SATURDAY 11TH JANUARY 2025

CBN Unveils Non-resident Accounts to Boost Diaspora Investments, Remittances

Makinde Approves Owoade as New Alaafin

Strikes out suit filed at Federal High Court, orders retrial

GHL: We Rescued First Bank from Abyss, Won’t Throw Away Baby with Bathwater

Highlights how FBN moved from loss position of N302bn to N151bn profit following oil coy’s intervention Says without fulfilling existing pre-conditions, can bank truly keep its accounts? Queries if deal was disclosed to investors in rights issue? GHL reiterates capacity to meet any obligation that may fall due

CHANGE OF BATON AT OHANAEZE NDIGBO...

President Bola Tinubu (left) and Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, during a visit by the UN official to the State House…Abuja yesterday

Enumah in Abuja and Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

L-R: Former Governor of Anambra State, Sen. Chris Ngige; former President of the Senate, Sen. Adolphus Wabara; Chief of Staff to Ebonyi State Governor, Prof. Emmanuel Echiegu; Governors of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo; Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti; Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodimma; Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah and former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Ozichukwu Chukwu, during the election of members of the new Executive Committee of the pan-Igbo organisation at the Old Government Lodge, Enugu...yesterday

Donald Trump Formally Convicted, But Faces No Punishment

Oluchi Chibuzor with agency report

President-elect Donald Trump yesterday became the first-ever former or sitting United States president to be formally convicted of a felony as he was sentenced in

his hush money criminal case—but the president-elect was not given any penalties for his crimes.

Judge Juan Merchan gave Trump an “unconditional discharge”— meaning his conviction stands, but he won’t face any penalties—after Trump was found guilty in May

on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, letting the president-elect walk free without any punishments.

Forbes reported that the sentence fell far short of the maximum penalties that Trump could have faced, as each of his 34 counts was

punishable by up to four years in prison and/or a maximum $5,000 fine—meaning the harshest sentence could have seen Trump imprisoned for the rest of his life, though that was always unlikely to happen. Trump attended the sentencing virtually and continued to deny any

wrongdoing in a statement he read during the proceeding, saying the prosecution against him has been a “very terrible experience” and a “setback” for New York’s judicial system and claiming he’s “totally innocent” and “did nothing wrong.” Merchan said last week he was

inclined to impose the unconditional discharge sentence given Trump’s impending presidency—which prosecutors said they would not oppose—and all but ruled out giving the president-elect prison time, noting it would not be “practicable” with Trump’s upcoming inauguration.

Yakubu: N40bn Proposed as 2025 INEC Budget Can Only Pay Salaries

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has said that the nation's electoral umpire might practically be unable to perform any duties this year other than paying staff salaries with its 2025 budget estimates.

The commission was handed an envelope of N40 billion for its operations this year.

In 2024, INEC required N80bn for its operations, but it was given the same N40 billion, an envelope that was simply repeated this year.

Yakubu spoke when he appeared before the Senate and House of Representatives Joint Committees on INEC/Electoral Matters, yesterday.

He disclosed that the commission would need N126 billion to fund its services this year as the N40 billion envelope for 2025 could only take care of personnel costs.

The INEC boss noted that planning for them must start in 2025, stressing that without funds, there was no magic that INEC could perform, giving worries about potential constitutional crises ahead.

Yakubu said, “Something has to be done as the N40 billion does not cover elections to be conducted in 2025. For example, there is no provision yet for Anambra governorship election.

“No provision for Area Council election elections in FCT for 2026, which must be planned in 2025. We have Ekiti and Osun coming up in 2026, which must be planned this year. The primaries for these elections must be conducted in 2025,” INEC chairman stated.

He also spoke on the urgency to start early preparations for the 2027 general elections, starting with Continuous Voter Registration (CVR).

“There is the issue of migrating voters among polling units to as near parity as possible. We will like to do the redistribution of voters in 2025,” Yakubu added.

Yakubu expressed concern that with just N40 billion, it implied that there was no provision for some elections fixed for 2025 and others to be planned ahead of 2026. For example, Yakubu said the budget did not cover the Anambra governorship poll coming up later in the year. He also told the lawmakers that the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections which would hold in 2026, were not captured in the proposed budget.

citizens living abroad to invest in assets in Nigeria in either foreign currency (FCY) or Naira.

The new central bank policy was conveyed in a circular dated January 10, 2025, and signed by CBN acting Director, Trade and Exchange Department, Dr. W.J. Kanya, which was addressed to all Authorised Dealer Banks (ADBs) and the public.

The apex bank further unveiled framework to guide the implementation of the policy.

Under this policy, account holders may maintain both a FCY account and/or a local currency account to facilitate transactions and participate in diverse investment opportunities, the apex bank stated.

Among other benefits, the CBN said the initiative would improve access for NRNs to opportunities in the Nigerian economy and increased contribution of diaspora community to the country's socio-economic development.

NRNs can also use their NRNIA to participate in Nigeria's Diaspora Bond and other debt instruments issued locally specifically targeted at the Nigerian diaspora or available to the investing public.

The account would also serve as a conduit for NRNs to manage their funds directly in a safe and secure environment, and reduce the reliance on third parties in meeting local commitments and obligations.

The circular further stated that effective January 1, 2025, eligible NRNs shall have the opportunity to own any of the Non- resident Nigerian accounts, subject to meeting KYC requirements which will be made available in FAQs to be released soon.

The central bank however pointed out that the policy is without prejudice to Memorandum 17 of the CBN Foreign Exchange Manual (2018).

The CBN further explained that currency in the NRNOA is held in freely convertible foreign currencies as specified by the apex bank, adding that account holders may also maintain a Naira account, with

funds remitted directly from offshore or convertible from a FCY account at prevailing exchange rates through authorized dealers.

It said the purpose was to deposit foreign income earned by individuals residing outside Nigeria, including salaries, allowances, dividends, and rental income as well as meeting personal expenses such as family maintenance, education, healthcare, and other day-to-day needs in Nigeria, ensuring convenience and ease of use.

The CBN also said interest earned on deposits would be subject to applicable taxes in line with the country's tax laws while balances in the FCY account, can be fully repatriated out of Nigeria without restriction among others.

Similarly, NRNIA account holders may maintain both a foreign currency (FCY) account and/or a local currency (Naira) account to facilitate diverse investment opportunities while currency is held in freely convertible foreign currencies as specified by the CBN.

Account holders may also maintain a Naira account for investments in local currency assets as the account seeks to facilitates investments in Nigerian financial markets and instruments.

The CBN stated that balances in the NRNIA account, including investment principal and profits, can be fully repatriated out of Nigeria without restriction, ensuring ease of capital mobility while interest rates on deposits are negotiable with preferred bank.

The central bank also said digital platforms will be utilised to facilitate seamless onboarding and KYC updates, adding that banks are encouraged to integrate with the NIBSS NRBVN platform that enable NRNs to acquire BVNs for account opening purposes.

Banks are further required to offer digital platforms that enable NRNS to update their KYC details effortlessly, subject to proper authentication/due diligence.

Other activities of the commission Yakubu said had no budgetary allocations, included the replacement of BEVAS machines, ballot boxes, voting cubicles lost in Owerri, Benue and Delta states as well as renovation

Emmanuel Addeh

General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL), operators of Oil Mining Lease (OML) 120, yesterday reacted to the business disagreement with First Bank of Nigeria Limited (FBN), noting that having rescued the bank at its lowest, it won't be a party to destroying the relationship the parties enjoy.

The wholly-owned Nigeria company in deep offshore Nigeria, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Nduka Obaigbena, reaffirmed its commitment to resolving its ongoing dispute with the bank, highlighting the successes achieved through the partnership.

GHL emphasised its role in saving First Bank from financial distress while simultaneously discovering crude oil, a development capable of raising Nigeria's crude production profile.

The management of the oil and gas company reiterated that the agreement signed with GHL enabled FBN to return to good standing, noting that, instead if declaring a loss of N302 billion ($755 million) in 2021, the signing of the Tripartite agreement with GHL enabled FBN to declare a profit of N151 billion ($377.5 billion) for the year ending December 31, 2021. It queried that without the bank fulfilling the pre-conditions in the agreement if it could truly keep its accounts without providing the loss and if FBN disclosed the deal to investors in its recent rights issue.

The oil firm said: “We willingly rescued First Bank of Nigeria Limited (FBN) from the abyss and are not about to throw away the baby with the bathwater. Through our collaboration, we have resolved FBN’s financial challenges and discovered crude oil to the glory of Nigeria.”

The GHL-FBN partnership, which began under a subrogation

Court in Kano and the Kano State High Court in respect of the litigations surrounding the emirship of Kano.

Aminu Ado Bayero and Sanusi Lamido Sanusi alongside the Kano State Government are currently locked in legal battle over who is the authentic Emir of Kano.

While the Federal High Court in its judgement delivered on June 20, last year had ruled in favour of the deposed Ado Bayero, the State High Court had in its judgement delivered on July 15 favoured Sanusi and the Kano State Government.

However, delivering judgements in five separate appeals against the two lower courts’ judgements, the appellate court held that the two lower courts erred in law in arriving at their various conclusions and subsequently declared the two judgements a nullity.

While the appellate in a unanimous decision ordered a fresh trial of the suit that emanated from the State High Court by a different judge, it however in a two-to-one judgement struck out that of the case that emanated from the Federal High Court, for want of jurisdiction.

Meanwhile, the appellate court refused to delve into the main issue of contention so as not to render as

of INEC offices that were set ablaze in several locations in the country. Yakubu also addressed senators and members of the House on the financial burden placed on Nigeria and the commission to frequently

agreement, allowed oil companies to assist in financing FBN’s operations and addressing its Non-Performing Loans (NPLs).

According to the Obaigbena-led company, this effort restored FBN to profitability and laid the groundwork for the exploration and development of OML 120.

But the company said FBN routinely breached its obligations under the subrogation and tripartite agreements, resulting in a legal dispute that is currently being addressed through court proceedings and arbitration.

However, despite a court judgment in GHL’s favour, which restrained the bank from taking further action, in breach of that order the bank, without making the court aware of the pending order, sought the order of another court to freeze GHL funds.

It reassured its stakeholders that the company remains financially strong and committed to its operations, further highlighting its achievements in discovering oil and gas reserves.

GHL credited Nigerian-born engineers and global technical partners such as Schlumberger (SLB), Baker Hughes, and Century Group for their contributions.

The oil company added: “We are in court and arbitration to resolve our differences and have obtained a court order securing our operations pending determination. We hope for a favourable outcome under our system of justice.

“Unfortunately, First Bank continues to disregard and disobey a subsisting court judgment in favour of GHL and instead has chosen to mislead the public. Our lawyers are addressing this flagrant breach in the right forum. There is no cause for alarm.

“As a going concern and as the one and only wholly-owned Nigeria company in Deep Offshore Nigeria (75km at Sea and over 850-1000 meters

academic the outcome of the retrial by a fresh judge.

Justice Abubakar Liman of the Federal High Court had in his June 20 judgement nullified all the steps taken by the Kano State Government under the Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Law 2024, including the appointment of Sanusi as the 16th Emir of Kano.

He had predicated his decision on the grounds that the government took all the steps in violation of his earlier order made on May 23, 2024, directing parties, in Agundi’s fundamental rights suit, to maintain status quo.

However, delivering judgement in the appeal by the Kano State House of Assembly and its Speaker marked: CA/KN/140/2024 against Agundi and others, the three-member panel of the Court of Appeal, Kano, held that the order nullifying the steps taken by the Kano State Government by Justice Liman then of the Federal High Court, kano was made without jurisdiction.

According to the appellate court, the trial court erred in law when it assumed jurisdiction of a chieftaincy matter as a fundamental rights enforcement suit, adding that cases bordering on chieftaincy matters can only be determined by a state

conduct by-elections that were mostly not national elections. He disclosed that at the moment, there were pending by-elections to be conducted in Adamawa, Kaduna, Jigawa, Kano, Rivers, Edo, Anambra and Niger states. In 2023, he said the commission conducted nine other by-elections, an indication that in one and a half years, INEC would have conducted 21 by-elections for these vacancies.

water depth), our oil and gas campaign has discovered Oil and Gas to the glory of Nigeria, thanks to the ingenuity of our Nigerian-born engineers and technical partners including Messrs Schlumberger (SLB), Baker Hughes, Century Group, etc.

“With its strong assets base, GHL is in good standing to meet any obligation that may fall due. We call on our valued partners to remain calm as we work through the courts, arbitration or mediation to seek solutions to our differences in strategy, not in form or substance.”

Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s legal system to resolve the matter fairly, GHL expressed the belief that justice and reason will prevail, sooner or later, underscoring the importance of its collaboration with FBN.

It said the kind of partnership was pivotal to addressing systemic financial risks in the Nigerian oil and gas sector.

Also, in a separate note titled: “FBN – The Case By GHL,” the management of the oil and gas company stated that the agreement signed with GHL enabled FBN to return to good standing, noting that, “instead if declaring a loss of N302 billion ($755 million) in 2021, the signing of the Tripartite agreement with GHL enabled FBN to declare a profit of N151 billion ($377.5 billion) for the year ending December 31, 2021.

“GHL signed the agreement believing that FBN will comply and continue to comply with its obligation to fund OML 120, but has clearly not done so. FBN market capitalisation before the agreement was N256.6 billion. Had it declared a loss of N302 billion, the bank will have had a negative capital of N46 billion. FBN then immediately realised profitability from GHL’s agreement.

“Following the agreements with GHL, FBN’s market capitalisation which

high court.

However, while Justice Gabriel Kolawole who delivered the lead judgement, ordered that the case be returned to Kano State High Court which has the proper jurisdiction for such matters, the Presiding Justice, Mustapha Mohammed and another disagreed on return of the case to the Kano Chief Judge for reassignment to a Judge of the State High Court.

Instead, the two Justices held that the proper order to be made was for striking out of the case and not remittance.

Consequently, the two justices struck out the proceedings of the Federal High Court on the grounds that it has no jurisdiction to have dabbled into the matter in the first instance.

Meanwhile, in the appeal against the judgement of the Kano State High Court, the appellate court agreed with Bayero that he was not given fair hearing by the lower court, hence all the proceedings and subsequent judgement is a nullity.

According to Justice Mohammed Mustapha, it was wrong for the trial court to conclude that the appellant abandoned his case, when in fact it failed to issue him with a hearing notice after his counsel withdrew

was N256.6 billion rose to N900 billion as at November 30, 2024, more than tripling its financial position before the GHL agreements,” it stated. Due to FBN’s very tardy manner in disbursing the payments, the bank, GHL said did not make the $25 million out of the agreed $50 million for drilling available until three to four months later, in January/ February 2024, causing more losses to GHL’s drilling operations.

“Even if FBN had disbursed $185 million, the way and manner of the disbursement which was agreed to be five days after funding request become up to 70 days after request, such that service providers led by Schlumberger and Baker Hughes who are supposed to be paid at the same time for various interventions, were paid sporadically at different times, resulting in massive loses in day rates and downtimes, leading to inefficiencies and losses of over $47 million non-productive timing.

“Clearly, FBN was either illiquid, unable or unwilling to fund the project as agreed after they had made profit upfront. GHL is seeking to exercise its options under the agreement to find a new lender that can be efficient and cost-effective so as to save the project, payoff the lender and then meet its commitment to FBN under the agreements.

“The MoU contains a clause that allows GHL to seek for alternative financing should FBN is unable to provide such financing. Repayment of the outstanding exposure is to come from profits (net cashflows as of the commercial production and optimum exploration of the asset – OML 120, which is yet to occur due to FBN’s non-performance,” it added.

from the matter.

Justice Mustapha held that all courts of law are bound to ensure justice for all parties by giving them equal opportunities, adding that the conduct of the proceedings against Bayero amounted to a travesty of justice. Specifically, the appellate court held that Bayero ought to have been served with a hearing notice to allow him to present his grievances before judgement was delivered against him in what it described as a shoddy arrangement.

The Court of Appeal, therefore, ordered that the case be remitted to the Chief Judge of the Kano State High Court to be reassigned to another judge for expeditious determination. Justice Mustapha in addition, ordered expedited hearing of the matter.

In the meantime, hundreds of supporters of the Emir of Kano Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi 11, burst with celebration at the city central Mosque after the Appeal Court declared as nullity the judgement of a Federal High Court that invalidated Sanusi's re-installment as Emir of Kano. The Mosque was filled with Worshippers as the Emir led the Friday Jumu'ah prayer, which commenced around 2:18 pm.

in Abuja

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

of

Abuja…yesterday

WE SHARE YOUR GRIEF...

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

FG to Expend $50 Million of Loot Allegedly Recovered from Diezani on Rural Electrification

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

The federal government has said about $50 million out of the $52.88 million repatriated from the United States of America (USA) would be used to support Rural Electrification Projects in the country.

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

captured.

the signing of the agreement as a significant affirmation of the resolve of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to build a Nigeria free from the shackles of corruption, and to ensure available resources are devoted to socio-economic development of the nation.

The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, made the disclosure yesterday, in Abuja, during the formal signing ceremony of the Asset Return Agreement between Nigeria and the USA.

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

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

The said assets were linked to a former Petroleum Resources Minister, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke and her associates (the Galactica Assets).

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

Signing on behalf of Nigeria, Fagbemi observed that the deployment of the fund would increase the reliability and availability of renewable energy in Nigeria.

Besides, the minister described

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

He described the event as not only a testament to the unwavering commitment of the country's fight against corruption, but also that of the US in facilitating restitution and supporting integrity and accountability in governance.

The minister further observed that the collaboration between the two countries was underpinned by their shared values and mutual respect, which was pivotal in facilitating this agreement.

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

"This partnership highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing the global scourge of corruption, which is also linked to

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

trans-border crimes. It underscores the obligations and commitments enshrined in the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act (POCA), which guide our collective efforts to ensure that stolen assets are returned and used for the benefit of our citizens", he said.

"The Asset Return Agreement being executed today also ensures

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

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

that the returned assets are applied directly to developmental projects. As agreed, USD 50 Million of the repatriated funds, will be utilized through the World Bank, to partly fund the Rural Electrification Project to increase the reliability and availability of renewable energy in Nigeria. While the balance of USD 2.88 Million will be disbursed as a grant by Nigeria to the International Institute for Justice (IIJ) to support “the Rule of Law and

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

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

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

Counter-Terrorism Project,” through counter-terrorism capacity building for Criminal Justice Sector Practitioners in East, West, and North Africa.

"These projects will no doubt contribute in no small measure to creating the enabling environment for socio-economic growth and development," he added.

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

According to him, the measures will guarantee that the funds are effectively used for the full benefit of the Nigerian people in line with UNCAC and the Global Forum on Asset Recovery (GFAR) principles.

Meanwhile, Fagbemi assured that measures have also been put in place to ensure that the repatriated funds are not only disbursed but also utilized transparently and accountably by the World Bank and IIJ, with periodic reports to be forwarded to Nigeria and the US on the implementation of the projects.

Mining Development: Nigeria, US Explore Areas of Strategic Partnership

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

Speaking while receiving

Factional leader emerges

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

partisan politics.

Makinde Approves Owoade as New Alaafin of Oyo

The Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has announced plans to launch a 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in primary schools across the country.

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

He made the disclosure while speaking with journalists in Ibadan during a working visit to Oyo State.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, yesterday approved Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo.

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

He called on all citizens of the state to join the government in celebrating this momentous occasion and lend their support to the new Alaafin of Oyo.

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

President Bola Tinubu, Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara yesterday rejoiced with Senator John Azuta-Mbata on his election as President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

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

But kingmakers in Oyo town described as illegal and unlawful the approval of Owoade by Makinde, as the new Alaafin.

A statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, yesterday, noted that Owoade, after thorough consultations and divinations was recommended by the Oyomesi and approved by the Governor Makinde.

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

According to the commissioner, a statement to this effect has been issued by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ademola Ojo, who said the announcement has put to rest, all the socio and legal bickerings that have ensued since the demise of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022.

Issa-Onilu said as a way out of the malaise, NOA would soon launch a Mobile App containing indigenous cartoons through which local contents, national values and culture would be promoted.

The commissioner prayed that his reign will bring peace, prosperity and unity to the historic Oyo Kingdom.

According to him, "These various policies are geared towards changing the narratives and the wrong impression that the outside world is having about the country.

Meanwhile, five kingmakers from the ancient town declared the appointment null and void because they did not recommend such a name to the state government, insisting that the only person they recommended as the next Alaafin was Prince Luqman Gbadegesin.

The kingmakers, who made the declaration in a letter to the Governor signed by their legal representative, Adekunle Sobaloju, included High Chief Yusuf Akínade, Bashorun of Oyo; High Chief Wakeel Akindele, Lagunna of Oyo; High Chief Hamzat Yusuf, Akinniku of Oyo; Chíef Wahab Oyetunji, warrant chief stand-in for Asipa of Oyo, and Chief Gbadebo Mufutau, warrant chief stand-in for Alapinní of Oyo.

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

Tinubu, Fubara, Mbah Hail AzutaMbata’s Emergence as Ohanaeze President

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

formalisation of artisanal miners into cooperatives amongst others.

A former Inspector General of police (IGP), Mike Okiro, who was in the race, had withdrawn in compliance with a court ruling that barred him from contesting the position based on his exact state of origin.

A former Senator representing Rivers East at the National Assembly, Azuta-Mbata, was yesterday elected the new President General of the Igbo apex socio-cultural organisation.

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

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

Tinubu in a statement issued yesterday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also congratulated the group on the successful leadership transition and enjoins the new leaders to uphold the principles of their predecessors.

Tinubu recognised the critical role of socio-cultural organisations in nationbuilding; hence, his commitment to promoting dialogue among our ethnic nationalities.

The President wished the newly elected Ohanaeze Ndigbo president success as he takes on this onerous yet noble and lofty task.

Following Mbata's emerence yesterday, Mbah, stressed the need for a strong and united front by Ndigbo, urging all to put the Igbo interest above narrow interests and

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

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

Mbata was elected in a consensus process that was held during the Ohanaeze Ndigbo General Assembly meeting which took place at the old Government Lodge in Enugu, yesterday.

The process was witnessed by the governors of Enugu, Dr. Mbah, Abia, Alex Otti, Anambra, Charles Soludo and Imo, Hope Uzodinma.

Alex enumah in Abuja

Prince Okey Nwadinobi from Abia State was elected as the National Deputy President while Chief Emeka Sibeidu from Anambra State was elected as the new Secretary General of the Igbo group.

Mbata succeeded Nze Ozichukwu

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

Chime Eguma Ezebalike and Prince Lukman Oladele, were among five persons charged with terrorism and murder. The others are Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga Donald and Ochueja Thankgod.

They were last week arraigned on a seven-count criminal charge

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

Fidelis Chukwu who was appointed to complete the tenure of the late Chief Emmanuel lwuanyanwu.

Mbah, who made the call during the election of new national leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Enugu, noted that the socio-political circumstances that gave birth to the pan-Igbo body remained relevant in present-day Nigeria as they were in the 1970s.

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

He extolled the leadership pedigrees of Igbo leaders such as Dr. Michael Okpara, whom he said demonstrated how so much could be achieved when patriotism, altruism, and sense of brotherhood are at the core of leadership.

“We may be gathered here for the crucial task of electing members into the National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, but this epic event yet offers a room for introspection, regarding the noble vision

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

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

that inspired our forebears towards its founding.

