THURSDAY 9TH JANUARY 2025

NGX Recorded N12.17 Trillion Worth of FGN Bonds, Corporate Listings in 2024

www.thisdaylive.com

FirstBank: Shareholders Demand

Want Otedola, Omodayo-Owotuga

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja and Kayode Tokede in Lagos

L-R: Celebrant, Mr. Frank Aig-Imoukhuede OON; Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Sanwo-Olu: Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; celebrant’s son, Founder of Coronation Group Limited, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; his wife, Ofovwe; and the celebrant’s daughter, Professor Erekpitan Ola-Adisa, at the 90th Birthday Holy Communion and Thanksgiving Service of Mr Frank Aig-Imoukhuede at Our Saviour's Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos...yesterday PHOTO: KUNLE OGUNFUYI

L-R: Former Governor of Ogun State and Senator, Gbenga Daniel; wife of the late Otunba Subomi Balogun (Founder, FCMB Group), Abimbola Balogun; sister of the late Balogun, Mrs. Aderonke Atere; Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Ijebuland, Chief Olufunmilola Okunowo; and Group Chief Executive of FCMB Group Plc, Mr. Ladi Balogun, during the Balogun family’s Adura Odun (New Year Prayer) event held at Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State…yesterday

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The National Assembly yesterday expressed disappointment in President Bola Tinubu's government’s poor implementation of the 2024

POSTMASTER-GENERAL/CEO VISITS SANWO-OLU...

L-R: Postmaster-General/CEO, Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), Ms. Tola Odeyemi receiving the Lagos State government plaque from the Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu during a courtesy visit at Lagos House, Ikeja, ... yesterday

Minister: Telcos’ Tariffs Hike May Not Be 100%

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr. Bosun Tijani has disclosed that the federal government may not accede to the request for a 100 percent increase in tariffs on telecom services by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).

This, he said was the outcome of a stakeholders' meeting with the MNOs and Telecom Service Providers held in Abuja.

The minister also confirmed that consultations and engagements were ongoing, adding that very soon, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) would approve new tariffs.

"You've seen over the past weeks that there's been agitation from some of these companies to increase tariff. They're requesting for 100 per cent tariff increase.

"But it won't be by 100 percent and we're still looking at that study and NCC will come up with a clear directive on how we go about it, to strike the balance as a government to protect our people, but also protect and ensure that these companies can continue to invest significantly," he

explained.

He underscored the need for Nigeria's communications sector to establish effective regulations and strategies to drive growth, create jobs, and support other key sectors in the country

"We need to ensure that as a sector, we get our acts together, ensure that from the regulation side, we put the right regulations in place that can ensure the growth of this sector; ensure that we continue to contribute to job creation, but also enabling other key sectors in the country as well," he added.

He said the Nigerian government will invest in communication infrastructure, no longer relying solely on private sector investments.

He added: "As a country, over time, we've left this investment in the hands of the private sector. They typically invest where they can see returns in the short to medium term. But this government has recognised the need for us to accelerate investment in this infrastructure.

"We wouldn't want this conversation to just be about tariff increase. I think what the world is talking about today is meaningful connectivity.

"You want to have access to very

good quality service. And a part of it that the consumers may not be aware of is the investment that needs to go into the infrastructure that is used to deliver these services."

In his remarks, NCC Executive Vice-Chairman (EVC), Dr. Aminu Maida, said the meeting with stakeholders was about the sustainability of the industry.

"We have looked at all of these factors, and that is why, as the minister said, it is not likely that we are going to approve 100 percent tariff increase.

"I know that Nigerians are agitated to hear the exact percentage approved. There are still some stakeholder engagements that we are going through, but you will hear from us within a week or two," he added.

Maida assured that the NCC had put a number of tools and instruments into place by revising its quality of service regulations for compliance service quality.

He urged the MNOs to comply with simplified templates to show Nigerians charges per minute for voice calls, short message service

Refineries: Tompolo

(SMS), and a megabyte of data.

"We are moving away from the regime where you will have a main rate, then you will now have a bonus which is at a different rate.

"It makes it often complicated for Nigerians to understand what they are being charged for.

"This is one of the things when we took a lot of time over the past year looking at data; there is this agitation that the MNOs are stealing our data," he said.

The Chief Executive Officer of one of the major MNOs, Airtel

Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, in his response through the company's spokesperson, Femi Adenirin, noted that for the telecom giant’s commitment to delivering superior connectivity and fostering digital inclusion, there was need for tariff increments.

"The economic realities of rising operational and capital costs, necessitated the proposed tariff adjustments aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector while unlocking significant benefits for Nigerian consumers," he said.

Hails Mele Kyari for

Restoring Nigeria's Economic Prosperity

Restates

Tantita's determination to partner national oil company to boost crude production

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Chairman of Tantita Security Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), Chief Government Ekpemupolo, a.k.a, Tompolo, has hailed the

The Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, yesterday officially flagged off the construction of the much-anticipated Ikom-EtomiAgbokim Waterfalls road project in Cross River State.

The project, initiated under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is set to address decades of challenges faced by the region, enhancing connectivity, tourism, and economic growth.

During his speech at the flag-off ceremony, Enoh, according to a statement, highlighted the historical and economic importance of the route, which links the four government-owned cocoa estates established during the late Michael Okpara administration.

He emphasised that the project was not just about building a road but about addressing longstanding

issues and fostering development for the people of Cross River State.

“The importance of this route cannot be overstated,” the Minister remarked.

“From boosting tourism at Agbokim Waterfalls to improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers and local traders, this project will transform the region.”

The Minister expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for his unwavering support and transformational leadership. He lauded the President’s initiative in naming the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which includes this road, as a critical federal project, thereby cementing Cross River State’s inclusion in national infrastructure plans.

Enoh also thanked the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), led by its Managing

Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, for restoring Nigeria's economic recovery. Tompolo, in a statement yesterday,

Road Project

Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for taking decisive steps to redeem the region’s infrastructure legacy. He acknowledged the initial setbacks faced by the project, including poor contractor selection in 2012, and praised the current leadership of the NDDC for ensuring a fresh start with competent contractors and a renewed commitment to quality and timely delivery.

Reflecting on the personal significance of the project, Enoh shared his emotional connection to the road, which has been a subject of controversy and delays for years.

“For me, public service is about delivering happiness and excitement to the people,” he stated, adding that the successful commencement of this project marks the end of a longstanding jinx.

The road is expected to signifi-

cantly boost tourism in the region by improving access to the renowned Agbokim Waterfalls, one of Nigeria’s most famous natural attractions. Additionally, the project is poised to enhance economic activities, particularly in agriculture and trade, benefiting local communities along the route.

The ceremony witnessed a large turnout of community members, stakeholders, and government officials, all united in their excitement and optimism for the positive impact the road will bring.

As the construction begins, the people of Cross River State look forward to the fulfillment of this transformative vision, one that promises to strengthen infrastructure, foster economic development, and create a lasting legacy for the region.

by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, congratulated Kyari on his 60th birthday.

He said the NNPCL GCEO has, "remarkably transformed the national oil firm to the acknowledgment and admiration of the doubting Thomases."

The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw, lauded Kyari for his patriotic and nationalistic zeal.

He said, "Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari in sustained strides has succeeded in putting Nigeria on the path of sustainable growth and development in tandem with the development blueprints and economic recovery plans of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as carefully enunciated in the Renewed Hope Agenda."

The Ijaw leader recalled that the NNPCL was in comatose before Kyari was drafted in on a rescue mission.

He added that the success stories recorded by the company under his supervision had received widespread accolades from all relevant stakeholders.

Specifically, Tompolo commended Kyari for ensuring that two of the nation's refineries in Warri and PortHarcourt were brought back to life. He said, "This has led to the unlocking of a total refining capacity of 117,000 barrels per day (bpd) with the operational take-off of both the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries

in November and December 2024, respectively.

"The Port Harcourt refinery, which resumed production on November 26, 2024, after extensive rehabilitation, currently operates at 70 per cent, thus accounting for 42,000 barrels per day capacity.

“The Warri refinery restarted operations on Monday, December 30, 2024, at 60 per cent capacity, translating to 75,000 barrels per day.

"This revival is expected to enhance Nigeria’s energy security and reduce reliance on imported refined products, marking a significant step in the country’s refining sector transformation.”

Tompolo’s company, TSSNL, is the main actor in the war against crude oil theft and other sharp practices associated with petroleum products in the Niger Delta.

He appreciated the dexterity, focus, commitment and encouragement of Kyari in the battle to rescue the nation's economic mainstay from the grip of the saboteurs.

He said, “We celebrate and owe President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and your esteemed self, a load of gratitude for the production level we attained today.”

Tompolo restated the consistent and unbreakable collaboration of Tantita with other state and non-actors in the substance of the upward crude oil production trend.

A HANDSHAKE WITH GHANA'S PRESIDENT, MAHAMA...

President John Mahama of Ghana (R) with Osun State Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke after the inauguration ceremony of Ghana's President in Accra, Ghana on Tuesday

No Mandate to Revive Botched Nigeria Air, Ethiopian Airline Deal, Says Perm Sec

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, yesterday said his ministry had not received any mandate to revive

the botched Nigeria Air deal with Ethiopian airline. Kana, pointed out that since his inaugural statement on Monday, at the hand-over ceremony, he has been inundated with inquiries about his reference to the revival of the

national carrier project.

Briefing Journalist in Abuja, he said: "For the avoidance of doubt I never said that there is a mandate to revive the botched Nigeria Air deal with Ethiopian airline. "I received no such instruction.

I was only referring to the general vision of the administration to still consider a national carrier project if it is favourable to the country and under the guidance and directives of Mr. President and the Minister of Aviation.

"I hope this clarifies all the ambiguities surrounding my earlier statement on this issue.

“On a personal note, I pledge absolute loyalty to the Minister and remain dedicated to working closely with him to drive the Ministry’s

Court Strikes Out Four Charges against Emefiele in Alleged Abuse of Office Case

Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos Special Offences Court, has struck out four out of the 26 charges against former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, in connection with allegations of abuse of office.

Emefiele, through his lawyer Olalekan Ojo, had challenged the court's jurisdiction over some of the charges, asserting that he could not be tried in any State High Court for alleged offenses brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Emefiele was facing 26 charges, over alleged misuse of his office, leading to a loss of $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion.

Emefiele's co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is also on trial for related offenses, including the unlawful acceptance of gifts.

In his application, Emefiele argued that some of the 26 charges, particularly Counts one to four, were unconstitutional, as they lacked legal foundation.

He requested the court to strike out the counts, claiming the alleged offenses occurred outside its jurisdiction.

Ruling on the application, Justice Oshodi held that the allocation of foreign exchange without bidding, the subject of Counts one to four, was not punishable under the law.

The court held that "Allocation of foreign exchange without reason is not defined as an offense in any written law," and therefore, the objection to these counts succeeded and they were struck out.

However, the court upheld its territorial jurisdiction over Counts 8-26, dismissing Emefiele's objection.

Justice Oshodi affirmed that the EFCC had established sufficient

territorial nexus for the charges, allowing the trial to proceed.

The court held "Allocation of foreign exchange without reason is not defined as an offense in any written law.

"The objection to counts one to four succeeds and is hereby struck out.

"The objection challenging the court's territorial jurisdiction over count eight to 26 fails and is hereby dismissed.

"The prosecution has established

sufficient territorial nexus in this case."

EFCC was initially arraigned Emefiele on 26 charges related to alleged misuse of his office, resulting in a loss of $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion.

Emefiele’s lawyer, Ojo had argued that the court in Lagos lacked jurisdiction, stating that the offenses, including abuse of office, occurred outside its territorial reach.

He contended that the charges violated Section 36(12)

of the Nigerian Constitution and emphasised that the Lagos State House of Assembly did not have legislative authority over matters on the Exclusive Legislative List.

Ojo argued that the territorial jurisdiction of a court is confined to the geographical area in which it operates, and since the alleged offenses occurred outside this area, the court could not hear the case.

However, EFCC's counsel, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), countered, asserting that the alleged crimes

were economic in nature, falling within the EFCC's jurisdiction.

Oyedepo maintained that substantial evidence supported Lagos as the appropriate venue for the trial, pointing to witness testimonies and factual evidence establishing the court’s jurisdiction.

However, Justice Oshodi in his ruling held that the EFCC had proven its territorial jurisdiction over Counts 8-26 and set further trial dates for February 24 and 26, 2025.

agenda forward.

"Together, we will ensure that the future of aviation in Nigeria is bright, innovative, and reflective of the aspirations of our great nation." Kana had explained that while receiving his deployment letter, he received clear instructions from Mr. President and the Head of Service, stating: "Though there have been a lot of controversies about the Nigerian Air Project, the instructions were very clear with two tasks to achieve within this period, by His Excellency, Mr. President, as well as the Head of Service of the Federation.

“One, to ensure that the National Carrier Project comes to be. Two, sanitise our airports across the country. All of us will agree that there is no better time to have a National Carrier than now. In fact, yesterday.

"Therefore, my task, day and night, is to work with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, to achieve the renewed agenda of His Excellency, Mr. President, to give birth to what Nigerians are all waiting for, that is a National Carrier.”

Tribunal Orders Bankers' Committee-owned Firm to Pay N19.4bn for Breach of National Theatre Contract

Wale Igbintade

An Arbitration Tribunal sitting in Lagos has ordered SANEF Creatives Ltd, a company owned by the Bankers' Committee to pay N19.4 billion to Hanson Dredging and Marine Services Ltd (HDMS) for the unlawful termination of its contract for the dredging and reclamation work at the Lagos Creative Entertainment Centre (LCEC), commonly known as the National Theatre. The sole arbitrator, Engr. Ayo Fanimokun, issued the final award on December 30, 2024, in the settlement of the contractual dispute between HDMS and SANEF Creatives, a special purpose vehicle of the Bankers’ Committee, which includes the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), financial institutions under its regulation as well as the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC).

HDMS filed the case before the Council for the Regulation of

Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) Arbitration Tribunal in 2023, following the unlawful termination of its contract for dredging and reclamation work at LCEC in May 2022.

In its claim, HDMS, represented by a team of lawyers led by Dr. Charles Mekwunye, stated that after signing the contract for the dredging and reclamation of LCEC with SANEF on November 11, 2021, it mobilised to the site and completed over 60 percent of the work. However, SANEF suddenly cancelled the contract, citing the expiration of the 36-week completion date stated in the contract.

HDMS explained that unforeseen risks, compounded by the Covid-19 pandemic and the challenging economic environment, delayed the project.

The company requested a review of the contract sum, but instead of agreeing, SANEF terminated the contract. Moreover, the CBN

interfered by directly debiting the full amount of N4.2 billion paid to HDMS.

Among the 13 reliefs sought by HDMS was a declaration that the termination of the contract was unlawful, premature, and contrary to the terms of the agreement.

HDMS also sought a ruling that SANEF Creatives had waived the right to enforce the contract’s completion deadline by failing to take timely action and was therefore estopped from later citing time constraints to terminate the agreement.

Furthermore, HDMS sought a ruling that the CBN’s action in withdrawing the N4.2 billion advance payment was unlawful and requested damages of N35 billion in general and N9.1 billion in special damages for the wrongful contract termination.

SANEF, represented by a legal team led by former Nigerian Bar Association President Mr. Paul

Usoro, argued that its decision to terminate the contract was lawful and counterclaimed N70 billion against HDMS for alleged losses resulting from the contract breach and HDMS’s refusal to remove its equipment from the National Theatre site.

After eight sittings and the submission of 46 exhibits, along with two expert witness testimonies, Fanimokun resolved five out of six issues in favor of HDMS.

On whether SANEF could enforce the time frame as critical to the contract, Fanimokun ruled that SANEF’s failure to act when the contract was originally due for completion in February 2022 constituted a waiver of the time clause.

He stated that the delay in issuing a notice of default and the failure to terminate the contract at the due date was a breach of the agreement and signaled the waiver of SANEF’s right to insist on strict adherence

to the timeline.

Fanimokun further noted that the contract’s provisions on risks and delays, including those arising from the Covid-19 pandemic and other factors like community compensation issues and government stop-work orders, justified an extension of time.

He emphasised that the parties had agreed on a new timeline, and SANEF’s representatives had continued supervising the work until November 2022, even after the contract’s alleged termination in May.

The Tribunal found that SANEF's actions in recalling the N4.2 billion advance payment, facilitated by the CBN, were unlawful.

It ruled that the CBN’s involvement, particularly under former governor Godwin Emefiele, was a misuse of power, as it ignored the work already completed by HDMS and violated the terms of the advance payment guarantee (APG).

Wale Igbintade

NDLEA VISITS NIMASA...

Director

a

to the

AGF Flags Scarce Data from CBN as Delaying Submission of 2022 Consolidated Financial Statements

The Accountant General of the Federation, Dr. Shakirat Madein, has blamed delay in submission of 2022

consolidated financial statement on lack of sufficient data of government revenue from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

She however assured that efforts

are at an advanced stage to get the CBN to submit necessary information in order to conclude the exercise within two months.

Madein disclosed this on

Wednesday in Abuja when the Public Accounts Committee of the House of Representatives went in on oversight to her office

She informed the committee of

Diri: My Urban Development Plan Will Turn Yenagoa into a Modern City

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has said his administration’s urban renewal programme will transform Yenagoa, the state capital, into a modern city.

Senator Diri stated this against the backdrop of the recent relocation of inter-state commercial transporters to the new state-owned transport terminal at Igbogene.

Speaking on Wednesday during the state executive council meeting in Government House, Yenagoa, the governor said centralised motor parks were features of modern cities, which Yenagoa was gradually turning into.

He warned against touting around the vicinity of the terminal, saying that all travelers were expected to go into the terminal for booking and boarding of vehicles.

Diri also stressed that the relocation would curb crime as passengers coming into the state would now be monitored.

He said: " I visited the new terminal and saw its beauty. This is what every modern society does.

“For those who play politics and are still criticising, I am very sorry for them. Bayelsans are however

happy with what we have done. It is only those who do not know what a modern society looks like that make derogatory statements about me and the government.

"For the first time in our state, we are seeing what a city is like. We want to actually turn Yenagoa into a modern city. We want to bring Yenagoa to a better place.

"I am happy that the terminal is bubbling. Nobody should act like agbero (tout) in that place. That park is a modern with everything provided.

"For those who want to come into Bayelsa to commit crime, we have stopped them with the movement to the new terminal."

Commenting on the peaceful and crime-free Yuletide period, the Bayelsa helmsman commended the security agencies for their collaborative efforts that ensured the state was secured throughout the festive season.

He also noted there was a boost in tourism and entertainment during the period, and particularly commended dancehall music star, Enetimi Odon (popularly called Timaya) for giving back to the state through his annual Timaya Day Concert held on January 1.

Indigenous

He observed the event attracted a huge crowd of mostly youths and that the show had great tourism potential for the state.

Diri stated: "In the whole of these festivities, what I consider as the final lap was the January 1 Timaya Day that had to do with youths

of our state.

“Instructively, there was no incident of crime. I was there. The youths were well behaved and they became security by themselves.

“From what I saw, I believe there is hope for this country and for our state. We all need to do what is right.”

several initiatives of her office to strengthen existing regulations and initiate new ones to promote greater accountability in public expenditure management.

She also assured that the Financial Regulations 2009 had been reviewed and only awaiting the approval of the Federal Executive Council to be operational.

On his part, Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Bamidele Salam, expressed concern at the low implementation of the capital component of the 2024 budget.

The Committee called on Madein to submit the 2022 Consolidated financial statement of the federal government to the Auditor General of the Federation in line with the provisions of the 1999 constitution.

Salam said it was regrettable that from recent studies conducted in

Kenya, Ghana and Rwanda, Nigeria was still lagging behind in submission and consideration of audit reports. Salam noted there was a need for stricter measures to block revenue leakages through automation of processes and regular audit exercises.

To this end, the Committee called on the Accountant General, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Interior to immediately resolve all outstanding issues on the non-automation of revenue collections from foreign missions in order to ensure transparency and accountability in the process.

The committee assured that the 2021 Auditor General's report which was recently submitted to the National Assembly would receive accelerated consideration immediately after the passage of the 2024 Appropriation Bill currently before the House.

Aircraft Engineers, Technicians Reactivate Dornier DO-228 Aircraft After 23 Years of Abandonment

The High Command of Nigerian Air Force (NAF), said its aircraft engineers and technicians have successfully reactivated a Dornier DO-228 aircraft.

The NAF also disclosed that before the reactivation in September 2024, the Dornier DO-228 aircraft, was grounded for 23 years.

A statement by Director Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, said this phenomenal display of engineering ingenuity,

underscores NAF’s growing capacity for indigenous maintenance to bolster its operational readiness, whilst contributing to Nigeria’s inherent aviation capabilities.

According to him, "The aircraft, originally designated "5N-MPS" and operated by the now defunct Ministry of Mines, Power, and Steel, had been grounded at the DANA facility in Kaduna since 2001.

"However, sequel to a Presidential Directive for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to transfer such grounded platforms to the NAF for evaluation and possible

Contractors Collaborate with NDDC for Rapid Development of N'Delta

Blessing

The Niger Delta Indigenous Contractors Association (NDICA), has pledged to collaborate with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), to achieve its mandate of facilitating the rapid development of the Niger Delta region.

The Acting President of the Association, Mr. Christopher Apolloss, who spoke with journalists in Port Harcourt, yesterday, applauded the NDDC management led by Dr. Samuel Ogbuku for its impactful leadership.

He lauded the Ogbuku-led management for being accountable

and transparent and called on all stakeholders to support the Commission and its leadership.

Apolloss described Dr. Ogbuku as “a seasoned administrator and a true son of the Niger Delta region who understands the development challenges and plight of the people of the area.”

He declared: “Ogbuku has shown a high level of transparency in his day-to-day management since he assumed office. This has promoted unity and harmony among staff, management and board members and ensured that the people work in synergy with international oil companies, state governments, local

communities, and other stakeholders for purposeful development.”

Apolloss commended the achievements recorded since the inception of the Ogbuku administration, stating that his leadership quality was a testament to his commitment and dedication to the development of the Niger Delta region.

Highlighting some of the significant achievements of Dr. Ogbuku in various areas, Apolloss said he had impacted several lives positively in the region through people-oriented projects and programmes.

He identified key achievements, such as the youth empowerment initiative, solar light projects to

enhance security, road projects, and numerous rural intervention projects.

Apolloss asserted: “The activities of the NDDC are in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, as evidenced in the youth development programme, where they are empowered through skill acquisition schemes to make them independent entrepreneurs.

“The recent launch of the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme, under which over 10,000 youths will receive a monthly allowance of N50,000, is another good initiative introduced by the Ogbuku administration.”

reactivation, the NAF initiated this project.

"The NAF took on the challenge of reactivating this aircraft, a Dash 201 Series with only 1,081 flight hours since new, considering the task's unique opportunity to restore a valuable national asset".

Akinboyewa disclosed the reactivation process for the grounded aircraft - redesignated “NAF-039” - was conducted between June and September 2024, involving meticulous planning and painstaking execution by a crack team of five engineering officers and 40 technicians from the NAF 431 Engineering Group (Engr Gp), Kaduna.

He stressed this accomplishment which required the application of advanced engineering techniques and adherence to stringent aviation standards, attests to the NAF’s growing technical expertise and resolute determination.

The NAF spokesperson stated the success of this project carries significant strategic implications, bearing in mind that, beyond enhancing the NAF’s fleet, it symbolises the service’s resolve to achieve self-reliance in aviation maintenance for operational effectiveness.

"It also serves as a morale booster for the NAF engineers and technicians, showcasing their ability to undertake complex projects which otherwise would be outsourced to foreign entities," Akinboyewa said.

Stressing the broader import of the indigenous reactivation, the Chief

lauded the 431 Engr Gp for their dedication.

He noted the project reflects NAF’s resolve to optimise resources, strengthen its fleet, and uphold national security through operational excellence.

He said: “The successful reactivation of NAF 039 is not just an operational gain; it is a statement of our capabilities and our commitment to self-reliance.

"Significantly, this accomplishment builds upon the NAF’s earlier successes, such as the conduct of the first in-country 4,800-hour inspection on another DO-228 aircraft in January 2024.

"Together, these milestones highlight the NAF’s growing capacity for advanced in-house aircraft maintenance, and serve as a foundation for future projects aimed at achieving technical autonomy".

He averred that the reactivation of NAF-039 after 23 years is more than an engineering achievement; it showcases the NAF's ingenuity, resilience, and commitment to operational excellence.

The CAS added it also reaffirms the Air Force’s vital role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity, while highlighting its dedication to resource optimisation and self-reliance.

The newly reactivated aircraft, he said will bolster the NAF’s tactical airlift capabilities by joining the fleet of DO 228 aircraft, a platform still actively used worldwide.

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

Ibunge in Port Harcourt

of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar,

Linus Aleke in Abuja

General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola (left) presenting

souvenir

Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd.), during a courtesy visit by the Chief Executive and Management of the NDLEA to the NIMASA Towers on Victoria Island, Lagos... on Tuesday.

Tinubu Congratulates Cultural Icon, Frank Aig-Imoukhuede on His 90th Birthday

Describes him as national treasure

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has rejoiced with cultural icon, Mr. Frank Abiodun Aig-Imoukhuede, on his 90th birthday, describing him as a national treasure whose contributions have shaped and enriched Nigeria's cultural and literary landscape.

Born on January 8, 1935, in Edunabon, Osun State, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede's illustrious career spanned journalism, literature, and public service.

The President, in a statement

A group of shareholders at the First Bank of Nigeria Holdings Plc., with 10 per cent of the company’s shares, yesterday, formerly requested the company to call an Extra-ordinary General Meeting (EGM) under section 215 (1) of CAMA in which case they have 21 days to call the EGM.

Top on the agenda of the proposed meeting is the removal of FBN Chairman, Mr. Femi Otedola and a Non-executive/Deputy Chief Executive of Geregu Power Plc, Mr. Julius B. Omodayo-Owotuga.

