National Assembly tentatively fixes January 31 for passage of proposed budget mediately the National Assembly resumes from its current yuletide celebrations on January 14. It explained that this would enable the Appropriation sub-committees of both chambers begin consideration of the N49.7 trillion 2025 budget. The Red Chamber also tentatively
www.thisdaylive.com
Unveils nominees for Game Changers category Announces D’Tigress, Nigeria's
Minister says current govt raised production by 800,000 bpd in 18 months Data shows it's Nigeria's first time of hitting target in over four years Feat achieved despite OPEC’s output dip in December
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
After over four years of consistently failing to achieve the quota allocated to it by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Nigeria finally met the target in its December 2024 oil production circle, a THISDAY review of a survey by Bloomberg showed yesterday.
Nigeria’s production increased by 40,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 1.51 million a day, reaching a four-year high, according to the survey. The current OPEC crude oil volume expected from Nigeria is 1.5 million bpd.
The survey results became public as the official OPEC production data as well as those of the upstream regulator in Nigeria, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), were still being awaited.
After years of failing to meet its circa 1.8 million bpd, OPEC had reduced Nigeria's quota in 2023 to 1.5 million bpd, with the country still unable to hit the target since then.
In November last year, Nigeria came short of achieving the quota, with data from NUPRC showing that the country produced 1.485 million bpd, about 99 per cent of the expected OPEC output. It was, on the average, Nigeria’s highest volume of crude oil, excluding condensates drilled last year.
In January 2024, which hitherto had the highest crude oil production, Nigeria’s oil output was 1.42 million bpd.
In February of the same year,
Nigeria recorded 1.32 million bpd; 1.23 million bpd in March; 1.28 million bpd in April; 1.25 million bpd in May; and 1.27 million bpd in June.
In July, the country’s OPEC oil production was 1.3 million bpd; in August, it was 1.35 million bpd; 1.32 million bpd in September; 1.33 million bpd in October, and then 1.485 million bpd in November, excluding condensate.
Nigeria had blamed its inability to meet the quota on massive oil theft in the Niger Delta, waning investment in the sector, outright sabotage, as well as deteriorating infrastructure.
According to the Bloomberg survey, Libya extended its recovery from a recent political crisis, adding 40,000 bpd to 1.23 million a day, the highest level in more than a decade.
It further showed that OPEC’s crude production dipped last month, as the United Arab Emirates stepped up implementation of supply cutbacks aimed at buoying global oil markets.
In all, output from OPEC fell by 120,000 bpd to 27.05 million a day, with the UAE accounting for most of the drop, according to the survey. Modest gains in Libya and Nigeria were offset by similar-sized reductions in Iran and Kuwait, the data showed.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, yesterday, listed some of the achievements of the Bola Tinubu administration in the oil sector, stressing that under the current government, crude output
has been raised from one million bpd to 1.8 million bpd, including condensate.
Lokpobiri, on his X handle, said on assumption of office, Tinubu directed that the volume of crude produced by Nigeria must be increased, and maintained that the order was the foundation upon which the achievements by the ministry were built.
The minister said within the first 18 months of the Tinubu administration, the government had been able to attract foreign investments and ensure peace in oil-producing Niger Delta communities.
Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo), a subsidiary of Shell Plc, recently announced a $5 billion Final
Investment Decision (FID) on Bonga North, a deep-water project off the coast of Nigeria.
Bonga North will be a subsea tie-back to the Shell-operated Bonga Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facility, which Shell operates with a 55 per cent interest.
The Bonga North project involves drilling, completing, and starting up 16 wells, including eight production and eight water injection wells, modifications to the existing Bonga Main FPSO and the installation of new subsea hardware tied back to the FPSO.
The project, a major one for Nigeria, will sustain oil and gas production at the Bonga facility, with Bonga North currently having an estimated recover-
able resource volume of more than 300 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe) and expected to reach a peak production of 110,000 barrels of oil a day, with first oil anticipated by the end of the decade.
In addition, the minister stated that under the Tinubu government, Nigeria won the bid to host the African Energy Bank (AEB), the first bank on the continent wholly devoted to the promotion of investments in the energy sector.
The bank with a $5 billion initial capital, is expected to take off in the last week of January.
Lokpobiri stated, “With the presidential directive to ramp up oil production to a sustainable level, the journey of transformation in
our oil sector began. This visionary directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as broad as it was, became the cornerstone of my commitment and that of my team.
“We embraced it wholeheartedly, engaging stakeholders both domestically and internationally to build synergy and foster partnerships. Through these efforts, we successfully attracted significant investments and strengthened institutional frameworks, driving the remarkable transformation we see today in the sector.
“From the production level of one million bpd, when we began, we have boosted output to 1.8 million bpd, inclusive of condensates, and continue to aspire for even greater heights.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Privatisation, Orji Uzor Kalu, has commended President Bola Tinubu for ignoring policy prescriptions of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The Abia North Senator also cited the stability of the exchange rate as a deviation from the World Bank and IMF prescription.
He said Nigeria' wouldn't have recorded its current level of progress if the President had accepted the monetary and economic packages
He gave the commendation following the Tinubu government's decision to over-haul the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.
As schools resumed nationwide for the new academic session after the Christmas and New Year holidays, Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, yesterday called on teachers to take a more active role in improving the quality of education in the state.
Speaking to journalists after an inspection tour of some schools in Agidingbi, Ikeja area, the commissioner urged the teachers to go beyond their regular teaching duties by conducting research and collaborating to deliver optimal outcomes for their students.
He stressed teachers should not only focus on lesson delivery but
also on motivating students and holding them accountable for their academic responsibilities.
"Teachers need to be engaged not just in teaching but in motivating students, reminding them of their duties and responsibilities, and ensuring they stay on top of their work at all times," he stated.
The commissioner however, expressed concern over the poor performance of students, particularly in the West African Senior Secondary School Certificate Examinations (WASSCE), as well as the troubling practices of mass promotion and extortion of students for marks.
"Lagos is one of the states that pays staff promptly with other benefits, but we are not seeing the
results," he remarked, stressing the state is not getting value for its investment in education.
He pointed out that regular assessments, such as weekly tests, are essential to identifying students who may need additional support.
"You are all employed to ensure that students have access to teaching and the learning process," he said.
The commissioner made it clear that the era of mass promotions and teachers demanding money from students for marks is over, warning that any teacher caught in such activities would be dismissed.
Addressing the issue of funding, the commissioner clarified the purpose of the N250,000 monthly grant allocated to secondary schools in Lagos. This money, Alli-Balogun
noted, is intended for minor repairs and other operational needs. However, he acknowledged that some schools are not using the funds as intended.
"I have made it clear to the principals and the tutor-generals that the funds should be used judiciously to ensure the proper functioning of schools," he said.
The commissioner also shared his efforts to strengthen the relationship between teachers and parents, stressing that teachers must work closely with parents to help manage students' progress outside of school.
He noted that he recently engaged with educators in Education District 5, discussing the importance of parents ensuring that they review their children's schoolwork regularly.
of the two global financial institutions. Kalu, according to a statement by his media office, stated this yesterday, at the Arochukwu Local Government country home of Chief Sunday Ugwa, who hosted him.
He explained that Tinubu’s economic reforms such as the petrol subsidy removal, the liberalisation of the foreign exchange system, the deregulation of the country’s petroleum downstream sector, the tax reform bills and other policies, were the best for the nation.
Kalu said Nigeria's economic problems stemmed from indigenous factors which required homegrown macro-fiscal reforms which the President had already deployed to stimulate the economic growth and development which the nation is beginning to witness.
He said, "President Tinubu removed subsidy on oil which former President Olusegun Obasanjo refused to do and he merged the exchange rate. We need to redefine governance models in Africa and some third world countries.
"We must not accept all the recommendations of the world bank and IMF, most of them are wrong. We must use home grown policies to solve our economic problems, because the majority of our problems are caused by local issues.
"The kind of decisions Tinubu has been taking are the ones no president in the history of this country dared to implement, but we all know deep
within ourselves that those decisions are inevitable if we truly want to prosper as a Nation, " Kalu noted. To buttress his position, Kalu cited the downward trend in the prices of petrol describing it as a sign that the President's reforms were beginning to yield results.
Kalu expressed optimism that there would be reduction in prices of other goods and services, saying "I know times are hard but let us be optimistic. Can you remember how much the price of fuel and diesel were months ago and compare it to what the price is today?
"All other inflated prices will come down. I am telling you the Truth. Today the Warri Refinery that has not worked for over 20 years has started working.”
Kalu further cited an instance of how the Asian tigers (Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, and Hong Kong) ignored the IMF, World Bank economic packages but yet have continued record progress in their economies.
The lawmaker urged youths not to shy away from the democratic process to the election of charlatans into elective offices.
He said, "The Asian Tigers jettisoned the IMF and world bank but today we can see how they have progressed. Politicians must work very hard to sustain democracy because democracy is good for everyone but we must participate in democracy.
The Governor of Nasarawa State, Mr. Abdullahi Sule, yesterday indicated that calls by some northern gover- nors for the withdrawal of the tax amendment bills before the National Assembly may no longer be necessary.
Speaking on Arise Television, the governor noted that recent clarifications and assurances from President Bola Tinubu and Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, over some contentious aspects of the proposed legislations had offered some relief for the aggrieved parties.
Sule further explained that recent engagements between Oyedele’s committee and state governors as well as traditional rulers, had provided clarifications on the controversial Value Added Tax (VAT) amendments to the tax bills.
He said before now, the understanding was that VAT was to be administered at the point of generation alone, adding that it has now been clarified that sharing would take place both at the point of generation and consumption.
The governor said since some of the grey areas of the bills were currently being looked into, there was no need to continue to request for their withdrawal.
Sule however, said he remained open for dialogue between Oyedele’s committee to further address other contentious areas of the bills.
He expressed regrets that the debate over the tax reform bills had been hijacked by different people who do not seem to understand the documents.
The governor said, “During the meeting in Kaduna, what we were told during that period was that it (VAT) was only going to be at the
point of generating the revenue that 60 per cent was going to be given.
“Mr. Oyedele confirmed that no, it is going to be different. The 60 per cent that they are talking about is going to be shared, both by the point of generation as well as the point of consumption.
“So, we see that we have added something different from when we asked for the withdrawal of this bill. The bottom line is that this thing is being discussed. What we wanted to happen is happening. It is being discussed.”
He said, “The areas are being amended to accommodate the concerns of Nigerians. So, by our own request of withdrawal, if they say they don't have to withdraw it, they can actually amend this bill in line with our request. Then you don't have to withdraw anything.”
The governor also noted that Tinubu had already indicated that
rather than withdraw the bills, amendments could be made to address areas of concerns.
Sule, who is also Chairman of the North Central Governors Forum, said, “It's not just me. And unfortunately, the debate about this tax reform has gone to wrong hands and a lot of people who have zero knowledge about how VAT is even generated have entered into the debate and made it actually uninteresting.
“And that is why people like me now are mute. We are not even saying anything about it anymore because I believe we have achieved our own goal. When the Northern Governors sat down in Kaduna together with our traditional rulers and we were brief about the bills, we now noticed the area of VAT that was affected.
“And we said, you know what, let us go ahead and advise Mr. President to withdraw the bill for further discussion, further negotia-
tion, further debate, so that we can understand this better.
“The unfortunate part of the debate is that there are a lot of people who have zero knowledge about either the bills or VAT that have joined the debate, and they are making it uninteresting. Some of them are doing it to save their jobs. Some of them are doing it to get more jobs. Some of them are doing it for all kinds of things. But the brain behind all this, when the Northern Governor sat down, it was an area that was of concern and we wanted to address it.
“In the last meeting we had with Mr. President, he confirmed to us that he is willing to look into the bill and to see the areas of concerns and to address those areas, and the same thing actually with the initiators of this bill, both Taiwo Oyedele as well as Zach Adedeji, have said it openly during the town hall meeting that they are more than willing to
Abdullahi Sule
sit down and review some of these areas.”
Among other things, the governor also said that the recent dissolution of his cabinet was a strategic decision aimed at strengthening his team to drive development, and focus on areas of competitiveness in the state.
The THISDAY Board of Editors, last night, wrapped up the unveiling of winners and nominees ahead of its awards of commemoration billed to hold end of January, by announcing more crucial categories of recipients.
Chief on the final list is the continuation of the lifetime
achievements awardees, winner of the Sports Personality of the Year and the nominees for the category marked as game changer.
The expansion of the lifetime achievements awards recipients has become crucial given the role played by some women, who have emerged winners in this all-important category.
At the same time, the unveiling of Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, as the winner of the Sports Personality of the Year, is another pivotal category, given the place of sports in galvanising unity and social development, especially amongst the youth population.
contributions of certain individuals in the annals of the nation’s body polity for the overall good, growth and development of the country.
Danjuma, who represented Edo South Senatorial District in the Senate from 2003 to 2007.
The last but not least of the final list is the Game Changer category, which recognises the
Thus, on the list of the lifetime achievements awards are a former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, GCON; accomplished lawyer, entrepreneur and politician, Senator Daisy
Agency report
A Manhattan judge on Monday denied President-elect Donald Trump’s request to halt sentencing in his hush money case while he appeals the ruling that upheld his conviction. This decision clears the way for sentencing to proceed on Friday, just over a week before Trump’s inauguration. Judge Juan M. Merchan rejected Trump’s plea to delay the proceed-
ings indefinitely while his legal team appeals the conviction in a state appellate court. Trump, who faces sentencing for 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, is poised to become the first president to take office while convicted of a crime.
Despite the setback, Trump’s legal team retains the option of requesting the appellate court to intervene and postpone the sentencing. Meanwhile, they have informed
the court that Trump will appear at the sentencing via video link rather than in person, citing the complexities of the presidential transition process.
Last week, Judge Merchan dismissed Trump’s attempt to have the case thrown out on the grounds of his imminent assumption of the presidency. The judge, however, indicated that he is unlikely to impose any punitive measures despite the gravity of the charges.
Following Merchan’s ruling,
Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, calling the decision “the end of the Presidency as we know it” if allowed to stand.
In addition to the ongoing appeal of the conviction, Trump’s lawyers are challenging Judge Merchan’s earlier refusal to dismiss the case on the basis of presidential immunity.
Although they have filed paperwork in the appellate division of the state’s trial court on Monday, but no hearing dates have been set.
Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, yesterday said he intended to step down as the country’s leader, leaving office once a new ruling party leader is chosen and noting that he “fought for this country” over his nearly 10-year premiership.
“Every morning I’ve woken up as prime minister, I have been inspired by the resilience, generosity and the determination of Canadians,” he told journalists on Monday. “I have fought for this country, for you,” he added. Trudeau listed his administration’s support for Ukraine and his policy during the Covid-19 pandemic, as being among his greatest achievements since he took power in 2015.
“We rallied to support each other through the pandemic … to stand strong with Ukraine, and our democracy, to fight climate change, and to get our economy ready for the future,” he pointed out. “We are at a critical moment in the world,” he noted.
But Trudeau said that he had “one regret”, that is the country’s
election process.
“If I have one regret, particularly as we approach this election — well, probably many regrets that I will think of,” Trudeau said. “But I do wish we’d been able to change the way we elect our governments in this country so that people could simply choose a second choice, or a third choice on the same ballot,” he asserted.
Trudeau said that the country’s parliament will be suspended until March 24 while a new leader is chosen, CNN reported.
“Parliament has been paralysed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority parliament in Canadian history. This morning, I advised the Governor General that we need a new session of parliament. She has granted this request, and the House will now be prorogued until March 24.
“I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its new leader. As you all know, I am a fighter, and I am not someone who backs away from a fight, particularly when a fight is as important as this one is.
“But I have always been driven
by my love for Canada, by my desire to serve Canadians and by what is in the best interests of Canadians and Canadians deserve a real choice in the next election. And it has become obvious to me — with the internal battles — that I cannot be the one to carry the Liberal standard into the next election,” Trudeau later added.
Trudeau will remain prime minister in a caretaker capacity until a new leader is chosen.
The first child of former Canadian Prime Minister, Pierre Elliot Trudeau, Trudeau followed in his father’s footsteps, 40 years after the elder Trudeau stepped down as prime minister of Canada.
Trudeau first entered the political scene in 2008, when he was elected a member of Parliament, and then as leader of the Liberal Party five years later.
In 2015, he claimed the premiership after he campaigned on an anti-Conservative platform and won a clear majority in the October elections, seeing off his predecessor, Stephen Harper.
One of the country’s youngestever leaders, Trudeau ascended to
popularity by pushing progressive values on the global stage, branding himself as an antidote to former President Donald Trump. He won successive elections in 2019 and 2021.
But his early rise has steadily declined after a series of political setbacks — including accusations of racism after old photographs surfaced of him using blackface and anger over vaccine mandates during the coronavirus pandemic, the CNN report added.
He has since slumped in the polls – after incoming US President Trump unleashed a flurry of tariff threats, and the subsequent surprise resignation of his former political ally and Finance Minister, Chrystia Freeland.
Trudeau, leader of the Liberal Party for 11 years and prime minister for nine, was facing a mounting set of crises, from Donald Trump’s tariff threats to the resignation of key allies and disastrous opinion polls. His resignation would be seen as the PM choosing to jump before he is pushed, ahead of a general election to be held later this year that he is widely expected to lose.
Another recipient of the lifetime achievements award is the current Chairman of Africa Prudential Plc and member of the Nigerian Bar Association, Eniola Fadayomi. She is also the Principal Partner of Ms. Fadayomi & Co.
The Chairperson and Publisher of the Guardian Newspapers, Maiden Ibru; a former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, Mohammed Hayatudeen and Hajia Inna Ciroma were winners in this category.
The choice of D’Tigress as the sports Personality of the Year is another merited honour, having recently secured qualification for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, despite suffering a heavy 100-48 defeat to the USA on Friday.
This achievement came as a result of Senegal’s loss to hosts Belgium later that same evening, coupled with Nigeria’s victory over Senegal last Thursday.
D’Tigress’ near-impossible comeback victory against Senegal proved decisive, particularly after Senegal’s subsequent defeat to Belgium.
There was also the CEO category, which identified Leo Stan Ekeh, from the private sector and Gbenga Komolafe for Public Sector. In the Game Changer category were Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, who was pixcked for massively increasingly increasing the IGR of the gateway state, Ogun.
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, was tipped for for his revolutionary and transformative polices that changing Enugu state and for massively increasing the IGR of the State in just 19 months.
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, made the list for rebuilding the state across the IBILE divisions, particularly completing the Blue Rail and building the Red Rail. The Minister of Finance and Coordinator of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, emerged the unsung champion of the reforms of the President Bola Tinubu administration.
On his part, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, was chosen for his determined War againstTerrorism, among other factors.
See profiles of the nominees on pages 8 to 10
2025 APPROPRIATION BILL: SENATE TO SUSPEND PLENARY FOR TWO WEEKS
and agencies, would have the opportunity to make inputs.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Solomon Adeola, stated these when his panel met with chairmen of other standing committees in the Senate.
He added that January 31, 2025, had been tentatively fixed as date for laying and passing of the reports of the 2025 Appropriation bill separately before the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The meeting was attended by chairmen of the Senate's Standing Committees and Principal officers of the upper chamber.
Adeola said the time frame for the consideration and passage of the 2025 budget by the National Assembly was short but assured Nigerians that, the best would be made out of it.
He said, "Before this meeting with chairmen of the various standing committees in the Senate, the Appropriation Committee met for several hours on the best way to handle the consideration of the 2025 budget.”
The appropriation bill was presented to the National Assembly on December 18, 2024, by President Bola Tinubu.
It was passed for a second reading by both the Senate and the House of Representatives on Thursday, December 19, 2024.
Adeola, at yesterday's meeting explained: "For expeditious and thorough consideration, hard copies of the budget proposals were obtained and already distributed to chairmen of the various committees.
“It would serve as reference documents during budget defence sessions with heads of MDAs.
"The tentative time table that has been drawn for consideration of the budget at committee level is that budget defence sessions begin from Tuesday (today).
“Reports from various committees are expected to be submitted from 15th to 18th of this month.
"Afterwards, collation and tidying up of the various reports will be done by the appropriation committee with the hope of laying final report on the budget to the Senate on 31st of this month.
"However, the 31st of January fixed for laying of the budget is tentative as it is just given to guide our working.”
The committee thereafter went into a closed session with chairmen of the various standing committees in the Senate.
- ECONOMIST, FOUNDER, ALPINE GROUP
Mohammed Hayatu-Deen is a distinguished Nigerian economist and banker renowned for his transformative leadership in the financial sector. As the pioneer Managing Director and CEO of FSB International Bank Plc from 1990 to 2001, he revitalised a distressed government savings institution into a major commercial bank, exemplifying exceptional turnaround management in Nigeria. In 2005, he founded the Alpine Group, focusing on high-growth sectors through direct investments, notably developing the Ado Bayero Mall in Kano, West Africa’s largest shopping mall at its commissioning. His extensive contributions to Nigeria’s economic development and his leadership in various organisations
Maiden Ibru is a renowned media executive and entrepreneur, best known as the Chair and Publisher of The Guardian Newspapers. She assumed leadership of the newspaper after the passing of her husband, Alex Ibru, the paper’s founder.
from 2012 to 2014. With an illustrious legal career that began in 1967, she broke barriers in a maledominated field, becoming the first woman to serve on the High Court of Kano State and later, the Court of Appeal.
Known for her integrity, judicial expertise, and reformist stance, she was instrumental in strengthening the independence of the judiciary. Her tenure as Chief Justice saw significant judicial reforms aimed at improving transparency and efficiency in the justice system.
Mukhtar has received numerous honours, including the national award of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), solidifying her place as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s legal history.
- VICE CHAIR, SOUTH ATLANTIC PETROLEUM
Daisy Danjuma is a distinguished lawyer, entrepreneur, and politician who served as the Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District from 2003 to 2007.
With a legal career spanning over two decades, she made her mark in corporate law before entering politics. During her time in the Senate, she contributed to debates and legislation on national development, healthcare, and women’s rights.
Daisy Danjuma also played an active role in various committees, including those on women affairs and judiciary matters.
Beyond politics, she has excelled in business, notably in her position as Vice Chair of South Atlantic Petroleum Limited, where she has influenced the oil and gas sector. Her commitment to corporate governance and public service remains exemplary in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
Under her stewardship, The Guardian has maintained its reputation for high-quality journalism, remaining a trusted source of news and analysis in Nigeria. A passionate advocate for press freedom and responsible journalism, Maiden Ibru has navigated the challenges of the media landscape with resilience and innovation.
She has also contributed to philanthropy, supporting initiatives in education and healthcare. Her dedication to upholding journalistic integrity has made her a respected figure in the media industry.
Eniola Fadayomi is a highly respected legal practitioner, corporate leader, and public administrator. Currently serving as Chairman of Africa Prudential Plc, she has made remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s financial services industry.
A seasoned lawyer, she is the Principal Partner of Ms Fadayomi & Co. and a dedicated member of the Nigerian Bar Association. Her experience spans both the public and private sectors, having previously served as Lagos State Commissioner for Justice and later, Commissioner for Establishment, Training, and Pensions.
In her corporate roles, she has championed best practices in governance and stakeholder management. Eniola Fadayomi is widely acknowledged for her leadership and advocacy in legal and corporate circles, consistently promoting professional excellence and ethical conduct.
Is a prominent Nigerian politician and public administrator renowned for her contributions to national development. She served as Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs from 2005 to 2007, where she championed gender equality and the empowerment of women through key policy reforms. A founding member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), she played a significant role in strengthening party structures and promoting female political participation. As Managing Director of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC), she enhanced agricultural risk management. Her dedication to public service and advocacy for women’s rights has earned her recognition as an influential leader.
–Rewrote Basketball History at Paris 2024
Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, took the world by storm, rewriting the history of African teams at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games by becoming the first team (of any gender) from the continent to qualify for the quarter final of the tournament. This exceptional performance was sealed by a resounding victory over Canada (79-70).
Led by the irrepressible Ezinne Kalu, the D’Tigress demonstrated unshakeable resolve on the court to leave their footprints at the Games in the French capital. They kickstarted their campaign with a surprise 75-62 win over Australia who were the Number 3 ranked team at the tournament. It was an epic performance from the African side as they recorded their first Olympic success in 20 years.
Of course, with this shocking defeat of Australia, their next opponents France had to dig deep to be able to conjure the defeat of these Nigerian amazons! The back-to-back Afrobasket champions again shocked world Number 5 ranked Canada 79-70 to book a place in the quarter finals of the women’s basketball event of Paris 2024. The match against Canada was intense and decisive, with every possession fiercely contested. Kalu, with her impeccable
play and inspirational leadership, was the mainstay of this team. Her ability to control the pace of the game and make the right choices was crucial for the victory. She played the same role in the victory against Australia.
These two victories were history for the D’Tigress as they came out on top of a Group phase for the very first time.
Their quarter final fixture against the Number 1 ranked nation USA at Paris 2024 was indeed the icing on the cake of these worthy Nigerians who made powerful statement with their exploits at the Games. Before going out gallantly to Team USA, D’Tigress gave the Yankees a run never ever imagined from a supposed lowly African team!
The D’Tigress’ journey to this stage has been a true source of inspiration for the African continent. By facing and beating top teams, they have proved that Nigeria can compete with the best basketball playing nations in the world. This qualification for the quarter-finals was not only a victory for Nigeria, but also for the whole of African basketball, which sees them as a model of success and perseverance.