“The ties that bind us run deep and transcend geographical boundaries, for we are bound by a common history and cultural heritage. Our forebears clearly understood this. They understood, as well, that unity is a formidable force.

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

“From the Igbo Federal Union to the Igbo State Union and the Igbo Forum that would later become Ohanaeze Ndigbo in 1979, the motivation had always been the desire to forge unity and deep brotherhood amongst the Igbo.

“For them, the collective interest was all that mattered; not narrow interest shaped by party affiliation and boundary lines.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo represents the soul of our people, and is firmly anchored on the conviction that we are stronger together. That soul of the people is our unifying force."

EFCC Arrests Four Chinese, 105 Others over Alleged Internet Fraud

Fagbemi, SAN, submitted that the charge having been filed by the Inspector General of Police, was incompetent and asked the court to strike out counts 1,3,4,5,6, and 7 of the charge or strike strike out the entire suit for been incompetent. Responding, Police lawyer, Mr. Simon Lough, SAN, urged the court to dismiss the application for lacking in merit. According to Lough, besides Sections 4 and 66 of the Police Acts that empower them to bring the charge against the defendants, Section 5 and 99 of the Terrorism Act, shows that the police have powers to also initiate terrorism charges against the defendant.

in Abuja

Adibe emenyonu in Benin City

L-R: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy

Nigeria, Wale Edun; Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede and the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, in a Strategic Alliance to Stimulate the forex market in

Alex Enumah in Abuja

L-R: Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole; first son of the family, Akeem Bankole; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun and the husband of the deceased, Chief Suarau Olayiwola Alani Bankole, during the burial of late Alhaja Monsurat Atinuke Bankole in Abeokuta…yesterday

Deji Elumoye in Abuja, Gideon Arinze in Enugu and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

ENHANCING LAGOS INFRASTRUCTURE…

Report: Insecurity, Poor Infrastructure Make Road Travel Unsafe, Expensive

Says Port Harcourt, Lagos, Maiduguri most dangerous hotspots for road travellers

Smuggling, insecurity remains unabated despite border closure, National Assembly laments Decries Niger, Chad exit from ECOWAS

The SB Morgem Intelligence's (SBM) report has identified insecurity and poor infrastructure as major challenges that make road travels unsafe for operators and passengers alike in Nigeria. This emerged as the National Assembly declared yesterday that the closure of Nigeria's borders by the federal government was not

making any significant impact on the nation's economy. Also, the federal parliament claimed that the exit of the Niger Republic and Chad from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) had made nonsense of the policy.

Furthermore, the SBM report, which was captioned 'Roads to Nowhere: A Bumpy Ride Through Nigeria’s Roads', stated that “Nigeria’s roads are fraught with danger, from insecurity

hotspots in Port Harcourt, Maiduguri, and Lagos to inconsistent police patrols and treacherous road conditions that have led to numerous accidents, underscoring the urgent need for improved security and infrastructure.”

The report said that despite substantial yearly budgets dedicated to road construction and maintenance, the country has continued to face a persistent gap in the quality and quantity of its road infrastructure.

It added that the deteriorating condition of Nigeria’s roads had become a significant strain on the economy, costing billions of Naira annually in lost productivity and resources and have claimed countless lives in preventable accidents.

The SBM report said: "Insecurity remains a pressing issue on Nigeria’s roads. An overwhelming 84.6 per cent of respondents reported experiencing or hearing security incidents along their

Dangote Builds 8 Additional Tanks for Crude Oil Storage

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery is constructing eight additional tanks to boost its storage capacity for imported crude oil.

According to Africa Report, the refinery aims to expand its storage by 6.29 million barrels, equal to 1 billion litres.

The $20 billion refinery is preparing to stockpile imported crude due to the unreliability of local supplies. Refinery officials noted that limited crude supply from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited

is increasing reliance on imports.The construction of eight additional tanks will increase crude storage capacity at the $20 billion Dangote Petroleum Refinery by 41.67%, bringing the total capacity to 3.4 billion litres.

“Importing crude from other countries instead of buying locally means that our crude stockpiles will have to be higher,” the Vice President in charge of oil and gas business at Dangote Industries, Devakumar Edwin, said.

“So we have started building

eight additional crude tanks to hold a billion litres, over and above our original storage capacity. Four of them are nearing completion,” Edwin added.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery currently operates 20 crude storage tanks, each with a capacity of 120 million litres, amounting to a total of 2.4 billion litres. Additionally, its refined product tanks can store up to 2.34 billion litres.

However, Edwin noted that crude oil supply from the Nigerian National

Petroleum Company (NNPC) to the refinery remains “very low.” Despite being Africa’s largest oil producer, Nigeria relied heavily on fuel imports until the Dangote refinery began operations last year.

Nigeria continues to grapple with challenges such as underinvestment and frequent production disruptions caused by theft and pipeline vandalism. These issues have repeatedly caused the nation to lose its position as Africa’s top oil producer in recent years.

Geopolitical Tensions Push Revenues of World's Top Arms Producers to $632bn

Revenues from sales of arms and military services by the world's100 largest arms-producing and military services companies reached $632 billion in 2023, a real-terms increase of 4.2 per cent compared with 2022, according to new data released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

The revenue surge is coming on the heels of last year’s report by SIPRI that global military expenditure reached a staggering $2.443 trillion in 2023 , with the United States of America as the dominant spender accounting for $916 billion.

SIPRI, an international institute based in Stockholm, Sweden, which was founded in 1966, conducts scientific research on issues bordering on conflict and cooperation of

importance for global peace and security, and provides data, analyses and recommendations for armed conflict.

According to the organisation’s latest data, arms revenues went up in all regions covered by the ranking. Arms revenue increases were seen in all regions, with particularly sharp rises among companies based in Russia and the Middle East. Overall, smaller producers were more efficient at responding to new demand linked to the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, growing tensions in East Asia and rearmament programmes elsewhere.

The total arms revenues of the 41 top 100 companies headquartered in the United States grew by 2.5 per cent to $317 billion in 2023.

Also, 27 European companies in the top 100 recorded growth in arms revenues of 0.2 per cent to

reach $133 billion.

The arms revenues of the two Russian companies for which data was available went up by 40 per cent to an estimated $25.5 billion due to a significant increase in orders and production.

In the same vein, the 23 companies based in Asia and Oceania in the top 100 increased their arms revenues by 5.7 per cent to $136 billion.

At $103 billion, Chinese companies had the second largest aggregate arms revenues after US companies. However, they recorded their lowest level of growth (+0.7 per cent) since 2019 due to the country’s slowing economy.

Companies in South Korea (+39 per cent), Japan (+35 per cent) and Taiwan (+27 per cent) increased their arms revenues substantially.

The six Middle Eastern companies

in the top 100 increased their aggregate arms revenues by 18 per cent to $19.6 billion.

The war in Gaza pushed Israeli companies’ arms revenues to record levels.

In 2023, many arms producers ramped up their production in response to surging demand.

The total arms revenues of the top 100 bounced back after a dip in 2022. Almost three quarters of companies increased their arms revenues year-on-year.

Notably, most of the companies that increased their revenues were in the lower half of the Top 100.

“There was a marked rise in arms revenues in 2023, and this likely continued to increase in 2024,” said Lorenzo Scarazzato, a researcher with the SIPRI Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme.

travel routes.

“This stark majority underscores the frequent occurrence of such incidents, leaving only 15.4 per cent of respondents who had not encountered or heard of any.

“These findings highlight the pervasive nature of security challenges on the country’s roadways and the urgent need for effective measures to address them.”

The report further stated that a majority of 58 per cent viewed the roads as unsafe, with 34.7 per cent expressing frequent security concerns and 23.3 per cent indicating significant fears of insecurity, which highlighted “a prevailing sense of unease among road users.”

The survey also identified Port Harcourt, Lagos and Maiduguri as the most dangerous hotspots across Nigeria’s major cities and highways with high risks of theft, attacks and road hazards.

These cities, according to the report, are known for heavy traffic and elevated insecurity, especially

during peak travel hours in the evening, when commuters are most vulnerable.

It said: “Data has shown that during the review period, the Port Harcourt-Warri route in Southern Nigeria has become the most dangerous, surpassing the AbujaKaduna highway, which registered some of the most prominent security incidents (such as the AK-9 train attack) in March 2022.”

It added that “kidnapping for ransom forms a major security threat to travellers across this route, unlike the Makurdi-Jos route, which has a mix of youth gang violence, and pastoral conflicts that move farmers to protest against the government’s poor security provision which, in turn, lead to roadblocks and attacks against motorists.

“Port Harcourt was identified as the most frequently cited hub for dangerous hotspots, with specific areas such as Eleme Junction and the Ihiala-Okigwe Road highlighted as particularly risky.

Edun, UN Deputy Scribe Meet, Discuss Collaboration on Regional Stability, Others

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

United Nations (UN) Deputy Secretary-General (DSG), Amina Mohammed, yesterday met with Nigeria's Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation and accelerating Nigeria's development agenda.

The meeting between Edun and the UN deputy chief scribe took place at the minister's office in Abuja, according to a statement issued by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga.

Manga said Mohammed's visit was part of the UN’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with Nigeria on critical issues, including regional stability, economic growth, and social protection.

"Discussions during the meeting focused on leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement

(AfCFTA) to enhance Nigeria’s trade and economic relations across the region. They also addressed strategies for improving food security, strengthening social protection systems to meet the socio-economic needs of Nigerians, and identifying ways the UN can mobilise its resources and expertise to support the country’s development goals," the statement said.

The minister who received the UN chief, alongside the Minister of State, Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, expressed gratitude to Mohammed for her sustained engagement with Nigeria. He detailed progress in the administration’s social safety programmes, particularly the digitalisation of its Direct Benefit Transfers initiative to enhance efficiency and transparency. He also highlighted advancements in agriculture, citing improvements in wet and dry season farming as a result of targeted government support.

Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

L-R: Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Infrastructure, Olufemi Daramola; former Commissioner in Lagos, Dr. Muiz Banire; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose; Oba Onigbongbo, HRM Olusegun Ajasa, and Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, during the inauguration of five new roads in G.R.A Ikeja, Lagos… recently

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

a waste!

They deserve better deal...

Ritualists on the Rampage in Asaba!

In Praise of President Buhari

The Jimmy Carter Memorial

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

n advocate has messaged the Advocacy for Alleged Witches, drawing attention to the activities of suspected ritualists in Asaba, the capital of Delta State. In the message, the advocate stated: “God saved me from another mourning this beautiful year. This morning, my late friend’s teenage daughter was dropped off at a salon near Midwifery Road by her aunt, who rushed to clean her church, House of the Rock. This happened before 7 am, the area was quiet, and shops were closed”.

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

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

AAfter the drop-off, some people came in a car to the point where she was standing. The message continued: “As the aunt drove away, she, the girl, noticed a cream-colored Camry with a license plate starting with AYB. The Camry approached her, and a young man came out and ordered her inside. They took her phone, and power bank, the attachment that she wanted to use to make her hair. They also collected her ATM card and demanded her PIN (which she wisely gave the wrong one). They also questioned her about her virginity and abortion history. She told them she wasn’t a virgin and had done an abortion many times. Following her response, they drove to a point and pushed her out of the car, which was somewhere linking NTA Road”.

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

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

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

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

The lady approached some passersby, asking for assistance. Some ignored her, thinking she was mentally challenged. But she later met some people who were moved by her story and assisted her with some transportation fare. She returned home safely.

According to the advocate, the inquiry about her virginity made her suspect that these persons were ritualists. And they wanted to use her or her body parts for ritual sacrifice. She suspected that these ritualists wanted to collect her hymen for sacrifice, hence they asked her if she were a virgin. Some people believe that hymen from virgins have some magical potency and could yield money or wealth. There is no evidence for this belief. In the past, there have been cases where some ritualists stole female pants and sanitary pads.

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

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

On her Facebook page, the advocate warned the public: “Tell your daughters that they shouldn’t reveal their virginity to anyone if they are still intact. They are the targets of these bad guys.” By bad boys, she meant ritualists. At the end of her message, she said: “I pray for every girl’s safety; may none fall victim to ritualists. I pray for Asaba also. May evil be flushed out. And for these ritualists, hand go touch una this week”. Through this advocate, we got through to the victim, Ms A, a 17-year-old law student at a local university. She confirmed the incident. She said they collected her phone, ATM card, and hair attachment. The estimated total cost is N410,000 naira.

Leo Igwe direct the Advocacy for Alleged Witches which campaigns against abuses linked to witchcraft beliefs and ritual attacks

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

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

very inspiring surreal moment for me when I went through the Carter Museum as I waited in line to see his body lie in repose. The intricacies of life in its pure and undiluted state dawned on me as the tapestry of the eventful life played out in the well curated museum. The start of the tour was his early years on the farm,greatly inspired by Rachael Clark, a black woman, and the mental intermingling of his rural Georgia Plains upbringing and his later achievements in life. That moment showed me the indescribable insight on the dynamism of life, and it reiterates the ethos that your background must never put your back to the ground. The story of Carter is a clear indication that values will always be the most important factor in the conduct of man. Those values held sway when Carter said, “I will be honest” to the American people. America had just come out of the debacle and the perilous dishon-

Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings

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

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

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA

Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja

DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE

DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU,

TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

esty of the Watergate scandal and they needed a moral anchor. A Peanut butter farmer from Plains, Georgia, provided that. Carter wasn’t a perfect man and the strive for perfection is a lost battle as human beings are fallible(I surmise that our fallibility makes us human).Some say Carter was too soft, but his meek nature played a role in bringing Sadat to Camp David to make peace. He might have lost badly to Reagan but what he did afterwards was impactful by deciding to help the world to eradicate diseases with the Carter Center. In the end,life is about the impact in the life of others, not the greed and tempestuous craze for wealth, as our politicians do. The famous Juju Maestro, King Sunny Ade puts it succinctly, “Saying if you go seeking wealth and you meet honor, Go back, because when you get the wealth, you will spend it to get honor”. James Earl Carter Jr. (October 1, 1924 – December 29, 2024)the 39th president of the United States, had honor and he didn’t get it by seeking political wealth, stealing or lying. He got it by helping others with the little he had, the influence he had, the love he had and the light he had. I ask: what are you doing with your life?

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

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

Rufai Oseni,rufaioseni@gmail.com

Timed Out

hen Mark Zuckerberg announced his ending of fact checking he is shown wearing a Gruebel Forsey watch worth about $US900,000. It does look rather nice but so does my house for similar money. Doesn’t Facebook have a clock function on it or is it no longer reliable as no one is checking its accuracy?

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

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

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged

SPECIAL RECOGNITION...

Shettima: Borno's Six Fallen Soldiers Are Eternal Heroes, Their Services Won't

Senate mourns

Sunday Aborisade , Deji Elumoye and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday described the six soldiers who recently lost their lives repelling the terrorist attack in Damboa, Borno State, as eternal heroes whose sacrifices will never be in vain.

Also yesterday, the Senate Committee on Army expressed sadness over the loss of six brave soldiers who fought against ISWAP/ Boko Haram in Sabon Gari, Domboa Local Government Area of Borno State on January 4, 2025.

Speaking further, the vice president also reaffirmed his deep sorrow and firm solidarity with the families of heroic soldiers.

The attack, which took place in Sabon Gari, involved terrorists attempting to ambush troops at a Forward Operating Base, the soldiers' decisive response, bolstered by reinforcements and air support

from Operation HADIN KAI, not only neutralised 34 terrorists but also led to the troops recovering weapons and ammunition and largely weakening the attackers’ capabilities.

Shettima, in a statement issued yesterday in Abuja by his Media Assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, noted that the military recorded a decisive victory in Nigeria's ongoing counterterrorism efforts but regretted that the price of freedom is eternally steep.

According to him, "It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I received news of our brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our nation in Damboa. These six valiant soldiers demonstrated exceptional courage in the face of danger by protecting their fellow citizens."

The Vice President lauded the soldiers’ heroism, saying, "Their sacrifices remind us of the extraordinary price of peace and security. These heroes died ensuring

THISDAY Awards: Agboola’s Nomination Excites Flutterwave

Flutterwave has expressed excitement over the nomination of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founder, Olugbenga ‘GB’ Agboola, as part of THISDAY’s 2024 Young Global Leaders of the Year.

The award celebrates young, exceptional Nigerian leaders across different sectors such as politics, technology, finance, fashion, entertainment and others who have represented Nigeria positively by making significant contributions in their respective field on the global stage.

According to a statement yesterday, "Agboola was named alongside various industry leaders such as Grammy Award-winning artist Temilade Openiyi (Tems), chess champion Tunde Onakoya and tech entrepreneur Shola Akinlade. These leaders are recognised for consistently innovating and creating impact in their respective ecosystems."

It pointed out that in 2024, under Agboola’s leadership, Flutterwave achieved remarkable milestones, which it listed to include,“Expanding global reach of Flutterwave which extended its operations to over 30 countries, acquiring new payment

licenses in the United States, Ghana and Uganda, Zambia and Malawi.

“Strengthening payment options by partnering with global financial institutions such as American Express, enhancing payment options for businesses and individuals across African markets.

“Fighting cybercrime through collaboration with the Nigerian government to launch the Cybercrime Research Centre in partnership with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), reinforcing our commitment to combating cybercrime in Africa.

“Driving global conversations by Leading discussions on the growth and future of payments in Africa at various global stages including the 79th United Nations General Assembly.”

Flutterwave was also the recipient of various prestigious awards in 2024, such as Fast Company’s Most Innovative Company for Europe, Middle East, and Africa; Fintech of the Year at the Africa Banker Awards; and The Financial Services Infrastructure Innovation Award at the International Financial Inclusion Conference(IFIC’24).

that their fellow Nigerians can live in safety, free from the scourge of insecurity that has impacted our country."

He reassured the grieving families that their beloved children did not die in vain, noting that "their sacrifices will be forever remembered in our nation's history, and their memory will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians.

"To our armed forces, your

unwavering commitment to protecting our citizens, even at the cost of your own lives, fills us with profound gratitude and respect. We will continue to support you and provide all necessary resources to ensure you can carry out your duties effectively," Shettima added. He further urged Nigerians to honour the fallen heroes by standing firm in the collective pursuit of peace and security.

Be in Vain

"May Allah grant our fallen heroes Aljannah Firdaus, comfort their families, and give us all the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” the Vice President prayed. In a related development, the Senate Committee on Army expressed sadness over the loss of 6 brave soldiers who fought against ISWAP/Boko Haram in Sabon Gari, Domboa Local Government Area of Borno State on January 4, 2025.

This was contained in a statement yesterday by the Chairman of the panel, Senator Abdulaziz Yar'adua. Part of the statement read, "On behalf of the Committee, I wish to extend our condolences go to the Nigerian Army and the families of the fallen heroes. "We wish to commend the tireless efforts of the military in resolving conflicts and in fighting against terrorism.

Tinubu Departs Abuja Today, to Attend Sustainability Summit in Abu Dhabi, Returns Thursday

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja today to participate in the 2025 edition of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2025).

According to a statement issued yesterdayday by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu is attending the summit which will take place in the emirate from January 12 to 18, on the invitation of his United Arab Emirates counterpart, His Highness Sheikh

Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The Summit will bring together global leaders to accelerate sustainable development and advance socioeconomic progress.

The event themed 'The Nexus of Next; Supercharging Sustainable Progress', will enable policymakers, business, and civil society leaders to explore pathways to fast-track the transformation to a sustainable economy and evolve a new era of prosperity for all.

ADSW, a testament to the power

of collaboration, which has been held annually for over 15 years, provides a global platform to foster multi-stakeholder cooperation in addressing global challenges and accelerating growth.

It has birthed high-value agreements and strategic partnerships between governments, industry leaders, and clean energy pioneers worldwide, driving impactful alliances and advancing the sustainability agenda worldwide.

At the event, President Tinubu will

stress his administration's reforms, including those related to energy sufficiency, transportation, public health, and economic development.

The Nigerian leader and his entourage will also meet with the Emirate's leadership to discuss issues of interest affecting the two nations. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and some top government officials will accompany the President, who is due back in Nigeria on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Akwa Ibom Governor Dissolves State Executive Council

Holds valedictory session for outgoing commissioners

Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, yesterday dissolved the State Executive Council.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Enobong Uwah, in Uyo yesterday, which stated that the dissolution was with immediate effect.

The statement directed the former commissioners and special advisers to hand over to the permanent secretaries

in their respective ministries.

“For any ministry without a permanent secretary, you are to hand over to the most senior director in such ministry.

“The governor expresses his sincere appreciation to the outgoing executive council members for their dedicated service to the state.

“He wishes them well in their

future endeavours and thanks them for their contributions to the development of the state,” the statement added.

Eno was said to have inherited the executive council members from his predecessor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, about 19 months ago.

Speaking during a valedictory session held for the outgoing excos, he urged all those in attendance to give the outgoing Commissioners standing ovation, saying they made his agenda to succeed since he assumed.

“No man can succeed alone. If we have succeeded, which we have, these men and women made us to succeed and we salute you all. This is the first time a valedictory service of this nature is happening in my state,"he added.

Hollywood Star, Dimon Hounsou is Guest on Glo-Sponsored African Voices Changemakers

One of Hollywood’s most celebrated black actors, Djimon Hounsou, will, this weekend, grace the studios of African Voices Changemakers, CNN magazine programme sponsored by telecommunications giant, Globacom. In the 30-minute programme, the anchor, Larry Madowo will be engaging the actor who is originally from Benin Republic, on his inspiring journey and how he connects the

Black diaspora with its roots through the Djimon Hounsou Foundation. The 60-year-old star actor made his debut in the 1990 film titled Without You, I’m Nothing from which he has gained recognition for his outstanding roles in several other films including Amistad (1997); Gladiator (2000) and a French film titled Forces speciales (2011) among other great works. His talents have earned him the Golden

Globe Award as Best Actor in Drama and the NAACP Image Award both in 1998 and for his role in Amistad.

He also got the Academy Awards as Best Supporting Actor in 2004 as well as an Outstanding Performance Award for Blood Diamond in 2007.

More importantly, Hounsou has, through his philanthropic initiatives like Run Richmond 16.19, bridged history, culture, and community in a

mission to unite the African diaspora and honour African heritage. African Voices Changemakers will be aired on CNN channel 401 on Saturday at 8.30 a.m. and will be repeated same day at noon. Further repeats will be broadcast on Sunday at 4.30 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Monday 4 a.m. Repeat editions will come up in the same broadcast schedule next week from Saturday.

L-R: Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori; newly promoted Chief Security Officer to the Governor, Omoarebun Iluobe, and his wife, Mrs. Victoria, during the decoration of the police officer with his new rank, Chief Superintendent of Police, in the Governor's office in Asaba…yesterday

ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY 2025…

Obasanjo: Why I Was Jailed By Abacha

Leaders Awards.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that his attitude of not keeping quiet on national and international issues led him to jail under the military junta of the late Head of State, Gen. Sanni Abacha in 1995.

Obasanjo also hinted that the quest to save Nigeria from an imminent disintegration made him seek the Presidency in 1999, admitting that he had settled into agriculture after his military service at aged 42, before the quest came.

Presidential Library (OOPL). He tasked the youth on positive leadership roles for the continent.

The former president spoke during an interactive session with 15 young male and female future Africa leaders drawn from different parts of the continent at his Olusegun Obasanjo

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, the former president spoke when the budding youth under the aegis of Future Africa Leaders Foundation came with the 10 winners of the Prestigious and Life Challenging Future Africa

He said his prison experience was part of the challenges of life he personally had, and the journey to it started with his inability not to always keep mute.