The shareholders alleged that since a former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, influenced Otedola’s acquisition of significant amount of shares that led to his emergence as Chairman of FBN Holdings,

yesterday, by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended his pioneering work as the first Nigerian university graduate to join the Daily Express, where his storytelling style set a standard for journalistic excellence.

"Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede's life is a pointer to how dedication, creativity, and service to one's nation can transform narratives and lives.

As Nigeria's first Cultural Officer and later Director of the National Council for Arts and Culture, he

the financial institution has not known peace.

The former CBN governor, shareholders say, had invited the former Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, to his house in Ikoyi and told him to work with Otedola to help him take over the bank. Which he dutifully did, and subsequently paved the way for Otedola becoming a non-Executive in the first instance, without security clearance from the Department of State Security, DSS and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

However, having successfully taken over the bank, the first person Otedola targeted to be kicked out was Adeduntan himself, followed by Tunde Hassan-Odukale, who was the Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, and subsequently moved against Tosin Adewuyi,

organised FESTAC '77, one of the most iconic cultural events in Africa's history," President Tinubu stated.

The President highlighted AigImoukhuede's literary contributions, including Pidgin Stew and Sufferhead. With their universal appeal, these works have captured the essence of the Nigerian experience, bridging generational and cultural gaps and fostering a sense of pride and appreciation for our cultural heritage.

He said: "Through your work, you have elevated Nigeria's cultural identity

whom he side-stepped for the position of CEO despite coming first in the interview conducted by a global recruitment agency.

Instead, he saw to the appointment of the man who came last in the interview, Mr Olusegun Alebiosu. Mr Alebiosu was said to have since pledged "absolute loyalty" to Otedola and has allowed him to use another of his personal acolyte, a non-Executive Director, Akin Akinfemiwa, to run the bank.

According to the shareholders, with Otedola as Chairman, his personal staff, Omodayo-Owotuga at the Holdco, and yet another personal staff at the bank, Otedola has seized full control of the bank and does as he pleases. Thus, with the private placement of N360 billion shares, other shareholders fear he would clearly have absolute control and could

and fostered a deeper appreciation for our heritage at home and abroad."

Tinubu urged younger generations to draw inspiration from AigImoukhuede's legacy of innovation and patriotism.

"As you celebrate this remarkable milestone, I join your family, friends, and admirers across the nation in honouring your profound impact on Nigeria's cultural and intellectual heritage. May your days ahead be filled with health, joy, and fulfilment," the President said.

turn First Bank to his piggy bank without checks, balances and corporate governance.

But for Emefiele, who handed him the bank, the other shareholders contended that, Otedola could not have passed the fit and proper test, having ruined several banks with non-performing loans, which were then sold to AMCON before he got his "sweetheart deal" under former President Goodluck Jonathan and Godwin Emefiele

After ousting Adeduntan, Tosin Adewuyi, an Executive Director would follow and next was a Group Head, Folake Ani-Mumuney, whose only offence was that she carried out a directive of the board to host a sendforth party for the retiring CEO, who had been at the helm of affairs in the bank for nine years.

He had earlier removed Ms. Ijeoma Nwogwugwu, a noted

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY FAULTS 2024 BUDGET'S POOR IMPLEMENTATION

national budget.

The federal parliament also expressed concerns over the huge discrepancies in the size of the recurrent expenditure compared to the capital expenditure.

It described as unacceptable, the low level of fund releases for capital projects for Ministries, Departments and Agencies, (MDAs) in last year's fiscal document still being implemented.

Chairmen of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Appropriation, Senator Solomon Adeola and Hon. Abubakar Birchi, made the observations at a joint sitting of the panels.

The panels held a special session with the Presidential Economic Team to consider the 2025 Appropriation Bill.

Both Adeola and Birchi agreed that the economic team should do something urgent to release more funds for capital projects.

They noted that doing so remained a major way for the people to feel the impact of government away from recurrent expenditure which affects only a negligible part of the population.

A statement by the Media Adviser to the Senate Committee Chairman, Chief Kayode Odunaro, explained that the position of the National Assembly followed the report of the economic team led by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.

The report, according to the statement, revealed that overall, so far, the 2024 budget performance was at 43 percent.

The recurrent expenditure, it stated, achieved 100 percent while the capital component of the budget only managed to achieve 25 percent performance.

Adeola, the statement explained, said he remained an advocate of drastically reducing the ratio of recurrent to capital expenditure in the budget from the present level of about 80 percent for recurrent and 20 percent for capital to at least 60 percent to 40 percent.

He stressed that the capital projects in the budget and their implementation was a major spur for economic growth and direct impact

on the people.

Adeola said, “Capital releases to MDAs are the major drivers of economic activities within the nation.

“The non-release of funds for capital projects is a major issue in the performance of 2024 Budget so far and it is desirable that funds are released to prevent abandoned projects and ensure the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the president.”

Adeola added that it would not be good news for MDAs to come for their 2025 budget defence session with records of non-performance of their core mandates as contained in capital budget.

He added that within the period of the 2024 budget still running, effort should be made by the Finance Ministry to release funds for capital projects.

Concurring with his counterpart in the Senate, Birchi called for more releases for capital projects of MDAs for such projects as schools, roads, dams, hospitals and other social infrastructure.

He said items such as debt repayment which he argued could be restructured in the interim.

Birchi said, “Most of the items of recurrent expenditure which takes a huge part of our budget and is implemented 100 percent will only directly affect about 10 percent of our population.

“The capital projects of the MDAs on the other hand, will directly affect majority of over 200 million Nigerians in areas of social infrastructures provisions like hospitals, schools, roads, energy and similar.”

In his remarks, Edun, confirmed that they have outstanding capital releases awaiting funding.

He regretted however that the country cannot go back to the old ways of spending money not there to avoid backlash as happened in France and Germany recently, adding that there are warrants awaiting payment for capital projects.

Also throwing light on the issue, the Minister of Budget and Planning, Alhaji Abubakar Bagudu defended the huge recurrent expenditure in the nation's budget.

He said, “It is a function of our level of development and some of the societal challenges we are facing at this moment.”

He added that some of the recurrent goes into the campaign of the military against insecurity which is yielding results to spur agricultural production and economic activities.

The Director General of Budget Office, Dr. Tanimu Yakubu, also attributed the huge recurrent expenditure to past legacies inherited by Tinubu.

He cited issues of unpaid pensions and gratuities which the administra-

RECORDED N12.17

mission, Dr. Emomotimi Agama who disclosed this, said it became necessary given the critical role borrowing plays in the financial system.

However, the data from the NGX showed that while the need to bridge the budget deficit drove the FGN bonds listings, business operations enhancement and expansion among others influenced the listings by corporates.

Data obtained from the NGX showed that in 2024, about N5.95 trillion worth of FGN Bonds was listed on the bourse, while corporate listings, including corporate bonds and memorandum listings, accounted for N6.2 trillion.

FGN Bonds, issued by the Debt Management Office (DMO) on behalf of the Federal Government, were a key part of the listings.

The largest FGN bond listings in 2024 included 873,527,020 units of 18.50 percent FGN FEB 2031, valued at N873.53 billion, and 621,382,074 units of 19 percent FGN FEB 2034, worth N621.38 billion. Also, a supplementary listing of 282,625,193 units of 18.50 percent FGN FEB 2031 was recorded, valued at N282.63 billion.

Increased participation in the FGN Bond market by Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) was evident during the year, as high inflation continued to erode returns in other investment segments of the capital market.

On the corporate side, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc opened the year with a January listing of N1.43 billion from its Rights Issue of 2,841,116,504

tion had successfully addressed. He assured Nigerians that in the future, there may be the need for legislation by the National Assembly to limit the size of recurrent expenditure in the budget.

The meeting, which had in attendance the Minister of State for Finance Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite and the permanent secretaries of Ministries of Finance and Ministry of Budget and National Planning also deliberated on the issues of waivers and tax holidays which seems to reduce revenues for the government.

ordinary shares at 50 Kobo per share on a 1-for-4 basis. Also, Ellah Lakes Plc followed with a N2.19 billion listing, while Chapel Hill Denham Management Limited listed N11.58 billion.

In March, Transcorp Power Plc made a significant impact with a listing of N1.8 trillion through 7.5 billion ordinary shares at N240.00 per share, boosting market liquidity. April saw Emerging Africa Asset Management Limited list N5.55 billion, while VFD Group Plc listed N12.5 billion following its Rights Issue of 63,342,455 ordinary shares at N197.33 per share on a one-for-three basis. Royal Exchange Plc added N1.56 billion to the market in the same month.

Other notable listings in 2024 included: AVA Global Asset Managers Limited, which listed N4.08 billion, and Cadbury Nigeria Plc, with a listing of N7.04 billion in May. In June, Multi-Trex Integrated Foods Plc added N2.5 billion to the Exchange. Also, the month of July saw Tantalizers Plc list N1.07 billion, Wema Bank Plc list N39.95 billion, and Notore Chemical Industries Plc contribute N105.79 billion. In August, International Breweries Plc listed N516.22 billion via a Rights Issue, while Japaul Gold Ventures Plc raised N20 billion through a private placement. October featured significant listings, including C & I Leasing Plc with N822.92 million via debt-to-equity conversion, Aradel Holdings Plc with a massive N3.05 trillion by introduction, and Nigerian Breweries Plc, which listed N548.73 billion

journalist, as a non-executive

director of a First Bank subsidiary for daring to write a critically acclaimed article, which he considered unfavourable to his ego.

Now, the question being asked is; what is the business of a nonExecutive Chairman of a HoldCo sacking a group head of a bank, who simply obeyed the instructions of the Managing Director and the Board of the Bank?

THISDAY gathered that Otedola has already been granted a loan of about $45 to 50 million by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), which comes to about N90 billion

“This is to enable him (Otedola) take full control during the proposed N360 billion private placement. But some of the shareholders are saying instead of a private placement for shares of the bank, it should be by right issue or public offer," a source claimed.

However, Otedola’s preference for private placement is seen as a ploy to gain control and run the financial institution as his private estate, a source, who pleaded to remain anonymous, further alleged.

FBN Holdings has been a subject of battle over who holds the single largest share of the institution.

First Bank Holdings, in its audited accounts for 2023, had put Otedola as the single largest shareholder with a 9.41 per cent stake in the financial institution. Otedola, however, has recently increased his share holding by massive acquisition of more shares. At the moment, his exact stake is unclear.

through a Rights Issue.

Analysts attributed the strong demand for FGN Bonds to attractive yields, which offered investors high returns on their investments. They noted that the oversubscription levels highlighted confidence in the federal government’s ability to meet its debt obligations.

The appetite for FGN Bonds reflects a preference among PFAs and other investors for low-volatility instruments that guarantee capital returns, even with relatively lower yields.

Meanwhile, SEC has stated its preparedness to improve the regulatory framework with regards to borrowing by governments and corporates.

Agama, who disclosed this, said it became necessary given the critical role borrowing plays in the financial system.

“Improving the framework for borrowing is very important because borrowing is part of the financial system and we can only make much of the move we want to make if there is enough funding.

"Hence, we want to be sure of sustainability in both government borrowing, municipal and state governments particularly with the new Supreme Court order regarding the 774 local government areas receiving direct subvention from the federal government.

“It therefore becomes important that we have in the management of such resources via strategic and focused borrowing to help the developments in those sectors,” Agama was quoted to have said

But data from the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS), the widely accepted source for confirming share ownership, has Barbican Capital, which is affiliated with the Oba Otudeko-owned Honeywell Group, as the largest single shareholder with a 15.01 per cent stake.

Records kept by the bank’s registrars, Meristem Registrars & Probate Services Ltd, also showed that Barbican Capital is the single largest shareholder with 5,386,397,202 shares (5.38 billion) shares as of May 23, 2024. Barbican Capital had sued FBN Holdings for wrongly stating its shareholding in its audited financial statement.

First Bank recently laid off about 100 senior staff members in a major organisational shakeup. Reports had indicated that the bank’s top executives were asked to leave — as part of its corporate restructuring and repositioning plan for 2025 — following the confirmation of Olusegun Alebiosu as FBN’s managing director (MD) and chief executive officer (CEO) in June last year. There were also allegations that the exits were part of a concerted effort by Otedola to introduce new hands into several leadership positions in the bank. It is not clear what Security and Exchange Commission, SEC and the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN would do in the wake of this CAMA induced demand for an EGM called to remove Otedola and stop the private placement of the bank shares. More to follow ...

in a statement. The SEC chief executive noted that for corporates, the Commission was changing the landscape with the new rules on Central Counter Parties (CCPs), adding that the new rules on CCPs had become so critical for Nigeria’s development, especially for corporates in raising capital.

“As a Commission we have established those new rules and they are going to be functional in 2025. We want to make borrowing a seamless and effortless process for Nigerian companies.

“It is very important that as we drive the growth of the Nigerian capital market, we also drive new products and new opportunities for every Nigerian. Nigeria for a long time has been seen as a mono product market, but the Year 2025 will be different because we will continue to drive the process of introducing derivatives into the capital market.

“That is not possible without the laws and regulations that will help us do this better. To build confidence in derivatives trading, we hope to provide a clear direction of these transactions.

“To build confidence in derivatives trading, we aim to provide a clear exemption of these transactions from general insolvency laws, creating a safer and more predictable trading environment,” he stated.

According to him, the Commission was creating a safer trading environment, building confidence and attracting more players to the market, hence, it must provide enabling regulations and laws.

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IBB INTERNATIONAL GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, ABUJA

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EFFECT THE SANWO-OLU CONTINUES

The Sanwo-Olu/Hamzat Administration Continues The Harvest of Projects across Lagos.

TODAY Commissioning of 5 Critical Roads Within the G.R.A Ikeja.

TOMORROW

4.7KM Arterial Roads Around Akoka and Bariga Axis. It's A Relentless Commitment to Developing a Greater Lagos.

DEPUTY

OBA DOSUMU SOBO AROBIODU STREET

SASEGBON STREET

ODUDUWA CRESCENT

ODUDUWA WAY

BUSINESS SUMMIT DINNER/ AWARD NIGHT...

L-R: CEO, Jeremiah Music Band, Jeremiah Oluwatoke; Founder/CEO, Jollical Events, Joyce Imorhoa; Convener, BusyBee Summit, Coach Bis

and CEO,

the

UNILAG Graduates 16,409 Students, Two Record-breakers Achieve 5.0 CGPA

Funmi Ogundare

As the University of Lagos gears up for its 55th convocation ceremony, two students of the Faculty of Science, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Mr. Damilare Haroun Adebakin and Samuel Akinade Badekale have set another record by emerging the overall best graduating students with perfect Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 5.00 for the fourth time since its establishment 62 years ago.

Briefing journalists yesterday on the upcoming convocation of the institution, scheduled to kick-off

with a Jumat Service on January 10, at the University Central Mosque, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, explained the ceremony will witness a total of 16,409 students graduating from different faculties.

Statistics of the graduating students showed that out of the total, 9,684 students will receive first degrees and diplomas, 6,659 will be awarded postgraduate degrees while 66 will graduate from the UNILAG business School.

The best graduating student from the humanities is Olamide Idris Emida from the Faculty of Manage-

ment Sciences in the Department of Accounting, with CGPA of 4.95 while the overall best Ph.D. thesis award for this year goes to Adetoun Alaba Akitoye, who obtained her Ph.D. in Chemistry while the best Ph.D. thesis (Humanities) is Eniola Niniola Ladipo.

"A breakdown of our results shows we have 561 first class degrees and distinctions, 3,916 second class upper degrees (21),763 second class lower (22) degrees, 1,143 third class (3rd) degrees, 78 degrees as well as 223 unclassified degrees," she stated.

Other programs include; an

exhibition of innovations and works of staff and students at the Senate Car Park, commissioning of three projects by the Pro-Chancellor, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, on January 13.

According to the VC, "these are the Centre for Herbal Medicine, Drug recovery and Development, Biomedical Toxicology, Regulatory science and Pharmacovigilance analytical laboratory (ACEDHARS Building).

“It is one of the world banksupported Centres of Excellence project which is focused on the

Alleged Nefarious Activities: Media Practitioners Urge FG to Scrutinise AEDC Kogi

Media practitioners under the aegies of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Kogi State Council, has urged the federal government to as matter of urgency do a thorough scrutiny of AEDC and other distribution companies in the country and if found wanting should not hesitate to disband them.

This was contained in a press statement signed by its Chairman, Segun Salami and the Secretary, Salihu Oyibo, a copy of which was made available to the journalists in

Lokoja on Tuesday.

They also tasked the state government to interface with the management of AEDC with a view to increasing power supply in the state

The statement read in part: "That the state government should enact enabling laws through the House of Assembly to fight for its citizens who are daily subjected to untold harassments and extortions from the staff of the distribution company

“Among other complaints against Abuja Electricity Distribution Company AEDC are as follows

"That the distribution company has continued to fatally degenerate

in its services to its customers in the state with reckless sense of irresponsibility

"That the Christmas and new year celebrations in the state was drastically void of its usual fun-fares and thrills owing to low supply of light and total electricity outage in some parts of the state

"That AEDC’s repugnant disposition has invariably closed many small businesses in the state who rely heavily on constant electricity supply to make ends meet

"That AEDC has flagrantly refused to provide the pre-paid metres (as directed by the federal government)

to its customers with only a paltry

20% of the over 1.8 million customers who applied for the prepaid metres attended to

"That the staff of AEDC has continued to exhibit profound moral gap in their underhand dealings through extortions of customers and disconnections of light in the slightest provocation

"That significant communities in the state like Aiyegunle gbedde, Ayere, Aiyetoro gbedde, Abocho, Sheria among others have continued to stay without electricity supply for upward of three years or more with no response from the distribution company, yet the monthly bills continue to pile."

development of indigenous plants for medical applications. We are also commissioning the new 120 bedspace Moremi Hall extension and finally the new ultra-modern Learning Commons, an extension of our library services which speaks to our student-centered services and provides an environment for teamwork, creative engagement, research-collaboration, and knowledge co-creation."

The Convocation Lecture titled, 'Universities as Hubs for Development and Wealth Creation' will be delivered by Dr. Tayo Aduloju, the CEO of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) at J.F. Ade-Ajayi Auditorium.

Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, former governor of Lagos State and former Minister of Works, is expected to chair the occasion.

Other activities include a groundbreaking ceremony for the School of Postgraduate Studies building donated by Chief Tunde Fanimokun in commemoration of his 80th Birthday, same day.

The award of first degrees, diplomas, certificates, and prizes to graduating students of the Faculties of Arts, Education, Environmental Sciences, Science, and Social Sciences, conferment of degrees will be for graduands from the College of Medicine in the Faculties of Basic Medical Sciences, Clinical Sciences, and Dental Sciences, and Faculties of Engineering, Law, Management Sciences, Pharmacy, and the Distance Learning Institute (DLI), would be held on January 14 and 15.

On January 16, Postgraduate

Diplomas, Masters, and Ph.D. degrees including DBA and EMBA will be conferred on graduands of the School of Postgraduate Studies and the University of Lagos Business School (ULBS).

The highlight of the day will be the recognition of the achievement of various individuals for their contributions to scholarship and humanity.

"We recognise two distinguished professors who have retired but continue to contribute to scholarship and academia by awarding them as Professors emeriti of the University of Lagos.

“These are Prof. Babajide Alo (of the Department of Chemistry) and Prof. Olukayode Amund (Department of Microbiology). In the same ceremony we will be awarding Prof. Victor Ariole, (Department of European Languages) a gold medal for his ongoing contributions to the University and the nation.”

The university will also be the conferring honorary degrees in recognition to three personalities who have distinguished themselves in scholarship, made groundbreaking discoveries, or contributed significantly to academic and societal development.

They include; Mr. Fola Adeola, co-founder of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank Plc), Group Managing Director (GMD) of Sahara Power Group, Kolawole Adesina, and the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, will be conferred with the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science (D. Sc).

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has urged residents of the FCT not to give in to fear following the bomb explotion that killed two persons and injured two others at Tsangagyar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School in Abuja on Monday.

Mahmoud made the appeal yesterday, when she visited the scene of the bomb explosion that occurred at Kuchikuyi community in Bwari Area Council of FCT.

She urged residents to remain vigilant, stating that the authorities are working diligently with security agencies to ensure the safety and security of all residents.

Mahmoud said, "Our sympathy goes to those affected, and we urge you to remain calm and go about

your normal businesses.

"We understand the fear and concern that recent events may have caused. Please, know that the authorities are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all residents.

"Investigations are underway, and heightened security measures have been put in place to prevent any further incidents.

"During this time, let us remain vigilant but not give in to fear. Stay informed through verified sources, cooperate with security agencies, and support one another as a community."

The minister appealed to residents to be security conscious, stressing that knowing one's immediate neighbour is one of the security measures that can help to identify criminals within the communities.

The FCT Police Command linked

three suspects to the bomb explosion that rocked Kuchikuyi village in the Byazhin area of Kubwa.

The suspects, who were killed in the explosion, were said to have visited Kuchikuyi community in Byazhin, from Katsina, to see the owner of the Islamic school where the incident took place.

The minister was accompanied to the scene by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu; Commander, Guards Brigade, Brig. Gen. A.O Onasanya; and FCT Sector Commander Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Olusola Odumosu.

Others included Commander, Naval Unit, Abuja, Commodore T.S Lengaya; Chairman, Bwari Area Council, Hon. John Gabaya; and FCT Director of Security, Mallam Adamu Gwary.

Mary Nnah

The 2024 edition of the BusyBee Event Business Summit, themed "African Royalty," has come to a close, leaving in its wake a trail of economic activity estimated to be in the millions.

The three-day event, which took place at The Monarch Event Centre in Lekki, Lagos, recently, brought together event professionals, business leaders, and innovators from across Africa and beyond.

The summit generated significant revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. The event also created opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to showcase their products and services,

thereby promoting economic growth and development.

The summit's economic impact was further amplified by the presence of high-profile sponsors, including Fidelity Bank PLC, Oyoyo Events App, Wakanow, and E320 Associates. These partnerships not only provided financial support for the event but also helped to promote the summit to a wider audience.

In her remarks, Coach Bisi Sotunde, Convener of the BusyBee Event Business Summit, expressed her gratitude to the sponsors and partners, saying, "We are thankful for the support of our sponsors and partners, who have helped to make this event a success. We look forward to continuing to work together to promote the growth and

development of the event industry in Nigeria."

The BusyBee Event Business Summit has established itself as a premier platform for event professionals in Nigeria and across Africa. The summit provides a unique opportunity for networking, knowledgesharing, and industry insights, and has become a cornerstone for the event industry in Nigeria.

As the event industry continues to grow and evolve, the BusyBee Event Business Summit is poised to play a key role in promoting economic development and growth in Nigeria. With plans already underway for the 2025 summit, event professionals and businesses are eagerly anticipating another successful and economically impactful event.

Sotunde; Chairman, BusyBee Group, Bolaji Sotunde; CEO, Event Ace, Chibuikem Chris;

Kedesh Drinks N More, Bisola Jeremiah, during

2024 BusyBee Event Business Summit Dinner/ Award night of Africa Royalty held in Monarch Event Centre, Ikate-Elegushi Lagos... recently

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com

Olaosebikan: Tinubu’s Task of Rebuilding Nigeria’ll Yield Positive Results

a chieftain of the all Progressives Congress and former governorship aspirant in Oyo state, Mr Kehinde Olaosebikan, in this interview submits that President Bola Tinubu’s task to revolutionize the nation through progressive policies and programmes have started yielding positive results adding that the President has within 18 months earned global respect for Nigeria and the african continent. Excerpts:

Some Nigerians have taken to social media to condemn the choice of President Bola Tinubu as Man of the year 2024 by THISDAY Newspapers. Do you agree with them?

No, I don’t agree with them. The award was eminently merited. THISDAY was absolutely professional and just in giving the award to President Tinubu. The newspaper was explicit in its criteria for giving the award and they tally with what obtains with such awards globally. The truth is that most of the people criticizing the award are doing so out of ignorance and or sheer hate for their country. It is unfortunate.

Great leaders are distinguished by their profound ambitions, superhumanly driven courage, political savvy, intelligence and indefatigability. They make tough decisions towards taking their countries where they ought to be.

As clinically established by THISDAY, this is what President Tinubu is doing for the country and with his dedication and resilience, the policies and programs are already yielding positive results. I am particularly happy with the award as it corroborated my projection on the leadership and policies of Tinubu’s government.

In my assessment of his first year in office I hypothesized that the country would by the first or second quarter of this year begin to feel the impact of the strong, effective and purposeful leadership of President Tinubu.

I concluded my postulation then that Nigerians would eventually yearn for him to continue as President in 2027.

More than any of our past Presidents since 1979, President Tinubu has shown real courage, competence and capacity in governance. These are the qualities that THISDAY saw in President Tinubu in awarding him the Man of the Year.

You said he has shown more courage and capacity than any president since 1979, what of former President Olusegun Obasanjo?

President Tinubu and former President Olusegun Obasanjo are two distinct personalities with different backgrounds and approaches to governance. Former President Obasanjo’s two opportunities to lead were mere happenstances or enforced. At the two times, both as the military head of state and civilian president, he was never prepared. That was the reason, his administration as civilian president was dominated mostly by military tactics. You will recall that the government was chaotic with yearly or biennial change of the leadership in the key institutions of democracy, the National Assembly and his party, PDP.

But for President Bola Tinubu, his journey to power was well paved. Starting as a senator, Bola Tinubu was an outstanding governor for eight years with unmatched records. His experience as a senator, governor among other positions he has held equipped him with a firm background in constitutional law and effective management of human and material resources. In a growing democracy like ours, he knows the importance of precise management of the National Assembly and his party.

