is passionate about Nigeria and extremely passionate about the role of gas in its economic recovery.
This is why he is promoting the massive UTM FLNG project. According to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), the federal government is fully committed to the initiative, as it will help reduce gas flaring and enhance export capacity.
Julius is very well regarded in these circles, both internationally and locally. He
has been on some presidential entourage in search of credible DFI inflow into the country and seems to be making strong strides in the area.
I just felt like mentioning his UTM FLNG today since the general theme of the column this week seems to be the positive highlights in the economy.
If Julius gets this right and nothing in the horizon seems to say otherwise, we may
be having another Nigerian on the Forbes list, but much more importantly we would be heralding the gas boom and this, tied to the push for responsible approach towards the environment, Julius might just emerge the single most important businessman in the next five years. We wait.
p-SqUAre: A SCArY AND SHAmeFUl TUrN oF eveNT Ok, blood brothers with the
NATASHA JUST loST me
I knew it would get to this point. The point where - he wanted to sleep with me will eventually show up.
I had rushed to my TV set, having been prompted by Nigerians on the impending bombshell to be released by this Senator only to be met with a shaky, lips-quivering performance by a senator who is really trying her best to distract the nation with this - see me, I am here - attention seeking gambit.
But do I blame her? Of course, not. We have been saddled with a Senate president who has been nothing but a massive disappointment, to say the least. Everything the senator said on that ARISE NEWS Channel interview has painted our Senate president in colours that I am sad to say allegedly fits him judging from what we have heard and seen of him so far.
The hand-holding, the tour of the house, the promises of ‘enjoyment’. The offer of nightclubbing as alleged by her all look very clearly up Akpabio’s street But does this now justify a great
waste of time that this Senator from Kogi seems to be fostering on us?
We have elected two ‘weaklings’ and comedians into high office and they have busied themselves with the inanities that come with their subterranean approach to office
He wants to sleep with meshe is dressing like a nightclub hostess- he is holding my hand - she is wearing lipstick and all is what Akpabio and his ‘girlfriend’ want Nigerians to contend with in the face of the hardships we face. Mbok, both should be done with. The people of Kogi or wherever she comes from and Ikot-Ekpene or wherever he comes from should be really ashamed of themselves for throwing these two up in the Senate.
Mbok, can we just move on and ignore these two comedians. They should not drag us into whatever is their matter; we have bigger fish to fry.
A bloody waste of time. Come and beat me if you don’t like my position. Crap.
same parentage fighting to the point where one is imprisoned? What is going on in Nigeria? We are still wrestling with a grandfather taking a granddaughter to court and now this?
This is even more amazing because there are twins involved. We were told that twins are tied by umbilical cord but these ones look like they were sired by strangers. God! N1.5billion, and yet a brother is in jail? What a shame! One brother drags the others through the EFCC, and after everything, they still can’t resolve the matter. They stand by, seemingly pleased, as their elder brother is remanded. How this even happens is shocking. So, me, Joseph Edgar will now take my brother Ernest or Charles that we suffered poverty together, hawked bread in Shomolu, and shared morsels of food with rats in our Shomolu bedsit when my father lost his job will now jail my brother because of N1.5bn? That I will not walk away from said sum? When I am not a bastard. I remember when I lost my brother’s N10m when I was working with an investment house that went down, and my brother’s wife was putting me under pressure, my mother called her and said “these are brothers, the money can lost, they are brothers, stop that rubbish,” and it stopped. My brother never asked me, I took my time to recover the money but if I never did, he would never have said a word about it.
So, you can understand why I seem not to get this onefighting my brother to jail when no be government money o? My brother can thief my money o. Thief it well o. I will still go to his house, slap him and ask his wife to cook afang for me make I chop o. Blood must be thicker than water o. These P-Square brothers are terrible and their parents would be shaking in anger in their graves. Shame.
FlorA FABYAN: A TrUSTeD DAmSel
Let me quickly send congratulations to the extremely brilliant Flora Fabyan for emerging as the Managing Director of the huge BOI-ITC. The firm is a fully owned subsidiary of giant Bank of Industry with assets running into the billions. Flora is an esteemed and distinguished lawyer, investment banker and trust expert who has over the years delivered sterling service to the space.
She is a renowned thought leader in the space who is moderating the Alvin Report Roundtable that will have Dr. Tope Fasua, the Adviser to the President on Economic Matters as lead discussant. Congrats my sister.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT…
Oladoja Becomes NANS President, Vows to Resist Arbitrary Tuition Hike
A student of University of Jos, Olushola Oladoja, has been elected the new President of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
Oladoja emerged the winner of the election conducted during the national convention of NANS.
Former Kaduna Central Senatorial District lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, has explained his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking during a television programme on Friday, Sani attributed his return to the ruling party to the efforts of Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani who initiated reconciliation talks across the state.
Sani originally resigned from the APC in October 2018 following controversies surrounding the party’s primaries.
He later joined the PDP and
The Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has disclosed that the present administration allocated N8billion for this year’s Ramadan feeding programme.
Yusuf disclosed this during the flag-off of the distribution of 1,250 cartons of dates donated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, held at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano, on Friday
This is contained in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa, yesterday.
Yusuf, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Farouk Ibrahim, thanked the Consul-General of
Oladoja, who spoke at a world press conference in Abuja where he was flanked by the newly elected executive officers of the association, vowed to resist all forms arbitrary tuition fees hike by tertiary institutions across the country, and also improve students’ welfare.
secured its senatorial ticket but lost the 2019 election to Sani, the current Kaduna governor.
After years in opposition, he formally rejoined the APC on February 16 alongside other members from the PDP and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
During the interview, Sani emphasised that he was a founding member of the APC in Kaduna and played a significant role in establishing its structures. He also revealed that his departure in 2018 was due to political and personal differences with former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
Saudi Arabia in Kano, Khalil Adamawi, for the good gesture, saying this was the fourth time the state received such donation. He added that the donation comes at the right time when the present administration is making concerted efforts to provide food items to the less privileged in the society, considering the economic hardship faced by citizens.
He stated that Kano is the most peaceful state in Nigeria, noting that this attracted many people to come and settle in the state, which also brought additional pressure on the government, particularly on health and infrastructure.
He reaffirmed his commitment to building on the legacies of the immediate past President of NANS, Lucky Emonefe, saying his leadership marks the dawn of a new era that would consolidate on past achievements, while introducing a pragmatic approach to improving students’ welfare and the education system in Nigeria.
Oladoja outlined plans for a nationwide campus tour aimed at addressing pressing issues in
tertiary institutions and fostering a more inclusive, student-centred leadership.
He commended the NANS Independent Convention Planning Committee, led by Prince Koyoyo, for organising a free, fair, and credible convention, saying their dedication, transparency, and commitment ensured the success of the process, adding that history will remember their efforts.
“I extend my heartfelt ap-
preciation to the immediate-past leadership of NANS, led by Comrade Lucky Emonefe and Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez as president and Senate president, respectively. Their contributions to the struggle for students’ rights, better welfare, and quality education will always be acknowledged.
I pledge to build on the solid foundation they have laid while advancing the cause of Nigerian students.
“I deeply appreciate the Students’ Union Presidents (Senators) from all tertiary institutions across the federation for their patience, cooperation, and unwavering trust in me. Your confidence in my leadership is an inspiration, and I assure you that under my watch, NANS will be campus-oriented, focusing on grassroots engagement and real-time advocacy for students’ welfare.”
Afenifere Youth Leader Regains Freedom after 12 Days in Captivity
The kidnapped National President of the Afenifere Youth Council, Eniola Olajuni, has been released after spending 12 days in captivity.
His release was confirmed yesterday by the National Secretary of the Youth Council,
Biodun Aderohunmu, who simply stated, “He has been released.”
Olajuni was abducted on Monday, February 17, while travelling to Abuja for a meeting.
In a viral video during his captivity, he revealed that his
abductors had demanded a ransom of N100 million and two tricycles for his release.
As of when this report was filed, the circumstances surrounding the ransom payment remain unclear. The Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun,
had ordered the deployment of the Intelligence Response Team to secure the safe release of the Afenifere youth leader after a video went viral where Olajuni, at gun point, was pleading for Nigerians to come to his aid and raise funds for his release.
Third Party Insurance: Legal Aid Council Pledges Assistance
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON) has expressed its readiness to assist motorists under the Third Party Insurance Policy, recover their claims, or get compensated if and when the need arises.
The council, which disclosed
this during a sensitisation and awareness campaign in Abuja, assured that with its intervention, vehicle owners under the third-party policy could get compensated within three months in the event of an accident.
The roadshow by the agency which specialises in offering free
legal services to indigent Nigerians was following the enforcement of the third-party policy by the Nigeria Police Force.
Recall that the Force last year said starting from January 1, this year, it would amount to an offence for any vehicle to be driven in the country, without the Third Party Insurance policy. While Nigerians have been criticizing the move, especially on grounds that insurance companies hardly pay compensation in the event of an accident, LACON however is allaying such fears and assuring that it is ready to intervene whenever there is an issue.
Minister Slams Kano Deputy Governor’s Remarks against Tinubu
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Ata, has condemned the statement credited to the Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, on the lingering emirship tussle in Kano.
In a statement signed by
his aide, Seyi Olorunsola, the minister described Gwarzo’s statement as reckless and affront to the dignity of the nation’s highest office in the country.
The minister’s condemnation was a sequel to an earlier comment credited to the deputy governor, who had alleged that certain individuals were exploiting the emir’s continued
presence in the palace to fuel unrest across the state.
“The Deputy Governor’s audacity in publicly addressing the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in such an uncouth and disrespectful manner is unacceptable, disgraceful, and an affront to the dignity of the nation’s highest office.
“It must be emphasised that the emirship matter is a subject of litigation and, as such, subjudice to comment on” the minister stated.
“It is crucial to remind Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his administration that the Presidency is not an extension of their local political theater,” he declared.
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Shehu Sani: Why I Rejoined APC
L-R: Former Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido; former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Victor Attah; and Businessman and former presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, during the inauguration of the newly-constructed one-kilometre asphalt road in Ifedolapo community, Kwara State... recently
From Lagos Shoreline Communities, Tales of Resilience
against the backdrop of neglect, the Lagos Lagoon climate Response initiative weaves together art, activism, and community engagement to highlight the struggles and resilience of its shoreline communities. okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports
Along the languid shores of the Lagos lagoon, in the environs of Epe, modernity might just as well be a distant rumour. Communities here appear charmingly stuck in a distant past. Women reportedly still give birth using ancestral methods, cradled by mangroves and tradition. As for their children, they grow in a limbo of waiting—for flickering lights, for absent teachers, for futures dangled like mirages over brackish water.
Then, the fact that sanitation seems to be a luxury in these parts serves as a stark reminder of the lagoon’s decline. Once a sapphire artery of trade, this large body of water is now infested with waste and Pontederia crassipes, commonly known as common water hyacinth—a symbol of resilience twisted into a landfill. As this writer takes in this scene on Tuesday, February 25, Day Two of the three-day Lagos Lagoon Climate Response project, his gaze scans across distant shores from his perch on a wooden canoe.
