SUNDAY 5TH JANUARY 2025

Valuation of GTCO, Nine Other Banks Rises to N7.87tn in 2024 Amid Banking Recapitalisation Drive

Kayode Tokede

The market value of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) and nine other banks rose to N7.87 trillion in 2024 as market capitalisation increased to N62.76

trillion on the stock market of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) in 2024, an investigation

by THISDAY has revealed.

The NGX banking Index which witnessed mixed reactions in 2024, closed positive amid

impressive corporate earnings by listed banks on the Exchange.

According to analysts, investors have been trading cautiously in the banking stocks on the backdrop of the recapitalisation policy of the Central Bank of

Nigeria (CBN).

The CBN announced the banking sector recapitalisation exercise on March 28, 2024, and investors who invested in the banking stocks have maintained cautious trading.

In the new dispensation, commercial banks are facing minimum capital thresholds of N500 billion for international authorisation and N200 billion for national authorisation. In contrast, those with regional authorisation

are expected to achieve an N50 billion capital floor.

Similarly, non-interest banks with national and regional authorisations will need Continued on page 5

Northern Elders Demand Suspension of Tax Reform Bills… Page 8 Sunday, January 5, 2025 Vol 29. No 10864

x

www.thisdaylive.com TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N500

N

CDS to Frontline Troops: Take the Fight to Criminals’ Hideouts, Flush Them Out Completely Urges military to respect human rights NAF to take delivery of 50 fighter aircraft

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher

Musa, has charged troops of the newly established two National Mission Brigades in Samaru Kataf, Kaduna State,

and Sector 8 Mangu, Plateau State, called on troops to take the fight to the criminal hideouts and flush them out completely.

This is just as he urged the troops to respect and protect the rights of citizens while conducting their operations.

In a related development, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, stated that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF)

would take additional delivery of 50 brand-new aircraft between Continued on page 5

Tinubu in Enugu, Says It’s Time to Unite, Build Nigeria Optimistic about completion of Eastern Rail Line Pledges to develop Anambra Basin’s oil and gas resources Insists subsidy removed to save future generations You are doing a fantastic job, I don’t care which party you come from, Tinubu tells Mbah Mbah describes Tinubu as true federalist, lauds him on THISDAY award

Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Gideon Arinze in Enugu

President Bola Tinubu yesterday declared that with the elections over, it was time to unite and build Nigeria, stressing that “no one of us has control of our mother tongue.”

Tinubu has also made a firm commitment that his administration would complete the Eastern Rail line connecting Port Harcourt to Maiduguri while pledging to develop the huge oil and gas resources in the Anambra Basin.

The president, who gave the assurance in an interactive session with the leaders of the South-east during his first official visit to Enugu State, hailed Governor Peter Mbah for demonstrating an irrevocable commitment to human and infrastructural developments, just as the governor described Tinubu as a true federalist and congratulated Continued on page 5

YOU ARE DOING A FANTASTIC JOB…

L-R: Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu; Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti; President Bola Tinubu; and Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, during the president's state visit and inauguration of multiple projects executed by Mbah’s administration in Enugu…yesterday.

2

SUNDAY JANUARY 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

SUNDAY JANUARY 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

3

4

SUNDAY JANUARY 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

5

JANUARY 5, 2025 • T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R

NEWS

Over 5,000 Hospitalised as UK Faces Flu Outbreak The United Kingdom is grappling with an intense flu outbreak that has seen over 5,000 patients hospitalised by the end of December.

The National Health Service (NHS) on Friday reported an average of 4,469 flu-related hospitalisations daily in the week leading up to December 29,

TINUBU IN ENUGU, SAYS IT’S TIME TO UNITE, BUILD NIGERIA him for winning THISDAY Man of the Year Award.

Meanwhile, the leaders of the Southeast geo-political zone have called on Tinubu to dismantle the roadblocks and checkpoints mounted by security operatives in the zone.

During the meeting with the South-east leaders, the former Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, while applauding the Tinubu’s administration for completing the Port Harcourt to Aba section of the Eastern rail line, appealed to the President to prioritise the completion of the remaining portions of the rail link to boost Nigeria's non-oil exports and economic growth.

Another indigene of Enugu State, Mr. Chris Ngwu called for the development of the Anambra Basin to unlock the oil and gas reserves in the area.

According to him, “We are saying that this reserve called Anambra Basin holds not less than one billion barrels of oil and about 30 billion cubic feet of gas.”

He added: "For explanation purposes, Anambra Basin borders on the South and the Niger Delta, and the Benue trough. Among the whole Basins as a frontier exploration for oil and gas, Anambra Basin stands number one in terms of performance, in terms of reserves, and in terms of attraction.”

Responding to the request for the rail line, President Tinubu reassured the audience, saying, "It is a work-in-progress.

I inherited some of these critical problems and am committed to solving them."

"On the support of the gas infrastructure. Sure, gas is an alternative to petrol. There is no more wasting of time than to invest more in it. We will do it together, and I am lucky I have good governors.''

Acknowledging the presence of various dignitaries, Tinubu praised former Senate President, Dr. Ken Nnamani for saving Nigeria's democracy from those who wanted to derail it with the third term project.

Earlier at the meeting, President Tinubu praised Governor Mbah for his development model and philosophy after inaugurating several projects executed by the state government.

He pledged that the federal government would continue to support Enugu and other states in their development efforts.

Insists Subsidy Removed to

Save Future Generations

Tinubu insisted that the removal of the fuel subsidy was necessary because “we cannot spend the future generation yet unborn in advance”.

“We don't want to bankrupt future generations of our nation before they're born,” he added.

Among the projects inaugurated by the President are the GTC Smart Green School, New Haven/Bisalla Road, the International Conference Centre, the Command-and-Control Centre, and 150 patrol vehicles equipped with surveillance cameras.

You are Doing a Fantastic Job, I don’t Care Which Party You Come from, Tinubu Tells Mbah

The President, who also performed the virtual inauguration of other notable projects from the Enugu State Government House, hailed Governor Mbah for his achievements.

“It reassures me that more revenue going to the sub-nationals and local governments is not a waste. It is for development.

"We have committed leaders like Peter Mbah taking Enugu on the path of 21st-century development, taking Enugu to greater heights, and building our tomorrow today.

"I cannot forget the sight of those children I just met at the Smart Green School.

"I have seen gadgets and vehicles with 21st-century technology. Yes, you

are indeed working for today, tomorrow, and the future.

"My good friend Peter, we can go places together to build Nigeria and build the future.

"It is audacious to have this home filled with technology, and they are ready for use. To promote investment, I know you are a private sector person, and we must encourage more private sector people to come into politics.

"When you are sure of security and development and give value for money, investors will be your friend," Tinubu said at the inauguration of the Command-and-Control Centre.

Tinubu further lauded the governor, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for demonstrating an irrevocable commitment to human development.

The president noted that the election season had ended and that now was the time for leaders to get to work and move the nation forward.

“He (Mbah) is doing a fantastic job.

I am glad that Enugu has a very good tomorrow, today. I salute Peter Mbah for his commitment to development.

You have built up a good team and I have reviewed a number of things with you in Abuja. You have encouraged me on the technological advancement of the state. The commitment you have from the private sector. I know your background.

"I don't care which party you come from; you are my friend. Alex Otti of Abia State is also doing very well. It is not about the differences in languages and place of birth.

"No one of us has control of our mother tongue. God created us, and you can find yourself in Enugu, Onitsha, or Lagos. We are all members of one huge family called Nigeria, but we live in different rooms in the same house.

"We must build this house to satisfy our immediate and future needs," Tinubu said.

Mbah Describes Tinubu as True Federalist, Lauds Him on THISDAY Award

At the interactive session, Mbah described President Tinubu as a true federalist and congratulated him for being named THISDAY Man of the Year.

"Your Excellency, your credential as a true federalist stands out brightly, and the legacies thereof will long earn you resounding accolades,” the governor said.

Mbah said his vision to grow Enugu's economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion within four years can be achieved when security is guaranteed, quality education thrives, and citizens can access affordable healthcare.

The governor outlined the bold steps taken to enhance public safety in the state, including ending the illegal sit-at-home order imposed across the South-east by a criminal gang and non-state actors.

South-east Leaders Want FG to Dismantle Road Blocks, Checkpoints in Zone

Leaders of the five South-east geopolitical zones also appealed to President Tinubu, to order the dismantling of checkpoints and roadblocks in the area, saying the roadblocks make goods expensive.

Presenting the zonal leaders' position, the Commissioner representing the South-east at the Police Service Commission (PSC), Mr. Onyemuche Nnamani noted that checkpoints and roadblocks have a lot of drawbacks, which have negatively affected the economy of the people in the zone and even constitute a security risk.

He contended that with the modern command and control centre, ultra-modern statewide CCTV, modern cameras mounted on patrol cars, some of which were commissioned yesterday, as well as other strategies put in place, there was no need for the traditional checkpoints and roadblocks.

a nearly 3.5-fold increase compared to the same period in 2023.

On Christmas Day, 4,102 patients were in hospital with flu, rising sharply to 5,074 by December 29.

This marks a dramatic quadrupling of cases since November 29, when hospitalisations stood at 1,190.

Adding to the strain, hospitals are also dealing with high numbers of norovirus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus cases.

Critical care units reported an average of 211 flu patients per day, while norovirus and RSV cases remain significantly higher than last year.

The NHS has implemented measures to manage the surge, including adding 1,300 extra beds and improving coordination centres.

A record 15,094 patients were discharged on Christmas Eve, representing a 40 per cent increase over the previous week’s average.

According to the BBC, the National Clinical Director for urgent and emergency care, Julian Redhead, highlighted the continued pressure from flu, COVID-19, RSV, and other viruses.

He urged people to take precautions and use NHS resources wisely, particularly as temperatures are expected to drop below freezing.

He said the figures show “the pressure from flu was nowhere

near letting up before we headed into the new year, skyrocketing to over 5,000 cases a day in hospital as of the end of last week and rising at a very concerning rate”.

“With what looks like an extreme cold snap expected right across England ahead of the weekend, we know the low temperatures can be dangerous for those who are vulnerable or have respiratory conditions,” he added.

Trump to Be Sentenced over Hush Money Case But Judge Signals No Jail Time A New York judge, Justice Juan Merchan has ordered that Donald Trump will be sentenced on January 10, in his hush-money case in New York - less than two weeks before he is set to be sworn in as president.

New York Justice Juan Merchan signalled he would not sentence Trump to jail time, probation, or a fine, but instead give him an "unconditional discharge", and wrote in his order that the president-elect could appear in person or virtually for the hearing.

Trump had attempted to use his presidential election victory to have the case against him dismissed.

The president-elect has posted on social media dismissing the judge's order as an "illegitimate political attack" and calling the case "nothing but a rigged charade".

Trump was convicted in May of

34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a $130,000 (£105,000) payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels.

The charges related to attempts to cover up reimbursements to his ex-lawyer, Michael Cohen, who in the final days of the 2016 election campaign paid off the adult film star to remain silent about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump.

The president-elect has denied all wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty, arguing the case was an attempt to harm his 2024 presidential campaign.

In the post on his Truth Social platform yesterday, Trump said the judge's sentencing order "goes against our Constitution and, if allowed to stand, would be the end of the Presidency as we know it".

Trump's spokesperson Steven

Cheung earlier called the order part of a "witch hunt".

"President Trump must be allowed to continue the presidential transition process and to execute the vital duties of the presidency, unobstructed by the remains of this or any remnants of the witch hunts," Cheung said.

"There should be no sentencing, and President Trump will continue fighting against these hoaxes until they are all dead."

In his latest motion against the case, Trump had argued the case would hang over him during his presidency and impede his ability to govern.

Justice Merchan said he had been advised of several measures he could employ that could assuage Trump's concerns about being distracted by a criminal case while serving

as president that fell short of the "extreme remedy" of overturning the jury's verdict.

His options included delaying the sentencing until Trump, 78, leaves the White House in 2029, or guaranteeing a sentence that would not involve prison time.

Trump had initially, and unsuccessfully, argued the case against him ran afoul of a Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity.

In July, the country's top court ruled that presidents have broad immunity from criminal prosecution for "official actions" they take while in office.

However, last month Justice Merchan ruled Trump's hush money conviction was valid.

Trump is currently set to be the first convicted felon to serve in the White House.

CDS TO FRONTLINE TROOPS: TAKE THE FIGHT TO CRIMINALS’ HIDEOUTS, FLUSH THEM OUT COMPLETELY

December 2025 and 2026.

Musa also stressed that personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) are trained to protect lives and property, as well as to respect the rights of citizens.

Musa gave this charge yesterday when he visited frontline units under Operation Safe Haven in Kaduna and Plateau states in continuation of his operational visits to Defence Headquarters-led operations.

The CDS further called on troops to take the fight to the criminal hideouts and flush them out completely.

He told the troops that he desires to see a renewed and greater vigour in the fight against insurgency in the year 2025.

The CDS warned troops to desist from any illegal practices that would bring the name of the AFN to disrepute, even as he called on them to work as a team to achieve more operational successes.

A statement by the Acting

Director, of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said the General officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander I of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar briefed the CDS on the general security situation under Operation Safe Haven joint operational area.

While in Southern Kaduna, the CDS also paid homage to the Chief of Kagoro, His Royal Highness, Agwam Ufuwai Bonet.

He applauded the Royal father for his support to troops operating in Southern Kaduna.

The CDS was accompanied by the two National Mission Brigades by the Senator representing Kaduna South senatorial district, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung.

The senator expressed appreciation to the CDS for bringing solutions that will address insecurity in the area.

NAF to Take Delivery

of 50 Fighter Aircraft

Meanwhile, the CAS, Air Marshal Abubakar, has stated that NAF would take additional delivery of 50 brand-new aircraft between December 2025 and 2026.

Abubakar also recalled that NAF had acquired 12 additional fighter aircraft for the operational capabilities of the Force.

Abubakar stated these yesterday during a parley with NAF Veteran residents in Kaduna.

He added that NAF was poised to take delivery of 24 M-346 fighter aircraft and 10 additional Agusta Westland 109 Trekker helicopters from Italy.

Other platforms being expected, he said, were two additional T-129 ATAK helicopters from Turkey, 3 CASA 295 transport aircraft from Spain,E S A and 12 AH-1Z Vipper helicopters from the United States.

According to the Air Chief, the acquisition of the new aircraft

is part of the NAF’s efforts to boost its operational effectiveness.

In addition to the acquisition of new aircraft, he said the NAF also adopted a predictive maintenance culture, which is aimed at reducing equipment failures and downtime.

Abubakar, who was represented by NAF’s Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sani, at the event, noted that in the last 18 months, the force has made significant strides in various areas.

On welfare, Abubakar said the NAF had initiated several projects aimed at improving the living conditions of its personnel, including affordable housing, meal subsidies, and priority admission for NAF personnel’s wards.

“We are committed to ensuring that our personnel are well taken care of and that they have access to the resources and support they need to perform their duties effectively,” the CAS added.

VALUATION OF GTCO, NINE OTHER BANKS RISES TO N7.87TN IN 2024 AMID BANKING RECAPITALISATION DRIVE to increase their capital to N20 billion and N10 billion, respectively.

To enable the banks to meet the minimum capital requirements, the CBN urged banks to consider injecting fresh equity capital through private placements, rights issues, and/or offers for subscription; Mergers and Acquisitions (M&As); and/ or upgrades or downgrade of license authorisation.

THISDAY saw a significant increase in stock prices of the 10 banks in the 2024 financial year and it contributed to their market value on NGX. In the period under review, the market capitalisation of GTCO added N485.62 billion to close at N1.68trillion as of December 31, 2024, when its stock price gained N16.50 per share or 40.7 per cent to close 2024 at N57.00 per share from N40.50 per share it opened for trading.

GTCO declared N1.22 trillion

profit before tax in nine months of 2024, gaining the highest market value in the year under review, followed by Zenith Bank Plc. Zenith Bank’s market capitalisation closed in 2024 at N1.43 trillion when its stock price closed in 2024 at N45.5 per share, about N6.85per share or 17.7 per cent increase from N38.65 per share when the stock closed in 2023.

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and FBN Holdings Plc joined the top four financial institutions with a market value above N1 trillion.

As UBA’s stock price appreciated by N8.35 per share or 32.6 per cent to close 2024 at N34 per share, its market capitalisation increased to N1.16 trillion as of December 31, 2024.

For FBN Holdings, its market capitalisation closed in 2024 at N1.01 trillion when its stock price increased to N28.05 per share, N4.50 per share, or a 19.11

per cent increase over N23.55 per share it opened for trading last year.

Others are: Access Holdings Plc, N847.75billion; Wema Bank Plc, N195.01billion; Jaiz Bank, N133.77 billion; FCMB Group Plc, N186.15billion; Sterling Holding, N161.23billion; Ecobank, N513.8 billion; and Fidelity Bank, N560.21billion market capitalisation as of December 31, 2024.

Among the investigated banks, Access Holdings and FCMB Group are the only two financial institutions that have completed capital-raising exercises on the Exchange.

Investors await the outcome of Sterling Holdings, GTCO, FBN Holdings, Fidelity Bank, Zenith Bank, and UBA capital raising exercise.

On the sector’s recapitalisation, Investment banker and stockbroker, Mr. Tajudeen Olayinka in a chat with

THISDAY stated that banks accessing the capital market to raise capital is a welcome development, stressing that the stock market is ready to support banks in their quest to meet CBN requirements.

“The truth is that most banks may not be able to raise as much as they require from the stock market at this time because of high interest rates, among other factors. Ordinarily, banks could have raised as much as they required at a lower cost of equity and as it is now, they may have to consider a higher cost of equity.

“For that reason, some will have to go by the way of right issues and public offers like what Fidelity Bank is doing right now.

The exercise will attract foreign investors and local investors are ever ready but may not show much interest due to weaker purchasing power,” Olayinka explained.

6

T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • JANUARY 5, 2025

NEWS

HONOURING EKITI’S NEWEST COUPLE...

L-R: Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu; Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; former Governor of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande; former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba; Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin; the bride, Toluwatimi Esther Oyebanji; Vice President Kashim Shettima; the groom, Ayodeji Kenny Akinyemi; Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe; Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN); Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji, at the traditional marriage ceremony of the Oyebanji’s daughter at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State…yesterday

Marketers Urge FG to Make Crude Oil Available to Local Refineries, Privatise Kaduna, Warri Refineries Demand N100bn grant to avert closure of 10,000 businesses

Peter Uzoho

The Petroleum Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has recommended among others, the privatisation of state-owned Warri and Kaduna refineries to reputable private companies to improve efficiency and reduce government spending.

This is just as the marketers have called on the federal government to make crude oil available to the local refineries.

PETROAN has requested for a grant of N100 billion from President Bola Tinubu to help prevent the looming closure of 10,000 marketers' businesses.

The association made the requests in its review of Nigeria's oil and gas downstream sector for 2024, dated January 4, 2025, which was jointly signed by its National President, Dr Billy Grillis-Harry; National Secretary, Adedibu Aderibigbe; and the National Public Relations Officer, Dr Joseph Obele.

"PETROAN requested for a grant of N100 billion from President Bola Tinubu to help prevent the closure of 10,000

marketers' businesses. The request is in response to the threat of job losses that would result from the removal of the fuel subsidy", the association said.

In its review of the activities of the downstream sector in the past year, PETROAN noted that the decision of the federal government to remove subsidies on petroleum products led to a more market-driven pricing regime.

"The Nigerian government's decision to remove subsidies on petroleum products led to a more market-driven pricing regime. Although this move was met with initial resistance, it ultimately resulted in price stability and reduced the burden on the government's finances," the association stated.

According to PETROAN, the successful rehabilitation and commencement of production at the Port Harcourt Refinery marked a significant step towards increasing Nigeria's refining capacity and reducing dependence on imported petroleum products.

The association noted that the

I Won’t Contest Oyo Governorship Election in 2027, Says FIRS Boss, Adedeji Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adelabu Adedeji, has stated that he won’t join the race to replace Governor Seyi Makinde as the next governor of Oyo State in 2027.

Adedeji who had previously held the position of Oyo State Commissioner for Finance from 2011 to 2015, was rumoured to have governorship ambition in 2027.

Speaking with journalists at the weekend in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, Adedeji dispelled having such ambition, saying he only wants to focus on the task before him at the moment.

He, however, acknowledged that his decision would hurt his supporters.

Adedeji said, “I want to use this to respond to a lot of requests. I, Zacch Adedeji will not contest for the governorship election in 2027.

“I know a lot of people would not be happy about this, but everybody knows the responsibility and grace that God has given to us. I was commissioner of finance 14 years ago. And by that time, with the grace of God, we’ve done all of what God wants us to do in the state.

“He has given us that platform.

So, the only thing I need from you is your prayers for strength to end well with what I’m doing now. So, I would not want to be distracted,” he added.

Adedeji was appointed

by President Bola Tinubu in September 2023 to head the FIRS.

Dangote Refinery’s entry into the market introduced a new dynamic, particularly in terms of pricing competition, adding that the refinery's prices were initially competitive, putting pressure on the NNPCL's to review its pricing strategy.

This competition, the association noted, ultimately benefited consumers, who enjoyed relatively stable and lower prices for petroleum products.

Also, in the year under review, PETROAN raised the concerns around the difficulty in converting existing vehicles

to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG); limited availability of CNG-compatible vehicles and high initial investment costs for establishing CNG stations and infrastructure.

However, to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of the downstream sector in 2025, PETROAN recommended among others, the privatisation of state-owned Warri and Kaduna refineries to reputable private companies to improve efficiency and reduce government spending.

PETROAN equally advocated the enforcement of development

of local content by supporting indigenous companies and providing incentives for research and development in the downstream sector.

To enhance the effectiveness of CNG in 2025, the association urged the government to invest in expanding CNG infrastructure It recommended that stakeholder engagement and awareness campaigns should be intensified to promote the adoption of CNG. To address cross-border smuggling of petroleum products, PETROAN recommended that Nigeria should collaborate

with neighbouring countries to strengthen border security and prevent smuggling, and also utilise digital tracking systems to monitor petroleum products from refineries to retail outlets.

To boost Nigeria's refining capacity and reduce reliance on imported petroleum products, PETROAN recommended that crude oil be made available for local refineries.

By prioritising local refineries' access to crude oil, the marketers noted that Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its refining sector, drive economic growth, and enhance energy security.

Kano Stands Still as Shettima, Barau, Others Attend State APC Chairman’s Sons’ Wedding Fatiha Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The ancient city of Kano stood still yesterday as Vice President Kashim Shettima; Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin and other high-profile personalities stormed the city for the wedding ceremony of the two sons of the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, Abdullahi Abbas.

The event, conducted at the Alfurqan Jummaat Mosque, was presided over by the Chief

Imam of the Mosque, Professor Aliyu Omar.

While Shettima stood in as the representatives of Abbas’ two sons, Abbas Abdullahi Abbas and Muhammad Abdullahi Abbas, the deputy president of the Senate, Jibrin stood in for the two brides, Khadija and Zulaihat, at the wedding Fatiha.

The vice president, who landed at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) yesterday, was received by the state Deputy Governor, Aminu

Abdussalam Gwarzo, and the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin.

The event was attended by several other high-profile dignitaries, including the Minister of Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari; former Governor Sule Lamido of Jigawa State; Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation, Abubakar Kabir Abubakar, and Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Alhassan Ado Alhassan.

The Alfurqan Jummaat Mosque was filled to capacity as many

other unidentified dignitaries also graced the occasion.

Abbas Abdullahi Abbas, the son of the APC chairman, tied the nuptial knot with Arch. Khadija Attahiru Buhari, while his brother, Muhammad Abdullahi Abbas, wedded Zulaihat Nasir.

Both brides received a dowry of N500,000 each.

In his remarks, the state APC chairman expressed gratitude to Shettima, Jibrin and others for attending the wedding Fatiha of his two sons.

Death Toll in Jigawa Farmers, Herders’ Clash Rises to 10 The death toll in the clash between the Gululu village and Fulani settlement in Yankunama of Miga Local Government Area of Jigawa State has risen to 10.

The clash started when some suspected herders broke into a shop and stole bags of Hibiscus stored by a resident farmer of Gululu village on Thursday night.

Gululu village head, Malam Malam Muhammad Sarkin-Dori, said the owner of the Hibiscus mobilised some of his brothers, neighbours, and friends to trace the footpaths of the invaders.

He said: “We woke up this morning with a provision shop broken by suspected thieves in

which some residents decided to follow the footpaths of the suspected thieves which led them to the nearby Fulani settlement where the violent clash occurred”.

“Upon seeing the footpath tracers, the herders confronted the people with the shot of bow and arrow after seeing them at their settlement where many villagers from the farmers' side were hit with arrows shot at them by the Fulanis.

“One Dauda Kafinta, who was declared missing during the melee was later found dead with bow and arrow injuries, and four people were referred to

Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital after their initial admission at Jahun General Hospital in the State”.

Jigawa Police Command Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Lawal Shiisu Adam, confirmed the incident.

He said: “On 03/01/2025 information from Gululu village in Miga LGA indicated that a group of miscreants suspected to be Fulani broke into a shop and stole a quantity of hibiscus and other provisions.

“A team of villagers (Hausawa) traced their footprints to a Fulani Settlement Camp in Yankunama village, Jahun LGA. On sighting

the team, the Fulanis started shooting the villagers with bows and arrows, as a result, four persons were seriously injured.

“Hence the villagers mobilised and started attacking the Fulanis and setting their houses ablaze at various locations within Miga and Jahun Local Government Areas.

“Unfortunately, nine dead bodies were recovered, and the corpses were ferried to Jahun and Miga hospitals, where the medical doctor on duty confirmed their deaths”.

He said an investigation was underway to bring the perpetrators to justice.

SUNDAY JANUARY 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

7

8

T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • JANUARY 5, 2025

NEWS

SENSITISATION BY LEGAL ICONS…

L-R: Guest Speaker and former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ogun State, Oluwemimo Ogunde; Representative of the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kafeel Dawodu; Chief Magistrate Omobolanle Williams; Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN); Administrator General and Public Trustee, Lagos State, Olajide Oduyebo; and another guest speaker, Mrs Omotola Rotimi, during a stakeholders' sensitisation forum organised by office of Administrator General and Public Trustee in Lagos... recently

US Approves $8 Billion Arms Deal with Israel

The Joe Biden’s administration has approved an $8 billion arms deal with Israel, which includes artillery shells, Hellfire missiles, small-diameter bombs, and 500-pound warheads.

This decision comes at a time when Israel’s assault on Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, has led to an unprecedented humanitarian disaster.

The US State Department announced the approval yesterday, stating that the sale

aims to support Israel’s longterm security by replenishing vital ammunition stocks and enhancing its air defence capabilities.

A State Department official explained that the department has notified Congress of a proposed sale of $8 billion worth of arms to support Israel’s long-term security by replenishing vital munitions stockpiles and air defense capabilities.

The arms package is said

to include ammunition for fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery shells. Israeli news site Walla reported that the US also informed Congress that the deal covers munitions for combat aircraft and helicopters, as well as artillery shells, based on sources familiar with the details.

This deal could mark the last arms package to be approved by the Biden’s administration, coming at a time when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin

Netanyahu and his supporters have accused the White House of imposing a “quiet weapons ban” on Israel.

US pressure had grown within some democratic circles to condition US arms sales on Israel’s handling of the Gaza war and its impact on the humanitarian situation in the region.

However, President Biden refrained from linking arms supplies to such conditions,

underscoring a shift away from potential pressure on Israel in favour of long-term military support.

Axios reported that this deal represents a long-term commitment, with some of the munitions being drawn from existing US stockpiles, while most will be delivered within a year or more.

This deal is part of the United States’ ongoing support for Israel, which has included the

provision of thousands of tonnes of weapons and munitions through air and sea bridges since October 2023.

Despite mounting evidence of Israeli military actions in Gaza that many international observers and human rights groups have characterized as genocide, the US has continued its unwavering military assistance to Israel, refusing to recognise these actions as constituting war crimes or genocide.

Elders Demand Ex-AGF, Aondoakaa Faults Federal Lawmakers’ Northern Suspension of Tax Reform Bills Move to Separate AGF, Justice Offices John Shiklam in Abuja

Wale Igbintade

A former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Michael Aondoakaa (SAN), has expressed concerns over the proposal by the House of Representatives to separate the offices of the AGF from that of the Minister of Justice.