According to him: "I joined the Army and at the age of 42, I finished my career as a military officer, but, what could I do? I was still young,

Minister: Tinubu Has Strategy to End Hunger, Youth Unemployment

Ugwu-Nwogo

The Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has acquainted himself with the various challenges confronting Nigeria and has outlined workable strategies to tackle them.

She gave this assurance to the people of Abia State yesterday at meetings with various critical stakeholders and groups, preaching a message of hope and urging the people of Abia to have faith in the Tinubu administration.

ECOWAS,

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has distributed relief materials including food and nonfood items to over 1,000 households whose source of livelihood were devastated by flood disaster in 2024.

The distribution of the relief items which took place yesterday in Bauchi Government House under the grand finale of the ECOWAS Flood Response Project was carried out by a high-level delegation from the ECOWAS Commission, the Ministry

The minister held meetings with the leaderships of Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC), Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and separately engaged traditional rulers at the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

She said that the President would not waver in his avowed commitment to end the pangs of hunger in the country and empower the teeming youths to make sustainable livelihoods.

Onyejeocha said that the Ministry Labour has put in place a new

programme for the empowerment of Nigerian youths, noting that unemployment and hunger would be drastically reduced in the country.

According to her, the initiative entails assisting youths to acquire functional skills for self-reliance thereby transforming many unemployed youths from job seekers to employers of labour.

She specifically told labour leaders that Tinubu would continue to make workers' welfare a priority, adding that the national minimum wage recently increased to N70,000 would

periodically be reviewed in line with economic realities.

She said that workers remain an integral part of government hence the Labour Ministry would keep track of every promise the President had made to workers to ensure their fulfilment.

Onyejeocha, who has been involved in several negotiations to pacify workers, appealed to Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to cultivate a harmonious relationship with the government devoid of strikes in order to enhance productivity and efficient service delivery.

energetic, and dynamic, but I was still young. So, I took to agriculture and during that time, I went into prison and that is not what I really wanted.

"Going into prison is really a challenge because I refuse to keep quiet. For me, if there is anything to comment on, I did comment on them, and so, I landed in prison, and that is a challenge. And, when I came out from prison the situation was bad in the country that some people felt the need to be saved and pressure started coming."

Obasanjo lamented that some of the debts by some countries in the continent were reckless and outright corruption.

"Most of the debts can not be explained. Some are outright corruption."

Citing a particular state in Nigeria where the site for a carpet industry was never cleared and the entire loan was repaid.

He commended the participants

and organisers, particularly the founder of the Future Africa Leaders Foundation, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, for hosting the 2024 edition of the programme yet again.

"What Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has been doing since 2013 is marvellous and as I said, some people will say, it is just a drop in the ocean, but many drops in the ocean make the ocean. I am very pleased and satisfied with him on this project and will continue to wish him all the best.

"I also want to urge the beneficiaries to carry on the torch and spread it. Because as the carriers, they have the opportunity to spread the message to other parts of the world by inspiring, enriching and providing for others. So, go and be African leaders of tomorrow; you have even said it is leaders of today and not tomorrow. It is no longer tomorrow but today with positive disruptive action."

Ogun Redoubles Efforts to Fight Insecurity

James Sowole in Abeokuta

of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, and the Nigerian Red Cross Society in Bauchi.

The project, valued at $200,000, was aimed at providing relief to victims of the 2024 floods which witnessed the distribution of food and non-food items as well as cash transfers to affected households in the state.

Since its commencement on December 15, 2024, the ECOWAS Emergency Flood Response has supported 850 households across Katagum, Jama’are, Zaki, Gamawa, and Giade local government

areas, with a total of 1,000 households projected to benefit from the initiative.

Under the project, each of the 1,000 affected households received 25 kilograms of rice, 15 kilograms of beans, 15 kilograms of garri, 5 litres of vegetable oil, 5 litres of palm oil and the sum of ₦75,000 cash transfer.

In addition, the beneficiaries received essential non-food items such as mosquito-treated net, blanket, bucket, mat and 25-litre jerrycan.

Speaking during the event, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State announced emergency relief efforts,

supporting the ECOWAS Emergency Flood Response Project with essential items, including Food, mats, and blankets, to support the flood ravaged Communities in the State.

The governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Aminu Hammayo, recalled that in 2024, following persistent heavy rains, water levels had risen leading to severe flooding that caused significant damage on roads, schools, health facilities, shelter facilities and other community facilities across 16 out of 20 LGs of the state.

FG, Red Cross Distribute $200,000 Worth of Relief Items to Bauchi Flood Victims Oborevwori,

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, Secretary to the Federal Government, Dr. George Akume, Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo top the list of dignitaries from across the world that will storm Government College Ughelli (GCU) next week as the iconic college rolls out the drums in celebration of 80 years of existence.

Foremost and revered traditional rulers, inclusive of The Ovie of Ughelli, HRM Oharisi III, captains of industry, such as the Chairman

Air Peace, Chief Allen Onyema, local council chairmen and top government officials would be in attendance.

While Governor Oborevwori would be the Guest of Honour, the Chairman for the August gathering is Dr. Akume, Vanguard Columnist, Dele Sobowale will deliver the keynote speech in an attempt to capture and celebrate the GCU heritage, achievements and collective spirit.

Remarkably, GCUOBA members who currently dominate the aviation and media world would be present

at the gathering of mariners. They include Festus Keyamo (Aviation Minister), Sir Joseph ArumemiIkhide (Chairman, Arik Air) Allen Onyema (Chairman, Air Peace), Sam Amuka (Publisher, Vanguard), Nduka Obaigbena(Chairman and Editor-inChief of the THISDAY Media Group and the Arise News Channel).

With huge expectations leading to the 80th anniversary, President General Worldwide GCUOBA, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, SAN, has reached out to both Ancient and

Young Mariners on the need to make the event a most memorable landmark for posterity.

‘’Beyond the monetary support that we are soliciting for the Legacy Project (1,000 capacity seater Auditorium), what is most important to us is the physical presence of Old Boys during the event’’ he said.

The three-day event will commence on January 15th with a welcome reception, followed by project inauguration and thanksgiving service the next day.

Ogun State Government has set mechanisms in motion to tackle insecurity across the state in the face of reported invasion of the South-west geo-political zone by suspected bandits.

This was as Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the conduct of the 2023 and 2024 promotion exercises for eligible civil/public servants in the state.

A statement signed by the Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, yesterday, said the state government was in firm control of its security architecture through robust collaboration among security agencies and local security apparatus.

The statement explained that part of the strategy to secure farmlands was the heavy deployment of armed security guards at the local level to protect farmers in their farms as well as constant security patrols.

It noted that the present security arrangements in the state were evident in the atmosphere of peace in all the nooks and crannies of the state during the festive period.

The statement said: "The recent reported influx of bandits from the North into the South-west coincided with the recent security meeting of the heads of security agencies in Ogun State.

"After a careful review of the state of security in the state, the agencies resolved to redouble their efforts to sustain the unprecedented peace and tranquility the state has been

enjoying in the past few months, especially during the recently concluded Christmas and new year celebrations, leaving no room for destabilising infiltration of bandits from from any part of the country.

"Our security agencies have, therefore, revitalised their winning formula and strategies,including visible presence in every nook and cranny of the state, patrols, manning of key and vulnerable points, blackspots, intelligence-led operations, community partnership and inter-agency cooperation.

"In addition to this, residents of the state have been alerted to the information and reminded of their civic obligation to join hands with the police to address the threat posed by armed banditry by being extravigilant, and report any suspicious movements of persons, especially strange faces in the communities. In particular, commercial farmers have been advised to continue to utilise the services of armed security guards and escorts to access their farms.

"Also, local hands have been deployed to help mount surveillance at their farms to assist their safe entry and exit from the farms, do everything possible to enhance visibility in and around their farms through lighting and erection of security towers."

The statement also acknowledged the ongoing synergy between the state and Oyo State in sharing intelligence with regards to movement and operation of suspected bandits around the axis.

Emmanuel

in Umuahia

James Sowole in Abeokuta

L-R: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Speaker, House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Deputy Senate President, Senator Jubril Barau; National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa, and others during the Jum’ah Prayer for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day 2025, held at the National Mosque in Abuja… yesterday

GODWIN OMOIGUI

HAPPY MARRIED LIFE...

28 Persons Killed, Dozens Missing as Terrorists Attack Katsina Village

Troops kill 109 terrorists in one week, nab 81 others across Nigeria

Linus Aleke in Abuja and Francis Sardauna in Katsina

No fewer than 28 persons have been killed and dozens declared missing after a fresh onslaught by terrorists on Baure Village in Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State.

This occurred same day the Nigerian Military disclosed that troops across all theatre of operations killed no fewer than 109 terrorists and arrested 81 others, in week one. The military also revealed that troops apprehended six perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 43 kidnapped hostages.

However, in Safana Local Government, a local security official, who craved anonymity, told THISDAY in a telephone interview yesterday that the terrorists invaded the agrarian village last Tuesday where they

massacred the villagers.

He said the terrorists ransacked many houses and shops in the village, killing 17 persons on the spot and set ablaze the corpses of 11 other victims during the deadly invasion.

“They came into this (Baure) community in large numbers and pillaged house by house, including shops before killing 17 persons and burning 11 other corpses. We tried to intervene but they overpowered us.

“As we speak, over 20 people are still missing. We don't know whether they are alive or dead. Presently, we are working with the conventional security personnel to rescue the missing persons,” he added.

Confirming the incident to journalists in a statement yesterday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Aliyu, said 21 people were “fatally shot” during the attack

Despite Stampede, Obiejesi Insists He Won't Stop Helping Poor People

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Renowned businessman and philanthropist, Mr. Ernest Azudialo Obiejesi also known as Obi Jackson, has said that the incident of stampede which happened during a rice distribution exercise in Anambra State will not stop him from helping the poor.

It would be recalled that during an event on the morning of December 21, where the Obi Jackson Foundation was distributing bags of rice as Christmas gifts to people from his community, a stampede occurred, claiming the lives of 21 persons.

But Obiejesi who spoke yesterday at

St. Mary's School Field, Okija, during an interdenominational service in honour of the victims, said he will continue to support the families of the victims.

He said: "I am pained by the development, but I want to promise to continue to support the families of the victims.

"Despite the handiwork of the devil, I will not stop empowering my people. I will continue to provide for my people as long as my foundation exists.

"I have been providing this kind gesture for the past 15 years without such incident. I and my foundation will continue to empower vulnerable families of Okija Kingdom."

on the Baure Village. He said the terrorists ambushed the joint team of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps and vigilante members who were returning from a condolence visit.

The statement read: “On January 7th, 2025, in Baure Village, Safana LGA, Katsina State, some suspected armed bandits attacked a joint team

of Katsina State Community Watch Corps and vigilante members, who were returning from a condolence visit.

“The incident occurred at about 1630hrs, prompting a swift response from police operatives attached to Safana Divisional Headquarters who rushed to the scene and restored normalcy. Sadly, 21 persons were fatally shot as a result of the attack.

“Efforts are currently being made to ensure the arrest of the perpetrators of the dastardly act, further developments will be communicated in due course as the investigation proceeds.”

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Military, yesterday said troops across all theatre of operations killed no fewer than 109 terrorists and arrested 81 others, in week one. The military also revealed that troops apprehended six perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 43 kidnapped hostages. A statement by Director Defence Media Operation, Major General Edward Buba, said the troops also denied oil theft of over N600 million in South-South region within the period under review.

Police Move against Peddlers of Misinformation, to Begin Enforcement of Vehicle Third-party Insurance Feb.

Fault alleged theft of N1.09bn from Enugu govt treasury DSS apprehends blogger, Augustus for posting fake recruitment notice

The Nigeria Police Force has said it have taken decisive action to curb the spread of fake news, disinformation, and incitement capable of widening the trust gap between the Police and members of the public who are critical stakeholders in national peace and security.

Also, yesterday, the Nigeria Police Force dismissed as false, the narrative and rumour circulating online about an alleged hack of the Enugu State Government’s official account, resulting in the theft of N1.09 billion.

This was as operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) apprehended the alleged cyber criminal behind the recent cloning of its website in which a notice was placed to falsely inform Nigerians that the agency was recruiting.

A statement by Force Spokesperson

Tinubu Celebrates Renowned Historian/ Activist, Segun Osoba At 90

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated renowned historian, activist and scholar, Dr. Segun Osoba, as he marks his 90th birthday on January 9.

This was as the President had extended his heartfelt condolences to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, on the passing of his mother, Hajiya Hauwa'u Abubakar, aged 94. The President, in a release issued

yesterday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, celebrated the respected scholar on this momentous occasion and described him as one of Nigeria's finest minds. President Tinubu lauded Osoba's efforts in advancing the frontiers of knowledge, promoting scholarship, and inspiring generations of Nigerians. The President also commended the eminent historian, a staunch advocate of social justice and good governance, for contributing to Nigeria's constitutional

development.

He recalled his membership in the committee that drafted the 1979 Constitution, which laid the foundation for the Second Republic. Notably, Osoba and Dr. Yusuf Bala Usman produced a minority report recommending no immunity clauses for Presidents and governors and a minimum age of 30 to be eligible to run for office. The military government rejected the entire report at the time.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi recalled that, "On December 8, 2024, operatives of the Force apprehended one Destiny Ekhorutomuen, a 38-year-old suspect, in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State.

The suspect, he said allegedly created and operated multiple social media accounts to disseminate false and inciting content aimed at provoking the public against the Nigeria Police.

The Nigeria Police, he said reaffirmed their zero tolerance for acts aimed at threatening the nation’s stability or tarnishing the reputation of the police and other government institutions.

According to him, "This deliberate spread of falsehoods erodes public trust, undermines societal cohesion, and poses significant risks to national security.

"In this regard, the Nigeria Police Force strongly warns against the

misuse of social media and other communication platforms to propagate fake news or incite disorder. Such acts are criminal and punishable under the law.

"Citizens are urged to exercise caution and responsibility in their use of information, as the collective peace and unity of the nation depend on it.

"The NPF reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to upholding law and order. It will continue to identify and prosecute individuals or groups engaging in activities that threaten Nigeria’s peace and security". Also, the Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun received the Commissioner for Insurance, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin and team.

L-R: Bride’s Father, Mr. Ibukun Babarinde; Groom, Mr. Uche Umoga; Bride, Mrs. Ifeoluwa Umoga and Bride’s mother, Mrs. Itunu Babarinde, at the wedding service for Uche and Ife at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Desire of Nation Parish, Abuja…recently

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Bassey Otu: Something Positive Happening in Nigeria’s Economy

Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu,talks about the efforts of his government to grow the Calabar Carnival to international standards, promising to build an economy that thrives on digital economy, among others. Charles Ajunwa brings the excerpts:

We want you to give an assessment of the 2024 Calabar Carnival and what informed the theme?

This year’s carnival started from the day the theme was announced to be ‘shared prosperity,’ and you could see that almost all the bands struggled and came up with a picture that depicts shared prosperity. My idea of shared prosperity as far as that theme was concerned became very clear, that unless there’s some equality of purpose in every society, there will be no peace. For us to attain some level of progress because here in Cross River State, we need that progress in continuity. We need peace. It became clear that the world over, there will be no peace and progress if prosperity is not shared. The imbalance, the gap between the rich and the poor is widening every day. In fact, the middle class is almost blacked out. For the carnival, since we have a global audience, we wanted to let them know that the only way to take some heat out of our system, in terms of disenchantment, in terms of despondency, is to allow some kind of welfarist democracy where the weak ones in the society can be taken care of and the only way this can be done is to share prosperity. In Nigeria, things are quite tough now. Not just in Nigeria, but Nigeria is addressing its own macroeconomic issues and times are quite difficult. It became clear that we also let Nigerians know that even with the transformation and reforms that are ongoing now, there’s a need for us to share a little prosperity that’s accruing from the gains of what the regulations are putting on the table.

For Cross River State, it’s the people’s first government. We’re trying to tell the people that it will always be people’s first. It doesn’t matter the level of prosperity you attain, whether you’re small, whether you’re big, you are always rich. That’s why what we have is actually a season of sweetness and if you’re there, you’ll see that everybody is very happy. The state is agog and still agog. A lot of people have not been able to wake up yet. But we believe that next year (2025) is even going to be a bigger picture.

Talking about people’s first government, what plans do have to make Cross River a tourism destination?

Well, Cross River State remains a tourism destination as far as we are concerned. We have looked at all our tourism potentials, and we’re working almost in all of them. We’re training personnel, some at home, some in the country, and some outside the country. We’re trying to work on our tourism sites and locations to upgrade them. We’re partnering with investors to make sure that we bring some of them to 21st-century standards. We believe that by the time we get this because we are getting our act together, definitely, that particular thematic area is going to change. For now, we know that in three months or four months, all the hotels were already be taken off the market. So it’s an area that we have to do something very, very urgently, that we are also trying to do. Not just making sure that we have hotels, but upscaling them to world standards to meet up with what some of the guests are actually looking for. We’re trying to make sure in terms of infrastructure that our roads are well taken care of. We’re not waiting for federal government to give us so many roads, because it’s become clear that their priorities are just too many. So we have to help ourselves. We’re trying to do that so that people can easily access these tourism sites with very little difficulty. And we’re looking to make sure also that we stabilise what I would say our product prices by making sure that transportation is improved. But what we need is mass transportation. We’re going to look at the gas very seriously, even though we need the energy in the future. But it still looks to us like here, because of the size of the state. Because from Bakassi to Obandiku, it will take you about six to seven hours. Sometimes eight. It’s quite a huge expanse of land. So we’re trying to see if we can get some mass transit programmes put in place that will be able to move people easily. The moment we are able to succeed with that, I think prices of food, commodities, and everything will be stable and people will be able to make savings to participate in more tourism activities.

International carnival, a segment of the Calabar Carnival did not hold in 2023 and 2024, has it been scrapped?

No. It has not been scrapped. Actually, we are looking at the prospects of a diaspora band. You know, we have done some researches. This time we are going to have a post-carnival review and that is part of one of the items that we are going to bring on board very soon. We want to make sure that the moment we get that straight, we

will be able to find international bands coming in to actually play some roles. We know very well that some of the small rules we put in place for some activities like dressing codes and things like that are not being adhered to. So these are all things that we are going to take in the post-review to see how we put it straight. So the moment we get all these things right, then we will open it up and we will see many countries coming in. That I can assure you.

At times like this, when there is hunger in the land, how are you tackling hunger in the state? Well, food security happens to be one of the most serious points on our agenda. It’s one of the thematic areas that we trying to make sure that we bring it on board. For any sub-national, in fact any country at all, to be independent, you must be able to feed our people. If you look at the tempo, or the momentum of our agriculture, it was going very well until the invention of this oil, what I call the petroleum sector. After that, it went down. When I assumed office and checked some of the major things that were done, were done by Micheal Okpara, and Okpara ruled so many years ago, which means we really are not taking care to look at what is needed and it’s about our strongest area. When we looked at the percentage of the number of people who are engaged in agriculture, we decided to give it serious attention. Today, we are beginning to reap the fruits of our labour, because we started the proper soil investigation, to know what the soil chemistry is all about and everything. We came up with a proper digital mapping, which you can sit here and know exactly where we’re sitting, what can grow here, and what can happen. Then we immediately moved to our landmarks and looked at what we have and what is available because we know that even in the special agro-industrial programmes that we are doing in Cross River State, it’s being looked at to make sure we do well in cassava, in cocoa, in maize and then oil palm. So, we immediately set up pilot schemes to look at this immediately. For cassava, we do have a 5,000 hectare cassava farm, which for now is a pilot scheme that will provide the seeds and stems, which we’re going to use. The next one that we’re moving to, we’re looking at about 50,000 hectares of land and on the oil palm, we had to immediately go to NIFOR (National Institute for Oil Palm Research) and we got about 3.5 million oil palm seeds. We collaborated with the oil palm growers here, which are in numbers, and immediately came together to set up nurseries and pilots. In fact, we’ve considered even in terms of hydration and other things, we’ve set up proper irrigation structures to oil, to make sure that all those plantations are watered. And in cocoa, we’re trying to revamp, we’ve gone into a public-private partnership to revamp all our cocoa farms which I believe we have some big cocoa-based things right here. I believe that Cross River State in Nigeria today, we have the biggest cocoa farmers and they are taking from here to go and stamp elsewhere, which, of course, is going to change very soon. In terms of our small farmers’ holdings, we have tried to create a grower scheme in which we use the catchment areas and the people from those particular lands and areas to grow whatever we grow and during the period of gestation, we pay them. Then, on cropping and selling them, we make sure that almost all the things we’re doing we have offtakers as well. We will come out and ready to put money in there even though we don’t collect most of the time, because that was our first outing. We don’t know how it will be, and we don’t want to owe people or build up any bad reputation. So we try to make available some facilities to the small growers. We are revamping our micro credit bank, and we’re going to make sure that all the swamps are kind of grown. We’ve done proper registration of all our small farmers, because we discovered that people come from somewhere to give them money to farm, or when they come, they drag people.

You promised to build a Cross River State that thrives on a digital economy, where are you on this?

We discovered that for you to have what I will call sustainable productivity, we need to populate the areas with almost everybody. You know, the agric sector was kind of suffering, because people are looking down on farmers. And in other countries like in Europe and others, when they say this man is a farmer, it’s like owning an oil well. So, I discovered that, yes, a lot of young men are very interested in these digital information systems, but we also need some of them in the agric sector to balance, because if you leave it like that, everybody will want to leave. And we are doing our best, both in terms of training. We are getting set strategically. We are making sure that we have incubation

centres and we are struggling seriously against cybercrimes, because we discovered that some elements would come and park them into some big buildings but all they are being taught there is how to cause mayhem. So somehow, we have to achieve that ethical balance in terms of making sure that people that are coming up with this knowledge of big data analytics, and so on and so forth, have some sense of responsibility and we know that we have to watch our backs, and we have to be our brother’s keeper. So we are moving at our own pace, but we do have a template that actually will deliver properly on where we want people to be.

As senator, you were the Chairman on Finance and Banking and other Financial Matters Committee. One issue that the country has continued to face since the coming on board of this present administration in the national level is the floating of the Naira, which has caused a lot of mayhem giving hyperinflation. Given your experience and your background on financial and banking sector, are we on the right trajectory, or could things have been done better?

There’s nothing that we see now, which we’ve not passed through already. Where we are now, we are turning the corner. Most nations you see enjoying today; they’ve passed through the same situation that we’re passing through today. But we believe that the darkest end of the tunnel is also coming to an end. What we are beginning to see is, even though the inflation is resisting, it doesn’t want to come down, but all the other indices are showing that something positive is happening in the Nigerian economy. Our productive level is going up; a lot of creativity is coming; people are beginning to work, to enjoy their money, even though the inflation is biting but at some point, it will turn to gain. So, the pain we suffer is just to see if we can carry all our people along. There must be that sacrifice. If not, we cannot make progress. But it’s left for the managers of the government and so on to be serious about it, and then let everybody know that all of us are passing through this thing together. Then the moment that’s given, and people have that confidence, I believe we will cross the river.

What is the state of facilities at Obudu Ranch?

The ranch went through a period that other events or other facilities also went through. But we are working on the ranch and we are trying to get it strengthened out and we have Marriott and others who are coming to the ranch not too long from now. That’s why we are trying to get the airport ready as soon as possible so that we will be able to connect a full circuit so that somebody can either fly to the carnival or he can fly straight to Obudu.