For a president aiming at executing groundbreaking reforms, he got it right from the onset by getting the right leadership in the legislature. So, unlike Obasanjo who struggled to control the National Assembly and his party with military fiats, President Tinubu chose the political line as a grandmaster of the game. And you could see that all the precautionary measures taken by President Tinubu are the necessary requirements for the success of his reforms and real development for Nigeria. I think God himself specially prepared President Tinubu for his present task of revolutionizing

Nigeria.

The concern of those condemning the award was the problem of acute hardship being suffered by Nigerians as a result of government policies, particularly the removal of subsidy and floating of the Naira.

I think it is hypocritical for people to still be blaming the President over the removal of fuel subsidies today. We have all seen the outcomes of the subsidy removal with more funds to all the tiers of government. Though no one is happy with the high cost of virtually everything, the prices are coming

down and certainly with time, all the essential commodities would become affordable to all.

How?

With more funds being allocated to states, we are already seeing competition among the states using the additional funds allocated to them from the fuel subsidy removal to develop their areas of comparative advantages of agriculture, industry etc. The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum just a few days ago announced that the state government would soon be selling petrol at 600 Naira per litre to boost irrigation, all-year-round farming in his state. Governor Muhammed Bago of Niger State is equally utilizing the money that would

Great leaders are distinguished by their profound ambitions, superhumanly driven courage, political savvy, intelligence and indefatigability. They make tough decisions towards taking their countries where they ought to be. As clinically established by THISDAY, this is what President Tinubu is doing for the country and with his dedication and resilience, the policies and programs are already yielding positive results. I am particularly happy with the award as it corroborated my projection on the leadership and policies of Tinubu’s government.

have been mismanaged in the name of fuel subsidy for novel world-class mechanized farming in his state.

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State is expending the fuel subsidy funds to reposition Enugu for economic development and taking Enugu on the path of 21st -century development and building Nigeria’s tomorrow today. Other states are trying but the good side of the new development is that the governors are being challenged by the performances of their colleagues. This is a silent revolution being engendered by President Tinubu.

In a concrete and more direct way, what do you think should be done by the President to address the starvation among vulnerable Nigerians?

A - I think my last answer has addressed that but I will explicate. Conceptualizing and implementing robust policies in all sectors of life is what the Federal Government owes all of us through the two other tiers of government and this is what the government of President Tinubu is doing with unusual zeal and courage. After cancelling the corruption laden fuel subsidy, the central government decided in the overall interest of the masses to take the reasonable step by allocating the bulk of the funds to all the states of the federation and make life more meaningful for their people. And rightly the likes of Zulum, Baggo, Mbah and others are effectively utilizing the funds in bettering the lots of their people. Do you know the magnitude of the agricultural produce that will be coming out of Borno and Niger states beginning from the next harvests? On this, I want to be optimistic that the other governors would utilize their areas of advantages and contribute meaningfully to the agricultural and industrial growth of the nation. All these are what we require to battle poverty and make life more abundant for Nigerians. It will equally shore up the value of our currency as we will begin to import less and export more.

What is your assessment of the foreign policy of the government vis-à-vis the crisis in ECOWAS and allegations against the President for romancing France to stabilize some Franco-African countries? I thank you for this question. On the foreign policy of The Renewed Hope Agenda, I will rate Mr. President as excellent.

In all ramifications, President Tinubu has been marvelous in all his international pronouncements and engagements. He has been representing us as a nation, as a sub-region and as the African continent excellently. He has regained for us our pride of place as the Giant of Africa. With the strong and effective leadership being provided in his country, his pedigree and antecedents as a fantastic manager of resources; as a super successful business man and grandmaster in politics, our President rivets the entire world whenever he takes the podium at international gatherings.

As clearly demonstrated at international fora, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu speaks assuredly as the President of the most populous black nation in the world and one of the most endowed (in all, including clement weather) nation on earth. From the old perception of an unstable, beggarly, and miserable continent, President Tinubu has in less than 20 months effectively changed the narrative of Africa to a continent of destination for growth and prosperity and a continent ready to help the world with her great potential.

In a nutshell, President Tinubu has earned global respect for our dear country, Nigeria and the African continent and we should all be proud of his leadership as THISDAY has professionally done with the Man of the Year Award.

Olaosebikan

HealtH & lifestyle

Breaking Barriers: Advancing Medical Science, Leadership, and Gender Equality in Nigeria

Nigeria’s progress in advancing medical science, leadership, and gender equality is hindered by systemic challenges. The healthcare sector remains underfunded, with limited resources and a growing brain drain, while academia faces obstacles such as inconsistent funding and inadequate support for research. Women aspiring to leadership roles in these fields often encounter cultural and structural barriers, making their journeys particularly arduous. Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, recently had an exclusive podcast conversation with Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) to discuss how increased investment in healthcare and research, strategic public-private partnerships, and women empowerment can drive transformative change. As a trailblazer in academia and medicine, her insights provide a roadmap for addressing these pressing issues. Here are excerpts from Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) Podcast “Leadership Series” hosted by Dr. Anne Adah-Ogoh, Director of Policy, PSHAN, with Professor Folasade Ogunsola as guest

What inspired your career choice? Could you take us down memory lane?

Ihave two inflection points in my career. The first was deciding to become a doctor. To be honest, I’m not sure I fully understood why at the time. I just know I always wanted to nurture, and I remember playing “hospital” as a child—it was something I always wanted to do.

The second was choosing medical microbiology, which was different. As a young medical student, it wasn’t my focus—actually, it was one of my worst subjects, and I was ready to drop it. But in private practice, I struggled with interpreting lab results that didn’t align with my patients. I spent time in the lab, talking to scientists.

What really drew me in were three key events: my brother-in-law in clinical microbiology, who made it come alive for me; the onset of HIV in the 1980s, which sparked my interest in microbiologists’ work; and a young woman in my care who died from pseudomembranous colitis caused by antibiotics. These experiences pushed me to switch from pediatrics to clinical microbiology.

It was a series of events, or perhaps, man proposes, and God disposes. Since then, I’ve never looked back. It’s allowed me to do clinical work, public health, policy, and research—all while fitting my restless, non-routine-loving character.

Thank you for taking us down memory lane. It seems like you’ve navigated many male-dominated spaces, from private practice during the early HIV epidemic to microbiology and leadership. How have you managed these challenges, especially as a female leader in fields with few women, like vice-chancellors in Nigerian tertiary institutions?

It’s about knowing your worth and staying true to who you are. I learned not to take things personally and to be intentional—no apologies for being a woman. I also had to learn to speak up, addressing issues respectfully without anger, especially when inappropriate comments were made. Women are often trained to avoid upsetting others, even at their own expense, but I refused to let things slide.

As a female leader, I faced expectations to act as a mother figure, making emotional exceptions. However, I realized that rules exist to ensure fairness. Making exceptions based on emotions leads to favoritism and poor outcomes, so I stayed firm. Over time, this approach worked.

My advice: be confident, embrace empathy, and know your work. When I entered clinical microbiology, I aimed to be the go-to second opinion, ensuring my expertise was undeniable. Women often have to prove themselves more, but once you excel, gender fades, and you’re recognized for your competence and leadership.

Thank you for those insights. Could you share key lessons from chairing the WHO Guidelines Committee for Ebola and leading the Infection Control Africa Network? What should we focus on as we prepare for another pandemic, and what resources should we have in place? Thank you. Chairing the WHO Guidelines Committee was valuable. Key takeaways include the importance of teamwork— guidelines require collaboration, not just

individual expertise. Research must be based on strong evidence, with a graded quality from high-level to observational studies. We need to develop our own evidence, as much of the research comes from highincome countries and doesn’t reflect our needs. Research here is expensive, and while we are starting to understand the investment required, we still lack some resources. Research must be solution-based and tailored to our environment.

Beyond creating guidelines, we must have systems in place. Many countries focus on clinical care but fail to plan for epidemics. Pandemic preparedness involves strengthening systems, training the right people, and ensuring healthcare professionals are always prepared. We’ve made progress since Ebola, with a national program and curriculum for infection prevention, but there’s still much work to do. The Infection Control Africa Network has contextualized global guidelines to fit Africa’s needs, spanning five regions, and strengthening collaboration, though more remains to be done.

You mentioned the importance of having a team on the ground and asking the right questions. How can we address the increase in the number of young health professionals leaving the country? How can we motivate individuals to continue supporting infection prevention and control efforts in Africa, especially Nigeria, and encourage those still in the sector to stay committed?

It’s a difficult one to answer. When people have high expectations of what they can achieve abroad, it’s hard to meet those expectations, especially when the reality on the ground here is challenging. First, there’s inadequate funding. Second, the work environment doesn’t always allow people to reach their full potential. The world has moved on, but we haven’t quite caught up yet. Third, there’s a lot

of criticism aimed at healthcare workers in Nigeria. Many work in extremely difficult conditions and are met with constant negativity, which can lead them to feel unappreciated and demotivated.

Improving the work environment, increasing salaries, and offering opportunities for self-actualisation could help, but these changes will take time. It’s not something we can achieve overnight. It will be tough, but if we improve conditions of service, perhaps we can allow people to travel, work abroad, and return home without feeling left behind. This could help them feel that they are staying in touch with global standards while still contributing locally.

Given the challenges you’ve highlighted, what opportunities do you see for the private sector to support in addressing these issues?

The private sector must get involved. Historically, it has focused on high-end hospitals serving a small portion of the population, leaving the majority of Nigerians who rely on public healthcare underserved. Public healthcare has immense talent that can be leveraged, but it requires collaboration and investment from the private sector to strengthen the system.

We’ve seen promising partnerships in areas like cancer care, where private sector support has enhanced public hospital capabilities. Additionally, most Nigerians pay for healthcare out of pocket, which is unsustainable. We need equitable health financing, including accessible health insurance, to ensure people receive quality care without the financial burden. Health is expensive, and even public facilities are underfunded.

Lagos State has recently made health insurance mandatory under the NHIA Act. Have you seen any improvements in access to affordable and quality healthcare in Lagos, and how can we extend this to neighboring states as we move toward universal health coverage?

I haven’t seen a significant increase in uptake yet. While the laws and policies are in place, the real work now is raising awareness. Many people are unaware of the benefits or skeptical about the government’s ability to deliver. It’s going to take time, and there may need to be additional laws, incentives, and penalties to encourage participation. We’ve made the right start, but there’s much more to be done.

Thank you, Professor. Regarding the challenges in controlling infectious diseases in Nigeria, how can we improve? We discussed a case of pseudomembranous colitis, raising concerns about the appropriate use of antibiotics and following protocols. How can we improve diagnosis, prescription, lab investigations, and medication compliance at t individual, community, and national levels?

The first step in fighting infections is prevention—safe water, housing, and sanitation. Nigeria is the open defecation capital, which contributes to the contamination of the environment with harmful microorganisms. Urban migration has created slums in places like Lagos, where these conditions breed infections. Before we discuss diagnosis, we must address these basic needs. The U.S. began beating infections with clean water, sanitation, and food. Once these infrastructure issues are tackled, we’ll have done 70% of the work.

We also need better diagnostic facilities, standardized care, and proper antibiotic use. Care in Nigeria often varies by doctor, and hospitals internationally use checklists to ensure quality. We must improve training, teamwork, and involve professionals from other sectors like veterinary and water engineers. Health must be a holistic approach, focusing on prevention and wellness, not just disease treatment.

What role can collaboration between academia, medical institutions, and the private sector play in improving health indices through better infection control in Nigeria?

Academia plays a crucial role in research, providing evidence, and training professionals. The private sector brings pragmatism, efficiency, and funding. The challenge is trust between the sectors. If collaboration improves, we can achieve great outcomes. For example, during Ebola and COVID-19, private sector support sped up responses. The public sector has manpower but lacks resources and training. If the private sector supports with better training and equipment, the impact would be greater. Collaboration is also needed in areas like water supply and sanitation to reduce infections. The private sector should see the public sector as a partner to improve systems and ensure a healthier Nigeria.

The private sector has a critical role to play in bridging these gaps.

Prof. Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola

www.thisdaylive.com

opinion@thisdaylive.com

SANWO-OLU’S SIGNIFICANT STRIDES

Lagos State government is committed to making Lagos a model of sustainable development and innovation, writes WALE JOKO

THE PATH TO PEACE IN A DANGEROUS NEIGHBOURHOOD

Nigeria’s foreign policy to promote peace and prosperity is a constitutional obligation, writes YUSUF TUGGAR

OF ILLICIT WEAPONS

The South-east is looking forward to the fulfilment of President Tinubu’s pledge, writes PAT ONUKWULI

A NEW DAWN FOR THE SOUTH-EAST?

President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Enugu on January 4, 2025, has offered some hope as the South-east continues to battle rising insecurity, heavy military and police presence, and inadequate infrastructure. Tinubu promised to prioritise the region’s development in his address, pledging to complete the Eastern Rail line and connect Port Harcourt to Maiduguri. He also committed to harnessing the oil and gas resources in the Anambra Basin and promised that his administration would work alongside South-east states to support their developmental efforts.

The South-east of Nigeria has had a stony relationship with Abuja. For instance, Buhari’s presidency largely ignored the South-east. In 2015, President Muhammadu Buhari’s controversial comment at the United States Institute of Peace highlighted a political reality that sidelined the region. His remark, suggesting that areas which overwhelmingly supported him should not be treated the same as those with minimal support, was more than just a recognition of political bias. It indicated that the South-east was not a priority for his administration.

The historical wounds in the South-east, particularly those left by the Nigerian Civil War of the 1960s, continue to influence the region’s political and economic landscape. While the war ended decades ago, its effects are still felt in the region’s socio-economic challenges. The promises made by the federal government after the war, which included reconciliation and reconstruction, have largely remained unfulfilled.

Key infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, homes, and industries destroyed during the conflict, have yet to be properly rebuilt. Despite being home to one of Nigeria's most dynamic economies, the region has not fully recovered or competed with other parts of the country. It continues to face the dual challenge of contributing to Nigeria’s economy while struggling to access the benefits of its efforts.

Under the Buhari administration, a few key infrastructural projects were pushed as successes in the South-east, including the Second Niger Bridge and the expansion of the Enugu airport runway. However, these projects were perceived as slow-moving and insufficient to meet the region's growing demands. The Second Niger Bridge, although a significant achievement, has taken years to complete, and it was not until December 2022 that the bridge was opened to local traffic, with the official inauguration taking place in May 2023. But for the people of the South-east, the long delays, paired with a lack of significant progress on roads like the Enugu-Port Harcourt and EnuguOnitsha Expressways, left many questioning the steadfast commitment of the federal government to the region.

The Second Niger Bridge, publicised as a symbol of progress and hope, remains incomplete without the infrastructure to

connect it effectively to the rest of the region. Roads leading to the bridge remain poorly maintained, with many in the Southeast seeing these unfulfilled promises as further evidence of the government’s neglect. What good is a bridge if the roads leading to it remain impassable? How can a region prosper if its infrastructure is in disrepair? Or what good is a bridge if the access roads are constantly under heavy military and police blockage?

Contrastingly, other regions, such as the South-west and South-south, have benefitted from more visible infrastructural investments. In the South-west, projects like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway have received much-needed attention, while the South-south has seen the expansion of critical port facilities. The Northern regions, too, have enjoyed significant investments in rail networks, roads, and energy. Yet, despite its vital role in Nigeria’s industrial base, the South-east has continued to face infrastructural deficits, inadequate security, and insufficient federal government presence.

The economic ramifications of this neglect are severe. The South-east is home to Nigeria’s most industrious people, with a robust industrial base that, if adequately supported, could fuel national economic growth. However, lacking essential infrastructure, particularly transport and energy, has stunted business growth.

On top of these economic challenges, the people of the South-east have been grappling with rising insecurity. The once-peaceful region has seen an uptick in violence, driven by a mix of armed groups advocating for a separate state of Biafra and criminal gangs taking advantage of the instability. The federal government’s response has been to deploy military and police forces, but this heavy-handed approach has only exacerbated the situation, creating an atmosphere of fear and mistrust. While these forces were meant to ensure peace, they have often been perceived as an occupying presence, leading to further distrust between the government and the people.

Military checkpoints and roadblocks

across the region have become a daily burden, adding to the economic strain. These security measures, rather than ensuring safety, have hindered business and personal travel. Rising transportation costs due to delays and harassment at these checkpoints have deepened the economic challenges. Furthermore, the region’s security situation has been worsened by frequent abductions, armed robberies, and other forms of violent crime, further destabilising the local economy.

In this fraught environment, the call for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has become another flashpoint in the region's relationship with the federal government. Kanu’s arrest and detention have been perceived by many in the South-east as a symbol of the region’s continued marginalisation. While the federal government insists that Kanu’s actions threatened national security, many in the South-east view his imprisonment as indicative of the broader issues of political exclusion and injustice faced by the region.

Amid these dissatisfactions, Tinubu’s words signal a potential shift in the federal government’s approach to the South-east, with a focus on delivering tangible results. Furthermore, Tinubu’s signing of the bill establishing the South East Development Commission (SEDC) is a historic move that could signal a new era of development for the region. The SEDC aims to address the region’s long-standing infrastructural and environmental challenges. This commission represents a commitment to long-term growth and a recognition of the significance of the South-east to Nigeria’s future. It is a step toward healing the historical wounds of the past and providing the region with the tools needed for economic recovery.

Despite these positive steps, the people of the South-east remain cautious. They have heard promises before, and many feel they have gone unfulfilled. Tinubu’s words must be followed by action if he is to earn the trust of the South-east. The region’s challenges are vast, and the people have suffered long enough from neglect and underdevelopment.

The South-east deserves better: an economy that works for its people, infrastructure that supports growth, and a security environment that fosters peace and trust. Establishing the SEDC and Tinubu’s pledge to complete the Eastern Rail line is a good start, but it must be just the beginning. The South-east is ready for a new dawn, but only time will tell whether Tinubu’s pledge will lead to lasting change or fade into another unfulfilled promise. The region and Nigeria’s future hinge on the actions that follow these words.

Onukwuli PhD, writes from Bolton, UK patonukwuli2003@ yahoo.co.uk

Lagos

State

government is committed to making Lagos a model of sustainable development and innovation, writes WALE

JOKO

SANWO-OLU’S SIGNIFICANT STRIDES

As Lagos enters 2025, Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision is clear: to make Lagos a model of sustainable development, innovation, and inclusivity.

As the New Year unfolds, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu stands tall as a transformative leader whose vision and dedication have left a lasting impact on Lagos. At the Lagos State New Year Thanksgiving Service held at Tafawa Balewa Square, Governor Sanwo-Olu last Sunday, outlined his administration’s ambitious plans for 2025, reaffirming his commitment to making Lagos a beacon of progress, innovation, and prosperity in Nigeria and beyond.

On the basis of his achievements, thus far, coupled with his forward-looking agenda, Lagosians indeed had every reason for thanksgiving.

In his New Year message, the governor expressed gratitude for the progress made in 2024 and optimism for what lies ahead. He thanked President Tinubu for the support extended to Lagos State and praised the resilience and perseverance of Lagosians in navigating challenges.

“We are already seeing the fruits of our sacrifices. Public revenues are increasing, macroeconomic stability is taking shape, and we are witnessing waves of investments across sectors. The harvest that awaits us as Nigerians, following our many sacrifices, will be a very gratifying one,” the governor said.

As espoused in his address, one of the hallmarks of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has been the strategic investment in infrastructure to enhance the quality of life for Lagosians and solidify Lagos’s status as a megacity. Among the standout projects are the ongoing expansions of the city’s rail system, including the Red Line and the Blue Line. These projects are revolutionizing public transport, reducing commute times, and fostering economic growth by enhancing connectivity across Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also announced the mobilization of financing for the new Lagos International Airport. This ambitious project will not only boost Lagos’s global connectivity but also position the state as a premier gateway for trade and tourism in West Africa. The construction of a food logistics hub is another critical initiative aimed at improving Lagos’s agricultural supply chain, reducing post-harvest losses, and ensuring food security for millions of residents.

For a future of energy sustainability, in 2024, Governor Sanwo-Olu laid the groundwork for a revolutionary shift in Lagos’s energy sector with the Lagos State Electricity Law. The law aims to unbundle the electricity value chain and establish a sustainable market for reliable and affordable power. This initiative, which will be scaled up in 2025, promises to transform homes, offices, and industries, ensuring a steady and efficient energy supply that is crucial for economic growth.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has consistently emphasized the importance of grassroots governance. With local government elections scheduled for 2025, the governor has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening governance at the community level. His dedication to ensuring local government autonomy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a truly federal Nigeria, where local governments are empowered to drive development in their respective areas.

Additionally, reflecting on 2024, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the tough but necessary economic reforms implemented under President Tinubu’s leadership. These reforms have begun to yield positive results, with public revenues growing and macroeconomic stability improving. Lagos has been at the forefront of these changes, benefiting from increased investments across sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, healthcare, and the digital economy.

Governor Sanwo-Olu pointed to the exceptional

performance of the Nigerian stock market in 2024, which closed the year with the All-Share Index exceeding the 100,000 mark. This milestone reflects the growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s economy, a sentiment echoed by the unprecedented influx of diaspora visitors to Lagos during the festive season. The governor’s efforts to harness this potential highlight his vision for Lagos as a global hub for travel, tourism, and entertainment.

Innovation has been a cornerstone of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s approach to governance. Under his leadership, Lagos has witnessed the rollout of impactful initiatives ranging from subsidized food markets to digital services that enhance the delivery of public services. The state’s investments in technology and innovation are reshaping how the government interacts with citizens, making services more accessible and efficient.

The governor’s administration has also made significant strides in housing, health, and environmental protection. Landmark projects such as the new children’s hospital, one of the largest in Africa, demonstrate his commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure. Similarly, housing projects and road construction initiatives have provided affordable living spaces and improved mobility for Lagosians.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s investments in security have made Lagos safer than ever before. Through initiatives such as the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, the state has enhanced its capacity to respond to security challenges, ensuring that residents and businesses operate in a secure environment. This focus on safety has been instrumental in attracting local and international investments, further boosting the state’s economy.

When President Bola Tinubu met with state governors recently, he harped on the need for greater collaboration among tiers of government. One of the defining features of the Sanwo-Olu’s administration is his ability to foster collaboration. He has worked closely with the federal government, leveraging its support for critical projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway. The planned 58km Green Line, which will connect Marina to the Lekki Free Trade Zone, is another example of the fruitful partnership between Lagos State and the federal government.

The governor has also cultivated strong relationships with local government authorities, members of the Lagos State Executive Council, civil service personnel, and the State House of Assembly, among other stakeholders.

As Lagos enters 2025, Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision is clear: to make Lagos a model of sustainable development, innovation, and inclusivity. Joko

Nigeria’s foreign policy to promote peace and prosperity is a constitutional obligation, writes YUSUF

TUGGAR

THE PATH TO PEACE IN A DANGEROUS NEIGHBOURHOOD

I was born in a civil war and was not able to vote for my leader until I was in my 30s. Nigeria is now a country guided by the rule of law and a constitution that clearly defines our system of government. This includes our foreign policy objectives, and rightly so, because in an interconnected world, we define our sovereignty in the context of certain, key principles: our right to self-determination; our right to defend our autonomy and secure our borders; and responsibility to respect our obligations under international law. As foreign minister, I think these provisions are not just reasonable but vital - both for our own democracy, domestic peace and prosperity but also for a more just and stable international order. But the point is this: it is the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, not the manifesto of a political party or predilections of a particular politician, that lays out these provisions. In a democracy, we have the privilege of healthy debate about our values, policies and performance. But if we are to live up to the responsibilities that come with democracy, that debate should be informed, fair and reasonable.

I respect the Constitution and its vision for Nigeria’s place in the international community, as do many of us. It has been an honour and a privilege to protect and promote those constitutional principles. They are the best guarantees for legitimacy, and the authority all governments need if they are to deliver. It is complex and time consuming. To our cost, we have learnt that there are no short cuts. Some Nigerians find fault in our Constitution, while others seek to amend it. There is always room for serious debate in a healthy democracy. But the fact remains it is the very document that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and every public official has sworn to uphold since 1999. Nigeria’s Constitution declares that sovereignty belongs to the people of Nigeria, from whom government, through this Constitution, derives all its powers and authority. The same Chapter of the Constitution goes on to state Nigeria’s five foreign policy objectives: promotion and protection of the national interest, African integration and support for African unity, promotion of international cooperation for peace and mutual respect, respect of international law and treaty obligations and promotion of a just world economic order. Those who suggest Nigeria does not have a foreign policy or those who agitate for a shift away from an Afro-centric foreign policy are wrong; either they are ill-informed, or deliberately disingenuous.

The irony of it all is that Nigerians are able to speak in support of our military-ruled neighbours, governed without constitutions, precisely because Chapter Four of our own constitution guarantees them these rights and freedoms. This is not the same for the citizens ruled by the very regimes for which they seek to cheerlead of those countries governed without constitutions. Nigerians who are older than 30 know this to be true because we have been there, done that. Somehow in the passage of time, some forget that the military regime here that despatched troops to restore democracy in Sierra Leone and Liberia in the 1990s had first – and by force - taken that same democracy and rule of law away from us – just as military regimes continue to do the world over.

The Constitution also makes clear why any responsible Nigerian government should be concerned when neighbours are governed without a constitution or codified rules. It goes without saying that the sovereignty of our neighbours is their business. They can grant powers to whatever governing structures they deem fit and should expect their autonomy to remain safeguarded. But when our Interdependence Sovereignty overlaps, we equally have a right to exercise control over our borders in those cases where neighbours face insurgencies that significantly comprise territorial integrity and state authority.

International Legal Sovereignty also becomes an issue when we consider that respect for international

law and treaty obligations is one of our irreducible foreign policy objectives. This is not the Tinubu administration’s foreign policy; it is a constitutional provision that every Nigerian President and government official swears to uphold. Nigeria is a member of ECOWAS, which is founded on treaties and protocols to which our foreign policy objectives commit us. All 15 member countries are signatory to the treaties and protocols, which is why it was no surprise that President Tinubu, as one who swore to uphold the Constitution, abided by it when ECOWAS leaders collectively objected to Unconstitutional Changes of Government.

