SATURDAY 27TH APRIL 2024

Tinubu Appoints Jim Ovia, Nigeria’s Foremost Banker, Chairman Nigerian

Elumoye

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR, as the Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). This was announced in a State House press release by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, yesterday. According to the statement, ‘‘the President believes Mr. Ovia

Gbajabiamila, Dapo Abiodun, Obaigbena, Others

bring his immense wealth of experience and professional stature to this role to advance the all-important vision of ensuring that no Nigerian student suffers a capricious end to their pursuit of higher education over a lack of funds and of ensuring that Nigerian youths, irrespective of who they are, have access to

education and skills that will make them productive members of society and core contributors

Peter Obi Calls for Political Will to Address Nigeria’s Electricity Challenge...

Deji

in Abuja

Chuks Okocha, Alex Enumah, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Sylvester Idowu in Warri Ripples of corruption allegations against former governor of Kogi

Gbajabiamila, Dapo Abiodun, Obaigbena, Others Pay Tributes as Funke Ogeah is Laid to Rest

The remains of Mrs. Olufunke Ogeah were yesterday laid to rest in Lagos amidst prayers and reflections of remembrance of the life of the deceased who passed on March 17, 2024.

The solemn occasion, which was preceded by a funeral service held at the Trinity House Church, Lagos, had in attendance eminent dignitaries from all walks of life.

The Memorial Service, presided over by the lead Pastor of the Trinity House Church, Mr. Ituah Ighodalo, with family, friends, well-wishers, and government officials in attendance reflected heartfelt moments as glowing tributes and words of encouragement were offered to the late Olufunke’s family, in which she was described

as a virtuous woman who lived a remarkable life of love and fulfillment.

Survived by her husband, Mr. Chike Ogeah; aged mother, Kanyisola Sophia Koya; her daughter, two sons, a grandson, brother, and three sisters, Mrs. Ogeah’s departure left a void in the lives of those closest to her from the Ogeah Family of Ogbe-Ogo, Umuonaje Quarters of Asaba, Delta State and the Koya Family of Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

Olufunke, the beloved wife of Ogeah, a former Commissioner of Information in Delta State, died aged 62.

In his tribute to the late Olufunke, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, described her as a virtuous woman who had a calling for children;

particularly young boys who she nurtured from boys to men.

Gbajabiamila, who is a longtime friend of the Ogeah family added that Funke was a woman of substance, always joyful, always happy, and always pleasant.

He stressed that she was a selfless and amazing human being who most times seeks assistance regarding some other remote persons far from her and wants her to be remembered as such.

He said, “But seriously, for many of us, Funke meant a lot and meant everything. Here lies the body of a virtuous woman; herein lies the body of a woman of substance.

“When I came in here and sat down some moments ago, I decided I was not going to wear a long face or a sad face. And I quickly changed my

mood; I decided to wear a smile.

“Now the smile came automatically simply because I kept on remembering, again flashes of my conversations and interactions with Funke over the years. And when you have the kind of relationship, the kind of flashes, the kind of memories that I have with Funke, you can only but wear a smile. That is how I’m sure Funke would want to be remembered.

“My principal, for many of you know, is out of the country. And ordinarily, when he is out of the country, I cannot step foot out of Abuja. But I felt today I had no choice but to come myself to bid Funke farewell. I came in from Abuja this morning I came straight here and as I leave this place, I would be heading straight back to the airport back to Abuja.

ABUJA-BASED AMERICAN SCHOOL WRITES EFCC, TO REFUND YAHAYA BELLO’S CHILDREN $760,000 FEES

$720,000 in advance as fees for five of his children from the coffers of the Kogi State Government.

However, in reaction to the development, an Aide to Bello, Ohiare Michael, argued that the school fees payment was not effected at about the time the former governor was to leave office as claimed by the EFCC Chairman, insisting that the former governor did not pay the fees of his children with monies from the coffers of Kogi State government.

This was just as the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan, lauded ongoing efforts by the EFCC to apprehend and prosecute the immediate past governor of Kogi State.