D’Tigress winning the Afrobasket tournament four times in a row was clearly a statement that they were ready for the world stage. They proved their worth in France.
And so, it didn’t come as a surprise to basketball aficionados when D’Tigress
Nigeria’s D’Tigress have shown that nothing is impossible. Their Olympic success is a proud moment for Africa and a springboard to a promising future for women’s basketball in Africa.
The Ladies that Made Nigeria Proud at Paris 2024
1 Amy Okonkwo (28) 1.88m
2 Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpannah (27) 1.88m
3 Elizabeth Balogun (24) 1.85m
4 Olaoluwatomi Taiwo (24) 1.78m
5 Lauren Ebo (24) 1.93m
6 Ifunanya Okoro (25) 1.83m
7 Promise Amukamara (31) 1.75m
8 Murjanatu Musa (24) 1.87m
9 Blessing Ejiofor (27) 1.95m
10 Ezinne Kalu (32) 1.73m
11 Adebola Adeyeye (28) 1.88m
12 Nicole Enabosi (27) 1.83m
Gbenga Komolafe, an engineer and lawyer, was first appointed by the Muhammadu Buhari administration as the Commission Chief Executive of Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) in 2021 and has been retained by the Bola Tinubu government since taking over the reins of power in May 2023.
The man in charge of regulating the upstream oil and gas sector, Komolafe has led the commission with rare adroitness, overseeing the recent rapid growth of Nigeria's oil production as well as superintending over some of the most complex divestment exercises in the oil sector in recent times.
Under his watch as the pioneer head of the commission, the country has conducted oil bid rounds, mostly accepted as some of the most transparent in recent years.
Some months ago, Komolafe won the Sun Public Service Award, where he reiterated the NUPRC’s commitment to oil sector growth through the development of regulations that would create value for the country’s hydrocarbon resources.
A few years after coming on board, Komolafe has churned out scores of oil and gas regulations, serving as tools to ensure certainty and predictability of activities in the upstream industry, thereby raising investors’ confidence, certainty, and predictability in the industry.
With the gradual restoration of investors' confidence, the sector has now attracted capital expenditure running into billions of dollars under the visionary leadership of Komolafe.
A Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria (COREN) and member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Komolafe had served in various positions at the then Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF) as well as the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA).
- Private Sector
Leo Stan-Ekeh is a Nigerian businessman and the founder and Chairman of Zinox Group. He is also the chairman of Konga.com.
He started Zinox Technologies Limited in 2001 to manufacture computers, ensuring that at launch Zinox Computers had several certifications.
In October 2013, the company announced the production of its computer tablet line named Zipad and in February 2018, Stan-Ekeh's company Zinox acquired Konga.com from its owners, buying 99 per cent of the total company shares.
Popularly called the digital entrepreneur, Stan-Ekeh was one of the few Nigerians who pioneered Desktop Publishing and Computer Graphics in Nigeria. He computerised a huge portion of the print media, publishing houses and advertising agencies in Nigeria. With the work he does yearly, he has won several industry awards and recognitions.
- INCREASED IGR FOR OGUN STATE
demand of 80 million litres.
In education, Mbah is revolutionising the system by focusing on modern, experiential learning. His government has constructed and equipped 30 Smart Green Schools, with 230 more under construction, to shift the learning paradigm from rote memorisation to hands-on, practical education.
Healthcare has also been a major focus. Mbah’s administration has built and equipped 60 Primary Healthcare Centres with solar power, modern medical equipment, and staff quarters, with 200 more planned to ensure accessible healthcare across the state.
Infrastructure development is another area where Mbah has made an immediate impact, completing over 314 km of roads, including 90 urban roads, improving connectivity across Enugu.
Additionally, the Enugu International Conference Centre, abandoned for 17 years, was completed under his leadership, providing a modern facility for international events and contributing to the state’s tourism and business sectors.
Governor Peter Mbah’s achievements in such a short period highlight his dedication to transforming Enugu into an economic hub, making him a true game changer in Nigerian governance. His focus on security, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and water supply has laid a solid foundation for the state’s sustainable growth and development.
Dapo Abiodun’s leadership in Ogun State has earned him recognition as a true game changer in Nigeria’s governance. Since assuming office in 2019, his administration has been dedicated to improving the state’s economic standing through deliberate and strategic reforms.
One of his most notable achievements is the unprecedented increase in Ogun’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), placing it among the top three states in the country in terms of revenue collection. This attracted the Forbes Award 2023 Best of Africa on Industrial Revolution. This remarkable feat was achieved through efforts in modernising tax systems, enhancing business-friendly policies, and fostering industrial growth.
Under his stewardship, the state’s economy has expanded significantly, with the budget growing from N435 billion in 2019 to a staggering N1.054 trillion. This rapid growth reflects a well-structured plan to boost infrastructure, attract investors, and diversify revenue streams. Abiodun’s administration has made remarkable progress in non-oil revenue generation, positioning Ogun as one of the most resilient states in Nigeria.
In less than three years, he oversaw the construction of one of Nigeria’s best-equipped international airports, featuring the longest runway in the country. This project is a testament to his commitment to infrastructural development and global connectivity.
Beyond the airport, he initiated the construction of a dry port and is set to sign a strategic partnership with Dangote for the Olokonla deep sea port—projects poised to further strengthen Ogun’s industrial base. Abiodun’s government has also earned accolades in ICT, education, and healthcare, driven by a focus on innovation and service delivery. His administration has consistently prioritised the welfare of its citizens, implementing initiatives that have improved the standard of living and attracted national and international recognition.
With numerous awards to his name and a growing economy, Dapo Abiodun’s leadership continues to reshape Ogun State, making him a deserving game changer in Nigeria’s development narrative.
ENUGU STATE
Since taking office on 29th May 2023, Governor Peter Mbah has wasted no time in setting ambitious goals for Enugu State, aiming to grow its economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion in GDP, eradicate poverty, and position the state as a leading destination for business, investment, tourism, and living.
In just 19 months, Mbah has made remarkable strides in turning his vision into reality, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to transformative change.
One of Mbah’s most significant accomplishments is his focus on security, which is vital for the state’s growth and stability. He has made substantial investments in security infrastructure, including the establishment of a state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre and the deployment of 150 patrol vehicles with AI-embedded cameras. This initiative, recently commissioned by the President, has drastically improved security in Enugu, restoring public confidence and creating a conducive environment for economic activities.
Mbah has also made significant strides in improving essential services, notably in the provision of water. After over two decades of neglect, his administration restored public water supply to Enugu City. Water production has surged from just 2 million litres per day to a remarkable 120 million litres, far exceeding the city’s daily water
- REBUILDING LAGOS WITH VISION AND GRIT
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has redefined governance in Lagos State, leading the city through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. His leadership has been marked by an unwavering commitment to infrastructure development, social advancement, and economic growth, making Lagos not just the economic heart of Nigeria, but a truly global city.
In 2024, Sanwo-Olu’s administration completed 53 road projects, including key bridges and pedestrian infrastructure, with over 51 additional projects currently underway. The completion of the historic Red Line Rail, a 27-kilometre route from Agbado to Oyingbo, revolutionised the city’s transportation landscape. This project, which serves over 500,000 passengers daily, is part of an ambitious effort to modernise Lagos’ transport system, with the Blue Line expansion and the Green Line already in progress. These rail systems will ultimately ease traffic congestion, reduce travel times, and improve the quality of life for Lagosians.
Sanwo-Olu’s focus on housing has also seen significant developments, including the completion of over 3,000 housing units such as the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Scheme and Rising Lagos Apartments. These initiatives address the pressing housing deficit in Lagos while ensuring that more residents have access to affordable, quality living spaces.
In healthcare, Sanwo-Olu has overseen the construction of state-ofthe-art facilities, including the near completion of the New Massey Street Children’s Hospital, a 280-bed General Hospital in Ojo, and a 500-bed Psychiatric Hospital in Ketu-Ejinrin. These investments are aimed at providing world-class healthcare services to Lagosians.
Education has also been a focal point of Sanwo-Olu’s administration, with over 2,000 projects completed to enhance school infrastructure across the state. These improvements are designed to provide better learning environments for Lagos’ growing youth population.
Security remains a top priority, with the governor strengthening the capacity of security agencies through the provision of 260 vehicles and advanced equipment. His efforts in bolstering security have enhanced safety across the state, creating a secure environment for investment and growth.
Sanwo-Olu’s youth empowerment initiatives have also made a significant impact, training over 6,000 young people in creative industries and facilitating N1 billion in grants for tech startups. This focus on youth development and entrepreneurship is helping to drive innovation and economic diversification in Lagos.
In the agriculture sector, Sanwo-Olu has launched projects like the Lagos Agripreneurship Programme and Discount Food Markets to boost food security and promote local food production, further contributing to the state’s economic sustainability.
Looking ahead to 2025, the governor’s priorities include maintaining and expanding the state’s infrastructure, promoting non-oil sectors, empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and fostering leadership development through programs such as the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy. These initiatives are driving the Greater Lagos vision, ensuring that Lagos remains a global city at the forefront of innovation, economic growth, and social progress.
Through his transformative leadership, Babajide Sanwo-Olu is reshaping Lagos, making it a beacon of development in Nigeria and beyond. His forward-thinking policies and remarkable achievements make him a true game changer in the country’s governance landscape.
Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, exemplifies a quiet yet impactful style of leadership. Known for his expertise in financial management and economic policy, Edun has played a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s fiscal landscape. His reform agenda, aimed at stabilising the country’s economy, has focused on increasing revenue, reducing debt, and improving financial transparency. Through pragmatic policies and strategic partnerships, Edun has made significant strides in reducing Nigeria’s fiscal vulnerabilities.
A major highlight of his tenure is the implementation of wide-reaching financial reforms that have enhanced public sector efficiency and increased investor confidence. He has worked tirelessly to streamline revenue collection systems and close loopholes that previously led to revenue leakages. His efforts have led to improved remittances from key revenue-generating agencies, thereby boosting the government’s capacity to fund critical infrastructure projects and social programmes. Edun’s understanding of the global financial landscape has been instrumental in positioning Nigeria as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). His focus on strengthening monetary and fiscal policy alignment has ensured a more stable exchange rate regime, improving the business climate and fostering economic growth. Despite the daunting challenges posed by inflation, debt servicing, and low revenue, Edun has remained steadfast in his commitment to fiscal discipline and sustainable economic management. His reforms in tax policy and debt management have been widely praised for their potential to lay a solid foundation for Nigeria’s future economic prosperity.
By focusing on long-term structural adjustments rather than shortterm fixes, Wale Edun is effectively reshaping Nigeria’s financial architecture. His achievements, though often understated, firmly establish him as an unsung hero of Nigeria’s economic reform efforts and a true game changer.
- FOR HIS DETERMINED WAR ON TERROR
Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, has long been recognised as a disciplined and fearless public servant. Known for his groundbreaking work as the pioneer chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ribadu’s transition into national security was both strategic and timely. Faced with Nigeria’s multifaceted security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, and insurgency, Ribadu has adopted a pragmatic and proactive approach in tackling these issues head-on.
Ribadu’s leadership has brought renewed vigour to Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts. He has strengthened intelligence-sharing frameworks and worked closely with both local and international partners to curb the activities of terrorist groups.
Under his watch, there has been an increased focus on addressing the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, illiteracy, and unemployment. His holistic approach to national security goes beyond military action, incorporating socio-economic solutions aimed at long-term peace and stability. A key element of Ribadu’s strategy is the enhancement of Nigeria’s defence capabilities through better training, modern equipment, and improved welfare for security personnel. His commitment to improving inter-agency collaboration has resulted in more coordinated operations against terrorist networks and criminal syndicates. Despite the enormity of the task, Ribadu’s resolve and track record of integrity have inspired confidence in his ability to deliver results.
By blending his experience in fighting corruption with a focus on national security, Nuhu Ribadu has become a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s war on terror. His ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability across the country make him a deserving member of the game changers list.
The US Congress yesterday certified President-elect Donald Trump as the winner of the 2024 election in proceedings that unfolded without violence or mayhem, in stark contrast to the January 6, 2021, violence as his mob of supporters stormed the Capitol.
Lawmakers convened under heavy security and a snowstorm to meet the date required by law to certify the election, but the legacy of January 6 left an extraordinary fact: The candidate who tried to overturn the previous election won this time and is legitimately returning to power. Layers of tall black fencing
flanked the US Capitol complex in a stark reminder of what happened four years ago, when a defeated Trump sent his mob to “fight like hell” in what became the most gruesome attack on the seat of American democracy in 200 years. It was the tightest national security level possible, Associated Press (AP) reported.
Vice President Kamala Harris, presiding over proceedings as the role of the office, read the tally. The chamber broke into applause, first Republicans for Trump, then Democrats for Harris.
The whole process happened swiftly and without unrest. One by one, the state results were read aloud by the tellers as senators and
Kayode Tokede
Guaranty Trust Holding Company
Plc (GTCO), yesterday announced the successful completion of the first tranche of its equity capital raise programme, following the completion of the capital verification exercise conducted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the approval of the Basis of Allotment of the Offer by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The Offer, which garnered substantial interest from domestic retail investors, raised a total of
N209.41 billion from 130,617 valid applications for 4,705,800,290 Ordinary Shares, fully allotted.
The milestone concludes the first phase of GTCO’s phased equity capital raise programme, which is structured on a balanced allocation strategy based on an equal split between institutional and retail investors. The balanced approach aligns with GTCO Plc’s commitment to fostering a well-diversified and robust investor base.
Commenting on the phase of the recapitalisation exercise, Group Chief Executive Officer
WHO Yet to Declare HMPV Public Health Emergency as NCDC Says Virus Not in Nigeria
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has assured Nigerians that the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not yet a public health threat in the country, countering speculations that the virus has spread locally.
The agency also confirmed that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has not declared HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), contrary to claims circulating in the media.
In a statement issued on Monday, the NCDC noted that although there has been a surge in HMPV cases in China, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, there is no cause for alarm in “NCDCNigeria. is committed to safeguarding the health of all Nigerians. In response to recent reports of increased HMPV activity globally, we are closely monitoring
the situation in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare,” the statement said.
The NCDC highlighted that HMPV is a respiratory virus that can cause illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
However, data from the agency’s National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system—covering tertiary and secondary health facilities across the six geopolitical zones—indicates no unusual increase in respiratory infections in Nigeria.
Despite the current low risk, the NCDC has conducted a risk assessment in partnership with WHO, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC), and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The evaluation classified the risk of HMPV for Nigeria as moderate, prompting the agency to initiate proactive measures.
of GTCO , Segun Agbaje in a statement said: “We extend our sincere appreciation to our new and existing shareholders, as well as the regulatory authorities, for their unwavering support during this initial phase of our equity capital raise.
“The strong participation and successful capital verification exercise and allotment process reaffirm the confidence investors have in our fundamentals and execution capabilities. This sets a solid foundation for accelerating our strategic roadmap, which aims to pivot the Group for transformational growth and unlock greater value across the Group’s Banking and Non-Banking businesses.”
GTCO said it continues to lead its peers in key profitability metrics and financial performance. Building on the successful first phase, the
Group said it will commence the second phase of its recapitalisation plan in 2025, which is strategically positioned to attract significant foreign institutional investments, reinforcing its reputation as a "Truly International" financial services brand.
Proceeds from the combined equity raise, it pointed out, will be strategically deployed to recapitalise the Group’s flagship subsidiary, Guaranty Trust Bank Limited (GTBank Nigeria), enhancing its ability to meet regulatory requirements and further solidify its position as a leading financial institution.
Additionally, the funds will support Group-wide growth initiatives, including footprint expansion, product enhancement, and innovation across both Banking and Non-Banking subsidiaries.
representatives sat in seats in the House chamber. Vice Presidentelect JD Vance joined his former colleagues. Within half an hour the process was done, the AP stated.
Democrats frustrated by Trump’s 312-226 Electoral College victory nevertheless accepted the choice of the American voters. Even the winter snow blanketing the grounds didn’t interfere with January 6, the day set by law to certify the vote.
Trump said in a Monday post online that Congress was certifying a “great” election victory and called it “a big moment in history.”
The day’s return to a US tradition that launched the peaceful transfer of presidential power came with an asterisk as Trump prepared to take office in two weeks with a revived sense of authority.
He denied that he lost four years ago, mused about staying beyond the constitution’s two-term White House limit and promised to pardon some of the more than 1,250 people who had pleaded guilty or were convicted of crimes for the Capitol siege.
What’s unclear is if January 6, 2021, was the anomaly, the year Americans violently attacked their own government, or if this year’s expected calm becomes the outlier.
The US is struggling to cope with its political and cultural differences at a time when democracy worldwide is threatened. Trump calls January 6, 2021, a “day of love.”
Biden, speaking Sunday at events at the White House, said: “We’ve got to get back to the basic, normal transfer of power” . What Trump did last time, Biden said, “was a
genuine threat to democracy. I’m hopeful we’re beyond that now,” he added.
Still, American democracy has proven to be resilient, and Congress, the branch of government closest to the people, was coming together to affirm the choice of Americans. Harris presided over the counting, as is the requirement for the vice president, and certified her own defeat — much the way Democrat Al Gore did in 2001 and Republican Richard Nixon in 1961.
She stood at the dais where then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi was abruptly rushed to safety last time as the mob closed in and lawmakers fumbled to put on gas masks and flee, and shots rang out as police killed Ashli Babbitt, a Trump supporter trying to climb through a broken glass door toward the chamber.
The House chaplain, Margaret Kibben, who delivered a prayer during the mayhem four years ago, gave a simple request as the chamber opened to “shine your light in the darkness.”
There are new procedural rules in place in the aftermath of what happened four years ago, when Republicans parroting Trump’s lie that the election was fraudulent challenged the results their own states had certified.
Under changes to the Electoral Count Act, it now requires one-fifth of lawmakers, instead of just one in each chamber, to raise any objections to election results. With security as tight as it is for the Super Bowl or the Olympics, law enforcement was on high alert for intruders.
The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) yesterday announced that applications are now opened for its 2025 Entrepreneurship Programmes.
The Africa’s leading champion of entrepreneurship application opened January 1, 2025 and would be on till March 1, 2025, and applicants are encouraged to complete and submit their applications well ahead of the deadline.
The 2025 Entrepreneurship Programmes is an opportunity for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs across Africa to apply for a chance to receive world-class training, expert mentoring, and
non-refundable seed capital funding to scale their businesses.
The Foundation in a statement stated that the flagship TEF Entrepreneurship Programme is open to all entrepreneurs across Africa with innovative business ideas or existing businesses not older than five years.
“This year, there is a special emphasis on businesses leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and green initiatives. Applicants must be at least 18 years old,” the statement stated.
The programme also opened for the IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme.
“Launched by the Tony Elumelu Foundation in partnership
with the European Union (EU) and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), IYBA-WE4A stands for Investing in Young Businesses in Africa – Women Entrepreneurship for Africa and is exclusively for women entrepreneurs with green business ideas or existing green businesses in Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, Kenya, Mozambique, Malawi, and Togo.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, with businesses not exceeding five years in operation,” it explained on IYBA-WE4A Entrepreneurship Programme.
For the Aguka Ideation Programme, the statement made available to THISDAY explained:
“The Aguka Ideation Entrepreneurship Programme is a partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation, UNDP Rwanda and the Rwandan Ministry of Youths and Arts to support young Rwandan entrepreneurs between 18 -30 with business ideas with a seed capital of $3000, with the aim of nurturing and developing innovative concepts into viable enterprises.” Applications are to be submitted through TEF’s proprietary digital hub, TEFConnect. On eligibility, “the programme is open to African entrepreneurs with scalable business ideas or existing businesses not older than five years. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
Gideon Arinze writes about President Bola Tinubu’s recent one-day official visit to Enugu State during which he met with critical stakeholders from the South East region where he pledged to evenly develop the five states that make up the geo-political zone.
At about 2pm on Saturday, January 4, 2025, the Presidential Jet, Nigeria Air Force 1 bearing Nigeria’s President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu landed at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. Outside the airport, a cheery crowd was waiting to receive the president who was on first official working visit to the state since becoming president on May 29, 2023.
From the airport, the president and his entourage, including the Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, went straight to the Government Technical College, Enugu, where he inaugurated one of the Smart Schools constructed by the administration of Governor Peter Mbah.
It was only one out of several projects inaugurated by the president that Saturday. The president also inaugurated 150 patrol vehicles fitted with AI-embedded surveillance cameras, the International Conference Centre, the New Haven/ Bisalla Road project, among others.
At the Government House, Tinubu rounded off his visit to the state with an interactive session with leaders of the Southeast region who used the opportunity to make varying demands of his administration.
Time to get Nigeria working
In his address, President Tinubu said with the elections already over, it was time to unite and build Nigeria, noting that leaders must make good their pledges to the people.
“We must build this house called Nigeria to not just satisfy our immediate need, but our tomorrow too,” he said. “That’s why the removal of the fuel subsidy was necessary. We can not spend the future of generation yet unborn in advance. Don’t bankrupt the nation before they’re born.”
The president maintained that there’s no better investment than the investment on human capital development and the
security of lives and property.
Demand for completion of rail line project
While applauding the Tinubu’s administration for completing the Port Harcourt to Aba section of the Eastern rail line during the session, former Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo 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.
Tinubu 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.
“It is a work-in-progress. I inherited some of these critical problems and am committed to solving them,” he said.
The president pledged that the federal government would continue to support Enugu and other states in their development
efforts.
Commendation for Mbah
At each of the locations where he inaugurated projects, President Tinubu hailed Governor Mbah for demonstrating what he described as an irrevocable commitment to human and infrastructural developments.
He said Mbah “is doing a fantastic job and I am glad that Enugu got a very good job tomorrow, today. I salute Peter Mbah for his commitment to development, You have built up a good team”.
Tinubu reiterated that he didn’t care what party Mbah comes from as what matters is to get the job done, adding that the governor was already doing that.
His words: “I am very proud of Nigeria. Mbah is proud of Nigeria. He is doing everything possible to provide security, attracting foreign investors, and other investors locally”.
He urged leaders of the region and well meaning citizens to continue to cooperate and collaborate with Mbah who, he says, is really committed to pushing the development of Enugu State and be a good symbol of south eastern states.
S’East leaders want roadblocks
Tinubu pledged that the federal government, under his leadership would continue to support Enugu and other states in the region in their development efforts. Leaders and millions of residents from the geo-political zone hope that President Tinubu’s visit to Enugu, considered to be the capital of the Southeast, would bring about positive changes in terms of infrastructure and general wellbeing of the people.
dismantled
During the interactive session, leaders of the Southeast region appealed to President Tinubu to order the immediate dismantling of hundreds of checkpoints and roadblocks across the region, which were contributing to the rising cost of transportation.
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 explained that with the modern command and control centre, ultramodern statewide CCTV, modern cameras mounted on patrol cars, some of which were inaugurated in Enugu, as well as other strategies put in place, there was no need for the traditional checkpoints and roadblocks.
“With these facilities, we are confident that there’s less need for the traditional practice of mounting roadblocks at checkpoints,” he said.
“Checkpoints, in my view, have many drawbacks, checkpoints, and roadblocks make the movement of goods and persons very expensive, very inefficient, and increase the cost of logistics, leading to high inflation,” Nnamani told the President.
Tinubu pledged that the federal government, under his leadership would continue to support Enugu and other states in the region in their development efforts.
Leaders and millions of residents from the geo-political zone hope that President Tinubu’s visit to Enugu, considered to be the capital of the Southeast, would bring about positive changes in terms of infrastructure and general wellbeing of the people.
TUeSday, J a NU a Ry 7, 2025
’During
‘There are guidelines, for the grant of exparte orders. Where a Judge is found to have ignored them, to have acted without due regard to proper process or even the facts of the matter, then the necessary action will be taken, once it is brought to the attention of the National Judicial Council.’ - Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON, Chief Justice of Nigeria
‘In this 2025…. We are committed to pursuing our policing vision, more vigorously. We will prioritise community engagement, professionalism and emphasise better conduct of our Officers.’ - Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, Inspector General of Police
Page V
PROF MIKE OZEKHOME, CON, SAN, FCIArb, PH.D. LLD Constitutional Democracy, means a system of government, in which political and governmental power, is defined, limited and shared by a grundnorm called the Constitution, which provides inbuilt checks and balances.
This column seeks to fiercely discuss constitutional, legal and political issues, with a view to strengthening, deepening and widening the plenitude and amplitude of democracy and good governance, without fear or favour.
The writer of this column, Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN, is a Constitutional Lawyer, Human Rights Activist, Pro-Democracy Campaigner, Notary Public and Motivational Speaker. He co-founded the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Nigeria’s pioneer human rights league, on October 15, 1987, the Universal defenders of Democracy (UDD), in 1992, and with Chief Gani Fawehinmi and others in 1998, the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), to push out the military. In his early days, he lectured at the University of Ife. Prof Ozekhome is an author of many books. He is also a Special Counsel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), at The Hague.
onikepo braithwaite: editor, jude
Page V
Page V NBA Ikeja Set to Hold 2025 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture
Prof S. T. Hon, SAN Named Pillar of Sports
RIP President Jimmy Carter
Happy New Year, dear Readers. Alhamdulillah. Alleluia. We thank God for letting us see 2025, and with the usual “renewed hope” and optimism that accompanies a new year, we pray that this year will be better than 2024, which was another “annus horribilis” for majority of Nigerians, due to the harsh economic conditions we experienced. And, though one of the omnibus prayers of a new year, is that the tears and sorrows we have experienced in the past should go with the previous year and never resurface, I found myself crying in the new year, when I watched a video which showed some of the life of service that late US President Jimmy Carter lived. May the flight of angels sing thee, James Earl Carter Jr, the 39th President of the United States of America, to thy rest. Amen.