The bill, co-sponsored by Peoples Democratic Party lawmakers - Mansur Soro (Bauchi State) and Oluwole Oke (Osun State), also aims to separate the roles of the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Justice at the state level.

The bill is receiving legislative input from the House Committee on Constitution Review, chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu.

The bill is seeking alteration to

Section 150 of the Constitution of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) with the introduction of sub-section 1 to read, “There shall be an Attorney-General of the Federation who shall be the Chief Law Officer of the Federation different from the person occupying the position of the Minister of Justice to be appointed by the President, subject to the confirmation of the Senate.”

Also, the bill seeks to introduce a sub-section to Section 195 of the Constitution. The new sub-section to be introduced reads, “There shall be an Attorney-General for each State who shall be the Chief Law Officer of the State to be appointed by the Governor, subject to the confirmation of the House of Assembly.”

In an interview with ARISE NEWS Channel, Aondoakaa questioned the intent behind the

amendment, noting that Section 150 of the 1999 Constitution does not recognise the position of Minister of Justice.

He argued that there is no ambiguity in Section 150 that would justify creating a separate constitutional office for the Ministry of Justice.

"The Constitution specifically states that there shall be an Attorney General of the Federation, who serves as both the chief legal officer and a minister in the council.

I see no conflict here.

"If the proposal intends to create a constitutional office for the Ministry of Justice, that is an entirely different matter," Aondoakaa said.

Aondoakaa further clarified that while the National Assembly has the authority to create ministries, it has not established a Ministry

of Justice.

He argued that the Ministry of Justice, like other ministries, is an executive function assigned by the President, not a constitutional office.

He raised concerns about the potential consequences of separating the offices, questioning whether similar amendments might be proposed for other ministries, such as the Ministry of Finance.

Referring to Section 150, Aondoakaa emphasised that the Constitution only recognises the office of the Attorney General, not the Minister of Justice.

"There is no conflict that warrants the proposed separation.

The Attorney General is constitutionally recognized with specific responsibilities and is included in the executive structure by the president," he said.

NAFDAC Issues Warning on Fake Cancer Drug in Circulation

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued an urgent alert to healthcare providers and the public about a suspected counterfeit cancer drug, Phesgo 600mg/600mg/10ml injection, bearing the batch number: C5290S20.

This warning followed a report from a doctor at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), who raised concerns about the drug after it was brought in by a patient.

Upon investigation, it was found that this batch closely resembled another previously flagged counterfeit batch, C3809C51.

According to NAFDAC, the drug’s manufacturer, Roche, reviewed images of the suspected

product and confirmed it as fake.

Several inconsistencies were detected, including a batch number that does not exist, incorrect language on the packaging, missing tamper-evidence features, and labels that did not match those on genuine products.

NAFDAC emphasised that counterfeit medicines pose serious risks to public health because they are unsafe and ineffective.

The statement reads: “The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) wishes to inform healthcare providers and the public of a report of a suspected counterfeit Phesgo® 600mg/600mg/10ml, labelled with batch C5290S20.

“The Marketing Authorisation Holder (MAH) Roche received a complaint from a doctor at

Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH-NSIA) reporting a suspected counterfeit Phesgo® 600mg/600mg, labelled with batch C5290S20.

“The product was reported to have been brought in by a patient for administration. It had not been administered at the time of the report, as it matched the previously reported counterfeit batch: C3809C51.

“Although no sample was returned to Roche for investigation, only pictures displaying parts of a Phesgo® 600mg/600mg in a 10ml folding box and a labelled vial.

“Images of the suspected product were examined by Roche and compared to the genuine samples retained for reference.

“The investigation identified the following significant differences between the complaint sample

pictures and the genuine materials which confirmed the falsified status of the suspected counterfeit batch of Phesgo® 600mg/600mg.”

The agency urged importers, distributors, healthcare workers, and consumers to remain vigilant and ensure that medicines are obtained only from authorised sources.

It also called on stakeholders to carefully check the authenticity and condition of all medical products before use.

NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to launch surveillance operations to remove counterfeit drugs from circulation.

Healthcare providers and the public are encouraged to report suspected counterfeit medicines or side effects from medical products through the following channels.

The Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF) yesterday demanded immediate suspension of the proposed Tax Reform Bills.

The convener of NEF, Professor Ango Abdullahi, had in a communique issued after the forum Board of Trustees’ second bi-annual meeting, in Abuja on Saturday, November 23, 2024 rejected the tax bills and warned against policies that could further marginalise the north’s resource potential.

In a fresh statement issued yesterday by the Chairman of the Management Board of NEF, Air Marshal Al-Amin Musa Daggash (rtd.), the forum expressed dismay at the way and manner the tax reforms were prepared.

NEF described the bills as “terribly shocking,” and accused the Tinubuled administration of “its citizens the vigorous ventilation of democratic opinions and freedom of expression.”

According to the statement, the proposed Tax Reform Bills by the federal government, were clearly in breach with regards to adhering to “common characteristics of reforms and public policy-making process, all over the world and in conformity with the global best practice.”

However, the group made it clear that Nigerians in general and Northerners in particular “are not really against the introduction of any form of good and meaningful reforms by those in positions of authority at the federal, state, or local government levels.”

NEF argued that the federal government would have engaged with Nigerians, critical stakeholders, and experts in extensive pre-reform meetings in order to secure their buy-in.

“The leadership of Northern Elders’ Forum, holds the firm view that the government’s interests will best be served and promoted by actively engaging in comprehensive dialogue with varied and critical

stakeholders, in order to foster very admirable legislative outcomes that will respect the rights of all citizens and promote their individual and collective wellbeing, while at the same time ensuring the attainment of a balanced approach to taxation that prioritises national unity, progress, and economic development.

“In the light of these unassailable considerations, the leadership of the Northern Elders’ Forum hereby strongly recommends the following: That, the federal government should immediately suspend the rush to implement the proposed Tax Reform Bills, so as to more wisely use the medium of dialogue to allay all concerns, collect all quality contributions and critical inputs from cross sections of Nigerian stakeholders, and then finally proceed to accommodate and redesign the sequencing of the implementation strategy.

“That, as a consumption tax that drastically reduces the purchasing power of citizens, fuels inflation and hikes in interest rates, no increase in VAT should be imposed, pending the emergence into the national horizon of clear evidence of the promised economic recovery by the government.

“That the proposed formula contained in the NTAB is not fair to the states where VAT revenue is generated, as the consuming states are denied credit for what has been generated from them. Since VAT is a General Consumption Tax (GCT), the rule of attribution based on the location of consumption should be uniformly applied.

“That, since Section 162(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) grants the RMAFC the sole authority to determine the formula for equitable revenue sharing among the three tiers of government, no attempt should be made by the ruling authority to whimsically change this provision, as doing so is capable of undermining the law of the land and disrespecting democratic principles.

SUNDAY JANUARY 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

9

10

T H I S DAY, T H E S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R • JANUARY 5, 2025

NEWS

THANKSGIVING SERVICE...

L-R: Chairman, Global Bridge Project Limited, Mr. Bosun Oredola; Olugbon of Orile Igboun, Oba Olusola Francis Alao; Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Host/Chairman, Gibraltar Construction Nigeria Limited, Sir Olu Okeowo; and former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Otunba Femi Pedro, at 2025 New Year thanksgiving service of Olu and Lady Adejoke Okeowo at the Palacio De Okeowo Park View Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos…recently

Nigerian Film Industry Experiences Quantum Leap as Box Office Records 60% Growth, Rakes in N11.5bn Vanessa Obioha

The Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) has said the Nigerian film industry experienced a significant surge with the Box Office recording an impressive 60 per cent increase in 2024.

CEAN’s National Chairman, Mr Ope Ajayi, who stated this while speaking with the News

Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Lagos revealed that N11.5billion was realised in 2024 from ticket sales across cinemas in Nigeria, as against N7.2billion recorded in 2023.

He said in 2024, the cinemas accommodated no fewer than 2.66million persons and 2.54million persons in 2023.

“We have recorded 60 per cent growth in revenue in 2024

Adeleke Warns against Violence as Protesters Raze Palace, Injure Osun Monarch Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, yesterday warned youths that attacked the Ajeniju of Hallelujah, Oba Jelili Olaiya, and razed down his palace, against acts of lawlessness.

The governor subsequently directed security agencies to fish out those behind the acts.

Olaiya was injured on Friday, following a violent protest by some youths displeased over the installation of an Imam by the monarch.

He was said to have installed a Chief Imam for his community sometime in December 2024, to the chagrin of some Ido Osun youths.

A source in the area, who craved anonymity for security reasons, however, said some youths from Ido-Osun, who felt aggrieved over the installation, staged a protest against it, which later turned violent.

“The protest however turned violent. Part of the palace was vandalised and the monarch was injured.

“The youths from Ido Osun did not want the monarch to install an Imam there because the area is under Ido Osun.

Security agents have taken over the premises of the palace,” the source said.

In some of the pictures taken from the scene of the protest, pieces of damaged plastic chairs littered a hall,

believed to be located within the palace of Ajeniju.

Adeleke, while reacting to the development in a statement signed by his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, frowned at the resort to self-help by some elements within the Ido Osun community.

He added that the State Commissioner of Police had been directed to secure the troubled areas and arrest the ringleaders of the violent actions.

He further directed the Olojudo of Ido Osun, Oba Olayinka Oyetunde to call his rampaging youth to order amidst ongoing law enforcement.

“Resorting to violence to resolve communal disputes is unacceptable and those found wanting will face the full wrath of the law.

“Aside from law enforcement, I have further directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Dosu Babatunde to commence immediate peace-building and conflict de-escalation in collaboration with the security agencies.

“Any community with grievances is free to approach relevant government agencies to table such for conflict resolution. We will not tolerate violence under whatever guise,” the governor added.

and about 4.5 per cent growth in admissions despite the harsh economic climate.

“This is a remarkable achievement and it is a testament to the industry’s resilience, creativity and determination.

“It is also the first time we are

seeing a growth in admissions since 2020 signalling a significant upturn in the cinema subsector,” he said.

Ajayi listed the top five Nollywood films in 2024 as: Everybody Loves Jennifer, Queen Lateefah, Ajosepo, Ajakaju and Alakada Bad &Boujee.

He said “Everybody Loves Jennifer” raked in N1.124billion, “Queen Lateefah” made N365.5million, “Ajosepo” scooped in N257.3million, “Ajakaju” made N252.8million while “Alakada Bad &Boujee” raked in N229.1million.

“Everybody Loves Jennifer and Alakada Bad & Boujee are still in cinemas.”

Ajayi noted that the top five Hollywood films in 2024 were: Deadpool & Wolverine, Bad Boys 4, Gladiator II, Moana 2 and Venom 3.

Borno Subsidises Petrol for Farmers in Communities Affected by Insurgency, Targets N600 Per Litre

Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri

Borno State Governor, Prof.

Babagana Zulum, has announced that the state government will subsidise the cost of petrol to farmers in communities affected by the Boko Haram insurgency.

Zulum made the announcement at the weekend in Bama town when he flagged off the distribution of farm inputs to over 5,000 farmers hitherto displaced

by Boko Haram insurgents.

The governor said a litre of petrol sold between N1,000 and N1,200 in Maiduguri would be subsidised to the farmers for N600, noting that this is aimed at alleviating the financial burdens faced by farmers in communities that have suffered economic and

infrastructural destruction due to years of conflict.

He emphasised that a similar initiative implemented in Damasak, Mobar Local Government Area, last year has significantly increased food production and improved livelihoods.

He said: “One of the major challenges that are facing the farming communities here as regards irrigation farming is the increasing cost of fuel. As a result, I want to announce to the general public that government will procure petroleum products and sell to the farmers at a subsidised rate, a litre of petrol is being sold in Maiduguri at the cost of about N1,200 but in'shAllah, henceforth for irrigation farmers this season a litre of petrol will be sold at

the rate of N600.”

The governor also said: “The Commissioner for Agriculture will work with the Brigade Commander to ensure the delivery of the petroleum products to farmers in Bama town as soon as possible.”

In addition to the petrol subsidy, Zulum distributed farm inputs, including 2,000 bags of blended NPK fertiliser, 1,000 units of water pumps, and 620 units of gasoline pumps.

Other materials include 380 units of solar water pumps, 1,000 units of sprayers, 800 rolls of twoinch flexible hoses, and 1,000 litres of pesticides and seeds, among other items.

He said his administration had constructed over 100 tube wells

for use by irrigation farmers, while also announcing the approval for the construction of an additional 250.

Meanwhile, Governor Zulum has also visited Darajama and Goniri villages under Bama LGA to assess the ongoing reconstruction work.

Zulum expressed satisfaction with the quality of the project but also reiterated that his administration will not allow anyone to sabotage its resettlement drive.

The governor expressed gratitude to the federal government for the tremendous support of his administration’s reconstruction and resettlement of communities affected by insurgency.

It’s Not Time to Talk About 2027 Governorship Race, Says Ogun Senator, Adeola James Sowole in Abeokuta The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation and Senator representing Ogun West, Solomon Adeola, yesterday, said that it was not yet time to talk about the 2027 governorship race in the state.

Adeola said he is currently preoccupied with delivering on his campaign promises as senator representing the people of Ogun West, adding that the future would determine his next political move.

The third-term senator disclosed this while speaking with journalists during the annual New Year thanksgiving service held yesterday at

the Unity Cathedral of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Ogun Province Seven, Ilaro.

The lawmaker has been tipped as the topmost contender for the 2027 governorship race in the state.

Asked to confirm the media report suggesting that his next political move would be to succeed Dapo Abiodun after his term in 2027, Adeola explained, “I don’t think it is time for that now; we are still involved in trying to bring back the dividends of democracy to the people as senator elected for Ogun West.

“What we are here to do today is to appreciate the Almighty God for his support in the past years

and to also celebrate the new year with my people for their support and cooperation as well, because they are the ones who put me in this office.

“So, in the future, we can start talking about that when the time is ripe to know if I am going forward or I am staying where I am; the future will determine all of that.”

The lawmaker described 2024 as very fantastic with all the developmental projects and empowerment programmes facilitated for the senatorial district, assuring a more rewarding and responsive leadership in the new year.

Adeola said: “2025 will be another exciting year, our people should be expecting good things as far as my representation at the Senate is concerned in terms of developmental projects, in terms of empowering the people, and in terms of contributing to national issues on the floor of the Senate so that we can build a virile and much more prosperous country.”

He called for more support for the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration in the country, saying that President Bola Tinubu is doing everything humanly possible to restore the country to the path of economic growth and that just very soon.

SUNDAY JANUARY 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

11

12

SUNDAY JANUARY 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

SUNDAY JANUARY 5, 2025 • T H I S D AY

13

14

THISDAY, The SUNday Newspaper • JANUaRY 5, 2024

Recently, former THISDAY Director, Corporate Services, Mr Gbayode Somuyiwa gave out the hand of his daughter Miss Irenitemi Somuyiwa in marriage to Mr. Thabo Mbeha from Botswana. The marriage ceremonies commenced with a traditional engagement, while the church solemnization took place at Daystar Christian Centre, Oregun,Lagos. An exquisite wedding reception rounded off the ceremonies and it was well attended by dignitaries. Ace photo-journalist Sunday Adigun covered the events.

L-R: Chairman, THISDAY and ARISE TV. Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Mr. Yusuph Olaniyonu, Mr. Gbayode Somuyiwa, Mr. Eniola Bello and Mr. Chike Ogeah

The couple, Mr and Mrs Thabo and Irenitemi Mbeha

Brides parents, Gbayode and Yemisi Somuyiwa

Groom's parents, Mr. George and Mrs. Phuthologo Mbeha

Chairman at the wedding reception and Publisher LawLords Publications, Mr. Olajide Olakanmi and his wife, Adetutu

Bestman, Mr. Karabo Phalane and Maid of honour Mrs. Peluola Gbadebo

Bridal party during solemnisation ceremony in church

Bride's brother, Mr Simi Somuyiwa and bride's auntie, Pastor (Mrs) Olaitan Akinola, at the traditional engagement ceremonies

Bride's siblings and mother at the engagemnet

Groom's family from Botswana during the traditional engagement ceremonies

Grandparents of the bride, Pa Oyewole Fasuyi and Chief (Mrs) Florence Fasuyi

L-R: Alhaji Isiaka Lawani, Mrs. Gbeminiyi Lawani, Mr. Gbolahan Somuyiwa and Mrs. Titilayo Somuyiwa in church at the joining.

L-R: Dr Olufemi Oyinsan, Odu George Igboegwu and Chief (Mrs) Goldie Igboegwu

THISDAY, The SUNday Newspaper • JANUaRY 5, 2024

15

L-R: Mr. Yemi Odebo, Arc. Kofoworola Agoro and Mrs. Bisoye Agoro

L-R: Mrs Abosede Bosun-Kwajo, Mrs. Yinka Ayodele and Mrs. Bukola Oredola

L-R: Mrs. Folashade Famuyiwa, Mrs. Adetoun Odejimi and Mr. Folashade Latona

Mrs. Biola Williams and Mrs. Folake Soewu

L-R: Mrs. Ososanya, Mr. Ademola Ali and bride's father

Mr. and Mrs. Oladiran Akinde

L-R: Mrs. Abosede Bosun-Kwajo, Mr. Ajebodunde Ajenifuja, Mr. Adeolu Adesina, Mr. and Mrs. Somuyiwa, Mr. Simi Somuyiwa, Mr. Rilwan Shittu and Mr. Temidayo Alade

Bride's mother, Mrs. Yemisi Somuyiwa and a bossom friend Dr. (Mrs) Yinka Suberu

L-R: Mrs. Toyin Alabi, Gbayode Somuyiwa, Mrs. Tinuade Yusuf, Mr. Ade Lawal, Mrs. Muyinat Owolabi Shitta and Mrs. Lola Bisiriyu

Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu and his wife, Odunayo

L-R. Mr Jimmy Owotomo, Mrs Folashade Tayo bride's parents

L-R: Mr. Bayo Odejimi, Mr. Femi Ogunmosunle, bride's father, Gbayode Somuyiwa, Mr. Taofeek Latona, Engr.

Wale Oduwole and Mr. Naheem Kujenya

Engr. and Mrs. Wale Oduwole

L-R: Rev Dickson Orhewereh, Mrs Yemi Orhewereh, Mrs. Yinka Ayodele, bride's parents, Mrs. Nike Ajetunmobi and Mr. Sunday Ayodele

L-R: Col. Olajide Shelle (rtd), Mrs. Adenike Bankole, Ms. Bola Bankole, Mrs. Gbeminiyi Lawani, Mr. Samuel Ogunsanya, Gbayode Somuyiwa, Babatunde Akinsola, Mrs. Solabomi Okanlawon, Mrs. Akinsola and Mr. Gbolahan Bankole

16

JANUARY 5, 2025 • THISDAY, The SUNDAY newspaper

Business Major Economic Issues to Watch in 2025

Editor: Festus Akanbi

08038588469 Email:festus.akanbi@thisdaylive.com

Beyond the promises of President Bola Tinubu to turn Nigeria around for good, analysts said Nigerians will be the judge in 2025 the way the current administration handles issues like the new Tax laws, the proposed tariff increase in the telecoms sector, the 2025 Budget, Oil production, banks’ recapitalisation, aviation issues, and agriculture, among others, FestusAkanbi,Chinedu Eze, Emma Okonji, Nume Ekeghe, Peter Uzoho and Kayode Tokede write

A

mid the Nigerian economy’s lacklustre performance in 2024, experts said anything short of a bumper economic trajectory in the new year, which began on Wednesday, may stress Nigerians beyond the limit.

2025 Budget However, apart from Budget 2025, which is christened ‘Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity,’ which is currently awaiting the National Assembly’s approval, other government programmes for next year remain in the realm of conjectures. This prompts THISDAY analysts to draw attention to key sectoral issues that need urgent attention if the government is serious about its desire to rebuild prosperity.

According to President Bola Tinubu, the 2025 budget, with an expenditure programme of N49.7 trillion, is designed to retool and revamp the country’s socio-economic fabric.

However, rather than rekindle hope, the 2025 budget is being trailed by controversies largely caused by its over-ambitious assumptions, with the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) saying the budget is too optimistic and fragile to work with given the economic realities in the country.

According to LCCI, “The assumption of an exchange rate at N1,500 is too fragile to work with against the current average of above N1,600 to a dollar in both the official and parallel markets.”

The chamber argued that assuming an inflation rate of 15.8 per cent does not reflect the unabating factors pushing up both the headline and food inflation, adding that with inflation rising to 33.88 per cent as of October 2024, it is unrealistic to assume a steep 51 per cent crash within a year.

Meanwhile, the budget is predicated on a base crude oil production assumption of 2.06 million barrels per day (mbpd).

Nigerians will therefore want to know how the government plans to go about the sharp reduction in the inflation rate as promised.

There is also concern about the rising debt profile, which has made the government commit about N15 trillion to debt payments in the 2025 budget.

Analysts said the current debt situation has put the economy at a big risk.

Agriculture With reports putting the number of people to face acute hunger in 2025 at a staggering 33 million people, Nigerian has no choice but to take decisive steps to tackle food insecurity in the new year. In response to this, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi said the federal government is poised to develop Nigeria’s agriculture, which was the reason for changing the name from Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to Federal Ministry of

Some food grains

President Bola Tinubu presenting the 2025 budget to the National Assembly...recently Agriculture and Food Security.

The current astronomical increase in food prices amid record-high transportation costs merely underscores the call for a total turnaround of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

New Tax Bill Right from October 14, 2024, when the Tax Reform Bills which comprise the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill were presented to the National Assembly, the document has been trailed with

controversies. However, speaking at his maiden presidential media chat two weeks ago, President Tinubu described the bills as a fait accompli although he indicated his willingness to dialogue more on some aspects of the new tax laws. So the new tax bill will be a major issue in 2025.

New Electricity Act The year 2025 promises to be eventful for the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) following the implementation of the Electricity Act of 2023, which decentralised the power sector by empowering states to play as both operators and

Electric transmitter

regulators.

So far, about eight state governments have established their independent electricity regulators to regulate and oversee activities of the power industry in their jurisdictions. Also, some states have or are in the process of creating their own distribution companies to compete with the existing Discos in their locality.

However, the searchlight will be on how well or otherwise these states can manage, coordinate, operate, and steer the electricity sector in their areas in a manner that reflects better performance by ensuring improved power supply to their people.

17

JANUARY 5, 2025 • THISDAY, The SUNDAY newspaper

ANALYSIS Oil Production In the area of local refining and marketing of petroleum products in Nigeria, the entrance of the 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) Dangote Refinery into the equation and the resumption of operation of the old 60,000 bpd section of the Port Harcourt and Warri Refineries have started changing the dynamics of the sector, leveraging on the deregulation of petrol pricing and subsidy removal by the current administration.

Currently, competition is forcing the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Dangote Refinery to cut down prices of petrol. Amid the price war, Dangote has partnered with MRS Oil to sell petrol at the pump at N935 per litre, while the NNPCL has also brought its retail prices down to N965 in Abuja and N925 in Lagos from the previous N1,020 per litre.

With Dangote Refinery’s capacity expected to grow further and the new 150,000 bpd Port Harcourt Refinery and Warri Refinery resuming operation, Nigeria is anticipated to be able to exit the importation of fuels by next year.

In the upstream oil and gas industry, oil production is expected to rise further to 2 million barrels per day (bpd) or even more, from the current 1.8 million bpd including crude and condensates. This is going to be driven by some policy steps taken and measures put in place by the government to achieve incremental production growth.

Operating and optimisation of the latest assets divested by Eni, Shell, ExxonMobil, and TotalEnergies are also expected to help in achieving oil production growth starting from 2025 as the new operators - Oando, Renaissance, Seplat and Chappal Hills swiftly move into the assets with the needed investments. Similarly, the year 2025 will witness the conduct of another oil licensing round by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) where more oil blocks will be put on offer, a move that is aimed at expanding Nigeria’s oil and gas reserves and also ramping up production.

Trading floor of he Exchange

Capital Market The stock market section of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) will be closing positive in 2024, setting an all-time high in NGX ASI of 101,000 basis points as of December 23, 2024. The market for the fourth consecutive year has maintained positive momentum and outperformed analysts’ expectations. With the federal government’s N49.7 trillion 2025 budget, more FGN bonds are expected to be listed on the NGX as the government bridges the N13.39 trillion budget deficit using the Nigerian capital market.

The estimated N16 trillion on infrastructure development means the cement makers quoted on the exchange would drive revenue and declare impressive corporate earnings, a follow-up to nine months ended September 2024 result and accounts. The recent Investments and Securities Bill (ISB) 2024 passed into law by the Senate would be in full force come 2025. However, by 2025, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) banking sector recapitalisation will continue to drive activities as some banks in 2024 have not accessed the market to raise fresh capital.

Perhaps, the capital market may witness the insurance sector recapitalisation by 2025, while the current reforms in the oil & gas sector are expected to boost listed oil & gas companies, revenue, and dividend payout to shareholders.

Dangote refineries

Aviation One of the factors that will shake the aviation industry is how far the Nigerian government will go in facilitating the ease of aircraft acquisition and access to credit from international financiers by domestic airlines. The Tinubu government was commended in 2004 for meeting the conditions of the Cape Town Convention (CTC) which removed Nigeria from the blacklist.

Nigeria’s aviation global rating rose from 49 to 70.5 following the country’s full compliance with the Cape Town Convention on the dry-leasing of aircraft. Later, it moved up to 75.5 from 70.5 on dry leasing of aircraft when Nigeria prepared and signed the Practice Direction that enables lessors, with the full support of the Nigerian courts, to take away their aircraft from Nigerian carriers in the case of non-compliance with lease agreements.

So, as a result of this, the Aviation Working Group (AWG) removed the country from its watchlist.

Also, in 2025, it is expected that the federal government will firmly kick off the concession of airports to bring in the private sector to fund airport infrastructure.

The Minister of Aviation and the National Security Adviser in 2025 will conclude with the plan to weed Nigerian airports of corrupt security operatives in Immigration, Customs, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and others who extort money from passengers and damage the image of Nigeria and leave passengers with gory experiences, as they travel through Nigerian airports.

Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos

Insecurity Another important issue is the current state of insecurity which is forcing many farmers away from their farms. As kidnapping becomes a thriving sector in the country, analysts said Nigerians may not achieve their economic goals unless the government comes up with urgent solutions to the problem of insecurity which is not only killing existing businesses but also discouraging foreign investors from committing their resources into the country. The military needs to be encouraged to tackle insecurity. State governors also need to redouble their efforts to bring peace to their domains.

They need to explore the option of amnesty to lure away criminals from their hideouts.

Telecoms Telecom operators have demanded an urgent review of service tariffs to reflect the economic realities of delivering telecom services for industry sustainability.

Without this, they said quality service and its availability could not be guaranteed and the economy would suffer for it.

The chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, made the call on behalf of all operating companies at an end-of-the-year event of the industry stakeholders in Lagos on Sunday, a statement by ALTON said on Monday.

Adebayo said the sector was under siege and tariffs must be reviewed urgently to avoid the collapse of the sector.

“Once telecoms tariff is reviewed upward in 2025, it will address the issue of improper pricing of telecoms services, as witnessed in 2024. Once that is achieved, we expect that there will be more lifelines in the sector and there will be more investments in the sector. We’ll have better penetration of 5G. We’ll have improved delivery on 4G services. We’ll have wider network coverage that will lead to better quality of service in 2025.

Another area that will determine telecom growth in 2025, is government support for startups and small businesses that are driven by technology.

A telecommunication mast

Banks’ Recapitalisation

Central Bank of Nigeria

The Nigerian banking sector is poised for a transformative year in 2025, with significant activities expected around capital raising, product diversification, and structural changes to meet regulatory requirements and enhance profitability.