Also, Justice I. A. Jamil has ordered the service of a suit seeking to commit the Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, to prison, for allegedly disobeying his orders.

On April 17, 2024, EFCC’s

operatives had laid siege to Bello’s residence in Abuja, in an attempt to arrest him over an alleged N80.2 billion fraud.

But in a letter addressed to the Lagos Zonal Commander of the EFCC, the school stated that the sum of $845,852 was paid as tuition, “since the 7th of September 2021 to date.”

AISA stated that the sum to be refunded was $760,910, because it had deducted money for educational services already rendered.

The letter read in part, “Please forward to us an official written request, with the authentic banking details of the EFCC, for the refund of the above-mentioned funds as previously indicated as part of your investigation into the alleged money laundering activities by the Bello family.

“Since the 7th September 2021 to date, $845,852.84 (Eight Hundred and Forty Five Thousand, Eight Hundred and Fifty Two US Dollars and eighty

four cents) in tuition and other fees has been deposited into our Bank account.

“We have calculated the net amount to be transferred and refunded to the State, after deducting the educational services rendered as $760,910.84. (Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand, Nine Hundred and Ten US Dollars and Eighty Four cents).

“No further additional fees are expected in respect of tuition as the students’ fees have now been settled until they graduate from ASIA.”

The school said it will draw the attention of the anti-graft agency if there are any further deposits by the Bello family.

In a statement signed by Greg Hughes, AISA also stated that, “Ali Bello contacted the school on Friday 13 August 2021, requesting to pay the family school fees in advance until the students graduate from High School.”

Meanwhile, Michael, who is an

TINUBU APPOINTS JIM OVIA, NIGERIA’S FOREMOST BANKER, CHAIRMAN NIGERIAN EDUCATION LOAN FUND

to the knowledge-based global economy of this century.’’

Jim Ovia, CFR, is the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, one of Africa’s largest banks with over $21.4 billion in assets and shareholders’ funds of over $2.4 billion as at December 2023. Zenith Bank is a global brand listed on the London Stock Exchange and the Nigerian Stock Exchange. In addition to major operations in Nigeria and other West African countries, the Bank has sizeable operations in London and Dubai.

Jim Ovia is the Founder and Chancellor of James Hope University, Lekki, Lagos which was recently approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to offer postgraduate degrees in business courses. James Hope University commenced activities in September 2023.

Through his philanthropy – the Jim Ovia Foundation – he has shown the importance he accords good education. In support of

the Nigerian youth, Jim Ovia Foundation offers scholarships to indigent students through the Mankind United to Support Total Education (MUSTE) initiative. Most of the beneficiaries of Jim Ovia Foundation scholarship are now accountants, business administrators, lawyers, engineers, doctors etc.

He is the author of “Africa Rise and Shine”, published by ForbesBooks. The book which encapsulates Zenith Bank’s meteoric rise, details the secrets of success in doing business in Africa. He is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School (OPM), University of Louisiana (MBA), and Southern University, Louisiana, (B.Sc. Business Administration).

Jim Ovia is a member of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Community of Chairpersons, and a champion of the Forum’s EDISON Alliance.

In recognition of Jim Ovia’s contributions to the economic

development of Nigeria, in 2022, the federal government of Nigeria honoured him with Commander of the Federal Republic, CFR. Also, in May 2022, Ovia was conferred with the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award by the Federal Government of Nigeria. Earlier, he has been conferred with the national awards of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) and Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON, in 2000 and 2011, respectively, as a testament to his visionary leadership and contributions to Nigeria’s financial services sector.

The National Student Loan Programme is a pivotal intervention that seeks to guarantee sustainable higher education and functional skill development for all Nigerian students and youths.The Nigerian Education Loan Fund, the implementing institution of this innovation, demands excellence and Nigerians of the finest professional ilk to guide and manage.