In the video I watched, President Carter was said to have lived a very simple life on his Presidential pension of $217,000 per annum, in a small house worth $167,000, drove a second hand Ford that was about 25 years old and travelled economy class; but, he spent over $30 million (almost N50 billion) from his Carter Centre fighting river blindness and guinea worm disease (probably in Africa) and building houses for low income earners, personally participating in some of the construction work, even in old age - selflessness.
So, my tears are tears of sorrow for Nigeria, because I compared President Jimmy Carter to many of the so-called leaders that we have here, who, in contrast to him are selfish, self-centred, greedy, corrupt, conceited, egocentric, megalomanic, inept, complete with a total lack of empathy for the people.
My tears were soon replaced with a feeling of disgust, when the next video that I watched was that of the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, who is facing corruption charges in excess of N110 billion, happily prancing around in the name of dancing, being celebrated by his successor, Governor Usman Ododo and others in the Palace of the King of Ebiraland. How sad and twisted - celebrating failure. What an irony! A Caucasian man, President Jimmy Carter, who is not African, spent his hard earned money on fighting disease in Africa, while a Governor, someone who is from the State he governs, whom people may have voted for to lead them, stands accused of stealing the funds meant to better the people’s lives, that of their children and future generations, by achieving the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy contained in Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) (the Constitution)! I saw photos of Kogi people visiting Yahaya Bello in droves, obviously hoping to get some handouts during the festive season. Do they not know that “owo Abu lo fin se Abu l’alejo“ (it is Abu’s money that he’s using to entertain Abu)? - meaning it’s the people’s money, alleged stolen government funds, that Yahaya Bello is giving the people as charity! Do the people not realise that, like other allegedly corrupt leaders, Yahaya Bello too is responsible for their plight? Today, our so-called leaders have so weaponised poverty to the point that “an pe malu ni brother” (we are calling a cow, brother), meaning we are showing respect to the seriously undeserving.
The Tinubu administration has been in office for almost two years, and Nigerians are hoping that this new year will be accompanied with a new dawn of the beginning of a better life. All the three arms of government, that is the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary already have their work cut out for them, as set out in Sections 4-6 and Chapter II of the Constitution, vis-à-vis the realities on ground in Nigeria today.
Judiciary
Seeing that as a Lawyer, the Judiciary is part of my constituency, it is apposite for me to start here. Our new year actually started on September 30, 2024, when the new and second female Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON (née Fasinro) was sworn in. It would be tautologous for me to repeat the expectations of Nigerians and many administration of justice sector reformists like myself, which have already been copiously stated that must be realised to improve the Judiciary and legal profession as a whole - review of the recruitment process of judicial officers, so that only the brightest
onikepo
onIkePo BRaIThwaITe
onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com
“In just over three months into CJN Kekere-Ekun’s tenure, it is fast becoming obvious that Her Lordship is determined to restore the respect and dignity of the much maligned Judiciary, and it will no longer be business as usual for the bad eggs, as Her Lordship has made it clear that corruption and abuse of court process…will not be tolerated”
and the best are selected; weeding out of the corrupt (see Section 15(5) of the Constitution) and incompetent; enforcement of discipline of Judges by the National Judicial Council (NJC) in consonance with the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) for Lawyers, as it takes two to tango, in that, the corrupt Judges carry out their clandestine activities at the instance of Lawyers and their clients; making the wheels of justice move faster, particularly by leveraging on technology, amongst other prayers.
In just over three months into CJN KekereEkun’s tenure, it is fast becoming obvious that Her Lordship is determined to restore the respect and dignity of the much maligned Judiciary, and it will no longer be business as usual for the bad eggs, as Her Lordship has made it clear that corruption and abuse of court process like forum shopping, issuance of reckless ex-parte orders etc, will not be tolerated. However, I maintain that, where there is a petition against a Judge for example, for allowing himself to be used in forum shopping, there must also be a simultaneous petition to the LPDC against the Lawyer who did the forum shopping. I also think that, like the UK, Judges should also be able to report Lawyers to the LPDC for professional misconduct.
One of my first expectations from Government for 2025, is a census. Enough of these guessing games and estimates! I find it bizarre that we do not have definite figures; how do you plan accurately and effectively, without correct data and statistics? I do not know.
In January 2017, the first new year after I became Editor of this esteemed publication, I
had listed about 12 expectations of Nigerians for the new year. Some of them, including security, remain unfulfilled till today. As we all know, by virtue of Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, the security and welfare of the people is the primary purpose of government. However, these days, though we appear to be hearing less about Boko Haram, the herdsmen/farmer issues, kidnapping and banditry still persist (also the emergence of the Lakurawas), and our expectation that the rest of the Chibok girls and Leah Sharibu (Dapchi girl) would be rescued safely, still remains unfulfilled, and therefore, part of our hopes and expectations for 2025, is the fulfilment of this.
It appears that the Tinubu administration is taking insecurity more seriously than its predecessor, and for one, the Armed Forces in the last couple of years, seems to be trying to face insurgency head on. Hopefully, this year, security will be even more prioritised, so that the Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies will have a more positive impact on the security situation in the country. Aside from the fact that better security will lead to increased agricultural output (see Section 16 of the Constitution on food security), as farmers will be able to return to their farms, IDPs will also be able to return home to resume their normal lives and people will be able to move about more freely, thereby increasing economic growth - in short, the reason why security is the primary purpose of government, is that it is a given fact that a country cannot thrive without security, as security and economic development go hand in hand - without the former, the latter cannot really be achieved.
As for the welfare of the people, I pray that our so-called leaders will play less politics
with the lives of Nigerians, and instead, be selfless and imbibe more of the qualities of President Jimmy Carter and Lee Kuan Yew. According to the International Poverty Rate used by the World Bank, as of 2018, with the exception of Ebonyi, Enugu and Cross River State, the first 20 States with the highest populations living on less than poverty thresholds were in the Northern part of Nigeria. So, take for example, the Tax Reform Bills, if the goal of the Bills is to allow the poor pay less tax and live better, why do the Northern Governors appear to be resisting the Bills, if their people are already alleged to be the poorest in Nigeria, and they have the interest of their people at heart? In fact, if the old tax regime is so good for the Northerners, why are they worse off? Or is it that the old tax regime is beneficial for only the Governors and the elite, and not the people? In 2025, towards addressing the welfare of the people, provision of stable electricity supply for all should also be a priority. Between 2015 and about 2019/2020, it was tackled, and there was some improvement. Since then, it has been on the decline again. In 2024, the national grid collapsed countless times; and while the electricity tariff was increased, Nigeria is still struggling with inadequate electricity supply. The people are living as if in the ‘Dark Ages’. Nigerians are no longer interested in buck passing - whether GENCOs, DISCOs or whatever, constant electricity supply is a basic need, not a luxury, and we expect that Government will face this issue squarely this year. In 2025, Nigerians are hoping for better and affordable healthcare services - see Section 17(3) (d) of the Constitution. Similarly, Section 18 of the Constitution sets out the educational objectives the State should achieve. Like many Governors and Politicians, Yahaya Bello didn’t send his children to his most likely sub-standard State Schools in Kogi State, since he probably didn’t do much to improve them or raise their standard. He sent his children to the American International School (AIS) in Abuja, and stands accused of using Government funds to pay for his children’s school fees until they complete their education there! So much so, that AIS refunded the advance payment.
Legislature
Nigerians want to see the Legislature make laws for peace, order and good government, not self-serving or repugnant laws. As the Fapohunda Committee updates the 2004 Laws of the Federation, this is the appropriate time to make the much needed amendments, delete from the statute books irrelevant laws or those that have been struck down by the Supreme Court for one reason or the other, while codifying others. It is also time for a holistic review of the Constitution. In over 25 years of the Fourth Republic, so much has happened - for instance, Section 162 of the Constitution on the LGC direct allocation must be amended, (so also Section 7 on LGCs); the 25% of FCT issue (Section 134(2) (b) of the Constitution), amongst several others.
Conclusion
What Nigerians want to see in 2025, is more of the realisation of the goals set out in Chapter II of the Constitution. They want to see good infrastructure and better living conditions. They want elected officials to start to fulfil their campaign promises, in line with the aforementioned Chapter II. Importantly, Nigerians want to see an increase in the tempo of the fight against corruption. In 2025, two things that Nigerians are definitely tired of hearing, are motivational speeches which are mostly spiced with requests for patience, and unfulfilled promises.
Fact
s
Sometime in 2005, the 1st Respondent applied by way of an Originating Summons to the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/ICS/589/2005, for leave to call, hold and conduct a meeting of the Board of Directors of Pan Ocean Oil Corporation Limited (“Pan Ocean”). The 1st Respondent also sought an order that one director (the 1st Respondent) be deemed as quorum for the purpose of the meeting and that any decision taken at the meeting be binding on Pan Ocean. The court granted the 1st Respondent’s application. At the court-ordered meeting which held on 29th November 2005, the 1st Respondent allotted to himself 5,500 ordinary shares out of the Company’s 7,500 unallotted shares and 1,000 shares each to two other persons. Prior to this allotment, the authorised share capital of Pan Ocean was 10,000 ordinary shares out of which the 1st and 2nd Appellants already held 1,250 shares each.
After the allotment, the 1st Respondent again approached the Federal High Court for an order validating the business that was transacted at the meeting of 29th November 2005, particularly the allotment of the 7,500 shares. The 1st Respondent represented to the court that the notices of general meeting sent to the existing shareholders (i.e. the 1st and 2nd Appellants) for ratification of the allotment were returned undelivered hence it was impossible to convene the general meeting of Pan Ocean to enable them ratify the allotment. After hearing the application, the Federal High Court made an order validating the allotment as done at the behest of the 1st Respondent. Aggrieved by the action of the 1st Respondent, the Appellants filed an action at the Federal High Court, seeking an order setting aside the order validating the allotment of Pan Ocean’s unallotted shares by the 1st Respondent on the ground that the order was obtained by the 1st Respondent fraudulently. The 3rd and 4th Appellants sued alongside the 1st and 2nd Appellants, as the administrators of the estate of Dr. Vittorio Fabri - the beneficiary of all the shares in a company incorporated in British West Indies called Impex Limited. Impex Limited was the owner of the 1st and 2nd Appellants. Upon being served with the Appellants’ originating process, the 1st Respondent filed a Statement of Defence together with a Notice of Preliminary Objection challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit and the locus standi of the Appellants to institute the suit. After hearing arguments on the preliminary objection, the trial court delivered its ruling in which it upheld the preliminary objection and dismissed the suit. Dissatisfied, the Appellants appealed to the Court of Appeal. The Court of Appeal in its judgement substituted the order of dismissal made by the trial court with an order of striking out of the suit. Still dissatisfied, the Appellants appealed to the Supreme Court.
Issues for Determination
The Supreme Court considered the following issues submitted for determination by the Appellants:
1. Whether the 3rd and 4th Appellants lack the capacity to institute the action.
2. Whether the Court of Appeal was right in striking out the action on the ground that the 1st and 2nd Appellants do not have locus standi.
Arguments
On the 1st issue, counsel for the Appellants argued that the 3rd and 4th Appellants’ power to sue arose from the Letters of Administration issued to them with respect to the estate of their father - Dr Fabbri and their action was informed by the shares in Impex held in trust for their father. Counsel contended that the 3rd and 4th Appellants did not sue to recover or lay claim to the shares in Impex but sued to set aside the order of the Federal High Court validating the 1st Respondent’s allotment of shares in Pan Ocean to himself. Counsel submitted that the Court of Appeal erroneously held that the subject matter of the Appellants’ action is the shares in Impex and that it is only trustees of the said shares held on behalf of Dr Fabbri that have the capacity to sue regarding the same. It was
Honourable Haruna Simon Tsammani, JSC
In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja On Friday, the 14th day of June, 2024
Before their lordships
Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju Ibrahim Mohammed Musa Saulawa Chioma egondu Nwosu-Iheme Haruna Simon Tsammani Jamilu yammama Tukur Justices, Supreme Court
SC.697/2018
Between
1. INTeR OCeaN OIL deVeLOPMeNT COMPaNy (NIGeRIa)
2. INTeR OCeaN OIL eXPLORaTION COMPaNy (NIGeRIa)
3. PaTRIZO FaBBRI
(Suing as administrator of the estate of dr Vittorio Fabbri)
4. RICCaRdO FaBBRI
(Suing as administrator of the estate of dr Vittorio Fabbri)
1. dR FeSTuS aLaNI FadeyI
aPPeLLaNTS
2. CORPORaTe aFFaIRS COMMISSION ReSPONdeNTS (Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Haruna Simon Tsammani, JSC)
further submitted that although held in trust, the beneficial interest in the shares in question forms part of the estate of Dr Fabbri and the Court of Appeal having found in its judgement that the 3rd and 4th Appellant are beneficiaries of the estate of Dr Fabbri; it goes without saying that the 3rd and 4th Appellants are entitled to sue to protect their interest in the estate including the shares in Pan Ocean held indirectly by Dr Fabbri through Impex through the 1st and 2nd Appellant . In response, Counsel for the 1st Respondent argued that a beneficiary under a trust does
“….. where it is alleged that the affairs of the company have been conducted in an illegal or wrongful manner, it is the company itself through its directors or shareholders that have the legal capacity to institute an action to either remedy or ratify the wrong”
dent submitted that the Court of Appeal did not at any time determine whether the 1st and 2nd Appellants have locus standi to institute the action but had rightly struck out the suit in view of the 3rd and 4th Appellants’ incompetence.
Court’s Judgement and Rationale In its determination of the 1st issue, the Apex Court held that where it is alleged that the affairs of the company have been conducted in an illegal or wrongful manner, it is the company itself through its directors or shareholders that have the legal capacity to institute an action to either remedy or ratify the wrong. The Court referred to the provisions of Section 299 of CAMA 1990 (the subsisting law at the time the action was instituted). The Supreme Court held that by the said provision and the extant provisions of CAMA 2020, it is only Pan Ocean through its directors and/ or shareholders that can sue to remedy or ratify the wrong done to it, and though the 3rd and 4th Appellants as beneficiaries of the estate of Dr Fabbri who died intestate could sue to protect their interest in the said estate, when it comes to shares purported to be held by or in trust for Dr Fabbri in either the 1st and 2nd Appellants or Pan Ocean Corporation, they had to show that they are registered members of the 1st and 2nd Appellants. The Apex Court found that not having done that, they are strangers to the 1st and 2nd Appellants, and therefore, have no locus standi to sue in respect of the shares held by the 1st and 2nd Appellants in Pan Ocean. It is thus, only the shareholders of Pan Ocean (the 1st and 2nd Appellants) or its directors, that have the locus standi to sue in the circumstance.
The Court held further that the 1st and 2nd Appellants as well as Impex have separate corporate personalities, hence, the proprietary rights attached to the 1st and 2nd Appellants’ shareholding in Pan Ocean belong exclusively to the 1st and 2nd Appellants, and Impex has no capacity to sue in respect of shareholding in Pan Ocean being the property of the 1st and 2nd Appellants, neither does Dr Fabbri or the beneficiaries/administrators of his estate have such capacity. The Court found that the issue of succession to the estate of Dr Fabbri is limited to the shares held on his behalf in Impex, and the shares held by the 1st and 2nd Appellants in Pan Ocean cannot be subject of Dr Fabbri’s testate or intestate succession as these companies are deemed by law to be self-succeeding.
not have the capacity to sue on behalf of the trust except where authorised under the trust deed. Counsel argued that the only persons with the legal capacity to sue in respect of the shares held in trust for Dr Fabbri in Impex are Weatstone Investment Limited and Oil Investment Ltd being the trustees and recognised legal owners of the said shares. Counsel submitted further that Section 155(5) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act is very clear on the rights of persons in the shoes of the 3rd and 4th Appellants as only being limited to dividends and other advantages conferred on Dr Fabbri as beneficiary but not to extend to the exercise of any right conferred by membership until they are registered as members.
On the 2nd issue, Counsel for the Appellants argued that given that there was no question before the Court of Appeal as to the competence of the 1st and 2nd Appellants to institute the action, there was no basis for the lower court to have raised the same suo motu and struck out the suit, particularly as the 1st and 2nd Appellants had rightly sued in their capacity as shareholders of Pan Ocean. In response, Counsel for the 1st Respon-
Resolving the 2nd issue, the Supreme Court referred to the provision of Order 9 Rule 14 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2009 and its decision in BELLO v INEC (2010) 8 NWLR (PT. 1196) 342, that no proceedings shall be defeated by reason of misjoinder or non-joinder of parties, and the court may in every cause or matter, deal with the matter in controversy so far as regards the rights and interests of the parties actually before it. The Apex Court held that being shareholders and registered members of Pan Ocean, the 1st and 2nd Appellants have the requisite locus standi under Section 310 and 311 of CAMA 2004, to initiate an action complaining that the affairs of Pan Ocean are being or have been conducted in a manner that is oppressive or unfairly prejudicial to them. Their Lordships held that while the 3rd and 4th Appellants lack locus standi, the 1st and 2nd Appellants are competent to present the suit in their personal capacity; and the proper order the Court of Appeal should have made, having found that the 3rd and 4th Respondents lacked the locus standi to institute the action, is an order striking out the names of the 3rd and 4th Appellants as Plaintiffs in the suit, and not an order striking out the suit in its entirety.
Appeal Allowed in Part. Suit remitted to the trial court to be heard before another Judge other than J. T. Tsoho (CJ) with the 1st and 2nd Appellants as Plaintiffs.
Representation
Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya with Mrs Ibukun Fasuro, Halima Shuaibu and Emmanuel Bulus for the Appellants.
Peter Olomona with Ademola Abimbola for the 1st Respondent. 2nd Respondent unrepresented.
Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Report (NMLR)(An affiliate of Babalakin & Co.)
Stories by Steve Aya
The First Female Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Folake Solanke, CON, has urged Lawyers to remain corruption free in the discharge of their duties.
Chief Solanke gave the advice at the 2024 Nigerian Bar Association Ibadan Branch’s Law Week and 70th anniversary, themed "Law, Legal Practice and Development".
Chief Solanke charged Lawyers to maintain their stand boldly without being biased, as expected of them in the legal profession.
She urged Lawyers to always be mindful of their appearance and
look elegant, to project the noble profession.
The 92-year-old Senior Advocate of Nigeria also
urged Lawyers to always maintain the culture of reading, despite the advent of technology.
"Never be tired of reading, because it's very critical for your work and profession.
"Always remember that time is of the essence, your appearance is extremely important, young Lawyers
especially should be industrious and follow the advice of the elder ones.
A past President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, has called on the Judiciary to protect its integrity by purging itself of bad eggs. Chief Olanipekun made the call in Ibadan, at the opening of the Law Week and 70th Anniversary Celebration of the NBA, Ibadan Branch.
At the programme themed “Law, Legal Practice and Development”, Chief
To Mark 21 Years of Fawehinmiism With a Focus on Nigeria’s Economic Survival
The Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch, is marking the 21st anniversary of Fawehinmiism with the 2025 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture. The event is set to take place on January 15, 2025, at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, bringing together some of Nigeria’s most prominent legal and economic minds.
Former Central Bank Governor, His Highness (HH) Muhammed Sanusi II, CON, will serve as Chairman of the occasion.
Professor Ademola Popoola, a former Dean of the Faculty of Law at Obafemi Awolowo University, has been announced as the lead speaker.
The event will feature a segment on “The Gani That
I Know”. Speaking in this segment are King Sunny Ade, Nurudeen Ogbara, Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, Dr Wahab Shittu, SAN, Richard Akinnola and Ayo Olanrewaju. NBA Commences Registration for AGC
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced the commencement of the registration for her 2025 Annual General Conference scheduled for Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Chief Emeka Obegolu, J.P., SAN, advised all Lawyers to visit the NBA-Conference Registration portal, to ensure they catch the Early Bird Registration opportunity.
Olanipekun urged the Bar and Bench to identify the bad and corrupt ones, bring them to justice, and flush them out of the system lest they rubbish other good practitioners. He called on the Judiciary stakeholders to join the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-
Ekun, GCON, to sanitise the entire Judiciary system.
Chief Olanipekun enjoined the Bar to stop all means of attacking Judges, especially in the media. According to him, the Bench should also ensure temperate language for the legal practitioners,
Professor of Legal Practice and Law Author, Sebastine Tar Hon, SAN, was last week in Gboko, Benue State named Pillar of Sports by Maximum Fitness and Wellness Services in collaboration with Jeffrey Kuraun Foundation, a registered charity that is nonpartisan, non-political, non-religious, and nonprofit.
In a chat with one of the organisers of the Tournament, Dr Jeffrey Kuraun said: “This is our maiden edition, and arguably the first of its kind in Benue State. It was a momentous occasion, as we honoured several deserving individuals, including Prof S. Tar Hon, SAN, with the Pillar of Sports in Gboko Award.
“Our aim is to recognise and celebrate the achievements of these individuals, while also promoting sports development and encouraging others to emulate their examples.
“On the Pillar of Sports Award and Prof S.T. Hon,
always acting nobly, whether in court or not, and behaving honourably with their colleagues.
“Do not engage in strife, blackmail, mudslinging, campaign of calumny, treachery, or any attempt to pull anyone down.
“If the forbearers of this Branch had
engaged themselves in mudslinging, war of attrition, among other vices, Ibadan Bar would not be where it is today.
“Life in the country will become solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short without law playing its proper role”, Chief Olanipekun said.
SAN, we chose to confer the Pillar of Sports Award on Prof. S.T. Hon, SAN, because of his outstanding contributions to sports development in Gboko, Benue State.
“Despite being a Professor of Law, he has demonstrated a remarkable passion for football, and his efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of many young people.
“As an award recipient, Prof S.T. Hon, SAN, will be expected to continue promoting sports development and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps. We also hope that he will serve as a role model and mentor to young people, sharing his knowledge and experience to help them achieve their goals”, Dr Kuraun said.
Fielding questions on his track record as a Sportsman, Hon, SAN said: “I started playing football at a very tender age, right from when I was in primary school. I could score up to four goals in a football match, even though playing from the wings. You understand what I mean?
“At the School of Basic Studies, I played for the school team. I was commonly known as the "Maradona," because of my dribbling skills and scoring ability. Off school, I used to play for Junior Hawks.
“I didn't play for UNIJOS where I read Law, because I refused to show up on the field of play because 'Lawyers do not play football'. Out of sheer youthful exuberance,
Prof S.T. Hon, SAN said: “I feel highly honoured to be conferred with the award. Never dreamt of it; only used to read about Chief MKO Abiola, GCFR as the Pillar of Sports in Africa. Even though mine is merely microscopic, I greatly cherish and value it. Additionally, one feels really good that one's modest efforts are being recognised and appreciated. Above all, I thank Jehovah God Almighty for His mercies and faithfulness.
however, I showed up late at the Akwa Ibom State NYSC football team training ground.
“That was how they started calling me 'Stephen Keshi', due to how I handled that position. There are other details I will not mention here; but, football was not wellpaying then. I wouldn't say I would have preferred football to law.
“This Award will definitely spur me on. For instance, I am planning a Football Academy in Gboko. I will say no more. Football is important to international diplomacy and politics. I do not need to elaborate more on this, as it is common knowledge. Then, sporting giants are informal Ambassadors of their home countries, attracting all that could flow into their mother countries and or States. Repatriation of funds from the host to the home countries is a common feature, when successful sports men and women ply their skills in foreign countries.”
Though Nigeria has never lacked Human Rights activists, Femi Falana, SAN is one of the foremost Human Rights Lawyers who has, over the decades, even from the military days, stayed committed in the cause of the crusade against societal injustice. as our first interview personality of the year, onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi sought out the international human rights and anti-corruption crusader. In his characteristic manner, he fearlessly spoke truth to power, even on the most troubling issues in the polity, not minding whose ox is gored
The past few weeks have been quite busy for the human rights community, especially with the face-off between human rights Lawyer, Dele Farotimi and the doyen of the legal profession, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN. Arresting Farotimi on allegations of criminal defamation and cybercrime offences following the statements his book titled ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System’, the subsequent arraignment and detention in Ekiti State didn’t sit
quite well with many people, within and outside Nigeria, some of whom believe that defamation is a civil wrong, having been decriminalised in several jurisdictions, including Ekiti. As a human rights Lawyer, what is your take on the entire episode?
The criminal cases against Mr Dele Farotimi are pending in two courts. So, I cannot comment on the materiality of both cases because of the principle of sub judice. But upon the arrest of Mr. Dele Farotimi in Lagos, I
“I do not agree with the categorisation of the Judiciary, as the most corrupt institution in the country…. No doubt, there are some corrupt and incompetent Judges. But, that cannot be a basis to say that the Judiciary is the most corrupt body in Nigeria. I am in a vantage position, to assess the Judiciary”
was the first to condemn it. I demanded for his immediate release, and advised whoever he had allegedly defamed to sue for libel in a civil court.