Lost in his musings, he becomes less conscious of the presence of his eclectic companions—media practitioners, medical professionals, and artists—who temporarily fade into the background. The gentle lapping of the water against the wooden canoe creates a soothing melody that blends with their muted chatter. But his reverie is short-lived, as the jarring paradox unfolding before him slowly comes into focus.Right in the shadow of Lagos, Nigeria’s economic behemoth, lies a stark reality. Communities struggle to survive in a landscape devoid of fundamental necessities: healthcare, clean water, and education. The contrast is striking, and he can’t help but wonder how such disparities can exist side by side.
A cruel irony is the fact that the common water hyacinth, ordinarily a botanical beauty, has a destructive bent and has commandeered the lagoon, choking the life out of mobility and trade. In this landscape of neglect, where the once-thriving waterways are now clogged and stagnant, photographer Bolaji Alonge’s activism offers a beacon of hope. With the support of a grant from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he launched his latest project in July 2024, building on his collaboration with a healthcare programme that aims to improve the lives of communities affected by the lagoon’s degradation. Through his lens, Alonge sheds light on the intricate relationships between environment, health,
and livelihoods, inspiring action and advocacy for the preservation of this vital ecosystem.
Therefore, it would be right to say that the seeds of this initiative were sown in 2018, when Dr. Tuyi Mebawondu, a Lagos-based medical practitioner and an indigene of one of these communities, invited Alonge to join the programme.
The photographs Alonge captured during that pivotal trip blossomed into an exhibition in the United States at Baza Studio in New York on February 12, 2019.
This exhibition laid the groundwork for his current project, a powerful blend of art and activism that leverages the universal language of photography to raise awareness about the environmental and social challenges facing these communities.
Meanwhile, preparations for an exhibition at the National Museum in Onikan, Lagos, are underway. A team of artists has been working tirelessly, having immersed themselves in the subject matter just a week prior. They responded to an open call inviting them to converge, create, and explore the shared theme between December and January. The exhibition, slated for April 3-13, promises to inspire and educate, shining a light on the resilience and struggles of these communities.
This exhibition is, in fact, part of the larger Lagos Lagoon Climate Response project, which has united a diverse group of artists, including Esther Oloruntobi, Ogooluwa Adeniran, and Yemisi Onadipe, who are showcasing their works alongside Femi Simpson, Jason Ogbazi, Olaosun Pelumi, Rasheed Ibrahim, Bisi Alonge,
Basit Akinsemoyin, Uche Enechukwu, Gaspo Koutchika, and Opeyemi Megida. This 10-day exhibition combines photography, sculpture, and performance art, offering a multifaceted exploration of the challenges faced by communities along the Lagos Lagoon.
A notable outcome of the project is the creative use of common water hyacinths to produce unique craft works. This innovative approach showcases the locals’ potential while raising awareness about the environmental impact of invasive species.The project, including the exhibition, is expected to become an annual event, traveling to other environmentally challenged locations in Nigeria. This will provide a platform for artists to engage with diverse communities and highlight the environmental issues that affect them.
Beyond its visual artistic components, the project has had a profound impact on local communities. Adewale Ayodeji, also known as Yaro, has been teaching dance to primary and secondary school students since 2014. His efforts have sparked widespread interest in dance, with many students eager to learn. At Lofi Ogunmude Comprehensive Secondary School in Ejinrin, visited by the media team on Monday, February 24, for instance, both junior and senior students demonstrated enthusiasm for dance.
Still on Climate Change, DeBebs Interpretes the Niger Delta Mangroves
Really, the Lagos art community should be looking forward to Dr. John Edwin DeBebs’s triumphant return to the art scene with his solo exhibition, titled The Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, the Mangrove & Art: An Art Exhibition of Paintings by Interpreting the Niger Delta Mangroves in Brushstrokes & Colours.
This highly anticipated show bursts onto the scene on Tuesday, March 5, at the West Tower of the Wings Office Complex in Victoria Island and runs until March 18. Curated by the visionary Oriiz U Onuwaje, this exhibition marks a milestone—De-
Bebs’ first in 26 years. It’s a homecoming of sorts for the distinguished artist and environmental advocate, who has spent years immersed in the intricate narratives of the Niger Delta mangroves. For aficionados visiting the exhibition, they will be enveloped by DeBebs’ vibrant brushstrokes and lush colours, which capture the very soul of this breathtaking ecosystem. The Niger Delta mangroves, nestled in the coastal embrace of the region, are one of the world’s most ecologically precious jewels. Each artwork is a masterful expression of the ecosystem’s breathtaking beauty, intertwined
with complex tales of struggle and resilience. The exhibition’s curation draws inspiration from historian Tekena N. Tamuno’s seminal work, “The Oil Wars in the Niger Delta: 1849-2009.” This crucial historical context weaves together colonial and postcolonial experiences, shedding light on the region’s enduring socio-cultural and political challenges.
What sets this exhibition apart is its thoughtful curation, which avoids reductive stereotypes and instead celebrates the region’s authentic artistry and thematic depth.
Bolaji Alonge addressing members of the team on the way forward
The Lagos Lagoon Climate Response project team's movement hindered in the lagoon by common water hyacinths
Beat by Beat, Afrobeats Rewrites the Rules
Yinka Olatunbosun
Afrobeats’ ascent to global popularity has taken a dramatic turn. It began with jaw-breaking streams, topping charts, and winning prestigious awards, including the Grammys. Looking back, Tuface Idibia’s silhouette emerges as a pioneer. The singer evolved from being a Kennis Music discovery with the Plantashun Boiz trio to an international star. In the early 2000s, his hit song “African Queen” won several awards and was featured as a soundtrack in the Hollywood box office hit “Phat Girlz.” At the time, his music was dubbed “Afropop.” The real magical moment in Afrobeats’ soaring fame came with Remedies, the group behind the hit song “Shakomo,” which was inspired by MC Lyte’s “Keep on Keeping On.” In the late 1990s, the trio recorded a freestyle session at Raypower studio, which received massive airplay. Notably, this was before the era of streaming platforms.
Fast-forward to the 2000s, UK returnees like Don Jazzy and D’banj began exploring pop through African beats. They significantly contributed to the Afropop movement, attracting attention from MTV Base, Kanye West, and the UK charts. D’banj’s “Oliver Twist” alluded to the literary character, and its beat caught the world’s attention. Critics scratched their heads, realising that this genre of music, which experiments with Western styles, needed a name. Thus, Afrobeats was christened, marking a revolutionary branding that propelled the music onto the global stage.
Today, many Nigerian music stars have gained international status, but in doing so, some of them seem to shy away from being labelled as ‘Nigerian musicians.’ Whatever. Rihanna, despite her billionaire status earned from music and merchandise, is still proudly known as a Barbadian singer. Even the teen pop star turned cultural influencer Justin Bieber remains unapologetically Canadian. So, as Lagbaja would say, Nigerian stars—cool your temper.
The Nigerian music scene has indeed come a long way, producing talented artists like WizKid, who has broken through the glass ceiling. From his humble beginnings as a studio rat to becoming an Afrobeats trailblazer, WizKid’s journey is inspiring. He made history by becoming the
Yinka Olatunbosun
MUSIC
first Afrobeats artist to win a Grammy in a mainstream category with Beyoncé in “Brown Skin Girl.” Notably, WizKid has carved his own path, creating original hits rather than relying on samples.Before WizKid’s rise to fame, Psquare had already made a name for themselves by sampling international hits. Their song “Busy Body” borrowed from Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love,” and they continued to sample other tracks. Although their sampling approach didn’t receive much critical acclaim, it didn’t hinder their success. Psquare’s fame soared beyond African shores, earning them an MTV Europe Award for Best African Act nomination in 2006.
Let’s skip forward to Rema and Burna Boy, two of the most influential artists in Afrobeats today. Both artists have been instrumental in shaping the genre’s new direction, which includes remaking western classic hits. Burna Boy, in particular, has
been at the forefront of this movement. His song “Last Last” samples Toni Braxton’s 2000 hit “He Wasn’t Man Enough,” and its release marked a significant turning point in Afrobeats. This experiment generated a new cluster for the Afrobeats audience, mostly from the hip-hop community. The success of “Last Last” paved the way for collaborations between Afrobeats artists and their international counterparts. For instance, British rapper Central Cee collaborated with Nigeria’s Asake on the hit song “Wave.” Asake has also been exploring new sounds, as evident in his remix of “Ocean Drive,” which features Tunde Baiyewu of the Lighthouse Family fame. The remix, titled “Sunshine,” showcasesAsake’s ability to blend different styles and create something unique. Rema, on the other hand, has been making waves with his own brand of Afrobeats. His music often incorporates elements of hip-hop and R&B, making him a standout artist in the genre. Let’s not forget that Tems, another talented Afrobeats artist, won a Grammy award for Best African Performance at the 67th ceremony with her version of “Love Me Jeje,” originally done by Seyi Sodimu featuring Shafi Bello.
Travis Scott’s collaboration with Asake on the hit song “Active” marked a significant moment in Afrobeats’ global penetration. The genre’s infectious beats seemed to have ignited something in Travis, who became an unlikely ambassador for Afrobeats. As Shallipopi noted, Travis’ foray into Afrobeats was a pleasant surprise.
Rema’s rise to fame has been nothing short of phenomenal. His duet with Selena Gomez on “Calm Down” catapulted him to international stardom. However, it’s his remix of Sade Adu’s “Is it a Crime?” that showcases his artistic growth. Rema’s rendition transforms the classy, sophisticated original into a club hit, reimagining Afrobeats as a powerful, evasive brand that cuts through social status. By infusing the song with tight-lipped cigarette imagery, mid-tempo beats, and street slang, Rema creates a unique sound that’s both nostalgic and futuristic.
Burna Boy’s latest offering is a freshly cooked remix of Soul II Soul’s 1989 classic “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)” titled “Update.” This remix is a more convenient fit for Burna, as the original was already a dance track. However, he gives it a retro treatment, infusing it with his signature Afrosoul touch. The result is a whiff of nostalgia that’s more than just a cultural excursion. The music video is a visual homage to 70s dance shows like “Soul Train,” featuring a retro aesthetic complete with period-specific costumes. The remixes by Rema and Burna Boy are a significant part of theAfrobeats movement towards globalisation. By collaborating with international artists, they have expanded Afrobeats’ reach and introduced the genre to new audiences. Moreover, their willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles has pushed the boundaries of Afrobeats, inspiring a new generation of artists. This artistic experimentation promotes cultural exchange and understanding, highlighting the richness and diversity of African cultures. For instance,Afrobeats has become a common ground forAfricans and non-Africans to connect and build relationships. When an African meets someone from the UK who has never lived outside the country, Afrobeats can be a great conversation starter, breaking the ice and solidifying friendships. For many Africans in the diaspora, Afrobeats has become a source of pride and a sense of connection to their home countries. Rema and Burna Boy’s remixes are not only changing the face of Afrobeats but also creating new clusters of audiences, breaking down barriers, and instituting the genre in mainstream music catalogues. Ultimately, their music is fostering a sense of community and cultural understanding, one beat at a time.
Japa and the Weight of Migration At Relaunched Artmosphere Nigeria , Love Takes Centre Stage
In Yoruba, Japa loosely translates to "run away" or "escape." Over time, the term snaked its way into the catalogue of Nigerian slangs and has become a colloquial expression used to convey the idea of swift and evasive action. Perhaps, what further popularised the slang was a 2020 hit song by the singer Naira Marley, titled "Japa.”