In reality, the contemporary nation-state system is highly competitive and Nigeria exists in a self-help world. Our Constitution and international laws are meant to serve as guard rails in navigating the system. And by virtue of our size, we have the additional responsibility of being the regional power. Regardless of how some may try to diminish our standing, it is the way other countries perceive us. Our Constitution further reifies this leadership role right from the preamble- dedicating ourselves to promoting inter-African solidarity, to the foreign policy objectives- promotion of African integration and support for African unity and elimination of discrimination in all its manifestations.

The Tinubu administration comes at a time when an interlocking suite of occurrences have made our neighbourhood less secure; implosion of Libya, failure of the EU Sahel Strategy, terrorism and criminal gangs, effects of climate change and population explosion. Nigeria did not create these challenges and was equally contending with its own domestic issue as these challenges escalated. Nigeria was not part of Operation Barkhane or the G5 in the Sahel, which were intended as efforts to fight terrorism and irregular migration but instead strengthened some irridentist Azawad/ Tuareg groups that controlled border areas. This created a cauldron of disharmony between them and their national militaries, trained for a lifetime to keep their countries intact. Nor was Nigeria part of the Partnership Framework with Third countries that conditioned aid and trade deals for Sahelian migration transit states in exchange for reducing the flow of migrants, with penalties for those who do not comply. In the case of Niger, a moment of truth was the passing of Law 2015-36 in May 2015 when its government, in consultation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and technical and financial support from the European Union and its member states, criminalized ancillary activities of the migration economy, such as providing transportation and accommodation to foreign nationals anywhere north of Agadez, in direct contravention of ECOWAS Protocol on the free movement of people. They were persuaded to use a blunt hammer to crack a delicate nut.

Tuggar is Minister of Foreign Affairs

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

THE PROLIFERATION OF ILLICIT WEAPONS

The authorities must do more to secure the borders

Ordinarily, peace and order are only guaranteed because citizens surrender their right of self-defense to the overarching force of the state. Once this shield of collective sovereign protection and security begins to cave in, individual citizens resort to self-defense. This may have contributed significantly to the proliferation of illegal arms across the country. With Libya identified by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) as a source of inflow of these illicit weapons, authorities in the country must do more than mere lamentation. “Nigeria faces a significant internal crisis of banditry and kidnapping linked to terrorism and that the flow of weapons from Libya are a source of concern and is also directly associated with the escalation of Nigeria’s internal security crisis,” the NFIU Chief Executive Officer, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, said recently.

through the Onne Port. These include 764 units of Tomahawk Jojef Magnum Black Pump Action Rifles, 10 units of VC Verney Carron Gunmakers Jojef Magnum silver pump-action rifles, 50 units of VC Verney Caron Gunmaker double-barrel rifles, and others. According to the NCS Comptroller General, Adewale Adeniyi, the weapons were concealed using various items such as doors, furniture, plumbing fittings, and leather bags.

The proliferation of arms in civilian hands is perhaps the readiest sign that the Nigerian state has vastly receded in terms of inability to defend its territory as well as the lives and property of citizens

The revelation about Libya was not shocking considering what most Nigerians already know about our porous borders. There are about 364 approved international border points in Nigeria with about 261 in the Northeast and Northwest regions. “Out of this 261, only 124 are manned leaving the remaining 137 unmanned by security agencies," revealed former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor. It is therefore no surprise that we witness an influx of arms flow from Libya. But the problem is not only from the land borders. Given the overwhelming level of insecurity in the country, efforts should be made to contain the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW).

Hardly a week passes that the Nigeria Customs Services (NCS) would not announce seizure of large cache of arms and ammunition. Last July, the Service intercepted and seized 844 units of rifles, and 112,500 pieces of live ammunition valued at N4.17 billion being smuggled into the country

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com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

AFRICA,

Nigeria, according to many reports, accounts for at least 70 per cent of the illegal SALWs circulating within the West African sub-region most of them in the hands of sundry criminal cartels. It stands to reason that with access to abundant illegal weapons the rogue elements in our midst have become more fortified and hence less amenable to entreaties to make peace. With these illegal firearms, violent crime is no longer just social deviance but a thriving enterprise by many unscrupulous Nigerians with dire consequences for peace and national security. To counterbalance the threat to life and property by these armed criminals, individual citizens have resorted to the acquisition of arms for personal security and protection. In several communities around the country, the deployment of armed vigilantes and traditional hunters armed with modern weapons has become commonplace.

The proliferation of arms in civilian hands is perhaps the readiest sign that the Nigerian state has vastly receded in terms of inability to defend its territory as well as the lives and property of citizens. Since Nigeria has no constitutional provision on the right to bear arms, all such weapons in the hands of civilians remain illegal except by license for hunting and other sport. While the state officially remains the ultimate protector of the citizenry, it is a task that can only be performed by paying serious attention to what happens at our borders.

THE FRENCH AND THE NEW WORLD

Millions of Africans have emigrated to Europe, America, and other parts of the world. This emigration is driven by both push and pull factors — economic challenges, political instability, conflicts, and the pursuit of better job opportunities and more accessible social services. Despite often being stringent in their immigration policies, receiving countries have found ways to benefit from this influx. They tap into the labor, expertise, and talent of these emigrants. Rather than solely viewing immigration as a burden, many of these nations recognize the potential gains from incorporating skilled and unskilled labor into their economies.

In recent years, several West African countries have reassessed and severed their military ties with France. Notable examples include Mali in 2022, Burkina Faso in January 2023, Niger Republic in 2024, Chad in November 2024, Senegal in December 2024, and Ivory Coast in December 2024. These moves signal a significant shift in regional dynamics, as these nations seek to assert greater sovereignty and explore alternative partnerships. Some have terminated defense agreements outright, while others are exploring new international collaborations.

International relations experts see these developments as pivotal. However, they caution that without concrete plans for mutual benefits, these countries might merely replace one foreign power

with another. For instance, in Niger Republic, the Russian presence, along with the mercenary group Wagner, has not brought substantial change. Wagner’s operations in several African nations, such as Mali, have drawn criticism, with human rights groups accusing its forces of severe abuses. Reuters reported that:“French President Emmanuel Macron recently expressed frustration over the perceived lack of acknowledgment from certain African nations regarding France’s military interventions in the Sahel region. Speaking at a foreign policy conference with French ambassadors, Macron claimed that some African leaders had “rewritten history” concerning France’s role in combating Islamist militants since 2013. He argued that without French military support, these states might have lost their sovereignty.

However, officials from countries like Chad and Senegal have pushed back, asserting that their decisions to expel French troops were made independently and in the best interest of their nations.

Chadian Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah criticized Macron’s remarks as disrespectful, while Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko emphasized that Senegal’s decision was made without any negotiation with France”

For Africa to progress, its leaders must define the continent’s needs, recognize its current position, and set a clear direction for

the future. Africa must move beyond the outdated narrative that external forces are the primary obstacles to its development. The global landscape has evolved, and Africa must engage with international partners on a basis of mutual respect and benefit.

For example, France and Nigeria have excellent trade relationship, with Nigeria serving as France’s leading trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa. So, if country A, sees the French as a bottleneck, you don’t expect Nigeria to do so.

If countries like France, China, Russia, or the United States, etc., want to invest in Africa, they must do so with clear, mutually beneficial agreements. African resources should be processed on African soil, ensuring that the continent gains more than just raw material exports. Africa needs technology transfer, expertise, and infrastructure development that can foster sustainable growth. Africa must adopt a global perspective and interact with nations based on their strengths in areas like United Nations status, military power, industrial capacity, the presence of African diasporas, trade volumes, and financial influence. Only through strategic, well-negotiated partnerships can Africa harness its full potential and assert its rightful place in the global arena. Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja

Having lost huge market share and a large number of subscribers to its competitors in the telecoms industry, following the exit of Abu Dhabi-based Etisalat Group from the Nigerian telecoms market in 2017, the new management of 9mobile, which metamorphosed from the old Etisalat, has announced a new roadmap that will enable it address its multi-dimensional challenges and reposition to regain its lost market share.

The move to reposition 9mobile is sequel to the fresh investment capital coming in from its new investors.

Chief Executive Officer of 9mobile, Obafemi Banigbe, who gave insight into the repositioning plan and the strategies to regain

lost market share during a recent online media interaction, assured Nigerians that the repositioning plan would help 9mobile reclaim its lost market share and change the narrative about its declining subscriber number.

“Since Etisalat exited the market, the performance of the business has been on the decline. So at the time the new shareholders and the new management took over the business, the business was really grappling with multi-dimensional challenges that we had to take on headlong. We have the issue of infrastructure. The overall infrastructure of the business has really not been upgraded, and so we are dealing with a lot of obsolete infrastructure, and we are also dealing with declining revenue, declining subscriber number, and the high cost of doing telecoms

business in Nigeria. So there were lots of challenges that we have had to deal with,” Banigbe said.

To address the multi-dimensional issues, Banigbe said the new management had to come up with four phased recovery plans, which include Stabilisation phase, Modernisation phase, Transformation phase and Growth phase.

According to him, “The first phase is the stabilisation phase, and this is where we are looking at how we can stabilise the business from a network quality point of view, from a cost management point of view, and from an employee morale point of view. So the second phase of the agenda, is the modernisation phase of the business. Because we are still using the old infrastructure, there is need to modernise and refresh them. So we’re currently

in the process of refreshing our radio network, our core network, our transmission infrastructure, our billing system, our charging system, and even our enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. It’s like rebuilding the entire network from the scratch, and this will cost us so much money. The third phase is the transformation phase, which has to do with the total transformation of our network by introducing new things that will reposition the brand as the most innovative telecoms brand. The fourth phase is the growth phase, where we need to grow our revenues, to enable us contribute to the growth of the telecoms industry and to Nigeria’s GDP,” Banigbe said.

Addressing the issue of telecoms industry sustainability and the call for tariff increase, Banigbe said the telecoms industry

has contributed immensely to Nigeria’s GDP and the entire digital economy of Nigeria over the last 20 years. He however said every business must be in a position to generate revenue that can cover its cost and be able to reinvest back into the business. “So if we do not generate enough revenues to cover our cost, we’ll have to resort to borrowing either from shareholders or from the capital market, and this will not lead to sustainable growth,” he said, adding that at the end of the day, it’s really about balancing affordability with sustainability, and making sure that the telecoms industry will be in a position to generate cash flow that is enough to cover its running cost.

Asked why telecoms operators must always run to the regulator

to request for price increase, as in the case with the recent demand for tariff hike, Banigbe said the telecoms regulator doesn’t decide what operators charge per megabyte of data in terms of the overall proposition for data and voice.

“The regulator’s role is to define the price floor, which is a kind of guide to pricing in the telecoms sector. The reason for fixing price floor is to avoid a situation whereby operators will engage in predatory pricing, thereby creating market monopoly. So, the price floor regime by the regulator, is to address the issue of bad players, the issue of operators engaging in predatory pricing and allowing operators to charge what is best within the approved price floor,” Banigbe said.

Emma Okonji

A Parasitologist, Oluwaseun

David Ajileye, has embarked on a groundbreaking research to transform the general understanding of vector-borne diseases, while leveraging on emerging technology.

His research focuses on the intricate relationships between tick-borne pathogens and filarial nematodes in North America.

Ajileye, through his innovative research at Texas A&M University, is providing crucial insights into previously understudied vectorparasite associations, employing cutting-edge next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics techniques.

According to Ajileye, he is investigating co-infections of tick-borne pathogens and filarial nematodes in tick vectors and their associated hosts, addressing a significant knowledge gap in North American vector ecology.

He said: “In the evolving landscape of parasitology and vector-borne disease research, few scientists embody the combination of personal motivation and scientific rigor.”

Born in Nigeria, his journey from a personal encounter with tetanus to becoming a leading researcher in vector-borne diseases exemplifies the power of transforming adversity into scientific pursuit.

Ajileye’s academic journey took shape during his high school

years when a football injury led to a severe tetanus infection. This personal experience with pathogens, rather than deterring him, sparked an enduring fascination with the microscopic world of parasites and pathogens.

His subsequent academic performance in biological subjects reflected both his newfound passion and his determination to understand these organisms better.

Following his foundational education, Ajileye pursued his undergraduate studies graduating as one of the top students from the Department of Biology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, conducting pioneering research on pathogen transmission through everyday surfaces.

His undergraduate research projects broke new ground in understanding how common touchpoints could serve as vectors for disease transmission.

His study on currency notes as vectors for parasitic contamination in Akure, Nigeria, was complemented by another research on bacterial communities in automated teller machines, establishing him as an innovative thinker in public health parasitology.

His exceptional research capabilities and vision for advancing the field earned him a fully funded scholarship to pursue PhD studies at the Texas A&M University, where he is currently revolutionizing the understanding

of vector-borne diseases through advanced molecular techniques.

Ajileye’s current research employs sophisticated nextgeneration sequencing and bioinformatics approaches to investigate co-infections of tickborne pathogens and filarial nematodes.

This work is particularly significant as it addresses a crucial gap in the understanding of vector-parasite associations in North America, an area that has received considerably less attention compared to other parts of the world.

The implications of this work extend beyond academic interest, potentially influencing public health strategies and disease control measures across North America.

Ajileye is currently advancing this critical research at Texas A&M University, where his work promises to reshape the understanding of vector-borne disease ecology. His tech innovative approach to studying these complex pathogenvector relationships stands to revolutionise the comprehension of disease transmission patterns and could lead to more effective control strategies for vector-borne diseases.

He said by utilising advanced molecular techniques and bioinformatics tools, his research is unveiling the complex interactions between vectors, parasites, and their hosts.

Emma Okonji

Okoya: Celebrating Man of Industry at 85

Synonymous with vision, industry and enterprise as far as the Nigerian business landscape is concerned, Chief (Dr.) Rasaki Akanni Okoya, the founder of Eleganza conglomerate is one of those few men that can be truly said to be larger than life. Whether the focus is on the field of enterprise, religion, education or the world of philanthropy, Okoya is one name that has been a permanent fixture on the Lagos and Nigerian turf over the past 65 years, gaining the respect and admiration of many beyond the shores of Nigeria and well across the globe, writes Funke Olaode as he turns 85

What comes to mind when his name is mentioned?

He is an astute business mogul, a bridge builder, a philanthropist and an employer of labour. These are some of the virtues of this quintessential, eminent Nigerian. And if the name sounds strange to you, it means you aren’t familiar with the economic landscape of Nigeria which he has dominated for over six decades. Alhaji Rasaki Akanni Okoya, the famous business mogul behind the Eleganza conglomerate legacy in the field of business is enduring. Age and passage of time might have slowed him down but the Oluwaninsola landlord’s larger than life image and business acumen have continued to dominate among the business titan in Nigeria and beyond. A man with a Midas touch whose breakthrough in business came at the age of 19. He built a house in Surulere and by the age of 21, he could boast of four houses in Surulere. At about 34, he had acquired a property on Ikoyi Crescent; four hectares of land in the heart of Ikoyi. By the time he clocked 40, two high-rise buildings had been added to his name.

Okoya’s Eleganza Group is one of the biggest homegrown conglomerates in Nigeria today, with over six factories. He started manufacturing coolers in 1978 at a factory in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos State. Just like an old wine which tastes better with age, Eleganza as a company keeps evolving, moving with the vision of its founder. The sprawling production plant, Eleganza Industrial City Limited situated on over 30 hectares of land at Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos is an attestation to the vision of a man whose passion for enterprise has continued to grow. Under the newly-built plant, all household items are produced under the same roof. Some of these products such as Coolers, Chairs and Tables, Hair Threads, Diapers, Lady Sanitary, Pet Preform and Cap, Re-Useable cups and plastic shoes, Luggage boxes etc, have become household names in Nigeria and neighboring African markets. The standard and quality are unmatched. Life at 85 and looking back, he said, “My prayer is to enjoy good health, long life and leave the legacy of my industry behind as I want Eleganza to outlive me and continue with my philosophy of philanthropy.” Born on January 12, 1940 to Tiamiyu Ayinde and Alhaja Idiatu Okoya, in Lagos, the billionaire industrialist, who founded the Eleganza Group of Companies which has a market share that extends across the West African sub-region, attended Ansar-Un-Deen Primary School, Oke Popo, Lagos. And from such humble beginnings in the heart of Lagos Island (Epetedo area), he soon made it clear that his heart was set on becoming a businessman. His story, today, is one that will never be forgotten in a hurry in this part of the world. Having displayed sharp business acumen and drive to achieve great success, the young Okoya has started his own business at

the age of 14.

His story has been told several times of how he started his conglomerate with 70 pounds which his mother granted him and his decision to invest in importation of tailoring materials such as ribbons, zip fasteners and buttons under the trade name, Okoya Buttons Stores, paid off. By the time, he was 17 years old, he had become a source of inspiration even to those who were older than him and has not looked back since.

A dynamic Nigerian, Chief Okoya is the poster boy of entrepreneurship with enduring enterprise. He could well be regarded as the king of entrepreneurs and industrialists in Nigeria. That can be considered as an understated point. For those who know, the Eleganza Empire is like a utopia many Nigerians who want to live in the moment. Okoya has lived in that real-world he created decades back. An enigma, the Aare of Lagos inhabits a world that shimmers in style as an industrialist and a philanthropist. With him, the world of business would always appear like a piece of cake.

“Honesty, focus, determination, self-belief, and passion for what you do are key ingredients to being successful and wealthy. When I started, out I guarded my resources jealously because I believed as an industrialist, the money might come in volume

“I have been busy all my life with business, construction, trading to the extent that I didn’t have time for social life at the initial stage. And to have sustained all this over the last six decades is by commitment, hard work and the grace of God. I believe success isn’t elusive to those who dare.”

and once you are determined to put the money back into that business and you don’t waste it, you will see the result.

“I have been busy all my life with business, construction, trading to the extent that I didn’t have time for social life at the initial stage. And to have sustained all this over the last six decades is by commitment, hard work and the grace of God. I believe success isn’t elusive to those who dare,” he said.

As a business mogul, he is also a property tycoon. His legacy on the real estate sector is conspicuous as many of the landmarks on both sides of the 80-kilometre Lekki-Epe Expressway are adorned with Eleganza Properties, providing choice properties and accommodation for the middle and higher classes of the Nigerian society while also providing employment opportunities for artisans, engineers, architects and others skilled and unskilled workers across the Eleganza estates. Speaking about what it means to be 85, Chief Okoya said, “All my life, at 85 years, has been spent in the industries I built. I derive my happiness on production lines, which I have found to be very interesting, it keeps me busy and fulfilled all the time, and I continuously pray for Nigeria every minute to be an industrialised country.”

Ever looking at issues from the perspective of industry and entrepreneurship, Chief Okoya added: “I have always preached and prayed that every state of all 36 states including FCT in Nigeria would have an industrial zone in the outskirt of the cities with residential accommodation to ameliorate the life of citizens. This would stop the movements of our youths migrating from rural areas to urban cities.”

Dwelling on his personal view

during visits outside the shores of Nigeria, the 85-year-old magnate stated that government should provide small scale equipment and machinery for small scale production lines and sell it to the youths who have acquired the skills and graduated from the training school of their specialised area on the basis of loans with low-interest rates.

In the world of philanthropy, Okoya is an uncommon philanthropist. Among moves that exemplify this more than anything is his move to single–handedly endow the Ekiti State (formerly University of Ado–Ekiti, UNAD) with the building that accommodates the entire Faculty of Business Administration on the campus. In recognition of his business acumen and his large-heartedness, he was conferred with the Honorary Doctorate degree of the institution. He sponsored the building of the Library inside the Island Club premises along with scholarship schemes for indigent students in various institutions of higher learning across Nigeria. Okoya is also a religious man per excellence. His devotion to his religion is further gingered by ensuring that no fewer than twelve Islamic devotees (staff, relations), are sent to Mecca on the yearly holy pilgrimage. He has also built a large mosque in his private residential compound at the Oluwaninshola Estate where hundreds of the moslem faithful from all over Lagos come together to worship Allah every Friday and he shares food and gifts after the service each week. Okoya, a man who has adopted excellence as his hallmark throughout his life, was conferred with the Nigeria National Award of Commander of the Order of Niger, CON. A committed religious man. He was honoured with the title of Otun-Aare Adinni by the Lagos Central Mosque, bestowed with the Life Time Achievement Awards by Sun Newspaper in 2016 and Daily Independent Newspapers in 2017 respectively. The foremost industrialist is Aare of Lagos, Bobajiro of Oke –Ona Egbaland and Aare Babalaje of Ajiran land.

As an astute business man, he is also a committed family man. You can say he is a homely man. Despite his greatness and wealth, you find him attending to his wives, children and grand-children discussing vital issues pertaining to the good and development of Eleganza Group of Companies as well as family matters. The man of immense wealth is further strengthened by his youngest wife, Shade.

“In a few years’ time, I may quit or slow down. Luckily, I have a younger wife, Shade, who is interested and committed to this dream as well. She is always in the factory from 7 am to 7 pm. I have worked throughout my life. It’s time to relax.”

The moneyman has kept politics at bay.

“As I always say, a good carpenter cannot sew clothes. I am a good industrialist. God has helped me thus far. Although some politicians are my good friends, I don’t know much about politics.

“I am doing God’s will where he has positioned me. I am too busy with my factory to think about dabbling into politics. It has never crossed my mind,” he stated.

At 85, Chief Okoya may have slowed down but he is still on top of his game in business as Eleganza products have continued to dominate and resonate among the past, present and the future generations. Thanks to the vision of a man who remains committed to his calling.

Okoya

Folorunso: Our Challenges Positioned Us to Serve Customers Better

Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Fuelmetrics Limited, an innovative provider of automated technology solution for fuel management, Mr. Olayide Folorunso, speaks about the company’s ten years journey, including its low and high moments that positioned it to become resilient in growing customers’ businesses since inception. Emma Okonji presents the excerpts:

Fuelmetrics Limited has been in operation for the last ten years. Tell us about the high and low moments in your ten years journey?

Fuelmetris started business ten years ago with high expectations and with some high moments. Some of our most memorable high moments include the raising of our first investment capital and the development of our homegrown solution to address the identified gap at that time.

I remembered when we raised our first investment capital through an angel investment to pursue the business. Initially, what we had was just an idea, and then the development of our software solution. At that time we were able to raise $15,000 through angel investment in 2014, and we were smiling at that time because we saw it as huge investment capital. Another defining moment for us was when we successfully developed our proprietary automation hardware solution, called the E-pump, which stood out as a unique innovation compared to what was available in other markets at that time. It was a massive breakthrough for us because we had been doing research here and there, until we finally got it right. I think another high moment for us was when we signed up our first enterprise client, which we saw as a major milestone, because it validated our efforts and gave us the confidence to push forward. All these, including the constitution of our board members, were the defining moments for us and a step towards establishing a strong governance and strategic decision for the company.

Of course we had some low moments in our ten years journey, and I will speak to those challenges, which eventually strengthened us to become resilient to do more for our customers. There were moments when we felt like we would not even take the business any further due to lack of funds. There were times that we encountered skeptics that doubted the viability of our solution. People told us things like ‘this solution cannot work in Nigeria and it will never work in the next 50 years.’ On top of that distraction, we faced situations where potential partners offered to help us on very strict condition that they would take up to 70 per cent ownership of the company. So, these were some of the challenges that we faced.

Tell us more about the focus of Fuelmetrics Limited, and what the company seeks to address?

Fuelmetrics Limited is a company that specialises in providing innovative solutions for energy management and monitoring. Our immediate focus of course is on fuel management. Our vision is to drive growth and efficiency for businesses in Africa and we are achieving this by providing innovative and affordable technology solutions to help businesses thrive. Basically we leverage advanced technology solutions, like data analytics and automation to offer tools to improve transparency, operational performance and cost effectiveness in energy usage, both on the operator’s side and on the consumers’ side.

We are known for innovation and efficiency because we have brought significant innovation into this particular space which has made the businesses very efficient. Accountability is also something that we are known for. Our customercentric approach is helping us to provide the desired solution for business growth, and more importantly is that we are empowering these businesses through data analytics.

The idea to start the company began with our co-founders, who were looking at technology adoption in fuel management. At that point, we began to get more interested in the technology space and we carried out research on how to build a small solution to offer the market that will solve the identified operational gap within

that downstream oil and gas sector. At that time, Fuelmetrics identified that there was a gap in the gas and oil sector and then we developed a homegrown tech solution to fill that gap.

Fuelmetrics rapid growth since inception is of public interest. What is responsible for the rapid growth?

I think first and foremost, when we talk about growth, I must give credit to God for how he has continued to help us and guide us through our journey. Additionally, I think that our growth has been inspired by our team of dedicated staff members that are passionate about the company. We have people who are very passionate about our company and they put in their best.

So their commitment and tireless efforts have been very instrumental to driving the success and expansion at Fuelmetrics. I think another significant factor in our success story is our customer-centric approach to business. So our primary focus has always been to add value to our clients, and in return, they have rewarded us with their unwavering loyalty because they believe in our solution. So there’s mutual trust between us and our partners and this ensures that we retain our clients and we consistently grow and expand our reach within the business. I think all of these have accounted for our growth since inception till date.

What is your penetration level in Nigeria and across Africa in terms of enhancing the businesses of fuel stations?

So, in terms of our penetration level, we have made significant headway at least in Nigeria. We are currently present in over 2,000 fuel stations across Nigeria, and we are working with some of the biggest names within that industry, and all of these are testament to the viability of the E-Pump solution. Some of these operators would not want to do business with us if they felt that we don’t have any value to offer, because these are very serious-minded organisations that have the ability to get any kind of technology in the world that they would want.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

appraising nigeria’s Brewing Giant at 78

raheem akingbolu writes on Nigeria’s brewing industry and how history has positioned the first player in the industry, Nigerian Breweries Plc, to remain the market leader

The story of the Nigerian brewing industry is not complete without Nigerian Breweries Plc, the pioneer and largest brewing company in Nigeria. Incorporated in 1946 as ‘Nigerian Brewery Limited’, fast forward 44 years later, its name was changed to ‘Nigerian Breweries Plc’, reflecting its public limited liability status, following the coming into effect of the Companies and Allied Matters Act in 1990. Over seven decades, the company continues to strengthen its leadership position in the industry through innovations, championing a heritage of quality and sustainability.