Otu

reADINg THe TeA LeAveS Obinna Chima

obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com 08152447875 (SmS only)

Dark Side of Feud among Afrobeats Stars

Since the dawn of hip-hop, trading insults has been a common feature among rappers. The East Coast –West Coast hip hop rivalry that saw feuds among artistes in the United States in the nineties, which led to the death of persons such as Notorious B.I.G and Tupac Shakur shook the world. Rivalries between artistes have however not abated as in recent times the high-profile beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, among others, continues to spark intense debate.

It is not different in Nigeria. Just like previous years, 2024 saw some of the biggest feuds among the country’s Afrobeats stars in which they openly exchanged hostilities which for the most part saw some of their supporters online go after each other, some saw it as entertainment and it intrigued some other set of audiences.

Specifically, last year saw some of Nigeria’s influential Afrobeats artistes, especially Wizkid and Davido, go after each other, which sparked division within the industry as well as among some of their respective fans. Sometimes, they got more personal than they should have and at times they stayed on wax.

The latest feud that erupted barely 72 hours into 2025, while a lot of Nigerians were still in the mood of Detty December with social media literally set on fire, was between Paschal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest and Grammy-winning artiste, Burna Boy. The clash has drawn significant public attention. Cubana Chief Priest is a close ally of Davido and some of his social media supporters who have been chanting “fight, fight, fight” see it as a proxy war.

Both men have thrown caution to the wind as in the past few days they have been involved in a series of heated exchanges on social media. From Burna Boy describing the ‘celebrity bar man’ as the Owerri version of Rick Ross, an

American rapper, and describing him as an “azaman,” a street slang for fraudster, to Chief Priest in return alleging that Burna Boy won his Grammy Award by being intimate with embattled American entertainer, P Diddy and that the Afrobeats star was a debtor, among others, the conflict intensified during the week. As expected, their respective fans have taken sides in the messy fight, creating a fertile ground to breed hate and disrespect. While feuds among artistes are normal when managed decently, they must not be allowed in any way to diminish Afrobeats rising profile across the world. Billboard recently started a chart for Afrobeats singles, and the Recording Academy recently added a brand new category, Best African Music Performance, to honour the continent’s best musicians. 2024 saw Nigerian artistes waxing stronger as they churned out great songs, and held music tours across the globe, with powerful collaborations with international stars which got global attention.

This saw Temilade Openiyi, Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer popularly known as Tems, bagging three nominations for the 2025 Grammy Awards, which will be held next month in Los Angeles. With her three nominations, she

joined this year’s top nominees list which Beyoncé topped with 11 nominations. The 2025 Grammy Awards nominations also have other Nigerian nominees namely Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, Yemi Alade, Asake, and Rema. That is why to me, it is absurd for anybody to link Burna Boy’s Grammy Award to any form of sexual relationship with P. Diddy. As a big fan of Afrobeats who has followed the Port Harcourtborn artiste’s rising trajectory, I can say that his talent earned him not just the Grammy, but also several other awards he has won over the years. Burna Boy continues to grab headlines on account of his scintillating performances across Africa, Europe and America. He became the historic first African artiste to sell out a stadium in the United Kingdom after 60,000 fans came out to see him perform at the home of West Ham Football Club.

The ‘Last Last’ crooner who also sold out the 41,000-capacity Citi Field Stadium in NYC, USA, has continued to prove to critics and music lovers across Africa and the world why he deserves the self-proclaimed title of “ Africa Giant “by dishing out good music with mesmerising and sold out shows all over the world.

While it is understandable that rivalries have always been part of human nature, especially in an environment where competition is everpresent and the entertainment space cannot be an exception, it must be pointed out that if such incidences are not properly managed, their negative side may hurt the system. For instance, fans take sides whenever artistes quarrel, which can result in hate speech, cyberbullying, and internet trolling. This can foster a hostile climate for the artistes and their fans.

Also, rivalry can stifle collaboration. When artists are seen as rivals, like Burna Boy and Davido, they may be less likely to work together, even if it would benefit both of them. This can limit the creative potential of the genre and prevent it from reaching its full potential. Instead, the industry and artistes should take advantage of the opportunity to encourage lyrical competition, which will motivate everyone to compete to the best of their abilities and open doors for the industry to make more money.

No one is asking them to love and fawn over each other. They may dislike one another, but they should accord their colleagues professional respects even if they are not in good terms. This is common sense. And fans shouldn’t die in their wars. Listen to their songs but refuse to participate in their foolishness. This new year, we hope these male artistes grow up and fix up, for their own sake.

Call for Reinvigorating the Monitoring, Evaluation Unit

Umar Ardo

When I wrote my open advice to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu shortly after his election, I highlighted the importance of effective policy implementation as the cornerstone of governance. I proposed for the establishment of a Policy Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation (PIME) Unit within the presidency premised on the recognition that Nigeria’s governance challenges often stem not necessarily from policy formulation but rather from poor execution.

To my satisfaction, on inauguration, President Tinubu created a monitoring and evaluation unit and appointed Hadiza Bala Usman as its head. This step seems to underscore the administration’s commitment to accountability and effective governance.

The decision to establish this unit in the presidency was a laudable step in the right direction. It seems to demonstrate foresight and a willingness to tackle the systemic failures that have plagued Nigeria’s public sector for decades. By appointing an adviser with a specific mandate to ensure compliance and accountability of government appointees, the Tinubu administration showed its

commitment to ending the cycle of inefficiency, profligacy, and non-performance in public service.

However, despite this commendable beginning, the unit’s implementation has left much to be desired. Approaching halfway into the regime’s tenure, the muchanticipated transformation driven by this unit has failed to materialise.

The government’s policies, programs and services remain largely ineffective, and the monitoring unit has shown little impact in ensuring compliance and delivering results. Since citizens assess governance by what is implemented on the ground, and so citizens interact with public policies only at the implementation level, the effect of the Tinubu government’s policies on Nigerian citizens so far is negative.

As reports widely suggest a lack of visible results in terms of improved policy delivery and accountability, the following could be the contributory factors to this underperformance:

Weak

Operational Frame- work

The unit appears to lack a robust, systemic framework to monitor and evaluate government programs effectively. Without clear benchmarks, data-driven evaluations and actionable recommendations, its activities remain superficial.

Centralisation and Bureaucracy

Over-centralising the unit’s operations within the presidency has likely created bottlenecks. An effective monitoring system requires autonomy to avoid interference, and this autonomy seems absent.

Poor Public Visibility

Nigerians remain largely unaware of the unit’s work as there is poor communication with the public. Transparency and regular updates on its findings and actions will foster public trust and motivate appointees to perform better; and

Leadership Gaps

While Hajia Usman is no doubt a capable official, the unit’s lack of tangible results raises questions about whether its leadership has been empowered with the right tools, authority and institutional support to achieve its mandate.

To address these challenges, the Tinubu regime can draw lessons from global and local examples of successful monitoring and evaluation systems. The following examples will be of benefit:-

Rwanda’s Imihigo System

This performance-based contract system holds government officials accountable for delivering on their targets. Each ministry’s progress is

tracked, and results are presented to the president and the public on biannual basis.

South Korea’s Performance Evaluation Framework

South Korea uses independent evaluation teams to assess the performance of government ministries and parastatals. The evaluations are transparent, made public annually and they inform decisions on promotions and funding, or discipline and training.

Nigeria’s SERVICOM Initiative

SERVICOM (Service Compact with All Nigerians) provides an example of how monitoring can improve service delivery when given the necessary autonomy and resources. To reinvigorate the monitoring and evaluation unit, it is again hereby recommended that the administration should undertake the following measures:

Redefine the Unit’s Mandate and Structure

Provide the unit with statutory backing and operational independence to ensure it is insulated from political and power interferences:

Adopt Data-Driven Meth- odologies

Equip the unit with modern tools

and technologies for real-time data collection, analysis and reporting mechanism. This will allow for evidence-based decision-making and tracking of progress or failure;

Enhance Public Engagement

Publish quarterly reports detailing the performance of government appointees and ministries. Transparency will pressure appointees to deliver and keep citizens informed, thereby raising confidence and support.

Empower Leadership

Usman, who seems to have the confidence of the president, should be given adequate resources, authority and support required to enforce compliance. If this proves insufficient, consider appointing a leader with specialized expertise in performance management and policy evaluation.

Incorporate Independent Oversight

Establish an independent oversight board comprising civil society, academia and private sector representatives to review the unit’s findings and ensure accountability. In other words, monitor and evaluate the Monitoring and Evaluation Unit itself; and

Davido Okechukwu Burna Boy

Cultivating Healthy Financial Habits in 2025

Nigerians cannot forget in a hurry the devastating shock of the past year due to the spurring increase in prices of commodities and other basics which rose by over 200 percent. Many are still reeling in debt, among other severe consequences that followed sudden economic policies because they were not prepared.

Therefore, as Nigerians go about creating their new year resolution, a top priority should remain embracing healthy financial habits this year.

This is particularly important as analysts’ projections in the new year do not suggest respite so soon, but that Nigerians should brace up for a tougher economy where rising inflation and debt profile, among other indices, do not appear to wither soon.

Although analysis from some quarters appears promising, it is advisable that Nigerians take financial caution even right from the beginning of the year so as not to be let off guard.

Financial experts who spoke with THISDAY said this would help mitigate the effects of anticipated uncertainty, including the rising cost of commodities, fluctuating currency and events in the global market.

To this end, the President, Bank Customers Association of Nigeria (BCAN) Dr. Uju Ogubunka, said Nigerians must be practical about restructuring their plans and re-profiling themselves in tandem with prevailing reality.

“You need to study yourself carefully and see what you are to gain within the year or your earning capacity, then you build your spending within this capacity so you don’t overrun yourself with costs,” he urged.

Ogubunka highlighted the increasing gap between rising prices and stagnant incomes,

warning that maintaining pre-inflation spending habits could lead to financial difficulties. “Unfortunately for us in the country, prices are increasing daily. And if your earning capacity is not rising as much as that, then you have gaps, negative gaps,” he explained.

He maintained that adapting spending habits was not impossible, although, it may be a bit hard.

“The key lies in adjusting spending patterns accordingly. Reappraise your income, then re-profile your expenditure. And then cut your costs according to your cloths.

OTH er Bu SIN e SS STO r I e S

“Don’t do things because somebody else is doing it. If you cannot afford it, suspend or eliminate it from your cost profile. Don’t go into areas that you won’t find yourself out. I’m talking about going into things because somebody else is there Remember, your income may not be as juicy as the person you seek to imitate”, he said

To the Managing Partner at Empyrean Professional Services, Mr. Bamgboye Emmanuel, budgeting and tracking of expenses will make some of the tips prescribed above more practicable.

Of importance, according to him, is having a realistic budget that aligns with financial goals.

Enterprise Development Fund Launched to Bridge Capital Access Gap

Leadership coach and Global Lead Pastor of The Elevation Church, Godman Akinlabi, has launched the Godman Akinlabi Enterprise Development Fund to bridge capital access gap for entrepreneurs.

This initiative followed a recent report by the International Trade Centre (ITC) that the vast majority of Nigerian SMEs remain underfunded, with only 15 percent able to access formal credit.

Akinlabi who unveiled the fund in commemoration of his 50th birthday celebration in Lagos, stated that the fund, initially endowed with N50 million would financially empower faith-based entrepreneurs, drive innovation, and champion sustainable business practices.

He disclosed further that the fund was a realisation of a long-held vision to raise leaders who will build profitable enterprises, transform industries, and inspire tangible change.

“I believe true leadership is not just about personal success but about creating platforms for others to thrive. This Fund is that platform: a vehicle to empower courageous, faith-driven entrepreneurs to break barriers, innovate boldly, and redefine the future of business,” he added.

The fund will offer seed capital ranging from N250,000 to N2,000,000 for small and early-stage businesses, as well as growth capital of up to N5,000,000 for enterprises with proven potential. Beneficiaries will also receive mentor-

ship and strategic guidance to ensure they are well-equipped to navigate business growth.

“By equipping individuals with resources, mentorship, and opportunities, we are not only creating economic prosperity but also fostering a legacy of leadership and positive impact that will reverberate across generations,” he reckoned.

Also held on the sidelines of the launch of the fund was an exclusive leadership lecture featuring renowned thought leader, Leke Alder.

Akinlabi remarked that the lecture underscores the importance of visionary leadership, ethical governance, and strategic innovation in creating a sustainable and prosperous future.

Interswitch Hunts for Next-Gen Innovators

In its search for next generation of African innovators, African integrated payments and digital commerce company, Interswitch Group has announced top nine finalists for its InterswitchSPAK National Science Competition.

The initiative underscores the firm’s commitment to nurturing young innovators towards Africa’s technological future.

The competition which is a flagship platform for promoting STEM education in Nigeria, attracted thousands of secondary school students nationwide.

After several rounds of rigorous quizzes

and problem-solving tasks, nine outstanding students emerged as finalists to compete for the grand finale in tackling advanced STEM challenges.

The overall winner would earn the coveted title of ‘Nigeria’s Best STEM’ Student Speaking, the EVP of Group Marketing and Communications at Interswitch, Cherry Eromosele, said the platform aimed to nurture the next generation of African innovators and problem-solvers, adding that the finalists represent the immense potential of Nigeria’s youth.

On the reward for excellence, Eromosele said

CSR-in-Action Rewards Sustainability, Growth Champions

A sustainability-focused firm, CSR-inAction Advocacy has honoured worthy organisations and individuals at its sixth Community and Human Rights (CAHR) Africa Awards held in Lagos recently. The award initiative was designed to reward exemplary players driving positive change across sectors in Africa.

This year’s event was sponsored and supported by notable organisations who share vision with the initiative. They include: Access Bank, the Ford Foundation

and Zenera Consulting. Chief Executive of CSR-in-Action, Bekeme Masade Olowola, applauded the courage and commitment of the awardees selected across six categories. She said the awardees were selected through a meticulous and multi-phase process involving public nominations, internal review, nominee verification, public voting, and final jury evaluations based on criteria that highlighted their outstanding contributions to their communities.

the first-place champion would be awarded a five-year tertiary scholarship worth N15 million, a monthly stipend, and a laptop.

The second and third-place winners will receive N10 million and N5 million scholarships, respectively, alongside laptops. Finalists in the fourth to ninth positions will also receive significant cash prizes and laptops.

He said, “InterswitchSPAK is more than just a competition; it is a platform committed to the future and we are proud to support the finalists as they embark on a journey of transformation and impact.

Firm Restates Commitment to Creative Economy

Luxury spirits brand, Glenfiddich in a strategic partnership with local creatives is poised to stimulate entrepreneurial growth and job creation in Nigeria’s burgeoning creative sector.

The firm during an experiential concert in Lagos, recently, highlighted need for innovative initiatives to meet up with target in the sector, and rival contemporaries in the global stage.

“There are budgeting tools that can keep you on track, and not necessarily complicated ones like excel. This can be done through a note on the phone, WhatsApp or even a sheet of paper,” Emmanuel enlightened.

The management expert advised further on prioritising savings by setting clear goals. “Whether it’s for emergencies, future investments, or specific purchases like a car or house, automate your savings so that it’s deducted directly and you don’t have easy access to it,” he advised.

He encouraged Nigerians to explore high-yield savings options to ensure their money grows. “Your money shouldn’t just sit idle in the bank. Look for savings or investment accounts that yield reasonable interest. You can diversify your investments, and explore options like real estate or other viable opportunities”

Bamgboye added, “Try to stay debt-free as much as possible. Minimize unnecessary debts, especially high-interest ones, and prioritise paying off existing debts.”

Additionally, an economist, Prof. Chiwuike Uba, said Nigerian must learn delayed gratification strategy and clearly distinguish between necessities and luxuries.

He posited that it has reached a stage that everyone acquires some knowledge of financial concepts either formally or informally.

“Seeking expert guidance from financial advisors is paramount. Collaborating with seasoned professionals can assist in customising strategies that align with one’s financial objectives within the dynamic Nigerian economic environment,” he submitted.

And amid growing food inflation, Uba suggested, “It is imperative for every citizen to consider engaging in subsistence farming to ensure the provision of adequate food for self and family members.”

Digitisation, Good Governance Pathway to Economic Growth, Says Asalu

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Quomdo Systems Africa, Oluwole Asalu has reiterated the potential of digitisation, emphasising its importance beyond sectors, to impacting governance, transparency, and accountability. He stated that digital transformation was becoming synonymous with good governance, unlocking new efficiencies, and citizen engagement in ways that were previously unattainable.

Asalu during an engagement with the media in Lagos, recently further called for the setting up of new standards for digital governance, to drive economic growth and enhance public trust.

He said the government’s efforts must be tailored towards strategic investments, supportive policies, and inclusivity.

“Nigeria’s journey to better governance is significantly enhanced through digitalisation. Citizens often face lengthy processes and limited access to essential public services, particularly in rural areas.

“Digitalisation can shift Nigeria’s public service from a reactive model to one that is proactive, accessible, and, above all, citizen-centered”, he said.

Asalu acknowledged Nigeria’s tech prowess in sector like fintech, noting however need to enhance digital governance via substantial investment, infrastructure and digital literacy.

“Initiatives like the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and the National Identity Management System (NIMC) have improved financial transparency and provided digital IDs to millions. However, extending these benefits nationwide remains a challenge, especially in regions with limited broadband and electricity,” he asserted.

It noted that the concert which in addition to deepening the brand positioning in Nigerian market, was a demonstration of how well creative elements can blend to deliver cultural relevance.

“By integrating music, fashion, and art, Glenfiddich strengthened its position as a leader in experiential marketing, aiming to deepen consumer loyalty and expand its influence in the Nigerian market.

He stressed the need for public-private partnership and collaboration with telecommunication firms as well as for investment in renewable energy to drive broadband expansion and bridge the digital divide.

“To achieve a thriving digital governance landscape, a balanced regulatory framework that encourages innovation while protecting citizens is essential. “The Nigerian Startup Act exemplifies this balance, ensuring a supportive legal environment for digital governance. Continuous dialogue among policymakers, industry players, and civil society is crucial for adaptive regulations that support digital ambitions,” he added.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Some Popular Artistes, Record Labels’ Rift in Nigeria Music Industry

Cases of artistes falling out with their record labels have become an enduring narrative in the music world. In Nigeria, the artiste versus record label is generally not new. Disputes between artistes and record labels could be said to be as old as when the industry started getting professional recognition and have become all too common ever since. Inspired by recent fallout between YBNL boss, Olamide and his star artiste, Asake, which once again sparked conversation about the nature of an artiste and record label relationship in Nigeria, Ferdinand Ekechukwu recalls some popular battles involving record labels and artistes that rocked the music industry

D’Banj, Don Jazzy and Mo’Hits

Another popular record label saga that rocked the Nigerian music industry was that of ace Afrobeats star D’banj and his former record partner/coowner, Don Jazzy. Shortly after the break-up in 2012, D’banj joined Kanye West’s G.O.O.D Music, following an earlier “partnership between Mohits record, Goodmusic and Def Jam Records. It wasn’t going to be D’banj and Don Jazzy. I was just the first part of the deal. There was also a production deal because Kanye loved Jazzy’s sound,” according to D’banj. While Don Jazzy was of the opinion that, being ready-made ‘kings’ here in Nigeria, there was no point relocating to America where they will be underdogs. In March 2012, Don Jazzy confirmed using his Twitter account to announce that D’banj had left the group. D’banj’s reason for leaving was cited as difference in interests.

Kizz Daniels and G-Worldwide

The case of Kizz Daniel and his former label G-worldwide was prominent in the music industry. Kizz Daniel, the ‘Buga’ crooner was locked in a dispute with his former label, G-worldwide, despite the commercial success of his first 17 track album titled ‘New Era’. Allegedly, he violated his contract’s terms which he signed in 2013, limiting his ability to collaborate with other artistes till 2020 when the contract elapsed. He was even barred from performing over the festive season in 2017, prompting him to change his stage name from ‘Kiss’ to ‘Kizz’ and left the record label. In November 2017, Kizz Daniel launched his record company, Flyboy INC. The label, however, filed a new N500 million lawsuit against him. After much success with his own label he stepped down as the CEO and made his ex-boss, Emperor Geezy, Flyboy Inc.’s new CEO.

Wizkid and Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E)

Banky W from the very start believed so much in Wizkid, real name Ayodeji Balogun that he doesn’t hesitate to say it at every given opportunity when he signed him in 2009 until Wizkid became the toast of the Nigerian music industry following his hit single ‘Hola At Ur’ Boy in 2010, and two successive albums ‘Superstar’ 2011 and ‘Ayo’ 2014. He fell out with E.M.E because of the share he was given on his contract – where he was reportedly getting 25% of his earnings, while the rest was shared between the owners of E.M.E - Banky W and Tunde Demuren - and his manager. This was at a time when Wizkid was the major artiste on the label and one of the biggest acts in the country. He asked for an upward review of the sharing, an agreement was reached but not entirely favourable, and as a result, he left started his own record label, Star Boy Entertainment.

Harrysong and Five Star Music Singer/songwriter, Harrison Okiri, popularly known as Harrysong was believed to be the perfect companion for Five Star Music, owned by E-Money and his brother KC. Highly instrumental, Harrysong allegedly wrote some hit songs while with the label. However, their relationship soon went sour and ended with Harrysong being arrested by the police for alleged breach of contract. Some concerned parties and friends in the industry intervened and flared tempers seemed calmed for some time but for the ‘Reggae Blues’ crooner, it was the end of their relationship. Harrysong left Five Star Music to launch his label, Alterplate Music in 2016.

Runtown and Eric Manny Entertainment

The Nigerian media was agog with the conflict between artiste Runtown his record label, Eric Many Entertainment over breach of contract and failure to fulfill contractual obligations. Runtown had signed a two-year deal with the company in May 2014. But, after releasing his debut album, ‘Ghetto University’, was allegedly asked to extend his contract by another two years. After some moments their relationship soured, and his label accused him of signing up for and attending events behind the record company – a breach of contract. He claimed that he never got compensation for live concerts, alleged unpaid royalties, and death threats from the label. In response, the label obtained an injunction preventing him from performing or recording until the lawsuit’s resolution, even extending its injunction to a scheduled U.S. tour. Despite the injunctions, Runtown did perform in the US. After a protracted legal struggle, Runtown secured a court order allowing him to independently distribute his music.

Vector and YSG Entertainment

The lyricist Olanrewaju Ogunmefun, aka Vector was at some point at the peak of his career, featuring Jamaican singer, Movado on a song and then shot its video in New York. With a record deal with YSG, Vector felt a huge sense of relief and fulfillment that he had found a ‘backbone’ in the music industry. Soon he got into a rift with YSG Entertainment in 2014, complaining bitterly that the label was not devoting enough resources to promote his career and that he had to do many things himself. The label later accused Vector of

‘breach of contract’ and he was arrested by the police. The dispute led to Vector throwing jabs at them in records till they got an injunction restraining him from performing, recording and appearing at public events. After some back and forth, Vector eventually apologised to the company and both parties went their separate ways. In a chat years later, Vector admitted that, “To be honest with you the only reason I was taken to court was because I was popular or becoming popular. I must have mismanaged information as well. I hate the fact that it slowed down my music and I lost money. I will be stupid to tell you that I didn’t regret something that escalated to the extent that I could not make music for a year or so.”