For Emmanuel Nwachukwu, Japa is a much deeper concept; hence his subject of interrogation in the solo exhibition titled Japa: The Search for Greener Pastures.
For him, leaving is never just about movement. It is about abandonment; choosing to erase parts of yourself to fit into a new world.
“When I left Nigeria in 2022 to study abroad, I quickly realised that migration is not just about crossing physical borders but about negotiating survival in an unfamiliar space.
“I was not alone in this realisation,” the artist explained. “The more I spoke with fellow migrants, the more I saw a pattern, the deep uncertainty, the cultural dissonance, the silent but persistent loneliness. These moments often left out of mainstream migration narratives became the foundation for JAPA: The Search for Greener Pastures.”
This ongoing series reflects on the psychological, cultural, and political dimensions of migration, examining how individuals reshape their identity within systems designed to keep them out. The show questions the validity of greener pastures, using light and shade to set the tone for the embedded messages.
“In Greener Pastures, I stage a moment of stillness—a subject frozen in contemplation, standing at the edge of departure,” Nwachukwu continued. Reflecting on the subject in the painting, he said, “She is captured walking forward,
EXHIBITION
dragging her suitcase through an open field, a metaphor for the weight of decision-making and the myth of migration as a linear success story. The visual contrast—lush greenery symbolising promise, yet an isolated figure within it—questions whether the pursuit of a “better life” is truly attainable or just another form of displacement.”
In another piece, titled “Echoes in the City,” a time-lapse-inspired photograph captures the experience of an immigrant in a bustling metropolis. The subject stands still as the city moves around them—blurred figures passing by in oblivion. Even in the busiest cities of the world, an immigrant can feel like a ghost.
Yinka Olatunbosun
It was an intimate session at the February edition of Artmosphere Nigeria last week Saturday at the Aramide Hub, Surulere, Lagos. The event themed ‘Loving and Living’ played host to musicians BR Olorin, Edez, Seunsax and ClassicIBK, as well as visual artist Qwest. As the evening unfolded, the theme sparked a thought-provoking discussion about the complexities of love and relationships.
Culture influencer Femi Morgan posed a question that got everyone talking: Have you ever travelled outside your comfort zone to meet a lover or loved one who lived far away? The audience’s responses were varied and candid. Some shared stories of travelling from Lagos to Osun, Ilorin to Abuja, and Kano to Lagos to be with loved ones, while others had lovers who traversed miles to meet them. However, others objected, sharing their own reservations about taking such leaps for love.
On the floor of Aramide Hub, the conservatives feared the risks and lamented the frequent news of kidnapping, killings, insecurity, and accidents. However, the liberals countered by stating that love is about commitment and travelling to meet friends and lovers.
As the discussion unfolded, several members of the audience shared their thoughts
and perspectives. These contributors included Babatunde Odubanwo, a writer and PR executive; Bomi George, an events management executive; Edesiri, a tech enthusiast; Lydia Johnson, an auditor; and Joy Brown, a businesswoman. The conversation was interspersed with a medley from Seunsax and ClassicIBK, who serenaded the audience with familiar and popular songs. When the music producer, ClassicIBK, went solo, he dug into the depths of nostalgia and performed songs from the 90s on his piano.
Odubanwo read from his unpublished novel about a randy young man from an upwardly mobile family and the pressures from family to have him settle down. He regaled the audience with the character’s escapades while his family struggled with the implications for their buoyant family legacy.
Burna Boy
Sharing thoughts on one of the works at the exhibition Participants at the event
Rema
Obasanjo’s Weekend Pilgrimage to Vatsa's Village
Tunde Olusunle
Mamman Vatsa Writers Village, tucked amidst igneous rocks and ranges, vales and valleys in Abuja's Mpape District is rapidly contesting the medal of Nigeria's most vibrant headquarters of literary activity. The physical location of the ever-growing permanent headquarters of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (ANA), was, for several decades after it was allocated to ANA in 1986, a forlorn wasteland. The soldier-poet, Mamman Jiya Vatsa, who was a member of the association and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in his time, was concerned about the serial mendicant nomadism of the association. ANA forever quested, cap in hand, for host states across the country, for its activities.
Vatsa, an army General and poet himself, concurred with the request of ANA's primordial leadership, for a settled operational address and allocated the present site, to the association. The bounteous parcel of land survived attempted takeovers by successive regimes and capricious trespassing. These chopped off nearly half its original span of over 60 hectares.
Under the leadership of Denja Abdullahi a few years ago, ANA secured partnership with KMVL, a construction firm headed by Kolawole Shaw, also a retired military officer, for the actualisation of the dream of structured physical development of the hectarage. The breathtaking, still-in-progress complex, already features well paved, substantially tarred network of roads complete with drainages. There is a large auditorium, parking areas, secretariat, library, luxury suites, apartments, bars and African-themed gazebos. There are residential blocks by way of fully detached, semi-detached and terraced houses. There is even a modern shopping centre, as part of the enterprise of making the village self-sufficient. The names of famous Nigerian writers echo from the doors and signages of structures and facilities, beginning with the revered African master storyteller, Chinua Achebe, after whom the conference centre is christened.
The secretariat of the association pays tribute to Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan, one of Africa's most profound and most prolific dramatists. Suites in the residential area, voice the names of past leaders of ANA, notably Odia Ofeimun, Kole Omotoso, Abubakar Gimba, Olu Obafemi, Wale Okediran, Jerry Agada, Remi Raji and Denja Abdullahi. The two-storey standalone "writers residency" is tribute to the memory of former ANA President and Ogoni rights activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa.
A prominent playwright, novelist and essayist, Saro-Wiwa was, sadly, executed alongside eight others under the military government of Sani Abacha in 1995. They were allegedly complicit in the murder of four of their kinsmen, months earlier, a development which stirred restlessness in the oil producing area.
The Mamman Vatsa Writers Village is rapidly assuming the status of the new Mecca for African literature, an evolving pearl of the continent.
Between the monthly activities of the Abuja segment of ANA and the quarterly events organised by the national body, the writers' facility is regularly kept alive. Literary juggernauts like Osofisan, Obafemi, Ofeimun, Ernest Emenyonu, Okediran, Raji, Abdullahi, Niyi Osundare, Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Shamshudeen Amali, Idris Amali, Al-Bishak, Udenta Udenta and Sunnie Ododo, have been guests and pilgrims at the resort. Same for Tony Afejuku, Razinat Mohammed, Mabel Evwierhoma, Dul Johnson, Joe Ushie, Maria Ajima, Rasheed Na'Allah, Amanze Akpuda, Greg Mbajiorgu, Isiaka Aliagan, and indeed the recently transited literary luminary, Nuhu Yaqub. The diaspora component of Nigeria's formidable literary harvest, as well as foreign writers, are also regular callers at the village. Voices and laughters; "hi fives" and backslaps, typically activate and enliven the slumbering boulders and sleeping bedrocks in the commune, whenever literary adherents, pilgrimage. Saturday February 22, 2025, the Mamman Vatsa Writers Village hosted an unusual guest. The airwaves had become frenzied weeks and
days before when it became public knowledge that the first President in Nigeria's Fourth Republic, Olusegun Obasanjo, would be the distinguished guest at the month's edition of the regular reading and writer's dialogue. The planning was competently steered by the Abuja zone of ANA, led by Chukwudi Eze, the veteran architect who designed the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Africa's first such purpose-built resource. Obasanjo was to speak to the topic: The Writer's Role in Nation Building and Africa's First Presidential Library. Obasanjo’s life and career as a soldier; military Head of State; world statesman; death row prisoner; democratically elected President, traversing aeons and times, has spawned a luminous repertoire of books and publications. These include My Command, (1980); Nzeogwu, (1987); Africa Embattled (1988) and Not My Will, (1990). There are also This Animal Called Man, (1998), and My Watch, (2014), which is a hefty three-volume work. To be doubly sure, Obasanjo’s oeuvre spans over two dozen books straddling several subjects and preoccupations.
A three-man panel made up of Professors Emeka Aniagolu of Veritas University, Abuja; Razinat Mohammed, University of Abuja and Onyinye Nwagbara of the Nigerian Defence Academy, (NDA), were billed to engage with Obasanjo. The imminence of Obasanjo’s return flight, however, altered the plan. Obasanjo opted to speak to the first part of the topic, the role of the writer in nation building, deferring the discourse on the presidential library until another encounter. He decried the poor reading culture in Nigeria which is on the rise, and warned it could be antithetical to the preserved of the nation's literary heritage. According to him, Nigeria has produced some of the world's finest and most respected writers, a situation which he observed compels the evolution of new writers to sustain the trajectory. Obasanjo noted that despite the advantages provided by technological advancement, many youths
do not apply themselves to the grindstone of rigorous reading and intellection. He noted that if this laissez-faire attitude is not corrected, it could backlash vis-avis the emergence of uninformed and incompetent leaders. The former President noted that the internet provides limitless opportunities which must be leveraged by the younger generation.
His words: "Many of them no longer do serious reading. Reading makes an effective and productive human being. A reader is a leader, a leader must not necessarily be a writer but must be a reader to be up to speed with trends and happenings."
Speaking further, Obasanjo noted that "Nigeria is blessed with good writers who have used their craft in nation building and one of such distinguished authors
is Chinua Achebe. He showcased Nigeria's culture to the world and elevated our culture in his writings."
The former president charged the youths to take bold steps in shaping their own futures rather than wait for opportunities to drop on their laps. He noted that the recurring mismanagement of the nation's human and material resources were at the roots of the nation's travails. He canvassed the application of political will in the nation's policy formulation and execution, noting that limited bureaucratese in military dispensations was instrumental to better effectiveness under martial rulership. He commended ANA for its impressive work in developing the writers village and in championing initiatives to inspire up and coming writers.
ANAAbuja Chairman, Chukwudi Eze noted that the power of writing is evident in the motivational phrase: "Give me liberty or give me death," which birthed the American revolution and built the nation into a global colossus. He thanked Obasanjo for according him the special privilege of designing the Abeokuta-based presidential library. He applauded Obasanjo’s initiation of the Africa Leadership Forum, (ALF) back in the days, which sought to broaden the worldview of the continent's potential leaders. Eze expressed the hope that Nigerian leaders across levels will emulate Obasanjo’s uncommon Pan-Nigerianism and the placement of competence and merit, over and above clannish parochialism. ANA National President, Usman Oladipo Akanbi who flew in from Ilorin for the programme, thanked Obasanjo for the honour done to the association by his keeping a date with the writers body like he promised. The gesture, he noted will spur the association to greater heights. Akanbi noted that the former President indeed brightened the weekend of youths and teenage students who attended the event, who never believed they would ever see him in flesh and blood.
Former Minister of the FCT, Muhammad Abba-Gana, who attended the event, commended Obasanjo for liberalising property ownership in Abuja by approving the mass housing scheme, proposed during his period in office as minister. He observed that before Obasanjo’s coming, workers were predominantly resident in faraway communities and had to commute through the stress of heavy vehicular traffic to the city centre everyday, and back home. Abba Gana acknowledged Obasanjo’s courageous liquidation of Nigeria's foreign financial commitments and his bequeathal of a very robust foreign reserve to the successor administration. Senator Shehu Sani who shared the same section of a jailhouse with Obasanjo when they were both incarcerated by former military leader, Sani Abacha, was equally in attendance. A published author himself, he applauded Nigerian authors for deploying their creativity to drive societal change towards the attainment of an egalitarian nation.