Since the first bottle of Star Lager Beer rolled out of its Lagos Brewery in June 1949, a landmark for local production, which sparked a one-of-a-kind refreshment in the Nigerian social scene, the story has been from good to great in the expansion of its lager portfolio, introduction of an exciting range of non-alcoholic brands, stout and spirit drinks. To expand its journey ‘beyond beer’, the company acquired Distell Wines and Spirits Nigeria Limited last year, marking its expansion into the Nigerian market with a more enriching portfolio of quality drinks in wines, spirits, and flavored alcoholic beverages, underscoring its commitment to catering to the diverse needs of consumers.

Giant StridE

Woven into the fabric of the company is a purpose to inspire a better world - by brewing the joy of true togetherness with moments that bring people together, create bonds and remain etched in memories. This purpose breathes passionately in the commitment to creating joyful and lasting memories of merriment, which is embodied in the company’s values of Passion for Customers and Consumers, Enjoyment of Life, Care for People and Planet, and Courage to Dream and Pioneer.

As Nigeria’s brewing giant, Nigerian Breweries Plc leads the way with courage and boundless capacity to dream, pioneering innovation in new products and setting standards in sustainability for the care of the people and planet through initiatives that enable people, communities

and the planet to thrive. At the heart of everything is the quest to cater to its growing consumer expectations, brewing the highest quality of products in over 21 brands enjoyed locally and globally.

SUStainaBility and rESPOnSiBility

As a socially responsible company, its three pillars of Sustainability, namely Social, Responsible and Environmental, have been very impactful, contributing to its footprints across the country.

Fueled by the philosophy that “we can only thrive if the planet and our communities thrive”, Nigerian Breweries Plc has raised its bar in support of the UN SDGs putting sustainability and responsibility at the front and centre of its operations. It continues to raise targets on climate action, accelerate efforts to support the social agenda, and being bold to promote moderate consumption of alcohol.

In terms of community impact, the company has implemented several youth empowerment initiatives, including the Women and Youth Empowerment Programme, which, as of 2023, has upskilled2,365 youths across the country in 20 skill areas, including confectionery (baking), cosmetology, hairdressing, solar panel installation, cell phone repairs, barbing, fashion design, marketing, block molding, among others. Notably, in 2023, Nigerian Breweries partnered with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to empower 1,000 youths across 24 states and the Federal Capital Territory through an intensive skills development programme. Following their training, beneficiaries of the Youth and Women Empowerment Programme are equipped with essential startup tools to support the early years of their entrepreneurial journeys. . The company’s community impact spans diverse initiatives, including advancing education at all

levels in Nigeria and improving access to clean water and adequate sanitation.

In the promotion of responsible consumption and pursuing strategies to help minimise the negative impact of irresponsible alcohol use, the company collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders including NGOs, governments, consumer groups, sales outlets and others to entrench a culture of moderation and informed decision-making in alcohol consumption. One notable partnership is with the Federal Road Safety Corps through campaigns such as Don’t Drink and Drive (DD&D) campaign. This collaboration includes the donation of breathalyzers and ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving to promote road safety.

Stemming from its “Brew a Better World” strategy, the company’s environmental sustainability journey is anchored on three key ambitions: Net Zero, Healthy Watersheds, and Circularity. Since 2018, Nigerian Breweries has made significant strides towards increasing renewable energy use in its production processes. This includes renewable electricity from solar and hydropower solutions, as well as renewable thermal energy derived from biogas, waste heat recovery, and sustainable biomass. These efforts place the company on track to achieve its goal of Net Zero Emissions in production by 2030 and across its value chain by 2040.

Notably, solar energy installations include a 663.6 KWp system commissioned in May 2021 at the Ibadan brewery and a 4,000 KWp system commissioned in February 2023 at the Ama brewery. With ongoing energy installation and expansion projects across breweries in Ibadan, Lagos, Ama, Kaduna, and Aba, Nigerian Breweries, in partnership with CrossBoundary Energy, Konexa, and Daystar Power Energy Solutions, Nigerian Breweries continues to advance its renewable energy agenda. Towards healthy watersheds, Nigerian Breweries

in partnership with the Ogun State Ministry of Forestry, with technical support from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), is leading a reforestation project at the Olokemeji Forest Reserve. To date, this initiative has resulted in the planting of over 280,000 trees, with plans to achieve 600,000 trees by 2031, restoring over 500 hectares of degraded land, balancing water used in their water-stressed sites and promoting ecosystem health.

EdUCatiOn and natiOnal dEvElOPmEnt

Driven by a commitment to contribute to nation building through education, the Nigerian BreweriesFelix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund was established in 1994 with a take-off grant of N100 million. This visionary initiative has made significant contributions to the development of education in Nigeria by funding educational infrastructure projects, providing training for educators, supporting educational research activities and donation of books.

To deepen its impact, the Fund introduced the ‘Maltina Teacher of the Year Competition’ in 2015, designed to promote quality learning and celebrate the invaluable contributions of teachers to society. Since its inception, the competition has recognized 278 outstanding teachers and equipped nine schools with educational infrastructure, including classrooms, computer laboratories, language laboratories, and multipurpose halls tailored to their respective needs.

In its 10th edition this year, the prizes were increased to broaden the opportunities for growth and development for the winners, with the overall winner receiving N10 million, the first runner-up N3 million, the second runner-up N2.5 million, and other (34) State Champions awarded N1 million each.

Folorunso

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

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

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

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

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at

January-2025, unless otherwise stated.

ProPerty & environment

Illubirin Residents Promised Elevated Experience

Bennett Oghifo

Ilubirin Foreshore Projects Limited, developer of an exquisite project known as Ilubirin, in Lagos, has promised residents of the evolving city what they described as elevated living.

The company recently held an exclusive Open-house Block Party and interactive tour of the city’s meticulously designed apartments. The first phase of these apartments is set for completion early this year, according to the Marketing Manager, Loretta Lekema-Okoro.

She said, “What we’re very particular about is to ensure that everybody who is a resident in Iluburi would have an elevated

experience.

“So elevated experience means that you’re not going to come in and then you’re going to start struggling for the things that make living to be comfortable. You’re going to have all of that built in. If you see, even in this block, we already have everything planned so that people are comfortable when you just even stay in the building.”

She said they have “nine hectares of expanding land. It’s mixed use. What that would essentially mean is that we’re going to have multiple components of development across from where we are currently, which is the phase

one, where we have 190 units of apartments in one, two, and three bedrooms.

“And then we’re also going to have multiple facilities and amenities on the project premises.

“There’s going to be an event center, restaurants, and a promenade, which basically means that we’ll have people sit outside and enjoy views of the lagoon as they are here to relax. “We’re going to have a conference center, ambulance, ambulatory service, which means that we’ll have an ambulance center, medical help, first aid, where people would be able to, at least, get basic treatment and they can move on.”

Ilubirin

She said other blocks have been planned for within the development, even though they are not yet built. “We know and we have an idea of what each block would contain. Some would be offices, some would be businesses, some would be shopping centers, some would be various things. We just have a lot of things that are planned around.

“There’s a hotel also on the premises. There’s going to be a high-rise block that would have multiple use, so there’ll be offices, there’ll be companies that could also come and take up space. So it’s just a whole lot of things.

Because we’re also very close to the road, if you notice, even in this room where we are at, you can’t hear the cars, and that’s because we have double glazed.

“So even when you now have a traffic jam, where you have cars horning and all, you know, Lagos-like, you who is a resident, you’re not going to have all that noise. You’re insulated away from it because we’ve taken that attention to detail to mind in the design, in the planning, in the implementation, and the building, which means that we are going to take that tradition and that culture through every element of the design and implementation and building of the property.

They also made provision for flood control in the city, saying, “there is no way that it would flood if it starts to rain. Everywhere is going to be

paved, there’s going to be green areas. So even though you’re walking through an area that is a residential area, you would have greenery, so we’re going to plan landscape there, so that way everything just generally comes out balanced and people are not having to worry.

“So we’re making sure that we have all of this experience for people that will be living in Ilubirin. So we don’t call Ilubirin an estate, we’re calling it a city development, because it’s way bigger, it’s way more than just an estate, it’s an entire city, literally, maybe just not on the size scope of what a city should then be, but it is inclusive of all that.”

The total number of apartments is 190, in nine blocks, they are spread across nine blocks.

“So we have about nine blocks that would be apartments. People who keyed in initially, we had to refund everybody because there were delays. So Ilubirin, yes, has been in the market for a bit, yes, the construction has been on for a bit, but the project has also gone through different phases, it has had to be modified to meet up with current realities, different issues that were experienced. I mean, we had a whole lot of delays at some point in time when we could not meet up with the timeline for delivery to clients who had invested.

“And it then became a management decision to say, instead of holding everybody down till those issues were resolved, I mean, they were

Dexdee Court Enters Benin Property Market

Bennett Oghifo

The real estate market in Benin City has gotten bolder with the introduction of an exquisite property known as the Dexdee Court that is located in the lush landscape of Ekae GRA in the city.

Interestingly, the block of flats is located at Dexdee Golf Resort, Ekae, overlooking the 9hole golf course. The Resort is fenced and has a C of O.

The facility is being built off-plan and because of the few units available, it’s first

come first served, said the Chief Executive Officer of Dexdee Fountains Estates Ltd, Desmond Odiase, owner of the property.

The first phase of the Court has a block of 12 flats of 2 bedrooms and each comes with a living room, two bedrooms, a kitchen and three toilets.

Residents of this fine piece of real estate would have access to the Resort’s golf course, tennis court, bicycle precinct at discounted rates.

The resort is 25 minutes

from the Benin City Ring Road/Oba Palace and 22 minutes from the Benin City Airport.

The flats are being developed off plan and completion period is 18 months. Subscribers are required to pay in four installments- 40%; 30%; 20%; and 10% the collection of keys.

“Upon completion you are allowed to use your flat for serviced apartment and rake in a minimum of N24 million/ year. Cost of the flat off plan is N56 million,” Odiase said.

already uncomfortable, they didn’t feel like the product was going to them, we said, let us keep our integrity and refund everybody so that we can exit till we can clear up all of those issues, one of which was the fact that the funding that was planned for, there was a stall with the funding because of the amount of work that had to be done. There was a whole lot of filling, there was a whole lot of modification to the buildings that had to be done. So all those things became a bit more than what was initially envisaged.

“So we had that challenge. We also had a bit of a challenge with the canal. So there’s a canal on that side that basically needs to be repurposed and redrawn backwards so that the water and the canal itself can be rechanneled.

“So that we also make sure that we don’t have a canal in through the property that people will be living in. You know how a canal can just be problematic. So we had to make sure that all of that was taken care of.

“And that’s where now we are ready to relaunch into the market. We don’t like to call it a relaunch, but because we’re now at a point where this block is completed, we can now go into the market and say yes, this block is completed. Now we can take subscribers, now we can take investors into this block and the subsequent blocks because we have a plan for how the different blocks will continue to be built up and finished.

Osinbajo to Speak on Greening Africa’s Economies at the NCF 23rd Chief S.L Edu Memorial Lecture

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has announced the details of the 23rd Chief S.L Edu Memorial Lecture. The lecture which is hosted annually by the NCF, in collaboration with the family of Late Chief S.L. Edu will hold on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 11:00am. The event will hold at Ijewere Hall, CIBN, Plot 19, Adeola Hopewell Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. The lecture, themed “Greening Africa’s Economies: Can Climate Positive Growth Deliver Prosperity?”, will be delivered by Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, GCON, Former Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Chief S.L. Edu Memo-

rial Lecture is the flagship advocacy tool of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation aimed at bringing pertinent environmental issues to the fore while advocating solutions through renowned speakers. For over two decades, the lecture has provided a platform to address pressing environmental and sustainability issues in Nigeria and beyond. Through renowned speakers, the event has consistently articulated solutions to environmental challenges while promoting sustainable development.

This year’s theme reflects the urgency of climate-positive growth to drive sustainable economic development across Africa. With the growing impact of climate change on

economies, livelihoods, and ecosystems, the lecture aims to stimulate discussions on fostering green economies that balance prosperity with environmental responsibility. Prof Osinbajo who is renowned for his commitment to economic transformation and sustainable development will deliver a lecture that will highlight pathways for Africa to achieve climate-positive growth while creating prosperity and resilience for its people.

Now in its 23rd edition, the Annual Memorial Lecture equally serves to award grants to two PhD students whose research are in the field of environmental sciences in any Nigerian universities. The grant which is sponsored

by Chevron Nigeria Limited, seeks to promote research works in nature conservation, biodiversity preservation, environmental management, and sustainable livelihood. Selection of successful candidates is done through months of rigorous adjudication exercise involving academics, professionals and stakeholders in the fields of conservation.

Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Lecture has achieved significant gains in shaping public opinions and government policies in Nigeria and to some extent, globally. It has equally supported many researchers in fulfilling research goals and contributing to the body of knowledge across the field of environmental science. After

each lecture, recommendations from the lecture are shared with the government and stakeholders.

As a leading tool for advocacy, the target audience are policy makers, conservation stakeholders, government representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, the academia, traditional rulers, researchers, NCF Board of Trustees and National Executive Council (NEC), NCF members, local and international press among others. The event remains cardinal to the achievement of the Foundation’s vision and mission. Participation at this event is free.

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) is Nigeria’s premier environmental non-

governmental organization dedicated to nature conservation and sustainable development. The Foundation was founded in 1980 by the late Chief S.L Edu and registered as a Charitable Trust in 1982. The Foundation is the Birdlife International Partner in Nigeria, an Associate of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and a Member of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Other notable international partners are Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and Wetlands International. NCF also maintains strong collaboration with governments at all levels, corporate organisations, communities, and individuals in the country.

Dexdee Court, Benin City

Report Predicts Significant Developments in Nigeria’s Energy Sector in Q1 2025

Ejiofor Alike

The Nigerian energy sector will witness significant developments in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, a new report by the Society of Energy Editors (SEE) has revealed.

The report noted that these developments would be driven by President Bola Tinubu’s proposed N49.7 trillion budget for the year.

The budget, which is anchored on 2.06 million barrels per day crude oil production target, is expected to drive down inflation from 34.6 per cent to 15 per cent during the year under review.

In its, “Nigeria Energy Outlook Q1 2025,” SEE highlighted key areas to watch in the energy sector in the first quarter of the year to include oil oil exploration and production; domestic crude refining; gas production and liquefied natural gas (LNG) export; power generation and transmission as well as labour

relations.

“The government’s target to increase crude oil production is ambitious, but its feasibility hinges on addressing security challenges, particularly in the Niger Delta region. Nigeria plans to hold a fresh oil licensing round in 2025 focused primarily on handing out blocks that remained undeveloped, as the country battles to raise crude reserves and production,” the report explained.

The report added that the federal government would have to show the necessary political will for this fresh oil licensing round to be organised in the year under review as planned. On domestic refining, SEE noted that the commencement of petroleum refining at the Dangote Refinery is expected to reduce fuel imports and ease the burden of petroleum subsidies.

It, however, added that the steady supply of crude oil feedstock from the NNPC Ltd.

to the refinery will be crucial in determining the refinery’s impact on the economy in 2025.

Focusing on gas production and LNG exports, the report projected that Nigeria’s gas sector will grow during the first quarter, driven by the government’s “Decade of Gas” initiative and the country’s ambitions to increase its gas reserves to 210 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) in 2025 and 220 Tcf by 2030.

According to the report, gas export through the Nigeria LNG Limited will be steady during the first quarter.

In the power sector, the report said efforts to expand power generation and improve transmission infrastructure will continue, with a focus on increasing the share of renewable energy sources in the energy mix.

It maintained that power transmission and distribution infrastructure remained very weak with the national grid recording 12 incidents of collapse in 2024.

Stanbic IBTC Bank Secures Top Spot in KPMG Rankings for Retail and SME Banking

Nume Ekeghe

Stanbic IBTC Bank, a member of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has topped the Retail Banking and SME Banking categories in the recently concluded 2024 KPMG West Africa Banking Industry Customer Experience Survey.

The achievement marks the fourth consecutive year Stanbic IBTC Bank has led in Retail Banking with a customer experience score of 75.5 per cent and the second consecutive year it has dominated the SME Banking segment with an impressive score of 77.3 per cent.

Key updates to its mobile app, such as enhanced

security features and personalised budgeting tools, have reinforced the bank’s leadership position. One retail customer shared, “Stanbic IBTC’s responsiveness and quick resolution of unusual account activity reaffirmed my confidence in their services.”

In the SME Banking segment, Stanbic IBTC Bank continues to shine with its dedication to addressing the unique needs of small and medium enterprises. Customers have highlighted the bank’s efficient payment processing, proactive issue resolution, and personalised relationship management. A survey respondent stated,

“Stanbic IBTC’s SME services have been a game changer for my business, offering unmatched support and solutions that are both timely and effective.”

Commenting on this achievement, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank, Wole Adeniyi said: “We are honored to be recognised as Nigeria’s top Retail and SME bank for four and two consecutive years respectively. This achievement reflects our commitment to innovation, customercentricity, and excellence. We will continue to raise the bar in providing financial services that empower individuals and businesses across Nigeria.”

KPMG Recognises PalmPay in Customer Experience Survey

Stories by Emma OKonji

PalmPay, a leading Africafocused fintech platform, has been recognised in the 2024 KPMG West Africa Banking Industry Customer Experience Survey for delivering exceptional customer experiences and surpassing traditional banks in key areas of service delivery.

The survey highlights PalmPay’s strong performance across multiple stages of the customer journey, with customers praising the platform’s seamless transaction processing, reliability, and innovative features.

PalmPay achieved a notable Customer Experience (CX) score of 81.6, ranking among the

top fintechs in the region and cementing its position as a leader in Nigeria’s fast-evolving digital financial services landscape.

The KPMG survey evaluates customer experience across six key pillars of excellence: Integrity, Resolution, Expectations, Time & Effort, Personalisation, and Empathy. PalmPay excelled in delivering seamless experiences, streamlining processes to reduce customer effort, and fostering trust through proactive and transparent communication.

Discussing the recognition, Managing Director at PalmPay, Chika Nwosu, said: “We are honoured to receive this recognition from KPMG, which underscores our unwavering

commitment to providing accessible, reliable, and innovative financial solutions to Nigerians.

At PalmPay, we continuously strive to redefine the banking experience by addressing customer pain points, streamlining transactions, and ensuring that our customers can trust and rely on us for their everyday financial needs.”

According to the survey, PalmPay was commended for its minimal network downtime, swift issue resolution, and proactive communication with users. Customers highlighted the platform’s ability to notify them in advance of scheduled maintenance, reinforcing trust and reliability.

InnovateAI Lagos 2025 to Address Sustainable AI Growth

AI in Nigeria, a collective of visionary leaders and tech enthusiasts dedicated to propelling Nigeria to the forefront of the global AI revolution, has announced that InnovateAI Lagos 2025, the second edition of its flagship annual artificial intelligence (AI) conference, is scheduled for February 21, 2025.

InnovateAI Lagos 2025, with the theme: ‘Scaling AI Adoption in Nigeria- Catalysing Cross-Sectoral Innovation and Fostering Inclusive Growth’, is scheduled to hold at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos.

According to the co-convener, Dotun Adeoye, “the inaugural InnovateAI conference in 2024 was a defining moment, bringing together over 4,000 attendees from across Nigeria and beyond. It ignited collaborations, inspired innovation, and influenced policies, businesses, and community initiatives that have driven measurable progress. As momentum builds up towards InnovateAI Lagos 2025, this year’s event is set to be even more impactful as attention will focus on promoting

AI solutions to addressing pressing challenges including unemployment, infrastructure gaps, and financial inclusion to foster sustainable growth across key sectors of the Nigerian economy.”

InnovateAI Lagos 2025 is to attract over 6,000 attendees with a dynamic mix of live participation and simultaneous live streaming to 12 AIin-Nigeria Community Hubs that have been inaugurated over the course of the last year across all six geopolitical zones in the country, Adeoye further said.

(Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic

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

Demand for MTN, 26 Others Lift Stock Market by N508bn

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian stock market yesterday closed on a positive note as price appreciation in MTN Nigeria Communications (MTNN) and 26 others pushed the overall capitalisation up by N508 billion. With the telecommunication giant gaining 10 per cent to close at N220.00per shar, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All Share Index (NGX ASI) gained

by 831.91 basis points or 0.80 per cent to close at 104,230.73 basis points from 103,398.82 basis points it opened for trading.

Consequently, the overall market capitalisation rose by N508 billion to close at N63.559 trillion from N63.051 trillion it closed for trading the previous day.

As measured by market breadth, market sentiment closed negative as 27 stocks

gained relative to 28 losers. Transcorp and MTNN recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at N49.50 and N220.00 respectively, while Honeywell Flour Mills followed with a gain of 9.95 per cent to close at N8.29, per share.

AIICO Insurance went up by 9.94 per cent to close at N1.88, while LivingTrust Mortgage Bank appreciated by 9.82 per cent to close at

N4.81, per share. On the other hand, SUNU Assurance led the losers’ chart by 9.99 per cent, to close at N9.01, per share. Universal Insurance followed with a decline of 8.79 per cent to close at 71 kobo, while Secure Electronic Technology declined by 8.11 per cent to close at 68 kobo, per share.

Consolidated Hallmark Holdings depreciated by 5.82 per cent to close at N3.40 and

C&I Leasing declined by 5.65 per cent to close at N4.01, per share. The total volume traded dipped by 32 per cent to 756.418 million units, valued at N24.692 billion, and exchanged in 13,551 deals. Transactions in the shares of FBNH topped the activity chart with 125.714 million shares valued at N3.608 billion. Tantalizers followed with 82.392 million shares worth N195.746 million, while

at N101.106 million, while Chams Holding Company sold 33.149 million shares worth N72.484 million. Analysts at Afrinvest Limited stated that “tomorrow, we expect the market to sustain gains due to bargain opportunities.”

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF j A n UAR y 8/25

FEaturEs

An Inflection Point for Nigeria’s Digital Economy: The Imperative of Sustainability

Karl Toriola

Nigeria’s telecoms industry, and the digital economy that has developed around it, are at a fundamental inflection point. The decisions that we make now will determine whether the growth and development of our digital economy continues on a sustainable trajectory, or whether the connectivity infrastructure that drives it begins to degrade.

The scope, breadth and sophistication of Nigeria’s telecoms industry today is a shining example of what can happen when a country combines the right policy and regulatory environment, with the right market opportunity. Since the first call was made in 2001, Nigeria’s telecoms sector has evolved into one of the largest and most sophisticated in the world, meeting the growing needs of Nigerian consumers and employing millions of people. Today, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) statistics show that there are now more than 157 million active connections, and that number is growing every month.

As the telecoms industry has expanded connectivity, it has enabled the emergence and rapid growth of the digital economy. In 2024, ICT contributed nearly 20% to Nigeria’s GDP, more than twice the contribution of oil and gas, and it continues to grow. As Nigeria transitions to the non-oil based economy that will enable more inclusive growth, connectivity is becoming more and more important. It is the foundation on which our future economy will be built. Whether it is your digital banking solution, social media and marketing, your mobile-based agricultural extension services, your e-government portal or the telemedicine and edtech solutions that are enabling broader access to healthcare and education, the impact of improved connectivity is universal.

That is why we must act now to ensure that we have a sustainable platform for the connectivity needs of the future. The NCC and the Federal Government are quite rightly-focused on ensuring Nigerians have the service levels that they deserve, but they also recognise that the industry needs the help and support of the government. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Communications under the able minister, Dr.Bosun Tijani, should be commended for their recognition of the need to support the industry, and the actions that they have taken to do so. For instance, legislation like the critical national infrastructure bill is vital to the maintenance of service quality levels, and

systemic debt issues in the sector – both of which have now been comprehensively addressed. These all help establish the foundations for the future.

It is also commendable the other generic, giant strides the minister and the government as a collective, are taking to promote the nation’s digital economy.

For instance, the ‘Three Million Technical Talents’ (3MTT) programme, which is a critical part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, is aimed at building Nigeria’s technical talent backbone to power our digital economy and position Nigeria as a net talent exporter. Put this side by side with the same government’s planned 90,000km terrestrial fibre roll-out, it becomes glaring that we now have a more forward-looking policy formulators at the helm of affairs. When completed, the fibre optics network will move the nation’s capacity from 35,000 to 125,000, making it one of the longest in Africa.

Ensuring service quality and reliability is at the heart of our mission as telecom operators, but achieving this requires a delicate balance between the cost of a product, and the investment that is made to maintain or enhance it.

Over the last decade, the tariffs that you pay for telecom services have not

changed, yet over that time, operating expenses in the sector have increased by more than 300%. That equation is simply unsustainable for any industry, but even more so for a capital-intensive sector like telecoms. If you look closely at the financials of a telecoms company you will see that in order to maintain standards, delivery service quality and invest in new technology operators have to make continued and significant capital investments. The simple reality for our industry is that investment drives growth. If costs exceed revenue generation, then it becomes questionable whether the funds that need to be reinvested into the network every year will continue to be available. When that happens, growth stops and the service quality that our customers rely on suffers. The consequences of this would go far beyond the telecoms industry. The digital services that we have all become reliant on could begin to suffer. Millions of jobs would be lost and Nigeria’s economic development would be set back by decades. This is not just a threat to our company and our industry. It is a threat to

the nation, and every one of its citizens. At the same time, the industry and the government recognise that Nigerian consumers have faced a range of significant cost of living challenges over recent years, and the transition to market pricing in the fuel and electricity sectors have driven up prices across the board. We know that we have to find the right balance between the increases that the industry wants, and the prices that Nigerians can afford to pay.