Temmie Ovwasa and YBNL Singer Temmie Ovwasa, dubbed YBNL Princess was signed to the label. Once she made some allegations against her former record label boss, Olamide Adedeji (simply known as Olamide), claiming that he ‘messed her mind up’. During a live session on Instagram, the guitarist/singer was asked by a fan if she still keeps in touch with the YBNL boss. In response to the question, the young lady alleged that although Olamide gave a platform, he rejected all the deals and shows that she was offered. Ovwasa also alleged that her former boss stopped her from releasing songs. She claimed, “That man brought me to Lagos from Ilorin as an 18-year-old, put me on a platform then proceeded to reject every show I got, every offer I got. Stopped me from releasing songs, and kept me in his house with his wife (who spoke to me like I was garbage in front

of her friends) and kid in the name of ‘family’. Put my face on the wall, on an album where the ‘men’ were allowed to be people.

Cynthia Morgan and Northside Entertainment

With her persona and stage name Cynthia Morgan, she can be said to be that ideal female singer every record label wanted in 2013. With some good singles down the line, her record deal with Northside Entertainment surprisingly sputtered and shut down. Cynthia, who now goes by Madrina, resurfaced strongly in 2020 and shared her grievances about her time under the label, managed by Jude Okoye, senior brother to the famed duo P-Square. She claimed she was never promoted as an artiste and was only allowed to shoot music videos. She claimed that the ‘problem’ between the Okoye brothers had affected her career. Jude denied the allegations and just like a poorly scripted Nollywood movie, she added a twist when she apologised to the label. After her exit from the label, she alleged being denied using her stage name and access to her social media accounts. In a rebuttal by Jude Okoye, he refuted Cynthia Morgan’s claims, stating that she owed him money for video shoots and that she was never denied access to her accounts. He also denied ever instructing her to change her name.

May D and Square Records

Remember the hit song ‘Chop My Money’ featuring the prolific songwriter, May D, P-Square and Akon? Yes, May D wrote it and a couple of other songs for the label owned by R&B duo, P-Sqare. Shortly after leaving Square Records in 2012 May D took to social media, claiming he lived under unbearable conditions while signed with the P-Square brothers. Reminiscing on how he started with them, before the fallout, he said, “When I was with Square Records, everything was going really smooth. Everything was nice. The songs were good, top-notch, hits. The only thing that happened was when we decided to turn it into a real business, structure it…Then the contract P came up, from there, everything started going left.” The brothers defended their stance, explaining that they signed artistes to give back to society but encountered issues when May D wanted to become a part of P-Square, a brand that had taken years to build.

Skales and Baseline Music

After Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E) refused to renew his contract, Skales who was formerly signed alongside Wizkid, found a new home in Baseline Entertainment. He entered into a well-publicised recording contract with the label in 2014 but about two years later, the relationship turned awry. The label accused the artiste and his manager of fraud, leading to their arrest in 2016. A deal was later reached and Skales continued with the label but with a new management.

Humblesmith and N-Tyze Entertainment

Another artiste on the list is Humblesmith. Born Ekenedilichukwu Ijemba, the singer ruled the airwaves with his single Osinachi, one that forced Davido to ask for collaboration that eventually led to the remix of the song featuring him and Phyno. He was said to have had a fall out with his then boss, Bob Kelly Ovie Williams, prompting him to announce his exit from N-Tyze, laying the reasons for leaving the label on the premise of improper documentation and mismanagement of funds.

Olamide and Asake

Adewale Adeniyi: Ushering New Era at Nigeria Customs

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) under Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has undergone rebirth and transformation in terms of efficiency and trade facilitation.

Like many agencies of the federal government, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in the last few years lost focus and needed massive reforms. There were reports of sundry misbehavior by men of the NCS.

As part of his effort to rebuild the Nigerian economy, the government of President Bola Tinubu wanted a Customs service that would contribute massively in terms of not just revenue generation but trade facilitation. So, on July 18, 2023, President Tinubu approved the appointment of Adeniyi as the Ag. Comptroller General of the NCS. About two months after, the President via a letter issued by the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), announced the confirmation of Adeniyi as the CG, effect from October 19, 2023.

Adeniyi’s appointment was seen as a major move to resuscitate the service after several years of inept leadership.

Adeniyi grew through the ranks across different commands and possesses years of experience in customs administration covering strategic and operational responsibilities. He has a deep understanding of the complex and constantly evolving international trade landscape.

He has strong command of Customs regulations, laws, and procedures as well as the ability to navigate and adapt to changing policies and regulations. He has demonstrated excellent communication and leadership skills responsible for leading teams of customs officials, working closely with stakeholders across a variety of industries.

Adeniyi built strong relationships with stakeholders and collaborated effectively to ensure efficient and effective movement of goods across borders, over the course of his career. He has a keen eye for details and ability to identify potential risks and areas of non-compliance. This is evident in effective risk management strategies, guidance and support developed and implemented for his teams to ensure that all customs procedures are followed accurately and efficiently.

That was why Adeniyi, hit the ground running, as he left no one in doubt that he was very conscious of the arduous and enormous task of repositioning and refocusing the already balkanised service.

This resulted in a significant increase in the revenue of N5.7 trillion collected by the Customs as of Tuesday, 12 November 2024.

Adeniyi has also expressed optimism about the service’s capacity to achieve more for the economy.

“Our strategic engagements and collaborative approaches have yielded remarkable results across our core statutory responsibilities. I am pleased to announce that, as of 12 November 2024 at exactly 13:10 Hrs, the NCS hit its 2024

revenue target of NGN 5.07tn, collecting NGN5.079tn with more than a month remaining in the fiscal year,” Adeniyi said.

The Comptroller General has also within a short period of time, through the instrumentality of synergy, substantially cleared several of the illegal checkpoints on the Lagos-Abidjan trade corridor, which had before now, constituted a serious hindrance to the free flow of legitimate trade. The Customs management is currently optimising implementation of the Nigeria Customs Service Trade Modernisation Project TMP, which is aimed at further promoting trade facilitation. When fully operational, the project would enhance a unified Customs management system, trade portal, and cargo release system. These come alongside other automation services such as big data and artificial intelligence AI, integration and document management system, as well as transition and handbook, which covers technology upgrades and enhanced capacity building. The project, which has received a major boost in the last eight months, has severally been identified as a milestone, as it highlights the significance of digitisation for transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness of port operations.

The Tin Can Command of the NCS under the leadership of Comptroller Dera Nnadi was recently renovated which also attracted Adeniyi’s applause. He also praised efforts of the stakeholders who supported the project and promised that the Customs service is willing to expand the frontier of collaboration with them.

Adeniyi confessed that the magnitude of the renovated complex exceeded expectations as he had thought the project would only be a few touches of repainting of the building.

“A well-maintained office complex ensures that we continue to provide exceptional service and achieve greater results in our core functions of revenue generation and trade facilitation. It is important to note that our work here at Tin Can Island Port goes beyond infrastructure; we are deeply committed to the economic growth of Nigeria.

“In 2024, under the leadership and guidance of the Comptroller General of Customs, our Command has made remarkable strides in revenue generation. We are proud to announce that for the first time in history, Tincan Island Port has generated over N1, 125,744,318,049.60 (One trillion, One Hundred and Twenty Five Billion, Seven Hundred and Forty-Four Million, Three Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, Forty Nine Naira Sixty Kobo) in revenue—an exceptional feat that highlights the dedication and hard work of our officers.

“This achievement is a significant leap from the N639,665,622,978.55 (Six Hundred and Thirty Nine Billion, Six Hundred and Sixty Five Million, Six Hundred and Twenty Two Thousand, Nine Hundred and Seventy Eight Naira, Fifty Five Kobo) collected as at November 2023. The success recorded in our revenue drive reflects not only the diligence of our officers but also the collaborative efforts with other stakeholders,”

the CG added.

In addition, Adeniyi has remained focused on safeguarding the nation’s borders against economic sabotage while boosting revenue and facilitating seamless trade relations between importers and exporters, ultimately fostering economic growth and stability for Nigeria. He has also utilised his exceptional acumen and strategic insight to elevate this crucial law enforcement agency.

Indeed, Adeniyi strongly believes that for the customs service to function optimally, it must not only focus on revenue generation but also strive to portray Nigeria positively on the global stage. To that end, he has streamlined the cargo release and evaluation processes through cutting-edge technology, significantly reducing the bureaucratic red tape that plagued the service. Equally, he has equipped all commands and zones, preparing them to combat both internal and external corruption. Smugglers, in particular, now view him as a formidable obstacle.

In a resolute effort to protect Nigeria’s agricultural sector, Adeniyi has strategically assigned capable personnel to the nation’s borders, issuing a stringent directive that anyone attempting to undermine the Nigerian economy is seen as an enemy and will face no leniency. This has resulted in tighter border security and has enabled local producers to flourish, attracting increased investment in vital sectors, especially agriculture.

That is why all stakeholders must continue to support the NCS under the leadership of Adeniyi, for it to achieve its mandate and support the federal government’s revenue drive.

FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu parading suspected scavengers and recovered manhole covers at a press briefing at the Police Command Headquarters, Abuja..... recently

Assitance Inspector General of Police Zone 2 Adegoke Fayoade (right) and Chairman Safron Hotel, Bayo Fatusin during the retirement party for DIG Abiodun Alabi in Lagos...recently

MD/CEO, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mr. Bello Hassan, OON (2nd lelft) and DG, Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adebowale Adedokun discussing a point while Executive Director (Operations) NDIC, Mr. Mustapha Ibrahim (1st right) and Director, Procurement & Management Services,

Mr Hakeem Bakare listen at opening ceremony of 2025 Retreat for Senior Management and Executive Staff of NDIC in collaboration with the BPP themed: Developing Innovative Strategies for Effective Procurement and Financial Management in Kano, yesterday.

L-R; Chef; Agabus Agboye; Channel Manager; Frieslandcampina WAMCO; Ayobami Ahmed; Participating Customer; Omoyeni Oladele; and Brand Manager; Peak; Olumide Olaokun during a consumer reward session at the peak breakfast cafe held in Mushin Market Lagos…. recently

Donatus Eleko

Adeniyi

Tinubu’s Commendable Strides in National Security

Afakriya Aduwa Gadzama

The various sectors of the National Security are parts of the National Security establishment that are appreciated by the generality of Nigerians. This is despite attempts to sabotage the country and the people at the most trying times. It will be recalled that the military, police and the security services have gallantly saved the country from terrible National security calamities since the colonial days. The last two decades is a period that has been characterized by some political upheavals that nearly sabotage the existence of the country.

Security analysts have observed that the challenges of leadership is amongst other things the bane of National Security. The inability of various security agencies to deal with various security challenges that have besieged the country has been attributed to the caliber of those in leadership positions of such organisations.

At the centre of failures witnessed are the caliber of leadership of the many security organizations. Without doubt, the caliber of those in leadership positions are responsible for nearly all failures witnessed. Incompetent leaders have contributed to the dilemma of the various security organisations and the persistence of several security threats in the country. This is why recent changes of those in leadership positions are hailed by all.

As previously noted, the emergence of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu has ushered in personnel with unflinching loyalty and leadership qualities. For example, contrary to what is obtained in the past, the country now has Service Chiefs that were appointed on the basis of their character, competence and merit. The appointment of Chief of Defence Staff for example is widely cited as a worthy example. So are the appointment of Chief of Army Staff, the Inspector General of Police and the Director General State Security Service. The appointments of the various Service Chiefs have been hailed by all as strategic measures responsible for successes so far made by the present Government in National Security. The appointment of the present Chief of Army Staff have been noted as one appointment that has led to rest suspicions and fears by many in the military and the country. Many in the army have noted that the appointment of General Christopher Musa has restored the confidence of all ranks within the military and has singularly given hope of dealing with the multitude of security challenges

that have besiege the country.

A Security Chief has observed that the appointment of Chief of General Staff is one appointment by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu GCFR that has restored a major principle in Nigeria Military. Majority in the Military has confirmed that the appointment of Gen. Christopher Musa is one appointment by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu that has elicited widespread support from all ranks in the Army. Beyond this is, the support from all parts of the country that the appointment has elicited.

Also, very important is the appointment of the current Director General State Security Service. Without doubt the appointment of the Director General has restored confidence in the intelligence sector. Some elements in the country’s security establishment have observed that the competence and determination the appointment has brought into the security sector is unprecedented. There are reports that the appointment is one reason that has contributed to the successes so far recorded by the security sector under the present Government. There has also been observations that the role of the present Director General State Security Service is singularly responsible for the successes recorded by the various security organisations in the country. Many have observed that the various security organizations could not have achieved much

without the role being played by the present Director General SSS.

As noted by experienced security practitioners not much could have been achieved without having the required intelligence and sharing of actionable intelligence. It is important to note that the present Director General SSS has come with a wealth of determination and inspiration to change the state of things in National Security.

A very commendable approach by the current security Chiefs especially actions being taken by the Director General State Security Service and Chief of Army Staff is the sharing of available intelligence and prompt actions being taken on sectarian security issues.

An example of this is the handling of the operations against Lukurawa insurgence group in the North West. It is important to note that plans by the group have been promptly being nipped in the bud by the military and security services. The other commendable action by the military and security agencies is limiting the group to areas it has infiltrated in. This is the reason the group has been confined to enclaves in the North West.

As noted earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff personally led the surveillance and operational actions against the group in Kebbi and Sokoto States. At the moment static monitoring is on in States the group has infiltrated. The other related area of commendable operation of the security organisations is the decisive actions being taken against remnants of insurgents previously dispersed in the North East, North Central and North West. The military and security forces have been able to decimate the remnants of the insurgents and bandits previously dispersed.

A professional colleague has observed that the process of rebuilding capacity and confidence of those fighting miscreants in the country is one area general Christopher Musa has so far built on.

The preempting and stopping of attacks on communities in parts of the country in the last three years is the other security threat the military and security forces should be commended for. Before the appointment of the present set of Service Chiefs, communities in Kaduna State, Plateau, Taraba, Kebbi, Katsina and Benue States were consistently attacked and displaced by people suspected to be lawless herdsmen.

Obasanjo’s Unstatesmanlike Stance on NNPC

Yemi Adegoke

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo recently, launched a scathing attack on the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the management of NNPC. The announcement of the rehabilitation and operationalisation of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries drew the ire of the former President. He was unsparing in his vitriolic attack going as far as invoking the spirit of the gods to reinforce his weighty allegations. Since Obasanjo left office in 2007 at the expiration of his tenure and the failure of his desperate attempt to manipulate the constitution and transform into a life President, he has remained a permanent fixture in the country’s politics; cast in the mold of a statesman. The former President has from time to time, lampooned policies of government and brawled with various administrations that succeeded him and released damning letters to boot.

The high moral ground Obasanjo seeks to appropriate for himself in many of his political battles has so far remained an illusory pursuit because most of his incendiary commentaries were heavily weighted in politics. Yet, it is his inalienable right to aspire to be a respected statesman. After all, he loves our country immeasurably and has served it to the best of his ability. This rarified position of consequence and responsibility however demands the highest ethical standards; the pronouncement of a statesman matters, it carries weight and must in essence, be founded on facts and so accurate that each time he speaks, the society listens. American scholar and historian, Dr. J. Rufus Fears posited that a statesman must possess four qualities: a bedrock of principles, a moral compass, a vision and the ability to build a consensus to achieve that vision. It is not for me to judge if the former President has measured up to these qualities. Nigerians are more than capable of making informed judgements. Of critical importance however is that as a democratically elected President between 1999 and 2007, Obasanjo inherited refineries that were in deplorable condition and had the opportunity to fix them. By in his own account as President, he sought external help to rehabilitate and manage the

refineries but faced resistance.

In other words, he failed and handed over moribund refineries to Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, his predecessor in office. A book entitled, ‘Too Good to Die: Third Term and the Myth of the Indispensable Man in Africa.’ authored by Prof. Chidi Odinkalu and Ayisha Osori sheds a penetrating shaft of light into the extent of the former President’s control of the NNPC as President and his failure to turn the refineries around for the benefit of the country.

According to the book, while serving as Minister of Petroleum Resources, Obasanjo ran the affairs of NNPC as a sole administrator; he never discussed the activities of the corporation with government officials until his last days in office.

The authors averred that from 1999 to 2007, the former President made himself the Minister in full control of the country’s petroleum sector until January 2007 when he relinquished the position. The only official he had in a similar capacity was Edmund Daukoru, his Presidential Adviser on Petroleum and Energy whom he later appointed Minister of State for Petroleum Resources in 2005.

The book further revealed that even in the twilight of his administration, Obasanjo secured approval for all his dealings as Petroleum Minister in one fell swoop during one of the last meetings of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

The authors wrote, “In one of the last working sessions of the cabinet in May 2007, Obasanjo required the cabinet to give retrospective approval to all the measures he had taken over the last eight years in which he acted as sole administrator of Nigeria’s oil industry.

“Cabinet duly obliged him after recording Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s objection. For this purpose, each Minister received his share of the documents they were required to approve in a Ghana-Must-Go bag.”

Seventeen years after he left office and after several years of failed promises, the Tinubu administration is succeeding where previous administrations failed. The Port Harcourt and Warri refineries in the last stages of full rehabilitation and are currently in operation. Obasanjo’s scathing statement to the contrary, has cast doubt on the veracity of government’s announcement and the validation by various regulators within the energy sector

and journalists who toured both facilities. Instructively, NNPC, the company at the centre of this significant achievement and swirling controversy has invited the ex-President for on the inspection of both facilities whereupon Obasanjo refused this critical invitation which has the capacity to lay to rest, all the doubts raised about the current state of the refineries. The country for good measure, is waiting with baited breath for the truth regarding the state of the refineries and it would be a profound mistake for Obasanjo to turn down the opportunity to expose what he believes to be government’s disingenuity on this important issue of both national and existential consequence. Words do matter and the words of a statesman carries a lot of weight and matter a lot more. Having disparaged the government on the issue of the refineries, a golden opportunity has presented itself in the form of the invitation by NNPC for him to nail the coffin of government by exposing the ‘lies’; Obasanjo’s refusal to face the truth, for that is what his swift rejection of the NNPC invitation represents is an anticlimax, an infamous meltdown of a frightened statesman. In the national interest, I urge him to accept the challenge from the NNPC; the stakes are incredibly high precisely because the health of our economy and the wellbeing of Nigerians depend on the workability of the refineries. For decades, the resuscitation of the refineries has remained a pipe dream which had brought extreme hardship on citizens, unleashed economic downturn and held in abeyance, the unfurling of the great Nigerian possibility.

The landmark achievement recorded by the current administration and the present management of the NNPC in bringing the refineries back to life is a significant movement forward in the nation’s quest for energy security. It has the transformative capacity to propel the country’s economy on the path of shared prosperity. By declining the invitation of NNPC over the minor issue of diplomatese or lack of it, the former President has exhibited unpardonable arrogance and total lack of appreciation of the significance of the moment and gravity of the issue in matter. Statesman hold themselves in subjection to the supremacy of the collective interest; they are not consumed by egoistical predilection. Several critical factors make Obasanjo’s tour of the refineries

inevitable. His withering attack on the current administration and management of NNPC in the handling of the refineries revamp constitute the demarketing of the country and the portrayal of the country and its people in bad light if it comes to light that he lied.

The contract for the Warri refinery was awarded in 1975 before Obasanjo became Head of State but was commissioned in 1978 while he was in office. In the case of Kaduna refinery, the contract was awarded in 1977 and commissioned in 1980. So, the former President should have emotional attachment to the two refineries and to some extent, lay a measure of claim for their construction.

The revamp of the refineries should naturally provoke a sense of elation in him and not the pushback his unguarded utterances seem to suggest. By promoting needless controversy which his rejection of the invitation of NNPC has been interpreted to mean, Obasanjo is promoting the erroneous idea that since he failed to resuscitate the four ailing refineries, no other president will be able to do so.

NNPC has acted in good faith by extending this invitation him. The tour of the facilities is not a rocket science, it is a practical experience which will go a long way in bringing closure to contrived conspiracy theories.

As the matter stands now, Obasanjo urgently needs to re-live the Thomas experience. Thomas was a disciple of Jesus who doubted his resurrection and was convinced, only when Jesus appeared to him and other disciples and compelled him to put his fingers and hands on various parts of his body to feel the scars of his crucifixion.

This experience is imbued with redemptive quality; the refusal of the ex-president to honour this invitation will imperil and damage his legacy. It is foolhardy to play footsie with the interest of a country. For too long, Obasanjo’s many unfinished battles have left the country in the throes of dissatisfaction. This time around, Nigerians should rise up with one voice to demand a level of responsibility from the former President so that our leaders, going forward, will subsequently speak from the standpoint of facts and not mischief.

Tinubu

•Tourism •Arts&Culture

Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort: Attracting Tourists to Ekiti

in Ekiti State

On a clement Friday, we assembled early at the state-of-art head office of Cavista Holdings in Illupeju area of Lagos, where we boarded a 24-seater Coaster bus that took us on a familiarisation trip to Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, nestled within Ikogosi town in Ekiti West Local Government Area of Ekiti State. Apart from interesting sights along the road from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun to Ekiti States, the trip was fun as Ada and Uche, staff of Cavista, intermittently cracked jokes and recalled unique things about the resort. Everybody in the bus was eager to experience this newly upgraded resort.

As we approached Ekiti from Ile-Ife axis passing through Afe Babalola University, different forms and sizes of hills surfaced from thick green vegetations. The name Ekiti, is derived from hills. When we entered Ikogosi, it was a sleepy and serene town with people moving about happily. The country home of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, was visible from the main road which is a walking distance to Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.

On arrival at the resort, we were cleared by security at the entrance gate. The whole landscape was green and surrounded by hills. We were received by Mr. Lanre Balogun, the Managing Director of Glocient Hospitality Limited, together with other senior management. Glocient, a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings is managing Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement with the Ekiti State Government. Staff of the resort later took us to different assigned rooms to refresh and later returned to the restaurant for dinner. Orders for food and drinks were taken by neatly dressed male and female staff. Included in the menu was pounded yam, one of the favourite delicacies served with egusi or bitter leaf soup. It’s a popular delicacy in Ekiti.

Balogun later explained that Ikogosi which used to be described as “dead” has completely been revamped since Glocient took over in December 2022.

“When we came here, you must have the passion, you must have the zeal, and most importantly, you must have the understanding of the business. That is the most important. And our approach in making this place a success, you know, we have what we call SLAM, which is sell, leadership, alignment of strategy, and management of cost. Management of cost in the Cavista Holdings strategy is the most important, because you have to manage cost. So, everything you are seeing here was done by ourselves, no contractors involved. The rooms you stayed in were done locally. We got the local furniture people, the local artisans, the tilers, and the plumbers. But with experience, these are people that did other international brands that you see in Lagos,” Balogun said.

“We did everything ourselves when we came here. I can boldly tell you that, it wasn’t properly aligned. The alignment you are seeing in the room where you have the media wall, and the TV wall, that was not where it was before. There was a window in that place. But, you know, from the hospitality experience, you must sleep. And your bed, your media wall must align directly to how you are sleeping. You can’t sleep this way. And your TV is that way. So, you’re not comfortable. So, all that we have to bring in our experience to design that.