Recently, Access Holdings Plc said it has secured the full regulatory approvals of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Securities and Exchange Commission of its recently closed Right Issue of 17,772,612,811 Ordinary Shares of 50 Kobo each at

N19.75 Kobo per share and has raised the target amount of N351,009,103,017.25. This development has positioned the company’s flagship subsidiary, Access Bank Plc as the first bank to meet the CBN’s N500 billion minimum capital requirements for banks with International authorisation well ahead of the March 2026 regulatory deadline. According to the Head of Financial Institutions Ratings at Agusto & Co, Mr. Ayokunle Olubunmi “Raising the shortfall and seeking regulatory approvals are

Fixing the Roads expected to dominate the first half of the year. As of today, almost all of the banks, except for a few non-interest banks, are yet to meet the minimum paid-up capital.” He added that the second half of 2025 is expected to shift focus to the profitable deployment of the newly raised capital.

Furthermore, he noted that recapitalisation efforts could also set the stage for mergers and acquisitions (M&A), although these deals may not fully materialise within the year.

One more pressing issue is the urgent need to fix the nation’s deplorable roads. Economists said the proposed solutions include providing adequate and appropriate road designs, decongesting traffic from roads by removing obstacles, and regularly maintaining roads through activities like grading, paving, repairing damage, and cleaning. The high cost of moving goods and services due to the dilapidated condition of many of the Nigerian roads has largely been blamed for the high cost of living in the country.

It is the consensus of many observers therefore that rather than deploy the current meagre resources to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, priority should be given to the federal and state roads to make life meaningful to the people.

THISDAY, The SUNday Newspaper January 5, 2025

18

Perspective

Open Letter to Gov Monday Okpebholo Josef Omorotionmwan

E

vidently, you fought a good fight – a fight of faith – and today, you are the Executive Governor of Edo State. We congratulate you most heartily.

The fact that this letter is coming just a few days after your inauguration is indicative of some positive observations.

As morning shows the day, we are impressed by the fact that you have immediately hit the ground running.

The people must be pleasantly surprised that so soon, you were returning to their communities, not only to thank them for their votes but mainly to remind them of the promises you left behind during the campaign. This must be a new dimension in public administration.

At the same time, there are positive indications that you will not run the government aground. In contemporary politics, the rule has become that office seekers simply gallop through the nooks and crannies of their constituencies during electioneering campaigns, promising heaven and earth without really intending to fulfil such promises.

But in you, we have seen a healthy exception from the general rule as you have demonstrated serious intention to follow up on the promises you made during the campaigns. While we do not intend to write a full testimonial on your activities, we shall highlight a few points regarding two aspects that we find fascinating.

First, perhaps unwittingly, you are re-writing history by promptly taking up the case of the “FAMOUS 14” in which, after the 2019 legislative election to the Edo State House of Assembly, Godwin Obaseki constructively prevented 14 of the 24 members of the House of Assembly from being inaugurated. The chosen few were secretly inaugurated in the thick of the night under the candlelight. Secondly, you are already embarking on the resuscitation of the Boards of Government companies and parastatals which met their untimely death during the immediate past Administration in the State.

Wonders shall never end. People were invited to contest an election. They contested an election, and they won an election. But shamefully, for reasons known only to the former Governor, he denied inauguration to members he hated. It was an ugly process of choosing and picking which members to accept and which to reject.

The members so deprived were young men, a bulk of whom were fresh graduates just beginning life. Most of them raised bank loans to finance the election.

The loans and accrued interest are still hanging perilously over the neck of such ones like the Sword of Damocles. Obaseki walked logic on its head in the process. It would have made sense if Obaseki and the deprived members were in different political parties, but they were all of the All Progressives Congress (APC) stock.

When the results of the election were announced, the APC celebrated its huge success of 24 over 24 to the high heavens, unknown to the unsuspecting members, an ambush was awaiting them at the next bend. That was how Obaseki dwelt in illegality by relying on his minority favoured members for the enabling legislations, including the appropriations throughout his first tenure. By the time the full facts are known, it will be that those minority laws are illegal. Let time remain the best judge.

Certainly, the “FAMOUS 14” have

• Okpebholo suffered terribly. It is heart-warming that someone is now coming along to beam some search light on their case. Whatever comes out of the case will be pure profit.

At last, a Daniel is coming to judgement.

We must quickly mention, though, that it will be simplistic to simply pay them some backlog of salary and allowances and let them go. This would suggest that they were going to the Assembly to break melon and be paid some salaries and allowances.

Far from this.

Rather, they were coming to represent and fight for their people. The sordid treatment they received was a deprivation on their constituents. Your Excellency, one short step more will complete the clemency we are looking at by your magnanimity. It might be an idea to site one project in each of the 14 State Consistencies of the famous 14. This will be an atonement for the deprivation in the era of the cankerworm.

Again, this is development, and it will shoot your approval rating to the high heavens, while at the same time, sending shivers to those who originally planned the ominous evil, wherever they may be now, and if the cost is too high, it can be done in phases.

Your decision to resuscitate the Boards of commissions, government-owned companies and parastatals is totally an idea whose time has come, and nothing beats that! Those organizations hold the major attractions in Government. That’s where

the action is, not in the mainstream ministries which exist mainly to push files. Let’s take a few minutes to imagine what government would have been in the Ogbemudia/ General Gowon era without The Nigerian Observer. The paper was sought after across the country and beyond. There was the popular belief that if the information was in The Observer, it must be correct. In our student days, we travelled from UpState New York to Mid-Town Manhattan, just to read The Observer at the Nigerian Consulate. The papers could have been 3 months old, but simply because they were The Observer, we enjoyed them.

The Bendel Line was the greatest delight to travel in. Imagine travelling in one of the luxury buses of the time. In the middle of nowhere, between Ijebu Ode and Ore, the buses were flagged down and people in a government entourage enter the buses to interact with passengers, finding out about their comfort and complaints, if any. Travelling

by Bendel Line could be compared with the best of flights; things were good. Let’s look at Bendel Brewery of the Prince Tony Omoaghe years.

In faraway Lagos, that party did not jump except the Crystal Beer had reported.

What of the defunct Bendel Development and Property Authority (BDPA), where we provided housing and made service plots available to the citizenry. On occasions, the BDPA had to bail out the government from situations that portend gross embarrassment.

To the victor, belongs the spoils of office.

This is a political philosophy that has held true through the ages. Apart from the invaluable social services they provide, the Government parastatals also provide jobs for the masses. We recollect with nostalgia those days when workers streamed out of the Government Press on Sapele Road. It was comparable only to the close of Jumat Service on a Friday afternoon in Central Kano. These Government companies took most of our youth off the streets. They absorbed the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Which government can even do well these days without a viable press? Most of the opposition out there have their media outfits and they must need a counter-vailing force. In those days, when issues arose, I would invite the EBS GM to my office. I would tell him what the issues were and demand a position paper, within the next few hours. In turn, the GM would assemble those hot-headed boys in the press room; and before sunset that evening, a paper was ready, and the opponents bowed!

Sadly, in just eight short years, somebody sat down and destroyed all this! He was callous! Yes, you want to do some damage control here, but in doing so, you must make haste slowly. We hear that in most of those places, the cankerworms have eaten up everything and there is nothing to see. You must avoid a situation where you might be appointing Boards into empty spaces. Make haste slowly. You still have time to do a thorough job before setting up boards.

Your excellency, clearly, we are not given to praise-singing. This is rooted in our belief that praise singing destroys initiatives, particularly if they come too early. From the lessons that history teaches, we recollect very vividly the case of one man who was a local government chairman. He performed wonderfully much higher than many state governors of the time. He was easily the best local government chairman nationwide.

Because of the trust accruing from that first outing, he had an easy sail into the state governorship soon after. Then praise-singers moved in. They praised him to the highest heavens, and too soon, praises dwarfed his performance on every occasion. It soon occurred to this man that the praises he was getting at this entry point were already more than the most successful Governor would get after a four-year tenure. He relapsed into docility and eventually became the worst Governor this country has ever had!

There will be time enough to roll out the drums at the end of tenure. Trust Edolites.

If all ends well, they will spread the red carpet from Osadebey Avenue to Irrua when the time comes.

This, however, does not vitiate the fact that from time to time, we may intervene to remind you of your promises in the event of a memory lapse. It is now only left for us to pray to the Almighty God to continue to guard and guide you aright so that in the end, this will be yet another successful tenure.

Accordingly, we so pray.

Sincerely •Omorotionmwan writes from Canada

Sunday 05 January, 2024

T H I S D AY Vol MONDAY MARCH 14, 2022 27. No 10864

OPI NION

opinion@thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

OBASANJO AND THE NNPCL REFINERIES Against all expectations the refineries are once again functioning, writes SIMBO OLORUNFEMI

See Page 20

INTO THE NEW YEAR 2025

JOHN SEGUN ODEYEMI urges all to fight for a nation worthy of the name

See Page 20

EDITORIAL

ISSUES IN THE CHRISTMAS DAY BOMBING

See Page 45

119

THE NAIRA’S FUTURE: CHINA’S YUAN OR WESTERN DOLLARS? While currency swap presents many potential benefits, Nigeria must also address scepticism from Western nations, argues Abidemi Adebamiwa

I

n today’s world, countries face tough challenges like rising debts and changing currencies. For Nigeria, these issues are especially urgent, as a significant portion of its debt is in US dollars. However, there’s hope on the horizon: Nigeria is eyeing a $2 billion currency swap with China. This deal could transform Nigeria’s economy, leading to growth and stability.

But first, what is a currency swap? Think of it like trading snacks with a friend at lunch.

You have chips, and your friend has cookies.

Instead of buying more snacks, you agree to swap some chips for cookies. In international terms, a currency swap is when two countries agree to exchange their currencies, allowing them to trade without relying on a third currency like the US dollar.

For Nigeria, this deal means it can use Chinese yuan (CNY), also known as renminbi, to buy goods from China without needing dollars. This could help stabilize Nigeria’s economy in several significant ways. Trading in yuan can save Nigeria money on exchange fees and streamline buying processes. Imagine the time and effort saved when you don’t have to go to the store for more snacks; that’s what this deal could do for Nigeria’s economy.

Using David Ricardo’s idea of comparative advantage, Nigeria can focus on producing goods that it excels at while importing items that China can produce more cheaply. For instance, Nigeria has an edge in agriculture thanks to its rich soil and climate, while China is a powerhouse in manufacturing electronics. By trading with China, Nigeria can specialize in its strengths and import goods that would cost more to produce at home, leading to better resource use and job creation.

However, Nigeria’s past experiences with a currency swap deal with China raise important questions about the effectiveness of such agreements. During President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit to China in 2016, there was significant excitement surrounding a currency swap agreement that was expected to bolster the naira and alleviate the pressure created by a high demand for US dollars. Yet, almost a year later, the naira continued to struggle, falling as low as N560 to a dollar. This disappointment was compounded by contradictory statements from Nigeria’s leadership, as noted by Abiola Akintola in the article “Has Nigeria Dumped Currency Swap Deal with China? “ published in Punch.

Some officials reassured Western partners that Nigeria was not abandoning them for the yuan. These mixed messages not only left manyNigeriansquestioningthecommitment to the currency swap agreement but also highlighted a critical lesson: while currency

swaps can present significant opportunities, they require transparency and consistent communication to be effective. In light of these experiences, it becomes clear that the excitement surrounding the 2016 agreement quickly turned to skepticism when the anticipated benefits failed to materialize.

This underscores the crucial need for reliable implementation and follow-through in any future agreements, a point emphasized by Akintola in his analysis.

Although the currency swap was heralded as a way to stabilize the naira and improve trade relations, it ultimately fell short of achieving its objectives. Therefore, moving forward, Nigeria must remain cautious not to become overly reliant on a single foreign partner, as this could lead to economic vulnerabilities and missed opportunities for growth. With these lessons in mind, the new currency swap, if executed effectively, holds promise for helping stabilize the naira, which has faced considerable volatility. A stable currency allows people to plan their finances better, fostering confidence in the economy, as highlighted by Akintola.

Research shows that stable currencies promote economic growth, making it easier for businesses and individuals to invest in the future. Furthermore, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has noted that currency swaps can provide much-needed liquidity, reducing market volatility and enhancing overall economic stability. By learning from past experiences and focusing on transparency and implementation, Nigeria can harness the benefits of a new currency swap with China. This strategic approach could ultimately create a more resilient economic environment for the country, as discussed in Akintola’s article.

Moreover, the yuan has gained recognition by being included in the IMF’s Special Drawing Rights (SDR) basket. This inclusion signals the yuan’s growing acceptance globally, allowing countries to hold yuan as part of their foreign exchange reserves. As

a result, this legitimizes China’s currency on the world stage and opens up more opportunities for countries like Nigeria to engage in international trade. By utilizing the yuan, Nigeria may find new pathways for economic growth and diversification in its trading partnerships.

However, with China’s increasing economic influence comes the need to consider the role of institutions like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). Established in 2016, the AIIB aims to support infrastructure projects across Asia and beyond, aligning closely with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This initiative seeks to enhance global trade routes and improve connectivity, potentially benefiting countries like Nigeria. As the AIIB acts as a financial backbone for the BRI, it could bring substantial investments that help Nigeria develop critical infrastructure and spur economic development.

Despite its growth, the AIIB hasn’t yet reached the same level of influence as traditional institutions like the World Bank. The World Bank has a longstanding reputation and established trust in global finance. Research shows that the AIIB introduces both competition and collaboration dynamics, pushing established institutions to adapt their policies to remain relevant in a changing financial landscape.

Governance and transparency are also major concerns surrounding the AIIB. Critics have pointed out issues with its decision-making processes and the potential for China’s influence over its operations.

Western development banks often emphasize transparency and accountability, making them more appealing partners for development projects. Nigeria must navigate these concerns to ensure it can collaborate effectively with various funding sources.

While the currency swap presents many potential benefits, Nigeria must also address skepticism from Western nations. Concerns about China’s rising influence in Africa lead many countries to fear that nations like Nigeria could fall into unsustainable debt traps. This situation, often referred to as “debt diplomacy,” raises valid concerns about the long-term consequences of such partnerships.

Scholars argue that the perception of China as a predatory lender may complicate Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts with Western creditors.

Furthermore, Nigeria’s relationship with the United States is crucial. The US dollar operates through the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT) system, a global messaging service that facilitates international financial transactions.

Adebamiwa writes from Pleasanton, California, USA

20

T H I S D AY SUNDAY JANUARY 05, 2025

INTO THE NEW YEAR 2025

OBASANJO AND THE NNPCL REFINERIES

Against all expectations the refineries are once again functioning, writes SIMBO OLORUNFEMI

T

hat former President Olusegun Obasanjo has an almost child-like emotional attachment to the publicowned refineries under the trust and care of the NNPCL is not in doubt. It is also not difficult to explain why that appears to be the case. He can indeed assert some level of claim/credit for the construction of two of Nigeria’s publicly owned four Refineries. While the decision to construct the second and third refineries in Warri and Kaduna respectively was taken in 1974, with construction on the 3rd set to only commence “whenever the projection of the consumption of petroleum products justifies it”, by early 1975, fuel shortages made it necessary to proceed with its construction soon after.

The Warri Refinery, whose contract was awarded in 1975 before General Obasanjo became Head of State, was completed and commissioned in 1978 while he was in office. The contract for the construction of the Kaduna Refinery was awarded in 1977 and commissioned in 1980.

One interesting fact is that the construction of these Refineries was under the direct supervision of Muhammadu Buhari who was appointed Federal Commissioner (Minister) for Petroleum and Natural Resources in March 1976 and Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation when it was created in 1977, a position he held until 1978.

So, it must have been heart-breaking for Obasanjo to meet the Refineries in a state of much disrepair when he returned as President in 1999. Such was the state of the refineries that even with so much money expended on ‘Turn-around maintenance’ of the refineries while he was in office, there was no turn-around in fortune for the refineries that he had to put them up for sale a few weeks to the end of his administration.

For the Port Harcourt Refinery, Blue Star, a consortium of Nigerian companies Zenon Oil, Dangote Oil, and Gas & Transnational Corp. outbid UK-based Indian steel baron, Lakshmi Mittal, who had offered $550 million. The Dangote-led Blue Star, made up of Obasanjo’s associates, paid $561 million to acquire 51% of the governmentowned stake in the refinery. There were two other bidders - Oando Plc as well as Sahara Energy in conjunction with Refinee PetroPlus, but the two were disqualified in a process conducted by the BPE. Bluestar will follow up with the buy-in in Port Harcourt to, soon after, also take a 51% stake in the Kaduna Refining Company.

In what was a strange twist of irony, it was Obasanjo’s anointed successor in office, President Umaru Yar’Adua, who, within only a few months of assumption, took a different position on the sale of the refineries, which prompted Blue Star to pull out of the deal. Obasanjo, who never hid his pain, and tried to prevail on his successor without success, cannot get over the turn of events.

He often recoils at how Yar’Adua baulked under pressure and cancelled the sale. “The refineries are old and Dangote and some investors paid $750 million for two of the refineries. My successor came to office and reversed the sale. He even refunded the money they paid. So I went to him and asked him why he did this. He said it was because of pressure. So I wondered if the pressure by some people was more important than the interest of the whole nation,” he recalls.

Even though the reversal of the Obasanjo sale took place over 17 years ago, and the administrations that succeeded further moved in the opposite direction, Obasanjo

has refused to accept that any approach other than the one he took will ever work.

To him, the refineries did not work with him, and they can never work under any other dispensation no matter what is done, which is quite intriguing.

Whereas Baba anchored his decision to sell as pro-Nigeria and the reversal of the sale as anti-Nigeria, those who cancelled the sale obviously thought otherwise. In the first place, the sale was greeted by widespread criticism from the public, with the main accusation then being that the sale did not follow due process. Indeed, NNPC and DPR spoke up against it, just as the Labour unions, especially NUPENG and PENGASSAN were up in arms against it. They claimed that “the sale of the two firms was completely lacking in transparency”, that no due diligence was carried out, and that the Port Harcourt refinery was worth about US$5 billion, roughly nine times the amount it was sold for. Indeed, the sale of the refineries to Bluestar was one of the grounds for a general strike that paralysed the Nigerian economy for four days in June 2007.

So, while the reversal of the sale is often cited, these days, as a major setback, not everyone agrees with that. Not everyone saw the decision to sell the refineries as the right one. In his interviews with the media on the subject, Obasanjo usually anchors his argument that the refineries can never work on the conversation he said he heard with top Shell executives whom he had invited to take a stake in the refinery and manage it. Shell, he says, gave four reasons for declining his offer. According to Baba, the Shell Executive said: ” First of all, they make a major profit from upstream, not from downstream. He said they run downstream just to keep their head above water.

“Two, our refineries were too small: 60,000 barrels 100,000 barrels and I think 120,000 barrels. He said that at that time, the average refinery was going for 250,000 barrels.

“Three, he said our refineries were not well maintained. Four, he said that there was too much corruption around the activities of our refineries and they would not want to get involved in that.”

But looking at these reasons said to have been given by Shell, none of them is novel or suggestive that Shell saw the refineries as beyond redemption, as Obasanjo concluded. Indeed, it is well known that the refinery business is not the most profitable and that upstream is more profitable than downstream.

Olorunfemi works for Hoofbeatdotcom, a Nigerian communications consultancy and publisher of Africa Enterprise

JOHN SEGUN ODEYEMI urges all to fight for a nation worthy of the name

I

n every conglomeration or configuration of shared spacial co-existence, to survive, we must mitigate and protect individuals’ rights within the polity. In this instance, I am specific about the right to freedom of speech.

As much as I love the civility of mutual respect, I cannot comprehend the puerile and almost nonrational attitude of most of Nigeria’s youth today.

No thanks to social media where everyone now is a content creator.

Whatever garbage is put out is required to be liked and shared. I fail to recognize the positivity of the class of those who’s future are being stolen yet remain enarmoured by some perceived successes of governance in our nation.

In these young people’s incurable optimism, fanned into life by various factors, they fail to recognise that every government fails when they are unable to protect the lives and property of their citizens.

When the people are hungry, desolate and poverty stricken, yet told to endure some more and those counseling patience and endurance keep on enriching themselves and their cronies... I fail to see your optimism. I ask for you to be intentional, honest and altruistic in your analysis of the state of our coexistence in a supposed nation-state.

What nation? Someone suggested ‘there was a nation’, but I aver that there was never a nation.

However, if for argument’s sake, one were to concede and agree that there was a nation, prosaic and quaint as it may sound, that nation was either in gestation, comatose at birth or a still birth.

As for the state of that nation; shambolic, disgraceful, the bastardization of a heritage of virtue, of ethics; here a good name is not preferred to silver and gold. And because we left an oil lamp burning on our thatched roof, we incinerated what our forebears bequeathed to us. We no longer honor those who serve, those who build so that the community may grow.

Rather, viscerally, we celebrate those who are morally rotten, compost of a dunghill.

Every altar in the land has been desecrated and every memory of those gone before dragged through murk, and mud. This seismic shift is akin to a communal schizophrenia – herein lies

the most important question – how do we fix a communal collapse of rationality and the capacity or desire for common good?

We are now a fragmented people because we broke that which was the soul of the experiences of our families, relationships, religion, our economy and politics and our culture. Therefore, without an established identity to stand on, the nation drifts based only on the hope that the “ship” will not hit the rocks to disintegrate until all that is loot-able has been looted from its hold.

Here is a Banana Republic run by brigands, opportunists and mad men. It is worse than an asylum because lunacy has become a shared experience between the committed and the supposed caregivers.

The populace have been so mentally traumatized and denigraded that they can only moan and groan about their servitude.

Ranka de de, they offer platitudes to their own oppressors as if begging for crumbs to fall from their tables to the millions of Lazaruses who grovel and groan, dusk to dawn, daily, all over the country in an attempt to salvage the fragmentation and make ends meet as best as possible is the only way to survival.

Unfortunately, those sworn to honor believe thathonorcarriesnocurrency. Tocreateasociety where the two percent are the super wealthy, with an unrecognisable and unaccounted for middle class – and the rest of the population are forced into platitudes, prosaicisms, where citizens become scavengers in the sewage of poverty created by the two percent; that is the reality of a nation that has only existed in theory and in dreams.

There was no nation, there is no nation, therefore, there is no state – there is an existence, ephemeral at best, scripted and directed by megalomaniacs and despots.

This is a new year, wake up, open your eyes and minds, fight for the establishment of a nation worth calling our own • Odeyemi is an Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology, IBCS, Xavier University of Lousisiana, New Orleans, United States

45

T H I S D AY SUNDAY JANUARY 05, 2025

EDITORIAL

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

ISSUES IN THE CHRISTMAS DAY BOMBING

A

An independent investigation is necessary as a safeguard against future incidents

t the funeral prayer for victims of the military airstrike in Sokoto State on 25th December 2024, Governor Ahmad Aliyu remarked that the bombing was accidental. “The military jets were on their mission to eliminate criminal armed groups terrorising the state, and mistakenly bombed innocent people,” he said.

Two communities in Silame Local Government Area of the state, were hit, killing about 10 innocent villagers, livestock, while many houses were burnt. The villages are located near the Surame desert, a known hideout for the newly emerging Lakurawa group terrorising the northwest. While we commiserate with families of the victims, we call on the federal government to ensure adequate compensation for them and provide the survivors with necessary care and attention. It is also important to have an independent investigation into what happened so that appropriate lessons can be learnt from the tragedy.

Although the Nigerian Air Force also promised an investigation into the incident, their spokesperson, Olusola Akinboyewa, has defended the airstrikes, stating that they were carried out based on credible intelligence from multiple sources and after confirmatory aerial surveillance. His claims were corroborated by the Director of Defence Media Operations Major General Edward Buba who noted that the airstrike was a precision-guided operation targeting the terrorist hideout in the area. “The airstrike indeed hit the logistics base of the terrorists, which led to secondary explosions. It was these explosions that caused the casualties,” Buba stated. Since military authorities have already reached conclusions on the incident, it stands to reason that whatever investigations they may have ordered is merely to fulfil all righteousness. That would be unfair to the people who lost loved ones in the event the military accounts prove to be wrong.

The Sokoto incident is the latest in a series of accidental strikes in recent years, raising concerns among many including human rights groups.

“This is yet another sign that the Nigerian military has not changed, and they have not learned a lesson from previous airstrikes that killed civilians,” said Isa Sanusi, Amnesty’s country director

in Nigeria. “I believe that they have to review their procedures, they have to investigate these incidents thoroughly, and they have to find a way to end this reckless deadly use of force.”

Indeed, similar unfortunate military airstrikes have killed several innocent people in recent years.

According to SBM Intelligence, a consulting firm, the Nigerian Air Force carried out 17 accidental air strikes between January 2017 and September 2024, killing about 500 people. From Rann, Borno State in 2017 to Sububu area of Zamfara State in 2021 to Kurebe village in Shiroro local government of Niger State in April 2022, Southern Kaduna in June 2022, military attacks have killed hundreds of civilians in enormous collateral damage. Last September, an airstrike in Kaduna where criminal gangs often kill, and kidnap for ransom, claimed 24 people.

But perhaps the most damaging was the military airstrike in December 2023 that hit Tudun Biri village in Kaduna State which killed more than 120 people. The airstrike was carried out by the Nigerian Army using an armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The use of armed UAVs has become a norm by almost all armies across the world because of the effectiveness and the ability to guarantee force protection. Since its introduction in the Nigerian Army in 2012, first as a platform for intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance capability, the deployment of UAVs has helped tremendously to improve operational efficiency and decimate bandits across the Northeast, Northwest and Northcentral. The unfortunate incident marked the first time such would happen since the introduction of drones into the combat operations of the Nigerian Army. Hence it was viewed seriously, as many called for caution in their deployment to prevent further occurrence.

Erroneous strikes are often attributed to intelligence failure, poor coordination, and inadequate operator training. It is therefore hoped that an independent investigation would identify lapses, especially in terms of training deficits, acquisition of more effective modern UAV platforms as well as putting more efficient command and control system in place to guarantee double checks on targets before a strike decision is taken.

Erroneous strikes are often attributed to intelligence failure, poor coordination, and inadequate operator training S U N DAY N E W S PA P E R 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

T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D Editor-in-Chief/Chairman Nduka Obaigbena Group Executive Directors Eniola Bello, Kayode Komolafe, Israel Iwegbu Divisional Directors SHAKA MOMODU, peter Iwegbu, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL Director OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI snr. associate Director eric ojeh Associate Director Patrick Eimiuhi CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, printing production CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND Email: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief(150-200 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

THE VICIOUS CYCLE OF TERRORISM

It truly appears that sundry acts of terror which started like dangerous jokes taken too far in Borno State have spun Nigerians into a vicious cycle where they are at once victims as well as funders of terrorism.

Of course, there are those who launder money in Nigeria from public office, oil bunkering, illegal mining or other illicit activities and plough same into terrorism, in their bid to kill multiple birds with one stone. By sponsoring terrorism, like the state, they mount the mortar of force, no matter how episodically, destabilize the country, make profit through blood money, as well as undermine Nigeria’s democracy.

According to a damning report, Nigerians are themselves unwilling and unwitting participants in the terrorism upending their lives. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigerians have spent about N2.23 trillion as ransom to kidnappers in the last one year. If the reports are

true, and it appears they are, then there is hardly any business more lucrative than kidnapping.

In a country reeling from various austerity measures imposed by the government, it is massive profit to make such amounts off kidnapping. Of course, the huge profits it is raking in must prompt the question of who is benefitting from terrorism? More to the point, who are those sponsoring terrorism in Africa’s most populous democracy and economy?

Apparently, things have got so bad with Nigeria and terrorism that one of the tiny countries Nigeria is supporting around, Niger Republic, has become so emboldened that it can accuse Nigeria of sponsoring terrorism in its territory.

Someday, Nigerians would yet find out the extent to which security in the country took a nosedive under the administration of

Muhammadu Buhari. It is also noteworthy to remember how the UAE once held up the list of those sponsoring terrorism in the country to the government.

Till this day, it is not known that Nigeria has done a lot with that list. It is also not known to what extent Nigeria has fought terrorism because whenever there appears to be a lull in terrorist activities, terror soon strikes again in deadlier and swifter fashion.

As the country has become increasingly unsafe, terrorism has grown as a lucrative venture that is attractive to many.

Uncovering those profiting from the often deadly distress of others must be paramount to the Nigerian government if it has any intention of fulfilling one of its core mandates, which is security of lives and property.

It has long been rumored that those who fund insecurity in the country ironically have

strong links to the government and among security forces. It is in the interest of the country that these claims are verified and substantiated or disproved once and for all so that the country can face the real roots of its security problems.