Jerry Alagbaoso, a former Member of the House of Representatives and prolific playwright; former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Shamshudeen Amali, and Obasanjo’s private secretary during his stint as military Head of State, Ambassador Albert Omotayo, were also at the programme. The Chinese Embassy was represented at the gathering by a three-man delegation led by Yang Jianxing, the Cultural Counsellor and Director of the Chinese Cultural Centre in Nigeria. Al Bishak, Vicky Sylvester Molemodile, Professors at the Federal University Lafia and the University of Abuja, respectively, and Colonel Shaw, lead developer of the ANA behemoth and member of the association by adoption, were also present. Etim Oqua, a retired police Commissioner and Otunba Abiodun Fagboun, graced the occasion. On Obasanjo’s entourage were his longstanding ally, Otunba Oyewole Fasawe and Obasanjo’s children, Obabiyi, and Funke. Obasanjo received an ANA-branded commemorative souvenir presented by Usman Akanbi, in recognition of his untiring contributions to national development, through the decades.
Group photograph of attendees of the ANA Abuja weekend event, with former President Obasanjo
L-R: Senator Shehu Sani; former President Obasanjo; Otunba Oyewole Fasawe, at the ANA programme in Abuja ... weekend
National President of ANA, Dr Usman Akanbi, presenting a souvenir to former President Obasanjo, in Abuja
Polity
APC Wins Big as Uba Sani Unites Kaduna
For savvy watchers of events in Kaduna State and the country at large, it was unmistakably a political show of force of some sort on Saturday, February 15, 2025. No, Governor Uba Sani did not set out to campaign or canvass for votes, at least not yet. It was just the grand finale of series of stakeholders’ meetings of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) across the three Senatorial Zones of Kaduna State.
Reputed for his inclusive, participatory and open governance style, Governor Sani had earlier held well-attended stakeholders’ meetings in both Kaduna North Senatorial District (Zone 1) and Kaduna South Senatorial District (Zone 3). The final interface and rally were reserved for Kaduna Central Senatorial District (Zone 2). At this grand finale, the strength and dominance of the APC in Kaduna State, under the leadership of Governor Sani, were in full display at the sprawling Murtala Square – the event’s venue. The rally actually triggered a political earthquake of immense proportion.
More than anything else, the colourful grand finale of the Kaduna State’s APC Stakeholders’ meeting and rally at the Murtala Square, was a befitting applause and endorsement of the pro-people, transformational and inclusive leadership of Senator Uba Sani in his nearly two years in the saddle as the Governor of Kaduna State.
For once, at least in contemporary times, overwhelming majority of indigenes and residents of Kaduna State have become ‘party blind.’ Across the three Senatorial Zones, the people are united by the imperative and the urgency of supporting Governor Sani to deepen the peace, safety and security that now reign in the state. They are also united in their support for the governor’s transformative agenda especially in the hitherto forgotten and underserved rural areas of the State.
Under Governor Uba Sani, the people of Kaduna State are shunning petty divisiveness in favour of an inclusive governance that has engendered rapid development of the state in practically all facets.
So, it was not much of a surprise when political big wigs in the state from other parties who defected to the APC, formally stepped out at Murtala Square to be received at the grand rally. The carnival-like event afforded Governor Sani another opportunity to highlight the giant strides of his admin-
istration so far, in the critical areas of rural transformation, infrastructural development, human capital development, and security. Stakeholders took turns to commend the governor for the milestones recorded in these areas and more. They pledged to step up support for the administration as it revs up developmental efforts across the state.
At the rally, several notable political leaders from other parties formally announced their decision to pitch their political tent in the APC under Governor Sani. Some of the renowned political leaders who announced their switch to the APC alongside their followers included a former Governor of the State, Dr. Mukhtar Ramalan Yero. Also received into the APC were serving and former members of the National and State Assembly respectively, including; Senator Suleiman Usman Hunkuyi; Senator Dajuma Tela la’ah; Senator Shehu Sani; Alh. Abubakar Mustapha; Alh. Jafaru Kurmin Kogi; Hon. Donatus K Mathew; Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji; Hon. Henry Marah Zachariah; Hon. Samuel Kozah Kambai; Hon. Emmanuel Kantiok; Hon. Muh’d Sani Shaaban; Amb. Sule Buba; Hon. Yakubu Umar Barde; Prof. Mato Dogara; Hon. Engr. Micheal Auta; Engr. Joseph Almajiri Ciroma; Bashir Idris Zangon Aya; Muhammad Mahmud Aliyu; Hon. Usman Baba; Engr Seth Bakut; Hon. Ben Kure; Hon. Aminu Sabo Anchau; Mariah Laka Madami; Nuhu Dogo Makama; Bashir Idris Zangon Aya; Alh. Tajjani Musa; Hon. Sa’adu Idris; Yusuf Abubakar Maikwari; Hon. Mikiaih Markus Tokwak; Hon. Jacob Dakare; Prof. Auta Kato; Hon. Victoria Jatau; Hon. Ado Dogo Audu; Hon. Simon Mathia; Hon. Paul Wani, to name but just a few. In fact, it was announced at the rally that these bigwigs were crossing to the APC with over 200,000 of their supporters.
At the remarkable rally, the decampees were unequivocal that their decision to join the APC was because of Governor Sani’s administration’s inclusive and people-centred policies and programmes, as well as the internal democracy within the APC in Kaduna State. They committed themselves to intensive and extensive mobilization of more members for the
ruling party and rendering of all necessary support to ensure the success of the Uba Sani administration. The political bigwigs also lauded Governor Sani’s very cordial working ties with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and also pledged their unalloyed support for the President.
At the memorable event, an elated Governor Sani thanked the decampees, party stakeholders as well as all citizens of the state who turned out in their thousands for the Stakeholders Meeting and Grand Rally. He assured the decampees of his support and that of his administration to ensure their smooth integration into the APC. While expressing his gratitude to party faithfuls for their steadfastness and loyalty, Gov. Sani urged them to remain committed to the ideals of the party.
“In the 2027 election, the electorate will vote for APC in all the elections, from top to bottom. At the top, our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will be elected. At the state level, the party will be voted for at the gubernatorial, National and State Assembly elections, by the grace of God,” Governor Sani confidently assured.
To underscore his often held position that his administration will continue to work round-the- clock, for all persons in Kaduna irrespective of political or other affiliations, barely hours after the mammoth political rally, Governor Uba Sani held another mega event - this time, pursuant to his administration’s determination to make Kaduna State not only self-sufficient in food production, but the food basket of the nation, the governor performed the official launch of the Dry Season Agricultural Empowerment Programme at the same venue - Murtala Square, Kaduna. The event, which was witnessed by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, marked another bold step in the governor’s commitment to transforming agriculture and ensuring that farming is not just a seasonal activity but a sustainable, year-round enterprise.
Indeed, the Uba Sani administration is not just prioritising Agriculture; Agriculture is at the center of Kaduna State’s Development Agenda. In the 2025 Budget, the administration allocated 10% of the total budget to the agricultural sector. As a subnational this is hugely significant - reaching the Malabo target of investing 10% of national budgets in agriculture set by African Heads of State and Government in Equatorial Guinea in June 2014.
Under the Dry Season Agricultural Empowerment Programme, the Kaduna State
Government is currently distributing 100,000 bags of fertilizers — both NPK and Urea — to enhance soil fertility and boost yields. “We have also procured 500 power tillers to assist smallholder farmers in land preparation, 2,000 knapsack sprayers for effective pest and disease control, and 10,000 water pumps, most of which are solar-powered to support irrigation and ensure uninterrupted farming during the dry season. Alongside these, we are providing high-quality seeds and agrochemicals to improve productivity across the state,” Governor Sani announced at the event.
During this phase of the intervention, the Uba Sani administration will be distributing 100 residue crushers and 50 fodder choppers to various beneficiaries, including livestock markets, cooperative groups in the livestock sector, and 19 sedentary pastoralist communities across the state. These essential tools, the governor said, would assist in processing agricultural residues into livestock feed and improving fodder availability, ultimately increasing productivity and ensuring better nutrition for animals.
“By equipping these groups, we are reducing dependency on expensive commercial feed and promoting self-sufficiency among livestock farmers. As part of our broader agenda to enhance rural livelihoods and foster peace, we have provided these communities with solar-powered boreholes equipped with drinking troughs for livestock. This intervention guarantees year-round access to clean water, improving livestock health and reducing the need for migration in search of water sources. Additionally, demonstration fields for pasture production have been established to train farmers on best practices for sustainable fodder cultivation, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality pasture for their animals,” the governor said.
“As a state, we have made tremendous progress in rebuilding trust, forging understanding, peacebuilding and conflict transformation. We have restored peace and security to conflict - challenged areas like Birnin Gwari and Giwa Local Governments. Farmers can now conveniently access their farms. Commercial activities are back in full swing. It is however a work in progress. We shall not rest until peace and security are restored to every community in our dear State,” the enigmatic Governor of Kaduna State enthused. These are truly good times for Kaduna State and a huge plus for the ruling APC at both state and national levels. •YusufwritesfromBarnawa,Kaduna
Ahmed Ibrahim Yusuf
•Governor Sani and APC chieftains in Kaduna ... recently
IN THE ARENA
FG’s Curious Obsession with New Universities
Despite the neglect and gross underfunding of the existing government-owned universities, the federal government has continued to be curiously obsessed with the establishment of new ones, Davidson Iriekpen writes
On February 20, 2025, President Bola Tinubu assented to two bills establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji in Osun State, and the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State.
Prior to the signing of the bills, President Tinubu had on February 3 approved the establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Ogoni town of Tai, Rivers State. He had also assented to the bill for the establishment of the Federal University of Sports in Afuze, Edo State.
Tinubu also consented to the federal government’s takeover of a forfeited private university in Southern Kaduna and its transformation into a federal university.
Lately, the federal government had commenced an initiative to upgrade some polytechnics and colleges of education into full-fledged universities. For instance, penultimate week, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced President Tinubu’s approval to convert the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) to a university.
These new universities would no doubt add to the existing number of institutions at a time when key stakeholders in the education sector, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have condemned the proliferation of tertiary institutions.
According to a list released last year by the National Universities Commission (NUC), Nigeria currently has a total of 262 universities with 52 federal universities (including defence and police academies), 63 state-run universities and 147 private universities. According to estimates, over 90 per cent of the country’s students are in public universities.
For the government, politics and the sense of entitlement by political office holders influence the choice of location of these universities and this explains the rush to establish them.
For the private investors, profit motive influences this business decision.
The most strange and curious proposal was the bill for the establishment of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages in Aba, Abia State.
Last year, the House of Representatives passed the first reading of the bill sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and eight others, for the establishment of the university.
Residents of Aba and other cities in the Southeast believe that if a university is to be established in the commercial city, it should be a university of technology, entrepreneurship or craft, in view of the reputation of the town as the “Taiwan of Nigeria.”
But the lawmakers, in their strange decisions, which are alien to the wishes and aspirations of the people, proposed a university of language, which according to them, will “promote the learning of Nigerian languages.”