It is also important to assess the cost of Nigeria’s telecoms services compared to our contemporaries in Africa. Recent studies have shown that the average cost of 1GB of data in Nigeria is $0.38. That compares to $0.59 in Kenya, $0.68 in Ethiopia, $1.77 in South Africa and $6 in the USA. Today, Nigeria has some of the cheapest data prices for its citizens anywhere in the world.

The discussions between the industry and government have been deliberate and focused on finding the right balance, while aligning with pricing in other markets. It is why the proposed tariff increases will surely be capped, and definitely much lower than the price increases that have been imposed in other sectors like power/ energy and oil; and ensuring that prices remain below our contemporaries. So not only willincreases be capped well below the levels the industry has requested, but they are linked to a requirement to invest in network upgrades and service improvements, which will be overseen by the NCC to ensure compliance.

This balance of tariff increases, alongside investment commitments means that not only will the telecoms industry have the confidence to invest, and a clear pathway back to sustainability - but the higher prices will lead to better networks, more relevant services and so the better customer experience that enables growth.

Nigeria’s digital economy has shown its potential in the last decade, but the journey we are on to develop and grow it is still in its very early stages. The decision that the government has taken to ensure a sustainable tariff regime is brave, necessary and must be commended. It will ensure that our Digital Economy can remain on its growth path.

At MTN Nigeria we have demonstrated our long-termcommitment to Nigeria many times. We believed when no one else did. We continue to believe, and we are committed to partnering with Nigeria and Nigerians to continue to invest based on that belief.

•Dr. Karl Toriola is the CEO of MTN Nigeria

From Unilever Future Leader, Tobi Adeniyi Ascends to Become Unilever Nigeria Plc MD

In a career trajectory built on grit and resilience, Tobi Adeniyi on January 1, 2025, assumed office as managing director of Unilever Nigeria Plc, a long way for the then young man who began his career as a Unilever Future Leader in 2009.

Mr. Adeniyi underwent a handover and phased transition process alongside the erstwhile Managing Director, Mr. Tim Kleinebenne, whose tenure elapsed at the end of 2024.

From the inception of his career as a Unilever Future Leader, he amassed a wealth of experience across multiple facets of the Supply Chain (strategic & operational) and Commercial operations with his expertise spanning Logistics, Planning, Strategic Supply Chain, Procurement, and Sales, with assignments that have taken him across diverse markets including, Singapore, the Philippines, and Indonesia.

Most recently, he was instrumental in driving Unilever Nigeria’s sales transformation agenda, delivering impactful results through strategic initiatives nationwide. He

of the Institute of Directors (IOD).

According to Chairman, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Bolaji Balogun, “ Mr. Adeniyi’s extensive experience and exceptional leadership skills make him an outstanding choice at this time, to lead us into a bright and even more successful future.”

While commending the outgone MD for his leadership and service to Unilever Nigeria’s growth and success, he also stated that the Board was confident that under Adeniyi’s leadership, Unilever Nigeria Plc will continue to flourish and achieve greater heights.

Announcing the appointment last year, Ben Langat, Executive Vice President, Unilever East and West Africa, said, “I am pleased that we are implementing this transition which is in line with our robust succession planning initiative at Unilever.

“ Tobi has a deep connection and understanding of the Nigerian market terrain, and coupled with his extensive background, his experience will be valuable towards the journey ahead for the business.”

Toriola

Tobi Adeniyi

AFIS 2024: Building African Unicorns (and Gazelles) for Continental Economic Growth

Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede

Gazelles. Camels. Elephants.

In the language of venture capital, we have a full menagerie to describe a startup’s growth progression. However, in the past decade, the ultimate aspiration remains the unicorn: privately held companies valued at over $1 billion.

Globally, there are approximately 1,200 unicorns across various industries, and while Africa’s list is smaller, it is growing. As of February 2023, the seven identified African unicorns predominantly operate in the fintech and digital sectors, addressing payment challenges across the continent.

For many startups in Africa, achieving unicorn status remains a distant dream due to structural challenges. To bridge this gap, governments and the private sector must foster ecosystems that nurture innovation and entrepreneurial growth at all levels.

Under ideal circumstances, gazelles— fast-growing companies essential for economic growth and employment—can mature into unicorns. These unicorns, in turn, can evolve into elephants: mega-companies that dominate markets. However, the key lies in cultivating gazelles first. Across Africa, there is a clear need to focus on five imperatives that can drive this transformation:

Talent Catalysation

Talent is Africa's greatest asset, yet its potential is being hindered by ongoing skills migration. Educational systems must promote a culture of innovation while ensuring local talent remains competitive. Without nurturing our intellectual capital, startups cannot thrive.

Infrastructure Development

Startups struggle to scale without reliable infrastructure. Basic access to internet and energy, which is taken for granted elsewhere, remains a challenge in many regions. The fintech sector has flourished precisely because pioneers tackled Africa’s underdeveloped payment systems head-on. Addressing similar gaps in logistics, transportation, and energy will unlock opportunities across other industries.

Startup Support Systems

Government-sponsored accelerators and incubator programs have proven effective in nurturing small and medium enterprises. Egypt provides an excellent example, where 40% of its startups have leveraged such initiatives, fueling rapid growth in its tech sector. Replicating this success across

more African nations will bolster innovation.

Access to Venture Capital

Venture capital funding is vital to an innovation economy. It complements traditional bank loans by providing startups with resources to scale and innovate. However, a legislative environment that mitigates investment risk is necessary to attract investors.

Policy as a Catalyst

The right policies can deliberately stimulate demand, develop successful businesses, and strengthen economies. From tax incentives to startup-friendly regulations, policy frameworks must be tailored to nurture gazelles and unicorns alike.

The private sector also has a

crucial role to play. Africa’s worldclass banking sector has already proven its ability to facilitate growth, whether through funding, strategic partnerships, or economic advisory. Collaboration with governments can provide the support startups need to achieve scale and sustainability.

Yet, achieving unicorn status comes with its own challenges: lofty revenue expectations, intensified scrutiny from regulators and competitors, and demanding boardroom dynamics. Recent economic events, including the pandemic and the “great market reset” of 2021/2022, further underscore the volatility. African startups must adopt disruptive approaches to not only achieve but maintain unicorn status on a global scale.

Successful startups demonstrate three critical attributes: a clear value

proposition, a scalable business model, and an unmatched understanding of their target market. Combined with visionary leadership capable of executing plans at scale, these factors allow African companies to compete globally. To vastly increase the number of gazelles—and by extension, the likelihood of unicorns—stakeholders must work together to overcome existing barriers. Governments, private sector players, and policymakers each have a role in redefining industries, creating jobs, and building Africa’s economic resilience. The path to success is challenging, but with deliberate efforts, Africa’s unicorns and elephants will reshape the future.

•Culled from remarks by Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede CFR, Chairman, Access Holdings & Coronation Group.

SWA Initiates NSIR To Recognise Outstanding Security Personnel, Organisations

Chiemelie Ezeobi

Recognising the efforts and contributions of outstanding security personnel and agencies, Security Watch Africa (SWA) through its online news blog, www. swafricanews.com is set to unveil those who did something extraordinary in various categories. They are to be recognised under the SWA's Nigeria Security Impact Recognition (NSIR).

According to the Founder/Project Coordinator SWA, Patrick Agbambu, the project aims to select the personnel and

organisations that excel in their areas in the year 2024 despite insecurity challenges trends, globally. Topmost of the categories SWA is looking out for winner is Nigeria Security Man of the Year 2024.

Another category it is planning to pick its winner is Nigeria Defence Man of the Year 2024. The winner will be a person who has led the Armed Forces of Nigeria in stabilising the North East and gradually playing roles towards bringing back sanity to hitherto North West and most troubled zones.

Security Watch Africa

will also pick a government security organization, termed Nigeria Heroes of the Year 2024, that has remained steadfast in defence of Nigeria's territory.

Another category entitled 'Nigeria Hero of Year 2024' will also recognise somebody who has sustained the fighting spirit of the Nigerian troops through welfare and operational leadership. It will also recognise a security agency that qualifies to be Nigeria's most proactive security service of the year 2024.

Another nomination

that will be made is Nigeria's Most Outstanding Police Officer of the Year 2024. Such an individual must have displayed professionalism in civil policing and securing the people despite political pressure.

Also to be picked is Nigeria's Dependable Security Service of the Year 2024 displaying improvement in the discharge of their responsibilities irrespective of challenges. SWA will also select Nigeria's Security Star of the Year 2024 as someone who stepped into the affairs of the security agency at

a most challenging and unpredictable time and was able to stabilise the situation.

The novel NSIR will also recognise Nigeria's Anti-Corruption Police Command of the Year 2024. During the year, it must have resisted some incidents of financial indictments. SWA will also recognise Nigeria's Anti-Corruption Agency of the Year 2024, especially with the record of identifying and prosecuting Politically Exposed Persons.

Nigeria's Most Consistent Security Supporting

Governor in the Year 2024 will also be commended for regularly supporting security agencies to discharge their duties effectively. It will recognise Nigeria's Improved State in Security in the same period, especially returning to normalcy after series of killings and fear in the state.

Nigeria's Most Reliable Security Service in the Year 2024 will be recognised for outstanding contributions to the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry through effective interdiction of criminal elements.

TRIBUTE

Zacch Adedeji @ 47: Celebrating a Man of Exceptional Grace, Excellence

By Dare Adekanmbi

Ecclesiastical evidence abounds to affirm that God does not look at people or issues through the same prism from which human beings perceive matters. As mortals, we give primacy to mundane parameters as appearance or outward adornments, height or whether the person is oozing opulence or simply look at nobility of a person’s birth before ascribing value or judgment to such a person.

The story of David’s ascension to the throne of Israel summarises how God make His choices. Prophet Samuel beheld the firstborn of Jesse named Eliab and, looking at his outward qualities, concluded “here comes the Lord’s anointed king who will govern over Israel.” But just before that thought could settle in the prophet’s mind, God told him that is not the man for the job.

The story of Zacch Adedeji, executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is the story of a young, wise and brilliant man who has enjoyed exceptional grace of God. His father (of blessed memory) was a cocoa farmer from the mainly agrarian Iwo Ate town, in Ogo Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo State. His mother is a trader-cum-farmer. It was thanks to Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s matchless leadership and quality governance that the town at that time boasted some basic municipal amenities like school and a dispensary.

I can imagine the joy on his father’s face when the news was broken to him that his wife was delivered of a bouncing bonny baby boy later christened Zacchaeus Adelabu Adedeji. While his father desired functional education for Zacch, the first child of the family, the greater joy for the cocoa farmer would be that the birth of Baby Zacch means an extra hand on the farm, heir apparent to the cocoa farming business. This perception perhaps prevented Zacch’s father from noticing the unique stars in the sky that heralded the arrival of a special child to the family, the humble background notwithstanding. The family did not realise they have been gifted a global talent whose brilliance and expertise will be acknowledged beyond the shores of Nigeria. While his father was looking at a child who will grow to become a helping hand on the farms, God was looking at a precious gift that will bring honour to the family name.

Growing up for Zacch was not easy as there was no silver spoon in his mouth at birth. But with the grace of God upon his life, he was determined never to allow the circumstance of his birth dictate how far he could go in life. While going to school, he was also assisting his father in his cocoa farming. Zacch could not have chosen any other course in

his post-secondary educational pursuit other than accountancy. He was his father’s book-keeper for the sale of cocoa produce.

At the Federal Polytechnic in Ede, Osun State, where he studied Accountancy for his Ordinary National Diploma, Zacch came out flying with a distinction. Rather than return for his HND, he opted to further his studies at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, where he read management and accounting and finished with First Class honours. He did not allow the death of his father at about the time he was starting at Ife to extinguish his hope of having functional university education.

Zacch’s special talent as a brilliant accountant quickly singled out from the new recruits at P&G. He saved the company hundreds of millions of dollars in needless expenditure and deploys his financial wizardry to catapult the company’s profit to new heights. For this exceptional display, the company

dispatched him to one of the best business schools in Switzerland to share his experience with them. This feat earned him a seat at the management cadre of the American goods company earlier than any young recruit by the firm. He rose to become the Corporate Finance Manager for West Africa. It was while making his mark at the firm that he met a great leader, Senator Abiola Ajimobi (of blessed memory), sometime in 2009. He was just attending to what he would ordinarily consider a routine payment query when they met. Ajimobi was happy to meet a young chap from Oyo State making waves at such a company. From that time, a journey of mentoring, love and support that would remain with Zacch for a lifetime started. It was a meeting that also changed his trajectory from the private sector to the public sector. Ajimobi appointed him Finance Commissioner for Oyo State at age 33. Notable among his achievements include: raising

Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from about N600m monthly to about N2bn in a short period, blocking leakages by streamlining government bank accounts through which a lot of money was haemorrhaged from about 100 to about 10.

As executive secretary of the National Sugar Development Council, Zacch left an indelible mark, raising standards and re-engineering processes to deliver better quality service and increased productivity. When tapped as Special Adviser on Revenue by President Bola Tinubu, a lot of people speculated he would ultimately head the country’s tax agency, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

As an evangelist in the Anglican Communion, Zacch believes in the scripture that the power of life and death is the tongue. As the one whose duty it was to interface with FIRS tax officers while at P&G, he had said during one of his frequent visits to the Agidingbi office of the agency that “someday, I would like to work in this organisation and contribute to its transformation.” Today, not only is Zacch the executive chairman of FIRS, he has brought unprecedented transformation to the agency within a short period. FIRS, under Zacch, surpassed tax revenue target in 2023, leading to a higher revenue benchmark of N19.4 trillion set by government for 2024. Later this month, Adedeji will announce to Nigerians what the agency was able to collect in the year just ended. The agency has done well again and has exceeded the target from available information.

To all who know Zacch and have had interactions with him, one special attribute stands him out: his humility. He relates with the young and the old quite well and the big success that God has given him does not get into his head. Many people have spoken so glowingly about this character trait in Zacch. In 2017, he and I returned to Nigeria from a trip to the US. He had gone on holiday and I had gone to cover the annual meetings of the World Bank/IMF. We were to lodge at a popular hotel in Ikeja on arrival. After dinner, the receptionist said only one room was left. “Give it to us. Dare and I will share it,” said Zacch. That was how we slept on the same bed that night.

If there are so many positive things to say about Zacch who is 47 years today, then the future holds even a brighter future for the number one tax man in the country today. Our boss believes in Simon Sinek’s submission that leadership is not just about being in charge, but also about taking care of those in your charge. I join admirers and well-wishers to wish ZA many more happy years of his trademark brilliance and wisdom. May God continue to strengthen him in good health.

•Adekanmbi is the Special Adviser on Media to the chairman, FIRS, Zacch Adedeji.

Zungeru: FG Pays N22 Billion Compensation, Shocked over Addition of 200 Communities

The federal government yesterday revealed that about N22 billion compensation had been paid to communities impacted by the construction of the 700 megawatts hydroelectric power project in Zungeru, Niger State. The government also reiterated its commitment to fulfilling its obligations

Wike

to the payment of full compensation to communities displaced as a result of the project, explaining that what is currently pending is about N2.3 billion. However, the government emphasised the need for genuine identification of the affected communities, disclosing that over 300 communities have now come out to lay claims to compensation and resettlement after the initial agreed

figure of 133.

Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, made the position of the federal government known when he met with the Compensation and Resettlement Committee of the Zungeru power plant in his office in Abuja, a statement by his spokesman, Bolaji Tunji, said.

While appreciating the gesture of

the host communities and that of the Niger State government in locating the power project, Adelabu lamented that there were only 133 communities that were identified by the ministry of power when the Zungeru power project was to be located .

But he expressed surprise during the engagement, when over 200 communities were however added to those

originally slated for compensation and resettlement.

He admonished the committee, led by the Deputy Governor of the state, Yakubu Garba, to prevail on the people of the area to cooperate with the federal government as the details of the outstanding payments were being worked out.

“The federal government is fully

vs Odili: Magnus Abe, 44 Elders Warn Persons Inciting Crisis in Rivers to Desist

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Rivers State Elders’ Council has warned individuals inciting crisis between Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and former governor of the state, Dr. Peter Odili, to desist from the act. The elders gave the warning in a statement signed by Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, Emmanuel Anyanwu, Senator Magnus Abe, and 42 others.

The council, in the statement, described the recent comments made by a group of concerned elders as “puerile” and lacking in courage. It questioned the motives of the concerned elders, alleging that they are individuals, who have worked closely with Wike but now parading themselves as supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The elders’ council stated that despite Odili’s active role in the

current Rivers State crisis, Wike had never made any adverse remarks against him, due to the deep respect he had for Odili.

It said the statement allegedly made Odili about Wike, at a Christmas carol service to the effect that Wike wanted to capture Rivers State as his private estate, was unacceptable.

The elders council said in the statement, “We consider it unfortunate that the comments came from

elders, who lacked the courage to let the public know what prompted the remarks by Nyesom Wike.

“Did Dr. Odili deserve respect in return for being deliberately disrespectful to the Minister of the FCT? The answer is no.

“Dr. Odili, an elder and former governor of Rivers State, should not have thrown decorum to the wind in making statements in his quest to please the governor, who was his Special Guest of Honour

at the event, no matter what the incentive may have been.”

The council advised the concerned elders to summon the courage to advise Odili to be more circumspect in his utterances in the future.

“We advise Dr. Peter Odili and his cohorts to kindly leave Chief Nyesom Wike alone, while they continue with their exploitative manipulations of the governor of Rivers State, their new benefactor,” the statement said.

appreciative of your commitment and efforts at resolving the issues around the payment of the balance of the compensation for the host communities on the Zungeru power site. Let me re-emphasise the determination of the government in the resettlement and compensation of those displaced by the project.

“This is paramount to us and I’m happy to note that 90 per cent of those affected have been settled and to say also that even if it is only one person that is left to be so compensated and resettled, we are committed to that figure.

“The government is grateful to the Niger state government over the role the state has played in restraining the affected communities from taking laws into their hands and assuring them of the readiness of the government to meet this obligation to them.

“We appreciate the fact that Jebba, Kainji, Shiroro and now Zungeru are all located in Niger state and this is to say that 80 per cent of our hydro power stations are located in Niger State.

Adedeji

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

MBAH DECORATES OSONDU WITH HIS NEW RANK...

L-R: Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Anayo Uzuegbu; Aide-de-camp (ADC) to the Governor of Enugu State, Superintendent of Police (SP) Osondu Ifeanyichukwu and the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, during the decoration of Osondu with his new rank as SP at the Government House, Enugu, Wednesday.

China Development Bank Releases $255m for Nigeria's Kaduna-Kano Rail Project

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

China Development Bank has released a $254.76 million loan to Nigeria for a railway project linking the two northern states of Kano and Kaduna, the bank said, ahead of a visit to the West African country by China's top diplomat this week.

As part of his annual New Year tour of Africa, China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, was expected to arrive in Nigeria yesterday and meet President Bola Tinubu and senior government officials today (Thursday), Nigeria's foreign affairs ministry said.

Construction of the Kaduna-toKano rail project, which is expected to cost $973 million, has been slowed by funding delays, Reuters reported.

China Development Bank said in a statement on its website that the loan would provide financial support for the smooth progress of the 203-kilometre (126-mile) standard-gauge railway.

"Once completed, it will provide direct rail connectivity between Kano, an important northern city in Nigeria, and the country's capital Abuja, offering local residents a safe, efficient, and convenient mode of transportation," the bank said.

Nigeria's National Assembly first approved China's Exim Bank as financier for the rail project in 2020 but the bank later withdrew.

The Kano-Kaduna railway project is part of China's Belt and Road Initiative and is being constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCEC), the Reuters report said.

It is also expected to ease movement of people and goods in a region, where road travellers face attacks from armed gangs who kidnap for

ransom.

China is among Nigeria's largest bilateral lenders, providing loans for roads, rail and power stations.

The funding support is coming as China's top diplomat began his annual New Year tour of Africa, maintaining a 35-year-long tradition, to quietly advance Beijing's already sizeable influence across the resource-rich continent as Europe's presence wanes and America's wavers.

While global capitals and investors brace for the return of US Presidentelect Donald Trump to the White House, and wars in Ukraine and the Middle East and domestic politics keep German and French ministers occupied, Foreign Minister Wang Yi being in Namibia, the Republic of Congo, Chad and Nigeria highlights the consistency of China's engagement with Africa, analysts say.

Wang's visit comes as the world's Number 2 economy ramps up its financial support for the debt-laden African continent and looks to strike more critical minerals deals and find markets to absorb its exports.

"The decision on which countries to go to each year rarely follows any external logic," said Eric Orlander, co-founder of the China-Global South Project. "(But) it resonates in Africa as a reminder of China's consistent commitment to the continent, in contrast to the approaches of the US, United Kingdom and European Union," Orlander added.

"China firmly believes that Africa has never been a forgotten continent, but rather a source of vitality and a land full of development potential," Guo Jiakun, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, told a regular news conference.

As China's economy slows, Africa offers a much-needed avenue for

its state-owned infrastructure firms struggling for projects as indebted local governments hold off on spending, and a market for its electric vehicles and solar panels, areas where the US and EU say it has over-capacity.

Africa's 50-plus votes at the United

Nations could also help advance Beijing's efforts to reshape multilateral institutions and reinterpret global norms so that they are more in line with its interests, particularly on issues such as human rights.

While current US President Joe Biden's December trip to Angola was

his only visit to sub-Saharan Africa in his presidency, China puts Africa at the front of its diplomatic calendar.

"China has become central to Africa's policy, as an actor and an inspiration," said Hannah Ryder, founder of Development Reimagined, an African-owned consultancy, refer-

ring to how candidates vying to chair the African Union Commission have talked up Beijing's ability to improve Africa's manufacturing capabilities and China's track record in mass education ahead of February's election. The commission is the secretariat of the 55-nation African Union.

Court Asked to Declare CP, Three Others Unfit to Hold Public Office

Orders payment of N500m damages over alleged rights abuse

A Federal High Court in Abuja has been asked to declare four Police personnel as unfit to hold public office over alleged abuse of power as well as violation of the Constitution and Police Act.

The request formed part of reliefs being sought in a fundamental rights suit filed against the police and some other persons.

The applicant Chinyere Chigbu predicated the request on the grounds that four of the Police officers involved in his arrest and subsequent detention acted unprofessionally and outside the powers conferred to them by the Constitution and the Police act.

Part of the reliefs sought included: "A declaration of this Court that the 5th Respondent, Mr. Jude Azuka (Commissioner of Police, X-Squad, FCID, Abuja), the 6th Respondent, DCP Ogedegbe (Deputy Commissioner of Police, X-Squad, FCID, Abuja), the 7th Respondent, Habib

Alkali (Superintendent of Police, XSquad, FCID, Abuja), and Mr. Elvis Ibe (Deputy Superintendent of Police/IPO, X-Squad, FCID, Abuja) are unfit to hold public office as police officers due to their flagrant abuse of power, public office.

“As well as their egregious violations of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (As Amended), the Police Act, 2020 (As Amended), and the Nigeria Police Force Code of Conduct, 2013, as established by the findings of this Honourable Court.

"An order of this Court directing the 7th-9th respondents to forthwith give effect to Relief Number (ix) herein above".

In the suit filed on December 31, by Mr. Dayo Akinlaja, SAN, the applicant claimed that the 5th to 8th respondents subjected him to "inhuman and degrading treatment" by unlawfully arresting, detaining and harassing him in a manner that violates his dignity as a human being, "in a matter

Katsina Unveils NG-SURWASH Project Monitoring Committee

The Katsina State Government has inaugurated a stakeholders and supervision committee on Nigeria Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene Programme (NG-SURWASH) project in the state.

Inaugurated under the Katsina Small Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (STWSSHA) on Wednesday, the 13-member committee is headed by Alhaji Rabiu Gambo-Bakori, the former PDP treasurer, North-west zone.

While inaugurating the committee, the Executive Director of STWSSHA, Ibrahim Lawal-Dankaba, said the committee is saddled with the responsibility of supervising ongoing NG-SURWASH projects to ensure qualitative job.

He tasked members of the committee to ensure that all the ongoing projects and those that will be initiated under NG-SURWASH will be of great quality that can stand the test of time.

He explained that members of the committee comprise critical stakeholders within the project areas that are expected to take ownership

during their monitoring exercise in order to avert shoddy jobs.

Lawal-Dankaba said: “The main committee is a 13-member committee headed by Alhaji Rabiu Gambo-Bakori and there are other committees at the various levels within the project areas.

“This is a people-oriented project that World Bank and His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, have brought into the state to ameliorate the suffering of the people.”

While proclaiming that Katsina is a leading state among the seven

NG-SURWASH implementing states, Lawal-Dankaba urged stakeholders to key into the project to assuage the suffering of the rural dwellers.

Meanwhile, NG-SURWASH is a World Bank supported programme aimed at expanding access to clean water and enhancing the use of WASH services in urban, rural and small towns in the country.

The $700 million programme is currently being implemented in Katsina, Kaduna, Gombe, Plateau, Imo and Ekiti States with support from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

that was entirely civil" and arose out of a contractual relationship.

The applicant further claimed that the respondents’ actions amounted to torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, contrary to Section 34 of the Constitution and Article 5 of the African Charter on Human & Peoples Rights (Enforcement & Ratification) Act, 2004.

According to his lawyer, the respondents acted outside the scope of their constitutional and statutory powers, failing to follow the due process required by law for the arrest, detention, and confiscation of his property.

The senior lawyer contended that the "5th-8th respondents in particular had no business dabbling into contractual disputes arising from purely civil transaction and, by so doing, brazenly violated the provisions of the Constitution Police Act, 2020 and Nigeria Police Force Officers Code of Conduct.