Nigeria remains painfully insecure, with tragic consequences. Insecurity may seem an abstract term, but the harsh reality it is for countless women and children is highlighted by the loss of lives and livelihood recorded.

The government may bristle at the figure and reiterate that it has previously warned against the payment of ransom to bandits. But the truth remains that until the nightmare is permanently dealt with, Nigerians will remain without options but pay ransom to secure the release of their loved ones.

Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com

T H I S D AY, T h e S U N D AY N e w s pa p e r JANUARY 05 , 2025

46

Glitz FOCUS

Glimpses of Creative Industry in 2025 What will the creative industry look like in 2025? More deals? More policies? Or more steeze?

Vanessa Obioha looks at some of the trends that may define the industry, and yes, A.I. made the list on social media, Gen Alpha, growing up alongside artificial intelligence, will likely influence new lifestyle choices. It will be interesting to see how they shape culture and trends.

More Grammy Wins

S

ince Burna Boy won the coveted Grammy award in 2021, Nigerian artists have consistently featured on the nominations list. In 2025, this trend continues with Nigerians dominating the recently created Best African Music Performance category, which celebrates the continent’s rich musical culture. While Tyla won the inaugural award last year, Nigerians are poised to take centre stage this year, with nominees like Burna Boy, Tems, Yemi Alade, Asake, Wizkid, and Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay. All eyes are also on Tems, who made history as the first indigenous African to break into the R&B category. She leads the 2025 Grammy nominations, including a nod for Best Global Music Album alongside Rema for his Heis album.

A Kaleidoscope of Festivals:

2025 is shaping up to be a year of festivals, building on the success of 2024.

Expect celebrations of not just film and music, but food, fashion, technology and lifestyle. The inaugural Lagos Shopping Festival last year set the tone for a diverse range of events, and this trend is set to expand.

A model on Wear Nigeria fashion show runway

Streaming Continues to Dominate: Burna Boy

Live Events Make an Explosive Comeback:

One of the trends that emerged in the Detty December celebration of 2024 is the ubiquity of live events. From concerts to conferences and festivals, the entertainment industry is experiencing a boom in live performances. This upward trend suggests that the live events sector will soon surpass its preCOVID numbers.

Exponential Growth for the Fashion Industry:

Gen Alpha kids Tems

Infrastructure Development:

While live events were the highlight of the 2024 holiday season, they exposed significant infrastructure deficits in the industry. To accommodate growing crowds, ensure safety, and improve the attendee experience, Nigeria’s creative sector requires better event facilities.

The $4.5 billion deal between Del-York Group and TSC Global to develop Lagos Film City (also known as Kebulania) is a promising development.

This massive project, in collaboration with the Lagos State Government, will create an ecosystem for film, music, live events, and training, while generating jobs. Construction is expected to begin in mid-2025, and the city will include a 50,000-square-meter hyperscale data centre and a 1GW sustainable gas-fired power system to support AI-driven productions.

The newly renovated National Theatre will also play a role in addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges, providing world-class facilities for creative events.

More Investments and Training: The economic potential of the creative industry will continue to attract investors. From Singapore’s TSC Global to Sterling Bank, which supported the tourism and fashion industries last year, to other international companies, there will be an investment boom in the creative industry. But investment will not only be in financial terms but also skill development. This is an area where streaming platforms like Netflix are likely to invest more this year. While

The demand for visually compelling content will rise in 2025, and creators will increasingly turn to platforms with global reach. Whether for music or film, local or international, more streaming platforms are likely to emerge, providing opportunities for content to reach wider audiences.

Nigeria’s fashion industry was a global fixture in 2024, with numerous fashion shows showcasing the country’s designers and models. The industry, valued between $4.7 billion and $10 billion last year, is expected to grow further in 2025. From local to international runways, Nigerian fashion designers and models will continue to push African culture. Nigerian textiles, already popular on runways such as Africa Fashion Week Nigeria and Wear Nigeria Fashion Show, will continue to dazzle on the runway, signalling a resurgence of interest in traditional fabrics.

Nigeria Cuisine Expands Beyond Jollof Rice: Linus Idahosa and Michael Dickerson Roasted bole and fish

Jollof rice has long been the staple food that Nigeria is known for globally but that will likely change this year as food content creators are promoting other cuisines. Think of our local soups, stews, and even our boli (roasted plantain) and moi moi (bean pudding) which are beginning to gain global attention.

Alté in Global Spotlight:

Still of ‘Mai Martaba’ which was submitted for the Oscars IFF category but was not nominated.sub

Adekunle Gold performing at Lagos Shopping Festival

the streaming platform has paused the commissioning of Nigerian films, they are likely to turn their focus on training emerging filmmakers.

their Oscar journey. To achieve this, Nigerian filmmakers will need to craft provocative, universally appealing themes, improve film quality, and adopt aggressive marketing strategies. The Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy will also need to promote Nigerian films globally, not just locally.

A Stronger Push for Oscars Nomination

Nigeria’s quest for an Oscars nomination in the International Feature Film category has been a recurring conversation, particularly around meeting language requirements. In 2025, Gen Alpha’s Style Takes Centre Stage: the focus may shift to gaining greater Generation Alpha—those born between visibility at international film festivals, 2010 and 2024—will become a cultural where many successful films begin focus in 2025. While Gen Z made waves

Going by the recent data released by the music streaming platform Spotify, Alté, the experimental mix of Afrobeats, R&B and hip-hop, with electronic influences, is gaining popularity globally. The global success of Alté-influenced musicians like Tems, Rema and Odeal symbolises how the genre is taking its place in mainstream music culture. Countries like Ghana have embraced the sound with over 60 billion Spotify streams, and Alté now has 41% more global plays than it did in 2024.

AI Adoption will Increase: There is no denying that artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a future possibility; it’s here to stay. In 2025, its use in the creative industry will continue to expand. While concerns about AIgenerated compositions are rising, particularly in the music industry, creatives are eager to explore how AI can enhance their work while pushing for policies to protect intellectual property.

THISDAY, The SUNday Newspaper • JANUaRY 5, 2024

47

INTERNATIoNAL

Francophone Africa and French Military Bases at Bay: The Polemological Definienda and Implications

F

rancophone Africa and French military bases have been two critical foreign policy challenges for Nigeria since 1960. The administration of Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa had to formulate exceptions to the principles of non-interference and non-intervention as provided for under Article 2(7) of the United Nations Charter as a result. The Article prohibits all forms of intervention in whatever falls under the domestic preserve of other sovereign nations. Nigeria is not averse to this provision but considered that under no circumstance should apartheid be considered the domestic preserve of South Africa, because Black people were subjected to brutalities, segregation, oppression and Nigeria could not be an onlooker. In the eyes of Nigeria, any form of indignity meted out to Africans and black people in the world is also an indignity meted out to every Nigerian who was therefore required to fight apartheid with every available means in his hands. This was why it was clearly stated in the inner back cover of the old Nigerian passport that the holder of the passport was obligated to fight apartheid with whatever means available to him or her.

In the same vein, when President Sylvanus Olympio of Togo was brutally assassinated during a foreign mercenary invasion reportedly sponsored by the French, Nigeria again said she could not be expected to fold her arms and not support a friendly Togo of President Olympio. Nigeria therefore formulated exceptions to apartheid and intervention of foreign mercenaries in Africa.

Explained differently, Africa was made the cornerstone of Nigeria’s foreign policy, requiring the defence and protection of African and Black dignity the world over. The misunderstanding between Nigeria and France over France’s atomic bomb tests in the Reggane area of the Sahara in February, April and December 1960, which led to diplomatic rupture in January 1961, should be understood in this context. This is why France in Nigeria’s foreign policy calculations has always been a critical issue. It is against this background that Francophone Africa’s new attitude towards French military bases in their countries needs special investigation, especially from a polemological perspective.

French Military Bases at Bay

To begin with, why the hostility against French military bases at this material time? Is the termination of France’s defence pacts with Francophone Africa a re-strategy? If it is a re-strategy, who is the initiator? If the initiator is France, does it also mean that the ECOWAS the military junta are fighting is also being used

by France to enable France to come back in a new guise? Is it an old wine in a new bottle? Are the protesting Francophone African countries truly mature and capable of self-reliance in the maintenance of their national security? Determination to be self-reliant is commendable but what about the means?

The supposed most reliable partners of France are declaring France non grata. After Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad have strained their military entente with France, it is now again the turn of the Côte d’Ivoire to slap France in the face. Is it a problem of France’s foreign policy miscalculation under President Emmanuel Macron? Is it a manifestation of Professor Jean-Baptiste Duroselle’s theory of ‘every empire shall perish’?

At the level of Nigeria, can President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) manage the complexity of the new relationship between France and her former colonies in light of Nigeria’s existing foreign policy principles? If France and the Côte d’Ivoire of President Alassane Ouattara were reportedly instrumental to the election of PBAT as Chairman of the ECOWAS and the same President Ouattara is also reportedly now asking the French soldiers to quit, how do we explain the new anti-French virus? Is France encouraging the Francophone leaders to ask for withdrawal of her troops in order to enable France to come back in a smarter way?

This question is prompted by the fact that Chad, Niger, and the Côte d’Ivoire are notable reliable confidants of France. They are countries heavily relied upon by the West in the terrorismcontainment efforts. If the countries are now, one after the other,

Vie Internationale with

Bola A. Akinterinwa Telephone : 0807-688-2846

e-mail: bolyttag@yahoo.com

Balewa asking the French to check out of their countries, what really are the polemological definienda? Are Nigeria’s foreign policy challenges not being made more complex, especially in light of the breaking news of PBAT’s official submission of the request for the extradition of Simon Ekpa, the pro-Biafran agitator, who proclaimed himself the Prime Minister of the United States of Biafran Government in Exile?

The quest for extradition of Simon Ekpa cannot but be another dimension of FrancophoneAfrica’s emerging policy attitude towards Nigeria. Which Francophone country will or will not support a sovereign State of Biafra? What will be the new policy of France and the Côte d’Ivoire which gave political asylum to the Biafrans following the 1967-1970 civil war of national unity in Nigeria? To what extent can France still claim to be the representative of the NATO or the Western world in Africa? The deliberately kept cold rivalry between France and the United States or, put lato sensu, between the European Union and the United States, especially in terms of being the global centre of power and leadership of the world, cannot but be impacted upon in the making of or fighting the sovereign State of Biafra.

States have the potential to take side as there are pointers to a military strife between Nigeria and the Biafran soldiers in the foreseeable future. Simon Ekpa, the chief Biafra agitator in Finland is currently under detention. His deputy, Ngozi Orabueze, has reportedly placed an advert for the recruitment of Biafran soldiers, implying that the request for the extradition of Simon Ekpa to Nigeria may not be a quick end to the agitation of a State of Biafra. Besides, the

“

In sum, what are the lessons from the various causal factors for declaring French soldiers and military bases non-grata? First, Nigeria’s foreign policy of 4-Ds, considered as a doctrine or diplomacy, cannot meaningfully resolve the definienda of why France is kicked out of five Francophone West and Central African regions. Second, of the many reasons given for declaring French troops non-grata, six of them are noteworthy: perception of French performance in the anti-Al Qaeda and ISIL terrorist war as unsatisfactory; Francophone people’s quest for the exercise of full sovereignty; belief of the people that France only takes them ‘as idiots;’ Alpha Blondy, the Ivoirian reggae star’s anthem that ‘French armies, Go Away,’ rendered in the 1990s; perpetuating and safeguarding the stability of some regimes friendly with France; use of Africa as means to sustain the middle-power status of France in international politics; and West Africa and the Sahel as a space for natural influence making. Put interrogatively, can Nigeria stop the people’s perceptions of France? Can Nigeria stop the people’s agitation for the right to full sovereignty? What can Nigeria do to stop France from seeking to safeguard the stability of regimes that are pro-France? Africa enables France to be an African power and a Power in Africa. What can Nigeria do about this? These are some of the challenges and implications for Nigeria’s foreign policy towards Africa. The diplomacy of 4-Ds has to be re-conceptualised to accommodate the new direction of Francophone Africa. A giant leader should not rest in the face of mounting challenges

detention of Nnamdi Kanu for long in Nigeria has not prevented his supporters from militating against the Tinubu government.

The challenge here is determining what will happen if there is a real shooting war between Nigeria and Biafra again: will the war not prompt having a French military in support of either side? Will that not conflict with Nigeria’s foreign policy of no military base in Africa? Or should a foreign military base be accepted because it is about military hostilities?

Under General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s Commissioner for External Affairs, Dr. Okoi Arikpo, made it clear that under no circumstance would Nigeria accept the use of Africa simply as a source of raw material for the development of Europe and to the detriment of Africa. Additionally, Nigeria vehemently opposed French military bases in Africa but France not only argued that she was in Africa by the kind invitation of other sovereign countries like Nigeria, but was also actively supported

by Francophone Africa.

What is particularly noteworthy is the fact that when France carried out her atomic bomb tests before eventually continuing further tests in the Pacific, the Francophone African countries expressed much joy, and saw the success of the tests as a ‘French Community feat’. The French Community to which Francophone Africans belong on the basis of the principle of assimilation prompted unnecessary division of Africa on linguistic basis and destructive rivalry between the English and French speaking countries.

Without whiff of doubt,Africa is a major problem and challenge unto itself. By definition, Africa is geo-politically ambiguous.

On the one hand, the 1991 Abuja Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community dividedAfrica into five regions, contrarily to the UN classification of the whole of Africa as a region of the world. On the other hand, under each region, there are linguistic differentiations. For example, in the West African region, there are the Anglophone, Arabophone, Francophone, and Lusophone countries. When discussing Francophone Africa, some of them also have other affinities. Mauritania speaks French but still remains Arabophone, a major reason for opting out of the ECOWAS and preferring to join the Maghreb Union in the North Africa region.

When the foregoing issues are explicated in terms of downsizing military entente with France, it is clear that Nigeria’s foreign policy challenges cannot but become more complicated for various reasons: more theatres of conflict, increased funding of conflicts, deepened political instability, more agitations for self-determination which can take advantage of the deterioration of the conflict, etc. In sum, the complication cannot but begin with an extending environmental conditioning of insecurity and how Nigeria can constructively respond particularly to the new developments in Francophone Africa.

In this regard, by kicking out France, who is to fill the vacuum created? Are Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad now capable of playing France’s roles in the containment of the terrorists?

Do they want to simply replace France with another foreign power? Are they really the ones asking for the withdrawal of French troops or it is France engaging in a back-door diplomacy to negotiate for withdrawal that will enable the opportunity of returning under a new renegotiated guise? Whatever is the case, the politics of the French withdrawal is quite interesting, the polemological definienda are more thought-provoking, and the implications for Nigeria have the potential to be more domestically destabilizing.

Polemological Definienda and Impact on Nigeria

The polemological definiendum is basically the discontentment with France in the conduct and management of strategic mineral resources of the aggrieved countries and the inability of France to contain the advancement of terrorism and killing of innocent civilians. The contents of each definiendum vary from one country to the other. Grosso modo, at the epicenter of the dispute is a conflict of national interests. France’s approach to the protection of her interests in the Sahel is not consistent with the approaches of the States in the Sahel.

As explained by Dr. Bakary Sambe, the Director of the Timbuktu Institute, West Africa is considered to be ‘a space of natural deployment and influence’ and that the more than 30 French direct military interventions in Africa between 1964 and 1995 were ‘to perpetuate and safeguard the stability and durability of certain regimes.’ Professor Bruno Charbonneau of the Royal Military College of Saint-Jean in Canada says ‘the French military presence in Africa has always allowed France to be at the heart of conflict resolution and management mechanisms in French-speaking Africa, particularly at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)’.

Another causal factor for not only seeking to establish military bases in Africa, but also for people’s opposition to them, is to contain and prevent terrorism from being imported back home in Europe. It is against this background, for instance, that the RECAMP (Reinforcement of African Peacekeeping Capacities Programme) was established in the late 1990s by France, the United Kingdom and the United States with the objective of training soldiers and boosting their capacities not only to combat the Al Qaeda and ISIL terrorists, but also to protect the land borders and the maritime territory.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

“

A

weekly pull-out

5.1.2025

Live Bands to Watch in 2025

Akinloye Tofowomo- Shuga Band.jpg

Ayo Ajekigbe- Faith Band 2

Elijah Odiakose- Cool Ice Band

Kolawole Rogbinyin- Metro Band

Maryane Omolabake OGUNNAIKE- Zigma Band

Godbless Ubiebifayen-Eboni Band

In the ever-evolving landscape of live music, a few bands continue to reign supreme across Nigeria, captivating audiences with electrifying performances and setting records in both revenue and influence. From arena-shaking performances to intimate gigs, these groups set the standard for the live music experience- steering high-octane events industry through challenging times while contributing to the growth of the Nigerian entertainment ecosystem. Adedayo Adejobi looks at top exceptional celebrity live bands illuminating Nigeria’s high nightlife against the odds of economic crunch while elevating the art of live music to unprecedented heights. edited by: VANESSA OBIOHA/vanessa.obioha@thisdaylive.com.

T H I S D AY, T h e S U N D AY N e w s pa p e r january 05 , 2025

49

COVER The Shuga Band

W

ith performance pulses, undeniable energy, and charisma, the band leader Akinloye Tofowomo has proven a mastery of sweeping people off their feet with a musical force unlike any other.

On stage, they don’t merely play music; they breathe life into it, creating an atmosphere that is both electric and deeply intimate. Their sound—a fusion of genre influences rises like a wave, crashing through the crowd with an infectious enthusiasm that leaves no one untouched.

With an intricate blend of soaring melodies, intricate rhythms, and lyrical storytelling, Tofowomo who turns 50 on January, 6th 2025, has mastered the music business. The band’s command of the stage- under his watch- is nothing short of magnetic, with each member bringing their own flair to the performance, yet seamlessly melding into a cohesive unit.

Whether it’s the guitarist’s electrifying solos, the drummer’s hypnotic beats, or the lead singer’s soulful, stirring vocals, every element of their show feels like a vital part of a larger, unforgettable journey.

Akiin Shugas, as the band leader, embodies the spirit of ingenuity, overcoming challenges with cuttingedge ideas and delivering results that resonate with audiences. How he has orchestrated a strong live music brand built on trust, inspiration, loyalty, and deep emotional connections with his fans, is worthy of a masterclass. Little wonder he is THISDAY/Arise Group Chairman, Nduka Obaigbena’s choice live band.

Veentage Band

Ranked second among the best live acts today, Veentage band, led by Desmond Emokiniovo has captured and sustained the hearts of Millennial and Gen Z audiences alike with a great dose of energy, fine repertoire list, and innovative interpretation of Nigerian songs. In almost a decade, his grit and impeccable appetite for success is a lesson for any keen observer. No doubt, the band’s performances blend nostalgia with innovation, drawing on cultural references that resonate deeply with younger generations.

The band’s live shows are communal experiences, a powerful escape where fans connect not only to the music but to one another. Desmond’s ability to create sets that appeal to both the emotional depth of Millennials and the restless energy of Gen Z is no small feat. The band effortlessly weaves introspective lyricism with an infectious groove, tapping into the zeitgeist of a generation defined by both uncertainty and optimism. Their audience is a reflection of the moment—a cross-section of urban youth united in their search for something real, unfiltered, and profound. Veentage Band’s presence online bolsters their live performances, with social media engagement that feels like an extension of their show. Desmond’s behind-the-scenes clips and viral moments deepen the connection with the band’s fanbase, making each live performance a much-anticipated event. His approach to embracing social media has further amplified their experiments, creating a personal connection to the band’s evolving journey.

Faith Band

Call the band leader, Ayo Ajekigbe a proud Yoruba man and his faith band the groove German machine, and you wouldn’t be wrong. In an era where the boundary between the past and the future often seems blurred, Ayo’s band stands as a testament to the enduring magic of Yoruba culture, expertly straddling the line between the old and the new. With its electrifying performances, this band has seamlessly captured the hearts of both the traditional old and youthful Yoruba partygoers, becoming a fixture at the grandest celebrations and the most intimate gatherings alike.

What makes this band extraordinary is their unwavering ability to blend the rich rhythms of old with the beats that move today’s youth. Their music pulses

Live Bands to Watch in 2025 with contagious energy, effortlessly translating Yoruba folklore and history into a soundscape that speaks to every generation. Through their dexterous use of drums, lyrical poetry and infectious rhythms, they tap into the cultural heart of the Yoruba people, all while remaining strikingly modern in their appeal.

Clad in their signature white African traditional Buba and Sokoto attire, every member of the group becomes a living canvas, reflecting the timeless grace of Yoruba heritage.

Cool Ice Band

As the name implies- Cool Ice is cool, calm and very calculated. 2024 has been a challenging but fruitful year for Elijah Odiakose as band leader. Not held back, yet driven by a deep sense of purpose and strong business acumen, Elijah, will open a state-of-the-art multi-million naira live and digital recording music studio this month.

Elijah’s Cool Ice Band has become widely regarded as one of the top live bands in Nigeria, attracting a diverse range of high-profile clients. Known for professionalism, creativity, and unique musical style, Cool Ice is fast becoming a staple among Nigeria’s elite, providing quality live music for corporate and individual events. With almost a decade of showmanship, coolice remains one of the most in-demand bands in the country.

Elijah Odiakose is fast being recognised for offering a platform for talents like the 2024 winner of the Big Brother Naija contest, a member of the coolice band.

Eboni Band

Perhaps you’ve danced to Eboni Band’s live music at some point. Yes, you have. The leader of the Eboni Band, Godbless Ubeibifayen superintends over one of the biggest and hottest live bands in Nigeria. The band’s name stems from his black skin. The father of three from Delta State came to Lagos 31 years ago while awaiting admission to study music at the Obafemi Awolowo University after clinching a grade 8 certification at the Victor Uwaifo School of Music in Warri, Delta State. Since his foray into Lagos, he hasn’t looked back and fortune seems to have smiled on him.

His career kicked off in a Lagos studio as a backup singer and an engineer before he joined Onyeka Onwenu for two years.

He then moved unto Sharp Band for five years and left to form the Eboni Band.

They may all play the same kind of music, but Godbless Ubeibifayen’s Eboni Band’s song presentation comes with the Eboni-style humour and laughter.

He is set apart from his peers with his discipline, power dressing, humour, and discretion on the quality and choice of what to play at social functions..

In his quest to create a band that would skillfully render a cross-section of music genres of hip hop, high-life, jazz, rhythm and blues, reggae to name a few, GodBless Ubiebifayen, who is also the lead vocalist and music director and nightlife crooner with presence at big clubs in the city, is consistently keeping the band afloat with his leadership.

Sharp Band

The Sharp Band delivers an exhilarating blend of Afrobeat, soul, and funk that electrifies every stage. At the helm, Anesi Ivharue is a charismatic maestro, effortlessly commanding attention with his magnetic presence and soaring vocals.

His band, a tight-knit ensemble of virtuoso musicians, complements his every move with precision and flair, creating an irresistible rhythm that pulses through the crowd. From the streets of Lagos to international arenas, as a forerunner in the industry, Anesi and the Sharp Band have earned a reputation for their electrifying performances, leaving audiences yearning for more. Their rise in 2024 marks the beginning of an undeniable musical legacy.

SB Live Band

SB Live Band, led by the magnetic Seun Bankole, stands as a towering force in the live music scene. With an unmatched ability to blend pop, R&B,

soul, hip-hop, reggae, and funk. Seun’s high-energy performances captivate audiences across genres. A virtuoso multiinstrumentalist and dynamic frontman, he has become the very heartbeat of young and old Nigerians in the diaspora market.

Revered both in Nigeria and on the global front, Seun’s electrifying presence has sparked a fervent fanbase, with his extensive tours across the U.S. and beyond only amplifying his reach.

2024 has seen SB Live soar even higher, solidifying its place among the best in the business. With many plans and collaborations up his sleeves, his band is one to watch out for.

Kolawole Rogbinyin -The Metro Band

What began as a passion project for entrepreneur-turned-musician Kolawole Rogbinyin has rapidly transformed into one of the most talked-about music acts in Nigeria. The Metro Band started as a side endeavour for Kola, a Real estate executive with a lifelong love for music.

What was initially a small-scale project with a few friends quickly evolved into a genre-blending powerhouse, captivating audiences with its unique fusion of pop, and electronic influences.

The band’s rise was propelled by their innovative sound and captivating live performances, which gained them a loyal following across Nigeria’s social circle as their fan base expanded.

Today, Metro Band is more than just a successful musical group—it is a cultural phenomenon. With Kola at the helm, they continue to push boundaries, blending technology and music in groundbreaking ways. From a solo vision to a global stage, the Metro Band is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and creativity.

Uzo Omenka

O’labake OgunnaikeZigma Band

Zigma Band, led by oil and gas entrepreneur turned singer, O’labake, has quickly become a sensation on the international music scene. Known for her powerful, soulful voice, Omolabake’s musical journey began as a passion project, but it soon evolved into a professional pursuit that has captured global attention.

Ogunnaike’s business acumen, honed in the competitive oil and gas industry, has played a pivotal role in the band’s success. With a strong international vision, she quickly secured bookings for Zigma Band at high-profile venues across the globe. Today, 40% of the band’s gigs are mostly booked outside their home country, performing to enthusiastic audiences in Europe, Africa, and North America the rest 60% presence in Nigeria and other parts of Africa.

Zigma Band’s electrifying live performances, marked by Ogunnaike’s commanding stage presence, have redefined standards in the global music scene. The fusion of genres from Afrobeat to jazz and blues gives their music a unique appeal, resonating with diverse audiences.

Miracle Day Band

After the passing of legendary reggae icon, Majek Fashek, his former manager, Uzoma Day Omenka, shifted gears to pursue his musical dream, launching the Miracle Day Band. Drawing from his deep roots in the Nigerian music scene and his close work with Fashek, Omenka created a sound that blends Highlife, Afrobeat, reggae, and soul, with poignant lyrics that resonate globally.

His rise has been nothing short of impressive, with the band now regularly performing in Nigeria’s social circle and outside the shores of the country. Their electrifying live shows, known for their rich energy and cultural fusion, have captured the attention of music lovers in Europe, the U.S. and across Africa.

What sets Miracle Day band apart is Uzoma Day Omenka’s unique blend of experience, passion and authenticity. His deep understanding of Afrobeat, highlife and reggae music and his exposure to international audiences make the band a rising force to reckon with.

Desmond Emokiniovo- Veentage band

Koko at work

Desmond Emokiniovo- Veentage band

T H I S D AY, T h e S U N D AY N e w s pa p e r january 05 , 2025

50

HighLife Lamiju Akala: A New Political Titan

Akala

When Olamijuwonlo Akala (also known as Lamiju) stepped into the chaotic world of Nigerian politics, sceptics whispered and scoffed. After all, what could the son of a former governor bring to the table? A name alone, they thought, wasn’t enough to navigate Oyo State’s rough-and-tumble political terrain.

Fast forward to today, and Akala is no longer just “Alao-Akala’s boy.”

Representing Ogbomoso North, South, and Orire Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, he has carved a niche for himself, with his growing influence in the 10th National Assembly there as a reminder that dismissing him was premature.

Riding at the helm of the Young Parliamentarians Forum, Akala wields significant influence among the youthful lawmakers. It really isn’t a ceremonial role; it’s a platform for amplifying the voices of young Nigerians in policymaking. With him as chair, the forum has already become a symbol of assertive, informed leadership.

But it hasn’t always been rosy. Back in 2017, when he first served as caretaker chairman of Ogbomoso North Local Government, critics rolled their eyes. Yet, by 2018, he’d proven doubters wrong by winning the substantive chairmanship.

That victory was the beginning of a transformation from political novice to strategist.

His education—from Lead City University to the University of Buckingham—often forms the backbone of his narrative. A degree in Computer Science and a master’s in Service Management sounds impressive, but it’s his ability to blend these skills with local realities that give him an edge in policy debates.

Akala’s participation in global forums, from Angola to Vietnam, has given him a broader perspective. While his peers sometimes struggle with national concerns, he thinks globally but acts locally, leveraging his exposure to craft youth-centred policies that resonate across Nigeria.

