FRIDAY 12TH JANUARY 2024

$800m Trapped Fund: Foreign Airlines Miffed With FG over $61m Paid, Say It's Insignificant Threaten to review operations in Nigeria

Chinedu Eze

Foreign airlines that operate in Nigeria have expressed

disappointment over the $61 million paid by the federal government as first installment to offset the $800 million revenue

of the international carriers trapped in Nigeria.

The airlines described the amount paid as insignificant,

saying they may review their continued flight operation to Nigeria because government did not take the payment of the

Representatives in Nigeria (AFARN), Dr. Kingsley Nwokoma,

blocked fund as priority.

This was disclosed by the President of the Association of Foreign Airlines and

Continued on page 5

Tinubu Receives Briefing on $10bn Investment in Nation's Steel Sector... Page 5 Friday, January 12, 2024 Vol 28. No 10502. Price: N400

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Interrogating Union, Keystone, Polaris Boards’ Dissolution Obinna Chima The announcement of the dissolution of the boards of Union, Keystone and Polaris Banks by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Wednesday, has set tongues wagging as bank customers, investors and analysts continue

to weigh in on the issue.

This was expected as the statement released by the central bank announcing its action left some questionable gaps. For instance, the CBN in the statement failed to disclose the specific breach of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA)

NEWS REVIEW 2020, committed by the erstwhile board members.

It is worthy to note that since the creation of the CBN, no Governor of the bank has ever sacked the board of financial institutions without stating clear reasons for such action.

From the era of failed bank tribunal during the military government, to removal of banks’ boards by Sanusi Lamido in 2009, and even Godwin Emefiele in 2021, all itemised the infractions committed by the persons affected. This, was clearly

missing in the statement issued by the CBN which ought not to be. Transparent communication is important in central banking as it helps mitigates panic and builds confidence in the banking system.

This is why the central bank should ensure that it communicates its actions effectively. The financial

system plays a critical role in the economy and so the CBN must always guard against actions that could send the wrong signals to customers and investors.

The financial statements of Union and Polaris Banks showed Continued on page 5

S'Court Delivers Verdict on Kano, Plateau, Lagos, 4 Others Today Tight security in Kano amid fears of protests Court reserves judgment in Ogun Respite as apex court upholds Eno’s victory Chuks Okocha, Alex Enumah in Abuja, James Sowole in Abeokuta, Okon Bassey in Uyo and Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano The atmosphere in some parts of the country is tense and expectant, as the Supreme Court prepares to deliver judgements today in the governorship elections in Kano, Plateau, Lagos, Cross River, Ebonyi, Zamfara, and Bauchi states.

Security was beefed up across Kano metropolis, given its volatile nature.

But the apex court, yesterday, reserved ruling in the governorship election in Ogun State.

Also yesterday, the Supreme Court upheld the election of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, as the validly elected governor of the state.

The political atmosphere was pervaded by a sense of anxiety yesterday, as the apex court readied to deliver its verdicts in Continued on page 5

BRIEFING THE PRESIDENT ON CHINA VISIT...

L-R: Minister of Steel Development, Shaibu Audu; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; and Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru who came to brief the President on their recent trip to China at the Presidential Villa in Abuja... yesterday GODWIN OMOIGUI

Obi: Current Economic Reality Demands 60% Cut in Overall Governance Cost... Page 34

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Tinubu Receives Briefing on $10bn Investment in Nation's Steel Sector Says new investments will spur growth in many sectors

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, met with Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu, and his defence counterpart, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, to receive briefing on investment prospects in the steel sector.

During the meeting held at State House, Abuja, Tinubu emphasised that a revitalised steel development industry was both a catalyst for robust economic growth and a doorway to immense opportunities for Nigeria's massive pool of talented entrepreneurs.

The president stated, "We will remain unyielding in our determination to build a Nigeria where every citizen has an equal opportunity to prosper and achieve their dreams. New investments in steel production will spur the growth of so many sectors.

Industrialisation will be a reality in our country with sufficient energy and steel.

“Nigerian steel will undergird our economy and other economies in our region in future years. I am glad that members of my cabinet have adopted my approach to attracting new investments and

job opportunities for our people.

Hard work is the only true pathway.

We will not relent."

Audu and Badaru, according to a statement by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, informed the president of their discussions with a Chinese company, Luan Steel Holding Group, to build a new steel plant in Nigeria, as well as plans to commence the production of military hardware at Ajaokuta Steel Plant.

A delegation led by Minister of Defence and Minister of Steel Development had visited Hefei and Guangzhou regions of China to hold

business talks with Chairman of Luan Steel Holding Group, Mr Wang Jianbing; Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Mr Xiao Weizhan; and other senior executives of Luan Steel Holding Group.

The Chinese company is expected to invest billions of dollars in Nigeria to build the new steel plant.

Audu briefed the president following his approval for the restart of work at the Light Steel Mill (LSM) section of Ajaokuta Steel Complex for the production of iron rods, which will cost N35 billion at the first stage.

He said several financial

institutions had already provided offer letters for this transaction and the project was expected to create up to 5,000 direct and indirect jobs for Nigerians.

The minister also informed the president of discussions with the representatives of Jindal Steel Group of India.

Jindal Steel Group had indicated interest in investing up to $5 billion in a new steel plant in Nigeria on the side-lines of the G20 meeting in New Delhi, India, in September, 2023. The company was now considering either to acquire existing plants or set up greenfield plants.

Tinubu According to the minister, upon the completion of these deals, about $10 billion worth of new investments in both new and existing steel plants in Nigeria will be established.

INTERROGATING UNION, KEYSTONE, POLARIS BOARDS’ DISSOLUTION that both institutions meet the regulatory requirement, save for Keystone Bank because it has not opened its books for several years now.

For instance, Union Bank Plc, in its unaudited financial statements for the period ending 30th September 2023, its gross earnings was up by 120 per cent to N309.1 billion, compared with the N140.6 billion it recorded in the comparable period of 2022. Also, its profit before tax was up by 461.1 per cent to N102.3 billion, compared with the N18.2 billion recorded in the first nine months of 2022. In the review period, Union Bank’s capital adequacy ratio was 16.1 per cent, which was even higher than the regulatory threshold of 15 per cent, just as its non-performing loan ration was only 3.7 per cent, still below the industry benchmark of

five per cent. Also, Union Bank posted Liquidity ratio of 34 per cent, which was still above the industry threshold of 30 per cent.

For its part, Polaris Bank disclosed its financial position in its full year 2022 financial statement, which showed that its capital adequacy ratio was 12.95 per cent, higher than the stipulated 10 per cent and liquidity ratio of 30 per cent and a non-performing loan ratio of 21.4 per cent in the review period.

This is why the central bank has to inform Nigerians the basis for its action.

Also, another issue that the action of the central bank has raised was the fact that in the statement announcing the dissolution of the boards, the CBN cited sections of the BOFIA which have to do with the revocation of a bank’s licence,

$800M TRAPPED FUND: FOREIGN AIRLINES MIFFED WITH FG OVER $61M PAID, SAY IT'S INSIGNIFICANT during a press conference held at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, yesterday.

The association said the $61 million recently released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was negligible and complained that government did not make it clear whether it would be offsetting the trapped funds on planned payment schedule, which would enable the airlines know when all the funds would be released to them.

Nwokoma, warned that if the crisis surrounding the debt was not resolved early, some of the airlines may follow Etihad and Emirates Airlines to withdraw service from Nigeria.

He regretted that the federal government violated the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) arrangements signed with the various countries the airlines emanated from, stressing that the action signified negativity on the image of Nigeria.

He attributed the blocked funds to one of the reasons airfares out of Nigeria were high, disclosing that the country was losing some of its potential travellers to neighbouring African countries, which have relatively lower fares.

Nwokoma, lamented that with the current situation, most of the foreign airlines operating into the country were taking money from their operations elsewhere to sustain operations in the country.

He said: “We are not saying the government should pay all, but the government should have a plan to pay a chunk of the money every quarter. The fear is that if it continues like this, some of the airlines may go.

“The last conversation we had with Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, seemed good. He sounded serious about the payment and they have done $61 million thus far.

“Nigeria is just a very strange country. Some are still saying that

the airlines should not be asking for any money from Nigeria. What is BASA? BASA is signed by countries and not airlines. We signed our commitment to the BASA and we are not doing anything about it.

“If all countries are defaulting like Nigeria, there will not be any airline that comes into the country again. The aviation industry is predicated on the U.S dollars. You pay your catering, handling, hotel and a lot of things in dollars and if you don’t pay, your crew would be sent out.”

Nwokoma, insisted that the $61 million released by the government out of the $800 million was insignificant and without any impact on the operations of the foreign airlines.

He advised the federal government to discuss with the foreign airlines on the modalities of payment for the blocked funds.

“The foreign airlines are not talking about it because they felt it is a little drop. It is not something to be too excited about. If we have had about $300 million now or half of what the airlines are being owed, then, you can say there is hope.

“The government should sit with the foreign airlines just like how you sign your BASA agreements and agree on quarterly payment of these funds. The government should please keep to that agreement. By then, we will be making progress,” he said.

The CBN had last week disbursed $61.64 million to foreign airlines through various Deposit Money Banks (DMBs).

According to a statement issued by Mrs. Hakama Sidi-Ali, its Acting Director, Corporate Communications, in Abuja on Sunday, the disbursement was in fulfillment of CBN’s commitment to eliminate the backlog of pending matured foreign exchange in DMBs. Sidi-Ali had said that the initiative was part of the CBN’s efforts to reduce its remaining liability to the airlines.

which was not the case here.

In announcing the sacking of the board, the CBN acting Director, Corporate Communications, Mrs. Sidi Hakama, stated that the action became necessary due to Union, Keystone and Polaris Banks’ non-compliance with provisions of Section 12(c), (f), (g), (h) of the BOFIA, 2020.

Hakama noted that the banks’ infractions varied from regulatory non-compliance, corporate governance failure, disregarding the conditions under which their licences were granted, and involvement in activities that pose a threat to financial stability, among others.

Curiously, the Section 12 c, f, g, and h cited by the CBN states that: "Notwithstanding the provisions of this Act or any other law, the Governor may, with the approval of the Board and by notice published in the Federal Government Gazette, or print and electronic media, revoke any licence granted under this Act if a bank – c) fails to fulfill or comply with any condition subject to which the licence was granted; f) is involved in a situation, circumstance, action or inaction

which constitute a threat to financial stability; g) fails to comply with any obligation imposed upon it by or under this Act, or the Central Bank of Nigeria Act or any other rule, regulation, guideline or directive made hereunder; h) is, in the opinion of the Bank critically undercapitalised with a capital adequacy ratio below the prudential minimum or such other ratio as the Bank may prescribe.”

Section 12 and its sub-sections cited have to do with the withdrawal of licence of a bank, which explicitly states that the approval of the board of the CBN would be required.

The CBN Board which has not been constituted is distinct from its Board of Governors. Therefore, did the Yemi Cardoso-led CBN get the required approval for their action as stated in the Section of BOFIA cited by the central bank? Even though the Committee of Governors are also members of the Board, does BOFIA empower just the CBN Governor and his deputy governors to take such an action without other board members?

The CBN presently does not have a board as President Bola Tinubu

last year dissolved the boards of all federal agencies and parastatals. In fact, the non-existent of a board as well as members of its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is one of the reasons why the Yemi Cardoso-led CBN has not been able to hold MPC meetings since they assumed office.

This however does not take away the fact that if after its routine examination of a bank, the CBN is satisfied that the financial institution is failing to meet its requirements, Section 33 (2) (c) of BOFIA states that the Governor may by order in writing remove for reasons to be recorded in writing with effect from such date as may be set out in the order, any manager or officer of the bank, notwithstanding anything in any written law or limitations contained in the memorandum and articles of the association of the bank.

Finally, while there are insinuations that the action of the CBN was based on recommendations by the Special Investigator, Jim Obazee, who was appointed by Tinubu to probe the CBN under Emefiele, Cardoso and his men must be reminded

that the CBN has regulatory and supervisory independence. They must not make the mistake of disrobing the CBN its regulatory independence. This is because if the removal of the board was instigated by the recommendation

by Obazee, it puts question mark on the examination and supervision of these banks, which never saw the corporate governance lapses that were identified.

Section 1(3) of the CBN Act guarantees the independence of the CBN. It provides thus, “in order to facilitate the achievement of its mandate under this Act and the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act, and in line with the objective of promoting stability and continuity in economic management, the Bank shall be an independent body in the discharge of its functions.”

This means that the CBN is a fully autonomous body and its decisions.

Therefore, the present leadership of the CBN must strive not to destroy the independence of the bank and must ensure transparent communication of its actions so as not to dampen confidence in the industry.

S'COURT DELIVERS VERDICT ON KANO, PLATEAU, LAGOS, 4 OTHERS TODAY the governorship appeals from Kano, Plateau, Zamfara, Bauchi, Lagos, Ebonyi, and Cross River states.

While the appeals from Kano, Zamfara, Bauchi, and Lagos were heard and reserved last December, that of Plateau was heard on Tuesday, and the appeal from Ebonyi was heard on Wednesday.

Cross River was among the three heard yesterday and subsequently fixed for judgement today.

The nervousness seemed to be more intense, with fears of snowballing into violent protests, in Kano and Plateau states, where the incumbent governors had been ordered to vacate office by the lower courts.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Abba Yusuf of New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) winner of the March 18, 2023 governorship election in Kano State, saying he won majority of the lawful votes cast at the election.

But the Kano State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, in a judgement in September last year, voided Yusuf’s election after deducting over 160,000 votes belonging to NNPP on the grounds that the ballot papers used for the poll were not signed and stamped by officials of the electoral umpire.

The deduction then gave Nasiru Gawuna of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the lead and he was subsequently declared the duly elected governor of Kano State.

Besides affirming the judgement of the tribunal, the appellate court went ahead to void Yusuf's participation in the March 18 governorship election, and said he was unlawfully nominated and sponsored for the election.

But Yusuf and NNPP, in their appeal, urged the apex court to set

aside the two lower courts’ decisions because the tribunal erred in law when it deducted his over 160,000 votes on account of ballot papers not being signed and stamped by INEC officials.

The appellants further faulted the judgement of the appellate court, and argued that the issue of nomination and sponsorship was a pre-election matter, which the appellate court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain.

They, therefore, urged the Supreme Court to nullify and set aside the concurrent judgments of the two lower courts and affirm his election as the duly elected governor of Kano State.

There was also palpable tension in Plateau State, where the winner of the governorship election was sacked by the appellate court over alleged unlawful nomination.

INEC had on March 20, 2023 declared Caleb Mutfwang of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winner of the Plateau governorship election, saying he scored 525,299 votes, against the 481,370 votes of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Nentawe Goshwe.

Nut in its judgement in last September, the three-member panel of the Plateau tribunal affirmed Mutfwang's election and dismissed Goshwe's petition for being incompetent and lacking in merit.

Not satisfied, the petitioners proceeded to the appellate court, where the three-man panel voided the judgement of the tribunal and ordered the sack of Mutfwang as governor on the grounds of illegal nomination.

The appellate court agreed with the appellants that the primary election that produced Mutfwang as candidate of PDP was illegal and constituted in violation of a

court order.

The Court of Appeal subsequently ordered INEC to issue a fresh Certificate of Return to Goshwe after withdrawing the earlier one issued to Mutfwang.

Dissatisfied, Mutfwang approached the apex court to set aside the judgement of the appellate court on the grounds that the issue of qualification was a pre-election matter. He also said his party did not at any time violate the order of court with respect to organising a fresh congress.

The Supreme Court, during the hearing on Tuesday, raised the issue of jurisdiction, and pointed out that the order of the High Court was made outside jurisdiction as courts could not interfere with the internal matters of political parties.

Other matters slated for judgements included that of PDP's Abdulazeez Adediran, popular known as Jandor, and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of Labour Party (LP) in Lagos State.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of APC had polled 762,134 votes to defeat his closest challenger, Rhodes-Vivour, who scored 312,329 votes, with Jandor coming a distant third with 62,449 votes.

The apex court had adjourned for judgement in the appeal filed

by Professor Sandy Onor and his party, PDP, against the election of Bassey Otu as Governor of Cross River State, shortly after lawyers adopted and argued their cases for and against the appeals.

The appellants were challenging the concurrent judgements of the Cross River State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal on the grounds that the judgements were perverse and should be upturned by the apex court.

Their lawyer, Dr Joshua Musa,

SAN, told the apex court that the two lower courts erred in law in holding that Otu was a lawful candidate of APC, even though he had defected from PDP and refused to vacate his seat at the state Assembly in line with the judgement of a Federal High Court.

Musa argued that the refusal to vacate office was an act of disobedience to the court. He added that the implication was that he remained a member of PDP and could not have been validly sponsored by APC. In their responses, INEC and Otu, represented by Professor Mike Ozekhome, SAN, urged the court to dismiss the appeal for being incompetent and lacking in merit.

Ozekhome pointed out that the case of the appellants was a complete waste of the apex court's time because the issue had already been decided by both the tribunal and Court of Appeal, adding that the issue which bordered on qualification was a pre-election matter, well outside the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.

The appeal court in Lagos had on November 22, 2023, affirmed the election of Otu as the governor of Cross River State.

The appellate court, in the unanimous judgement, dismissed the appeal of Onor and PDP and upheld the judgement of the Election Petition Tribunal delivered on September 26 last year, which upheld the election of Otu of APC and his deputy, Peter Odey.

INEC had in March last year declared Otu winner of the governorship poll. It held that the APC candidate polled a total of 258,619 votes and won in 15 of the 18 local governments of the state, to defeat his closest rival, Senator Continued on page 36

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NEWS

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0809 7777 322

HANDOVER OF COUNTERING HUMAN TRAFFICKING OFFICE TO LAGOS… L-R: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Deputy Country Representative, Danilo Campisi; U.S. Consul General Will Stevens; Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, Fatima Waziri-Azi; Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro; General Manager of Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Agency, Ifalade Oyekan; First Secretary, Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands, Eva de Wilt; during the official handover of the Countering Human Trafficking Office to the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Agency ... yesterday

Bagudu: Average Performance of Naira Informed Dollar Exchange Rate Peg at N800 for 2024 Budget Says current measures bound to increase forex supply into nation's economy Assures that 2024 budget will follow fiscal responsibility law which gives CBN power to lend govt 5% of total budget via ways and means window Deji Elumoye in Abuja Minister of Budget and National Planning, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Bagudu has disclosed that the Federal Government was conscious and strategic never to base the foreign exchange benchmark in the 2024 budget on a spot rate, to avoid eventualities and uncertainties.

Speaking with newsmen yesterday

at the State House, Abuja, Bagudu explained that before arriving at the projected exchange rate of N750 to the dollar in the 2024 budget, which the National Assembly raised to N800 to the dollar, government considered and viewed critically, the average performance of the naira.

He said: “For budgeting purposes, you don't use spot rate of anything.

Oil price can go to 120 today, maybe

DSS Denies Arresting Ex-CBN Deputy Gov, Aisha Ahmad Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The Department of State Security (DSS) yesterday denied online reports that former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria in charge of Financial System Stability, Aisha Ahmad, was arrested.

The social media was awash with reports that Aisha Ahmad was arrested and detained by the Department of State Services

(DSS) over the alleged fraudulent acquisition of shares in Polaris Bank, Titan Bank/Union Bank, including the sum of $300 million to complete the acquisition of Union Bank which was raised

by Titan Bank.

But the DSS denied the arrest in a short statement on X, formerly Twitter.

"The DSS did not, in the last 48 hours, arrest any former or present official of the CBN", it said.

there is a shortage, maybe there is a collision between two ships that will block a channel. It would be foolish to use that as a reference price. It should take a period maybe six months to one year and say let me observe this average behaviour, so you don't use spot prices. Even with exchange rate it’s like that".

According to him: “Much as we are hoping that it would soon come below, but at the time you are doing the budget you will take a view on average performance. And that's what we did.

“In fact we took an average performance of N750 on the executive side and we proposed it to the National Assembly and the National Assembly in its wisdom, and mind you this is democracy, and President Tinubu is one who is a lifelong advocate of institutional separation of powers".

The Minister also said the President respected the National Assembly in allowing a further raise in the exchange rate considering his high respect for institutions and democracy.

His words: "So, he respected democracy that even though it was higher than what he submitted, but the institution that says so, has the authority to say so and even at the time they say 100, because it's not an official rate because with the deregulated market, you no longer have an official rate, it is much lower than even the way the markets are bidding".

Bagudu noted that the Federal Government was sure that with the measures it is currently taking, there will soon be significant increase in the supply of foreign exchange into the economy.

The Minister who also spoke on the level of borrowing to fund the deficit in the 2024 budget, said that difference between this year's borrowing compared to 2023 remained significant.

“In 2023, the budget anticipated a borrowing of close to N14 trillion.

This year's budget is N9.1trillion. So we think that is significant. Because 2023 took us to about 6.11% of our GDP as borrowing. This one is 3.8%.

So the quantum had decreased".

US Mission Donates Office to Lagos Agency in Fight against Human Trafficking Segun James As part of efforts to counter trafficking in human beings in the country, the United States Mission in Nigeria has donated office and equipment to the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA).

Handing over the complex yesterday, US Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Will Stevens said that the initiative represents a significant step forward the collective efforts to combat one of the most egregious violations of human rights – human trafficking.

The Consul General applauded the Lagos state government, specifically the anti-trafficking unit of LNSA for its commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for its citizens, even as he thanked the Kingdom of Netherlands for its unwavering commitment to

the cause.

Stevens also commended the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), for its expertise, dedication, and tireless efforts.

Stevens stressed that the fight against human trafficking demands a coordinated approach, and the establishment of the office was a critical milestone in strengthening Nigeria's criminal justice response to trafficking in persons and demonstrates the importance of local authorities in this effort.