When I later learnt that Aare Afe Babalola, SAN was the Complainant, I reached out to him and suggested a libel suit instead of pursuing a criminal complaint. Even though my advice was turned down at the material time, I remain convinced that is the best way to handle the matter.
A few months ago, two journalists were arrested and charged with criminal defamation for embarrassing President Barrow of The Gambia. I was one of those who prevailed on the President of that country to drop the criminal charge. The charge has been dropped, while the President has opted to pursue a libel suit.
Having read Mr Farotimi's book entitled "Nigeria and Its
Criminal Justice System", I believe very strongly that Aare Afe Babalola, SAN ought to institute a libel suit in order to redeem his reputation. Can a Senior Advocate of Nigeria appear in a Magistrate Court?
For sure, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria is entitled to appear in any court to defend a client. I do appear in general courts-martial and special courts-martial to represent accused officers and soldiers. I also appear in Magistrate Courts to represent clients. From time to time, I appear before a Coroner to inquire into the causes of violent deaths. Of course, I also appear before judicial or administrative panels of inquiry.
Under the Ekiti State Criminal Procedure Law, it is specifically provided that a legal practitioner, regardless of his or her status, is entitled to represent a client in any criminal matter. I was told that the trial Magistrate in the case of Dele Farotimi agreed with the constitutional right of a defendant
to a counsel of choice, but that he was bound by a judgement of the Court of Appeal which had barred Mr Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN from appearing in a Magistrate Court in a particular case.
In the case between the Falanas and Very Darkman, you chose the path of rule of law despite obvious provocation. What exactly transpired in this matter? What is the position of the case?
In spite of the provocation and pressure, I decided to file a civil suit in the Lagos State High Court. My son, Falz equally filed a libel suit in order to redeem his reputation. We did so for a couple of reasons. First, i am involved in the campaign to decriminalise free speech in Africa. Second, the Cybercrime Act has been amended to remove cyberstalking, defamation, annoyance and insult. So, I could not have asked the Police to prosecute anyone under a law that has been amended to guarantee freedom of expression. It would have been embarrassing for me, if it was reported that I had invoked criminal libel to challenge the defamation of my character. Recently, a report by the NBS/ UNODC claiming that the Nigerian Judiciary is the most corrupt institution in Nigeria made the rounds. Do you agree? Do you think this assessment of the Judiciary is fair? What steps can the Judiciary take to reverse this extremely negative narrative and perception?
I do not agree with the categorisation of the Judiciary, as the most corrupt institution in the country. Notwithstanding its shortcomings, the National Judicial Council (NJC) has an inbuilt mechanism for dealing with erring Judges. No doubt, there are some corrupt and incompetent Judges. But, that cannot be a basis to say that the Judiciary is the most corrupt body in Nigeria. I am in a vantage position to assess the Judiciary. Nigeria has continued to produce very good and incorruptible Judges. Concerned Lawyers must not bespatter the face of the Judiciary, with the paint brush of shame. Our duty as citizens is to isolate corrupt Judges, and expose them through petitions submitted to the NJC. That is better than the indolent way of rubbishing all Judges.
Under the current political dispensation, Judges who were found guilty of misconduct have been removed from the Bench on the recommendations of the NJC. In 1994, the Sani Abacha military junta set up the Kayode Eso Panel, to rid the Judiciary of corrupt judges. The Panel did a thorough job, but some of the indicted Judges were friends of the ruling military junta. So, the report was dumped in the archives. But, at the end of military
rule, the News magazine got hold of the report. Since the government did not issue a White Paper, the Editors were advised not to publish the report. But, I advised them to publish the report. They did, and the Olusegun Obasanjo administration forwarded the report to the NJC for necessary action. The NJC acted on the report, investigated the indicted Judges. At the end of the inquiry, 47 Judges were sacked for corrupt practices and other malfeasance. In addition, not less than 20 others, including 3 Justices of the Court of Appeal have been given the boot in the past 25 years. Last month, two Judges were recommended to be removed by the NJC, for producing fake affidavits of age to remain in the service.
In order to remove the perception that the Judiciary is the most corrupt institution in Nigeria, the NJC must redouble its efforts to rid the Judiciary of bad eggs. The Nigerian Bar Association must assist the NJC, because Lawyers, particularly senior Lawyers, know all corrupt Judges in the country. The Nigerian Bar Association has 5 members in the National Judicial Council, and 2 members in the Federal Judicial Service Commission. The members have not been representing the Lawyers of the Nigerian people. I am aware
“So, the President cannot say that the economic policy that breeds poverty, disease and death will not be reviewed. The N70,000 minimum wage in a country where a Senator earns N21 million per month, has made a mockery of income disparity in Nigeria”
that progressive Lawyers have had to drag the NJC to court, over the appointment of unfit candidates as Judges. The battle to sanitise the Judiciary, has also become a risky venture for a few Lawyers.
It has been alleged that Lawyers who are critical of corruption in the Judiciary are usually harassed by many Judges. Is it true?
My experience is that, Lawyers who have irrefutable evidence of misconduct by judicial officers cannot be intimidated. On one occasion, I gave a public lecture where I said that Nigerian courts had become supermarkets, which are patronised by the rich. Two Judges invited me to confirm whether their courts were part of the supermarkets. I asked for issuance and service of summons on me. Perhaps, convinced that I would challenge the validity of such summons, the Judges did not issue them. I reported the matter to the NJC. Even though the NJC dismissed the petition, my cases were transferred from both Judges to other courts.
On another occasion, a Judge was accused of selling justice in a tribunal headed by him. He was probed and charged with corruption. I was not the petitioner, but he wanted me to intervene on his behalf. I advised him to resign, but he didn't like it. So, he threatened to kill me. He sent 10 text messages that contained death threats, in less than 24 hours. I reported him to the Police. The allegation was quietly investigated and confirmed. The report was one of the justifications for the removal of the Judge from the system. Despite the crusade of selfless personalities like you, systemic corruption appears to be rife in Nigeria and also
appears to have defied every effort by successive administrations to curb it. What are we not doing right in the fight against corruption?
It is common knowledge that capitalist countries are very corrupt, because the system is built on fraud and sustained by exploitation. The difference between advanced capitalist countries and neo-colonial States, is the attitude to the rule of law by the ruling classes. According to Professor Akin Oyebode, the 11th commandment of the bourgeoisie is 'thou shall not be caught'. In the West, if you are caught, the law will deal with you. By sacrificing a member of the ruling class, the impression is created that there is equality before the law. Hence, Lord Alfred Denning once stated that, no matter how high you are, the law is higher than you. But, in a neocolonial, capitalist country like Nigeria, the members of the ruling class are higher than the law. Hence, it is very difficult to investigate and prosecute politically exposed persons, because they have the means to frustrate their prosecution. As far as I am concerned, a leader who is determine to fight corruption must be prepared to commit class suicide. Hence, only a revolutionary government can seriously confront the menace of corruption. That is a major challenge before the left forces in the country, because Mao Tseng had said that a revolution is not a dinner party, but an insurrection in which one class overthrows another. Why do Nigerian Lawyers not seem to be too active in the African Courts like the ECOWAS Court and other international fora, like Nigerian Judges who are serving in such courts?
The Federal Government is solely responsible for denying Nigerians
the opportunity to appear before the African Court. By virtue of Article 34 of the protocol of the establishment of the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights, member States of the African Union are required to make a declaration accepting the African Court's jurisdiction to receive complaints from individuals and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). As of December 2024, only eight States have made the declaration. This means that only individuals and NGOs from the eight States can directly access the court, even though 34 States have ratified the protocol. Nigeria is not one of them. All appeals made to Nigeria to sign the declaration, has fallen on deaf ears.
Since the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights was established in 2006, I am the only Nigerian Lawyer who handles cases in the Court. Even though many Nigerians appear in the ECOWAS Court, the Government of Nigeria does not comply with the judgements of the regional court.
However, Nigerian Judges are doing very well in international courts and regional tribunals. They include Judge Stella Anukam of the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights in Arusha, Tanzania, Judge EboeOsuji of the International Criminal Court in Netherlands (completed his term in 2021), Judge Dupe Atoki of the Community Court of Justice otherwise known as ECOWAS Court in Abuja and Mrs Abiola Idowu-Ojo, the Executive Secretary of the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights in Banjul, Gambia. By the way, Dr Taoheed Olufemi Elias is being sponsored by Nigeria, for the Presidency of the International Court of Justice. Also, Nigerian Judges who are serving in the Gambia and in one of the Caribbean countries. To what extent would you say the recent minimum wage increase of the Nigerian worker from N30,000 to N70,000 has been effective, where a worker’s one month salary cannot even afford a bag of rice? Is N70,000 the living wage that the Constitution contemplates? Some States have even openly stated that they are unable to pay the N70,000 minimum wage. Given the humongous revenue they collect from the Federal Government, is this justified?
What was negotiated between the Federal Government and the trade unions, was a national minimum wage. But, what the Constitution provides is a living national mini-
mum wage. The increase of the national minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, has no effect on the earning capacity of a worker. Since a bag of rice is not less than N100,000, workers have banned rice from their menu. In fact, in the majority of homes, Nigerians can no longer buy rice, beans, and even gari. Workers can no longer send their children to school. They can no longer buy drugs or pay rent. So, the President cannot say that the economic policy that breeds poverty, disease and death will not be reviewed. The N70,000 minimum wage in a country where a Senator earns N21 million per month, has made a mockery of income disparity in Nigeria. I have been informed that the trade unions have resolved to commence a struggle for a living national minimum wage, in view of the fact that the Government has devalued the national currency and withdrawn subsidies from fuel and electricity.
Since the Tinubu administration assumed office in 2023, there has been demolition of properties for one infraction or the other in Lagos State. Now, the FCT appears to be doing even more, with land allocations being revoked and properties being demolished.
“……the National Assembly lacks the power to pass the Tax Bills. VAT is neither on the Exclusive Legislative List, nor the Concurrent Legislative List….it is a residual matter….As the then Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike obtained a judgement that affirms that VAT is a State tax….I would have voted for the Tax Bills if the budgetary allocation for health, education, and other services are going to be increased”
The FCT Ministry maintains that it is playing by the book. Kindly, share your views on this
The demolition of houses in Nigeria without due process, is completely illegal. The right to housing is guaranteed by the Constitution, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights. Under the current political dispensation, the fundamental rights of citizens cannot be infringed upon by any public officer without due process. If any citizen takes over my property, I cannot embark on self-help to eject the trespasser. In like manner, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory cannot proceed to demolish the property of any citizen without following laid down procedure. Specifically, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory lacks the power to demolish any house without seeking and obtaining an order from the Urban and Regional Planning Tribunal in the Federal Capital Territory.
In Oboh v Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory held that properties cannot be demolished, without an agreement reached with the owner or the occupier of a property. When Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu was the Governor of Lagos State, the Federal Government was sued over the forceful seizure of the statutory allocations belonging to the local governments in the State. In its epochal judgement, the Supreme Court held that President Olusegun Obasanjo did not have the power to seize the funds of Lagos State local governments on the basis of his whims and caprices. The Apex Court advised the Federal Government to stop engaging in self-help or brute force, instead
of approaching the court for redress. So, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cannot support the resort to brute force or self-help in the demolition of the houses of citizens by Minister Wike.
I have also confirmed that, court orders suspending the demolition of some of the houses were treated with disdain by the demolition squad. Even under a military junta, the Supreme Court ordered the Lagos State Government to restore the late Chief Emeka Ojukwu to the property that was the subject-matter of an appeal pending in the court. The Kano State Government has just been ordered to pay compensation of N8 billion, for demolishing a property without due process. I am aware that the Federal High Court, in three separate judgements, had ordered the Federal Government to pay compensation of about N199 billion for the illegal demolition of properties in Odi in Bayelsa State in 1999, Zaki Biam in Benue State in 2001 and Gbaramotu in Delta State in 2009.
Since all actions of the Government shall be humane, just and fair it was wrong on the part of President Tinubu to have publicly endorsed the illegal demolition of houses in the Federal Capital Territory.
Notwithstanding the Presidential endorsement of the demolition of several properties in the Federal Capital Territory, all the victims should approach the courts for legal redress.
What is your opinion of the new Tax Reform Bills, particularly that of the VAT? Many believe that it is a good initiative, and the new distribution formula somewhat fairer to those who generate it. Kindly, comment on this
The National Economic Council constituted by the Vice President, Minister of Finance, Central Bank
Governor and the 36 State Governors advised President Tinubu to afford Nigerians the opportunity to study and debate the Tax Bills. That was a united voice. But, the President ignored the wise counsel and forwarded the Tax Bills to the two Houses of the National Assembly, where he had thought they would be passed without any debate. But, the debate on the tax reforms Bills, has polarised the country along ethnic lines. Some politicians in the South have gone to the extent of accusing Northerners of sharing VAT from alcohol consumed in the South. Those politicians have failed to realise that, the Southern States share from the huge VAT from tobacco that is largely consumed in the North.
Under the Bills, overburdened citizens are going to pay more taxes to enrich the Federation Account to the benefit of the three tiers of government. For instance, the controversial Value Added Tax or VAT will be increased from 7.5% to 20% in the year 2030.
As far as I am concerned, the National Assembly lacks the power to pass the Tax Bills. VAT is neither on the Exclusive Legislative List, nor the Concurrent Legislative List. To that extent, it is a residual matter. As such the National Assembly cannot legislate on it. As the then Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike obtained a judgement that affirms that VAT is a State tax. The appeal of FIRS, which is pending in the Supreme Court, will be dismissed as the law is very clear on the matter. Therefore, a constitutional amendment is required to include VAT in the tax reforms Bills. Secondly, the tax Bills have proposed a new allocation formula for the country. That is the exclusive constitutional mandate of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission. The transfer of the power to distribute revenue from Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission to the tax authorities, requires another constitutional amendment.
The funding of TETFUND will stop in 2030, without any replacement. The implication is that, students are going to be charged skyrocketing fees for the running of the tertiary institutions. That is a major burden for the poor. The World Health Organisation has recommended a budgetary allocation of 15% for health. By law, only 1% of the Consolidated Revenue is earmarked for health services in the 2014 National Health Act. I would have voted for the tax Bills if the budgetary allocation for health, education, and other services are going to
be increased.
Recently, the Edo State Government suspended 18 Local Government Chairmen and Deputies. Despite warnings from the Federal Government through the Attorney-General of the Federation, Governor Okpebholo has continued with the impunity. What does this say about our style of democracy and the relationship between Federal and State?
I want to believe that the Edo State Government was not well advised on the full implications of the Supreme Court judgement, in the case of the Attorney-General of the Federation v AttorneyGeneral of Abia State & Ors on local government autonomy. The Government ought to have known that the payment of the statutory allocations belonging to the local governments in the State has stopped, in line with the terms of the judgement. The Acting Chairmen appointed by the Governor to manage the local governments, are not recognised by law. It is a complete diversionary show of power, by Governor Okpebholo.
Nigeria is witnessing poverty, at a level never seen before.
35 minors were reported to have died in a stampede at Ibadan, while struggling for handouts. Another 22 also died in Anambra State, also in Abuja under similar
“I have taken a cursory look at the 2025 budget of the Federal Government. It is a complete rehash of official profligacy and opulence. There is no evidence, that the political leaders are prepared to make any sacrifice”
circumstances. What does this say about Nigeria? How far are we from the proverbial ‘eating from the dustbin’?
Owing to the poverty induced policies of the governments, the poor are experiencing hunger in all the States of the Federation. In the last two years, stampedes occurred in the West and East, North and South where 115 people were killed. It is indisputable that, the remote cause of the stampedes is poverty. But, the immediate cause is the failure of the Police to provide adequate security at the venues of the distribution of rice and other food items.
Since the country had witnessed stampedes triggered by mass hunger for over a decade, the Government ought to have put in place a mechanism for preventing the reoccurrence of the tragic incidents. Having failed in its duty to prevent the stampedes and protect the victims, the Federal Government should pay compensation to the survivors, as well as the families of the casualties.
How you would you assess the Tinubu administration so far, almost two years in office, vis-à-vis its Renewed Hope Agenda? Was the removal of the fuel subsidy and/or the implementation of the policy done properly, considering the economic hardship Nigerians are experiencing?
The renewed hope agenda was designed to consolidate the implementation of neoliberal economic policies, in line with the dictates of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. Hence, both Bretton woods institutions have been lauding the Bola Tinubu administration, while the people are experiencing excruciating economic pains. I listened to the President’s media
chat, last week. It is apparent that the President believes that the implementation of neoliberal economic policies, will transform Nigeria to a land of prosperity. On the contrary, the removal of fuel subsidy, increase in electricity tariffs, floating of the currency and devaluation of the national currency, will continue to promote poverty in the land. According to the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, about 767 manufacturing companies shut down operations, while 335 others experienced distress in 2023. Many more companies may close down this year due to exchange rate volatility, inflation of 34% and a hostile business environment. The implication is that the unemployment crisis has been compounded, while the taxes collected from the companies have dried up. Unless the Government reverses the neoliberal economic policies and empowers Nigerians to run the country, no meaningful development will take place. I have taken a cursory look at the 2025 budget of the Federal Government. It is a complete rehash of official profligacy and opulence. There is no evidence, that the political leaders are prepared to make any sacrifice. Indeed, while the masses are asked to be patient, the budgets of the executive, judicial and legislative organs of the government have been increased. Similarly, the budgets of the regional development corporations have equally been increased, for the benefit of members of the political class. Nigerians have been told, loud and clear, that the Government is not prepared to review the policies that promote poverty, disease, unemployment, insecurity and corruption in the country. I expect genuine progressive forces to mobilise the people to reject the further implementation of the unpopular policies of the Nigerian State.
Thank you Learned Silk.
Introduction
The immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria (Hon. Justice Ariwoola) ought to be remembered for the parting gift of sorts which he handed to the Court, Lawyers and litigants in the form of the Supreme Court Rules, 2024. Enacted on the eve of his departure in August 2024, the Rules have been broadly welcomed by stakeholders for harmonising the disparate rules of practice and procedure applicable in that Court (the last iteration of the Rule, in 1985 and the sundry practice directions which have been added to it since then) into what is hopefully a harmonious whole. Is that hope misplaced or is it deserved? Are the Rules (or any of their provisions) problematic, anomalous or even outrightly ultra vires (and therefore, invalid) vis-à-vis relevant standards and norms such as the Constitution, the Legal Practitioners Act and the African Charter on Human & Peoples rights? Let us find out, but first, the usual preliminaries.
Practice and Procedure of the Supreme Court of Nigeria
By virtue of Section 236 of the Constitution, the Chief Justice of Nigeria is empowered to make rules of practice and procedure applicable in the Supreme Court. Those powers are however, not at large, but are to be exercised subject to the provisions any Act of the National Assembly. That statute is the Supreme Court Act, Section 9 of which provides that “subject to the provision of any other enactment, the practice and procedure of the Supreme Court shall be in accordance with this Act and rules of court”.
What Difference do the New Rules Make?
As previously noted, the new Supreme Court Rules (SCR) have been broadly welcomed by all and sundry, given the public’s perception that they introduced innovations to the court’s justice delivery toolkit. As ever, however, the devil is in the details and we shall see to what extent, if any, the Rules live up to the hype. In this regard, I believe at least three of the supposed innovations of the Rules give room for not a little concern. I am referring here to the provisions dealing with costs, right of audience, conditions for prosecuting appeals and restrictions within the exercise of such rights by a party. We take them seriatim.
Costs
The new Rules provide that not only will Counsel who supposedly engage in abuse of court process be penalised with punitive costs to be paid personally by such Counsel (including those acting for State/Federal Government and public institutions), any Counsel who defaults in making such payments will not have the right of audience in any superior court in Nigeria. I believe this is problematic, for at least two reasons. To start with, the right to Counsel of one’s choice - in criminal cases - is a fundamental right under Section 36(6)(c) of the Constitution. To that extent, it is clear that to deny a suspect or accused person of that right on the ground that the Counsel is in default of certain costs awarded against him, would violate this constitutional right (which, by
the way, is also guaranteed under Article 7 of the African (Charter). Beyond that, however, the Legal Practitioners Act also provides (in Section 5 thereof) that a legal practitioner shall have the right of audience in all courts of law in Nigeria. That right is subject to only one condition under the Act: payment of annual practicing fee by such legal practitioners. The Act is silent on any default by a legal practitioner to pay costs, as a ground for denying him audience in court: expressio unius est exclusio alterius: the express mention of one thing in a statute implies the exclusion of others, which might otherwise be included. See ATT-GEN. OF THE FEDERATION v ABUBAKAR (2007) ALL FWLR Pt. 375 Pg.405 at 553B.
Yet another problematic provision of the Rules, is the one which limits the number of Counsel appearing in any given case before the Apex Court. Under the new Rules, this is pegged at 6, including a Senior Advocate where there are more than one Senior Advocate, the number of Counsel is pegged at a maximum of 8. I believe this is an undue fetter on a party’s right to Counsel of his or her choice, which, in criminal cases, is a fundamental right. No rule of court can abridge or curtail a fundamental right under the Constitution, or the African Charter.
“The new Rules provide that not only will Counsel who supposedly engage in abuse of court process be penalised with punitive costs to be paid personally by such Counsel (including those acting for State/Federal Government and public institutions), any Counsel who defaults in making such payments will not have the right of audience in any superior court in Nigeria”
Not even an Act of the National Assembly. The Constitution is supreme and, next to it, is the African Charter. See ABACHA v FAWEHINMI (2000) 6 Pt. 660 Pg. 228 at 315 and IGP v ANPP (2007) 18 NWLR Pt. 1066 Pg. 457 at 500C.
Furthermore, however, this particular provision of the new Rules is too sweeping, as it extends beyond the Supreme Court to all superior courts of record in Nigeria. By virtue of Section 6(5) of the Constitution, such courts includes the Court of Appeal, the Federal High Court, the National Industrial Court, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, the High Court of a State, Sharia Court of Appeal of the FCT, the Sharia Court of Appeal of States, Customary Court of Appeal of the FCT and of the States. I believe it is anomalous for this provision of the new Rules to purport to apply to these other courts, because it is trite law that rules of practice enacted for one court only apply to that court, and cannot apply to other courts: See NNEJI v CHUKWU (1988) 3 NWLR Pt. 81 Pg. 184 at 205 per Oputa, JSC. A head of court is only empowered to enact rules of procedure applicable to that court, and no other: TUKUR v GOVERNMENT OF GONGOLA STATE (1988) 1 NWLR Pt. 117 Pg. 39 at 50.
Another anomalous provision of the new Rules, in my view, is the requirement for a prospective Appellant to provide a bond or guarantee that he will diligently prosecute the appeal. This is novel stipulation, is a condition for hearing the appeal. A similar provision is the requirement of an undertaking by the Appellant to pay damages to the Respondent, in the event that the appeal is unsuccessful. I believe that both stipulations are problematic, as they impose undue fetters on the exercise of the right of appeal. The Apex Court has repeatedly frowned upon such restrictions, on the right of
access to court. See UGWU v ARARUME (2007) 12 NWLR Pt. 1048 Pg. 367 at 450 per Niki Tobi, JSC, where it was held as follows:
“Right of access to court is a constitutional right, which is guaranteed in the Constitution, and no law... can subtract from or derogate from it or deny any person of it.” See also GLOBAL EXCELLENCE v DUKE (2007) 16 NWLR Pt.1059 Pg.22, and Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples rights.
On the stipulation of the Rules that the Apex Court will never grant applications for stay of proceedings in interlocutory appeals, the Apex Court appears to have departed from its long standing tradition of not denying a party x(be he the Appellant or the Respondent) the opportunity of being heard, for fear that such attitude might cause a temporary delay in the disposal of the case”. See NNEJI v CHUKWU (Supra) at Pg. 200 per Wali, JSC.
Such a shift in the policy of the Apex Court is worrisome, because it transcends the practice and procedure of the court and impinges on the fundamental issue of access to court, fair hearing and to have one’s cause heard, all of which are implicitly recognised and guaranteed under the Constitution and the African charter as aforesaid.
The provisions of the Rules in election related appeals are also problematic, for the simple reason that election matters being sui generis, the relevant prescriptions are to be found in the Electoral Act, 2022, specifically, Section 140 thereof, which provides as follows:
“(1) The rules of procedure to be adopted for election petitions and appeals arising therefrom shall be as set out in the first schedule to this Act;
“(2) The President of the Court of Appeal may issue practice directions to the(a) Court of Appeal in respect of pre-election and post-election (b) Election tribunal, in respect of postelection matters”.