He subsequently prayed the court to declare that his arrest, detention, torture and inhuman treatment from December 1618, 2024, at the Federal Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Area 10, Abuja by the 5th and 8th respondents at the instigation of the 1st-4th respondents for a matter arising from an entirely civil dispute constituted a flagrant violation of the applicant’s right to the dignity of human person, personal liberty and freedom of movement cognizable and entrenched by Sections 34, 35 and 41 of the Constitution and therefore, unconstitutional, wrongful, illegal, null and void.

"A declaration that the actions of the 1st to 4th respondents, wherein, sometime in December 2024, they deliberately and intentionally instigated criminal allegations arising from a civil dispute, which subsequently led to the harassment, intimidation, unlawful arrest, and arbitrary detention of the applicant for two days by the

5th to 8th respondents without lawful justification, constitute a flagrant violation of the applicant's fundamental rights as guaranteed by the Constitution".

While he further prayed the court to direct the 1st-8th respondents to render a written and unqualified apology to the applicant for the alleged abuse of his right, he sought for another order of perpetual injunction restraining the 5th-10th respondents from harassing, intimidating, threatening and further arresting or detaining the applicant or otherwise interfering in relation to an entirely civil dispute between the 1st and 2nd respondents and Black Sea Investments Limited. He further prayed the court to direct the 1st-8th respondents to desist from further violating the fundamental human rights of the applicant to dignity of human person, personal liberty, freedom of movement and right to own property cognizable and guaranteed by Sections 34, 35, 41 and 44 of the Constitution. Applicant also demanded the sum of N500 million as exemplary damages for the alleged violation of his rights and another sum of N10 million jointly and severally against the respondents as cost of this action.

The 1st to 11th respondents in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/ CS/1985/V/2024, are; Attah Johnson, Zinary Investment Business Ltd, Chief Nnamdi Iheoma, Sales People Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Jude Azuka (Commissioner of Police, X-Squad, FCID, Abuja), the 6th Respondent, DCP Ogedegbe (Deputy Commissioner of Police, X-Squad, FCID, Abuja), the 7th Respondent, Habib Alkali (Superintendent of Police, XSquad, FCID, Abuja), and Mr. Elvis Ibe (Deputy Superintendent of Police/IPO, X-Squad, FCID, Abuja), Inspector General (IG) of Police, Nigeria Police Force and the Police Service Commission.

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

Alex Enumah in Abuja

WE SHARE IN YOUR GRIEF...

Chairman, Governing Board, Niger Delta Development Commission (NNDC), Mr. Chiedu Ebie (right), when he visited the family of Mrs. Deborah Ifeanyi, who lost her life in the tanker fire incident in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, Delta State… yesterday

Obi’s Claim on Threat to Life Mischievous, It’s Outright Falsehood, Ganduje Declares

Morka: let him provide evidence of threat Ex-Anambra governor denies report of arrest

Chuks Okocha and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has described the claim of threat to life by the presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, as mischievous. Ganduje said this yesterday, in a statement he personally signed.

National Publicity Secretary of APC, Felix Morka, challenged Obi to provide evidence of the alleged death threat against him and his family.

But Obi, yesterday, debunked rumours of his arrest, describing it

as a “recurring fake news”.

Ganduje described the death threat as outright falsehood, which would have been ignored, but for the need to refute the baseless narrative.

He stressed that as a public figure, Obi had a responsibility to provide accurate and truthful information, adding that spreading falsehood undermines public trust.

The APC chairman stated, “By falsely claiming that Morka threatened his life, Mr. Obi has libelled Morka in the extreme and incited his online supporters to issue death threats against Morka and his family.”

He stated that Morka was simply

discharging his duties by holding opposition actors accountable for their statements, as is expected in a democratic setting.

Ganduje added, “Morka’s comments during the interview were strictly in response to a question referencing ‘prophets of doom’ and ‘voodoo economics.’ Nothing in his statement constituted or suggested a threat to Obi or anyone else.

“Does Mr. Obi expect the APC to fold its arms and allow the opposition to propagate falsehoods without any response?”

Ganduje said APC would continue to counter baseless allegations with

facts against the President Bola Tinubu government.

He stated that APC stood by the position of Morka in his effort to defend the federal government and set the records straight against disinformation by desperate politicians. Obi had recently alleged that Morka’s reaction to his New Year message led to threats to his life and those of his family members.

Morka had during an interview on Arise TV, said, “Obi has crossed the line so many times”, and that “whatever he has coming to him, he should manage it”. This followed Obi’s New Year’s message.

Troops Kill 34 Terrorists, Lose Six Men in B'Haram, ISWAP Attack

Ndume hails army’s resilience, offers support to victims Zulum donates N300m to slain soldiers' families in Borno

in Abuja

The Nigerian military, yesterday, said with both ground and air components of operation Hadin Kai, it killed no fewer than 34 terrorists and recovered 23 AK 47 rifles during a failed retaliatory attack by elements of Boko Haram and Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) terrorists at Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.

The military, however, revealed that six of its men paid the supreme price during the foiled attack, while troops also recovered over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

A statement by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, stressed that names of personnel killed in action were withheld to allow administrative procedures of notifying their Next of Kin, be concluded.

Stating that the Armed Forces of Nigeria were profoundly conscious of their role and responsibility in ending insurgency and terrorism in the nation, the military appealed to the media to respect the administrative process of informing the Next of Kin of the personnel that paid the ultimate price.

"On 4 January 2025, an unspecified number of ISWAP/BHT terrorists riding on motorcycles and Gun trucks engaged troops deployed in Sabon Gari Village of Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State in a fire fight.

"The terrorist had attempted to surprise troops and retaliate for the recent killing of their commander and combatants by troops.

"But the terrorists were taken unawares, when troops fighting patrol returning to base foiled their planned attack as soon as the attack commenced."

General Buba said troops' reinforcement team during the botched attack comprised elements of civilian joint taskforce, vigilante as well as hybrid forces, who arrived at the scene timely to overpower the terrorists.

He also disclosed that the troops' reinforcement team encountered Improvised Explosive Devices, which injured the vigilante commander, stressing that the reinforcement team arrived timely to decimate the fleeing terrorist.

"Furthermore, the air component of Operation Hadin Kai conducted air interdiction on the fleeing terrorist. Battle damage assessment revealed several killed terrorists and recovered weapons," he said.

Buba said the troops remained

committed to the course of defeating the terrorists.

Meanwhile, a former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has sympathised with the families of those who lost their lives in the recent Boko Haram attack in Sabon Gari village of Damboa Local Government Area, last Saturday.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) federal lawmaker, who is representing Borno South in the Senate, commended the Nigerian Army for its resilience and pledged support for the victims.

Ndume spoke when he visited the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army’s Joint Task Force, North East, ‘Operation Hadin KAI’ in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The Defence Headquarters, through a statement by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, confirmed the development.

Buba disclosed that, “Following a large-scale attack by Boko Haram/ ISWAP terrorists on Sabon Gari Community in Damboa LGA, Borno, joint air and ground forces neutralised over 34 terrorists during firefights. However, six (6) soldiers were killed in action during the encounter.”

Southern Borno, particularly areas like Mandara Mountain, Damboa, Biu’s Mandaga Garau, as well as

parts of Ngulde and Ngwahi in Askira/Uba Local Government Area, has been grappling with persistent insecurity. The challenges have prompted Ndume to intensify his engagements with military leaders to seek solutions.

According to Obi, since Morka made the statement on TV, he has been receiving all sorts of messages, including threats to his life and those around him.

However, Morka, while appearing on Arise TV’s The Morning Show, yesterday, explained that his statement did not suggest any threat to Obi’s life.

He clarified that the comment was a direct response to the question about Obi being labelled a voodoo economist and prophet of doom.

Morka said his comments on Obi getting whatever came to him was predicated on his belief that the LP presidential candidate had crossed several lines of truth, and, thus, deserved whatever names he was called because he spoke “a lot of falsehood”.

According to him, “If Peter Obi was called a prophet of doom or was called a voodoo economist, he has it coming to him because he has crossed several lines of truth, end of story.

“There’s nothing else to suggest (threats) in those words that I said in the moment of the interview. Peter Obi is speaking a lot of falsehood.”

Morka asked Obi to produce evidence of the alleged threats against his life and his family members.

The APC spokesman stated, “He who alleges must prove. If Peter Obi says anyone threatened him, he must go beyond just saying I’ve been threatened.

“For a man in his standing, I think he should supply some evidence of those who threatened him because if anyone threatened Peter Obi, we

should not be having a conversation in your studio.

“The law enforcement system should be looking for those who threatened Obi’s life.” He maintained that he did not threaten Obi, and his comment was about him being deservedly labelled a voodoo economist because he “crosses several lines of truth.”

Obi Debunks Arrest Rumours

Obi debunked rumours of his arrest, describing it as a “recurring fake news.”

Some social media posts had claimed that the former Anambra State governor was arrested in Abuja. In a post on X last night, Obi said the claims were entirely false and stated that he was currently at his home in Onitsha, Anambra State. He recalled how similar “lies” had been circulated last September that the Department for State Services (DSS) invaded his home while he was in Rwanda.

The LP chieftain said the motive of those peddling the rumours could not be positive. He urged Nigerians not to allow the rumours to distract them from the critical challenges facing the country.

Obi stated, “The recurring fake news on me. I have been made aware of a circulating fake news about my alleged arrest. Let me state unequivocally that these claims are entirely false. I am currently at my home in Onitsha, Anambra State.

MC Senibo: Bayelsa Now New Destination for Entertainment in Nigeria

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Global entertainer, Ebitimi Ogoniba, popularly known as MC Senibo, has stated that Bayelsa State is the new destination for entertainment in Nigeria.

MC Senibo who hosted the Okpoama International Beach Carnival and the Opu-Nembe All Stars Concert during the Yuletide expressed optimism that Bayelsa would soon become the entertainment hub in Nigeria. The twin musical events had attracted A-list musicians such as Davido, Rema, Fireboy, Teni, Mr. P of Psquare, Rude Boy, Timaya, Flavour, Tuface Idibia, HarrySong,

Timi Dakolo, Patoranking, and Duncan Mighty, courtesy of the pedigree of MC Senibo. Speaking with journalists, he noted the Okpoama Beach Carnival and Opu-Nembe All Stars Concert have elevated Bayelsa’s profile as a hub for world-class entertainment and new destination for fun seekers willing to enjoy music, dance, and all-around arts at its best.

MC Senibo commended the former Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva, security expert, Dr. Kojo Sam, and the people of Okpoama and Opu-Nembe for the support received in hosting the International Okpoama Beach Carnival and Opu-Nembe All Stars Concert. According to him, entertainment is one of the easiest ways to bring people together because it unifies people and provides a platform to unwind.

MC Senibo who has hosted events in Turkey, Senegal, Ghana, South Africa, and Sierra Leone, believes Bayelsa has what it takes to host tourists all over the world. MC Senibo said: “The Okpoama Beach Carnival has increased awareness of Okpoama’s beauty and tourism potential. People often think they need to travel to places like Miami for a great beach experience, but the Okpoama Beach Carnival is changing that narrative.

Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri and Sunday Aborisade, Linus Aleke

AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY IN ALAUSA...

Okpebholo’s Alleged Remittance of N12bn to Our Leaders False, Says PDP

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Edo State chapter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described as spurious, baseless and white lie the allegation by Governor Monday

Okpebholo that local government chairmen remitted N12 billion to PDP leaders in the last 15 months.

The party also said the statement by the governor was meant to justify the lawlessness, extermination of

Kogi Governor, Usman Ododo, Well-prepared for Governance, Spokesman Says

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Special Adviser to the Kogi State Governor on Media, Ismaila Isah, has described his principal as a proactive leader, who has learnt well about governance and administration before coming on board.

Isah made this known while featuring on live interview programme monitored, The Polity, in Lokoja, the state capital, yesterday

Isah explained that Governor Usman Ododo came on board as the most prepared governor of the state, having learnt a lot while serving under the immediate past administration in the state.

He said Ododo has assuaged tensions that arose during the last election in the state by sticking to his campaign promise to unite the state.

Responding to insinuations that Ododo was living in the shadows of his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, Isah asserted that despite the administra-

tion’s commitment to continuity, the incumbent has shown that he was a man of his own.

He added that going by the policies and programmes of the current administration, it was clear that Ododo was committed to charting his own course.

He explained that most of the policies of the Ododo-led administration was a departure from what was obtainable in the past.

Citing the agriculture and food security policy of Governor Ododo, the governor’s spokesman said much has been done differently.

He added that the current administration has shown interest in tourism and extractive sectors of the state economy with a touch of difference.

“Our tourism potentials are largely untapped. The Ododo-led government has created a system to ensure development of all sectors are linked, not done in isolation,” he said.

democracy and brutal attack on the executives of local government councils.

Okpebholo had Tuesday said the 18 local government councils’ chairmen remitted about N12 billion to leaders of PDP in 15 months.

Okpebholo made the allegation while playing host to the acting chairmen and councillors at Government House, Benin City.

He said, “When I came into the office, I had a meeting with the Accountant-General, and he showed me some books. Some of these spending had no explanation.

"I picked interest in some of the spending because I saw an item which was tagged ‘Environmental security funding’. I have never heard

of that before, and the amount involved was huge, N800 million every month. These chairmen were contributing this money and gave it to leaders of a party."

However, a statement by PDP Caretaker Committee Chairman in Edo, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, said Okpebholo's resort to unintelligent lies and falsehood was just another failed attempt to mislead the public and distract from his government’s blatant disregard for the rule of law, illegality, and ongoing extermination of democracy in the state.”

The statement said, "The attention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to the recent statements by the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, where

he made spurious and baseless claims to justify the lawlessness, extermination of democracy and brutal attack on the state’s 18 local councils as executed by his clueless government.

"We want to categorically state the unfounded allegations are a blatant lie and should be disregarded as a cocktail of complete falsehood.

"The resort to unintelligent lies and falsehood is just another failed attempt by the governor-select to mislead the public and distract from his government’s blatant disregard for the rule of law, illegality, and ongoing extermination of democracy in the state.”

PDP added, “We are aware that

the governor is desperate to get access to the local councils’ treasury to reward godfathers and settle political debts he incurred during the last governorship election and is exploring every opportunity to achieve this devious plan.

“Having failed in the illegal suspension of the council chairmen, he is now sending thugs and non-state actors to attack council headquarters, kidnap councillors, and force them into impeaching the duly elected council chairmen." Aziegbemi also said because the governor was desperately looking for excuses to justify the illegality and lawlessness, he decided to point fingers at PDP to mask his ignoble acts.

AbdulRazaq Reiterates Commitment to Expand Access to Quality Tertiary Education in Kwara Inaugurates Osi Campus of KWASU

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State yesterday reiterated his administration’s commitment, resilience and a collective resolve to expand more access to quality tertiary education in the state.

Speaking at Osi Town in Ekiti Local Government Council of the state, during the official inauguration of the Osi Campus of the Kwara State University (KWASU), AbdulRazaq said: "The inauguration of the campus is in keeping of my promise to ensure that

no project is abandoned and setting off a new frontier of development in the southern axis of the state."

The Osi Campus of the Kwara State University (KWASU) was established by the former governor of the state, Dr. Bukola Saraki.

Since then, the successive administrations including former governor Abdulfatah Ahmed have been making all efforts to ensure the campus sees the light of the day for the educational development of the state.

But the present administration of Governor Abdulrazaq has broken the

Northern Elders Dispel Rumours of Internal Wranglings, Declare They Remained United

The Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF), has dismissed rumours of any internal wrangling in the organisation, insisting that the recent changes within the Forum’s leadership were routine internal adjustments designed to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

In a statement issued by Director, NGOs and CSOs of the NEF, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the elders’ forum explained that it was crucial to dispel any misconceptions about internal conflict within the NEF.

“We remain a united and cohesive body, bound by a common vision and unwavering commitment to

the development and betterment of the Northern region.

“The appointment of a new spokesperson and the shift in my role are procedural changes, not indicative of any underlying conflict or alteration of the Forum’s core principles.

“The NEF remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing the numerous challenges facing the Northern region, working tirelessly towards a brighter future for its people.

“I urge everyone to support the new spokesperson and to continue collaborating with the NEF in its ongoing efforts to promote devel-

opment, peace, and prosperity in Northern Nigeria.

“The unity and strength of the NEF remain intact, and our dedication to our shared objectives remains unwavering.”

The statement explained further that the Northern Elders’ Forum, since its inception, has played a crucial role in providing a platform for Northern leaders, intellectuals, and stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and formulate strategies for addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the region.

“This involves a diverse range of activities, from advocacy and policy recommendations to facilitating col-

laborations with relevant bodies and civil society organizations (CSOs).

“My new role as Director of NGOs and CSOs naturally falls within this broader mandate, focusing specifically on coordinating efforts related to the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and enhancing partnerships with various CSOs active in the region.

“This is a continuation of my previous involvement with the NEF, albeit with a redefined focus and expanded responsibilities. Therefore, the change is largely administrative and does not signify a change in the NEF’s established strategies or philosophies.”

jinx with the official inauguration of the campus on Wednesday in Osi town.

AbdulRazaq however said: "The commissioning is a lesson in history as it is a practical step to drive inclusive growth and prosperity in every part of the state.

"This is more than just a project commissioning. The completion of the Osi and Ilesha Baruba Campuses bears testament to my pledge that Kwara will not be a mortuary of abandoned project".

He said: "With this, we have again sent the signal that what matters to our administration is the progress of our state, not the political history of any project. "This is a lesson in history, and we hope it resonates across our state and among our people".

AbdulRazaq added: "In June 2021, I commissioned the Kwara Polytechnic main auditorium, which we funded to completion more than 20 years after its foundation was laid by the late Governor Mohammed Lawal. This is who we are!

"Today marks the culmination of years of commitment, resilience, and a collective resolve to expand access to quality tertiary education in Kwara State. "The journey has been marked by significant challenges, including substantial inflation. This project started under the previous administration. It was later abandoned.

"We promised never to abandon it. And what you see here bears testimony to the power of strategic planning, prudent resource management, determination, and good conscience.

"The two campuses, among other projects, will stimulate rapid economic growth and human capital development in these regions, foster a sense of belonging, and create new opportunities for our youths.

"We worked tirelessly to ensure that the infrastructure you see today is up to standards, as recently confirmed by the team from the National Universities Commission".

He further said: "From the stateof-the-art studios, lecture halls, and laboratories to the serene learning environment, this campus reflects the commitment of our administration to sustainable development, academic excellence, and social inclusion.

"This effort aligns with our broader agenda of making Kwara State a hub for innovation, creativity, and technical expertise.

"Today, we are proud to hand over this Campus (Osi) to the community and leadership of the Kwara State University through the Ministry of Tertiary Education.

"Osi Campus will not just be a physical structure but a beacon of hope and a testament to our hard work for future generations, our love for inclusion, economic expansion, and wellbeing of our people.

"As we celebrate this achievement, I call on the management, staff, and students of KWASU to take full advantage of this facility. Let this campus become a breeding ground for world-class professionals whose work will bring honour to Kwara State and Nigeria as a whole.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Dr. Omobolaji Gaji Tajudeen; Representative of the Overall Winner of the Year 2024 Lagos Industrial Pollution Abatement Awards, Guinness Big Plc, Mr Daniel Ogu and General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr Tunde Ajayi, during the award presentation ceremony in Alausa, Ikeja ... recently

PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

PREMiUM TRUsT BaNK UyO BRaNCH iNaUGURaTiON…

L-R: Executive Director of Projects, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Victor Antai; Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator (Dr.)

Emefienim;

of Service, Akwa

EFCC Detains 10 Officers over Missing Operational Items in Lagos Office

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained 10 officers attached to its Lagos Zonal Command over alleged theft of operational items.

In a statement issued yesterday EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale disclosed that the officers were arrested last week following directives from the agency’s Executive

Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.

The detained officers are currently under investigation for their failure to account for certain operational assets.

“The officers, who were arrested last week on the directives of the Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, are answering questions related to the theft of some operational items that they could not

NAPTIP Commences Rehabilitation

of Victims of Human Trafficking

Michael Olugbodeinabuja

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has commenced a comprehensive rehabilitation procedure and interview session with the rescued victims of human trafficking, Miss Odunayo Isaac, who arrived in Nigeria from Iraq few days ago.

The session commenced on the order of the Director-General of the agency, Binta Bello, who directed officers of the Counselling and Rehabilitation Department of the agency as well as operatives of the Intelligence and International Cooperation Unit (IICU) to immediately undertake the procedures while receiving the victim.

It would be recalled that NAPTIP, in collaboration with other partners, including members of the Civil Society Organisation and foreign agencies, had facilitated Miss Eniola Isaac’s return from Baghdad following a viral video and media

reports that escalated her ordeal in the hands of her Iraqi taskmaster.

The victim arrived in Nigeria through the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja, and was received by NAPTIP operatives after the initial arrival procedures by the officials of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on duty at the airport.

Speaking while receiving the victim at the agency headquarters, Abuja, the director-general expressed sadness over the traumatic experience and the hardship faced by the victim and ordered the immediate commencement of a comprehensive rehabilitation programme, counseling as well as an interview to ascertain the medical status, nature of assistance needed, and immediate psychosocial need of the victim.

She said: “I just finished interaction with the victim. I must say that she had a close shave with death and we are all happy that she is alive to tell her painful story.

Stop Parading Yourself as Our President, Unilorin Alumni Mgt Tells Fasakin

Hammed shittu in Ilorin

Authorities of the University of Ilorin has cautioned the former President of the Alumni Association of the University, Dr.Wale Fasakin, to stop parading himself as the president of the alumni association with immediate effect.

The university said that the tenure of Dr. Fasakin “came to an end in 2021 through a resolution of the Association’s Congress while a new executive committee led by Prof. Abdulrazaq Olubusuyi Kilani was inaugurated.

account for,” Oyewale stated.

“Investigators are making good progress, and those found culpable will be subjected to internal disciplinary processes.”

This development comes in the wake of a recent internal cleanup effort by the anti-graft agency, which saw 27 officers dismissed in 2024

for various offenses, including fraudulent activities and gross misconduct.

The EFCC’s leadership has reiterated its commitment to

maintaining discipline and integrity within its ranks as part of broader reforms aimed at boosting public confidence in the agency’s operations.

Police Commissioner Identifies Areas of Security Challenges in A’Ibom

Okon Bassey in uyo

Kidnappings, armed robbery, communal clashes, and homicidal cases have been identified as some of the security challenges facing Akwa Ibom State.

The state Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, opened up on the security issue facing the state during a visit to

the state Governor, Umo Eno, at the Government House in Uyo.

To contain the challenges, the Police Commissioner said his team in collaboration with the Directorate of State Services (DSS) were profiling the sponsors of communal clashes in the state.

To ensure peace and security reign in state, CP Azare pledged commitment to engage the youths in dialogue to promote

peaceful coexistence.

And in a bid to enhance community policing, he said directive has been given for principal officers of the Command to make their phone number available to the public for easy access.

With the new strategies adopted and wealth of experience and commitment to community policing, Azare said

Ohanaeze Presidency: Okiro is Our Choice, Says Igbo

Former Inspector-General of Police, Mike Mbama Okiro, who is one of the persons contesting to be the next President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has received more endorsements as the Igbo Elders’ Council has made as Okiro choice.

Speaking on behalf of the council in a statement, Nze Uchechkwu Enweremadu, said “Okiro is the only living retired senior police officer to have worked with nine

heads of state and presidents of Nigeria.”

According to him, Okiro is most suitable to lead Ndi-Igbo having worked with General Mohammadu Buhari, in 1983, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida in 1985, Gen Sani Abacha in 1990, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar in 1998, President Olusegun Obasanjo, in 1999, President Musa Yar’Adua in 2007, President Goodluck Ebele

Jonathan, in 2010, President Muhammadu Buhari, in 2015 and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, when he was the Governor of Lagos State and Mike Okiro was his Commissioner of Police.

Enweremadu said:”Okiro has track records of solving the nation’s problems time and again. As a police officer, he was able to curb the Odua Peoples Congress (OPC) incessant crisis in Lagos State that

the people of the state should expect a renewed focus on tackling crime and promoting peace and security. Welcoming the state police boss to the state, Governor Eno expressed satisfaction with the choice of the new police commissioner, citing his previous experience as Deputy Commissioner, Operations in the state.

Elders’ Council

could have resulted in much more serious economic losses to Lagos.”

“His tactical wisdom in handling of that crisis saved Lagos State and the entire South-west region from serious breakdown of law and order. His determination to restore normalcy in Lagos eventually repositioned the entire region to become the best regional economy in the country.”

Self-Kidnapper, One Other Arrested by Police in Delta, N2m Ransom Recovered

sylvester idowu inWarri and Omon=Julius Onabu in asaba

Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested a girl identified as Princess Okolie for faking her kidnapping and subsequently collecting a ransom of N2,000,000.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe,

made the disclosure yesterday in a statement.

He said that the command received a complaint on January 2, 2025, from one Mrs. Oliko Joy, who reported that her daughter, Princess Okolie, left the house on December 30, 2024, and did not return.

According to him, the next day, the parents received a call stating that their daughter had

been kidnapped and that a ransom of N2 million was being demanded.

Edafe disclosed that the state Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, immediately directed the Command’s Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad to ensure that the victim was rescued unharmed and that the suspect arrested.

“The commander of the Special

Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad, CSP Labe Joseph, detailed operatives who embarked on an intelligence-led investigation.”

“The other suspect, Prince Atigbi, was arrested after collecting a ransom of two million naira (N2,000,000).

“Upon his arrest, he stated that he was not an actual kidnapper but was playing along with his girlfriend, Princess Okolie,” he said.

Ex-KASCO Boss, Kano Anti-graft Commission Disagree over Property Ownership

ahmad sorondinkiinKano

Akogun explained that, “the tenure of Dr Fasakin “came to an end in 2021 through a resolution of the Association’s Congress.”

He added that “a Caretaker Committee was, thereafter, put in place and it ran the affairs of the Association till the August 2024 Congress where the new Kilani-led exco was elected”.