“Experience and know-how was what brought us here and within eight months, we were able to complete 60 rooms. This place was completely dead when we came in. You couldn’t stay here for one hour. This place you are is where bats converged. There was no roof. The roof was falling off. It was dark. We couldn’t even enter. And even the leadership of the state, when they got in here, they were shocked. They were shocked about what they saw but we have been able to turn it around within the shortest time. And the resources we put in here, from what you are seeing, it’s bigger than what we actually spent because of our experience and how we’re able to run and manage the projects. So, principally it’s the knowledge and the zeal and passion for this business. So, now we brought it back. It’s now known all over the world. We have guests coming in from all over the world to visit Ikogosi. Even when we go to markets to tell people about Ikogosi, people tell us Ikgosi cannot be this. We had that challenge when we go to Abuja and other places because they don’t believe that Nigerians can transform businesses,” he added.

He described the springs as major selling point for the resort. “When you come to the

spring, Ikogosi has the only warm and cold springs in the world. They both flow side by side and they maintain their thermal properties. For you to experience this, we tell our tourists, take off your shoes and use your bare feet. We have this warm spring coming this way and we have the cold spring coming the other way. All in the same area. So, they meet at a point. We encourage you to take off your shoes. You walk from the warm spring and you go to the cold. The cold is like water coming from a dispenser. You experience it. By the way, the water you use in your room also comes directly from the spring. The swimming pool is also a thermal pool. The water comes directly from the spring.

“Now, I would like to add that we recognise that this is a very special place and so we must respect and uphold the culture as much as possible. Before we did anything, we had to see the custodians of this town to tell them, this is what we want to do. Eighty per cent of our staff are from the community. They tell you, ‘we are grateful you transformed our economy but the way it is, is the way it has been since our forefathers got here. Do not touch what you have there. You can make it clean but the way it has been, keep it that way’. But if you want to experience it, you can walk and feel it. Also, take the water because the history we have here is that people that are looking for children, when they take the warm path of the spring, they believe that it makes them to be fertile.

“From what we see, we had women that come to say ‘thank you’ to the spring. That’s what they believe and it works. So people don’t take any water if it’s not the spring water. That is why

we have channelled water to the town. So this water in town, it’s directly from the spring. But you can experience it, feel it, up to how deep you want to go.”

Speaking further on facilities, Balogun said “First things first, the standard of the room we have here was not what they ever had. The class of rooms we have here, we reclassified the rooms. The state of the spring experience you have is not what it is. We upgraded the spring experience. When you go to the spring, the state of that place was not habitable. We upgraded it to a world class position. We are still continuing with the upgrade but at the stage we are at, it can compete with any tourist attraction anywhere in the world.

The dining experience, we use QR code here now, which is obtainable worldwide. It was never in existence here. The security architecture we met on the ground was almost zero.

“For our business, if you have one security breach, it kills our business. Majority of our clients are from outside Ekiti. They come from Lagos, Abuja, Akwa Ibom, Rivers and others. Now, everybody is very security-conscious and they want to know the security arrangements we have before coming to Ikogosi. Rest assured that the security is top-notch. We have experienced hands, people that have managed security of major VIPs in this country, we’ve brought them down here to look after our security architecture.

“On the infrastructure, we’ve categorised the property into three camps. There’s camp A, on the other side where we have 32 rooms, here because it’s called Camp B, we have 43 rooms. And Camp C, which is called the Villa, has 15

rooms and a Presidential Villa.

We’ve invested a lot in upgrading the landscape. The landscape you see here is not what we used to think. So we made it habitable.

“We’re having a fish pond here. If you go outside here, you see that those things, those grasses you see there were not there. We actually planted those grasses, cleared the bushes and we’re creating what we call a forest park where people come, they can meditate.

“We’ve lined the stream with hard core rocks to provide a befitting outline to the stream. We have park benches, pool and people come there to meditate and relax. You know we are tired of the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. You want a serene environment, a peaceful environment to sit.

“Arrangements like this are being made all over the resort for families, for media people like you that need your quiet time to refresh. So that is what we are doing from here to the gates, to the villa. And a boardwalk is being created from here, from the reception because we are building a new reception here. Construction work is not concluded yet. In fact, this restaurant you’re seeing, by the time you come in December, it will be totally

“Thetransformed. level we are going to is not this level. But we needed a decent place for people to dine and eat. Those that have been here before are already blown away by what we have on ground.

“From our leadership standard, our chairman will tell us, you are not even 10 per cent of where I want you to be. So imagine an investor telling you, yes, you are happy but this is just 10 per cent into our destination. Conceptualise that and imagine where we are going.”

The following day at 8a.m. some Indian nationals arrived Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort just as we were getting set to tour the facilities. We learnt other foreign nationals also lodged at the resort.

The tour guide, High Chief Ayo Ademuluwa, Cavista Community Engagement Manager who wrote a book on Ikogosi, gave a brief history of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.

Ademuluwa who acknowledged that Ikogosi is full of tourism sites, said Ikogosi means “the last turning on the left.” Another version has it that nine high chiefs who were brothers during the inter tribal wars discovered that the ridge behind the spring is a town called Ogotun, the camp on the right called Oguotun and the camp on flip became Ikogosun. Iko means an emissary or messenger, Ogu means war and Osi means left. Ademuluwa who took us round state-of-art facilities such as halls for meetings, conferences, weddings, parties, gym, shopping centre and Presidential Villa. There are also facilities for hill-biking, hike trails, and camping. Along the road leading to the Presidential Villa, he showed us a zoo overgrown by grasses abandoned in 1987 after lions there killed the feeder.

Within same vicinity, Ruth, a tour guide at the warm and cold springs, showed us a tree with grooves inside dating over 700 years. According to her, the founders of Ikogosi were said to have migrated from Ile-Ife in Osun State. The guide said there is 24-hour surveillance to prevent intruders from desecrating the cherished site, adding that it’s a taboo for women on their menstrual periods to visit the place. The guide also said the warm and cold springs are believed to have fertility potency for women seeking for babies. Apart from supplying water to the swimming pool close by, she said the warm and cold springs have therapeutic particles for healing certain illnesses. After taking us round the Presidential Villa, we were taken to Arinta Waterfalls located at Ipole Iloro, a few minutes from Ikogosi Warm Springs. Later in the evening, Ademuluwa took us to the palace of regent of Ikogosi community, Princess Omobola Adepoju, nee Olorunisola, who returned from Ibadan where she resided after the demise of her father, the Kabeyesi who transitioned at the age of 97. She described the relationship between her community and new managers of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort as cordial, noting that 75-80 per cent of their staff were youths from Ikogosi. According to her, crime has greatly reduced since the youths were given employment by Cavista.

Other tourist sites in Ikogosi according to Ademuluwa “is a sacred water in Erin-Ayonigba where fishes come out to eat only bread, at Igbarado there is a little spring that has creatures that look like fingerlings but when you scoop them they are shrimps.

Arinta waterfalls

warm and Cold Springs flowing side by side at Ikogosi resort

Charles Ajunwa writes about his experience from his visit to the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort

FeATureS

Lakatabu: Triumph of Storytelling, Masterpiece of Cinematic Brilliance

Adedayo Adejobi

In the captivating crime thriller Lakatabu, acclaimed actor and director Odunlade Adekola and award-winning cinematographer Sanjo Adegoke have showcased their unmatched mastery of cinematography and storytelling, weaving a powerful narrative that blends crime, mysticism, and gripping social commentary.

This film, a testament to his creative prowess, is a perfect fusion of action, drama, and cultural depth that leaves a lasting impact on its audience. With his keen eye for detail and impeccable directorial skill, Adekola has created a film that pulses with energy, tension, and thought-provoking reflections on social insecurity.

At the heart of Lakatabu is the enigmatic and formidable character of Lakatabu, portrayed by Adekola himself. A fearsome and mysterious criminal, Lakatabu commands attention from the moment he steps onto the screen; his presence is both mesmerising and terrifying. Armed with mystical powers, Lakatabu and his gang execute daring, high-stakes operations that confound the public and law enforcement. However, the depth that Adekola infuses into him sets this character apart. His vulnerability, born from betrayal and loss, adds a fascinating layer to his otherwise stoic and ruthless persona.

The film’s plot, while rooted in familiar tropes of crime thrillers, takes a bold step in addressing the profound issues of societal instability, corruption, and betrayal. Adekola, alongside co-writer Akorede Ibrahim, explores how unchecked power— both within the government and law enforcement—can give rise to chaos. Through Lakatabu’s betrayal by the very society he once helped shape, Lakatabu underscores the devastating consequences of corruption. The character’s journey, driven by vengeance and a thirst for justice, serves as an allegory for the struggles faced by many in today’s society, making the film not just an entertaining thriller but a poignant social commentary.

Visually, Lakatabu is a cinematic feast. Adekola’s direction and cinematographer, Sanjo Adegoke, ensure that every shot is purposeful, beautifully composed, and rich in detail. The contrast between the serene community and the chaotic world Lakatabu creates is starkly portrayed through brilliant cinematography, using light and shadow to underscore the film’s themes of duality. The use of colour is particularly striking, with the vibrant hues of the community’s peaceful moments giving way to the darker,

more ominous tones of Lakatabu’s reign. The special effects, though subtle, are effectively used to enhance the mysticism surrounding the character, drawing the audience deeper into the world Adekola has created.

The film’s production design is another triumph, with sets and costumes that authentically represent the Yoruba culture. Every detail, from the props to the characters’ attire, is carefully considered, immersing the viewer in a world that feels both grounded and larger than life. The authenticity of the film’s visual elements further elevates its storytelling, making it a rich and engaging experience.

Despite the film’s reliance on some familiar plot structures, Lakatabu never feels derivative. Instead, it takes these conventions and breathes new life into them, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. Adekola’s character-driven narrative keeps the audience hooked, with a range of compelling performances that add depth to the story. Adunni Ade, in her role as an unexpected hero, delivers a powerful performance, her vulnerability and determination shining through in key moments. Lateef Adedimeji also brings a memorable intensity to his role, particularly in his initial scenes where he commands the screen with gravitas.

A notable highlight of the film is the seamless blending of action and comedy. Adekola, a director known for his ability to balance these two elements, expertly navigates the tonal shifts throughout Lakatabu. The humour, though at times whimsical, never undermines the film’s emotional gravity, instead offering moments of levity that enhance the overall viewing experience. The introduction of Broda Shaggi as a streetwise character adds an entertaining layer, blending comedy with the film’s more intense themes in a way that feels natural rather than forced.

Lakatabu also stands out for its commitment to exploring the emotional undercurrents of its characters. Through poignant flashbacks, we are given a glimpse into Lakatabu’s troubled past, including his love-hate relationship with the Babalawo who empowers him. These moments of reflection not only provide motivation for the character but also invite the audience to empathise with his complex journey.

While the film does rely on some established tropes of the genre, it never feels stale or predictable. Adekola’s direction keeps the story dynamic and engaging, offering surprising twists and emotional depth that ensure the film resonates long after the credits roll. The final resolution, while familiar in its outcome, carries with it a sense of catharsis, offering a satisfying conclusion to Lakatabu’s harrowing tale.

In conclusion, Lakatabu is a cinematic triumph that showcases Odunlade Adekola’s brilliance as both an actor and a director. The film is a thrilling blend of action, mysticism, and social commentary, brought to life with stunning visuals, powerful performances, and a compelling narrative. While it draws on familiar elements, Adekola infuses it with enough originality and depth to make it a standout in the genre. Lakatabu is a must-watch for anyone seeking an exhilarating, thought-provoking cinematic experience that not only entertains but also sparks important conversations about the state of society.

Menstrual Hygiene: Foundation Splashes N50m on Female Students in Imo

Blessing Ibunge

Menstruation is a natural biological process that signifies a healthy reproductive system. It is a monthly biological process where the uterus sheds its lining, accompanied by menstruation bleeding, usually lasting three to seven days. It is part of the reproductive cycle and typically begins between the ages of 10 - 15 years.

It has been observed that proper menstrual hygiene reduces risk of infections such as reproductive tract infections which can lead to infertility. It also reduces discomfort and helps girls stay comfortable during periods. Good menstrual hygiene has a positive impact on the overall sexual and reproductive health.

The Vestal Egbukole Foundation (VEF): Caring for the Girls Child Initiative, conceived in memory of Late Ugoeze (Lady) Vestal C. Egbukole in 2019, was founded to alleviate poverty in rural communities by inspiring and economically empowering women, enabling them to be transformational instruments in their homes and communities.

The foundation which was founded by Ikenna Egbukole, alongside Eze Mitchell Egbukole Foundation (EMEF) has continued to empower youths and transform lives, especially across Imo State.

While VEF focuses on uplifting women, EMEF champions youth entrepreneurship, having provided N5.9 million to eight beneficiaries in 2019, feeding of 2000 School Children in 2020 and an impressive N55.4million to 59 beneficiaries this year, 2024, together, these foundations demonstrate the transformative power of investing in women, youth, and communities, inspiring a future filled with possibilities.

In 2019, the Vestal Egbukole Foundation launched the Female Entrepreneurship Scheme, providing N120,000 each to 20 women to grow their businesses. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, VEF supported 100 women in Egbu with N5,000 each to ease financial hardship. Later the same year 2020, the foundation held the end-of -year support programme in Owerri North, benefiting 250 women each with N5,000 cash gifts, t-shirts, bags of rice, groundnut oil, tomato paste and beverages. By 2021, the program expanded to 600 women across the three LGAs of Owerri Federal Constituency, providing also incentives which so far demon-

strated their continued commitment to empowering women and strengthening communities.

In commemoration of the 7th year memorial of Ugoeze Vestal C. Egbukole, the Vestal Egbukole foundation provided essential feminine hygiene products and educational materials to 7,000 female students across 10 secondary schools in the Owerri zone, Imo State.

The 10 beneficiary schools in the initiative included: Akabo Girls Secondary School, Ikeduru Obazu Girls Secondary School, Mbaitolu, Egbu Girls Secondary School, Owerri North, Imo Girls Secondary School, Owerri North, Ikenegbu Girls Secondary, Owerri Municipal, Bishop Lasbrey Girls Secondary School, Owerri West, Imerienwe Girls Secondary School, Ngo Okpala, Girls Secondary School Ahiara, Ahiara Mbaise, Girls Secondary School Amuzi, Aboh Mbaise and Eziudo Girls Secondary School, Ezinne Ihitte.

It was gathered that the foundation in this year’s project, expended about N50 millin to tackle the girl children in the aforementioned schools.

The initiative which ran from December 9th to December 13th, 2024, covered all 10 selected schools over five days. Each school received support for 700 female students, with each participating student receiving: one pack of disposable sanitary pads, one pack of reusable sanitary pads, notepads and pen. The students also had medical practitioners sensitised them on hygiene and self-care.

During the programme, THISDAY gathered that Late

be neat and meticulous.

As wife of the late Eze Egbu, Michel Egbukole, the queen also had great zeal in not only the ability of women to contribute economically, she insisted that young ladies should be neat inside out, in character and abilities. When she died, her children resolved to keep her legacy running. In 2019, they floated the foundation to take on various pro-women programmes.

In their earlier information on the 2024 menstrual hygiene and other incentives programmes for the girl’s child in the State, Dr Elizbeth M. Baje, (Director General), Dr Ebere Nze, (Trustee) of the foundation, observed that access to menstrual hygiene products and education limited for many schoolgirls in the rural areas.

They expressed the believe that “A key component is a talk on menstrual hygiene, empowering girls with knowledge about their bodies and breaking taboos. This intervention addresses both the immediate and long-term needs for menstrual health management”, noting that “This will fit into the solution frame by combining the distribution of hygiene products with education on proper menstrual practices. It will ensure girls have the tools and understanding necessary to manage their periods effectively. The inclusion of both disposable and reusable pads provides immediate relief and a sustainable alternative.”

To arrive at 7000 girls in 10 all girl schools in the nine LGAs, the organisers said they selected one all-girls school from each of the LGAs in Owerri zone, with two schools from Owerri North, where their foundation is based.

“This way, we are able to reach a wide range of students. Reaching 7,000 girls significantly reduces period poverty in the target region. This intervention ensures these girls can attend school without disruptions during their periods, fostering confidence, better health practices, and higher school retention rates”

Such good examples could be scaled up to get to more girls with added education on how girls could value themselves the way Queen Vestal Egbukole did in her era.

It was gathered that the founder is keen on ensuring continuity through partnerships with local and international NGOs, government health agencies, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. “Collaborative efforts can help secure recurring funding and broaden the impact.”

Vestal Egbukole, a popularly recognised queen in Egbu area of Owerri was known to

Egbukole

Shittu: We’re Penetrating Auto Market With LSM-branded CNG-powered Buses

The Managing Director of LSM, Mr. Taiwo Shittu, speaks about his company’s manufacture of CNG- powered vehicles and his winning of the Auto Personality of the Year award of the Nigerian Auto Journalists Association. He discusses other interesting developments

TellusaboutLSM’sassembling and distribution of CNGpowered buses

For the CNG-powered buses, we are assembling in our own brand name LSM. This is a new opportunity. It was a big risk we took, but it’s a risk that is paying off because we believe in the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We knew when he said fuel subsidy was gone, the next thing would be CNG-powered vehicles. It was clear that Nigerians would not run to electric vehicles as an immediate option. Electric vehicles can only be driven by solar in this country. The high inflation has knocked off the national electricity grid to drive the EVs. You need an investment of over N300 million to have a commercial electric charging station. How many Nigerians can afford this?

Are you saying Nigeria is not ready for electric vehicles?

Nigeria is ready for EVs but we’re not yet there. But we’re there on CNG, with the government leading the initiative and abundance of natural gas. I see a lot CNG stations fast coming up. Lagos, Benin, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt and Ilorin, among others are cities where CNG refilling stations are springing up.

The CNG idea is taking shape. A trip to the South-east now costs N53,000 per person (I was told). But with N72,000 of CNG, you can almost fill the tank of a bus and drive to the East conveniently. With a mass transit CNG bus, you can take a large number of people to a 400km destination on N72,000 worth of CNG. You cannot get that anywhere. Apart from the high capacity CNG buses, our 18-seater and 11-seater will come out early

next year. Thereafter, we will move into the passenger vehicles.

Areyouplanningtogointothecoaches for long distance travel?

We missed the business in 2024. It requires adequate planning. We intend to go into it this year. It should be around September in preparation for the end of the year travels.

Wheredoyouhopetotakethecompany inthenextfiveyears?

In the next five years, I see us growing the LSM brand name to become a sought-after brand in Nigeria. We are starting off with the commercial vehicles. Already, we have the LSM-branded CNG buses, 100 per cent CNG buses, in Nigeria. Right now, we are penetrating the market with the CNG buses. We want to bring in the smaller buses - the 18-seater and 11-seater buses (korope). We have the pickup too, which is also a commercial vehicle, lined up. From experience, I can tell you that once the commercial sector has tested and found your brand worthy, it will be very easy to migrate to the passenger cars. When the commercial vehicles are doing well and there is no downtime, you are in business. By the time you bring in the passenger vehicles, it will be a walkover. One of the reasons we are coming out with the LSM brand is to immortalise our late father’s name. We see ourselves taking a big chunk of the commercial vehicle segment in Nigeria in the next five years and making the LSM a household name in Nigeria. Lanre Shittu Motors as a company is a household name already, doing other automakers brands. But we want to shift the focus to the LSM brand with high after-sale service. We had

represented a lot of brands in the past such as Mack, Yutong, Sany and JAC.

What is the relationship between Lanre Shittu Motors and the Mack truck brand in Nigeria?

We still buy spare parts from Mack to support the truck brand in Nigeria. We sold the last Mack truck in Nigeria. No other auto company aw we speak has brought any Mack truck into the country. We are still

Haulage Sector Players Urged to Scale Up Gas Useage for

Operators in the haulage sector have been urged to scale up the use of CNGpowered vehicles to reduce the emission of CO2 into the environment.

The Logistics Director of Lafarge Africa Plc., Osaze Aghatise, stated this in his keynote address, at HAULMACE 2024 held in Lagos.

HAULMACE is a platform for showcasing excellence in the haulage and logistics sub sector. Aghatise said he rephrased the theme: ‘Embracing Gas Initiative in Logistics in Nigeria’, to “scaling rather than embracing. And I think this is what this conference should really focus on. How do we scale up this gas initiative?”

He addressed three areas, which he said were, “the barriers to adoption and proposed solution areas in really adopting, embracing, scaling up, accelerating the gas initiative. But again I think one thing is more around sustainability, reducing our CO2 emissions is the right thing to do. It’s not whether or not we should do it. It’s the right thing to do. If you look at the logistics industry, the fleet that run on the road, day in day out, and the number of emissions that we promote in the environment, it will be silly of us not to make a switch, and make it quick, so that there is benefit on reducing CO2 emissions in terms of sustainability.

“On the second point, which is on cost. As business leaders, what makes sense always is to balance cost while you’re balancing on sustainability. I always say, if you do not balance both, then adoption will face more barriers. So the cost benefit is there, and we see it even in our operations today. Now, since we are aware that it makes sense from a cost point of view, it makes sense from a sustainability point of view, being responsible. So why are we not doing it? I think that’s the question or why are we not fast tracking it? Why are we not accelerating? Why are we not scaling up?”

He said the sector players still face limited supply infrastructure today to scale up. “Good enough, the government has really put in a lot of effort in terms of setting the tone, in terms of policies to ensure that this barrier is broken. But it’s still not enough, because it’s one thing for the government to set the tone, and the tone has been very clear, both with

supporting the brand. Some of my teams are in big oil and gas companies in the South-South catering to their Mack trucks. Our mission is to be one of the best auto solution providers with perfect after-sale service in the country. So we still support every brand that we have done in the past with after-sale service. That way, it will be easier for us to shift the customers to our own newer brand. It is the support they are buying now, not the brand.

CO2 Emission Reduction

see this supply cut out, what you tend to do is to quickly look inward to having your own supply internally, which is great, but for a long term, for the industry, it would not help in getting up. So this is where I believe companies should come together, you know. And I think this is a great platform that we have, on how organizations come together with the suppliers, on how best we can scale maybe, and starting with even your supply route today, how can we put together with the supplier in ensuring that we have enough supply on this route? And I think we need to start looking at the big picture than just being very myopic in the way we address this topic.”

Giving the Lafarge story around scale, he said, “So for us, we started this CNG discussion about eight years ago, and we brought in a partner. So they brought in about 10 CNG trucks. And of course, at that time, people said, Are you mad? What are you doing? This doesn’t make sense and all that, but we saw that this was the right thing to do first, because of the money and because we saw that there was a cost benefit, but at that time we couldn’t scale because of these challenges I’ve mentioned, you know, lack of infrastructure, supply, the financing models and all that. So we went back

l-r: Keynote speaker, the logistics Director of lafage, Mr osaze Aghatise; Chief operating officer, Transport Service limited, Idris Akinsanya; General Manager, operation, NNpC retail limited, Mohammad Dahiru; convener of the conference, Mr Alfred okugbeni and General Manager, logistic and Fleet, Tetracare energy Group limited, engineer Abdulmujeeb Masud at HAulMACe 2024 held in lagos… recently policies, but however, we still face the limited supply capacity in terms of infrastructure. So for me, we need to start asking why. Why are we still facing that? And I started taking dive into this, not only for this conference, but internally. When we also started scaling up, it’s more around the financing, and I’m talking from the supply side. It’s good that we have the banks here. I think the appetite of banks towards scaling has to change, and has to change quickly. “In terms of this, I don’t see any reason why financing a green initiative should be the same as financing any other initiative, there has to be a differentiation in terms of this. So I think this is one major barrier that we face today. We cannot have a generic financing model. It can’t work. It will not work. We need to have something that is completely different, that is tailored-made towards scaling this. “Partnership with organisations is also important, and when I talk about partnership, I’m talking about multinational companies who are eager, who have basically keyed in or tied into this whole initiative. You cannot stand alone as an organisation, doing your own thing and not look for partners in the supply space. So what do I mean? For example, in my company, and I believe a lot of other companies where we already

and we partnered with another company that started with about four, five brought in and 50 of these CNG trucks, and it was a big deal. But before that time, we had worked on all those gaps that we faced. But even at that, in terms of scaling, because the ambition was very aggressive, we were still nothing. If I look at over the past eight years now, what we have injected in total, but we are looking almost 801,000 trucks, and still counting, you know, injection of this gas trucks. But the problem is that we’ve had to do this internally, meaning you as a business, had to finance 100% because the uptight of the financial institution is not there yet. And this is what I’m saying. We need to move from a very generic financing model to a tailor made one. So we had to scale, with so many gas trucks and still some coming on the way, because we started seeing the benefits. Our CO2 emissions reduced drastically because we measure it in terms of cost optimization. And I can tell you from an operating point of view, CNG today gives you almost 30%, compared to your diesel operational cost reduction, and there are some other hidden costs which you don’t see. You can talk about the drivers stealing fuel and all those kind of things, but for CNG, it doesn’t happen.”