As his star rises, one wonders if Akala might someday exceed even his father’s political legacy. For now, though, his journey is a masterclass in persistence, proving that sometimes, underestimated beginnings lead to towering achievements.

with Kayode ALFRED 08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com

...Amazing lifestyles of Nigeria’s rich and famous

Who Will Settle the Cold War Between Emir of Ilorin and Kwara Governor?

Another day, another drama. This one is not on Netflix but happening live and direct from Kwara, the State of Harmony.

But nothing is harmonious about the alleged silent clash—one that pits the revered Emir of Ilorin against the state’s helmsman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

And as with all the best tales of power and pride, this one comes laced with whispers, unanswered calls, and alleged snubs.

The Emir, a towering symbol of Ilorin’s centuries-old Islamic heritage, is currently in Turkey seeking medical care. But why Turkey, you ask? Surely, Germany-renowned for its state-of-the-art healthcare—would have been the natural choice for such a figure of prestige. Alas, apparently, the Emir’s plan to travel to Germany was scuttled because his aides couldn’t secure visas. Why? Well, here’s where the plot thickens. Rumour has it that the state government, which could have written a simple letter to the German embassy to smooth things over, chose instead to fold its arms and watch the drama unfold. A small matter of bureaucracy, or perhaps a deliberate act of indifference?

Your guess is as good as mine. Multiple

AbdulRazaq

appeals were made to the Governor, urging him to intervene and rescue the Emir’s plans, but all these entreaties reportedly fell on deaf ears. Why would a governor, supposedly the chief supporter of Ilorin’s traditional institution, not leap at the chance to assist his Emir? Could

this be yet another chapter in the alleged frosty relations between the Governor and the Emirate? Insiders whisper that this is not the first time the royal palace and the Government House have been at odds, but if true, this episode reeks of a deeper, more personal grudge.

The move to Turkey has been seen by some as a face-saving manoeuvre, a reluctant plan B for the Emir. But let’s be clear—when a revered royal figure has to downgrade his medical itinerary because of bureaucratic stonewalling, tongues will wag, and wag they have. Could this apparent indifference be a subtle power play, a reminder to the Emir that the governor holds the reins of the state’s bureaucracy? Or is it simply an oversight from an administration drowning in its own affairs?

Whatever the case, this frosty exchange raises unsettling questions about the relationship between Kwara’s traditional authority and its political leadership. Are we witnessing the unravelling of an alliance that has long been central to Kwara’s stability? And if so, who will step in to mediate before the ripples become waves? One thing is certain: when royal pride and gubernatorial ego collide, the fallout is rarely quiet—and Kwara’s political scene is anything but boring.

Femi Gbajabiamila’s Outburst

with more insinuation than outright rejection.

At first glance, his words might seem like a straightforward dismissal: “I don’t have time to think about governorship.” But Lagosians know better. In this city of intrigue, where even the smallest movement is dissected for intent, Gbaja’s carefully chosen words felt more like a politician laying the groundwork than a man uninterested in the race. It was less about denial and more about deflection.

His statement- “There are still two and a half years left - it’s still far. God Almighty knows who will become the next governor” -is a classic Lagos political manoeuvre. It leaves the door wide open while pretending to shut it. By emphasising how busy he is as Chief of Staff, Gbaja didn’t actually refute the idea of running; he only pushed the timeline down the road. It’s like saying, “Not now, but maybe later.”

What’s more, his lament about detractors “trying to pull him down” only fuels the speculation. Who, exactly, are these supposed

Gbajabiamila

Femi Gbajabiamila’s recent pronouncements at the Surulere APC assembly have set tongues wagging. While addressing claims that he’s positioning himself for the 2027 governorship race, Gbajabiamila, currently President Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, delivered a denial that dripped

enemies plotting against him? And why would anyone bother if Gbaja weren’t a serious contender for the Alausa crown? His political résumé - spanning Minority Whip, Majority Leader, Speaker, and now Chief of Staff - reads like a stairway to the Lagos governorship. And his detractors know it, even if he won’t say it outright.

Gbaja’s rhetorical flourish - listing his meteoric rise through the political ranks - wasn’t just an attempt to discredit rumours; it was a reminder of his unstoppable trajectory.

And let’s not ignore the irony of Gbajabiamila’s speech taking place in Surulere, his political base and the same district that propelled him to national prominence. It’s as if he wanted to remind his audience - and potential rivals - that he hasn’t forgotten where his power lies.

So, is Gbaja running? He didn’t say yes, but he definitely didn’t say no. And in Lagos politics, that’s as good as a confirmation. For now, we wait.

Competition Tale Trails Wale Edun and Zacch Adedeji Rumours of a spirited competition between Wale Edun, Minister of Finance, and Zacch Adedeji, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), have gripped the nation. Onlookers claim both are so effective at their jobs that it seems they are trying to outshine one another, much to the amusement of President Bola Tinubu and the happy pride of their friends, relatives, and well-wishers.

Some say Edun’s knack for unlocking economic potential through bold fiscal reforms is unmatched. After all, streamlining taxes and boosting revenue have become his hallmark, and the results are evident. If national income were a race, Edun might just be sprinting ahead.

Adedeji’s leadership at FIRS is a story of hitting and surpassing revenue targets. FIRS recently collected trillions in taxes—well beyond expectations—and if that doesn’t earn admiration, the dramatic 86% customs revenue growth surely does.

Critics speculate whether this “competition” stems from rivalry or pure commitment. While one leads fiscal governance, the other drives tax efficiency; the duo’s combined efforts create a financial double punch. Edun and Adedeji may as well be Nigeria’s Avengers of revenue generation.

In fairness, both men appear to be simply excelling at their jobs. Edun’s international finance acumen complements Adedeji’s Edun knack for simplifying tax systems. Therefore, together, both men are just proving that Nigeria’s economic revival may not need a hero—only skilled professionals.

Regardless of intent, this “friendly competition” bodes well for Nigeria. It has been a while since the country enjoyed such vibes in the area of ministers. Therefore, whether impressing the President or ordinary citizens, Edun and Adedeji show that public service can be a stage for brilliance, not Adedeji bureaucracy.

Ahmed Aliyu: A Northern Governor to Watch out For

Aliyu

Passing through Sokoto State in this New Year, one would encounter a profound transformation in progress.

The roads once choked with traffic and riddled with potholes, are now smoother and broader, with ongoing construction ensuring accessibility. It becomes clear that something—or rather, someone—is steering the state towards change.

Conversations with residents would then reveal deep satisfaction with Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration. The curious traveller would hear many natives citing his commitment to reviving abandoned projects, particularly the Lydia Flyover and various housing initiatives.

What might stand out would be how these efforts not only served functional needs but also revitalised public trust in governance.

Beyond roads and housing, the traveller might also see Sokoto’s infrastructure undergoing a re-imagination. The Original Symbol Road Network, essential for transporting fresh produce, is a vivid example. What was once a logistical nightmare during the rains now allows trailers to deliver goods unhindered, bringing relief to traders and farmers alike.

Governor Aliyu’s knack for tackling inherited challenges resonates strongly. For instance, the Sokoto Central Market saga—an inherited mortgage debacle—is being resolved methodically. The governor’s hands-on approach to restoring public assets is, in fact,

showing that resilience can be used to wade through complex legal and financial hurdles.

Another standout moment would be seeing garages being constructed on the city outskirts to mitigate congestion caused by heavy vehicles. This forward-thinking measure clearly prioritizes safety and pedestrian convenience, ensuring Sokoto’s urban spaces are functional and accessible for all.

The governor’s resourcefulness is evident in his reliance on internally generated revenue and federal allocations. Unlike some predecessors, his administration prioritizes visible development over personal ambitions, reinforcing the idea that public office is for service, not self-promotion.

T H I S D AY, T h e S U N D AY N e w s pa p e r january 05 , 2025

51

HIGHLIFE

Aisha Babangida: Taking Women Empowerment to the Next Level

To all who know her, Aisha Babangida’s journey is a tale woven with threads of legacy, passion, and a deep-seated commitment to women’s empowerment. As the eldest daughter of the former Nigerian president,

Ibrahim Babangida, she carries her heritage not as a burden but as a mantle of purpose, sculpting lives with a vision that radiates hope and transformation.

Guided by her late mother’s ethos, Aisha has carved a path where compassion meets pragmatism. Her leadership of the Better Life Programme for the African Rural Woman (BLPARW) echoes her belief in the potential of women as architects of progress, fostering resilience in communities often overlooked by the world’s glare.

Through her initiatives, like the Tasnim Foundation and WenA Community, Aisha channels her resources toward the education and economic independence of women. Like a gardener tending to delicate saplings, she nurtures the dreams of rural girls, cultivating a future where possibilities bloom as abundantly as wildflowers after the rain.

Through a single act of philanthropy, like providing scholarships for underserved

Rumours swirling through Osun’s political scene suggest a possible comeback attempt by Adegboyega Oyetola, the former governor now serving as Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy. From whispers to dinner table debates, this speculation raises eyebrows and questions alike. What drives leaders like him to return, and is the path even feasible?

For Oyetola, returning to the governor’s office might feel like unfinished business. His 2022 loss to Ademola Adeleke wasn’t just political; it was personal. A man of calculated ambition, Oyetola’s desire to complete his constitutional second term seems less about duty and more about regaining what he believes was unjustly taken.

But reality paints a grim picture. Adeleke, now firmly seated in the governor’s office, has reportedly made strides with civil service reforms and public goodwill. Against this backdrop, Oyetola’s “elitist” image and unresolved rift with former ally Rauf Aregbesola add steep hurdles to an already challenging race.

It’s also worth pondering why leaders crave political re-entry after significant setbacks.

Power, influence, and the perks of office are undeniably magnetic. Yet, for some, it’s about legacy—a chance to rewrite the story. However, legacies can sour when voters sense ambition outweighs public interest.

For Osun’s electorate, the rumoured comeback might provoke a mix of amusement and caution. Adeleke’s grassroots connection contrasts starkly with Oyetola’s technocratic approach. Would Osun voters gamble on déjà vu, or will they prefer continuity under their “dancing governor”?

From a pragmatic angle, Oyetola’s current ministerial role may also complicate his prospects. Campaigning while managing national responsibilities could stretch him thin, raising questions about priorities. Meanwhile, political opponents will exploit any misstep to deepen voter skepticism.

Ultimately, whether Oyetola’s rumoured return is genuine or just wishful thinking

Babangida

children or funding life-saving surgeries, Aisha would demonstrate the profound truth that a single hand extended can lift entire generations. Her contributions are not mere acts of charity but the seeds of transformation, sown in trust and watered with empathy.With her work, it has become clear that empowering a woman is tantamount to empowering a community.

Aisha’s partnerships with organisations such as GIPLC and her tireless advocacy for inclusivity are testaments to this principle.

She creates spaces where women and children alike can find their voices and craft their destinies.

Awarded honours like the Crans Montana Gold Medal and recognized globally, Aisha’s humility remains her crowning glory. She dedicates her achievements to her parents, embodying the strength of a river that traces its power back to its source, unwavering and eternal in its flow.

Will Oyetola Try His Luck Again in Osun State?

Oyetola

remains unclear. What’s certain is that Osun’s political theatre never lacks drama. For now, residents can only watch and prepare—just in case this déjà vu becomes a reality.

As Governor Ododo Steps Out from Yayaya Bello’s Shadow

Ododo

In Kogi State, Governor Usman Ododo has long been viewed through the lens of his predecessor, Yahaya Bello. While loyalty is a valued trait, staying in another’s shadow can make even the brightest star appear dimmer.

Ododo’s challenge was clear: carve his own

path.

Bello’s tenure left a significant imprint on Kogi’s politics, and Ododo’s close association with him initially made many people wonder if he would merely echo Bello’s ways. A leader confined to the expectations of another risks becoming a very poor and unwanted caricature.

So, Kogites bore under the weight of negative expectation, thinking that Ododo would copy Bello and his hard ways. What if at the end of the new governor’s tenure, there is another case of N80 billion disappearing because he allegedly wants to pay the school fees of his children? But Ododo, it seems, is beginning to chart his course. Recent policies and decisions reflect a shift towards independence. Recently, he was reported as disbursing around N3 billion to over 2,381 direct beneficiaries across more than 170 groups from 80 communities impacted by climate change.

So, whether in addressing youth unemployment or enhancing infrastructure,

Ododo is certainly demonstrating a growing confidence in his ability to lead without the constant whisper of Bello’s influence.

The people of Kogi have naturally welcomed this evolution with cautious optimism. It is refreshing to see a leader take bold steps to own his mandate. As the saying goes, “The bird that dares to leave its nest learns the vastness of the sky.”

By stepping out, Ododo has an opportunity to shape Kogi’s future uniquely. Freed from the gloomy shadow of his predecessor, he can tackle pressing issues like healthcare, education, and security with a renewed focus, earning respect as a governor who listens and acts.

The road ahead is not without challenges, but Kogi deserves a leader who stands tall and governs with clarity of purpose. If Ododo continues this trajectory, his tenure could mark the dawn of a prosperous era, leaving every Kogi citizen proud and hopeful.

From Shadow to Spotlight: Maikudi’s Unlikely Journey to Becoming UNIABUJA’s VC It’s not every day that drama unfolds in the hallowed halls of academia. Yet, at the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), the appointment of Professor Aisha Maikudi as the new Vice-Chancellor is exactly that—a tale of unexpected twists, unfair exclusions, and an undeniable triumph.

Initially, the process was filled with tension, not because of Maikudi’s credentials but due to the controversy surrounding her mentor’s exclusion. The apparent political maneuvering left many scratching their heads: was this a simple academic appointment or a stage for something larger?

In a curious turn, the second advert for the VC position had no mention of required years of experience—something Maikudi lacked.

This move, insiders argued, was a calculated attempt to sidestep the strict rules and tilt the appointment in her favour.

Despite the apparent odds, Maikudi found herself shortlisted for the VC position.

The irony of it all was too rich to ignore: the

very professor who had supervised Maikudi’s PhD, and who would have been a legitimate contender, was excluded from the running.

Yet, here we are, with Maikudi’s appointment confirmed, and she steps into the role with a quiet confidence. What was once a struggle to wade through internal politics now feels like a victory—proof that she could rise above the chaos and claim what was rightfully hers.

For many, the drama seemed odd, even amusing. Who would expect such backdoor dealings in a world where scholarly achievements and fair play should rule? Yet, amidst the noise, Maikudi’s resilience shone through. Her rise was the ultimate punchline to an academic farce.

Now, with Maikudi at the helm, the University of Abuja is primed for fresh leadership. The final act of this strange saga isn’t just about the politics of appointments; it’s about a new beginning, one that signals a hopeful future for the institution and its students.

Maikudi

Diri

A Friendship Beyond Rumours: Diri and Dickson Amidst Political Speculation

Amidst swirling rumours, the relationship between Governor Douye Diri and his predecessor, Senator Seriake Dickson, has been a subject of intense speculation. But the recent Yuletide visit to Dickson’s hometown in Toru-Orua sought to dispel these whispers. Diri’s efforts to mend any perceived rift were clear, and both men reaffirmed their loyalty to each other.

Diri’s words during the visit carried a deeper message than just political camaraderie. He emphasized that God had used Dickson to bring him to power, framing their partnership as divinely orchestrated and quelling unfounded gossip.

The speculation about a conflict between them was fueled by political divides and external pressures. But Diri’s humility and openness about his decisions shows his commitment to transparency and reconciliation, especially with him acknowledging imperfections in governance and offering the possibility of revising decisions when necessary.

Dickson, on the other hand, echoed the same sentiment. He dismissed the efforts of mischief makers who tried to sow discord between him and Diri. Their mutual understanding stood as a strong counter to the divisive narrative perpetuated by some, who sought to exploit their bond for political gain.

While politicians often succumb to rivalry, Diri and Dickson’s actions speak to a higher standard.

By taking the time to publicly address the issue, they both demonstrated integrity and a shared commitment to the progress of Bayelsa State. This kind of bond only pops up when there is a mature political partnership and personal interests take a back seat to the greater good.

To think that this is the same Diri that once was considered a pencil-sharpener, only expected to point crooked fingers at the failures of his predecessor. But his actions have so far been contrary to these negative expectations. The man is doing great, and his people are clearly proud.

Diri and Dickson’s public display of unity should put an end to every rumour to the contrary. The men are friends and each places the development of their people above all else.

52

T H I S D AY, T h e S U N D AY N e w s pa p e r january 05 , 2025

Loud Whispers

with Joseph Edgar (09095325791)

Bola Ahmed Tinubu: This Other Man of the Year

There has been a major celebration within government circles and its very strong supporters following the announcement by THISDAY Board of Editors that President Tinubu is their Man of the Year.

Since the announcement, Nigerians have been divided on the matter especially coming from a media outlet that has been deemed to be in “opposition” by not a few.

While some are jubilating, citing the growing “thaw” of the economy as my brother Magnus Onyibe calls it, others are screaming blue murder especially if you look at the rate of “sufferings” Anyways, people have asked me my position on the matter and to answer, I will go and hide under the criteria the people who gave him the awards threw up.

They say, na because the man no dey fear and that he has shown enough courage to take decisions that even Abacha would not have

Adams Oshiomhole: A Dilemma of Sorts Ok, I got a very strong tutoring on Edo politics yesterday. One Edo man sent me a WhatsApp chat and I did not understand so he called to explain but swore me to secrecy.

Well, as you all know, me too will share the secret with you guys with the hope that you all will also keep the secret so that Oshio baba will not hear.

This is the gist. So, there is a struggle at the Senate between Akpabio, the Senate President and Adams Oshiomhole a ranking Senator for a possible run at the Senate Presidency.

This my lecturer is of the opinion that Akpabio is not comfortable with Adam’s growing stature and that Adams may launch a frontal push for the job and as such something has to be done.

You know that the only thing that Akpabio has over Adams na liquidity because Adams has a rich pedigree in labour movement, understands mobilisation, the issues, has oratorical skills and is indeed very popular.

Another angle, according to the bird, is the struggle for APC leadership in Southern Nigeria. While this position is naturally that of Akpabio, he would be discounting Adams at his peril, so the struggle is real.

Oshiomhole:

Tinubu

Now, how does all of these concern the Edo Governor?, I asked. The man swallowed saliva and continued. So, the electoral petition is ongoing and Asue has listed so many infractions and Adams is in a quandary.

So, for Adams, if Monday wins at the tribunal, his going back to the Senate will be very dicey since he cannot vouch for Monday’s loyalty. Monday, showing a huge level of inexperience, has gone to eat Christmas Afang in Uyo with Akpabio according to this person who is whispering on the phone as he speaks as if Monday is in the next room.

So according to him, Monday’s win at the tribunal would give Akpabio a strong leverage to move against Adams coming back to the Senate as he would use enough influence on Monday to thwart that.

So, for Adams, his dilemma is clear.

Should he continue to work for the party and ensure Monday’s victory at the tribunal and thereby risk his return to the Senate or should he quietly support PDP’s Asue to emerge so that he (Adams) would become party leader in Edo, thereby guaranteeing his return and strengthening his senate presidency ambitions if he has any?

At the end of the long talk, my squealer said: “Edgar, no go write

Popoola

taken, and it’s true. He has really shown that he is tough and resilent.

Take the fuel subsidy matter. Everybody ahead of him from the foxy IBB to the “alagbara” OBJ to the sense man Jonathan down to the stiff Buhari, none could do it.

But baba alagbado just came and said – it is gone and it went.

See as the naira was crashing like ‘felele’ and the man simply refused to intervene and many other such policies that were very painful, but today they have started bearing small fruit.

Despite the noise from opposition and millions of suffering Nigerians, baba is still saying - “go on soun” as his boys at the NURTW would say.

So, if na courage, toughness and resilence, he deserves it but any other criteria beyond these, I will join the train of criticising him. So, for now, let us hail the THISDAY Man of the Year, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as truly, a man tough and resilent.

am o because if you write am, dem go all run back to the drawing board and that go cause more confusion,” and I replied: “I swear on my papa’s grave, I no go write am.”

So, guys, I have not written it but typed it. Shebi na different thing?

What do you guys think about this matter? Please send me a text, make I learn more abeg. Politics is not for the faint-hearted.

Temi Popoola: A Million Naira Man Temi is the group Managing Director at the giant NGX which is one of the world’s biggest stock exchanges. My people, the NGX has returned over 700% to investors in the year 2024 and the praise must come straight to Temi and his team.

The other night, as I walked into Dere Otubu’s party somewhere in Ikoyi, that is how I saw Temi sitting down there very quietly, not talking to anybody and eating small chops.

I rushed to him, “Temi, you are eating small chops when Dere should be giving you afang and goat meat with goat testicles for you to eat with that kind of performance.”

The NGX under Temi and with a solid board chaired by the very influential and extremely brilliant Umaru Kwairanga and

Oji

peopled by such juggernauts like Nonso Okpala and Mohammed Garuba has delivered gold standard performance.

Prior to their coming on board, the NGX used to return results that would make you ashamed. Even more ashamed than a big man who after spending so much cannot get it up in the other room.

Today, with increasing efficiency, heightened transparency, better use of technology and a clear understanding of the role of the Exchange in wealth creation, investors are laughing to the bank.

Kudos to Temi and the team. We pray for the sustaining of such performance and the entrenchment of some of these policies for the betterment of the market. Well done my guy.

Chibundu Edozie: Not a Pillar of Salt This my former Oga will definitely beat me. But will I still be a man if because of my fear for Chibundu, I will now not say my mind.

Chibundu is the superbly coiffured deputy to the capital market legend Albert Okumagba. We all know the story of how BGL collapsed very beautifully and how Albert passed shortly after. But what we have never looked at is the role Chibundu has played in all of this.

Akindele

53

T H I S D AY, T h e S U N D AY N e w s pa p e r December 29 , 2024

Chibundu, I must say and very proudly so have shown unbridled loyalty and faithfulness not only to Albert but to the vision of BGL. He stood very firmly when the rest of us bailed. He has gotten rotten tomatoes and pepper thrown at him, suffered indignation, lost his personal liberty and have had to take in his stride the constant sneering of a hypocritical market while still superbly turning out in his well sewn double-breasted suits.

I must say that I have never seen this kind of loyalty in Nigeria.

Remember that MKO Abiola’s deputy went to collect work from Abacha at the height of the struggle.

But Chibundu has stayed the cause even burying Albert while still pushing and pulling to make sure that the dream of BGL doesn’t die.

I dey fear am before because he used to “bully” me but today all I have for him is unalloyed respect and a renewed love for a man who stood and is still standing tall for another man’s dream.

I hear that there is light in the BGL tunnel and as he has told me, “Edgar, we still have people who do not really like us…” Let me just say that Chibundu you are a man, I swear. You are a man and God bless you.

Funke Akindele: A Beautiful White Witch Ok, let me tell you why I am calling this damsel a white witch. Just see these stats- N1.035billion in ticket sales out of the total N2.8billion sold in cinema this period. Funke is arrowheading a massive marauding expansionism in Nigerian cinema and the figures are positively alarming.

Oya see, let me give you more – 537,000 tickets sold in Nollywood, N2.8billion revenues in December 2024, N10billion revenue target reached in 2024, creating 4.2million jobs and another 2.7million expected new jobs projected in the next five years and a $15billion valuation forecasted.

Mbok this is more than witchcraft, this is demonic. Moving from the heady days of NTA soap opera to global conquest, the Nigerian TV/ Film circuit has come full circle and with time, we would all not need to be rushing to Abuja for jobs or looking at governors like tin gods because one movie will generate a whole state’s budget and the producers will now have all the powers and be spraying governors at parties.

Well done guys, well done Funke and well done the whole community. It is things like these that give us hope in this country.

Nigeria rising.

Eberechukwu Oji: The Long Juju of Arochukwu Some of us grew up on these stories about the famed and mythical Arochukwu and its long juju. They said that during the slave trade, they played a very significant role in that thing. Their shrine was very critical to all of that and this gave the town almost global fame.

Arochukwu is however much more than that. It is a town of very rich history that has contributed very significantly to Nigeria. It has over 300 satellite settlements that can be found all over Nigeria and 10 major towns, all paying full allegiance to the Eze Aro of Arochukwu kingdom which now happens to be the very

brilliant gentleman, His Eminence Eberechukwu Oji. Eberechucku has taken over the throne of his forefathers by popular choice. His grandfather ruled for

73 years and is known in history as one of the longest ruling monarchs in the world and Eberechukwu has immediately hit the ground running. He is talking of a N2billion alternative energy capacity for the

Allen Onyema: Another Strong ‘Peace’ I have to be very careful with this piece because the last time one “yellow” girl advised one “Igbo” businessman on his tomatoes, she ended up being abducted.

Since I really do not have plans to start the new year in a refugee camp, I should keep quiet abi? But how do you keep quiet when you witness hundreds of stranded passengers in Lagos, swearing never to “enter this plane again as long as I live,” and you land in Uyo and meet a different set of people making the same swear.

Pity will enter the matter na. It is that pity that is making me take this risk of trying to advise my brother.

Bro, can you slow down on the self-promotion, that one that you are wearing jacket like Flavour and be walking on TV in front of some very beautiful girls, and settle down and look at this your airline because it is no longer peaceful. People are calling it ‘Air Headache,’ I swear.

Let me share my experience. I was due for Arochukwu for my new play on December 27, 2024 with a 50-minute flight and one hour road journey from Uyo to Arochukwu. Shebi I am supposed to take off on the same day of the event, but knowing what I know, I decided to start the journey a day earlier. My people na 24 hours I use reach Arochukwu o.

First, the 1pm flight was shifted backwards to 7am, from 7am we were pushed to 10,45am, then pushed again to say 12 noon and finally airlifted straight to Calabar.

Wait o, inside the plane, one boy with dreadlock sat on my seat, as I made to slap him another man came to claim the same seat.

So the three of us on the same seat.

The air hostess now told us that since

Onyema

we are going to multiple destinations, seating is open. Na lie ooo, we have flown many multiple destinations and it is never like this.

Anyways, we got to Uyo via Calabar at around 3pm since 7am o. I just checked into Monty Suite to eat their fresh bowl of Afang before this Baba carry him big head come and frustrate me because he dey run airline.

On my way back, my flight was 5pm but as I woke up to pee at night, I saw they had shifted it forward to 10.30. I said no problem. I got to the airport, me and Super Eagles o and Ibom Air were taking off like breeze, e come be like say na only their passengers vote Tinubu. In frustration, I bought a oneway Ibom back to Lagos for 1.30pm.

That was how Ibom Air of 1.30pm took off at the same time with Air wahala of 10.30pm at 1.30pm.

You see this thing this ogbeni is playing with is serious o - people’s plans, health and jobs. The mental trauma, the sufferings, the disappointments, the many hours lost, the jobs lost, all because one man is running a huge international airline like he was running a chemist at Abiodun Bus Stop in Shomolu.

This is not even fair to him, talk less of the country’s image as international travellers are missing connecting flights and all of that.

Please my brother, even if the system is failing in their duties of regulating you, you yourself take pity on your own investments and do something o before it is too late.

Please don’t come and abduct me o, it is the love I have for you that is making me shout, others are just quietly going elsewhere and leaving you alone. Allen, do something pleasssssseee.

town and his huge homecoming ceremony this December pulled in so many very prominent Aro citizens like the Okoroafor brothers – Bank, Dr Oji and Emma who are all internationally acclaimed businessmen.

Remember that my brother Uche Oji the former MD of Nigeria’s Sovereign Wealth Fund is also an Aro man, then you will now immediately begin to see why Nigeria should sit up and get ready for the Arochukwu renaissance.

I was there over these festivities and I must tell you that the afang I ate at Bank’s house is one of the best that I have eaten in my career.

This is just to congratulate His eminence Eberechukwu for his ascension and to also wish him a longer reign than that of his grandfather and very fruitful stay on the throne.

Mbok, help me greet the beautiful Queen. I really enjoyed my stay which saw me ogle at Aro damsels at the Waterfalls. They were shouting, ‘Duke jump in o,’ but I refused because if I had jumped in ehnnnn… kai, na deportation straight. Kai. Dere Otubu: A Networking God I have always had a huge respect for Dere Otubu. Dere is the Chairman of the biggest power distribution company. He also has some very strategic stakes in Zenith Bank where his father, Elder Otubu was the very first Chairman. He is also well involved in Access Bank and a whole lot of other businesses that continue to contribute to the economy.