Curiously, however, the Act is silent on the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
In other words, it doesn’t confer a similar power on the CJN in respect of electoral appeals to the Apex Court, as it does on the President of the Court of Appeal. Whether it is deliberate or out of oversight, is hard to fathom. What is clear is that, by virtue of the combined provisions of Items 22 and 68 of the Exclusive Legislative List, read along with Paragraph 2(b) or Part III of the Second Schedule to the Constitution, the National Assembly possesses the exclusive power to legislate on the practice and procedure in election-related litigation. To the extent that the National Assembly has not delegated that power to the CJN in the same way as it did to the President of the Court of Appeal, the implication is that the National Assembly did not intend to do so, but, rather, to reserve it to itself in appeals at the Supreme Court in electoral matters, on the maxim expressio unius est exclusion alterius aforesaid and that the provisions of the first schedule to the Act have covered the field in such appeals at the Apex Court. The upshot of this is that the prescriptions of the new Rules in electoral appeals at the Apex Court are ultra vires, the Hon. CJN, with the greatest respect. See ATTORNEY-GENERAL OF ABIA STATE v ATTORNEY-GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION (2002) 6 NWLR Pt. 763 Pg. 264 at 369 & 391, Per Kutigi, JSC and Uwais, CJN respectively. (To be Continued).
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
“The Supreme Court is the last line of defence for the separation of powers, and for the rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution.”(Brett Kavanaugh)
Nume Ekeghe
A report by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) has revealed significant shifts in the country’s monetary landscape, with reserve money soaring by 21.31 per cent year-to-date to N30.01 trillion and consumer credit declining sharply by 17.64 per cent to N3.50 trillion.
Reserve money surpassed the 2024 provisional benchmark of N28.27 trillion by 6.16 per cent, driven by a 6.8 per cent increase in liabilities to other depository corporations (LODCs) to N25.46 trillion and a 5.5 per cent rise in currency-in-circulation (CIC) to N4.55 trillion.
“Reserve money (RM) increased at end-October 2024, reflecting the rise in currency-in-circulation (CIC) and liabilities to other depository corporations (LODCs). Relative to the level at end-December 2023, reserve money rose by 21.31 per cent to N30.01 trillion compared with the level in the preceding period. At this level RM was above the 2024 provisional benchmark of N28.27 trillion by 6.16 per cent.
“The growth in reserve money was occasioned by the 6.8 and 5.5 per cent growth in LODCs and CIC to N25.46 trillion and N4.55 trillion, respectively. At N4,530.90 billion, notes and coins remained the largest component of CIC relative to N4,292.72 billion at endSeptember 2024. On the other hand, the eNaira decreased by 0.16 per cent to N18.32 billion from N18.35 billion at end- September 2024.
“Broad money supply (M3) grew by 35.85 per cent to N107.66 trillion, spurred by a 49.88 per cent surge in other deposits, which contributed 30.66 percentage points (pp) to the growth. Transferable deposits and currency outside depository corporations also contributed to the expansion, despite a decline in the money multiplier to 3.59 per cent from 3.89 per cent in the previous period,” the report said.
It stated: “Broad money supply (M3) grew by 35.85 per cent to N107.66 trillion at end-October 2024 relative to the level at end-December 2023, despite a decline in money multiplier to 3.59, from 3.89 in the preceding period. From the liability side, the expansion in broad money was due to the growth in other deposits (49.88 per cent), currency outside depository corporations (24.88 per cent), and transferable deposits (13.76 per cent). Other deposits contributed the most to the growth in M3 with 30.66 percentage points (pp), followed by transferable deposits with 4.63 pp and currency outside depository corporations with 1.08 pp. Conversely, securities other than shares declined by 97.43 per cent, slowing the growth in M3 by 0.52 pp. “On the asset side, M3 growth was driven by expansion in Net Foreign Asset (NFA) and Net Domestic Asset (NDA). At end-October 2024, NFA increased by 114.41 per cent to N20.02 trillion and contributed 13.48 pp to the overall growth in M3 relative to the 185.40 per cent growth and 21.85 pp contribution at
end-September 2024. Similarly, NDA grew by 25.36 per cent to N87.64 trillion, with 22.37 pp contribution to the growth in M3. The increase in NDA was due to the 19.37 and 18.24 per cent growth in net claims on central Government and claims on other sectors, contributing of 8.20 pp and 14.40 pp to the growth in M3. Claims on private sector increased by 29.44 per cent, contributing 15.37 pp to M3 growth, while claims on public nonfinancial corporations grew by 12.55 per cent with a 0.50 pp contribution to M3 growth.”
The report added: “Sectoral credit utilisation moderated by 5.13 per cent to N58.37 trillion compared with N58.57 trillion in the preceding month. The Services sector maintained dominance in receipt of credit to key sectors of the economy, utilising 52.57 per cent, followed by Industry and Agriculture which accounted for 43.31 and 4.12 per cent, respectively.
“Consumer credit outstanding declined by 17.64 per cent to N3.50 trillion compared with N4.25 trillion at the end of the preceding month. The decline in consumer credit followed the decline in personal and retail loans to N2.41 trillion (23.49 per cent) and N1.09 trillion (0.91 per cent), from N3.15 trillion and N1.10 trillion, respectively, in the preceding month. However, Personal loans maintained its dominance, accounting for 68.95 per cent of total consumer credit, albeit lower than the 74.14 per cent in the preceding month, while retail loans constituted the balance.”
Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) and the African Union (AU) have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on addressing Africa’s critical housing and urban development challenges.
The partnership which confers Shelter Afrique an Observer Status at the African Union, aligns with Agenda 2063 and underscores a shared commitment to ensuring a high standard of living, quality of life, and well-being for all African citizens.
The MOU outlines key areas of cooperation aimed at tackling Africa’s housing deficit, promoting sustain-
In a heartfelt tribute to a life marked by integrity, service, and unwavering devotion to family, Tobe Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services & Sustainability Officer of MTN Nigeria, hosted a grand funeral ceremony to honour his late father, Pa Agapitus Mary Chike Okigbo (Ezekwesili). Held in their hometown of Nnobi, Idemili South, Anambra State, the event celebrated a remarkable 95-year legacy of humility,
able urban development, and advancing capacitybuilding efforts.
With approximately 53 million housing units required across the continent and a $1.4 trillion financing gap, this partnership will leverage innovative solutions, resource mobilization, and policy development to create lasting impact.
AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals (ETTIM), Ambassador Albert Muchanga, remarked: “We warmly welcome Shelter Afrique Development Bank as one of our strategic collaborators. Together, we shall enhance efforts to unlock Africa’s investable wealth and mobi-
faith, and love.
Pa Agapitus, who passed peacefully in his sleep on August 2, 2024, was remembered for his steadfast values and contributions to society. Born on August 31, 1929, in Aba, Abia State, Pa Agapitus was the last surviving direct grandchild of Eze Okigbo and a man deeply rooted in his cultural heritage. His life was one of service, from his early days teaching
lize it towards meeting the continent’s housing deficit anchored on inclusive and sustainable urbanization.”
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Managing Director of ShafDB, Mr. ThiernoHabib Hann, said: “This MOU marks a significant step forward in our shared vision of sustainable housing and urban development in Africa. As a pan-African multilateral development bank focused on housing and urban development, we are confident that this collaboration with the African Union will scale our ability to create transformative solutions that address the housing deficit and enhance the quality of life for millions.”
to support his family, to his distinguished career as a Chief Revenue Officer in the Ministry of Finance. In a moving eulogy, Tobe Okigbo shared his father’s enduring influence, stating, “I invite you not to mourn, but to celebrate with me a life well-lived. My father might be gone, but his lessons abide in me. I’ll continue to try to live by his tenets...and I will fail, I know, but sometimes striving is the journey.”
KayodeTokede
The stock market section of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) yesterday commenced the new week trading session on a positive note with the overall capitalisation gaining N37 billion.
The NGX All Share Index gained by 61.91 basis points or 0.06 per cent to close at 103,648.24 basis points, with the Year-to-Date returns settling at +0.7per cent.
Also, market capitalisation gained N37 billion to close at N63.203 trillion.
Analysing by sectors, the NGX Insurance Index (+4.1per cent) and NGX Banking Index (+0.7per cent) gained, while the NGX Consumer Goods Index (-0.4 per cent), NGX Industrial Goods (-0.1per cent), and NGX Oil & Gas Index (-0.1per cent) indices declined.
Also, investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth, was positive as 48 stocks
advanced, while 19 declined.
DAAR Communications and Wema Bank recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at 77 kobo and N11.00 respectively, while Honeywell Flour Mills followed with a gain of 9.99 per cent to close at N8.37, per share.
Wapic Insurance rose by 9.96 per cent to close at N2.98, while Lasaco Assurance up by 9.95 per cent to close at N4.09, per share. On the other hand, Cutix led the losers’ chart by
5.45 per cent to close at N2.60, per share. Caverton Offshore Support Group followed with a decline of 5.36 per cent to close at N2.65, while Jaiz Bank declined by 5.23 per cent to close at N3.08, per share.
Champion Breweries depreciated by 4.53 per cent to close at N4.00, while Ikeja Hotel declined by 4.26 per cent to lose at N12.35, per share.
Also, the total volume traded rose 20.68 per cent to 855.965 million units, valued at
N13.249 billion, and exchanged in 16,505 deals. Transactions in the shares of Chams Holdings topped the activity chart with 80.765 million shares valued at N191.474 million. Veritas Kapital Assurance followed with 60.486 million shares worth N105.729 million, while Access Holdings traded 54.330 million shares valued at N1.349 billion.
Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) traded 53.961 million shares valued at N3.074 billion, while Prestige Assurance
sold 48.939 million shares worth N75.994 million. Looking forward, United Capital Plc said, “the equities market is expected to retain its buy interest as investors cherry-pick undervalued stocks. However, given the high interest rates in the fixed income and money markets, we expect some bearish undertone to persist in the equities market as fixed income biased investors take advantage of the high yields in the fixed income space.”
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Samuel Ogbuku (PhD) has expressed concern over years of conflict resulting in the stoppage of oil exploration and exploitation by the International Oil Companies (IOCs) in Ogoniland, Rivers State.
He noted that such stand - off in the face of growing energy crisis occasioned by the removal of oil subsidy by the federal government has robbed the nation of vital Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over the years.
Chief Ogbuku who was at the palace of His Royal Majesty, King Festus Babaa Paago Baigia, the Gbenemene of the Gokana Kingdom, before setting out to commission some NDDC projects including the solar street light in Bodo, Biera and Bera communities in Gokana LGA, explained that the resumption of oil operations would engender positive multiplier effects of job creation and and industrialisation in area.
According to Dr. Ogbuku, with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in place, the IOC’s would be more responsible to their host communities and even for their actions and in-actions.
He, therefore, stressed importance of the Ogonis to reposition themselves for the associated benefits of oil as the wealth locked underneath soil has the potential
of benefitting both the Federal, State and the host communities.
“Am giving you people the assurance that
the President Tinubu led administration is a listening Government and he will considerably yield to your condition for the return of
oil operation in Ogoni land,” he assured.
To demonstrate the responsibility of President Tinubu to the Ogoni people, following his last year meeting with the leadership of Ogoni’s in Aso Rock, Chief Ogbuku reiterated the importance of the Kingdom as an integral part of the Niger Delta region as they are entitled to their fair share of the benefit from the NDDC.
The NDDC chief, who was accompanied by the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Mr Boma Iyaye, and the he South South Vice Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Mr Victor Giadoom, disclosed that President Tinubu, is continuing with the Ogoni clean exercise to mitigate the impacts of oil operations in the area.
However, His Royal Majesty, the Gbenemene Gokana, who is also the Chairman of Gokana Council of Traditional Rulers, pledged the support of the Ogoni people to the President Tinubu led administration and thanked him for the appointment of Chief Ogbuku, who has demonstrated exceptional leadership as the CEO of the interventionist agency.
He said the installation of streets lights in the communities has brought improved security as commercial activities now thrive at night around rural communities, and made a case for more development projects in Ogoni, even as he assured of commitment to protecting the facilities.
By Dele Oyewale
In recent times, there has been calculated campaigns against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on what its traducers regard as abuses of human rights by its operatives in the arrest of suspects of internet fraud and other acts of corruption. Day by day, such trumpedup claims are littering the media space. False narratives, fictitious scenarios, and fabricated names and identities are being bandied to portray the Commission in bad lights. All these reports ignored the milestones on convictions, recoveries, interventions, and global acclaim of the works of EFCC. It is evident, therefore, that such campaigns lack objectivity and patriotic inclination.
Law enforcement in any part of the world is not a kiss and cuddle engagement. Fraudsters have no altruistic inclination. To this end, an arrest in a sting operation cannot be expected to be a warm embrace. Available records show that every sting operation embarked upon by operatives of the EFCC usually yield bumper convictions in courts. Whether in Asaba, Akure, Sokoto, Uyo, Lagos, Ibadan, Gombe, Ilorin or Maiduguri, suspects of internet fraud and other acts of corruption have ended in jail because of the clasping evidence of their involvement in the crimes. With its large conviction record in 2024, it is uncharitable for any media report to allege that arrests of internet fraudsters bore flagrant abuses of their fundamental human rights. It is important to stress that even many of the widely-acclaimed law enforcement agencies across the world have many records of forced arrests, some brutal and fierce in their operations. Of course, no attempt is being made to portray such records as ideal situations. We only need to appreciate the finesse and comparative decency of the EFCC in plying its job.
Come to think of it: what is more damaging to Nigeria between lawful arrest of fraudsters and the effects of their crime on the nation? Imagine the effects of the activities of 792 alleged investment and internet fraudsters recently arrested by the EFCC on the economy and image of Nigeria! Should the Commission have elected to look the other way and allow these suspected fraudsters to continue in their nefarious activities? A single arrest of such a large number of suspects has been drawing applause from all corners of the world. Local and international law enforcement agencies and sincere commentators continue to applaud the
intelligence-led operation. Insinuation of anything otherwise can only be a smear campaign which is obvious to discerning Nigerians.
All the contrived accounts of arrest of internet fraudsters by operatives of the EFCC in some sections of the media alleged intimidation, harassment, brutality, and such other claims. Except in one or two cases where overzealous officers of the Commission acted out of character, and had been duly sanctioned. It is important to disclose publicly that sting operations of by the Commission are monitored. Many of the so- called break and bust allegations are wild and contrived to inflame passion. EFCC officers are highly trained and professional. They are not brutes and terrorists “ assaulting naked and pregnant women” as alleged. It beggers belief that every woman caught in the ‘crossfire’ of arrest of fraudsters is always naked!
Time and time again, the Commission had decried the antics of impersonators bent on dragging its image to the mud. Series of videos of funny characters beating up their suspects and extorting money from them are all over the internet. The public and some less fancied journalists unfortunately believe these skits as exemplar of the EFCC modus oparandi. Several public statements have been made by the Commission to denounce these skits and activities of impostors, detractors are unyielding in their false accusations against the EFCC. Perhaps legal action may henceforth be necessary to compel hatchet writers to come forward with proofs of their claims. The EFCC is a responsible member of the global law enforcement community, and all its operations are in line with international best practices.
Talking about fundamental human rights, the EFCC empowered is to make an arrest of suspected fraudsters anywhere and at any period of the day. No law says that arrests cannot be made in the night or early hours of the day. Where there is a crime, there is a possibility of an arrest.
The hoopla about EFCC unrelenting in conducting sting operations at night carries the imprimatur of blackmail by community of fraudsters angling for respite from the Commission’s offensive. Enough of blackmail of conducting raids when it is obvious that the Commission only conducts sting operations whenever they are necessary. The EFCC’s Chairman, Ola Olukoyede has always stressed that a raid is never in the operational lexicon of the EFCC. A raid is a random, unprofessional, and whimsical attack on suspects of a crime. The EFCC is too polished and civilized to embark on such gangsteric engagement. Sting operations are
intelligence- driven. They are not raids, and the public needs to take note of this. Conducting such operations does not translate into breaching rights of suspects. You cannot give a notice to a suspected fraudster and expect to make a success of such an operation.
As a Commission that is working to expand the frontiers of development of Nigeria, tackling internet fraud has become a fait accompli. To this end, two important national dialogues were convened on the issue in 2024. Fresh insights into alternatives to the fraud are being worked upon. A Cybercrime Research Centre is being put together to develop capacities among our youths for innovations, social engineering, problem solving, and skill development. A Commission that is making such moves should not be maligned by anyone seeking relevance. The truth of the matter is that Olukoyede is too focused on reform and positive engagement to allow his officers to turn the nation into a violence field in pursuit of internet fraudsters.
Internet fraud and corruption are worse abuses of fundamental rights of all Nigerians. Every deprivation Nigerians are suffering can be directly traced to the effects of corruption. The crises in the power sector especially are beyond description.
“Electricity is a scarce commodity in Nigeria. With just over 4,000 megawatts supplying nearly 220 million people, the electricity access deficit stands at about 40% nationwide. The picture looks even darker in rural areas. There, 73% of the population is off the power grid”. Corruption is largely responsible for this. Nigerians have a right to enjoy stable power supply, but this right is being denied by cumulative effects of corrupt practices. The EFCC is in court against two former ministers of power on their alleged fraudulent dealings that have resulted in the suffering of Nigerians. Is this not worse than needless wolf cries in some section of the media about arrest of internet fraudsters?
Owing to the havoc wreaked on the image of Nigeria, Internet fraud is being described as the “ Nigerian scam” across the world. Travelling around the world by any Nigerian carries with it a high risk of embarrassment and humiliation because of the unsavoury activities of internet fraudsters. Immigration issues are becoming more difficult for many Nigerians because of these fraudsters. Normal business engagement cannot be undertaken without being accosted unfairly or suspected of fraudulent dealings. The EFCC is aware of this and is working tirelessly to relaunch
the nation into pathways of honour and respect in the comity of nations. Raising needless war against a Commission doing all these should be condemned by well- meaning Nigerians. Internet fraudsters are enemies of our nation, and they must be so regarded.
Recently, the EFCC came to town with the news of a final forfeiture of 753 duplexes and other apartments in the Lokogoma District of Abuja. The forfeiture was the largest single recovery made by the Commission since its establishment in 2003. Going by the quantum of the assets and the courage and integrity of officers of the Commission closely supervised by Olukoyede, one would have expected fair commentaries on the feat by those employed to paint the EFCC black. They cannot do this because their paymasters are angry that such assets are lost to the government. This hypocrisy is enough reason for Nigerians to ignore all the hues and cries about normal law enforcement works of the Commission. It is important to stress here that no attempt is being made to defend any form of impunity or recklessness by any officer of the EFCC. It is public knowledge that erring officers of the Commission have been appropriately disciplined in line with the standard operating procedure of the EFCC.
In closing this piece, it is imperative to reiterate the fact that the EFCC is on a redemptive mission. It serves no purpose for anyone to embark on a mission of blackmail against the Commission. As long as no one can deny the impact of the EFCC on individual, corporate and national lives, we will be doing our nation greater good if we amplify the strength of the Commission and constructively point at areas needing improvement. Wailing about singular cases of indiscretions and glossing over monumental achievements of the EFCC cannot be accepted as fair commentaries. The watch dog role of the media should not be sacrificed for a filthy lucre of grants by so- called development partners. Manipulating facts and figures garnished with falsehood to justify a grant is the height of dis-service to our country. We do know that corruption always fights back. However, the fight back should not be decorated as patriotic initiatives. The public is enjoined to be wary of those seeking to pull down a sturdy tower in order to exact a pound of flesh. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we should endeavour to salvage it together.
•Dele Oyewale is Head, Media & Publicity of the EFCC
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Nigerian private sector recorded a solid improvement in its productivity during the final month of 2024.
According to the Stanbic IBTC Bank Nigeria Purchasing Managers’ Index (PM1) for December 2024, the headline index went up to 52.7 in December from 49.6 it recorded in November 2024.
The PMI report said: “Output returned to growth in the Nigerian private sector in the final month of 2024, thereby ending a five-month sequence of decline. Moreover, the pace of expansion was marked and the fastest since last January as growth was recorded across each of the four broad sectors covered by the survey.”
It added that, “Overall business conditions improved as new orders increased for the second month
running and renewed expansions were seen in output, employment and purchasing. That said, rates of inflation remained elevated. At 52.7, the index was up from 49.6 in November and signaled a solid improvement in the health of the private sector that was the most pronounced since January 2024.”
According to the report, sustained growth of new orders led to a renewed expansion of business activity in December, thereby ending a five-month sequence of contraction as all four broad sectors signaled rising output at the end of 2024.
It said: “December data pointed to a solid increase in new orders at companies in Nigeria, with the latest rise the sharpest since May. New business has now increased in four of the past five months. According to respondents, the rise in new orders reflected improvements in customer
demand.”
The PMI also stated that the December data pointed to a renewed expansion in purchasing activity at Nigerian companies, following two consecutive months in which input buying had fallen.
“Moreover, the rate of growth was solid and the fastest since May. The rise in input buying was mainly in response to higher new orders,” it said.
Yet, the PMI’s report stated that purchase prices were up amid currency weakness and higher costs for fuel and transportation.
It said: “The rate of inflation in overall input costs remained elevated in December despite slowing slightly for the second month running. More than 70 per cent of respondents signaled a rise in their input prices during the month. Strong inflation was recorded across all four monitored sectors, led by
manufacturing.”
According to the report, exchange rate weakness and higher costs for fuel and transportation resulted in a further rapid rise in purchase prices at the end of 2024.
It explained that the rate of inflation remained among the strongest in the series history, despite easing slightly for the third consecutive month.
“In turn, companies continued to increase their output prices at a rapid pace, with the rate of inflation quickening slightly from that seen in November,” it said.
The Head of Equity Research West Africa at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Muyiwa Oni, attributed the increased productivity of the private sector to the economic activity usually associated with December Christmas and New Year festive seasons in Nigeria.
Oni said: “The private sector
activity moved above the 50-points psychological threshold for the first time in six months, settling higher at 52.7 in December from 49.6 in November, which was its most pronounced improvement since January 2024.
“This improved private sector activity reflects renewed expansions in output, purchasing, and employment level. New orders also increased for the second consecutive month, with the latest increase being the highest since May 2024, reflecting improvement in consumer demand.
“Nonetheless, while some firms increased employment in response to the higher new orders, others reported having to let staff go due to difficulties paying wages.
Elsewhere, output (54.8 points vs November: 49.6) ended a five-month sequence of decline, with survey participants linking
the rise in activity to increased customer numbers.”
He added that growth was recorded across each of the four broad sectors covered by the survey even though input prices remained elevated in December.
He said: “Prices increased across all four monitored sectors, with the most pronounced increase in the manufacturing sector. As a result, output prices also remained elevated in December and ticked higher from that seen in November.”
Oni shared the expectation that the broad economy is likely to maintain the Q3:24 growth momentum in Q4:24, supported by festive-induced increase in economic activity and sustained improvement in crude oil production.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The number of customer complaints across all the electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) hit 328,696 in Q3, 2024, climbing 14.35 per cent when compared to Q2, last year, the latest report by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has disclosed. The quarterly NERC document also showed that electricity customers nationwide got N207.4 million as credit adjustments from the power distributors during the period, following resolution of their complaints related to over-billing.
In all, issues of inappropriate billing took the lion’s share of reports of customer dissatisfaction, followed by metering problems, which were further trailed by tariff band complaints and service interruptions.
Reports directly made to NERC’s Customer Complaint Units (CCUs) during the period under consideration, were 5,287, with 1,647 resolved. This corresponded to a 31.15 per cent resolution rate.
The commission’s CCUs are dedicated sections to the resolution of complaints received directly from
customers via emails, letters or phone calls through the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) call centre.
According to the report, this resolution rate represented a 8.77 per cent increase compared to the 22.38 per cent resolution rate recorded in 2024/Q2.
Customers of Ikeja and Eko Discos lodged 2,401 and 1,073 complaints, accounting for 45.41 per cent and 20.30 per cent respectively of the total complaints lodged at NERC’s CCU. Conversely, Aba Power had the lowest number of complaints with 10 or 0.19 per
cent of the total number received.
The commission highlighted the poor resolution rate of 31.15 per cent at its customer complaint units, during the period, stressing that it was taking steps to improve the speediness of complaints resolution by Discos.
During the quarter, customer complaints about billing at the NERC CCUs constituted 34.37 per cent of the total complaints. Other common issues among the 5,287 complaints received directly by NERC, were metering (29.98 per cent), tariff band (13.60 per cent) and service interruption
(12.24 per cent).
These four complaints categories, according to the report, cumulatively accounted for 90.18 per cent of the total complaints in the quarter.
“The complaints on billing that were resolved during the quarter resulted in a credit adjustment on customers’ bills to the tune of N207,442,190,” it added.
But generally, across Discos, the total number of complaints received in 2024/Q3 was 328,696, translating to a 14.35 per cent increase compared to the 287,441 received in 2024/Q2, the report
showed.
“Eko Disco received the highest number of complaints of 64,987, representing 19.77 per cent of total complaints received. Yola DisCo received the least number of complaints which was 2,583, representing 0.79 per cent of total complaints received,” NERC added. Also, disconnections constituted 6 per cent of all cases of complaints; while delays, voltage interruptions; load shedding as well as noncompliance constituted the rest.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Oil steadied near its highest level in almost three months yesterday, after some Middle Eastern oil grades strengthened on robust demand from Asian refiners.
Brent traded near $76 a barrel after earlier Monday hitting its highest since October 14. West Texas Intermediate was around $74. Traders will be looking out for official selling prices from Saudi Arabia, the biggest exporter, after Oman and Dubai crudes jumped at
the end of last year on scant supply from Iran and Russia.
Oil last week followed bullish drivers — including falling US stockpiles and increased unpredictability as Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House — to break out of a narrow range it had traded in since mid-October.
