Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu yesterday appointed board chairpersons for 43 federal agencies and parastatals and a secretary to the board of the Civil Defence, Immigration, and Prisons Services.
Nigeria Ramps Up Military Armaments Production Capacity
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, yesterday said the 16 years of counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism operations, and anti-banditry war have enabled the military to build local capacity in manufacturing military armaments.
He also revealed that military engineers and mechanics can now pick up completely burnt Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle (MRAP), fix it, and put it back into use.
According to him, "What this 16 years war has done for us is that it has enabled us to build the capacity of our engineers and mechanics.
"Now we can pick up completely burnt Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle (MRAP), fix it and put it back into warfare.
"MRAP and APCs are been manufactured locally by Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and Nigerian companies like Proforce, etc.
“Nigerian Army also has its own
Musa, who spoke during an interview monitored on a national television further noted that in a few years, Nigeria would be a super-power in producing military hardware.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
In CBN Survey, Businesses Foresee Stronger Naira in 2025
Nume Ekeghe
The December 2024 Business Expectations Survey (BES) conducted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has revealed a wave of optimism among respondent firms regarding the macroeconomic outlook.
Precisely, the BES report posted on the CBN’s website yesterday, further revealed that businesses anticipate a steady appreciation of the Naira in the coming months.
Businesses expect the Naira to appreciate in the current month, next month, and the next three months, with significant appreciation projected within the next six months.
The optimism was underpinned by expectations of exchange rate improvements, heightened business activity, and increasing total orders as the economy heads into 2025.
According to the survey, the overall confidence index for the macroeconomy reflected positive sentiment across all sectors, with the agriculture sector emerging as the most confident.
The sector recorded the highest levels of optimism and the most aggressive expansion plans for January 2025, demonstrating its role as a key driver of economic recovery.
Specifically, macroeconomic projections suggested a 17 percent appreciation in December 2024, rising to 17.8 percent in January 2025, 25.9 percent in three months, and reaching 29 percent by mid2025.
The projection aligned with the CBN’s recent forex reforms, which have been instrumental in stabilising
the market and restoring confidence among market participants.
The survey also highlighted broad optimism about macroeconomic conditions.
Businesses expressed confidence in improved financial conditions, increased orders, and higher levels of activity across key sectors. Respondents also expect inflation rates to stabilise or decline over the next six months, bolstering hopes of price stability as the economy gains momentum.
The insights underscored the critical role of the BES in shaping Nigeria’s monetary and fiscal
repair company which fixes APCs. We got gun-trucks, converted them to APCs, tested them and they are working.”
He stressed that the signing of the DICON Act last year by President Bola Tinubu, “has offered us an opportunity to partner with original manufacturers all over the world for them to come and produce here.”
Musa added: "Now we are producing our own weapons, MRAP and APC and that will make a good difference."
He, however regretted the recent killing of civilians in Zamfara and Sokoto by secondary explosion arising from military airstrikes, stressing that the military was continuously building the capacity of its commanders and troops to minimize civilian casualties during operations.
Musa however stressed that any citizen providing logistics support to terrorists was a legitimate target.
Abiodun Pay Tributes as Hon. Onanuga is Laid to Rest
President Bola Tinubu has described former lawmaker representing Sagamu, Ikenne, and Remo North Federal Constituency, Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, as a hardworking woman whose contributions at the 9th and 10th Assemblies were unquantifiable.
Tinubu also expressed shock over the sudden death of the lawmaker, who died last week at the age of 59.
The President made this statement at the burial service and prayer for the deceased held at the Sagamu Central Mosque, Sagamu, yesterday.
Tinubu, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, commiserated with the people of her constituency and the entire Ogun State over the loss and prayed to God to grant her eternal rest.
Also speaking, the Speaker of the
House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass, said the late lawmaker was a diligent woman who provided her people with full representation in the Green Chamber during her lifetime.
The Speaker maintained that Onanuga was a pious woman who demonstrated sterling leadership in handling issues at the committee level, especially when she was the chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs.
Commiserating with the people of her constituency and the entire state, the Speaker noted that the deceased would be greatly missed for being a partner in progress.
In his remarks, the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described the deceased as a dependable ally who was committed to the growth of humanity.
Delta State Government yesterday reiterated that it had not borrowed any money since Governor Sheriff Oborevwori took over governance in the state on May 29, 2023.
The State Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, who disclosed this at a press conference in Asaba, said contrary to reports by an online news medium, the state government had not entered into any borrowing relationship with any institution.
According to him, "this state has not entered into any borrowing relationship whatsoever, whether partnership, individual, corporate, bank, local, national or international. We have not borrowed a dime since this administration took effect on 29th of May, 2023.
"I can state categorically in any forum I found myself, that Delta State remains, in terms of financial terms, the strongest financial state standing in this country.
"I say so with every emphasis because I know the finances of the state, and I say that we are clearly the strongest financial state in Nigeria.
"I can stand this debate at any point
policies. Conducted regularly, the survey provides a valuable gauge of business sentiment and helps the apex bank design targeted policies to foster economic growth.
CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, who spoke at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) Economic Outlook recently, had elaborated on the tangible outcomes of the CBN’s forex reforms.
“We are seeing the positive outcomes of our foreign exchange reforms, which have not only boosted market transparency but also restored investor confidence.
The Defence Chief also threatened legal action against international organisations for accusing the Nigerian military of carrying out forced abortion.
His words: "We have appealed to the Attorney General of the Federation & Minister of Justice, that we must take this case to court.
"Since they maligned us falsely let us take them to court, let them publicly apologise that they were wrong.
"Most of these organisations don't mean well for us. Whenever we are making progress, they throw
“The Naira is becoming more competitive, offering significant opportunities for exports and local production,” he said.
The Naira closed yesterday at N1,533.26 to the dollar at the official CBN window, marking the second-best closing rate since the launch of the Nigeria Foreign Exchange Market System (NFEMS) portal, with the best recorded on December 10, 2024. While on the parallel market, the Naira appreciated by N10, closing at N1,640 to the dollar.
Cardoso had highlighted the success of CBN reforms in reducing
allegations at us to make us look bad and to demoralise our troops.
"And the question is what is their intent? Are they not happy that we are succeeding?
"When that incident happened, I met the then Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor Rtd and requested that the allegations be investigated because I was dead sure that nothing like that happened. I was then a theatre commander in North-east operational theatre."
A report by a human rights group had found no evidence that the military secretly carried
the disparity between bureau de change (BDC) rates and official rates, fostering a more stable forex market.
“We will continue to strengthen our mechanisms to ensure market participants adhere to best practices. Those who fail to conform will be appropriately dealt with,” he had emphasised.
The governor also pointed to recent initiatives, including the introduction of non-resident BVN accounts, as part of the CBN’s efforts to deepen engagement with the Nigerian diaspora.
“I am very confident that we are going to see a very positive
out thousands of illegal abortions as part of its fight against Islamist insurgency as alleged by Reuters. in 2022.
Speaking further, in answering question on why terrorism has continued to linger in Nigeria, General Musa pointed out that terrorism was a difficult thing to eradicate.
He said the terror war was also an ideological war “and that is why it has continued to linger.”
"To the military, a terrorist is a terrorist and an enemy of the State, but to the mother and relations, a
outcome. My discussions with the diaspora show that everyone is committed to doubling the levels we are at,” Cardoso stated.
Reflecting on the broader impact of the reforms, Cardoso highlighted a key milestone achieved in 2024 with over $6 billion in foreign capital inflows and external reserves exceeding $40 billion.
He noted that these figures signal renewed investor confidence in the Nigerian economy and a solid foundation for sustained growth.
“Good things are ahead on the foreign exchange side,” the governor concluded.
terrorist is a son and a brother and you know that blood is thicker than water.
"These terrorists live amongst the people, and it is the people that provide supplies to them.
"Sometimes we provide food for communities as part of our nonkinetic approach and sometimes it may end up in the hands of terrorists because their mothers and brothers could take the food to them."
He called for the support of the communities to hasten the defeat of terrorists and other emerging crimes in Nigeria.
TO DRIVE FG’S REFORMS, TINUBU NAMES BOARD CHAIRMEN FOR 43 FEDERAL AGENCIES, PARASTATALS
The President, according to a statement issued yesterday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also appointed a new Managing Director for the Nigerian Railway Corporation and a DirectorGeneral for the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI).
Tinubu also directed the board chairpersons not to interfere with the management of the organisations, emphasising that their positions are non-executive.
All the appointments take immediate effect.
The new appointees included: Hon. Hillard Eta, Chairman (Cross River) for National Youth Service Corps; Former External Affairs Minister, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, Chairman (Lagos) for Nigerian Institute of International Affairs; Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abdullahi U. Ganduje, Chairman (Kano), Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, and National Secretary of the APC, Senator Surajudeen Bashiru Ajibola, Chairman (Osun), National Sugar Development Council.
Others were Sulaiman Argungu, Chairman (Kebbi), Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company; Senator Magnus Abe, Chairman (Rivers), National Agency for Great Green Wall; Festus Fuanter,
in time, because I know the balances as I speak to you today. I know efforts being made by this administration.
"We stand categorically, heads up, to state that this administration has not borrowed a dime since 29th of May, 2023.
"We have paid so much in terms of construction, we have made sure that all debts are being paid down as seriously as we can.
"We have also improved in terms of contractual relationship with our contractors. Before now, it is difficult for us to give our contractors advanced payments.
"But as I speak, virtually all of the major contracts we have now, we have actually offered between 30% to 40% in terms of advanced payment.
"Indeed, the last discussion I had with the Governor, we are even thinking that for this particular dry season, we are going to be paying up to 70% advance payment.
"Because of the inflationary trends in Nigeria, we don't want to be caught up in it at all. We do not want to review any contract whatsoever as we move on in this dry season.”
on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.
The presentation event marked the first phase of the award ceremony, organised as part of the newspaper’s 30th anniversary, themed, ‘When the Going Gets Tough… the Tough Get Rewarded.’
The commemoration ceremony which is the second phase is scheduled to hold on January 27, 2025, at Eko Hotels and Suits, Victoria Island, Lagos State Nigeria.
Presenting the award to the WTO boss, the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY and ARISE News Channel, Nduka Obaigbena, described Okonjo-Iweala as “an uncommon African who is carrying the African flag around the world showing that the African century is upon us.”
“To the glory of God, it is an honour and privilege in Davos today, to present on behalf of
Chairman (Plateau), National Teachers Institute; Raji Kazeem Kolawole, Director-General (Oyo), National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI); Chief Victor Tombari Giadom, Chairman (Rivers), Nigerian Institute of Educational Planning and Administration; Comrade Mustapha Salihu, Chairman (Adamawa), Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria; Hon. Hamma Adama Ali Kumo, Chairman (Gombe), Industrial Training Fund, and Donatus Enyinnah Nwankpa, Chairman (Abia), Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology. In addition, Senator Abubakar Maikafi, Chairman (Bauchi) was appointed Shelda Science and Technology Complex; Nasiru Gawuna, Chairman (Kano), Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria; Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Chairman (Lagos), National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion; Chief D. J. Kekemeke, Chairman (Ondo), Nigerian Postal Service; Hon. Musa Sarkin Adar, Chairman (Sokoto), National Inland Waterways Authority; Prof. Abdulkarim Kana Abubakar, Chairman (Nasarawa), National Steel Council; Hon. Garba Datti Muhammad, Chairman (Kaduna), National Environmental Standards and Regulations Agency, and
the audiences of ARISE News Channel around the world and readers of THISDAY Newspapers in commemorating our 30th anniversary, to present our 2024 ‘Woman of the Year’ award to an uncommon African, who is carrying the African flag around the world, showing that the African century is upon us. It is a privilege to present our 2024 Woman of the Year award to the head of the World Trade Organisation, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.”
In her acceptance speech, OkonjoIweala described her recognition as the woman of the year by THISDAY as a very special development. She also recalled that she was once a recipient of the THISDAY Award while she was Nigeria's Finance Minister.
“Thank you so much to the indomitable Nduka Obaigbena, who is one of the most creative people I know on the continent. I
Mu'azu Bawa Rijau, Chairman (Niger), National Bio-safety Management Agency. Similarly, Hon. Durosimi Meseko, Chairman (Kogi) was appointed into the board of the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute and Hajia Zainab A. Ibrahim, Chairman (Taraba), Federal Teaching Hospital. Others were Dr Kayode Isiak Opeifa, Managing Director (Lagos), Nigerian Railway Corporation; Hon Durotolu Oyebode Bankole, Chairman (Ogun), Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti; Mr Abdullahi Dayo Israel, Chairman (Lagos), Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta; Dr (Mrs) Mary Alile Idele, Chairman (Edo), Federal Medical Centre, Asaba; Nze Chidi Duru, Chairman (Anambra), Federal Medical Centre, Lokoja; Hon. Emma Eneukwu, Chairman (Enugu), Federal Medical Centre, Owerri; Major General Jubril Abdulmalik (rtd) Secretary (Kano), Civil Defence, Immigration and Prisons Services Board; Mr. Uguru Mathew Ofoke, Chairman (Ebonyi), Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia; Felix Chukwumenoye Morka, Chairman (Delta), Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa; Alhaji Bashir Usman Gumel, Chairman (Jigawa), Federal Medical Centre, Yola; Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, Chairman (Imo), David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, Ubuhu, Ebonyi
want to thank you for taking the trouble in this very cold weather to present me with this award. I'm very grateful to THISDAY for this recognition and to all the audiences who have supported this.
“This is not the first time I've received a THISDAY award. When I was finance minister you also recognised me as finance minister of the year. But this is very, very, very special and I promise you I don't take it lightly.
“I'll continue to do my best to try and represent the country and the continent the best way I can and to make sure that the dividends of development also flow our way.”
Okonjo-Iweala was nominated in recognition of her exceptional leadership and strategic vision for the future of the WTO which saw her recent reappointment for a second term.
She is the first woman and first African to serve as Director-
State; Chief Edward Omo-Erewa, Chairman (Edo), National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency; Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar, Chairman (Kaduna), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA); Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori, Chairman (Borno), Nnamdi Azikwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State; Hon. Lawal M. Liman (Chairman), Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika, Zaria.
Dr. Abubakar Isa Maiha (Chairman), Federal Medical Centre, Katsina; Isa Sadiq Achida, Chairman (Sokoto), Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC); Dr Ikye Orikpo, Chairman (Delta) University of Abuja Teaching Hospital., Dr. Mohammed Gusau Hassan, Chairman (Zamfara), Federal Medical Centre, Birnin Kudu; Hon. Yahuza Ado Inuwa, Chairman (Nasarawa), National Building and Road Research Institute; Hon Yahaya Bello Wurno, Chairman (Sokoto), Sokoto-Rima River Basin Development Authority; Augustine Chukwu Umahi, Chairman (Ebonyi), Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital; Babatunde Fakoyede, Chairman (Ekiti), Federal Scholarships Board and Hon. Shola Olofin, Chairman (Ekiti), Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund.
General of the WTO. She has been consistently praised by members of the global trade body for her outstanding leadership at the Geneva-based organisation. Her reappointment for a secondterm highlighted the strong support for her efforts to enhance the WTO’s relevance and capacity in addressing the evolving challenges of global trade.
Amid significant global economic challenges, she strengthened the WTO’s ability to support its members and set a forward-looking agenda for the organisation. Her leadership was instrumental in securing meaningful outcomes at pivotal moments, including the 12th and 13th Ministerial Conferences (MC12 and MC13), where major milestones were achieved. She has displayed a strong commitment to ensuring that the WTO remains responsive, inclusive, and results-driven.
GLAD TO MEET YOU...
Edo APC, State Govt Trade Words over N9bn Fresh Loan Approval
Shettima Meets WEF President in Davos, Seeks Collaboration with Global Body
captured.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), yesterday, urged Governor Godwin Obaseki to stop securing loans, noting that the N9 billion loan recently approved by the House of Assembly was needless and will plunge the state into financial distress.
Nigeria has canvassed closer collaboration with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to foster economic development and growth in the country and on the African continent.
has been swindled by Obaseki-led administration with an unassailable, humongous debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion, the governor is unyielding and unstoppable in his characteristic design to leave Edo State in ruin, by asking for a facility of N17.5 billion few days ago, which was said to be N9 billion."
Specifically, the federal government sought partnerships with the global body on the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP) in a bid to connect Nigeria to Morocco and other African countries as well as the recharging of Lake Chad to tackle the global food security crisis and other existential threats.
But in a swift reaction, the Edo State Government said it was perplexed to learn of what it termed “laughable and incredibly ridiculous tantrums attributed to the new acting chairman of the Edo State chapter of APC, Jarret Tenebe where he made baseless and spurious allegations on the fiscal management of our dear state by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government.”
Vice President Kashim Shettima, according to a statement issued yesterday by his Media Assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, stated this during a bilateral meeting with President of the World Economic Forum (WEF), Mr. Børge Brende, on the sidelines of the ongoing annual meeting of WEF in Davos, Switzerland.
Police Nab Two Additional Kidnap Suspects Connected to AIG Odumosu Wife's Abduction
Linus Aleke in Abuja
Addressing a press conference yesterday, Tenebe had said the state was already suffering under a debt profile of N135 billion and $35.6 billion.
He said, "While it is a monumental disaster that Edo State patrimony
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
The leadership of Nigeria Police Force (NPF) said that operatives of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police Special Squad apprehended two fleeing kidnap suspects in connection to the kidnap of the wife of retired Assistant Inspector General, AIG Hakeem Odumosu, Mrs. Odumosu.
Tenebe, said "It is important to state, that it is now in public and political space that the fiscal budget of Edo State was passed few weeks ago before the Edo State House of Assembly proceeded on leave without the commencement of the execution of the budget by the executive. It is most disheartening that the Edo State Government now is requesting for a facility of N17.5 billion with no corollary of project attached there to the said facility and also that the facility is not contained as loan to be taken in the 2024 fiscal budget just recently passed. A cursory perusal of the entire budget does not reveal where the project for the facility is ever
The Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has announced plans to launch a 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in primary schools across the country. He made the disclosure while speaking with journalists in Ibadan during a working visit to Oyo State.
On Thursday, police operatives attached to the Ogun State Command, in a commendable display of teamwork and swift action, successfully killed two kidnappers of Mrs. Odumosu and rescued her unharmed.
On January 16, 2025, at approximately 9:45p.m., four masked gunmen forcibly abducted Mrs. Odumosu from her Lexus Jeep outside her residence in Arepo, Ogun State.
Announcing the the arrest of the suspects identified as Agbojule Smart ‘m’, 27 years and Keleke Michael ‘m’, 30 years, in a statement yesterday, the Force Spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said that the arrest was in response to the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to go after the fleeing suspects in connection to the kidnap of the wife of Retired Assistant Inspector General, AIG Hakeem Odumosu, Mrs Odumosu.
among the youthful population. He said the government is worried that about 72 per cent of the nation’s youthful population have become foreigners through the influence of cartoons and movies which are foreign in contents, values and cultures.
According to him, "The suspects were arrested in the early hours of today, Friday the 24th of January 2025 while on their way out of Lagos State.
"Information at the behest of the members of the Edo State House of Assembly is to the effect that they were recalled from their holiday or leave by the Speaker on the request of the state governor for the immediate approval of the said facility which according to them is said to be N9 billion but as event unfolded, after the mammoth request by the opposition in the House as to the rationale for a facility as
the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki across all sectors of the state over the past seven years.”
Reiterates Nigeria on path of sustained growth under Tinubu, returns to Abuja
On the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline, Shettima said Nigeria will be in a vantage position to take advantage of the WEF platform to develop the gas project, pointing out that this will address the geopolitical challenges in Europe and the growing demand for energy due to artificial intelligence, data mining and storage.
His words, "We seek your collaboration in fundamental areas. One is on the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP) which will connect Nigeria to Morocco and other African countries. The pipeline will transport natural gas from Nigeria to North Africa and Europe and is expected to improve energy security and economic growth in the region.
lid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has described the United States as Nigeria’s longstanding ally and strategic partner for the nation’s mining sector development.
stupendous as N9 billion for fathom projects which only existed in the imagination of the governor, it was discovered that the facility was not even N9 billion but a figure wrapped in secrecy as much as N17.5 billion to which the opposition in the house rejected and or refused to be part of the approval.
"A lot of littoral states in West Africa who have discovered gas are more than willing to plug into the system and feed their gas to other end users. We are also exploring the area of undersea passage of the pipelines for it to be a win-win for everyone. We want to use the WEF platform."
But in its reaction, the Edo State Government stated that the Edo APC was “obviously pained by the achievements of
He told the WEF President that while Nigeria is a country blessed with gas, the nation is exploring every option to maximise available opportunities for economic growth and create wealth for its growing population.
“Tenebe has been on a frenzy looking for lies to tell since he assumed office as Acting Chairman. Rather than focus on reawakening his completely comatose party, which is unable to provide constructive criticisms expected of a viable opposition, he has resorted to spreading misinformation in a desperate attempt to curry cheap popularity.
President said apart from addressing the food security crisis, it will also put Nigeria in a vantage position to generate clean energy and combat terrorism.
"There is an incestuous relationship between economy and ecology in the Sahelian region. The challenges of Boko Haram and ISWAP might not be disconnected from the realities of existential threats we are facing.
that the world is facing."
“In his infertile rambling, Tenebe made wild and completely off-themark comments suggesting that Edo State is owing $35 billion. Even if that was what was written for him, he should have known that the figure is wrong and can't be true.
Shettima also informed the WEF President about the ongoing reforms being undertaken by the administration of President Tinubu, saying the Nigerian President has returned Nigeria to the part of sustained economic growth.
"In reality, our debt stock is not a secret and in fact, we are ‘under borrowed’. Emperor Tenebe would have known this if he understood the economics of governance, fiscal responsibility and debt-to-GDP ratio.
"The Lake Chad hitherto was 25,000 sq. km but it has shrunk to 2,000 sq. km. There is the issue of the recharging of Lake Chad from the Congo River basin which is the second largest river basin in the world, and the water flowing into the Atlantic. We want to use your platform to recharge Lake Chad.
"Most importantly, we are talking about the present. My leader and my boss, President Bola Tinubu is someone who also grew up in the finance ecosystem. He was a financial controller for ExxonMobil; he was a transformative leader in Lagos State and in Nigeria, he is the most disruptive leader we have had in half a century.
He said 1,000 Citizens’ Brigade would be set up in each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to promote national values as of old, stating that the essence of the Brigade was to revive and rebuild the national values and create positive models
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
The Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has announced its relocation from Benin City to Abuja.
In a notice dated January 24, 2025, and signed by the Tribunal Secretary, Mu’azu Bagudu, parties to the case were informed of the relocation.
Issa-Onilu said as a way out of the malaise, NOA would soon launch a Mobile App containing indigenous cartoons through which local contents, national values and culture would be promoted.
"Upon interrogation, they confessed to their crime; belonging to a gang of four, two of whom have been neutralised previously.
Edo Election Tribunal Relocates to Abuja
According to him, "These various policies are geared towards changing the narratives and the wrong impression that the outside world is having about the country.
Edo State, has been relocated to Abuja at the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Airport Road, Abuja, effective from Monday, 27th January, 2025.”
Chairman of the Tribunal, Justice Wilfred Kpochi, had informed counsel to the parties that there were reports indicating that the venue of the Tribunal could be moved to Abuja.
The notice read in part, “I am directed to notify all parties that the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Benin City,
The sitting was adjourned to Tuesday, January 28, 2025, for continuation of hearing of the PDP’s petition.
The Oyo State Government, yesterday, suspended Oba Gbolagade Muritala Babalola, as the Onido of Ido in Ido Local Government Area of the state. The government, in a letter dated 2nd of February, 2024 and signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, indicated that Governor Seyi Makinde approved the suspension on 1st of February, 2024. The letter read in part, "I wish to inform you that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State of Nigeria, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Sub-section 1&2 of Section 26 of the Chiefs Law, Cap. 28 Vol I, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria 2000 and by virtue of all other enabling powers in
"With the geopolitical challenges in Europe from Russian gas problems and the rising demand for energy because of artificial intelligence, data mining and storage, we will be in a vantage position to take advantage of this opportunity.
Speaking while receiving
"Nigeria is a gas nation than an oil nation. Because of our population, we either take care of the young men and women, (our average is 16.9), or they take care of us in the next ten or twenty years down the line. This is why we are in a hurry to develop in our enlightened self-interest. Gas provides us with the utmost opportunity to generate wealth for our people," Shettima noted.
Charge d'Affairs, US Embassy, David Greene, in his office on Thursday, Alake lauded the United States’ commitment to fostering cooperation with Nigeria in diverse sectors of the economy, stating that it underscores the significance of the smooth bilateral relations between both countries.
On recharging of Lake Chad, the Vice
also want to be part of the move to reduce global emissions and put our mining sector on the global map. We have critical minerals that are in commercial demand globally,"Alake said.