“It serves as a beacon of hope for victims and a symbol of our collective determination to eradicate this heinous crime. Between 2021 and 2023, the US government through the State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs provided $1.3 million to UNODC to support the Nigerian government’s efforts to protect those vulnerable

to trafficking.

"By consolidating our resources and expertise, we aim to create a robust framework that will not only address the needs of current victims, but also work towards prevention of future trafficking.

The US government understands the importance of a comprehensive response to human trafficking.

"That is why in addition to projects like this, which build the physical infrastructure, we have invested in the training of first responders as well as the reintegration of victims of trafficking,” he stated.

In 2023, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), Stevens said the government trained 160 civilian law enforcement officers to respond to cases of human trafficking and counselled more than 100 civil society organisations on how to

identify and refer potential victims of trafficking.

"Through our Academy for Women Entrepreneurs programme, 20 victims of trafficking and other returned migrants received specialised business management training and mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs, giving them the needed economic and social support to reintegrate into their communities. As we celebrate the opening of this office, let us also renew our commitment to collaboration, information sharing, and continuous improvement.

"The 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report from the US State Department underscores the evolving tactics employed by traffickers in Nigeria, such as cyber scam operations involving deceptive job postings and fraudulent dating websites to entice unsuspecting victims,” he added.

He explained the Federal Government within the 2024 fiscal year intends to operate strictly within the dictates of fiscal responsibility law, which provides for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), to lend to the government through its Ways and Means window, only five percent of total budget.

Bagudu stated that this government will be guided by law: "We will not go outside the law and borrow from ways and means, what is outside the law. So the fiscal responsibility law says, in every one year, the central bank can lend the government up to 5% of its budget for the year.

So if you go out of that, you're

going outside the lawful limit, and that's what the minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy was very clear we are not going to do. We are not going to resort to borrowing outside the law.

“And secondly, as much as possible, we will even borrow away from the central bank because sometimes it's even cheaper to borrow. So, those are the two elements. So the quantum has decreased, then we will go by the book.

“The President, in his steadfastness has brought a Central Bank governor who will not even allow and we are also determined, Coordinating Minister and I, so that's combination of two.

French Envoy Says Insecurity Impeding Nigeria’s Economic Development Michael Olugbode in Abuja The Outgoing French Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Emmanuelle Blatmann has noted that insecurity continues to undermine Nigeria’s push for greatness, stating that Nigeria has all it takes to be among the economic greats globally.

Blatmann, who has been withdrawn from Nigeria to take up the position of Director for Africa and the Indian Ocean at French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, said: “Nigeria should solve the security challenges and see how many businesses would roll in.”

The envoy while narrating what Nigeria should have gained had there been no challenges with security in the country, noted that countries in Europe were looking to Nigeria to solve their energy problem as a result of the war in Ukraine.

She said that Europe had to seek solution elsewhere because the country could not provide the needed energy as a result of insecurity and illegal oil bunkering She said: “One thing that has frustrated me over the last two years is the problem in the oil and gas sector. When Ukraine war started, all the European countries were trying to diversify their supply of gas and oil and obviously many of

them turned to Nigeria.

“Because at that time due to oil bunkering Nigeria was not only able to increase its capacity, and supply but sometimes was not able to meet the already existing contracts and was not meeting the quota the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) had fixed, the European countries have to look elsewhere.”

She lamented that this could have gone far in bringing back oil boom to the country and it was rather unfortunate that the opportunity was lost.

She equally decried that at a point in time some oil exploration companies had to close down as they alleged that 90 per cent of oil pumped into the pipelines were stolen.

Blatmann asked: “How is that sustainable for any business,” insisting that to get back into business and attract businesses to Nigeria, security was paramount.

She however noted that despite the challenges, Nigeria is a country with immense potential and opportunities, noting that France recognises this and has invested so much in Nigeria.

The envoy said France remains the second largest country with Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Nigeria and has through its development bank- Agence Francaise de Development (AFD) been pushing concessionary loans to Nigeria.

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INDUCTION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVES AND DIRECTORS OF AGENCIES UNDER AVIATION MINISTRY… L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole; Director General Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, at the induction of Chief Executives and Directors of the agencies under the Ministry of Aviation and signing of performance bond in Abuja...yesterday

Electricity Act: NERC Sets New Rules for Minigrids Operations, Pegs Technical Losses at 4% ICAN tasks FG on power sector policies, explains opposition to tariff hike Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has published new guidelines for the operators in the Nigerian mini-grids space, setting their allowable technical losses at 4 per cent in the extant rules.

A mini-grid is any electricity supply system with its own generation capacity, supplying electricity to more than one customer and which can operate in isolation from or be connected to a distribution licensee’s network.

In the regulation, NERC stated that the mini-grid should have between 0kW and 1MW of generation capacity per site.

Technical losses, which usually occur within the power distribution network, are a major source of concern in the power sector in Nigeria, which may have prompted the industry regulator to peg the technical loss limit for mini-grid

at 4 per cent.

The regulation under the new Electricity Act (EA) signed

by NERC’s Chairman, Sanusi Garba, also stated that allowable non-technical losses for the mini-grid operators, mostly interconnected solar plants, shall not exceed 3 per cent.

According to the new guidelines, interconnected mini-grid permit holders shall pay the Distribution Companies (Discos) a Distribution Use of System (DUOS) charge which shall be agreed upon between the interconnected mini-grid permit holder and the Disco and approved by the commission.

“Where the interconnected mini-grid permit holder and the Disco are unable to agree on the usage charges, the methodology prescribed in schedule 8 of these regulations shall be applied.

“The MYTO methodology included in schedule 14 of these regulations and approved by

the commission shall be used to determine the retail tariffs and other charges for a mini-grid permit, subject to a limitation that allowable technical losses shall not exceed 4 per cent and allowable non-technical losses shall not exceed 3 per cent,” it stated.

A mini-grid permit holder, NERC said, may decide to determine retail tariffs and other charges by the use of the MYTO calculation tool or an agreement between the minigrid operator and the community, represented by customers consuming not less than 60 per cent of the electrical output of the mini-grid.

However , it stated that this is subject to the commission’s right to intervene and review the tariff that has been agreed with the communities’ equity and fairness.

Where a mini-grid is interconnected, the duly authorised representatives of the connected community, the mini-grid developer and Disco, NERC said, shall sign

a tripartite contract covering the transaction, and the tripartite contract.

“Where an application has been filed for an intended area, the commission may register the tripartite contract and grant the minigrid permit, where the proposed retail tariff is calculated using the MYTO methodology and agreed by the mini-grid developer, the distribution licensee and connected community, and approved by the commission.

“The tripartite agreement shall cover the following arrangements: Right to access the Disco’s network infrastructure for the purposes of interconnection.

“Construction and ownership right for additional infrastructure, where applicable. Tariff for electricity generated by the mini-grid and fed into the distribution licensee’s network where applicable.

“Availability of stable nominal voltage and effective system

Your Roles Carry Significant Responsibilities, Keyamo Tells Newly-inducted Aviation CEOs Urges transparency, efficiency in service delivery

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, yesterday told the newly appointed heads of parastatals and directors of the ministry that their roles carry significant responsibilities, hence the need for commitment and their expertise in contributing to the growth and success of the sector.

Keyamo, in his keynote address at the in-house inauguration and induction for the newly-appointed executive officers and directors in Abuja, urged them to prioritise transparency, efficiency, and collaboration to ensure effective public service delivery.

He urged them to remember

the significant responsibilities their position carries.

"I trust that your commitment and expertise will contribute to the growth and success of our parastatals. Together, let us strive for excellence, innovation and service to our nation,” he said.

According to him, in a decisive move to elevate the standard of Nigeria’s aviation sector and bolster consumer protection, President Bola Tinubu approved significant leadership changes in the six parastatals under the ministry.

The reshuffling, announced on December 13, Keyamo noted, reflects the president’s commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of the passengers and

all stakeholders in the aviation industry in Nigeria.

"Therefore, this event is aimed at bringing together the strategic management staff of the ministry and the new chief executives to get to know each other and work towards the mandate, vision and mission of the ministry,” he stressed.

Speaking further, he said that the agencies are burdened with the responsibility of giving meaning to public policies and programmes for the wellbeing of the people and the achievement of the objectives and goals of government.

Keyamo added that to actualise the five-point agenda for the growth of the Nigerian aviation value chain, the aviation

ministry was looking forward to a new phase of partnership and collaboration.

This, he said , the government will do by leveraging on the immense opportunities in the sector to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and joint-venture partnerships with heads of international economic organisations, presidents of Atransnational corporations and principals of leading privatelyowned enterprises.

"As you embark on this role, remember that success is a collective effort. Foster collaboration, embrace change, and lead with vision. Your commitment to excellence will shape the future of our ministry,” he noted.

protection at the connection point of the generator with the Disco’s network, where applicable and tariff for the purchase of electricity from the distribution licensee's network, where applicable,” it added.

The tripartite agreement, it said, shall also involve the consent of the connected community to purchase electricity from the mini-grid at the defined tariffs.

It added that where an area has been identified either by a connected community or minigrid developer, and a notification is made to the commission to consider the development of an interconnected mini-grid, a mini-grid developer shall submit a technical and investment proposal to the Disco.

On safety, NERC stated that all mini-grid operators shall apply the established safety guidelines for the design, construction, commissioning, operation and maintenance of their generation and distribution assets.

“A mini-grid operator shall comply with the environmental laws affecting their operations and any compliance breach would be treated as an infraction, leading to the suspension or termination of

their permit,” NERC added.

Meanwhile, the 59th President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Dr. Innocent Okwuosa, has explained that the institute opposed an attempt in 2023 by electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) to increase electricity tariff in order to enable Nigerians to have access affordable energy as provided in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7.

Okwuosa gave the explanation when the council members of ICAN paid a courtesy visit on the Managing Director of Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC), Dr. Tinuade Sanda.

He also acknowledged that the power distribution sector in Nigeria is faced with multifaceted problems that include outdated transmission and distribution networks.

He called on the government to establish and implement clear and consistent policies that would create conducive environment for investment in the sector.

“When in July 2023, the Discos moved to increase electricity tariff, the institute advised against this move not because we are not aware of the challenges facing the Discos’.

Rivers Gov Meets Tinubu at State House Refuses to speak with newsmen Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu on Thursday evening met with Governor Simi Fubara of Rivers State at the State House, Abuja.

The governor arrived the seat of government at about 5:35 pm and proceeded straight to the President's office.

Unlike the last time he came to the Villa in December, 2023 with his loyalists during the peace meeting with his estranged political godfather and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike with

the President, the governor was alone this time around.

Though the agenda of his visit was not made public at the time of filing this report, it may not be unconnected with the political crisis between the governor and the FCT Minister over the control of the political structure in Rivers State.

Fubara when approached at about 6.40pm for interview by newsmen after the meeting with the President, however, refused to talk but simply strolled to where his official car was parked within the precints of Aso Rock, Abuja.

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OBI PRESENTS CHEQUES TO IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY SPECIALIST HOSPITAL… Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi presenting cheques of N75 million ($50,000 and N15 million respectively) to the Management of Immaculate Heart of Mary Specialist Hospital in Nkpor, Anambra State, on Wednesday, at the hospital premises in Nkpor.

Audu: Govt to Probe Ajaokuta Steel’s N33bn Electricity Indebtedness to TCN To set up committee on $5bn new steel plant site Deji Elumoye in Abuja The federal government is to investigate why the obsolete Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited accumulated N33 billion in electricity bill which caused the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to disconnect the company from the national grid.

Minister of Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, made this known to newsmen shortly after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the

State House, Abuja, yesterday.

The TCN had last week announced its decision to disconnect the steel company over the debt owed to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) and service providers.

The debt is made up of N33,071,002,129.49, comprising N30,849,749,981.01 for energy and capacity delivered by NBET and N2,221,252,148.48 owed to service providers.

Reacting to the development in a chat with newsmen, the

minister stressed that the issue would be clearly probed with a view to getting to the root of the matter.

He expressed concern over why the steel firm would accumulate such debt in electricity consumption when it had not been operating in full capacity.

According to him: “I mean these are some of the things that there needs to be clearly looked into. Like you mentioned. One of the things I spoke to the MD of Ajaokuta today, and this was one of the questions I asked and we're going to get to the bottom of it, why consumption of so much electricity in a place that is not operating at full capacity.

NEXIM Bank Launches Digital Platform to Unite of what we also need to African Cocoa Communities do“Part is that we're trying to revive Gilbert Ekugbe

The Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM) yesterday launched a digital hub, cocoa connect Africa, in its bid to boost cocoa production on the continent.

The Managing Director, NEXIM, Abubakar Bello, explained that the move was to bring all the activities of every stakeholder in the cocoa industry and the cocoa ecosystem under one platform.

Abubakar stated this on the sidelines of the International Cocoa and Chocolate Forum tagged "Putting values in cocoa in producing regions" in Lagos.

"It is about somebody who has products and meeting someone who is interested in the product.

It is about connection and market information. We are putting all the stakeholders on the value chain for different commodities, but the one we launched today is for cocoa and we are also doing the same for cashew.

"We are also doing so for Shea.

The idea is to have a cluster because today everything is done digitally, why should our trade be lagging behind. We must create a platform for every stakeholder to log in to purchase what they want digitally from their comfort zones," he added.

He pointed out that the launch of the platform was not for profit making, but to boost trade facilitation and setting standards for traceability "The platform can be used to educate farmers, it can be used to educate regulators and to pass information on latest developments.

We must create an awareness for farmers on the latest trends, there is also a need for effective regulation in the value chain," he said.

He added that the vision of the digital hub was to unlock the boundless potential of Cocoa in Africa.

"At Cocoa Connect Africa, we offer more than just a platform; we provide an immersive experience tailored to elevate your journey in the cocoa industry," he noted.

On her part, the Executive Director of Nexim bank, Stella Okotete, said NEXIM Bank has supported Cocoa exporters with over $100bn in the last seven years with all facilities performing and creating jobs for over 7,000 direct and 70,000 indirect Jobs for Nigeria.

She added that amongst others, NEXIM created a Small and Medium Exporters Facility (SMEF) to support exporters, stressing that NEXIM has been supporting suppliers by growing their capacities.

She commended the young entrepreneurs who are making impacts in the cocoa value chain and assured them of her support through the bank.

She added that with the recent spike in the prices of cocoa, the bank has opened up its refinancing windows to support exporters with single digit loans.

"We are sure that the cocoa exporters will take advantage of the opportunity, because it will help them to reduce the burden of the double digit interest rate. We are ensuring that we would continue to do more," she averred.

Ajaokuta in a collegiate system, in piecemeal, and so we may not have the capacity to be able to pay all those outstanding amounts immediately.

“Part of what the MD of Ajaokuta told me is that most of the money is in interest payments.

And NBET, the electricity company that has disconnected it is also a government agency.”

Emphasising the role of NBET in the disconnection saga, Shuaibu stressed that government will not allow its agency to hinder the effort to revive the steel company, which has not been in operation for about 45 years.

His words: “So, if we as a government ministry, government agency are trying to revive Ajaokuta working hard to do that, we should not have another hand within the same government making things very difficult for us.

“And so, part of what we plan to do is to sit down on the table in the next few days as quickly as possible to be able to come up with a plan so that they can put it back on the grid and put things back in order.

“Is a gradual process Ajaokuta cannot be revived overnight. This is an institution, this is a plant that has not been working for 45 years, it is a difficult task to try and get it back on track.

“So, we need the support of

the entire government apparatus, we need support of stakeholders, we need support of everyone to be able to do this difficult job.

“This job is not a job that myself and Mr. President can do alone.

We need the support of everyone including the electricity company to be able to help us to get this project back on track so that we can create the hundreds of thousands of jobs I want to create for Nigerians.”

Audu also revealed that the ministry has received President Tinubu’s go-ahead to raise a committee to look for an appropriate site to set up of a new steel plant in the country.

He recalled that the decision to establish the $5 billion plant was reached between the President and Jindal Steel of India at the sidelines of the last G20 summit.

He said representatives of Jindal Steel will arrive the country shortly, adding that: “So, I briefed Mr. President and I've met with representatives of Jindal steel, and they're very serious about their commitment.

“And we're currently looking for a land that is close to gas station that has a port and is close to the natural or mineral resources such as, you know, iron ore and the likes to be able to get them the ideal location. Either they set up a greenfield or they acquire an existing plant, such as, you know, the Delta steel plant.

“So, those are the things on the table. Mr. President has given us go ahead to set up a committee with some very critical stakeholders within the government, including the likes of the Minister of Finance the CME, including the likes of the Minister of Trade and Investments, to the Minister of Defense, Minister of Solid Minerals and myself to be able to get this thing running and get it off the ground.

“So, the Renewed Hope Agenda is here to stay. We think that if we're able to complete all these projects, that has been approved

by Mr. President, including the revival of Ajaokuta we should be able to create not less of 500,000 jobs and bringing billions of dollars into the economy.”

FG Directs Contractors Back to Site, Releases 50% of Funds for Palliative Road Works Targets 150km of road infrastructure per state Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has charged the contractors under the federal ministry of works to return to site, noting that the federal government has already released 50 per cent of the approved funds for carrying out palliative works on Nigerian roads.

He also urged the contractors to brace themselves for the standard of work and delivery time frame required of every contractor under the current administration.

The minister gave the charge in a meeting with the directors of the ministry and the contractors held at the ministry's headquarters in Abuja.

Umahi emphasised that going forward, contractors must take into account the plight of Nigerians on road infrastructure development

in executing their projects.

He maintained that the ministry means business and would not take excuses from contractors.

The minister assured them that the ministry would consider the review of contracts previously consummated in line with set parameters and prevailing economic situations, and that all generated certificates would be verified and paid accordingly.

He urged them to ensure that all issues of contract variations were brought to the notice of the relevant departments of the ministry and thanked President Bola Tinubu for the prompt release of funds for palliatives works. ”The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) has approved over 80 per cent of requests for palliative projects. Those who indicated interest in the palliative

project should please come to the ministry to collect award letters and complete documentation.

“Mr. President has graciously released 50 per cent of funds on palliative work, and so he wants to see action in all the 36 states and Abuja,” he added.

The minister used the opportunity to announce the reorganisation of the supervision structure for the special projects across the nation and introduced a special mechanism for tracking of certificates generated by contractors.

He expressed hope that with the new initiative each state of the federation would record not less than 150km roads in the federal roads network in the year 2024, in addition to the special road projects funded through different extra budgetary platforms.

Earlier in his remarks, the

representative of the Permanent Secretary and Director Highway, Bridges and Design, Awosanya Onatuga, stated that the meeting of the directors and contractors with the minister was part of the agenda setting for the year 2024.

He stated that the essence was to take the task of performance that would help them move the works sub-sector forward in accordance with the innovative plans of federal government.

"We can say we did very well towards the end of last year.

There were no adverse reports on any blockage, people sleeping on the road. Yes, we have not done so much; we are not where we are supposed to be, but with the spirit of the Minister, the can-do spirit, and it's not slowing down, we are on the right track," he added.

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POLITICS

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 SMS ONLY

Edo 2024: The Osunbor Factor in APC Political activities have picked up in earnest in Edo state as the race for the 2024 governorship ticket in the All Progressives Congress gathers momentum with former Senator, Prof Oseheimen Osunbor and other aspirants signifying their interest to run for the coveted number one seat in the heart beat of the nation.

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n politics, fame appears in myriad forms.

Over the airwaves and on the newsstands, on the playing field, by dint of hard work, ability or by reputation. Very ambitious politicians tell tales of what they will do and how they will transform their state into an Eldorado in four years.

In Edo state, this is the time of the year when politicians get top billing. After all, the political season is here and it is the make-or-break period for many an ambitious politician.

At stake is the governorship of the heart beat of the nation which is up for grabs this year. To most political watchers in the state politics, the battle as to who becomes the next governor of the state is primarily within the All Progressives Congress (APC), which is poised to take over the state; and that can be determined by which aspirant becomes the party’s candidate at the primary that comes up next month.

So far, 68 aspirants from various parties have indicated their interest to take over from Governor Godwin Obaseki of the PeoplesDemocraticParty (PDP). They include 28 aspirants from Labour Party, APC 29, and the PDP has 11.

The race is particularly fierce in the APC. Former Senator, Professor Oseheimen Osunbor is in. So is the state’s chairman of the party, Col. David Imuse, a retired military officer, who has also thrown his hat into the ring, while some serving senators and members of the House of Representatives are also interested in the race.

Others battling for the APC ticket are Major Geneeal Charles Airhiavbere (rtd), a former Accountant General of the Nigeria Army and ex-Director of Finance and Administration of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC); former spokesman to General Ibrahim Babangida and one time Edo state Commissioner for Information, Prince Kassim Afegbua and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who was the party’s candidate in the 2020 gubernatorial poll.

Another aspirant for the party’s ticket is Dr. Blessing Agbomhere, a South African based politician who has urged the party leadership, in a letter, to reward his “loyalty” with the governorship ticket.

In a letter addressed to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Umar Ganduje and copied to other stakeholders in the party, Agbomhere who is the current South South Zonal Organising Secretary of the party said it is in the habit of President Bola Tinubu to reward loyalty and dedication to the party and therefore his request to be given the party’s ticket is not out of place.

On his part, Osunbor since throwing his hat into the ring, has thrown the spanner into the gubernatorial ambition of many of the aspirants.

Aman does not often change his deepest convictions, but it is not unusual for a man to change his calculation of risk. This, it seems, is what is happening to Osunbor, one-time Senator representing Edo Central at the National Assembly.

So, why is he contesting the governorship again?

To him, he has the experience and integrity with a promise to deliver good governance if elected.

He said, “The state is currently suffering from bad roads and non-availability of other amenities.

If given the opportunity to serve again, I will make sure that all these amenities are available.