In his welcome address, the convener of Haulmace, Mr. Alfred Okugbeni said, “In 2009 we decided to start publishing the magazine, the Haulage and Logistics Magazine, because we have had an experience in Haulage transportation in Nigeria, and it was a very difficult experience. And as at the time, it became clear to us that there was need to provide a platform to showcase these issues, the challenges that we are facing in the industry at the time. So we started a Haulage and logistics magazine in 2009 and in 2014 we organized our fifth year anniversary conference at the Sheraton Hotel at Ikeja Lagos and from that conference, it was very clear to us that, apart from publishing the magazine, we needed to create a platform where we could sit down the operators and the employers and all stakeholder government functionaries and departments to look at the policies of government, the operational issues that the transporters were facing, and find a way to provide solution. We wanted to provide a platform for showcasing excellence in the haulage and logistics sub sector and that was how Haulmace was birthed.

Taiwo Shittu

‘Unknown Assassins’ Ludicrous

“I…heartily convey a profound felicitations….” Why the boyish blunder?

“Among other numerous reasons, the faces of Ebonyi people are beaming with smiles….” A rewrite: Ebonyi people are beaming. You beam with only your face and it is never with a frown! Check out the meaning of ‘beam’ for elucidation.

“…Your Excellency has shown that his administration is people centred (sic)….” Would it have been object-centred? Please avoid mechanistic and trite expressions!

“…the soon to be reconstituted (the soonto-be-reconstituted) exco would (will—it is not a probability) still accommodate those who….”

“South East battles with unknown gunmen….” Worsening insecurity in Nigeria: this fad about ‘unknown gunmen’ must stop! How do you know gunmen? Just say ‘gunmen’—this kindergartner goof should not be found in an Editorial!

“…and destroyed properties worth millions of naira in communities in….” ‘Property’ can only be inflected in real estate communication—not household items or other infrastructural elements.

“Government should also consider decentralising (decentralizing, preferably) the police to make it (them) more effective for them (take note of this curious correct entry as opposed to the preceding usage) to apprehend criminals.”

“Our black brothers in (on) other continents….”

You are welcome to stateside English: “Unknown assassins last week pulled the trigger on Imo-born US-based show biz (showbiz) promoter in Owerri.”

How on earth will assassins be known in Owerri of all places? Let it just be ‘assassins’ for reportorial purposes.

“The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Movement invites you to a 2-day annual power packed (power-packed) crusade”

“TUC, private firm partner to build 100,000 house (100,000-house) project” Or, loosely:

100,000 house projects

“Benin murder: Cop arraigned, remanded in prison” The cop would not have been remanded without being arraigned and when remanded it is in prison! So, a rewrite: Benin murder: Cop remanded

“Burial rites of (for) Oba of…begin February 10”

“Police nabs (nab) 3 robbery suspects in Ondo”

“Nigeria-China relations: The issue of oil for infrastructure (oil-for-infrastructure) deals (1)”

“Hisbah cops, hoteliers (hoteliers’) association at war in Kano”

“Maintain your culture and tradition, Igbos (Igbo) in Zamfara, (needless comma) urged”

“If you have seen him or have information on his whereabout (whereabouts), kindly call or contact the nearest police station or any office of the Federal Inland Revenue Service”

“IBM to invest $100m on (in) system development”

“JOGS 1974/1979 set elects new excos” People & Events: The school elected an executive. ‘Executives’ (excos) here will connote different groups of executives—this is different from the use of ‘officials’. Furthermore, ‘new’ is otiose! ‘Election’ means inauguration of new officials, while reelection means re-endorsement of the existing (old) officials (excos).

“...and a sense of purpose in consolidating our 120 year (120-year) heritage as a Bank that puts her (its) customers first.” No feminization of language!

“The people of Offa in Kwara State appeal to banks to re-open (reopen) their branches....”

“Our society has not yet ravenously demanded for justice for those raped.” Yank away the first redundant ‘for’!

“Lagos set to provide homes for first time (first-time) buyers”

“Advocating for specialization for estate surveyors and valuers” Just like ‘demand’, ‘advocate’ does not admit ‘for’ when used as a verb or as a gerund. Again, delete the first ‘for’.

Finally from the Back Page of THE GUARDIAN under focus: “In 2003, our public universities

were closed for five months because universities (university) lecturers employed wildcat’s measure (wildcat strike) to agitate for improved welfare conditions.”

“...on this great occasion of his 49th Birthday Anniversary” ‘Birthday’ and ‘anniversary’ cannot co-function!

From the advertorial we move to THE NATION ON SUNDAY of January 21 with five scandalous blunders: “Yet, he emerged from prison without bitterness, extending an olive branch of peace to his erstwhile oppressors and helping to lay a solid foundation for a peaceful multiracial South Africa.”

Mandela’s example: ‘Olive branch’ does not require adumbration (‘of peace’)”

“This comprises of a house in Johannesburg....” Take away ‘of’ because of its awkwardness here....

“This speaks volume (volumes) of the sheer compassion and humanity of the man.”

“In doing so, they under-develop their countries, impoverish majority (a majority) of their people....”

“The wealthy among us also have something to emulate in (from) Mandela’s generosity of spirit....”

“Afenifere leader says Yorubas (Yoruba) not opposed to conference”

“We celebrate your illustrious life, your inspiring leadership which has culminated into (in) monumental transformation of....”

“Association of Local Government (Governments) of Nigeria (ALGON) Ekiti State Chapter”

“Edo: Court remands killer cop in prison” Where else would the cop have been remanded?

“CBN said money is (was) missing from federation account (the federation account).”

Next on the line-up is THISDAY of January 10 with just three flaws: “Hope dims for Nigeria, Cameroun cross border (cross-border) oil wells exploration”

“DISCOs blame TCN over (for) power”

“Congratulations, (needless comma) Your Excellency and more grease (power) to your elbow.”

Daily Trust of January 10 takes over from THISDAY with a deluge—yes!—of wrongdoings: “Again,

2025: The Year to Beat or Be Beaten

As another whirlwind year settles into the annals of Nigerian entertainment, it’s clear that 2024 did not come to play. If anything, it reaffirmed our knack for turning our quirks into cultural currency and our chaos into global capital. It’s not for nothing they say, “Naija no dey carry last”. From the dizzying heights of Afrobeats to the unstoppable Nollywood exports, we have mastered the art of rolling with the punches and turning lemons into five-star lemonades. But where exactly are we headed in 2025? Let’s set the stage.

Music, the heartbeat of Nigerian entertainment, remained our most significant export in 2024. The triumvirate of Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido still held the fort, but newcomers like Rema, Ayra Starr, and Asake were no mere fillers. They solidified their status as heavyweights, pulling off record-breaking streaming numbers and globe-trotting tours. If the stories behind Asake’s explosive live performances and Rema’s catchy yet introspective hits taught us anything, it is that the world remains enamoured with the audacious swagger and unrelenting grind of Nigerian music stars. Even the Grammys, those once-elusive golden statuettes, now feel like family heirlooms.

Yet, it wasn’t all rosy. The tussle between art and commerce continued to be a major talking point. With accusations of payola clouding radio playlists and the stubborn rise of ‘sameness’ in Afrobeats production, the genre risks creative fatigue. Let’s not forget the growing mutters of disenchantment among core fans who want more depth, originality, and storytelling from their favourites. If 2025 is to be a watershed year for Nigerian music, it must address these cracks before they widen.

Nollywood, as ever, thrived under its dual identity - one foot in the grassroots and the other in Netflix’s glossy boardrooms. The high-budget epics of 2024 were cinematic spectacles, but who can forget the small, personal stories like ‘Gangs of Lagos’ or ‘Brotherhood’ that packed a punch in both emotional depth and box office appeal? Streaming platforms doubled down on exclusive Nigerian originals, and while not all productions struck gold, the sheer volume testified to a burgeoning ecosystem.

Yet, Nollywood’s Achilles’ heel - distribution and

piracy - remained unrelenting. Theatres outside major cities struggled, and for every film that dazzled in cinemas, there were two that ended up on pirated USB drives before their opening credits rolled. As we periscope into 2025, the battle for better financing models, intellectual property protection, and global partnerships will be key. Perhaps this is the year Nollywood finally makes a long-overdue play for an Academy Award, not with glitz but with grit.

Live events in 2024 felt like therapy for a nation perpetually on edge. From Burna Boy’s ‘Love, Damini’ tour stops electrifying Lagos and London alike, to the opulent stage designs of Tiwa Savage’s return to live music, these events underscored the power of shared experiences in uncertain times. Yet, there’s no ignoring the class divide. Ticket prices that could pass for monthly salaries raised questions about inclusivity and accessibility. Is live entertainment in Nigeria becoming a luxury experience only for the privileged few?

On a brighter note, 2025 promises more interactive, immersive live events. Technology,

Anambra PDP leadership tussle resurrects” The first and last words in the extract cannot function in the same environment.

“6 students remanded in Osun prisons for alleged illegal possession of arms” Where else would they have been remanded? In the shrine!

“Herbalist bags 14 years (years’) jail term for fraud”

“Kano to revive young farmers (farmers’) clubs in schools”

“Police arrest Zuma’s son over (for) fatal crash”

“…where three deaf and dumb bothers (boarders) are students”

“Works across all data enabled (data-enabled) feature phones” (Full-page advertisement by MTN)

“Investors’ interest shift (shifts)…”

“I won four golds as a nursing mother…” ‘The most widely-read newspaper’: four gold medals

“The privilege (privileged) class has taken over virtually everything….”

“…power show in the country is choking the common man on the street….” My own view: the man/woman in the street (also the man/woman on the street) ‘Commonness’ is implied!

“...and that these have the potential to trigger off crisis (a crisis) the end of which nobody could fathom.”

Next is a special extract from the edition under review: “Reports said no fewer than 44 people were slaughtered penultimate Tuesday night by some unknown gunmen (we can never know the gunmen—so spare readers the ‘unknown’ trite!) at Dumba village on the outskirt (outskirts) of Baga town in the Kukawa Local Government Area of the state.”

“Our members have earned the allowances by working for the money and therefore we are not begging for crump (crumbs) from government.”

“She said the motive is (was) still unknown….”

to hear a Grammy-nominated Fuji-Amapiano collabo? Similarly, Nollywood might embrace more historical narratives, capturing tales of the nation’s colourful past in gripping, dramatic strokes. And then there’s the wildcard: artificial intelligence (AI). From songwriting to script analysis, AI is poised to reshape the industry’s creative process. But Nigerians, being who we are, will likely use it to make things even juicier - perhaps a fully AI-generated Nollywood star or a viral TikTok tune written by ChatGPT? The possibilities are endless, but they’ll only succeed if creators harness this tech without losing the soul that makes Nigerian art truly unique.

notably virtual reality (VR), is beginning to seep into event production, and there’s talk of homegrown music festivals rivaling international staples like Coachella. Could a fully VR Nollywood premiere or a holographic collaboration between legends and rising stars be on the horizon? Knowing Nigeria’s penchant for outdoing itself, these speculations might not be far-fetched.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, the influence of entertainment as a socio-political tool reached new heights in 2024. Whether through Falz’s biting lyrics or the fiery, meme-worthy dialogues in Kunle Afolayan’s latest opus, our creators held a mirror to the country’s political discontent. Even the most escapist of content couldn’t escape the reality of subsidy removals and exchange rate nightmares. With an election year on the horizon, 2025 will see even more politically charged art forms. Perhaps the question isn’t whether Nigerian entertainers will speak truth to power, but whether power will finally listen.

On the subject of trends, the retro-renaissance gained traction in 2024, with highlife, Juju, and Fuji enjoying overdue revivals among Gen Z and millennials. In 2025, we expect these genres to find even greater fusion with modern styles. Who wouldn’t pay

Looking ahead, 2025 might also be the year of great deals. Record labels will scramble to outbid one another for artists, while Hollywood studios are expected to deepen their collaborations with Nollywood. Even live-event sponsorships are poised for an upgrade, with global brands showing increased interest in our market. However, creators must tread carefully; the Nigerian knack for short-term wins mustn’t sabotage long-term growth.

Ultimately, what makes the Nigerian entertainment scene so exciting - and at times exasperating - is its unpredictability. It is an industry fuelled by passion, ingenuity, and a stubborn refusal to bow to odds. If 2024 was a year of consolidation, 2025 looks to be one of bold reinvention. In a country where tomorrow is never guaranteed, the ability to dream - and create - becomes both a necessity and an act of defiance.

As Nigerians often say when discussing our perpetual state of flux, “We dey manage”. But if 2024 proved anything, it’s that mere survival is no longer enough. It’s time to stop managing and start dominating, to trade our habitual endurance for audacious innovation. Nigeria is not just a country of possibilities; it is the possibility. And if there’s one prediction worth staking on 2025, it is this: Naija will not only shock the world (again) - this time, the world might finally have to catch up with us.

rema

Ayra Starr

LET’S PAY ATTENTION TO GOVERNOR NWIFURU’S POINT

weak human capital foundations of the Nigerian state, and the dangers this poses to the future and fortunes of the Federal republic of Nigeria, remain our path to a new Nigeria.

Human capital refers to the resources embedded in a human being, comprising general knowledge, specific skills, exposure and reflexes which add value to the individual in such a way that he can make meaningful economic and other contributions to his society, or his environment. It is the quality of a nation’s human capital that defines its national character. Thus, how this capital is nurtured, by whom it is nurtured, how it is managed, and to what ends it is deployed all have grave implications for national development, national unity and national security.

While it is true that the human being is the primary resource of the nation, it is also true that he does not become an asset until he becomes a citizen. The implication of this is that a newborn child is only a “potential citizen,” to be made a substantive citizen after it has been nurtured in a home, sent to schools, taught certain norms, values and skills, tested for both character and the application of knowledge and then certified (formally and informally) to be of full value.

The home, the school, vocational training platforms and sundry agents of socialization and economic value in a society make up the “factory” used by communities, empires and modern nations to produce this commodity called “citizen”. Parents, teachers, crafts masters and leaders are the factory workers, who use their knowledge and skills to determine the quality of the “end product”.

And the factors determining the final output of a nation`s human capital factory include the following: (1) The condition of the “factory” – the home, school, societal norms, socialization and the policies, moral and role examples of leaders, (2) The capacity of the “factory workers” – parents and teachers – in terms of knowledge, contemporary relevance,

etc., (3) The quality and availability of “factory tools” – information, knowledge, skills and character, and (4) The “Quality of processing” – teaching methods, learning outcomes and grooming.

That is why “national character” is defined by the behaviour of a people, especially the signals being transmitted to them by their leaders. Adn the leaders under reference here are parents and all other agents of socialization in the society. That is why a culture of hard work, thrift, responsible human capital development and attention to personal and group development will always create a stable, prosperous and secure nation. And a culture of recklessness, consumption and debauchery will create a citizenry attuned to plundering of the commonwealth at the slightest opportunity.

A nation is only made rich or poor by its human (or national) resources, because minerals and agricultural products (natural resources) can still lead to merciless poverty, as can be seen from the story of Namibia, Zamfara, Venezuela and many other places with abundant natural resources. Japan, the United Arab Emirates and Israel, on the other hand, are examples of how developed human capital can lead to wealth, security and progress in the midst of the harshest material environment.

Thus, a nation with a can be “potentially” wealthy, and will remain so, until it develops combines human capacities with opportunities and its material endowments to create real economic and other values. If it fails to do the needful in this regard, but goes about boasting about its the massive (largely illiterate, unskilled and unhealthy) population, it will remain a possibility and nothing more.

It is important that all institutions of State are seen as “extensions” of the family. They are all designed to act in loco parentis, to guide, support, restrain, reward or punish where appropriate. Every society is essentially an ecosystem that must create, maintain and sustain its own optimal internal environment,

or homeostasis, while ensuring that it does not fall prey to other creatures in the food web around it.

In this regard, nation-states act in such a way as to ensure that no other organism creates biological equilibrium in a nearby ecosystem at their expense, or converts them to an item on their food chain, or menu. That is why skills impartation and the transmission of values indoctrination are essential ingredients for the making of a citizen. That is also why it is the duty of the state, as an organism within a determined territory, to resist all “invasive” species that may undermine its optimized ecosystem.

The case of Finland is instructive for us. It used to be a nation of five about million people, whose mainstay and major national preoccupation was agriculture. Then its leaders realized that the road to genuine, and lasting, development, and sustainable national security in the 21st century was to create a better-educated workforce and use human capital development as the main driver of national self-affirmation. Then they focused on new national values, to create a more enlightened workforce, as the best protectors of their national interests.

Today the country has the best education system in the world. It also has many internationally acclaimed technological giants and a national security network that draws more from citizenship loyalty and national consciousness than from military hardware. It is the world`s number one in science and mathematics, while the US is ranked 17th and 21st, respectively, in the same subjects, despite its Silicon Valley hype, great military might, global economic tentacles and military dominance. More baffling still is the fact that Finland spends $3000 less per pupil than the US. The country`s school system records 2% dropout rate, against America`s 25%.

It all happened because an enlightened leadership made sure that a new academic framework curriculum was created, making it mandatory for all teachers to acquire

PRESIDENT TINUBU’S VISIT TO ENUGU: A POSTSCRIPT

fundamental right accessible to every citizen. Security infrastructure was also prominent during the visit. The commissioning of the state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre and a Distress Response Squad (DRS), outfitted with 100 patrol vehicles and advanced surveillance tools, has ensured that incidents of violence and disruption are swiftly addressed. These vehicles are equipped with AI-enabled surveillance cameras capable of facial and license plate recognition, and their operations have marked a significant leap forward in safeguarding lives and properties. This comprehensive approach to security, which includes specialized police units and distress response squads, has effectively ended the previously destabilizing sit-at-home orders in the state. Since June 2024, crime rates in Enugu have dropped significantly, underscoring the effectiveness of the new security architecture. Enugu’s transformation into a secure and businessfriendly environment is critical to attracting investment and fostering economic growth.

Infrastructure development featured prominently in the Governor’s agenda, with the commissioning of 90 urban roads across Enugu City, the Enugu International Conference Centre and the ongoing construction of four ultra-modern transport hubs, exemplifies the government’s commitment to improving mobility and reducing congestion. Inspired by models from Singapore and Dubai, these transport infrastructure projects are designed to enhance connectivity and support sustainable urban growth. For example, the Gariki Central Station project, which is now 80% complete, is expected to handle over 200,000 passengers daily upon completion. These projects are critical to enhancing intra-state connectivity, reducing travel time, and stimulating local commerce.

Water supply has been another cornerstone of Mbah’s developmental efforts. True to his campaign promise, the Governor delivered the 9th Mile 24/7 Water Scheme on November 25th, 2023 – 180 days after his inauguration. This project ramped up daily water production from a sporadic 2 million litres to 120 million litres—representing a

5,900% increase in capacity. Recognizing the challenges of ageing infrastructure, the administration has embarked on an extensive overhaul of water distribution systems, including replacing obsolete asbestos pipes with modern ductile iron alternatives. To modernize the city’s water infrastructure, the administration secured a $100 million Austrian investment for the Sustainable Last Mile Connectivity and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project, replacing outdated asbestos pipes with durable ductile iron alternatives. This project not only enhances water accessibility but also mitigates the health risks associated with ageing infrastructure, ensuring clean and safe water for all residents.

Governor Mbah’s fiscal strategy reflects a

Masters degrees. Knowledge upgrade was facilitated in every way possible, with an eye on excellence. When they realized that that three teachers per class would give better learning outcomes, they went ahead to train more teachers, until they met the target of three teachers per class. Of the three teachers in every class, two teachers focused on instruction while the third focused on students who are struggling with learning challenges.

This is real!

It was not luck, the burying of live cows, speaking in tongues, the laying of hands, weekend-long night vigils in prayer houses or holy water and the carrying of religious objects that made it happen for Finland, no! It is their efforts, not sacrifice to their ancestors, that has made their classrooms a very relaxed learning environment, with the average student speaking four languages. It was also not a special task force, or a yearly summit on how to move education forward, that got all parents involved in enforcing a national culture that values education and reward for meaningful engagement.

We are therefore left with these inevitable challenges, with regard to developing human capital for national security in Nigeria today, which Nwifuru’s remarks brought to the fore, namely: (1) We do need enough responsible parents, knowledgeable teachers and nationalistic leaders, (2) We need proper socialization and sound morals, not distorted by many wrong role models, (3) We need not continue using hypocrisy like a walking stick for anyone who wants to move up in the society.

In addition, we should stop creating dangerous demographic divides between those who are products of foreign schools, those who are products of private schools, those who are products of public schools, the skilled but unschooled and the unschooled and unskilled. These various demographic groups do not have the same ideas about national interest and, therefore, work at cross purposes.

decisive shift towards capital investments. In 2024, the total budget for Enugu State stood at N521.5 billion. A remarkable N414.3 billion, constituting 79% of the budget, was dedicated to capital expenditure. This allocation underscores the government’s focus on infrastructure projects, development programs, and economic growth initiatives aimed at long-term prosperity. The fiscal strategy deepened in 2025, with the total budget expanding to N971 billion. Capital expenditure saw a proportional increase, receiving N837.9 billion or 86% of the total budget. This shift highlights a deliberate effort to drive development by constructing roads, healthcare facilities, schools, and other public infrastructure, fostering economic resilience and sustainable growth.

A significant driver of fiscal expansion has been the robust growth in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). By the third quarter of 2024, IGR had surged by an impressive 286.2%, rising from N37.4 billion in mid-2023 to N144.7 billion. This remarkable growth can be attributed to improved tax collection mechanisms, economic diversification, and enhanced public services. Such revenue growth signals an increasingly self-reliant state economy, reducing dependency on federal allocations and empowering the government to implement transformative projects.

The transport sector faces a facelift with the construction of four ultra-modern Transport Infrastructure Projects (TIP) in Holy Ghost, Gariki, Abakpa, and Nsukka. Inspired by global models from Singapore and Dubai, these hubs aim to streamline traffic, reduce congestion, and stimulate economic activities in the state’s rapidly urbanizing regions. These modern transit systems reflect the administration’s commitment to urban planning and sustainable development. Energy reform has not been left behind. Governor Mbah championed the Enugu State Electricity Bill’s passage, leading to the creation of the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC). This initiative paved the way for Independent Power Projects (IPP), such as the 10MW plant by Fedikore Limited, ensuring more stable electricity

for businesses and households. The establishment of Mainpower Limited, a new distribution entity, signifies Enugu’s quest for energy autonomy and industrial growth.