"This will help us to successfully generate clean energy, a significant amount of hydropower annually, and there will be a canal of 2400 kilometres that will change the agricultural landscape of that sub-region. This will address the food security crisis
formalisation of artisanal miners into cooperatives amongst others.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
“We are establishing, this year, 37,000 Citizens’ Brigade in Primary School. 1,000 in each state, including FCT, Abuja. These Citizens’ Brigade are going to be like Boys’ Scout and Girls’ Guild of the olden days.
The minister welcomed partnership with the US on investments in the mining value chain, expanding access to technology in extracting and processing minerals and securing mining areas.
"From the first week in office, he did the right thing - from the subsidy removal to the alignment of the exchange rates, tax reforms, and so many ongoing reform efforts. Our economy has turned the corner, we have crossed the Rubicon and we're now on the path to sustained economic growth," he stated.
Wike: Tinubu Invested N89bn on Road, Educational Infrastructure in Bwari Area Council
importance of this information for public awareness.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu has allocated approximately N89 billion towards road and educational infrastructure in the Bwari Area Council as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda. Wike made this announcement yesterday during the inauguration of the 5km Gaba-Tokulo Road in the Bwari Area Council, emphasising the
“Across the world, Nigerians are known to be the smartest people on earth. This is a positive development but some people mischievously tend to portray us in negative light. But this is not who we are as a people.
“To change the negative narratives, we are setting up the Citizens’ Brigade to produce young Nigerians and create positive models to rebuild the national values."
“I thank you for your visit. I met the US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, Geoffrey Pyatt, on the sidelines of the Mines and Money conference in London past year, and we had a fruitful engagement. I did analyse all our issues, and fundamentally, we just want to diversify our economy from oil. Not just for our own economic survival but also to be in tune with global trends for reduction in global warming. We
He noted that the construction of the Gaba-Tokulo Road by Setraco cost around N7 billion, while the rehabilitation of the Dutse-Bwari Road was undertaken by SCC at a cost of N27 billion.
"This investment is specifically for this area council. The entire Ushafa War College and all associated roads in Ushafa have incurred costs of no less than N28 billion. Therefore, when
Alex enumah in Abuja
Peter Uzoho
posted on its official X handle.
Throwing light on reforms embarked upon by the federal government, the minister highlighted revised Community Development Agreement (CDA) guidelines geared towards reducing friction in host communities; on-going plans for new security architecture to secure natural resources; efforts to generate big geo-data; the
calculating the total expenditure on road infrastructure for the Bwari Area Council, it amounts to N62.2 billion.
"This is for this area council. The entire Ushafa War College, and all the roads in Ushafa, have cost us not less than N28 billion. Now, if you calculate just road infrastructure for Bwari Area Council alone, you have taken N62.2 billion for Bwari Area Council.
"Now, in terms of education, Government Girls Secondary School Dutse, Government Secondary School
"The mining sector provides a veritable avenue for increased trade between Nigeria and the United States, especially in the area of value addition, which implies processing of extracted minerals and setting up factories here. We would also require financing from multilateral institutions for our local operators. We are providing incentives for investments like tax waivers for mining equipment, policy of full repatriation of profits to home countries amongst others," Alake emphasised.
Bwari, Government Secondary School Ushafa, which is a new one, GSS Dei dei, GSS Kubwa, GSS Jibi, all these schools have cost us not less than N27 billion.
In his remarks, the US Ambassador commended the renewed interest of Nigeria in solid minerals, stressing that the sector has huge potentials to rival the contribution of oil to the nation's economy.
"Now, if you add N27 billion to N62 billion, you're almost getting to N100 billion for one area council. Does it not tell you that indeed, we will now have our hope back? Before you had lost hope, until Mr. President came and said, 'you don't need to lose hope', and the Renewed Hope is working," Wike stated.
NNPC, Partners to Break Ground for Five Mini-LNG Projects in Ajaokuta
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and partners will be kick-starting the construction of five mini Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, with the groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for next week Thursday.
The national oil company disclosed this yesterday in a public invitation
that regard, has approved your suspension as the Onido of Ido in the area of authority of Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State." It directed Oba Babalola to hand over all government properties in his possession to the Chairman of Ido local government. In the meantime, the state government has vowed to hit hard at anyone, no matter how highly placed, who contravenes the law.
Justice Bolaji Olajuwon of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, dismissed the application by two Rivers State indigenes challenging the jurisdiction of the court to try them over alleged complicity in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Chime Eguma Ezebalike and Prince Lukman Oladele, were among five persons charged with terrorism and murder. The others are Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga Donald and Ochueja Thankgod.
The Mele Kyari-led NNPC listed the five mini-LNG plants as PRIME LNG, NGML/Gasnexus LNG, BUA LNG, Highland LNG, and LNG Arete). Mini LNG is a small-scale gas plant that facilitates the production, storage and distribution of liquefied natural gas in smaller quantities through trucks with the presence of refuelling stations at strategic points. The model ensures that natural gas is delivered to last-mile
They were last week arraigned on a seven-count criminal charge
bordering on terrorism and murder. Although, they pleaded not guilty to all the charges, the judge however, ordered that they be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Center, pending the hearing of their bail application fixed for February 2, as well as the motion of the 1st and 2nd defendants challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit against them.
Next Thursday
customers who are outside of the existing pipeline network.
NNPC said the groundbreaking ceremony was themed: 'From Gas to Prosperity: Catalysing Nigeria’s Economic Growth', adding that the company was shaping a sustainable energy future for Nigeria.
"Join us for the groundbreaking ceremony of 5 Mini LNG Plants (PRIME LNG, NGML/Gasnexus LNG, BUA LNG, Highland LNG,
Ezebalike and Oladele had argued that by the provisions of the Terrorism Act, it is only the Attorney General of the Federation that can file any charge of terrorism against them. Their lawyer, Mr. Lukman
Fagbemi, SAN, submitted that the charge having been filed by the Inspector General of Police, was incompetent and asked the court to strike out counts 1,3,4,5,6, and 7 of the charge or strike strike out the entire suit for been incompetent. Responding, Police lawyer, Mr. Simon Lough, SAN, urged the court to dismiss the application for lacking in merit. According to Lough, besides Sections 4 and 66 of the Police Acts that empower them to bring the charge against the defendants, Section 5 and 99 of the Terrorism Act, shows that the police have powers to also initiate terrorism charges against the defendant.
and LNG Arete) as we take an important step towards Gas to Prosperity: Catalysing Nigeria’s Economic Growth Together, we are shaping a sustainable energy future for Nigeria", the post read. Kyari had in November last year hinted at the company's plan to commence the building of new mini LNG plants in Nigeria this year but did not disclose the location of the plants.
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
Adibe emenyonu in Benin City
L-R: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy of Nigeria, Wale Edun; Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede and the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, in a Strategic Alliance to Stimulate the forex market in Abuja…yesterday
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu receiving Letter of Credence from the Ambassador of the European Union to Nigeria, Amb. Gautier Mignot, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja… yesterday
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (left) receiving a Letter of Credence from Ambassador of the Republic of Finland to Nigeria, Amb. Sanna Selin, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja… yesterday
PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI
FACTS BEHIND THE RIGHTS
ISSUE
Tinubu, Atiku, Northern Governors, Others
Mourn Ex-FCT Minister, Jeremiah Useni
Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Segun Awofadeji in Gombe, John Shiklam in Kaduna
President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Northern Governors’ Forum, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), former Senate President David Mark and Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, have joined the government and people of Plateau State to mourn the passing on Thursday of former FCT Minister, Lieutenant-General Jeremiah Timbut Useni (rtd) at 81.
The President, in a statement issued yesterday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, military colleagues, and political
associates of the former Governor of old Bendel State, Minister of Transport, and Quarter-Master General of the Nigerian Army.
According to President Tinubu, Useni demonstrated courage and dedication throughout his military career and inspired many young officers to prioritise national interests above personal gain.
The President stated that the deceased also made some difference in politics as deputy national chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District.
President Tinubu prayed that God Almighty will grant Lieutenant-General Useni's soul eternal rest and solace for his family.
Former Vice President in a condolence message yesterday, described the passing of Lt. General
Useni, as a monumental loss of a powerhouse insider and institutional library of the country.
Atiku, paid glowing tribute to the former Minister of Transport and the Federal Capital Territory, saying he was a fine soldier, astute public administrator, people's oriented politician, and a kindhearted peace lover and conflict mediator.
According to Waziri of Adamawa, the ever-smiling army top gun was a jolly good fellow famously known in social circles as 'Merry Jerryman' for his affable and amiable character.
''May his patriotic soul blissfully rest in eternity while we pray for strength and comfort for his nuclear and extended families to pull through this moment of bereavement and grief, Atiku said.
"The great deeds of General Useni towards nation building are too
tangible and visible to be obliterated in a jiffy," he added.
He also commiserated with the military that he served with distinction and the people of Plateau State, whom he represented as a distinguished senator, on the passing away of a man of illustrious career and personality.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, also expressed deep sadness over the demise of Useni.
In a condolence message on behalf of the 19 Northern governors, Governor Yahaya described the late General Useni as a committed patriot, a seasoned military officer, and an exemplary statesman who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.
In a statement issued yesterday by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General
Tinubu Lauds Finland's Intervention in Simon Ekpa's Case, Says Nigeria Won't Tolerate Actions To Divide Its Citizens
President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the intervention of the Finnish government, with the arrest and detention of the promoter of the proscribed Independent People of Biafra (IPOB), Simon Ekpa, saying the government will not tolerate actions and statements that could lead to divisiveness among citizens.
The President, who spoke in Abuja yesterday when he received the Letters of Credence from the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms Sanna Selin, at the State House, commended the Finnish authorities for the timely intervention that safeguarded the nation's integrity and mitigated an action that threatened peaceful co-existence.
"I must thank you for your record on safeguarding human rights in our country with the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is indivisible. We have been through turbulent times, and we don't want to promote terrorism," President Tinubu told the Finnish ambassador.
"I am a child born into activism, but not divisiveness. We need cohesion and cooperation to bring about development. Our watchword
is stability and cohesion to move the country forward.
"The National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has informed me. I know what the rule of law means. The rule of law safeguards our democratic credentials, morals and values. We must respect the rule of law,'' the President said.
President Tinubu noted that the Ambassador's priorities, including ICT, agriculture, and education, will directly impact the country's development.
According to him: "Nigeria is undergoing a series of necessary
reforms to stimulate growth and prosperity. Thank you also for the humanitarian support in the North-east. I believe that we can work together".
Earlier, the Ambassador of Finland extolled the President for his courage in initiating reforms that will benefit the economy and ensure prosperity in the future.
"Simon Ekpa has been hindering bilateral relations. The cooperation between our two countries is going very well now, and the National Security Adviser has been providing all the evidence,'' the envoy noted.
"I salute you for all the ongoing reforms in the country. They are not easy. Even though it is painful, it is the only way Nigeria can progress. It is essential for the country.
"Finland has been involved in peace mediation as well. We also have opportunities for Nigeria in energy. We can work and make it a realisable dream,'' she stated.
President Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of the European Union, Mr Gautier Mignot, and the Ambassador of the People's Republic of Algeria, Hocine Mezoued.
(Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe, the Northern governors noted that the former minister’s remarkable role in the development of the Federal Capital Territory, his steadfast commitment to national unity and progress when he served as a Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District and his contributions would remain indelible in the annals of Nigeria’s history.
“Lt. General Useni was a highly respected leader whose remarkable service in both military and civil capacities left a significant impact on Nigeria’s governance and development. His wealth of experience, wisdom, and commitment to national unity will be sorely missed," Governor Inuwa Yahaya remarked.
The NSGF Chairman extended his condolences to Governor Caleb
Muftwang, the government and people of Plateau State, where the late General hailed from, as well as his family and associates, urging them to take solace in his exemplary life and enduring legacies of patriotism and service.
“On behalf of the Northern Governors’ Forum, I offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, our dear brother, Governor Caleb Muftwang, the good people of Plateau State, and indeed the entire nation. We pray Almighty God to grant the deceased eternal rest and give his loved ones the fortitude to bear this great loss,” he added.
Former Senate President, Senator Mark described Lt. General Useni's demise as the exit of a hero, noting that he was a distinguished officer and gentleman of all seasons.
Kano Govt. Rejects Police Security Alert
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
Kano state government has described the security alert issued by the State Police Command as unfounded and unwanted.
The State Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, disclosed this during a press conference held yesterday.
The State Police Command had earlier issued a statement banning all public gatherings in the wake of the yearly religious Tijjani gathering to be conducted by the Emir of Kano Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi 11, at the Sani Abacha stadium.
A combined team of Security operatives barricaded the venue of the National Tijjaniyya Maulud
blocking all entrances leading to the venue.
However, during the press conference, the State Commissioner of Information, said, "It has come to our attention with great concern that, security agencies have blocked the venue designated for this highly significant religious event.
"This action is not only unnecessary but also unjustified, as there has been no report of any security threat in Kano State, that would warrant such an extreme measure.,
“The Kano State Government has not issued any complaints regarding insecurity, and we find the presence of security operatives at the venue of this significant religious activity unwarranted and unacceptable."
Troops Kill Terrorist Commander, 79 Combatants, Apprehend Gunrunners
The Nigerian military said that its troops across all operational theatres intensified ongoing counter terrorism and counter insurgency operations across the nation, resulting in the killing of a notorious terrorist commander and 79 combatants including gunrunners. The military also said that the operations particularly targeted not just the terrorist but their network of collaborators, informants and support
base, within the period under review.
A statement by Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, said that troops of JTF, South South, Operations Delta Safe retrieved petroleum products worth over N748 million from oil thieves within the week in focus.
He added that the troops also discovered and dismantled no fewer than 42 illegal refining sites, recovered 842,685 litres of stolen crude oil, 12,340 litres of illegally refined AGO and 200
litres of DPK.
"Significantly, troops in North Central Operational Theatre neutralised a notorious terrorist commander, and gun runner identified as Abu Mosaje in Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State.
"Additionally, same troops apprehended a wanted kidnap kingpin that was on security watch list identified as Babangida Gora Usman. He was arrested in Sanga LGA of Kaduna State.
"Furthermore, troops arrested another notorious gunrunner and
his son, identified as Timothy Yusuf and Timothy Obadiah.
"Meanwhile, in the South-east, troops arrested seven IPOB/ESN agitators including a notorious kidnapper and informants in Enugu North and Ehime Mbano LGAs of Enugu and Imo States.
"Nevertheless, during the week under review, troops neutralised 79 and arrested 224 persons. Troops also arrested 28 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 67 kidnapped hostages.
"In the SS, troops denied the oil theft
of the estimated sum of N747,070,710.00 only," he said.
General Buba said that troops also discovered and destroyed 215 crude oil cooking ovens, 26 dugout pits, 29 boats, 62 storage tanks, 20 drums and 42 illegal refining sites, stressing that other items recovered include one barge, one tug boat, two pumping machines, two speedboats, nine outboard engines, two vehicles, 21 motorcycles, 11 mobile phones and eight vehicles among others.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
Deji
L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria, Bayo Ajayi; Chief Executive Officer, NGX RegCo, Olufemi Shobanjo; Chief Executive Officer, NGX, Jude Chiemeka; Acting Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, Kunle Adedeji; Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Wole Adeniyi, and Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Capital, Oladele Sotubo at Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc’s
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
UNITED FOR PDP REBIRTH...
Peter Obi: I'll Retire to Onitsha as Secondary School Teacher to Inspire Students
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka
Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of Labour Party in 2023, Mr. Peter Obi yesterday, said he will retire to Onitsha as a secondary school teacher to inspire students.
Obi said this while teaching final year students of Dennis Memorial Grammar School in Onitsha, to mark the International Day of Education.
He said: "I was just passing by when I decided to mark the International Day of Education here with you. I told myself there was need for me to come here
and speak to students. I also know that tomorrow will mark the 100 years of existence of this school, so I came to be with you.
"Education is the most important thing in your life. It is the most important capital, equipment that you need to be successful. That you are here is a sign that you're already a success.
"I'm here to encourage you, you are acquiring the best and some of you are potential governors and presidents and you must take your education seriously.
"In this school in 1970, I was
NCAA Confirms United Airlines' Incident, Visits Injured
Chinedu Eze in Lagos and Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed the midflight incident suffered by United Airlines Flight UA614 on Thursday, January 23, when it left the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, to Washington, United States, but was forced to declare emergency and made air return after about two hours of flight out of the departure airport.
The Boeing 787-8 aircraft was carrying 245 passengers, eight flight attendants, and three pilots at the time of the incident, which occurred over Ivory Coast airspace, as reports indicated that several passengers and crew members sustained minor injuries.
The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection (NCAA), Mr. Michael Achimugu, who confirmed the incident to THISDAY, said that the regulatory authority is investigating the cause of the incident and examining the aircraft Flight Data Recorder (FDR) to ascertain exactly what happened, noting that the authority is not going to rely on the feedback from the airline or the passenger but facts from the investigation and promised NCAA would issue a statement after the investigation.
Achimugu also said that he led a team to the hotels to visit the passengers who were in the flight and also visited the hospital to see those who were receiving treatment from injuries suffered during the incident in order to give them support.
“We are investigating the incident. We have received Flight Data Recorder in order to ascertain exactly what happened. When something happens, you have to investigate it before you issue a statement. We want to know exactly what happened. Meanwhile, we have met with some of the passengers in the hotel and in the hospital to give them support and some degree of care,” he said.
However, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) disclosed in a statement that its rescue team safely deboarded 256 souls on board when the aircraft made an emergency landing.
“United Airlines aeroplane Boeing 787-800 departed from Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, at 23:59 on Thursday, January 23, 2025. Hours later, the aircraft made an air return and landed safely at 03:22 this morning.
“On board were 245 adults and 11 crew members. The team of Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (ARFFS), Aviation Medical and Aviation Security (AVSEC) were already at the gate when the aeroplane parked for deboarding at D31 without incident, and the door was opened at 03:37. While all passengers and crew disembarked safely, four passengers and two crew members sustained serious injuries, and an additional 27 passengers and five crew members had minor injuries. The rescue team responded swiftly and effectively, having been on alert and standby just four minutes after the pilot reported distress at 01:20.
at the gate here to salute General Gowon who visited, and joined other children to sing for him, but through education I was able to grow to the point where I sat with him on the same table and made decisions.
"I hope to retire to Onitsha someday, and take up a teaching job to inspire children," Obi said. Meanwhile, Obi has donated N25 million to a mission hospital, Rex Universorum Charles Heerey Hospital Mmiata Anam,
Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State. While presenting the check to Mother Mary Akabogu, leader of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, an organisation within the Catholic Church, which runs the hospital, Obi reminded them that he handed over the facility to them, when he was governor. He said he will continue to support mission facilities because of their contributions to health care development in the nation.
Rivers Court Judgement: PDP Reaffirms Ewor-led Rivers State Executive
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday reaffirmed the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led executive to oversee the affairs of the Rivers State Chapter of the party in compliance with the judgement of the Rivers State High Court and pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017).
The PDP restated its obedience to the judgement of the Rivers State
High Court so as to avoid a repeat of the painful scenario in Plateau State where the party lost many seats won in the National Assembly and the Plateau State House of Assembly in the 2023 general elections as a result of non-compliance with a 2020 court judgement against the PDP Congresses which produced the then party executives in Plateau State.
A statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, noted that it has no option than to abide by the
judgement of the Rivers State High Court, which in Suit No. PHC/2301/ CS/2024, nullified the Ward, Local Government and State Congresses of our party in Rivers State conducted on July 27, August 10 and August 31, 2024 respectively, given that the judgement not been appealed, set aside or stayed by any court of competent jurisdiction.
The PDP commended the leaders, critical stakeholders, members and supporters of the party in Rivers State for working with the Hon.
Ewor-led state executive to ensure the stability and continuous success of the PDP in the State. ''The national leadership again charges the Ewor-led Rivers State Executive to continue to work harmoniously with the leader of the PDP in Rivers State, His Excellency, Governor Similanayi Fubara as he intensifies efforts in his massive delivery of good governance to the people of Rivers State in line with the manifesto and policy thrust of the PDP,'' Ologunagba stated.
CDS: Partnering Julius Berger to Build New Armed Forces Complex Deliberate
Bennett Oghifo
Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, has said that their partnership with Julius Berger Nigeria Plc in the building of a new Armed Forces Complex was deliberate and that the present complex has become inadequate.
General Musa stated this at the groundbreaking ceremony of the new complex, located at Asokoro, Abuja, on Thursday. According to the CDS, “Partnering with Julius Berger was deliberate; a new Armed Forces Complex became necessary for some reasons. The current Armed Forces Complex in Area 10, Garki, was meant to be a temporary
location of the Services, that is, the Army, Air Force and the Navy. But it has become largely inadequate. So, a new complex has been designed to tackle this unique challenge,” he said.
The location of the new complex, he said, is unique with the surrounding Mpape and Asokoro Rocks in the area, and that the features will present a large measure of security, among others.
He said, “We engaged Julius Berger to do this job not just because they come highly recommended, but because Julius Berger has the track record of performance and to deliver on schedule like they have done very efficiently in similar projects of sensitive nature in record time.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who performed the groundbreaking, praised the military for the foresight on the project.
The President said the project will do the Armed Forces a lot of good, including enhancing the resilience of the military and the relentlessness with which they have continued to prosecute the insurgency war.
He encouraged them further, saying “You never lost any war before. You will win this war."
Challenging the stakeholders on the new Armed Forces Complex, the President said, "the first phase of the complex must start immediately. It must be completed by the end of my administration.”
The Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Peer Lubasch, commended the President for approving the project. He said, “Julius Berger is deeply honoured to be the contractor of choice for this iconic project. For 60 years, we have been entrusted with the construction of priority infrastructure in Nigeria. And for 60 years, we have delivered reliably, with highest integrity and professionalism. With the continued support of our esteemed clients and stakeholders, we are confident that Julius Berger will exceed expectations in constructing the New Armed Forces Headquarters Complex that stands as a symbol of national pride and strength.”
Disengaged Staff of ICCON Urge Registrar to Obey Court Order
Alex Enumah in Abuja
In the last four days, the Registrar of the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (ICCON), has come under pressure to reinstate 19 staff members of the Institute wrongly sacked nearly 12 years ago.
The disengaged staff, after series of letters and meetings with the registrar on Thursday vowed to daily besiege
ICCON's offices in Abuja and Lagos, until a court judgement directing for their reinstatement has been complied with.
The affected staff were unlawfully and illegally disengaged from office in 2013, following which they instituted legal action against the Federal Ministry of Health, Minister of Health, ICCON and Prof Felix Okiemen as 1st to 4th respondents in the suit
marked: NICN/LA/01/2014.
After 10 years of litigation, trial judge, Justice I. G. Nweneka, found that the claimants were illegally and unlawfully disengaged by ICCON in 2013, and accordingly ordered their reinstatement as well as the payment of all their entitlements from the day they were sacked till the date of reinstatement. Besides, the court awarded cost of N1 million in favour of the 19 claimants.
Justice Nweneka in the judgement delivered on May 21, 2024, held that, "judgement shall be implemented within 30 days from today." However, eight months after, the Institute and registrar, who were both 3rd and 4th respondents in the suit are yet to comply with the order of the court.
L-R: Member, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Board of Trustees, Sen. Sam Egwu; Chairman, BOT, Senator Adolphus Wabara; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; National Vice Chairman, PDP, Chief Ali Odefa and factional National Secretary, Hon. S.K.E Udeh-Okoye, during a meeting of PDP South East Executive Committee at Government House Enugu...yesterday
WE SHARE YOUR GRIEF…
PDP Leadership: Bauchi Governor, Wike
Trade Words, Engage in Name-calling
The war of words between the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed and the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, remains
unabated as both leaders of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) continue to publicly throw tantrums against each other.
Governor Mohammed fired another salvo, saying the only legacy of Wike would be that of a political mercenary
who squandered opportunities and betrayed his allies.
On his part, Wike yesterday asked Governor Mohammed to desist from using his appointment by Tinubu as minister as excuse for his lack of capacity to provide leadership as Chairman of
PDP Governors Forum.
The Bauchi State governor also declared that the FCT Minister may grab headlines, but they offer little substance, alleging that Wike’s betrayal of the PDP and his divisive politics reveals a man driven by personal ambition rather than
Southern Governors Forum Commiserates with Makinde over Brother's Demise
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum and Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has commiserated with the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over the loss of his elder brother, Engineer Sunday Makinde, who died yesterday at the age of 65 years.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta, Ogun State, yesterday, Governor Abiodun said the forum was saddened to learn of the sudden death, adding that the loss of a sibling was always a painful development difficult to bear.
He, however, urged the Oyo
State Governor to take courage from his Christian faith which teaches that the love of God supersedes our love for family and loved ones, and that the will of God is sovereign.
He added even though the deceased did not live to a ripe old age, solace must be taken in the fact that he lived a distinguished and impactful life.
He said: "On behalf of myself and the members of the Southern Governors Forum, I commiserate with my brother, His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Abiodun Makinde, on the demise of his elder brother, Engineer Sunday Makinde, in the
early hours of Friday, January 24.