In a new world where there is increasing focus on technology and ICT, Nigerian lawmakers are proposing the establishment of a specialised university to promote Nigerian languages, when almost all the existing government-owned universities also teach Nigerian languages.
Despite the huge shortfall in budgetary allocations and in actual funding for education at both state and federal levels in Nigeria, the proliferation of public universities has continued.
The results are the dilapidated infrastructure, poorly equipped laboratories, inadequate classrooms, seats and hostel accommodation for students, poor power and water supply, bad roads, understaffing, poor pay and poor emoluments of staff and faculty, as well as the government’s failure to honour its agreements with ASUU.
Between 1999 and June 2022, the universities were shut for 1,404 days owing to the strike following the union’s demand for improved funding.
Despite these challenges, the government has
continued to build new universities to satisfy federal lawmakers and other senior government functionaries who want public universities in their constituencies.
One of the major arguments by the government to justify the proliferation is the need to give access to university education to young Nigerians as nearly over two million candidates write the University Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) annually. This argument, many feel, doesn’t hold water in view of the numbers released by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in 2019 indicating that 612,557 candidates secured “admission and about 510,957 admission spaces were unused by tertiary institutions (polytechnics and monotechnics inclusive).”
This it is believed does not indicate space problems for admission seekers but suggests far more salient issues.
Instead of the federal and state governments and their parliaments to adopt a more rational, scientific, and development-oriented approach to higher education, it is mostly considering primordial motives.
According to those who spoke with THISDAY, pushing for the establishment of new institutions at a period when the existing ones are grossly underfunded shows a lack of seriousness and rigour in law-making.
While students in private institutions enjoy an unbroken academic calendar and quality teach-
ing, the story in federal and state institutions is different as well as pathetic.
Between 2010 and 2014, the then President, Goodluck Jonathan, established over 12 new federal universities. His justification was that all states should have universities but that was ridiculous, given that the take-off grant for each institution was a paltry N2 billion.
Under the former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, more public universities sprang up, including those for the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Air Force.
Buhari’s administration introduced the tradition where universities are cited in all Nigerian communities that produce the heads of the organisations that own public universities.
In what many Nigerians regarded as their desperation to gain undue favour from Buhari, some agents of his administration had initiated the idea of establishing the Federal University of Transportation in his country home of Daura in Katsina State, which has no well-established water, land, air and rail transport infrastructures to cater for such university.
During the First Republic, the heads of the three regional governments prudently established universities far away from their communities in IleIfe, Zaria and Nsukka. They understood that universities operate on global ideals and standards. This is not the case today where corruption, politics and nepotism influence the location of universities and politicians regard these institutions as constituency projects.
Although the United Kingdom has a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $2.82 trillion (compared to Nigeria’s $466.88 billion), its universities increased by only one, from 141 in 2017 to 142 in 2018, according to government data. In the decade to 2018, the number increased by only 23. Nigerian universities rank abysmally low internationally. as no Nigerian university makes the first 1,000 globally.
This is why ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, recently condemned the mass establishment of universities in the country, describing the development as ‘reckless and excessive.’
Osodeke maintained that the country’s political leaders have no genuine interest in establishing universities other than to use such to score cheap political points among their constituents to reelect them into office.
Rather than seeking to score cheap political points in their respective constituencies, funding existing institutions should be the top priority of the government, not establishing new ones.
p OLITICAL NOT e S when CJN Lectured IG on rule of Law
The Inspector General of Police (IG), Kayode Egbetokun and his team got more than they bargained for during their recent courtesy visit to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun in Abuja.
In her remarks, the CJN lectured them extensively like law enforcers who do not understand their jobs.
First,theCJNcalledonthemandothersistersecurity agencies in the country to ensure full compliance with court orders and to respect human rights.
She expressed concern over the growing trend of non-compliance to court orders by some law enforcement agencies, noting that such acts undermine the integrity of the justice system and weaken public confidence.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also identified poor investiga-
tive processes, lack of thorough case preparation, and delays in prosecution as key factors contributing to prolonged trials and prison congestion in the country. Sheadvisedthepoliceandrelatedagenciestocomplete investigations before filing charges, to prevent cases from being struck out due to insufficient evidence.
The CJN emphasised that the rule of law requires strict adherence to judicial decisions, stating that disobedience to court orders erodes public trust in both law enforcement and the judiciary.
She also urged the IG to issue clear directives to ensure that court judgments and orders are respected and promptly implemented.
She further stressed the importance of adherence to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015,
particularly provisions prohibiting arrest in lieu, inhumane treatment of suspects, and the mandatory electronic recording of confessional statements. She reminded the police that under Section 7 of the ACJA, it is illegal to arrest family members or associates in place of a suspect.
Additionally, the CJN called for internal disciplinary measures within the Nigeria Police Force to ensure personnel do not engage in unlawful practices. She urged the IG to implement mechanisms to monitor and prevent police brutality, ensuring that officers who violate the law are held accountable. Itishopedthatthepoliceandotherlawenforcement agencies will utilise the advice of the CJN to do their jobs professionally and effectively.
Alausa
BRIEFING NOTES
Protecting NAFDAC’s DG from Drug Merchants
Following the alarm raised by the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, on threats to her life by fake drug dealers, ejiofor Alike writes that the federal government should beef up security around her, and also stop the agency’s age-long tradition of clamping down on both the guilty and the innocent by shutting an entire market
The irony of the business of fake and counterfeit drugs is that anybody can be a victim, including the suppliers and their family members and friends.
That’s why all Nigerians should join hands with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to fight the common enemies of the people who are the dealers on fake pharmaceutical products.
In view of the harmful effects of fake medications on lives, the National Assembly should urgently consider the proposal by the Director General of the agency, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, for the death penalty for the offenders.
There is no doubt that unlike bandits, armed robbers and kidnappers, fake drug dealers kill their victims silently without giving them the opportunity to know the cause of their deaths or to take precautionary measures.
Since her assumption of office, Adeyeye has followed the commendable footsteps of one of her predecessors, the late Professor Dora Akunyili in the fight against fake drugs.
It is not surprising that threats are being made to her life.
Last Wednesday, while speaking at a State House briefing in Abuja, where she disclosed that NAFDAC had recently seized illicit drugs worth over N1 trillion in an ongoing crackdown against substandard and fake pharmaceutical products, she also raised the alarm over threats to her life and the safety of agency staff.
She explained: “I told you about the attempted murder about six months ago. One of our staff members in Kano had his child kidnapped because he was doing his job. Fortunately, the child escaped.”
“For me, I have two policemen living in my house 24/7 in Abuja and Lagos. I don’t have a life. I can’t go anywhere without police escorts.”
While the government should implement stronger laws to curb the life-threatening trade on counterfeit pharmaceuticals, the security of those at the forefront of the war should be paramount.
Akunyili had also suffered numerous threats and even assassination attempts in 2003.
Her motivation to fight fake drug dealers was said to have stemmed from the death of her sister, who died after receiving fake insulin.
Just like Akunyili, Adeyeye has recorded major breakthroughs in the war against adulterated medicines and their distributors across the country.
The agency recently raided the three major drug markets located in Idumota in Lagos State, Onitsha in Anambra State and Aba in
Abia State, which have remained closed, pending the conclusion of investigation by the agency.
However, NAFDAC ‘s tradition of raiding and closing an entire market because fake and counterfeit drugs were found in some shops has come under scrutiny.
In a democracy where the rule of law is supreme, the innocent are not punished for the crimes committed by the guilty.
Except the entire shops in a market are confirmed to be selling fake drugs, the practice of closing down an entire market and painting the whole traders in tar is unacceptable.
The agency had on February 9, shut down the entire Bridgehead Market in Onitsha following the discovery of fake drugs at the Ogbo Ogwu section of the market.
However, the operation also affected other sections such as rod, allied and tools, plumbing materials, provisions and timber markets.
In his reaction, the presidential
candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, argued that NAFDAC should not have shut down other sections of the market alongside the Ogbo Ogwu market where counterfeit drugs were found.
However, Governor Charles Soludo has countered Obi’s position.
While justifying the NAFDAC’s closure of the adjoining markets alongside the drug section, Soludo, in a statement, stated that the Ogbo Ogwu market leaders confirmed to him that counterfeit drugs were also found in the plumbing material section of the market.
But neither the governor nor NAFDAC could confirm that illicit drugs were found in all the shops in the drug market and all the adjoining markets to warrant the closure of the entire markets.
The Ogbo Ogwu market was also closed by the agency in 2007.
Meanwhile, the South-east Caucus in the House of Representatives has called on the agency to reopen the Onitsha Bridgehead Market, emphasising the need to protect the
Notes for file
livelihoods of legitimate traders.
Speaking at a press conference last Tuesday at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, the caucus leader, Hon. Iduma Igariwey (PDP, Ebonyi), urged NAFDAC to adopt a more targeted approach in its fight against fake and substandard drugs rather than sealing an entire market.
Similarly, the Anambra House of Assembly had also passed a resolution calling on the agency to reopen the Onitsha drug market, insisting that the closure of the market had put the livelihood of at least 10,000 traders, and apprentices in danger.
The lawmakers also called on the market leadership to establish strict monitoring structures to identify and report illicit activities within the market.
Indication of impunity in NAFDAC’s operation emerged as four traders at Ogbo Ogwu Bridgehead Market have dragged the NAFDAC, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, (SON), the NAFDAC Zonal Director, South-East, Dr. Martins Iluyomade and the Anambra State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) before a Federal High Court sitting in Awka for unlawful interference in their fundamental human rights.
The four traders (applicants) are Peter Okala, Alhaji Yunusa Tanko, Prof. Samuel Anidike and C.C. Emereonwu, who are also members of the United Nigeria Group.
The reliefs sought in suit No PHC/AWK/ CS/40/2025, include an order of the court restraining the respondents, their agents, officers, operatives, and workers from further breaking into the applicants’ shops in their absence without a valid court order and search warrant and carting their goods to an unknown destination.
They also claimed that N500 billion worth of goods were carted away by NAFDAC officials, who stormed the market with fierce-looking soldiers, policemen and operatives of other security agencies and sealed the market.
NAFDAC should not involve soldiers in the war to avoid acts of impunity and lawlessness in the fight.
A drug market is not a kidnappers’ den or bandits’ enclave that will require heavily armed soldiers for NAFDAC officials to gain access and do their jobs.
Even if the traders who indulge in this criminal business are armed, the police and other law enforcement agencies are sufficiently equipped to handle armed traders.
NAFDAC should reform its war against fake drugs to enjoy the support of legitimate traders and other members of the society who are the victims of fake drugs.
Ogun Gov’s e xemplary Magnanimity to a Teacher
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, needs to be commended for lavishly celebrating one Kayode Adewale, a mathematics teacher who was recently shortlisted among the top 50 finalists for the prestigious Global Teacher Prize, with significant rewards and recognition.
Adewale, a mathematics teacher at Imagbon/Imaka Comprehensive High School, was recognised for his innovative teaching methods, which include using local languages like Yoruba and Hausa to simplify mathematics concepts for students from low-income families.
Taking to his X handle, Governor Abiodun in a statement, appointed Adewale as the state’s education ambassador and rewarded him with a N5 million cash prize alongside a bungalow in his preferred location within the state. He described the mathematics teacher as a “visionary educator” who has made extraordinary contributions to transforming lives and communities through education.