In a historic move, the Governor introduced a N80,000 minimum wage for all state workers—a first for Enugu State. This policy, which extends to local government employees and primary school teachers, highlights the administration’s commitment to equitable economic growth and workers’ welfare.

President Tinubu’s visit was a ceremonial engagement and a validation of Enugu’s developmental trajectory. The projects and policies inaugurated during this visit reflect a bold vision for the future grounded in innovation, security, and inclusive growth. As Enugu strides confidently into the future, it stands as a model of transformative governance for the rest of Nigeria. As Enugu continues to forge ahead, the significance of these projects extends beyond their physical manifestation. They represent hope, resilience, and a belief in the potential of collective action. Enugu State is rewriting its own narrative and setting a standard for regional development across Nigeria by leveraging technology, fostering education, and enhancing infrastructure.

The President’s visit to Enugu was a resounding affirmation of the state’s trajectory toward becoming an economic hub and a model for progress. Governor Mbah’s bold initiatives in education, healthcare, security, and economic diversification reflect a leadership attuned to the needs of the people while remaining forward-looking. This visit was a moment of celebration and a rallying point for further action and deeper collaboration between state and federal governments. As Enugu State looks to the future, the projects commissioned during this visit stand as pillars of development, promising a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow for all.

*Dr Jeff Ukachukwu is a renowned communication expert and public commentator He can be reached on jeffuka@gmail.com.

Tinubu

GLOBAL SOCCER

Éric Sékou Chelle Doomed Before Kickstarting?

The Nigeria Football fraternity was taken aback after the Nigeria Football Federation,NFF,onTuesday issued a statement that the federation has appointed Malian,Éric Sékou Chelle,as the new Super Eagles manager,making him the first foreignAfrican coach to manage the senior football team of the country.The question on the lips of most observers is,are the EmmanuelAmunikes,Samson Siasias, Austin Eguavoens,amongst many other household name coaches in the country,less qualified than the Malian.The appointment of the erstwhile LesAiglons coach might be retrogressive and unpopular even among players writes Kunle Adewale

After seven months of waiting since Finidi George resigned as the national senior men’s football team, the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, on Tuesday issued a statement that the Executive Committee of the federation has endorsed the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the appointment of Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as the Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, the Super Eagles.

The appointment of the Malian has since generated a lot of criticism from football fans, pundits and ex-internationals, who see the appointment of Chelle as a slap on Nigerian football.

In a chat with THISDAY, former Nigeria international, Tajudeen Disu, described the appointment of the former Les Aiglons coach as one of the darkest days in Nigeria’s football.

“We have just taken 10 steps backward in our football. It is a shame to Nigerian football that we now have to turn to Mali to hire a coach for the Super Eagles. Are we saying that we don’t have better coaches in Nigeria than Chelle. Fine, we say we don’t want European coaches again for our senior national team, but should we turn to Mali for goodness’ sake,” Disu lamented.

As far as the defunct Abiola Babes FC of Abeokuta captain is concern, from the administration of former NFF President, Amaju Pinnick to the present president, Ibrahim Gusau, none of them

is interested in the country’s football development but rather what they will gain.

“The NFF is more concern about what it would gain than developing the country’s football. It has been like that since the tenure of (Amaju) Pinnick, and (Ibrahim) Gusau is toeing the same line. How would any reasonable person believe that Chelle has better coaching pedigree than Emmanuel Amunike or Samson Siasia. They have both shown it over the years that they can do it. We are all witnesses to what Amunike did in Tanzania. What has Chelle achieved aside from taken Mali to the semifinal of the last Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivorie. Anyway, it has always been NFF’s style to hand over the Super Eagles coaching job to someone they could push around.”

For the University of Alabama A&M University graduate, he does not see the five capped Aiglons of Mali coach taking the Super Eagles to the Eldorado.

“I can’t see this their new coach taking the Super Eagles anywhere. He has already failed even before starting. This is not the kind of coach our players would respect, considering where these players are coming from. Look at the club sides Chelle had coached in the past, how many of them are in the class of our Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, clubs?” he queried.

Another ex-international and former Super Falcons coach, Kadiri Ikhana, said

he was disappointed at the choice of the new gaffer, just as he decried the fact that the NFF has not given homegrown coaches the chance to showcase their qualities on the big stage.

According to him, Chelle does not possess better records than Nigerian Indigenous coaches, thereby questioning why such an appointment was made.

“I think it is a terrible decision because Eric Chelle is not better than our local coaches, and if we don’t give our local coaches the chance to grow, how would they develop?

“There are many homegrown coaches who have proved themselves in the league and, most importantly, at international assignments, but strangely they are ignored by NFF.

“They need this type of opportunity to gather enough experience and prove themselves at the international level, sincerely I am not happy about this,” Ikhana, who guided Enyimba to lift the African Champions League in 2003, told NAN.

Similarly, an ex-international and Chairman, Professionals Football Association of Nigeria, Task Force, Harrison Jalla, said the decision left much to be desired.

He noted that Chelle did not achieve much as Mali coach, where he failed at the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and also the on-going 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.

“Sincerely I don’t know the basis of this appointment; this is a coach that was sacked by the Malian Football Federation for poor performance.

“Out of five games he made only one game in the FIFA World Cup qualifications. In fact, he lost at home and put Mali in an impossible position.

“If we want to hire a coach, we should hire a coach that is superior to our home based. In fact, I am disappointed at the NFF, only they can explain to us what they saw in Chelle,” Jalla said.

Former Super Eagles defender, Sam Elijah also expressed his dissatisfaction with the NFF’s decision, condemning the hiring of Chelle and highlighting the value of homegrown coaching talent. “I don’t think this is the right appointment. We have a local coach (Austin Eguavoen) who has done well in our past matches,” Elijah said. “He came and he redeemed the team. Now, they have been canvassing for a foreign coach all this while.

“I don’t know what the NFF is looking for. For me, bringing Eric Chelle to take over the national team is a slap on our football.”

Elijah further questioned the credentials of Chelle, comparing his career to that of Eguavoen, and argued that the former was not a suitable fit for the Super Eagles. “Who is Eric Chelle compared to Austin Eguavoen, in any way? Look at the playing career, look at the two of them playing for their various national teams. “How many caps does he have, what was his achievement the last time he took the national team to Côte d’Ivoire, he couldn’t get to the final,” Elijah added. The former Super Eagles defender went on to emphasise that Eguavoen was the better option for the national team, citing the players’ trust in the local coach and the positive impact he had since taking charge.

Chelle, who won five caps for the Aiglons of Mali and coached clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne and MC Oran, has been head coach of the Aiglons since 2022. At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Cote d’Ivoire, Chelle’s Mali came very close to a place in the semifinals, losing to hosts and eventual winners Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 after extra time.

The 47-year-old featured for Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres and Chamois Niortais in France during his playing career.

His appointment is with immediate effect, and he has the responsibility of guiding the Super Eagles to earn a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.

How well the 47-year-old is acceptable to Nigeria football fraternity and indeed the Super Eagles players when the 2026 World Cup qualifiers resume in March remains to be seen considering the criticism his appointment is generating.

Chelle during the Caf Africa Cup of Nations Afcon 2023 match between Mali and Burkinafaso at Stade Amadou Gon Coulibaly on January 30, 2024 in Korhogo, Cote d Ivoire. photo by IMAGO

Aina Dreams Managerial Role after Retirement

Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest full-back, Olaoluwa Temitayo Aina, has hinted at one of the career choices he could dabble into after retiring from playing football.

The 28-year-old has been in fine form for The Reds in the English Premier League this season and has been labelled as the best right-back in the league by many this term.

Speaking on The Friendship Test Interview with his teammate, Anthony Elanga, the pair were quizzed about who

Nistelrooy

would like to get into coaching post-retirement.

While the pair denied any interest in taking up the role after they hang their boots, Aina revealed he could pick up the role where there’s a little less pressure.

“I don’t think I’ve got any interest in managing either. I’ll be real. I’ll manage a little like a Sunday League team. That’ll be alright. Anything other than that, it’s too much stress,” the former Chelsea man said.

Elanga and Aina have been vital to Nottingham Forest’s rise this season. The Sweden winger has scored three goals and provided four assists in the league this season while Aina has found the back of the net twice as well.

The Nigerian defender has been linked with a move to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in recent weeks. He’s free to enter into pre-contract talks with any club as his current deal with Forest runs out at the end of this season.

Positive on Ndidi’s Injury Situation

Leicester City head coach, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, has revealed Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, is nearing full fitness after being out injured for the past month.

The 28-year-old was withdrawn in the 52nd minute against Brighton and Hove Albion on December 28, 2024, and has not returned to the pitch since then.

The one-time FA Cup winner picked up a hamstring in that tie, and was required to be out

of action for a while to aid his full recovery.

In Ndidi’s absence, The Foxes have lost all five games. They’ve dropped points against Newcastle United, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Liverpool, Manchester City and Aston Villa, scoring two and conceding fourteen.

With a quest for silverware to patch up their already terrible season, Leicester head coach, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, confirmed his side will be

without the pivotal midfielder when they take on Queens Park Rangers in the FA Cup third round at the King Power Stadium.

“Ndidi is continuing his individual training. He’s not yet with the team. He’s pushing harder on an individual basis. Hopefully, we can welcome him to team training in the coming weeks but it’s not a matter that he will be part of it in the coming games” the ex-Manchester United forward said.

Inspiring Story of Olumide Akinode’s Way to the Top

The English football landscape has long been a breeding ground for talented young players who go on to achieve greatness on the world stage.

The likes of Ademola Lookman, Bukayo Saka, and Alex Iwobi are just a few examples of players who began their journeys as youngsters in England before blossoming into professional stars known across the globe.

One player who is following in the footsteps of these stars is Olumide Akinode, a versatile and dynamic footballer born on June 19, 2001, in London, England.

With a professional career spanning over four years, “Olu” as he is fondly called, has showcased his adaptability and skill across multiple positions, excelling as a right wing-back, winger, and even in central midfield.

“I’ve always been driven to succeed and make a name for myself in football,” Olu said in an exclusive interview. “Growing up, I looked up to players like David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo, who

not only excelled on the pitch but also built successful brands off it. I want to follow in their footsteps and create a lasting legacy in the sport.”

Olu’s football journey began in England, where he played for notable clubs such as Brentwood Town, Northwood, Coggeshall Town, and Stanway Rovers. During his time in the competitive Isthmian and Essex Senior Leagues, he gained recognition for his consistent performances and leadership qualities. According to the testimonies of his former coaches, Olu was always a standout player, even from a young age.

His hunger to learn and improve, and his work ethic was second to none.

Olu’s efforts earned him accolades, including the prestigious Players’ Player of the Season award for the 2022/23 season.

In 2023, an opportunity to play abroad came knocking, and Olu signed with LKS lesin in Poland’s Artbud Group IV Liga.

It was a bold move, but one

that showcased his courage and ambition. “Coming to Poland was a fresh start,” Olu reflects. “It was about proving to myself that I could adapt to a new culture, a new style of play, and still thrive.”

Olu continues to make an impact on the field with stellar performances, tallying two assists and a Man of the Match award within just five games. It is not surprising Olu has quickly become a fan favorite.

One of the local sports journalists describes Olu as “a player who brings energy and precision to every match.

Building the Akinode Brand Beyond his on-field exploits, Olu is also focused on building his brand.

“It’s about being more than just a footballer,” he said. “I want to inspire younger players, especially those who come from humble beginnings, like I did, to chase their dreams fearlessly.” His journey resonates with many, including aspiring footballers in England and Poland.

Man Utd, Arsenal Face off in FA Cup Clash Live on Showmax

The Boxing & MMA Hall of Fame set the stage ablaze on December 26, last year, with the exhilarating 15th Annual Governors Belt Tournament, a celebration of athletic prowess and competitive spirit.

The indoor hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium was transformed into a vibrant arena where champions clashed, and legends were forged.

The event kicked off with a spectacular showcase of the Tournament’s Belt by Rasheed Lawal, the esteemed ex-Nigerian amateur boxer, who finished second at the 2008 AIBA African Olympic

and represented Nigeria at the Beijing Olympics. Lawal electrified the crowd and set the tone for a day filled with thrilling bouts.

The tournament featured 13 heart-pounding boxing matches across various weight categories for both male and female fighters. Each athlete stepped into the ring with fierce determination to claim victory and etch their names in the annals of combat sports history.

In the 48kg male category, Abijuwon Farouq showcased his exceptional skills, decisively defeating Bolarinwa Michael after three intense rounds.

Oyebamiji Quadri “Ekete” Oluwasegun delivered a stellar performance, not only triumphing in the 54kg male category against Qudus Lateef but also clinching the prestigious 15th Annual Governor’s Belt Award for his outstanding display of skill, speed, and strategy.

Abdulahi Robiu also shone brightly in the 60kg male category, exhibiting remarkable pace and precision to secure his win, while Obanla Opeyemi stood his ground in the 81kg male category, clinching victory over Adekunle Habeeb.

Moyes Set for Everton Return after Dyche’s Sack

David Moyes is in talks with Everton over a potential return to Goodison Park after the sacking of manager Sean Dyche.

While a deal is not yet done, and Moyes is not the only candidate, BBC Sport has been told by a wellplaced source that the Scot is the frontrunner.

Talks are said to be progressing, but the Toffees could be running out of time to get something done

and announced by Friday evening.

It is still unclear how long Moyes’ contract would be for.

Ex-Burnley boss Dyche was dismissed on Thursday with the club 16th in the Premier League, just one point clear of the relegation zone.

Sean Dyche: Everton manager sacked before FA Cup game with club 16th in ...

Everton have sacked manager Sean Dyche after less than two years in charge

at Goodison Park.

They have won just three of 19 games in the league this season.

Moyes managed Everton from 2002 to 2013 before leaving to take charge of Manchester United, but was sacked after 10 months.

He had two spells at West Ham and guided them to the Europa Conference League title in 2023, but has been out of work since leaving them last season.

Former Premier League forward, Shaun Bartlett is anticipating a surprise result this weekend when Arsenal face-off with Manchester United in arguably the tie of the third round in the FA Cup.

The South African exfootballer, who played for Charlton Athletic in the Premier League, expects Man United to progress to the next round despite their struggles this season.

“This game is lined up for a surprise result, and I feel United will sneak a win this weekend,” Bartlett told Showmax this week.

The game, slated for the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, will be shown live on Showmax

The Nigerian Esports community is abuzz with anticipation of the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia later this year.

Among the voices championing Nigeria’s prospects on this grand stage is Sayo Owolabi, an advocate and strategist in the Esports ecosystem.

With his unmatched expertise and a deep understanding of the global Esports landscape as the Secretary General of the Africa Esports Development Federation (AEDF), Owolabi has emerged as a key figure envisioning a pathway for Nigeria to achieve monumental success in Riyadh.

Esports in Nigeria has

Premier League at 5 pm.

Bartlett says Ruben Amorim’s men can take plenty of encouragement from their game against Liverpool when they head to the Emirates this weekend.

United claimed a precious point at Anfield last weekend when they shocked league leaders Liverpool in a 2-2 draw.

Not many expected United to get anything from the game, but the Red Devils showed what they are capable of under the Portuguese manager.

“The performance should give them confidence knowing that they didn’t become a bad team overnight and can still compete and surprise a few

grown significantly over the past decade, transitioning from grassroots tournaments to larger, internationally recognised events. Despite these strides, the industry faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited sponsorships, and a lack of structured talent pipelines. Yet, Owolabi sees these hurdles as opportunities for growth and innovation.

“Nigeria has a wealth of talent,” Owolabi asserts.

“What we need is strategic investment in infrastructure, training programmes, and global partnerships to unlock our potential on the world stage.”

people,” said Bartlett. While Bartlett admits Arsenal go into the tie as favourites, he is confident United can once again spring a surprise.

“I believe Arsenal will always be favourites at home, but United have shown that they can compete, with their showing against Man City and Liverpool recently. Both games United played have shown glimpses of improvement, both away from home (Etihad and Anfield). It almost seems like they play better when not under pressure from their home fans.”

He is also expecting plenty of goal-mouth action in the fixture.

The Olympic Esports Games represent a unique opportunity for Nigerian Esports to showcase its talent and resilience. Owolabi emphasises the importance of strategic preparation on multiple fronts. According to him, there should be robust talent scouting initiative to identify exceptional players across various Esports titles. This will be aided by the understanding of the likely game titles that will feature at the Games which is well understood by Owolabi. He emphasises on collaborations with corporate sponsors and technology companies to provide financial and logistical support.

Olumide Akinode in red, closing down an opponent

referee announcing Faruk Abijuwon as the winner of 48kg fight against

Bolarinwa Michael at Hall of Fame 2024

Sayo Owolabi’s

Oyo Kingmakers to Gov. Makinde

“Prince Lukman Adelodun Gbadegesin having obtained the majority of votes of the Kingmakers present and voting was deemed appointed and his name was forwarded to your Excellency as the candidate appointed by the Kingmakers as Alaafin of Oyo for your approval which you refused to approve for no disclosed reason at all...It is not the duty of the Governor to convene the meeting of few kingmakers and emergency warrant chiefs to select or appoint a new Alaafin on the 9th of January, 2025 and hurriedly approve the appointment on the 10th of January, 2025.”–Oyo Kingmakers reject Owoade’s appointment as new Alaafin.

Let’s Pay Attention to Governor Nwifuru’s Point

This is what Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi said to his colleague governors at the Nigeria Governor’s the other day, after announcing that none of his children was studying outside our borders: “The time has come for us to band together and reposition the educational system in the country. We must identify the shortcomings making our elite opt for foreign options and address them...”. When he said that he was starting from himself and from his state, his statement, and personal action, showed that he was walking his talk.

The governor has challenged every Nigerian parent, and particularly every public official and every stakeholder in the education sector, to look in the mirror and admit whatever they see facing them. The governor’s statement and action also remind us that it is mostly people in leadership positions who, by their actions, pass a Vote of No confidence on our educational system.

Nwifuru has drawn our attention to how the quality of education would benefit from measures that improve the system if we all patronize it. He is talking about the possibility, and availability, of good education in Nigeria, rather that good education in foreign lands

as the exclusive preserve of the children of those who can pay for it.

At the same time, he is reminding us that our nation, our people and our children would not become globally competitive if

we continue to act in ways that say: “If you want anything good, if you want anything worthwhile and if you want anything that the world would respect, go and get it outside Nigeria”. He is telling us that we cannot be serious about being part of a desperately globalizing world, where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fast becoming a dominant variable, and leave our nation’s Successor Generation where they are today.

But let us make a slight digression here, before concluding with Governor Nwifuru.

Sometime in February 2023, Abakaliki High School (PRESCO) played host to Development Specs Academy (DSA). The latter had come all the way from Abuja, complete with its Executive Director and three Resource Persons, to deliver a free (Pro Bono), two-day teachers and youth personal development and leadership programme to teachers and students of the school. The programme, titled “Preparing for the Future Today”, and was attracted to Abakaliki by the Principal of the School, Mrs Nnenna Bridget Obasi, who was a secondary school classmate of the Executive Director of DSA. Preparing

The nexus between our programme at PRESCO and Governor Nwifuru’s recent remarks lies in the fact that both share the

JEFFUKACHUKWU

GUEST COLUMNIST

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Enugu State on January 4th, 2025, was not just a routine stop on his presidential itinerary. It was a significant symbol of partnership, progress, and the alignment of federal and state development agendas. As the President’s convoy traversed the streets of Enugu, it consolidates the symbolism of the state’s new era of growth and transformation under Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership. The commissioning of major infrastructural projects during this visit marked a significant milestone in Enugu’s ambitious journey toward economic revitalization and modernization.

Governor Mbah’s strategic vision to elevate Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion in eight years reflects an unwavering commitment to reshaping the state through targeted investments in key sectors. This bold economic roadmap is not just about figures but about fundamentally improving the lives of Enugu’s residents. President Tinubu’s visit, laden with commendations and shared optimism, underscored the collaborative spirit

that defines Nigeria’s federal structure when it functions at its best. The visit signified a shared belief that states like Enugu can become economic powerhouses through strategic governance, infrastructure development, and innovative policies.

President Tinubu, addressing a crowd of dignitaries and citizens, lauded Governor Mbah’s leadership. “You are doing great things in Enugu State,” he said. “The work you are doing here will serve as a model for other states across Nigeria.” These words encapsulated the essence of the visit—a celebration of achievement and a call for sustained progress.

Among the flagship projects commissioned were the Smart Green Schools, healthcare centres, and expansive road networks, each playing a critical role in laying the foundation for Enugu’s future. The Smart Green Schools initiative is a testament to Governor Mbah’s focus on quality education as a catalyst for long-term economic growth. The Smart Green Schools initiative integrates modern technology with traditional education frameworks, equipping students with digital literacy and

entrepreneurial skills essential for thriving in a globalized economy. By constructing 260 Smart Green Schools across the state, the administration aims to foster experiential learning that equips students with practical skills. As of the first quarter of 2024, over 30 of these schools had already been completed, with the pilot project at Owo in Nkanu East LGA standing out as a beacon of educational innovation. Governor Mbah’s administration projects that the remaining schools will be fully operational by September 2025, creating opportunities for over 100,000 students.

In 2024, the Enugu State Government demonstrated its commitment to fostering educational development by allocating N134.9 billion to the education sector. This figure represents a significant 33% of the total state budget, reflecting a strong prioritization of human capital development. The upward trajectory continues into 2025, with N320.6 billion earmarked for education, constituting over 33.2% of the overall budget. This bold financial commitment surpasses UNESCO’s recommended benchmark of 15% to 20% of national budgets allocated

same concerns about how best to groom the owners of tomorrow for their world; with emphasis on what values to inculcate and what can be done here and now in practical terms. The DSA intervention, which it executes across the country (and free in exceptional cases, like the PRESCO programme) goes beyond issues of the quality of education to responsible citizenship, as well as the how the leadership elite at all levels can maintain a sense of duty and sense of propriety in managing public affairs.

Imagine what would happen in a state where such a programme is made to systematically soak through the grassroots, via Commissioners, Heads of Parastatals, Local Government Chairmen/Counsellors/ Ward leaders, Headteachers and even school prefects! We have seen this happen for real, and with incredible positive results all round, for the State Government concerned. We need a holistic approach to human capital on national development, addressing the connection between effective parenting, formal education and a leadership that nurtures a human ecosystem that guarantees sustainable development. Addressing the

to education. Such strategic investment highlights the administration’s resolve to address infrastructural deficits, enhance teacher capacity, and expand educational opportunities across the state.

The healthcare sector’s revitalization, bolstered by new Type 2 and Type 3 Primary Healthcare Centres, with the establishment of 60 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres and the revitalization of three Type 3 facilities in Uzo-Uwani, Awgu, and Nkanu East LGAs, is a clear testament to the administration’s dedication to providing accessible and highquality medical services. The government’s strategy involves constructing new facilities and upgrading existing ones to meet international standards. By focusing on renewable energy to power these centres and ensuring the availability of medical staff around the clock, Enugu is addressing long-standing gaps in healthcare delivery. The emphasis on decentralizing healthcare services underscores the administration’s belief that quality healthcare should be a

Saturday, January 11, 2025

Price: N400

Governor Nwifuru