That optimism is being pared by expectations for a glut, the possible revival of idled Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) production and lackluster demand
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, has advocated the building of collaborative efforts among professionals to unlock new economic opportunities and potential for progress in all sectors.
The minister made the remark at the 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sokoto Professionals Network (SPN), which aims to bring professionals together towards the sustainable development of Sokoto state.
He described the theme of the AGM: “Year of Consolidation and Progress,” as very apt, urging members of the association to remain steadfast and continue to leverage their knowledge and skills for success, a
statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, in the ministry, Mohammed Ahmed, said.
Goronyo applauded them for the initiative to bring an array of professionals together towards the development of Sokoto State, in particular and the country, at large, assuring them of the federal government’s support.
Representing the Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu, on the occasion, the Senior Special Assistant on Political and Legal Matters, Ghandi Mohammed, commended the initiative for its strategic approach to fostering the development of the state.
He encouraged participants to actively engage in the organising workshops to maximise its impact on their personal and professional growth.
from top importer China, Bloomberg reported.
Brent is “likely anchored around $70,” Morgan Stanley analysts, including Martijn Rats, said in a note. The bank forecasts a surplus of about 700,000 barrels a day this year, as rising supply
Group Business Editor
Eromosele Abiodun
Deputy Business Editor
chinedu Eze
Comms/e-Business Editor
Emma Okonji
Asst. Editor, Energy
Emmanuel Addeh
Asst. Editor, Money Market
Nume Ekeghe
Correspondents
Kayodetokede(CapitalMarkets)
James Emejo (Finance)
Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)
Reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)
Speaking, the Chairman of SPN, Zayyanu Yabo, stated that the network was formed to bring sustainable development to the state and has engaged in capacity building activities, training about 100 youth on solar installation and maintenance techniques.
He further reaffirmed their dedication to fostering sustainable development in the State by empowering professionals to drive transformative change and shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
Meanwhile, the Network also organised a one-day management retreat and capacity building workshop aimed at increasing the knowledge of participants in critical thinking and strategic planning.
from OPEC and producers from outside of the group outpaces demand growth.
In India, state refiners such as Bharat Petroleum Corp are buying more Middle East crude to make up for lower supply of cheaper Russian oil. Middle East crude prices
could remain supported in the near term as the Joe Biden administration plans to impose more sanctions on Russia over its war on Ukraine.
Meanwhile, OPEC+, which pumps about half the world’s oil, decided early December to push back the start of oil output rises by three months until April and extended the full unwinding of cuts by a year until the end of 2026 due to weak demand and booming production outside the group.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), has explained why there will be load shedding in many parts of Abuja and its environs, stressing that the relocation of some of its assets due to the ‘dualisation’ of a road project was responsible.
A statement signed by the company’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, noted that this will lead to the rationing of power supply starting from yesterday (January 6).
This is coming after the
Distribution Company (Disco) in charge of the area, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), issued a similar statement, listing the locations that will be most affected by the development.
“The Transmission Company of Nigeria notifies the public that due to the Federal Capital Development Agency’s (FCDA) road dualisation project along the Apo axis, eight number 132kV and 33kV towers will be relocated along the Kukwaba/Apo 132kV line (Outer Southern Expressway route).
“This relocation work will necessitate a planned power outage from Monday, January 6 to Monday, January 20, 2025 from 9am to 4pm daily, which is the estimated duration for the dismantling and construction of the towers as well as restringing of the power cables that would enable resumption of bulk power supply to the Apo Transmission Substation from Gwagwalada Substation,” TCN stated.
Consequently, it disclosed that there will be a rationing of electricity supply for AEDC’s customers in
Kubwa, Karu,Maraba, Nyanya,Masaka,Keffi, Kukwaba, and Apo Mechanic. This, it said, will also affect parts of Lugbe, Trademore Estate, Pyakasa, Sabon Lugbe as well as Chika Alaita axes.
“While the relocation of the transmission towers is a necessity for the road completion project, TCN apologises for the inconvenience this planned power outage will cause and assures that power supply will be restored as soon as the towers relocation and cable stringing are completed,” Mbah stated.
Omolabake Fasogbon
In its search for next generation of African innovators, African integrated payments and digital commerce company, Interswitch Group has announced top nine finalists for its InterswitchSPAK National Science Competition.
The initiative underscores the firm’s commitment to nurturing young innovators towards Africa’s technological future.
The competition which is a flagship platform for
promoting STEM education in Nigeria, attracted thousands of secondary school students nationwide.
After several rounds of rigorous quizzes and problemsolving tasks, nine outstanding students emerged as finalists to compete for the grand finale in tackling advanced STEM challenges.
The overall winner will earn the coveted title of ’Nigeria’s Best STEM’ Student Speaking, EVP of Group Marketing and Communications at Interswitch, Cherry Eromosele
informed that the platform aimed to nurture the next generation of African innovators and problem-solvers, adding that the finalists represent the immense potential of Nigeria’s youth.
On the reward for excellence, Eromosele said that the firstplace champion will be awarded a five-year tertiary scholarship worth N15 million, a monthly stipend, and a laptop. The second and third-place winners will receive N10 million and N5 million scholarships, respectively, alongside laptops.
Finalists in the fourth to ninth positions will also receive significant cash prizes and laptops.
He said, “InterswitchSPAK is more than just a competition; it is a platform committed to the future and we are proud to support the finalists as they embark on a journey of transformation and impact.
“We remain committed to fostering a culture of innovation through STEM education, which is essential for driving sustainable development across the continent,” he said.
In a significant step toward fostering ethical and sustainable entrepreneurship, the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Pan-Atlantic University has launched a handbook titled, “Safeguarding: Implications for Entrepreneurship Development,” in Abuja.
The Handbook which was launched in Abuja brought together entrepreneurs, policymakers, academics, and other stakeholders to discuss the critical role of safeguarding in entrepreneurship.
In her welcome remarks, the Director of the Enterprise Development Centre, Dr. Nneka Okekearu underscored the handbook’s relevance in today’s entrepreneurial landscape and said the
handbook was the outcome of a collaborative efforts by stakeholders towards promoting ethical conduct in entrepreneurial activities. She noted that the handbook is a timely resource for entrepreneurs and institutions alike, offering practical insights and tools to integrate safeguarding principles into their operations.
The launch featured an enlightening keynote address on, “Safeguarding and the Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Exploitation, and Abuse to Enhance Entrepreneurship Development,” by former Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Social Investments, Maryam Uwais.
Uwais emphasised the importance of safeguarding principles in fostering inclusive and responsible business practices.
The keynote explored key issues that are particularly relevant to the entrepreneurship space including creating safe environments, gender equity and inclusion, policy frameworks and enhancing trust and collaboration.
The newly launched handbook serves as a vital guide for entrepreneurs, providing actionable strategies to safeguard individuals and communities involved in business processes. It covers topics such as recognizing and addressing sexual harassment,
building safeguarding policies, and fostering inclusive environments that enhance productivity and innovation.
Attendees expressed their appreciation for the initiative, noting its potential to inspire a new era of responsible entrepreneurship. The event concluded with a lively panel discussion and networking session, where participants shared ideas on implementing safeguarding measures in various entrepreneurial settings.
The launch of this handbook marks a significant milestone in the journey toward ethical entrepreneurship development, setting a precedent for integrating safeguarding into the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Dr. Abiodun Olusina Shobanjo is one of the few Nigerians, who have taken entrepreneurship a notch higher in an industry not given an appreciative chance at the beginning. But with passion and dint of hard work, he didn’t only excel but become a light for others to see. In commemoration of the 80th year birthday of this enigmatic advertising giant, the management of MarketingEdge, a wholly marketing communications journal, organised a birthday soiree in his honour recently. Raheem Akingbolu reports
Many good attributes define Dr. Abiodun Olusina Shobanjo but perhaps the most talked about is his unmatched contribution to the development and growth of the advertising industry. In a build up to his 80th birthday last week, individuals and organisations within the nation’s advertising landscape rolled out the drum to celebrate him.
However, in what looked like the peak of the celebration, the management of Marketing Edge Magazine put together an evening of arts and tributes at the AGIP Hall of the Muson Centre, Lagos, to add colour to the birthday anniversary and it turned out to be a platform for top industry players, among them Shobanjo’s contemporaries, former staff and mentees, who all came out to share their experience with the celebrant while climbing the ladder of their advertising career.
Though meant to be an evening of tribute, the event achieved more than that as it gave birth to history, profiling and a royal procession of gratitude and nostalgia for a man whose contributions have shaped many people’s careers and advanced the advertising profession in Nigeria.
As they mounted the podium, one after the other, the speakers spoke about the man most of them referred to as BB as an icon who played a pace-setting role in redefining the Marketing Communication industry. They spoke to the humble beginning of advertising in Nigeria and the success Shobanjo made out of the profession.
A former Senator of the Federal Republic, Senator Akin Odunsi, went down memory lane to delve into his growing up days in advertising with Shobanjo. He described Shobanjo as a man of vision, whose eyes were steadily on the ball from their early days. Odunsi, who co-founded the rested Rosabel Advertising before moving into politics described the birthday boy as a blessing to the industry and Nigeria at large. He also commended Mrs. Joyce Shobanjo, as a good pillar who gave her husband a good shoulder to lean on while he (the celebrant) cracked his head for the best of ideas.
Like Senator Odunsi, the first director general
of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Vincent Maduka, and a former Chairman of Zenith Bank Board of Directors, Sir Steve Omojafor, spoke with enthusiasm about their relationship of many decades with the celebrant. They both described Shobanjo as ‘a man of means’ who achieved a lot through diligence and focus. Coincidentally, Omojafor, also a front-line advertising practitioner will also clock 80 in January 2025.
A former President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria, (AAAN), Steve Babaeko, said it would be difficult, if not impossible to write the evolution and the development of the industry in Nigeria, without dedicating a huge chapter to this man, who has not only contributed to its growth but has, over the years nurtured and produced equally successful men and women who are today industry leaders and trailblazers in various arms of Marketing Communication.
“It’s not an accident that the entire industry and beyond, have passionately rolled out the drum in the last one month, through many fora to use the occasion of his 80th birthday to celebrate this iconic individual and emphasized his contribution to industry growth and the nation’s economy in general. As a young practitioner, myself and many of my contemporaries looked up to Dr. Shobanjo and he was always ready to offer advice and create opportunities for us. Till today, he still maintains a close relationship with us all. One occasion I will not forget in a hurry was on the day of my 50th birthday anniversary three years ago when Dr. Shobanjo called me in the morning and prayed for me. With his call and words of exultation, the day was made.” Babaeko stated.
Co-Founder and Group Managing Director of SO&U Limited, spoke of Shobanjo’s unparalleled vision and discipline, recalling moments that left the audience nodding in agreement and applauding with gusto. “As innocent ‘Calabar boy’ who wanted to explore the world of advertising
in the city of Lagos, Shobanjo didn’t only give me the needed platform, he exposed me to opportunities that formed the basis for my success in the industry,”
Current President of AAAN, Lanre Adisa reflected on the invaluable lessons learned under Shobanjo’s mentorship and from some of his books. “In Shobanjo, I see a father, a leader and a pathfinder who remains a role model till date,”
Madam Bunmi Oke, CEO of Ladybird Advertising and several others also commended BB resilient spirit as a “man of steel", while commending his professionalism. Each speaker seemed to pour their soul into their tributes, creating a cascade of emotions that left the audience mesmerized.
For many, the night was a cathartic release, a long-awaited opportunity to express gratitude to a man who had profoundly shaped their careers and the industry at large. The atmosphere was infectious, tears mingled with laughter, and applause echoed endlessly, punctuated by murmurs of agreement from the crowd.
Earlier in his opening remark, the Publisher and CEO of MARKETING EDGE, John Ajayi, described the celebrant as a trailblazer in the Nigerian and African advertising industry. He highlighted his unparalleled professionalism, and his contributions to building successful corporate brands across sectors. He described Shobanjo as a symbol of creativity, resilience, and excellence, urging the audience to draw inspiration from his legacy to build impactful contributions for future generations.
The peak of the event was the presentation of a special award to Shobanjo by the management of the magazine for lifting the advertising industry. This session also witnessed the cutting of a memorable cake by close friends and members of the celebrant’s family.
Meanwhile, it was not only an evening of speeches and merry making as interludes were provided by a dance group and Akeem Lasisi & the Songbirds, where Akeem the Poet effortlessly delivered a well crafted poem that profiled Shobanjo and his unique place in Nigeria's creative industry.
Chiemelie Ezeobi
In a significant development within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Musa Yusuf Garba has officially assumed duty as the AIG in charge of the Maritime Command, Force Headquarters Annex, Lagos. A highly accomplished officer with over three decades of meritorious service, AIG Garba brings to his new role a wealth of operational, investigative, and administrative experience acquired from various postings across the country.
Born on 1st January 1966, in Zamfara State, AIG Garba holds an impressive array of academic qualifications. He earned a Master’s Degree in Criminology and Forensic Psychology from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto. He further holds a Diploma in Law from Kaduna Polytechnic, a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration from Usman Danfodio University, an Advanced Diploma in Strategic Security and Infrastructure Protection from the University of Lagos, and an Executive Diploma in Private Detective Tradecraft from Elizade University, Ilora, Ondo State.
AIG Musa Yusuf Garba was enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police on 18th May 1992, undergoing rigorous training at the Police Academy Annex, Kaduna. He was commissioned
as an officer in October 1993.
His career has seen him serve in various strategic positions across five of Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, including Divisional Traffic Officer, Shendam Division, Plateau State; Divisional Crime Officer, Gembu Division, Taraba State; Commander, 40 Police Mobile Force, Jalingo, Taraba State; Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to the Governor of Zamfara
State; Divisional Police Officer (DPO), M/Gari Division, Kaduna State; and DPO, K/Mashi Division, Kaduna State.
He also served as DPO, U/Rogo Division, Sokoto State; DPO, Mpape Division, Federal Capital Territory (FCT); Coordinator, Community Policing Centre in FCT, Katsina, and Kaduna States; Commander, 41 Police Mobile Force, Damaturu, Yobe State; Assistant Commissioner of Police (AC) Operations, Kebbi State Command; Area Commander, Bori, Rivers State Command; Deputy Commissioner (DC) Armament, Force Headquarters, Abuja; and Commandant, Police Training School, Ikeja
His promotion to Commissioner of Police saw him posted as the 41st Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command.
Prior to his recent promotion to the rank of AIG, he served as the Deputy Commandant of the Police Staff College, Jos, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the future leaders of the Nigeria Police Force.
AIG Musa Yusuf Garba has consistently demonstrated a commitment to professionalism and integrity, earning him recognition as an anti-corruption advocate and a staunch proponent of due process. He has undergone extensive professional training both locally and internationally, including the Police Mobile Training, Police Mobile Force Training College, Gwoza; Intermediate Command Course, Police Staff College, Jos; Strategic Leadership Command Course, Police Staff College, Jos; and Community
Policing Course, Houston, Texas, USA.
Others include the Certificate in Enterprise Security Risk Management; Certificate in Kidnapping and Hostage Survival; Certificate in Safety/Protector Supervision; Certificate on Protecting Expatriates in Hostile Environments; Certificate on Leading Organisations out of Security Crises; Certificate in Body Language; Certified Security Investigator; and Certified Community Policing Expert.
In recognition of his distinguished career, AIG Garba has received numerous awards and honours, including Fellow, International Institute of Professional Security; Fellow, Institute of Criminological Studies and Security Management of Nigeria; Fellow, Institute of Strategic Public Negotiation; and Fellow Member, Forensic Psychologists.
A devoted family man, AIG Musa Yusuf Garba is happily married and blessed with children. Beyond his professional commitments, he is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys playing badminton, football, table tennis, and engaging in body fitness exercises.
As he assumes leadership of the Maritime Command, stakeholders including Mr. Matthew Ibadin, the CEO of Badinson Security Services, have expressed optimism about his capacity to enhance maritime security and safeguard Nigeria’s waterways as his wealth of experience and track record of excellence are expected to bring renewed vigour and strategic oversight to the command.
Wife of Deputy Governor,
As conversations intensify around tariff adjustments in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh has reaffirmed the telecom giant’s commitment to delivering superior connectivity and fostering digital inclusion.
In response to the economic realities of rising operational and capital costs, Balsingh noted that the proposed tariff adjustments aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector while unlocking significant
benefits for Nigerian consumers. In an op-ed authored by Balsingh in which he contextualised the necessity of the tariff adjustments, he explained that “For over a decade, tariffs have remained static despite the dramatic increase in operating expenses, which have surged by over 300 percent in the last 18 to 24 months alone.
“To continue providing highquality services and meeting the growing demand for digital connectivity, it has become essential to realign our pricing structure with economic realities.”
Balsingh further highlighted the substantial investments required to maintain and expand telecommunications infrastructure.
“The increasing demand for digital services across sectors such as education, banking, and healthcare requires us to continually upgrade our networks to deliver more capacity and improve service quality. These investments come at a cost, one that must be shared proportionally to guarantee longterm viability,” he observed.
The proposed tariff adjustments will not only ensure the
President Bola Tinubu has arrived Accra, the capital of Ghana, ahead of the inauguration of the new President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, today.
The President, who departed the Presidential wing of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos, at about 4:20pm, was received at the Kotoka International Airport, Accra, by the Chief of Staff to
the President of Ghana, Hon Julius Debra, at about 4:05pm, Ghanaian time.
While in Ghana, President Tinubu, who is the Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the ECOWAS, will join other African leaders to witness the swearing-in ceremony of Mahama, along with his Vice President-elect, Professor Naana Opoku-Agyemang.
Tinubu's trip to Accra is at the invitation of the president-elect,
who had visited the Nigerian leader earlier in December, 2024.
Mahama and Tinubu have a longstanding personal relationship, just like Nigeria and Ghana maintain a longstanding bilateral relationship.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Bianca OdumegwuOjukwu; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, and other top government officials awere accompanying President Tinubu on the trip.
sector’s sustainability but also bring significant improvements to service delivery, adding: “By enabling us to expand coverage, strengthen network security, and introduce cutting-edge technologies, the adjustments will directly enhance the quality of connectivity for Nigerians.
“Our priority is to ensure that no one is left behind in the country’s digital transformation journey.”
Balsingh emphasised that these adjustments would be implemented with affordability in mind, ensuring minimal impact on consumers.
He said the company remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s vision of becoming a digital economy leader in Africa, empowering businesses, driving innovation, and fostering inclusive growth.
“Our commitment to quality service remains unwavering,” Balsingh further said, adding that "while significant tariff adjustments have become necessary, we understand the importance of gradual implementation to support our customers’ financial positions. This step will enable us to invest in capacity, expand coverage, and enhance service delivery, ensuring Nigeria remains competitive in the global digital landscape.”
The House of Representatives will Tuesday commence the 2025 budget defence session with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
President Bola Tinubu recently presented the N49.74 trillion 2025 appropriation bill before a joint session of the National Assembly.
Subsequently, the House passed the budget through second reading on December 19, 2024 and referred it to the Appropriations Committee with all Standing Committees as
sub-committees for further legislative action.
Report from the exercise was expected to be harmonised on January 22, while the Appropriations Committee's report would be laid at plenary on January 31.
But Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Hon. Abubakar Bichi, while speaking with journalists on Monday, after the inaugural meeting of the committee, revealed that the budget defence would last till January 17.
Bichi stressed that reports from the exercise might be
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe has said how much the South-east geopolitical zone would benefit from the tax reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu would depend on the resolution of the insecurity issue in the zone. Abaribe stated this yesterday while fielding questions from journalists after paying a Yuletide visit to Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, at his Nvosi country home. Abaribe spent quite some time with the governor discussing issues
of governance in the state. The Abia South senator said that Tinubu's tax bill was aimed at boosting production, and there was no way a zone noted for production, like the South-east, would gain from it if Kanu was not released to end insecurity.
He stated, "The president wants to pass a tax bill that has to do with production. You cannot tax people who don't produce. So, he needs Nnamdi Kanu out so that all those things that are holding us down in the South-east, that have made us not to produce as much as we
ought to produce, will not be there."
Abaribe reiterated that Igbo leaders and all Nigerians that believe in unity, justice and fairness would "continue to call on President Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu".
He said, “We are ready and willing to be guarantors for him to be released so that we can have life coming back into the Southeast and take it away from the criminals, kidnappers, the cultists and dangerous elements that are floating around us."
The senator, who is Chairman of the South-east caucus in the National
Assembly, said setting Kanu free from detention would isolate the criminal elements masquerading as Biafra agitators.
He said, "What we now know in the South-east is that criminals and all other people who advocate violence have taken over and using the name Nnamdi Kanu to perpetuate all these their despicable acts.
"We know that the president, being a listening leader, will also look at all the issues involved, which we have presented to him from various mediums, that he will do the needful and release Nnamdi
Kanu so that it will put a stop to all these things that are happening in the South-east and bring back the South-east as the hub of production in Nigeria."
On his assessment of Otti's performance so far, Abaribe said the governor of his state was doing well, adding that Otti's good works would pave the way for his second tenure come 2027.
“I think second tenure is still very far away but I do not see any stumbling block on the way if we go by what he has done at this point," he said.
harmonised on January 22, while the Appropriations Committee's report would be laid at plenary on January 31.
Bichi stated, "We just had the inauguration meeting today for the 2025 Appropriation Bill, which you are aware the president has presented to us and by tomorrow we will start the budget defence with all the MDAs.
“From tomorrow (today) to 17th we are going to do our budget defence and we will likely harmonise on the 22nd (January) and, God willing, by 31st, we are going to lay our reports.
"We are going to study the budget; all our committees will study the budget. I believe the budget is for Nigerians, for our development – infrastructure and other important things and I am sure Nigerians will be happy with it."
Bichi added that the legislature would scrutinise the proposed budgetary expenditure, revenues and other issues contained in the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
He said, “But what we do first, we complete our reports. Now we are going to study the budget, all our committees will study the budget and I believe the budget is for Nigerians, it's for development infrastructures and other important things and I'm sure Nigeria will be happy with it."
L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Guinness Nigeria, Mr. Girish Sharma; Executive Secretary, Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO), Mrs. Funke Adepoju; and the Managing Director, 7Up Bottling Company, Mr. Ziad Malouf, during a meeting of senior management of the companies with the Lagos government officials led by LASWARCO Executive Secretary, at Alausa
Nigeria has advanced its national cancer control programme in the last decade and is making steady progress towards expanding care for millions of people, an international assessment has found.
The country is strengthening institutional response, increasing resource allocation and building its oncology workforce and services to tackle its cancer burden, according to the review by imPACT.
The imPACT review, carried out by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the World
Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) on request from the Nigerian government, evaluated current health system readiness for cancer care and progress since a previous assessment in 2011.
According to report on e-newsletter, a publication of the IAEA, with an estimated 220 million people, Nigeria has the largest population in Africa, densely spread across a country with a land mass of over 900,000 square kilometres.
However, the distribution of health services is uneven, concentrated around larger cities and not easily accessible for
many Nigerians outside main urban centres, it noted.
The report stated that noncommunicable diseases, including cancer, are a significant health problem; according to 2022 IARC figures, adding that the number of new cancer cases in Nigeria is estimated at nearly 128,000 perTheyear.imPACT review team explored the complementary role of the private sector in enhancing access to radiotherapy during a visit to a private hospital in Lagos City, Nigeria. It found that the most frequent types of cancer among Nigerian men are prostate, colorectal and liver cancers.
Breast cancer, with over 32, 200 new cases and more than 16,300 deaths per year, is the most common cause of death from cancer among Nigerian women.
Cervical cancer also poses a major challenge, accounting for the second largest number of female cancer deaths in Nigeria, the report said.
In October 2024, an imPACT review team comprising IAEA, WHO and 12 independent experts from Algeria, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Morocco, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, the United States of America, Zambia and Zimbabwe visited key sites relevant to cancer control in
in the explosion and the resultant inferno.
Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, extended his condolences to the families of victims of Sunday's fire incident caused by a fallen diesel tanker in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of the state.
The diesel tanker, which reportedly suffered brake failure, fell at a traffic light junction and exploded into a ball of fire that burnt four persons to death, while three others suffered various degrees of injury
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, and he extended his condolences to the diseased’ families.
The senator for Delta North District, Senator Ned Nwoko, also condoled with the families, businesses and communities affected by the incident.
While commiserating with the Ika South local government and people of the area, Oborevwori, in a statement issued yesterday by
his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described the fire incident as horrifying and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured and fortitude to those bereaved in the unfortunate incident.
He directed the state Ministry of Health, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and other relevant authorities to expedite action on provision of much-needed support to victims of the incident.
The governor commended the Fire Service, the people of Ika South Local Government Area and security agencies who rallied round to put out the inferno for their dedication
in assisting those affected by the fire.
Nwoko described the loss of lives and livelihoods as a profound tragedy for the people of Delta North.
"This is a heartbreaking event that has left families grieving and businesses in ruins. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted by this unfortunate disaster," he stated.
Nwoko reiterated the urgent need for stringent regulations on the movement of heavy-duty vehicles, particularly those transporting hazardous materials, to prevent future tragedies.
In a solidarity message, Keyamo extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by the tragedy.
Nigeria, including university hospitals and primary health care centres.
The review team not only brought together a wide pool of expertise, but also fostered regional and south-south collaboration to support capacity building following the review.
An imPACT review mission in October 2024 assessed Nigeria’s cancer care capacities and provided recommendations to expand services.