The governor specifically praised Adewale’s dedication, describing his journey as a trajectory built on hard work, dedication, focus and a commitment to excellence.
Adewale, who in 2020, won the Best Teacher Award in Ogun State, exemplified
The Global Teacher Prize, organised by the Varkey Foundation in collaboration with the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), celebrates exceptional teachers making transformative impacts in education and their communities.
what it means to serve selflessly and resourcefully.
In a country where teachers are hardly recognised despite working under very harsh conditions, and yet remain dedicated to their duties in the interest of the children, it was really nice to see Governor Abiodun showering praises on Adewale and gifting him N5million and a bungalow. No doubt the gifts by Governor Abiodun will spur Adewale and others to put in the utmost best to the development of education in the country. It is often said that “teachers’ rewards are in heaven,” not on earth. But their rewards should begin on earth before the ultimate rewards in the heavens.
They should be encouraged and appreciated to be more productive and innovative. This is why other state governors should emulate Governor Abiodun’s shining example.
Abiodun
Adeyeye
Enhancing the Competitiveness of Nigerian Engineering Education Through Global Benchmarking
Iyiola Omisore
Engineering Education (EE) is inseparable from the national interest of any nation. It includes training in the basic concepts of engineering, its subspecialities, in addition to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and all its subgroupings, whether formal, informal, and non-formal.
A vibrant engineering education enterprise serves all professionals and sectors in national development. Engineering education ensures solid foundation in science, research, product development, and equipment standardization as well as project management. Engineering graduates are thus able to effortlessly integrate scientific and engineering principles into processes that contribute to advances in medical care, enhanced national security systems, ecologically sound resource management, and economic growth. As a result, students who graduate with engineering degrees bring highly prized skills into a wide spectrum of sectors in a country’s workforce. Within all these groups, the diversity of engineering graduates’ backgrounds and viewpoints contributes to their ability to achieve the advances in innovation, productivity, and effectiveness that make them valuable contributors to the workplace of any nation.
Importance of Technical Competencies
Contemporary development and innovation are technology informed, with an increasing need for higher levels of engineering capacity to be deployed across all sectors. However, broad indicators of huge gaps in developing technical competencies are reported across the African Continent. In 2021, companies spent huge amounts of funds on training, much of which paid for workers’ training in basic skills that should have been learned in school. Meanwhile, Africa’s poor performance in teaching Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) eliminates many of the best and brightest school children from the ranks of future scientists and engineers. With little chance to learn in school how science and math skills might translate into professionally useful knowledge, students are unable to make informed choices about further education and work options. As a result, some unprepared students undertake science and engineering studies in college, only to drop out while other, potentially capable students never consider these subjects in the first place. In both cases, precious human and institutional resources are squandered. Girls, women, and minorities are more adversely affected. As girls move through middle and high school, their interest in Math and Science wanes, due to negative influences from teachers, parents, peers, media and especially at workplaces. Often time, in unconscious ways, their pursuit of these subjects is discouraged. As a result, women represent insignificant percent of the technical workforce compared to their percentage amongst African workers. Success in encouraging and retaining women and underrepresented minorities throughout their pre-college, college, and postgraduate years must be a core component of enhancing the African Science and Engineering workforce.
History of University Engineering Education (EE) and TVET in Nigeria
Accreditation in Nigerian Universities started in 1972 at the following universities: University of Ife, Ile-Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University); Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; University of Lagos, Lagos; and University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Similarly, accreditation of Polytechnic Programmes started in 1985 and a common ground was forged by signing the first MOU between National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and COREN in March 2003 to conduct joint accreditation with COREN as team leader.
In their desire to improve the assessment exercise, the two partners re-revised and signed the second MOU in June 2013 and further reviewed and signed the third MOU in September 2021 to accommodate identified gaps in line with the best global practices. A total of twenty-seven engineering programmes have been accredited in 145 under the joint effort of COREN and NBTE assessment list. This has no doubt proven to be effective in optimization of resources and cost.
Section 9 sub-section 6 of the Council for The Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) Act, 2018 as amended provides: “an educational institution for the training of persons in the Engineering profession shall submit syllabus of its programme, content and minimum facilities to the Council for approval before a course approved by the National Universities Commission or the National Board for Technical Education is commenced”. Consolidating this achievement, COREN and NBTE agreed to commence joint accreditation of Technical Colleges in the country in 2023. There has been inactivity in this task which created a profoundly serious gap in the promotion of quality TVET in the country. Furthermore, the commencement of Nigerian Skills Qualifications Fund (NSQF) under the NSC which tasked COREN to drive the Sector Skills Council for Engineering (SSC4E) and Nigerian Academy of Engineering (NAE) to lead the Council is another excellent opportunity to bring back the lost opportunities and harness the fortunes of TVET in the country.
The COREN third quarter report of 2024 further shows that sixty-four universities offer 368 engineering programmes out of which only two universities and fifteen programmes are not
up-to-date on either Resource Verification, Pre-Accreditation and Accreditation assessment visits. COREN is currently finalizing the process of developing and signing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to have joint accreditation with Nigeria Universities Commission (NUC).
Changes in Engineering Education and TVET in Nigeria Universities
To consolidate the gains achieved in Nigeria, there are committees established for the three (3) levels of EE and TVET. These committees serve to guide and promote quality assurance in the Universities, Polytechnics and Technical Colleges, respectively. The committees also serve as advocacy platforms and channels for feedback to and from regulatory bodies, professional associations, the institutions, and other key stakeholders that facilitate the quality training of engineering students like Industrial Training Fund (ITF), National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), etc.
a) Committee of Deans of Engineering and Technology of Universities (CODET)
b) Committee of Deans of Colleges of Engineering and Technology of Polytechnics s(COMPODET) and
c) Committee of Heads of Technical Colleges (COHTEC) Chairpersons of these committees are members of the COREN Training & Certification Council Committee. At the apex is the Engineering Accreditation Committee (EAC) that independently plans and conducts accreditation of both engineering and TVET programmes at the three levels, consider and decide the verdict in line with the best global practice. The existence of the three committees can be said to contribute to the following areas:
a) Total commitment to Implement Outcome Based Education (OBE) in Engineering Programmes
b) Collective support and ownership of long and tedious path of restructuring engineering pedagogy
c) Documentation and peer reviewing of all processes.
d) Building new relationship with Stakeholders
Current Situation on Promoting Engineering Education and TVET
Nigeria has been on this journey since 1972 with varied performances. Typical of a developing economy, the engineering education and TVET have witnessed difficulties over the 50 years period. For lack of data, the following are some evidence-based and verifiable key milestones recorded which undoubtedly should influence the landscape of this especially important subject matter. The technological advancement, development of human capital, job and wealth creation that can trigger significant socio-economic change of Nigeria are linked engineering education and TVET.
1) Joint Accreditation of Engineering Programmes in Polytechnics MOU between COREN and NBTE
2) Developed Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) for all Engineering Programmes offered in Universities in Nigeria
3) Finalizing MOU between COREN and NUC for Joint Accreditation of Enguineering Programmes in Universities
4) Joint Accreditation to Technical Colleges by COREN and NBTE
5) The adoption of OBE curricular in Engineering Education in Universities
6) Developed OBE Manual for implementers and Guidelines for evaluators.
7) The commencement of NSQF with COREN leading SSC4E for training, assessment, certification, registration, licensing and regulating the Artisans in the Engineering sector,
8) Nigeria attained provisional statutory member of Washington Accord for Engineers at global level.
9) Preparation for submission by Nigeria to request for admission
into Sydney and Dublin Accords for Technicians and Craftsmen/ Artisans
10) Published gazattes on different aspects on EE and TVET including Engineering Infrastructure Failures and Forensic Investigation, Whistle Blowing, Intelligence and Surveillance, etc.
11) Published gazatte of Executive Order 5 for work permit, expatriate quota, mentoring, national content, etc
Engineering Education new reality in Nigeria
There are nearly seventy universities that offer engineering education with over twenty-three different programmes. This robust resource, if managed diligently, can produce at least 10,000 engineering graduates in the various fields of the noble profession. The question is, how skillful and competent are these pupil engineers? Are they passing through the global procedure right from the time of enrolment up to graduation? Do they observe the mandatory internship under a certified mentor and work in relevant engineering organizations during the NYSC period? These are the basic questions that require truthful answers. To facilitate this discussion, the checklist below was developed to capture the global best practice that all engineering students pass through from enrolment into university system up to certification as registered and practicing engineers. The checklist is transformed into a tabular format to objectively assess the performance of Nigeria.
TVET new reality in Nigeria (both formal and informal sectors)
The nation has over seven hundred, made up of 145 polytechnics, 418 monotechnics, 204 technical colleges & vocational enterprise institutions (VEIs) and 67 National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) providers covering different TVET programmes. This level accommodates the youths, women including girl children, etc running into over three (3) million potential skilled workers. Similarly, the questions raised for graduates of engineering education from universities and polytechnics are not only applicable to this group but also present additional dimensions of lack of training, non-assessment, non-certification, non-registration leading to non-licensing and eventually difficulty in regulation to prevent quackery and save lives and properties. The bottom of the technological pyramid represents this group. Again, a similar checklist in line with the best global practice for TVET is summarized below showing how the trainees and/or mentees advance under normal situations.
Opportunities to Advancing Engineering Education and TVET
Globally engineering education and TVET attracted the attention of regulators and institutions to ensure similarities in curriculum and benchmarks to enable uniformity in assessment and equivalence in skills, competencies, etc. To foster harmony and ease movement of skilled labour, bodies in different jurisdictions have been constituted to become custodians, regulators, and enforcers of the evolving benchmark minimum for academic and practice standards of the Engineering profession. These bodies have gone a step further to form a cordial international consortium and ensure that the qualifications are the same across board.
Today, we have the International Engineering Alliance (IEA) under whose auspices are the three (3) Accords, namely: Washington Accord for Engineers; Sydney Accord for Engineering Technologists and Dublin Accord for Engineering Technicians.
The International Engineering Alliance (IEA) is a global non-profit organization, which comprises members from 41 jurisdictions within twenty-nine countries, across seven international agreements. These international agreements govern the recognition of engineering educational qualifications and professional competence. Through the Educational Accords and Competence Agreements, members of the International Engineering Alliance establish and enforce internationally bench-marked standards for engineering education and expected competence for engineering practice.
The signatories of the Washington Accord (W.A.) are committed to the development and recognition of good practice in engineering education. The activities of the Accord’s signatories are intended to assist growing globalization of mutual recognition of engineering qualifications. The Washington Accord is specifically focused on academic programmes which focus on the practice of Engineering at the professional level. The Accord acknowledges that accreditation of engineering academic programmes is a key foundation for the practice of engineering at the professional level in each of the countries or territories covered by the Accord.
Under the Washington Accord, there are 22 Full Member Signatories (FMS) from 1989 to date, most of which are the developed nations in the West, Far-East, Americas, and Asia. There are also seven new entrants as Provisional Member Signatories (PMS) from 2016 to date including Nigeria. The continent of Africa has two nations-South Africa represented by ECSA as FMS got admitted in 1999 and Nigeria represented by COREN as PMS got admitted in 2023.
NOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
Zubair
NNPC: Implications of Demarketing Us
Disinformation in this digital age has assumed a frightening dimension; this troubling trend in today’s evolving society is further deepened with the availability of sophisticated forms of information and communication technology which has found expression namely in the sharing of text messages, videos and links online. The deployment of these media tools allows information to go viral within hours. The trending video of questionable origin which purports that Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) produced by NNPC burns faster than others bests illustrates the destructive impact of disinformation if unchecked. For good reason, the country’s oil behemoth reacted with vehemence, to what is unraveling as a contrived vile propaganda aimed at casting doubts on the integrity of its product.
In a press release, Olufemi Soneye, Chief Communications Officer of the company described the viral video as entirely unfounded, originating from unverified amateur research that lacks credibility, accuracy and professional oversight.
The statement said, “This misleading video represents yet another desperate attempt by economic saboteurs to misinform the public and tarnish NNPCL’s reputation. We will not tolerate deliberate misinformation designed to undermine our operations and mislead Nigerians.
“Henceforth, NNPC Ltd. will take firm legal action against individuals or groups who intentionally spread falsehoods about our brand and operations. Those engaged in such malicious activities will be held fully accountable under the law.” Further push back to this obviously manufactured lie came from an independent organisation, Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN). In dismissing the claim suggesting that NNPCL’s fuel is inferior to Dangote’s, the association warned against the dangers of misinformation. A statement from petroleum marketers under the aegis of PETROAN and signed by its spokesman said that the association had conducted independent tests on NNPCL’s Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and found out it met all regulatory and industry standards.
According to PETROAN, “The results of these tests are satisfactory, demonstrating that NNPCL’s petroleum products meet and exceed the required industry standards..”
“Specifically, Flashpoint test exceeds minimum requirement, indicating low risk of ignition. “Density test:” meets prescribed density standards, ensuring optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.
“Viscosity test falls within acceptable range, ensuring smooth engine operation and minimizing wear and tear. Sulfur content test meets regulatory limits, reducing risk of engine corrosion and environmental pollution.
“Water content test”: Well below allowable limit, ensuring fuel stability and preventing engine problem. Ash content test meets regulatory limits, reducing risk of engine wear and tear. We are confident in the quality of petroleum products supplied by NNPCL, which adheres to strict industry standards. Amidst the validation of the highest standards which NNPCL has been associated with for decades, Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the company lampooned and described the viral video as an unfortunate drama and bad marketing practices. While a segment of the public may have been duped by this well-orchestrated vile campaign without any foundation on science and
empirical evidence, the incalculable damage this ignoble action is capable of unleashing on the Nigerian economy and the prospects of energy security is not frightening. This ill-conceived take down campaign is aimed to not only smear the reputation of NNPCL but is driven by the mindless attempts by economic saboteurs and implacable enemies of the Tinubu administration to imperil the economy. Since its founding in 1977, NNPC has been the mainstay of the Nigerian economy; by far Nigeria’s wealthiest and most profitable company, it has been pivotal to the growth in the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Growth in the oil sector has a huge implication for the Nigerian GDP because the economy is an oil driven economy. As a result of concerted efforts of the current management of the company under the leadership of Mele Kyari, the oil sector has witnessed a steady growth in recent times. In the second quarter of 2024, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that real growth in the oil sector was 10.15 per cent. This performance indicated an increase of 23.58 per cent points relative to the rate recording in the corresponding quarter of 2023. In tangible terms, the performance drove the oil sector to contribute 5.70 per cent to the total real GDP in the second quarter of 2024, a rise from the figure of 5.34 per cent of GDP recorded in the corresponding period of 2023.
For decades, NNPC has acted as guarantor of the country’s energy security. This critical role came into sharper focus when the company transformed into a fully independent, commercial and profit oriented energy company. Unveiling the new company in 2022, Former President had charged the company to operate as, “a commercial, independent and viable NOC at par with its peers around the
world, to sustainably deliver value to its over 200 million shareholders and the global energy community, while adhering to its fundamental corporate values of Integrity, Excellence and Sustainability.”
The former President also stated that, “NNPC Limited is mandated by law to ensure Nigeria’s National Energy Security is guaranteed to support sustainable growth across other sectors of the economy as it delivers energy to the world.”
Under the leadership of the current management, the commitment of the company to resolving the country’s energy trilemma by ensuring energy security, sustainable growth and energy affordability is total. Mele Kyari’s resolve, implementation of bold ideas, embrace of shared knowledge and collective determination, NNPCL is delivering expansion of gas infrastructure, the development of cleaner energy options such as Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
Clearly, under the leadership of Mele Kyari, NNPC is witnessing unprecedented transformation. The unconscionable campaign to destroy the reputation of the company through the peddling of lies represented by the viral video is a new low in the concerted effort by economic saboteurs to bring the country to its knees. The sad reality of the present age is that it is possible to destroy an economy and a society through the spread of fake news with the use of digital media. Thomas Jefferson came to this conclusion two centuries ago when he stated that, “truth itself become suspect when filtered through the lens of fabricated news. The 2024 World
Economic Forum ranks fake news as the most severe global short-term risk; its gradual absorption by the public amidst the heightened confusion and uncertainty it spews leads to depression of macroeconomic outcomes.
It is in the national interest for all Nigerians to revolt against the ongoing attempt to de-market NNPC precisely because it threatens its core mandate and unique role as guarantor of Nigeria’s energy security. Energy is an essential element for economic stability, the backbone of nations and a power source of economies; no effort should be spared in protecting it from hawks and predators. The current management of NNPC has demonstrated its resolve not to succumb to this cheap blackmail; in the face of this campaign of calumny, its recourse to legal redress even as it exposes the tissues of lies contained in the controversial viral video is commendable and should be supported by all Nigerians.
The stakes could not be any higher especially at this critical period of profound national challenges. Apart from being the mainstay of the country’s economy, the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) placed on NNPC the role of the supplier of last resort; what this means is that at any point in time when there is disruption in the supply chain of petroleum products, it falls on NNPC to ensure availability of products until such a time normalcy is restored.
Over the years, the company has played this role admirably to stabilise the country’s economy. The ongoing campaign if unchecked will imperil this role and inexorably plunge Nigerian economy into recession.
on
Odiogor, an analyst and commenta- tor
national affairs, contributed this piece from Surulere, Lagos.
victor Odiogor
Kyari
Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe
email:duro.Ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com
Super Bowl Winner, Moro Ojomo, to Establish Sports Academy in Nigeria
The Nigerianborn American football star and 2025 National Football League (NFL) Super Bowl winner with Philadelphia Eagles, Moro Ojomo, has called on athletes with Nigerian ancestry abroad to invest back in their native country.
The 23-year-old defensive tackle said these Nigerian-born stars can start by building sports academies in the country to unearth the multitude of talents in sports.
Ojomo made the call on Saturday at the official visit to the Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), HonAbike DabiriErewa in Abuja.
He said: “As a champion, I’m committed to giving back to my community and empowering the next generation of leaders.
“I propose establishing an academy that promotes Nigerian-born athletes overseas and provides opportunities for young people to develop their skills and talents.
“By investing in our youth, we can build a brighter future for Nigeria and make it a beacon of hope and prosperity for generations to come.”
“Ultimately, our success in life is a direct result of the people around us and the opportunities we’ve been given,” observed the Super Bowl winner with Philadelphia Eagles.
He disclosed that he has plan to be involved in popularising American Football and Rugby in Nigeria, noting that the groundwork is already on to get Nigeria into the Olympic in Rugby.
Ojoma added that: “As Nigerians, we have a responsibility to
pay it forward, to empower and uplift one another, and to create a better future for ourselves and our children.
“So, let’s work together to make Nigeria the greatest country in the world. Let’s invest in our youth, provide them with opportunities, and empower them to become leaders and change-makers.
“Together, we can achieve greatness and create a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.”
The American football star said: “As I conclude, I’d like to leave you with a saying: “The grass is greener where you water it.” Let’s work together to water our grassroots, to empower our youth, and to create a better future for Nigeria.”
The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in her welcome speech, commended Moro Ojomo for his outstanding achievements and contributions to Nigeria’s growth.
She said: “Home will always be home, no matter how much you excel abroad,” encouraging Ojomo to continue making a difference in the lives of younger Nigerians.
She commended Ojomo’s passion for his country and his desire to inspire and empower the younger generation, while extending an official invitation to the star to attend the upcoming Diasporia Day, where he can share his experiences and inspire others.
She said: “We want to see you again and again and again,” calling on Ojomo to continue his involvement with Nigeria.
“We are the greatest country in the world,” adding that: “All we need is to get ourselves together and work together as Nigerians,” concludes the NiDCOM chief.
Super Eagles World Cup Rival, Zimbabwe, Suffer Injury Blow
Zimbabwe will be without star midfielder, Marvelous Nakamba, when they take on the Super Eagles in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier in Uyo later this month.
The Luton Town defensive midfielder Nakamba suffered a calf injury in action against Watford. He will be sidelined for the next six weeks
Nakamba is one of Zimbabwe’s most experienced star player having being a full international since 2015.
Zimbabwe are bottom of their World Cup qualifying group with two points from four matches. They face the Super Eagles on March 25.
Meanwhile, an official of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has admitted that Super Eagles Captain William Troost-Ekong is injured, but it is “not serious enough” to keep him out of must-win 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe later this month.
Ekong has not been listed by Saudi Arabian club Al Kholood in their last two league games as a result of the unspecified injury. However, the unnamed official told SCORENigeria: “It is nothing to be worried about. He will play in the World Cup qualifiers.”
The Super Eagles will face Rwanda on March 21 in Kigali and then take on Zimbabwe four days later in Uyo.
Top Sports Leaders Endorse Niger Delta Sports Festival
Leading national sports personalities of the Niger Delta extraction have learnt their voices in support of the Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF), the nation’s first ever regional sports festival.
The personalities with backgrounds in sports administration, marketing and media spoke separately in commendation of the festival, an initiative of the
Niger Delta Development Commission(NDDC) with Dunamis Icon as consultants.
The personalities include a sitting Vice-President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Chief Solomon Ogba, foremost Sports Marketer and founder of Okpekpe Road Race, Mike Itemuagbor and top Sports Journalist and Media Strategist, Mitchell Obi.
Obi who is from Imo State and a former vice president of Association of Interna-
tional Sports Press (AIPS), described the festival as a game changer coming when the Federal Government has resolved to tap into and build a sports economy.
“This is a positive addition to the evolving sports business ecosystem because it is not just a springboard for identifying talents, it also offers a platform to truly hone the skills of those already discovered”, remarked Obi, who served as Special Advisor to a former
Sports Minister, late Anthony Ikhazobor.
He said the festival will be a flagship event in the region that would trigger interest in sports among the youths and people of the region.
Edo State-born Itemuagbor commended the NDDC for the decision to add sports in the list of their intervention projects in the region, adding that “this speaks directly to the problem of youth restiveness which is of great concern to our people”.
FIFA President, Infantino, Defends World Cup in Saudi, Relationship with Trump
FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, has stood by the football governing body’s decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia, while also defending his relationship with US President, Donald Trump.
According to AFP, the Gulf kingdom was controversially handed the right to host the World Cup at a FIFA Congress in December, despite concerns about its human rights record, the risks to migrant labourers and criminalisation of same-sex relationships.
The process followed by FIFA was also criticised by the Norwegian football federation but speaking in Belfast on Feb 28, Infantino said: “There was a Congress decision, uniting the entire world. It was a very posi-
tive step for football, bringing in eight years, football from all over the world, hosting everyone.