Well, I hear he has been doing party for the last 15 years and he has never invited me. Last year, I don’t know what entered his head and he invited me and I carried myself there wearing my new pink San Francisco pants.

My people, this is why Dere is a networking god. Come and see the calibre of people that were in attendance.

The people I saw at the gate who were struggling to enter o. First time in my life that I saw billionaires doing ’mogbo mo ya’ and the reason is very simple o, the party is usually very deep and rich in networking capacity.

Dere is close and is also a very integral part of the private sector where he is a well-respected player.

That was how I saw Oscar move in.

Oscar is the immediate past GMD at the NGX, not quite long Temi the present GMD waltz in and then Roosevelt the MD of Access Bank quietly glides in and before I could say what is going on, Udeme Ufot and his elegant wife Dorothy who is about to bury her mum move in. I perched in one corner and was looking at power moving and Dere dressed like an Hawaiian playboy in his white linen moving around making sure that everybody is well taken care of.

Before I could say Jack Robinson, Karl of MTN comes in, takes a seat and mingles. At some point, it looked like that Michael Jackson’s Liberian Girl musical video where all the stars were converging. Aigboje walks in with Governor Sanwo-Olu just after highly influential James Ibori arrived with Magnus Onyibe.

These are the cream of Nigeria’s private sector. These people employ millions, support the system and in reward, play hard.

As for Dere, all I can say is well done and congrats for such a wellorganized and superbly attended soiree. Powerful.

54

T H I S D AY, T h e S U N D AY N e w s pa p e r january 05 , 2025

Adebayo Adeoye bayoolunla@gmail.com; 08054680651

Society Watch

At Wale Tinubu’s Symphony of Success Soirée

Haastrup

Royal Rumble Over Haastup Nomination as Owa of Obokun

Royalty is sweet!

The luxury of a modern palace is irresistibly tempting!

So also, fame is coveted by all and sundry!

If you are in agreement with this postulation, you may not need to cudgel your brains so much to unravel the mystery behind the battle that it’s currently rearing its ugly head in Ilesa, Osun State, over the selection of Owa of Obokun. As gathered through a source, not many expected that the current battle from some royal families after the staff of office was hurriedly presented to the former deputy governor of Osun State, Adesuyi Haastrup as the the Owa of Obokun.

Society Watch gathered that in spite of this, two royal families have cried out, alleging manipulation in the process of appointing the new Owa Obokun. Oba Haastrup was reportedly elected by the kingmakers on Friday morning, and had his appointment swiftly approved by Governor Adeleke.

His emergence has sparked controversy within the Ijesa royal community, particularly from the Ofokutu and Fajemisin royal families of the Bilaro Olu-Odo Ruling House. The families claim that the Osun state government manipulated the process of appointing the new Owa Obokun. During the ceremony, Governor Adeleke congratulated Oba Haastrup, urging him to unite the people of Ijesa for the development of the region and the state as a whole.

After the presentation of the Staff of Office to the new Owa-Obokun, royal families, Ofokutu and Fajemisin of the Bilaro Olu-Odo Ruling House called for a review of the selection process to uphold the integrity of the Ijesa tradition.

The Ofokutu royal family, in a statement signed by its Secretary, Prince Adetoyese Adegbohungbe, expressed displeasure over the process, saying, “We have witnessed not just compromise, but the desecration of the noble tradition of the Ijesa, with the blatant disregard for the most sacred tradition of selecting the OwaObokun of Ijesaland.”

The Ofokutu Royal Family expressed their utmost shock to be informed that a new Owa was selected in what they described as not shocking but affront to the age-old tradition.

While they also described the process as flagrant disregard of an existing court case.”

Also, Fajemisin Family in their own statement, berated the local and state governments, saying “the selection process was inherently flawed, and the imposition of a candidate without due regard for custom and law is utterly unacceptable.

They categorically rejected the purported Owa-elect and demand a transparent, lawful process that honours our customs and traditions.

The two aggrieved royal houses vowed to pursue all available legal means to defend their rights and restore the honor and pride of the Ijesa people. The two families dissociated themselves from the process and the new Owa Obokun, noting that it is a taboo noting that he was imposed on the ancient community and vowed to pursue every legal means to defend the rights of the Ijesa.

Nigerian billionaires are predictable —they like to stick together. Each year they attend a standard set of parties, festivals, and conferences.

And despite their scarcity, these billionaires are surprisingly easy to find. After all, birds of the same feather —especially those of a small brood— flock their private jets together.

From the start of the year when they descend en masse on Davos, Switzerland, it’s always a life of luxurious trips and various destinations on yachts or in secluded villas during summer.

In December, they rotate the fun as they mingle and relax at their various annual lavish parties, especially in Lagos.

One of such December parties was thrown by energy magnate, Jubril Adewale Tinubu.

Coincidentally, this year’s party doubled as the 30th Anniversary of Oando Plc. Held inside the Ballroom of Eko Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Thursday, December 19, Oando’s end-of-the-year soiree, themed ‘Symphony of Success’, was a celebration of three decades of innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence in the oil and gas

sector.

It was a memorable evening that highlighted the company’s journey in the energy industry.

Through a captivating blend of art, dance, and music, Oando showcased its humble beginnings, challenges, and remarkable successes. Tinubu — who left the bar profession to go hustle in a garage and later at oil rigs— toiled and toiled to build the brand into a solid quoted company.

According to Tinubu, the story of Oando, the company he founded with two of his childhood friends —Omamofe Boyo and Jite Okoloko— is like a grand symphony —a composition of talented individuals, fuelled by ambition, unique in craft, and laser-focused on creating a harmonious melody.

Inside the ballroom for Tinubu’s soiree was a memorable mix of economic, political and even entertainment power with three global musical icons - Wizkid, Burna Boy and Davido who added more star power and excitement to the celebration. The energy, networking, and appreciation of culture were inspiring. To make the fabulous evening truly epic, there were also

Tinubu

other great performances from top-tier artistes, such as Asa, Lagbaja, and Tuface.

Osun SSG, Teslim Igbalaye’s Historic Moment

Igbalaye

On December 21, 2024, amidst pomp and pageantry, the ancient city of Osogbo witnessed a historic moment as Hon. Teslim Adekunle Igbalaye, the Secretary to the Osun

State Government, was installed as the new Bobagunwa of Osogbo. The grand occasion took place at the Ataoja’s palace, with His Royal Majesty, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji (Larooye II), the Ataoja of Osogbo, presiding over the ceremony.

Igbalaye succeeded his late father, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Igbalaye, who was the pioneer Bobagunwa of Osogbo.

The installation ceremony drew a massive crowd, as people from far and near gathered to witness the epoch event, including dignitaries, traditional leaders, and well-wishers.

During the ceremony, Oba Oyetunji emphasised the sacredness of the Bobagunwa title, urging the new Bobagunwa to hold the title in high esteem. He maintained that the responsibility entrusted to Igbalaye must never be taken lightly and that he must never betray the trust placed in him, either by the king or the people of Osogbo.

In response, Igbalaye expressed his deep

commitment to serving Osogbo with diligence and dedication. He assured the Ataoja and the people of Osogbo that he would work tirelessly to uphold the values and traditions of the city, while at the same time fostering further development and unity among its people.

Igbalaye also pledged to honour the legacy of his late father, whose contributions to Osogbo and Osun State in general are still fondly remembered today.

In his short address, Governor Ademola Adeleke thanked the Ataoja of Osogbo for deeming Igbalaye worthy of the prestigious title. He expressed his gratitude on behalf of the entire government of Osun State, emphasizing that Osogbo has been a steadfast supporter of his administration from day one.

His appreciation underscored the significant role the city of Osogbo continues to play in the governance and development of the state.

Who is Afraid of Leo Stan Ekeh?

Given the ever-competitive world of Nigeria’s business sector, with success breeding both admiration and envy, e-commerce magnate and Chairman of Zinox Computer Leo Stan Ekeh, for over 30 years, has led his company not only to prosperity but also to set the gold standard for excellence in the sector.

In a sector where shortcuts are tempting, Ekeh has consistently chosen the path of integrity. He has steered his company with an unwavering commitment to the highest standards.

Indeed, it is a stamp of honour for Ekeh who has always demonstrated his efforts to keep his honesty intact no matter the situation.

But as it’s often said, success breeds envy, hate and jealousy from low lives; amidst his legacy of purity and integrity

comes a smear campaign. For Ekeh, the latter has unfortunately manifested in recent unfounded allegations that his company has been involved in a fraud against the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The story has been in circulation for some years now, and just when many thought it should have gone away with the wind a long time ago, it seems that the promoter of the alleged story, Benjamin Joseph, really has an axe to grind with the billionaire businessman.

He seems determined and has done everything humanly possible to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of the foremost businessman.

However, Society Watch gathered that the man of inestimable value has described the story as a blackmail and has remained unperturbed.

Ekeh

When Aare Fakorede Shut down Lagos for Daughter’s Wedding

Fakorede

Billionaire businessman and oil tycoon Aare Bashir Fakorede stands as a monumental figure in the Nigerian business landscape. He is renowned for his extensive contributions to both the oil and gas industry and the burgeoning real estate sector.

His inspiring journey to success is marked by relentless hard work, an unwavering

determination to overcome obstacles and an impeccable commitment to excellence. These qualities have not only propelled him to the heights of wealth and influence but have also established his name, which has become synonymous with success in Nigeria.

With a business conglomerate valued in the billions of naira, Aare Fakorede has etched his identity as a formidable entrepreneur. Beyond his business acumen, he has embraced the role of a cosmopolitan socialite and benevolent philanthropist, known for hosting grand events that captivate the community and embody a spirit of generosity, as he ardently gives back without hesitation.

In a breathtaking display of love and celebration, Aare Fakorede and his wife, Mrs. Tayo Fakorede, recently orchestrated one of the most extravagant wedding soirées of 2024, effectively transforming Lagos into a city of jubilation to honour the union of their cherished daughter, Moturayo Fakorede, and her longtime fiancé, Jomiloju Odeyemi.

The lavish two-day celebration unfolded in the vibrant heart of Lagos, pooling the elite and notable personalities from various

sectors.

The first event, an enchanting traditional wedding ceremony on December 29, was held at the distinguished Centre Point in Ikoyi. This exquisite venue, bedecked with grandeur, was filled with a select assembly of family members and close friends, all immersed in an evening of unparalleled opulence and abundant splendour.

To ensure the night would be unforgettable, famed musicians Yinka Aiyefele and Shola Alinson were invited to provide a lively, entertaining ambience, their vibrant performances enhancing the celebration and making the event truly memorable.

Following the traditional festivities, the couple’s white wedding, which took place on December 31 at the exclusive Lakowe Golf Resort in Ajah, Lagos, provided a stunning natural backdrop for their nuptials. The couple exchanged heartfelt vows in an enchanting outdoor setting adorned with an exquisite all-white and rose floral theme, enveloped by the warmth and love of family and friends who filled the venue with joy and laughter.

ARTS & REVIEW THISDAY, The Sunday Newspaper • JUNE 24 2012

A

publication

5. 1. 2025

At 90 with Tales of Diligence and Integrity

Despite stepping back from the spotlight decades ago, Frank Aig-Imoukhuede’s life has been a whirlwind of creativity, activism, and dedication to Nigerian culture. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke writes

F

or a man who retired about three decades ago, Frank Abiodun Aig-Imoukhuede has been leading a remarkably active life.

Despite keeping a low profile since his retirement, the life of this renowned author of the poetry collection Pidgin Stew and Sufferhead: the Pidgin Poems has been anything but quiet, even as he approaches his 90th birthday on January 8. Take his distinguished career, which is marked by notable achievements, for instance. It includes his serving as chairman of the Scientific Committee of UNESCO on Iron Road projects for Africa from 1995 to 1997 and contributing to the blueprint for Nigeria’s tourism industry as a culture and heritage specialist.

Redefining the cultural landscape has, in any case, been the theme song of Aig-Imoukhuede’s career. A notable instance from the latter part of his career is his work with UNESCO, which was instrumental in protecting and preserving cultural and natural heritage sites globally.

Indeed, his tenure coincided with the World Heritage Committee’s 21st session in Naples, Italy, where pressing heritage conservation issues were tackled head-on.

As a consultant, his role was pivotal in shaping Nigeria’s cultural identity. He chaired the review of the Nigerian film policy in 2006, paving the way for a more vibrant film industry. In addition, he also authored a groundbreaking reference book, celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity through a calendar and database of traditional festivals, spanning all 36 states and the FCT, month by month.

Nurturing a passion for the arts and culture, the 1961 University College Ibadan Bachelor of Arts degree holder in English has a dream. This dream is to see a national theatre from which Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage could be beamed to the world during his lifetime. Despite his valiant efforts, this dream remains unrealised.

Undaunted, he made significant strides during the 1988 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST). Equipped with the country’s best outside broadcasting van and top-notch gear, he revolutionised the festival’s coverage. However, the success of the 1988 NAFEST was marred by piracy, as someone had the bright idea to pirate the footage and sell it.

Keeping the flame of tradition aglow, AigImoukhuede also nurtured a bold vision: to establish the Traditional WrestlingAssociation of Nigeria (TWAN). He pictured a thrilling spectacle where wrestlers from Niger, Togo, Ghana, and beyond would converge on Nigeria to grapple for glory. Alas, this dream has been—pun intended—pinned to the mat, a casualty of the widespread apathy and lack of support that has unfortunately become all too familiar in Nigeria.

Not one to let setbacks get him down, AigImoukhuede also had a hand in designing the first purpose-built gallery, the National Gallery of Crafts and Design, within the National Theatre complex. Under his watchful eye, the gallery hosted monthly exhibitions featuring artisans from all over the country. The gallery’s craft shop generated significant revenue, and when the late Mrs. Maryam Babangida launched her Family Support for Rural Women programme, Aig-Imoukhuede’s team set up a store that became the go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.

Fast forward to his transition from the Arts Council to the Department of Culture, and things took a turn for the worse. His successor introduced a new policy that undermined all the progress he had made, and the initiative

Aig-Imoukhuede began to falter. Within 15 months, the gallery was a ghost town, a shadow of its former self.

Aig-Imoukhuede’s passion for innovation and progress also led him to explore furniture design and ceramics. As the president of the African Assembly of the World Craft Council, he was determined to put Nigerian craftsmanship on the world map. During a trip to Porto, Portugal, he made a significant discovery: Nigeria had a ceramic centre in Enugu. Determined to revive it, he spent months collecting ceramic specimens from across the country. However, the project was ultimately thwarted by the country’s notorious inefficiency and mismanagement. Funds went missing, equipment was never imported, and the project was abandoned. The loss was substantial, with $250,000 remaining unrecovered to this day—a stark reminder of the challenges Aig-Imoukhuede faced in pursuing his dreams.

With a lustrous career in the cultural industry spanning decades, Aig-Imoukhuede made history as Nigeria’s first cultural officer of the Federal Civil Service in 1971. By 1975, he had risen to the position of principal cultural officer, overseeing Nigeria’s participation in the groundbreaking Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC).

Beyond administration, Aig-Imoukhuede’s creative genius also expressed itself in filmmaking. He has written and directed several films and documentaries, including the acclaimed “The Sallah Durbar—A Ballad of Katsina” and “God Dance, Man Dance,” Nigeria’s entry into FESTAC. His lens captures the essence of Nigerian culture, weaving stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. Between 1975 and 1988, he served as Director of the National Council for Arts and Culture, orchestrating state arts councils and the annual National Festival of Arts (NAFEST). His leadership nurtured a thriving cultural ecosystem, fostering creativity and innovation.

As Federal Director of Culture from 1988 to 1995, Aig-Imoukhuede continued to shape Nigeria’s

cultural identity. His commitment to the arts has been unwavering, earning him a reputation as a champion of cultural development.

Throughout his illustrious career, Aig-Imoukhuede has chaired numerous national and international committees, sharing his expertise with organisations such as the Nigerian Film Censors Board (1978-1980), the National Directorate of Social Mobilisation (MAMSER) (19871990), and the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (1991-1995); Nigerian Copyright Council (1989-1995); Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) (1984-1995); African Assembly of the World Crafts Council (WCC) (1981-1987), among others.

Aig-Imoukhuede’s passion for Nigerian culture remains steadfast. In a past interview with THISDAY, he decried the devastating impact of hypocritical leaders that prioritise personal financial gain over preserving the country’s rich cultural heritage. The National Theatre, once an iconic symbol of Nigerian brilliance in the performing arts, proclaimed neglect and mismanagement from the rooftops.

Despite this, he praised Nollywood for being a beacon attesting to the country’s inexhaustible creativity, despite problems such as saturation and exclusion from prominent international film festivals.

To revitalise Nigeria’s cultural scene, the grand old man of Nigerian cultural community advocates for a shift in focus towards preserving heritage and investing in institutions like the National Theatre, his vision of which includes a vibrant park, mall, and green area celebrating Nigeria’s cultural diversity and promoting artistic innovation.

Aig-Imoukhuede’s life, meanwhile,

reads like a fascinating tale of culture, politics, and resilience. Born in 1935, in the rustic community of Edunabon near Ile-Ife in Osun State, he was raised by his priest father and mother, who hailed from Sabongida-Ora in Edo State.After his father’s passing, his mother’s determination and entrepreneurial spirit broadened his horizons.At University College Ibadan,Aig-Imoukhuede was a force in student politics and creative pursuits, even meeting future leaders like Robert Mugabe.

His legacy is a tribute to his tireless efforts, and his hope is to be remembered as a man who worked hard and walked straight.

editor okechukwu uwaezuoke/ okechukwu.uwaezuoke@thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, The Saturday Newspaper January 4, 2025

56

ARTS & REVIEW\\Potpourri

An Artist’s Journey to Freedom Yinka Olatunbosun

EXHIBITION

Alexx Ekubo addressing journalists at the event

A New Movie to Add Colour to Local Content

N

Yinka Olatunbosun ative Media Ltd, the powerhouse production company behind hit shows like The Johnsons, Wura, HUSH and movies such as Oloibiri, Voiceless, and more, has announced that their innovative new feature film, ‘Conversations in Transit,’ starring RMD, Osas Ighodalo, Alex Ekubo, Rahama Sadau, Uzee Usman, Tana Adelana and Tope Tedela, has been released on December 20 on Circuits tv.

The announcement was made at a private screening attended by the film's sponsors,

MOVIES

TOLARAMS (Kelloggs Indomie Noodles, Guinness, Munchit plus many more), lead actors, advertising partners, and select members of the press. The film, shot on a moving train, explores the theme of love in its purest form, one that heals, forgives, and transcends obstacles.

CEO of Native Media, Rogers Ofime shared insights into the inspiration behind the film. When asked about the film’s distribution platform, Ofime revealed that, in line with the project's pioneering spirit, Native Media has partnered with Circuits, a new and innovative entrant into

the VOD, virtual cinema market. Circuits is a pioneering virtual cinema for African content available to the global audience. As such, film lovers across the world will have access to watch Conversations in Transit upon its release.

Ofime emphasised the importance of collaboration and seeking new avenues to amplify the value of locally-produced content. "Together, we are stronger, and we must always find ways to earn from our own efforts," he said. "Circuits offers fresh opportunities for content creators like us to reach wider audiences, and I’m excited about the potential this new platform holds."

With its unique approach to storytelling and distribution, Conversations in Transit promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the Nigerian film landscape.

A Christmas Story with an African Twist

A

Yinka Olatunbosun

s the festive season slowly comes to a close, with Christmas Day now a wonderful memory, families around the world are still basking in the joy and spirit of the holiday.

Ugo and Ify at Christmas by Foluke Sijuwola Falayi is a book that perfectly captures the essence of the season, even as we look back on the celebrations of the past few days.

According to the author, “Before publishing it, I saw children reading foreign books about snow during the Christmas season, which many African children have never experienced. So, I was inspired to write Ugo and Ify at Christmas, a Christmas story where there’s harmattan, visiting Santa Claus, or ‘Father Christmas,’ acting out The Birth of Jesus, where love and joy fill the air.”

This inspiration has resulted in a beautifully crafted story that follows the adventures of Ugo and his sister Ify as they celebrate Christmas in a uniquely African way.

Through their experiences, Falayi explores themes of obedience, restoration, love, and sharing, making it a must-read for children and adults alike, even as the holiday season winds down. The story is a quick two-hour read that can be finished during a relaxation period, making it an ideal choice for families looking to unwind together during the holiday season.

What sets Ugo and Ify at Christmas apart is its ability to convey the true spirit of Christmas in a way that is relatable to African children. The author’s use of vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling makes it easy to visualise the scenes and become immersed in the story.

As Falayi noted, “Parents are guardian angels to their kids; their roles can never be overemphasised. Without good parenting, children can go astray.”

This book is a valuable resource for parents and carers looking to teach children valuable lessons about obedience, love, and sharing, and it’s a great way to keep the Christmas spirit alive,

BOOK REVIEW even after the holiday has passed.

The main character, Ugo, loses something important to him due to disobedience but finds it before the end of the book through the theme of quest. The readers get the message of restoration.

Ugo, like any other child protagonist, is brave and smart. And, like we see in reality, children sometimes disobey, and disobedience comes with consequences. Ugo learns never to disobey his parents. Children must always listen to their parents. Love and sharing are essential.

Christmas is a time to give to others, a time to love. God gave His only begotten son to redeem mankind. Jesus is the Prince of Peace.

The season is not the time to quarrel or fight.

These themes and more are explored in the book.

Falayi’s passion for writing and her commitment to creating stories that inspire and educate African children are evident throughout the book.

As she says, “I write more children’s books than adult books, and I write to celebrate and impact

the African child. Most times, the themes can be interrelated. The greatest thing is to inspire the little ones to fulfil their purpose.” With Ugo and Ify at Christmas, Falayi has certainly achieved this goal.

The author’s journey to becoming a renowned children’s book writer is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. As she shares, “My loss of job inspired me to start writing. As at the time I started, I would have waited more years before I launched into writing; however, when I lost my job, I had to explore the gift that I recognised I had as a little girl in primary school.”

Today, Falayi is a professional writer with a background in English and literary studies and a wealth of experience in writing for children.

In conclusion, Ugo and Ify at Christmas is a delightful and inspiring Christmas story that is sure to become a classic. With its universal themes and relatable characters, it is a must-read for families around the world and a great way to extend the joy of the holiday season.

As Falayi said, “My dream is to see my books in every African home and, by extension, the world at large.” With Ugo and Ify at Christmas, she is one step closer to achieving that dream.

L

One of the artist's paintings agos played host to a captivating display of creativity as Olawale Oyenubi, a self-taught artist and petroleum engineer, debuted his first solo art exhibition, titled Art is Freedom.

The three-day exhibition, held at an art space on Raymond Njoku Street, Ikoyi, from December 6 to 8, marked the emergence of a talented artist whose work embodies personal transformation and boundless creativity.

Oyenubi’s artistic journey began with a rediscovery of his childhood passion. Despite a thriving career in petroleum engineering, he felt an insatiable urge to return to painting last year.

“I started oil painting last year,” he intimated.

“I was at a point in my life where I had to make strong decisions. I used to paint when I was younger but stopped because of my profession.

Even though I didn’t have time to paint, I expressed myself through music. Last year, I found time and started again. After a few people saw my paintings, they encouraged me to exhibit.”

His artistic debut was in a group exhibition in the UK in November 2023, where his works received widespread acclaim. This motivated him to embark on the Lagos exhibition, showcasing 24 distinctive pieces created in the UK. Each painting reveals his journey, values, and beliefs, rendered in vibrant colours and detailed forms.

Oyenubi’s works blend mixed media, oil on canvas, and bold palettes to depict human figures and objects. On the theme “Art is Freedom,” he explained: “In art, I found a place to express myself and let out steam.

Freedom is deeply personal. It’s something I am in control of. When I paint or make music, I feel like the best version of myself.”

Key highlights from the exhibition include “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego: The Fourth Man,” a deeply symbolic painting that portrays the Biblical story with an inventive twist. “I wanted to depict God without blaspheming. The idea came to me to use anointed oil to represent the Holy Spirit in the painting,” he explained.

Another piece, “A Maze In,” captures a reflection of life’s journey, challenges, and the resilience required to keep moving forward.

It also featured “Rhythms of The Mind,” oil on canvas, 100 x 120 cm; “Echoes of Identity,” oil on canvas, 50 x 60 cm; and “Solitude from Above,” 100 x 150 cm, oil on canvas.

Another striking piece is “Oye (Dominion)”— a circular painting featuring his initials (OYE) and capturing the cyclical nature of life. Oyenubi’s journey from petroleum engineering to art serves as inspiration for emerging artists. He emphasised the importance of perseverance as he urged young artists, “You need to evaluate how good your art really is. Not everyone who has a dream will get there. Perseverance and tenacity can make the difference. If you’re at a crossroads, wondering if art is the right path, stay consistent. The rewards will come.”

Oyenubi’s “Art is Freedom” exhibition was more than an artistic display; it was a testament to the transformative power of creativity. His vibrant and symbolic works reflect not only his personal evolution but also the essence of freedom and self-expression.

57

THISDAY, The SUNday Newspaper • JANUaRY 5, 2024

CiCERO

Editor: Ejiofor Alike SMS: 08066066268 email:ejiofor.alike@thisdaylive.com

IN THE ARENA

Renewed Hope for Gunshots, Accident Victims

Despite the CompulsoryTreatment and Care forVictims of Gunshot Act 2017 aimed at preventing needless deaths from gunshots and accidents, hospitals still reject victims. Wale Igbintade reports that the new directive from the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate, will help save lives of victims

T

he federal government recently again declared that both public and private healthcare facilities nationwide must attend to victims of gunshots with or without police clearance. The directive was contained in a statement issued by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare via its official X handle.

The statement titled ‘Non-Compliance of Medical Facilities on The Gunshot Act 2017,’ signed by the Director of Information, Patricia Deworitshe, said the ministry had received complaints about the rejection of gunshot victims by hospitals nationwide, which had resulted in the loss of lives.

It also said the order is on the directive of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Minister, Professor Muhammad Pate.

“In recent times, society has witnessed a rise in the loss of lives as a result of the refusal of some health facilities to attend to gunshot victims of chance who do not present police reports,” it said.

According to the statement, gunshot victims come under emergencies that require urgent medical attention to save the lives of patients or victims.

“It has come to the knowledge of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of the slow or non-compliance by most medical facilities to provide for the compulsory treatment and care for victims of gunshots and related matters.

“The Act goes further to stipulate that every hospital in Nigeria, whether private, shall accept or receive immediate and adequate treatment with or without police clearance.

“Every person, including security agents, shall render every possible assistance to any person with gunshot wounds and ensure that the person is taken to the nearest hospital for immediate treatment,” it said.

The ministry said it is concerned about the spate of gunshot incidents and the refusal of some health facilities to administer and care for victims or patients without police reports.

“The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Minister, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, therefore calls on all medical practitioners to comply with this national law by providing prompt treatment and care for these victims to prevent death,” it said, adding that strategies are being put in place by the ministry to ensure compliance to the Act by Nigerian healthcare facilities.

It also urged the Nigerian police to comply with and enforce the provisions of the compulsory

Egbetokun treatment and care of victims of gunshot in line with Act 2017 with promptness.

Despite efforts by the federal government to address the issue of people dying unnecessarily from gunshot and accidents by enacting the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act 2017, reports across the country have shown that victims are still being rejected by hospitals.

The situation has become so bad that accident victims are sometimes rejected and denied treatment when they are rushed to the hospitals by good Samaritans.

Recall that in 2023, there was outrage over the death of a community developer and member of the Young African Leaders Initiative Network (YALI), Greatness Olorunfemi, who was said to have been rejected at the Maitama General Hospital, in Abuja, which allegedly denied her treatment for not providing a police report.

Witnesses revealed that Olorunfemi was pushed out of a fast-moving vehicle, popularly called ‘one chance’ along the Maitama-Kubwa highway by hoodlums

who reportedly robbed her on September 26. It was alleged that due to the severe injuries she sustained, the Maitama General Hospital in Abuja refused to grant her medical attention due to the absence of a police report. The hospital, however, denied the allegations, claiming that the deceased was brought in dead.