The team, on the ground in Nigeria between October 14 and 24, 2024, interviewed local health authorities and held extensive consultations with cancer stakeholders, including patient advocacy groups.
They also met with partners that could potentially support the country in scaling up access to cancer services, including the Islamic Development Bank, the African Development Bank and the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, among others.
The review found that Nigeria had taken positive steps to strengthen cancer care since the last imPACT mission to the country in 2011, including through the establishment in 2023 of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT).
The institute has since launched the National Strategic Cancer Control Plan 2023-2027 and is working with several partners to implement its activities in
cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, hospice and palliative care, as well as data management and advocacy.
“As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance access to cancer diagnosis and treatment across the country, we are working closely with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to establish comprehensive cancer treatment centres and diagnostic facilities across all the six geopolitical zones.
“We are also partnering with stakeholders towards strengthening cancer control programs at both the federal and state levels to address the rising burden of cancer in Nigeria," said NICRAT Director General, Usman Aliyu.
The imPACT team held meetings with local health authorities, partners and stakeholders, including patient advocacy groups.
Preliminary findings were presented to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of Nigeria.
The imPACT review sought to create a baseline analysis of the current cancer care situation to support Nigeria in building strategic partnerships to expand care, including under broader global cancer efforts such as the IAEA’s Rays of Hope, WHO’s breast and cervical cancer initiatives, and IARC’s cancer registry initiative.
James Sowole in Abeokuta
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing on of notable businesswoman and socialite, Chief (Mrs.) Adebisi Edionseri, describing her death a significant loss to both the state and Nigeria as a whole.
Popularly called 'Cash Madam,' Edionseri passed away on Sunday at the age of 89. Her legacy as a successful
entrepreneur and social figure, according to the governor has left an indelible mark, resonating across generations since the 1970s.
Abiodun, in a statement on Monday, praised Edionser's contributions to Ogun State, highlighting her as a beacon of inspiration and a role model for countless individuals.
He noted that she achieved remarkable success at a young age, demonstrating resilience and ambition that have inspired many
in Ogun State and beyond.
His words: "I, on behalf of myself and the people of Ogun State, expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of Alhaja (Chief) Adebisi Edionseri.
"Alhaja Adebisi's contributions to the business community and her vibrant social presence will be reference points for generations yet unbirn. Her influence extended far and wide, making her a cherished figure in the hearts of many.
Keyamo, in a statement made available Monday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, stated, "For the families and individuals who have lost so much, we stand with you during this incredibly challenging time.
"Our hearts go out to you, and the federal government is committed to providing the necessary resources and support to help you rebuild and recover.”
Keyamo also praised the bravery of first responders, firefighters, and emergency personnel, whose swift actions helped contain the fire and save lives.
Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
Exceeding the N70,000 federal government's announced wages for workers, founder and chancellor of the Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti, (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola has approved N77,000 as minimum wage for the staff of the institution with effect from November 2024.
Making the disclosure on Monday, the Vice Chancellor of ABUAD, Professor Smaranda Olarinde, in her 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 ABUAD Staff Assessment and Performance Evaluation Review (SAPER) Report at the 15th anniversary of commencement of academic activities of the institution, said ABUAD Workers have started receiving the new minimum wage since last year.
The vice chancellor however praised Chief Babalola for his generosity, saying that the founder ensured payment of the annual leave bonus for 2024 and made available the annual Christmas gift to all staff members. Professor Olarinde stated further that a total of 452 staff across various colleges were assessed during the period in review, including 40 Professors and 46 Readers who were recommended for external assessment.
"In November 2024, after the federal government announced a minimum wage of N70,000.00, the founder made the decision to exceed this by adding an additional 10%, raising the minimum wage of ABUAD staff to N77,000.00 as against N70,000.00 minimum wage proposed by the federal government.
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in the quest to enforce integrity and rid its fold of fraudulent elements, dismissed 27 officers from its workforce in 2024.
The officers, according to a statement, were dismissed for various offences bordering on fraudulent activities and misconduct.
The statement released by Head, Media and Publicity, Mr Dele Oyewale, on Monday, disclosed that the affected staff were relieved of their appointments following the recommendation of the Staff Disciplinary Committee of EFCC, which was ratified by the Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede.
The statement said, "Olukoyede reiterated the commitment of the commission to zero tolerance for corruption, warning that no officer is immune to disciplinary measures.
“Every modicum of allegation against any staff of the commission would always be investigated, including a trending $400,000 claim of a yet-to-be-identified supposed staff of the EFCC against a sectional head.
“The core values of the commission are sacrosanct and would always be held in optimal regard at all times.”
Meanwhile, EFCC alerted the public to the sinister activities of
impersonators and blackmailers using the name of its executive chairman to extort money from highprofile suspects being investigated by the EFCC.
Oyewale said two members of an alleged syndicate, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim, were
recently arraigned before Justice Jude Onwuebuzie of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, for allegedly contacting a former Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mr. Mohammed Bello-Kaka, and demanding $1 million from
him for “Olukoyede to give him soft landing” on a non-existing investigation.
While stating that such characters were still on the loose seeking victims, the anti-graft agency maintained that Olukoyede remained a man of integrity that could not be
swayed by monetary influences. EFCC urged the public to always report such disreputable elements to the commission.
The statement added, "Additionally, the EFCC is aware of moves being hatched in some quarters to blackmail officers of the commission
through unwholesome means. “Suspects being investigated for some economic and financial crimes who have failed to compromise their investigators would always clutch at any straw. Such blackmailers should not be accorded any form of attention."
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has announced significant breakthroughs in its efforts to reduce crime and criminality in the state.
During a press conference at the police headquarters in Awka, the Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam, said the command has recorded numerous successes recently, including the arrest of a notorious kidnapper, known as Pablo, who had been terrorizing Ihiala, Anambra State, and other areas in Enugu and Delta States.
He said over 300 suspects were recently arrested, including securing 15 convictions, and rescuing 14 kidnapped victims unhurt. Most of the suspected criminals were also paraded before journalists.
He also announced the command has also recovered a substantial arms and ammunition, including 43 unexploded improvised devices, over 100 different brands of arms, and 2,937 ammunition of various types.
Additionally, the police have recovered 40 stolen vehicles and various brands of motorcycles, the commissioner said.
Some notable breakthroughs he added include the elimination of the masterminds behind the attack on police operatives in Uruagu Nnewi, the arrest of an 18-yearold boy involved in a planned cult killing, and the destruction of several criminal camps, including one in Nimo, Njikoka LGA, which led to the recovery of 19 unexploded devices.
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
The Secretary to Sokoto State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, has lost his daughter, her three children and a house help to an early morning fire outbreak that ravaged their house in the early hours of Monday.
The fire outbreak, which occurred at about 3.00 am claimed the lives of Rabi'atu Bello Sifawa, daughter to the Secretary to the State Government and her three children, Fatimatu Bello Yusuf, Maryam Bello Yusuf, Abubakar Sadik Bello Yusuf as well a house
help, Aishatu Muhammad. Meanwhile, the funeral prayer for the deceased has been observed in Sifawa town, Bodinga Local Government Area.
Those in attendance at the funeral were the state Deputy Governor, Idris Muhammed Gobir, Speaker, State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Tukur Bala Bodinga, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, representatives of Senator and Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, the State Chief Judge, Justice Saidu Sifawa. Others were the Grand Khadi, Shuaibu Sodangi Achida, Chief of
Staff, Government House, Sokoto, Aminu Haliru Dikko, members of the legislature, Commissioners and Special Advisers.
Still others included the State Commissioner of Police, SDS, Commandant Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, representatives of the military and other security agencies, heads of government's parastatals, Permanent Secretaries, local governments' chairmen, serving and retired civil servants, politicians and Ulamas, among others.
The remains of the five deceased persons have since been buried in accordance with Islamic injunctions.
Itam said: "Two notorious cultists were arrested in Awka, leading to the recovery of a pump action gun, four live cartridges, and other exhibits.
"In a recent development, the command rescued three children allegedly stolen from their parents in Bauchi State and sold in Anambra State.
"Four suspects, including an illegal foster mother, were arrested and confessed to the crime.
"The command is urging the public to assist in identifying the rescued children and reuniting them with their parents."
The command also appealed to the public to share information about any suspicious activities, emphasizing that security is everyone's business.
The Commissioner of Police expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and the governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for their support.
He assured the public that the command is committed to consolidating its gains in crime prevention and restoration of law and order in the state.
Bugged by the increasing number of pensioners and the amount paid as pensions and gratuities, the Niger State Government has begun the verification of all pensioners in the state and local government services.
So far, the government had in the last 8 months paid N5.5 billion to retirees in the state and local government areas with nearly 2,200 retirees benefiting.
Findings revealed that 9 batches of pensioners of the state civil service were paid with batches 8 and 9 receiving their full entitlements while two batches from the local governments were paid their full pension.
Despite the payments it was gathered that the bills have continued to rise making it almost difficult for the Pension Board to meet its obligations to the huge number of retirees.
As a result, the Pension Board has directed a screening of all retirees
under a programme tagged "Am Alive" verification.
Under the scheme, according to a memo sent to the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners NUP Niger State Chapter, each retiree is to present himself physically twice a year at any commercial bank for data capturing as an assurance that the pensioner is still alive.
According to the memo signed by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the State Pension Board, Alhaji Nasiru Saidu Namaska, the "Exercise will be conducted twice a year at intervals of six months
"To ensure a seamless process the board will collaborate with all commercial banks and provide any necessary support to make the exercise convenient for the retirees"
Confirming the authentication of the memo, the Director General said the step was taken because " Next of Kins" of deceased civil servants have always failed to report the death of their parents to the board thereby continuing to
draw the pension of those concerned since they have access to the bank accounts of the departed worker This development, Namaska said, has made it impossible for names of deceased pensioners to be deleted from the pension pay roll and new pensioners enlisted.
The director general said the biometrics of the pensioners will be captured and the bank will transfer such information to the board adding that only those whose information are transmitted from the banks will receive their pensions. He added that special arrangements have been made for both the sick or retirees that are outside the country for adequate and seamless participation in the exercise. Namaska maintained that the verification " will give chance to new entrants and also reduce monthly liability"
THISDAY on Monday observed that many retirees thronged the commercial banks in Minna the state capital for the verification.
L-R: Rector, Enugu State Polytechnic, Iwollo, Rev. Fr. Nnamdi Nwankwo; Chaplain, Enugu State government
Dean of Agbani
a
Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos
Former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, has denied allegations of inciting Nigerians with his New Year message, which he insisted was intended to address pressing national issues.
Obi said on Monday via X that he had received threats to his life and family following the message and described the accusations as part of a broader attempt to silence critical voices in the country.
“Have I really crossed the line? My
New Year message has now led to threats against my life, my family, and those around me. While I have received all sorts of messages, one Mr. Felix Morka, has gone further to accuse me of ‘crossing the line’ and has warned that I will face the consequences,” Obi wrote.
The Labour Party presidential candidate’s New Year message, delivered during a press conference in Abuja titled: “Nigeria Needs Selfless and Exemplary Leadership,” criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu for failing to address worsening
economic and security challenges.
Obi called for “vigorous, positive actions” to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians, adding that many citizens were losing hope.
Reacting to Obi’s comments, the All Progressives Congress(APC), through its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, accused the former governor of Anambra State of hypocrisy and attempting to incite public outrage against the government.
In a statement, Morka described Obi’s remarks as “misleading” and aimed at scoring “cheap political
points.”
Obi, however, stood by his New Year message, insisting that it was made in good faith and calling for constructive feedback.
“If I have truly crossed the line, I invite anyone to point it out, as I remain committed to upholding decorum. However, I will not be silenced in my resolve to speak truthfully, especially as our nation continues to drift toward undemocratic practices,” he said.
He expressed concern over the backlashes he's facing, as he asked if he truly crossed a line, adding that
Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has presented cheques totaling N4.2 billion to over 2,000 retirees in continuation of his commitment to settling outstanding gratuities inherited from the previous administration.
The payments follow last week’s State Executive Council meeting, where EXCO approved the disbursement to retirees who served the state and retired between 2019 and 2020.
In his address Monday, Governor Inuwa Yahaya revealed his administration has so far settled N17.235 billion out of the N21 billion backlog of unpaid gratuities inherited from the past government.
He assured the public that all outstanding payments would be cleared before the end of his tenure.
His words: "Today’s event demonstrates our resolve to leave no liabilities behind. I am pleased to reaffirm that it is our solemn commitment to clear all gratuity obligations before the end of our tenure in 2027.
“By doing so, we aim to leave a legacy of accountability and compassion, thus ensuring no retiree is left without the benefits they so rightly deserve.
“Since assuming office, my administration has prioritized the welfare of our retirees and civil servants. We have settled gratuities for 11,685 retirees, amounting to over N13 billion for those who retired between 2014 and 2018.
“Today, we are disbursing N4.2 billion to another 2,024 retirees who
left service between 2019 and 2020.”
He stated that for the local government retirees, his administration has adopted a pragmatic approach by aligning each local government’s payment capacity with its financial resources.
He however, assured that talks are ongoing with the local government chairmen to work out implementable plans that local government retirees will further benefit from a similar gesture as their counterparts at the state level.
The governor also highlighted that as part of effort to enhance the welfare of civil servants, his administration recently implemented the N70,000 minimum wage for state government workers, a bold step he said has reflected his administration’s determination to shield civil servants from the harsh realities of economic challenges, particularly in the aftermath of the fuel subsidy removal.
He also stated his government revitalized the civil service through structural reforms, including the establishment of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, the introduction of a biometric attendance system to enhance transparency, and the rationalization of ministries to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies while ensuring regular promotions with financial implications.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya further commended the labour unions, retiree associations, and other stakeholders for their patience, cooperation, and constructive dialogue throughout this process, saying “your support has been instrumental in guiding our
reforms and ensuring the welfare of civil servants remains a top priority for our administration.”
Speaking on behalf of the leadership and members of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Gombe State Chapter, Barr. Aliyu Gadalima Doho, commended the governor for his compassionate leadership and the unprecedented efforts to address the backlog of gratuities.
He noted that many pensioners had endured financial difficulties over the years before the coming of his administration, describing the payment as a "lifesaver" for retirees
and their dependents.
Earlier in his welcome address, the State Auditor-General and Chairman of the Standing Committee to Review and Ascertain the Correctness of Outstanding Gratuity and its Payment, Muhammed Buba, applauded Governor Yahaya for consistently allocating funds for the payment of backlog of gratuities neglected by the previous administration since 2014.
He assured the governor and the senior citizens that his committee will continue to work on its mandate for the benefit of the retired civil servants.
Sunday Ehigiator
St. Gregory's College Old Boys Association (SGCOBA) yesterday announced the passing of its revered Board of Trustees Member, Chief Olabode Emmanuel, who died on January 4, 2025.
According to a statement, SGCOBA said Emmanuel, before his demise, was a Chartered Accountant par excellence, a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW), and a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
The statement read: “As a seasoned administrator with vast experience, Chief Emmanuel has
served as the Chairman of the Board of many local and international corporate organizations.
“These include: BoriniProno & Co. Limited, Trevi Foundations of Nigeria Limited, Foundation Construction Limited, Saipem (Nigeria) Limited, Hogg Robinson Nigeria Limited, and Grand Cereals Limited.
“Aside St Gregory's College Old Boys Association, he was a board member of, Nigerian Life & Provident Company Limited, Sterling Assurance Company Limited, Macmillan Nigeria Publishers Limited – Publishers of Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Books and Publications in Africa - amongst others. Details on burial arrangements are “to be announced by the family.”
his life, family, and loved ones were under serious threat following his Christmas message.
Obi made this claim in a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account yesterday.
His post followed recent remarks from Felix Morka, the National Spokesperson of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who accused Obi of repeatedly crossing the line with his comments and suggested that any consequences he faces are self-inflicted.
Obi, referring to Morka’s statement while speaking on Arise TV, where he said “Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times and has it coming to him whatever he gets,” said the statement was a threat to his life and the lives of his family members.
Obi expressed concern over what he described as Nigeria’s drift toward authoritarianism. saying the country is increasingly becoming a repressive state, where dissent and freedom of expression were under attack.
Meanwhile, the Obidient Movement, followers of Obi have condemned the comments of the National Publicity
Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Felix Morka, saying their principal has crossed the line. Morka, the APC National Publicity Secretary, on Arise TV on January 5, 2025, said, "Mr. Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times and he has what’s coming to him, and whatever he gets, he should manage it," In a statement by the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, he said the statement from Morka was a direct threat to Obi's life, and the peace of the Nigerian state.
''We view this as not only an attack on Mr. Peter Obi but also a dangerous signal of Nigeria’s descent into authoritarianism under the current administration. Such a declaration from the spokesperson of the ruling party is reckless, unbecoming, and a blatant endorsement of violence,'' he said. He said Obi’s commitment to Nigeria has been consistently demonstrated through his issue-based politics, his relentless pursuit of solutions to national challenges, and his respect for democratic principles.
The Nigeria Police yesterday said that operatives of the Force Intelligence Department-Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) apprehended a child trafficking syndicate led by Dayo Bernard, a clergy with 'End Time Army Ministry,' Bukuru, Plateau State.
A statement by Force Spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi revealed the operatives also arrested other members of the syndicate identified as Rita Agboeze 'f', Victoria Ugwu 'f', Nanman Puntel 'f', and Peter Ukwuani 'm'.
He noted that police operation led to the rescue of five children between the ages of 2-4, abducted from various homes in Jos, Plateau State.
"Upon interrogation, the principal suspect confessed to having abducted and sold 13 children at varying prices, all of whom have been recovered by the police and reunited with their families through the Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development," he said.
The spokesperson said that operatives of the FID-IRT successfully
recovered 14 Ak-47 rifles, in line with the IGP’s directive to all police detectives to mop up all illicit arms and ammunition in circulation. He said these operations exemplified the unwavering resolve of the police and highlight the effectiveness of their efforts to combat crime and enhance national security.
Adejobi also recalled that "On the 1st of November 2024, operatives of the FID-IRT arrested one Ogaga Dickson ‘m’ 35 years, a member of a notorious armed robbery syndicate responsible for the death of CSP Hassan Jega, the DPO Agbarho Division, Delta State, who was killed on the 14th of October 2024, during a fierce gun battle between a team of police officers led by the deceased DPO and the assailants after the team of police men had foiled one of their robbery operations.
"The operatives had earlier stormed the gang’s den and engaged them in a fierce gun duel leading to the neutralization of four of the gang members.
"Upon Ogaga’s arrest, the police recovered one Ak 47 rifle, one English pistol, one locally made pistol, ammunition of various calibres and six exotic vehicles".
A statement by Police Public Relations Officer, FCT Command, SP Josephine Adeh, stated that the Command Bomb Squad revealed that it was an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion, as remnants of the device had been recovered.
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has confirmed an alleged bomb explosion in an Abuja school. The Command also revealed that two of the principal suspects died in the explosion while tampering with the improvised explosive device (IED).
"The FCT Police Command regrets to inform the public of a tragic incident involving a suspected bomb explosion that occurred on January 6, 2025, at approximately 11:00 AM at the Tsangagyar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School, located in Kuchibuyi Village, Byazhin area of the FCT.
"Upon receiving a distress call from the Sarki of Kuchibuyi, a team of police operatives, including the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team and the Area Commander of Kubwa, swiftly mobilised to the scene.
"The area was immediately cordoned off to protect residents
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has vowed that the individuals arrested in connection with the theft of sewage manhole covers on highways in Abuja would be made to face the full wrath of the law as a deterrent to others.
He made the vow as an iron smelting company, Abuja Steel Company has been identified as one of the alleged receivers of the stolen manhole covers on Abuja highways.
Wike also assured that the
government would ensure that all buyers and users of the vandalised manhole covers and other vandalised public infrastructures would be apprehended and prosecuted for economic sabotage and for imperiling the lives of Nigerians.
No fewer than 50 suspects were paraded yesterday by FCT Police Command for vandalism and theft of manhole covers within the FCT.
The criminals pillaging sewage manhole covers on highways in the Central Business District of Abuja were arrested by the by the Police and NSCDC.
Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the Minister, Lere Olayinka, said in a statement that the arrest of more than 50 suspects and recovery of 25 vandalizsed manhole covers was a demonstration of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) zero tolerance for criminalities, particularly vandalisation of public amenities.
He stated that the exhibits of interest recovered from the iron smelting company located along Abuja – Kaduna Road, had been
recovered from the company and were in custody of the Police.
"Further investigations going on as to the company and others' involvement in the removal, purchase and melting of the manhole covers," the statement said.
The minister, who commended the security agencies for their prompt and decisive actions, described their collaborative efforts as "fantastic" and a further assurance to the residents of the the FCT that their lives and properties are secured.
Oyo State Governor, 'Seyi Makinde, yesterday, promised to review pensioners’ wages and gratuities, clear the backlog of arrears and revisit the Contributory Pension Scheme in the state.
This was just as he vowed to get rid of banditry and other crimes, charging traditional rulers to oversee and exercise authority in their domains with a view to helping the government improve security in the state. Makinde made these remarks at the 2025 Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, the 6th edition since 2019, held at the Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
He commended the state’s workforce and the labour union leaders for their support and cooperation since the inception of his administration, charging them to put in more effort towards validating their values as public/ civil servants.
He also congratulated the 45 newly-appointed Permanent Secretaries, emphasising that most of them merited the appointments after going through rigorous examinations and screening exercises. The governor advised them to see their appointments as the beginning of good things in their lives.
According to him, “I want to use this opportunity to say thank you
to our Labour leaders. I sincerely thank you for what you are doing on behalf of our state.
“I have been extremely lucky to have met this set of Labour leaders. You have cooperated with us. Well, we are working towards the same purpose and you have demonstrated that over and over again. So, I sincerely thank you.
“To the workers, your disposition and support have given us a lot of encouragement and I want to urge you to keep it up. The way we lay our bed is the way we will sleep on it. Don’t relent and I believe tomorrow will be better.
“To the new Permanent Secretaries, I want to say congratulations to all of you. I can say it openly and
you are there to validate this — 80 per cent of you emerged strictly based on merit. Gone are the days in Oyo State when Permanent Secretaries were appointed on the basis of who you knew or who knew the governor.
“You have done exams, passed in flying colors and you have been appointed Permanent Secretaries. By the grace of God, on Monday, I will swear you in. Take this as the beginning of good things in your life.
“This is also a validation of what Oyo State Civil Service stands for. We have said everyone will be rewarded for his hard work. So, those of you striving, your own time will also come.”
and facilitate a thorough investigation. During the rescue operation, victims were promptly evacuated and rushed to the hospital for medical attention."
Adeh said preliminary investigations revealed that three men from Katsina had visited the owner of the Islamic school, Mallam Adamu Ashimu.
The three visitors, she said, were suspected of having brought the explosive device with them.
"Tragically, two of the men died in the explosion while tampering with the improvised explosive device (IED), on the school Veranda, while the third man and a female trader sustained severe injuries and are
currently receiving treatment under police guard.
"The FCT Bomb Squad has confirmed that it was an IED explosion, as remnants of the device have been recovered," the statement added.
Adeh also revealed that Mallam Adamu Ashimu, the owner of the school, has been taken into custody for questioning, and further findings will be communicated in due course.
Commissioner of Police, FCT, Olatunji Disu, urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, behaviour, or items that might resemble improvised explosive devices to the police
John Shiklam in Kaduna
A former National Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), Ambassador Yusuf Mamman, has commended Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for giving every section of the state a sense of belonging through his inclusive governance policy.
Speaking with journalists in Kaduna, Mamman, a former ambassador to Spain and The Vatican, said Sani’s “community engagement and the all-inclusive governance style stands him out for commendation.”
According to him, Sani’s “inclusive policy was not only a panacea for peace and development, but the foundation blocks for an egalitarian society.”
He noted that Sani was executing projects across the state like the late Balarabe Musa, a former governor of Kaduna State, who governed the state in the second republic.
Mamman said, “During the Balarabe Musa administration, a cottage industry was located in each of the then 14 local governments of Kaduna state, leveraging their comparative advantages.
“Governor Uba Sani is now
‘executing projects across the state, irrespective of party affiliations or ethno-religious considerations, in his policy of inclusion.”
He pointed out that ethnoreligious crises that rocked the state in the past, stifled development, stressing that the governor was charting a course of peace and unity “which had been lacking with previous administrations with the exception of the Balarabe Musa government.”
Mamman said, “Sani’s antecedents as a progressive and a pro-democracy activist have adequately prepared him to govern a diverse polity like Kaduna state.
“In particular, his community engagement and the all-inclusive governance style stands him out for commendation. His approach to inter-ethnic, inter and intra faith relations is ushering new era of peace and harmony in Kaduna state.
“Additionally Governor Uba Sani’s non-kinetic approach to security challenges facing our state is highly commendable. Armed groups and other nonstate actors must be disarmed, demobilised and reintegrated into the society.”
L-R: Commissioner for Finance, Cross Rivers State, Dr. Michael Odere; President/Chairman of
Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria
Prof.
Fidelis David in akure
The statement orders all residents to remain indoors during the curfew except essential services, such as hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement which are will be exempted.
The government also asked
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has ordered a dawn-to-dusk curfew in Owo town, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State till further notice following the cult clash and unrest in the ancient town . This was contained in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan.