“I have been there before and I have a lot to offer and I promise Edo people that I will do a lot to better their lots,” he added.

Osunbor solicited the support of the party leaders, promising he would take the state to greater heights following his rich history as an astute politician, whose tenure as governor recorded laudable feats.

In the period of political stress that the state is experiencing right now, all sorts of theories are entertained about the nature of problems besetting the state and how to tackle and solve them.

Osunbor believes that in the ever-changing world of politics, only change is constant. Hence, experience and performance counts. What Edo needs is a good manager of resources. He has done it before, he can do it again.

Some politicians like Osunbor who have mastered the art of governance are careful. They

realise that both the good and the bad times never last forever while careful planning and management of resources help at critical times.

Such politicians are guided by facts, reality and crunchy scrutiny of the questions and answers they give. For example: what is your economic

plan for the state, what is your developmental goal for infrastructure, education and the economy, will a project deliver a reasonable return on capital invested?

Would this be a second coming for him? Osunbor, a realist believes that political leadership goes beyond rhetoric and noise and unfulfillable promises. He has antecedents to show for his abilities. He insisted that he has an unfinished vision for his beloved state. These are the thoughts of Osunbor as he puts himself forward to contest the governorship position once again.

For him, governance should not be seen from the point of view of “any qualified person should be the governor,” even when that person does not have the ability. To him, government should entail competence, a proven record of capacity, capability and service for the general good of the people. He’s insisting that electing another incompetent person whose only job is to be at the corridor of power in the state is not acceptable.

According to him, Edo’s political situation in recent times is difficult and the problem? Bad leadership and bad policies, and it’s not about to go away anytime soon unless the right person is picked and elected.

He also insisted that governance is a serious business; hence the only way forward for Edo State to have meaningful progress in the nearest future is to have a reliable, competent and known achiever as governor. Someone with a proven record, especially in the business of governance.

“Government business must be done businesslike,” Osunbor insisted.

Commonwealth Speakers Identify Strategies for Consensus Building in Parliament Ismail Mudashir writes about the 27th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth held recently in Kampala, the Ugandan capital during which Nigeria’s Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin delivered a paper on the need to ensure consensus building in parliament.

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or four days, 33 presiding officers of the Parliaments of 25 countries converged in Kampala, Uganda, for the 27th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC).

CSPOC was created in 1969 as an initiative of the then Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada, the Hon. Lucien Lamoureux, to strengthen parliamentary institutions by bringing together Speakers and Presiding Officers from across the Commonwealth countries.

Declared open by the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri K. Museveni, Year 2024 conference was held at the Commonwealth Resort Munyonyo, Kampala, from January 3rd to 6th.

Topics of discourse at the conference focused on the environment and climate change, diverse and inclusive Parliaments, security for Parliaments and the role of Speakers and Presiding Officers in building consensus for parliamentary business.

During the session, which was held last Saturday, the presiding officers took turns to share experiences on how best to build consensus for rancour-free parliaments.

Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Anita Annet Among, chaired the session while the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, India, Hon. Harivansh Narayan Singh, was the keynote speaker.

Setting the tone for the discussion, Hon. Singh said consensus building is crucial to the success of a parliament, and urged all the presiding officers to always promote it.

According to him, the flexibility of the parliament to accommodate diverse opinions is the hallmark of the legislature. Thus, he said all shades of opinion need to be carried along.

Deputy President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, presented a paper during a special

plenary session titled, “Building Consensus for Parliamentary Business: The Role of Speakers and Presiding Officers”.

In his paper, Senator Barau said the role of presiding officers in building consensus for parliamentary business is multifaceted and essential.

Represented by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Barau described the role of presiding officers as a complex tapestry woven from order, fairness, consensus and leadership.

According to him: “These individuals stand as champions of democracy, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard, respected and reflected in the legislative process. In an age of rising political polarization, their ability to build bridges, broker compromises and foster collaboration is more vital than ever.

“It is through their dedication and skill that parliaments can truly embody the very spirit of democracy, a testament to the power of dialogue, consensus and the collective will of the people.

“By delving deeper into this multifaceted role, a greater appreciation for the critical contribution of Speakers and Presiding Officers to the health and vibrancy of our democratic

systems is upheld. Their tireless efforts lay the foundation for a future where diverse voices are heard, compromises are forged, and the common good prevails.”

To strengthen the parliament, he advocated for the enhancement of social capital networking between the presiding officers and other lawmakers.

“The issue of the social capital network is very significant. As a leader, you ought to improve your social capital network. For example, our coming to gather here today has developed a lot of social capital networks on which we can capitalise and have a very robust Parliament.

“The same thing at home; parliamentarians and leaders of the Assembly should ensure that they develop a social capital network.

This will be very important. As Madam Speaker has said, it is about trust and personal relationships. They are very key points that I will take home,” the Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate stated.

Impressed by the quality of Senator Barau’s presentation, the President of the Senate of Grenada, Hon Dessima Williams, threw her weight behind the paper, saying presiding officers will learn a lot from it.

For the Speaker of the Kenyan Parliament, Rt. Hon. Wetangula Masika, a level playing ground must be provided to all.

Masika, who has been in the parliament since 1992, said presiding officers must strive to give room to everybody. He said in parliament, unlike in a religious gathering, there are bound to be dissenting views on issues, thus consensus must be reached.

-Mudashir is Media Adviser to Deputy President of the Senate NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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UZODIMMA AND NEWLY RECRUITED TEACHERS The state public schools lack qualified teachers, argues IFEANYI MADUAKO

See page 21

AN OVATION FOR JIKA CHUKS ILOEGBUNAM pays tribute to Jika Attoh, broadcast journalist of note

See page 21 EDITORIAL

TACKLING MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGE

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Discrimination against women makes the economy less competitive, argues JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

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FRIDAY JANUARY 12, 2024

The state public schools lack qualified teachers, argues IFEANYI MADUAKO CHUKS ILOEGBUNAM pays tribute to Jika Attoh, broadcast journalist of note

AN OVATION FOR JIKA “From all indications,” said Jika Attöh. He was dark, and dapper. He spoke English with an uncommon fluency. We also communicated in Igbo, which made me wonder if he was of the ethnic group. It was in answer to my question that he said, “From all indications.” I failed to see the indications, for neither Jika nor Attöh was Igbo.

The year was 1976. We were standing in line inside a hall at the Faculty of Arts building of the University of Ife (Obafemi Awolowo University), all freshmen, waiting to register for our courses in the English Department. Jika told me he was from Onitsha, which was about 15 kilometres from my hometown of Abatete. His full name was Ifejika Michael Elvis Attöh. Of the Attöh surname, he explained that the origin was Ghanaian. He warned that it wasn’t spelt correctly unless two dots hung over the ö in it! Our friendship started on that day.

When on October 25, 2023, Ikeddy Isiguzo called for my confirmation of the terrible news, I instantly told him to perish the thought. “I tagged Jika to a WhatsApp message I posted this morning,” I said. Then I spoke more sensibly: “Who told you?” The story had appeared on a WhatsApp forum. I advised that he played no part in spreading it without confirmation. I dialled Jika’s number, expecting to hear the usual Babandidi or Misti Shooks, but it rang out. The prospect of calling his wife carpeted me. I tried a mutual friend’s number in Enugu without connecting.

Less than ten minutes later, Oseloka Zikora called. “Terrible news,” he said in a subdued voice.

He was in Namibia. Jika’s wife had got him by WhatsApp and, could he please pass the message on to Babandidi? Suddenly, calls started pouring in from all over, to ask if it was true, or to express condolences.

By the following day, social and electronic media were full of tributes. What was I to do?

Write a tribute? I couldn’t even pass any comments on the ones that I managed to read. I was in denial, believing that escaping into myself would clean the past day’s slate of demise, of the loss of a dear friend and brother. Then I remembered with regret that I was to have been in Enugu on Friday, September 29, 2023, for an Ohanaeze Ndigbo event in honour of past Igbo leaders, including Dr. Michael Okpara, Sir Louis Phillip Odumegwu Ojukwu, General Aguiyi-Ironsi, General Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and others. I had told Jika that I was mulling over attending. I had a book on Ironsi and another on Ojukwu that could be useful to those desirous of information on those listed for posthumous honours.

Jika responded thus on September 25: “No matter how history judges them eventually, these are undoubtedly illustrious Igbo men. And, as my village elders would say, if outsiders don’t celebrate you, it's legit to celebrate yourself. Ohanaeze should honour their own, and Babandidi should display his monumental works on these heroes at the event. Logical reasoning. I salute you again, my esteemed brother.”

I ditched the trip. Recalling this, a shaft of pain seared through my essence. Had I made it, I would have met Jika alive. I probably would have stayed on in the Coal City, affording solace and holding his hand as he transited into immortality. Now, all I can manage is to celebrate him. Yet, this cannot come easy because mourning is not exactly like downing choice liquor. Looking at the past and imagining the future, all I can do today is to wish Jika peace and his family solace. But because it amounts to a bounden duty, I must write some words about my brother and bosom friend. However, to make head or tail out of this assignment, it’s critical to start by

invoking the memories of two great Nigerians that left imprints on the sands of Nigerian history.

They are Alhaji Shehu Musa (1935-2008) and Professor Ben Obumselu (1930-2017). Alhaji Shehu was Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) during the Shehu Shagari presidency. Dr. Obumselu was an eminent professor of Poetry, and an Igbo leader. In one of the last interviews Alhaji Shehu granted, he deeply lamented to the Vanguard that all his dear friends had died, leaving him alone on Mother Earth.

I didn’t quite put his lamentation in context. If God granted him longevity, I wondered, what was the point of whining about departed friends?

I now know better. Professor Obumselu was not just a friend but also a mentor. Visiting his Lagos home one day, we spent time discussing a whole range of topics, including his late friend, the poet Christopher Okigbo. Then a young man came in who, after salutations, complained that a project to benefit younger people that the professor had initiated was being sabotaged by those who should be at its cutting edge.

I thought Obumselu would flare up. Instead, he smiled and addressed the young man. “Listen,” he said. “Many thanks for your efforts. I am not bothered by what the spoilers are up to. I cannot wait to go in and cherish the company of my grandchildren.” The man soon left, pocketing some money Obumselu had given him. Behind his back, Obumselu emphasised that time spent with his grandchildren now had the most meaning to him. I couldn’t understand. I now know better.

To return to Jika Attöh, our friendship blossomed. We went to and came from lectures mostly together. The same thing applied to other campus activities that captured our interest, like grabbing a spicy meal at the Bukateria, or listening to the fireworks of academics during the Background Lectures series. When vacation came, we often travelled East together and camped first at their family home at No 10 Ibegbu Street, Inland Town, Onitsha, where Jika’s mother fussed over us, and prepared all the dishes that made us long for more. After we had graduated, Jika and I referred to our mothers by their first names. Although his mother was Nne O’dii or O’dii’s mother to everyone else, she was simply Ememgini to us. In my book, Ememgini means My Innocence Should Be SelfEvident. My mother was Agwaniru – You Don’t Mess With Me! We discussed them with love.

They were two poor, petty trading widows deeply in love with their offspring. Jika’s father, a former policeman, died when he was an adolescent, leaving behind Ememgini, Jika, and his older brother, Anthony Okwudili better known as Tony O'dii. It was largely by her efforts that they grew up in Abakaliki, finishing primary and secondary school education.

Iloegbunam is a Journalist and Author

UZODIMMA AND NEWLY RECRUITED TEACHERS The last time I checked, Imo State public Schools has led to the proliferation of schools, especially those in the basic and quack and substandard private schools in secondary levels were grossly ill-equipped the state.

ZLWK TXDOLÀHG WHDFKHUV If the governor prevaricated or dillyThe foundation of sound and meaningful dallied in the recruitment of the new education is at the basic level, and any teachers so that the so-called 50,000 government that neglects the basic level applicants could vote for him in the last usually fails at both the secondary and tertiary November governorship election, what is levels. he still waiting for to deploy the successful Sometime in May, 2023, the government ones who were painstakingly recruited of Imo State advertised for employment of since he had won the election? Was the teachers primarily for the basic level. Over recruitment which saw unemployed Imo 50,000 applicants of Imo State origin applied citizens coming home from all over the from all over the country. country a facade or election propaganda or Since the announcement was done in gimmick just to win the election?

May last year which was the last term of If the governor is truly committed to the 2022/2023 yearly academic session, the revamping the dilapidated education DSSOLFDQWV KDG H[SHFWHG WKDW WKH VXFFHVVIXO sector in the state, his second term which ones among them would be recruited and begins on January 15,2024, should give deployed to their various schools at the him the ample opportunity to put that beginning of 2023/2024 academic session into practice. The state government should which started in September. deploy these newly recruited teachers to This writer was reliably informed that the their various schools to give impetus and recruitment of the successful 5000 applicants life to public schools gasping for breath.

The government should demonstrate leadership and sincerity of purpose by inputting these fresh teachers into the state government's payroll without delay in such a manner that they would have been in the system for four years by the end of the tenure of present government.

This would make it almost impossible for his successor to sack or disengage them. This odious practice of outgoing JRYHUQRUV VXͿXVLQJ RU VXͿRFDWLQJ WKH state government's wage bill by employing QHZ VWDͿ IHZ GD\V ZHHNV RU PRQWKV WR WKH end of their tenure should stop in the state.

Governor Rochas Okorocha sacked 10,000 workers employed by his predecessor on has long been concluded since September WKH ÁLPV\ H[FXVH WKDW WKH\ ZHUH HPSOR\HG last year with the belief or hope that they few months to the end of his tenure. The ZRXOG EHJLQ LQ WKH ÀUVW WHUP +RZHYHU WKH self-same Okorocha committed the same management of the Imo State Universal Basic act , and his successor, Emeka Ihedioha, Education Board seems to be waiting on the ZLHOGHG WKH ELJ VWLFN DQG ÁXVKHG WKHP governor for his approval to post out these out which showed that Okorocha was not applicants to the various schools, especially altruistic in the hurried recruitments. those in the hinterlands that need their services.

Governor Uzodimma should show One does not know why the governor seems leadership and altruism by departing to be prevaricating on the issue of equipping from this insidious lane. Let him bear the the public schools in the state. The governor, I brunt or burden of shouldering the wage must admit, has done relatively well in terms ELOO RI WKHVH QHZ WHDFKHUV IRU WKH QH[W RI SURMHFW H[HFXWLRQ LQ WKH ODVW IRXU \HDUV PRUH four years even if it means reducing the WKDQ KLV SUHGHFHVVRUV ZKR ZHUH LQ R΀FH IRU FDSLWDO H[SHQGLWXUH RI WKH QH[W IRXU ÀVFDO HLJKW \HDUV EXW UHJUHWWDEO\ FRXOGQ W H[HFXWH budgets to accommodate the recurrent even half of the laudable projects Governor H[SHQGLWXUH ZKLFK ZLOO DULVH IURP WKHVH 8]RGLPPD KDV H[HFXWHG LQ IRXU \HDUV new employments. Human capital For instance, the Owerri- Orlu and the development which basic education Owerri- Okigwe dual carriage high ways W\SLÀHV VKRXOG WDNH SUHFHGHQFH RYHU are some of the legacy projects of Governor capital development.

Uzodimma. These roads were commuters Lastly, the current government of nightmares for decades even when Orlu Anambra State had last year employed zone produced two previous governors who thousands of teachers since Governor ZHUH LQ R΀FH IRU HLJKW \HDUV HDFK 7KH ODPH Soludo became the governor in March argument about Uzodimma constructing the 2022. If Soludo could employ thousands roads with a view to getting reimbursement RI WHDFKHUV LQ OHVV WKDQ WZR \HDUV LQ R΀FH from the federal government under the regime Uzodimma has no plausible reasons to of President Buhari is the height of idiocy. keep his newly recruited teachers in the Why didn't his predecessors, particularly the doldrums since last year knowing full well last one from Orlu zone who always claims to that he has not done any new employment be more northerner than any other Igbo man in the last four years. construct the roads and got reimbursed?

Lest I digress. The nonchalant attitude Maduako of successive governments towards the writes from Owerri via IRUWLÀFDWLRQ RI WKH VWDWH V EDVLF DQG VHFRQGDU\ ifeanyimaduako2017@gmail.com

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T H I S D AY

FRIDAY JANUARY 12, 2024

EDITORIAL

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

TACKLING MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGE Mental illness is becoming more common. Government needs to do more to arrest the trend

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bout 60 million Nigerians are UHSRUWHGO\ VXͿHULQJ IURP RQH PHQWDO LOOQHVV RU WKH RWKHU ² IURP WKH PLOG WR the severe. Indeed, a recent survey E\ D WHDP RI PHGLFDO SHUVRQQHO IURP Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital said WKDW RQH LQ HYHU\ ÀYH 1LJHULDQV LV YXOQHUDEOH WR mental conditions which are brain-based illnesses WKDW DͿHFW WKLQNLQJ HPRWLRQV DQG EHKDYLRXUV 6RPH experts have blamed the current socio-economic SUREOHPV LQ WKH FRXQWU\ IRU WKH JURZLQJ QXPEHU RI 1LJHULDQV ZKR VXͿHU IURP PHQWDO KHDOWK FKDOOHQJHV More worrisome is that there seems to be no SODQ WR WDFNOH WKH PHQDFH )RU LQVWDQFH 1LJHULD KDV RQO\ DERXW SV\FKLDWULVWV WR FDUH IRU WKH SRSXODWLRQ RI DERXW PLOOLRQ HTXLYDOHQW RI one psychiatrist to one million people. “This ÀJXUH HYHQ WKRXJK LW sounds damning, is true DQG LW GRHVQ·W DFFRXQW IRU the current brain drain, which may be as close to total as possible” said Dr Dami Ajayi, a member RI :HVW $IULFDQ &ROOHJH RI 3V\FKLDWU\ DQG DVVRFLDWH IHOORZ RI 1DWLRQDO 3RVWJUDGXDWH 0HGLFDO &ROOHJH RI 1LJHULD ´7KH IHZ GRFWRUV ZKR DUH ZRUNLQJ DUH QRW JHWWLQJ MREV FUHDWHG WR ÀW ZLWKLQ WKH WLHUV RI FOLQLFDO care.” /DVW -DQXDU\ 3UHVLGHQW 0XKDPPDGX %XKDUL VLJQHG LQWR ODZ 1LJHULD·V ÀUVW 0HQWDO +HDOWK %LOO the National Mental Health Act, 2021 which replaced WKH /XQDF\ $FW RI 7KH $FW LV D VLJQLÀFDQW VWHS IRUZDUG IRU PHQWDO KHDOWK LQ 1LJHULD DV LW VHHNV WR SURPRWH DQG SURWHFW WKH OLYHV RI SHRSOH VXͿHULQJ IURP mental illnesses while also addressing and correcting WKH ÁDZV LQ WKH /XQDF\ $FW ,W DOVR HPSKDVLVHV WKH government’s commitment to closing Nigeria’s massive mental health care gap and eventually, DFKLHYLQJ 8QLYHUVDO +HDOWK &RYHUDJH %XW WKH ODFN RI LQIUDVWUXFWXUH WR GHDO ZLWK WKH FKDOOHQJH LV YHU\ WHOOLQJ $V RI WRGD\ 1LJHULD KDV ÀYH PHQWDO KHDOWK nurses to 100,000 Nigerians, and with only eight QHXURSV\FKLDWULF KRVSLWDOV 7KH IHZ PHQWDO IDFLOLWLHV

DUH UXQ GRZQ ,W LV WKHUHIRUH QR VXUSULVH WKDW WKH country is heading towards a mental health crisis. $FFRUGLQJ WR KHDOWK SURIHVVLRQDOV PHQWDO KHDOWK includes the emotional, psychological, and social ZHOO EHLQJ RI SHRSOH DQG WKH\ DͿHFW WKH ZD\ VXFK LQGLYLGXDOV WKLQN IHHO DQG EHKDYH 7KHUH DUH PRUH WKDQ FODVVLÀHG IRUPV RI PHQWDO LOOQHVV EXW WKH more common disorders are depression, bipolar disorder, dementia, schizophrenia, and anxiety GLVRUGHUV 7KH\ DWWULEXWH WKH FDXVH RI PHQWDO LOOQHVV WR WKUHH IDFWRUV ELRORJLFDO ZKLFK LQFOXGH JHQHV RU EUDLQ FKHPLVWU\ OLIH H[SHULHQFHV VXFK DV WUDXPD RU DEXVH DQG IDPLO\ KLVWRU\ (DUO\ RXWZDUG VLJQV RI PHQWDO LOOQHVV LQFOXGH HDWLQJ RU VOHHSLQJ WRR PXFK RU WRR OLWWOH SXOOLQJ DZD\ IURP people and usual activities; having low or no energy; IHHOLQJ QXPE RU EHKDYLQJ DV LI QRWKLQJ PDWWHUV DQ\ longer.

Others include having unusual aches and SDLQV IHHOLQJ KHOSOHVV RU KRSHOHVV VPRNLQJ GULQNLQJ RU XVLQJ GUXJV PRUH WKDQ XVXDO %HVLGHV FRQIXVHG WKLQNLQJ VHYHUH mood swings; hearing voices or believing things that are not true, inability WR SHUIRUP GDLO\ WDVNV VXFK DV WDNLQJ FDUH RI NLGV RU JHWWLQJ WR ZRUN RU VFKRRO DUH DOVR UHODWHG V\PSWRPV 0HQWDO LOOQHVV LV QRWKLQJ WR EH DVKDPHG RI /LNH diabetes and heart disease, it is a medical condition which is treatable. Many people with mental health LOOQHVV UHWXUQ WR D SURGXFWLYH DQG IXOÀOOLQJ OLIH DIWHU SURPSWO\ VHHNLQJ KHOS %XW WKH FRXQWU\ LV QRW GRLQJ HQRXJK WR WDFNOH WKLV SXEOLF KHDOWK HPHUJHQF\ 6WHPPLQJ WKH WLGH UHTXLUHV D PXOWL VHFWRUDO DQG multi-disciplinary approach involving various government ministries, agencies, and departments 0'$V HVSHFLDOO\ WKDW RI KHDOWK ODERXU DQG employment, and social services.

Government needs to build and equip rehab centres across the country while measures should be put in place to improve access to mental health services through community mental health services or primary health care. Mental health education should also be encouraged.

Government needs to build and equip rehab centres across the country while measures should be put in place to improve access to mental health services through community mental health services or primary health care T H I S D AY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, JANUARY 12, 2024

23

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

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Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325

J A N U A R Y

S & P INDEX

4 , 2 0 2 4

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

11.25%

CALL

19.12%

INDEX LEVEL

611.31%

1/4 TO DATE

-0.07%

N795.28/ 1 US DOLLAR*

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11.50%

1-MONTH

16.25%

1-DAY

0.03%

YEAR TO DATE

0.48%

*AS AT MONDAY, JULY 24, 2023

3-MONTH

15.75%

MONTH-TO-DATE

-0.7%

International Travel Fares Skyrocket Despite FG’s Intervention to Defray Trapped Airline Funds

Chinedu Eze Despite the recent payment of $61 million (N66 billion) to foreign airlines by the federal government as part of their revenue trapped in Nigeria, international carriers still charge Nigerians outrageous fares for international travels, THISDAY can report.

Before the federal government paid the $61 million, trapped funds in Nigeria had risen to about $800 million.

According to aviation experts, the effort is an indication that the Nigerian government has not taken the payment of the trapped funds as priority.

The experts are of the view that Nigeria could offset the debts within

a short period if it really wants to.

Speaking on behalf of travel agencies in the country, the President, National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mrs. Susan Akporiaye, said the $61 million paid to airlines would not make any impact because it is less than 10 per cent of the trapped fund.

“Such meager payment will not make the airlines to introduce their lower inventories that would have brought down the cost of international fares,” Akporiaye said.

She explained that even if the airlines introduced their lower inventories, airfares would still be high due to the exchange rate and the low value of the naira, decrying that the Nigerian currency has so depreciated that any expenses

involving foreign exchange will obviously be high.

“We have to look at it holistically.

Our trapped funds were over $800 million and what they have gotten is $61 million, which is not up to 10 per cent and that is probably why nothing has changed. If they had at least gotten up to 50 per cent of their trapped funds, maybe there would have been a considerable change, but so far, nothing much has changed.

“But then again, there are two things involved when it comes to the issue of the price of tickets: The inventory sales when the tickets are not available for sale and the issue of foreign exchange. Even when all the airlines release their inventory, it is still not going to be cheap. For

instance, Turkish airline has released all the classes of their tickets but it is still not cheap because a $500 ticket is over N600, 000, unlike before when a $500 ticket was N250, $1,000 ticket cost between N500, 000 to N600, 000.

But now, the same ticket is about N1.1 million,” she said.

She also decried the fact airlines use the ‘I and E’ window like other organisations that need foreign exchange.

This, she suggested, is a breach of part of the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and airlines’ as host country.

Under BASA, she said Nigeria is obliged to remit airlines revenue in foreign currency at official exchange rate.

She also insisted that even if the

federal government pays 50 per cent of the trapped funds it would not still influence the price of ticket significantly until the naira begins to gain value against international currencies.

She acknowledged that if the trapped funds were paid off, airfares would definitely come down.

“Even if the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) pays the airlines 50 per cent of the trapped funds and all the airlines release their lower inventories, let us not celebrate too much because it will still not be as cheap as people expect it to be because of the exchange rate.

Before, Turkish Airline was selling only the highest economy ticket, which was between N2.7 and N3.5 million depending on the destination,

but now, because they have released all their inventories, you can now get a ticket at N1.2 million. You can also get at N900, 000 and N850, 000. When people talk about cheap tickets, they are probably looking at last year’s rate when you could get tickets at N500, 000 or N600, 000 but you can’t get any ticket at that amount again, the cheapest you can get is N800, 000,” she further said.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is irked that Nigeria is holding the highest amount of the trapped revenues of foreign airlines and at different fora had insisted that Nigeria has not seen the payment of the funds as a priority because the country could robustly summon enough funds to remit all the trapped funds to the airlines.

ILO Report: Global Unemployment Rate Set to Increase in 2024, Decries Growing Social Inequality Oluchi Chibuzor The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has forecasted a slight increase in global unemployment in 2024, signalling emerging labour market challenges and a complex global employment scenario.

In a report titled, “ILO’s World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2024 Report,” ILO noted that joblessness and the jobs gap have both fallen below pre-pandemic

levels while growing inequalities and stagnant productivity are causes for concern.

The report highlighted disparities between high and low-income countries, noting higher unemployment and poverty rates in lower-income nations.

It also pointed out that a significant portion of the global workforce remains in informal employment, while stressing that key concerns include worsening

income inequality and the impact of inflation on real incomes, especially in G20 countries.

The report underscored the need for policy interventions focused on social justice to ensure a fair and sustainable global economic recovery.

However, in a separate statement, ILO said that Labour markets have shown surprising resilience despite deteriorating economic conditions, but recovery from the pandemic remains uneven as new

vulnerabilities and multiple crises are eroding prospects for greater social justice.

Commenting, the ILO DirectorGeneral, Gilbert F. Houngbo, said the outlook remains uncertain, stressing that the report looks behind the headline labour market figures and what it reveals must give great cause for concern.

He said it is starting to look as if these imbalances are not simply part of pandemic recovery but structural.

According to him, “The workforce challenges it detects pose a threat to both individual livelihoods and businesses and it is essential that we tackle them effectively and fast. Falling living standards and weak productivity combined with persistent inflation create the conditions for greater inequality and undermine efforts to achieve social justice. And without greater social justice we will never have a sustainable recovery.”

According to the report, “The 2023 global unemployment rate stood at 5.1 per cent, a modest improvement from 2022 when it stood at 5.3 per cent. The global jobs gap and labour market participation rates also improved in 2023.”

The report projects that the labour market outlook and global unemployment will both worsen.

The story continues online on

www.thisdaylive.com

M A R K E T D ATA A S AT T H U R S D AY, J A N U A R Y 1 1 , 2 0 2 4 BONDS Change Updated Time DESCRIPTION Price Yield (%) January ^13.53 230,00 11, 100.65 12.91 2024 MAR-2025 ^12.50 22January 98.58 13.29 0,00 JAN-2026 11, 2024 ^16.2884 17January 108.25 13.06 0,00 MAR-2027 11, 2024 ^13.98 23January 100.50 13.80 0,00 11, FEB-2028 2024 ^14.55 26January 100.13 14.50 0,00 APR-2029 11, 2024

BILLS MATURITY

Discount Yield

Change (%) Updated Time

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NTB 25-Jan24 NTB 8-Feb24 NTB 7-Mar24 NTB 11-Apr24 NTB 9-May24

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MCIL CP VIII 27-DEC-23 RMBL CP VI 31-JAN-24 CRSL CP II 18-FEB-24 FLOURMILLS CP III 29-FEB-24 UACN CP VI 19-MAR-24

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 12, 2024 ˾ T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

AIR WATCH

Customs Vows to Intensify Anti-smuggling Activities, Seizes Contraband Worth N10bn Gilbert Ekugbe The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FoU), Zone A, Ikeja has stated that it would intensify its fight against the nefarious activities of smugglers in the country.

The Comptroller of FOU, Hussein Kehinde Ejibunu, stated that the Unit would step up its ante by not relenting on its efforts in making seizures, arresting and prosecuting criminals who contravenes the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.

At a press briefing to intimate journalists on the successes it recorded last year, he sounded a note of warning to smugglers to desist from the illicit business of smuggling, saying that 2024 would be tougher for smugglers who still indulge in the act.

“If they don’t desist from their criminal ways, this year will be tougher for them because they will lose their investments and freedom

when arrested. Let me put on record that we shall lawfully arrest and prosecute any individual involved in the attack of our officers who are discharging their legitimate responsibilities. No attacker of our personnel will be spared from facing the full wrath of the law,” he warned.

Meanwhile, he stated that in 2023, a total of 1,119 seizures worth a total duty paid value of N10,395,123,943; comprising of rice, vehicles, marijuana, tramadol, used tyres, poultry products, footwears, petroleum products were made, pointing out that the most prominent of the seizures is the foreign parboiled rice which amounted to 139 trailer loads (83,170 bags of 50kg).

“Today’s briefing aims at intimating you on the successes recorded in our 2023 activities and once again, discourage Nigerians from participating in any form of smuggling activity either as sponsors, couriers, informants or other forms of enablers,” he said.

He added that with the morale and logistics support from the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Unit was able to prosecute the fight against smuggling diligently by making seizures, effecting arrests and collecting revenue for government in the course of discharging its functions.

“The report of our seizures and arrests being given to you today attests to the relentless and uncompromising enforcement we deployed in the fight against smuggling in 2023. It is indeed a fallout of the positive energy and selflessness we displayed in the course of our work,” he added.

He noted that the unit was able to recover a total of N851,719,905.01 as revenue through meticulous document checking and was able to identify shortfalls in duty payments from which demand notices were issued and accurate revenue were recovered.

A I R WATCH Perishable Goods Freighting as Boost for Agriculture Investment

Air Peace Expands Regional Network, Opens New Routes Stories By Chinedu Eze Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, has announced that it will launch flight connectivity from its Lagos hub to Cotonou in Benin Republic and Abidjan in Ivory Coast on January 22, 2024, bringing to 10 its regional destinations in less than a decade of commencing scheduled flight operations.

A statement by the airline’s Spokesperson, Stanley Olisa,

disclosed that the new routes were further confirmation of the airline’s unyielding drive to connect the whole of Africa and facilitate economic prosperity on the continent.

According to Olisa, in addition to these new routes opening soon, Air Peace is also introducing new connections such as Abidjan-Dakar, Cotonou-Dakar and AbidjanCotonou.

He stated that the route schedules are now live on the airline’s website-

www.flyairpeace.com- and its mobile app, and customers can start booking to take advantage of the unbeatable launch fares.

Air Peace leads Nigeria’s aviation industry with a current network of 21 domestic routes, eight regional and six international destinations, with an increasing modern fleet of over 30 aircraft, including five brand new Embraer 195-E2s and a latest firm order for five brand new Embraer 175s.

Delta, Virgin Atlantic Mark 1 0 Ye a r s P a r t n e r s h i p Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic are celebrating 10 years of joint venture partnership since the two carriers joined forces to enhance consumer benefits between the US and U.K. in 2014.

The partnership has grown even stronger through the expanded joint venture with Air France-KLM launched in 2020, forming the leading joint venture across the Transatlantic.

Since the partnership launched, the two global airline brands have grown their shared network, adding more routes and flights between the UK and in the US and transporting nearly 40 million customers seamlessly across the Atlantic between the two countries.

“Since we brought together our

two iconic brands, the partnership has gone from strength to strength thanks to a shared focus on customer service and making flying fun,” said Matteo Curcio, Delta’s S.V.P.-EMEAI. “Back in 2014, the partnership deal was a game changer for Delta enabling us to up competition on the most popular business routes between London Heathrow and the U.S., offering customers greater choice, while providing Virgin Atlantic unparalleled access to Delta’s network across North America,” the statement said.

Additionally, Delta and Virgin Atlantic customers have enjoyed an increased number of benefits

while traveling between the U.K. and the U.S., including: The airlines now operate a joint daily schedule of up to 86 daily nonstop flights in both directions between the U.K. and the U.S. – nearly 40 per cent more than in 2014 – including up to 34 peak-day departures from London Heathrow to 15 U.S. gateways.

Additionally, Virgin Atlantic’s move to join SkyTeam in 2023 alongside Delta and Air FranceKLM further enhanced options for customers traveling across the Atlantic, enhancing consistency with SkyTeam premium services including SkyPriority, alongside greater loyalty recognition.

Ethiopian Cargo Adds Casablanca as 35th Destination Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Deputy Business Editor Chinedu Eze Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji Asst. Editor, Money Market Nume Ekeghe Senior Correspondent Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising) Correspondents Emmanuel Addeh (Energy) KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets) James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Reporters Peter Uzoho (Energy) Ugo Aliogo (Development)

Ethiopian Cargo and Logistics Services, Africa’s largest air cargo network operator, commenced a freighter service to Casablanca, Morocco, January 09, 2024, marking 35 in its number of freighter destinations served in Africa.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said: “We are excited to announce the launch of the freighter services to Casablanca, Morocco. The new service opens a new chapter as it is our maiden venture into the Maghreb region as part of our global freighter network.

This addition increases our total African freighter destinations to 35 and boosts our commitment to delivering reliable and efficient services.

As the largest cargo network operator in Africa and a key air cargo service provider globally, Ethiopian Airlines said it would continue expanding its services around the world by opening new routes to facilitate global trade and

the flow of goods. Our freighter service to Casablanca is operated using the modern Boeing 777-200F cargo aircraft with payload capacity of more than 100 tons.”

Ethiopian Cargo and Logistics Services, one of the major strategic business units within the Ethiopian Airlines Group, currently covers more than 135 international destinations around the world with both belly-hold capacity and 68 dedicated freighter services, deploying more than 145 airplanes, including 17 dedicated freighter aircraft, showcasing its operations connecting five continents, and highlighting its role as a business and investment enabler. It runs a modern warehouse facility that has 1.15 million tons of storage capacity and just completed the construction of an ultramodern e-commerce warehouse with a capacity of 150,000 tons, which is dedicated to mail, couriers, and e-commerce goods.

Chinedu Eze It has been established that if Nigeria maximises food production, agriculture will replace oil and gas as major source of foreign exchange, but to make this possible farmers and middlemen must find easier ways of freighting farm produce to both local and international markets.

Aviators conversant with air freighting of cargo have posited that the major setback Nigeria faces in maximising the benefits of its agricultural produce is the failure of quick distribution of perishables.

Farm yields from farms in many areas, especially in the core north and middle belt take longer time to reach huge markets like Lagos, Port Harcourt, Onitsha and other cities where they are largely consumed.

This is attributed to mode of transport of these perishables and aviation industry stakeholders have suggested that the Ministry of Aviation should collaborate with the Ministry of Agriculture to evacuate farm produce by air instead of the tortuous road movement, which makes most of the produce lose their freshness and sometimes get rotten before they reach their destination markets.

In a recent interview with farmers and middle men who move the farm produce, they disclosed that with the drastic devaluation of the naira, it cost about N4 million per trailer to move farm produce from Kebbi to Lagos and this include cost of diesel, put at over N2 million and N600, 000 for bribes to security operatives and other logistics, including feeding for a trip that may last four to five days.

Broken roads, endless checkpoints and other hindrances cause delays in the movement of these perishables that it would become more economical to freight them by air than transporting them by road so that they will retain their freshness on arrival at the destined markets.

This reality has prompted aviation industry stakeholders to call on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to retain and implement the recommendations of Avia Cargo Committee set up by the former Managing Director of FAAN, Captain RabiuYadudu, and find ways to boost the volume of export of farm produce through the airports to enable Nigeria take advantage of its huge agriculture potential to earn foreign exchange and boost the nation’s GDP. Former General Manager, Business Development, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nuhu Imam Adam, told THISDAY that as Nigeria looked to diversify its economy, it was time we reappraise our position on agro perishable goods.

“Unfortunately, the value chain logistics is one of the major barriers. Gladly, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, recently announced the creation of Cargo Directorate at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria. With this, the authority should be able to improve and unlock the logistics barrier and improve agro cargo export efficiently and cost effectively, making our export not only regionally but globally competitive. This can be done in partnership with critical stakeholders in having the goods move from farm to designated airports around the country,” Adam said.

The Managing Director of Flight and Logistics Solutions Limited, Amos Akpan reiterated the

need for FAAN’s new management continue with Aviacargo programme.

“The following organizations and associations need to unify their processes of exports from Nigerian airports, they are: foreign Airlines, Nigeria Aviation Cargo Handling Plc, Skyway Aviation Handling Plc, Association of Nigeria Licensed Agents (ANCLA), NAFDAC, Nigeria Quarantine Services, Nigeria Customs Service and Nigerian Association of Freight Forwarders and Consolidators.

“We need one form entered electronically that encapsulates all information, clearances, and certificates required for an export shipment.

Let the Ministry of Trade liaise with Ministry of External Affairs to produce a catalogue of approved certifications required by countries we export our non oil products.

“These certificates stand as barrier to acceptance of our products/produce in the issuing countries.

For example, certification required for entry of dried fish into Europe is different from the certification required in United States of America. It is also different from that of UK. So it is relevant to have such information at the disposal of exporters, brokers/agents, the handling companies, and the airlines,” he said.

Akpan also warned that the number of government agencies checking and collecting fees per kilo/per package of export shipment were becoming too many, noting that they make the cost of shipping too expensive and this makes the price of Nigerian products/produce very high and not competitive.

The President of Association of Foreign Airlines and Representatives in Nigeria who is also the Managing Director, Merchant Express Cargo Airlines, Dr. Kingsley Nwokoma, told THISDAY that government remained a continuum and therefore should retain positive policies aimed at propelling the aviation agencies and the country forward.

He said it was good that the immediate former Managing Director of FAAN, Mr. Kabir Mohammed retained the AviaCargo Committee and encouraged it to advance the way it did, which culminated to the establishment of cargo village at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

Nwokoma said currently Kenya remained number one among the African countries that export agri produce overseas, followed by South Africa and Nigeria being number five and insisted that looking at Nigeria’s climate from mangrove to the Savanna and massive fertile soil, becoming number one needs intentional execution of the recommendations of the Avia Cargo Committee.

“The committee incorporated core people in the business of cargo export. FAAN has General Managers Cargo and Commercial as members of the committee and these can update the new Managing Director of the agency. They are supposed to brief her on what the committee has done so far.

On the distribution of perishables from the farms to local and international markets, Nwokoma said air freighting remained the best option to move farm produce from the farms in Kebbi, Plateau, Benue, Adamawa and other states to the markets where they are consumed, remaking that the perishables will be fresh on arrival when delivered through air freighting.

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, JANUARY 12, 2024

BUSINESSWORLD

25

AVIATION

Passenger Throughput: Need for Adequate Airport Infrastructure Chinedu Eze writes that while MMA2 is grossly underutilised due to government policy, other terminals lack basic infrastructure despite high passenger throughput

here has been progressive increase in the number of passengers that use Nigeria’s airports both for domestic and for international flight operations.

For many years, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), which controls about 26 airports in the country, has not expanded its terminal facilities at the busy airports to accommodate the upsurge of passengers, but there has been rapid passenger growth, from over 12 million in 2009 to over 16 million in 2022.

According to records available at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigeria has recorded steady growth in its passenger movement both for domestic and international travels.

In 2009, the airports recorded a total of 12, 526, 464 passengers; in 2010, 13, 939, 418; in 2011, it added over a million to 14, 760, 276 and in 2012, it was 14, 113, 077. In 2013, the airports recorded 14, 632, 788 passengers; in 2014, it went up to 15, 335, 772; in 2015, it was 15, 222, 187 and in 2016 it went a little down to 14, 564, 722, when the country felt President Buhari’s economic crunch.

It went further down to 13, 394, 945 in 2017 and rose a little to 13, 706, 347 in 2018. But despite the economic challenges, air travel recorded increased passenger throughput in 2019 with 15, 366, 734 passengers.

In 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown, when flight operations resumed in September, Nigeria recorded only 9, 426, 297 for the few months airlines operated. In 2021, it rose again to 15, 765, 237 and in 2022, it went up again to 16, 172, 433. There is also projection that when the records of 2023 passenger throughput would become available it would increase to over 17 million.

But while the number of people who travel by air is increasing, the airport facilities are not expanding to meet the passenger surge.

T

CONTROVERSY OVER REGIONAL SERVICE

MMA2

UNDERUTILISATION

Since it opened for passenger processing in 2007, the Murtala Muhammed Domestic Terminal 2 (MMA2) has been adjudged the best terminal in Nigeria. In fact, it was the best terminal in West Africa for several years because of its state-of-the-art facilities and easy passenger facilitation.

Head of Communications, Dana Air, Kingsley Ezenwa, told THISDAY on Wednesday that MMA2 has remained unbeatable since it was established in 2007, noting that it operates for 24 hours and that power supply is steady because of the automated system it has. So, it is the only terminal one does not notice the transition of one power supply to another.

“And they have a lot of side attractions. They are always innovating; always introducing new stuff. Recently they opened a new lounge, which is very good and they provide premium service there for those who want to enjoy good comfort before they hope in for their flights. You just board your flight from there. So, MMA2 has not been given the credit it deserves and that is a very good example of what the private sector investment in aviation can be,” Ezenwa said.

In the last six years the terminal has processed the highest number of domestic passengers more than any other terminal in Nigeria, despite the fact that the Lagos airport has another terminal facility for domestic passengers.

In 2018, MMA2 processed over two million passengers; in 2019, over 2.5 million passengers.

The number went down to 1.6 in 2020 due to COVID-19 lockdown. It picked up and rose to 2.6 million passengers in 2021; 2.2 million in 2022 and increased to over 2.3 million in 2023.

In terms of passenger movement, MMA2 records 50 departures and 50 arrivals daily, except in 2019 when it recorded about 60 departures and 60 arrivals.

As the terminal with adequate and state of the art facilities, it has been expected that the Ministry of Aviation and Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) should have designated the terminal for the regional operations, but since the management of the airport, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) upgraded the terminal for both domestic and regional operations, government has refused to give its nod for the facility to maximise its capacity by processing passengers for the two services.

THISDAY learnt the terminal has six avio-bridges with one dedicated to regional operations, and it has dedicated restrooms for male and female passengers for arrivals. The terminal made adequate provision for government agencies, including Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, Port Health and NDLEA. Offices and screening points were provided for these agencies.

THISDAY learnt that one of the challenges Nigerian airlines that operate regional service face is the movement of the aircraft from domestic to the international terminal, the fuel burn and the provision of other logistics cost the airlines a lot.

This most often lead to flight delays and according to FAAN insider, the priority of FAAN workers at the airport is on foreign airlines on the long haul.

This further causes delay for the domestic airlines.

All these will be eliminated if they are allowed to use MMA2.

During the Ibom Air inaugural flight to Accra late last year, airport official at Katoka International Airport, Accra, told THISDAY that if African World Airlines (AWA), which has the airport as its base, operates domestic service, it would just park at the same spot to board Accra-Lagos passengers. This saves the airline fuel and other inconveniences. It also enhances smart passenger facilitation.

Sometime ago, the Chairman of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), Dr. Wale Babalakin, expressed disappointment over the underutilisation of the facility due to the refusal of concerned authorities to use the terminal for both domestic and regional operations.

He disclosed that at its conception and approval, the terminal was planned that all domestic and regional flight operations would emanate from the facility, which has remained the best airport infrastructure since it started operation in May 2007, but so far, it is yet to serve regional operators and it is not even hosting all the domestic operations as contained in the agreement between the federal government and BASL. “I am alarmed that we have not commenced regional operations, because we went through the entire process. We were certified but we’ve not been allowed to take off. The General Aviation Terminal, MMA 1 (GAT) is still operating illegally because based on the judgment of the Supreme Court, the GAT is part of our facility. So I hope that those who have power and who have constitutional authority know that you encourage enterprise when you follow the rule of law. Once you follow the rule of law, your country will become an investment destination.

But if people are looking at us from afar, seeing simple agreements not being honoured, it puts us in a negative light and is not good for anybody in the country,” Babalakin said.

He also said that BASL would continue to legally continue to push to ensure that the rightful thing is done by allowing the facility to operate regional service and also to ensure that all domestic airlines carry out all their local flight operations at the terminal.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

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Weekend

FRIDAY, JANUARY 12, 2024

Group Features Editor: CHIEMELIE EZEOBI chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com

07010510430

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WEEKLY MAGAZINE

CULTURATI

Showcasing the Beauty, Diversity of Africa’s Rich Culture

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˜ ͯͰ˜ ͰͮͰͲ ˾ T H I S D AY

COVER

Aregbe welcomes Ooni of Ife

Culturati: Showcasing the Beauty, Diversity of Africa’s Rich Culture The 17th edition of the annual Culturati, Africa’s largest cultural fusion event, was held on Sunday, December 3rd, 2023 at the Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Africa’s rich culture. An initiative of the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, the event also created avenues to harness youths’ potential, tourism, and economic development. Writes MARY NNAH

C

ulturati, an annual cultural fusion festival, has become a bedrock for fostering a deep appreciation for the complexness of African culture, while also serving as a powerful vehicle for sustainable progress and economic development.

Tagged, as Africa’s largest cultural fusion, Culturati has been breeding the development of Africa’s concrete and abstract cultural assets as a means of developing comparative advantages in an increasingly competitive tourism marketplace, and to create local distinctiveness in the face of globalisation.

It has sustained the fusion of arts, culture and tourism as major drivers of destination attractiveness and competitiveness.

In its 17th edition, Culturati 2023 had the theme, “Enhancing Africa’s Economy Through Investment in Culture, Arts and Tourism”, with special features which included a beach-side exhibition, showcasing an ethnic food village, African fashion display, African traditional dance, African artworks, games, talent hunt and more, celebrating values and igniting Africa.

This year’s edition, which connected people to African culture, had exciting and educating activities that weaved around African culture, with Culturati food fiesta portraying the rich assortment of African food and beverages, connecting various people to African food delicacies, components and economic opportunities while boosting the local tourism and hospitality sector.

The event featured various displays of African culture from different masquerades, including Eyo traditional drums and dances, comedy, and many more.

Dignitaries that attended the event include the Chairman House Committee on Tourism Arts and Culture Hon. Solomon Bonu, the Chief of Staff to Mr Governor, Mr Tayo Ayinde, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Permanent Secretary Mrs Oloruntoyin Atekoja amongst others.

Believing that African culture is a

“The Culturati food Court saturated with an assortment of delicacies portraying the richness of African cuisine, the Culturati Fashion Show, with the best dressed African of the evening carting home a prize.

The whole essence is to open up economic opportunities in African culture for youth empowerment, tourism promotion and general economic development.”

A female talking drummer performing

powerful force for creativity and economic growth, Culturati 2023 was dedicated to harnessing the potential to engage and empower youths, promote cultural tourism, generate employment, and boost the African economy.

It aimed to further explore new opportunities within African culture for investments in music, arts, and food. These initiatives are poised to empower youths and significantly boost the African economy, aligning perfectly with the Global Sustainable Development Goals.

The Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Tourism, Arts and Culture and brain behind, Culturati, Mr. Idris Aregbe during the event expressed the belief that African Culture can be translated into a sustainable vehicle for youth empowerment, tourism promotion

and other economic initiatives that resonate with global sustainable development goals (SDGs), given the latent economic potentials therein.

“The dire unemployment situation precipitated the cultural movement SISI-OGE in 2006 to bring attention to the potential of African culture. Over a decade SISI-OGE metamorphosed into CULTURATI which has become Africa’s largest cultural fusion, continually creating business opportunities for many young cultural buffs to leverage on, rewarding cultural excellence while celebrating Africa’s rich and diverse cultural heritage”, he noted.

The fiesta programmed to herald the annual Culturati celebration brought tourists closer to locals through a delightful variety of foods and beverages and flavoured the local economy by creating jobs around local food products.

The fiesta provided identify conservation and authentic brand development with food items regarded as culturally embedded symbols and markers of place identity.

Aregbe noted further that this year the event was a lot more robust in terms of brands and audience engagement with several interactive segments that amplified the beauty and diversity of African culture with the Culturati market showcasing the ingenuity of craftsmen.

“The Culturati food Court saturated with an assortment of delicacies portraying the richness of African cuisine, the Culturati Fashion Show, with the best dressed African of the evening carting home a prize. The whole essence is to open up economic opportunities in African culture for youth empowerment, tourism promotion and general economic development”, he added.

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BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Yuqing: Deep Sea Port Project will Generate $360bn, Creates 170,000 Jobs Kayode Tokede The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing, has said the construction of the largest deep-sea port in West Africa by the China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) would create a total economic benefit of nearly $360 billion and 170,000 jobs.

Yuqing said that port would open up new prospects for Nigeria’s economic development. The Consul General who made this known in her new year speech titled, “Building a China-Africa Community with a Shared Future,” said that the construction of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line and Red Line by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) has effectively upgraded local traffic conditions and greatly enhanced local people’s well-

being.

According to her, “In the past months since I assumed my duty as the Chinese Consul General in Lagos, I have witnessed a delicate ChineseAfrican cooperation work of art unfolding on this Continent of Hope.

“I have also experienced first-hand how the ChinaAfrica community with a shared future has taken root and flourished among both peoples. With support from the Chinese Consulate, Chinese communities and enterprises, such as the Huaxing Art Troupe Nigeria, have carried out the charity event called “Renewed Hope, Rebirth from the Light” to help cataract patients, which demonstrated the deep love and affection of the overseas Chinese to Nigerian brothers and sisters.

“I often took part in cultural exchange activities together

with overseas Chinese communities under the theme of “Nigeria & China Cultural Exchange: Onsite School Activities”, and I made full use of these chances to interact with teachers and students. From them, I see Nigeria’s hope and future, and feel even more confident about the future of building a China-Africa community with a shared future.”

“The world is big, big enough for people from different countries and regions to share their long history, brilliant culture and traditional customs with each other while maintaining their own characteristics; the world is also small, small enough for all passengers on this ship to sail through stormy waves together. As long as we work hand in hand, I believe we will be able to push forward this promising vision towards brighter future, “said Yuqing.

R-L: Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Bashir Jamoh and Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Folasade Ogunsola during a courtesy visit by the Vice-Chancellor to the NIMASA headquarters in Lagos.,,recently

MARKET INDICATORS

Odu’a Investment Company’s GMD Retires, Successor Named Odu’a Investment Company Limited has announced the retirement of its Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Adewale Raji, and the appointment of Mr. Abdulrahman Yinusa as the new Group Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer effective 1st of June, 2024.

Odu’a in a statement said Adewale Raji’s retirement follows 10 years of dedicated service as Group Managing Director of the 47 year old conglomerate.

“As Group Managing Director, he oversaw the Group’s return to a growth and profitability trajectory through strategic restructuring of the operating structure of the group to improve efficiency. During his two tenures, the company grew Profit Before Tax (PBT) from N378 million (2013) to a high of N2.2 billion (2021), paid a total of N2.56 billion in dividends so far. The Company diversified into Agribusiness, Oil and Gas and other sectors through strategic partnerships, and repositioned the group’s key subsidiaries and assets.

“Yinusa currently serves as Executive Director, and the Group Chief Financial Officer of Odu’a Investment.

He is a thoroughbred finance professional with over three (3) decades in-depth experience in the Financial Services Industry.

He will be responsible for implementing the Group Board’s shared vision and plan, as well as ensure continued execution of existing strategic projects. Prior to joining Odu’a Investment, he retired from Diamond Bank (now part of Access Bank) as an Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer, ”it said Odu’a Investment has also appointed Mr. Yemi Ajao as Executive Director, and Group Chief Investment and Business Development Officer, a role he will assume on the 15th of January 2024.

Commenting on these leadership changes, the Group Chairman of the Board, Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, stated; “Today we announce the retirement of a Group Managing Director who superintended over a pivotal period in Odu’a Investment’s evolution into a world class conglomerate.

On behalf of the Board, I will like to express our sincere gratitude to Mr. Adewale Raji for his exceptional leadership, and for steering

the ship with such vision, courage and professionalism during his tenure. We are also delighted about the smooth leadership transition, and I will like to congratulate the Shareholders and the Board on Mr. Abdulrahman Yinusa’s appointment. I have no doubt in my mind that he will take Odu’a Investment to another level of growth, especially with the foundations laid over the past few years”.

The outgoing GMD, said: It has been a great honour to have been entrusted by the Group’s Shareholders and the Board to superintend over the affairs of the business from June 2014.

The period witnessed remarkable changes in the financial performance and corporate governance standing of the group. I am delighted that the modest successes recorded in portfolio rebalancing and asset optimization in our notable chosen sectors of Real Estate, Hospitality, Financial Services, Agriculture, Energy, etc are going to receive accelerated transformation under my worthy successor (Mr Yinusa) and the excellent crop of talent that the Group has attracted under the support of the Board in these past few years.’’

Companies Announce Closed Period, Set to Release 2023 Results Kayode Tokede Listed companies on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) have announced a closed period in anticipation to release 2023 financial year results and declared dividend payout to shareholders.

According to THISDAY investigation, Zenith Bank Plc, Access Holdings Plc, MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, Lafarge Africa Plc, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, BUA Cement Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) and Zenith bank Plc have notified the stock market communities of board meetings and closed period.

The likes of International Breweries Plc, Mutual Benefits

Assurance Plc, Seplat Petroleum Plc, Dangote Cement Plc have announced board meeting scheduled for this month.

In a notice sighted by THISDAY, the company secretary, Zenith Bank, Mr. Michael Otu said, “In line with the provisions of the Rulebook of the Exchange, 2015 (issuers Rules) Zenith Bank hereby informs its shareholders, the NGX, and the investing public that the board of Directors off the Bank is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 to consider the group’s audited financial statements for the financial year ending December 31, 2023. The board may also consider issues relating to

other full year dividend.”

In addition, Company Secretary/CLO, BUA Cement, Satomi Hauwa in notice said, “We are writing to inform the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) and the investing public that the meeting of the Board of Directors of BUA Cement Plc (the Company) has been scheduled to take place on the 29th of February 2024 to consider the Company’s Audited Financial Statements for the period ending 31st December 2023.”

All the listed companies are required to comply with some rules and regulations, including strict adherence to high disclosure standards as prescribed in the NGX listing rules.

MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) August, 2023

Money Supply (M3)

65,445,154.2

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

552,553.58

Money Supply (M2)

64,892,600.61

-- Quasi Money

40,870,301.28

-- Narrow Money (M1)

24,022,299.33

---- Currency Outside Banks

2,295,309.10

---- Demand Deposits

21,726,990.23

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

7,144,158.92

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

58,300,995.27

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

87,273,966.81

---- Credit to Government (Net)

32,511,333.17

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

54,762,633.63

--Other Assets Net

13,347,376.27

Reserve Money (Base Money

19,429,603.25

--Currency in Circulation

2,660,138.92

--Banks Reserves --Special Intervention Reserves

16,769,464.34 428,519.21

˾ ÙßÜÍÏ ̋

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

August 2023

Inter-Bank Call Rate

3.89

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

18.75

Treasury Bill Rate

5.13

Savings Deposit Rate

5.26

1 Month Deposit Rate

7.31

3 Months Deposit Rate

7.55

6 Months Deposit Rate

8.30

12 Months Deposit Rate

8.13

Prime Lending rate

13.99

Maximum Lending Rate

27.59

˾ ÙØÏÞËÜã ÙÖÓÍã ËÞÏ ̋ ͯͱϱ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 29TH SEPTEMBER , 2023

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $97.48 a barrel on Thursday, compared with $97.08 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

T H I S D AY ˾ DAY, JANUARY 12, 2024

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MARKET NEWS

Stock Market Rebounds, Gains N313.39bn on Demand for MTN, Zenith Bank Kayode Tokede Recovering from the previous day investor’s profit-taking , the domestic stock market of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) appreciated by N313.39billion in market capitalisation following investors’ demand for MTN Nigeria Communication Plc, BUA Cement Plc and Zenith Bank Plc. As MTN Nigeria appreciated by 0.35per cent, BUA Cement

increased by 0.54 per cent and Zenith Bank rose by 1.99per cent, the market capitalisation increased to N trillion yesterday, gaining N313.39bllion from N trillion the stock market opened for trading.

This also impacted on the NGX All-Share Index that gained 0.7 per cent or 572.70basis points to 82,597.08 basis points from 82,024.38 basis points.

Thus, NGX All-Share Index Year-to-Date return to 10.5per cent.

Sectoral performance was

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

broadly positive as the NGX Banking Index gained 2.7per cent, NGX Insurance Index appreciated by 0.5per cent, NGX Consumer Goods Index increased by 0.4per cent, while NGX Oil & Gas and NGX Industrial Goods added 0.4 per cent and 0.2 per cent respectively.

As measured by market breadth, market sentiment was positive, as 48 stocks gained relative to 22 losses. Guinea Insurance and Royal Exchange

S E C U R I T I E S MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

emerged the highest price gainer of 9.66 per cent to close at N1.59, per share. SCOA Nigeria followed with a gain of 10 per cent each to close at 44 kobo and 99 kobo respectively, while Julius Berger advanced by 9.92 per cent to close at N56.50, per share.

Cadbury Nigeria rose by 9.77 per cent to close at N21.90, while The Initiates Plc (TIP) appreciated by 9.74 per cent to close at N1.69, per share. On the other side, Abbey Mortgage Bank

T R A D E D

VALUE TRADED ( N )

MAIN BOARD

A S O F

and Ikeja Hotel led others on the losers’ chart with 9.90 per cent each to close at N2.73 and N7.83 respectively, while Caverton Offshore Support Group followed with a decline of 9.66 per cent to close at N1.87 30 kobo, per share.

DAAR Communications lost 9.38 per cent to close at 87 kobo, while NPF Microfinance Bank depreciated by 7.91 per cent to close at N1.98, per share.

The total volume traded declined by 46.6 per cent to

J A N U A RY DEALS

877.28 million units, valued at N14.41 billion, and exchanged in 14,919 deals. Transactions in the shares of Transnational Corporation (Transcorp) led the activity with 74.535 million shares worth N935.421 million.

Sterling Financial Holdings Company followed with account of 54.324 million shares valued at N341.577 million, while Access Holdings traded 54.115 million shares valued at N1.505 billion.

/ 1 1 / 2 4 MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

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NEWS

FAMILIARISATION VISIT OF WATRA TO NCC...

L-R: Head, Media Relations, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan; Chief of Staff to the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NCC, Ibrahim Galadima; EVC of NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida; Executive Secretary, West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly (WATRA), Aliyu Aboki and Principal Manager, Partnerships, WATRA, Ruffus Samuel, during a familiarisation visit of WATRA to the Commission’s Head Office in Abuja ... yesterday

Climate Change: 2023 Sets New Record for World’s Hottest Year Ever

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Last year, 2023 smashed the record for the hottest year by a huge margin, providing a testimony to how much warmer and more dangerous today’s climate is, compared to the pre-industrialisation era.

The planet was 1.48C hotter in 2023 compared with the period before the mass burning of fossil fuels ignited the climate crisis, according to the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (CCCS).

The figure is very close to the 1.5C temperature target set by countries in Paris in 2015, although the global temperature would need to be consistently above 1.5C for the target to be considered broken.

Scientists at the CCCS said it was likely the 1.5C mark will be passed for the first time in the next 12 months, a The Guardian UK report said.

The average temperature in 2023 was 0.17C higher than in 2016, the previous record year, marking a very large increase

Minister Woos Labour Unions, Says Workers' Welfare Paramount Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The federal government has solicited the cooperation of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in promoting workers' welfare and national productivity.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, stated this in Abuja when she paid a visit to the leadership of the NLC as part of strategies to mobilise critical stakeholders to align with government’s agenda in the labour sector.

In a statement signed by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Olajide Oshundun, the minister noted that without the cooperation of the labour union, which represents workers’ interest, it would be difficult for the government to better the lot of the workforce.

“Government is interested in the welfare of Nigerian workers.

We are interested in their health and the environment in which they work. We are also interested in the wages they earn.

“We will partner with you to ensure that Nigerian workers are satisfied. I am sure you will cooperate with the government to make sure our economy improves.

Each time you embark on strike, the Nigerian economy goes down, and we incur a lot of losses,” the minister said.

The minister assured NLC of government’s interest and readiness to work with labour unions to promote the wellbeing of workers, as well as boost national

productivity.

She said that the federal government needed the cooperation of organised labour to create the wealth to sustain the country and its people.

Onyejeocha who expressed government’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations to Nigerian workers, however decried the use of strike to resolve industrial disputes.

She described frequent strikes as very disruptive to the economy.

The ,inister therefore urged trade unions to regard strike as the last resort in seeking resolution of trade disputes, pushing for the fulfilment of agreement, or drawing the attention of government to the plight of workers and citizens.

On his part, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said the minister’s visit demonstrated care for Nigerian workers, as well as commitment to collaboration with workers’ representatives, and promised that the congress would always work together with government in the interest of the workers.

He, however, urged the government to desist from violating trade union rights, and defaulting on agreements reached with labour, as such actions brew trust gaps.

Ajaero enjoined the minister to push for the clearing of the backlog of agreements which government reached with labour, as further proof of government’s commitment to workers’ wellbeing.

He also explained that they were not in the habit of rushing into strikes, and only resorted to them as the last option.

in climate terms. The primary cause of this increased global heating was continued record emissions of carbon dioxide, assisted by the return of the natural climate phenomenon El Niño.

The high temperatures drove heatwaves, floods and wildfires, damaging lives and livelihoods across the world, the report added.

The CCCS data also showed that 2023 was the first year on record when every day was at least 1C warmer than the 1850-1900 pre-industrial record.

Almost half the days were 1.5C hotter and, for the first time, two days were more than 2C hotter.

The higher temperatures increased from June, with September’s heat so far above previous averages that one scientist called it “gobsmackingly bananas”.

A CCCS Director, Carlo Buontempo, said: “The extremes we have observed over the last

few months provide a dramatic testimony of how far we now are from the climate in which our civilisation developed.

“This has profound consequences for the Paris agreement and all human endeavours. If we want to successfully manage our climate risk, we need to urgently decarbonise our economy whilst using climate data and knowledge to prepare for the future.”

Scientists said recently that the Earth’s life support systems have been so damaged that the planet was “well outside the safe operating space for humanity”.

The CCCS Deputy Director, Samantha Burgess, said: “2023 was an exceptional year, with climate records tumbling like dominoes. Temperatures during 2023 likely exceed those of any period in at least the last 100,000 years.”

According to Prof Bill Collins, at the University of Reading,

UK, : “It is a shock that 2023 unarguably smashed the global temperature record. More global warming is expected to cause even wetter winters in the UK and yet more flooding.” Every day in 2023 was at least 1C above preindustrial temperatures, the report said.

The CCCS highlighted a number of “remarkable” events in 2023, including huge blazes in Canada that helped drive up global carbon emissions from wildfires by 30 per cent, and unprecedented ocean temperatures that caused marine heatwaves to strike many regions.

Antarctic sea ice also crashed to record lows, having previously experienced little obvious impact from global heating.

Prof Brian Hoskins, at Imperial College London, said: “2023 has given us a taste of the climate extremes that occur near the Paris targets. It should shake the complacency displayed in

the actions by most governments around the world.”

“The question is will this (record) lead to action and large scale changes in behaviour?

Every little change now, reducing every increment of warming, is important, while too often ambitions of change are promised by 2050, in another generation,” Prof Daniela Schmidt of the University of Bristol, said.

For Prof John Marsham of the University of Leeds: “We desperately need to rapidly cut fossil fuel use and reach net zero to preserve the liveable climate that we all depend on.”

Hundreds of scientific studies have shown the climate crisis is causing more extreme and more frequent extreme weather.

A separate analysis by Japan’s Meteorological Agency produced very similar results as Copernicus, with 2023 a record 1.43C above pre-industrial levels and beating the previous record by 0.14C.

Nigerian Artisans Most Talented, Worst Remunerated, Says DG ITF Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Director General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin, said yesterday that Nigerian artisans, despite their creativity and talents, were about the most poorly rewarded globally.

Oluwatoyin stated this in his remarks at the end of a two-day stakeholders’ meeting with designated Nigerian trade associations at the ITF Corporate headquarters, Abuja.

He, however, lamented that many Nigerian artisans were being poorly rewarded because their skills were not backed up by up-to-date modern technology.

The agency unveiled the SkillUp Artisan (SUPA) programme, designed to upgrade the skills of about 20 million Nigerian artisans to international standards as well as eliminate quackery from the system in four years.

Oluwatoyin explained that SUPA

was part of the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said its objective was to elevate Nigerian artisans to international standards and eradicate unprofessionalism and quackery in all facets of the country's industrial sector.

He stressed the need to transform the perception of Nigerian artisans and reposition them as highly skilled professionals deserving of respect and competitive remuneration like their counterparts in other economies of the world.

Oluwatoyin added that the strategic plan involves the categorisation and training of artisans in both ITF and private training centres.

He noted that the ambitious goal was to upskill five million artisans annually, culminating in a total of 20 million skilled artisans in four years.

The ITF helmsman, added that the programme’s global impact,

already had partnerships in advanced stages with countries like Germany and the United Arab Emirates.

He assured Nigerians that the current administration in the country, was not going to tolerate a situation where Nigerian artisans would be treated as inferior entities with poor remunerations.

He said the ITF would start to address the problem through deliberate SUPA programmes.

Oluwatoyin said that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration was bent on reversing the ugly trends whereby well skilled and equipped artisans from abroad take up local jobs meant for artisans in the country.

He said: “In the past, Nigerian artisans had been operating like illiterates, like low level people.

When you go outside, you find out that artisans are up there. In some countries, they earn more than the professors.

“You can’t pay, if you are not strong enough financially, you may not be able to pay them.

They are well respected. When I came down here, I saw people from other countries taking up jobs.

"Of course, they have the right to; we have the International Labour Organisation and Labour Law which permit them. But I found out that Nigerians were no longer giving fellow Nigerians job,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the amalgamated Union of Motor Mechanics and Technicians of Nigeria (AUOMMATON), Mr. Oseni Suleiman, expressed gratitude to ITF over the initiative, noting that they would utilise the knowledge imparted on them for the gain of the country.

Suleiman however, expressed concern about the free registration, questioning the monitoring process when there would be a massive influx of artisans.

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NEWS

GANDUJE VISITS APC MEDIA CENTRE...

L-R: Leader, All Progressives Congress (APC), Nasiru Aliyu Koki; National Chairman, APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; APC Leader, Bichi Rabiu and Chief of Staff to the APC National Chairman, Muhammed Garba, during the Chairman's visit to the APC Media Centre at the party's national secretariat in Abuja yesterday ENOCK REUBEN

Obi: Current Economic Reality Demands 60% Cut in Overall Governance Cost Commends Tinubu for reducing travel toll Urges president not to spare anyone involved in humanitarian ministry scandal

Chuks Okocha and Michael Olugbode in Abuja Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in last year’s general election, Peter Obi, has called on the federal government to go beyond the 60% cut in travel allowance of officials and cut the cost of the entire governance by 60% which the current economic reality in the country demands.

The former Anambra State stated

this on his X Account, yesterday, adding, “The just announced 60% cut in the size of federal official entourages on travels is one positive step towards the reduction of cost of governance and a way of halting wastage.

“This measure is just scratching the surface as it is limited in scope and can only lead to a very negligible saving. We are yet to be told how much savings this will amount to.

Lagbaja Lauds Abia Govt over Assistance to I4 Brigade

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has expressed satisfaction at the various interventions of the Abia State government to the 14 Brigade Ohafia.

He said that such interventions had enhanced the operations of the troops and the welfare of their families, thereby yielding enhanced security dividends in Abia.

A release by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Kazie Uko, said that the COAS spoke on the relationship between the Army and Abia government during a visit to Governor Alex Otti at his country home.

The army chief was in Abia on Wednesday in continuation of his nationwide tour of formations and units of the Nigeria Army.

He said that with sustained support the security agency would be encouraged to keep working with the state government to provide a secured environment for peaceful living and conduct of business in Abia.

"I have been briefed on the several interventions of Abia State Government to 14 Brigade. I also want to appreciate you for your personal leadership that has led to tremendous improvement in the security situation in Abia State since your assumption of office," he added.

Lagbaja said that his observation on the improved security in Abia was "based on the hindsight of my knowledge of the state and the challenges" having been the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Enugu.

The Army chief pledged the readiness of the formations and units of 14 Brigade, and even other Nigerian Army assets deployed around the area, to support the government.

He assured the governor that such support was needed to ensure that he continues to improve on the state of security and assist the state government to provide the enabling environment for economic activities and development to thrive.

In his response, the Abia governor said the visit of COAS had further strengthened government's resolve to partner with the army and work together to secure not just Abia but the whole of the South-east geopolitical zone.

He also thanked the Nigeria Army for the support the government had received in the fight against insecurity in Abia, citing the success of Operation Crush, the state's special multi-agency security task force, led by the army.

"Let me use this opportunity to publicly thank you for the support that you have given us because if you didn't give the support, the success that people are talking about today wouldn't have happened. So we are very grateful.

"We have worked together with the military as partners and brothers. Your men don't sleep. Any time there is anything and we call them, they respond immediately.

So, please extend our gratitude to them," Otti said.

Notwithstanding the improved security situation, Otti requested for a meeting between the COAS and the South-east governors to find solution to the other lingering issues of insecurity in the zone.

“While this modest step may be somewhat commendable, what is desirable should be both a 60% reduction in federal official overseas trips as well as a 60% reduction in the size of delegations.

“Most importantly, what our current economic reality demands is a 60% reduction in the total cost of governance at the federal level.

“This implies that the recently passed federal budget needs to be revised to cut all wasteful, and unnecessary items. This is the level of cost-cutting and savings that can impact meaningfully the present state of the economy.

“This level of cut in the cost of government should lead to substantial savings. Such savings should be used to fund the productive sectors of the economy and much-needed social investments, especially in three key areas: education, healthcare, and the migration of millions of Nigerians from poverty.

“Most importantly, it is not enough to announce arbitrary cuts in the size

of federal official entourages. The nation needs to be informed of how much the measure will save and where such savings will be applied.

“Our problem as a nation has gone beyond token populist gestures and announcements. We must be informed of the real details of the measures being implemented on our behalf.

“For a government that has made a hobby of indiscriminate borrowing, the only way to salvage the economy is to drastically cut the cost of government by reducing wasteful expenses and spending on inessential luxury items,” he stated Meanwhile, Obi has urged the government to ensure that all those culpable in the scandal involving the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Ms Betta Edu were brought to book.

Obi, in a write-up on his X Account, said the government should go beyond the suspension of the minister which he welcomed and carry out a comprehensive

investigation into the matter by giving the problem of public sector corruption the severe urgency it deserves.

He expressed disappointment that a Ministry created in good faith to attend to the plight of the suffering masses was being turned into a conduit pipe to steal from the poor as seen in the current and previous ministers of the Ministry.

“I like to add my voice with most Nigerians concerned about accountability in government and judicious use of public funds, to welcome the suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Ms. Betta Edu, and subsequent directives for her investigation.

“While the action of the government is a welcome development, the investigation must be comprehensive so that all those culpable are brought to book.”

The LP leader warned against taking the issue lightly, because “The suspension of the minister should not be a window-dressing action

but should be a peg to get at all those who are deserving of blame and punished just like the minister.

“By a sad coincidence, the alleged fraudulent diversion of N585 million of public money by Ms. Edu broke almost at the same moment that the minister, who held the same portfolio in the last administration is being investigated for a whopping N37bn misappropriation.

“The Ministry may have been created by the system as a conduit pipe to siphon public funds while using the poor as a face. Equally worrisome and disgusting is the fact that the missing funds are meant for poverty alleviation in a time of severe suffering among the people.

“Unfortunately, the ruling elites can shamelessly convert, divert, or misappropriate such huge sums meant for the poor to address the severe poverty ravaging the people. It is not only immoral but also insensitive for those entrusted with funds for public welfare to steal from the poor.

Mamman: Nigeria Accounts for One of Every Five Out-of-School Children Globally Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The Minister of Education, Prof.

Tahir Mamman has said that research now indicates that Nigeria accounts for one of every five outof-school children in the world and 45 per cent of out-of-school children in West Africa.

Mamman stated this in Ilorin at the official launch of the national campaign on out-of-school children and distribution of school materials to selected out-of-school children in Kwara state.

He said that this ranking was disturbing and unacceptable for a country regarded as Africa's largest economy.

Represented at the event by Dr Olatunji David, Mamman said the federal government was mindful of the danger of the out-of-school children phenomenon and urged all key stakeholders, including civil society organisations, community and religious leaders, to act fast in checking the trend.

“Stemming the tide of out-ofschool children is a task that this

government seeks to accomplish.

This is because we are mindful of the spiral effects of having a large number of uneducated population.

"One of the implications is that Nigeria will constantly produce miscreants who are ready tools in the hands of criminal gangs," the minister said.

He appealed to all good spirited individuals within the state to aid the less privileged in communities by adopting the children and youths who are of school and supporting their education.

Also speaking at the event, the state governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq stated that the government will double down in pushing policies and programmes that will continue to make the learning environment attractive and ensure that no Kwara child is left out of school.

The governor however said that his administration’s investments in the education system of the state were fast yielding positive results, noting that this has continued to improve public school enrolment

in the state.

He said the government birthed an e-learning system in basic schools to impart digital skills and improve learning outcomes, while boosting the capacity of teachers for maximum service delivery.

According to him: “The introduction of the e-learning system by our government to our schools through the establishment of digital literacy centres and KwaraLEARN innovative teaching techniques in education, as well as the school feeding programme have not only reduced the pressure on the parents but also increased enrolment and motivated the pupils/students to be regular in the school.”

Represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, AbdulKadir Mahe, the governor described the step to eradicate out-of-school children in Nigeria as unique and thanked the federal ministry of education for picking Kwara as one of the first states to benefit from the national programme.

“It is my sincere hope and aspiration that the overall target

of this campaign will lead to an improved enrolment of school children and eradicate the menace of out-of-school children in our society,” he said, The State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Sa'adatu kawu, in her submission, called on the federal government to continue to give Kwara a priority in its dealings with states, given its sterling record of performance in basic education programmes.

“You must have been receiving records of performance of Kwara state in basic education, and you will discover that we are not lagging behind. I am appealing that Kwara State should always be given priority based on our track record of performances," she said.

Chairman, Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (KwSUBEB) Prof Sheu Adaramaja said the pride of any society depends largely on the structure, status and achievement of its basic education, acknowledging the exemplary commitment of AbdulRazaq to the sector.

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NEWS

INAUGURATION OF OMOLUABI RADIO… R-L: Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Mrs Olukemi Dare; her husband, former Minister of Youth and Sport and Chairman Omoluabi Radio, Mr Sunday Dare and former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Otunba Moses Lake Adeyemo, during the official commissioning of Omoluabi Radio, 87.7 FM in Ibadan

DHQ: Troops Vanquish 86 Terrorists, Arrest 101 Insurgents, 36 Oil Thieves Destroy 60 illegal refineries in Niger Delta Vows to locate, destroy terrorists wherever they may be hiding in 2024 Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Defence Headquarters ((DHQ) said yesterday that troops decimated 86 terrorists in various theatres of operation across the country.

It said 101 insurgents were arrested while 36 oil bunkerers were apprehended even as 60 illegal refineries were destroyed in the Niger Delta region.

The military high command also vowed to hunt down terrorists wherever they may be hiding in 2024.

Speaking at a media briefing at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, Director, Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Maj. Gen. Edward Buba,

said intense military operations resulted in the death of 86 terrorists in one week.

His words: "Our operations resulted in 86 neutralised terrorists with 101 of them arrested. Troops also arrested 30 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 21 kidnapped hostages.

"In the SS, troops denied oil thieves of the estimated sum of N736,115,470.00."

He said the aim of military operations remained to find and neutralise insurgents in their enclaves.

"The aim of our ongoing operations remains unchanged and clear even in the new year 2024. Our aim is

to find and destroy the terrorist wherever they may be hiding in order to ensure their enduring defeat.

"This would deny the terrorist the ability to terrorise or hurt citizens across country", he said.

He said: "Pursuant to our goal, troops have in the last one week, focused on striking the terrorist enclaves from our air attacks. We also exerted significant military power on areas in which the terrorists are hibernating.

Further according to him, "Furthermore, troops recovered 111

assorted weapons and 1,124 assorted ammunition. The breakdown is as follows: 65 AK47 rifles, one HK G3 dun, one G3 rifle, eight locally fabricated guns, 15 dane guns, two fabricated rifle, one locally made pistol, one English pistol, one pump action gun, two auto pump action gun, and two single barrel guns.

“Others are 14 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 993 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 5 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammo, 5 rounds of 7.62mm x 39mm, 99 live cartridges, one round of 9mm ammo, one of short gun cartridge,

two bandoliers, two fabricated swords, 13 magazines, five vehicles, 29 motorcycles, six bicycles, mobile phones and one GTA radio amongst other items.”

Buba said troops in the Niger Delta area discovered and destroyed 37 dugout pits, 65 boats, 71 storage tanks, 14 vehicles. Other items recovered incl 108 cooking ovens, 4 pump machines, one speedboat and 60 illegal refining sites.

"Troops recovered 1,013,530 litres of stolen crude oil, 299,169 litres of illegally refined AGO and 3,158

litres of DPK. "Our operations clearly indicate that we are hunting the terrorist commanders and their senior leadership. Indeed, from their topmost leadership to the lowest commanders are dead men walking and we will stop at nothing until they are dead or surrender.

"The armed forces has demonstrated commitment by our actions to winning this war. Troops will, therefore, continue to act with tremendous force to achieve the task ahead", he said.

PDP Knocks Edeoga, Abure, Says Edeoga Oyo APC Knocks Makinde over Condemnation of Fuel Subsidy Lacks Character, Capacity to be Governor Removal by Tinubu

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, yesterday, took a swipe at Governor Seyi Makinde over his recent condemnation of the decision of President Bola Tinubu, to stop payment of fuel subsidy as contained in the president’s inaugural speech on May 29, 2023.

It would be recalled that the governor while speaking during an Inter-faith prayer session held at the Agodi Government Secretariat, Tuesday, was alleged to have blamed the worsening economic situation in the country on the Tinubu administration.

He specifically stated that the removal of fuel subsidy in May last year was done hastily and at a wrong time "thereby inflicting hardship on the citizenry."

But the APC in a statement on Thursday by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, urged the governor to shun grandstanding and learn to take responsibility for his personal failure in improving the economy of the state after collecting billions of

naira in federal allocations, internally generated revenue, loans, grants, among others in the last 55 months without anything to show for it.

He said the party waited expecting the governor or his aides to debunk or make clarification on the statement credited to him in the media but this never happened, stating that it is obvious that a governor in his second term in office was actually out to put the blame of dwindling economy on a seven month-old government at the centre even when the whole world knows he is part of the problem.

The statement read: "As much as we would not delve into the culpability of Gov. Makinde in the mismanagement of the nation's petroleum resources, it is important we ask him to withdraw his criticism of President Bola Tinubu on the courageous and heroic decision to stop fuel subsidy payment by the federal government since it has been established that the policy was not only fraudulent but also counterproductive and economically suicidal.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has asked the Labour Party and its candidate in the 2023 governorship election in Enugu State, Chijioke Edeoga, to come to terms with what it described as their predictable loss in the election, saying Edeoga lacked the character and capacity to be governor.

The PDP accused Edeoga of orchestrating a most divisive and slanderous campaign in the history of Enugu State, saying it was high time the defeated LP candidate came to terms with his loss and also ended a propaganda of falsehood that did him no good in the 2023 gubernatorial election.

The party stated this in statement by its Enugu East Zonal Chairman, Hon. Nnamdi Nwafor.

Recall that the National Chairman of the LP, Julius Abure, had during a meeting with Edeoga at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja, Wednesday, said that Edeoga had briefed him on how he was allegedly rigged out in the governorship election, and claimed that his party’s governorship candidate was one of the casualties of the 2023 election.

But reacting to the claim on Thursday, the Enugu State Chapter of

the PDP faulted the claim by Edeoga and Abure, saying they “lacked the honour and justification to make such fallacious claims.”

The PDP further stated that, “As a party, we did not want to flog a man that has already kissed the ground; hence, our decision not to gloat over our victory after the Supreme Court judgement upholding Governor Peter Mbah’s election, knowing that Edeoga was never a match to our candidate and now governor.

“Chijioke Edeoga had no business with the Lion Building, having shown that he lacked the honour, capacity, and competence to be entrusted with such high responsibility.

“For the record, Edeoga was a signatory to a pact by PDP governorship aspirants of Enugu East extraction wherein they covenanted to support any among them endorsed by the former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and the party.

“In Clause 5 of that pact signed during a meeting co-initiated by Edeoga himself at the palace of the Chairman of the Enugu East Senatorial Zone Traditional Rulers Council in Nike on 19th May 2022

and co-signed by the traditional rulers of the zone, Edeoga and other aspirants committed to accord ‘respect to the Governor of Enugu State and acceptance of his choice of a candidate from this group in the best interest of Enugu East Senatorial Zone and Enugu State at large’.

“However, Edeoga breached the written accord by not only going ahead to contest the primary election where he secured only nine votes against Mbah’s 709 votes, but also reneged on his personally-issued statement after the party primary in which he pledged support for Dr. Mbah as the best candidate to transform Enugu State and urged his supporters to equally do the same.

“Like an unfaithful bride, he eloped to the LP to take advantage of Obi’s surging popularity in the South East region.”

The party accused Edeoga of resorting to whipping up sectional sentiments and launching “heinous” propaganda to de-market Mbah when he saw he could not match the PDP candidate in pedigree, competence, and capacity.

The PDP also said that, “Edeoga will go down in history as the

man, who not only dishonourably reneged on written pacts and his own personally issued commitments, but also as that desperate politician, who ran the most vicious and divisive campaign that turned brothers against one another and did everything within his powers to scandalise Governor Mbah even up to the Supreme Court.

“It is therefore shameless and irresponsible of him to claim to have been rigged out after he was roundly rejected by the good people of Enugu State for his demonstrable incompetence, lack of manifesto, vision, and honour.

“He lost to Mbah in the May 25, 2022 PDP primary election and the March 18, 2023 governorship election.

He equally lost at the governorship election petition tribunal, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court, which amounted to 5-0.

“But we are not surprised that his National Chairman, Abure, who is facing live suits over multiple forgery allegations and the scandalous bazaar he made of the LP tickets in the 2023 election cycle would dare to validate Edeoga’s fallacious claims because birds of the same feather flock together."

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NEWS

MEDIA BRIEFING ON 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION...

L-R: Chief Medical Director of Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital (IUTH), Prof. Godwin Bazuaye;Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Raphael Adeghe, at a media conference to announce plans for the celebration of her 25th Anniversary holding in May, 2024, held at Okada, Edo State…yesterday

Analysts Seek Clarity on Ownership of Union, Polaris, Keystone Banks Nume Ekeghe Following the dissolution and reconstitution of the boards of Union, Keystone, and Polaris Banks, analysts have expressed concerns over the ownership structures of the banks and have called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to offer greater clarity

and provide detailed explanations on the institutions.

Analysts who spoke to THISDAY, noted that the apex bank was yet to address communications on the ownership and shareholders' fate in the banks.

Also, findings by THISDAY at some branches of Union, Polaris, and

Zulum’s Spokesman, Isa Gusau Dies in Indian Hospital Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri The spokesman to Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Mallam Isa Gusau has breathed his last at an Indian hospital.

Gusau who was also the spokesman to the present Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima when he was the governor of Borno State was on admission at the Indian hospital for over a month now battling for him life.

He took the final bow yesterday in a specialist hospital in New Delhi after protracted illness, according to a source who would not like to be quoted.

The source said: “We have lost Isa to the cold hands of death, he was unconscious for about three days, we were all praying for his recovery but it was quite unfortunate that we lost him this evening (yesterday) in the hospital in New Delhi, India.”

Gusau was said to be actively

Keystone Banks in Lagos, showed that there were minimal panic withdrawals.

Speaking on Arise News Channel yesterday, the Chief Executive Officer Cowry Asset Management, Johnson Chukwu, noted that the banks were originally nationalised and the current shareholders were those alleged to have acquired the institutions with public resources.

Chukwu said depositors needed not worry as the CBN had emphasised in its announcement that it would guarantee deposits and ensure the effective operation of the banks.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining confidence in the banking system to prevent any adverse effects on these banks and others.

Chukwu said: “Then as it relates to the decision that was taken by the central bank to dissolve the boards of Union Bank, Polaris and Keystone Bank. So, the basic issues around the acquisition of these three banks were public knowledge to those of us in the financial services industry.

It was at a period when we had a king who did not do any bad or couldn’t do any evil or wrong.

“So, at that point in as much as it was discussed publicly but in muted groups, that this was the structure of the acquisition of these banks. So, it didn’t come as a surprise to us when we saw the Obaze report that indicated clearly that this financial institution was

not acquired by private capital but by all forms of structure.”

Speaking further on shareholders and banking confidence, he said: “Polaris Bank was previously Skye Bank, which was nationalised; Keystone Bank, was former Bank PHB that was nationalised and Union Bank was the one that ordinarily should have ordinary shareholders.

“But I also know that the acquirers of Union Bank had actually taken it private by buying existing shareholders or made it a non-publicly quoted company.

“So, what would be the issue in Union Bank is the proportions of the shares that have been acquired through this special purpose vehicle

that the allegation that it was funded through public resource.

“So once that is sorted, the shareholders will maintain their shareholding without any disturbance.

“As it relates to deposits, the central bank in its announcement stated that depositors should have nothing to worry about. And I personally don't think the CBN will do anything that will impede on the liabilities of the bank or the lives of depositors to assess your funding or the ability of these banks to meet their obligations as at when due because once you do that you're going to affect systemic banking system confidence and that could lead to these banks and other banks.”

Alleged $6Bn Fraud: Agunloye Gets N50m Bail Alex Enumah in Abuja

Gusau involved in the publicity of the governor right from his sick bed in India, issuing statements to promote his boss.

There is yet no official confirmation of his death but the social media is awash with new of his demise.

It is not yet clear when his remains would be brought home for interment.

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of a High Court, Abuja, sitting in Apo District, yesterday, granted bail to a former Minister of Power and Steel, Olu Agunloye, in the sum of N50 million.

Agunloye was on Wednesday arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on seven-count charge, bordering on fraudulent award of a contract and official corruption.

He had pleaded not guilty to the charges but was remanded in the custody of the Kuje Correctional Center, pending the hearing of his

appeal.

At yesterday's proceedings, his lawyer, Adeola Adedipe, SAN, prayed the court to grant bail to his client “by way of self-recognisance or in liberal terms.”

He assured the court that the defendant would not jump bail if granted and would make himself available throughout the trial.

Meanwhile, the senior lawyer appealed to the court not to order the use of a public servant as a surety for his client's bail conditions on the grounds that the Court of Appeal found such conduct to be unknown to the country's laws, and encourages corrupt practices.

While objecting to the granting of the bail, the prosecution admitted that the court has the sole discretion to grant the application or not.

Delivering ruling in the application, Justice Onwuegbuzie, held that the pendulum of the court swings in favour of granting bail to the defendant, and subsequently admitted Agunloye to bail in the sum of N50 million and two sureties in like sum.

The sureties must be “reputable” and “people of means” resident within the FCT, adding that the sureties must have properties worth N300 million with a Certificate of Occupancy that must be verifiable.

In addition, copies of their identity cards and photocopies of their international passports must be submitted to the court.

The defendant is to submit his International passport to the court and must be present for hearing at all times.

The judge subsequently fixed February 12, for trial.

Agunloye, a minister under the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and also a former Corp Marshall, of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), was late last year arrested and detained for some days by the EFCC over alleged criminal offences.

one, which must be proved beyond reasonable doubt. They added that the two lower courts were right in their decisions to dismiss the individual cases of the appellants.

The Court of Appeal in Lagos had in November last year affirmed the declaration of Eno as winner of the March 18, 2023 governorship election in Akwa Ibom State. The appellate court in its judgement dismissed three separate appeals filed against the governor’s election.

While affirming the September 28, 2023 judgement of the election petition tribunal, the three-member panel of the appellate court, led by Justice Festus Obande, dismissed the appeal brought by the governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party, Bassey Akpan, and his party against INEC, Eno, and PDP. Obande also entered judgment in favour of the governor against the appeals of the governorship candidate of NNPP, John Udoedehe, as well as Akanimo Udofia of APC The appellate court declared in the unanimous judgements that all

three appeals lacked merit.

Meanwhile, PDP, yesterday, congratulated Eno on the judgement of the Supreme Court, which upheld his victory at the March 18, 2023 governorship election.

According to a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the party said, ''This judgement of the Supreme Court, the highest and final court in our country, is victory for democracy and the decisive triumph of the will of the people of Akwa Ibom State in their determination to preserve good governance in their state.

"Our party is proud of his capacity for leadership, especially in hitting the ground running upon inauguration, with the launching of the ARISE Agenda, leading to monumental achievements in the delivery of life-changing citizen empowerment programmes and projects in critical sectors including agriculture, education, healthcare, security, housing, road infrastructure, manufacturing, commerce, aviation, among others."

S'COURT DELIVERS VERDICT ON KANO, PLATEAU, LAGOS, 4 OTHERS TODAY Sandy Onor of PDP, who polled 179,636 votes.

In Zamfara State, the battle was between Governor Dauda Lawal and former Governor Bello Matawalle. INEC had declared Lawal of PDP governor winner and said he scored a total of 377,726 votes to defeat then incumbent governor, Matawalle, who scored 311,976 votes.

Lawal's election was also affirmed by the Zamfara Election Petitions Tribunal last September, after dismissing Matawalle's petition for being incompetent and lacking in merit.

Besides, the tribunal awarded a sum of N500, 000 fine against the petitioners for filing the petition.

However, a three-member panel of the Court of Appeal, led by Justice Oyebisi Folayemi, nullified the return of Lawal as winner of the governorship poll. The court ordered INEC to conduct a fresh election in three local government areas of the state, where elections had not been held previously or

where results from various polling units were not counted.

Dissatisfied, Lawal had approached the apex court to set aside the judgement of the appellate court and sustain the judgement of the tribunal, which affirmed his victory at the poll.

However, not much was expected in the Bauchi and Ebonyi states governorship appeals, since the apex court hardly upturned concurrent findings of the lower courts, especially when new and convincing evidence were not presented at the hearing.

Meanwhile, judgement in the Ogun State appeals were reserved to a date that would be communicated to parties in the suit.

PDP's candidate, Oladipupo Adebutu, through his lawyer, Chief Chris Uche, SAN, pointed out that the case of the appellants was misconceived at the lower courts.

Uche added that evidence were presented before the tribunal to prove that results from 99 polling units with votes of over 40,000 were

cancelled.

He argued that the said 40,000 votes were far more than the margin of 13,000 votes between Abiodun and Adebutu.

He submitted that INEC was wrong to have gone ahead to declare results of the March 18 governorship election in Ogun State, when the issue of cancelled votes in 99 polling units had not been resolved.

However, all the respondents, citing Section 179 of the constitution, argued that the election of a governor could not be challenged on the grounds of margin of lead.

Justice Okoro subsequently announced that judgement had been reserved, after taking submissions from parties.

However, the coast was yesterday cleared for Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, following the dismissal of three separate appeals challenging his declaration as governor.

The appeals by APC, Young Progressives Party (YPP), and

NNPP were all dismissed shortly after they were withdrawn by their respective lawyers.

They took the hint of the apex court to withdraw them after being confronted with the facts that the appeals were incompetent as they did not provide any new facts or evidence that would warrant the setting aside of the concurrent judgements of the tribunal and Court of Appeal.

In the appeals, cantered on alleged non-qualification and certificate forgery, the appellants' lawyers made efforts to convince the panel of the apex court, led

by Justice Mary Uwani Abba-Aji, that Emo Eno Bassey and Bassey Eno Emo on the West Africa Examinations Council (WAEC) certificate submitted to INEC were not the same and as such the governor allegedly forged his Secondary School Certificate.

However, the justices pointed out that no matter the colouration given to the issue, it remained a pre-election matter and a criminal

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FRIDAY JANUARY11, 2024 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWSXTRA

PROMOTING READING CULTURE AMONG KIDS…

L-R: Programme Coordinator, Ziva Children and Teens Foundation, Ms. Temilade Rufai; Founder, Mrs Vivian Ezinne Davids, and Media Consultant, Adeniyi Ifetayo, during the discussion on supporting early reading for Inner-city Kids in Abuja… yesterday

‘Over 102 Hamlets, Villages Sacked, Now Occupied by Fulanis in Plateau’ Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

Indigenous groups in Plateau State have again raised the alarm that Fulani militias have sacked over 102 hamlets and villages in the state, and now occupy them, calling on the federal government to urgently intervene.

The Berom Youths MoulderAssociation (BYM), Forum of Bokkos Development Association (FBDA), and the Mwagavwul

Youths Movement (MYM) in a joint press conference yesterday said: “In Plateau State, there are over 102 hamlets and villages that have been completely sacked, and are being occupied by the Fulanis.

“In addition, a peace-loving and kind Paramount Ruler of Bokkos Local Government Area, Da Lazarus Agai, was gruesomely killed in cold-blood in his farm, while a district head

and a village head were also killed in similar circumstances.”

The groups were reacting to a statement issued by the Coalition of Fulani Groups, in which they claimed that “over 350 Fulani

Anambra State Governor, Prof.

Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has disclosed that he has ordered the distribution of the state Burial Law booklet to all communities in the state.

The governor said such action would keep people abreast with the provisions of the law, and also help them to avoid contravening them.

Soludo, who spoke at the funeral mass of late Rev. Fr. Prof.

Stephen Chukwujekwu yesterday at St. Patrick Cathedral in Awka, said the state government plans

to enforce compliance of the law.

The Anambra State Burial Law, which was made by the administration of former state Governor, Willie Obiano, had banned ostentatious display of wealth during burials.

Some of the provisions of the law banned serving food at burials, production of voluminous brochures, limiting days of event to just one, and banning other flamboyant expenditures.

Soludo had in December last year buried his late father, Pa Simeon Soludo, and had boasted that he adhered strictly to the law.

FG, Kano Traders Partner to Check Rising Costs of Commodities Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano The federal government has announced plans to partner the Kano Marketers Association as part of its efforts to checkmate the rising costs of food items in the country.

Speaking during an official visit to Kano State yesterday, the Minister of Trade, Industry and Investments, Doris UzokaAnite, said the collaboration would iron out modalities on how to curb high rising cost

of food item.

She said President Bola Tinubu has raised concerns over the high prices of food commodities in the country, promising to ensure an adequate supply of affordable food to the common man in the street.

Uzoka-Anite pointed out that she was in Kano as part of the effort to identify the causes of high prices of food and to see how the federal government can come in and also interact with stakeholders.

The Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has approved the redeployment of Dr. Adaralewa Micheal Akintayo to the Osun State Command of the Corps.The newly redeployed commandant will succeed Agboola Sunday, who has been redeployed to Ekiti State.

In a statement issued, signed and made available to THISDAY yesterday by the Corps Public Relations Officer, ASC Adeleke Kehinde, Osun State Command,

Aisegba Ekiti, Gbonyin Local Government Area in Ekiti State.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Sciences and a doctorate in Public Administrations.

He has attended remarkable array of courses both at home and abroad, which included Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives course; Counter Terrorism Crisis Response; Disarmament Demobilisation Re-Integration Course; Homicide and Violent Crises Investigation Course; Physical Protection of Chemical Installations Course, among others.

that the ridiculous claim that 350 Fulanis were killed was also a shameless ploy by the coalition to attract government humanitarian support to them.

State party’s central zone adopts Ighodalo

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city

aspirants in the race yesterday picked up their governorship forms.

The four governorship hopefuls are: Asue Igbodalo, Felix Akhabue, Anselm Ojezua, and the state Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu. Each of the

aspirants paid N35 million for the Expression of Interest form.

Speaking when he picked his form yesterday, Ighodalo, who is from Edo Central senatorial district of the state, said he was in the race to bring private and public sector experience to bear

in the governance of the state.

Ighodalo recalled that he was the chairman of the Adams Oshiomhole economic team in 2007 and later the chairman of the Governor Godwin Obaseki economic team from 2016 till he resigned.

Kogi Council of Judges Lauds CJ’s Performance, Vows to Sustain Progress Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja The Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Josiah Majebi’s determination to restore the integrity of the judiciary of the state has received commendation of other Judges of the state.

The Judges, who vowed to sustain the tempo of progress

made under the leadership of the Chief Judge, maintained that the achievements recorded since his assumption of office would be continued, promising that the judiciary would witness more developments in the new legal year.

Justice Majebi had briefed the third session of the Council

of Judges held at the judiciary headquarters yesterday on his accomplishments since assumption of office.

He said the state judiciary has made remarkable improvements under his watch touching on human capital and structural development.

While highlighting the

progress made so far, the Chief Judge recalled that the administration began with the conception and inauguration of the Council of Judges with its members designated with supervisory roles over directorates for the purpose of engendering effective service delivery and accountability.

Wike Decries Poor Design of Abuja Rail Stations Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has raised serious concern about the ‘poor’ designs and execution of some of the railway stations on the Abuja Rail Mass Transit by the China

Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC).

He voiced the displeasure yesterday during an inspection tour of the Central Metro Rail and Kukwaba stations rail project.

Wike also decried the spate of vandalism of security

fencing and the failure of the management to effect repairs and replacement as he instructed to be done during the last inspection.

The minister bemoaned the ‘filthy’ condition of Kukwaba two railway station and the slow pace of access road to

the station.

He said: “We have to also talk about the kind of vandalism and stealing going on there. We have security companies that were awarded contracts to secure those areas, yet things are happening.

NGO Partners MTN on N2.5m Essay Competition to Combat Poverty Sunday Okobi

A women-led non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering girls and women and eradicating period poverty in Nigeria, Safety For Every Girl, has announced the first-ever 2024

National Essay Competition to celebrate International Women’s Day. The essay competition is open to girls and women across Nigeria, and will kick-start SFEG’s Period Summit, which is set to captivate minds nationwide and unleash a

wave of innovative solutions to combat the enormous challenge of period poverty in Nigeria and across the African region.

According to the organisers, participants can enter the competition in the teen (ages 13 - 19) or adult (ages 20 to 35) categories respectively.

“Writers in the Teen Category stand the chance to win 1st prize is N400,000; 2nd prize - N250,000, and 3rd prize - N150,000. Meanwhile, on the Adult Category, winners will be awarded 1st prize - N750,000; 2nd prize - N400,000, and 3rd prize - N200,000.

A’Ibom REC Tasks Staff on Conduct of Supplementary Election Okon BasseyinUyo

NSCDC Gets New Commandant in Osun The Akwa Ibom State Resident he said Adaralewa hails from Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr.

Yinka KolawoleinOsogbo

Fulani spurious claim was a “diversionary ploy to take attention away from the heinous crime they committed on Christmas Eve in which over 200 persons were killed,” adding

Ighodalo, Shaibu, Others Pick N35m Edo PDP Governorship Forms

the commencement of the sale of forms for the September Soludo Orders Distribution of With election in Edo State, four frontline Peoples Anambra Burial Law Booklet governorship Democratic Party (PDP)

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

were killed, and thousands of their cattle rustled or killed.”

The groups, led by their Chairmen, Dalyop Mwantiri, Philip Julson, and Dawap Dankaka, warned that the

Isah Ehimeakhe, has tasked staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prove their worth in delivering a successful and acceptable supplementary

election.

Ehimeakhe gave the charge in Uyo at a maiden meeting with the Heads of Departments (HODs) and Electoral Officers in the local government areas.

He disclosed that the rerun election would be conducted in Ibiono Ibom state constituency and

Ini-Ikono federal constituency on February 3. He said the commission must remain steadfast in its dedication to providing level playing field for all political parties during the exercise.

According to him, “Upholding the integrity of the electoral process was not just their duty, but a service

to the community and the nation.

“You are aware of our collective mandate, yet I want to still reiterate that our role in the democratic process is pivotal, and the trust placed upon us by the citizens demands unwavering commitment to the principles of transparency, impartiality, and efficiency.

Alleged Terrorism: Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate Not Recognised, Lagos Tells Court

Wale Igbintade

A Lagos State civil servant, Mrs. Raulat Ibrahim, yesterday told a Lagos High Court that the title of Eze Ndigbo of Ajao Estate, claimed by Frederick Nwajagu “is not recognised by the Lagos

State Government.”

Led in evidence by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Dr. Babajide Martins (SAN), Mrs Ibrahim, who is the third prosecution witness said that the defendant did not follow due process and not recognised by Lagos State

government.

According to her, there is no Oba or chief in Ajao Estate recognised by the state government.

Nwajagu is standing trial on a nine-count charge bordering on an attempt to commit acts of terrorism, financing terrorism, participating in

terrorism, and meeting to support a proscribed entity.

He was arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services, (DSS), over an alleged threat to invite members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)to Lagos to secure properties of Igbo people in the state.

FRIDAY JANUARY 11, 2024 ˾ T H I S D AY

38

Falana: It’s Governments’ WORLD OF ISLAM Turn to Tighten Belt The Heavens without Pillars: A Quranic Message and Science (I)

NEWSXTRA

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

Wale Igbintade

Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has asked President Bola Tinubu and the state governors to reduce their entourage locally and internationally, so that Nigerians would know that the question of sacrifice have to start from the top.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today yesterday, Falana specifically

urged the President Tinubu to further reduce his travel entourage from 60 per cent to 40 per cent to reflect the state of economy in the country.

Falana said while it is commendable that the government is starting to cut costs, there are other areas where resources could be saved from wasting away.

He said: “If possible, the government can go further to reduce the number from 60

to 40 per cent or there about having regards to the state of the economy. But there are areas to address where we are wasting a lot of resources.

“I once traveled, and I was in one of the embassies. I was flabbergasted that Nigeria has been paying rent in an African country for our embassy since 1962, which should not be so.

So, the government will have to holistically look at the areas of waste.”

Lagos CP Expresses Commitment to Fight Cultism, Kidnapping, Traffic Robbery Sunday Ehigiator The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, has assured residents of the state that one of his major agendas is to fight cultism, traffic robbery and kidnapping among other crimes in the state.

He noted that the state Police Command is aimed at ensuring that the economic activities and standard of living are improved

in the state, “because a crime-free environment will make the state buoyant.”

He gave the assurance while addressing crime journalists under the umbrella of Crime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (CRAN).

Fayoade stated that in a bid to curb cultism in the state, three notorious gang members were arrested in Ikorodu, and arms, ammunition, and pump action among others were recovered.

He added that the suspects would soon be paraded, saying: “We are fighting cultism, one of my major agendas in Lagos is to fight cultism, traffic robbery and kidnapping; and these are the prominent cases we have in the state.

“We are partnering the judiciary so that any of them arrested will be taken off society for long so that others can learn lessons.”

Nigerians Mourn as Lagos Banker Commits Suicide over Economic Hardship Ayodeji Ake Nigerians yesterday mourned a Lagos banker, identified as Amarachi, who allegedly committed suicide in a bank‘s restroom in the Ikorodu axis of Lagos State.

Information sighted on social media, believed to have been written by the deceased, revealed that the banker took her life due to the economic hardship in Nigeria, which she claimed unbearable.

In her message, she lost hope for a better future, and apologised to her parents and loved ones for leaving them behind.

She wrote: “Nothing is working in my life, my figures are low, my brain is clogged up, the economy is getting harder, my decisions are wrong, my mind is messed up, the future doesn’t seem bright at all, I see extreme hardship; I can’t bear the pain anymore; I’m sorry Mum, I’m sorry Dad, I’m sorry meme ekwe, Toto, Nazor, Chuchu, Ifunanya; dear Lord, have mercy on me.”

Some Nigerians on X (formerly Twitter) mourned Amarachi, expressing worry over economic hardship in the country.

While @Napupu wrote: “It’s

CHANGE OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as OBENDA CHRISTOPHER SIXTUS, now wish to be known and address as OBENDA ENEDABOJO SIXTUS. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

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tough times and people are brutally unkind. May God rest her soul,” @tobijubril noted: “This country is not easy on many and it just keeps getting worse.” @ bamidele_f27200: tweeted: “Quite unfortunate, not good at all,may her

gentle soul Rest In Peace.” While @prudy1332: wrote: “Heartbreaking Nigerians are passing through a lot,” @sisiolojuede tweeted: “Bank marketers go through a fucking lot with the unrealistic targets that are set for them.”

By: S.M.Yunus/IslamiCity

T

he Originator of the heavens and the earth Allah the Almighty created the natural laws during the creation process. Establishing these natural principles, He activated the heavens and the earth to function in the way what we observe and feel today.

The gravitational force, electromagnetic force, nuclear force and every natural phenomenon came into play as soon as the creation is complete. The celestial bodies in the heaven interact among themselves exhibiting a number of motions under the influence of these forces. The various motions caused by the various interacting forces have created a dynamic equilibrium among the heavenly bodies.

As a result of this equilibrium state the heavenly bodies are held high in the space above. This is a manifestation of the mighty power of creation and wisdom of the Great Creator Allah which He reminds us in the Quran.

Ancient beliefs about the Heaven Our daily experience on earth is that to keep anything high above the ground we need to put a support so that it does not fall. How is then the sky held high above? Perhaps, since the dawn of human habitation on earth people have been looking for the answer to this question. Down the history of human civilization, different communities of people believed in different kinds of myths about the sky.

Even 1400 years ago, at the time of revelation of the Quran people mostly bore in their minds superstitious and groundless beliefs where scientific issues were concerned.

Their knowledge of astronomy, physics and any other branches of science were poor and even in many subjects they had no knowledge at all.

The people of the then Arabian society believed in various legends and myths inherited from their predecessors. Lacking in scientific and technological knowledge they believed that the earth was flat and there were very high raised mountains at its edges. They thought that the sky was supported by these mountains.

The Great Creator of the heavens and the earth Allah SWT (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) declared in the Quran, - “It is Allah who erected the heavens without pillars that you [can] see; ----” - (Quran 13:2). This divine message in the Quran invalidated the superstitious belief that the sky rested on mountains.

Seven Brilliant, Indigent Students Get Heavens in the Quran LAUTECH ASUU Scholarships TheForSeven the sky or heaven Allah SWT has used in the Quran

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso chapter, yesterday gave seven indigent students of the institution in its 2023 indigent student scholarship awards.

The screening of the applicants for the scholarship was coordinated by Prof. Teleem Asafa.

The Chairman, ASUU LAUTECH, Babatunde Akeem Lawal, in his remarks at the presentation to the beneficiaries, said the Union remains committed to encouraging brilliant students to become better persons in society by supporting their education.

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According to him, “ASUU will continue to champion the cause of qualitative public education and at the same time pursue the important welfare issues for its members.”

He further noted that while the Union takes the students seriously, it will not hesitate to spend from its meagre resources to improve the lives of brilliant but indigent students.

Obi Presents N75m to Hospital in Anambra David-Chyddy Eleke inAwka

Former Governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) during the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, yesterday presented a cheque of N75million to Immaculate Heart of Mary Specialist Hospital, Nkpor, in state.

Obi while handing over the cheque disclosed that the donation comprised of $50,000 he personally raised for the hospital through his friend and renowned New York based pediatrician, Dr. Philip Ozuah and his personal support of N15 million.

He appreciated the Immaculate Heart Sisters for the wonderful work they are doing in health, education and poverty reduction.

The former governor said: “I have always talked to people of like-minds to support the society in critical areas like health and education. I thank Ozuah for this positive intervention.

“I’ve been doing this for years, and will continue to offer my support for this. I most sincerely thank the Immaculate Heart of Mary Sisters for the wonderful work they are doing in critical areas of development -health, education and pulling people out of poverty.

“And I will continue to solicit support for them whenever I can. My brother and good friend, Dr. Philip Ozuah, whom I consider a very kind and committed fellow in terms of improving humanity, donated the sum of $50,000.

I’m also supporting with N15million.”

the Arabic word ‘samaa’. In the Quran He has also used the word ‘samawaat’ which is the plural of ‘samaa’. Allah SWT has said in the Quran, “- He Who created the seven heavens one above another;---” - Quran (67:3).

In this verse He has used the plural form ‘samawaat’ to disclose the truth that He has created seven heavens one above the other. In some of the verses in the Quran Allah SWT has used the singular form ‘samaa’ to mean the lowest heaven where He has set up the celestial objects.

However, in some other verses in the Quran He has also used the singular form of heaven ‘samaa’ to mean the atmosphere where birds fly, and clouds move. But mostly ‘samaa’ has been used to mean the innermost or lowest heaven in the Quran.

In scientific term ‘samaa’ or the innermost heaven is the ‘space’ which comprises of all the stars, planets, satellites, asteroids, nebula, comets, meteors, galaxies, galaxy clusters and everything we observe now and will observe in the future. This innermost heaven is the smallest heaven, and it is our universe. On top of this heaven are stacked six more heavens with vast spaces in-between.

The second heaven surrounds our universe and is very large. The third heaven surrounds the second heaven and is even larger and so on. The outermost heaven is the seventh heaven. No number exists to describe the size of this outermost heaven! The vastness of these seven heavens comprising our universe is incomprehensible.

The Heaven We Observe We the human being can only observe a portion of the lowest heaven where some celestial bodies appear to shine. We do not have any kind of knowledge of the top six heavens that surround the innermost heaven, our universe. We also do not know what are inside the top six heavens. Allah SWT has not mentioned anything about these top heavens in the Quran.

Even we also do not have any idea of the roofs or partitions of the seven heavens and the kind of matters of which they are made up. It may be thought that Allah SWT has not mentioned it because human beings are not capable of perceiving it.

The earth on which we live is located at an infinitesimally small corner of the observable universe. With sophisticated space technology from such a small corner of the vast space we can observe a very small portion of the heavenly bodies only within the innermost heaven. As mentioned before, we do not have any knowledge of either of the upper six heavens or of the roofs or partitions of the seven heavens.

However, Allah SWT has stated in the verse 13:2 that He has erected all the heavens without any support, and He has reaffirmed this fact by saying ‘that you can see’. From the statement of erection of the heavens without support in the verse 13:2 we can only perceive erection of the heavenly bodies since we lack in any kind of knowledge of the upper heavens and also the roofs of the seven heavens.

Hence, we cannot discuss anything about the erection of the bodies within the upper six heavens and the roofs

of all the seven heavens. Therefore, in this article our discussions will be focused mainly on how the erection of the heavenly bodies within the innermost heaven called the space could be possible.

Establishment of Natural Laws by Allah In the Quran Allah SWT states that, “ --- - Thus, He completed the seven universes in two days, and set up the laws for every universe---” – Quran (41:12). We learn from this verse that during creation of the heavens Allah SWT has decreed His rules for the heavens necessary for their functioning. The rules decreed by Him are nothing but the natural principles which the heavens have to abide by.

Every single bit of matter within the space including trillions of trillion celestial bodies with enormous size and mass therein is subject to these natural laws. These natural laws are associated with the natural forces like the gravitational force, electromagnetic force, nuclear weak and strong force and other forces that control the natural phenomena occurring in the universe.

Allah SWT has not left the universe to survive by miracles or by chance. Also, He has not allowed the universe to be in a state of chaos and instability. Instead, He has set up natural laws to establish a high discipline and order in the universe. Whatever the event or phenomenon that occurs in the universe must take place according to the natural principles set up by the Great Creator Allah.

Gravity and Orbital motion In the vast space within the innermost heaven there are trillions of galaxies. In each of these galaxies there are hundreds of billions celestial bodies like stars, planets, asteroids, and many others. We live in the Milky Way galaxy containing a minimum of 100 billion stars of huge size and mass. Out of these huge numbers of stars our sun is one.

The sun has a family called the solar system consisting of at least 8 planets and their few hundred moons, about a million of asteroids and other objects. All the planets in the solar system including our earth move around the sun in specific orbits. The earth’s satellite the moon moves around the earth. A question arises at this point, why does a celestial body move around another celestial body?

Humankind had to wait till 17th century to know the answer to this question. The English mathematician Isaac Newton could provide an answer to this question in 1687.

There is a legend that Newton formulated a law after watching an apple fall from a tree and asking why the apple fell straight down, rather than sideways or even upward.

He showed that the force that makes the apple fall is the same that holds us on the earth. Also, it is the same force which keeps the planets and the moons in their orbits.

By virtue of this force every object attracts all other objects towards it. This force is known as Gravitational force or simply Gravity. The law that defines gravity is one of the natural laws which Allah SWT decreed on the heavens as mentioned in the verse 41:12. The Great Creator Allah the Almighty created this force during creation of the heavens and by order of Him this force has come into play in the universe. Gravity of a particular body pulls other bodies towards it and causes orbital motions among the trillions of trillion celestial bodies in the universe.

Can the Earth be swallowed by the Sun? Anything released from a high altitude falls to the ground since the gravity of the earth pulls it towards the earth. In the same way gravity of the sun pulls the planets towards it. The planets also pull the sun towards them. The more massive the body is the stronger is its force of attraction (gravity). The sun is the heaviest body in the solar system.

The mass of the sun is 99.80% of that of the entire solar system. The gravity of the sun is the strongest in the solar system since its mass is the highest. For this reason, the sun does not move towards any planet rather a planet moves towards the sun.

Now one may ask, why don’t the planets fall on to the sun which has much stronger gravity than that of the planets? The answer lies in the fact that the planets are not stationary, they are in motion. If they were stationary, they would have fallen into the sun and would have burnt down. Actually, the planets have a sideways motion acting perpendicularly to the direction of the gravitational force between the sun and a planet.

For example, the earth has a sideways velocity of 30 kilometer/sec or 108000 km/hr. Similarly, other planets also have strong sideways motions. But this sideways motion is not strong enough to overcome the gravitational pull of the sun on the planet so as to escape from the solar system.

On the other hand, the gravitational pull of the sun on the planet is not so strong that it can draw the planet inside it surpassing the effect of the sideways motion of the planet. However, if the planets did not have the sideways velocity they would have entered into the sun and if the sun did not have gravitational force, the planets would have entered into the deep space leaving the solar system behind.

If such a situation happens with the earth on which we live, either the earth would have flown away from the solar system with us on board towards any unknown location deep into the space with a speed of 108000 km/ hr. or the sun would have swallowed us along with the earth in the blink of an eye. Therefore, it is the sideways velocity of the earth which prevents it from falling on to the sun and being swallowed by it.

To Be Continued

39

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, JANUARY 12, 2024

FRIDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

AHEAD AFCON 2023...AHEAD AFCON 2023...AHEAD AFCON 2023...

Sadiq Umar’s Injury Heightens Dearth of Strikers in Eagles Ahead Opening Game Duro Ikhazuagbe Real Sociedad striker, Sadiq Umar, sat out Super Eagles training in Abidjan on Thursday to heighten

fears amongst the country’s football stakeholders that Nigeria may begin the AFCON 2023 campaign against Equatorial Guinea with just Victor Osimhen as the only out and out

Gambian Players ‘Could Have Died’ in Aborted Flight, Says Saintfiet The Gambia squad travelling to Ivory Coast for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations "could have died" during a flight that was aborted, coach Tom Saintfiet claimed.

The Air Cote d'Ivoire flight turned around just minutes after leaving the Gambian capital Banjul on Wednesday.

Saintfiet believes there was a lack of oxygen, saying conditions prompted many of the delegation to fall asleep.

The coach praised quick thinking by the pilot for keeping his team safe.

Officials from the airline confirmed there had been a pressurisation issue.

Saintfiet told BBC Sport Africa: "The local crew said there was a problem with the air conditioning before we took off but that it would be all fine when we took off.

"After a few minutes, it was very hot in the plane.

"We all fell asleep because there was a lack of oxygen - some of the players couldn't be woken up. The pilot noticed and we had to return.

"People got headaches and if the flight had gone on for another 30

marksman.

Nearly all Super Eagles lethal forwards like Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Boniface and now Umar are down with one form of injury or the other.

Even Kelechi Iheanacho has not fully regain fitness since he got sidelined early last month at Leicester City. His teammate, Wilfred Ndidi, though a midfield enforcer, has been ruled out of this tournament in Côte d’Ivoire.

At yesterday’s training, Umar

was excused by Coach Jose Peseiro to sit on the sideline and watch proceedings. Earlier on Wednesday, the Sociedad forward trained alone from the rest of the squad, a situation that first raised red flag that something was not right with the gangling forward.

According to a Super Eagles camp insider, Umar got injured in the friendly with Guinea in Abu Dhabi last Monday.

This, perhaps, explains why he had a strapping around his leg during Wednesday’s light work out.

As things stand now, only Osimhen is the striker in the squad without an issue ahead of Sunday’s opening game against Equatorial Guinea.

Terem Moffi, a last minute replacement for the injured Boniface, will only join up by Sunday and it is not certain now what Eagles handlers

TRAGEDY AVERTED

AFCON, AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 Live on StarTimes

minutes, the whole team would have died. The strange thing is that the oxygen masks didn't come out - it's good that the pilot realised that this was a deadly situation and so turned back.

"But we are still in shock."

Air Cote d'Ivoire is the official airliner of Afcon 2023, and a statement from the company said the air crew decided to turn back because of a pressurisation problem.

It added that the issue could have been resolved by a mechanic on the ground, but that the flight was ultimately cancelled because of the impact earlier delays had on the crew's working hours.

Saintfiet suggested the passengers could have been facing carbon monoxide poisoning, but Gambia Football Federation (GFF) president Lamin Kaba Bajo said there was no evidence to support that remark.

"I never felt it and it's not clinically, scientifically or medically proven," Kaba Bajo told the BBC.

BSFA Ratifies Deal with LaLiga, Asks Alia to Honour Ordega Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The Benue State Football Association (BSFA) has approved the proposed collaboration between the BSFA and LaLiga, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) National Institute for Sports, Cross Cultures Project Association, Denmark and Ratels Sports Development Foundation, towards the training of coaches and referees in Benue State.

The ratification was one of decisions contained in the Communique issued after its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM), anchored by the Chairman, Paul Edeh, in Makurdi.

The AGM commended Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, for his support and commitment to the growth and development of football in the state.

They appealed to him to honour Super Falcons player, Francisca Ordega by naming a street after her for exceptional contributions to football in the state and country.

BSFA also approved the annual Merit Award and Fundraising

Ceremony, scheduled for January 26 in Makurdi.

It also endorsed the hosting of the BCC Lions re-union programme to be staged between January 26- 27.

The AGM also approved the BSFA's major programmes lined up for the year, including Benue State Governor's Cup, Benue State Governor’s U17 Football Tournament, State Speaker's Soccer Cup, Rt. Hon. Margaret Icheen Benue State Football League and BSFA Chairman’s Cup. The AGM approved the inclusion of women’s edition of the BSFA Chairman's Cup Competition with the women’s teams expected to receive the same prizes as the men.

The communiqué was drafted by a committee including Mrs Onwanyi Ulegede and Dr. Iorngulum Malu as Chairman and Secretary respectively, with Mr. Moses Lubem Ukpo, Miss Judith Benson.

The AGM endorsed the use of football as an avenue for promoting Benue State as the food basket of the nation.

Former England Manager, Eriksson, Has a Year to Live Former England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson has admitted that he has "best case a year" to live after being diagnosed with cancer.

The 75-year-old Swede was the first foreign coach to manage England and led the side to the quarter-finals of the 2002 and 2006 World Cup and 2004 Euros.

"I'm going to resist for as long as I can," Eriksson told Swedish Radio P1.

"I have an illness that's serious.

Best case a year, I have worst case a lot less. It's impossible to say exactly, so it's better to not think about it."

Eriksson, who had a 42-year career in management, learned of his cancer diagnosis "almost one year ago" and stood down from his most recent role as sporting director at Swedish club Karlstad 11 months ago because of health issues.

are going to do to ameliorate the dire situation.

Jose Peseiro’s men will face the Nzalang Nacional of Equatorial Guinea in their opening Group A fixture at the Alassanne Quattara Stadium, Ebimpe, Abidjan on Sunday.

The three-time African champions need an outright win in the game to boost Super Eagles confidence ahead of their big game clash with hosts Côte d’Ivoire next Thursday.

This Nigeria’s opening game will be live on pay TV channel StarTimes.

It promises to air all AFCON 2023 matches live on Sports Premium, channel 252 or 246 and on StarTimes as well as on StarTimes-ON app.

ANOTHER EAGLE INJURED, OUT OF AFCON 2023...

Sadiq Umar...got injured in Monday’s friendly with Guinea in Abu Dhabi. He’s now ruled out of AFCON 2023 and may be on the sideline till early April

From Asia's tactical genius to Africa's electrifying pace, StarTimes is set to deliver a football feast with live broadcasts of AFC Asian Cup, AFCON, and The Best FIFA Football Awards™ 2023.

Host nation, Qatar will open the tournament against Lebanon at 5pm on Sports Life channel. The prestigious AFC Asian Cup kicks off today Friday, January 12, 2024 with 24 teams vying for continental glory in the sun-drenched stadiums of Qatar.

Asian giants like Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Australia will battle it out for the coveted trophy, alongside rising stars like China and Vietnam.

According to Lazarus Ibeabuchi, PR Manager of the pay television channel, “StarTimes will broadcast every match live, ensuring you don't miss a single moment of the drama.”

On Saturday, The Africa Cup of Nations is set to ignite the continent.

Fans will witness the beautiful game unfold as 24 African nations clash for continental supremacy.

From the established powerhouses like Senegal, Egypt, and Nigeria to the exciting up-and-comers like Gambia and Guinea-Bissau, every match promises to be a spectacle.

AfroSport Secures Free to Air, Exclusive Sub-licensing Right on SuperSport Following weeks of speculation, CAF as title owner and New World Televisions (NWTV) as exclusive Pay-Per-View and Free-to-Air license holder, have both confirmed that the 34th TotalEnergies CAF Africa Nations Cup Cote d'Ivoire 2023 will be available to Nigerian viewers in its entirety, courtesy of Afrosport and its network of Free-to-Air channels across Nigeria.

Total Energies AFCON 2023TM is a highly anticipated sport spectacle that will take place in Ivory Coast from 13 January 2024 until 11 February 2024 and will be available on the Afrosport alongside NTA, AIT amongst a network of Free-to-Air channels across Nigeria.

Speaking about the right yesterday, AfroSport’s Chief Consultant , Rotimi Pedro said, “This news has been eagerly awaited, and can put Nigerian fans at ease that they will be able to enjoy unprecedented coverage of the AFCON this coming January". Pedro added that the sublicensing to Supersports is still being discussed and not yet concluded as at Thursday evening.

He said Afrosport will be the FTA rightsholder, and will distribute

through NTA, the national broadcaster, and through its Afrosport FTA Affiliate Network partners, including TVC, AIT, STV, Wazobia TV, and Wazobia Max. “In addition, Afrosport has been awarded with a Pay TV license for the Pay-per-View TV rights, with the exclusive authority to licence

Pay TV broadcaster, Supersport.”

Pedro emphasised that Afrosport's guiding principle is the promotion of sports freedom. This commitment, according to him, stems from the aspiration to grant all Nigerians unrestricted access to premium sports content through free-to-air television, enabling every

individual to indulge in their passion and savor the finest sports experiences.

He also assured that Afrosports will remains steadfast in its dedication to ensuring sports accessibility in every household, pledging an unwavering commitment to this mission.

L-R: Content Consultant, Afrosport TV, Mr. Deji Omotoyinbo, Chief Consultant, Afrosport TV, Mr. Rotimi Pedro, and Executive Director, Special Project, Daar Communication Plc, Mr. John Iwarue, during the press conference to announce Afrosport Rights of Broadcast of the AFCON 2023 in Lagos ...yesterday

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Church Leaders to Fulani Militias

“Initiate the process of officially proscribing armed Fulani militias. They should be officially designated as terrorists. This will give the military the power to fully engage them as provided in the Terrorism Act of 2022. Nigeria must urgently act and treat them as such, while also engaging other West African countries, through ECOWAS, to do the same thing” –CAN, Plateau Churches Leaders, calling on President Tinubu, to proscribe armed Fulani militias, to stem the tide of wanton killings and insecurity in the country.

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EBENEZERONYEAGWU GUEST COLUMNIST

Advancing Decarbonisation in Nigeria’s Transport Sector for a Net-Zero Future

T

he transport sector is a key growth enabler for most economies due to its crucial role in the manufacturing and logistics value chain.

Consequently, policymakers are consistently working to boost transport efficiency, which includes ensuring access to affordable and reliable energy sources for this critical sector. As nations race to meet their commitments to address climate change in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement, transport sector decarbonisation has emerged as a major consideration for policymakers. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the sector contributes roughly 25 per cent of energy-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and its share could reach 40 per cent by 2030 without deliberate actions towards decarbonisation.

Despite Africa contributing approximately 4 per cent to global GHG emissions, Nigeria and other African nations must carefully balance decarbonisation efforts with strategic development objectives in key sectors, including transportation. At COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland, Nigeria announced a 2060 net zero target. This commitment builds on the country’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Climate Agreement, where the nation reiterated its unconditional economy-wide target to reduce emissions by 20 per cent relative to business-asusual by 2030, increasing its conditional target from 45 per cent to 47 per cent. To support the achievement of the country’s climate targets, the Climate Change Act was signed into law in November 2021.

The enactment of the Climate Change Act, providing a legislative backbone for climate governance and emissions mitigation, underpins these targets.

To realise its net-zero ambition, Nigeria has introduced the Energy Transition Plan (ETP), an overarching strategy detailing timelines and mechanisms for reducing emissions across pivotal sectors, including power, cooking, oil and gas, transport, and industry—collectively responsible for 65 per cent of the nation’s emissions.

The ETP anticipates a substantial decline of about 97 per cent in transport sector emissions, propelled by the adoption of electric vehicles in the passenger car segment by 2060.

designates gas as a “transitionary fuel” as the Federal Government seeks to merge its two strategic priorities of economic development and climate action.

Embracing a gas-centric energy transition underscores the contribution of the resource to the Nigerian economy. The strategy opens the door for deepening domestic gas utilisation, especially in carbon-intensive sectors like transport. The launch of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) to facilitate the adoption of CNG, particularly in the transport sector, is a development that aligns with Nigeria’s gas-based energy transition strategy.

The Federal Government estimates that achieving net zero by 2060 will necessitate an outlay of $1.9 trillion, which includes an additional $410 billion over routine expenditure. Despite the formidable financial implications, optimism prevails, buoyed by the identification of a $23 billion investment prospect within existing national programmes and projects that are directly related to “Just Transition”. The Nigeria Energy Transition Office is actively seeking to attract the requisite investment and support to expedite the nation’s energy Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal Minister of Transport, Sen. Said Alkali transition, with a significant focus on Nigeria’s ETP is unique, given its impacted by low carbon transition. The decarbonising the transport sector—a alignment with “Just Transition”. This Federal Government seeks to leverage the vital step in Nigeria’s ambitious journey concept highlights the need for countries ETP to lift millions out of poverty while towards a net-zero future. to pursue decarbonisation efforts in ways playing a leading role in Africa by modelling In conclusion, Nigeria’s journey towards that create opportunities for segments of the fair, inclusive and equitable energy transition a carbon-neutral future is marked by population that will be disproportionately on the continent. Consequently, the ETP ambitious targets and pragmatic strategies.

The Energy Transition Plan reflects a commitment to global climate goals while the nation’s unique socioThe Federal Government estimates that achieving addressing economic challenges. As the transport embarks on a transformative net zero by 2060 will necessitate an outlay of $1.9 sector decarbonisation process, supported by trillion, which includes an additional $410 billion the strategic use of natural gas and the of electric vehicles, Nigeria over routine expenditure. Despite the formidable promotion is assuming a leading position as a financial implications, optimism prevails, buoyed frontrunner in sustainable development in Africa. The success of this endeavour by the identification of a $23 billion investment will not only contribute to the global fight climate change but also herald a prospect within existing national programmes and against new era of inclusive economic growth projects that are directly related to“JustTransition”. and environmental stewardship for the country and the African continent at large.

The Nigeria Energy Transition Office is actively Ebenezer Onyeagwu is the Group seeking to attract the requisite investment and •Dr. Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank support to expedite the nation’s energy transition, Plc and Chairman of the Body of Banks’ in Nigeria. with a significant focus on decarbonising the CEOs This opinion was first published in Zenith Economic Quarterly Vol. 19 transport sector—a vital step in Nigeria’s ambitious the No. 4 October 2023, in his column “CEO journey towards a net-zero future Insight”.

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