“We have to be bringing everyone to the table. We will go to North America in 2026,
we go to South America, go to Africa, we’ll go to Europe in 2030. We’ll go back to Asia for 2034. The FIFA Congress approved that, it was done after an in-depth report on all this.”
Infantino also faced questions about his relationship with Mr Trump and the first family as he arrived for the annual general meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which sets the laws of the sport.
The president’s daughter Ivanka was involved in the FIFA Club World Cup draw in December, with Infantino also attending Mr Trump’s inauguration in January. Their connection contrasts with the non-existent relationship Infantino had with Mr Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden but is very similar to the close links the 54-year-old Swiss administrator forged with Russian leader
and Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim
the hosts of the last two men’s World Cups.
Michael Olugbode in abuja
now
Vladimir Putin
Hamad al-Thani,
FIFA President, Gianni Infantino (left), and President Donald Trump displaying a jersey portraying the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be jointly hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico
Philadelphia Eagles Nigerian defensive tackle, Moro Ojomo (right), with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja ...at the weekend
MISSILE
Saraki to Senate
“We should not allow the Senate to be cast in the shroud of an institution encouraging sexual harassment, gender bias, abuse of office, flagrant disregard for standing orders and rules, and lack of orderliness” – Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, advising the Senate not to be seen as an institution tolerating misconduct, sexual harassment, gender bias and abuse of office
SIMO N KOLAWOLE
On the Telecoms Tariff Tango
Pardon my ignorance. I would have sworn that the telecoms sector was deregulated until the federal government quickly held a meeting with the leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) after they served a strike notice over the approved 50 percent increase in telephone tariffs. That was when it dawned on me that unlike in the downstream petroleum sector, government is still involved in fixing prices in the telecoms. After the meeting, a committee was set up to look into the new tariffs approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). It brought back memories of the days of fuel price hikes when unions would go on strike and government would meet with their leaders.
Pardon my ignorance again. I didn’t even know that the last time telcos increased their tariffs was in 2013. No, I’ve not been living in another world, but there are too many things to battle with in Nigeria and phone tariff was the least of my worries. As an entrepreneur in my own corner, I’ve been more bothered about diesel price, which was N200/litre 12 years ago but now N1,200. A litre of petrol that was N97 in 2013 is now north of N900. Minimum wage that was N18,000 has quadrupled to N70,000. A Lagos-Abuja flight ticket was N25,000 but is now in excess of N100,000. Operating expenses have risen dramatically for all businesses but I just didn’t pay attention to phone tariffs.
I operate mainly in the printing and publishing business. The book we used to print for N10,000 per copy two years ago now costs up to N20,000. How much are we going to sell it? What will happen if booksellers adjust the price to N22,000 and readers embark on a protest? Will the federal government order them to sell at N12,000 when it has not ordered expenses to come down? The costs of materials and freighting plus customs charges and logistics have headed for the skies in the last two years — riding on the back of the devaluation of the naira and removal of subsidies on petrol and power. What business can survive on pre-2023 prices, much less on tariffs dating back to 2013?
I also run an online newspaper, TheCable, which I founded in 2014. We are lucky we do not incur the kind of operating expenses that printed newspapers have to bear, but we are not enjoying paradise either. For one, we pay for servers and subscriptions in dollars. When we started out, the exchange rate was averagely N165/$. Now we are paying for these services at N1,500/$. Even if they charge us in local currency, we will still pay the naira equivalent. The bills for news gathering and investigations, including flights and hotels, have more than tripled since we launched. The wage bill has gone up in multiple folds. Can our advertisers reasonably insist on paying the same advert rates of 2014?
Sometimes, I wonder how printed newspapers make money in Nigeria, given the enormous costs and stress of running a printing press, importing inks, plates, blankets, spare parts and newsprint, paying high energy bills, keeping distribution vans running on Nigeria’s potholes daily — in addition to flying copies to far-flung places — and still paying salaries. It is hellish. I know what I am saying. I have spent the whole of my adult life in this industry. I went into printing and publishing business in 1996, about three years after I started my journalism career. Thank God, it has put a roof over my head and still pays my bill, but the margins are growing south as the costs head north mercilessly.
Every business makes reasonable adjustments as costs soar. The trader selling garri adjusts the price in response to costs. The mechanic adjusts charges in response to inflation. That is why I just assumed that the telcos had also been making adjustments
NCC CEO, Dr. Aminu Maida
— until I realised recently that the last time they were allowed to do so was in 2013. Wow. They have over 40,000 base stations across Nigeria, each powered by two diesel generators in a 24/7 relay race to protect the equipment from fluctuating current. How much were they spending on diesel in 2013? How much today? Is this why my village people get inconsistent service? The telcos probably think the revenue cannot buy diesel!
In truth, I never expected that anyone would think telcos are operating in a different world and are, therefore, not affected by these stinging economic realities. Do we honestly think everybody else can adjust their prices except the telcos, even though they claim their operating expenses have gone up by over 300 percent in the last two years? Airtel Africa posted a net loss of $89 million in the 2023/2024 financial year — blamed mostly on the devaluation of the naira. In 2024, MTN Nigeria, the biggest of them all, posted a N514.9bn loss in nine months. Globacom is a private company so we are not entitled to the details of their finances, but there is no way they also are not taking a hit. Same could be said of 9mobile, which is neither alive nor dead — although for a different reason.
I understand that phone services are now considered as critical to the livelihood of the poor and there is a need to make sure things are not out of their reach. However, while the price of yam can grow wild and the cost of onions can make us shed tears, the unions do not go on strike or issue a deadline for reversal. Petrol is over N900/litre and we have moved on with our lives by accepting the realities of a deregulated market and adjusting accordingly — but we are ready to spit fire and brimstone because 500MB data that was N500 in 2013 has risen to N750 in 2025. I am probably comparing apples and oranges since the telecoms’ market is somewhat different, but it is what it is.
Nevertheless, there are issues being opened up by the tariff tango. To begin with, subscribers often experience poor quality of service. It could be very frustrating. Even though I am not a tech expert, I always guess that a major part of the problem would be a lack of the needed investment in network upgrade. Operators complain about frequent fibre optic cable cuts resulting from road construction,
in addition to multiple taxation, vandalism and challenges in acquiring a right of way which are impeding infrastructural upgrade. I do not wish to downplay these challenges, but the subscriber wants quality service, not quality excuse. Why should they eagerly pay more for poor services?
I see this tango as an opportunity to tackle a number of issues affecting the sector. On the one hand, the grievances of subscribers need to be addressed. If subscribers are going to pay more, they also deserve more. They don’t want to be shouting “hello hello hello” every time they make a call. On the other hand, the obstacles confronting the telcos must be addressed as well. Fibre optic cable cuts during road construction immediately impact quality of service. I have been thinking loudly that Nigeria must be one of the few countries in the country where telcos suffer these fibre cuts. Should we assume that road builders are not provided with the geo-physical maps before they start work?
I see a problem of co-ordination here. For every road construction, there should be communication between the government agency that awarded the contract, the contractor and the operators. You just can’t start excavating a road without knowing what is in its belly. The best practice across the world is to go through the geo-physical maps to know where the pipelines and ducts are laid. We do things anyhow in Nigeria, so this doesn’t really mean anything to us. I have seen water pipes being burst by earth equipment because somebody did not do their homework. Some construction companies cut fibre optic cables and don’t bother to inform the operators for remedial action.
Also, something doesn’t sound right in the Nigerian Communications Act and this is an opportunity to correct it. The law empowers the NCC to have the final say on tariffs. Section 108 says: “(1) Holders of individual licences shall not impose any tariff or charges for the provision of any service until the Commission has approved such tariff rates and charges except as otherwise provided in this Part. (2) The licensees specified in subsection (1) of this section shall provide services at the tariff rates and charges so approved by the Commission and shall not depart therefrom without prior written approval by the Commission of such proposed changes in tariff rates and charges.”
Something is wrong with this. In a truly deregulated market, it is not the job of the regulator to determine tariffs, either floor or ceiling. The NCC should be enforcing technical standards and ensuring satisfactory service. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), working closely with the NCC, should ensure that there are no unfair pricing practices, such as collusion. Alternatively, there should be a pricing mechanism indexed against certain metrics, such as inflation, to avoid the kind of situation where tariffs have to be adjusted sharply rather than in bits. If government is no longer approving the prices of petrol, so why should it fix call tariffs?
Finally, since the mobile phone revolution started over 20 years ago, telcos have become the cash cows. In a sense, they have become victims of their own success. Everybody is looking up to them for revenue. Every tier of government is trying to feast on them. Some states have seized the chance to bolster their IGR. The sector has also contributed immensely to the GDP. A lot of things ride on their services today — banking transactions, security infrastructure, etc. It is, therefore, in everybody’s interest for the goose that lays the golden egg to remain alive and kicking. Tariff is just one of the needed adjustments to keep the sector in good health. Service quality is another. It can be a win-win.
And Four Other Things…
AKPOTI VS AKPABIO
We are entering a new season in the “Netflix Original” screening at the Nigerian senate and starring Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. In the first season, Akpabio fired potshots at Akpoti-Uduaghan, saying senate is not a “night club”. In the second season, she opened fire on Akpabio for changing the seating arrangement and taking her away from the cameras which she said help with visibility in the red chamber. On Friday, she opened a new act in an Arise interview. “Mine is the case of a student being punished by a lecturer for refusing to sleep with him,” she said. Why am I thinking this whole drama will end in suspension and apologies? Anticlimax.
VIVA LA VISA!
There was confusion over Nigeria’s visa on arrival policy recently when Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the interior minister, said it was being scrapped. The problem is that visitors have to wait for hours at the airport to get the visa vignette. The good news, however, is that an improved process is on the way. In place of physical stickers, visitors will apply online and get an e-visa via email before arriving the country. “This aims to cut out inefficiencies, allowing Nigeria to better automate and control the inflow of travellers. This upgrade builds upon the existing online approval system, streamlining the process and enabling travellers to receive their approvals ahead of time,” Tunji-Ojo said. Lovely.
KEMI THE COCONUT
UK PM Keir Starmer aimed a loaded jibe at Mrs Kemi “Nigeria is hell” Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, on Wednesday. He had proposed a cut to international aid budget to beef up defence spending — an upcoming trend in Western countries in this Trumpian age. She then claimed credit for the idea, but Starmer fired back: “I’m going to have to let the leader of the opposition down gently. She didn’t feature in my thinking at all. I was so busy… I didn’t even see her proposal.” And then the clincher: “She has appointed herself saviour of the Western civilisation in a desperate search for relevance.” As they say in Warri, “Talk am go, talk am come, Saduwa na Bini man.” Ouch!
NO COMMENT
Lagos is fast becoming a case study in democratic decline. After 32 of the 40 state lawmakers voted to remove Rt Hon Mudashiru Obasa as speaker, he has refused to go. On Thursday, he conducted “plenary” with just four members. This was the same thing the APC used to condemn as an opposition party. Since Obasa thinks he was illegally removed, he should wait for the courts and not resort to self-help. Democracy can self-correct if we would allow it to work. Some people respect democracy only when the tide favours them. Meanwhile, after withdrawing the security of the new speaker, Rt Hon Mojisola Maranda, police came out to say it was only for audit purposes. Wonderful.