Yinka Olatunbosun
As National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) enables its portal for the 2024 Batch C Stream II online registration, many prospective corps members are expressing dissatisfaction over the inability to access the site.
The registration which will close on January 10 is a prerequisite for mobilization for the mandatory camp participation as well as primary assignment.
Meanwhile, some aggrieved persons have taken to social media to register their concerns
after making several attempts to register without fruition.
A tweet on X with the handle @ohimah_xo revealed his personal experience while trying to access the portal.
“Today is NYSC registration, and your portals are showing “unavailable.” You had over three months to prepare for this, yet you’re still unprepared.
Nothing surprises me in this country anymore.”
While the NYSC insists that the portal is active, many are still unable to access it using the provided link and the directions.
Segun James
As the match towards 2027 general election begins in earnest, Chief Saheed Oladele, the Baàmeko of Ibadan Land, has declared interest to contest the governorship of Oyo state. Oladele, a young entrepreneur, educationist explained that his decision to enter the race was influenced by pressure from the people of the state.
security agencies in the State to enforce the curfew, ensure safety of lives and properties as well arrest perpetrators of the violence in the community.
Not less than four persons have been confirmed dead in a violent clash between two rival cult groups in Owo, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area
of Ondo State. THISDAY gathered yesterday that the incident happened on Sunday, and it continued till the early hours of yesterday.
Basically, a source hinted that the incident was a renewed cult clash occasioned by past crises between the cults groups involved in the melee.
Chairman of South-east, Southsouth Peoples Forum, Mr. Fred Ndukwe, has said that former lnspector-General of Police (IG) Mike Mbama Okiro, has the credentials to be the next President-General of Ohanaeze.
Ndukwe, who made this endorsement of the former IG in a statement declared that the struggle to emancipate the entire Igbo race is a monumental task.
chosen to provide leadership and guidance to our people,” he said.
“The struggle includes our brothers and sisters from various regions such as Kalabari, Izon, Ogoni, Efik, Urhobo, Anang, Okrika, and others and in recognition of this unity that we acknowledge that the Igbo race, by divine providence, has been
According to him. the individual appointed by God to bear this significant responsibility is the dynamic Chief Mike Mbama Okiro, an Igbo-born Rivers indigene.
“Chief Okiro embodies the qualities, wisdom, and leadership necessary for the esteemed role of President-General of the Igbo Nation worldwide (Ohanaeze Ndigbo). His leadership is set to steer our people towards greater unity, progress, and prosperity,” Ndukwe said, stressing that Okiro’s emergence is crucial at a time when the South-east and surrounding regions are grappling with security challenges.
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
A group under the auspices of Concerned Civil Society Organisations (CCSO) in Edo State, has frowned on the current intimidation of 18 Local Government Council chairmen and their vice chairmen by the State Governor, Senator Monday
Okpebholo and the House of Assembly through the use of councillors to impeach them without following due process.
It also urged the state governor to chart the path of honour by allowing the chairmen to complete their tenure in office as duly elected officers of the third tier of government.
The group further appealed to the state governor to rather woo the 18 local government council chairmen and their deputies to key into his five points agenda than coercing them through suspension and impeachment using their councillors.
Spokespersons for the group,
Mr. Emmanuel Ogbidi and Kola Edokpayi, made the call while addressing journalists in Benin City yesterday tagged: “Conference to Save Democracy in Nigeria And The Rule of Law in Our Local Government Administration in Edo State From Corrupt Political Elements.”
David-Chyddy Eleke inawka
The President-General of Nise Community in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Chief Anthony Nwabuona, has clarified about the death of three children of same parents in the community.
“My track record of integrity was further recognised in 2023 when I was honoured with the prestigious Gani Fawehinmi Outstanding Integrity Award, presented by renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana SAN.”
He described himself as a man who possesses everything needed to transform the state’s fortunes into what the people desire.
He attributed the nickname to his long-standing commitment to honesty, citing his past actions as a testament to his integrity. Oladele said:”From turning down bribes while serving as a toll collector in 2002 to returning excess money to a petrol attendant in 2018 and refunding a significant sum in 2021, this reputation for honesty has earned me the respect of many.
The Governing Council of the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo City, Ondo State has approved the appointment of Mr. Ezekiel Imoleayo Adeniran as the third substantive registrar of the institution.
According to a statement by institution’s Public Relations Officer(PRO), Mr. Isaac Oluyi, the newly appointed Registrar is a seasoned administrator with over 16 years of cognate experience in university administration.
“He has worked in the Federal, State and Private Universities, which made him to be well grounded in
the administration of universities with different proprietorial fundings.
The newly appointed Registrar, Mr. Adeniran, holds a Master’s Degree in Health Law & Policy from the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo City, Ondo State, Master’s Degree in Business Administration in Human Resource Management & General Management and Diploma in Leadership and Business Management both from the University of Southern Queensland, Australia and a B.Sc. (Honours) in Political Science from Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko,” the statement said.
There was pandemonium in Nise Community last Sunday after three children left at home by their parents were discovered dead.
Many had attributed it to evil people, insinuating that there may have been killed, but the leader of the community told journalists that they suffocated.
The president-general said: “We got a distress call from the head of our local vigilante group about the death of the children and we rushed to the compound to see the children lifeless and it was also confirmed that they entered their father’s car and were playing inside the car and they mistakenly pinned down the lock of the car and couldn’t open it. “The youngest of them had her body swollen as a result of lack of air because the windows of the car was closed so we wish to state that they were not slaughtered as was earlier reported and we have made an official entry with the police over the sad incident.”
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in umuahia
Traditional Rulers in the southern half of the country have called on the government and people of Nigeria to use the lessons learnt from the challenges of the outgone year 2024 to achieve accelerated economic recovery.
The royal fathers under the umbrella of Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) said that it was optimistic, albeit cautious, that the nation would witness “a brighter and more prosperous 2025.”
SNTRC poured out royal blessings and optimism on Nigeria in a statement entitled: ‘Happy New Year Nigeria’ signed by the Publicity Secretary, His Eminence, Dr. Eberechukwu Oji, the Eze Aro of Arochukwu Kingdom, Abia State.
The traditional rulers acknowledged that while “the challenges of the past year have been profound, they have also underscored the resilience, unity, and indomitable spirit of our people.
“Let us carry forward the lessons learned and the hope that together, we can create a safer, more secure, and economically stable nation.”
Air Peace, Nigeria’s leading airline, recently solidified its commitment to fostering stronger ties between Africa and its global diaspora through its strategic partnership with the Africa Diaspora Investment Network Alliance (ADINA) Summit 2024. The event, which was held on December 27, 2024,
at the Kempinski Gold Coast City Hotel in Accra, brought together a diverse audience of African Diaspora investors, business leaders, and global institutions to discuss and advance the continent’s economic potential.
Accra, a global hub for the African diaspora, every December,
provided the perfect setting for the ADINA Summit. The event facilitated conversations around trade, investment, and economic empowerment, positioning the diaspora as a significant force for Africa’s economic transformation.
In his address at the summit, Davids Odeyemi, Head of Sales and
General Overseer, Olukoya, Listed among
The General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries(MFM) worldwide , Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, has been recognised among the 100 Most Reputable Africans for 2025.
The list, which was
released by Reputation Poll International, (RPI), in partnership with the Global Reputation Forum (GRF), has the names of other notable Nigerians and African leaders.
According to the Global Reputation Forum, the 2025
honorees represent the best of Africa, embodying excellence, leadership, and integrity while inspiring progress and positive transformation across the continent.
The highly anticipated annual announcement
Business Development at Air Peace, emphasized the airline’s mission to connect Africa and its diaspora. He highlighted Air Peace’s extensive network, which offers seamless travel solutions for diasporas seeking to reconnect with their roots, explore their heritage, and invest in Africa’s burgeoning markets.
celebrates African leaders, innovators, and change makers who have made exceptional contributions across diverse sectors, including Business, Governance, Arts, Education, and humanitarian efforts.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
Arsenal Manager, Mikel Arteta, announced yesterday that teenage attacking midfielder, Ethan Nwaneri, will be "out for a few weeks" with a muscular issue.
The 17-year-old came off at half-time in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Brightonafter scoring the game's opening goal. The England Under-19s international made his first Premier League start three days earlier, during the Gunners' 3-1 win at Brentford.
“Unfortunately, he has picked up an injury and he is going to be out for a few weeks," said Arteta on Monday. Nwaneri made his first-team breakthrough this season, with Saturday's goal his fifth in 18 appearances.
Novak Djokovic has said that he still experiences "trauma" when he visits Melbourne, three years after he was deported because of Australia's Covid-19 regulations.
Djokovic, who was not vaccinated against the virus, had his visa cancelled by the Australian governmenton "health and good order" grounds.
He was forced to stay at an immigration hotel for five days while he unsuccessfully appealed against the decision and was eventually forced to leave the country, meaning he missed the 2022 Australian Open.
Djokovic returned to Melbourne the following year, with Covid restrictions eased, and went on to win the Grand Slam for a record 10th time.
The Serb, 37, is back in Australia preparing for the 2025 tournament, which begins on Sunday.
"The last couple of times I landed in Australia, to go through passport control and immigration - I had a bit of trauma from three years ago," Djokovic told Melbourne's Herald Sun.
"And some traces still stay there when I'm passing passport control, just checking out if someone from immigration zone is approaching.
"The person checking my passport - are they going to take me, detain me again or let me go? I must admit I have that feeling."
He added: "I don't hold a grudge. I came right away the year after and I won.
"My parents and whole team were there and it was actually one of the most emotional wins I've ever had, considering all that I'd been through the year before."
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said she prefers to focus on this year's tournament.
"The responsibility of granting visas is a matter for the federal government and those decisions were made by the federal government at the time," said Allan, who was part of a government
It didn't matter who you were, where you came from, Covid didn't discriminate in who it infected, how sick it made you and how sick it made others in our community."
Australia prime minister Anthony Albanese criticised the previous government's handling of the situation, particularly the decision to deny Djokovic access to an Orthodox priest in the build-up to Christmas, which is celebrated on 7 January by most Orthodox Christians.
"I made comments at the time about it. I found it astonishing that in the lead up to Christmas, Novak Djokovic was denied by the then federal government the opportunity to see his Orthodox minister, priest, during that period," said Albanese, who became prime minister in May 2022.
"I think that was something that I think was hard to justify at that time."
Djokovic is hoping to win a recordbreaking 25th Grand Slam title when he competes in the Australian Open at Melbourne Park next week.
well as hosts Nigeria. She assured all that this year's edition of the championship with the theme: "The Abuja Experience" promises to be an Open to remember.
According to Donli, the experience would include city tour and cultural displays, adding that couture from northern Nigeria, as well as cuisines and delicacies that would captivate and impress guests would be displayed.
She said: "All is now set for the Ladies Section of the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja to host the 26th edition of the IBB Amateur Ladies Open.
"We are expecting no fewer than 400 golfers, ladies and gentlemen who will be playing as guests from within the country as well as from other African countries.
"It is going to be an Open to remember as we will be showcasing our culture, dressing, food, drink, music and a good taste of our hospitality, just as the theme goes, it's promises to be an "Abuja experience" indeed.
"We will be welcoming all our players in a special way and taking them on a tour around the city, which promises to be fun and exciting.
"The beautiful thing about the championship is that it starts on
Valentine's Day, which is Feb. 14, so there's going to be so much love in the air".
The Lady Captain assured all that everything had been put in place to ensure an exciting outing for all the participants, with several side attractions lined up for the five-day event.
She noted that the championship was important because it had the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR), adding that the professionals would also take part in the tournament with so many mouth-watering prizes to be won.
In addition, the amateur championship will boast a return ticket to the UK, and an all-expense paid weekend stay at the Ibom Golf Resort in Uyo, along with other interesting prizes.
"It will be preceded by a caddies and course workers competition which is the first of its kind," she said.
Donli urged all interested participants to ensure that they registered on time so as not to be left out, adding that registration for the tournament would close on Jan. 24. She said that there was a free accommodation package for the first 50 ladies (pros included) to register.
Following a poor run in the ongoing Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) season, Akwa United Football Club have agreed on a mid-season managerial contract with coach Kennedy Boboye.
The Management of the Club signed the deal with coach Boboye at the Club's office in Uyo yesterday morning and the coach is expected to begin work later this week.
Chairman of the club, Elder Paul Bassey, described "Boboye's return to the team as necessary, adding that the decision to reassign the coach was because of his track records and previous achievements with the club".
Elder Bassey expressed optimism that the coach will bring his wealth of experience to bear on the team with a turnaround in the team's fortunes in the second half of the season.
Coach Boboye joined the Promise Keepers during the 2019-2020 NPFL season and won the league title with the club in the 2020-2021 season - his second league title as a coach after lifting the trophy with Plateau United in 2017.
Boboye was in charge of Akwa United as the team made its CAF Champions League debut in 2021
and after a run of poor results, he resigned from his position as head coach of the team in 2022. Following his departure from Akwa United, he had a brief stint with Heartland FC and Sunshine Stars before rejoining the Promise Keepers ahead of the second stanza of the 2024-2025 Nigeria Premier Football League season.
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has expressed profound satisfaction with the ongoing renovation of the Aper Aku Stadium during the Benue State Football Association Gala and Award Night. The prestigious event was held at the Bongos Ikwue Entertainment Center in North Bank, Makurdi. Gusau showered praises on Monimichelle, the contractor handling the renovation of the iconic stadium, lauding their dedication and the impressive progress made so far.
He highlighted Monimichelle's consistent updates on the renovation, noting their professionalism and commitment to delivering a world-class facility.
"I am truly satisfied with the day-to-day progress being made on the renovation of the Aper Aku Stadium. Monimichelle has demonstrated exceptional dedication, never failing to keep me informed about their work," Gusau said. "I have no doubt that once completed, this stadium will meet international standards and will be capable of hosting matches for the Super Eagles
and other international teams."
The NFF president also extended his gratitude to the Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for entrusting Monimichelle with the renovation project.
Gusau applauded the gov- ernor’s vision and belief in the contractor’s capabilities, stating that the decision to award the contract to Monimichelle was a wise and commendable one.
"The Governor has made no mistake in awarding this contract to Monimichelle," Gusau added.
"This project reflects his commitment to promoting sports development in Benue State and Nigeria as a whole."
The Aper Aku Stadium, once a beacon of sporting excellence in Benue State, is undergoing a major transformation to meet modern standards. Upon completion, it is expected to revitalize sports in the region and serve as a hub for both national and international football events.
The Gala and Award Night, which celebrated outstanding contributions to football development in Benue State, provided
a platform to recognize the collaborative efforts of stakeholders working to enhance sports infrastructure in the state. Gusau's commendation of the Aper Aku Stadium project underscored its significance as a milestone for the state's sports sector.
As renovation works progress, the anticipation for the unveiling of the new Aper Aku Stadium continues to grow, with sports enthusiasts eagerly looking forward to a modern facility that will put Benue State on the global football map.
TUESDAY
abati1990@gmail.com
“Illegaloilbunkeringdestroystheenvironmentandpollutesthewaterswhichaffects thelivelihoodofourpeoplewhoarefishermen.Ifyouknowanyoneinvolvedinoil bunkeringaroundhereorwhohasanoilbunkeringpointhere...nomatterhowhighly placed,tellthemIsaidenoughisenough.Theymustpackandleaveotherwise,wewill catchthem,dealwiththem, beforehandingthemovertothegovernment” --AlhajiMujahidAsariDokubo,warnsoilthieves,others,tostayclearofRiverscommunities.
It is a new day and a new beginning in Ghana today, January 7, as the country today celebrates the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama on his second return to the country’s helm of affairs. Mahama was President of Ghana, 2012-2016. He lost the 2016 election to President Nana Addo Akuffo Addo. He lost again in 2020 by a narrow margin of 4.23%. Undeterred he ran again in 2024, which turned out to be his year of luck. In the December 7 Presidential elections, President John Mahama, in the fashion of an impressive comeback kid, led his party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to victory with the biggest margin of victory ever in Ghana’s electoral process in 24 years. His victory was so impressive this time around that by nightfall, his main opponent, then incumbent Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) conceded defeat and congratulated the NDC and President Mahama. Mahama got 6, 328, 397 million of the total votes cast (56.55%), against Bawumia’s 4, 657, 304 million votes (41.61%), clearly one of the best results in Ghana’s Presidential history since the return to multi-party democracy in 1992. History will be made today in Accra, Ghana as President Mahama takes the mantle of office for the second time in his storied political and Presidential career. He will be the first elected Ghanaian President in the Fourth Republic to lose re-election while in office and again after another attempt, only to return at the third attempt to complete the constitutional right to two terms in office. His Vice President, Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman will also be the very first female in Ghana’s history to be Vice President. She is a Professor of Literature, a former Minister of Education (2013-2016) and Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa, Harare, Zimbabwe. Mahama and Agyeman have already made a mark with their unprecedented victory. This is true despite the fact that no party in Ghana has ever stayed in power for more than two consecutive terms since 1992.
In this particular election, the people of Ghana wanted change. They voted for it, in what was clearly a referendum on President Akuffo-Addo’s eight years in office. When President Mahama left office at the end of his first term in 2016, he left behind an ailing economy, frequent power cuts and corruption scandals. Akuffo Addo’s emergence as winner of the election at the time was touted as a new beginning for Ghana, just as we are doing now, but between 2016 and 2024, in the two terms of the NPP Presidency, the euphoria with which Akuffo-Addo assumed office had turned gradually to dust and despair. In his last State of the Nation address last week, President Addo talked about the achievements of his administration in the mining, forestry and land sectors and how he positioned Ghana on the path of sustainable economic growth, even surpassing South Africa as Africa’s leading gold producer. He was quick to remind everyone that he developed new gold mines in Ahafo and the Upper West Region, and a structured Green Ghana Project. On his watch, Ghana was saddled with an unsustainable debt burden but he managed to restructure over 13 billion dollars in debt in negotiations with the International Monetary Fund and other creditors. President Akuffo-Addo was also the exponent of a famous policy phrased as “Ghana Beyond Aid.” One other highlight of his stewardship was the clean-up of the banking sector in Ghana through which he hoped to stabilize the financial sector.
The reality however is that President AkufoAdo is leaving behind a country that is facing its worst economic crisis in a generation – with inflation at a record 50.3% at a time, the cost of living became so high and unbearable that the average Ghanaian took to the streets. As recently as October 2024, hundreds of people protested on the streets of Accra against illegal gold mining, known as “galamsey”. Unemployment became a source of frustration, and the COVID pandemic merely added to the people’s agony. In 2019, Ghana discovered two more oil fields, but the expected boost in government revenue was shortchanged by the mismanagement of government expenditures and huge budget deficits. Ghana’s debt burden kept rising as the government kept borrowing – it had to take an extended credit facility of $3 billion from the IMF in 2023. The economy kept floundering. Ghana was soon downgraded to junk status by credit rating firms such as Moody’s. President Akuffo-Addo would seem to have presided over the worst economy in Ghana’s Fourth Republic. It therefore makes sense that the people of Ghana in the December Presidential and parliamentary elections gave a landslide victory to another party, the NDC, which over the decades has switched the baton of power at the centre with the NPP. Akuffo-Addo in the course of his Presidency had eliminated what his team called “nuisance taxes” and also made senior secondary education free for all, but this was not enough. The people of Ghana want their country to work for the benefit of all. In some of the elections in Africa in 2024, we saw a similar pattern of the people voting out the ruling, incumbent party in the expectation that another party would learn the right lessons and serve the people better. We saw this in Botswana, Mauritius, Senegal, Somaliland and also in Ghana. In his acceptance speech. President Mahama promised the people “a new beginning”. His return to the Presidency however is a mix of the old and the new: new wine in an old bottle, and the major challenges that he faces is in meeting the people’s rising expectations. It will take more than flowery rhetoric or triumphalism to fix Ghana’s many problems. More so, President Mahama does not have the luxury of time: he has just four years to make the best use of the opportunity that fortune
has brought to him. Mahama’s story is in many ways inspirational – his single-minded volition especially. This is already giving ideas to some members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria by the way, who now believe that if the NDC in Ghana can lose election in 2016, and again in 2020, only to win at the third attempt, then it should be possible for the PDP to do so also in Nigeria. The logic behind this comparison is so weak, it is laughable, simply that events tend to follow the same pattern in both countries and the confidence with which proponents of this assumption push the view is to say the least shocking. There is no standard formula for the political process anywhere in the world. One, the NDC in Ghana is a far more cohesive and coherent party, making it easier for President John Mahama to remain the rallying point from one election to the other. In Nigeria, the PDP has been unable to stand up as a strong opposition party since 2015. The party is yet to put its house in order. It is divided. It has internal democracy issues. Many of its members no longer trust the leadership of the party, at either the national or grassroots level. No one is sure of the future direction of the party: will the PDP form a coalition with other political parties? If so, who will lead that process? The PDP has not recovered from the trauma of its loss in the 2015, 2019 and 2023 elections. Who will now renew the party?
A quiet undertone to this conversation is that perhaps the PDP can take power back from the APC in 2027 if it agrees unanimously to field President Goodluck Jonathan as Presidential candidate. At least one Governor: Senator Bala Muhammad of Bauchi State has openly made the suggestion that the return of President Jonathan could be a game changer, an alternative to President Tinubu and the APC in 2027. President Jonathan and President Mahama have a lot in common. They both lost elections and gracefully stepped aside. They have both had brilliant post-Presidency careers both locally and internationally. And so the reasoning is that if President Mahama can return for another term of four years, President Jonathan can do so too. They make it sound so simple and logical but no one has bothered to ask two questions: One, is President Jonathan himself interested in the vicious struggle for power in Nigeria? In the leadership matrix, perhaps it is the people that matter most, not the politician. It should be noted that President Jonathan is the main reference for many Nigerians looking for prosperity. Nigeria was a much better country during his Presidency. He made Nigeria the leading economy in Africa. The Naira was stable. People could afford to eat garri and buy rice and other staple food items. Are people regretting voting him out? The answer is yes. President Buhari that came after him failed to impress the people. Even now President Tinubu’s reforms are biting so hard and the people have become so nervous it is common to find nostalgic longings for the good old days of President Jonathan in office. However, Ghana is considered a stable democracy, and the last electoral process was largely peaceful. Nigeria’s democracy is a different kind of game. Two, why is anyone so sure that the APC and President Tinubu would simply watch and allow anyone else take power away from them? Of course, they will fight to hold on to the reins of power. Mega opposition parties may emerge in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 elections, but Nigerian politicians can compromise their own ambitions even if the deal is right. Nothing is straightforward in the jungle of Nigerian politics.
Meanwhile, the global community is celebrating with Ghana today, which along with Senegal, presents a good story about democracy in West Africa in 2024, unlike the democratic reversal that was seen in Guinea, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. The programme of activities for President Mahama’s inauguration began on January 4, 2025 including victory celebration in all constituencies, a victory walk in Accra, a victory concert at the forecourt of the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, National Muslim prayers at the National Mosque, Kanda and all mosques across the country, and a National Thanksgiving Service to be held at the Independence Square on Sunday, January 12. Today, President John Mahama and Vice-President elect Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman will take the oath of office as President and Vice President of Ghana respectively for the next four years, and receive the insignia of office in the presence of members of Parliament, citizens of Ghana and the local and global community. Since their election, both winners have been inundated with messages of congratulations from countries across the world. For the inauguration today, the European Union is sending a five-man delegation led by the Foreign Affairs Minister of Belgium, Bernard Quintin, the US delegation is led by Ms. Shalanda D. Young, the Director of the US Office of Management and Budget, and there will be Presidents and diplomats from across the African continent. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is already in Ghana to attend the inauguration in his capacity as Nigeria’s President, and Chairman of ECOWAS. This is a special occasion for the people of Ghana, a victory as well. Ghana is draped in the colours of the NDC of red, white and black, from the party’s headquarters in Adabraka to the streets of Accra.
When the ceremony is done and over, President Mahama must settle down to work in earnest. It is clear enough that there is a lot to be done. Already ahead of the inauguration, he has nominated Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin as Speaker of the 9th Parliament after due consultations with NDC party executives and parliamentary leaders. Bagbin, MP Nadowli, was Speaker of the 8th Parliament. He is an experienced lawmaker. President Mahama has also announced a six-member Interim National Security Coordinating team, led by former Minister for the Interior, Mr. Prosper Douglas Bani. Mahama is in familiar territory. He should act just as swiftly in announcing his cabinet. He must resist the temptation to fall into the same pitfalls as other African leaders: he needs not look backwards, he should look to the future and provide better pathways for the people of Ghana. He has his plate full: a sovereign debt burden, crisis in the energy sector, and an army of disillusioned youths. He needs to rebuild trust.
What next for President Nana Akuffo-Ado? No matter how mixed and controversial President Akuffo-Ado’s legacy may be, there is no doubt that he will continue to remain a major force in his own party, the NPP, and in Ghana’s political process. He has been in politics since his days as a university student, and he ran for the Presidency on two different occasions, 2008, 2012, losing to the NDC, until he won in 2016. He has now completed his constitutional two terms in office today. He would be remembered for his dignified presentations on the international scene and the fact that he was generally a well-meaning, urbane leader. His credentials as a statesman should stand him in good stead, both in Ghana and in international diplomacy. His era as President is over. He should be able to find meaning out of Presidential office.