But the former president was reported recently to have led some people on what they called a ‘courtesy visit’ to an alumna of the University, the Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Services, Mrs Kemi Nandap, claiming that the visit was by the National Executive Committee of the Unilorin Alumni Association.

Speaking with newsmen in Ilorin yesterday, the institution’s director of Corporate Affairs, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Kunle Akogun, however condemned the actions of Fasakin, who has continued to parade himself as the Association’s President.

Former Managing Director of the Kano State Agricultural Supply Company(KASCO), Dr Bala Inuwa, has accused the State Public Complaints and Anti Corruption Commission of violating an existing Court Order by allegedly confiscating and taking over his properties.

In a press conference in Kano yesterday, Bala alleged that the agency took over his properties

worth billions of Naira in contravention of a High Court Order stopping any public office from taking any actions on the properties, pending the determination of a substantive suit before it.

According to him, the properties which were stocked with various brands of trailers, fertilizer grinding machines and other agricultural implements were taken over by the anti-graft commission in contravention of the court order.

He reminded there is a suit no K/M 1563/2024 before Justice Aisha Ya’u between Bala Inuwa Muhammad and Safiyanu Hamisu suing under the names and style of Limestone Processing Links as Applicants and the Nigeria Police Force and Commissioner of Police as Respondents.

The court ruled on a Motion on Notice dated 19th August, 2024 together with accompanying affidavit duly sworn to by Bala Inuwa Muhammad, the 1

Applicant, and that the court ruled in their favour.

In the order, he said: “The court decided that the action of the Respondents of forceful entry into the 2nd Applicant’s premises known as No. 157 Kumbotso Rasha, Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State and taking way moveable properties under the guise of taking inventory pursuant to the Investigation against Bala Inuwa Muhammad.”

Olawande: President Tinubu Determined to Create Enabling Environment for Youth Devt

alex Enumah in abuja

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande yesterday disclosed President Bola Tinubu’s determination to creating an enabling environment for youth development. Olawande, who made the disclosure while speaking on the Arise News television programme, Prime Time, noted that the Tinubu’s

administration is not only people focus but has the future of Nigerians at heart in all his programmes and policies. While noting that Nigerian youths just like their counterparts worldwide are doing great in all spheres of live, the minister lamented previous administrations in the last 40 years have not been able to impact on the youth. He stated that the current

administration through its planned National Youth Conference slated for the first quarter of 2025, is aiming to bridge the gap between the government and the youth.

“What we are trying to do is to look at what has been done before ... nobody can tell us for over 40 years we have built system and institutions but Nigeria youth have not been able to feel

the government in anyway, they can’t see the government, they can’t touch the government, we have been having back and forth and the government of President Bola Tinubu for the first time since 1999, we are having a youth-for- youth government that listen to us, that hears us, that wants to as much as possible feel what we are feeling,” he said.

Akon Eyakenyi; Managing Director/CEO, PremiumTrust Bank, Mr. Emmanuel Efe

Head

Ibom State, Elder Effiong Essien; Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Finance, Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Nsikan Linus Nkan, at the inauguration of PremiumTrust Bank branch in Uyo…recently

Gamin G Week

Edited by nseobonG okon-ekonG | gamingweek1117@gmail.com

2025 Outlook for Sports Betting Industry

The sports betting industry is undergoing a profound transformation fuelled by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and a more relaxed regulatory environment. davidson abraham writes that as 2025 unfolds, the sector is poised for remarkable growth and innovation, presenting exciting opportunities for both operators and consumers

technologIcal advancements

At the heart of the sports betting revolution lies technology. Mobile betting has firmly established itself as the preferred method for bettors worldwide. With the ubiquity of smartphones and tablets, users can now enjoy the convenience of placing bets anytime, anywhere. In 2025, this trend is expected to intensify with the introduction of more sophisticated mobile betting platforms and apps designed to offer seamless and personalised experiences.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are also making significant inroads into the industry. These technologies enable personalised betting recommendations tailored to individual preferences, enhancing the user experience. Moreover, AI-driven systems are transforming risk management and fraud detection, ensuring safer and more secure betting environments. By 2025, AI is set to revolutionize the betting landscape further by powering interactive features that make the betting experience more engaging and immersive.

changIng consumeR pRefeRences

The preferences of sports bettors are evolving, influenced heavily by younger, tech-savvy generations. Social media and digital platforms have become integral to the betting process, with bettors using these channels to research, share insights, and place bets. This has paved the way for the rise of social betting platforms, which foster community engagement by allowing users to connect, exchange tips, and celebrate wins together.

Consumers now demand a streamlined, intuitive experience across all devices. Betting platforms are responding with enhanced usability and innovative features such as live streaming and in-play betting.

These features provide real-time updates and the ability to place bets during live events, significantly enhancing the excitement and immediacy of the betting experience.

RegulatoRy landscape

The regulatory environment for sports betting continues to evolve, with more jurisdictions embracing legalization and regulation. This shift creates a fairer playing field for operators and offers greater protections for consumers, with regulated markets safer and more attractive to consumers, fostering trust and transparency. Increased regulation is expected to spur competition and innovation within the industry. As operators vie for market share, they are likely to invest in cutting-edge technologies and user-centric solutions, ultimately benefiting the end user.

SCCG Collaborates with Maikori, Nash to Expand Advisory Services in Africa

SCCG Management has expanded its focus on Africa’s gambling market through a partnership with legal expert Yahaya Adamu Maikori and gaming entrepreneur Kahari S Nash.

Maikori, a gaming and sports solicitor, has been involved in mergers, acquisitions and regulatory frameworks across the continent.

Nash, known for developing culturally tailored gaming solutions, brings operational insights aimed at aligning global technologies with African market demands.

Africa’s gambling sector has seen significant growth, particularly in mobile-first gaming and sports betting platforms. The partnership is expected to help operators in the region adopt technologies such as AI-powered CRM tools, payment systems and gamification solutions.

Stephen Crystal, SCCG Management founder and

CEO, stated, “Kahari and Yahaya are exceptional leaders who bring unmatched value to our mission of bridging global solutions with Africa’s rapidly growing gaming industry.”

The announcement follows further SCCG partnerships focused on technology integration. In November 2024, SCCG partnered with Chata.AI to provide data analytics tools for gaming operators.

Chata.AI’s platform allows users to generate insights through natural language queries, supporting real-time data-driven decision-making.

Earlier in October, SCCG expanded into live-streaming technology through a partnership with Nanocosmos, enabling low-latency solutions for interactive gaming environments. Additionally, the company reached agreements with Slot Machines Unlimited to distribute refurbished gaming equipment internationally.

Key tRends to watch In 2025

As the sports betting industry continues its upward trajectory, several key trends are shaping its future.

1. The rise of esports betting: Esports is no longer a niche segment; it has grown into a mainstream industry with a massive global following. In 2025, esports betting is expected to become a significant contributor to the overall sports betting market, appealing to younger audiences and driving growth.

2. The growth of in-play betting: In-play betting, which allows users to place bets during live sporting events, is rapidly gaining popularity. Its real-time

nature and dynamic odds make it an exciting option for bettors, and its adoption is only set to increase.

3. Integration of virtual reality and augmented reality: VR and AR technologies are on the cusp of transforming the sports betting experience. By offering immersive and interactive environments, these technologies will allow bettors to feel as though they are part of the action, elevating engagement to new heights.

4. The use of blockchain technology: Blockchain is emerging as a game-changer in the betting industry. Decentralised betting platforms built on blockchain offer unparalleled transparency, security, and trust. By eliminating intermediaries and ensuring immutable records, blockchain enhances the overall credibility of the betting process.

the Road ahead

The future of sports betting in 2025 is undeniably bright. Technological advancements, coupled with changing consumer expectations and a supportive regulatory framework, are driving unprecedented growth and innovation. For operators, staying ahead of the curve means embracing these trends and investing in solutions that prioritize user experience, security, and engagement.

As the industry continues to evolve, bettors can look forward to more personalised, secure, and thrilling experiences. Whether through the convenience of mobile platforms, the excitement of in-play betting, or the futuristic possibilities of VR and blockchain, the sports betting landscape is set to redefine entertainment and engagement.

Balancing Responsible Gambling, Innovation in Nigeria’s Sports Betting Industry

As Nigeria’s sports betting industry thrives alongside rapid technological advancements, the challenge of balancing innovation with responsible gambling becomes increasingly important, writes Iyke Bede

With the ease of accessibility, technology affords, it has become increasingly hard to tackle gambling addiction and underage gambling, creating more gaps that need to be addressed. However, through the concerted efforts of both operators and regulators, the industry is gradually stemming the tide of this scourge.

Alexander Ezekiel, Country Manager, MelBet Nigeria, stated that while the young, tech-savvy demographic driving the growth of mobile betting, now influenced by artificial intelligence (AI), presents exciting opportunities, the safety of players must remain a top priority to ensure the longevity of the sector.

To achieve this, Ezekiel highlighted the critical role regulation, responsible gaming practices, and AI-powered systems play in sustaining the industry by promoting innovation and prioritising player protection.

“Regulation is very important,” Ezekiel noted, detailing the pivotal role of creating operational systems guided by set rules. “Without regulation, we create a very dangerous environment where the negatives outweigh the positives, and the industry doesn’t progress in the right way. Regulations bring structure and fairness, and they help in creating trust, both for the customers and the operators.”

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

maikori Crystal nash

ezekiel

g amble Insider explains that the partnership focuses on regulatory guidance, business development and technology integration. SCCG previously partnered with Chata. AI to provide data analytics tools for gaming operators

New Super Eagles Coach, Chelle, Expected in Abuja Weekend

Disquiet amongst Nigerian coaches, Mali govt angry

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Former Mali Coach, Eric Sekou Chelle, who was appointed as Super Eagles Head Coach on Tuesday by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), is expected to touch down in Abuja at the weekend with his unveiling likely to hold early next week.

Chelle, 47, was appointed to replace Portuguese gaffer, Jose Peseiro who left the position after leading the Super Eagles to runner up slot behind hosts Côte d’Ivoire at the AFCON 2023 last February.

Ex international, Finidi George who was in-charge on Interim basis got fired after he lost two crucial games.

Another ex international, Augustine Eguavoen who was drafted in to lead Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 qualifiers got the ticket with a game to spare but declined to take the job with

Eagles 2026 World Cup qualification fortunes sliding after four games. A top football official confirmed to THISDAY last night that the former Malian gaffer will fly into Abuja at the weekend to tidy up the contract and hit the ground running immediately.

“There is no time to waste.

Since he has accepted the offer of the federation, he needs to be on ground here in Abuja so that he can get familiarize with his working environment and start off with our Super Eagles B Team for the African Nations Championship,” observed the top official who will not want to be quoted on the matter.

Against fears in certain quarters that the new Super Eagles Coach may have issues communicating with Nigerian players, THISDAY learnt that Chelle is fluent in both French and English.

“English will not be an issue at all. He speaks English and is even familiar with some of our senior players which will make it easier for him to integrate fully into the Super Eagles.”

However, reports from his home country Mali said Chelle appointment as Nigeria coach was not well received by the military government in Bamako.

The ruling military Junta in Mali is unhappy with the country’s football association for letting the coach go despite appeals to keep him after Mali Eagles crashed out of AFCON 2023.

Football fans in the country are bashing the Malian FA on social media after the news broke that the NFF have hired their former coach.

When Chelle left the Malian team after the 2023 AFCON, it was a shock and a big mistake for many

Malians and even their players.

In Chelle’s two year stint in Mali, his team played one of the best attacking football any Malian team has ever played and his results were very visible for everyone to see on the continent with 14 wins, 5 draws and just 3 losses in his 22 games in charge.

Back home in Nigeria, the social media was also a mixed bag of comments on the appointment of the Malian, with the majority insisting that it was a major gamble for the NFF to go for an African coach to replace Peseiro.

Even amongst Nigeria’s legion of ex internationals, most adopted “Siddon Look” posturing, waiting to see the magic Chelle will perform in Eagles remaining six World Cup matches to qualify the country for the Mundial to be jointly hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico in 2026.

BENTANCUR SCARE....

Tottenham Hotspur’s Uruguayan star, Rodrigo Bentancur caused a stir yesterday during the Carabao Cup semi final clash with Liverpool last night. Bentancur went down in the sixth minute and was on the floor being tended to by medical staff for nearly 10 minutes before he was eventually stretchered off the pitch straight to the hospital. He was later confirmed to have started talking and in good spirit last night. Spur won the clash 1-0.

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

For recording a resounding victory over visiting Zamfara United FC in their NNL Week 4 encounter, Sokoto United players have become one million Naira richer.

This is courtesy of a philanthropist, Honourable Bashir Black Attahiru, who showered the team with the largesse.

Honourable Bashir had earlier handed the team N500,000 during their morning workout, prior to the encounter with a promise of additional five hundred thousand naira if, they emerged victorious.

Sokoto United FC went on to win the match 3-1 against the visiting Zamfara United FC and, true to his word, Honourable Attahiru, fulfilled his promise by presenting the additional five hundred thousand Naira to the team.

Meanwhile, newly appointed Sokoto State Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development,

Engineer Mustapha Mohammed, has assured the players of total support in their bid to achieve success in the Nigeria National League season.

The Commissioner, speaking shortly after Sokoto United defeated Zamfara United 3-1, said the victory was a good way to welcome him into office.

He promised to ensure their welfare was his priority and other motivation that would help the team to perform optimally towards achieving glory added.

Sokoto United took the lead in the fifth minute in the first half of the game before Zamfara United equalized in the second minutes of additional time in the first half.

Sokoto United’s effort however paid off after a goal mouth scramble resulted in the second goal in the 82nd minute of the game and the third goal came in the 89th minute via penalty after James Nwaku, was brought down in the penalty area.

The Home-based Super Eagles will be amongst the countries to compete for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) improved $10.4 million prize money. Nigeria denied Ghana’s Black Galaxies the chance to participate in the tournament meant for players competing in the leagues of their respective countries.

The competition, scheduled to take place from February 1 to 28, 2025, will be hosted across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda with 16 nations participating. Ghana, however, missed the cut after a 3-1 aggregate loss to Nigeria in the qualifiers.

The missed opportunity comes as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) introduced an improved prize fund for the tournament.

The winning team is set to receive $3.5 million, a significant increase from the $2 million awarded to reigning champions Senegal in 2022 and the $1.25 million received by Morocco in 2021.

Despite being quarterfinalists in the 2022 edition, Ghana’s absence this time leaves West Africa represented by Nigeria, Senegal, Mauritania, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Guinea.

The improved financial incentives for the CHAN underscore its growing significance, making Ghana’s failure to qualify a notable setback for both the team and the nation.

Sporting Heroes Headline GCU 80th Anniversary

Honouring the past icons and heroes of Government College Ughelli, inclusive of its sporting greats, will form the kernel of the school's 80th Anniversary celebrations when the drums are rolled out next week. Indeed, the list is endless for a reputable school noted not only for academic excellence but key sporting events in Cricket, Athletics and Football.

From its humble birth place of Warri to the permanent and traditional home, Government

College Ughelli, founded in 1945 has produced numerous sportsmen, both for state and nation with credible podium placements leading to the Olympics.

Still, Larry Omo Imoekor would serve as a fitting figure that strides across the sports and the generation of Old Boys between the Ancient Mariners and the Younger Mariners. The United States of Americabased Ancient Mariner excelled both in Cricket and Football in the early seventies.

Whilst, his bowling action was simply poetry in motion, his leftfooted football drive would ensure that he featured prominently in the squad that had Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, Benjy Binitie and Efe Akpoguma, coached by Dr BJ Itsueli.

His support for the school’s progress has been legendary including the Government College Ughelli Cricket Club, Lagos which participates regularly in the Club Cricket Committee League, Lagos and not the least, the 80th

Anniversary Activities. Even before Imoekor got onto the smooth sailing ship, Chairman GCU 80th Anniversary Planning Committee, Clement Djebah, had set the ship afloat into the recess of the sea.

And almost immediately, Past President Generals Worldwide, Prof. Oritsegbemi Omatete, Chief J.J Akpieyi and Arc. O.C Majoroh provided the desired support alongside the Current President General, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, SAN.

Brown Ideye again came off the bench to live up to his top billing by scoring for the second straight game for Enyimba to beat Nasarawa United 2-1 in a rescheduled NPFL midweek match.

The former Super Eagles striker Ideye scored on his CAF Confederation Cup debut against Black Bulls of Mozambique at the weekend. He was again on target for Enyimba to win the home game against bottom team Nasarawa United.

Man-on-form Joseph Atule opened scoring for Enyimba in first half stoppage time.

Nasarawa United drew level in the 58th minute through NPFL leading scorer Anas Yusuf, before Ideye struck again four minutes later for the winning goal.

Enyimba have now climbed to seventh with 27 points from 17

Eric Sekou Chelle...new Super Eagles Head Coach

Brown Ideye ...on target for Enyimba again

matches, while Nasarawa United remain rock bottom with 19 points from as many matches.

Thursday, January 09, 2025 Price:

UniAbuja Professors to President Tinubu

“Wefeelcompelledtobringtoyourattentionourconcernsregardingthegrossirregularities, blatantdisregardfordueprocess,violationsofrelevantlawsandregulations,favoritism,abuse ofprivileges,undueinterferenceandlackoffairnessthatmarredtheselectionprocessfor thevicechancellorshipoftheUniversityofAbuja.Theselapsesculminatedintheunfortunate declarationofProfessorAishaSaniMaikudiasthesubstantivevicechancellor”—43professors attheUniversityofAbujaseekingadissolutionoftheSaddiqIsmailaKaita-ledgoverningcouncil

OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

Notes from Accra on Mahama’s Day

No fewer than 21 Heads of State, including Presidents Bola Tinubu and Paul Kagame, as well as former African leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Jacob Zuma, among others, were at the Independent Square in Accra on Tuesday for the swearing-in ceremony of Mr John Dramani Mahama as President of Ghana. And it could not have escaped the attention of these dignitaries (and presidential delegations from Western countries, including the United States) that the loudest ovation from the crowd was reserved for the military ruler of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. That Traore was invited to the ceremony was in itself a glaring indication of the contradictions within the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS). But the main concern for me is that the crowd of young people so heartily hailed a coup leader on a day that was ordinarily meant to celebrate democracy. Besides, by prancing around with gun-wielding bodyguards, Traore was allowed to put a stain on the ceremony by breaching security/protocol.

Interestingly, former ECOWAS Executive Secretary, Mr Muhamed Ibn Chambas, whom I met by chance at the venue, before he received me at his home later Tuesday evening, was not surprised. “Look at the demographics of those hailing the guy, they are young people,” he said while explaining the results of studies conducted within the subregion on democracy which should task our leaders. Respected academic, diplomat and statesman, Chambas is an authority on political developments within the subregion. ECOWAS president (2006 to 2009), Secretary-General of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (2010-2012), Head of the Joint UN-AU Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur (2012-2014) and head of United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) from April 2014 to April 2021, Chambas provided rare insights into the challenges within ECOWAS and the future of democracy in Africa during our encounter at his Accra home on Tuesday night. But I don’t want to get ahead of myself.

The moment I arrived in Accra last Saturday, I could sense the mood of festivity and the feeling of great expectations for the incoming administration. The verdict of the former Convention People’s Party (CPP) General Secretary, Nana Yaa Jantuah, may have been harsh but it is also reflective of the general perception about the last administration.

“When I say that Nana Addo has the tendencies of Nebuchadnezzar, people think I am joking. He awarded himself the title of the best president. What does that mean? He is an error, a mistake... he has brought darkness to this nation,” she said on TV3’s New Day last week. “The state of the nation is reflected in my pocket, your pocket, and everyone’s pocket. This Christmas, we could not even afford to buy chicken.”

But it was at his final State of the Nation address last Friday that (now former) President Akufo-Addo got his report card from the Deputy Minority Leader and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah. Akufo-Addo’s “tenure in office will remain a timely reminder of how not to govern the country” he said before adding, “This abysmal record was confirmed on December 7th when the people of Ghana delivered the most overwhelming and emphatic vote of rejection any government has ever witnessed in the Fourth Republic.” Buah ended his speech by quoting a Biblical passage that drew parallel between the liberation of Israel from Egypt and the situation in Ghana. “Fellow Ghanaians, we are comforted and strengthened

by the following words of scripture in Exodus 14:13 and I quote: ‘And Moses said unto the people, fear ye not, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord which he will show you today. For the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you shall see them no more’. Bye bye Mr. President, it is finished.”

Despite the poor organisation, Tuesday’s swearing-in ceremony was attended by important dignitaries from across the world. In his speech, President Mahama assured Ghanaians that he would “have the humility to take responsibility for any challenges and be willing to ask for help in resolving them,” while outlining four key areas his administration will prioritise: Economic restoration and stabilization, Improvement of the business and investment environment, Governance and constitutional reforms and Accountability and the fight against corruption. “The business community must know that Ghana is back in business,” he declared.

Ghana may be back in business, but Mahama is inheriting a troubled economy. In its report on Tuesday, Reuters quoted Godfred Bokpina, a finance professor at the University of Ghana, saying “The average Ghanaian is growing impatient with our democracy. People have done their part by voting but they’re asking: what have they gotten from this democracy?” That of course is a feeling you get in many countries within the subregion, including Nigeria. But there are no easy solutions to the current challenges in Ghana. “The outgoing government kept the system running by bandaging open sores,” Bright Simons of Accra-based IMANI think tank, also told Reuters. “They left the festering wounds for him.” Meanwhile, Traore’s attendance of the swearing in ceremony continues to generate considerable interest. In his X post on Tuesday, Ali Nana, a Zimbabwean public affairs analyst, said the loud ovation received by Traore calls for introspection on the part of African leaders about service delivery to their people. I took up same issue with Chambas when I visited his home along with my friend, Mustapha Sanah (HRH Dalun-Lana Tapha Mahamadu II), Princess Hatiyyah Ibrahim Mahama, Alhaji Kamil and my son, Korede who

joined me on the trip to Ghana. Explaining why the crowd of young people hailed the Burkina Faso coup leader, Chambas said it is a combination of several factors, including the influence of social media and the demographics of the people at the venue. But there are also substantive issues that should not be ignored. “Polls after polls are saying that most people on the continent, about 80 percent, prefer to choose their leaders through democratic means so one can argue that our people are still for democracy. But when questions are posed about whether they are satisfied with what democracy offers them, the response is quite different. Less than 50 percent express satisfaction. That is the challenge our leaders must deal with.”

As a former ECOWAS president, Chambas also offers insights into what is going on within the sub-region, especially regarding recent coups in a

number of Francophone countries. He located the problem in the overbearing disposition of France, and the disrespectful attitude of certain French leaders who treat these countries like French vassals, citing several instances he personally witnessed. He recalled a summit of African Heads of States of the Group of Five without prior consultation with or even notification to the leaders who took exception to the way the meeting was convened. He also highlighted ways in which France has mismanaged its relationship with countries it had colonised on the continent. “You can see what is happening now in Chad that has asked France to leave. For the first time you have the Foreign Minister of Chad responding to President Emmanuel Macron’s provocation.”

Chambas believes that the ECOWAS decision regarding Niger, which eventually culminated in three countries (including Mali and Burkina Faso), leaving the regional body was precipitate and counterproductive. “I didn’t understand the haste and the threat of military action against Niger. With what troops? And under which funding arrangement?” Chambas asked before disclosing that ECOWAS was goaded into the action by foreign actors, but the plot unravelled quickly because the Nigerien military rallied behind the coup. “By not distancing itself from foreign powers at a period we are witnessing a resurgence of Pan-Africanism”, according to Chambas, “ECOWAS made itself look as if it was serving the interest of others.” Chambas reeled out a catalogue of destabilising roles some foreign powers had played in the subregion, including the toppling of Muammar Ghadaffi in Libya despite warnings about the consequences for security in countries that are now under military rule. Being with Chambas, who clocked 74 last December, was like being in school on the politics of West Africa. But he insists that military coups offer no solution to any country, especially within the sub-region. And for his country, Ghana, where he was a Minister in the eighties and early nineties, Chambas has a word: “I urge Ghanaians to temper their expectations with a dose of reality. They must be patient, considering the challenges at hand. But I also encourage President Mahama to be accountable while his government must deliver on the public good.”

On the Ogbomoso Crisis

Inmy column last week, I used a Tik-Tok video of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye to make my point about leadership. In the clip, Pastor Adeboye delivered what could be termed a ‘palace sermon’ to the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolábí Oláoyè, Orumógege III. I have learnt that the video is not new, that it was delivered at the coronation of the Soun in December 2023. I have also learnt that the contention over who becomes the Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland was not instigated by the monarch and is between Dr Teliat Yunus and the Ayilara family whose candidate should fill the office.

I received a deluge of responses to my column, most of them arguing that I got the facts wrong. Let me take excerpts from the one by a respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN): “I have followed this controversy very well. The problem is majorly by the ‘Imam’, who by some strange order of things is a ‘chief’ of the palace going by the fact that he occupies his ‘Imamship’ by appointment of the King. But he doesn’t think he is accountable

or should show any regard to the current Oba for whatever reason, even though he is a very young man. Meanwhile, there’s indeed a palace mosque (Moshalasi Oba, just like Oja Oba) in the town, and it’s the King that appoints the Imam for that mosque. The Imamship is also a family heritage or title, and the status of the current occupier as a member of that family has been in controversy even before the ascension to the throne by the current Soun. I will forward to you the videos of some ‘sermons’ of this Imam that I have come across. You’ll see for yourself how uncouth, rude and insolent he has been carrying on via-a-vis the Soun. That he has not succeeded in causing a religious crisis is because of the general attitude of our (Yoruba) people to matters of differences in individual religious orientation.”

As I have explained to some of the Ogbomoso chiefs who called or sent messages, I have tremendous respect for the Soun whom I have known since the nineties at the ‘Apapa Family’ of the RCCG. My interest in the matter is that peace reign in his domain.

Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama