TUESDAY 16TH JANUARY 2024 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

NNPCL Begins Search for Private Operators for Refurbished Port Harcourt Refinery Fixes applicants' annual turnover at $2bn

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Nigerian National Petroleum

Company Limited (NNPCL) yesterday called for Expression of Interest (EOI) from qualified oil

and gas firms for the operation and maintenance of the newly refurbished Port Harcourt refinery.

In a notice to its would-be clients, the national oil company stated that when the process is completed, the

outcome would help improve dependability and sustainability to meet the country's fuel supply

and energy security requirements. Continued on page 9

MOFI: Takeover of FG's 40% Shares in Discos, Essential Element of Our Consolidation... Page 6 Tuesday 16 January, 2024 Vol 28. No 10506. Price: N400

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Kidnappers of Abuja Residents Kill Two More Victims, Raise Ransom to N700m Kingsley Nwezeh, Alex Enumah in Abuja and Wale Igbintade in Lagos

L-R: Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; and former President Olusegun Obasanjo at the inauguration of Uzodimma for second term as governor of Imo State in Owerri... yesterday

Kidnappers who abducted 10 people from Sagwari Estate Layout at Dutse in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on January 7, 2024, have killed Continued on page 9

At Armed Forces Day, Tinubu, Other Leaders Honour Nation's Fallen Heroes Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Juliet Akoje in Abuja, Segun James in Lagos, Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo, Laleye Dipo in Minna, Gideon Arinze in Enugu, James Sowole in Abeokuta, Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia, John Shiklam in Kaduna, Hammed Shittu in Ilorin, Francis Sardauna in Katsina and Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, led other Nigerian leaders, members of the National Assembly, the judiciary, the armed forces, and other critical stakeholders to honour the nation's living and fallen heroes by laying wreaths at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, at the National Arcade, Abuja. Those who graced the ceremony were President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru; and Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. Others at the wreath-laying Continued on page 9

Tinubu lays Wreath to honour Fallen Soldiers...

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu laying wreath at the military cenotaph to mark the Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony in Abuja ...yesterday

TUESDAY JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024

NEWS

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0809 7777 322, 0807 401 0580

LAYING OF WREATHs DURING THE ARMED FORCES REMEmBRANCE DAY...

L-R: Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar; and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, laying wreath at the military cenotaph to mark the Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony in Abuja …..yesterday

Higher Food, Energy Prices Pushed Inflation Further to 28.92% in Dec Severe in Kogi, Lagos, Rivers, others James Emejo in Abuja The Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the rate of change in prices of goods and commodities, further increased to 28.92 per cent in December, compared to 28.20 per cent in the preceding month, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) disclosed yesterday. The NBS attributed the 0.72 per cent rise in the headline index to increases in food and commodity prices, including energy. According to the CPI figures for the month under review, food inflation rose by 10.18 per cent to 33.93 per cent year-on-year compared to 23.75 per cent in December 2022. The annual food inflation was attributed to increases in prices of bread and cereals, oil and fat, potatoes, yam and other tubers, fish, meat, fruit, milk, cheese and egg. Month-on-month, the food index increased by 0.30 per cent to 2.72 per cent from 2.42 per cent in November.

Core inflation, which excludes the prices of volatile agricultural produces and energy, increased by 4.85 per cent, year-on-year to 23.06 per cent in December compared to 18.21 per cent in December 2022. Also, year-on-year, urban inflation rose 8.98 per cent to 31 per cent, compared to 22.01 per cent in December 2022. Month-on- month, the urban index increased to 2.42 per cent, compared to 2.23 per cent in November. According to the statistical agency, the corresponding 12-month average for urban inflation was 26.22 per cent in December 2023, which was 6.83 per cent higher compared to the 19.38 per cent in December 2022. On the other hand, rural inflation increased to 27.10 per cent year-onyear, representing a rise of 6.38 per cent compared to 20.72 per cent in December 2022. Month-on-month, the index rose to 2.17 per cent compared to 1.99 per cent in November.

FCTA Workers Protest against Appointment of New Perm Sec

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC) of Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has condemned the action of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HoS), Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan, to deploy Dr Magdalene Ajani as the new FCT Permanent Secretary. Ajani, was over the weekend, deployed from the Ministry of Transportation as the next FCT permanent secretary to replace Mr Olusade Adesola, who is due to proceed on retirement on January 29. But JUAC led by Matilukuro Korede, yesterday at a protest, insisted on the full implementation of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Law, 2018, which provided for the appointment of a permanent secretary from the pool of FCTA directors. Korede described her deployment as an aberration of the FCT CSC Law, which the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had in October 2023,

approved to be implemented for FCT. He noted by the spirit of that law, Yemi -Esan did not have the imprimatur to appoint a permanent secretary for the FCT. “On Thursday, we heard that the head of service has announced that she has gotten approval from President Bola Tinubu to deploy another permanent secretary to FCT. “We felt aggrieved because it is an aberration. As we speak now, the FCT CSC Law has been gazetted since 2018,” he said. He recalled that since 2004, the staff of FCTA had been deprived of becoming permanent secretaries, adding that the law to make it possible was signed in 2018 but implementation became a problem. "As far as FCT is concerned, the permanent secretary should be appointed among the qualified directors in the FCTA and not from outside. This will provide an opportunity for the staff of FCTA to get to the peak of their career by becoming a permanent secretary.

The NBS noted that the corresponding 12-month average for the rural inflation was 23.25 per cent which was 4.91 per cent higher compared to 18.34 per cent in December 2022. However, at state level, year on year, the all-Items inflation was highest in Kogi (35.58 per cent),

Lagos (32.33 per cent), Rivers (32.16 per cent), while Borno (23.27 per cent), Taraba (24.92 per cent) and Katsina (26.52 per cent) recorded the slowest rise in the headline index in the review period. Month-on-month, the highest increases were recorded in Bayelsa (3.66 per cent), Bauchi (3.51per cent),

Oyo (3.45 per cent), while Nasarawa (1.36 per cent), Delta (1.49 per cent) and Sokoto (1.58 per cent) recorded the slowest rise. In the same vein, food inflation year-on-year was highest in Kogi (44.73 per cent), Kwara (41.33 per cent), and Imo (39.54 per cent), while Bauchi (27.49 per cent), Jigawa (27.98

per cent) and Sokoto (28.72 per cent) recorded the slowest rise. On monthly basis, however, food inflation was highest in Bayelsa (4.42 per cent), Ogun (4.11 per cent), and Enugu (4.03 per cent), while Nasarawa (1.48 per cent), Delta (1.65 per cent) and Niger (1.67 per cent) recorded the slowest rise.

Makinde: Oyo Will Take Advantage of New Electricity Law to Improve Power Supply Power Minister visits, assures on electricity improvement

Oyo State governor, 'Seyi Makinde, has said his administration has begun to take advantage of the Electricity Act 2023 to transform the power supply situation in the state. He described the new law as a game changer in the electricity sector, stating that the state will soon key into it, as it is set to sign its own version of the law soon. According to a statement from the Special Adviser (Media) to Oyo State Governor, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the governor stated this yesterday, when he received the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, at the Executive Chambers of the Governor's Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. Makinde, who congratulated Adelabu on his appointment and also expressed gratitude to God for saving him when he was involved

in a plane crash recently, said his government does not mix politics with governance and that it would give the Minister the support needed to succeed. The governor added that his administration would keep its doors open to interventions that can make life better for the people of the state. He said: “During your speech, there was a power outage and that is what Nigerians face every day. But we do know that we can improve the electricity situation for our country. "For us in Oyo State, the game changer is actually the Electricity Act 2023, and we will take full advantage of the law. “As a matter of fact, we have started taking advantage of the new electricity law already and I should be signing the Oyo State version of

the law by the end of this week or early next week, because it has been passed by the House of Assembly. “Honourable Minister, let me give you the assurance that we don’t see division and politics when it comes to the issue of governance and ensuring that we provide good living conditions for our people. "We don’t also see any problem in giving credit to whoever deserves it. If it is the Federal Government that assists us to get anything, we are ready to work together. "Oyo State has the largest landmass in the entire South-West; that is why the Rural Electrification Agency of the Federal Government and our own Rural Electrification Board have been working together, and we believe we can achieve more." Speaking earlier, Adelabu, said he was embarking on a nationwide

visit to power installations, and that he chose to start with his home state. He added that the visit was to critically assess the power sector through extensive consultations with the stakeholders across board, so as to unanimously agree on strategic implementation plans for the improvement, upgrade, modernisation and transformation of the power sector for uninterrupted power supply. Adelabu, who described Makinde as his brother, called for partnership and collaboration between his Ministry and the Oyo State's Ministry of Energy and its Rural Electrification Board. He noted that one of the areas of collaboration is the provision of transformers to low-income areas, especially the rural communities in the state.

Access Holdings Acquires Megatech Insurance Brokers

Kayode Tokede

Access Holdings Plc, yesterday disclosed that it has obtained all required regulatory approvals for the acquisition of Megatech Insurance Brokers Ltd, an insurance brokerage company licensed and regulated by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM). This comes after Access Bank Zambia Limited, a subsidiary of Access Corporation, confirmed the

successful acquisition of African Banking Corporation Zambia Limited, which operates under Atlas Mara Zambia. The company secretary, Access Holdings, Mr. Sunday Ekwochi in a statement on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) stated that the acquisition of the Company complements Holdings company bouquet of product offerings in pursuit of its vision of building globally connected community of

ecosystems inspired by Africa for the world. He said the financial institution acquiring Megatech would strive to create a world where risk is efficiently managed so that we can confidently seek and seize opportunities for growth. Commenting on the acquisition, Group Chief Executive Officer, Access Holdings, Dr. Herbert Wigwe in a statement explained: “This acquisition is a natural step in our evolution

as a globally connected community and ecosystem and aligns with our mission to build and sustain one global platform, open for anyone to join where people can be connected to exceptional opportunities. “The Company will design and provide intelligent solutions that mitigate the unique risks faced by individuals and business in an ever-changing world using leading risk management tools and governance standards.’’

TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

Sanwo-Olu signing the Y2024 Appropriation bill into law...

Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu (second left) signing the Y2024 Appropriation bill into law at the conference room of Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, 15 January 2024. With him are Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat (left); Deputy Speaker, the State House of Assembly, Hon. Mojisola Meranda (second right); Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation, Hon. Saad Lukman Olumoh (right); Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN (right behind) and Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. Ope George (left behind).

MOFI: Takeover of FG's 40% Shares in Discos, Essential Element of Our Consolidation Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) has stated that the resumption of its rights of management of the federal government'’s 40 per cent shareholding in the 11 electricity distribution companies (Discos) and the various equity stakes in related energy sector companies was an essential element of consolidation. In a statement issued yesterday, signed by its Managing Director, Dr. Armstrong Takang, MOFi which is the holder and manager of federal government's investments, said the take over of the stakes would drive operating efficiency, best corporate governance practices and ultimately maximise the value derived from the electricity assets, in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s economic growth agenda. The Minister of Finance and

Coordinating of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, had at the weekend, in a letter dated January 10, 2024 directed the Board of Directors of MOFI to immediately revoke the Power of Attorney (PoA) which the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) exercised on its behalf in the past over one decade in the electricity successor companies. The minister also directed MOFI to immediately assume ownership, control and management of all equity holding of the Federal Government of Nigeria in the successor companies of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, assume ownership, control and management of all equity holding of the Federal Government of Nigeria as contemplated and provided for by law and/or any contract; and issue all appropriate notices, instruments, documents which are required to give effect to this directive.

In its latest statement, MOFI, which has already executed the ministerial directive, said it had in 2012, issued a Power of Attorney to the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) whereby BPE was empowered to carry out the actions necessary to fulfil the National Council on Privatisation (NCP’s) directives and complete the various electricity privatisation (share sale) transactions. The BPE, it added, had since then held shares in the Discos on behalf of MOFI, adding that this continued for over 10 years after the sales were completed in 2013, until the recent order by the Minister of Finance. While extending its gratitude to the BPE for its stewardship of the shares, the company noted that, "as a reformed and active entity, MOFI is taking significant steps to ensure that these assets deliver full value to the country."

"We look forward to collaborating with our key stakeholders and, through our concerted efforts, making a tangible impact in contributing to a thriving, resilient and growing Nigeria," the statement added. According to MOFI, in the past 24 months, and particularly since the amendment of the MOFI Act

by the Finance Act, 2023, it has been reformed and restructured from a unit in the Office of the Accountant-General to a fullfledged public sector (FGN) asset management corporation. "This arose from the recognition that FGN assets across practically all economic sectors nominally valued at very significant sums

Yusuf: There Was Attempt to Steal Kano Mandate on Purported Tinubu, Shettima’s Backing Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, Sunday night, said there was an attempt to steal Kano and add it to the kitty of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), because they controlled the federal government and its institutions.

Yusuf, who addressed thousands of his supporters, who converged at Filin Mahaha Arena, to receive him after a road trip from Abuja to Kano, however, raised their hopes. He promised to revolutionise education, health, human empowerment, and infrastructure development across the state.

US: Nigerian Citizens Most Successful, Educated Immigrant Group in America

Tasks country on unity, human rights Law Professor urges Tinubu to make public investigative report on Plateau, Kaduna killings Establish national security trust fund Alex Enumah in Abuja The United States of America has noted that Nigerians are the most successful and educated immigrant group in America presently. Owing to this, the United States challenged Nigerians to be more united in the advancement of human rights and civil liberties in order to facilitate development of the country and the African continent. Senior Advisor for the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, US Embassy, Shaun Jameel Gavin, who gave the charge, pointed out that unity, love and respect were strength capable of propelling significant progress across Nigeria and the entire African continent. He spoke yesterday, at a ceremony organised by the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS) to

commemorate the Martin Luther King Jr.'s Day celebration in Abuja. Specifically, Garvin urged the people to rise above the divisions of religion, tribe and ethnicity, race and colour, recognising them as remnants of a past struggle designed to fragment our humanity, as one. "Let us rise above our differences and embrace our collective identity, honouring Dr. King's legacy by forging a path of mutual respect, honour, and excellence. "In speaking of unity and excellence, it's imperative to recognise the extraordinary achievements of Nigerians worldwide. Nigerians are the most successful and educated immigrant group in America today. "This is a testament not just to individual brilliance but to a broader culture of excellence that permeates the Nigerian spirit. Whether it's in academia, medicine, technology,

or the arts, Nigerians consistently set high standards and achieve remarkable feats. This excellence is not an accident; it is the result of relentless dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to success," Garvin said. He added that such achievements serve as a beacon, illuminating the potential that lies within a united efforts, adding that as Nigeria strives for progress, citizens should draw inspiration from this legacy of excellence. "Let it remind us that when we harness our collective talents and work together, transcending tribal and ethnic divisions, there's no limit to what can be achieved. This is the essence of the Nigerian spirit, a spirit that contributes significantly to the global African identity and the advancement of our communities everywhere", he added.

were largely moribund or grossly underutilised and poorly managed. "Consequently, it was determined in 2021 by the then Minister of Finance, amongst other relevant decisions, that MOFI would adopt a new, value-driven strategic direction in aggregating and managing FGN assets," the statement explained.

In a welcome speech, President of the CSLS, Prof Yemi AkinseyeGeorge, stated that the centre joined the rest of the world to celebrate the late Martin Luther King Jr, for his immense contribution in the fight for human rights. The law professor observed that Nigeria currently, faces significant challenges related to civil liberties, adding that these challenges may include government censorship, restrictions on freedom of expression, discrimination based on race, gender or religion, lack of access to justice, and arbitrary detention. "Most pressing challenges include the threat to human lives that currently plagues the country, ranging from the Christmas Eve killings in Plateau State, the bombing of innocent civilians in Kaduna State, the running rampant of kidnappers and unknown gunmen throughout

all the sectors of the country. "In view of these challenges, it is our duty to demand for the protection and prioritisation of our rights and safety from the government", he said. Akinseye-George while calling on President Bola Tinubu to "make public the reports of investigation on the Plateau killings", stressed that, "There must be punitive measures on the wrong doers, people must be held responsible for the mishaps and threat to life. "Furthermore, reparation and restitutions must be made for the victims and marginalised groups in Nigeria". He said the federal government should establish a National Security Trust Fund, that would provide succour and support to victims of kidnappings, terrorism and other violent crimes in the country.

Yusuf narrated how some influential persons were hellbent on stealing the hard-earned mandate of people of the state under the guise that they belong to the ruling party. "The persons were hellbent on snatching or stealing our mandate and the reason was because they felt the president, his deputy, and others were from APC. Fortunately, the president refused to interfere in the matter. "With this action, Kano people said Thank you Mr. President for saving Democracy in Kano. This is a message from the good people of Kano. Yusuf, who further commended the Supreme Court for redeeming the image of the judiciary, told his people that, "We will not let you down. Our doors are open. We will deliver on the dividends of democracy in the areas of education, health, and human empowerment, among others. “We thank the judges for the judgment because if not for the fair judgment they delivered, we wouldn't have known what would have happened. The verdict has redeemed their image.” He further urged all Kano stakeholders, irrespective of political affiliations, to come on board and join hands with him to develop the state. The Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, said Yusuf's administration would end thuggery, drug abuse, phone snatching and better the lives of the citizenry. He, too, thanked the Justices of the Supreme Court for toeing the path of truth and honor by delivering a just and fair judgment that saved the state from "unforeseen circumstances."

TUESDAY JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

Obaseki visits families of late Coach Broadrick-Imasuen, Giwa-Osagie... L-R: Chief of Staff to the Edo State Governor, Hon. Osaigbovo Iyoha (left); Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Mr. Yusuf Alli (2nd left); Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (middle), and family members of late Coach Sebastian Broadrick-Imasuen, during a condolence visit to the family, at their residence, in Benin City... yesterday

L-R: Mrs. Ayeshen Giwa-Osagie; Mrs. Mary Giwa-Osagie and Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, during a condolence visit at the residence of late Rilwan Victor Giwa-Osagie, in Benin City... yesterday

Tuggar: Shettima to Market Nigeria to Global Audience at Davos

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to market the country to global audience at the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) presently holding in Davos, Switzerland. Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, made this known in a statement yesterday. The World Economic Forum started yesterday and is expected to end on Friday, 19th January, with a series of meetings lined up for Shettima, who is the leader of Nigeria's delegation. According to Tuggar, Nigeria’s resilient business climate resonates with the agenda of the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum; the 2024 edition with the theme 'Rebuilding Trust.' The statement which was signed by the spokesman of the Minister, Alkasim Abdulkadir, noted that the intention of the meeting that holds annually in Davos, was to provide a crucial space that offers solutions to global challenges facing countries, especially transiting countries. It added: “This year, the organisers of WEF have taken a step back and focused on the fundamental principles of driving trust, including transparency, consistency and accountability. "All these soundly resonate with the Renewed Hope Agenda

of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which is propelled by a commitment to unleashing the country’s full economic potential through focusing on job creation, access to capital for small and large businesses, inclusivity and, most importantly, the rule of law which underpins WEF’s theme for this year.” Tuggar, revealed that Shettima, alongside 52 other Heads of State, including Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China, and Olaf Scholz, Chancellor of Germany, as well as over 1,500 CEOs and Chairpersons of the largest companies in the world were expected at the global event. He said the Vice President during the week-long Forum was expected to engage with top global investors at the meeting and participate in a series of programmes designed for Nigeria, including a Country Strategy Dialogue on Nigeria. He added that Nigeria's delegation at Davos would be part of the Country Strategy Dialogue on Nigeria, which is a roundtable that would be chaired by Vice President Shettima – with the expected participation of 60 global CEOs/ Chairs. The Minister also said Nigeria was expected to have a stakeholder dialogue entitled, “Transforming Energy Demand,” to discuss what companies and governments could do to enable economic growth with

less energy, where the Minister of Petroleum Resources would be on the panel of discussants representing the Vice President. The Vice President was also scheduled to hold a private meeting with Dolf van den Brink, Global Chief Executive Officer, Heineken, to discuss areas of partnerships and collaboration and later in the same day attend another stakeholder dialogue entitled, “Treating Soil as a Precious Resource,' to discuss ways of tackling the trilemma of food access and affordability, nutrition and health, as well as nature and climate, where he would be represented by the Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, according to Tuggar. The Foreign Affairs Minister noted that the Vice President

would privately meet James Quincey, Global Executive Chief Officer of Coca-Cola Company, with the engagement ending with a private dinner with Klaus and Hilde Schwab; noting that the dinner would bring together Heads of State, Government, and International Organisations as well as members of the Board of Trustees, the International Business Council, and Strategic Partners. Tuggar also revealed that the Vice President was scheduled to have a private breakfast entitled 'Driving Action Under the African Continental Free Trade Area,' where the Forum Friends of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) coalition brings together heads of state, ministers,

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC) has said there is no evidence that low quality Paracetamol tablets currently exist in Nigeria. A statement signed by NAFDAC's Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, said the agency was aware of a recent report on the social media alleging that nearly all paracetamol tablets sold in Nigeria are “under-dosed”. However, he said that the outcome of investigations on the matter proved the allegations wrong and misleading. " We have received a copy of the publication of the research finding of the subject and we wish to state categorically that the report is misleading, and the science is questionable," it said.

The statement stated that as the quality culture of NAFDAC demanded, as soon as the agency became aware of the news, the Director General, had meetings with the respective directors and gave a directive that a survey of the market should be done to sample and test. It said the director general of the agency had also met with the leadership of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Group of the Manufacturing Association of Nigeria to inform them of the agency’s intent. "NAFDAC’s laboratories are ISO 17025-certified every year to ensure that the procedures used for testing are based on international standards and the equipment or instruments used are qualified similarly. "We do yearly post-marketing survey of medicines to ensure that the quality and safety are maintained.

Nigeria,” which would delve into the priorities of the Nigerian government and engage in a dialogue about the country's economic path. He disclosed that the Nigeria Reception was a cultural and entertainment event to be hosted by Vice President Shettima and the ministerial delegation. It would feature Nigerian food, music, national ethos and culture. An estimated 600 participants are expected at the event. Tuggar further stated that Nigeria’s participation at the Forum’s Annual Meeting provides an opportunity for Vice President Shettima to woo foreign investors to Nigeria. He also expressed optimism that Nigeria’s attendance holds great economic benefits for the country.

Customs, Ministries of Blue Economy, Transport Partner on Port Decongestion, Trade Facilitation Agree on immediate action to rectify, optimise existing scanners at prominent ports

James Emejo in Abuja The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) yesterday initiated a strategic engagement with critical stakeholders, including Ministries of Marine and Blue Economy as well

as Transportation, to deliberate and actualise measures that would not only open up the nation's ports, but also foster seamless cooperation and trade facilitation. The meeting sought the strategic integration of the Non-Intrusive

NAFDAC: No Evidence of Low Quality Paracetamol Tablets in Nigerian Market

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

chief executives, and heads of international organisations to support the implementation of the AfCFTA agreement through public-private collaboration, and "at noon, the Vice President will be represented at a private lunch event entitled “IGWEL: Lunch-Restoring Faith in the Global System by the Minister of Foreign Affairs." The statement further explained that this Informal Gathering of World Economic Leaders (IGWEL) convenes policymakers and business leaders to discuss what an effective multilateral system could look like and how to strengthen faith in global cooperation, adding that equally, the Vice President would host a private country-focused session entitled, “Country Strategy Dialogue on

Where there is a deviation from this, i.e., whenever we find any regulated product to be substandard or falsified, NAFDAC regularly issues public alerts or do recalls," it said. NAFDAC said that in the last two years it had issued 88 public alerts and ordered 32 recalls for medicines and foods. “We are using this medium to assure the public that NAFDAC is using international standards and scientific methods to survey the paracetamol product where samples are collected from different parts of the country in the right amount and will be tested using well calibrated, and qualified state-of-the-art equipment or instruments. "This is part of our routine regulatory post marketing surveillance among others throughout the life cycle of a medicine. We want to reiterate that NAFDAC has five ISO-

17025 laboratories across the country, and a World Health Organisation (WHO) prequalified laboratory at Yaba Lagos where medicines are tested for quality and safety. "The laboratories test medicines using official monographs of British Pharmacopeia, United States Pharmacopoeia, and International Pharmacopoeia. As soon as we finish the laboratory testing, we will update the public. "NAFDAC wishes to reassure the public that the agency is very vigilant in her responsibilities in safeguarding the health of the nation. 'It is on this basis that NAFDAC has been recognised by WHO as a stable, well-functioning agency, and by other international partners as an organisation that places premium on the quality, safety and efficacy of medicines, food, and other regulated products,"it said .

Inspection Technology (NIIT) to boost operational efficiency in the country's seaports. It was attended by Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola; Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali; Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi; and Managing Director, Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Fidet Okhiria. The stakeholders resolved to prioritise scanning over physical examination. In a joint statement issued at the end of the meeting, which was signed by Customs spokesman, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, and media aide to Minister of Marine, and Blue Economy, Ismail Omipidan, the parties acknowledged the pivotal role of NIIT in efforts to decongest the ports. The engagement entrusted the CGC with the mandate to champion and prioritise cargo scanning over traditional physical examination methods. It further endorsed an immediate action to rectify and optimise all existing scanners at prominent ports, including Apapa, Tincan Island, Onne, and PTML. The parties agreed that simultaneously, the existing mobile scanners will be strategically deployed to facilitate expeditious

cargo inspections. NRC also pledged its continued commitment to freighting cargoes to inland container depots/dry ports, a strategic move to alleviate congestion at major ports. Plans were unveiled for the efficient evacuation of containers from Port Harcourt to Aba, with future extensions envisaged for Onne Port. Furthermore, against the backdrop of rail track construction, NRC agreed on a pragmatic approach to bypass the fixed scanner at Apapa to ensure an unhindered progression of scanning process during crucial infrastructure development. The statement noted that the collaborative synergy witnessed during the meeting underscored the unwavering commitment of the federal government to cultivate a conducive and efficient trade environment. The communique further stressed that the anticipated implementation of these resolutions would positively impact port decongestion, trade facilitation, and overall operational efficiency and competitiveness. The meeting advocated exploring Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to oversee the installation and maintenance of scanning technology to sustain efficiency and foster innovation in cargo inspection processes.

T H I S D AY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024

Fuel Subsidy Removal: I Share in Your Pains, Tinubu Tells Nigerians

nine

Says things now looking up for good

Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu yesterday told Nigerians that he shared in the pains associated with the removal of fuel subsidy in the wake of his administration on May 29, 2023. Speaking at the second-term inauguration of Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State in Owerri, the president, however, said there was light at the end of the tunnel as things are already looking up for good in Nigeria. He said: "In the past 40 years, a few people were cornering our common wealth, and calling it subsidy, but I call it wasteful. Right now, we are all bearing and sharing that pain. But things are looking

up. Things will get better for the good of all Nigerians. With me, there is hope". Tinubu said his administration will give more attention to education and healthcare, as well as provide the enabling environment for industrialisation and investments in consonance with his vision of creating an economically stable and prosperous country. The president said he was wellattuned to the concerns of citizens, assuring them that the challenges brought on by very essential reforms were being addressed. "I assure you that there will be substantial development in education for your children; priority on industrialisation; healthcare

will receive more allocation and attention. We will train more health workers," he stated. Tinubu commended Uzodinma for his stewardship in Imo state, describing him as the "real hope" of the state. "It is a great honour for me to be here in Imo State. And to congratulate the people of Imo for being discerning and determined to vote into a second term, a very unique individual who resonates with a progressive agenda, Senator Hope Uzodinma," he said. The president said he was is committed to building a united and secure country, noting the peace and security in the state. He added: "Before now, people

were afraid of coming to Imo state, but today Imo is safe and open for business. What we have learnt from this experience is the importance of unity, cooperation, and a focus on our internal security." Tinubu implored the governor to work even harder for the people, emphasising that hard work is the reward for a re-election. "I assure you that your hopes are renewed. Be assured of the support of the federal government to ensure rapid development of your state," he further said. Speaking after being administered the oath of office by the Imo State Chief Judge, Justice Theresa Chukwuemeka-Chikeka, Uzodinma pledged that his second

tenure would be an uncommon tenure in the execution of policies. "We have been able to lay a solid foundation for accelerated economic growth and development of our state. We also addressed the decay we met in the civil service, the decay we met in the education sector, and the health sector. In addition, we addressed the lingering problem of unemployment through the variety of youth empowerment initiatives. "We carried out a digital version of dealing with the unemployment market, which included the provision of digital and other portable skills, including artificial intelligence to our teeming young men and women," he said.

President Bola Tinubu Unfolding his priorities, the governor said the next four years of his administration would focus on deepening the shared prosperity mantra through massive infrastructural expansion. He added that the vision of his government was anchored on a 10-year development plan which has the capacity to make the state self-sufficient.

At Armed Forces Day, Tinubu, Other Leaders Honour Nation's Fallen Heroes

ceremony were Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, who led all the Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police, among others, to honour the country's departed heroes. The Nigerian Legion urged the Tinubu administration not to get tired of looking at the welfare of veterans, especially in relation to salary increase for serving members of the armed forces. Similarly, in commemoration of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki; presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi; and governors, among others, challenged the military, and also made appeals on their behalf. The wreath-laying ceremony was the climax of activities marking the armed forces remembrance day, which began with the launch in October 2023 of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem by Tinubu. Christian and Muslim prayers were offered by the services clergymen for the living and peaceful repose of the souls of the departed heroes, who fought gallantly for global peace. This was followed by the observance of a minute silence. Tinubu led the wreath-laying ceremony accompanied by Commander, Guards Brigade, at the foot of the Unknown Soldier. Following was President of the Senate; Speaker, House of Representatives; Chief Justice

of Nigeria; Minister of the FCT; Minister of State for Defence; and Doyen of the Diplomatic Corps in Nigeria. The service chiefs and the Inspector General of Police, among others, took their turns to lay wreaths. Ceremonial shots were fired by soldiers as part of the activities at the event. The event ended with the signing of the anniversary register by Tinubu before his symbolic release of white pigeons to signify peace. The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an annual event organised by the Ministry of Defence to honour the country's fallen heroes, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of humanity during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, Peace Support Operations around the world, as well as various Internal Security Operations. Abbas hailed the Nigerian armed forces for their gallantry and patriotism, saying they remain one of the best in the world. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the speaker said Nigeria would not experience prosperity if the country was not safe and secure for businesses and other economic activities to thrive. He said this underscored the critical role of the armed forces in the general wellbeing of the nation. Abbas noted that while parts of the country still experienced security threats, the armed forces

NNPCL Begins Search for Private Operators for Refurbished Port Harcourt Refinery

In 2021, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Mele Kyari, stated that the federal government was considering a plan to become a minority shareholder in the beleaguered oil refineries. That was after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) signed off on a $1.5 billion rehabilitation plan, funded largely by Afrexim Bank as well as from Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by NNPC, for the Port Harcourt refining complex, which has a capacity of 210,000 barrels per day. Kyari told Reuters at the time, "Our considered view...is to go to what we call the NLNG model, where NNPC becomes a minority holder in the asset. We will bring in the private sector so they can take equity in this refinery, and then we continue to grow that business." In a separate statement, NNPC said the "operate & maintain" model was "one of the key requirements by the lender" for the Port Harcourt project. The national oil company said in a public notice, “The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited is seeking to engage reputable and credible Operations & Maintenance (O&M) companies to operate and maintain one of its refineries, Port Harcourt Refining

Company (PHRC), to ensure reliability and sustainability towards meeting the nation's fuel supply and energy security obligations.” In December, NNPC said it had concluded the “mechanical completion“ of the 60,000 bpd part of the 210,000-capacity plant, after several years of abandonment. The refinery is expected to begin to have its products in the market anytime from the end of this month. In the public notice yesterday, among others, NNPC stated that any company applying to operate and maintain the plant must present its audited accounts between 2019 and 2022 as well as demonstrate a minimum average annual turnover of $2 billion between 2019 and 2022. The Port Harcourt refinery rehabilitation project, which costs about $1.5 billion, covers engineering, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning phases. NNPC said for Area 5, the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation had all been completed. The mechanical completion last December, NNPC said, signified the closure of the construction and installation phases. THISDAY recalls that the rehabilitation work had been ongoing at the refinery for over two years.

had risen to the occasion most times. He, however, urged the military, security and intelligence agencies to do more in securing lives and property, which, he noted, is the primary responsibility of the government. Chairman of Nigerian Legion, Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin (rtd), while answering questions from newsmen at the end of the ceremonies, said, "I want the government to continue to enhance the well-being of those who have served and left. “Those families of the fallen heroes, including those who are serving. Government should not get tired of looking at the welfare of veterans, especially when it's related to the increase of salary of serving members of the armed forces." Jibrin also called on the government to remember those who made the supreme sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars and other international engagements, including operations in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and under the United Nations and Africa

Union.

Saraki: Event Should Remind Leaders of Commitment to New Nigeria Former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, called on Nigerian leaders to see the annual armed forces remembrance day as a reinforcement for a new Nigeria. Saraki explained that the Remembrance Day should not be a mere ritual, but one that would reassure members of the armed forces that their efforts to keep the nation united were not in vain. He stated, "Today, across the nation, we gather not just to remember the fallen heroes of our Armed Forces, but to reaffirm our shared resolve to the ideals they championed. "Their unyielding bravery, their selfless sacrifice, and their determination to keep this nation safe are their legacy. But this legacy demands more than remembrance. It demands action. It demands that we forge a brighter future for which

they paid the ultimate price. "It demands building a nation worthy of the blood and sweat of our men and women in uniform – and their families. It demands a nation where peace reigns, where justice prevails – and where the mantle of progress they bore is carried forward with purpose.”

Obi: Armed Forces Must Be Resolute to Conquer All Terrorism Acts The presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the last general election and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, in his message, urged the armed forces to remain resolute in their resolve to conquer the monster of insecurity currently ravaging the country. Obi appreciated the efforts of the late armed forces heroes, praying that their efforts would not be in vain. He stated, "On this Armed Forces Remembrance Day, I join other Nigerians in appreciating our military men who, in order to ensure peace and security within

our borders, are willing to pay untold sacrifice. "Today, we encourage them to remain resolute in their resolve to conquer the ugly monster of insecurity currently ravaging our dear nation. We remember, especially our fallen heroes, who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending the peace, "May this day renew their love, zeal, and courage to remain firm in their struggles for a peaceful and crime-free Nigeria. May we, the leaders, ensure that the welfare of our armed forces and their families are well taken care of, as they graciously serve our nation."

Sanwo-Olu: We Must Continue to Support Our Fallen Heroes Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, called for continuous support of the Nigerian Armed Forces and remembrance of families of fallen heroes, who paid the supreme price for the Continued on page 10

Kidnappers of Abuja Estate Residents Kill Two More Victims, Raise Ransom to N700m two more of the abductees. However, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the police already initiated a comprehensive plan of action to rescue the victims. He said the force headquarters was diligently coordinating efforts to address this and prevent any further occurrence as all hands were on deck to rescue the victims. It was gathered that after killing some of the kidnap victims, the bandits increased their demand from the initial N60 million per person to N100 million, now totalling N700 million. Residents said the victims were allegedly killed over the delay in raising the ransom demanded by the kidnappers. It was also gathered that a 13-year-old secondary school student, identified as Folorunsho Ariyo, was among those killed. On Friday, reports emerged that the kidnappers, who also operated in some villages in Bwari, had killed one of the six abducted persons, Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, to force the family into quickly raising the ransom. A former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Ali Pantami, on Sunday, announced that he mobilised a balance of N50million ransom for the Al-Kadriyar family to enable them to secure the release of their remaining five daughters from the kidnappers following the murder of Nabeeha. Meanwhile, residents of Sagwari Layout have perfected plans to stage a massive protest against the perceived inaction of the government and security agencies in rescuing their people. However, the protest, which was initially planned for this Monday,

has been shifted to Tuesday as a result of 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. Also, Egbetokun, said the police already initiated a comprehensive plan of action, noting that the force was diligently coordinating efforts to address and prevent any further occurrence as all hands are on deck to rescue the victims. A statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer and Assistant Commissioner of Police, (ACP), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the sensitivity of the situation necessitated discretion and as a result, specific details are being kept confidential to avoid compromising ongoing operations. "The NPF is actively engaging and contacting individuals crucial to the rescue operations and investigation. The objective is not only to bring perpetrators to justice but also to intensify efforts in rescue operations for victims still in captivity," he added. He further stated that in recognising the psychological impact on affected families, the police were encouraging open communication with their operatives to provide support, information, and assistance to mitigate the psychological warfare imposed by kidnappers on the relatives and loved ones of their victims. In the meantime, Amnesty International (AI) has lamented the spate of kidnapping in Nigeria, saying that the country was facing an epidemic of kidnapping and citizens are living on a knife edge. In a statement issued yesterday by its, Media and Communications Assistant, Michael Christian, AI stated that rampant kidnapping by armed groups has become a part of daily life in Nigeria. It added: “Widespread insecurity

and chaos have been exacerbated by routine kidnapping, as armed groups tighten their stranglehold on the country.” Amnesty International called on President Bola Tinubu to treat the rampant kidnapping in the country as an emergency, and take all lawful measures to end the cycle of violence, stressing that people in Nigeria are living in fear. According to the human rights group, under International Human Rights Law and Nigeria’s constitution, the authorities have obligations to protect lives and properties of all without discrimination. The group stated that the Nigerian authorities must investigate the waves of kidnapping and killings and bring those suspected of responsibility to justice through fair trials. According to Amnesty International, the Nigerian authorities are yet to show any tangible commitment to addressing the escalating breakdown of security across the country. The group noted that whatever security measures being currently implemented, they "are clearly not working, as people in Nigeria feel more unsafe". It recalled that last week over 45 people travelling between Otukpo in Benue state and Enugu were kidnapped and nothing had been heard about them yet. “We are now facing an epidemic of kidnapping. People in Nigeria a now living on the knife edge. Widespread insecurity and the chaos it causes have been exacerbated by routine kidnapping, as armed groups tighten their stranglehold on the country. Nigerian authorities must immediately stem the tide of kidnapping now,” said the Director, Amnesty International

Nigeria, Isa Sanusi. Meanwhile, an Abuja-based legal practitioner, Mr Oladosu Ariyo, has called on the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to help save his wife and remaining three children from the hands of kidnappers. In a save their soul message to colleagues and seniors, the lawyers stated that unless the body comes to his rescue on time, the kidnappers may kill his entire family, having already taking the life of his eldest child. According to him, the kidnappers had invaded his home in an Estate in Dutse area of Bwari, Abuja, on Sunday and carried away his wife and four children, adding that his failure to provide the sum of N60 million led to the killing of his 13 years old daughter. He is therefore calling on the NBA to quickly intervene and save the lives of his wife and remaining three children. "Most respectfully, I'm Oladosu Folorunso Ariyo, a lawyer working in Abuja. On Sunday evening the 7th of January 2024, around 7:30 pm, a band of kidnappers dressed in full military camouflage invaded my home located at Sagwari Layout Estate in Dutse, Abuja. "They kidnapped my wife (who is also a lawyer) and our four children. The kidnappers called and demanded for 60 million ransom out of which through generous donation of friends and family, I've been able to raise the sum of N7 million naira which they have vehemently refused to collect. "As at today, they've killed my first born- Michelle Ariyo ( age 13) and dumped her corpse on Kaduna road while threatening to kill my three remaining children (who are all minors) and wife who are still in captivity,” he stated.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

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Unveiling of Women and Youth Desk...

L-R: Head of Women and Youths SMEDAN, Mrs. Fawale Olabimpe; Director General SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odii; and Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye during PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE the unveiling of women and youth desk in the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency (SMEDAN) in Abuja, recently

At Armed Forces Day, Tinubu, Other Leaders Honour Nation's Fallen Heroes peace and security of the country. Sanwo-Olu made the appeal at the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Interdenominational Divine Service, themed, "Honouring Sacrifice (John 15:14)" held at the Chapel of Christ The Light, The Secretariat, Alausa, on Sunday. The service was attended by members of the State Executive Council, permanent secretaries, All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftains, Commanding Officers in Lagos State, members of the armed forces, members of the Nigerian Legion, religious leaders, families of the fallen heroes, and Christian faithful, among others. Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Gboyega Soyannwo, said the occasion presented an opportunity to remember the fallen heroes as they paid the supreme price by sacrificing their lives for the territorial integrity of Nigeria. The governor stated, "We are gathered here in the presence of God and in thanksgiving to Him as we remember our fallen heroes, who paid the supreme sacrifice while preserving the unity and territorial integrity of our nation. "Today, the government and the good people of Lagos State are united to appreciate the sacrifice of the departed; to pray for the continued repose of their souls; to remember their families left behind as well as those who have become incapacitated (one way or the other) as a result of injuries sustained in the war front.”

Obaseki: Nigeria's Fundamental Defects need to be addressed Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, called for urgent actions to address Nigeria's fundamental defects in order not to force the country into a reset. Obaseki also hailed the sacrifice and bravery of Nigerian fallen heroes, saluting their contributions to the peace and unity of the country. The governor, who spoke in Benin City, the Edo State capital, reiterated the need to urgently redesign and restructure the country to address its defects and place the country on the path of growth and prosperity. He stated, “We thank God for another year and opportunity to remember those people who have sacrificed their lives for the peace and unity of Nigeria. “The people we are honouring today have paid the supreme price with their lives and it's important not to forget their efforts. That is why this event is important and we should be sober about it.”

For Lagbaja’s Sake, Adeleke Drums Support Military Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, appealed to all Nigerians, both in the public and private sectors, to support the Nigerian military as they strive to defend the country and uphold peace and tranquillity in its various parts. Adeleke stated this in Osogbo. The governor said this year's Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration was unique to Osun State, as the Chief

of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, was an illustrious son of the state. Adeleke said, "The 2024 event is unique for Osun State because one of our illustrious sons is the Chief of Army Staff of this great nation. My brother, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is making Osun proud by his firm and consummate leadership of the Nigerian Army. We are proud of him. "In the past and present, our sons have played leading roles in various commanding heights of the nation’s military. Therefore, as the laying of wreaths is held nationally today, we have to remember the special place of Osun State in national defence. "We are, therefore, not just remembering national heroes, but many of our own sons and daughters, who paid supreme price and who are still in the trenches in defence of the nation. We are honouring the memory of the living and the dead.”

Niger to Enrol Families of Ex-servicemen into Its Social Investment Programme The Niger State government promised to engage families of ex-servicemen in its social investment programmes to make them gainfully employed. Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who was represented by his deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, said the families of the ex-servicemen would be enrolled into different categories of the state’s social investment programmes based on their ages. Bago maintained that the state owed it a duty to cater to the families of fallen heroes, the ex-servicemen, who paid their dues in service to their fatherland. He promised that the state government would not allow the relations of the ex-servicemen to be subjected to poverty, adding that their services would continuously be needed in dealing with the security challenges in the state. Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in the state, Mr Mamuda Baba Ahmed, appreciated the efforts of the state government and its commitment to resolution of their plights.

Mbah Pledges Continuous Support to Armed Forces Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, said his administration would continue to support the Nigerian Armed Forces as they continued to secure the lives and property of residents in the state and the country, at large. Mbah gave the assurance during the laying of wreaths and parade at the Okpara House, Enugu, as part of activities marking the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. He also assured that the sacrifices of those who died protecting Nigerians would not be in vain. The governor urged Nigerians to eschew all expressions of hate and acts of violence and insecurity, stressing that only by so doing would the country truly reciprocate the gallantry of the servicemen and honour the memory of those, who paid the supreme price in the service of

Nigeria. He stated, “The Remembrance Day celebration is an annual event to honour the memory of the brave men and women of the armed forces, who have paid the supreme sacrifice to ensure that we and countless others across the globe can continue to live in freedom. "These selfless men and women, whom we remember and honour today, gave their lives in operations ranging from the Nigerian Civil War and the numerous internal security operations across the country today, to various peacekeeping operations in places as far as Chad, Somalia, Sudan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and many others. “We must constantly rededicate ourselves to the duty of maintaining peace and security across our great nation, not only by eschewing all expressions of hate or acts of violence and insecurity, but also by supporting our brothers and sisters in the security agencies.”

Makinde Tasks Residents to Cooperate with Security Agencies Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, appealed to residents of the state to always cooperate with the security agencies and inform them of any suspicious acts. The governor stated this at the grand finale of the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at the Remembrance Arcade, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan. Makinde, while addressing journalists at the end of the event, expressed appreciation to the officers and men of the armed forces for their dedication and for keeping the state and the country safe. He promised that his administration would continue to support the widows, orphans and other dependents of the fallen heroes. The governor, who performed the traditional wreath-laying, equally assured the people of the state of maximum safety of lives and property in the state.

Abiodun: Nigeria Will Rise Again Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, called on Nigerians to have faith in the current political system, the government, and its leaders, saying the country is on the verge of rising again. Abiodun also called on citizens to shun all acts of violence or acts that did not define them as a people. He also appealed to Nigerians to continue to be their brother's keepers, urging them to stay away from sowing discord among themselves. Abiodun urged Nigerians to subscribe to the spirit of nation-building and nationalism, while supporting the families of fallen heroes. He said, "Let us uphold the spirit of not just nationhood but optimism. Let us have faith in our system, our government, and our leaders. Nigeria is on the verge of rising again. "For those of us that are not privileged or bold enough to join the armed forces, we should subscribe to nation-building and patriotism.”

Otti Warns Political Leaders against Diminishing Sacrifices of Military Personnel Abia State Governor Alex Otti urged political leaders to desist from denigrating the Nigerian armed forces over their perceived shortcomings, as "no institution can lay any genuine claim to perfection." Otti made the appeal Monday in Umuahia at the event marking the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. He stated that the military deserved commendation for being the most patriotic institution in the land. The governor stated, "It is disappointing to observe that most times, we, by our actions and words, make nonsense of the sacrifices in blood, sweat and tears of hundreds of thousands of our servicemen and women." Otti argued that while there was no denying that Nigeria "is beset with so many difficult challenges, domestic insecurity, and a growing sense of uncertainty", things could have been worse without the selfless sacrifices of the armed forces. He added, "Nothing must take our attention away from the daily sacrifices made by the officers and men in uniform to limit the threats, preserve our national stability and offer us strong lessons in sacrifice and courage."

Sani: Let’s Reflect on Sacrifices, Armed Forces’ Commitment Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, urged Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices and commitment of the armed forces in ensuring security, peace and stability in the country. Speaking with journalists, Sani said the occasion provided an opportunity to Nigerians to honour those who laid down their lives in defence of the country. He said, “Today’s event offers us the opportunity to honour our veterans. It also gives us the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices, bravery, and commitment of our fallen heroes, who lost their lives in the defence of our territory integrity." The governor commended the armed forces and other security agencies for the fight against terrorism, banditry and other criminal acts across the country. He said the fight against banditry and terrorism was on course, adding that governors would continue to cooperate with the military and other security agencies to bring an end to all forms of criminality bedevilling the country.

NGF Chair Lauds Armed Forces for Services to Nation Kwara State Governor and Chairman of Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, lauded fallen and serving men of the armed forces for their tremendous services for the country. AbdulRazaq said, "The first and most important thing is to appreciate our armed forces for the sacrifices they have rendered (and still rendering) during the First and Second World Wars and internal security operations up till today."

The governor thanked the security agencies for their excellent role in special operations in some parts of the state, saying, “They hardly sleep at night in the barracks, bushes, and offices. We have to appreciate them. "We equally appreciate their families, their tremendous role, and how they contribute generously to the efforts to rehabilitate some of them." AbdulRazaq stated, “In Kwara (in particular), we appreciate the armed forces. They are doing a yeoman's job. We thank them for their services all over Nigeria to make the country safe and peaceful. Let us be united in Nigeria."

Radda: Our Surviving Military Officers Suffer Physical, Physiological Trauma Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State revealed that military officers, who survived deadly operations, were suffering both physical and physiological trauma in the country. Radda disclosed this at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day. He said families of officers, who lost their lives in battles, bore the scars of their death throughout their lifetime. He added that the Nigerian fallen heroes, who fought the battles ravaging Nigeria, believed in the stability and unity of the country, hence they laid down their lives for the sake of humanity. Radda said, “The gallant men and women went into the battlefield knowing full well that they may pay the ultimate price, but remain resolute in their decisions. “Our courageous men and women are being shot, kidnapped, attacked and killed in various theatres of operations presently going on in different parts of this country. “These theatres of operations left the surviving ones with both physical and physiological trauma while the families of the late ones bear the scars of the death of their loved heroes throughout their lifetime.”

Yusuf: Kano’ll Establish Security Trust Fund Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, said plans were underway to establish a security trust fund, as part of measures to complement the efforts of security organisations in the state Speaking during this year's Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremonies in Kano, Yusuf explained that the trust fund would soon be inaugurated. He stated, "What I intend to do is the inauguration of the Security Trust Fund. We have gone far on that. Very soon we are going to invite the eminent Kano indigenes, as well as eminent Nigerians we feel can come in and contribute so that, at least, we take measures to curtail the insecurity situation in the state." Yusuf honoured the families of the fallen heroes and promised to collaborate with the Nigerian Army on how to support the families of the late personnel. He said, "We commemorate the departure of our armed forces personnel annually. Those who have laid their lives during their services to the nation.”

TUESDAY JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

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MbaH remembers the fallen heroes...

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, lays a wreath at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier during the parade to mark the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the Okpara Square, Enugu, ... yesterday

L-R: The Commander, 553 Base Service Group (BSG), Nigerian Air Force, Enugu, Air Commodore S.A Eyoma; the Garrison Commander, 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, Brig. Gen. Murtala Abu; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; and the Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, proceed to lay the wreath at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier during the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day event at the Okpara Square, Enugu, ... yesterday.

Falana: Supreme Court Should Review Some of Its Decisions on Political Cases

Faults apex court's judgement on qualification of a candidate Condemns politicians for praising Tinubu for not interfering in judicial process Says Plateau PDP legislators can sue FG for allowances Wale Igbintade

Human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana has urged the Supreme Court to review some of its decisions on political cases, stressing that it was only then that Nigerians could begin to celebrate the new electoral jurisprudence promoted by the apex court. He also urged the National Assembly to study the decisions of the tribunals and the Appellate Courts on the 2023 general elections with a view to amending the Electoral Act and the relevant provisions of the constitution to ensure that election results are determined by

voters and not by Judges. Falana in a statement titled, "Supreme Court And New Electoral Jurisprudence In Nigeria," frown at the utterances of some political leaders, who instead of commending the Justices of the apex court for the judgments delivered last week, thanked President Bola Tinubu for not interfering in the judicial process. He said such utterances were indicators of total lack of confidence in the autonomy of the courts by the political class. He also expressed worries that politicians who were hailing the Supreme Court for the landmark judgement delivered in favour of

governor, Caleb Muftang of Plateau state, would relied on the judgement to manipulate the primaries of political parties in 2027 elections and thereafter, since they are said to be internal affairs of political parties that cannot be questioned by rival candidates in election petition tribunals and appellate courts. According to Falana, contrary to the verdict of the Supreme Court, the qualification of a candidate who did not take part in a valid primary could be challenged by a rival political party in an election petition by virtue of section 285(13) of the constitution. He said " In view of the fact

that the issues of the congresses, nomination and sponsorship of the governorship candidate of the APC were determined in the Jegede’s case, the Supreme Court ought not to have turned round to insist that 'the issue of primary is an internal matter of political parties which both the Tribunal and Court of Appeal lacked jurisdiction to determine'. "However, the judgement of the Court of Appeal was rightly set aside by the Supreme Court which found that contrary to the claim of the petitioners and the judgment of the appellate court the order of the Plateau High Court was not

Sanwo-Olu Assents to Lagos’ N2.267 Trillion Budget of Renewal Governor prioritises economic affairs, targets improved wellbeing for citizens

Segun James Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday, signed the N2.267 trillion 2024 Appropriation Bill of Lagos State into law, ushering in a new expenditure cycle. The Governor, at a ceremony held in the State House, Alausa, assented to the “Budget of Renewal” days after the House of Assembly passed the proposed expenditure bill and transmitted it to the executive arm for approval. The State Government is prioritising spending on infrastructure, environment, education and technology, just as it significantly raised allocation to security and public safety. Of the total budget, N1.315 trillion, representing 58 per cent, is allocated for capital expenditure, while the recurrent spending gulped N952.4 billion, which represents 42 per cent of the budget. After signing the Appropriation Bill into law, Sanwo-Olu said assured that the implementation of the budget would bring about new growth and improve quality of life for the State’s residents. The Governor disclosed that the budget was raised by N21.74 billion, which the Assembly approved before the final ratification. The additional allocation, he said, is to ensure completion of key infrastructure and

inject interventions into critical areas of priority as identified by the legislature. He said: “The success of this Appropriation Law will be determined by how effective its implementation will be in relation to the wellbeing of our citizens. This administration is firmly committed to achieving the objectives and deliverables that have been set out in the budget. We believe this budget will not only help to advance economic growth and sustainability, it will also transform the lives of the residents and businesses. “All the objectives laid out in the Appropriation Law align with our THEMES+ agenda. We, therefore, pledge to diligently work towards the completion of a lot of our ongoing projects and successfully bring forth the Greater Lagos we have talked about. We underscore the necessity of the collective responsibility to ensure the successful execution of this budget. The citizens must fulfil their civic obligation, as the effort to build the State is one that requires partnership.” Sanwo-Olu pledged that the State Government would uphold highest level of transparency and accountability in the implementation of the budget, while promising greatest benefits would be for greatest number of residents. The Governor thanked the House of Assembly for maintaining spirit of patriotism and duty to the people of

Lagos during the period of screening the proposed budget. Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. Ope George, said the State’s 2024 expenditures came to full realisation, following the evaluation of priorities set by the MDAs to advance the development objectives of the current

administration. The Commissioner said the Government employed Medium Term Fiscal Framework prepared based on accumulated revenue that would accrue to the State. He added that the entire budget reflected the needs of all the State’s five traditional divisions.

disobeyed by the PDP as evidence showed that a fresh primary was conducted. "No doubt, the decision of the Supreme Court on party primary was anchored on Section 285(14) of the Constitution, it is submitted that the question that a candidate who did not participate in a primary can be raised by his/her opponent in an election petition by virtue of section 285(13) thereof which provides that "An election tribunal or court shall not declare any person a winner at an election in which such a person has not fully participated in all stages of the election." "In the Jegede’s case the Supreme Court correctly came to the conclusion that the PDP and its governorship candidate did not prove that the APC governorship candidate did not participate in a valid primary. "The point that I am struggling to make is that the qualification of a candidate who did not take part in a valid primary can be challenged by a rival political party in an election petition by virtue of section 285(13) of the constitution. "In a number of cases, it has been decided by the Supreme Court that qualification is a pre-election and post election matter. In John Kayode Fayemi vs. Adebayo Segun Oni & Ors (2019) LPELR-49291(SC), Galumje, JSC, as he then was, held that, " I do not agree with the learned counsel that qualification

to contest primary election is an internal affair of the party. On the contrary, qualification of a candidate is both pre and post-election matter that can be challenged either in the Federal or State High Court or the Tribunal. Citing the case of Dangana & Anor vs Usman & Ors Falana stated that the Supreme Court in its judgement delivered by Justice Walter Onnoghen held, “An issue of qualification of a candidate to contest an election under the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) is both a pre-election and an election matter which both the High Courts and the relevant Election Tribunals have jurisdiction to hear and determine." Falana also faulted the Apex Court for commenting on the case of legislators in Plateau State who lost their seats, submitting that 'a court lacks the vires to determine a matter that is not before it' He said, "In the case of Governor Muftang, the Supreme Court lamented that a lot of people have suffered because of the wrongful judgments of the appellate court which had sacked several legislators who won elections under the platform of the PDP. With respect, their Lordships should have refrained from commenting on the case of the legislators who lost their seats as it was not before them as it is trite law that a court lacks the vires to determine a matter that is not before it.

Magnus Onyibe Releases New Book on Leadership Wale Igbintade

A new book aimed at getting leadership in Nigeria to be more considerate and inclusive of the views, opinions and concerns of those outside the corridors of power written by a development strategist, public policy analyst and media columnist, Magnus Onyibe, has just been released. The book titled: "Leading From The Streets. Media Interventions By A Public Intellectual (1999-2019)" is a compilation of 77 articles written and published in the mass media by the author, spanning 20 years of the return to democracy in Nigeria, from 1999 to 2019. Onyibe announced the book release in a statement signed by Tervel Kejih. According to him, the book

features essays that dwell on the core and relevant issues concerning the existence of Nigeria as a country and what needs to be done to make her flourish. According to the statement: "The book serves as a vital lesson in civic engagement and history, provides an in-depth exploration of how power has been wielded and sometimes misused in Nigeria between 1999-2019 which is during the reign of presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Yar’Adua, Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari; and the consequent impact of their leadership on the masses who depend on them for direction". Some of the topics focused on in the seven chapters are, democracy and governance, politics and practice of politics, business and economy, leaders and leadership, and ethnic

nationalism, separatism and religious insurgency, corruption and graft – the unending fight against it, and Nigeria’s relations with other African countries and the rest of the world. Every chapter of the book has an afterwards writers, including former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, former Military Governor of Kaduna State, Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar, (Rtd), Former Primate of Anglican Church, Most Revd. Nicholas Okoh, and Head Transparency International, Nigeria, Mr. Auwal Ibrahim, among others. As the ‘afterwords’ writer, on the chapter: " Business, Economy and Development," the renowned accountant Mr J.K. Randle pointed out: "He (Onyibe) has adopted a prose style that is both elegant and incisive to the point that we

are entitled to ask: what else is to be done to bend the ears of those whose responsibility it is to make crucial decisions on our behalf? " Also, the former Head of State, Gowon, noted in his foreword: "The book is more than just a collection of past articles but rather a compilation as well as an expression of passionate intellectual effort aimed at getting leadership in Nigeria to be more considerate and inclusive of the views, opinions and concerns of those outside the corridors of power. “This is in order to help guide policy makers in their work of policy formulation for the good of Nigeria, Africa and the world at large." He further stated: "In this book, Onyibe has made compelling contributions and given sound ideas and possible solutions to many burning national and global issues".

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BATTLE FOR GOVERNMENT HOUSE BENIN

HENRY EHIZOKHALE reckons that Olumide Akpata is capable of steering Edo State towards a brighter future

See page 17

AMARACHI UGOCHUKWU AS A JIGSAW PUZZLE Amarachi's decision reflects personal life struggles, mental health challenges, and harsh economic realities, contends CHRIS UCHENNA AGBEDO

See page 17 EDITORIAL

AFCON AND THE SUPER EAGLES

ANDREW A. ERAKHRUMEN argues for more investment in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions

MUSINGS ON ‘DEGREE MILLS’ AND OTHER ISSUES

On the 30th of December, 2023, an online news media published a damning report from its reporter who went undercover to investigate, successfully, how “degrees” (and results’ transcript) could be obtained, in six weeks or less, from a foreign “university” without stepping that country’s soil! We mean without receiving any lecture, on-site or otherwise. Without taking any examination in whatever form! Without knowing where the “university” is located (in Benin Republic, to be specific)! This story elicited series of reactions but for us, it was, and still is, not a surprising one. What appeared big, to us, was that the said reporter (Umar Shehu Audu), with supports, was able to pull the undercover investigation through as against speculative reporting that we are mostly familiar with in Nigeria. We congratulate this reporter for this feat! There are other investigative journalists in Nigeria; we believe that with support and enabling environment, they can also perform excellently. It may be intrusive and/ or disrespectful for those who do not know much about a profession to be teaching professionals in such line of work how to do their job. Professions are supposed to have ethics that guide them. However, for those who do not like to conform to ethics, such as those involved in unnecessarily speculative journalism, we advise that they should talk to themselves. As earlier-stated, we are not moved by this discovery! It is not a “big deal” to us! The reader may ask why we took this position. This is simply because it is not really a “new” discovery. There had been silent rumours of the existence of such higher educational institutions (not only in Africa but also in those places referred to as developed countries) that are reputed for issuing (selling) questionable certificates to willing buyers through their local and international agents who, collectively, are racketeering syndicates! These claims were, at best, unverifiable gossips until the above-mentioned reporter went undercover to provide the public with undeniable facts; the types of facts that rattle the shrewdest roguish public officials and civil servants who collaborate with criminal racketeers! Or, what do we call those aiding and abetting the buying and selling of academic and professional certificates? It will be very difficult to convince us that those racketeering syndicates do not have support in high places in Nigeria! This exposé has contributed in exposing the dirty underbelly of Nigerian society. Again, like others, it confirmed that no unscrupulousness is beyond some people. These crooks may be few in number but their activities help in reverberating negativity about the country. With thorough investigations, it is not unlikely that those

behind the certificate scam are predominantly Nigerians! Yes, some Nigerians are soiling Nigeria’s name! These reprehensible activities start in bits and pieces. They may have their legal implications but we are more concerned, here, with morals. We cannot help it but to moralise! The moral values in this country are unbelievably increasingly becoming what to be ashamed of. Immorality is now displayed openly. If you are not involved in the madness, it means you are a “mugu”! That means you are not smart! We must tell ourselves the naked truth that, morally, Nigeria has sunk very deep! The people in government are involved but the followers are not exempted. In fact, they are seriously complicit in the rot! For instance, is it news that some school children/wards and their parents/guardians engage in all sorts of cheating even at the level of nursery/primary schools? Is it news that parents/guardians in collaboration with their children/wards ‘arrange’ for leaked questions and “miracle centres” in order to pass examinations? Can these students defend the certificates they submitted for admission into higher educational institutions? Can they defend the certificates they subsequently obtained, through crooked means, from higher educational institutions? Truly, the cowl does not make the monk! This desperation for unmerited paper qualifications by some people can be terrifying. The mentioned and unmentioned illicitness in all sectors have drastically reduced Nigeria’s integrity such that law-abiding hard-working compatriots are now victimised. These dubious certificates are also contributory factors in complicating this integrity problem. As this piece is being written, in line with the well-known predictable knee-jerk responses by Nigerian governments, newspaper reports have it that 18 foreign universities without licence to operate in the country had been shut down while some others are being investigated. Further, an eight-man interministerial committee had been inaugurated to investigate the activities of private universities established in the last 15 years. This committee is also mandated to probe

allegations of degree certificates racketeering by both foreign and local universities in Nigeria. Unfortunately, the fraudulent beings are already among the crooks in charge of the running of peoples’ lives in the civil and public service! We hope that the beneficiaries of academic frauds, being investigated, will allow these investigations to succeed. We are still struggling to be hopeful against hope but if the current investigations go the way similar ones in the past went, then one may be left with no choice other than to agree with those asking in Pidgin that “who school epp”? They even concluded that “school na scam”! That is the quality of mind possessed by future Nigerian leaders. That is what they are inheriting from the current warped system! There is no need to be evasive when discussing these academic frauds that are gradually getting normalised. The products of these scams are in all professions – in Nigeria today. Many Nigerians may not know, or may be living in denial, but sooner than later it will be clearer that they (we) are in trouble. Definitely, we have problems with those unnamed valueless predatory mushroom educational institutions – both locally and foreign – that are exploiting the inadequacy in the Nigerian system. Nonetheless, it should be stated clearly that not all those who are studying in foreign lands, or those with certificates from those places, are frauds! Not at all! There are those with high cerebral capacity and moral integrity who can be vouched for among them! There are different reasons for seeking trainings and certifications out of the country. These push and pull factors are multifaceted but constraint of space will not allow us to analyse them here. Yet, one fact stands out for us. That is, Nigeria’s public higher educational institutions need serious funding support in order to be able to admit more applicants and deliver deliverables in line with global best practices. Consequently, it has been, and will continue to be, gross irresponsibility for Nigerian (federal and subnational) governments to abandon existing public educational institutions (especially universities) while creating multiple new ones (glorified secondary schools) that do not have any verifiable funding plan! We now agree that many Nigerians have not accepted or imbibed the reasons for, lofty ideas behind, and culture of, a UNIVERSITY! Also, there are misfits within the university system. It is that serious! In closing, we ask: what differentiates the proliferation of poorly-funded public universities from the nefarious activities of those “universities” that Nigerians now tag as “degree mills”? Erakhrumen currently teaches at the Department of Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, University of Benin, Benin City

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HENRY EHIZOKHALE reckons that Olumide Akpata is capable of steering Edo State towards a brighter future

BATTLE FOR GOVERNMENT HOUSE BENIN During a recent tour across the 18 local government areas (LGAs) of Edo State, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and a prominent gubernatorial aspirant on the platform of the Labour Party, Olumide Akpata, sparked conversations by emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in the way politicians engage with their constituents during festive seasons and beyond. Akpata, without discouraging citizens from accepting gifts from politicians, asserts that sharing rice as a strategy for political loyalty and support has never worked in Edo State. Rice as a strategy does not and has never worked. He stresses that if it was an effective strategy, some aspirants would have occupied government houses by now. Instead, he maintains that the focus should be on addressing the multifaceted challenges that confront the state and electing the right people to make it happen. He challenged the state, local government and ward executives of the Labour Party in the 18 local government areas of Edo state to remain focused on the task ahead as the challenges that confront the state are the main issues at stake in the coming gubernatorial elections. The call to move beyond symbolic activities like rice sharing implies a desire for a more meaningful and impactful contribution toward addressing the challenges and priorities facing citizens of the state. By emphasizing a shift away from traditional or symbolic gestures, there is an indication that Olumide Akpata is calling for a more active and purposeful engagement on issues that have a lasting effect on the welfare of the people. This kind of approach often reflects a commitment to meaningful, strategic, and results-oriented actions. Akpata unequivocally expressed his belief that Edo State, like many parts of the country, requires a more holistic and enduring strategy for development. According to him, the state should prioritize fundamental needs that have a lasting impact on the well-being of its residents. Edo State faces a multifaceted array of challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, high unemployment rates, educational deficiencies, limited healthcare access, hindered agricultural productivity, security concerns, environmental issues, political tensions, electricity supply inconsistencies, and notably, poorly maintained roads. These issues collectively demand urgent attention and comprehensive strategies to foster sustainable development and enhance the well-being of the populace. As a gubernatorial aspirant on the platform of Labour Party, Akpata envisions transforming the state into a model of sustainable prosperity. His vision prioritizes economic diversification, job creation, quality education, accessible healthcare, robust infrastructure, environmental sustainability, transparent governance, social welfare, and security. Through these key priorities, Akpata aims to build a lasting legacy of inclusive growth, innovation, and prosperity for all residents

of Edo State. Little wonder across the Labour Party and political spectrum he is popularly referred to as “Our Guy” as more people begin to see him as a key connector to growth and prosperity in the state. Olumide Akpata stands out as an aspirant of choice, and here is why: his exemplary track record as the former President of the NBA speaks volumes about his leadership acumen. His tenure was marked by a commitment to excellence, advocating for justice, and fostering a culture of accountability within the legal profession. Akpata is not just an aspirant; he is 'Our Guy' because of his proven leadership qualities. His ability to bring about positive change is evident in his past endeavours, showcasing a strategic mindset and a dedication to making a meaningful impact. As we face the challenges of our time, his visionary approach positions him as a leader capable of steering Edo State towards a brighter future. Furthermore, 'Our Guy' is synonymous with transparency, accountability, and good governance. Akpata's unwavering commitment to these principles ensures that the public's trust is not just earned but maintained. In an era where transparency is paramount, his pledge to uphold these values aligns perfectly with the expectations of the electorate. Akpata's engagement with the community and the party is another reason why he is 'Our Guy.' His understanding of local issues, coupled with a genuine connection to the people, sets him apart. A leader who listens, learns, and responds effectively is what our community needs, and Akpata embodies these qualities. An aspirant who actively listens to and engages with constituents is often more effective and this, Olumide Akpata has undertaken in two tour tours of the 18 local governments of Edo State in a span of three months! In this pivotal moment, let us rally behind 'Our Guy,' confident that his leadership will not only honour the legacy of the Nigerian Bar Association but also elevate our state to new heights. Together, with Akpata at the helm of governance in Edo State, we can look forward to a future defined by progress, integrity, and a shared vision for a better tomorrow. Ehizokhale writes from Benin

Amarachi's decision reflects personal life struggles, mental health challenges, and harsh economic realities, contends CHRIS UCHENNA AGBEDO

AMARACHI UGOCHUKWU AS A JIGSAW PUZZLE “Nothing is working in my life. 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, and I can’t bear the pain anymore. I’m sorry Mom, I’m sorry Dad… Dear Lord, have mercy on me.” … Amarachi Ugochukwu Those were excerpts of a suicide note of late Amarachi Ugochukwu, a marketing staffer of a first-generation bank in Ikorodu, Lagos State. The young banker’s tragic end provokes some reflections on life, which is often likened to a complex jigsaw puzzle, a mosaic of experiences, challenges, and choices that shape our existence. Each piece represents a moment, a decision, a relationship, or an event that contributes to the overall picture of our lives. As man seeks to crack this jigsaw puzzle, new pieces appear, altering the overall composition and challenging them to continuously engage with the puzzle. In the pursuit of completing the puzzle, the challenge of negotiating the twists and turns, sieving through a web of choices and consequences

constantly searching for connections, seeking meaning, and attempting to understand the bigger picture. As quite typical of a puzzle, the choices man makes do have consequences and each decision fits into the larger framework of their lives, creating their own meaning in the arrangement of their experiences, and influencing the overall pattern and design. In solving a jigsaw puzzle, man discovers the inescapable option of embracing resilience, appreciating imperfection and internalizing the mystery of the whole. Some pieces may not fit immediately, and certain aspects may be unclear, but the process of exploration and discovery is essential, which underscores the primacy of patience and determination. Not every piece fits perfectly, and not every part of life is flawless. In embracing imperfections as an integral part of the puzzle, man realizes that it is in these imperfections that the uniqueness and beauty of their lives emerge. Given that the complete picture of life is often elusive and mysterious, man never fully grasps the entirety of their existence, and that's part of the allure. The journey itself, filled with unknowns and uncertainties, is what makes the puzzle intriguing. In this piece, contemplating life as a jigsaw puzzle in the context of Amarachi Ugochukwu’s suicide, encourages us to appreciate the intricacies, certain uncertainties, and interconnectedness of our experiences. It invites us to engage actively in the process of assembling our collective experiences into a

unique puzzle, all while recognizing the peculiarity in both the individual pieces as represented by Amarachi and the evolving masterpiece as a whole. Amarachi’s tragic end interrogates this jigsaw puzzle called life. Amarachi's untimely end prompts us to examine the deeper meanings, complexities, and challenges inherent in the human experience, as we grapple with the profound questions that life often presents. Life, much like a jigsaw puzzle, is composed of myriad pieces that interlock to create a unique and intricate pattern. Amarachi’s story, marked by economic hardships and personal struggles, raises poignant questions about the nature of this puzzle and the oftenelusive quest for understanding. At the heart of this reflection is the inquiry into the nature of suffering and resilience. Why do some individuals, despite facing adversity, find the strength to persevere, while others succumb to the weight of their challenges? Amarachi's tragic fate beckons us to reflect on the complexities of human experiences, and contemplate the resilience of the human spirit and the seismic cord between external circumstances and internal fortitude. The puzzle of life also encompasses the societal, economic, and political factors that shape individual destinies. The suicidal option, which Amarachi took, citing economic hardships as a reason for taking such a drastic step, compels us to delve into the layers of despair that individuals may grapple with in the face of challenging circumstances as well as underpin the interconnectedness of personal struggles with broader systemic issues. Also, Amarachi’s pitiable story draws attention to the centrality of mental health. The silent battles individuals face, the internal conflicts that remain hidden behind external facades, emphasize the need for a compassionate and understanding society. The jigsaw puzzle of life compels us to de-stigmatize mental health challenges, recognizing it as an integral piece in the overall well-being of individuals. It is an unsettling reminder that beyond the headlines and economic statistics lie real people, each grappling with their unique set of challenges. Amarachi’s choice to take her life should prompt us to pause and consider the factors that contribute to the fragility of mental well-being, particularly in the context of economic struggles. Amarachi's decision reflects the intersection of personal struggles, mental health challenges, and the harsh realities of economic hardships. It is a call to action for us humans to recognize our fellow beings behind the statistics and extend our support to those who may be silently battling their own demons. The economic difficulties faced by many in our society, attributed by some to broader political and systemic issues, should encourage us to question the impact of these challenges on mental health. Unemployment, financial instability, and the stress of making ends meet can take a toll on individuals, affecting their sense of self-worth and hope for the future. Agbedo writes from Lagos

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EDITORIAL

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

AFCON AND THE SUPER EAGLES The Super Eagles should go all out to honour Nigeria with remarkable performance

he 34th Africa Cup of Nations (AfCON) kicked off last Saturday in Abdijan, Cote d’Ivoire with 24 participating countries. Held biannually since inception in 1957, AfCON has been used to celebrate the continent while offering a purely African content to what is universally recognised as the ‘beautiful game’. Featuring the biggest sporting showpiece on the continent, the tournament highlights how football remains a powerful and unifying force. We therefore hope that this tournament, like previous ones, will offer quality entertainment. The special place of AfCON in the international football calendar is quite unique. The tournament predates the EuroChampionship and is reputed for yielding the stage to some of the best players that ply their trade all over the world to exhibit their talent. On Sunday, the Super Eagles kicked off their campaign for a fourth AFCON title against Equatorial Guinea’s Nzalang Nationale with a disappointing score draw. They will confront the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire on Thursday before the final group phase clash with the Wild Dogs of Guinea Bissau on 22nd January. Nigeria first won the title as hosts in 1980 with President Shehu Shagari in the VIP stand to receive the trophy inside the National Stadium in Lagos. Some 14 years later, the late Stephen Keshi led the Super Eagles to Tunisia ’94 to lift the trophy. The same Keshi would later emulate Mahmoud ElGohary of Egypt as the second player to also win the tournament as player and coach in 2013 in South Africa. El-Gohary won as player in 1959 and as a coach in 1998 to enter history books as the first to attain such a feat. It is over a decade now that the Super Eagles last triumphed in this African football showpiece. Between then and now, what we have witnessed,

under series of European managers and a handful of indigenous coaches, is a national team lacking direction, and struggling to regain its past glory. At the last edition hosted by Cameroon two years ago, the Super Eagles crashed out in the second round despite so much promise from a team brimming with some of the best talents on the continent. The Super Eagles’ poor run in the last edition was followed by crashing out of qualification for the Qatar World Cup held last December. Therefore, Portuguese handler, Jose Santos Peseiro knows that nothing short of the trophy will be good enough from Cote d’Ivoire. Unfortunately, his players have not had enough time to blend and plan strategy to outwit opponents in the group phase. The seven-day training experience in Abu Dhabi has not really given the players enough time to jell as a team. Peseiro now has the additional burden of grappling with injury to star players like Taiwo Awoniyi, Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Boniface and now Sadiq Umar— all ruled out from the tournament. Although some last-minute replacements have been made for the injured players, Peseiro has his job cut out for him as Nigerians remain hopeful that the Super Eagles can go all the way to the final and return home with the trophy. They did it in 2013 when nobody gave them any chance. They can do it again. Meanwhile, it is noteworthy that the Minister of Sports Development, John Owan Enoh has done all the necessary things for Nigeria’s participation in this edition. It is a departure from the past when players and federation officials fought over bonuses and allowances. This new norm allows handlers and officials to do their bit without dissipating energies over money. With that, the players must understand that the greatest honour is to defend their national flag on behalf of millions of compatriots. We wish the Super Eagles of Nigeria the best in Cote d’Ivoire.

Peseiro has his job cut out for him as Nigerians remain hopeful that the Super Eagles can go all the way to the final and return home with the trophy. They did it in 2013 when nobody gave them any chance 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

Letters to the Editor Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LETTERS GOVERNOR UBA SANI AND PAUCITY OF FUNDS

In Kaduna State, there are insinuations that Governor Uba Sani is experiencing a slower start than expected, which many attribute to the substantial debt burden on the state. Before leaving office, former Governor Nasir El-Rufai acknowledged the government took loans; however, he asserted that the tangible projects and programmes implemented by his administration demonstrate the value of acquiring those loans, with many projects generating revenue to repay the loans. It's essential to acknowledge that no government operates effectively without resorting to loans or borrowing. Globally, it's widely believed that only a government with sound policies, transparent governance, and financial credibility can attract loans, both domestically and internationally. Regarding Uba Sani's initial pace, questions arise: Did he indeed experience a slow start? Many residents of Kaduna anticipate the continuation and completion of projects and programmes initiated by Governor El-Rufai, especially the urban renewal projects—specifically, road construction and rehabilitation in the city and major towns. Addressing the gradual resurgence of street begging by children (Almajiri), and the 'economic' lull are also crucial expectations among Kaduna people. The introduction of some new sterling innovations in governance, espe-

cially interacting with and explaining to the public the positions of things in the government. If Governor Sani's administration is grappling with a paucity of funds, a viable solution involves devising alternative means of revenue generation beyond the traditional sources like the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC), state and local government joint accounts, or existing internally generated revenue (IGR). Every new governor should come with the mindset that he should devise a way to generate funds outside the traditional ways of funding. No new governor should expect to meet a state’s treasury stacked with funds waiting for him to spend. Governor Sani could address the current paucity of funds in Kaduna State, if there is one, by initiating a renegotiation of debt servicing agreements and terms with lenders and borrowers. Leveraging his experience as the former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Finance, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions, he can tap into his expertise and connections to secure more favourable terms. This strategic move could provide relief to Kaduna State and generate additional funds. Uba Sani had in the past, before becoming governor, contributed to bringing some sterling solutions and programmes to governance, and he was among the young northerners who showed early poten-

tial in public service. Secondly, Kaduna is one of the states in the north, with thriving weekly markets. If the state can create avenues to improve its methods of tax and tariff collection in these markets, more revenue will be generated. For its weekly markets, the Kaduna State government can introduce a modified system of awarding ‘tax collection rights’ to investment firms. This should be modelled according to each market’s culture, needs, and environment. The state can enter into an agreement with a firm to give the government money in advance for taxes from a weekly market, while the firm would then subsequently collect the money by operating as a tax agent for the state through the famous tax auction systems. For example, if it is projected that revenues from the Gadan Gaya weekly market can generate one million naira a week, an innovative investment firm could agree to give the state government about 800,000 naira in advance. Then the firm will collect these taxes in the market for that particular week, month, year, and so on. Furthermore, commercial motorcycles have returned to the streets of Kaduna. If the government has decided to be flexible on their ban, then they are also a source of revenue. Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja

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‘My Vision of Transformative Leadership Will Benefit Edo State’

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T H & RE A S

Determination of the Element of Distinctiveness in a Trademark

alo aSUe Ighod

Page IV

NBA Lagos Protest: Lawyers Seek End to Police Brutality

e v i t a m r o f s n a r ‘My Vision of T Edo State’ t i f e n e B l l i W ip h s r e Lead

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Quotables ‘Herders don’t need to be carrying animals across country….This year….. We will ensure that no community is held by any Bandits.’ - General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, Federal Republic of Nigeria

Bishop Daniel: Court Reserves Judgement for January 26 Page V

‘We have shown and demonstrated to the whole world, that Nigerian Lawyers have come to reject Police brutality, Police harassment and intimidation.’ - Femi Falana, SAN

lawyer

onikepo braithwaite: editor, jude igbanoI: deputy editor, peter taiwo, steve aya: reporters

III The advocate

T H I S D AY • TueSday, JANUARY 16, 2024

Corruption Has No Gender

Supreme Court Judgements in the Gubernatorial Election Petitions udos to the Supreme Court, for doing justice to the judgements that were delivered in the Gubernatorial Election Petitions last week. The Kano State Petition, in which the lead judgement was delivered by Hon. Justice John Inyang Okoro, JSC, was of particular interest to many Nigerians, partly because Kano State seemed to have the highest number of voters in the 2023 general election; again, partly because of the bizarre and contradictory judgement that was delivered by the Court of Appeal in that case, and partly because the decision of the lower courts were per incuriam, definitely going against the law and established judicial precedent. For those who were unhappy with the Supreme Court, because President Tinubu won the Presidential Election Petitions, I had explained time and time again, that the issues in that Petition were not new, and the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court decisions were based on established legal principles; and that, unless the laws are amended, sound judgements in cases with identical subject-matters, would always have similar outcomes. And, for those who may be wondering whether the Supreme Court’s decisions in the Gubernatorial cases, in which the Governors of those States retained their positions was a policy decision - to keep the Governors in place in order not to upset the apple cart - No, it doesn’t look like it had to do with policy - it appears that the decisions were mostly based on firmly established legal principles. After almost 25 years of democracy and election petitions, surely, the jurisprudence should have been well developed to the point where, based on the facts of the case, Counsel should be able to easily advice their clients on the merits or otherwise of their cases, so that unmeritorious petitions are not pursued. Instead, we see absurd situations where a Petitioner has already congratulated a Respondent on their victory, and then turns around to challenge the election! In the Akwa Ibom State Gubernatorial Election Petition in which Hon. Justice Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju, JSC delivered the lead judgement, the Petition bordered on the educational qualifications of the Respondent - a pre-election matter, already settled by established legal principles. Her Lordship’s judgement was sound. I wonder why Senior Lawyers persist in bringing issues that are dead-on-arrival, into their election petitions. The Apex Court referred to it, as a waste of judicial time - and rightfully so too. Such issues are already settled by Section 29(5) of the Electoral Act 2022 (EA), and Section 285 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended in 2023)(the Constitution), amongst others. Again, for now, it is trite law that the issue of party nomination and sponsorship for elective office, is an intra-party, domestic matter, that is not justiciable - see Section 177(c) of the Constitution and the case of Ardo v Nyako & Ors (2014) LPELR-22878(SC) per Kumai Bayang Aka’ahs, JSC. This position, which the lower courts attempted to depart from, and wrongly too, I might add, was rightly upheld by Okoro, JSC in the Kano case. On the second issue in the Kano Petition, that of non-signing of the ballot papers, Section 63(2) of the EA is quite clear that, if a Returning Officer is satisfied that a ballot paper doesn’t bear the official mark of INEC, but was from a booklet of ballot papers given to the Presiding Officer of a particular Polling Unit in which the vote was cast for that election, notwithstanding the absence of the mark, such vote shall be counted. See the case of Buhari v INEC & Ors (2008) LPELR-814(SC) per Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, JSC (later CJN). How then, could the lower courts deduct over 165,000 votes accruing to the Appellant, on the ground that the ballot papers were not stamped and signed by INEC Officials, when they were from the same booklets used in that election? Possibly, I will write about the highlights of the issues raised in the various Gubernatorial Election Petitions in the near future, and their judgements. People have been quick to criticise the Supreme Court, on the outcomes of some of the political cases. The truth is that, half of the critics are not even familiar with the facts of the case or the law, let alone judicial precedent. Mostly, they base their opinions on sentiments, political affiliation, ethnicity, social media, and everything else aside from what they should actually be basing their opinions upon. It also doesn’t help, that people are misguided and misinformed by us, the legal practitioners.

‘HumaniGate’: Not a Gender Issue I have been seeing, and I must say in amazement and disgust too, some of the forwards circulating on social media, trying to trivialise the pervasive corruption problem that has bedevilled Nigeria, and turn “HumaniGate” into a gender issue concerning pretty faces! Disgraceful! The allegations of misappropriation of funds or fraudulent diversion of funds levelled against the ladies in the Humanitarian Ministry Affair (HumaniGate), has nothing to do with gender, and it is

onikepo braithwaite onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com

The

Advocate “The allegations of misappropriation of funds or fraudulent diversion of funds levelled against the ladies in the Humanitarian Ministry Affair (HumaniGate), has nothing to do with gender, and it is sad that, as usual, some misguided people seem to want to reduce it to a gender issue - that women cannot be put in places of authority. Hogwash!.... 90% of all the corruption cases and maybe 70% of all the crimes committed in Nigeria, are done by men!” sad that, as usual, some misguided people seem to want to reduce it to a gender issue - that women cannot be put in places of authority. Hogwash! Aside from the fact that this unjustified gender profiling amounts to discrimination, contrary to Section 42(1)(a) of the Constitution (see the case of Anekwe & Anor v Nweke (2014) LPELR-22697 (SC) per Clara Bata Ogunbiyi, JSC), we are all aware that possibly 90% of all the corruption cases and maybe 70% of all the crimes committed in Nigeria, are done by men! Should we then say that all men are criminals, and shouldn’t be put in any positions of authority or trust, or positions that give men access to funds? That sounds ridiculous and absurd, doesn’t it? There are achievers and bad eggs in both genders and various age groups, as there are achievers and bad eggs in all tribes and races across the world. Ted Bundy, Mikhail Popkov and Dr Harry Shipman (Caucasian) and Samuel Little (African American) are some of the most notorious serial killers in the world, while Amarjeet Sada (Indian), the youngest serial killer in world, had killed three people before he was 10 years old. Aileen Wuornos and Dorothea Puente were Caucasian female serial killers, while Debra Denise Brown is a female African American serial killer, currently serving two life sentences and an additional 140 years imprisonment without the possibility of parole. My point? Nigeria has a terrible corruption problem, in which possibly over 50% of those placed in positions of trust and authority, male and female, old and young, from all the different zones of the country, are part of one fraudulent scheme or the other. It isn’t the exclusive preserve of any gender, tribe or age bracket. See the case of

Onyekwere v State (1973) LPELR-2734(SC) per Taslim Olawale Elias, JSC (later CJN). Also see the case of Nwankwoala v FRN (2018) LPELR-43891 (SC) per Olabode Rhodes-Vivour, JSC. Maybe we could say that, whether male or female, not-too-young-to-run or old, successive Nigerian Governments have made some wrong choices in their selection of public office holders. Some lack the requisite knowledge and experience for their portfolios, while others already have financial clouds hanging over their heads, even before they are given their appointments. Imagine late US Senator John McCain’s daughter, Meghan, saying that VP Kamala Harris is proof that a woman can’t be Vice President. That is such a dense and nonsensical blanket statement - for one, VP Harris is only one woman out of over 160 million women in USA, and over three billion women in the world! Similarly, Betta Edu and the other ladies involved in HumaniGate, are less than 10 women out of over 100 million women in Nigeria. Should we say then because Presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump were not such great Presidents, it is proof that men cannot be Presidents? That is how unintelligent people sound, when they make such baseless, sexist statements. LKY Like Lee Kuan Yew (LKY), the first Prime Minister of Singapore, President Bola Tinubu (PBAT) has been “handed a poor deck of cards” in terms of the condition he has met Nigeria in, and he doesn’t have to be the most perfect person in the world, to be able to turn our fortunes around. LKY certainly wasn’t perfect - he was known as a ruthless, benevolent dictator, but, he got the

job done. Among the poor deck of cards that LKY and PBAT both got, is Corruption. LKY was able to eradicate corruption in Singapore. So far, PBAT has taken a step in the right direction in HumaniGate. Let’s see, if he will be able to resolve Nigeria’s corruption issue. By virtue of Section 15(5) of the Constitution, one of the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, is the eradication of Corruption. As the saying goes, “Rome was not built in a day”; but, the truth is that, Rome was eventually built, construction began and was completed, how ever long it took. The first step taken by PBAT in HumaniGate is a good start, which, if followed up with the right consequences for wrongdoing, will send a strong message that it is no longer business as usual, that corruption is going out of fashion in Nigeria. LKY prioritised meritocracy and good leadership, and he had zero-tolerance for corruption. For instance, to fight Police corruption, instead of the old Police Anti-Corruption Branch which proved to be ineffective in the fight against corruption, because it was a department of the same agency investigating itself, a special independent investigation team was established instead. Because of LKY’s leadership, according to World Bank, Singapore has transformed from a Third World Nation with a GDP per capita of $400 in 1959 to a GDP per capita of $59,798 in 2020. LKY did two things, in his bid to eradicate corruption. Aside from ensuring good salaries and better working conditions for public servants to reduce the temptation for graft, corruption which was previously a low risk venture with high rewards, was made a high risk venture to those who may have considered it as an option. LKY understood that it was human nature to be greedy, and so, he made corruption less attractive with better working conditions, and even more less attractive with severe punishment if found guilty of corruption offences. Nigeria needs to take a cue from him. Late Pastor T.B.Joshua & Others Recently, we saw a documentary compiled by the BBC on late Pastor T.B. Joshua, and the allegations of rape and other wrongdoing levelled against him by his own followers. In a Monograph authored by my humble self a few years ago, “Issues in Building Collapse”, I discussed the collapse of Pastor Joshua’s ‘Synagogue Church of All Nations’ (SCOAN) Guest House which killed over 100 people. While SCOAN had tried to blame the building collapse on an aircraft flying too low and close to the building, a claim that the NCAA vehemently denied, the Coroner held that structural failure as a result of a combination of design and detailing errors, poor quality, slipshod construction, weak foundation etc led to the said collapse. Over 100 charges were filed against the Defendants, including Involuntary Manslaughter. Until he died, Pastor Joshua wasn’t held accountable for his wrongdoing. Chukwuemeka Ezeugu aka Reverend King of the ‘Christian Praying Assembly’, is on death row, having been convicted for the offence of murder of his church member, and attempted murder of five other members, having set all six of them ablaze because of their so-called immoral behaviour. Bishop Feyi Daniel of the ‘I Reign Christian Ministry’ is presently on trial for the alleged rape of two of his church members. Should we then say men should not be allowed to open churches, because these three men are alleged rapists and killers of church members? No. What we must say is that, there should be a better way to ensure that it is only the properly qualified that can open or lead churches, and a good system must be put in place to monitor their activities. We have seen so many churches in many African countries, where the leaders constrain their members to do all manner of nonsense. In Rwanda for example, only Pastors with a Theology Degree can start their own churches, and they must jump through some legal hoops, including obtaining certification that their proposed church buildings are structurally sound. Conclusion It all boils down to accountability, whether from our public officials or church leaders. Corruption has absolutely nothing to do with gender, and if we say it does, then I would say that the men are the ‘Chief Corruption Offenders’! Two ex-Governors, Jolly Nyame and Joshua Dariye were pardoned after serving barely about three years of their reduced 12 and 10 year sentences respectively, during the Buhari administration, while Senator Orji Kalu’s corruption charges were never re-filed after he got off on a technicality. This lukewarm attitude to corruption by the State, will only fuel this evil. In Nigeria, corruption still remains a low risk, high reward venture, and it is mostly responsible for our gross underdevelopment. We are definitely very far from where we should be. LKY’s tough stance against corruption, and Singapore’s enactment of the 1960 Prevention of Corruption Act which was broader in scope than its predecessor, was strictly enforced against all corruption offenders, no matter who they were. Nigeria would do better to take a leaf from LKY’s book, and come down hard on corruption in order to eradicate it.

IV law report

TueSday, JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

Determination of the Element of Distinctiveness in a Trademark Facts The 1st Appellant is the distributor of the “Tradition” brand of cigarette, manufactured by the Interested Party, in Nigeria. The 1st Respondent on the other hand is the distributor of the “Benson and Hedges” cigarette brand, manufactured by the 2nd Respondent. The Respondents instituted an action against the 1st – 3rd Appellant before the Federal High Court, in which they claimed that the colour “gold” in the packaging of the Tradition cigarette constituted part of the 2nd Respondent’s registered trademark on its “Benson and Hedges” cigarette brand and this infringed the Respondents’ exclusive right to the registered trademark. The trial court in its judgement held that the colour “gold” constituted part of the 2nd Respondent’s registered trademarks No. 607222, and which by reason of long or extensive use of the “Benson and Hedges” gold coloured pack had also become distinctive or synonymous with the Benson and Hedges cigarette brand; and as the proprietors, their right to the exclusive use of the trademark had been infringed upon by the Appellants’ “Tradition” cigarette. In an appeal filed against this decision at the Court of Appeal, the Court of Appeal affirmed the findings of the trial court. Dissatisfied, the Interested Party (Appellant), who did not participate in the proceedings before the trial court, appealed to the Supreme Court as an interested party, pursuant to the leave of court granted to it.

Issue for Determination The Supreme Court considered the following issue, in its determination of the appeal:Whether the Court of Appeal was right when it upheld the findings of the trial court that the colour “gold” constituted part of the Respondents’ trademarks on their “Benson & Hedges” cigarette brand, and the sale of the Appellants’ “Tradition” cigarette brand packaged in a gold-coloured pack infringed the Respondents’ trademarks. Arguments Counsel for the Appellant argued that by Section 16 of the Trademarks Act, in order for a colour or colours in which the representation of a trademark appears, to be deemed as having been registered as part of the trademark, the trademark must have been limited to the particular colour or colours. He argued that, in so far as there is no statement of colour limitation on any of the copies of the certificates of registration of the Respondents’ trademarks, or in the extracts of the register of trademarks admitted in evidence at trial, neither the Trademark No. 60722 or any other trademark claimed by the Respondents was limited to the colour “gold”, or to any other colour, and so the colour “gold” was not registered as part of what was registered in any of the said trademark registrations. In further argument, he posited that where there is no evidence that a trademark is limited to the colour in which it was registered, the colour cannot be deemed to be part of what was registered, and if any component of a registered trademark is not deemed as what was registered, it constitutes an unregistered trademark for which no action for infringement of trademark can be sustained. He submitted further that in an action for infringement of trademark, it is the registered trademark in the register of trademarks that should be compared with the alleged offending trademark, and not the one on the product of the registered proprietor of the trademark. Thus, in order to determine whether the “Tradition” cigarettes in a gold coloured pack (“Exhibit F”) constitutes an infringement of any of the registered trademarks claimed by the Respondents, Exhibit F must be compared to those trademarks as entered in the register of trademarks with all the implications of such entries. He posited that since the Trademark No.

Honourable Mohammed Lawal Garba, JSC In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at Abuja On Friday, the 3rd day of March, 2023 Before Their Lordships Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun Mohammed Lawal Garba Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju Ibrahim Mohammed Musa Saulawa Adamu Jauro Justices, Supreme Court SC.181/2009 Between 1. INTERNATIONAL TOBACCO NIGERIA LIMITED 2. OLOLADE OGUNNIYI 3. RONKE OGUNNIYI APPELLANTS 4. JOHANN WILHELM VON. EICKEN GMBH INTERESTED PARTY/APPELLANT And 1. BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO NIGERIA LIMITED 2. BENSON & HEDGES (OVERSEAS) LIMITED

RESPONDENTS

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Mohammed Lawal Garba, JSC)

60722 was not registered with any colour limitation, the colour of any presentation of the trademark is immaterial, and does not form part of the registration, such that it cannot be compared with Exhibit F in order to determine whether the right of its proprietor has been infringed by the sale of Exhibit F. In response, counsel for the Respondents submitted that one of the prominent features of the Respondents’ registered trademark No. 60722 on its Benson and Hedges (gold colour label mark) includes the gold colour, and this entitles the Respondents to exclusive use of the colour and protection against infringement. He contended that the findings of the lower courts were based on the evidence that the gold colour that appeared on the Trade Marks Certificate of Registration No. 60722 forms part of components of the Respondents’ Benson & Hedges Trademark which they adopted in packaging the Benson & Hedges brand of cigarettes

“…Once the trademark, by frequent use, has acquired notoriety in the trade to the common knowledge and common and easy identification of persons in the trade, it will be said to have acquired the character of distinctiveness”

in Nigeria, and that the gold colour of the pack as shown in the certificate has acquired distinctiveness as a result of long registration, commercial usage and vigorous advertising from 1973. He argued further that from the evidence at trial, the colour “gold” was, for all intents and purposes, part of what was registered for the other registered trademark of Benson & Hedges “Turn to GOLD”; hence, the colour is an important component of the Respondents’ registered trademark, with the gold colour pack being distinctive of the Benson & Hedges cigarette brand. Court’s Judgement and Rationale In determining the appeal, the Supreme Court referred to the provision of Section 5(1) and (2) of the Trade Marks Act that the owner or person for who a trademark is registered and entered in the Register of Trade Marks becomes the proprietor of such trademarks, who is given and vested with the exclusive right to use the trademark in relation to the goods for which it was registered, as well as protection from unauthorised use and infringement by other persons in relation to such goods. The court also referred to its decision in DYKTRADE LTD v OMNIA NIG. LTD (2000) 7 SC (PT. I) 56 that a trademark when registered, will entitle the proprietor to use or institute an action for any infringement of the trademark. The Apex Court held that from the facts and evidence placed before the trial court, the Respondents’ registered Trade Mark No. 60722 “Benson and Hedges (gold colour label mark) and Trade Mark No. 56629 “Benson & Hedges” (Turn to Gold slogan) are clearly registered specifically with relation to the colour “gold” as part

and component of the trademarks, and in addition to the brand name “Benson & Hedges”, to which the Respondents, as proprietors, are given the right to exclusive use thereof and protection against unauthorised use and infringement by any other person, under Section 5(1) and (2) of the Act; and as a limitation to colour in the trademark as envisaged under Section 16(1) of the Act. The colour “gold” is therefore, not just a mere decoration or embellishment, but an essential feature of the registered trademarks which makes it different and distinct for the Respondents to be entitled to its exclusive use as the beneficial owners and proprietors thereof. On the character of the Respondents’ registered trademarks, and in considering whether the element of distinctiveness of the Respondents’ trademark exists in relation to the gold packaging of their “Benson & Hedges” cigarette brand, the court relied on its decision in FERODO LTD v IBETO IND. LTD (2004) 5 NWLR (PT. 866) 317 per Honourable Niki Tobi JSC that the element of distinctiveness is consonant to and predicated on some age, by way of long or extensive use. What constitutes long or extensive use, is a question of fact. It is certainly not the age of Methuselah. Once the trademark, by frequent use, has acquired notoriety in the trade to the common knowledge and common and easy identification of persons in the trade, it will be said to have acquired the character of distinctiveness. In other words, the trademark has no hiding place, so much so that to the eyes of the public, people say with chorus or union, of course, that is the trademark of XYZ, as it identified the goods. Further to the above, the Supreme Court upheld the findings of the Court of Appeal thus: apart from the fact that gold colour formed a component of the Respondents’ registered trademark, the colour had also acquired distinctiveness ascribed to the Respondents by virtue of their long and extensive use of the same in the Benson & Hedges cigarettes pack since 1973. Additionally, the promotional adverts of the cigarette brand which emphasise the gold pack and gold quality of the cigarette, together with the gold colour and slogan displayed in the Respondents’ trademarks certificates and Representation of Trademark contained in the extract which the trial court took into consideration, all buttressed the distinctiveness of the colour “gold” to the “Benson & Hedges” cigarette brand. In determining whether the Appellants’ “Tradition” cigarette packaged in a goldcoloured pack infringed the Respondents’ trademarks, the court endorsed the findings of the Court of Appeal that the criterion for determining whether or not there is an infringement of a trademark, is that the mark complained of must not, when compared with what is already registered, be identical with the registered trademark as to deceive the public or cause confusion in the course of trade - Section 5 (2) of the Trade Marks Act. Their Lordships held that having perused the evidence on record of the Respondents’ witnesses, one of whom testified as a businesswoman who sells cigarettes and another who testified as a longtime smoker of the “Benson & Hedges” brand, there was credible and uncontroverted evidence on the deceiving and confusing similarities of the “Tradition” cigarettes presentation with that of the Respondents’ “Benson & Hedges” brand of cigarettes. It follows therefore that, no other logical conclusion can be arrived at than the conclusion that the Appellant’s “Tradition” cigarette pack is practically confusing and deceivingly similar to and would be mistaken for the Respondents’’ Benson & Hedges gold specification cigarette pack of cigarette by undiscerning members of the public, merchants and consumers. The gold packaging of the “Tradition” cigarette thus, infringes on the Respondents’ registered Trademark Gold Specification Pack of Benson & Hedges.

Appeal Dismissed. Representation O.F. Olukoya for the Interested Party/ Appellant. Respondents absent and unrepresented. Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)(An affiliate of Babalakin & Co.)

TueSday, JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

Lagos State Police Commissioner, Adegoke Fayoade

Mrs Joyce Oduah

Mr Seyi Olawumi

Bishop Feyi Daniel

NBA Lagos Protest: Lawyers Seek End to Police Brutality Stories by Steve Aya Lawyers have called for an end to Police brutality against Nigerians, especially to Lawyers who are doing their jobs and should be respected and seen as partners seeking to uphold the law. This is the view of most Lawyers who spoke on the heels of the procession to the office of the

Lagos State Commissioner of Police. The former General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mrs Joyce Oduah, while expressing her anger called for an end to Police brutality on Lawyers, Journalists, and indeed, all Nigerians, stressing that this type of action must stop. She further questioned the reason

behind asking for money when the Police say Bail is Free, the matter for which Mr Olumide Sonupe was brutalised is a Civil matter. Also speaking, Mr Gbenga Haastrup, wondered what kind of country we are operating in where a Policeman with all impunity will harass, brutalise, and detain a Lawyer who did

Court Halts IGI’s Annual General Meeting Justice Akintayo Aluko, of a Lagos Federal High Court, has granted an ex-parte motion stopping the proposed Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Industrial And General Insurance Company Plc that is scheduled for January 22, 2024. The trial Judge granted the motion against the company and 10 others, until the Interlocutory Injunction Motion is heard and determined. The ex-parte motion was granted after the affidavit in support of the motion deposed to by Rotimi Fashola, an Insurance Broker with the written address and exhibits attached, and argued on by Professor Oludayo Amokaye, SAN, lead counsel for the Petitioners. The Petitioners in the suit numbered FHC/L/CP/2340/2023, are; Special Event Limited, Rotimi Fashola; Oluwarotimi Edu; Toyin Fakunle; Alex Osula; Obayomi Lawal; Bashorun Oladipo Adegbite (Executor of the Estate of Late Alhaji Abdullateef Oladimeji Adegbite); Olusina Elushakin; Bandele Olabode Vincent; (Executor of the Estate of late Ola Vincent); Trustees Of Ola Vincent Foundation; Taiwo Subuola Bali (Executor of the Estate of late Edith Adenike Vincent); Jaiyeola Olatokunbo Vincent; Taiwo Subuola Bali; Kehinde Olatunji Vincent; Bandele Olabode Vincent and June Fatima Vincent. The Respondents are IGI Plc, Mr Akinlolu Akinyele; Mr Augustine Olorunsola; Mr Kanayo Chucks Okoye; Mr Gafar Kayode Animashaun; Ambassador Nuhu Bamali; High Chief Oriyomi Ayeola; Mallam Sadiq Isa-Kaita; Mr Kabir Ayinde-Tukur; Mrs Olubukola Olufunke Akomolafe and Coopvest Limited.

The Petitioners through their team of Lawyers led by Professor Oludayo Amokaye, SAN, had filed the according to Section 142 of Companies And Allied Matters Act 2020, Laws of the Federation 2020, and Rules 15 and 18 of the Companies Proceedings Rules 2004, filed a petition on November 16, 2023, and put the 1st Respondent on notice. However, in an apparent attempt to overreach the Petitioners, the 1st Respondent, Industrial and General Insurance Plc advertised its AGM for the 22nd of January, 2024 sequel to which the Petitioners and their Counsel approached the Court vide a Motion for Injunction. The Court, after listening to the plight of the Petitioners, agreed with them that the holding of the AGM would make the substantive petition an academic exercise and foist a ‘fait accompli‘ on the Court, since the very acts sought to be ratified at the AGM are the subject of the Petition. Justice Aluko therefore, granted an Interim Injunction restraining Industrial and General Insurance Co. Plc from holding its proposed AGM, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice. In the ex-parte motion, the Petitioners prayed the court for an order of Interim Injunction restraining the 1st Respondent (IGI) by itself, her privies, agents, and legal representatives from holding its Annual General Meeting on the 22nd of January, 2024 or any other time, until the final determination of the motion on notice or the Petition, as the court may deem fit to make in the circumstances. They also prayed to the court for an order permitting them to

serve the motion on notice along with the Court orders on the 1st Respondent (IGI) and other Respondents. And, any other order or orders the court may deem fit to make in the circumstances. Justice Akintayo Aluko noted that the Court has considered it deserving, granted the prayers sought, and ordered, “that an Order of Interim Injunction restraining the 1st Respondent by itself, her privies, agents and legal representatives from holding the 1st Respondent’s Annual General Meeting scheduled for the 22nd of January, 2024 or any other time, until the final determination of the Motion on Notice is hereby granted. “That an order permitting the Applicants to serve the Motion on Notice along with the Certified True Copy of the Order of the Honourable Court on the 1st Respondent and other Respondents, is hereby granted.” Justice Akintayo Aluko thereafter, adjourned to January 16, 2024, for argument on the Motion on Notice for Interlocutory Injunction, and directed that the parties be put on notice of the said motion on notice. The Petitioners, who are existing shareholders of IGI, are protesting the acquisition of 40.7 shares of IGI without adherence to proper procedure, including the non-observance of pre-emptive rights of existing shareholders, no proper follow-up of regulatory clearances, and lack of clear evidence that funds that match the acquisition were injected. All their steps following the illegal acquisition, were done without an AGM clearance by the company's members.

not commit any crime but for doing his job, is unfair and uncalled for. We need to change this narrative, because it gives this country a bad name Wahab Abdullahi, a former Journalist who is now a practicing Lawyer also called for an end to Police brutality against Lawyers, Journalists, and Nigerians in general, stating that the Police have been brutalising Nigerians for so long, and it is time someone tells them to move away from such old practice and treat people generally with some form of decency. The Chairman of the NBA Ikeja Branch, Seyi Olawumi, said the protest was to condemn the increased rate of harassment that Lawyers suffer at the hands of the Police. “It is a peaceful protest against Police brutality of our members, who go into Police stations for the service of their clients”. The NBA protest was led by popular human rights

activist and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Femi Falana, who called on the Nigeria Police to conduct proper investigations into the cases of brutality against Lawyers in Lagos State. “We are making a case through him, that Nigerian Lawyers will no longer allow the brutalisation of Lawyers and indeed, other citizens. The NBA wants a full investigation of the incident in the station, and the Commissioner of Police announced today that hyper investigation is already ongoing.” Briefing Journalists in Ikeja, Mr Falana said the five branches of the NBA in Lagos met with the State Police Commissioner, Adegoke Fayoade, whom he said assured the Lawyers that a thorough investigation has commenced into the incident. “Lawyers in Lagos State decided to come together today to protest against Police brutality, because of the recent maltreatment

meted out to one of our colleagues”, he stated. The Lawyers’ protest took place hours after the CP had ordered the removal of the Divisional Police Officer of Moshalashi Police Station, Austin Arase, who ordered the detention of a Lagos-based Lawyer, Olumide Sonupe, who was hospitalised after he was allegedly assaulted and held in detention by the Police while seeking justice for his client at the Police station. About 700 Lawyers participated enthusiastically in the protest march, from the Secretariat of the NBA Ikeja Branch to the headquarters of the Lagos State Police Command and back. The protest held, despite the pleas and manoeuvres by the Lagos State Police Commissioner, Adegoke Fayoade, who sneaked in on the Lawyers during their meeting to appeal to them (tacitly) to drop the idea of a protest march.

Bishop Daniel: Court Reserves Judgement for January 26 An Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court has reserved judgement for January 26, in a case involving a Lagos based Bishop, Oluwafeyiropo Daniel, charged with raping his assistant Pastor and one other (names withheld). Justice Rahman Oshodi fixed the date for judgement, after Counsel in the case adopted their final written addresses. Daniel, who is the Bishop of I Reign Christian Ministry, was also charged with the attempted rape of one other alleged survivor (name withheld). He, however, pleaded not guilty to all the amended four-count charges bordering on rape, sexual assault and attempted rape. The defence Counsel, Mr

Fola Awonusi, in his final written address, urged the court to discharge and acquit the Defendant. Awonusi argued that the documents presented before the court showed malice and financial gains, on the part of the alleged survivors. According to him, there are contradictions in the evidence given by the Prosecution Witnesses. He urged the court to discountenance the evidence of the Prosecution Witness, and acquit the Defendant. The State Counsel, Mr Babajide Boye, however, urged the court to convict the Defendant accordingly. Boye, in his final written address, argued that there was evidence of a struggle,

adding that the Defendant forced himself on the alleged survivors. He said the contradictions, which the defence argued about, were immaterial. Boye said: “In line with our argument, we urge the court to convict the Defendant of the four-count charge. “We have established sexual assault and attempted rape.” “We urge the court to convict the Defendant accordingly.” The Prosecution told the court that the Defendant allegedly committed the offence sometime in June 2020, at Ikota Villa Estate, Lekki, Lagos. According to the Prosecution, the alleged offences contravene Sections 260 (2), 262, and 263 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015.

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Asue Ighodalo

‘My Vision of Transformative Leadership Will Benefit Edo State’ Come September 21st, 2024, the people of Edo State will go to polls to pick their Governor. Presently, the field is full and busy with candidates crisscrossing all the nooks and crannies of the State, preparatory to the primaries of the various political parties. For the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, the ticket has been zoned to the Edo State Central Senatorial District, with Asue Ighodalo being endorsed as the Senatorial District’s preferred candidate for the position of Governor. Onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi tracked down this accomplished Corporate Lawyer and Boardroom Guru, for a chat. He spoke about his ambition, agenda, challenges and hopes to see the total transformation of Edo State, if and when he secures the Governorship mandate

ou have confirmed your intention to run for the office of Governor of Edo State in the upcoming election. The State Party platform on which you have chosen to run, the PDP, is said to presently be in disarray, as the leadership is on record to be factionalised. To what extent are you prepared to tackle this challenge?

I wouldn’t call it disarray. I think that elections generate strong positions, align and factionalise interests, and challenge individual temperaments in every party and that’s to be expected. Yes, there is undeniably some of that going on in the PDP, but we’ve seen that in other major parties also. So I don’t think the PDP has a monopoly on disagreement. Having said that, I think my

“We’ve grown from Two Founders to 15 Partners, and are consistently ranked globally amongst the best firms in the world... So, I’ve come to a point where I feel I can step away, with confidence that our good work will continue. That’s the test of institution building”

particular advantage in our context is that, I’m coming into the process without the baggage of past hurts and historical conflicts. That leaves me in a unique position to act as a unifier and mediator; and that’s what I’ve focused on. My stance is that nobody’s position should be discounted or dismissed as unreasonable, without being fairly heard. And, I have found - at least in the direct conversations I have had – that there is significantly more reasonableness than the hype would suggest. I don’t take anyone for granted. I recognise the challenges within the PDP, and view them as an opportunity for reform and strengthening. In championing efforts to unite the various antagonists, my approach has been to engage with all factions to understand their concerns, to lean in with a mindset of inclusivity, and seek to align party objectives with the people's needs. Leadership, after

all, is about building bridges, and I'm prepared to do just that to ensure our party achieves the unity required to work together for the advancement of Edo State. My hope is that we can continue to have frank, respectful, and progressive discussions internally, and work together to secure the victory we are all after. Why do you want to leave a thriving law practice to run for the office of Governor of Edo State, especially at this time, with all the socio-economic challenges facing our country? It is precisely because of the socioeconomic issues facing our country, that I think people with a genuine love for the people, with demonstrated capacity, and a track record of results in other endeavours, must consider making themselves available to serve. Personally, I have done this simultaneously for decades – building a law firm, alongside my national and State development contributions. I have been

TueSday, JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

‘My Vision of Transformative Leadership Will Benefit Edo State’ a member of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group since its inception in 1996, ultimately serving as Chairman of the Group; I have been a member of the Edo Economic team for 16 years, and Chair of the Alaghodaro Summit for the last eight years. So, for me, this is an escalation of work I have always been committed to. What I’ve realised is that, there’s only so much one can achieve in an advisory role; at the end of the day, the government and/or leader remain in the driver’s seat. And, by the grace of God, I find myself in a place where the firm I’ve built with my Founding Partner, Femi, can stand on its own. We’ve grown from Two founders to 15 partners, and are consistently ranked globally amongst the best firms in the world: some of the Lawyers who joined us as Corpers have been developed into internationally ranked experts. So, I’ve come to a point where I feel I can step away with confidence that our good work will continue. That’s the test of institution building. Transitioning from a successful law career to governance, is a deliberate choice to scale my impact. It's about applying my problem-solving skills, understanding of the law, and management experience to broader societal challenges. Edo State is at a critical juncture, facing socio-economic issues that need innovative solutions and committed leadership, which I am ready to provide. So, it’s time. It’s a confluence of will and readiness, and I think the elements have lined up to make it possible for me to offer myself for public service at this time, if the good people of Edo State will have me. In the Edo political equation, especially the PDP, your Senatorial Zone, Edo Central is unarguably in line to produce the next Governor, as the other two Senatorial zones have produced the last two Governors. But, aspirants in other parties are arguing stringently that such arrangement is only known to the PDP, but strange to the other parties, like Labour Party. This, according to some, would be the major issue in the election. What is your position on this? I cannot presume to make rules, for organisations that I’m not a part of. In the PDP, where I am a member and therefore, have a voice, the issue is on the table. My personal view is that wherever possible, equity should be a consideration, although certainly not the only one. There are declared candidates in the party, at this time, who are not from Edo Central, and they have not – as far as I know – been disqualified from running. The sentiment for zonal rotation is understandable, in promoting fairness and unity. While I acknowledge this, my campaign is built on a vision of transformative leadership that benefits all of Edo State, not just a single zone. I believe in inclusive governance that brings together the best talents and ideas from across the State, regardless of their Senatorial zone. While balance is always useful, to

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Asue Ighodalo

promote a sense of belonging in a multi-ethnic, multi- lingual State, I am putting myself forward first as a capable, competent, and committed son of Edo State, qualified to run against any candidate, regardless of where they are from in the State, from any party. Your traducers have alleged that you are a stranger to Edo politics and practically unknown in Edo. How would you react to this? Of course, the other side of the coin is that everyone is always a stranger to politics when they start. However, you are an astute boardroom Business Lawyer, having chaired many reputable corporate organisations, like Sterling Bank PLC, Dangote Flour Mills, etc, as well as being the Founding Partner of one of Nigeria’s leading law firms, Banwo & Ighodalo. How do you think this may have prepared you for leadership as a State Chief Executive? It sounds to me like you’ve answered the first question. Being new to the political scene doesn’t make me new to the State, or any less a citizen and son of the State than the next aspirant. No Edo man, is more Edo than the other. On the other hand, being perceived as an outsider in politics can be an asset, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions untainted by the status quo. My extensive experience in the corporate world has equipped me with the leadership, strategic planning, and ethical governance skills necessary to lead Edo State effectively. I aim to translate these capabilities into public service to

“…..my campaign is built on a vision of transformative leadership that benefits all of Edo State, not just a single zone. I believe in inclusive governance that brings together the best talents and ideas from across the State, regardless of their Senatorial zone”

foster development, efficiency, and integrity. At the end of the day, identity is in the heart of the individual, it is about how you define yourself and where your roots and affinities lie, it is not something that “traducers,” as you have characterised them, can be allowed to define for me. I have a home in my village, I am no stranger to the people of Ewohimi, and by the time this process ramps up, I will be no stranger to people all across Edo State. So, to me that’s small talk by small-thinking people; it’s not an issue we should continue to give oxygen to. The issue should actually be: “Do I understand the challenges of the people, and do I believe I can deliver solutions?” The answer to both questions is emphatically yes, and I am happy to answers questions about that. Across the political parties, there are at least 10 Lawyers who have indicated interest in the race. What would you say stands you out against them? What is to your advantage? Well, first of all I will be running against Lawyers and non-Lawyers, depending on who emerges in the primaries; so, it’s a bit one-sided to focus exclusively on the Lawyers. That said, I don’t know if you know this - although I have practiced law for nearly 40 years, law was actually a second degree for me. My first degree is in Economics. I’ve spoken earlier about my activities in national development and the economy, alongside legal practice, so perhaps, that in itself is a differentiator. What also distinguishes me from other Lawyer candidates is not just my professional expertise, but my comprehensive leadership experience, my ability to drive large-scale initiatives, and my track record in ethical corporate governance. I have a holistic vision for Edo State that encompasses economic revival, social welfare, and sustainable development, grounded in the rule of law and justice. What are the highlights of your agenda for Edo State, if you are elected as the next Governor? How do you intend to generate IGR for your State? The complaint is that many Governors prefer to sit in

Abuja to collect their monthly Federal Government allocation, instead of actually trying to generate revenue My agenda for Edo State is built around 5 touch points, each focused on the people of the State and their challenges, which in turn will define my priorities as Governor. My administration will focus on: a) Transforming our People’s Lives by addressing their basic needs – (food, decent housing, a living wage, health & education); b) Building Infrastructure, especially roads, to make life easier for our people and to boost our State’s economy; c) Security of Lives and Property as the bedrock of our peace and prosperity; d) Inclusive & Transformative Economic Growth, to accelerate the people’s prosperity; and e) Improving Governance and our Public Service, to deliver the people’s government. My focus will remain on touching lives positively. Every time I look at my hand, which I will hold up as I take the oath of office, I am reminded that each finger represents a touch point we have identified as critical to the development and transformation of Edo State, and that my focus must remain on touching lives. Hopefully, that answers your first question. To the second question about IGR, we will address internally generated revenue through improved tax collection, attraction of tax-paying businesses to the State, revenue-generating investments paired with capital from other participants, etc. The fact is, no State in Nigeria can attain the level of development it needs to sufficiently change the lives of our citizens on FAC allocations, or even current IGR alone. We must attract significant additional investment – local and foreign – and we must put in place the structures, laws and enabling environment to attract and keep those investments. Sometimes, I shudder at the arrogance and insensitivity of our governments towards investors and investments. We run around the world begging investors to come, but, forget the most fundamental principle; in deciding where and if to invest, new investors watch how those currently invested are treated. I don’t understand why governments have not cont'd on page X

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‘My Vision of Transformative Leadership Will Benefit Edo State’ cont'd from page IX

done a deep dive into the real reasons investors are shutting down in Nigeria, and moving their investments to other countries. My administration will prioritise diversifying Edo's economy, tapping into under-utilised sectors like technology, agriculture, and tourism. We'll foster an environment conducive to business and investment, streamline tax systems to encourage compliance, maximise revenues, and innovate new revenue streams. Additionally, our government will focus on a Tax-Benefit-Scheme (TBS) that will see taxpayers in the informal sector getting access to health benefits and micro-credit for their businesses, as a direct benefit from tax remittances. Market women, bus drivers, taxi drivers, keke riders, okada riders, petty traders and artisans that make up almost 40% of our population (conservatively), will have automatic access to health care, basic drugs, permanent disability and death benefits. This approach will reduce dependency on Federal allocations, making Edo more financially self-sustaining, robust and able to withstand economic shocks. What resources are Edo State endowed with, and what is your plan to harness same, and turn them into money making ventures for the State? Edo State's wealth in natural resources, cultural heritage, and human capital is immense, but, for me the issue is not simply how to turn those resources into money making ventures for Edo State, it’s really how we develop those resources to create inclusive prosperity for all of us in the State, and actively and systematically move people from poverty to prosperity. My plan involves creating a conducive environment for investment, promoting agricultural modernisation, protecting our artefacts and tourist sites, and harnessing the ingenuity of our people. This strategy includes fostering public-private partnerships, improving infrastructure, and ensuring sustainable exploitation of resources in ways that benefit the community. Again I refer back to the 5 core plinths of my agenda. Our fourth touch point is “Inclusive & Transformative Economic Growth”, and we’ll be focused on building 5 economies – the Agri Economy (focused first on developing our agricultural potential to address domestic food security, and then on value addition and production of finished goods for global value chain integration), the Transit & Tourism Economy (maximising Edo State’s rich cultural heritage and strategic position as a hub State), the Recreation Economy (which includes the sports and creative sectors), the STEM & Digital Economy (focused on science, science-based technologies, as well as digital and emerging technologies), and the Extractive Economy (focused on responsibly exploring and utilising our solid minerals and gas endowments in the State). Every candidate will talk about many

Asue Ighodalo

of these economies, in some form or another. I think what makes my agenda unique, is the very deliberate commitment both to State-wide inclusion and global integration. We are very focused on distributed development across the State, while simultaneously building our people’s capacity to be globally competitive in chosen value chains. We will be setting up Regional Development Boards to integrate with our version of the Economic Summit, to ensure a Statewide outlook to our development agenda, and will also be leveraging the international relationships we have built over the years to accelerate our integration into high-value global value chains. How do you intend to tackle the issue of insecurity and kidnapping, which Edo State isn’t excluded from? Insecurity is a complex issue, requiring a multifaceted strategy. My plan involves strengthening the security apparatus with better training, equipment, and welfare for security personnel, and engaging communities in intelligence gathering and conflict resolution. Also, we must acknowledge the role that economic hardship plays in the proliferation of crime by addressing underlying issues such as unemployment and social disenfranchisement, so that we can reduce the appeal of criminal activities. As I indicated, the third touch point of our agenda is “Securing Lives and Property.” We’ve identified a number of critical levers for achieving this, namely: 1. Delivering a robust security architecture – by supporting responsible policing, expanding our protec-

“What also distinguishes me from other Lawyer candidates is not just my professional expertise, but my comprehensive leadership experience, my ability to drive large-scale initiatives, and my track record in ethical corporate governance. I have a holistic vision for Edo State….”

tive capacity in the State by integrating supplementary capabilities to enhance our Police coverage, accelerating our use of technology (from low-tech to eventually high-tech options), and adopting a data-driven approach to security management. 2. Restoring our social values – by promoting a return to simple values and civic responsibility, and re-orienting our young adults; 3. Protecting Vulnerable Populations – including women, children and persons with disabilities; 4. Improving our Justice & Corrections Systems – by supporting judicial reform, and paying particular attention to corrections reform. So, we have a fairly robust plan for securing lives and property in Edo State, and God helping us, our goal is to make Edo State the safest place to visit, live and work in Nigeria. Coming closer to home, as a Lawyer, what will you do in the area of justice sector reform in your State? Whether there are enough Judges, decongestion of prisons, improvement in the conditions of service of Judges and Magistrates etc? Reforming the justice sector is crucial, for social stability and economic progress. My plan includes increasing the number of Judges and judicial staff, improving their training and working conditions, and investing in technology for efficient case management. We'll also focus on alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, prison reform, and legal aid services to ensure justice is accessible and speedy. As I indicated earlier, judicial and corrections reform is one of our focus areas for unseating insecurity in the State. We see security as an existential issue – no State or country can thrive in insecurity. At the same time, we recognise that a well-functioning Judiciary and reformed corrections system, are essential to that goal of ensuring the protection of our citizens. Delays or gaps in the delivery of justice translates to poor outcomes for victims in criminal cases, or petitioners in civil cases; and a corrections system that is non-rehabilitative in its outlook, essentially ends up being an institution of higher learning for criminality. Both need to be addressed, alongside the other issues, to build a safe and just society in Edo State. And that’s our goal. The issue of under-representation

of women in governance and decision making, is common knowledge. How do you intend to address this, if you are elected as Governor? For me, the logic of female representation, in governance and indeed, in everything, would seem to be both a natural and practical issue. My mother became the first woman to be appointed Permanent Secretary in Nigeria in April of 1968, so I grew up witnessing first-hand, female representation at the highest levels of service, and believing that that representation was natural, quite frankly. I have never seen it in any other way, and that thread runs through my own life. Of the 15 partners in my firm, 7 are women. My wife is an entrepreneur with an independent and thriving business, and my daughter is a young serial entrepreneur. That’s the natural side. The practical side is this. Women make up roughly half of our population. We are a severely underdeveloped nation, with a lot of work to do to bring people out of poverty toward a first world economy. I believe we can, and we must get there. And so, it seems a bit self-defeating to me, that we would handicap ourselves by failing to include half of our viable workforce in any area of the economy – particularly governance. Addressing the under-representation of women in governance is not just, therefore, a matter of equality, but also effectiveness. I intend to implement policies that promote female leadership in public offices, support women's education and entrepreneurship, and ensure gender-sensitive legislation. By creating enabling environments and targeted empowerment programmes, we can ensure women are equal partners in Edo State's journey towards prosperity and stability. I’ve also indicated that the last touch point of our agenda is “Improving Governance and our Public Service, to deliver the people’s government.” Central to this is re-orienting the public service to make it efficient (I know a lot of work has been done in this regard), responsive and impact driven. It means measuring our success in terms of lives touched, and never losing focus on the need to remain “the people’s” government. It is clear to me that female representation will be essential, in this re-direction. Thank you. All the best in this endeavour.

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FOREIGN DESK

Compiled by Bayo Akinloye

World’s Five Richest Men Doubled Their Fortunes Since 2020: Report are repeatedly hit, as are water, gas and power systems.”

The world’s wealthiest five men have more than doubled their fortune since 2020, the charity Oxfam said on Monday, calling on nations to resist the ultra-rich’s influence over tax policy. A report from the charity, published as the global elite hobnob at the World Economic Forum in Davos this week, said their wealth rose from $405 billion in 2020 to $869 billion last year. Yet since 2020, nearly five billion people worldwide have grown poorer, Oxfam said. Billionaires are today $3.3 trillion richer than in 2020, despite many crises devastating the world’s economy since this decade began, including the COVID-19 pandemic. “We cannot continue with these levels of obscene inequality,” Amitabh Behar, the interim director of Oxfam International, told AFP. He said it showed that “capitalism is at the service of the super-rich.” With riches among the world’s wealthiest increasing the way they are, he predicted that within a decade, the world will see its first “trillionaire.”

US-owned Vessel Hit by Missile in Gulf of Aden

A missile fired from Yemen struck a U.S.-owned ship just off the coast of Yemen in the Gulf of Aden, less than a day after Yemen’s Houthi rebels fired an anti-ship cruise missile toward an American destroyer in the Red Sea, officials said. Suspicion immediately fell on the Iranianbacked Houthis, though the rebels did not immediately acknowledge carrying out the assault on the Gibraltar Eagle. It marked the latest attack roiling global shipping amid Israel’s war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The Houthis have targeted that crucial corridor linking Asian and Mideast energy and cargo shipments to the Suez Canal onward to Europe over the war, attacks that threaten to widen that conflict into a regional conflagration. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, which oversees Mideast waters, said Monday’s attack happened some 110 miles (177 kilometres) southeast of Aden. It said the ship’s captain reported that the “port side of vessel hit from above by a missile.”

Taiwan Loses Nauru to China After Ruling Party’s Election Victory

Taiwan announced that it will sever diplomatic ties with Nauru effective immediately Monday after the Pacific island nation announced its decision to switch diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. In an official statement, the Nauru government said the diplomatic switch is in line with the “One China Principle,” which mandates that the only legal government representing the whole of China is the People’s Republic of China. It announced that Nauru would stop developing official relations or exchanges with Taiwan. During a news conference in the Taiwanese capital, Taipei, Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Tien Chung-kwang, said Taipei would immediately withdraw embassy staff and personnel from its technical mission in Nauru and asked the Pacific island nation to close its embassy in Taiwan. “Since 2023, we have obtained information indicating that China has been actively reaching out to political figures in Nauru and trying to use financial aid to induce a diplomatic shift in Nauru,” Tien said during the news conference. Tien told reporters that Nauru began to consider a diplomatic switch to China during the tenure of the country’s former president, Russ Joseph Kun, last October. Despite a brief period of calmness in bilateral relations after David Adeang became Nauru’s new president on October 30, 2023, Tien said Nauru continued to ask Taiwan for a huge amount of financial aid that surpassed what Taiwan would normally provide to diplomatic allies.

US Marks Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday

The United States observes its Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday on Monday with parades, prayer services and volunteer events in honour of the late civil rights icon. President Joe Biden is travelling to Philadelphia to volunteer at a hunger relief organisation. In South Carolina, Vice President Kamala Harris is due to give an address that the White House says will encourage people to “use their voices to continue fighting for justice and against attacks on fundamental freedoms.” The U.S. government agency AmeriCorps is one of many service-oriented organisations holding events for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of National Service as people across the country use the holiday to take part in community service projects. Every year on the third Monday in January, Americans honour King, the slain civil rights leader who, in the 1950s and 1960s, organised nonviolent protests against southern segregation, the struggle for Black equality and voting rights.

Guatemala’s Arevalo Takes Office, Vows to Fight Corruption

Guatemala’s new President Bernardo Arevalo promised early on Monday to fight corruption and stand firm against global authoritarianism, in his first speech after being sworn in. “We will not allow our institutions to be bent by corruption and impunity,” he said at the inauguration ceremony — held in Guatemala

City more than nine hours late after a lastditch effort to prevent the anti-corruption crusader from taking office. The 65-year-old former lawmaker, diplomat and sociologist pulled off a major upset when he swept from obscurity to win elections last August, firing up voters weary of graft in one of Latin America’s poorest nations. He took the oath of office after warding off a barrage of attempts to prevent him from taking power — including by prosecutors facing accusations of graft who are closely aligned with the country’s political and economic ruling class. The prosecutors had tried to overturn the election results and strip Arevalo — who enjoyed strong support from the international community — of immunity from prosecution.

Somali, Palestinian Delegations Push Demands Ahead of Non-Aligned Summit in Uganda

The summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) got underway this week in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, where delegations from Somalia and the Palestinian people are lobbying members for support. While the Palestinians are calling on members to find a way to end the conflict in Gaza, Somalia says it needs support to maintain its territorial integrity. Ninety-three out of 120 NAM nations are represented in Kampala for the 19th summit of the movement. For the plenary session that began Monday, Arab nations made clear that Gaza must be the focus of the meeting. Delegates said the NAM summit must find the right language to address what they called “the violent and savage aggression by the state of Israel in perpetuating a genocide” in Gaza. A delegate from Mauritius said the summit must make a political declaration on the war, which broke out on October 7 after the Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking about 240 hostage, 105 of whom were released in November. Israel’s military response reportedly has killed more than 24,000 Palestinians.

Arakan Army Resistance Force Claims Control of Strategic Township in Myanmar

A powerful ethnic armed group fighting Myanmar’s military that is based in the country’s western state of Rakhine has seized a township bordering India and Bangladesh, the group declared Monday, confirming accounts by residents and media. Paletwa is the first township reported to

Palestinian Death Toll Tops 24,1000 As Israel Bombards Gaza Strip, Says fall to the Arakan Army, which launched Hamas-run Health Ministry surprise attacks beginning in mid-November on military targets in Paletwa, which is in Chin state. Paletwa is just north of Rakhine and borders both Bangladesh and India. Khaing Thukha, a spokesperson for the Arakan Army, told The Associated Press on Monday that the entire Paletwa region has become a “Military Council-free area,” referring to the ruling military government. “The administrative mechanism and clutches of the military council have come to an end. The administration, security and the rule of law for Paletwa region will be implemented as needed,” Khaing Thukha said in text messages. The military government made no immediate comment.

Opposition Condemns Designation of Chad’s Military Ruler As Presidential Candidate

Opposition parties in Chad are condemning the entry of the country’s military ruler into the 2024 presidential race. General Mahamat Idriss Deby seized power after his father’s death, declared himself interim president, and pushed through a new constitution, enabling him to run for president in this year’s delayed elections. In the nationally televised broadcast Saturday, Mahamat Zene Bada, secretary of Chad’s former ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement or MPS party, said that military ruler Mahamat Idriss Deby is the party’s candidate for the central African state’s presidential elections expected later this year. Bada said Chad was lucky to have Deby, an understanding leader who listens to his people and works for peace, development and national concord as transitional president.

UN Seeks $4.2b for Ukraine Humanitarian Aid

The United Nations appealed Monday for $4.2 billion to provide humanitarian aid to people dealing with the effects of nearly two years of war inside Ukraine, as well as the millions of refugees who have fled to other countries in the region. In a joint statement, the UN humanitarian agency and UN refugee agency highlighted Russia’s recent large-scale aerial attacks, saying the violence shows the “devastating civilian cost of the war” while also calling attention to bitter winter conditions that make the delivery of humanitarian aid more urgent. “Hundreds of thousands of children live in communities on the front lines of the war, terrified, traumatised and deprived of their basic needs,” UN aid chief Martin Griffiths said. “Homes, schools and hospitals

Israeli forces carried out fresh airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, while the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said Monday that Israeli attacks killed more than 130 people during the past day. Israel’s military said Monday its operations included killing five militants in northern Gaza “who were attempting to locate weapons,” along with airstrikes and ground attacks that destroyed weapons storage facilities in southern Gaza’s Khan Younis area. The Gaza health ministry, which does not differentiate between fighters and civilians in its casualty totals, said Monday that the number of dead from Israel’s military campaign had risen to at least 24,100, with more than 60,000 others injured. Israel began its military campaign to wipe out Hamas after Hamas fighters crossed into southern Israel on October 7, killing 1,200 people and taking 240 people captive in the terror attack. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called Monday for a “sustainable cease-fire” in Gaza as she became the latest diplomat to travel to the region to discuss the conflict and humanitarian efforts.

UN: Winter Puts Nearly 100,000 Children at Risk in Quake-hit Afghanistan

The United Nations has called for increased humanitarian aid to help tens of thousands of children in western Afghanistan who are suffering in life-threatening winter conditions in the aftermath of a string of devastating earthquakes last October. The UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF, issued the warning Monday, 100 days after repeated earthquakes struck the impoverished country’s western Herat and surrounding provinces. The de facto Taliban government and aid agencies estimated the disasters last October killed more than 1,000 people, primarily women and children, and destroyed 21,000 homes, with countless families losing livelihoods, livestock, and crops. “Three months on, the impact of Herat’s earthquakes lingers, with many families still living in tents or sleeping in the open despite the biting cold,” UNICEF stated. It added that the crippling winter gripping Afghanistan, including the earthquakeaffected Herat region, is threatening lives and slowing efforts to rebuild. “Children are still trying to cope with the loss and trauma. Schools and health centres, which children depend upon, are damaged beyond repair or destroyed completely,” said Fran Equiza, UNICEF country chief. ...

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politics

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

High Expectations as Uzodimma Takes Oath for Second Term

Tony Icheku reports that residents of Imo state are looking forward to a robust re-engineering of the socio-economic fabric of the State as Governor Hope Uzodimma begins second term.

s Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, takes oath for a second term in office today, expectations are high that he would hit the ground running and quickly record big wins in sub-sectors that suffered extreme neglect in his first term namely Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), creation of more jobs, infrastructural renewal and poverty alleviation. Indeed, Uzodimma’s first term from 2020 to 2023 would certainly go down in history as the holocaust years of Imo State. During these period, the menace of insecurity destabilised every fabric of life in the State. In his own words, Uzodimma acknowledged that the period were “actually very challenging,’ recalling that in 2020, 2021 and 2022, the whole world thought that Imo would be excised from the Nigerian Nation as a result of insecurity. The governorship election in November, 2023, which produced Uzodimma as winner however signalled a turn around in the fortunes of the State, indications that life is gradually returning to the pre-2020 normalcy. The job for the next four years is cut out for the governor with the growing stability in the State, therefore Imolites contend that the Governor has no reason to underperform, but to appropriately re-position Imo State in its ranking as the largest economy in the South-East geo-political region and the fourth largest in the country in terms of GDP per capita. In his first term agenda, Uzodimma promised to escalate the Internally Generated Revenue to N5 billion monthly from the N600 monthly revenue he met, but to date, his best performance was N19.3 billion per annum generated in 2022 Another promise of creating 500,000 jobs remains a proposal on paper, and in terms of unemployment standing at 57%, Imo records the highest in the country. The Imo economy, in layman’s terms has been on consistent decline since 2020 and is currently adjudged the worst performing in the South-East. The State survives 85% on FAAC allocation and 15% on IGR. The State’s domestic debt increased by 40.7% on a yearly basis from N120 billion as at the end of 2020 to N210.39 billion by June, 2022. An Owerri-based journalist and publisher of a community newspaper, Mr Henry Ekpe, while reviewing Uzodimma’s first term blamed the opposition, insecurity threats and the Covid-99 for his lack-lustre performance. He, however, applauded the governor for the reconstruction of the Owerri/Orlu; Owerri/ Umuahia, (partially completed)and Owerri/Okigwe roads while insisting that “this time, the Governor should prioritise road infrastructure based on its importance to the State, and not for political reasons “ Ekpe submitted that in Uzodimma’s second coming, Imolites look forward to seeing the major rural roads in the State get attention. He specifically listed roads like the Timber Market road, Naze, and the short distance road leading into Alaba Market by Aba road, all in Owerri, describing them as strategic roads that lead into the main economic hubs of the State as both markets employ thousands of Imo citizens. Ekpe added that other rural roads like Ulakwo/Upe/Imerrienwe/Umuekwune roads lead to the food basket of Imo State. Others like Nguru, Umuneke/ Ngor/Nkwala/Eziama road, all in Ngor Okpala LGA if reconstructed would boost the economy of the State tremendously. He further listed Nekede Poly/FUTO Road, linking Port Harcourt road at Army Barrack, Obinze and rural roads especially in Ikeduru, Ohaji, Egbema, Onuimo LGAs all being roads with significant economic importance to the State Ekpe also urged the governor to look towards agriculture as an avenue to create mass employment for Imo’s idle army of able bodied youths. On the kind of team Uzodimma needs to get it right, Ekpe urged him to constitute a

Uzodinma cabinet that is compact, qualified and productive. He is also of the view that Uzodinma should develop a robust relationship with Imo based press According to him: “He should not think that since he is not asking for favours in terms of votes, the press can now go to hell. No, he needs them today, tomorrow, and after. His relationship with Imo media is poor. How many Correspondents in Imo can he recognize?” Advancing his expectations from Uzodimma, the President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, urged the governor to focus on completing the capital projects he started in his first term and had not yet completed. His words: “He should look at water supply with emphasis on eliminating water-borne diseases. He should also focus on rural development”. Iwuanyanwu further urged the governor to try the carrot and stick approach in resolving the insecurity challenge. He explained that the threats of insecurity must not always be confronted with force. According to him, government should play its role in nipping the challenge of insecurity in the bud by creating employment opportunities for youths and providing skills acquisition

for those deemed unemployable. On his part, Mr Chinonso Uba, also known as Nonso Nkwa described the last four years as a period of ‘anything goes’ where political appointees failed to do their bit or even shortchanged the State because the governor was too distracted by the menace of insecurity and the various litigations against him to offer effective leadership. Uba who contested to represent Mbaitoli/ Ikeduru Federal Constituency on the platform of the ADC submitted that all Uzodimma had to do in the next four years was to get right all the things he did wrong in his first term. First, he counselled the governor to get it right with the people, win their confidence and approval by getting to the root of allegations of human rights abuses, and eliminating same. Specifically, he urged the governor to probe the Commander of Tiger Base, a police detention post which in recent time is becoming synonymous with police brutality and human rights abuses. Secondly, Uba urged the governor to drop the style of using the military and police to bombard and intimidate Imolites. His words: “Governor Uzodimma should desist from the use of force and adopt dialogue to contain the scourge of insecurity. He should use dialogue to bring our Imo sons and daughters who are in the bush, he should dialogue with them and get them to embrace peace going forward”. Third, Uba counselled Uzodimma to take a

The governorship election in November, 2023, which produced Uzodimma as winner however signalled a turn around in the fortunes of the State, indications that life is gradually returning to the pre-2020 normalcy. The job for the next four years is cut out for the governor with the growing stability in the State, therefore Imolites contend that the Governor has no reason to underperform, but to appropriately re-position Imo State in its ranking as the largest economy in the SouthEast geo-political region and the fourth largest in the country in terms of GDP per capita.

holistic view of his appointees and prosecute those who had sabotaged the Imo economy or abused their offices. Making references to the former Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Noble Atulegwu who was relieved of his job and is being investigated by the Police, Uba maintained that beyond investigation of erring political appointees, those indicted should be prosecuted as well. Fourth, Uba would want the governor to undertake a total overhaul or probe of the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to determine among others, abuses of office; causes of leakages in revenue accruals to the State; cases of economics sabotage; widespread fraud and malpractices; plus incidents of underperformance. “Unless Governor Uzodimma, in this second term embarks on a rigourous post-mortem of the MDAs, he may never deduce why the Imo economy is declining and poverty spreading like an epidemic in an oil-producing State that receives 13% derivation fund in addition to its FAAC allocation”, he submitted. On his part, human rights activist and journalist, Emmanuel Onwubiko, argued that since there can be no tomorrow without a yesterday, Uzodimma needs to reconcile the occurrences of yesterday so that he can build a better tomorrow. To that extent, Onwubiko proposed that the Governor should get the Imo State House of Assembly to pass a bill establishing a ‘Truths and Reconciliation Commission’ to record the atrocities committed by the Police and military during the insecurity menace years. He argued that there is need to record and publish a list of all Igbo youths whose lives were wasted on the mere insinuation that they were IPOB members. According to him, mere allegations does not make one a terrorist, there are laid down procedures to labelling any person a criminal or terrorist, but hundreds of Igbo youths were extra-judicially assassinated without any proof that there were indeed terrorists. They should be identified and their families duly compensated. Speaking in the same vein, the National Coordinator of Human Rights Writers Association (HURIWA), Henry Onwubiko submitted that police and military personnel who were killed in the course of duty to be equally identified and their families also equally compensated. Thereafter, he urged the governor to engage in constructive dialogue to get those on warpath to drop their weapons and embrace peace. According to him: “Imo State used to be Nigeria’s number one for hospitable, accommodating and relaxation environment. Therefore, Uzodimma must do all he can to created an enabling environment for investors to return to Imo. The State can boast of a large pool of highly skilled youths wasting away due to lack of gainful employment. The State has what it takes to become an MSME hub”. To further create an enabling environment, the HURIWA boss urged the Governor to make peace with the political class including those who contested the November 11, 2023 governorship election with him and lost, and who may be aggrieved. On the flipside, he urged the opposition political elites to allow Uzodimma settle down to work without the distraction of litigations or other forms of political harassment, and urged those who lost in the election to withdraw their cases from the courts if they have any. All things being equal, the factors are in Uzodimma’s favour to leave impressive imprints behind. He belongs to the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) at the centre and as a two-term former Senator, he is familiar with the workings of bureaucracy at the Federal level and could use his contacts in the National Assembly to make things happen. History, therefore, beckons on Uzodimma to return Imo once more to prosperity and the expectations of Imo citizens and residents are high for a return to serene and conducive State where they can go about their business in peace and sleep in their homes with their two eyes closed.

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16.1.2024

T H I S D AY • TUESday JANUARY 16, 2024

FEatures

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email: chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 07010510430

Major Events that Shaped Nigeria in 2023

As the year 2023 wound up and 2024 gradually takes over, Sunday Ehigiator recently took a retrospective look at major events that happened in Nigeria through the course of last year

Newly commissioned Lagos Blue Line Train

Removal of Fuel Subsidy

he year 2023 has been marked by significant events and transformations across various spheres of our lives; from politics to the tech world, to global conflicts, and economic uncertainties, and cultural patterns, among others. It was an election year for Nigerians who went to the polls to choose new leaders. The year has been momentous and challenging, especially on the socioeconomic landscape. In a year that would see the exit of President Muhammadu Buhari after an eight-year tenure, Nigerians were expecting the new incoming government to stifle the rhetoric of hardship now considered commonplace. Such expectations were the driving force behind many policy revisions, executive decisions and by extension, socioeconomic repercussions for citizens. As the year progresses, the world awaits how these events will continue to shape our future. Let’s delve into the elaborate highlights of this eventful year.

the Ojuelegba Bridge when the truck lost control and fell over the side of the bridge.

Cash crunch Between late 2022 and early this year, as Nigerians were preparing for the 2023 general elections, the Central Bank of Nigeria introduced new Naira notes and began the immediate withdrawal and crunching of the old N200, N500 and N1000 notes. Nigerians were forced to find alternatives to physical, hard currency in the form of cash, due to a scarcity caused by the Naira redesign policy introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria on October 26th, 2022. In this period, the currency in circulation was expected to be returned to the banks in exchange for new currency. The currency was to cease to be considered legal tender from February 10. However, the new currency was in short supply, as the CBN did not print or release enough new notes. Among many reasons given for this action was that the then incumbent President, Muhammadu Buhari, intended to strip the political class of the means to readily available cash due to the impending elections, therefore perhaps stifling electoral manipulation such as vote buying. Another reason was that the CBN sought to pull in the cash from circulation, citing “significant hoarding of banknotes by members of the public”. The apex bank also claimed that over 85 per cent of the currency in circulation was outside the vaults of commercial banks. Although both old and new currencies are still legal tender till this minute, it has caused several hardships to the country’s economic landscape with some companies even closing down their operations in Nigeria for this singular reason.

Pipeline explosion in Rivers State On March 3, at least 12 people were confirmed dead, and several others were critically injured, following an oil pipeline explosion from an illegal oil bunkering site in Rivers State, South-south Nigeria. The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday in the Rumuekpe community, in the Emohua Local Government Area of the state. The police spokesperson in the state, Grace Iringe-Koko, said in a statement in Port Harcourt on Friday that the identities of the victims were unknown.

Airstrike kills 27 herders On January 25, a group of 27 Fulani herders was killed Wednesday and several others were wounded when a bomb exploded in the village of Rukubi on the border between Nasarawa and Benue states in central Nigeria, police said. Some herders say an airstrike caused it Container falls on a commercial bus in Lagos On January 29, 2023, no fewer than nine passengers were reportedly crushed to death as a 20ft container fell on a commercial bus in the Ojuelegba area of Lagos State. It was learnt that the commercial bus was picking up passengers at the bus stop along

Protest over cash scarcity On February 4, 2023, Nigerians began protesting over the scarcity of naira. Protesters attacked bank ATMs and blocked roads in three Nigerian cities, Ibadan, Benin City and Delta State, as anger spilt on the streets over a scarcity of cash, just days before the country’s general election. Nigeria has been struggling with a shortage in physical cash since the central bank began to swap old bills of the local naira currency for new ones, leading to a shortfall in banknotes. Banks have limited access to cash for withdrawals because of a scarcity of new notes, and some businesses refuse to accept old naira, causing huge queues, angering customers and disrupting businesses.

Train collides with BRT bus in Lagos On March 9, a train rammed into a BRT bus in Nigeria's commercial hub of Lagos, killing six people and injuring dozens of others, as the bus driver tried to beat the train signal, emergency services and the state governor said. The accident happened at a bus stop in the Ikeja axis of Lagos, a city of around 20 million people, Lagos State Emergency Services said in a statement. “Two persons died on the spot while four others died in the hospital, 25 persons have been treated and transferred to Gbagada General Hospital, Agege General Hospital and the trauma centre at the toll gate,” Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu said at the State Hospital. 2023 General Elections Nigeria, the largest democracy in Africa, conducted its Presidential and National Assembly elections on February 25, 2023, and the Governor and State Assembly elections on March 18, 2023. However, the outcome of the elections became highly controversial, resulting in outrage among the opposition and the general population. 18 political parties presented candidates for the presidential elections. Of the 18, three were the major contenders: Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), who scored 8,794,726 votes and won 12 states; Atiku Abubakar, candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), who scored 6,984,520 votes and

Pipeline Explosion in Rivers State won 12 states; and Peter Gregory Obi, candidate of the Labor Party (LP), who scored 6,101,533 votes and won 11 states plus the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Opposition parties have disputed the results since INEC announced the winner. An upsurge of Obi supporters called the ‘Obidients’, and Atiku Abubakar’s supporters known as the ‘Atikulants’ have challenged the results in court, but lost to the ruling All Progressive Party’s candidate, President Bola Tinubu. Some Nigerians have lost confidence in the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), arguing that its words and promises mean nothing to Nigerians. They emphasized that the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu has shown himself to be a disgrace to Nigeria and has brought shame, disgrace, and embarrassment to Nigerians in the global community. They accused Yakubu and his team of National Commissioners of compromising the results of the February 25 presidential election by deliberately refusing to upload the results at the Polling Units from the BVAS to the IREV, just as they promised while speaking in several forums in the buildup to the elections. On this basis, INEC received an unprecedented sum of N355 billion to conduct a credible election. Despite the enormous financial commitment and the incredible support received from the international community and civil society organizations, INEC failed to deliver on a straightforward mandate of meeting the expectations of Nigerians. Mangu violence From May 15 to 16, over 100 people were killed in an attack by Fulani herders against villagers in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. The conflict started at 2:00 am local time on May 15, when huge numbers of Fulani gunmen attacked and burned multiple villages, including Kubwat and Fungzai where 28 and 9 people were reportedly killed, respectively. Women and children were said to be among the dead. Houses and crops were set ablaze as assailants attacked villagers using guns and machetes. As an aftermath of the attacks, on May 21, Fulani militias passed by the town of Daika in Panyam District on motorcycles. The militants opened fire on a group of young men, killing four. Also on May 25, church leaders led a group of around 250 protesters in Jos, urging the government to take action. Subsidy removal On May 29, Tinubu, while delivering his inaugural speech, announced the removal of the petrol subsidy. Since the announcement, the price of petrol has skyrocketed to above N580 per litre, a development that has sparked a hike in transport fares and prices of goods and services across the country. Unification of exchange rate On June 14, the apex bank announced that all FX windows are now collapsed into the investors & exporters (I&E) window. The CBN said the move was part of a series of immediate changes to operations in the Nigerian FX market. According to the circular signed by the Director of CBN Financial Markets Department,

Angela Sere-Ejembi, he said “All segments are now collapsed into the Investors and Exporters (I&E) window. Applications for medicals, school fees, BTA/PTA, and SMEs would continue to be processed through deposit money banks.” Unification of the foreign exchange rates is the second important decision made by this administration. Before the merger, the official rate was about N400, while it was about N800/900 naira to the British Pounds. To achieve the merger, the government embarked on floating the naira. Currently, the rate stands at over N1,000 to a dollar or pounds. Kwara boat mishap On June 12, 2023, a vessel capsized and split in two in the Niger River near Pategi, Kwara State, Nigeria. The boat was carrying attendees of a wedding, who came initially on motorcycles but were stranded due to heavy rain. At least 108 people have been confirmed dead. Dozens are missing. Outbreak of diphtheria disease On July 7, Nigeria’s health authorities confirmed an outbreak of the deadly diphtheria disease in the capital Abuja, following the death of a four-year-old patient. Infections from the highly contagious bacterial disease which affects the throat and nose, and can cause breathing difficulties, have risen sharply across the West African country since the past year, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention. Nearly 800 cases of the disease have been confirmed in the country as of June 30, the NCDC said in a statement. Blue line train begins service On September 4, the 13-kilometre-long (8-mile) Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line rapid transit system began service in Lagos, after being delayed since 1983. The Blue Line – built by China Civil Engineering Construction Corp – links the mainland part of the city where most people live with the more affluent Lagos Island, where many businesses are headquartered. The metro system has been dogged by funding and administrative delays since it was initially planned in 1983. Taraba boat accident On October 29, more than 70 people were missing after a boat capsized in northern Nigeria. The boat was carrying traders returning from a fish market in Taraba state’s Ardo-Kola district late Saturday when it capsized on the Benue River, which is one of Nigeria’s largest, the national emergency services said. It added that more than 100 passengers were on board, 14 were rescued, 17 bodies have been recovered and 73 people are missing. Boko Haram attack in Yobe State On October 30, at least 17 people were killed in Gurokayeya, Yobe State when Boko Haram-aligned gunmen stormed the village and attacked residents with explosives and firearms when they reportedly refused to pay a tax to the terrorists. NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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T H I S D AY • TUESday JANUARY 16, 2024

features

Ile-Oluji: Paradigm Shift in Community Development

As responsibility in governance wanes across the country, communities are resorting to self-help in developing their communities but the approach by Ile-Oluji in Ondo State which has fused such efforts into an annual celebration that is transforming into a carnival stands out reports Ahamefula Ogbu

Oba Oluwole Olufaderin Adetinehin and some prominent Ile-Oluji sons and daughters

estled between hills off a tarred but ageing road to Akure is a bubbly city which now hosts a polytechnic and other modern infrastructure courtesy of indigenes who have committed to making their community as good as their various places of residence and trade. It therefore boasts of other development projects, some too big to be handled by states the way people see it these days. The place is so unique that they call it small Jerusalem because it is surrounded by hills and with little effort, one can see that development is standardised in that whatever project you see has the imprimatur of high taste which only explanation would be the standard and taste of the executors. Going towards the center of the city gives impression of one continually descending a hill but on going towards what looks like the outskirts, one would on a backward glance, see the beauty of the city called Ile Oluji. On this particular day, the illustrious sons and daughters of the place had gathered as has become the fashion, all decked in their best attires. A look at the crowd shows that no dress sense was lacking in representation, a pointer that attendees came from far and wide, depicting the fact that people came from across the world to attend…everywhere their people reside in. The essence of the celebrating Ile Oluji day which has transformed to a festival with a plan to make it an annual carnival is development by self-effort. The spirit behind it is to come together in celebration and provision of what would make life worth living. This they do by providing what the community lack through individual efforts. Like the one celebrated last December, Ile Oluji had been in the throes of epileptic power supply owing to a transformer installed for the community in the 70s which capacity had been outstripped by development. That visited darkness on the community for a long time prompting those who can to look the way of alternative power supply. The pressure became so unbearable that the youth got restive and were on the brink of social unrest. However, while the planning committee of 2023 Ile Oluji day were on partial restoration of power through repairs, one of their sons had an alternative plan. Rather than key into the repairs, he donated a power distribution facility worth over N200 million and asked that the community just provide the land where the equipment would be installed for steady power to Ile-Oluji. That was just one of the donors but his stood out because of the perennial power problem. Others threw their weights in dualising the roads to the community while others attracted government facilities like a

passport office since it boasts of the most travelled people within the area. Shopping malls and other facilities were donated to the community. Going down memory lane, Jegun of Ile-Oluji, His Royal Majesty Oba Oluwole Olufaderin Adetimehin who incidentally was the first Chairman of Ile Oluji day planning Committee and one of the brains behind its formation was nostalgic in his reminiscences. According to him, “There were many clubs here before us but some of us came together then to say let us stop depending on government and use our resources contributed by our sons and daughters who are well placed to make our place comfortable to live in. Oba Adeseko Oduntan was the monarch then and we approached their team and explained our vision to them. They felt it was too much for us to achieve but we insisted and asked for their blessing. “The main objective was to raise a platform to start development and by the grace of God, we held the first one and even surpassed the goal. Today, we have covered the mileage and it has transformed and promoted our self-help efforts towards socio-economic development of the community. “Local governments are no longer helping in development; they are no longer working as the tier closest to the people so we have to take our fate in our own hands. We thank God for enabling us in self-help development agenda and you can hardly find it anywhere else in Ondo State and other parts of Nigeria. It has become an annual event where we reappraise what we have and what more needs to be done. We are wonderfully achieving the objectives”. The Monarch pointed at a shopping complex, International diagnostic center, dental center, houses and a modernised cemetery. He said after a polytechnic was located in the community, it became imperative

to build hostels to accommodate the students and they are currently building two blocks of 20 rooms each while another three floors building is ongoing. The Chattered Insurer and one time President of Chartered Institute of Insurers, the Jegun who is widely travelled says all the professionals from the community bring in their expertise and resources into ensuring they have the best, the same template he uses to secure the area. On how he has been ensuring the peace of his domain is not breached, he said, “We meet regularly with security agencies and district heads and map out strategies to address any threat even before they arise. Intelligence gathering through community efforts and augmentation of the security agencies efforts with those of local hunters have so far ensured that threats were nipped in the bud. To ensure power is restored before the completion of installation of the power system donated by one of our sons, we had commenced the repairs of the old transformer and distribution equipment” To demonstrate how sensitive he is to the demands and feelings of his people, the Oba who has solar power in his palace said he switches it off as darkness nears to avoid giving impression that he was not feeling the weight of the darkness which lack of power foisted on the community, adding, “I switch it off to avoid giving impression that I am not feeling the suffering of my people notwithstanding that I had mobilised to work on the old transformer.” On what has ensured that the community had the best result from their efforts, he replied, “There is no magic wand but when a solid foundation is laid, things work out well. What you are seeing today are signs of what is to come in the future because the people have bought into building their community without waiting for anyone or to add to what government is able to do for us. “We will be looking out for strategic partnership with people because here is safe for production and labour is also cheap; so factors of production will work more favourably for anyone who sites a production facility here. Also, we are strategically focusing on hostels because of the rise in

There is no magic wand but when a solid foundation is laid, things work out well. What you are seeing today are signs of what is to come in the future because the people have bought into building their community without waiting for anyone or to add to what government is able to do for us

population due to the rising number of students in the area.” The monarch was full of gratitude for the confirmation of the Comptroller General of Immigration Service, Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju who comes from Ile Oluji, stating that it was a confirmation that hard work pays, adding, “We have produced the first female CG for South West; the result of good work came from good background; it is inspiring to the female folk because people may have thought the position is not for the female folk. We are sure and confident that she will deliver. Also speaking on the Ile-Oluji day, one of the cabinet members of the community, Chief Adeleye Adepoju explained that it was an idea muted by some of their prominent sons which has taken a life of its own as everyone from Ile-Oluji heads home to attend it and also contribute their quota in developing their place. Chief Adeleye said he proudly calls IleOluji small Jerusalem because they have a lot in common since it is surrounded by hills from all approaches, pointing out that through the celebration, the community has been able to address most of their pressing needs which people had not imagined they could do. “Yesterday, a substation was donated to our people by one of us. It will replace the old transformer that has been undergoing several repairs and now we have something that can conveniently serve us. “This is a justification of the idea because through the celebration of Ile-Oluji day when we all come together to appraise how our community is faring and also know what the problems of the people are and how we can tackle them. It was started by some prominent men from here asking for a day to celebrate but as you can see, it is turning to a carnival and people are asking that it be extended to seven days so that different programs can run on different days for entertainment and after that, we raise funds to address our problems. “The people are now asking that street carnival be added to the day and we will buy into it. It has turned into a veritable way of collectively solving our developmental problems; we are grateful to those who birthed the idea… it is working for us. “One thing however we need to learn from this, especially for public officers is that officials in charge of the celebrations and donations have been above board; whatever is raised for projects are transparently applied to their execution and it has built the confidence of the people. A look around shows what has been done and what more needs to be done. The transparency has come to make everyone of who can to do more because we can all see what the resources contributed are being used for”

THI S DAY • Tuesday, January 16, 2024

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

REPO

A T

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

08056356325

J a n u ar y

S & P INDEX

1 5 , 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*

OVERNIGHT

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%

How Oil Output from Addax-operated OMLs Fell from 130,000bpd to 7,000bpd Amid OPEC Deficit

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Production from assets operated by Addax Petroleum slumped massively from 130,000 barrels per day to 7,000bpd amid disagreements with the federal government, a new document released by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has revealed. The NNPC’s latest quarterly publication of its activities indicated that the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) on Oil Mining Leases (OMLs) 123/124 and 126/137 crumbled after the Chinese-owned Addax declined to make new investments on the assets, leading to a fall of budgetary allocation from over $2 billion to barely $200,000 when the firm was exiting the assets last year. The NNPC had on January 31, 2023 announced the termination

of the 24-year deal with Addax Petroleum Development (Nigeria) Limited, marking the exit of the Sinopec of China’s subsidiary. The official end to the business relationship came three months after the execution of the Addax Transfer, Settlement, and Exit Agreement (TSEA) for the PSC Oil blocks, OMLs 123/124 & 126/137, with the assets then transferred to the concessionaire, NNPC. The PSC for the oil blocks was initially signed in 1973 between the NNPC and America’s Ashland, but was terminated after 25 years. Subsequently, the NNPC signed another PSC with the Swiss and then with China’s Sinopec, which retained the name Addax in 1998. However, the Addax PSCs were associated with significant intricacies and complexities and attendant disputes, even threatening the diplomatic relations between

Nigeria and China at a point. Multiple litigations then ensued, hindering the attainment of the desired objectives of value creation to the PSC parties, government, and other stakeholders. Now renamed Antan Producing, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), the NNPC in the publication stated that after initially raising production from 7,000 bpd to 15,000bpd, the target this year is to further increase production to 30,000 bpd. The new Managing Director of the oil asset, Sagiru Jajere, interviewed by the NNPC in-house staff, said that with the support from the parent body, the NNPC, he had begun to gradually sort out the problems with the assets. “On the day the assets transfer agreement was signed when we took over, production was just above 7,000 bpd. But as of today, we are doing well over 12,000 barrels

from OML 123 alone. We are doing another 3,000 barrels from OML 126. That is 15,000 bpd, up from 7,000 bpd, ”he said. However, Jajere stated that more investment was required on the asset to ensure increased production. “The only way to increase production in a sustainable manner is to get more investment. That is necessary for this business. We knew why we came down to the weak production status. “But you can remember that at a time, we were producing well above our OPEC quota. In fact, there were times we were penalised for producing above our quota. Gradually, we saw the figures dropping, ”he added. He argued that there are fiscal terms, which have made some investors to stay away from investing in the sector.

“Unless we do something to attract investments, all these activities we’re doing to bring up production to meet the OPEC quota will not amount to much. So, we are trying to make the business attractive so that people can come back and invest, ”he stressed. Jajere disclosed that the NNPC had had to re-enter some wells that were shut for no real reasons, explaining that it was discovered that some wells were shut at the slightest challenge by the former operators. “We believe that will give us a volume that will most likely take us to somewhere around 25,000 to 30,000 bpd. In the long-term, we are also looking at OML 137, which is also a big reservoir of oil with a lot of gas. “This is a huge opportunity that we are looking at. By the time we get there, the production from Antan

will be somewhere above 50,000bpd, plus the gas we want to develop and commercialise, ”he stated. According to him, the issues with Addax were withdrawal of financial incentive package and lack of investments in the asset. “Everything was going down. We saw it from outside. But you have to be in before you can see some things. The day I stepped into the office at Addax, that was when I realized how terribly bad things had gone, ”Jajere stressed. If Adax was producing up to capacity, a THISDAY calculation showed that it would be adding up to 4 million barrels every month to Nigeria’s Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) quota, which at the end of 2023 was still short by over 500,000 bpd. NOTE: The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

NBS: NUPRC, FIRS, Others Shared N53.5bn as November Collection Cost Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has shown that revenue-generating agencies, including the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) received

N53.49 billion for the cost of revenue collection in November, 2023. The November 2023 Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) disbursement, the NBS in its latest publication said, saw NUPRC receiving N12.52 billion

of the total sum. It further indicated that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) got N16.38 billion and N24.59 billion respectively as cost of revenue collections. However, allocations to the

Food

three tiers of government for November 2023 included: federal government (N323.35 billion), states (N307.72 billion), and local governments (N225.21 billion). On the other hand, N50.67 billion was shared among the oil-producing states, which are

Commodities

name of commodity

Size

State

Price

name of commodity

Rice

100kg

Abuja

N65,000 – N70,000

Sorghum

50kg

oyo

50kg

Plateau (Jos)

Price

Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers as the 13 per cent derivation fund. “FAAC disbursed the sum of N1.35 trillion to the three tiers of government in November 2023 from the total revenue generated

in October 2023. “The revenue generating agencies comprising NCS, FIRS, and NUPRC) received N16.38 billion, N24.59 billion, and N12.52 billion respectively, as cost of revenue collections,” the NBS report said.

T o d ay

State

Price

name of commodity

Size

State

Price

100kg JIGAWA

N30,000

B EAN S

N50,000 – N60,000

Benue

N32,000

Maidu guri

N22,000 – N30,000

100kg

50kg bag

N50,500 – N60,000

100kg

Kaduna

N32,000

100kg Lagos

N36,000

50kg

kwara N24,000–N27,000

50kg

Enugu

N24,000

100kg

Kano

N35,000

50kg

Lagos

N60,000 – N70,000

50kg

Lagos

N26,000

50kg

rivers N50,500 – N60,500

Delta

N36,000

Delta

N35,000

100kg

50kg

sokoto

N60,000 – N70,000

100kg

Abia

N36,000

100kg

Abia

N35,700

Size

T H I S D AY • Tuesday, January 16, 2024

BUSINESSWORLD

DEVELOPMENT

Reforming Nigeria’s Housing Sector for Optimal Delivery With eye on the ball, the new Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Mr Ahmed Dangiwa, appears to be on the right path to fixing Nigeria’s massive housing deficit, writes Emmanuel Addeh

here’s no gainsaying the fact that Nigeria has a humongous housing deficit challenge. The problem is even more accentuated, given the inequitable distribution of shelter among people who own them and those who really need them. Given this background, it is therefore trite to say that solving the nation’s housing challenge or better still, Nigeria’s urban housing problem requires a systematic, organised and methodical approach. With a new minister now firmly in charge of the ministry, which was recently excised from the works and housing ministry, Nigerians are hopeful that they will soon begin to see significant progress in terms of their access to quality and affordable housing. Not a rookie in the sector, Ahmed Dangiwa, an architect and former Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), was appointed in August 2023 by President Bola Tinubu to oversee the very critical sector. Indeed, the housing sector is so important that its major endpoint, which is the provision of shelter, is regarded as a basic need for survival, alongside food, water and air. So relevant is the housing sector to the growth of nations that in advanced economies like the US, UK and Canada, the sector contributes more than 30 per cent to their Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In Nigeria, it’s a meagre 0.38 per cent to GDP. In addition, the sector has the potential to generate employment, boost productivity, elevate living standards, and alleviate poverty as well as curb crime. In the first few weeks of assumption of office, Dangiwa already set out his plan on how to revive the sector. It’s expected that having laid the groundwork, the minister will now move full throttle to the implementation stage in his plan to turn around the very critical sector.

100,000 Housing Units Deal

In 2023, the ministry under Dangiwa, closed the year with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a consortium to deliver 100,000 affordable housing units across the nation. The agreement with the consortium of private sector-led companies was headed by Continental Civil and General Construction Company Limited and Ceezali Limited. The units are to be delivered in two phases, starting with 20,000 units in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) followed by 80,000 units across the six geopolitical zones. In his remarks, Dangiwa noted: “Under the terms of this partnership, the consortium will be the ones to provide construction finance and build the housing units to completion based on agreed housing designs and prices. “The federal ministry of housing and urban development, on its side, will facilitate provision of affordable mortgage loans to off-takers through the FMBN, as well as facilitate the approval and grant of all legal titles in select lands for the projects.” The minister further touched on the job creation component of the project, noting that it is in line with the vision of the president to raise 100 million Nigerians out of poverty. Notably, he said the public/ private arrangement will create 2.5 million direct and indirect jobs at 25 jobs per housing unit.

Horde of Reform Teams

To help accelerate the planned reforms in the housing sector, the minister will this week inaugurate a rash of committees or more appropriately reform teams. The teams include: The Housing Reform Task Team, with the primary objective of ensuring that housing agencies under the supervision of the ministry are optimised to deliver on the provision of quality, decent and affordable homes to Nigerians. The team comprises housing industry sector experts, stakeholders, agency representatives, professional bodies, and academia. Their primary mandate is to develop a robust framework for the reform of the housing sector. This includes a thorough review and facilitation of necessary legislative amendments of relevant housing industry laws, including National Housing Fund (NHF) Act,1992, FMBN Establishment Act, 1993, Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Act,1973, and PenCom Act (to allow for increased investment in housing). In addition, the Multi-Agency Project Delivery Task Team will ensure that all housing agencies under the supervision of the ministry work

programme is to improve the living conditions of residents of the identified slum project sites by making them liveable and habitable,” the minister added. He explained that the N50 billion also released for the project in the supplementary budget was only part of broad financing plan that will involve a blend of budgetary allocations, Public Private Partnerships (PPPs), housing construction finance from the federal housing agencies including the FMBN and FHA. “The provision of the N100 billion in the 2023 supplementary budget gives us the leverage to kick-start phase one of our nationwide renewed hope housing projects and slum upgrading programme before year end,” he said.

Curtailing Building Collapses

To curb the menace of building collapses, the minister said that his office will work with all stakeholders to ensure an end to the problem in the country. Dangiwa, who spoke when he received members of the Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIA) in his office, therefore sought the cooperation of all the professionals in the sector to proffer the needed solutions. Promising that the ministry would look into the national challenge, he explained that with the collective inputs of the professionals in the built environment and state commissioners of housing, the ministry will come up with policies on how to curtail the menace.

Reducing Housing Gap

“Getting FHA to fulfil its mandate is a priority to us. We will encourage the authority to operate optimally. We will drive the process for the release of the take- off grant proposed for the authority prior to its partial commercialisation.” collaboratively. Its scope of work includes developing a comprehensive strategy and roadmap for the construction of 20,000 new houses per year. It will coordinate efforts of the ministry, FMBN, FHA and Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL), to streamline processes and eliminate bottlenecks in housing development so as to increase the national housing stock. Another team set for inauguration is the Land Reforms Task Team, which is meant to develop a blueprint that will aid sustainable implementation of reforms necessary for streamlining land administration and ensuring easy, cost effective and efficient access to land in Nigeria. It comprises state governments, traditional rulers, relevant agencies, professional bodies, academia, stakeholders/sector experts to ensure buy-in and inclusivity. Also set for inauguration is the Building Materials Manufacturing Hubs Task Team, which will boost building materials manufacturing in the country towards ensuring economic growth, creating jobs, reducing dependency on imports, and lowering the cost of construction materials and housing delivery. Primarily, their job is to conduct a thorough assessment of the current state of the building materials manufacturing sector in Nigeria, including existing facilities, capacities, and key players. They are to also identify challenges and opportunities within the sector. Consultants have also been appointed to provide technical support for each of the

teams to ensure speedy access to needed resources, efficient harnessing and synthesis of deliberations, structured reporting, and timely delivery of stated terms of reference. The teams will have eight weeks to deliver.

Renewed Hope Cities, Estates

The first phase of the New City Development Plan aims to deliver “Renewed Hope Cities” ranging from 1,000 housing units per site in one location in each of the six geo-political zones of the country and FCT namely: Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Borno, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Enugu States, while the remaining 30 states will have “Renewed Hope Estates” each with a minimum of 500 housing units. With inclusivity at their core, they will include multi-level flats to cater to low-medium income earners; terrace and detached bungalows and duplexes for the high-income earners. The renewed hope estates will have one to three-bedroom affordable bungalows. “ Overall, we aim to deliver under this phase 1, a total of 40,000 homes from a mix of sponsors comprising the federal ministry of housing and Urban development’s budgetary allocation, FMBN, and through public private partnerships with reputable developers in the delivery of the new cities. “Ownership options include mortgage loans, rent-to-own and outright purchase. At 25 jobs per unit, the first phase of the project will create direct and indirect 1,000,000 jobs helping to achieve the target to lift 1million Nigerians out of poverty,” Dangiwa said recently at the 50th anniversary of the FHA. According to the ministry, the FHA has a major role to play in its ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ for housing and urban development. “So, getting FHA to fulfil its mandate is a priority to us. We will encourage the authority to operate optimally. We will drive the process for the release of the take- off grant proposed for the authority prior to its partial commercialisation,” Dangiwa stated.

Slum Upgrading Programme

Under the Phase 1 of the Slum Upgrading Programme, the ministry plans a total of 26 sites nationwide. This includes four sites in each of the six regions of the country totalling 24 and two in the FCT. The key services to be provided at the identified sites will include water supply, solar street lights, rehabilitation of access roads, construction of drainages as well as waste management and sanitation services, amongst others. “Our aim under the slum upgrading

The minister revealed that his ministry was working with the National Population Commission (NPC) to establish the actual housing deficit, explaining that an in-house estimate showed that 550, 000 new homes are needed to be built per annum over the next 10 years to meet the housing needs of Nigerians, describing it a massive size of housing challenge In a forum with immigration officers, Dangiwa further revealed that the federal government planned to build Renewed Hope Cities nationwide with the first phase delivering 34,500 homes in selected cities and state capitals across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

Ending Abandoned Projects Syndrome

He has also read the riot act to some contractors handling housing projects nationwide to expedite work, noting that henceforth there will be no more abandoned buildings in construction sites across Nigeria. Speaking when he toured some project sites in Abuja, he noted that the capacity of companies currently handling government projects in the housing will also be reviewed. Dangiwa maintained that the government would no longer tolerate cases of abandoned housing projects in the country when several millions of Nigerians were in need of shelter.

Unoccupied Buildings Problem

Dangiwa has also hinted that the federal government may take tough decisions to curb the problem of massive unoccupied buildings in Abuja, especially those that have been uninhabited for over three months. Speaking when he toured several government housing construction sites in Abuja and Niger, he disclosed that henceforth, those who insist on neither living in nor giving out their houses may have their ground rents tripled. Dangiwa, on the sidelines of a two-day tour of housing sites, argued that when the ground rent of the several houses and estates in Abuja is tripled, owners would be compelled to give them out to tenants.

Upholding Fiscal Accountability

The ministry has also fully committed to ensuring fiscal accountability in its operations. Dangiwa told the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) that the ministry of housing and its agencies will ensure transparency in the financial governance in the ministry, in line with the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act. The Minister stated this when he received the Chairman of FRC, Victor Muruako, and his team on a visit to the ministry. “Every decision that we make, every resource that we allocate, carries the weight of public trust and expectation. Therefore, instilling fiscal responsibility is indeed an ethical imperative and a commitment to transparent and accountable governance,” he said.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

AGRICULTURE

Priority Areas to Drive Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector in 2024 The agricultural sector of Nigeria’s economy is still one of the surest paths to sustainable economic growth. Gilbert Ekugbe writes on the key areas the Tinubu-led administration must prioritise for increased agro sector contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product

ccording to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the agriculture sector contributed 26.53 per cent to nominal GDP in the third quarter of 2023. The sector also grew by 11.06 per cent year-onyear in nominal terms in third quarter 2023. The growth was driven by four sub-activities, which included crop production, livestock, forestry and fishing. Interestingly, the sector has the capacity to contribute at least 50 per cent to the nation’s GDP if given the necessary support in terms of political will and effective implementation of brilliant agricultural policies. However, stakeholders in the sector have expressed worries over the nation’s inability to implement laudable policies that would take the sector to the next level. They believed that the managers of the economy have fallen short of in terms of implementing laudable policies formulated in the past, which could have made Nigeria the food basket of Africa and even the world at large. According to the World Bank, Nigeria’s economy is projected to grow by 3.3 per cent in 2024, with agriculture, construction, services and trade being the sectors that would drive this growth. To achieve this growth projected by the World Bank, the stakeholders have called for improved funding of the sector, pointing out that the budgetary allocations for the sector over the past seven years is still less than 2.0 per cent of the total budget.

Stemming food inflation

At 28.20 per cent, food inflation has been identified as one of the major drivers of inflation rate in the Nigerian economy, although it has been projected to decline in 2024. Many

dwindling investment opportunities because most investors are scared of commiting their resources in areas where Return on Investment ((RoI) is not guaranteed.

Improved mechanised farming

Nigerians have fallen into the hunger net as a result of the skyrocketing food prices across the country. To stem food inflation, Nigeria needs to address the supply-demand gap by increasing food production, improving storage facilities and reduce post-harvest losses. The government must also provide subsidies on all inputs, encourage yearround production and spur private sector leadership and involvement in agriculture.

Upgrading security architecture in food producing states

If there is any time to upgrade the security apparatus in food producing states, it has got to be now. The insecurity situation is one of the factors driving food inflation as many farmers are yet to resume their farming activities. The present administration must prioritise investment is beefing up security in these food producing States. This is the only way Nigeria could attract both local and foreign investments into the agricultural sector. The sector has continued to witness

A nation with a population of over 200 million people can no longer depend on hoes and cutlasses to meet its food needs. Investment must be geared into mechanised farming to put most of the arable lands across the country to good use. Report has it that out of the 80 million hectares of arable land, only about 50 million lands have been cultivated. The then Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Mohammad Abubakar, presented an empirical data that showed how little the sector has exploited the land resources available in the country. This data highlighted the opportunities the sector could potentially harness and its feasibility. Abubakar said: “Nigeria is endowed with a total of 79 million hectares of agricultural land with only 44 per cent being cultivated. The nation also has 267 billion cubic meters of fresh surface water and 58 billion cubic meters of underground water, with 37 billion cubic meters only stored in dams. Annual rainfall in the country is within 300mm to 4,000mm. Conversely, the potential irrigable area is about 3.14 million hectares, less than 7.0 per cent presently utilised.”

partnership with stakeholders

One of the challenges hindering agricultural development is the absence

of credible partnership between the federal government and the real actors in the sector. Stakeholders have lamented over the years about the gap that existed between both parties. They expressed concern about the federal government’s inability to carry the real actors in the sector along in policy formulation and implementation.

Leveraging technology

The need to produce more with little should be the watch word for the present administration. Courtesy of technology, most developed economies have been able to meet their food demands. Technology has significantly impacted agriculture, making it more efficient, sustainable and productive. Deploying technology in agriculture would also go a long way to attracting youths into the sector thereby replacing the aging farming population across the country.

Agric Sector outlook

As long as the challenges hindering the sector still exist, stakeholders have argued that not much would be achieved going into the year. The sector is yet to get the much-needed attention in terms of financial intervention it deserves. For instance, most of the farms in the country are still dependent on hoes and cutlasses to meet the growing demand for food in the country while over 70 per cent of farmers are also dependent on rain fed agriculture in a time when climate change is hitting hard and not to talk of the high spate of insecurity in food producing areas. As long as farmers are still not sure about Continued on page 22

BUSINESSWORLD

Tuesday, January 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

AGRICULTURE

Priority Areas to Drive Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector in 2024 their safety, the price of food crops would continue to skyrocket. The National President of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Mr. Kabir Ibrahim, said that the budgetary allocation to agricultural sector is not up to five per cent, pointing out that the budget allocated negated the state of emergency on food security that was declared. He said that it is laughable to give less than two per cent budgetary allocation for agriculture in a country striving to attain food security. Ibrahim said: “I do not condemn it 100 per cent because I know that there are some cross cutting areas and Ministries Department and Agencies (MDAs) that would have taken some parts of the budgets because they would be used for agriculture. If we put all of these together, it is possible that the budget may have done a lot more than 2.0 per cent,” he said. He said that to attain food security as mentioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, there is need for more action in the agricultural sector as the only way to acknowledge the efforts to attaining food security. He added that the problem of Nigeria’s agriculture is not lack of policy because there are many lofty policies that have not been effectively implemented. He expressed hope that with the declaration of state of emergency for the attainment of food security, Nigeria would do a lot better in agriculture as against what was recorded in the previous year. He advised the Tinubu’s administration to stem insecurity in food producing states across the country while calling on the need to prioritise effective distribution of farm inputs to boost crop production. “If they judiciously implement the budget and they do a lot of monitoring and evaluation, I am confident that we would do better than last year and even the year before,” he said. On his part, the Chief Executive Officer, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, said that agriculture must be approached in

a holistic manner, pointing out that all the three tiers of government have critical roles to play in agriculture. Yususf noted that the state and local governments have bigger roles to play as far as agriculture is concerned. He said: “When we talk about what was allocated to the sector and what was allocated to the sector is very critical. It is not just about allocation, but what they are doing to facilitate agricultural development. When we talk about agriculture, we also leave out water resources whereas all the investments in water resources, river basins, damns and irrigation are to facilitate agriculture so we must merge them together. “Agriculture cannot stand alone; we need investments in road networks, and agro processing industries so that what we are producing can be processed. We must have a holistic view about agriculture, but more importantly, the state and local governments have bigger role to play as far agriculture is concerned.” He also called on the need for the need to develop and formulate effective policies, which include policies around importation of agro equipment, incentives for agro equipment and inputs, noting that these are ways to support and encourage farmers to do even more. He also expressed worries over the level of insecurity in the country, advising that one of the biggest foci of the present administration should be on providing security for farmers. Yususf warned that as long as the insecurity situation is still at large, the outlook for agriculture is bleak, stating the urgent need to tackle the spate of insecurity headlong. He also pointed out the need to leverage the use of technology in the sector, saying that of all the sectors in the economy, agriculture sector is the least to embrace the use of technology in Nigeria. “There is no way we can transform the agricultural sector without technology. We cannot boost productivity; we cannot even attract our young population into the sector without technology. We should not be looking at agriculture as just growing crops alone, but look at it as agribusiness,” Yusuf said.

TUESDAY JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY

TUESday, JANUARY 16, 2024

business/MOnEYGUIDE

Optiva Capital Targets $5bn Diaspora Investment, Launches DIDI Eromosele Abiodun In line with its philosophy to protect, grow, enhance, and optimise wealth for discerning investors, leading investment immigration wealth management company, Optiva Capital Partners Limited has launched a new product, named, Diaspora Investor Direct Investment (DIDI) Announcing the introduction of the unique product at a thank you dinner with select business editors, the Chairman of Optiva Capital Partners, Mr. Franklin Nechi, stated that the Diaspora Investor Direct Investment is, “our unique product to attract diaspora funds and investments into the country. The objective is to stand in the gap for Nigerians in the diaspora who seek to remit funds home for investment purposes because most of them are afraid of losing their funds to unscrupulous persons or agents, so we bridge that gap.” According to him, Nigeria diaspora funds is ranked amongst the top five globally, estimated at about $100billion per annum, and “our target is to use the Optiva Capital structure, infrastructure, and wealth management skills to get 5 per cent channelled into productive investments that will yield good returns at home for Nigerians in the diaspora.” On the modalities for implementation, Nechi ex-

plained that first, you have to get Nigerians who, “seek to build homes to send their money so that we help them bridge the gap of trust and dishonest third parties. We help the diasporans to create an enabling environment that will ensure that they track the progress of their sundry investments. With DIDI we shall help investors manage the risks associated with repatriation of funds back to the country for sundry investments ranging from property development, farms, to cottage factories.” He reiterated that the company has already created structures that will help Nigerians in the diaspora to manage businesses back home end to end, “including setting of farms, and for each project or investment that every diasporan wishes to make, Optiva Capital Partners shall help in the land acquisition, proper registration of titles, and eventual setting up of the business.” Optiva Capital, he added, offers an opportunity for safety of funds and investments, and as such the DIDI is intended to bring into the country about $5 billion in investments. Nechi emphasised that the company’s primary objective is effective service delivery through its bespoke end to end service delivery by taking ownership of every relationship as it works hard to provide premium investment

immigration and investment services to its discerning clientele. Nechi stated that the recent launch of Optiva Capital Partners investment services is in keeping with the company philosophy. He said, “our investment services is the culmination of a journey of preparation, of products, of services, of solutions that our clients do need, on protecting their wealth, building their wealth, getting a return on investment, enhancing their wealth, making sure their wealth is invested in currencies, in geographies, in different asset classes. We are finally saying that our clients’ wealth is working for them, that it is well optimized.” He also announced that in the just ended year, Optiva Capital Partners signed a national partnership agreement with Polaris Bank Limited, a diversified national bank. He re-affirmed that some of the partnerships with strong and well recognized reputable institutions that have enabled its clients to explore boundless global opportunities include; Stuart Financial with headquarters in Montreal, Canada; Green and Spiegel, Canada; Heng Sheng Group; Range Developments; and Anchor Capital. Others are AIL, an international insurance group; TIW Capital Group; and CTP in Tampa, Florida, USA.

UBA’s Leo Celebrates Sixth Year of Impact, Announces New Offerings Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, is celebrating the 6th year of operation of its flagship artificial intelligent Digital Assistant and Chatbot - Leo, and has announced new offerings aimed towards deepening the face of digital banking in Nigeria. Since its launch on January 11 2018, UBA’s Leo has emerged not merely as a technological asset but as an innovative transformative assistant that has had a profound impact, on the Nigerian and African financial industry. It is important to note that UBA remains the first financial institution in Africa that introduced a digital solution to ease customer transactions at the time when it became necessary in a fast-paced world

when customers demanded quick-time transactions and response. From its inception, Leo’s footprint has been unmistakably impactful, as the Chatbot - which first began operations on , WhatsApp, Instagram, Apple Messages and Google Business Chat and other social media platforms – has positively impacted the lives of millions of users across the continent, driving financial inclusion, modernising banking and bridging the financial gap that existed. UBA’s Head, Digital Banking, Olukayode Olubiyi, who explained this, pointed out that UBA customers indeed agree that Leo is one of the bank’s biggest investments in cutting-edge technology and has been steadily changing

the face of banking on the continent. He stated: “Six years later, and with over 7 million customers, UBA’s Leo, has without a doubt, remained unequalled as the smartest Banking Chatbot in Nigeria because of its speed and quick learning intelligence and has continued to evolve with so much more to offer its constantly growing customer base”. “While other financial institutions are still trying to find their feet as regards Artificial Intelligence, at UBA, we can proudly say that Leo has become a massive success as it continues to consolidate on its successes and accolades winning several awards as testament to its unparalleled qualities and effectiveness.”

IGAD Commissions Ijesha Digital Hub to Boost Skills Acquisition Emma Okonji Ijesha Global Alliance for Development (IGAD), a coalition that has presence in North America, Europe and Nigeria, has commissioned the Ijesha Digital Hub and inducted its first cohort of 107 trainees in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and UI/UX Design. Vice President, IGAD, and one of the visionaries behind IGAD, Dr. Adewale Alonge, in his welcome address, noted that Nigeria with the

largest youth population in the world, with a median age of 18.1 years, faces either a demographic ticking time-bomb or a demographic economic windfall depending on the choice the country makes as it relates to investment in youth human capital development. Alonge further said, “We are not just training for technical proficiency; we are exemplifying entrepreneurship and soft skills. The hub will be a stimulator for innovation, with a focus

on real-world applications.” Chairman of Ijesha Global Alliance for Development, Abimbola Olashore, while conveying his gratitude for the collaborative efforts that led to the establishment of the hub, said: “Today’s ceremony is just the beginning. I want to thank all IGAD members and the Executive Board for their contributions. The hub is set to transform our workforce, fostering economic growth and sustainability.”

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Optiva Capital Partners, Ms. Jane Kimemia; Chairman of the company, Mr. Franklin Nechi and Executive Director, Ms. Amaka Okeke-Lawal at a dinner with Editors in Lagos... recentlya

MARKET INDICATORS 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

• Source - CBN

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

• Monetary Policy Rate - 13%

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 •TUESday, JANUARY 16, 2024

mARKET NEWS

Stock Market Up N875bn on Investors’ Interest in Geregu, 67 Others

Kayode Tokede

The Nigerian stock market yesterday saw continued dominance by the bulls at the start of the week, driven by investors’ renewed interest in Geregu Power Plc and 67 others. For the first time, Geregu Power crossed the N1 trillion market capitalization as its stock price appreciated by 7.52per cent to close at a share price of N429 per share, thus giving it a market

capitalisation of N1.07 trillion. However, the Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) gained 1,597.93 basis points or 1.92 per cent to close at 84,640.89 basis points. Also, market capitalisation rose by N875 billion to close at N46.317 trillion. As measured by market breadth, market sentiment was positive, as 68 stocks gained relative to eight losers. Chams Holding Company, DAAR Communications, AXA Mansard

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Insurance, PZ Cussons Nigeria, Sovereign Trust Insurance and Tantalizers emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent each to close at N2.53, 99 kobo, N6.49, N32.45, 66 kobo and 55 kobo respectively, per share. Cadbury Nigeria followed with a gain of 9.98 per cent to close at N26.45, while Jaiz Bank advanced by 9.93 per cent to close at N3.32, per share. On the other side, Abbey Mortgage Bank led others on the losers’ chart with

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9.52 per cent to close at N2.47, per share. Julius Berger followed with a decline of 3.54 per cent to close at N54.50, while Custodian Investment shed 3.45 per cent to close at N9.80, per share. Africa Prudential lost 2.78 per cent to close at N8.75, while FBN Holdings (FBNH) depreciated by 1.79 per cent to close at N27.50, per share. The total volume traded advanced by 34.4 per cent to 807.51 million units, valued at N11.03 billion, and exchanged in 13,647

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deals. Transactions in the shares of Transnational Corporation (Transcorp) led the activity with 66.895 million shares worth N956.007 million, AIICO Insurance followed with account of 62.293 million shares valued at N78.987 million, while Wema Bank traded 41.573 million shares valued at N387.926 million. Jaiz Bank traded 39.194 million shares worth N128.016 million, while FCMB Group traded 38.150 million shares worth N423.122

J A N UA RY DEALS

million. Looking ahead, United Capital Plc said “we expect positive sentiment to drive the market, as bargain hunting continues. We expect the local bourse to record a positive performance this week. Investors are expected to continue to cherry-pick stocks with strong fundamentals, (value or growth) for dividend scouting investors, ahead of full year, 2023 earnings season. At different intervals, we expect profit booking and mild sell-offs.”

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

ABIODUN Marks Armed Forces Remembrance Day...

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, during the Special Parade/Laying of Wreath Ceremony to mark the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at the Arcade Ground, Governor's Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta... yesterday

Tinubu, Buhari, Akpabio, Governor Sanwo-Olu Celebrate Akande at 85 President: He’s someone of principles, integrity, loyalty, truth He's a wise man, says ex-Nigerian leader

Deji Elumoye, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Segun James in Lagos President Bola Tinubu, his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, today, rejoice with a former governor of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande, as he marks his 85th birthday. While Tinubu described Akande as a man of principles of integrity, loyalty, and truth, among other attributes, Buhari said he was a wise man, Akpabio identified him as a conscientious stateman, and Sanwo-Olu painted him as a courageous, exemplary, honest and an advocate of good governance. Tinubu, in a release by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, extolled Akande's defining principles of integrity, loyalty, truth, and justice, recalling his exemplary leadership odyssey and selfless service to Nigeria. "Baba was a principal actor in the founding of our great party, the All Progressives' Congress. He has always been a progressive; always noble and disciplined in thoughts and actions, as well as given to rational and enlightened ideals. “He is a cherished friend and

confidant, ever so generous with his wise counsel. I celebrate him," he said, wishing Akande many more years in good health and strength, and thanking him for his unfailing support and sacrifice over the years and now. Buhari, in a message to Akande, described him as a wise man under whose watch the party made great strides. The former president said he and the celebrant shared common positions on a number of political issues and others affecting the nation, saying, “He is very wise man, who laid solid foundation for the growth and development of our party.” Buhari said he believed that the party was structured and maintained in a way to meet the developmental needs of the country. Akpabio, in a congratulatory message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, said Akande remained an accomplished democrat and dependable politician. “Sir, I am happy to identify with you and I can attest to your indelible contributions to the sociopolitical development of the country. As a statesman, you have always stood on the path of truth and

justice, speaking truth to power. “As a politician, you played a pioneering role in laying the foundation for the birth of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and indeed set standards in party politics and political engineering. “His records of hard work and commitment to excellence speaks for him. Chief Akande, as governor of Osun State, displayed statecraft, which etched the state on solid footing of infrastructural development. “Being a democrat of progres-

sive bent, you were active in the struggle against military rule and your resilience and courage can never go unnoticed. You fought alongside other progressives such as President Bola Tinubu to restore the democracy we are enjoying today,” he said. The Lagos governor said Akande was an epitome of true federalism, a true democrat and respected political icon, who made a great impact in the lives of many Nigerians through politics and governance. Sanwo-Olu, in a statement by his

The outcome of the Coroner’s inquest into the death of 12-year-old Dowen College student Sylvester Oromoni, will be made known by April 2, 2024 The coroner, Magistrate Mikhail Kadiri, made this known during the adoption of final written addresses by parties involved in the case, yesterday. Kadiri said that findings from the inquest, which began on Nov. 30,

2021, before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court, would be made public. Counsels in the suit adopted their final written addresses at the proceedings yesterday. Chief Femi Falana (SAN) represented the Oromoni family while Mr. Anthony Kpokpo represented Dowen College. Sylvester Oromoni Jnr. reportedly died on November 30, 2021, at a private hospital in Warri, Delta, after alleged health complications at Dowen College, Lagos.

Second Republic. He is an advocate of good governance, restructuring and true federalism in Nigeria. "Baba Akande was an extraordinary public servant and administrator whose commitment to selfless public service remains a lesson for those of us currently in public office and those who aspire to public service. "All through his long years of exemplary service and throughout the pro-democracy struggle, Chief Bisi Akande remained consistent and was a dependable man of integrity.”

Marafa: Tinubu's Non-interference in S'Court Judgement Saved Democracy Deji Elumoye in Abuja Zamfara State Coordinator of the Campaign Council of President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 general election, Senator Kabiru Garba Marafa, has said the non-interference of the president in the judgment of the Supreme Court on governorship tussles, has saved the country's

democracy and rekindled hope in the judiciary. The apex Court had on Friday affirmed the elections of eight governors: Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi State), Alex Otti (Abia) and Bassey

Coroner's Findings into Late Sylvester Oromoni's Death to be Released April 12 Sunday Ehigiator

Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, celebrated Akande for his commitment to public service, especially during his tenure as the first Governor of Osun State. He added that Akande remained a beacon of hope for younger generations in a country where many believed that politics was a means for wealth acquisition. “Chief Bisi Akande, a true democrat, has been a member of the progressive camp for many decades. He has been playing active roles in party politics and governance in Nigeria since the

After his death, the Lagos State Government shut the school and set up a coroner’s inquest to unravel the circumstances surrounding his death after his parents alleged that the deceased mentioned the names of some of his schoolmates whom he accused of bullying him. The family also insisted that their son died from injuries he suffered as a result of bullying by five senior students of the college, and claimed that he was not treated by the school after the incident.

However, Dowen College claims the JS2 student was not bullied or attacked by any student but was injured during a football match with fellow students. The inquest began sitting in January 2022, on October 1, 2023, the mother of the deceased, Rosemary Oromoni, testified as the last witness before the coroner. She told the court that her late son had never had any health challenges before the complaints he made a few days after his death.

Otu (Cross River). Marafa, in a statement in Abuja, said President Tinubu and the justices of the apex court lived up to the expectations of Nigerians, saying posterity would judge them well for allowing the will of the Nigerian voters to prevail. He commended the president, who, according to the Governor of Kano State, stood his grounds not to interfere with judicial processes despite all pressures to do so by party loyalists. "It is a welcome development. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has by this singular action of noninterference in the Supreme Court judgement saved the country's democracy and forestalled the repeat of the 1983 scenario. “You will recall that it was after the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) grabbed states that were hitherto of the opposition that the Second Republic collapsed," he said. Hailing the justices of the Supreme Court, Marafa said they lived up to the expectations of the Nigerian masses, and that they had made the country proud and written their names in gold. Marafa, who represented

Zamfara Central Senatorial District between 2011 and 2019, said the outcome of the apex court decision on the governorship elections has reinforced his belief in the ability and capacity of the judiciary to right any wrong in the political evolution. He recalled a similar incident during the buildup to the 2019 general election in which he was the leading contender for the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State. According to him, "I protested the conduct of the kangaroo primaries and the imposition of candidates by the then Governor Abdulaziz Yari, the judiciary stood up to the occasion and delivered a landmark judgment that gave the whole state to the PDP opposition party. "The judiciary must be allowed to be just and fair, no matter whose ox is gored. This is necessary if the political actors want democracy to endure in the country," he said. Marafa, however, urged the eight governors to be magnanimous, just and fair in governing their respective states.

T H I S D AY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024

NEWS

EXCLUSIVE SHOWMAX’S REBRANDING...

L-R: Head of Marketing, Showmax, Arinola Shobande; Executive Head, Content and West Africa Channels, Dr Busola Tejumola; Cast of Showmax Original, Wura, Scarlet Gomez; and General Manager, PHOTO: SUNDAY ADIGUN Showmax Nigeria, Opeoluwa Filani at the press conference to announce the new Showmax brand in Lagos …yesterday

Tinubu's High Powered Team Inspects MV Kali, Vessel Arrested with Stolen Crude Oil Commends Tantita, other private security firms

Sylvester Idowu in Warri President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deployed a high powered team yesterday to inspect MV Kali, the vessel that was arrested last Thursday at Pennington Oil field in Bayelsa with stolen crude, by operatives of the Tantita Security Services Limited (TSSL) and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa, led other team members comprising the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye; Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company

Limited (NNPCL) Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari and Chief Upstream Investment Officer, Bala Wunti. They were joined by the Commander, Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira and Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship Delta, Commodore Chindo Yahaya and other senior military officers. Speaking with Journalists shortly after inspection of the vessel and 23 crew members and accomplices arrested at Oporoza in Warri South West Local Government area of Delta State, yesterday, General Musa said President Bola Ahmed

Tinubu directed the "high powered team" to visit the scene and inspect the vessel. He noted that the team was in Oporoza based on the arrested vessel which he said was a major achievement adding, "It shows that we are committed in ensuring that we stop this criminality within the maritime environment.” General Musa said the successes recorded were not solely by an organization but a collaborative effort to stem further crude oil theft in the region. "This is a collaborative effort and we will continue to collaborate with the NNPCL and other private

security agencies. The main federal government agencies are also working together. I don't want a situation where we create it as if there's enmity between this group and that group. "We're working for the same goal; we are all Nigerians. This is our country. Whatever is happening here are acts of criminality that must be stopped by all means. So, I want to make that very clear that all Nigerians must put hands on deck to ensure that we stop these acts. "The country is bleeding. We need all the forms we need so that this country can grow and develop and it just by stopping criminals like this that will make that very

possible”, he said. He said further, "So why we are here is to come and see; to identify them. The Chief of Defense Intelligence is going to go straight into investigation as to who is involved, what was taken, who sent them, and this is because we want to catch the perpetrators. "These ones are just the ground troops that are being used; the main actors are there behind, and I want to use this opportunity to warn all those that don't want to stop this - that enough is enough". The CDS noted that the armed forces, the security agencies, communities and private security

APC Describes Utomi as Serial Promoter of Merger Parties Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, has described a

chieftain of the Labour Party, LP, Prof. Pat Utomi, as a serial promoter of mega parties. The National Publicity Secretary

of the party, Felix Morka, stated this in a statement issued Monday while reacting to a statement credited to Utomi on a possible merger among

I’m Sustaining My Brother’s Legacy of Good Governance, Says Adeleke Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state has described the first Governor of Osun state, Senator Isiaka Adeleke as a passionate lover of good governance and a patriot with selfless leadership attributes. The governor spoke at the posthumous birthday of the late first governor of Osun state and the unveiling of the statutes of former governors of the state as well as the commissioning of late Isiaka Adetunji Memorial Circle, Park and Garden. Adeleke paid tributes to both the living and late governors of Osun state, recalling with nostalgia the fond memories of his late brother whom he said laid a sustainable foundation for a new Osun state. Commending the military and civilian governors who had governed the state in the past, Adeleke said his motivation for the memorial circle was to preserve memories of previous leaders as a collection point for Osun state leadership history. “My vision is to preserve the fond memories of past governors among which my brother, Governor Adeleke was the pioneer occupant of the democratic leadership. I seek

a point where our young ones can access details of who has governed Osun state and years of their service to the state. “We also have a park at the circle where our people can hold meetings and relax while in the capital for one task or the other. I am preserving the good work of our leaders. My sacred responsibility is to build on the records and experiences of former leaders to further develop our state. “While my brother was the first executive governor of the state, it has pleased God to make me the sixth state governor. With that heavy burden of leadership, I am pushed to work harder and sustain my brother’s legacy of good governance and human development. “I must perform and I am performing. I must deliver and I'm delivering. The best way to uphold the legacy of former governors and especially my late brother, is to deliver on good governance”, the governor stated. Accompanied by the wife of the late Adeleke who is the Commissioner for Federal Affairs and the Timi of Ede, Oba Muniru Adesola Lawal, the state governor separately commissioned the stature and the garden in presence of top officials.

The officials included: the Deputy Governor of the state, Prince Kola Adewusi; the Secretary to the State Government, Hon Teslim Igbalaye; the Chief of Staff to the governor, Hon Kazeem Akinleye and members of the State Executive Council.

the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), LP and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) ahead of 2027. He said: “As a serial promoter of mega parties that never materialize, Prof. Pat Utomi’s statement cannot be taken that seriously. "In 2021, Prof Utomi and his collaborators disturbed the airwaves with plans to launch a peoplecentered ideological mega party under the auspices of the National Consultative Front (NCFront) to dislodge the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). That plan did not go past the news headlines. "Now in 2024, Prof. Utomi is touting a possible merger or col-

laboration between the Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the PDP, vastly the political parties, according to him, that are bereft of any ideological orientation or did not manage to create an alignment with the Nigerian People to improve the quality of their lives. "One can only infer that Prof. Utomi may be positing that his personal involvement in the proposed alliance will transform the same parties, he has adjudged to be decadent and anti-people, into bastions of political and economic liberty for Nigerians. That is an unmitigated delusion of grandeur.”

agencies were working in synergy to achieve a common goal. "The Armed Forces, the security agencies, the communities, private security agencies, wherever they are; as long as they are contracted by the federal government, we are going to work together as a team", he said. Insisting that there was no competition amongst the security agencies and the private security companies, General Musa advised the media to stop making it look like there were fights amongst them. "Whatever arrests done are collaborative efforts. We are going to continue to do that. And so that is very important. "We are happy that these have been arrested. We are going to take it off from here and we are going to do more because, henceforth, we are going to enhance our collaboration in ensuring that we check these menace", he added. He noted that Nigeria must grow and warned that individuals cannot hold the nation to ransom adding: "There are very few individuals who are making profit from this. And they don't want to stop because I would have expected that by now, from all the actions that have been taken to discourage people from doing it. But you can see that people are still hell-bent to steal our crude for their own selfish gains and that must stop. "We will enhance this capacity, and this year, we will ensure that Nigeria oil production goes up, as much as possible, so that we can all benefit as Nigerians."

Falola: Why Nigerian Varsities Must Expose Students to Diverse African Cultures Funmi Ogundare

A Professor of History at the University of Texas at Austen, USA, Toyin Falola, yesterday, called on the universities in Nigeria to expand their general courses and programmes to expose students at an early stage of their university education to the cultural properties of different cultures and people in Africa. Falola who made the call while delivering the 54th convocation lecture of the University of Lagos, titled: ‘’Decolonising African Higher Education for Transformational Development’', explained that such move, will allow local understanding of the values of the people. He added that the courses

will provide insights into African epistemology, offering philosophical justifications and exposing the logic behind intellectually starved African wisdom. "This will sharpen individual's perspectives on subject matters around the continent, contributing to global debates on whether there was an African logic at an early point and fostering an understanding of African logic," he stated. The university don stated that the courses would also take people back to the creative nods and mentalities of the old, while highlighting the role of African innovations in the comprehensive development of the continent. "The aim is to help young people

draw solutions from the past and understand the high possibilities of history-changing events and inventions starting from Africa," he added. Falola also called for an interdisciplinary combined Honours programme in culture, science and economics which would strengthen efforts towards decolonising of African universities. The move, he noted, will involve an approach to education that allows students to explore and integrate knowledge from the academic disciplines of culture, science and economics. " The interdisciplinary honours programme will feature a series of fundamental courses that establish a

strong basis in each of these fields. Moreover, students would have the freedom to select optional courses based on their interests in culture, science and economics." He also proposed the creation of Centre of Creative Economies at the University of Lagos, in order to train students that would become entrepreneurs and come up with ideas that would resonate with the intermeddling with culture and creativity. Earlier in her remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola stated that it was imperative to examine Nigeria’s tertiary education system in Africa because it is what will shape minds for national development.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

Enhancing the Digital Skill Training in Nigeria...

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Swifta Systems and Services, Mr. Ayo Farinu; IT Trainer, House of Heroz Technology, (HOH),Mr. Godswill Umoh; Project Leader, Tech Unlock and CEO, HOH, Mr. David Ogebe; Human Resource Partner, Tech Unlock, Umama David; and Product Manager DOT, Mr. Glory Olamigoke, at the press conference of Tech Unlock Nigeria on Enhancing the Digital Skill Training in Nigeria PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT held in Lagos, yesterday

Military Dazes Terrorists Who Attempted to Ransack Their Katsina Camp Neutralises eight of them, residents flee in heat of gunbattle

Francis Sardauna in Katsina Troops, Sunday night, dazed some terrorists, who attempted to ransack their camp in Nahuta village in Batsari Local Government Area

of Katsina State, and killed eight of the terrorists in the process. The development, however, forced residents to flee the area after a fierce gunbattle between both parties.

The rampaging suspected terrorists, armed with sophisticated weapons, and riding on many motorcycles, attacked the joint military camp on Sunday night. Several attempts to confirm the

incident from military authorities in Katsina and the state police command were futile as of press time. But a credible security source, who confirmed the development

on telephone to THISDAY, said the hoodlums invaded the military camp in a large number. “The attack took place at about 11 pm on Sunday. The fierce gunbattle lasted for several

US, Nigeria's Senior Military Officers Meet, Seek Collaboration on Curbing Extremism Ugo Aliogo

Senior military chiefs from the United States and Nigeria have met to foster betee bilateral relations between both countries. US Marine Corps, Gen. Michael Langley; Commander, US Africa Command and US Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Michael Woods and the command’s senior enlisted leader, visited Nigeria, January 10-11, 2024, a statement by Langley and Woods who engaged with Maj. Gen. EV Onumajuru, Chief of Defence Training and Operations, said. The statement also noted that the leaders discussed opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries, efforts to counter violent extremism

in the region, and Nigeria’s leadership when addressing regional security. Langley reaffirmed the United States’ long-standing cooperation with Nigeria, which has the largest population, economy, and democracy in Africa. "Cooperation and training between the US and Nigerian militaries is vital in addressing the evolving security landscape in West Africa and advancing common interests. This visit underscores the United States’ commitment to work in partnership with West African nations in promoting security, stability and prosperity across the region,” Langley said. Around West Africa, extremist groups exploit weak governance and environmental

stressors, causing instability. This insecurity not only affects the region but also poses a global threat by fostering terrorism and exacerbating humanitarian crises. The US Mission Nigeria Chargé d’Affaires, David Greene, revealed that instability in West Africa requires collaboration including intelligence sharing and capacity building to address. He remarked that in partnership with Nigeria, the United States aims to counter terrorism, provide humanitarian assistance, and achieve the security needed for economic growth. The statement also noted that Langley also met with Nigerian alumni of the embassy’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) and other programmes, where he shared his perspective on

leadership and learned about the alumni’s achievements. The statement added that Langley and Woods further met with embassy diplomatic and military personnel, several of whom he recognised for their accomplishments. The statement noted: “US Africa Command is one of seven US Department of Defence geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all US military operations, exercises, and security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity. “The visit highlights US Africa Command's 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy,

Bello Leaving Kogi More Prosperous, Transformed, Says NIA DG Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The Director General, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Abubakar, has commended Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi state for what he described as his exceptional achievements in the state. Abubakar, in a commendation letter he personally signed and addressed to Bello, congratulated him on his notable strides since he assumed office as Kogi governor in 2016, saying his various infrastructural projects had opened up the state as one of Nigeria's main trade routes. While congratulating the

governor and the Kogi state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on winning the just concluded governorship election in the state, the NIA boss noted that the governor was leaving the North Central state more prosperous, developed and transformed. He listed infrastructural projects, renovation of the Okene Reference hospital and the establishment of Omi Rice Farm as some of the plethora of achievements of the Yahaya Bello administration. Abubakar, in the letter, titled, "Acknowledging Your Remarkable Achievements as Governor," explained how Bello's enhanced

public services and facilities, added value to agricultural production and rejigged Kogi's economy. "As your tenure as the governor of Kogi State draws to a close, I write to congratulate you and acknowledge the notable achievements of your administration during your two tenures as governor since you assumed office in 2016. I would also like to congratulate you and the Kogi State chapter of the APC for winning the just concluded Gubernatorial elections. "During your time as governor of Kogi State, the various infrastructural projects undertaken by your administration have

significantly improved the state's connectivity and accessibility as one of Nigeria's main trade routes from the West and South to Northern parts of the country. "The renovation of the Okene Reference hospital is a testament to your dedication to enhancing public services and facilities. Similarly, the establishment of Omi Rice Farm, one of the largest in Nigeria, is a clear demonstration of your administration's commitment to adding value to agricultural production,” he said. Abubakar wished Bello success in his future endeavours, while enjoying more quality time with his family.

development, and defence collaboration,” the statement added.

hours,” he said, adding that the military took cover in safe places, where they were able to repel the terrorists. The source, who worked in the area, explained that hundreds of residents of the affected village had deserted the area and now taking refuge in Wagini and Batsari towns. A resident of the community, Adamu Aliyu told THISDAY that eight terrorists were killed during the fierce gunbattle and their corpses were recovered by the military personnel. “After the gunbattle, the military and other security personnel recovered eight dead bodies of the bandits in bushes around Nahuta this (Monday) evening,” he said.

Insecurity: Sani Musa Advocates State Police, Intelligence Gathering to Combat Crimes Sunday Aborisade in Abuja The Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, who is representing Niger East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Sani Musa, has called for the establishment of State Police, as a panacea to the current insecurity in the country. Musa, also advocated massive recruitment of into the armed forces as well as adopting new tactics in intelligence gathering to address the state of insecurity caused by multiple crimes, banditry and spate of kidnappings across the country. The Senator made the suggestion in a statement yesterday. He also called on the federal government to re-engineer the nation’s security architecture against the backdrop that the present one was not working. He said all the tiers of government and Nigerians must recognise the fact that security remains essential for the survival and flourishing of any society. He said it has become imperative that all hands must be on deck to ensure the protection of individuals, communities, and the entire nation against dangers and attacks. Musa urged Nigerians to give President Bola Tinubu the needed support and encouragement to do the needful in the nation's quest for renewed hope.

He added that Tinubu has the vision, the capabilities, the political capacity and institutional coherence to do those things that would rediscover and place Nigeria back on the path of economic growth, security and prosperity. Musa also emphasised on the challenges and influence of drug abuse as sought the introduction of the effects of drug abuse in the schools curricula. Musa said: " The issue of insecurity in Nigeria has become something of grave concern to me and all well-meaning Nigerians, most of whom continue to wonder how the country arrived at such a dastardly situation where no one is safe. "Worse still, rather than abate, the problem is escalating and now totally out of control. "I have repeatedly spoken and issued statements on this very disturbing issue, especially as it affects my state, Niger, its neighbouring states and other parts of the country. "Security is so important that every government in Nigeria spends a substantial part of its money on its provision. "Therefore we shall leave no stone unturned to give the needed push for the enhancement of security in our land. Every community is only as strong or weak as the state of its security."

TUESday january 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

COURTESY VISIT…

Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Benin-City Branch, Nosa Francis Edo-Osagie(left), making a presentation to the new Commissioner of Police, Edo State Police Command, Funsho Adegboye, during courtesy visit by the CP to the leadership of the NBA in Benin-city… recently

Ekiti Varsity Teaching Hospital Declares Strike as Hoodlums Attack Doctors Gbenga SodeindeinAdoEkiti Activities have been paralysed at the EKITI State University Teaching Hospital, EKSUTH, Ado-Ekiti, as a result of emergency and indefinite strike declared by labour unions at the hospital following an attack by suspected hoodlums who invaded the hospital. It was reported that some

suspected hoodlums on Monday invaded the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti and attacked some doctors. In addition, the hoodlums destroyed some facilities at the hospital and stole a corpse suspected to be the father of one of the hoodlums. At the moment, the Association of Resident Doctors (ARDs), Ekiti

Boat Carrying 100 Passengers Capsizes in Niger Laleye Dipo in Minna

The fate of no less than 100 passengers traveling in a boat from Dugga Mashaya in Dugga ward of Kebbi State heading to Wara in Borgu Local Government of Niger State is still uncertain following the capsize of the vehicle. The boat reportedly capsized at about 2.05 p.m. on Monday. Apart from the 100 passengers, the boat was said to be ferrying some goods, including grains and

sugarcane to the Wara market. The Public Relations Officer of Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Mr. Abdul Hussaini, confirmed the incident but said that details about the incident were still sketchy. Hussaini said that as at 6p.m. yesterday day “no clear information about death and survivors” has been received. He, however, disclosed that search and rescue operations are ongoing by the local divers.

State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, has directed its members to embark on indefinite strike with immediate effect. This was contained in a letter addressed to the Chief Medical

Director, Professor Kayode Olabanji, and signed by the President of the ARDs, Dr. Famous Adeyemi. The letter read: “The above named association writes to notify you of the decision of

the emergency congress– held today embark on an indefinite strike with immediate effect. “This followed the actions of hoodlums who stormed the accident and emergency unit of the

hospital in the early hours of today and assaulted some members of the association, destroyed several hospital equipment, and properties and stole a corpse during the attack.

FUTA Students Protest School Fees Hike

Fidelis David in Akure

Students of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Ondo State, yesterday kicked against the alleged decision of the management to increase their tuition fees.

The protesters, who occupied the main gate of the institution, creating a blockade and preventing any entry and exit, insisted that the management must return to status quo ante. Speaking with journalists, the President of FUTA Students Union,

Olayemi Oluwasoromidayo, pleaded with the management of the school to maintain the previous years’ school fees. He said: “The student body has met with the management many times but it refused to yield to our demands, so we decided

to stage the protest.” Oluwasoromidayo pointed out that the management had increased the school fees to over N200, 000 for fresh students while old students who were paying N35,000 would now pay N130, 000.

Kwara Adopts Measures to Curb Illegal Mining as FG Seeks Collaboration Folalumi Alaran in Ilorin

The Kwara State Commissioner for Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Abdulquawiy Olododo, has disclosed that the state has adopted robust measures to curb illicit mining activities.

The commissioner made the disclosure during the 5th National Council on Mining and Minerals Resources Development (NCMMRD) in Ilorin yesterday. Olododo said: “As part of the state government’s efforts, we are collaborating with security agencies and federal authorities to

significantly reduce illegal mining activities. “We aim to organise miners into cooperatives, ensuring adherence to government policies. Those not complying will face consequences.” On the need for states’ involvement in federal policies on mining, Olododo highlighted

the state’s plans to attract investors through the revalidation of expired licenses. He underscored the importance of synergy between state and federal governments for effective policy execution, emphasising the significance of grassroots involvement.

N4.8bn Fraud: EFCC Asks Appeal Court to Dismiss Cletus Ibeto’s Suit Wale Igbintade

to nullify the bench warrant

challenging its jurisdiction to

hearing notice served on him.

Crimes Commission (EFCC) has urged the Court of Appeal Lagos Division to dismiss an appeal filed by the Chairman of Ibeto Energy Development Company, Cletus Ibeto, seeking

The EFCC told the appellate court that the lower court has the power to order the arrest of the businessman, notwithstanding that he filed a preliminary objection

November 3, 2023, ordered the defendant’s arrest after he failed to appear before the court on four different occasions to take his plea over an alleged N4.8 billion fraud despite repeated

his companies, Ibeto Energy Development Company and Odoh Holdings Ltd, on a 10-count charge of conspiracy, fraud, forgery and fraudulent use of documents.

against him by a Lagos trial him. The anti-graft agency had ESIPO Positions Self for Bullish 2024 The Economic and Financial issued State High Court sitting in Ikeja. Justice Ismail Ijelu had, on charged the defendant alongside Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city

The Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO) has said it is preparing for a prosperous 2024 as market indicators signal a bullish trend. Amid projected favourable economic conditions for Nigeria in 2024, the investment promotion agency conducted a one-day strategy meeting with staff and top management officials to capitalise on emerging opportunities across various sectors. Highlighting positives from the Nigerian economy, an

Economist, Mrs. Ese Oshiote, while outlining the opportunities for ESIPO to journalists in Benin-city yesterday, said, Nigeria’s GDP is expected to grow at 3.3 percent in 2024, the non-oil sector i.e. agriculture, construction, trade and services is predicted to be the driver of the set growth target. She also noted that in the last six years, Edo State has solidified its position as the leading state for capital inflow, attracting key investors in palm oil, manufacturing (Saro), oil and gas (Duport Refinery), agro-processing, and others.

Yoruba Community Congratulates Bauchi Gov, Deputy on Supreme Court Victory Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Yoruba community in Bauchi State has congratulated the state Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, and his Deputy, Hon Auwal Jatau, on their electoral victory at the Supreme Court last Friday.

The President-General of the Yoruba Community in the state, Apostle Segun Awofadeji, in his congratulatory message issued and made available to journalists yesterday described the victory as the validation of the will of the people of the state. Awofadeji said: “On behalf of

the Yoruba community in Bauchi State, I sincerely congratulate and rejoice with His Excellency, the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and his Deputy, Hon Auwal Jatau, on their confirmed victory at the Supreme Court. “This judgment has put to an end to the needless bickering,

distractions and litigation that greeted the 2023 governorship election. It is our hope that all of us as indigenes and residents in the state will team up with our dear Governor, Kauran Bauchi and Jagaban Katagum, to move the state forward in the overall interest of the state.

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has said plans are underway to establish a Security Trust Fund, as part of measures to complement the efforts of security agencies in the state. Speaking during this year’s

Yusuf explained that the Trust Fund would soon be inaugurated. He said: “What I intend to do is to inaugurate the Security Trust Fund. We have gone far on that. “Very soon, we are going to invite the eminent Kano State

and contribute to it so that at least, we can take measures to curtail the security situation in the state.” However, the governor commemorated the families of the falling heroes and promised to collaborate with the Nigerian

military personnel. “We commemorate the departure of our armed forces personnel annually. Those who have laid down their lives during their services to the country.

28 Years after, Takum Gets Kano to Establish Security Trust Fund, Says Gov Yusuf New Paramount Ruler Armed Forces Remembrance indigenes, as well as eminent Army on how to support the Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano Day yesterday in Kano, Governor Nigerians we feel can come in bereaved families of the late

Wole Ayodele in Jalingo

Twenty-Eight years after the demise of the last paramount ruler of Takum, Ukwe Ali Ibrahim Kufang Ii, a new Ukwe has finally been selected according to Kuteb culture and tradition. In a press statement released by the Kuteb leadership and signed by Fili, the new crown prince has been enthroned after undergoing all the basic rites of ascension to the paramount throne of Ukwe Takum. Ukwe Takum, according to the release, is the paramount ruler of Takum and the spiritual leader of the Kuteb people who are a

Jukunoid tribe of Southern Taraba and ancient Kwarrarafa Kingdom. The new Ukwe, according to the press release, would be presented to the state government for recognition and preparation towards presentation of the staff of the office. Failure to fill the vacant stool of Ukwe Takum, which is a first Class stool since 1996, according to the Kuteb leaders, was due to the laxity and lack of commitment by successive Taraba State’s governors despite recommendations by series of committees of enquiries that affirmed that the paramount throne of Ukwe Takum is the exclusive preserve of Kuteb.

UNILAG Convocation: SPGS Academic Gowns Stolen, Bus Vandalised Esther Oluku

As the University of Lagos (UNILAG) holds its 54th convocation ceremony this week, the school management has revealed that post-graduate academic gowns, which were

paid for and scheduled for distribution to the graduating students, have been stolen. According to the school management, the gowns were stolen and the bus in which they were being conveyed vandalised. Many of the students, who

were scheduled to collect their academic gowns, expressed frustration in the inability of the school to provide the gowns after a long wait. The management of the university School of PostGraduate Studies (SPGS) in a text

message sent to post-graduate students said: “Dear graduate, we regret to inform you that the distribution of SPGS academic gowns is now suspended. Sadly, the remaining gowns were stolen, and our bus vandalised this afternoon.”

tuesday january 16, 2024 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

BALOGUN FAMILY HOLDS NEW YEAR PRAYER SESSION…

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Chapel Hill Denham, Mr. Bolaji Balogun; his son Oluwadayo; Group Chief Executive, FCMB Group Plc, Mr. Ladi Balogun; former Governor of Ogun State and Senator, Otunba Gbenga Daniel; wife of late Otunba Subomi Balogun (Founder, FCMB Group), Olori Abimbola Balogun; sister of late Otunba Balogun, Mrs. Aderonke Atere; Chief Executive Officer, Primrose Development Company Limited, Mr. Jide Balogun, and Chief Executive Officer of CSL Capital UK, Mr. Gboyega Balogun, during the Balogun family’s New Year Prayer event held in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State…recently

Police Bust Criminal Gang, Kill One, Recover Arms in Anambra

David-Chyddy Eleke inAwka

Police operatives in Anambra State have busted a criminal gang and killed one member of the gang. The Spokesman of Anambra State Police Command, DSP. Tochukwu Ikenga, revealed that the gang were accosted at a checkpoint on Sunday evening when they were traveling in a commercial vehicle from Nnewi

to Onitsha, but one of the gang members quickly drew a berretta pistol, but was gunned down by the police. Ikenga said: “Officers attached to Anambra State Police Command have smashed an armed gang at Igboukwu in Aguata LGA. “The gang, which boarded a commercial bus from Nnewi on Sunday January 14, 2024, arrived a police checkpoint and was stopped

Hashim Sabo Confirmed as Substantive Rector of ATAP, Lawan Sambo Registrar

Segun Awofadeji inBauchi

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has ordered for the immediate confirmation of Dr. Hashim Sabo as the substantive Rector and Lawan Sambo as Registrar of Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic Bauchi (ATAP). Mohammed gave the order yesterday at the Government House while receiving management of the polytechnic on a congratulatory visit over his recent victory at the Supreme Court. He said that his decision for the confirmation was informed by recognition of their hard work

for a search. One of the hoodlums alighted, pulled a berretta pistol, but was gunned down. “A search of the bag they were travelling with yielded a concealed

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has assured the people of the state that he’s not in a hurry to rejig the State Executive Council (SEC) as being rumoured. This is just as the governor stated that with the ongoing efforts to take the state to an enviable

At least, three persons lost their lives in an accident that happened on Sunday, which involved a commercial bus traveling from Awka to Ekwulobia. Three persons, which were made up of the driver of the vehicle and two passengers, were burnt beyond recognition after the vehicle veered off the road, summersaults and burst into flames.

of Police, CP. Aderemi Adeoye, ordered the immediate release of two elderly passengers who boarded the bus at a different location.

height, Ondo State would soon be economically progressive with a lot of business investors trooping into the state. Aiyedatiwa stated these yesterday through his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on a radio programme tagged: ‘Guest of the Week’, aired on Radio Nigeria (Positive FM, 102.5) in Akure, the

state capital. He said: “Mr. Governor will take his time to put his team together. He would not rush to do anything. He has a team that is already working to put the right team together. “He is already meeting with stakeholders. And I can assure you that when the time is ripe,

he will put the right team together.” Aiyedatiwa emphasised that his administration is committed to speeding up development in all spheres of sectors to enhance economic growth in the state, most especially with the continuation of projects embarked upon by his late principal, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

Fubara Commends Tinubu for Tackling Insecurity, Economic Challenges

and outstanding commitment in moving the institution forward while heading the respective Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt positions in acting capacity. According to the governor, the confirmation letters would be issued Rivers State Governor, Mr. Fubara, has to both the rector and the registrar Siminalayi commended President Bola in due course. Responding on behalf of the Tinubu for his determination management of the institution, to tackle economic and security The Rector of ATAP, Dr. Hashim challenges with a political will Sabo, said that the visit was to that will end the activities of join teaming well-wishers in congratulating the governor for what he described as a well- Chuks OkochainAbuja deserved victory, maintained that their confirmation was a Former Director-General of the great honour. Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, Osaro Onaiwu, yesterday joined the Edo State governorship race, as he paid the N30 million nomination and and commenced investigation N5 million Expression of Interest into the matter. He advised the public to be more vigilant and report Yinka Kolawole inOsogbo any suspicious movement to security agencies. The Chairman, Security A chieftain of the Peoples Committee of residents Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun of the area, Malam Gafai State, Prince Dotun Babayemi, has Katsina, told NAN that alerted security agencies in the state the bandits, who were 15 of alleged plans by the party led by in number and armed with its state Chairman, Mr. Sunday Bisi, sophisticated weapons, stormed the Dogarawa New Layout at about 2 a.m. Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Boko Haram terrorists and other internal security threats from non-state actors. The state governor made the commendation yesterday at the final lap of the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Port Harcourt. While speaking, Fubara assured the state that his

administration would continue to support the country’s armed forces to enable them discharge their constitutional responsibilities to Rivers State and the country. The governor also described as profound the fierce operations of men and officers of the military against non-state actors,

who he said continued to fight insurrection and ensure the reign of peace in Nigeria. He said Nigerian soldiers have continued to perform their constitutional duties in the most dangerous circumstances by putting their lives on the line for all Nigerians both at home and abroad.

Onaiwu Picks Edo PDP Guber Form, Says It’s Time to Reward Loyalty forms respectively. With Onaiwu’s purchase of the governorship form, it brings the number to seven aspirants that have joined the race on the PDP platform. Others aspirants that had picked the governorship form are Asue Igbodalo, Felix Akhabue, Anslem Ojezua, Philip Shaibu

and Omosede Igbinedion. The spokesperson of his campaign organisation, Solution 2024, Zayannu Ubandoria, picked the forms on behalf of Onaiwu. He said: “This is the time to reward Osaro Onaiwu who has been in active service of the PDP in the last 24 years. He is also a

foundation member of the PDP since inception.” Ubandoria explained that Onaiwu was bringing to the table a campaign based on competency and character, as “he will ensure the protection of lives and property and massive social development and economic advancement.”

Osun PDP Chairman Wants to Set Osun on Fire, Ex-guber Aspirant Alleges to unleash terror on him (Babayemi) and his supporters across the state. To this effect, Babayemi, a former governorship aspirant on the platform of the PDP, urged the state Police Command and the Directorate of State Security Services (DSS) to invite the state

party chairman for questioning. Babayemi made the calls in a statement issued, signed and made available to THISDAY by his media office yesterday while reacting to the threat of Bisi to hound his (Babayemi’s) supporters out of the state.

He remarked that the PDP state chairman had last Sunday in a video while at Awo, Egbedore Local Government Area of the state, threatened to make life unbearable for the supporters of Babayemi across all the local government areas of the state.

Edugate: IPF Writes Tinubu, Says Enemies after Tunji-Ojo

Driver, Two Passengers Burnt in Anambra Accident David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

way was ordered to be set free by the Anambra State Police Commissioner, CP. Aderemi Adeoye. He said: “The Commissioner

Aiyedatiwa: I’m Not in Rush to Rejig My Cabinet

Fidelis David inAkure

Police Confirms Abduction of Mother, Son in Zaria The Police Command in Kaduna State yesterday confirmed the abduction of Halimatus Sa’adiya Bello and her 17-year-old son, Yusuf Bello, at Dogarawa Area, Sabon Gari Local Government Area of the state. ASP Mansur Hassan, the command’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Zaria. Hassan said the police have swung into action in an effort to rescue the victims

dagger.” Ikenga said that two passengers in the vehicles who were deemed not to be a members of the gang, but boarded the vehicle along the

The incident happened along the Ezinano-Nkwo Agulu section of the Agulu Road. An eye witness, Mr. Chinonso, who survived that accident, recounted the harrowing incident. He said: “Our 14-seater Mitsubishi bus that loaded at Amawbiawas was transporting us to Ekwubha. “I was headed to Ufuma. After departing Amawbia, a passenger cautioned the driver about the speed. Then, he attempted to avoid a pothole.

An ethnic group, Ijaw Professionals’ Forum (IPF), has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to be wary of enemies of his government, who are calling for the suspension of his Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Tunjo-Ojo has been dragged into the financial scandal involving the suspended Humanitarian Minister, Dr. Betta Edu. In an open letter to President Tinubu, the Ijaw professionals lauded the president for the manner he had so far handled issues affecting his government, especially his speedy treatment

of the Edu’s financial scandal. In the letter signed yesterday by its Secretary, Clarkson Ayibapreye, the forum urged the president to carefully evaluate the voices against Tunji-Ojo to avoid falling into the traps of the opposition and enemies of his government. The letter said: “The

president must always remember that his government has opposition. Once a story like this is in the public domain your opposition will also like to take undue advantage of it. “Enemies of the government will exaggerate and widen the net to rope-in all your key men.”

Obi, Lumumba,jointly Others Rally Youths to Secure Africa’s Future rallied the youths in Ghana 2024’, which event was called off after the cancellation of the event, UgoAliogo Acclaimed pan-African activists, Professor P. L. O. Lumumba, Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao, and the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, have

and other countries in Africa to remain resilient and help build the continent. In a statement issued by New Africa Foundation,, it was noted that the activists were billed to speak at the rally dubbed: ‘The Convention

at the last moment last Sunday. The statement also noted that ‘The Convention 2024’, was organised by New Africa Foundation, a self-funded non-governmental organisation. The statement further explained that at a media briefing,

Chihombori-Quao told journalists that the Foundation had requested the speakers to be in Ghana to address African youths starting with those in Ghana, but was called off a few hours to the start of the programme.

T H I S D AY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2024

TUESdaysports

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Camara Bags Brace as Senegal Kick off Cup Defence in Flying Start

Lamine Camara’s double helped Senegal get their Africa Cup of Nations title defence off to a winning start as they recorded a comprehensive 3-0 victory over

AFCON 2021 10-man Gambia. Pape Gueye put the 2021

champions ahead just four minutes in, while Gambia were reduced to 10 men when Cardiff midfielder Ebou Adams was sent off on the stroke of half-time.

Camara doubled their lead – seven minutes after the break – and wrapped up victory in style with a stunning curling strike in the closing stages.

Senegal took the lead in the fourth minute when Camara’s cross was cleared as far as Sadio Mane and the former Liverpool forward laid the ball off to Gueye on the

edge of the box, who smashed it first time into the bottom corner. Musa Barrow fired a free-kick from a tight angle into the sidenetting for Gambia and compatriot Ali Sowe had a great chance from a corner, but the cross was slightly too high as his header flashed wide. Gambia were handed a blow when – just before the break – Adams was shown a red card, eight minutes into first-half stoppage-time. The Teranga Lions took advantage of their extra player seven minutes into the second-half when Ismaila Sarr played Camara through and he tucked the ball into the bottom corner to extend their lead. They were nearly gifted a third when Yankuba Minteh found Habib Diallo in the six-yard box, but goalkeeper Baboucarr Gaye managed to smother the attempt. Gambia had two half-chances from Omar Colley, but Senegal remained in control with Gaye being called into action again to deny Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson from close range. Camara capped off the afternoon as he completed his brace in the 86th minute when Iliman Ndiaye weaved past the Gambia defence to find the Metz midfielder, who curled the ball first time into the top right-hand corner from 25 yards out to seal victory.

AFCON RESULTS Senegal 3-0 Gambia Cameroon 1-1 Guinea

Today B'Faso v Mauritania Tunisia v Namibia Mali v S'Africa

Lamine Camara (centre) scored brace as Senegal defeated The Gambia 3-0 in at the ongoing 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire...yesterday

Don't Give up on Super Eagles Yet, Monimichele Pleads With Nigerians

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Stadium Facilities Expert, Ebi Egbe, has urged Nigerians not to give up on the Super Eagles just yet because they played a scrappy 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea in their opening AFCON 2023 game

in Abidjan on Sunday. Egbe whose Monimichele Limited is Nigeria’s leading stadium turf construction company, insisted that in football adaptation to environment plays crucial role in determining how a team will end up in a tournament like the

AFCON. “In football, we have adaptation to playing conditions process. The team (Eagles) will perform better as the tournament progresses.” Egbe insisted that Nigeria with some of the best players in European leagues will not disappoint. “We have the best players in Africa today. Adaptation to the playing condition of the pitch will change the story of Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the AFCON 2023.

“Nigerians will see a better performing Eagles against the host Nation Cote d’Ivoire,” stressed the Monimichele CEO. “I have said this times without numbers, the Nigeria Football Federation need to have a facilities committee with seasoned groundsmen as advance team to any major tournament. “Technical playing conditions report would have helped our coaches in team formation which

might see the need to fuse some of our NPFL players who are doing very well in our domestic NPFL, primarily because of the playing condition of the AFCON pitches,” Egbe observed. He insisted that It takes continuous training for an elite player who has been trained on a speed football pitch “to adapt to the playing conditions of a slow, ball bouncing and rolling pitches like 100% natural grass

pitches that naturally have slow ball movement.” Egbe said that it was not just a Nigerian problem alone but for most of the players coming from leagues in Europe with very good facilities. “This is not just a Nigerian problem. All the African teams that are made up of elite players ( from Europe) will suffer the same faith,” concludes the stadium facilities expert.

Anthony Joshua to Fight Ngannou March Messi Beats Haaland, Mbappe to 8 in Saudi Arabia Win Best FIFA Men's Player Award

Former heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, will face MMA fighter, Francis Ngannou, in a heavyweight contest on 8 March in Saudi Arabia. Joshua, 34, had previously described a potential bout with Cameroon-born Ngannou as a "gimmick fight". The 37-year-old former UFC champion only made his professional boxing debut in October, when he knocked down Tyson Fury before losing a close decision. Joseph Parker leads the undercard against China's Zhilei Zhang. Also on the undercard is Briton Nick Ball, who faces Rey Vargas for the WBC featherweight title in his first world-title bout. Former UFC heavyweight king Ngannou stunned the boxing world last year when he sent the undefeated Fury to the canvas with a left hook.

The 35-year-old Briton with Nigerian ancestry, who recovered to win the 10-round bout by split decision, will fight Oleksandr Usykon 17 February for the right to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion since 1999. Fury is the WBC champion, with Ukraine's Usyk, 36, holding the WBA, WBO and IBF belts. Saudi organisers were intent on hosting Joshua v Deontay Wilder on 9 March, but the American's points defeat by Parker on 23 December scuppered those plans. Joshua stopped Otto Wallinon the same card and organisers were determined to find a bout for the Watford fighter on the same weekend the Wilder showdown had been pencilled in for. Joshua v Ngannou will take place on a Friday to avoid a clash with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix which is due to be held in Jeddah on Saturday, 9 March.

Messi

Lionel Messi has become the first footballer to win The Best FIFA Men's Player award three times after the 36-year-old was confirmed as the 2023 winner at The Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony in London on Monday. However, Messi was not present at the party as he was with his Inter Miami teammates preparing for a pre-season friendly against El Salvador on Friday. Messi topped the vote ahead of fellow finalists Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. The Argentina captain had previously won the award for his exploits in 2019 and 2022. The Best FIFA Football Awards are usually based on performances across a calendar year, unlike the Ballon d'Or, which judges players on their achievements over the course of a season. However, FIFA's selection criteria for the 2023 men's awards was achievements during the period from December 19, 2022 to August 20, 2023. This is because the 2022 awards covered the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which ended on

December 18. Nevertheless, it is likely that many voters were still influenced by Messi's exploits at Qatar 2022, where he produced seven goals and three assists in Argentina's victorious seven-game campaign. During the official selection criteria for the 2023 award, Messi scored nine goals in 21 games for Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Miami in July. He then scored 11 times and provided five assists in his first 14 games for Miami, helping his new team win a first trophy in the form of the Leagues Cup. Messi also scored five goals in three games for Argentina between December 19 and August 20. Only four players have won The Best FIFA Men's Player award since it was launched in 2016. Cristiano Ronaldo won the first two editions before Luka Modric received the 2018 prize. Robert Lewandowski was the winner for 2020 and 2021.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

UT H

& RE A S O

Price: N400

MISSILE

SERAP to National Assembly

“The arbitrary increase by the lawmakers of their own budgetary allocation if not cut would have significant fiscal consequences and exacerbate the country’s debt crisis. The unilateral and self-serving increase...also offends the principles of separation of powers and checks and balances and the rule of law. The increase...has raised serious questions in the minds of Nigerians about how the lawmakers are spending their commonwealth” --SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, urging the lawmakers to reduce their own budget.

KashimShettima guest columnist

My Friend, Isa Gusau– A Tribute

here couldn’t have been a more poignant last chapter to a man’s life than my final text exchange with him. He reached out on December 31, 2023, to draw my attention to a Qur’an recital competition in Damaturu, Yobe State, stating that it transpired without deserving prizes. In his typical fashion, he outlined interventions that could align with the noble ambitions of the reciters and organisers. What he didn’t say this time around, while preferring the cloak he wore to redirect our concerns away from his health and towards others, was that he was on the brink of existence. He was in a hospital bed far away from home. About a year earlier, Mallam Isa Gusau visited me at home in Abuja, and I couldn’t help but notice his sickly physical transformation. He opened up about his health struggle only when I insisted. I disagreed with his philosophy of not wanting his health to be the subject of interest in his line of work. However, he followed the direction we suggested for medical intervention and returned to prioritizing his job. With him, it’s always duty first, and that drive for excellence was once a source of trouble for us when we were on opposite sides of the table. In 2007, when I assumed the role of Commissioner of Finance in Governor Ali Modu Sheriff’s government in Borno State, Mallam Gusau was the Daily Trust correspondent and later Bureau Chief covering the Borno-Yobe axis. He had been a problem for the government before my arrival. Fresh out of the private sector, I conducted sentiment analysis of my new station, and this inviolable reporter was a recurring problem in our efforts to manage the perception of the state and the government’s commitment to the people, especially during the critical phase of an ideological invasion in the North-East by a group that has since become the global calamity known as Boko Haram. I had always admired objective contrarians and critics, and it didn’t take long to understand why Mallam Gusau’s journalistic overtures had been a nightmare for the government. His principles were as unyielding as ancient mountains, deeply rooted in the bedrock of his conviction as a chronicler of state affairs. I found myself compelled to acquaint with the fearless man. Ms. Kwapchi Bata Hamman, who was then a reporter at NTA Maiduguri, became our eyes on him and eventually our bridge to him. She, along with the late Zubairu Maina Shani, a fellow Commissioner in Governor Sherrif’s government, formed our troika to untie the Gordian knot that was Isa Gusau. That one man could stir us this much, stand up to us with no fear or susceptibility to compromise, was a credential like no other. So, I knew just then that I wanted to be friends with such a man, a

Vice President Kashim Shettima (left) and Mallam Isa Gusau

rebel with a noble cause. Our destinies aligned sooner than I had expected. In 2011, when I was sworn into office as the Executive Governor of Borno State, I knew immediately that I must be surrounded by perceived trouble-makers if I were to make a difference, and Gusau easily came to mind. I was unconcerned about his origin, only what he was bringing to the table. I have always seen a leader who functions in an echo chamber as a tragedy. Mallam Gusau agreed to be my spokesperson, testing the political divide that his path had crossed as a journalist. He mastered the art of shaping perceptions, traversing lengths unknown to me at the time. He was invested in the well-being of his colleagues and those he serves, and distinguished himself as a mediator and bridge builder in resolving office conflicts. Only many years later did I discover the depths to which he went to protect me, skilfully managing or quashing crosses without seeking the spotlight or credit. Along with his team, he breathed life into the communication of government policies in Borno State, making us realize that even the finest idea or policy by the government is doomed to fail without strategic communications. Their legacy turned Borno State into a viable landmark on the topography of governance in Nigeria. He explored traditional and new media to dispel every attempt to caricature the state,

whether in mischief or honest ignorance. Gusau’s loyalty to friends, matched only by his competence and devotion to duty, sets him apart. This sense of responsibility led him to decline an invitation to serve as a commissioner in his home state, Zamfara, choosing instead to stay with his friends in Borno State. He played a central role among the multicultural aides that we assembled, contributing to our service to the people. In that inclusive team of ours, where Borno State was warmly embraced as home, was Lanre Obadiah from Kwara State. Kester Ogualili and Victor Izekor were from Anambra and Abia State respectively. Christopher Godwin Akaba, an Urhobo man from Delta State, and Jack Vicent Fidelis, an Igala man from Kogi State, were also valuable members. Expanding our connections to neighboring states, Ahmed Ishaq Ningi from Bauchi State and Usman Majidadi Kumo from Gombe State were part of this dedicated ensemble. The team was valorised by Mallam Gusau, who also served as my Special Adviser on Strategy while overseeing communications. It’s not surprising that he’s the longestserving adviser in the history of the state. He praised your triumphs and intervened when you erred, always having the perfect books for every scenario he painted. This book-exchanging culture made him a refuge and a mirror. So, I had no speck of scepticism in recommending him for employment as an adviser to Governor Babagana Umara

Zulum, whom he served for four and a half years after advising me for eight years. Until three weeks ago, when I brought this up, Governor Zulum himself had no idea that Gusau was a leading voice advocating and justifying my choice of him as a successor. He never mentioned this to his new principal, just as he was always reluctant to divulge his health history. This lifestyle, which we opposed and came to acknowledge as the depth of his fidelity to duty, was, to him, a way to never curry favour and pity. In a twist of fate, Isa Gusau, once perceived as a provocateur during his radical years, found himself forging unexpected alliances in a profound display of irony. Without accommodating compromises, he reconciled with those who had once deemed him a problem. The crescendo of this surprising journey was reached when he, against all odds, entered into matrimony with the sister of none other than Sen. Ali Modu Sheriff. This unexpected union not only symbolised the mellowing of Gusau’s feuds or differences with others but also cast a vivid contrast onto the canvas of his life. What also never made the news was his philanthropy, reaching from the younger generation to the elderly. His generosity extended to the procurement of vehicles for media personnel and correspondents working in the hinterlands of Southern Borno. There was a poignant moment when he generously handed over his only vehicle to an indigent journalist colleague. I became aware of this act of kindness when I witnessed him trekking to his residence, a stone’s throw away from the Borno State Government House. This incident invoked thoughts of Adam Grant’s acclaimed work, “Give and Take,” which categorises humanity into two reciprocity styles: Givers and Takers. Givers, characterized by their altruism, quietly assist others without seeking the spotlight, while Takers are driven by greed, desiring more than they contribute. The book celebrates legendary figures like C.J. Skender, the late Stu Inman, and George Meyer as quintessential Givers. Undoubtedly, my dear friend, Isa Umar Gusau, belongs to the distinguished category of these selfless and beautiful souls. The void left by Gusau’s demise, as he departed from the sphere of his influence, transcends Borno State. It even extends beyond those who had feared his honesty. His loss is immense for the entire nation, which requires courageous advisors around our public office-holders, and for the humanity he served until his last breath on Thursday, January 11, 2024. May Allah repose his soul and comfort all those he left behind. Ameen. •Senator Kashim Shettima was the Executive Governor of Borno State between 2011 and 2019, and Nigeria’s current Vice President.

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