Before the signing of the law by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2017, the misinterpretation of the provision of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provision) Act, Cap 398 of 1984 had led to the untimely death of several innocent Nigerians due to gunshots and accidents.

Part of the Act states: “It shall be the duty of any person, hospital or clinic that admits, treats or administers drugs to any person suspected of having bullet wounds to immediately report the matter to the police. It shall be an offence, punishable under this Act for any person to knowingly house, shelter, or give quarters to any person who has committed an offence under Section (2) of this Act.” Cases of unwarranted deaths were so incessant before the enactment of the relevant legislation, that the then Inspector-General of Police (IG), Solomon Arase, had to re-issue a statement in

P O L I T I CA L N OT E S

2015, charging his officers and men not to harass Nigerians and good Samaritans in this regard.

Arase, also former the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), also reminded doctors that they were “equally duty-bound to treat victims’ wounds and further inform police of relevant facts.”

But this appeal has severally fallen into deaf ears In order to ensure full compliance with the Act, the Inspector General of Police (IG), Kayode Egbetokun, in 2023 directed all medical practitioners and facilities in the country to provide prompt treatment to all victims of gunshots and accidents, irrespective of the presence of a police report.

Apart from the constitution, The National Health Act 2014 made a provision for this. Section 20 states partly: “A health care provider, health worker or health establishment shall not refuse a person on emergency medical treatment for any reason. An offender is liable to a fine of N100,000, a jail term of six months or both upon conviction.”

The Act also imposes on every citizen a civic duty to render every possible assistance to any person with gunshot wounds by ensuring that the person is taken to the nearest hospital for immediate treatment. It also mandates all medical facilities to receive and accept victims of a gunshot for immediate treatment without a police report.

As soon as the president signed the law, the then Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, emphasised what was expected of doctors in emergencies at an event: “Hospitals are a sanctuary for the sick and injured… Doctors must show no restraint in treating emergencies, even with gunshot wounds; you must treat them and thereafter raise questions. You must also treat emergencies before asking for money because life is more precious than money.”

Understandably, gunshot injuries might fuel suspicion, but hospitals need to provide treatment first because even a criminal has to be alive to face justice.

Unfortunately, while the police have continued to ignore this charge, hospitals have also continued the practice of rejecting victims.

The logical question to ask is: Are all the relevant stakeholders not expected to comply with this Act to save Nigerians from avoidable deaths?

What have been the sanctions meted out to violators of this Act?

Endless Political Tussle in Benue APC

Alia

A group, which identified itself as the North-central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum recently advised the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, to desist from actions that could force Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State to leave the party.

Akume was instrumental to the victory of the governor in the 2023 general election in the state.

But there has been a lingering political crisis between Akume and Alia’s loyalists, indicating that the relationship between the governor and his godfather has gone sour.

Though the actual cause of the dispute is

unknown, many residents of the state believe the crisis is certainly not in the best interest of the state.

At a point, the political crisis became so embarrassing that the Tiv Traditional Council led by the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, once brokered peace between some of the warring factions.

For a state where residents are being killed almost on a daily basis by bandits and terrorists and thousands are in IDP camps because they have been sacked from their communities by bandits, many would think that all hands would be on deck to fight the common enemies. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

Instead, the political actors appear to be fiddling while the state is burning.

Recently, the APC group expressed the fears that if the supremacy tussle between the warring factions continues, it could force the governor to leave the APC like his predecessor, Samuel Ortom, who left the party for Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2018.

They further warned that if their disagreement is not resolved, it could affect the party’s chances in the state in the 2027 election.

However, the APC group should realise that what matters to the people of Benue State is not the selfish interest of any political party but peace and stability of the state.

What matters to the people is how to bring the senseless killings to an end and not the party that will win or lose in 2027.

58

THISDAY, The SUNday Newspaper • JANUaRY 5, 2024

BRIEFINGNOTES

Has Wike Broken His Vow to Odili?

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, recently criticised his estranged benefactor and former governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili, and his family in response to Odili’s claims that Governor Siminalayi Fubara prevented ‘one man’ from turning the state into his private estate.

Ejiofor Alike reports that this contradicts the minister’s earlier vow never to cause the Odili family grief, due to the significant role they played in his political career

T

here was a time the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, would sing to the high heavens the immense role that the former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili and his family played in his political career.

In a viral video that was aired by ARISE NEWS Channel recently, Wike while reflecting on his political career at a public gathering, swore that God should not allow him to grow if ever he made the Odili family to cry.

“Any day that I will make Dr Odili and his family cry, God will not allow me to grow,” he vowed. “They suffered blackmail and everything because of people like us.”

Addressing Odili and his wife, Justice Mary Odili, who were seated on the high table at the event, Wike said: “Sir, I want to tell you today - I want to tell you before the people here; I will never be alive and make you and your wife to cry. I will never do it.”

In another video, Wike had narrated how Odili’s wife rescued his political career when Odili was the governor of the state.

According to him, Odili’s wife was responsible for his return as Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area (LGA) of the state for a second term in office.

Wike said: “I was told that my name has been removed from the list. So, I ran down to the Government House. She had finished around lunch and left her husband (Governor Odili) and was entering her vehicle. I (Wike) said ‘mummy, I am finished.’ She asked me, ‘what happened?’

I said that they have removed my name. She ran back to her husband and asked him ‘what happened?’ The husband asked her, ‘what is the problem?’ She said, ‘my son (Wike) said that they have removed his name.’ Governor Odili asked: ‘Who removed his name?’ At that time, Secondus (Prince Uche Secondus) had left. The husband (Governor Odili) called the security officials at the gate and told them to stop Secondus and inform him to come back. And Secondus came back. That was how I went back for a second term as Chairman. For me, I cannot talk about my growth without mentioning her. Her being around that particular day saved my career in politics because once you leave office, people will no longer reckon with you.”

When Wike wanted to contest for governor in 2015 and resigned as Minister of State for Education in the cabinet of former President Goodluck Jonathan, the then First Lady, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, handed him (Wike) to Odili in his capacity as the political leader of the state.

Odili and Wike Speaking at the event, the Rivers State-born former First Lady said: “So, today, I have handed you over to the people of Rivers State, especially to our father (Odili) who is here and who has mentored all of us.”

Before the love between him and Odili’s family turned sour, the FCT minister was a member of Odili’s political family.

Throughout the period that Wike was emphasising the contributions of Odili’s family to his political career, Odili also acknowledged Wike’s great achievements as governor.

In several videos in circulation, Odili had on many occasions of projects inauguration celebrated Wike as a worthy political son and hailed him for being a performing governor whose achievements touched the lives of the people of the state.

Indeed, Wike was a greater achiever as governor who was nicknamed ‘Mr. Project’ by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, despite belonging to a different political party.

However, the political crisis in the state pitted him against Odili due to the latter’s backing of Fubara.

THISDAY gathered that Odili advised him against the impeachment plot of the incumbent Governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara. Odili took sides with the governor.

Odili provoked Wike’s anger when, during his welcome address at a Christmas Ballad hosted for Governor Fubara at his Port Harcourt residence, he stated that the governor had thwarted ‘one man’s’ attempt to capture the state as a personal estate.

Though Odili did not mention the name of the ‘one man’, the FCT minister believed he was referring to him.

In a fit of rage, Wike went head-to-head with his estranged benefactor, Odili, claiming that he brought him back to life after he had retired into oblivion.

He also made several claims and allegations against Odili in the no-holds-barred riposte on Odili at a Special Thanksgiving Service in Port Harcourt.

But rising in defence of Odili, the elders of the state under the aegis of ‘The Concerned Elders of Rivers State’ faulted Wike’s claims and demanded an apology from the FCT minister.

In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday night, signed by former Governor, Sir Celestine Omehia; former Deputy Governor,

Tele Ikuru, and 12 others, the elders linked Wike’s comments to Odili’s advice against an alleged impeachment plot targeting Fubara.

“The only reason for Nyesom Wike’s outburst against Dr. Peter Odili is that Dr Odili, in a statesmanly manner, advised him against plotting the impeachment of Governor Fubara, who has been in office for just over three months,” the elders explained.

Justifying Odili’s wife’s appointment, which Wike had criticised, the elders argued that Wike’s wife also serves as a Justice of the Court of Appeal while he is a minister, adding that “this hypocrisy cannot stand.”

On Wike’s allegation that Odili denied his brother’s son appointment as commissioner and gave it to his daughter, the elders clarified that it was Wike who rejected the nomination of Odili’s nephew and insisted that ONELGA, Opobo and PHALGA must produce female commissioners.

The elders also faulted Wike’s claim that Odili chickened out of the presidential race when he was asked by President Olusegun Obasanjo to step down in the interest of the party, saying that Odili only respected his party’s decision as a loyal member of the party.

“What this means is that he (Nyesom Wike) would disobey President Bola Tinubu if he were told to step down from any race the way President Olusegun Obasanjo directed Dr Odili to do,” the elders said.

The elders clarified that the house built for Odili by the Rivers State Government was a right conferred on him by law as a former governor and not a favour from Wike.

Many have argued that the FCT minister should not have attacked Odili and his family, given the role his family had played in his successful political career and especially as the former governor did not mention Wike’s name.

“If Wike could not respond to Dino Melaye’s grave allegations against him, why should he respond to Odili who did not mention his name?” one of Odili’s loyalists queried.

Melaye had claimed on ARISE NEWS that Wike called him 19 times in two hours, lobbying to become former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s running mate in the 2023 general election. The FCT minister did not respond to the allegation.

While many analysts believe that Wike will suffer the political consequences of the curse he laid on himself, having broken the vow he made on Odili’s family, others opined that the minister will not suffer any repercussions as his outbursts are not enough to make Odili’s family to cry.

Notes for File

Gov Otti’s Exemplary Stake in Nation Building

Otti

Governor Alex Otti’s latest appointment of Mr. Benson Ojeikere, an indigene of Edo State from the South-south geopolitical zone of Nigeria as the Head of Service in Abia State, is pooling accolades and admiration for his leadership style. The reason for this is not farfetched. In a country where ethnic and religious differences continue to create divisions and deprivation of opportunities, Otti’s decision to base his appointments on merit and competence is laudable.

Ojeikere came to Abia for his mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) decades ago. Due to his excellent performance, he was retained and employed in the state

civil service. He served diligently and rose to become a permanent secretary and then the Head of Service, making him the number one civil servant in the state.

Ojeikere rose from Director to Permanent Secretary to Head of Service in less than a year and six months under the administration of Governor Otti. His appointment is in line with the governor’s policy of competence and merit-based promotion and appointments in the state’s civil and public service.

A few years ago, the Imo State Government chased away Abia State indigenes who refused to leave the state civil service after the split of the two states.

No doubt Ojeikere’s appointment

as the Head of Service of Abia State by Governor Otti is the first in the history of Nigeria that a State Governor will appoint a non-indigene from another geopolitical zone as the state’s Head of Service.

By this appointment, Governor Otti has not just set a record on national integration, he has practically demonstrated beyond doubt that the cord that binds Nigeria together as a nation is thicker than the languages, cultural differences, and geographical landscapes that unpatriotic citizens hide under to disunite Nigerians and retard the country’s development.

It should serve as a lesson to ethnic bigots who will settle for less in the pursuit of ethnic agenda to the detriment of a meritbased system that brought the developed world to where they are today.

59

THISDAY, The SUNday Newspaper • JANUaRY 5, 2024

CICERO/ISSUE

Okpebholo and Akpabio

As Okpebholo’s Visit to Uyo Ruffles Feathers in Edo

The recent visit of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to Akwa Ibom State, where he met with the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has stirred a wave of political undercurrents in Edo State, Wale Igbintade writes

T

he visit by the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, in Akwa Ibom State recently was meant to be an innocuous one, but the political undercurrents have .set tongues wagging.

Though Okpebholo explained that he was in the state to seek Akpabio’s guidance and learn from his leadership experience, those privy to the details of the visit insist that the governor was in the state to express his profound gratitude for the special role the senate president played in his emergence as governor in the September 21 election.

The governor said: “Seeing the development in Akwa Ibom State, I have come to learn from my leader, seek his advice, and draw from his wealth of experience.”

Akpabio, who was in a buoyant mood when he received the governor at his residence in Uyo, praised him for his self-effacement and resilience and bragged about All Progressives Congess (APC) winning more states in the South-south region. He praised the governor, describing him as a leader chosen by God to transform the state’s history.

The senate president referred to Okpebholo as a man of few words but great action, highlighting his commitment to the welfare of ordinary citizens.

He stated, “Your excellency, every leadership comes from God, and God chooses whom He pleases. It pleases Him at this time to choose you and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to lead the Edo people at a time like this. You are a man of few words but full of action.

Edo people have not misplaced their votes in choosing you. You have the heart of the common man, and I am confident that your

leadership will bring development and transformation to your state.”

At the dinner he later hosted for the governor at Sheraton Hotel, Ikot Ekpene, the Senate President commended the progress made by Okpebholo’s administration in just one month, emphasising that it has renewed the hope of Edo people and demonstrated the government’s readiness to bring progress to the state.

Reflecting on Edo’s significance, he thanked its people for electing the APC candidate.

“Edo State is one of the states in the South-south, and this region is a minority area in Nigeria. There is always a need to connect with the federal government to contribute to nation-building. Most of the resources that have sustained the country for decades come from this area, yet representation at the national level has often been lacking, except during Dr. Goodluck Jonathan’s presidency.”

He continued, “Under the APC administration, we realised the need to shift the political balance to ensure our people have a stronger voice at the national level. When I moved to the APC, it was to bring the South-south region closer to the centre of governance.”

Akpabio expressed optimism about APC’s future in the South-south region, predicting that the party would secure more states and drive significant development in the area.

However, Okpebholo’s visit is reverberating differently in Edo State, as many believe that the 2027 political season is unfolding in a rather dramatic

way, and setting off discussions about Akpabio’s second term bid as Senate President and a possible challenge from Senator Oshiomhole.

Unknown to many, Senator Akpabio is the main reason Okpebholo is governor today.

On February 17, 2024, Dennis Idahosa, a member of the House of Representatives was declared winner of the Edo State APC governorship primary.

Backed by Senator Oshiomhole, Idahosa polled 40,483 votes, beating other candidates.

But it was a very controversial nomination process. Although the result was disputed by all other contestants, Idahosa’s main political weakness was that he is from Edo South Senatorial District, the same district the outgoing governor, Godwin Obaseki, comes from.

And that’s where Akpabio, ever so quick to identify opportunities, came in. The Senate President reckoned that since the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is from Edo Central, which was favoured by the zoning arrangement, and the APC and Labour Party’s candidates are from Edo South, the chance of the PDP retaining victory was very high. The Senate President reasoned that APC’s chance would be brighter if the party fielded a candidate from Edo Central. But what could be done at this stage since a primary had already been held?

Since President Bola Tinubu was away on a foreign trip, Akpabio rushed to the Presidential Villa to discuss the dilemma with Vice President Kashim Shettima. He briefed the vice president on the need to replace Idahosa with a candidate from Edo Central.

It was believed that the vice president listened attentively to Akpabio but was not willing to go with Akpabio’s recommendation,

apparently because he did not want to offend Oshiomhole.

Undaunted, Akpabio then got on the phone and spoke to President Tinubu who was in Ethiopia. He marshalled the merits of replacing Idahosa from Edo South with another candidate from Edo Central because of the zoning arrangement and the fact that Idahosa is from the same zone as the existing governor.

“The president was convinced by Akpabio’s arguments, but on the condition that Akpabio must see to the victory of APC in the election’’, a well-placed source told this writer.

Akpabio assured the president that he would pull all stops to clinch victory. The president was said to have called the party’s National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and instructed him to organise another primary.

Many believe that Akpabio is concerned with the Edo election because of self-preservation.

It is speculated that if Senator Oshiomhole returns to the Senate in 2027, he is likely to challenge Akpabio for the Senate President position.

In Akpabio’s calculation, it was politically expedient to whittle down Oshiomhole’s influence by denying him the opportunity to produce the governor.

APC leaders who attended the dinner Akpabio held for the Edo governor, include a former presidential adviser, Senator Ita Enang; NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects, Mr. Victor Antai; Director of Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Ezekiel Nya-Etok; Director in NNPCL, Mrs. Eunice Thomas, and Minister of State Petroleum (Gas), Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo.

Whether Okpebloho’s trip to Akwa Ibom State was genuinely an innocuous one or to ruffle someone’s feathers will be revealed in the coming months.

60

T H I S D AY, T h e S U N D AY N e w s pa p e r january 05 , 2025

NEWS

PROMOTING REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY…

L-R: Founder and Chief Consultant of B Adedipe Associate Limited, Mr. Biodun Adedipe; Director, Monitoring and Compliance, Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority and Representative of Lagos State Government, Mrs. Tamitope Akinbola; Managing Director/CEO, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewane; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, UPDC Plc, Mr. Odunayo Ojo; Executive Director, Development and Projects, UPDC Plc, Bidemi Fadayomi; Official, Northcourt Real Estate, Ayo Ibaru; and Non-Executive Director, UPDC Plc, Adeniyi Falade, during UPDC Plc 3rd Annual Real Estate Summit in Lagos…recently

Shettima Condemns Insatiable Pursuit of Power, Says Leaders Must Earn Success Through Humility, Foresight Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has shared some lessons about true leadership, saying true leaders achieve success through humility and foresight instead of an insatiable pursuit of power.

Shettima who made the observation in close reference to the character of Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji, praised his sterling leadership qualities and impact on the

state’s development.

Speaking yesterday when he represented President Bola Tinubu at the traditional marriage ceremony of Toluwatimi Esther Oyebanji and Ayodeji Kenny Akinyemi at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, the vice president, according to a statement issued by his Media Assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, also wished the newlyweds a happy married life.

Shettima extolled Governor

Indecent Dressing: Kano Govt’s Agency Suspends Kannywood Actress for 365 Days Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano The Kano State Censorship Board has suspended a popular Kannywood actress, Samha M. Inuwa, from appearing in films for one year.

According to the board, this decision followed a series of complaints from the public and concerned citizens in Kano over her revealing dresses and provocative videos.

A statement issued by the Information Officer of the Kano State Censorship Board, Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman, stated that Samha had been warned

multiple times about her crude dressing, vulgar displays, and language in some of her videos.

“The board has also revoked her liaison and stopped censoring any films in which she appears.

Kano State Censorship Board is empowered by law to ensure that all videos, writings, and other forms of expression align with the state’s religion, culture, norms, and values.

“This suspension is part of the ongoing board’s efforts to maintain moral standards in the Kannywood film industry and ensure all board’s rules and regulations are followed,” the statement added.

NASFAT’s Chief Missioner Invited to Carter’s Lying-in-state The Chief Missioner of NasrulLahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT), Onike Morufu Abdul-Azeez, and Mrs. Sadiat Onike Abdul-Azeez, have been honoured with an invitation to attend the lyingin-state of former US President Jimmy Carter.

The Carter State Funeral Team said in the invitation letter that: “Because of your important role in President Carter’s human rights legacy, the Carter Family invites you to pay your respects to President Carter as he lies in state at the US Capitol as part of a special group.

“On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, we ask that you arrive at the South Door of the U.S. Capitol

(dropped off at New Jersey and Independence Avenues or walk from Capitol South METRO) by 11:00 am. You and other distinguished guests will gather in H-137 and then be escorted to the Rotunda at Noon to pay your respects,” The Carter State Funeral Team explained.

The team however added that the invitation is not transferable.

Reacting to the invitation of Morufu totheevent,NASFAT’sNational Public Relations secretary,Alhaji Shamsideen Owolabi Oseni, had in a statement noted that the “rare privilege” showed Imam Onike’s pivotal contributions to human rights advocacy, a cause that defined President Carter’s enduring legacy.

Oyebanji’s ability to unite his predecessors, noting that “he was able to unite four past governors under the same canopy; that goes to show a lot about his personality.”

Citing the 16th President of the United States, the vice president noted: “Abraham Lincoln said, ‘Most men can survive the extremes of adversity, but if you want to see a man’s true character give him money and power’. I was fortunate to know Governor Oyebanji when he was Secretary to the State Government. He exuded humility, and I intuitively felt he would be the next Governor of Ekiti State. And the rest is history today.”

The vice president empha-

sised the importance of maintaining relationships beyond political office, pointing out that “when you are in power, your friends know you, but when you are out of power, you know your friends.”

Commending Oyebanji’s inclusive leadership approach, he continued: “What you do speaks so loudly that I can’t hear what you are saying. You don’t need anybody to tell us about his persona. Here, we have all his predecessors and their spouses. He was able to unite the four past governors under the same canopy; that goes to show a lot about his personality.

“I want to thank you for sustaining the relationship

with your predecessors; that is what leadership is all about – the ability to accommodate and embrace each other. All of us here have a lot to learn from you. I believe you have a rendezvous with destiny; you have more rivers to cross in the future. You have the ability to reach out”.

Speaking directly to the new couple, Shettima said, “On behalf of President Bola Tinubu, we wish you marital bliss. We hope and pray that this marriage will be blessed with children and, most especially, patience. On behalf of the president, I congratulate you.”

Also speaking, Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, urged the

couple to always remember the prayers and good wishes of everyone who attended the marriage event and learn to forgive each other and pray together.

In his address, chairman of the event, Chief Wole Olanipekan (SAN), who recalled the array of personalities who attended the event, urged the couples to “always remember the qualities and number of the personalities who attended their wedding and learn a lesson from them.

“The presence of these personalities demonstrates three crucial elements: Respect for family values, unity of purpose, and national cohesion,” he added.

9mbile will Require $3bn Investments in Four Years to Regain Market Share, Remain Competitive, Says CEO Emma Okonji The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of 9mobile, Obafemi Banigbe, has said that 9mobile will require up to $3billion, representing about N4.8 trillion in investments over the next four years to make it competitive and reposition it to regain its market share and value.

Banigbe, who disclosed this yesterday during an online media chat, however, said the huge investment capital would not be an issue, adding that the issue will be ensuring that there

will be a payback in an appreciable turnaround time.

“Now, as you all know, 9mobile has the weakest coverage in the market as far as 2G, 3G, and 4G are concerned. If we were to compete favourably like we used to do, and like the traditional telecoms business requires, we would need to invest about $3 billion over the next four years for us to have a chance of catching up.

The traditional model requires us to spend about $3billion, which can be translated in today’s currency to about N4.8trillion,”

Banigbe said.

According to him, the telecoms industry generated N4trillion in terms of revenue in 2023, with an expected revenue growth of N4.5trillion in 2024, when the results are released. He further explained that out of the N4trillion generated as revenue in 2023, 9mobile had just 2.4 per cent in terms of market share.

“I am confident that our investors can raise the required amount to turn around 9mobile, but the challenge is how do we guarantee payback and over what

period do we need to guarantee the payback. I cannot go into the market to borrow money, even in local currency, because I will have to spend around 30 per cent interest rate. So, my challenge is not necessarily securing capital. My challenge is, how much of that capital do I want to consume and invest, knowing that I also have the responsibility to pay back the investment capital in a shorter time horizon,” Banigbe further said.

Kwankwaso: Northern Stakeholders’ Influence in Fielding Candidates Undermining Democracy

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

The presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has accused some people whom he described as self-proclaimed northern stakeholders of meddling in the process of selection and fielding of candidates during the presidential election.

Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, alleged that the interference was undermining democracy and causing disunity among people, leading to the election of incompetent candidates during elections.

He emphasised that the region’s leaders should draw lessons from the experiences of past elections and refrain from influencing the process of fielding candidates.

“This wicked practice they’re

doing is causing discord among people. It is important to always have good intentions in whatever you do. It is unfortunate that these elders—some of whom are our parents—are being driven by selfish motives in fielding candidates.

“They often connive to fabricate falsehood, gather people, and tell them that these are the candidates the region endorses when in reality the decision was taken by just two or three persons.

Instead of going to Port Harcourt or Abuja to promote our interests (we who are their children), they rather follow the dictates of their selfish minds,” he explained.

Citing the 2019 general election where the North-west produced seven candidates, Kwankwaso said: “We have all manner of people — former governors, former ministers, tall, short — but in the end, they did what suited them without considering our interests.”

61

T H I S D AY, T h e S U N D AY N e w s pa p e r january 05 , 2025

news

HEART OF GOLD…

Proprietress, Hearts of Gold Children’s Hospice, Theresa Omolaja Adedoyin; Co-Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundationand Chairperson/Avon Healthcare Limited, Dr. Awele Elumelu, during Dr Elumelu’s visit to flag-off the presentation of food items and financial support by Tony Elumelu and family to 10 orphanages across Nigeria, in Lagos…weekend

Citing Court Rulings, Edo PDP Declares Okpebholo’s Letter to State Assembly Illegal yesterday, explaining that the governor’s letter, premised on Section 10(1) of the 2000 Edo State Local Government Law, 2022 (as amended), was invalid since that section had already been annulled and repealed by the Supreme Court.

According to the PDP chairman, “First, it has to be made very clear that the letter in the first instance was illegal.

That letter shouldn’t have been written in the first instance if the governor knew what he was doing because at the time he wrote that letter, the Chief Judge of Edo State had given a ruling that section 10(1) of the Edo State

Local Government Law has been annulled and repealed by the judgment of the Supreme Court.

So, he has no business writing that letter in the first instance.”

The PDP chairman also criticised the House of Assembly for their subsequent resolution based on Section 20 of the same law, which led to the suspension of the council officials.

“The assembly in their naivety I would say, didn’t rely on that section that he premised his letter

O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation Ushers in 2025 with Annual New Year Party for the Elderly in Rivers

Former President Muhammadu Buhari and the Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, yesterday mourned former Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Nuhu Omeiza Yaqub, describing him as a towering intellectual giant.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Anthony Aziegbemi, has condemned the letter written by Governor Monday Okpebholo to the state House of Assembly seeking the dissolution of elected local government chairmen and their deputies, describing it as illegal.

Aziegbemi contended that the letter from the governor violates the judgment of the Supreme Court ruling and existing judicial orders.

He made this claim during an interview with ARISE NEWS Channels

Yinka Olatunbosun

As part of efforts to strengthen ties with senior citizens and the community at large, the O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation celebrated the start of 2025 with its annual New Year Party for the elderly, hosted at its purposebuilt Biokpo Recreational Centre in Abonnema, Rivers State.

The event brought together beneficiaries of the Foundation’s flagship Care for Life program, esteemed guests, and dignitaries, including the Foundation’s Chairman, Dr. Seinye O. B. Lulu-Briggs.

The joyous celebration featured music, dance, sip and paint by the elderly and goodwill messages from partners and supporters, including a longtime ally of the foundation, Wogu Boms, a former Commissioner of Justice and Attorney-General of Rivers State, and representatives from the Red Cross Society.

The highlight of the event was a heartfelt address by Dr. Lulu-Briggs, who underscored the enduring commitment of the Care for Life programme to supporting elderly beneficiaries.

“Our intervention in the lives of the elderly and beneficiaries

is not a one-off,” said Dr. LuluBriggs in her moving speech.

“Until the Lord Almighty decides to call them home, they are our responsibility. They become our mothers and our fathers, and we care for them until that particular day they leave us.”

She expressed deep gratitude to the team of doctors, nurses, caregivers, and volunteers who ensure the well-being of the elderly, as well as members of the Chapel of God International Worship Centre and others who offer spiritual and emotional support through prayer.

“That you see them smiling, strong, and healthy is because God heard your prayers,” she remarked.

The Care for Life programme, the Foundation’s inaugural initiative, has been at the heart of its 24 year long mission, with services ranging from regular medical visits to personal caregiving that assists elderly beneficiaries in their daily lives.

“This programme embodies the Foundation’s philosophy of lifelong care, ensuring dignity, comfort and a sense of family for our elders,” Dr. Lulu-Briggs added.

on. They relied on Section 20, which talks about suspension.

It is after that resolution by the House of Assembly that all hell has been let loose in Edo State.

“Even after the suspension was overturned by Justice Efe Ikponwonba of the Edo State High Court, incidents of lawlessness ensued, including alleged illegal impeachments by a few councillors aided by security forces.”

He said: “You cannot dissolve the local government councils

because they were elected by the people—Edo citizens. You cannot. The Supreme Court has said so, the Attorney General of the Federation has said so, and the Chief Judge of Edo State has said so.