"No doubt, the incident is extremely painful and difficult to bear, especially as the deceased was not reported to have been ill.
"We know, however, that in accordance with Biblical tenets, the separation that has happened now is only temporary, and we have a promise of eternal life in Christ and the Kingdom of God in which we shall meet to part no more.
"We urge His Excellency to take this sad incident as an act of God and to take solace in the impactful life that the deceased lived, and the fact that Almighty God blessed him with children and grandchildren
who will carry on in his stead.
"May The Good Lord comfort the wife and children of the deceased and the extended Makinde family. "
A brother of the deceased, who is also the Bada Olubadan of Ibadanland and Head of Aigbofa Family of Oja’ba, Ibadan, Chief Olumuyiwa Makinde, who announced the passage in a statement, wrote, “With a heavy heart, I announce the passage of my older brother, Engr Sunday Makinde, to eternal glory today, Friday 24th of January 2025.
“His sudden death occurred in his Ibadan residence at 3.20a.m. today, Friday 24th January 2025.
Court Fixes Feb 14 for Arraignment of Mercy Chinwo's Manager Over Alleged $345,000 Fraud
Wale Igbintade
Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Lagos has fixed February 14, 2025, for the arraignment of Ezekiel Onyedikachi Thankgod, the manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, over an alleged $345,000 fraud.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on January 16, 2025, had sought Thankgod's’s arrest over allegations of financial mismanagement, including diverting royalties from Chinwo’s digital platforms and events.
According to EFCC counsel, Bilikisu Buhari, Thankgod allegedly misappropriated the funds by failing to remit Chinwo’s share of the earnings.
However when the case came up yesterday, Thankgod's counsel, Dr. Monday Ubani (SAN),argued that the arrest warrant was unjustified.
He claimed that the matter was a contractual dispute, not a criminal one, and informed the court that Thankgod had filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit against the
EFCC before another court to prevent his arrest.
Ubani also told the court that his client had filed a preliminary objection to the charge against him and urged the court to vacate the earlier arrest warrant issued against him.
He also told the court that his client has not been served with any charge by the EFCC.
UNAN Charges Students To Embrace AI
Celebrates Int’l Day of Education
United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN) joined the rest of the world to celebrate this year's International Day of Education, urging students to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI). The event which was held yesterday at S.T&T Regency Schools in Ikeja, Lagos, attracted top executives of the association who advised the students to embrace artificial intelligence.
In his opening remarks, President of the Association, Prof. Oluremi Olutimo, reminded the students that the United Nations (UN) in 2018 set aside January 24 of every year as International Day of Education. Prof. Oluremi urged them to take their education seriously and not disregard those insinuating that education is a scam.
He advised the students to take IA seriously because the world is
changing very fast technologically.
Speaking on the topic, 'AI and Education: Processing Human Agency in a World of Automation', the Guest Speaker, Prof. Mike Oladun, reminded the students that the world is now a global village and there's need for them to embrace Artificial Intelligence as it will help them solve problems within few minutes.
He described Artificial Intelligence
as the use of computers to acquire skills and knowledge as well as assist human beings solve problems within few minutes which hitherto were beyond human understanding. He said that with Artificial Intelligence medical science has improved greatly which now makes it possible for pregnant women to be operated on with computers, thereby saving them the trauma of caesarean operation.
public service. Mohammed made the declaration in response to the recent media chat by the minister during which he made references to the Bauchi State governor who is also the Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum.
The governor’s response contained in a statement by his Media Aide, Mukhtar Gidado, read: “Attention of Sen. Bala Mohammed, the Executive Governor of Bauchi State and Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, has been drawn to the latest disjointed and bombastic media chat by Chief Nyesom Wike, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. In his characteristic style, Chief Wike launched into his now-predictable tirade, marked by contradictions, grandstanding, and a perplexing display of loyalty that seems to shift with the wind.
“While Wike’s incoherence often makes it difficult to discern any substantive points, Sen. Bala Mohammed finds it necessary to respond to a few specific remarks that distort facts and aim to undermine the PDP - the very platform that gave Wike his political rise.
“A transactional politician who bites the hand that feeds him. Chief Wike’s ascendancy in politics is a testament to the opportunities provided by the PDP. Yet, he now gleefully undermines the very foundation that nurtured him. It is disheartening that a man who owes so much to a party that stood by him in his political journey has chosen to be a willing tool in its denigration. His recent media outburst was yet another reminder of his transactional approach to politics, where personal ambition eclipses loyalty, principles, and collective interests.
However, Wike, through his
Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, said it was ironic that a known fairweather politician in the mould of Bala Mohammed was the one calling someone else 'a transactional politician'.
Olayinka reminded Mohammed how he dumped his political godfather and former Governor of Bauchi State, Isa Yuguda in 2007 and as a member of the defunct All Nigeria People's Party (ANPP) and also dumped former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2010 for a ministerial appointment under the PDP government of President Goodluck Jonathan.
He wondered how Wike being a minister under the Tinubu administration was the reason Mohammed has failed as Chairman of PDP Governors Forum, while running after PDP ticket to contest for President in 2027, a position that he ought to know will remain in the South till 2031.
"Our attention has been drawn to the 'say nothing' press statement that took six days to write, issued by the Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, and we can't but sympathise with a man who, out of political greed, has chosen to plunge himself into the deepest part of the river despite not knowing how to swim.
"First, Governor Bala Mohammed is holding the position of Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum out of political greed, because by convention and practice, the position should be held by one of the PDP Governors in the South. Reason being that the immediate past Chairman of the Forum was from the North, same as the PDP National Chairman.
Asharami Synergy Enhances Aviation Operations with 60,000L Bowser SO-24
Asharami Synergy Limited, a Sahara Group downstream company and supplier of jet fuel, has commissioned the Bowser SO-24, a fuel dispensing system to enhance efficiency and operational excellence in the aviation sector.
The 60,000-litre capacity aviation fuel bowser is a specialised vehicle designed for the safe and efficient transport and refuelling of aircraft. It is equipped with advanced systems to ensure precise fuel handling and compliance with aviation safety standards – reinforcing Asharami Synergy’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the commissioning, CEO, Asharami Synergy, Nomnso
Dike, was quoted in a statement to have described the acquisition of the bowser as a milestone that highlights Asharami’s dedication to constantly pushing boundaries in the sector to drive operational excellence that aligns with global standards.
“Asharami Synergy has a legacy of excellence, efficiency, and leadership in our industry. The Bowser SO-24 is a testament to our resolve to continuously innovate, commit to sustainability, and be the leading suppliers of Jet fuel (ATK) in this industry. We are always eager to take decisive and defining steps to meet the evolving needs of our clients and redefine efficiency in energy distribution,” he said.
Chuks Okocha and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
L-R: Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass; mother of the deceased Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Princess Comfort Folashade Esusu, and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, during a visit to the mother of late Hon. Adewunmi Onanuga after her burial in Sagamu, Ogun State…yesterday
CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EDUCATION...
L-R: United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN) member, Ephraim Abutu; Principal, ST&T Regency Schools, Mrs. Benedicta Nwadialor; Envoy on Entrepreneurship Development, Prof. Michael Oladun; Vice President, UNAN, Dr. Ijeoma Nweke; President, Prof. Oluremi Olutimo; Member, Mrs. Titilola Theresa Williams and Director of Studies, ST&T Regency Schools, Mr. Mike Okoawoh, during the celebration of 2025 International Day of Education, organised by UNAN in Lagos ... yesterday
FG Seeks World Bank Support for Steel Sector Development
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The federal government through the Ministry of Steel Development has sought World Bank's support for the development of Steel Roadmap and other critical areas of the sector in Nigeria.
The Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shaiubu Abubakar Audu, in a meeting with World Bank delegation at the ministry's headquarters disclosed that as a vital sector for economic prosperity and industrialisation, it is imperative that a comprehensive roadmap for the steel sector be developed to address current issues
and pave way for a sustainable future for steel in the country. According to him, the need for a strategic plan for the steel industry in Nigeria cannot be overstated, adding that with the right framework in place, the industry can unlock its full potential, create jobs, boost local production and contribute significantly to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Audu, further stressed that some of the critical areas that need to be addressed in the roadmap include: evaluation and determination of steel raw materials; develop health safety guidelines for the steel sector in Nigeria; design and develop a national metal
UNILORIN VC, Group Congratulate THISDAY At 30
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has joined other wellmeaning Nigerians to commend the THISDAY Newspaper on its numerous contributions to national and human development since the debut of the newspaper 30 years ago in the country. In the same vein, the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has congratulated THISDAY Newspaper on its 30th anniversary, noting that the publication as a trailblazer in Nigerian journalism and a steadfast advocate for democracy, peace, and development.
Prof. Egbewole in a statement issued yesterday signed by the institution's Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, said that the management and staff of the media outfit deserve to be congratulated as the newspaper
marked its 30 years of robust journalism and impactful service to the nation and global community.
The Vice Chancellor congratulated the Founder and Publisher of the media enterprise, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, for sustaining the glittering legacy of the publication, which he said has been discharging its functions continuously in the last three decades despite several challenges.
He noted that the newspaper is one of the most respected publications in the country, adding that it has always provided quality information, education and entertainment for its readers.
Egbewole, who Pointed out that THISDAY is noted for unbiased reportage and rich contents, thanked the newspaper for always supporting the University of Ilorin, saying that it is one of the greatest friends of the institution.
Applications Open for National Health Fellows Programme
Fred Ojeh
The National Health Fellows Programme has officially been launched and prospective candidates have been called upon to commence the submission of their applications.
This groundbreaking initiative, introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, according to the organisers, is aimed to transform Nigeria's public health sector and develop the next generation of healthcare leaders to enhance primary healthcare delivery nationwide.
The programme will bring together a cohort of emerging professionals from various fields, including health and health-related areas, Information Technology, and Social Sciences.
The selected fellows will participate in rigorous training, mentorship, and leadership opportunities and gain exposure to best practices within Nigeria's health sector.
The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said, “This programme is built upon the limitless talent, brilliance, and patriotic valour of our young citizens, offering them an unprecedented opportunity to hone their leadership abilities and create impactful, results-driven solutions in healthcare. We call on young Nigerians to arise as powerful catalysts of change and take their rightful place in shaping the future of our nation’s health sector.
scrap policy framework; develop a National Steel Laboratory for quality assurance as well as the development of an online portal for steel and other metal products imported into the country.
He asserted that by focusing on these key areas, the country can create
2027:
a conducive environment for the steel industry to thrive and compete globally.
In her remarks, the leader of the World Bank delegation, Noora Arfaa, declared that the Bank is willing to provide supervision and support for the preparation of a roadmap for the steel industry in Nigeria.
She said that the World Bank has a work programme and activity plan outlined, beginning from January 2025 that would see a roadmap for Nigeria drafted and adopted by August 2025. She appealed to the ministry to ensure it provides the scope of data that will be needed by the World Bank, noting that the objective of the roadmap is to prioritise actions that will unlock investments across Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM), and other critical mineral value chains, thereby driving economic diversification and inclusive and sustainable development.
I'll Return to God for Votes not You, Gov Radda Tells Critics
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has slammed those criticising his administration, saying he will seek his re-election in 2027 from God not them.
While addressing members of the All Progressives Congress (APC)
at the Government House ahead of the February 15 state’s councils poll, Radda said he will return to his Creator for votes.
Radda, who addressed the APC stalwarts in Hausa, insisted that he would not return to those he invariably termed distractors to canvass for votes in the 2027 general elections.
He said: “Some people have circumcised themselves to side talks saying it is a period of four years I will do and come back to them, but who told you that I am coming back to you?
“For me, I will return to He (God) who gave me this mandate in 2023 to seek for my re-election in 2027. All of you here have contributed in one way or the other to make this party become what it is today.”
While reiterating that the era of “hijacking ballot boxes to fill in candidates” was over, Radda tasked APC members to continue to mobilise more people to vote for the party in the forthcoming councils’ election.
No Change in Kano Land Recertification Deadline, Says Commissioner
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
The Kano State Government has said that the ongoing land recertification deadline of 31st January 2025 remains unchanged even as no fewer than 2,000 land owners recertified their certificate of occupancy in the state.
The state Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Abduljabar Muhammad, disclosed this yesterday during a press conference in Kano.
He said barely two months after the commencement of the renewal of the certificate of occupancy for land
owners, the ministry has witnessed over one million land owners coming for documentation, registration as well as the recertification.
It would be recalled that Governor Abba Yusuf officially flagged off the recertification of titled documents in Kano State on 25th November 2024 for all the land owners in the state.
"We have recertified over 2,000 CofOs and still counting, we have equally began the processing of Systematic Land Title Registration (SLTR) documents, so as to be given regular CofOs.
"The recertification deadline of 31 January, 2025 still stands, we urge all those that have not yet recertified their documents, to do so before the deadline, in order to protect and secure their land related properties," he said.
"We are proud to proclaim that we have had over one million distinct recertification-related interactions covering everything from conversion to name change and actual recertification applications. his juncture, it is vital to mention the tremendous effort
being made to begin Sectional Titling in the state, which is set to begin anytime from now. This will ease the ownership of businesses in a conglomerates as well as in housing estates, plazas, block of flats and markets, and will also enhance the IGR of the state," the commissioner added. The commissioner further warned that land owners who refuse to come forward for recertification, risk losing their lands at the end of the exercise on 31st of January.
WAEC, NECO Ordered to Inscribe NIN, Date of Birth, Photograph on Certificates
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Public examination bodies have received marching orders from the federal government to henceforth inscribe three identifiers, namely National Id entification Number (NIN), Date of Birth with photograph embossed in each certificate result issued to qualified candidates who sit their various examinations.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, gave the directive in Abuja during inauguration of a committee to work on migration of examinations conducted by
West African Examination Council (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO), and National Business and Technical Examination Board (NABTEB), among others, from current paper-based examination to Computer Based Test (CBT), in the next three years.
He announced that by 2027 there would be full migration from paperbased examination to CBT, leveraging on technology to enhance the quality of examinations in the country.
Alausa declared war against examination malpractices, while also urging members of the committee to come up with strategies to tackle
the menace, especially elimination of examination leakages causing national embarrassment.
The committee which has Registrar of Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Is-haq Oloyede as the chairman, was given up to June this year to submit report.
The minister lamented the rising cases of examination malpractices and identity theft, saying engraving NIN, Date of Birth and picture of candidates in certificates issued to them would tremendously reduce some of these unwholesome practices.
He described as unfortunate situations where parents, teachers,
principals of schools and school owners collude to help students cheat in examinations.
Speaking on terms of reference of the committee, Alausa said government had to look at the entire ecosystem of examinations in the country, because there are various players in examination malpractices. "We have the students, we also have the parents contributing to the exams malpractices, encouraging their children. We have the teachers, we have the principals of schools as well, and also we have people supervising these exams and we are targeting all of these areas," he said.
One too many...
In Praise of President Buhari
The Resignation of Catholic Priests
TWhen President Muhammadu Buhari took over the reins of power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a broken state in many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad governance and untold level of corruption, government could not live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both the federal and state levels.
Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state governors pay something as basic as workers’ salaries. Granting those bailout funds was a huge boost to national security because the pressure of arrears of unpaid monthly salaries building dangerously all over the country was a ticking bomb.
other faiths and philosophies. The catholic church should make it easy for priests to exit the priesthood. The resignation process should not be complicated and cumbersome. There should be a resignation or severance package for ex-catholic priests based on their years of service. This package will enable them to continue their lives. Those who resign from the catholic priesthood should be celebrated, not condemned or stigmatized.
Ask the naysayers and they would readily remind you of how long it took President Buhari to appoint his ministers and how that contributed to collapse of the economy as if, without ministers, governance was frozen. But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole story was that many of our citizens did not know how decrepit a state President Buhari inherited in 2015.
It was therefore necessary for him to take stock against the background of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full well with the incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover notes. Although President Goodluck Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many of his appointees were still sulking over what they saw as their personal losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Buhari government.
by the EFCC, President Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to the public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level of transparency and accountability.
Boko Haram and Violence Against Christians
Stop Ritual Attacks and Killings
he Ex-cellence Project commends Echezona Obiagbaosogu and Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe, who resigned from the priesthood, for their courage and thoughtfulness. Their decision to leave the priesthood is a welcome development and an expression of self-authenticity. As reported, Obiagbaosogu left the catholic priesthood and catholic faith for the traditional religion. Whilst Oghenerukevwe resigned and got married in the US. The Ex-cellence Project congratulates them on the brave decision to leave the priesthood and pursue their personal choices and different life pathways. Priesthood should be a matter of preference and choice. Priesthood should not be by force. Celibacy should not be by force. Nobody should be compelled to live as a priest, a celibate priest, or a catholic. Unfortunately, the catholic church promotes the idea that priests are priests, catholic priests, forever. Hence, as a catholic priest, one is expected to remain a cleric and a catholic for the rest of one’s life. A catholic priest would not marry, embrace another faith, or renounce religion or belief in god. That is a catholic anathema. The catholic faith holds its priests hostage, socially and psychologically hostage. Thus, priests who want to resign from the priesthood and the catholic faith find it difficult to do so. These priests live miserable lives because they remain priests, celibate priests; they stay catholic against their will.
After keeping treasury looters on their toes and at bay through the EFCC, particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending habits of the nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can be produced at home. One of such items was rice, a major staple among Nigerians. By banning rice importation into the country, the President on one hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency annually.
And, on the other hand, the President has boosted domestic production of rice and in the process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in food production. He also created millions of jobs for young people in the rice value chain.
The Ex-cellence Project provides psychosocial support to nonreligious ex-clergies. The support draws from the understanding that priesthood can be a traumatizing experience for some of the clerics. Exiting the clergy is a difficult step. The decision is overwhelming, and sometimes a nightmare.
Leo Igwe coordinates the Ex-cellence Project
What is most admirable about President Buhari and his government is its frugal management of scarce national resources to attain optimum goals. Recall that since President Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped abysmally as if to sabotage him knowing all the big promises he made to citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could not dream of.
Churches are still being burnt and Christians are still being killed in Niger State, Southern Kaduna, Nasarawa State, Borno State, and other locales of the Muslim north of Nigeria by Boko Haram and their terror ilk. Violence against Christians and their properties has been normalised. Conversions of Christian police officers to Islam are celebrated in Kano, the city known to infamy as the place where the Igbo Christian Gideon Akaluka was beheaded and his severed head paraded through the streets. Recall that Boko Haram tells us they are the true and pre-eminent interpreters of the injunctions of their faith. So? We have clues today that, oh so, a religion really exists whose stated objective is the destruction of Christianity and every tenet and good emanating from the Christian faith thereof.
TEven with the obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP appointees and their supporters still in government hell-bent on making things difficult for Buhari, the President moved on with his methodical repair of a broken country. The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources of income to the nation and directed that all inflows be paid into one single account in line with the policy of Single Treasury Account (TSA).
The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the PDP government but its penchant for imprudence and lack of accountability denied it the courage of implementing the policy. What the President literally did was to gather all the nation’s money into one box and locked it up with a big padlock and watched for any thief to come close.
Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic advantages.
SATURDAY NEWSPAPER
EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA
Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja
DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN
THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
Who can blame the President for almost developing paranoia over the safeguard of the national treasury with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting that took place in the 16 years of the PDP? With such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting insurgency in the Northeast ended up in the pockets of a few individuals while our gallant soldiers fought with bare hands and on empty stomach, President Buhari was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back in national spending.
This position of the catholic church is mistaken and unhealthy. The catholic expectation is damaging the lives of many priests and causing them to lead unauthentic lives. Some priests secretly marry and have children. They secretly practice other faiths or remain privately nonreligious and nontheistic. Many people are aware of these catholic anomalies. As demonstrated in the cases of Obiagbaosogu and Oghenerukevwe, many priests want to leave the priesthood. Many priests want to marry and have children. Many priests subscribe to
Thus, under President Buhari, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had remained comatose for years, was woken up to resume its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
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SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
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This includes education as we know it. The means of achieving these destruction goals are achieved by massive killing, violence, sex slavery and everything dark art in the works. Alas, the Church in Nigeria is oblivious to these facts and Christians in Nigeria are still going about pretty cozy ensconced in their belief that “just a few bad boys are out there as terrorists.” Christmastime attacks are rife now and getting bolder and larger in scale and the sequel to the Chibok Girls and Leah Sharibu snatch is the resultant “60,000 babies” that the Chief of Defence Staff recently referenced. Muslim northern governors have not done enough to protect Christians in their sates and now Nasarawa State is being overrun by Islamist Fulani terrorists whilst Governor Sule does zilch. If sitting presidents (Goodluck Jonathan and Bola Tinubu) commit to striking at the operational base of terrorists, then Al-Jazeera, Amnesty International, and other “human rights” groups rear their heads to demonise Nigeria’s military. Now, the idea of “carry your cross and follow me” can be conceptualised outside the province of the figurative; the reality on ground here in Nigeria is tribulation.
Sunday Adole Jonah, Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State
Slightly Inaccurate Reporting
he Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man. The suspects, who were apprehended in the Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim cleric asked them to procure some human body parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to make money or become wealthy and successful undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians strongly believe in blood money, known in some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they could become rich, or successful through ritual sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, or reality. Home movies known as Africa magic or Nollywood films have not helped matters. These movies continue to reinforce these mistaken notions and other superstitions. Families, churches, mosques, and other public institutions do not encourage the interrogation of these traditional occult beliefs. There are no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these irrational and paranormal claims in schools, colleges, and universities. So millions of Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they could make money through ritual sacrifice of human body parts. The belief has led many Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate atrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed or are undergoing court trials due to ritualrelated attacks and murder.
t has been widely reported that billionaire Mark Zuckerberg was peeking at Lauren Sanchez’s bra whereas it was more likely he was peeking at the bra’s contents. No one noticed, apart from the billion or so watching the inauguration. Naughty billionaire. Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia
Not too long ago, the police arrested some young Nigerians for stealing female pants, which they intended to use for ritual sacrifice. AfAW is asking all Nigerians to desist from ritual-related abuses because ritual money beliefs are baseless superstitions. Nigerian media, schools, and colleges should help educate and reorient the public. They should assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense. Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged
Retired Generals Behind Illegal Gold Mining, Senate Alleges
Committee recommends N539bn for Solid
Minerals Ministry Yar’Adua seeks Army, security agencies removal from envelope budgeting
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Senate yesterday alleged that some unnamed retired military generals were behind the numerous illegal mining activities across the country.
This was just as Ekong said his committee had recommended N539 billion as the capital budget for the Solid Minerals Development’s Ministry in the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
Also, Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar'adua, has argued that
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, made the allegation when the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development, Senator Sampson Ekong, submitted his report to the Senate Committee on Appropriation.
CSO Calls For Global Support For Vulnerable Children in W’Africa
Linus Aleke in Abuja
A Civil Society Organisation, Almajiri Child Rights Initiative (ACRI), has called for global support for vulnerable children in the West Africa Region to address the systemic challenges being faced by millions of vulnerable children.
ACRI also unveiled its groundbreaking initiative, code named Community Children Funds (CCF), designed to address the funding gap by providing holistic and coherent support for street connected and vulnerable children, especially those in rural communities.
A statement by Executive Director Almajiri Child Rights Initiative/ Community Children’s Fund, Mohammed Keana, stated that with focus on inclusion, sustainability, and collaboration, the CCF will provide a lifeline for vulnerable children, driving progress toward achieving Africa’s Agenda 2040 and the UN SDGs.
Keana, stressed that building on ACRI’s historic advocacy for Almajiri children, the CCF expands its scope to address broader vulnerabilities,
ensuring no child is left behind.
The unveiling of the fund, he said brought together global leaders, policymakers, and experts in child development, including Ambassador Fatima Kyari Mohammed, African Union Permanent Observer to the United Nations, who described the CCF as a critical intervention that aligned with Africa’s Agenda 2040 aspirations.
Mounting the podium at SOAS University of London, venue of the unveiling of the fund, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Ibrahim, said the initiative is a transformative step toward empowering children and building sustainable systems to address their needs.
The Global Director, United Nations SDG Action Campaign, Ms. Marina Ponti, emphasised the importance of international collaboration and highlighted the CCF’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), urging the global community to rally behind this cause.
In his keynote address, Founder, CCF and Team Lead of ACRI, Mohammed Keana articulated a bold vision for the future.
the military and security institutions in the country should be removed from the envelope budgeting system.
Oshiomhole lamented that the country’s efforts at diversifying its economy would remain a mirage if President Bola Tinubu's administration refused to address the embarrassing cases of illegal mining in the country.
The former Edo State governor, who is a member of the Appropriation Panel said no amount of funds appropriated to the solid minerals subsector would achieve any meaningful results if the issue of illegal miners
were not effectively tackled.
He suggested that the federal government should start dealing with illegal miners like the way it was currently attacking those involved in illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta region.
Oshiomhole said the country would have increased its current 0.05 per cent to GDP to about 50 per cent to GDP if the government had stopped the activities of the illegal miners.
“Whereas the federal government is ruthless with people who are doing illegal oil bunkering by deploying
the Joint Military Task Force to deal with them, when it comes to illegal mining of solid minerals, the federal government changes. It's like using different standards and I am very angry about that.
“If we have to fight this menace, we need to deploy the Army even to kill anyone who is involved in illegal pumping of oil. We should also deploy JTFs, comprising the Army, Police, Air force, against them.
“The ongoing illegal mining across the country is being carried out by retired generals and we know them.
“Yes, we know them. Nobody in Africa doesn't know them. I wrote a letter to former President Muhammadu Buhari on the matter when he was in office.
“This is because a team that I sent to go and conduct the primary somewhere, reported back to me the challenge of conducting primary elections in Zamfara because of the illegal miners.
“The team told me that those illegal miners procure arms exactly the same way the military is doing in South Sudan.
Blackout At Katsina NYSC Camp Despite Approval by Govt for Illumination
Francis Sardauna in Katsina and Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) permanent orientation camp in Katsina State has remained without electricity supply despite approval by the state government to install solar-powered light in all areas in the camp.
The approval, which was given last year by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda to the state’s Rural Electrification Board (REB) for the installation of the solar-powered light, has not been implemented.
The inability of the management of the board to implement Radda's approval has thrown the MD Yusuf NYSC permanent orientation camp, located along Mani Road, Katsina, into darkness.
Speaking on the development during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch ‘C’ stream II Corps members deployed to the state, the state NYSC Coordinator, Alhaji Ibrahim Sa'idu, said nothing has been done despite the governor’s approval.
“I wish to remind the governor that since approval was given to the Rural Electrification Board (RED) to illuminate the camp, nothing has been done till now,” Sa'idu said while addressing the corps members yesterday.
Sokoto Gov Urges Corps Members to Promote National Unity
Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto
The Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, has urged corps members posted to Sokoto State to promote national unity and integration.
Governor Aliyu stated this, yesterday, during the swearing-in ceremony of 2024 Batch C stream II, at Wamakko Permanent Orientation
Abia Community Cries
Camp, Sokoto State. Represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Muhammad, Aliyu warned the corps members to shun social vices such as cultism, drug abuse and misconduct.
The governor congratulated the corps members on the completion of their academic programmes which he said qualified them for mobilisation.
out to Otti as
“I commend you for your prompt response to the clarion call to serve our fatherland. No doubt, history will be kind to you for your patriotic zeal,” he stated.
The governor expressed deep appreciation to the management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for its critical role in the moulding and mentoring of the youth to key into the laudable programmes and policies of government over the years, which has helped to fast-track the growth and development of the country in all spheres of human endeavour.
Dumpsite Takes over Farm Lands, Pollute Environment
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo
Following the loss of farm lands and pollution of their environment by dumpsite, the people of Eziala Nsukwe Autonomous Community, Ubakala, have staged a peaceful protest crying out for Governor Alex Otti's intervention to end the menace.
The protesters specifically demanded for the governor to compel the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency
((ASEPA) to relocate the dumpsite to enable them return to their farms. Eziala Nsukwe Ubakala in Umuahia South Local Government which sits within the state capital territory has been hosting a dumpsite since 2017 but the inhabitants claim that it has been expanded by ASEPA to encroach into their farmlands.
Aside from the farmlands, the dumpsite has made the nearby Nigeria Television Authority(NTA) Channel
21 Umuahia, and the Carl Academy and Football College unconducive with noxious air emanating from wastes strewn all over the place.
To express their displeasure, the youths, women and community leaders, including the traditional ruler rose early in the morning and blocked access into the dumpsite. Singing local protest songs, they used palm fronds to create a barricade, a traditional warning against trespassing.
The barricade prevented waste disposal vehicles of ASEPA from gaining access into the dumpsite, forcing the drivers to park the waste-laden trucks and tippers.
Spokesman of Eziala Nsukwe, Chief Chiadikobi Ezigbo, lamented that the community has lost its farmlands to garbage, adding that the environment has also been polluted.
He said that ASEPA, in a bid acquire more lands for waste dumping
ravaged cassava farms without paying compensation thereby denying people food and source of income.
"Government is talking fighting hunger, yet our farms have been destroyed and lands rendered useless for farming," he said.
Ezigbo said that efforts made by the community to get ASEPA relocate the dumpsite have yielded no result as the management of the agency ignored all the letters wrote by their lawyer.
“I sincerely welcome you to Sokoto State, the Seat of Caliphate, I want you to consider your deployment to the state as the will of God.
in Umuahia
Vice President and Head, Visa West Africa, Mr. Andrew Uaboi (left) and Chief Product Officer, Moniepoint Inc., Mr.Tobi Amira, at the strategic investment agreement signing ceremony held in Lagos… recently
United Nations Women Country Representative, Mrs. Beatrice Eyong (left), presenting a New Year Card during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim at the Ministry's Headquarters in Abuja… yesterday
Resilience, Responsibility, Love: Story of Ngozi Ekeoma
In the often unforgiving corridors of the oil and gas industry, where alpha-male CEOs dominate, Ngozi Ekeoma shatters the glass ceiling with grace, intellect, and audacity. A beacon of vision and tenacity, she proves that leadership is not the sole preserve of brute force but thrives on innovation and perseverance. From an early age, her parents instilled in her the values of hard work and integrity, grounding her in the belief that success is earned, not given. With a successful enterprise under her belt, Ngozi is a testament to the power of grit, ambition, and an unyielding commitment to rewriting the rules. The Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Nepal Energies shares insights on her life of resilience, responsibility and love. Adedayo Adejobi brings the excerpts:
When it comes to glass ceilings, few are more formidable than those within the oil and gas industry,wherepowerhas long been concentrated in the hands of alpha-male CEOs with an insatiable appetite for risk. For decades, the hallowed corner office has been an exclusive domain, where decisions impacting the future of nations and economies are forged by those who embody the stereotypical traits of the industry—stoic, bold, and often resolutely masculine. Yet, the wind of change has blown with an undeniable force.
In the midst of this transformation stands Ngozi Ekeoma, a woman whose presence challenges the status quo and reshapes the narrative of what leadership can look like. As one of the few female chief executives in an industry historically dominated by men, she occupies her corner office not as a mere token of diversity, but as a testament to her vision, tenacity, and exceptional acumen. Ngozi has not only broken barriers; she has rewritten the playbook. Her leadership is an embodiment of grace and intellect, dispelling the misconception that the only way to thrive in the industry is through brute force and bravado. She stands as an inspiration to generations of women, showing that the path to the top is not restricted by gender, but instead illuminated by perseverance and innovation.
In the quiet rhythms of daily life, in the ebb and flow of ordinary moments, it is often the unspoken lessons learned from family, heritage, and culture that shape the contours of a person’s destiny. For Ngozi Ekeoma, these lessons, passed down from her parents and deeply rooted in the values of her Igbo heritage, have propelled her to extraordinary heights, both in business and in life. With her husband standing behind her as a strong pillar of support and strength, she comes out strong as a woman of fierce independence and unyielding strength, and a testament to the power of hard work, integrity, and the unwavering belief that a woman’s place is not confined to what is expected of her, but rather, to what she dares to achieve.
Born into a family where effort and integrity were the foundations of every endeavour, Ngozi’s early life was steeped in the teachings of her enterprising parents, who demonstrated through their daily lives the value of diligence, honesty, and perseverance.Herfather,amanwhosewordswere as weighty as his actions, imparted one lesson that remains etched in her memory: “Anyone who sleeps beyond a particular time in the morning is inviting poverty.” This belief, cultivated in her duringchildhood,hasbeenthebedrockuponwhich she built her own journey. To Ngozi, success was neversomethingthatarrivedbychanceorthrough idle hope. It was always, and still is, the product of relentless effort, a commitment to excellence, and the conscious decision to rise, day after day, to meet the challenges of life head-on. From the beginning, it was clear that the course of her life would not be dictated by mere circumstance. “I grew up with his saying that anyone who sleeps beyond a certain time in the morning is invitingpoverty.Hearingthatatayoungagemeant that for me, it meant that I had to work hard, put in the work, and not fantasize about the good life,” she recalls. Even as a child, she understood the power of ambition and how the pursuit of one’s dreams must be anchored in tangible action.
The responsibility she carried as the first daughter in her family was not one she bore lightly. In Igbo culture, this position carries with it the weight of expectation, and for Ngozi, it was both a duty and a calling. From an early age, she understood that others in her family were looking to her—not just for guidance, but as an example to follow. The decision to shoulder this responsibility was one she made with great care and commitment.
“I took a decision that I was going to make sure that no sibling depended on me,” she says with the kind of resolute confidence that marks the essence of her character. Through her actions, she made good on her promise, ensuring that her siblings did not merely rely on her for sustenance, but rather learned to build lives of their own, independent and thriving.
Her early years were marked by both hard lessons and profound moments of clarity. Reflecting on her relationship with her mother, she speaks candidly about the discipline and high standards her mother set for her. “I reminded her recently that she beat me more than any of her children,” she says with a smile. Her mother’s response, in hindsight, has become a key piece of the puzzle that helped shape the woman she would become. “I needed to turn out right, so the rest can emulate me,” her mother had told her. The words have remained with Ngozi, and with them, the understanding that the weight of her mother’s discipline
was never punitive, but rather a training ground for the leadership role she would one day occupy.
The notion of destiny is one that often comes to mind when hearing the stories of extraordinary individuals—people whose lives seem to unfold in ways that appear preordained. Yet, when asked about destiny, Ngozi is quick to point out the delicate balance between fate and effort, and the importance of seizing one’s own future.
“I got married as a teenager,” she shares, her voice filled with the quiet wisdom of experience.
“I had just finished my secondary school, and the results were not released. I came to Lagos and I wanted to go to school. I was married to a wealthy man, so I could have just relaxed.”
But relaxation, it seemed, was not in her nature. Despite the comfort her marriage might have afforded her, she chose a different path—one that would ensure she did not lose sight of her own potential.
“Some saw it as shameful,” she says, recalling how others believed she should relax and enjoy the privileges that came with her marriage. But Ngozi knew that in order to truly make something of herself, she had to arm herself with education. “I sat for JAMB and was admitted into the University of Lagos,” she explains. This decision marked the beginning of her journey toward becoming not just a wife or mother, but an empowered woman in her own right. Today, with over 50 filling stations under her management, Ngozi stands as a living testament to the power of education, hard work, and determination. It is a success she attributes to both the opportunities she created for herself and the
support she found within her marriage. “There is the place of destiny, and the place of education and hard work,” she muses, underscoring the critical role that both play in shaping one’s future.
In reflecting on her marriage, Ngozi speaks with deep reverence for the institution that has been at the heart of her life for the past 35 years. “Marriage, especially in the Nigerian and African context, is the coming together of two families enabled by two individuals,” she says. It is, in her eyes, a partnership that demands integration, understanding, and a mutual respect thattranscendspersonalexpectations.“Itrequires integration, especially from the woman,” she adds, recognising that the role of a wife, particularly in the Nigerian cultural context, is one that carries with it many nuances.
Her marriage, she acknowledges, has not been without its challenges. Yet, with maturity and wisdom,shehascometounderstandtheprofound beauty of partnership.
“There will always be problems and responsibilities, but it depends on how you see whether it is a problem or an opportunity,” she reflects. This outlook has been instrumental in navigating the inevitable conflicts that arise in any relationship. The key, for Ngozi, is to focus on the strengths of one’s partner rather than their flaws. “The focus should always be on what my partner is good at, not what he is not good at,” she advises. This mindset has helped her sustain a marriage that has endured the trials of time and circumstance. In her view, the authenticity of both partners is essential for a marriage to thrive. “Both need to be authentic,” she asserts, noting that cultural expectations often place the woman in the role of homemaker and nurturer.
But authenticity goes beyond merely fulfilling traditional roles; it requires both partners to remain true to themselves, even as they navigate the complexities of life together. “If you learn your partner and understand your partner, you’ll be able to know what the boundaries are,” she suggests. This wisdom, born from years of experience, reflects her deep understanding of the importance of empathy, communication, and respect in any partnership.
One of the most profound insights Ngozi offers is about respect—specifically, the respect that each partner must give to the other in order for a marriage to succeed. “Respect is exactly what I define it to be, not your definition,” she says with conviction.
This sentiment encapsulates her approach to both her marriage and her dealings with others in life. For Ngozi, respect is not something that is earned through conformity to expectations, but rather through an understanding of one another’s needs, values, and beliefs.
Whenaskedabouttheroleofcultureinmarriage, Ngozi offers a compelling perspective.
“Culture is your way of life. Food is culture. Culture cannot be a burden,” she declares, her words carrying the weight of a lifetime of experience. It is when one tries to reject their cultural heritage or impose foreign values on their marriage that problems arise.
“Culture should not be a burden because it is the essence of who we are,” she explains. This perspective has been instrumental in her ability to navigate the challenges of marriage, blending tradition with the realities of modern life.
Ngozi ekeoma
Moneybag or Moneybags?
“REPS panel summon health minister over $300m anti-malaria fund” Get it right: Reps’ (take note of the apostrophe) panel summons (not ‘summon’)…
“IIM UK highlights power of intelligent technologies, inducts new members” Would it have inducted old members? Induction is for new members/entrants.
“Throughout your tenure, you have (had) exemplified the true essence of servant leadership… working tirelessly to enhance the lives of every citizen in your state.” This way: life of every citizen or lives of all citizens in your state.
“Your impact in (on) public service and footprints while as the Chief Shepherd of Enugu State cannot be erased in (from) the annals of history.” Why not simply from history or the annals?
“…in retaliation to (for) the killing of 19 soldiers….”
“Currently, the government is combining public enlightenment strategies to sensitize Lagosians on (to) this development….”
“Ondo Guber (gubernatorial): It’II be difficult for moneybag (moneybags) to fly APC flag” (Note, also, that the word is adjectival).
“NGX: Investors’ appetite for bank stocks rise (rises) amid CBN recapitalisation (recapitalization, preferably) directive”
“Religion can’t divide us, Akpabio assures” Who did the Senate president assure?
“Honestly, Nigeria is doomed without a new people’s constitution….” Just a new constitution: is there anyone that is not people’s constitution? Perhaps, an automobile constitution!
“…NYSC DG raises alarm (the alarm), says they’re on their own”
“Under-21 World Cup kicks-off (kicks off) with Brazil, Croatia”
“The affected states are Borno, Adamawa and Yobe where further posting of corps members
have (has) been suspended over security concerns.”
“…as the remains of…arrives (arrive) at the National Hospital, Abuja, yesterday.”
“Food poisoning kills family of five, 3 others on danger list” National News: the danger list (fixed/ stock expression)
“Ekiti commissioner slams N1bn suit on police assault (on police for assault)”
“Aftermath of rigged Ekiti governorship primaries: Ekiti PDP at crossroad” (Full-page advertorial by the PDP Ekiti State Chapter) A party that is always at a/the crossroads
“We commend and support Mr. President’s genuine efforts at restoring peace and stability in (to) the country.”
Finally from Ekiti State Chapter of the PDP:
“The utterances and conduct of the candidate indicates (why?)….”
“All her personal belongings, jewelries, phones….” Existential humanism: ‘jewelry’ (also jewellery—BrE) is non-count.
“…they are busy with dreams of sudden wealth and opulence lifestyle.” Either: opulent lifestyle or opulence.
“They are paid and maintained by tax-payers’ money to give us a crime free (crime-free) society.”
“UI mourns late chancellor” Campus News: The foremost citadel cannot mourn a living person! So, yank away ‘late’
“Lagos sets (set) to eradicate blindness among students”
“Multiple taxation hinder (hinders) tourism development—FTAN”
“New automotive policy threatens N25bn investment at (in) Lagos port”
“…policies that will attract both local and foreign investors into (to) the state….”
“…the right decisions that could restore hope and national pride at trying times like this.” In search of game changers: at a trying time like this or at trying times like these.
Wrong application of adjectives: overage players;
right: over-age players; and high profile politicians (wrong); right: high-profile politicians.
“The remains (plural) of the Emir of Kano…has (have) been….”
“The Nation condemns action…vehicles convening (conveying) our parcels….”
Note that ‘lots’ and ‘lots of’ are colloquial substitutes for ‘many’, ‘much’ or ‘great deal of’, ‘a number of’, etc. Avoid their use in formal writing as they have been declared obsolescent.
“Based on these allocations, the finance minister urged Nigerians to demand for an investigation of….” Delete ‘for’, which applies when ‘demand’ is used as a noun. My strident demand for good governance in Abia State led to my near-fatalistic abduction on March 28, 2014, by a combined team of Abia and Lagos policemen numbering 17!
“…the apparent disinterest of the citizens in holding the governors and local government administrators to account on (for) the financial resources entrusted in their care.”
“Navy keep (keeps) fit to defend waterways”
“NGO mediates on (in) tax complaints in Lagos councils”
“At the time of this editorial, no government official from the Presidency has (had) issued any statement on this primitive show of force.”
The next four blunders are from a full-page advertorial by Coalition Against Building Collapse: “The coalition has observed that inspite (in spite) of our intervention….”
“The argument about price and scarcity is lame and begging the answer (and begs the question).”
“As a consumer movement whose focus is in (on) the area of safe building….”
“…cement brands that do not comply to (with) the new standard.”
“Rev. Sam Adeyemi advises single ladies” This way: Adeyemi advises spinsters (Headlines are not supposed to be full sentences)
“Soldiers arrest man over (for) alleged complicity in daughter’s kidnap” Sub-editors should not, under
Why All The Noise About EFCC?
It is hard to imagine Nigeria without its noisy debates about the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This so-called watchman of our national purse has become both a symbol of hope and a lightning rod for criticism. Founded in 2003 during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, the EFCC was born into a climate of desperation. Nigeria’s reputation as a haven for corruption and financial malfeasance had reached epic proportions. Something needed to be done - and fast - to clean up the image of a country bleeding money while public services crumbled.
The EFCC was tasked with tracking down financial criminals, investigating suspicious activities, and prosecuting those who dared to plunder our commonwealth. It all sounded noble enough. But as with most things Nigerian, the journey from vision to implementation was riddled with potholes. Its early days were tumultuous, marked by flamboyant arrests, high-profile trials, and, regrettably, allegations of selective justice. Yet, even with its imperfections, many Nigerians admired the EFCC’s tenacity in chasing after “big men” who once believed themselves untouchable.
That said, the agency’s history is as colourful as it is complicated. From rib-cracking public dramas of handcuffed ex-governors to jaw-dropping tales of billions discovered in septic tanks and forgotten apartments, the EFCC has certainly provided Nigerians with entertainment value. But beyond the spectacle lies the serious business of justice - or at least what ought to be justice.
A defining moment in the EFCC’s history came under Nuhu Ribadu, its pioneer chairman. Ribadu, for all his flaws, inspired hope in the Nigerian psyche. His no-nonsense approach gave the impression that, finally, someone was standing up to the institutional rot. Governors, ministers, and even police officers were brought to book, albeit amid allegations of political targeting. Still, it was hard not to cheer when the mighty fell.
However, the years that followed revealed cracks in the EFCC’s armour. Its victories were marred by accusations of professional misconduct and operational irregularities. Tales of seized properties “disappearing” and recovered funds being “misappropriated” began to sully its image. Critics argued that the EFCC, rather than being a neutral enforcer of the law, had become a tool in the hands of powerful political players. The perception was that investigations were selectively pursued to punish enemies and shield allies.
Fast forward to the present, and the EFCC has expanded its scope. Its preoccupation with internet fraud, popularly known as “yahoo-yahoo,” has drawn both applause and criticism. On one hand, cracking down on cybercriminals sends a strong signal to a generation enamoured with the quick-money lifestyle. On the other hand, the agency’s heavy-handed tactics - such as midnight raids and public shaming - have been called out for violating basic human rights. Many young Nigerians now feel targeted simply for owning a laptop and living in a rented flat.
But perhaps the most troubling allegations involve the agency’s internal conduct. In recent years, shocking stories have emerged of EFCC officials pilfering evidence and tampering with seized assets. The irony is almost unbearable: an anti-graft agency accused of corruption. How does one even begin to reconcile such contradictions? It’s like the watchman turning thief - except this thief wears an official badge.
The public’s trust was further eroded by tragic incidents involving EFCC officials and innocent Nigerians. On Friday, 17 January 2025, a midnight raid in Awka, Anambra State, ended in tragic chaos when an EFCC operative was fatally shot by a suspect who allegedly
any disguise, tamper with fixed/stock expressions or idioms. There is no such poetic, literary, scholastic, pedantic or journalistic licence!
“This is even more so for the youth corps members who may be deployed to (in) this critical assignment against their will and better judgment.”
“But his life was nearly snuffed out by late (the late) Gen. Sani Abacha.”
“For example, the decongestion of the Lagos ports within few (a few) weeks of….”
“How to stimulate Nigeria’s medical tourism potentials, by experts” Lifeline: ‘potential’ is non-count unlike ‘potentiality’.
“Patient (Patients) should not engage in strenous exercises” Spell-check: strenuous
“This is a welcome development, considering the fact that efforts to tackle the problem with military might alone has (have) also failed to achieve the desired objective of restoring peace in (to) the affected parts of the country.”
“Besides, the NSA said that (sic) the six governors in the Boko Haram strongholds will (would) work with….”
“The gap between the rich and the poor is constantly widening as there is no concerted efforts (effort) by the powers that be (powersthat-be) to….”
“This explains the incidents of rural-urban drifts that have worsen (worsened) the security challenges in the cities.”
“Our committee has the responsibility to oversight (oversee) BPP….”
“…it is not to intimidate or witch-hunt them but to rub minds (dialogue, exchange ideas, discuss, talk, converse—not ‘rub minds’!) and enlighten….” How do you even ‘rub minds’?
“…the debate had far progressed beyond the introductory stage to the question and answer (question-and-answer) session.
mistook the team for armed robbers. Such reckless operations continue to expose both officials and civilians to unnecessary danger. Similarly, allegations of internal misconduct have deepened public scepticism. Earlier this month, the commission reportedly dismissed 27 operatives for all sorts of fraudulent activities.
In one shocking case, EFCC operatives reportedly “broke into the exhibit room and stole foreign currency, gold, and other exhibits” - while 10 officers have been arrested, one of them has fled into thin air with over $30,000 heist, raising questions about the integrity of those tasked with combating corruption. Cases of abuse, overzealous arrests, and even deaths in custody have made headlines. We recollect the November 2015 and June 2016 incidents where suspects (Arowofela Olufemi and Desmond Nunugwo) reportedly died under unclear circumstances while in EFCC custody. It is a painful reminder that the line between justice and oppression is perilously thin when oversight is weak. If the EFCC cannot regulate its own officers, how can it credibly regulate the rest of us?
In response to mounting criticism, the agency has rolled out new operational guidelines. These include protocols for evidence handling, rules for conducting arrests, and measures to protect citizens’ rights. On paper, these reforms are commendable. But, as Nigerians know all too well, paper is patient. Implementation is another matter entirely. Reports of these guidelines being flouted continue to surface, fuelling scepticism about the EFCC’s commitment to reform.
So, what is the way forward? How can the EFCC reclaim its integrity and restore public confidence? For starters, the agency needs to prioritise internal accountability. Rogue officers should be identified and dealt with swiftly, and there must be transparent systems for monitoring asset recovery and utilisation. Equally important is the need
to depoliticise its operations. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done - regardless of who the accused is or where their loyalties lie.
Public education is another critical piece of the puzzle. Nigerians need to understand their rights and responsibilities when it comes to financial transactions. While it is easy to blame the EFCC for overreaching, we must also admit that many of us are complicit in fostering a culture of impunity. From under-the-table deals to get government contracts to greasing palms for favours, corruption begins at the grassroots.
Perhaps the EFCC’s greatest challenge is striking a balance between deterrence and public trust. It cannot continue to operate as though the end always justifies the means. Nigerians deserve a watchdog that is firm but fair, rigorous but respectful. After all, the goal is not to create fear but to inspire a collective commitment to the rule of law.
Ultimately, the noise surrounding the EFCC is both justified and necessary. It is a reflection of a society grappling with the contradictions of its institutions. The EFCC may not be perfect - far from it - but its existence signals that we have not entirely given up on the dream of a better Nigeria. And as we navigate this imperfect journey, one thing is clear: the fight against corruption is far too important to be left in the hands of a single agency. It is a fight that requires all of us - citizens and officials alike - to uphold the values we claim to cherish.
Perhaps, in the end, the biggest lesson is this: if the EFCC is to succeed, it must first clean its own house. For in the words of our elders, “When the shepherd is corrupt, the sheep cannot be expected to follow the right path.” Let’s hope the EFCC is listening.
Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394
Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com
Between Cinema Owners and Allegations of Unfair Practices
Allegations of unfair practices by cinema owners in the country have raised issues of concern among practitioners in the industry, especially filmmakers, writes Ferdinand Ekechukwu
Ongoing allegations of unfair practices by cinema owners in the country have in recent times raised issues of concern to practitioners in the industry, especially filmmakers who claimed certain Nollywood films are given preference at the cinemas by the operators at the expense of other films exhibited.
They alleged that cinema owners and their employees promote certain films over others, further fueling division within the sector. To these filmmakers, such shoddy practices discourage their efforts and return on their investments, making the allegations widespread.
Their complaints and concerns about the cinema operators favouring some productions over others comprise the cinema employees wearing branded t-shirts of certain films, thereby influencing viewers’ choices.In some instances also, telling cinema buffs and movie fans the films to watch.
There are also allegations that operators even change a viewing time for another just to accommodate more of the fans of a particular film often highly anticipated with established stars. And in some cases, a film is given more viewing slots than the others. While in other scenario, a film is scheduled in halls with faulty air conditioners.
More so are claims that the movies are not shown at the allotted cinemas despite having showtimes. Prompted by this development, the film producers have had to take to online platforms to voice their concerns, urging cinema operators to be fair in scheduling and to ensure equal opportunities for all filmmakers.
Reports have also shown fans on social media echo these allegations via posts and comments, revealing more concerning responses from cinemagoers and reactions from fans in the comment as they shared their take and experience during some of the time at the cinemas.
Some time ago, renowned actress and producer, Shan George accused cinema owners in the country of stalling the progress of the Nigerian film industry by organising themselves into cabals. In George’s view, such act is capable of ruining the film industry and everything it has achieved over the past years.
Worried by the activities of some of these cinema owners, the actress stated that such engagement portends danger to Nollywood as they have created a situation in which only they could determine what films should be accepted for screening in theatres across the country, promoting favouritism in the industry.
Also in a related development, Nollywood filmmaker, Mildred Okwo sometime in April 2021 complained about the early removal of
her crime thriller ‘La Femme Anjola’ from some cinema outlets owned by Filmhouse, a movie exhibition and production company.
Cinemagoers had observed that the film was no longer showing at some Filmhouse outlets, prompting grumblings and inquiries on Twitter. Okwo’s subsequent confirmation of the development elicited several backlash from fans who were hoping to see the movie during an Easter holiday.
“People had started reacting, asking why they would remove a film that was that new,” she explained. In Okwo’s case, a cinemagoer had claimed that ‘Prophetess’, a Filmhouse-owned comedy-thriller, was showing with up to seven slots in one cinema — despite the removal of her movie.
“Not all of us want comedy. It’s not an issue if you want to remove LFA (La Femme Anjola) but don’t tell me it’s because my film is not doing well. For a fair competition, you need to make sure there are other films,” Okwo stressed. Going by that incident, Okwo opted for other options to market the project.
The director had also recounted her ordeal in 2015, at which time she said her other movie, ‘Surulere’ was removed when it ranked number 1 among Nollywood debuts and number 2 overall. She also recalled the “unfair” advantage enjoyed by cinema owners who also happen to own movie production
companies.
Speaking on the matter, filmmaker Obi Emelonye said the relationship between cinema and producers has always been a curious one the world over. “The Nigerian situation is not any different. Film producers have always accused cinema owners of greed and unfairness towards them as creators and first tier investors of the sector.
“In an industry that lacks regulation or ethical practice to exclude vertical integration across the value chain of the creative space, cinema owners may become producers, distributors and exhibitors. With such powers and such vested interests across the ecosystem, no one can really blame the cinema operators for making decisions that benefit themselves.
“They have films competing with your film in their cinema that they have produced, if you were in their shoes, will you favour my film against your own? The system that allows such vertical integration is the problem. Anyone with such powers must favour themselves deliberately or not,” he stated.
These allegations of unfair practices by cinema operators in the country have raised issues of concern to practitioners in the industry. It thus becomes a subject as the ongoing allegations continue to reoccur and endure.
Allegations of biased cinema practices surfaced in December 2024, with actress Mercy Aigbe accusing cinemas of dissuading fans from viewing her latest film, ‘Thin Line’. The period witnessed popular box office releases, including ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa’, ‘The Waiter’, ‘Alakada Bad and Boujee’, and ‘Thin Line’, all with substantial promotional efforts.
Mercy, who released her mystery drama on December 13 following a press screening earlier, shared the messages she got from some fans, who visited the Maryland Mall to watch her film. In her post, Mercy alleged that one of the staff advised the person to watch ‘The Waiter’ instead of ‘Thin Line’.
According to the post shared by Mercy, the air conditioner where ‘Thin Line’ was showing was defective. The fan disclosed that she went to another cinema and they gave her the same excuse. Mercy is not alone on this. Another filmmaker, Toyin Abraham also called out some cinemas, which she feels were frustrating moviemaker’s effort and success with their attitude.
Toyin, while celebrating her movie ‘Alakada Bad and Boujee’ hit at the cinemas noted that it wasn’t being shown in many cinemas. Similarly, an actor, Femi Branch alleged that certain cinema staff actively promoted select films during the same time, sometimes by wearing branded merchandise, instead of maintaining neutrality.
During a recent chat last week, the former chairman of the Cinema Exhibitors Association
reports
of Nigeria (CEAN), Patrick Lee addressed the ongoing allegations of unfair practices by cinema operators in Nigeria. In the interview, Lee rejected the notion that cinemas gain any benefit from exhibiting bias. He explained that decisions to prioritise certain films are driven by business factors, noting that movies with higher commercial potential are given prime screening slots and access to superior facilities.
On the issue of staff wearing promotional T-shirts, Lee clarified that such apparel is often misunderstood as favoritism but is, in reality, promotional material provided by film producers.
“In busy periods, cinema equipment may break down,” Lee stated. “When it happens and you are unable to repair, you make a commercial decision. So, the decision is to move the movie with the highest audience to the hall with functioning equipment.
“Equipment breaking down often happens, but the highest-selling film will always get the best facility because we need to take care of our customers.” He further added, “We do not tell customers what movie to watch. In the past, we had customers asking staff about movies to watch because there was not a lot of social media information, but we do not encourage customers to watch a movie over another,” he said.
Lee urged producers to submit formal complaints to the appropriate authorities instead of airing grievances on social media. He stressed that official complaints allow for proper investigations and resolution, whereas social media posts are difficult to substantiate.
“In the cinema association, we encourage producers to make an official complaint. Then we can investigate it officially, but when people go on social media to make a statement, we can look into it, but because it is not an official complaint, it is rather challenging to take up,” he explained While the ongoing allegations caught the attention of the stakeholders in the industry, EbonyLife Cinemas emerged the leading cinema location in West Africa for 2024, grossing about N billion. The announcement, based on Comscore records, was shared by FilmOne Distribution.
Reacting to the milestone, the CEO of EbonyLife Group, Mo Abudu expressed her excitement on social media with a celebratory post. “Breaking records, setting standards, and redefining the cinema experience! I’m incredibly proud to share that EbonyLife Cinemas has been ranked Number 1 in West Africa for 2024!” she said.
Highlighting the company’s financial performance and audience growth, Abudu explained that “With an astounding N838.7 million in box office revenue and a 15.4% increase in admissions, we’ve outperformed the market, yet again proving that vision, excellence, and hard work truly pay off.”
Efe Omorogbe Weighs in on Mercy Chinwo, EeZee Conceptz Clash
Renowned talent manager and founder of Now Muzik Group, Efe Omorogbe has weighed in on the ongoing dispute between gospel artiste Mercy Chinwo and her former label, EeZee Conceptz, while responding to recent statements by Apostle Anselm Madubuko about his role as mediator in the case.
The dispute between Mercy Chinwo, Judi Kay and EeZee Conceptz has sparked significant public interest, with allegations and counter-allegations from both sides regarding financial impropriety, contractual breaches,
and ownership of the artiste’s music catalogue.
Omorogbe, who was at a meeting called to resolve the dispute, in a video posted on his Instagram page, revealed he was present at a mediation meeting held on May 13, 2024, between Mercy Chinwo, EeZee Conceptz, Hilda Dokubo, Apostle Anslem Madubuko, Mena Ajakpovi, and representatives of Mercy Chinwo and JudiKay (their husbands).
He went on to state that the central issue discussed during the meeting was a transfer of master rights for music catalogues. According to Omorogbe, master rights traditionally reside with record labels and can only be transferred through a negotiated buyout, not through coercion or force. “Master rights are typically owned by the label under standard industry
agreements,” Omorogbe stated.
“If an artiste wants to acquire these rights, they must follow proper procedures. This includes conducting a valuation of the catalogue, making an offer to the label, and negotiating fair agreement. Forcing a label to relinquish master rights is not in line with global industry practices.”
While acknowledging the challenges involved, Omorogbe emphasised the importance of respecting contractual agreements and resolving disputes through transparency and professionalism. “This is an issue that can be resolved professionally and amicably. There is no need for compulsion, law enforcement or undue escalation. Negotiation is the right path to resolve such matters.”
efe Omorogbe
Ferdinand ekechukwu
Mercy Aigbe
reADINg THe TeA LeAveS Obinna Chima
obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com 08152447875 (SmS only)
rising Inequality remains a pressing Issue
Globally, the gap between the haves and the have-nots has continued to swell with the persistent shadow of inequality casting a long and ominous presence.
The widening disparities in wealth and income in Nigeria and other parts of the world should be of concern to policymakers. The development which was brought to the fore in a new report by Oxfam, a global anti-inequality movement released during the week, revealed that the wealth of the world’s billionaires, including those in Nigeria, grew three times faster in 2024, compared to the previous year. In another Nigeria-specific report, the advocacy group stated that the wealth of Nigeria’s four richest billionaires, amounting to $23.7 billion, was sufficient to fill Lagos State in N500 notes.
At the global level, the report showed that the combined wealth of billionaires rose by $2 trillion to $15 trillion last year.
According to the report titled, “Takers Not Makers,” there were 2,769 billionaires worldwide in 2024, an increase of 204 over the previous year, adding that at least four new billionaires were “minted” every week in 2024, and three-fifths of billionaires’ wealth came from inheritance, monopoly power or “crony connections.
In 2024, the number of billionaires rose to 2,769, up from 2,565 in 2023. Their combined wealth surged from $13 trillion to $15 trillion in just 12 months. This is the second-largest annual increase in billionaire wealth since records began.
The wealth of the world’s ten richest men grew on average by almost $100 million a day —even if they lost 99 percent of their wealth overnight, they would remain billionaires. Last year, Oxfam predicted the emergence of the
first trillionaire within a decade.
With billionaires’ wealth accelerating at a faster pace, in the latest report, Oxfam expanded the projection dramatically, noting that at current rates, the world was now on track to see at least five trillionaires within that timeframe.
“Not only has the rate of billionaire wealth accumulation accelerated —by three times— but so too has their power,” Oxfam International Executive Director, Amitabh Behar said.
The report also revealed that 60 percent of billionaires’ wealth now come from inheritance, monopoly power or crony connections. Unmerited wealth and colonialism —understood as not only a history of brutal wealth extraction but also a powerful force behind today’s extreme levels of inequality— stand as two major drivers of billionaire wealth accumulation.
Inequality manifests in various forms and its roots are complex and intertwined. It hinders growth, corrupts politics, stifles opportunity, and fuels instability while deepening discrimination, especially against women. Additionally, poor leadership and greed on the part of the political leaders, weaker institutions that are not independent and in the interest of the less privileged, and favoritism, amongst others were some other factors that fuel inequality.
The potential benefit of redistributing the wealth of the very richest, by even a tiny amount, tells a compelling story. The
existence of poverty in a society means individuals and groups are drawn into unequal relations with others who are more powerful or have more privileged positions through which they have an advantage.
For Nigeria, the significant level of economic inequality is a major driver of the ‘japa’ frenzy as youths, who are dissatisfied with the state of the nation continue to seek greener pastures. Indeed, extreme inequality is a barrier to prosperity for most people.
For the country, as the Oxfam report reveals, prosperity is not trickling down to a large percentage of the citizens, but remains at the top, where exceptional wealth is growing ever more rapidly. This remains a challenge and failure to address it is both economically and socially damaging.
Clearly, one of the barriers to tackling inequalities is a lack of political will. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 10 cannot be achieved if individuals and communities are excluded from better access opportunities in society.
Oxfam Country Director, John Makina, warned that Nigeria must address social injustices and invest in essential services to lift millions out of poverty.
Makina said: “Nigeria’s wealth gap is a moral and social crisis. While a few individuals amass immense wealth, over 133 million Nigerians face hunger daily. This extreme inequality is largely unearned, built on inheritance, monopolies,
and unfair advantages. We must act now to create a fairer system—by taxing the richest, addressing injustices, and investing in services that lift millions out of poverty.
“Nigeria’s wealth gap is a moral and social crisis. While a few individuals amass immense wealth, over 133 million Nigerians face hunger daily.
Addressing this menace requires a collective effort, involving governments, businesses, and civil society. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of inequality and implementing comprehensive solutions, the country can strive towards a more just and equitable world for all, avoid social unrest, promote economic growth and increase access to opportunities.
Therefore, to reverse this trend, Nigeria’s policymakers need to foster and sustain pro-poor growth and help raise people out of poverty. The country needs to seize its demographic dividend and channel it to positive use. There is also a need for policies to help diversify the economy and create good, productive jobs that offer the best pathways out of poverty.
Furthermore, government spending should be increased for pro-poor causes, such as health, education, and infrastructure and policies to boost the productivity of farm and non-farm household enterprises should be encouraged.
There is also a need for a wide-ranging increase in taxation of the super-rich to claw back crisis gains driven by public money and profiteering. Finally, there is a need for governments to ensure that economies work for everyone and not just the fortunate few.
Amosun: An Embodiment of Loyalty at 67
Wale Morafa
Former governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Oyelaja Amosun, is one of the few persons around – politics or not – whose words have always remained his bond. This, perhaps, could also explain why loyalty is one of the currencies of his networth. He takes it very seriously.
Without a doubt, former Lagos State governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola’s 2015 screening submission that, “May our loyalty never be tested” is timeless and instructive. But Amosun’s loyalty has been through the many curves of various tests and has always come out unblighted. Kind, generous, and God-fearing, it is always not an easy run enlisting Amosun’s support for anyone or cause. But that’s where it ends. The moment you do and he gives his clearance, you’ve earned the sort of loyalty that money cannot buy.
Last December, Senator Amosun
gave a glimpse of what his loyalty was worth, when he visited former President Muhammadu Buhari, at his home in Daura, Katsina State, in commemoration of the former president’s 82nd birthday.
While this was to Amosun an annual ritual, which has never failed, and must not fail, no matter the challenges, many political observers were actually stunned to see such unconditional display of loyalty in a clime where everyone is believed to not only have a price, but can also be bought cheap, regardless. The shock expressed might have been informed by their concerns over all that they reckoned Amosun’s political career and future went through under Buhari’s sleepy watch, even though none was intended.
While such concerns might seem genuine and justifiable, what a majority of the people saw were just some of the challenges of friendship or relationship. Not many of them had witnessed or seen the sacrifices
of the relationship, which might continue to give Buhari his flowers.
Therefore, Amosun is, and remains a friend of Muhammadu Buhari, and not a friend of President Muahammdu Buhari, while in office and able to dispense patronage. The difference is evident and requires no hairsplitter to denote a person’s friend when in office and when he is no longer calling the shots.
Amosun is one person who gleefully prides himself in his privileged upbringing and his quick to always recite the prose-poetry of his lineage in obeisance to the sort of values instilled in him by his parents, which he believes brought him this far.
Thorough, selfless, hands-on, decent and given to details in all things, Amosun is not just the “Super Man” he was codenamed as governor, he’s been dubbed another designate within his close circle of friends and allies: The Perfectionist.
Sometimes, his quest for perfection could be annoying. They always tend to slow down the speed of deadlines. But Amosun would rather wait and get it right than to be in haste and get it wrong. In the end, you’d always applaud his purist disposition despite the cost to time and resources.
Arguably the biggest political concern in the political equation of Ogun State today, and despite not currently holding any office, his staying power has been his love for
his people and constantly catering to political base. He has not done this by merely living among them. He is constantly holding court and meeting with them as time and needs permit.
Amosun’s loyalty to any cause he believes in is worthy of study. He detests deception and loathes dishonesty. Curiously, his biggest strength is as much his weakness: his incredibly large heart. The same way he’d defend loyalty is the manner he’d justify forgiveness and large-heartedness.
A lover of God and family man to the core, Senator Amosun remains one great example in leadership and mentorship, his personal shortfalls notwithstanding. His style of politics may seem atypical and far off from the familiar. He never cancels out the God-factor and the place of humanity in all that he does.
Happy 67th birthday, Ajiri omo oye! • Morafa wrote from Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State Foundation (SEOF) country,” he pledged.
YASuYOSHI CHIBA/AFp/getty Images
Amosun
Nuhu Ribadu as Negotiator in Ogoni Fields
Engr Sunny Hemebrim Amadi
The long-awaited resolution to the Ogoni oil crisis may finally be in sight with the appointment of Nuhu Ribadu as Chief Negotiator. A seasoned security expert and anti-corruption crusader, Ribadu brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for integrity to the table. As the Ogoni people continue to grapple with the legacy of environmental degradation and social injustice, Ribadu’s involvement has raised hopes for a fair and sustainable resolution
Ribadu, known for his unwavering commitment to nation-building and security is best fitted for the job. His unidirectional mindset and willingness to take risks have earned him a reputation as a fearless and uncompromising leader.
A taciturn, he once demonstrated this when in broad daylight, he single-handedly chased a gang in a Mazda car that was firing live bullets at him through Abuja streets; he drove and kept firing back at them till out of over-speed, and they lost control and crashed into a barrier and he arrested them.
Asked then why he would take such a risk, he replied, “What is my life worth if I cannot secure those of others” That day, he put six bad guys out of Abuja streets.
Rewind to his days in the police where he was involved in all major investigations within and outside the country when he was exposed to experiences and honed his resistance to offers to stunt or stall investigations. Nuhu Ribadu has come a long way and earned the trust of his superiors and subordinates. He was later to spearhead the prosecution in Miscellaneous Offences Tribunals of fraudsters of global fame nationwide. His name use to send chills down the spines of those dark men who he fearlessly put behind bars.
Being always headhunted when the need for delivery in murky terrains are needed, his trajectory later saw him astride the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) when then President Olusegun Obasanjo wanted to cleanse the Aegean stable of corruption in the country, there was no other head the cap could fit other than Ribadu since he had long garnered the reputation of an uncompromising cop. The rest they say is history because then, the fear of EFCC became the beginning of wisdom. He was so passionate about anti-corruption that he put his former boss, the late Tafa Balogun in handcuffs to demonstrate disdain for corruption.
Given his antecedents, it was no surprise therefore when in following with global best practices in appointing a National Security Adviser, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu picked Ribadu for the office. Those who knew him had assured that he will soon bring his capacity and capital to that office vested with the coordination of security in the country. When he started handling issues that wore the toga of being unconnected with security like working to avert labour strikes, people opined that he should concentrate on real security issues without knowing that if not well handled, could cause an implosion which Ribadu saw ahead of time. Like his signature style, he succeeded in arresting the situation and peace reigned in the country once more.
Soon after his appointment as NSA, he as usual went silent and when prodded to assure Nigerians of their security, he smiled and assured them that the results they expected would be manifest in a short while, and true to his words, it did. It then became apparent that his delving into other issues was more of a strategy than busy bodying. Some security experts have opined that Ribadu beat the evil men to their game where bandits and terrorists being prominent on social media would be monitoring his activities there so he took them on a bungee ride by addressing other issues publicly while keeping mum on security issues. That way, they thought he was not making the right moves for them while he honed his strategies. When he came out to speak, insecurity had nosedived, a testament that he was holding them by the jugular. Presently, almost all the bandit leaders have been sent on a judgment journey with their makers while the remaining ones are on the run and living in mortal fear of what the Ribadu coordination against them holds.
Seeing that he made a success of whatever he touches, it was no surprise that at the meeting on Monday of Ogoni Leaders with the President, he was named the Negotiator for the resumption of oil exploration in Ogoni land. As is his signature approach, many thought that he was just drafted into the effort to resume the biggest upland oil extraction
in the country for which the people had suffered irreparable and most oppressive highhandedness with losses on human and material levels. They therefore needed a reliable name they could trust and relate to which manifested in the caliber of leaders that attended the meeting.
Led by Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara and a representative of Ogoni leadership, King Festus Babari Bagia Gberesaako XIII who is the Gbenemene of Gokana Kigndom, the sheer number and make up attested to the seriousness of the matter at hand and Tinubu has assured them that he was with them even on the streets of London and America when the military hounded all of them over the issue of democracy, human rights and free speech. He appealed to the delegation to take the message of his commitment to their welfare and clean environment to the people.
To underscore the importance of the meeting, other members of the delegation that represented Ogoni were Senator Magnus Abe, Senator Lee Meaba, Olaka Nwogu, Chief Victor Giadom, Chief Kenneth Kobani, Monsignor Pius Kii and fiery human rights activist, Ledum Mitee. Others are Senator Bennet Birabi, Senator Barry Mpigi, Joe Poroma and Gabriel Pidomson among others. The delegation could be said to be an Ogoni first 11 due to how dear the matter is to them. They had suffered severe repression from government and oil companies leading to the death either through internal conflicts, military operations or government actions which led to the execution of people like Ken Saro Wiwaand the elders popularly referred to as Ogoni nine.
Prior to the involvement of Ribadu, a lot of water had passed under the bridge even to the extent that millions of dollars meant for remediation of the impacted areas in Ogoni was politicised and the humongous sums contributed and appropriated for the job were frittered away while the impacted still lacked farmlands and unpolluted waters to drink and ply their trade of fishing.
Previous efforts to resume oil exploration in Ogoni had not yielded much dividend because some conditions set out by the people were either ignored or implemented in breach. For example, in 2019, a 20-man and broad-based committee headed by Professor Ben Naanen on resumption of oil and gas exploration in Ogoniland set out some condition precedent to such exercise. After the committee made up of various professionals and agitators that matter to Ogoni people sat for a specified period and tinkered a report they presented to the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People
(MOSOP) under the leadership of Legborsi Pyagbara. The report spelt out the irreducible minima of resumption which covered respect for human rights and operating under globally accepted standards as well as how such economic activities would benefit the people and proposed 15 per cent equity interests to be held by Ogonis especially the host communities.
“In Ogoni, there has to be a new strategy of ensuring that oil extraction generates ancillary industrial activities such as gas gathering and utilisation.
Indeed, with Ogoni fields harbouring some of the largest gas deposits in Nigeria and the gradual transition to a gas economy, the resumption of oil production should be accompanied by the establishment of gas petrochemical facilities in Ogoni,” part of the Naanen report had said.
With Ribadu on the saddle, it is obvious that Ogoni people will soon heave a sigh of relief since no money appropriated for any program in the area whether for remediation or compensation to the people would be touched by anyone given the reputation of the Negotiator. It could be said that Ogonis have every right to be worried as the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) planned with world bodies to remedy the severe damages to the environment with unprecedented pollution has dragged for years without the requisite expected results while brickbats have continued to fly over the resources meant for the exercise.
The initial plan and objective of HYPREP included to provide communities affected by pollution with reliable sources of potable water; provide alternative livelihood for people in Ogoniland whose sources of income have been adversely affected by oil spills among others. Regrettably, ancillary functions vested on the body have recorded more success than the remediation which was the main aim of setting up the body with the effect that the people have lost confidence in government programmes for their people which has toughened the resistance of the people, hence the current efforts to address holistically, the problems so that the resources could be harnessed for economic gains while adhering to global best practices to avoid adverse effects on the environment as well as the quest for economic gains by companies operating in the area to cause breaches in human rights.
With Ribadu on the saddle as Chief Negotiator, President Tinubu has hit a bull’s eye in his attempt to achieve a final resolution of the issues that have for decades, stopped the harnessing of the resources for the common good of the people. Apart from impacting the immediate economy of the Ogonis, the resumption of oil and gas exploitation in Ogoni will increase the revenue of the state through derivation with the ripple effect that more resources from the center will be available for the government to execute more projects for the people.
With high level achievers on the government and Ogoni teams, chances are very high that the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Managing Director, Mele Kyari and Ribadu driving the effort, it could be a given that the interest of the people will be covered and knotty issues addressed since they have established themselves as high octane achievers even in very limited success space.
The Ribadu negotiation lead is very importance given that the world is moving away from fossil fuel and failure to exploit such resource would mean a great loss of revenue and non or underutilisation of natural endowments in a country where revenue and development are desperately needed. With the shift to cleaner energies, Ogoni which has a lot of gas has a lot of contributions to make in refloating the economy, hence the use of an A team led by Ribadu to ensure that as has become of him, he also makes success of engendering a final resolution of the Ogoni oil fields.
Giving his assurances, Ribadu said enough groundwork had been done to ensure possible resolution at the earliest possible time given that with a legal background and training in covert activities, he has the requisite information at his disposal and an iron will to push through either with government or with the Ogonis who he had praised their resilience while assuring them that their concerns would be addressed and their interest protected.
This is no doubt another opportunity for Ribadu to etch his name in gold by ensuring the resolution of the Ogoni issues which will be a balm to the impacted and enhance revenue for the government he has come to be a beacon of success in service to.
Ribadu
perSpeCTIVe
A Weekend Treat with Kema Chikwe, Tafawa Balewa
Tunde Olusunle
Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, makes no pretences about a robust arts and culture tradition, as vivacious as in good old Lagos. The National Theatre in Iganmu; the Musical Society of Nigeria’s (MUSON) Centre in Onikan; the Goethe Institut, Terra Kulture, and Silverbird Cinemas, all in Victoria Island, are some of the more popular cultural venues across Eko akete, (one of Lagos’s primordial cognomens).
There used to be Motherlan’ in Ikeja where the masked Afrobeats artist Lagbaja used to have regular live performances. Not forgetting the New Afrika Shrine, developed by Femi and Yeni Kuti, offsprings of the Afrobeats precursor, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, to replace the primordial model built by their father, in Agidingbi, Ikeja. The older facility elsewhere in the same Ikeja district, was serially buffeted by previous military regimes. It was indeed once reduced to rubble by agents of a khaki-wearing regime, because of Fela’s characteristically brave, caustic and relentless denunciations of martial governance. The Truth Village in Surulere, also in “mainland” Lagos is yet another culture bubble spot which ensures that culturally savvy in Lagos are spoilt for choice.
Abuja does not, as yet have an organic, overarching structure to its cultural life. True, bars and lounges which in some instances host deejays and smart in-house bands; restaurants, nightclubs are not in short supply.
Literary events, theatre productions, musical performances especially by rated artists, stand-up comedy shows, however, only feature from time to time on specific occasions and designated venues. The exquisite Transcorp Hilton Hotel at the very heart of Abuja; the Cyprian Ekwensi Cultural Centre in Garki and the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja’s central area, are favourite hosting venues. The International Conference Centre, (ICC), also in Abuja’s central business district; the Mamman Vatsa Writers Village ensconced between the rocks of Mpape district, and the auditorium of the National Universities Commission, (NUC) are also helping with the cultivation of a sustainable artistic sensitivity amongst Abuja residents. There is also the French Cultural Centre in the upscale Wuse district, which is also playing a role in the awakening of cultural consciousness in the federal capital.
In over two decades of my sojourn in Abuja, I have been privileged to enjoy performances and productions in many of the venues listed above. I witnessed an outing by the Haitian-American singer and rapper, Wyclef Jean, sponsored by Guinness Nigeria Plc, back in August 2004, at Abuja’s International Conference Centre. Nigeria’s Tuface Idibia shared the stage with him on that occasion, a performance which spontaneously produced the song “Proud to Be African.”
The more polished, studio version of the song subsequently featured Faze and Sound Sultan, (of blessed memory), making it the product of a quartet and a very important platform for foreign exposure for the young Nigerian artists at the time. The perfected version of the song was released same year, 2004.
Back in 2007/2008, Chams Plc, an information and communication technology, (ICT) company, got involved in the production of selected Nigerian epics, as a way of reviving the waning culture of live theatre. Led by Demola Aladekomo, Chams Plc obtained the rights to adapt five Yoruba novels written by the iconic Daniel Fagunwa, into stage plays for performance in select Nigerian cities. I was opportune to savour the production of Ireke Onibudo, translated into English and adapted for stage by Femi Osofisan, Emeritus Professor andcglobally acclaimed playwright and scholar.
It was titled, ‘The Fabulous Adventures of the Sugarcane Man’ and performed at Abuja’s Transcorp Hilton, in 2009. Onukaba Adinoyi-Ojo, departed friend and colleague, religiously produced his plays as soon as they were written. The Killing Swamp, an imaginary recap of the final hours of the renowned writer and Ogoni rights activist, Ken SaroWiwa before he was hanged by the regime of Sani Abacha, commanded capacity audience when it premiered at the Yar’Adua Centre.
The Abuja district of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (ANA), flagged off its activities for 2025 by hosting its monthly “Reading and Writers’ Dialogue,” Saturday January 18, 2025. The theme of the event was “The Writer as Catalyst For Progressive Change.” Abuja ANA Chairman, the tireless Chukwudi Eze, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, (FNIA), rallied his team to dig out from retirement, Nigeria’s former Minister and Ambassador at various times, Kema Chikwe, to headline the programme. Chikwe was famously known on the nation’s political scene where she was very active since the gestational period of the Fourth Republic, including her stint as National Women’s Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), in its years at the core of national politics. A part of her which not too many people remember is her intellectual and artistic sides.
For the avoidance of doubt, Chikwe studied French at the City University of New York, obtained a doctorate in curriculum education at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, (UNN), and taught for several years at the Alvan Ikoku College of Education, (AICE), in Owerri, Imo State. She authored children’s literature books like Dibia’s Secret, First School Day for Adaeze, Kame Chameleon Tours the Garden, (1991) and My Precious Book. She attempted to encapsulate the experiences of women
in Nigerian politics in her 2003 book Women of My Era and returned to her first love, writing for young people with her book Village Boys, also published in 2003. Dr Chikwe attempted an overview of her stints as Minister, Diplomat, Chairman of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, (JAMB) and PDP National Women’s Leader in yet another book she titled Across Borders.
Chikwe spoke with a noticeably cracked voice, occasioned, perhaps by the present harmattan dryness and dust. She described the theme of the dialogue as “timely and profound, especially considering the pivotal role writers have always played in shaping societies and nations across the world.” Writers, she noted, have historically been the torchbearers of change, daring to challenge the status quo, advocate for justice and inspire action.
According to her: “Writers have stood at the forefront of revolutions, be it through literature, poetry, prose, drama, pushing boundaries and igniting thought and reflection among readers.” Journeys towards progress and development across the world, she observed, have always been fraught with challenges. “We have faced political upheavals, economic struggles, social inequalities and environmental crises,” she noted.
Amidst all of these, writers according to her, “have remained resilient in their commitment to chronicling our stories, sharing our truths, and, most importantly, lighting the way forward.” One of the questions posed to her was about her son Naetochukwu Chikwe, whose stage name is Naeto C, and who is a popular Nigerian rap and Afrobeats musician. She confirmed her pride and happiness with how well he had evolved educationally, in his musical passion, and indeed as a family man. Vicky Sylvester, Professor of English at the University of Abuja chaired the panel of discussants. This included Andrew Bula of Baze University, Abuja, and the present writer. Attendees included Dr Joan Oji, ANA National Secretary; Dr Zakama Zabura, poet and author of The Man Lived, (1999); Jideofor Adibe, Professor of Political Science at the Nasarawa State University and author of The Loneliness of Exile, and Bella Anne Ndubusi, erstwhile Cultural Affairs Specialist at the US Department of State.
Sunday January 20, 2025, featured a stage play titled Tafawa Balewa: Golden Voice of Africa, written by Ola Awakan
and directed by poet and former President of ANA, Denja Abdullahi. Originally scheduled for Yar’Adua Centre, the performance was eventually held at the NUC auditorium in Maitama, Abuja.
Ola Awakan conceived of a series of stage productions on iconic Nigerians under the broad theme Tales of Legends. The first outing of Awakan’s outfit under this canvas was the production last July of Abibatu Mogaji, a play in honour and memory of the mother of President Bola Tinubu. It was written by Ahmed Yerima, a seasoned Theatre Arts Professor and staged at the banquet hall of Aso Villa in July 2024. The President, his deputy, Kashim Shettima and their families attended the performance.
Tafawa Balewa: Golden Voice of Africa is a recollection of the evolution of Nigeria’s very first Prime Minister, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. Much as it is a tribute to Nigeria’s only Prime Minister, the play highlights the fact of the intentional preparation of Nigeria’s earlier crop of leaders, their deliberate self-development, in preparation for service to their people and their homeland at various levels. The Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowos, Samuel Ladoke Akintolas, the Ayo Rosijis, the Nnamdi Azikiwes, the Michael Oparas, the Ozumba Mbadiwes, the Aminu Kanos, Sa’adu Zungurs, Isa Walis, attended some of the best educational institutions at the time, at home and abroad. They applied themselves to the grindstone of multifaceted grooming educationally and ideologically, empowering themselves for the liberation of their country from colonialism and for the leadership of their fatherland.
Balewa attended the famous Barewa College, Kaduna, easily an “Ivy League” institution in the north of Nigeria in his days. He equally schooled at the Institute of Education at the University of London thereafter, before returning home to give back to his country as a schoolteacher. He was elected into the Northern House of Assembly and thereafter into the Legislative Council in 1947. In his engagements, his passion for Northern Nigeria was unambiguous. He was Minister for Works in 1952, and later Minister for Transport. Tafawa Balewa was Nigeria’s Prime Minister at independence in 1960, a position he held until the coup d’etat of January 15, 1966, in which he was assassinated. This snowballed into mass protests and violent riots across northern Nigeria. The play was capably interpreted by the cast. It was a colourful celebration of Nigeria’s diverse cultures, interspersed with specific dance interludes, showcasing engaging gyrations in representative costumes from Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, Bini, Tiv, Nupe cultural repertoires. The dexterity of the musical department was remarkable. They seamlessly traversed the multicultural diversity of the country with corresponding beats, nuances and rhythms.
The production was watched by an urbane audience which included former Information Minister, Lai Mohammed; literary figure and activist, Senator Shehu Sani; and the wives of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, (CJN), Lawal Uwais, and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El Rufai, Maryam Uwais and Hadiza El Rufai, respectively. Hafsat Abdulwaheed, poet and human rights figure; Albert Omotayo, Emeritus diplomat, and Shaibu Hussein, Director-General, National Films and Videos Censors Board, (NFVCB), were in the house. The Tafawa Balewa family was led to the performance by Saddik Tafawa-Balewa, a renowned filmmaker and son of the former Prime Minister. His brother, Mukhtar, author of the novel titled Prince of Mali, (2020) and I served as presidential aides in the Olusegun Obasanjo/Atiku Abubakar government. It was a fulfilling, albeit breathtaking Abuja weekend, during which one was wholly suffused in arts and culture, end-to-end. Football aficionados will rather describe the experience as a “box-to-box” cultural weekend treat.
Olusunle (left) and immediate past Information Minister, Lai Mohammed at the recent stage production of a play on Nigeria’s former Prime Minister, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, in Abuja, recently.
Chikwe
Ekweremadu: The Mother-General Returns
Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia
In the Catholic Church, Mother General is an appellation reserved for a religious superior who leads a group of nuns in a congregation. By her training and position, she “dedicates her life to God and the service of the church. She is bound to God, the church, and her community by vows or promises…”
Another striking quality of a mother general is that she is required to view her office as a service to the community, whose unity she must protect at all times, and to encourage and inspire others. The mother would hardly pass by a hungry member of the congregation without succor. In other words, her compassion is second to none.
However, there is one woman, a mother general essence, who has shown love, care and exceptional compassion to all manner of persons from diverse backgrounds, political and religious persuasions, especially in Enugu State. The woman epitomises the St Thomas Aquinas characterization of beauty. It was Aquinas who waved aside such weird remarks that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and asserted that beauty is empirical. He stressed that there are certain physical features, domiciled at the right places and in the right proportions, which not only pleases the heart when seen but also shines forth with lustre. Such a combination of features expresses wholeness, harmonium and perfection.
According to Aquinas, beauty is that intricate tapestry woven by the mysterious hand of God.
Here is a woman who in spite of her Olympian status in society accords respect, humour, compliments and dignity to even the lowest of cadres. A woman who would go round and ask her visitors if they had eaten. A woman who shared thousands of bags of rice and clothes to the less privileged. She would go the extra mile to pay school fees to the indigent students in not only Enugu West senatorial district but in many parts of Enugu State. She is a woman with a spark of God, a benevolent spirit and quintessential compassionate mother; whose inner feminine qualities play an archetypal role in the Ikeoha subconscious.
She is the Mother General who saw her station in life as a divine mission for humanity.
Her name is Mrs. Nwanneka Beatrice Ekweremadu, the wife of Senator Ike Ekweremadu, the former Deputy President of the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria and Ikeoha Ndigbo. An amazing Amazon, a paragon of discipline, kindness, sensibility and spirituality
One is left to imagine the agonising mood of the
people of Enugu State on May, 5, 2023 when she was sent to prison by a UK court for illegal organ harvesting.
On that day, Ohanaeze Ndigbo led by Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu protested vehemently. The Anglican Communion, the Catholic Church, the Political Class, etc were aghast. And today, it is a jubilation galore in all the nooks and crannies of Enugu State on hearing that our Mother General has been set free by the UK court.
The travails of Nwanneka is the disposition of all mothers in the animal kingdom. A mother can take any risk in order to save her child or offspring. Records abound of women who paid the supreme prize in efforts to save their children. In other words, motherhood is a very complex and inscrutable phenomenon that only God himself can unveil.
Her daughter, Miss Sonia Ekweremadu, was grieving in excruciating pains because of her deteriorating kidneys. Sonia needed regular dialysis to stay alive and many options were presented to Nwanneka. And as they say, the rest is now history
While many out there had cast aspersions on Nwanneka and her husband, there is little or no guarantee whatsoever that the same persons may not fall into the same temptation at the slightest grief of their own.
One may be surprised by the mammoth crowd that will receive Mrs. Ekweremadu on her return to Enugu state. This is in sharp contrast to the cold reception that may be accorded some others who have been in authority in Nigeria. The warm reception is because Sen. Ike Ekweremadu offered quality representation to his people in the Nigerian Senate. Ikeoha is the man who answers all his telephone calls and responds to text and Whatsapp messages. Time was when Ikeoha converted the entire Enugu West into a huge construction site in terms of roads construction and rehabilitation, erosion control; rural electrification, health and educational facilities, pipe borne water, amongst others. His stellar performance was beyond the tarnish and reproach of even the most uncharitable in Enugu State. For instance, the entire Aninri local government area of Enugu State was one of the most neglected areas in the entire Igbo land. His Mpu community and the environs did not have access road, electricity and other facilities that make life worthwhile until the coming of Ikeoha. In the past, to punish a priest or a teacher was to send him on transfer to Oduma, Mpu, Okpanku, etc in the Aninri local government area. It is to the eternal testament of Ikeoha Ndigbo that my community, Ugbo and indeed many others in our area are today in sharp contrasts to their
poignant pasts. Through the instrumentality of Ikeoha Ndigbo, many illiterates are now literate; the unemployed are now employed; inaccessible communities can now be accessed, those in darkness have light; and many communities have a greater number of university graduates.
It is a common adage that a prophet is not known in his home. Ikeoha has by his actions contradicted the assertion; almost all the communities in Aninri local government area went wild in ecstasy on hearing that Nwanneka is back in Nigeria.
This is a pointer to the reception that will be accorded the Ikeohas on arrival to Enugu. It is a quick admonition to the current incumbents who are intoxicated by the allure of transient power. Unfortunately, most of them have lost memories of where, when and how their oddysey started. Quel Domage!
Our thesis is that Nwanneka and the husband touched lives; and charity as they say, covers all sins. It is the Ikeoha quality representation and exemplariness that should form a benchmark for people in authority. Today, we are excited that our Mother General has returned to Nigeria in a spendour of grace, warmth and high spirits.
Dr. Ogbonnia who wrote in from the Department of Political Science, Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu was a former Spokesman, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide
GMD, Abuja Investments Company Limited, Maureen Tamuno (middle) and other participants at the company Diplomatic Roundtable last Thursday in Abuja
L-R: His Royal Majesty Oba Latif Oladimeji Egbeyemi (Madarikan1) Ologba of Ogba Kingdom, Agege Lagos, Who Graduated with M.Sc Surveying / Geoinformatics; Olori Gbemisola Akitoye; best graduate in Ph.d thesis, Akitoye Adetoun Alaba; and Prince Francis Akitoye during the 55th convocation ceremony of University of Lagos …recently
L-R: Convener Southwest Youth Entrepreneurship Summit/ Training Program, Desmond Agboola; Chairman Senate Committee on Youth Development, Senator Yemi Adaramodu; and Co Convener/ Project Coordinator, Kingsley Tolu Agboola; during a courtesy visit to the national assembly In Abuja. recently
Ekweremadu
Cardoso’s Quest to Curb Naira Commoditisation
Oluchi Chibuzor
The battle to put an end to the commoditisation of the Naira has become a critical issue that requires the support of all Nigerians. This is because of the dangers associated with currency commoditisation, especially the fact that it hinders economic growth and stability.
When a currency becomes a commodity, its value can fluctuate wildly based on speculative trading and investor sentiment. This volatility can disrupt businesses, discourage investment, and erode consumer confidence. The speculative nature of currency trading can create asset bubbles, leading to unsustainable economic growth and potential financial crises and implementing measures to curb excessive speculation and manage financial risks can help stabilise the currency.
The risks associated with this are significant. That is why in an attempt to curb the commoditisation of the Naira, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Oluyemi Cardoso, unfolded a strategic plan to address the situation and restore the integrity of the Naira as a reliable national currency.
Cardoso disclosed this at the inaugural stakeholders’ conference hosted by the Committee of Heads of Banks Operations (CHBO) in Lagos over the weekend, with the theme, “Commoditisation of Naira: The Way Forward.”
In his keynote address, delivered by his Senior Special Adviser, Fatai Kareem, Cardoso noted that the commoditiation of the Naira poses a significant threat not only to the banking sector, but also to the daily lives of Nigerians who rely on the currency for transactions.
He described naira commoditisation as a process by which the national currency was being treated as a tradeable asset with its intrinsic national value being subjected to the principles of capitalism rather than being seen as a means of exchange for economic and items of value.
According to him, “The Naira is not merely a currency; it embodies our national identity. Its stability is vital for economic growth and development. Recent trends, however, have seen the Naira treated as a commodity rather than fulfilling its primary function as a medium of exchange. The commoditisation of the Naira, our national legal tender, has become a critical challenge for Nigeria’s financial ecosystem. t is a problem that not only affects the operations of the banking industry but also the lives of every
Nigerian that relies on the currency for his day to day transactions.”
To the President of Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, three critical areas for consideration includes the need to create public awareness, leveraging more technology such as the fintech revolution to enhance the value of the currency and regulatory enforcement of existing laws.
Chairman of the Executive Committee of CHBO, Abraham Aziegbe attributed the commoditisation of the Naira to severe scarcity which led to its monetisation.
He noted that over the past two years, Nigerians have faced significant challenges due to cash shortages, leading to instances where citizens pay premiums for everyday transactions. This situation raises concerns about cash availability and potential hoarding practices among banks.
Under Cardoso’s leadership, confidence in the naira has returned as the apex bank has remained focused on ensuring stability.
“The confidence in the naira is gradually returning as a result of the policies that we are already undertaking, which goes back to the whole issue of Orthodox monetary policy, that is really what begins to encourage people to hold onto naira,” Cardoso said.
“Over a period of time, we believe that the confidence will continue to go up,” the CBN
South East PDP Zones Party Offices, Backs Udeh-Okoye
The South East Zone of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), rose from a meeting at Enugu yesterday, with a resolution approving the zoning of national and zonal offices allocated to the zone.
The party in the zone also restated its support for Hon. S.K.E Udeh-Okoye as the National Secretary of the party.
It maintained that the party in the zone remained one, big, united party capable of handling any issues arising in the party in the zone, and warned external troublemakers to steer clear of the affairs of the party in the South East region.
These were made known in a communique read at the end of a meeting of the Zonal Executive Committee, ZEC, of the party at Government House, Enugu.
The communique was rendered by the National Vice Chairman (South East) of the PDP, Chief Ali Odefa, at the end of the meeting attended by Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, who is also the leader of the party in the zone as well as former President of the Senate, Senator Adolphus Wabara; Senate Minority Whip, Senator Osita Ngwu and other members of the National Assembly; former governors, former ministers, among others.
“The South East Zonal Executive Committee (ZEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) met at Government House, Enugu, on Friday, January 24, 2025. The meeting was well attended by our party leaders, including the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah; Chairman, Board of Trustees, His Excellency, Senator Adolphus Wabara; the National Secretary of the Party, Hon.
S.K.E Udeh Okoye, among others.
“Aware that time was when the PDP occupied all the five Government Houses in the South East region, the State Houses of Assembly, and an overwhelming majority of the region’s delegation to the National Assembly, the meeting deliberated extensively on the affairs of our party, particularly on how to restore the fortunes of the party in the South East region and the nation in general.
“The party also deliberated on internal crisis bedeviling the party at the national level and the attempts to encroach on the jurisdictions of the party in the South East.
“The meeting deliberated on the unfortunate, but contrived controversies surrounding the Office of the National Secretary of the PDP zoned to the South East region.
“In line with the party’s principle of inclusivity, the ZEC meeting equally discussed the zoning of national and zonal offices of the party in the South East region.
“Consequently, the South East Zonal Executive of the PDP hereby resolves as follows:
“That South East PDP is one, big, and united family. We are capable of handling any issues arising inhouse;
“That South East PDP frowns at any attempt to fan embers of disaffection or precipitate crisis in the party in the region;
“That the party commends the Court of Appeal judgement upholding Hon. S.K.E Udeh-Okoye as the National Secretary of the party in line with the constitution of our party and the position of the South East ZEC of our party. We also remain consistent and united in this position that Hon. Udeh-Okoye remains the National Secretary of our party.”
governor added.
The orthodox policies being implemented by the CBN have given confidence to the naira, which has elevated trust in the naira.
The CBN governor said the apex bank is putting out efforts to ensure stability in the exchange rate which has continued to fluctuate since the unification of the market segment last June.
“The CBN doesn’t determine the exchange rate. The fundamentals do. We will provide policies to make sure the policies are there in the market,” he said.
Cardoso is also focused on ensuring transparency and sanctioning those who would like to take advantage of the market.
Beyond the drive to curb the Naira commoditisation, Cardoso also recently unveiled two transformative initiatives aimed at improving payment turnaround time and streamlining document approval processes.
The launch of the Document Flow (DocFlow) System and the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) Naira Payment Solution marked a continuation of the bank’s digital revolution project tagged, “Digital First” which was flagged-off by the governor in December 2023 as one of his transformation initiatives.
Cardoso described the DocFlow system as a groundbreaking solution designed to revolutionise the apex bank’s document management processes
by digitising documentation, minimising paper usage, and streamlining the approval processes.
On the other hand, he said the MDAs Naira Payment Solution, automates the cash withdrawal process for MDAs, enhancing efficiency in financial transactions and strengthening client support.
He also pledged his commitment to all initiatives of the bank aimed at enhancing service delivery, improve operational efficiency, and foster sustainability through technological advancements and expressed delight that the two solutions were fully developed in-house, thus saving a lot of costs.
To CBN Deputy Governor, Operations, Emem Usoro, the launch of the solutions demonstrated the bank’s desire for operational excellence through process automation and creating a culture of innovation that prioritises stakeholders’ satisfaction. She further highlighted the benefit of the MDAs Naira Payment Solution to include improved service delivery to MDAs, while minimising errors, irregularities and mitigating against fraud.
The project lead who is the acting CBN Director, Information Technology Department, Mrs. JideSamuel, said the MDA Cash Payment Solution had been successfully tested with some MDAs and aligns with the CBN’s enterprise objective of “Excellence in Central Banking Operations.”
The central bank noted that the MDAs Naira solution remained a game-changer in the CBN’s financial transaction management, which is projected to lead to a 70 percent improvement in payment turnaround time as well as boost the country’s financial ecosystem.
Under the one-year stewardship of Cardoso, the CBN has implemented a series of ground-breaking measures aimed at enhancing market transparency, improving financial stability, fostering a more secure investment environment, and shifting towards a market-driven exchange rate regime, to restore confidence and stabilise the economy.
From enhancing market transparency through restricting unearned income distribution to facilitating Nigeria’s delisting from the FATF Grey List, the CBN has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to strengthening the financial system. The introduction of new guidelines for dormant accounts, the suspension of processing fees to encourage cash deposits, and the advanced use of Early Warning Systems further underscores the central bank’s dedication to promoting stability and trust within the financial sector.
There is therefore a need for all stakeholders and Nigerians to support the CBN in ensuring that the commoditisation of the naira stops to strengthen the nation’s currency, achieve stability and also engender economic growth.
Tributes as Wasiu Ayinde Mourns Mother
King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall known by many as KWAM1 or K1 de ultimate was bereaved recently.
The news of the passing of his mother, Alhaja Halima Shadiya Anifowoshe aged 105
sprung round the world of Fuji Music and the Nigerian public at large. According to Muslim customs, she was buried same day of her passing and within the next 24 hours after the news was made public, family, friends and fans took to their social media pages to express their condolences to the Fuji Maestro.
Labour Party, 2023 Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi took to his Twitter page a few days ago to express his condolences to KWAM 1 on his mother’s passing and that of his ex-wife, Alhaja Hafsat Ajoke Anifowoshe who passed away few days before his mother. In a video shared on Instagram, we could see the Fuji maestro on a call with His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who consoled him on his bereavement and words of prayers was poured to him also.
Fuji superstars, Malaika and Pasuma were among the notable figures who attended the burial ceremony in Ijebu Ode to support the legendary, KWAM 1. Their presence added a touch of grandeur to the event, showcasing the deep respect shared within the Fuji music community. The ceremony was also graced by KWAM 1’s children and extended family members, who came together to celebrate his mother’s legacy and pay their final respects. It was a heartfelt gathering that reflected the love, unity, and deep connections that many have for him.
But to many, shortly after the burial, the Fuji
maestro was seen performing at a wedding in Lagos later that day. A few found it unsettling that he would be out working so soon but many stood out supporting his professionalism, commitment to service and a true testament of what it is to be a man at such a trying time. Many hailed the Fuji maestro for this admirable gesture but at some point during the performance, he couldn’t help it as he got emotional. As tears rolled down and his emotions fought hard to express itself on his ever delightful face. His son, Femi Ayinde Marshal was there by his side to console him and extend empathy.
As the days rolled on into the eight days fidau prayers, several personalities stormed Wasiu’s Ojushagbola Palace, Ijebu Ode to celebrate the life of his late mother. Some faces at the occasion were Chief Adebola Dosunmu, the Akinsiku of Lagos; Otunba Sesan Rufai; Lagos NURTW Chairman, Alhaji Mustapha Adekunle (Aka Sego), Ogun State NURTW Chairman, Alhaji Akibu Efele, Fathia Balogun, Amokade Olatayo (Aka Ijebu) among other esteemed guests.
Oluchi Chibuzor
Tosin Clegg
Cardoso
wasiu and late Mother, Ajoke
•Tourism •Arts&Culture
Charles Ajunwa
• 08064268968 • ajunwacharles@gmail.com
Awomoyi Ayodeji: Public-Private Partnership Required to Grow Nigeria’s Tourism Sector
Flyzone Tourism’s recent setting up of its Lagos office was a strategic move aimed at leveraging the proximity to key embassies and expanding into the business-to-consumer market. During an interactive session with journalists, Principal Executive of Flyzone Tourism, Mr. Awomoyi Ayodeji, explained how the decision aligns with the company’s vision. Charles Ajunwa brings the excerpts:
Whatisyourtakeontourism in Nigeria?
Tourism in Nigeria is good. The only problem that we have from most of the states, is the destination management. I was saying something in Enugu earlier that it’s seemingly impossible for the government to manage a destination 100 percent. This is why there’s a need for public-private partnership. Because before you know, in another four years, another government takes over, you don’t know the interest of that government if it’s willing to continue with that particular destination and the policies that have been laid on ground. But if there’s a percentage for public-private partnership, a destination can be managed properly. The government can still oversee it, but the destination can be managed better by the private party.
Can you tell us some major activities of FlyzoneTourism?
Flyzone Tourism, is a trusted name in the tourism and visa service industry, and we are charting an exciting new course with the launch of our Lagos annex located in Allen. For over a decade, Flyzone has operated exclusively in the B2B (business-to-business) space, working closely with travel agencies to deliver world-class travel products and visa services. Now, the company is breaking new ground by introducing a dedicated B2C (business-to-customer) department, offering direct services to individuals. This bold move signals a new chapter in Flyzone’s journey, reaffirming our commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and industry leadership. We’re in Lagos to expand our horizon, build stronger relationships with our existing customers and travel agencies, and bring more agencies on board. At the same time, we want to connect directly with Nigerians, proving that there are genuine travel providers who offer exceptional services and products.
Flyzone Tourism’s track record speaks volumes about our dedication to the B2B sector. Over the years, the company has successfully partnered with more than 5,000 to 6,000 travel agencies in Nigeria,
processing thousands of e-Visas and travel products with remarkable efficiency. These partnerships are built on trust, reliability, and an unwavering focus on delivering value. In Nigeria, we have been helping them, connecting them to a better way of getting their visa applications done. What we do majorly, is we take the documentation and the problem of these travel agencies, and then we get things done positively in acquiring these visas. Also, Flyzone Tourism is a member of NANTA, a member of NATOP, and a member of SKAL. Twice I emerged as the Travel Personality of the Year in Nigeria - 2022 and 2024.
So,why coming to Lagos now?
As I said earlier, the decision to establish a presence in Lagos is strategic and forward-thinking. Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling economic hub, is not just a city; it’s a gateway to Africa and the world.
Flyzone’s new office aims to tap into the vibrant energy of Lagos, providing a physical space where customers and partners can engage directly with the
Harry Theoharis Announces Candidacy for Secretary General of UN Tourism
With the slogan ‘reform to transform, unite to grow’, Harry Theoharis has officially launched his candidacy for the Secretary General of UN Tourism.
He announced this at the FITUR tourism conference in Madrid, Spain.
Theoharis, who has an impressive track record in organisational and technological transformation in the public sector, will be presenting his initiatives to improve the transparency, accountability and efficiency of UN Tourism to bring more value to member states and the global tourism community.
Introducing his candidacy, Theoharis said: “Together we will make UN Tourism prosperous and purposeful: an equitable, inclusive, and regenerative force for good that truly represents its Member States and drives positive change across the sector.”
As he addressed the issues of transparency and the divisions among the member-states that have undermined UN Tourism’s work and credibility in recent years, Theoharis presented himself as a bridge-builder determined to return the governance of UN Tourism to its members.
“UN Tourism is an agency of the United Nations, and the Secretary General must serve the interests of the members before his or her own. I will ensure that the organs of governance fulfil their role freely, uniting and empowering Member States to pioneer bold policies for shared prosperity and maximize
our contribution to reach the Sustainable Development Goals,” he said.
Theoharis’s first priority as Secretary-General, according to him, will be to reform the organisation to ensure greater transparency and accountability. This will be achieved through a series of initiatives to set clear, measurable governance standards and metrics, publish regular reports, conduct independent audits, and launch a centralised, publicly accessible platform that provides real-time data on project outcomes, financial performance, and progress against goals.
brand. We’re here to create more communication and build stronger relationships. Our Lagos annex is not just an office, it’s a symbol of our commitment to making world-class travel services accessible to all Nigerians. Whether you’re a travel agency looking for a reliable partner or an individual planning your next adventure, Flyzone is here for you. Before now, we were in Port Harcourt and Abuja, and then we deemed it fit to come to Lagos so that we can be closer. Definitely, a larger percentage of some of the travel agencies that we handle are here in Lagos. We studied the MIDT. MIDT is a statistics graph of how people travel more in Nigeria. The Eastern region has 15 per cent, Lagos has 50 per cent, and every other part is sharing the rest. So, because we have this larger percentage of people that are subscribed to our services, we deemed it fit to be closer to them. And then it also makes it easier for us in case of passport submission, and in case of physical documentation reviewing.
Talkingabouttheexpansion,whatarethe products you are hitting the market with?
Currently, like I mentioned earlier, we handle 13 e-visas. E-visas means electronic visas. They are different from the sticker visas. At the moment, we handle South Africa e-visas. We handle the Morocco e-visas. We handle Qatar e-visas. We have the Kenya e-visa, Uganda e-visas, East Africa e-visas, and then one of our sweet products is the China sticker visa, the 90-day China sticker visa.
You know, the one that we have that is a major, that we are actually doing right now is the China business visas. We’re encouraging all businessmen, businesswomen, those that do business, people that are bringing shoes, people that are bringing hairs, people that are bringing clothes, people that are into business. We all know China is for business. So, we’re doing a box submission in March where people can come into our office or chat in our customer care lines, and then we’ll be ready to assist them in getting these visas. And for those that are not going there to bring a product, they can go there and build a relationship with suppliers. They can go there and build a relationship with manufacturers. And when they come back, they can then continue chatting with these manufacturers and relationships
that they’ve built.
Are you partnering with Lagos State government to boost tourism in the state?
You know, we have associations that are registered with the government already that are into this tourism thing. The best we can do is to align ourselves with these associations. You know, on politics, people used to say, the party objective over mine. So, there’s an association already in charge of tourism in Nigeria. It’s the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators. So, we are a member, and anything they want to do, definitely we are also aligned with them. Nevertheless, we’re not ruling it out that if there’s a partnership, definitely it’s possible to building any parts of the destination in Lagos that we can help support.
Intermsofpolicies,whatdoyouthinkthe government should do to make the tourism industry thrive?
The major thing about policies that we want is to develop Nigerian tourism. That’s the first thing. The only reason why most people or a larger percentage move out of the country is because our tourism destinations are not fully equipped. You know, tourism is different from tourism destinations. Now, are these destinations well-equipped? Now, I used to say there used to be five A’s for any tourism destination to be named a proper tourism destination. There has to be Access, Attractions, Accommodation, Amenities and Activities. These tourism destinations, they have to meet these five A’s. So, we’ll take an example of any of the tourism sites in Lagos. If there’s Accessibility, Attractions, Accommodation, Amenities and Activities, then we can name such a place a tourism destination. Not leaving the fact that for a place to be named a tourist destination, it has to be attached to an idea. An example is a spiritual idea. Let’s give an example, where Jesus was born. Now, before a place can be named, that place is named a tourism destination because of what Jesus was born there. So, a tourist destination is not where you just put amenities, and then people go up to swim.
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Akwaaba African Travel Market Sets Dates for 2025
The organisers of Akwaaba African Travel Market have announced the dates for the 2025 edition.
From September 14th-16th, 2025, travel and tourism industry stakeholders across Africa and beyond will once again gather in Lagos, Nigeria, for the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market.
The three-day event is set to bring together over 20 countries. Akwaaba is one of the top travel and tourism events in Africa since 2004.
According to a statement, the Akwaaba African Travel Market has evolved into a pivotal platform that facilitates connections, fosters collaborations, and showcases the diverse offerings of the African travel industry.
“The upcoming 21st edition is set to be a memorable experience as it set to will bring together the 11th Wonders of Nigeria Expo, the 5th Aviation and Cargo Conference CHINET, the 4th African Medical Tourism Expo, the 9th edition of African Youth Tourism Bantaba, the 7th Jollof Rice War and the African Tourism Conference under one roof.
“Following the success of the 20th edition in 2024, the event stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to promoting travel, aviation, hospitality, and tourism in Africa.
Attendees can expect a dynamic showcase of destinations, travel and aviation products, and tourism initiatives that reflect the richness and diversity of the African continent.
“The event has successfully organised various initiatives such as the Africa Travel 100 Awards, African Medical Tourism editions, African Youth Tourism Bantaba and Destination Wedding, earning recognition with an Award
Edition
of Excellence in Tourism from the Nigerian Government and UNWTO at the Global Tourism Summit in 2022.
“Over the years, Akwaaba has hosted some prominent African leaders, including the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; former President Olusegun Obasanjo; former President of the Republic of The Gambia, Sir Dauda Jawara; former Vice President Alex Ekwueme; former Commonwealth Secretary, Sir Emeka Anyaoku; former Nigeria Minister of Tourism, Amb. Frank Nchita Ogbuewu; Amb. Bianca Ojukwu; former Deputy Tourism Minister of Zimbabwe, Ananstasia Ndhlovu; Tourism Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mrs. Memunatu Pratt amongst many others,” the statement added.
Ayodeji Theoharis
Founder of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ikechi uko
Charles Ajunwa
Charles Ajunwa
How to Avoid Excessive Bank Charges
The excessive charges on basic banking services like withdrawals, transfer, and account maintenance, have continued to be a thorn in the flesh of Nigerians, who are already constrained by financial woes.
Amid a series of outcry, criticisms, and even social media memes, the situation has remained unchanged, rather, newer charges emerge.
As of today, existing banks’ charges range from transfer fees, SMS alert fees, Value Added Tax, foreign exchange commission, ATM transfer fees and commission on turnover, POS transfer fees, interbank transfer fees, card maintenance fees, USSD charges, card issuance fees, cheque issuance fees, stamp duty, amongst others.
A 2022 financial report revealed that eleven banks realised over N714 billion from electronic fees and other forms of commissions in the first nine months of the year.
Thus in Nigeria today, no user of banking service is exempted from charges which would usually come in multiple transactions. This does not have to do with whether one is a low-ended or high-ended customer. Policies are there that cover all transaction strata.
With all these, including recent charges introduced with the advent of digital banking, some Nigerians have expressed concern over excessive charges by the banks.
For instance, Mr. John Banji, a, wholesale grocer in Abulelegba, Lagos has stopped accepting transfer from customers buying items exceeding N10, 000 since the recently introduced government’s policy mandating N50 deduction on electronic transfers above N10,000.
“The N50 deduction eats into my profit margin, and I’m already operating on a thin margin
by losing N50 on such transactions. My kind of market relies on high-volume sales to make a profit. Hence, I’ve resorted to accepting cash payments for large transactions, except if a customer chooses to incur the cost,” he added.
Some SME operators have also returned to dealing in cash/keeping cash at home to effect daily transactions without incurring transaction cost.
Financial analyst, Prof. Chiwuike Uba, highlighted the broader implications of these charges, noting that Nigeria already ranks among the countries with the highest bank charges in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“The charges not only serve as a disincentive to savings but also heighten the economic challenges faced by Nigerians,”
OTH er Bu SIN e SS STO r I e S
he worried.
Citing data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), he pointed out that a staggering 93.1 percent of the total currency in circulation was outside the banking system as of September 2024, up from 87.5 percent in the previous year, and rising to 94.3 percent in October 2024.
“This trend underscores a significant barrier to financial inclusion”, he asserted.
At the same time, Uba and other financial experts who spoke with THISDAY proffered strategies individuals could employ to outsmart these charges, instead of going about with cash.
Uba posited that bank users should start looking at consolidating transactions to minimise charges, while also routinely monitor account activities to detect unauthorised fees.
Also, of importance according to the financial
Nigeria, China Banks Explore Funding Options for Development Projects
The Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Tegbe, is spearheading discussions with China EXIM Bank and China Development Bank to explore funding options for accelerated delivery of priority projects under the Forum on ChinaAfrica Cooperation (FOCAC).
He said the discussions with the Chinese banks sought to review priority projects and identify innovative funding models to support their implementation.
“We are committed to working with our Chinese partners to identify funding solutions
that will support the rapid implementation of our priority projects,” he added.
In another high-level engagement, Tegbe met with renowned economist and former World Bank Director, Lin Yifu to discuss strategies for implementing policy reforms and attract major Chinese investments to Nigeria
Yifu in his address expressed readiness to support the NCSP in implementing policy reforms to draw major Chinese investments to Nigeria.
The delegation also visited TBEA, a leading power transmission and transformation
company in Xinjiang. Discussions centered on high-priority opportunities such as Super Grids and investment in mini and microgrid solutions to enhance Nigeria’s power sector.
Tegbe emphasised that the NCSP team would continue engagements in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou to strengthen partnerships with Chinese companies involved in FOCAC projects, ensuring their swift and efficient implementation.
“We aim to leverage this partnership to address Nigeria’s development challenges through targeted investments in key sectors,” he said.
Woodhall Capital Pledges Funding to Drive Creative Sector Growth
Financial services firm, Woodhall Capital reaffirmed its support for the creative economy’s growth at the just concluded Lagos Canvas that brought together local artists, filmmakers, and fashion designers to showcase their ingenuity.
The event which targets economic empowerment aligns with Woodhall’s mission to foster sustainable growth for businesses through finance support.
President and Founder of the firm, Moji Hunponu-Wusu, hinted at the firm’s blueprint and plans for the industry, during a fireside chat involving key industry stakeholders at the event.
He welcomed the proposed creative bank as an initiative that would cater to specific needs of the sector, noting that no one would tell African story like Africans.
“We can’t wait for others to save us. We must build our own future. As I always say, ‘If not me, who? If not now, when? All the countries we admire, their forefathers paid the price for success and the amazing things we see.
“We are someone else’s forefathers, so we must also pay the price. Home is where the solution is, and if not our company, who will do it?
“Many creatives in Africa aren’t considered successful until they’re recognised internationally. But why should we need external validation to know our worth, this is because funding dictates the direction. With Woodhall Capital, we now have African funding that allows us to define our success and create content that resonates with us.”
Speaking at the high-profile gathering organised by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, in partnership with EbonyLife Media, Baxter expressed United Kingdom’s readiness to partner with the sector investment wise.
SystemSpecs Promotes Innovation
Indigenous software technology company, SystemSpecs has continued in its efforts to empower the digital economy through skills enhancement and fostering of tech innovations among young Nigerians.
The firm announcing its sixth Children’s Day Essay Competition (CDEC) in Lagos, recently, affirmed that the initiative would propel the desired and competitive digital economy.
Executive Director of Corporate Services at SystemSpecs Holdings Limited, Mrs. Bukola Adeoye, said the contest was designed for children between the ages nine to 16 years to enable them to showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills by applying technology
to address real-world issues.
She added that the initiative, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment of the company would nurture local talent and equip the next generation of leaders with the skills necessary to thrive in Nigeria’s digital economy.
“To compete globally, Nigeria must equip its next generation with essential technological skills from a young age.
“Over the past five years, our efforts have been focused on promoting technological awareness nationwide, highlighting initiatives like the CDEC that shape Nigeria’s digital future.
“The upcoming CDEC edition will offer Nigerian children another chance to explore technology and
analyst is leveraging opportunities for waived or discounted fees, and negotiating with banks.
The Managing Partner at Empyrean Professional Services, Mr. Bamgboye Emmanuel, emphasised opening a strategic and right account to avoid unnecessary fees.
“Grab an understanding of different banks accounts and their offers, then opt for low-fee accounts. It’s high time individuals started rethinking their banking habit,” he maintained
In addition, Emmanuel suggested breaking up large transactions into smaller amounts in cases where charges apply on lump sum deals.
“Instead of transferring N10,000 or more that attracts a fee, why not transfer N9,500 or less to avoid the fee? Additionally, using cards for transactions is also economical,” he said.
On his part, President, Bank Customers Association of Nigeria (BCAN), Dr. Uju Ogubunka, advised on minimising frequency of transactions and prioritising essential ones.
“While it may be difficult to avoid all charges, consumers need to carefully evaluate the necessity of each transaction and look for opportunities to save, such as reducing transaction amounts where possible,” he added.
Enlightening bank customers regularly on high volume transactions, Managing Director of 171 Bureau De Change Limited, (BDC), Mr. Jamiu Amusa, stated that understanding banks’ policy to tailor to specific needs is crucial. Amusa noted that some banks operate a ledger balance account that imposes limits on account balances.
Customers on such accounts, he explained, escape charges by keeping to the limit, adding that exceeding the agreed limit could incur charges for all transactions made in an account. He explained further that some banks have products that offer incentives to customers with high balances.
develop vital skills for their future,” she added.
She noted that the firm has continuously invested in nurturing young talent to inspire sustainable change in the tech sector.
“This year’s competition kicking off February 3, reflects the company’s long-term vision of promoting technological literacy and capacity development, positioning Nigeria to compete globally in the digital economy.
“The exercise is becoming increasingly competitive, and we look forward to even greater participation. It’s a unique opportunity for students to explore technology and develop essential skills that will empower them for the future,” he said.
Leading integrated payment platform, Remita has bagged the nomination for ‘Product of the Year’ at the prestigious THISDAY Newspaper Awards, 2025.
The nomination recognises Remita’s transformative impact on the country’s financial sector, particularly in areas including interbank payments and government treasury management.
Since its establishment, the brand has played a substantial role in modernising Nigeria’s payment landscape. As one of the pioneers of seamless interbank payments in the country, Remita has consistently evolved to address the growing needs of governments, financial institutions, businesses, and individuals.
The platform has earned a strong reputation for simplifying complex payment transactions and enhancing operational efficiency across various sectors. Its support for the Federal Government’s Treasury Single Account (TSA) system has resulted in significant monthly savings, exceeding N45 billion. This has established the brand as an indispensable tool for efficient and transparent government financial operations.
Commenting, the Managing Director of Remita, DeRemi Atanda, expressed delight at the nomination, emphasising the dedication and hard work of the entire Remita team and the support of its customers and partners.
“This recognition affirms our mission to enable everyone, everywhere, to do more, by simplifying payments. We are honored to be at the forefront of this digital transformation, empowering governments, businesses, and individuals to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
“We are excited about what the future holds as we continue to push boundaries and deliver even greater value to the economy and society at large,” he said.
Remita’s nomination adds to its growing list of accolades, including the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Payment Service Provider of the Year award (2022) and the Nigeria Fintech Awards’ recognition for Best Corporate Payments Platform (2022).
Bamking Hall
Dana Motors Introduces EV, CNG into Nigeria’s Auto Market
Dana Motors Limited has introduced more electric vehicles (EVs) and compressed natural gas (CNG) cars and buses to the Nigerian market. This is contained in a statement by Dana Motors Limited, saying it is at the forefront of promoting eco-friendly vehicles and transportation solutions in the country.
And as part of its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change.
“We are proud to be leading the charge in sustainable transportation solutions in Nigeria,” said Jacky Hathiramani, Managing Director of Dana Motors Limited. “Our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting ecofriendly transportation options is unwavering,
and only recently, we released about 27 units of our locally assembled 45 seater CNG buses from our state-of-the-heart vehicle assembly plant in Lagos.
“Also expected to be released soon are our EVs as part of efforts to support President Tinubu’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions with a just transition to clean and renewable energy, promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth.”
For over two decades, Dana Motors Limited has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s automotive industry. Since its inception in 2002, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, introducing luxury vehicles and auto finance schemes that have made car ownership more accessible to Nigerians.
The company’s Managing Director, Jacky Hathiramani, a Nigerian businessman and industrialist, was deservedly recognized as Auto Personality of the year by the Nigerian Auto Journalist (NAJA), not just for his zeal and contribution to the development of the Nigerian auto industry, but his visionary leadership and Dana Motors’ unwavering commitment to excellence.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the challenges of economic growth and environmental sustainability, Dana Motors Limited; a multiple award winning Auto Company, remains a shining example of innovative leadership and corporate responsibility. The auto company’s dedication to the Nigerian market for decades is not just a beacon of hope for a sustainable future but a shining example of vision and strategic partnerships.
Sony Pictures’ RIDEVU Entertainment Service to Feature IMAX Films in Mercedes-Benz Vehicles
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE), IMAX Corporation®, Mercedes-Benz and DTS, Inc., a subsidiary of Xperi Inc., have announced that RIDEVU, SPE’s in-car entertainment service, will make IMAX Enhanced® movies from Sony Pictures’ library readily available in vehicles later this year, starting with customers of applicable Mercedes-Benz models1 equipped with the MBUX Entertainment Package Plus and an active Mercedes-Benz connect subscription. According to a statement by Mercedes-Benz, “This service enhancement introduces an immersive in-car entertainment experience2, bringing the largest catalog of IMAX Enhanced movies from Sony Pictures’ library like ‘Venom: The Last Dance’, ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ and ‘Uncharted’ from home to the car. IMAX Enhanced is the only way to experience IMAX’s signature picture and sound outside of a theater.” RIDEVU delivers select IMAX Enhanced films featuring IMAX’s expanded aspect ratio (EAR), IMAX’s proprietary DMR process and DTS:X sound, available in multiple dubbed languages. SPE’s RIDEVU video entertainment service3 is available in the U.S., Japan, United Kingdom, Ireland and Germany. The service is fully integrated with select OEMs, including Mercedes-Benz as the first global automotive OEM. It offers access to thousands of movies to buy, rent or stream. Designed for the car, RIDEVU connects Sony Pictures’ movies with its advanced streaming technology to create a first-of-its-kind in-car entertainment experience. With RIDEVU, consumers can enjoy hours of entertainment on in-car multimedia displays or on
Sony pictures entertainment in Mercedes car
iOS and Android devices, use Screen Manager to easily control playback across all screens from the vehicle’s central multimedia display, and entertain passengers with individual or shared viewing experiences on up to six screens4. Content can be accessed by front and rear seat passengers, as well as by the driver on the central display when the vehicle is parked.
This unique collaboration leverages the strengths of three entertainment pioneers, SPE, IMAX and DTS, realizing their long-standing shared vision of creating elevated, personalized and quality
content experiences for consumers, whether at home or on the go.
“By deepening our collaboration with IMAX, we’re demonstrating our unwavering commitment to providing discerning consumers with immersive experiences that transform every journey. By delivering IMAX Enhanced content through RIDEVU, we are showcasing what is possible as we push the boundaries of content and audio delivery in the car starting in Mercedes-Benz models later this year,” said Pete Wood, SVP, digital sales, distribution, SPE.
Question: I tried to leave for the store today, but my car wouldn’t change gears and I had to get a ride with a friend. I have an automatic car, so I’m not sure what’s going on with it. Why is my automatic car not changing gear?
Answer:
If your automatic car isn’t changing gear, there are a few possible causes of the problem. You will most likely need to see a mechanic so they can accurately diagnose the issue and get it fixed. Here are the most common causes of an automatic car not changing gear.
Low or dirty transmission fluid
A filled-up and fresh transmission fluid is important for proper lubrication and smooth shifting. Transmission fluid also serves as a coolant to keep the transmission from overheating.
Every automatic car has a maintenance schedule that lists how frequently you need to change the transmission fluid because it could deteriorate over time. Leaks can develop in gaskets and seals, leading to a drop in fluid levels over time.
If you suspect that you have a problem with your car’s transmission fluid, the good news is that you can check this yourself on some vehicles. The general steps are to find your transmission dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, pull it out and read the fluid level reading. At the same time, it’s a good opportunity to judge whether your transmission fluid is dirty. If you notice that the color of your transmission fluid is dark brown, that’s a sign it’s dirty, so changing the fluid might help.
At this point, you can determine if you need a top up, a reduction of fluid levels, or a complete change in fluid. Topping up is possible through the transmission oil dipstick hole, and if you need to replace or drain your transmission fluid, you will need to find the transmission fluid drain plug.
Note: Newer models of select cars have an electronic oil monitor versus a traditional dipstick. In this case, you’ll need to get your car checked by a professional.
Torque converter problems
A torque converter is an essential piece of your automatic transmission. It comprises parts like the impeller, turbine, stator and transmission fluid. If any of these are faulty, they might cause problems, which you will notice when your car is not changing gears. Fixing a torque converter is a complex and expensive task requiring expertise and special equipment.
Solenoid failure
Solenoids in automatic transmissions are used to regulate the flow of transmission fluid. If this is faulty, you may notice your car is slow to respond when you change gears. Worn solenoids or bad electrical connections to the solenoid could be why your solenoids are not working and it’s best to get it checked out by a mechanic.
Faulty ECM computer
Modern cars have a central brain called the engine control module (also known as the engine control unit). When your ECM is not working, it can cause multiple problems including transmission problems. The problem starts when the ECM gives off wrong readings to the transmission, which causes it to not shift gears or apply power when necessary, leading to hesitant, delayed, or jerky movements.
Dana Motor’s locally assembled 45 seater CNG bus
GLOBAL SOCCER
Victor Osimhen
Victor Osimhen A Devil in the Making
Manchester United have never hidden their desire to bring Napoli owned striker,Victor Osimhen to their fold and the Super Eagle has been a long-time target of the Red Devils,but negotiations never materialised between all parties to make the Nigerian’s OldTrafford switch come to fruition.However,with the new carrot dangled at the English giants in which one of their home-grown players,Alejandro Garnacho making a switch to Naples in exchange for the Nigerian jewel making a move to England,the 2023Africa Footballer of theYear’s dream of playing in the Premier League may at last come true
Super Eagles Striker, Victor Osimhen could finally make Old Trafford transfer after years of links. The 26-yearold notched 76 goals across four seasons in Italy before being exiled by Antonio Conte at the beginning of the campaign.
When a move to Saudi Arabia collapsed, Osimhen sealed a loan agreement with Galatasaray, where he has since gone on to continue his scintillating goalscoring form by scoring 15 times in 19 matches. He has long been a target of the Red Devils, but negotiations never materialised between all parties to make the Nigerian’s Old Trafford switch come to fruition.
It’d come as no surprise to see Napoli use him as a makeweight in talks, either, as Conte made it clear he has no future at the club after acquiring Romelu Lukaku as his successor, even going as far as to strip Osimhen of his shirt number.
Manchester United have struggled in front of goal this season and their latest defeat against Brighton at Old Trafford further proved that point and the Red Devils have therefore intensified their interest the move for Napoli attacker, Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray.
The Red Devils have only scored 27 goals in 22 Premier League matches this season and both their strikers; Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, have failed to make a huge impact this season.
Hojlund has only managed to score two Premier League goals in 17 appearances this season while Zirkzee, who was signed in the summer transfer window last year, has managed three goals in the league this season in 22 appearances. A new attacker is needed at the club and that is why they have made a verbal offer to sign Osimhen, according to Turkish journalist Kağan Dursun.
As per the report, Napoli officials
recently tried to secure Osimhen’s commitment to the club but the attacker has made it clear that he wants to leave the Italian club permanently.
That has encouraged Man United to make a move for the Nigeria international, who has shown his quality in front of goal over the years, helping the Italian side win the Serie A title as well.
Osimhen, who has been described as a fantastic player by Jose Mourinho, has the attacking quality and finishing ability that Man United need.
He is good enough to become the leader of their attack and provide them with the experience they need in crucial situations.
While Hojlund and Zirkzee have only shown flashes of their talent at Old Trafford, Osimhen is a finished product who can straight away become a part of Manager Ruben Amorim’s side and contribute goals to the team.
The player has an exit clause in his contract which would allow him to join a new club in the January transfer window. The clause is not limited to any team or league, making it easier for Amorim’s side to sign the attacker. United should therefore not waste any time in trying to sign the attacker who can completely transform their team.
Alejandro Garnacho’s prospective move to Napoli is now rapidly developing with each passing day of the transfer window.
In truth, it’s a deal that needed to progress swiftly rather than see either club drag their heels due to Manchester United’s requirement for a replacement if the youngster leaves.
They may have an ideal successor lined up, too, as a recent report from FF TV claims the Serie A leaders are ‘close’ to signing Garnacho after offering £12.6m plus prolific frontman, Osimhen, who would have to be recalled from his loan with Galatasaray. While it would see United part ways with one of their most exhilarating academy graduates in recent years, they would be welcoming a player who was once considered the most lethal striker in the whole of Europe, therefore finally putting an end to their longstanding troubles upfront.
The Italian giants began pursuing Garnacho from the moment Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s departure to Paris Saint-Germain took shape, and Conte has seemingly ordered the board to be unrelenting in their efforts to grant him the Argentine.
Despite playing 118 times for United at the age of 20, Garnacho could leave the club this month with Napoli and Chelsea interested in him. The Manchester Evening News reported earlier in the January transfer window that United may be compelled to offload the forward this month to adhere to the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability rules.
As per the rules, United are ‘under increasing pressure’ to sell an academy player with a high value because any deal would equate to pure profit.
No deal is in place yet for the Argentina international to move to Italy but with just under two weeks until the transfer window closes, there remains plenty of time for the details to be agreed. And as comes with the transfer window, speculation is already circulating over how the financial package will be presented.
Osimhen celebrates one of his goals for Galatasaray
Keys Stands Between Sabalenka and three successive Titles
Aryna Sabalenka will aim to become the first woman in 26 years to win three successive Australian Open titles when she meets Madison Keys in today’s final.
Victory would make Sabalenka only the sixth woman to win the title three times in a row in the Open era, and the first since Martina Hingis in 1999.
World number one Sabalenka is the heavy favourite to secure a fourth Grand Slam title and goes into the final on a 20-match winning streak at Melbourne Park.
But she must be wary of an opponent who saved a match point before ousting world number two Iga Swiatek to
reach the second major final of her career.
American 19th seed Keys came through a dramatic third-set tie-break to reach her first Australian Open final, eight years after she finished runner-up at the 2017 US Open. Sabalenka is guaranteed to keep her status as the leading women’s player after Swiatek’s semi-final loss.
The top seed, who ended Swiatek’s 11-month stay as world number one in October, has lost just one set in six matches on her way to becoming the first woman since Serena Williams in 2017 to reach a third straight Australian
Open final.
She produced a ruthless display to defeat close friend Paula Badosa in the last four and give herself the chance to become the first woman to win three consecutive hard-court Slam titles this century.
“It’s crazy that I’m in a situation where I have a chance to put my name next to legends. I couldn’t dream about that. It’s going to mean a lot,” said Sabalenka.
“I just feel at home. Last year I thought ‘OK, I feel at home, I feel so good here, I feel all the support’. This year I feel it even more.
“It feels like coming home to my home Slam.”
…Sinner Sets up Zverev Final in Melbourne
Jannik Sinner will face Alexander Zverev in the Australian Open final after the defending champion saw off Ben Shelton in straight sets in Melbourne.
World number one Sinner recorded a 7-6 (7-2) 6-2 6-2 victory over American Shelton on Rod Laver Arena - the stage where he claimed his first major title
Reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman has been in scintillating form for Atalanta this season, and his impressive performances have sparked speculation about his future at the club.
Lookman’s contract with Atalanta expires in June 2026, and the club’s president, Antonio Percassi has revealed plans to keep the 27-year-old at the club beyond the summer.
Lookman has been a revelation since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022, establishing himself as one of the top performers in Serie A.
This season, he has already scored 14 goals and provided
12 months ago.
Earlier on Friday, an injured Novak Djokovic was forced to retire after losing the first set against world number two Zverev.
Zverev, still bidding for a first major title after losing his previous two finals, now faces a daunting task against the in-form
seven assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.
His impressive form has attracted interest from top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, who were linked with a move for the Nigerian international last summer.
Despite the interest from other clubs, Atalanta are keen to keep Lookman at the club.
The Nigerian striker has been instrumental in the team’s success, and his departure would be a significant blow.
However, Lookman’s contract situation means that Atalanta face a challenge in keeping him at the club beyond the summer.
The club’s president Antonio
Sinner in Sunday’s final.
“We’ve had some tough matches in the past. Anything can happen,” said Sinner, who has lost four of his six meetings with Zverev.
Reigning US Open champion Sinner is the youngest man to reach multiple Australian Open finals since Jim Courier in 1993.
Percassi has revealed while Atalanta are keen to keep Lookman, they will not stand in his way if he decides to leave the club.
“We’ll do everything, but he must not stay against his will,” Percassi told Corriere Della Sera.
“After all, we have already replaced Zapata, Muriel and Gomez.”
Lookman’s future at Atalanta remains uncertain, and Atalanta will be hoping to keep the Nigerian international at the club beyond the summer, but it remains to be seen whether they can persuade him to stay.
Fatayi-Williams Canvasses Support for Dolphin Swimming League
Former President of the Aquatics Federation of Nigeria, Babatunde Fatayi-Williams, has called for more support to the organisers of theDolphinSwimming League, which is a vital platform for nurturing young swimmers.
Speaking at the third leg of Season Six, held at the Lagos Preparatory and Secondary School in Ikoyi, Fatayi-Williams praised the organisers for their consistency and urged state governments to emulate such initiatives.
“I’m so happy that the organisers have been able to keep the league going up to this Season Six. You can see the
The Dolphin Swimming League,nowinitssixthseason,is thefirstprivateschoolswimming tournament in Nigeria. It is organisedbyDynasproPromotion LimitedandAdvantaInteractive Limited, with technical support from the Lagos State Swimming Association and the Aquatics Federation of Nigeria. The league has produced swimmers who have represented various states and Nigeria in local and international tournaments. It has alsoreceivedendorsementsfrom theNigeriaOlympicCommittee (NOC) and the Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF).
excitement from the children, and this is the benefit of this kind of programme. This league’s format has kept the swimmers training regularly because they know they have legs of the competition coming along. So it makes it easier for the coaches to keep the swimmers working, and over the years, this league has produced swimmers that went on to represent the country at the junior level in the region, on the continent, and even at the World Junior Championships. That shows the quality of products that have come out of this league,” he said.
Super Eagles Avoid Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, CIV in AFCON Draw
The Draw Ceremony for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations finals will take place at the Mohamed V National Theatre in Rabat, Casablanca on Monday evening. Three-time African champions Nigeria have been placed in Pot 1, alongside seven-time winners Egypt, three-time champions and Cup holders Cote d’Ivoire, two-time winners Algeria, hosts and 1976 champions Morocco and 2021 winners Senegal.
Super Eagles’ Head Coach Éric Sékou Chelle and Team Administrator, Dayo Enebi Achor, alongside the Chairman of NFF Technical and Development Committee, Alhaji Sharif Rabiu Inuwa will attend the colourful ceremony in the heart of Morocco’s administrative capital.
The final tournament that begins on December 21, and
ends on January 18, is unique in some ways, including being the first ever to start in a particular year and run into another year. Morocco will play host to Africa again since hosting the 1988 tournament that was won by Cameroon. The North African country was handed the hosting right for the 2015 finals, but ducked at the eleventh hour in the midst of the ebola scare across some nations in the continent.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles hold the record for the most medals from the 68-year-old championship: 16 in 20 previous participations.
They are three-time winners (1980, 1994, 2013), finished as runners-up on five occasions (1984, 1988, 1990, 2000 and 2023), and took the bronze eight times (1976, 1978, 1992,
2002, 2004, 2006, 2010 and 2019). The Eagles lost out in the quarter-finals in 2008 and were eliminated in the second round in 2021. Only in their debut in 1963, and as Cup holders in 1982, have the Eagles failed to proceed beyond the tournament group phase.
While Nigeria will be taking part in her 21st tournament (same as DR Congo and Algeria), Botswana and Comoros will be taking part in only their second respective championships. Egypt will be appearing in their 27th tournament; Cote d’Ivoire 26th and; Cameroon and Tunisia 22nd. Hosts Morocco are appearing in their 20th finals and 2012 champions Zambia in their 19th. 2021 winners Senegal are appearing in their 18th final tournament.
Man City, Chelsea’s Clash of Titans Live on Showmax
Premier League defending champions Manchester City will host Chelsea this Saturday in the marquee match of Matchday 23 of the 2024/25 season.
Dubbed the “Battle of the Money Bags,” this encounter features former Manchester City assistant manager Enzo Maresca squaring off against his former mentor, Pep Guardiola, for the second time this season.
The reverse fixture earlier in the campaign ended in a 2-0 victory for the Citizens.
Fresh off a dominant 6-0 win
over Ipswich last weekend, Guardiola’s team, currently fifth in the league standings, will aim to leapfrog Chelsea with a win. Fans can stream the highly anticipated showdown live with a Showmax Premier League mobile plan at 6:30 PM on Saturday.
The Citizens are bolstered by the return of key players John Stones, Nathan Aké, Kevin De Bruyne, and Mateo Kovači , as they look to close the gap at the top of the table. Meanwhile, Chelsea, who held City to a
1-1 draw at the Etihad last season, will be determined to maintain their position in the top four. Also on Saturday, league leaders Liverpool will host Ipswich at Anfield in one of the 4:00 PM kickoffs. Arne Slot’s men remain six points clear of second-placed Arsenal, who will simultaneously face Wolverhampton Wanderers. Brighton takes on Everton at the Amex, while third-placed Nottingham Forest welcomes Bournemouth.
Benin Club Golf Section Gets New Executives
The newly elected executives of Benin Club Golf Section (BCGS) were sworn-in on Sunday just as members gave a loud standing ovation to usher in new Captain, Stephen Ebaretonbofa while Stella Ajayi emerged as Lady Captain of the Ladies Division
In the keenly contested ViceCaptain position, immediate past Secretary, Victor Oriasotie polled 122 votes to defeat former Secretary, Osazuwa Ehiorobo who polled 78 votes. Also, former Treasurer of the section,
Emmanuel Usoh emerged secretary with 153 votes while his challenger, Enoma Enomase polled 48 votes.
Furthermore, Taofeek Ejalonibu won the competition for secretary position with 102 votes beating Jude Igbinadolor who polled 100 votes while Gordon Imadiyi with 117 votes defeated Eghosa Otabor, who had 87 votes to win Course Officer position.
Dr. Chukwunonso Ndekwu with 120 votes was elected as House Officer ahead of Charles
Ikechukwu Egbuziem who had 78 votes. Dr. Anslem Dere and Benjamin Okonofua were elected unopposed for the position of Treasurer and Caddie Officer respectively.
The new Captain, Stephen Ebaretonbofa who could not hide his joy in a chat with journalists noted that he had prepared adequately for the task having served as vice Captain for two years, adding that the new administration cannot afford to do less.
Suoer eagles players
Sabalenka and Keys
A U st RA li AN Ope N
L-r: Hon. Joseph Idahosa (Immediate past Captain), Dr. Chukwunonso Ndekwu (House Officer); Gordon Imadiyi (Course Officer); Mrs. Stella Ajayi (Lady Captain); Victor Oriasotie (Vice Captain); Stephen ebaretonbofa (Captain); emmanuel usoh (Secretary), Dr. Anslem Dere (Treasurer), Taofeek ejalonibu (Competition Secretary) and Benjamin Okonofua (Caddy Officer)
MISSILE
“I am very grateful to THISDAY for this award and to all its audiences who have supported this. This is a very special. I promise you I don’t take it lightly. I will continue to do my best to try and represent the country and the continent the best way I can and to make sure that the dividends of development also flow our way” – THISDAY Woman of the Year and head of the World Trade Organisation, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala reiterated in her remarks Okonjo Iweala to THISDAY
OKEY IKECHUKWU
EDIFYING ELUCIDATIONS
okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com
Trump as “Nebuchadnezzar My Servant”
Is Donald Trump a historical necessity, put in place by Providence to bring about a roundly rumbustious rattling of the many presumptions of nations and individuals; who think that they can redefine humanity in a world they did not create? Are we about to walk into a new era that would be characterized by so many changes, and which would be coming so fast on the heels of each other that it would even be difficult to call it an era at all?
Is Trump an instrument of sorts in a world that needs to brought to its senses and, forthwith, to the end of its wits? For the record, I have never hidden my preference for some aspects of Trump’s value preferences, over most of the largely questionable value pretences of the Obama/Biden era. The latter’s vaulting presumption could only be equalled by Trump’s absolutely unmanageable stubborn doggedness and almost fiendish belief in what he represents.
Remember Nebuchadnezzar, the King of Babylon mentioned in the bible? The bible actually describes him as a “servant” of the Almighty! Meanwhile, every child who went to catechism, or Sunday school, would most probably recall the description of this particular king as a dreadful character. Many, like me, may also have seen the pictorial depiction of him as a dreadfully misshapen fellow on all fours. His talons, not nails for me as a child, were so long and menacing in shape that they could have shredded an Iroko tree, or even my father’s car.
Listen to the Book of Jeremiah in the bible (Jer 43:10): “And say unto them, thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will send and take Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, My servant, and will set his throne upon these stones that I have hid; and he shall spread his royal pavilion over them”. Besides the foregoing, which had more to do with Egypt specifically, the life and times of the Babylonian king apparently served some divine designs.
And Donald Trump? Could he possibly be an instrument in the hand of Providence, like Nebuchadnezzar? Some points made on this page on November 9, 2024, are even much more poignant; and will be reproduced here in large measure.
“In an Exclusive Commentary of December 5, 2020, in the Houston-based USAfrica, titled “Will Biden Impose Alternative Lifestyles on Africans?” my submission was that a Biden presidency should be a source of worry to non-enthusiasts of gay marriage and anti-gay advocacy”. The publication frowned at Joe Biden’s excitement, and announcement, that he would reconnect with many “globally significant” individuals in order to ensure the globalization of new (alternative) lifestyles. The Obama administration – where Biden served as vice president for eight years, 2009 to 2017 – threatened Nigeria with sanctions for passing a law against same-sex marriage. That presidency diligently promoted the same sex agenda and Gay relationships with the LGBTQ+ movement and created a new world for the exercise of those ‘rights’ when in 2016, Donald trump barged in bared teeth and all.”
The article went on to say that Trump’s victory was going to be a confrontation between “two politico-spiritual currents and counter currents which have been at war in the US for a long time now ... What climaxed in the US under Obama and Biden was the chorus of submissions
driving the view that everyone had the right to whatever pleased him, provided he did not disturb anyone about it unduly”.
Shortly after Biden was sworn is as president he said: “America is back,” but which America, and whose America? The answer to these questions was given in a Presidential Memorandum, wherein Biden threatened to sanction countries which were still reluctant to make laws to promote, accommodate and perhaps even expand the rights and privileges of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex (LGBTQI+) people.
The Memorandum sought “a worldwide plan to strengthen the protection of LGBTQI+ rights, in such a way that it would be taken for granted that humanity must now collectively drive a new global priority under this umbrella of rights. It was a continuation and deepening of Obama’s agenda of driving LGBTQI+ issues in such a way that it would become America’s defining core value.
The rest of us were supposed to either tremble and comply, or lie down and die. Because the president of one country on earth declared that his country legalized same-sex marriage; and would inflict stupendous sanctions on any
country that failed to comply with this sexual orientation preference.
For a man who cannot actually do such a thing in sny US states opposed to same-sex marriage, to set out to terrorize smaller nations? For a man who cannot do anything about “the legislative federalist orientation of the American State, despite a respected Supreme Court” to rampaging on a global scale?
America’s impudence was once queried thus: “What warrants Biden’s presumption? In what way did it make sense to him to pass his country off as defender of humanity and protector of the ideal values? Is America, with its daily murder records in New York City alone, and its many socio-culturally disruptive engagements all over the world, really in a position to speak about guiding the world to greater sanity? By what universal standard was Nigeria rightly classified a “homophobic” country; as was done under Obama, because of the country’s anti-gay law?
When Nigeria passed an anti-LGBTQI+ country laws it was threatened with sanctions by the Obama/ Biden government. Biden’s threat of “…financial sanctions, visa restrictions, and other sanctions” targeted at “…foreign governments” that “restrict the rights of LGBTQI+ persons…” was simply an accentuation of Obama’s trajectory.
As was said, also in November last year: “This column did not, for once, comment on the person of Donald Trump before, during, or after his stint in the White House. He was, in my view, a historical necessity. His tenure as president threw up much about America that needed recalibration and reconsideration, especially along deep fault lines the country was pretending did not exist”.
Now that Biden and Obama are out and Trump is in, we can conveniently overlook Biden’s position that “The United States belongs at the forefront of speaking out and standing strong” for American values, when those American Values focus largely on LGBTQ+ issues and rights. When, at the time, Biden speaks of “…enforcing freedoms and promoting tolerance” all over the world, he forgot that he was the President of the US and not the earth.
When we consider that the Obama Government threatened Nigeria with official sanctions, when the National Assembly passed a law against same-sex marriage, when we also consider the fact that the Obama government went to great lengths to prevent Nigeria from buying arms to fight Boko Haram, because of the nation’s stand
Listen to the Book of Jeremiah in the Bible (Jer 43:10): “And say unto them, thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will send and take Nebuchadrezzar the king of Babylon, My servant, and will set his throne upon these stones that I have hid; and he shall spread his royal pavilion over them” ... And Donald Trump? Could he possibly be an instrument in the hand of Providence, like Nebuchadnezzar?
on LGBTQ+ matters, then we must consider the return of Trump something worth taking seriously.
The fact that the US government went out of its way to even discourage other countries from selling arms to Nigeria to fight Boko Haram at the time, notwithstanding the fact that thousands of women, children and the aged were being slaughtered by the hour says a lot. And what was the argument in defence of this stance? That our government was not respecting the human rights of the terrorists; with no mention of the burgeoning military and civilian casualties on our side.
So, goodbye to Biden’s Presidential Memorandum, wherein he sought to “… further repair our (America’s) moral leadership and reinvigorate our (America’s) leadership on the LGBTQI+ issues internationally. He tried his level best to insist on the need or LGBTQI+ individuals to be allowed in the military service of many nations. He did his best to expand the progressive inclusion of LGBTQI+ history and themes in public education, as well as the deliberate projection of new identities and lifestyles that encourage heterosexuals to go into homosexual relationships.
He did everything he could to secure special treatment for homosexuals. He worked very hard to abolish gender distinctions. It was all in aid of the LGBTQI+ campaign spelt out in Marshal Kirk and Hunter Madsen’s 1987 Essay, “The Overhauling of Straight America”. It was this book that urged Gays to project themselves in ways that would make the world to think of them as normal people who prefer to do certain things differently.
The book was updated years later to “After the Ball: How America will Conquers its Fear of Gays in the 90s”, which mapped out a public relations strategy for the movement. It worked very well for a long time. But now that Trump is here......
Now the likes of Oklahoma Senator, Tom Coburn, who in 2004, saw the gay movement as a more pressing danger than terrorism can rest easy. After Obama and Biden, we can say that James Dobson, Director of Focus on the Family, who in 2005 described the homosexual agenda as a grave danger to humanity was not too far from the truth.
He had then pointed out how it involved the “universal acceptance of the gay lifestyle, discrediting of scriptures that condemn homosexuality, muzzling of the clergy and Christian media, granting of special privileges and rights in the law, overturning laws prohibiting pedophilia, indoctrinating children and future generations through public education, and securing all the legal benefits of marriage for any two or more people who claim to have homosexual tendencies.”
Our collective experience confirms that these are facts on record. Trump’s early signals, despite the infancy of his presidency, are reassuring for those who prefer “Male and female created He them”. And Trump seems poised and ready with as much strong arms tactics as his predecessors. And more is coming...
A concern once raised here, and which bears repeating, is this: “Can someone wake up one day, declare himself a camel, and demand that we accept his new identity and allow him to graze in the public park; or in his neighbour’s garden? The attempt at a redefinition of the meaning of gender, and even humanity, under Obama and Biden is up again the wall. But it will fight back
Trump