“Even after the suspension, the council chairmen went back to court, and a judge in Edo State High Court 2, Honourable Justice Efe Ikponwonba, set aside the illegal suspension done by the House of Assembly. You would

have thought that everybody with some level of conscience or sense would stop at that, but no. Even after the High Court judge gave his judgment, that was when the whole matter snowballed into what we are now witnessing in Edo State, where one councillor, and two councillors—led by the police and the DSS—go into a council hall and claim they have impeached an elected local government chairman.”

Buhari, Sulaiman Mourn Ex-VC of UNIABUJA, Nuhu Yaqub Deji Elumoye and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Yaqub, who was the Chairman of NILDS’ Academic Advisory Board, died yesterday.

In a tribute to the Professor of political science who had also been the pioneer vice chancellor of the Sokoto State University, Sokoto, the ex-president, in a release issued yesterday by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, said Professor Yaqub had left an indelible mark on the nation’s intellectual landscape through his works in teaching

and research.

According to him, “I have known him for many years as a towering scholar whose knowledge, passion, and insights on public policy were taken very seriously by serious administrators. He was a scholar par excellence. May Allah grant him Aljannah.”

On his part, Prof. Sulaiman, expressed deep condolences on the passing of Yaqub, describing the demise as shocking and

devastating, In a statement, he signed, Sulaiman paid tribute to the late academic, describing him as a renowned scholar who played a pivotal role in advancing education and research in Nigeria.

The NILDS DG said: “Prof.

Yaqub’s dedication and expertise, he noted, had left an indelible mark on the intellectual development of the nation, influencing countless students and policymakers.”

Governor Ododo Orders Crackdown on Attackers of Kogi Community Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has ordered an immediate crackdown on the attackers responsible for the recent violence in the Odo-Ape community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

The order came yesterday

after youths from the community blocked the Lokoja-Kabba federal highway, following the killing of two farmers by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers in the area.

According to a statement issued yesterday and signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the governor

directed the state Security Adviser to collaborate with security agencies and local vigilante groups to ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice.

“The government is putting all hands on deck to ensure the attackers do not escape justice,” the statement said.

Governor Ododo urged the residents of the community to remain calm and avoid reprisals, which he warned could lead to further losses.

The governor expressed his condolences to the affected families and reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents.

Two Police Officers Killed in Gun Duel With Lakurawa Bandits in Kebbi Onuminya Innocent in Kebbi

The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed the death of two police officers during a gun battle with Lakurawa bandits who invaded Alhaji Lawal Block Farm and nearby Fulani settlements in Natsini village, along the Argungu-Kangiwa road.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Nafiu

Abubakar.

The assailants rustled an unspecified number of cows during the attack.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants, numbering over 50 and riding on motorcycles, overpowered the officers stationed at the checkpoint before proceeding to the village to rustle the cattle.

The Chairman of Argungu Local Government Area, Aliyu Gulma, confirmed the incident

and disclosed that a security meeting had been convened to discuss the matter.

He added that the state government had ordered security operatives to track down the attackers and recover the stolen livestock.

According to the statement, upon receiving the distress report, a team from the Police Safer Highway patrol rushed to the scene and engaged the bandits

in a fierce exchange of gunfire.

The statement noted that the bandits were eventually forced to flee into the forest with gunshot wounds, and the police successfully recovered some of the stolen cattle.

The Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, Bello Sani, condemned the tragic incident and prayed for the repose of the souls of the fallen officers.

62

THISDAY, The SUNday Newspaper January 5, 2025

ENGAGEMENTS

with ChidiAmuta e-mail:chidi.amuta@gmail.com

West Africa’s Season of Farewells and Question Marks

F

rances’s major military base in Cote d’Ivoire is billed to close down at the end of this month. The long -standing base, Port Bouet, is to be rid of its French troop occupants and is to be renamed General Quattara Thomas d’Aquinn base after an indigenous military figure. No one knows whether the French were pushed or are voluntarily fleeing. The latter possibility makes more sense in the context of recent developments in relations between Paris and its many West African client states.

Prior to now, the string of French speaking West African countries : Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chadhad severed military and even diplomatic links with France. It is the culmination of lingering colonial economic encumbrances and France’s own domestic political and economic contradictions.

In the aftermath of these departures, a vortex of diplomatic and strategic waves have been unleashed. Jihadist military pressure from the northern parts of the Sahel have increased , leading to avoidable mounting casualties especially in Burkina Faso. Domestic political pressure has increased the demand for democratic rule as defined by new economic hardships occasioned by the bungling of the presiding military authorities. New national security arrangements masterminded by an increased presence of Russian troops in the region have crept in as well. New economic and diplomatic imperatives have been inaugurated as the military regimes struggle to adapt to new diplomatic and international realities.

Initially, the impulse of non-French West African countries led by Nigeria was to impose sanctions on the countries that fell under military coups. The UN concurred as a reflex. Threats to air links and border closures however did little to discourage the new military juntas. The willingness of black markets and other rogue financial arrangements insulated the new military regimes from the more adverse effects of regional sanctions.

One of the far reaching responses of the more daring military regimes has been to threaten the cohesion of ECOWAS, the regional economic integration bloc. An initial threat by ECOWAS to use military force to enforce compliance collapsed due to an obvious lack of military capacity and the cash poverty of most of the bloc’s member countries. In the intervening period, the military juntas have waxed stronger and become more a daring heart to the survival of ECOWAS itself.

At the present moment, the three leading states-Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso have threatened to pull their countries out of ECOWAS. It is not just a threat but one backed by a deadline of end of January 2025. Nothing has happened so far that indicates a determination to save the 50-year old regional bloc.

Many argue that there is little or nothing in the achievements of ECOWAS that deserves to be saved. West African economies have hardly grown, leaving little or nothing to integrate. The free movement of persons in and across the region has mostly translated into the freedom of impoverished “others” to travel into and out of Nigeria in search of opportunities that are hardly there.

Otherwise, the free movement of persons has meant the free movement of jihadist insurgents and their black market arms or the migration of scraggy livestock across badly manned borders For Nigeria, the near total evacuation of French military, diplomatic and eco-

Tinubu

nomic presence from West Africa poses huge foreign policy challenges. First, the imminent loss of ECOWAS is a major historical setback. Our clout as a regional leader is on its way home. The gains made in the days of ECOMOG and the restoration of peace and democracy in Liberia and Sierra Leone are about to be consigned to the dustbin of history. It must concern President Tinubu that this historic diplomatic setback will be happening under his watch as President of Nigeria.

At a time when the interest of major Western powers in Africa has been in decline for years, Nigeria stands the risk of being the remaining major Western ally in a region of global economic interest but now beset with strategic security threats of a global scope.

The Gulf of Guinea corridor linking Angola to Brazil in the Atlantic remains a zone of great importance and interest both for global maritime traffic and oil and gas energy security.

Nigeria’s geographical location places us in direct line of fire of the rampaging jihadist insurgency in the north. We share a common extensive border stretch with major theatres of jihadist threat: Niger, Chad with proximal reach with Burkina Faso and the others.

The departure of the French from these countries means that Nigeria’s northern border is now open to direct jihadist presence and influence. We have this proximity to hold responsible for our decades long incessant insecurity from movements like Boko Haram,

ISWAP and other fringe fundamentalist groups of diverse names and iterations mostly inspired by Al Queda, ISIS and their other successor groups.

Nigeria’s geo-cultural configuration with a dominantly northern Moslem and southern Christian population reinforces the strategic security threat of the present situation. Yet the reality of the situation is one in which two major threats to global security lie at the doorsteps of Nigeria. Beside the well known jihadist threat from the Sahel, it is significant to note that in all the countries from which the French have recently exited and the military have taken over power, the civil populace have been manipulated into waving Russian flags in the streets while jubilating to welcome military coup leaders. As recently as the late 2024 hunger protests in Nigeria, some youth were arrested for brandishing Russian flags in the streets of Kano!

The presence of Russian troops and political interest groups was heightened in the days of the Yevgeny Prikozym and his Wagner Group of mercenaries in West and Central Africa. Wagner was a combined economic extraction and military venture. African countries were offered security assistance in return for contracts and mining rights . Over time, Wagner became an extension of Moscow’s territorial interest in Africa. Declining Western interest in parts of Africa attracted the attention of an ambitious Vladimir Putin whose escapades in Europe have been blocked in Ukraine. The attraction to Putin was heightened by the declining capacity of African military forces to protect their countries from Sahelian jihadist forces armed and funded from international terrorist sources.

Effectively then, with the departure

of the French from a country as close as Niger, Nigeria now has at its immediate northern border two unfriendly influences with active forces: Islamic jihadist ISIS affiliates and Russian occupation forces.

In recent weeks, the military government in Niger has accused Nigeria of plotting to overthrow it. This has partly prompted recent debates as to whether Nigeria should host Western military presence in its northern states is redundant. What we have at stake in Niger is both a national territorial integrity issue and a global sphere of influence contest. Both pressures are essentially and urgently military before they are diplomatic in nature. A nation must be capable of effectively protecting and defending its territorial integrity in military terms. In concert with larger interests, a nation located along a sphere of influence fault line must also be capable of collaborating with other interested parties to house an effective base for the defense of the sphere of influence. This is the effective backdrop for making sense of the foreign military base debate among Nigerian politicians.

Unfortunately, contributions to this debate from our professional military have been less than informed. It is hard for the current military establishment to argue against foreign military bases. Our professional military establishment has failed woefully to assure both Nigerians and the world that it has the capacity and integrity to protect and defend Nigeria from the twin forces of jihadist terrorism and insurgency let alone guaranteeing a hemispheric sphere of influence contest.

In the coming months, it is a season of goings and comings in Nigeria’s immediate international relations. Our domestic political challenges may be somewhat diminished by headaches from the immediate neighbourhood.

THISDAY, The SUNday Newspaper • JANUaRY 5, 2024

63

SundaySports Osimhen Opens 2025 Goals Account as Galatasaray Go 11 Points Clear

Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe

email:Duro.Ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

N

Duro Ikhazuagbe igeriantop s t r i k e r, Victor Osimhen, opened his 2025 goal account as Galatasaray defeated Goztepe 2-1 in the Turkish Super Lig on Saturday evening.

The Super Eagles forward scored his 10th league goal for Galatasaray to open the New Year on a winning note.

The win consolidated Galatasaray’s strong hold at the top of the Turkish topflight, extending their lead to 11 points clear of second placed Fenerbache who have a game at hand this evening .

Osimhen scored from the penalty spot after just 10 minutes to give Istanbul side the lead.

The Nigerian international, who was making his 12th appearance for Galatasaray, has scored 10 goals and bagged three assists this

TURKISH SUPER LIG ongoing season since joining on season-long loan deal from Napoli.

However, Goztepe leveled parity in the 27th minute through Romulo, to silence the vociferous Gala fans.

But Yunus Akgün did not allow the first three points of the new year to escape Galatasaray as he extended their lead in the 61st minute.

Kaduna-born Anthony Dennis, 20, sparkled in midfield for Goztepe but have no goal to show for it.

The victory means Galatasaray remain top of the league with 47 points while Goztepe sit 5th with 28 points.

In England, Osimhen’s national teammate, Alex Iwobi, has described Fulham’s team spirit as “one big brotherhood” and stressed the club’s success is allowing him to enjoy his “best season”.

The 28-year-old midfielder has already matched his best goal return in the Premier League, reaching last season’s tally of five goals with half of the campaign remaining.

The Nigeria international has been an ever-present in the league for the Whites and has also provided three assists for his team-mates.

“We’re really fighting for each other,” he told BBC Sport Africa.

“You can see it on the pitch, but off the pitch what the cameras don’t catch is that we’re really one big brotherhood. It’s a nice environment, the chemistry is really good and I feel like that’s helping us get the results we need.”

Fulham are eighth in the table, three points behind fifth-placed Newcastle United, and are unbeaten in seven games.

Victor Osimhen celebrating his first goal of 2025 as Galatasaray defeated Goztepe 2-1 to go 11 points clear at the top of Turkish Super Lig ...on Saturday

Francis Ogboro Returns Bottom-placed Enyimba Searching as Nigerian Polo President

N

Malcomies, Crown Club, others win top prizes at Jos Polo

igerian polo supremo, Francis Ogboro, has been unanimously elected for another tenure as the President of Nigerian Polo Federation (NPF), just as six times champions, Malcomines, led others to win the just concluded 2024/2025 Jos international polo tournament.

Ogboro who has led the polo rulingauthorityforoverdecades has pledged to re-double his effort in promoting Nigerian polo within the continent and internationally following his re-election during the bi-annual Conference of NPF held in Jos last Thursday.

The award-winning polo administrator and patron who received goodwill messages from the world polo ruling body, the Federation of

International Polo (FIP), The Nigerian Olympic Committee and the National Sports Commission, declared that Nigeria polo is one big family that will continue to put the country in the international limelight.

He thanked the Nigerian polo family for the confidence reposed in him to lead the federation, and said his relentless crusade of expanding the frontiers of Nigerian polo would be sustained in a way that would truly reflect Nigeria’s status as a power house of African polo.

“The last few years were a period that started with a lot of questions about the future of NPF and Nigerian polo.

Along the way, we became a greater voice in polo and built credibility with our members,” he declared as he settled down to reflect on the highlights of Nigerian polo.

NPF President, Francis Ogboro (left) presenting the Georgian Trophy to the Patron of EL-Amin polo team, Mohammed Babangida in Kaduna... recently. Ogboro was unanimously re-elected to lead the polo ruling body on Thursday in Jos

B

for First Group Victory

ottom-placed Nigeria’s Enyimba are facing Mozambique’s Black Bulls as they hope to secure their first win in Group D of the CAF Confederation Cup. Awin at the match slated for GodswillAkpabio in Uyo may keep alive the slim qualification hopes.

It is the Match Day 4 of the 21-year-old second-tier continental competition which no Nigerian club has ever won.

In the opening three group matches, Enyimba lost two and drew just one at home.

CAF CONFED CUP Another loss will throw them out of contention in the current season.

While securing a berth to the next round looks bleak for Enyimba, this Sunday, several other teams are eyeing spots in the quarter-finals.

Amongthem,Moroccanside Berkane looks to maintain its perfect record, while Zamalek and Al Masry are set for an all-Egyptian clash that could define Group D’s standings.

Group A: Constantine in Control In Group A, CS

Constantine faces Bravos do Maquis inAlgeria, a match that could significantly impact the group’s top spot.

Both teams, along with Simba, are tied on six points, making every result critical.

Meanwhile, Tunisian side CS Sfaxien, struggling without a single point, faces Simba in a must-win game to keep their slim qualification hopes alive.

Group B: Berkane’s Dominance Berkane, boasting three consecutive wins, travels to Mali to face Stade Malien.

A victory or draw would seal Berkane’s place in the quarter-finals and leave the second qualification slot open to a fierce contest. Stellenbosch hosts CD Lunda Sul in South Africa, with both sides aiming to stay in contention.

Group C: USMAlger’s Push for Qualification Defending champions USM Alger head to Côte d’Ivoire for a pivotal clash against second-placed ASEC Mimosas. With seven points already, Alger can secure progression with a win.

Jaraaf Dakar hosts Orapa United in Senegal, with both sides seeking their first groupstage victory.

Ogunmodede Invites Remo Duo as Eagles Commence Camping

S

tand-in Head Coach, Daniel Ogunmodede has called up Remo Stars duo of Sodiq Ismail and his club teammate, Jide Fatokun amongst the list of 26 players to open camp tomorrow at the Remo Stars Sports Institute, Ikenne-Remo ahead of the 8th African Nations Championship finals in East Africa.

Sadiq whose goal opened scoring for Super Eagles Team B in the 3-1 defeat of Ghana’s

CHAN2024 Black Galaxies and his teammate were initially expected to be excluded from the country’s CHANsquadfollowingreports of the duo securing playing contracts inAlbania and Sudan.

But NFF sources hinted at the weekend that the duo will not be released until after the CHAN tournament scheduled to hold jointly in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.

In Ogunmodede’s squad are captain Nduka Harrison Junior,

goalkeeper Henry Ozoemena, defenders Sadiq and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi,midfielderSaviour Isaac, and forward SikiruAlimi among a list of 26 players to begin the closed-camping exercise on January 6.

GoalkeeperKayodeBankole, defenders Imo Obot and Stephen Manyo, midfielders Musa Zayyad, Rabiu Ali and Papa Daniel Mustapha, and forwards Adamu Abubakar and Emmanuel Ogbole have also been invited.

The Super Eagles B, for the first time ever in the qualifica-

tion series, bumped Ghana’s Black Galaxies to reach the final tournament, after a 3-1 win in Uyo last week that followed a scoreless first leg in Accra six days earlier.

Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda, who have been selected to jointly host the 36th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2027, have been handed the opportunity to test-run their facilities and operational efficiency with the African Nations Championship finals, scheduled for 1st – 28th February.

Sunday 5 January, 2025

TR

UT H

& RE A S O

N

Price: N500

MISSILE

NEF to FG

“The federal government should immediately suspend the rush to implement the proposed Tax Reform Bills, so as to more wisely use the medium of dialogue to allay all concerns, collect all quality contributions and critical inputs from cross sections of Nigerian stakeholders ” – The Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF) demanding immediate suspension of the proposed Tax Reform Bills

SIMONKOLAWOLE SIMONKOLAWOLELIVE!

simon.kolawole@thisdaylive.com, sms: 0805 500 1961

And Four The Unending Revenue Sharing War Other Things…

D

o you know that Jigawa can become the richest state in Nigeria? Don’t laugh at me and say “this guy has started again”.

I will explain myself, but my central point remains that we have a mental block when it comes to understanding the wealth of a state. We have limited it to mineral resources and the sharing of the contents of the federation account by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). We downplay many potential sources of revenue staring us in the face every day of the week and devote our energies to the allocation sharing formula. This wouldn’t be much of a problem if not that it always raises the temperature of the nationhood discourse. Who will save us?

In my previous article, ‘Let’s Be Kind to Nigeria, Please’, I analysed the malignant negativism that has afflicted many Nigerians. Only bad news about Nigeria excites them. Anything positive depresses them. Even in a silver cloud, all they want to see is a dark lining.

If Boko Haram terrorists kill one soldier, they will amplify it. If soldiers eliminate 100 terrorists, they will look away. Their definition of “speaking the truth” is saying “Nigeria is finished patapata”. Those who say “there is hope for Nigeria” are ridiculed as “PR consultants” and cowed into silence. Thus, positive Nigerians keep quiet to avoid being “dragged”. I said you can hate your president and still love your country. It is legal.

Malignant negativism aside, another mental block Wale Edun eating us up is in the area of revenue allocation. The proposed VAT sharing formula has set another fire a win-win? That, to me, will be more beneficial in to our delicate fabric as an aspiring nation. The north the long run. I insist that we have every ingredient to is pitted against the south (yet again) over revenue make Nigeria prosper, but we must apply our brains sharing. The current VAT formula allocates 15 percent positively to take full advantage of our endowments.

In this essay, I intend to discuss some practical ways to the federal government, 50 percent to states, and 35 percent to LGAs. States share their slice on a ratio of defusing this revenue sharing warfare. There are two of 50:30:20 — equality, population, derivation. The assumptions underlining my proposals. One, I assume new proposal is 10 percent for federal government, that a state truly wants to start reducing dependency 55 percent for states and 35 percent for LGAs. States on the federation account. (By the way, federation will use a ratio of 20:20:60 — equality, population, account is not a gift from the federal government. derivation — for their own share if the amendment The revenue is only being collected on their behalf by the federal government. It is their right, not a favour.) is passed.

The point of friction is the 60 percent portion for Two, I assume that a state is genuinely interested in derivation. Many northerners are arguing that the raising more revenues and not just talking a good derivation is designed to marginalise “the north”. game. Let me add a third assumption: that a state To the best of my knowledge, revenue is not shared is sincerely open to ideas and there is a political region by region or zone by zone. Rather, it is state by will and vision to address the revenue challenges.

Spoiler alert: I am not proposing anything new. I state. Kwara does not collect its allocation and share it with Kogi just because they are both northern states. am simply repackaging what has been tried by some Borno does not pay the salaries of Bauchi workers. states and which, in my evaluation, worked and can Kaduna doesn’t build roads in Kebbi. The loans taken be refined and replicated on a broader scale. The first

by Niger are not repaid by Nasarawa. All states share of my three proposals is that states can part-own and spend revenues individually. Why then do some profitable private ventures, profitable being the key people purport to speak on behalf of the entire north word. The good thing is that they would not be running on matters that affect every state differently? It is all the businesses. It is their investments that would do the work and make returns. The funds some states politics.

Well, there is nothing wrong with playing politics. have been spending on building unprofitable airports My problem is when politics stifles alternative thinking (I guess the motive is to allow chartered flights and and creativity. Agora Policy has done a simulation of private jets land directly in their backyards) could VAT distributions for November 2024 based on 55 have been invested in businesses that would yield percent allocation to states and 60 percent of that for handsome dividends.

Here is an example. When Nigeria launched its derivation. Agora used location of consumption to calculate derivation (instead of the headquarters of telecoms revolution in 2001, three states — Akwa remitting companies, which heavily favours Lagos). Ibom, Delta and Lagos — invested millions of dollars The simulation shows that 10 of the 19 northern states in what was then known as Econet (now Airtel), one would be net gainers. How then does that amount to of the three GSM licensees. The share value doubled marginalising the entire north? The north-east is most within five years. Given what we later got to know, affected, but the North East Development Commission the investments would have generated — and still (NEDC) already gets 3 percent of VAT. Let’s apply be generating — millions of dollars in returns to the states. That would have bolstered their non-FAAC reason.

But here is my point. Rather than resort to our revenue. For reasons that were never made public, they typical mindset about Nigeria — the fixation with our divested. Else, they would still be earning dividends. comfort zone called “federation allocation” — how I have my suspicion on what went down. That is about going a step further by baking a much bigger why I often try to distinguish between genuine and cake? I am not suggesting that those to be affected personal interests.

Another example. When Dangote Cement acquired negatively by the proposed derivation formula should stop talking. However, aside the protests, what policies, Benue Cement Company (BCC), the Benue state programmes and projects can Nigerian states design to government (its original owners) got a percentage boost their local economies so that we can end up with of the shares as part of the political settlement of the

opposition to the sale. The state was getting dividends, which regularly supplemented its income from the federation account. Ahead of the 2015 general election, the state government woke up one day and said it was selling its remaining stake in Dangote Cement.

It got $122 million. If you ask me where the money went, who am I going to ask? But imagine the value of the shares today with the weight Dangote Cement carries in the market — and the dividends Benue would still be earning.

What’s more, states can invest in firms operating in profitable fields such as oil, solid minerals and ICT in order to supplement — and even surpass — their federation allocations. For instance, we have somehow reduced the entire petroleum sector to who owns the oil and who doesn’t — but there is no law that says states cannot buy stakes in companies operating in exploration and marketing and earn dividends for life. Absolutely no restriction. We like to blame the 1999 Constitution and lack of “true” federalism for every problem in Nigeria. Of course, it is all politics.

Our mental block makes us ignore more opportunities and possibilities because of the fixation with Utopia and comfort zones.

I said Jigawa could be the richest state for illustrative purposes only. But wait for this. The state recently decided to buy privately owned Khadija University for N11 billion. I kid you not. ELEVEN BILLION NAIRA. Already, there are three universities in Jigawa, including the state-owned Sule Lamido University.

If N11 billion was invested in a fintech company, imagine the returns. With intelligent investment in profitable ventures, losing N500 million monthly in VAT revenue would be insignificant and should not be a reason to set the polity on fire, but this is the way we have structured public debate. Until we deal with this mental block, we will keep insulting one another.

Let me now move to my second proposal. That is, states can directly set up companies in competitive areas of the economy. But there is a big BUT — the businesses should not be run by the states. Many states have enterprises but they are run like civil service. An option is a joint venture to be managed by the partners. I like the Nigeria LNG model. It is jointly owned by the federation (49 percent) and the oil majors (51 percent). However, it is managed by the oil majors. It is a huge success. Hand it over to the ministry of petroleum and it will become a disaster. Another option is for a state to fully own a company and lease out the management so that it can be run like a proper enterprise.

My third proposal is for states to create the right environment for the growth of their local economies.

They can benefit more from tax revenues. These would include personal income tax from jobs created and VAT derivation from consumption. Unfortunately, this involves critical thinking and heavy lifting which would make them sound attractive. Some states hurt businesses: they are only interested in how to suck them dry rather than how to water the field for them to flourish. There is no part of Nigeria that is not endowed with natural and human resources, even if not equally. However, because of our mental block over revenue sharing, many states cannot think of earning.

In sum, it is obvious that Nigeria can be far better than this. We are just scratching the surface. If we get our act together, we will be flying. But Nigeria cannot change until Nigerians change. We have to deal with the mental blocks afflicting the leadership and the intelligentsia — and being aggressively passed on to the streets. We must deal with the malignant negativism and mischievous politicking. All countries that have exited underdevelopment saw opportunities and possibilities, not doom and gloom. The countries we call advanced today evolved through a nationbuilding process, including internal battles with strife and scepticism. But you know what? Every problem has a solution.

REFINERIES’ REVIVAL The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited promised to revive our refineries. After much delay, the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries are back on stream, even if not fully. Many Nigerians are understandably sceptical about the news. For decades, we were told the refineries would work but they never did — after billions of dollars had gone down the drain. Nigerians have every right to take the latest news with a pinch of salt. In response, the NNPC has been inviting Doubting Thomases to come and take a tour and see things for themselves. My suggestion: those refineries must now be privatised, else the latter end will be worse than the former.

Forewarned.

HEALTH AND CARE Mr Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, has advised President Bola Tinubu to visit federal government hospitals in the new year and consider doing his medicals in the country.

This, he said, will let him assess the state of medical facilities “to make informed decisions on how to upgrade and make them efficient”.

This is a beautiful suggestion, if you ask me.

The only thing I would add is that governors should also do the same, since health is on the concurrent list. If I were to advise our leaders, I would say they and their cabinet members should regularly pay unscheduled visits to public hospitals and schools as well as to slums. Practical.

DETTY DECEMBER Despite the negative vibes being spread about Nigeria across the world, it was good to see so many A-list foreign celebrities celebrate the festive season in the country. Chloe Bailey, the American popstar, was the first in the news. American rappers Saweetie and Gunna were soon spotted at parties. Tyla, the South African star, was over the moon, describing December in Nigeria as “too much”. What about the “I Just Got Back” gang? Detty December is now a major tourist attraction in Lagos, like the Calabar Carnival in Cross River, and that means a lot to the local economies, at least on a seasonal level. I know this saddens the “Najia sceptics” but what can we do? Delightful.

NO COMMENT In a major setback for the campaign against rape, the appeal court sitting in Lagos nullified the conviction of Dr Femi Olaleye, managing director of Optimal Cancer Care Foundation, but the Lagos state government has now appealed. The life imprisonment sentence by the high court was quashed by the appellate court on the grounds that the wife’s evidence was “tainted” and “unreliable”, that she was motivated by the desire to take over the appellant’s assets upon his incarceration, and that the lower court relied on “hearsay evidence” of the other witnesses on the age of the alleged survivor because — wait for this — none of them was present when she was born.

Wonderful.

Printed Newspapers Limited.

Lagos:35 35Creek CreekRoad, Road,Apapa, Apapa,Lagos.

Lagos.Abuja: Abuja:Plot Plot1,1,Sector SectorCentre CentreB, B,Jabi JabiBusiness BusinessDistrict, District,Solomon SolomonLar LarWay, Way,Jabi JabiNorth NorthEast, East,Abuja Abuja. .

Printedand andPublished PublishedininLagos Lagosby byTHISDAY Leaders & Company Limited . Lagos: All Correspondence Correspondence to to POBox P.O. Box54749, 54749,Ikoyi, Ikoyi,Lagos.

Lagos.EMAIL: EMAIL:editor@thisdaylive.com, editor@thisdaylive.com,info@thisdaylive.com. info@thisdaylive.com.TELEPHONE TELEPHONELagos: Lagos:0802 08022924721-2, 2924721-2,08022924485.

08022924485.Abuja: Abuja:Tel: Tel:08076290487, 08155555292,08076290488 08155555929 All 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3085, 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: adsbooking@thisdaylive.com. (ISSN: 1117-871X).