Aide to Bello, in a statement titled, “Payment for school fees: Setting the records straight,” read: “While we reserve our rights to seek redress against the said defamatory statements, permit us to briefly state the following for the purpose of setting the records straight: “His Excellency, Yahaya Bello’s children have attended the American International School, Abuja well before he became Governor and he has paid fees for his children as and when due and without fail.

“His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello did not pay the sum of USD720,000 as alleged by the EFCC Chairman or USD840,000 as is being bandied about on the internet.

“The payment of the fees was not effected at about the time his Excellency was to leave office as claimed by Mr. Olukoyede but the same commenced in 2021.

“Alhaji Yahaya Bello did not pay the fees of his children with monies from the coffers of the Kogi State Government.”

It added: “When the EFCC approached the American International School Abuja (AISA) to illegally recover funds legitimately paid by Alhaji Yahaya Bello and other family members, a member of the family challenged the EFCC’s unlawful acts to recover funds legitimately paid.

“The FCT High Court, in Suit No. FCT/HC/2574/2023 between: Mr. Ali Bello v. The Incorporated Trustees of American International School, Abuja, held that AISA could not lawfully and unilaterally refund to a third party, including the EFCC, fees paid by the parties to the suit.

“The Court subsequently mandated AISA to continue to provide the services it had been paid with respect to the fees.

“From the foregoing, it is clear that no money belonging to Alhaji Yahaya Bello or his family members with regard to school fees has been recovered by the EFCC.

“Now, let it be known that, contrary to misleading narratives by the EFCC, all the documents published online i.e. receipts and letters, that the EFCC has released online, in furtherance of its unrelenting persecution of the former

Governor, are documents filed by lawyers in the suit instituted on behalf of Alhaji Yahaya Bello and others who paid fees for their wards under the Advance Fee Payment Agreement with AISA.

“Those documents, having been filed by his lawyers, are thus public documents, which shows that Yahaya Bello, has nothing to hide with regard to the payment of advance fees for his children. This unending harassment and persecution, even while in office, were among key reasons he sought to enforce his fundamental human rights.

“We state that the payment of these fees and the legitimacy thereof is the subject matter of Charge No. FHC/ CR/573/2022, filed by the EFCC since 15th December 2022 at the Federal High Court, Abuja. The Charge is pending and the Court has yet to make any finding or convicted anyone in respect of the said sum.”

In the meantime, Akpoti-Uduaghan has lauded ongoing efforts by the EFCC to apprehend and prosecute the immediate past governor of Kogi State.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, in a statement by her media aide, Arogbonlo Israel, yesterday in Abuja, charged the anti-graft agency to ensure thorough prosecution of the former governor.

She said, "No Nigerian is above the law, and therefore the agency must see this case through to the end if they are to gain the trust of both Nigerians and the international community in the fight against corruption.

She also commended the EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede, for ceding 14 properties that were initially forfeited to the federal government to the government and people of Enugu.

The Senator emphasised the need for the EFCC to investigate other corrupt public officials to avoid the impression that their actions against Bello are merely a witch hunt. She expressed surprise at Bello's excuse for not attending the EFCC's invitation.

Akpoti-Uduaghan reminded Bello of the importance of respecting Nigeria's laws and constitution, given his former position as the chief security

TO ATTRACT DOLLAR INFLOWS, STRENGTHEN NAIRA, FG PLANS $10BN DIASPORA FUND

As part of efforts to attract and accelerate inflow of foreign currency into the economy, the federal government has unveiled plans to float a $10 billion Nigeria Diaspora Fund.

The move is expected to among other things, improve FX liquidity in the system as well as strengthen the Naira exchange rate.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris UzokaAnite, in a notice shared on her X handle (formerly Twitter), yesterday, revealed that the Nigeria Diaspora Fund Multi-sectoral Investment Initiative would be designed and managed by fund managers selected through an Expression of Interest (EOI) exercise where winners are

expected to emerge. Owing to this, the ministry has issued an EOI Expression to fund managers for the development and establishment of a multisectoral, multilateral private sector-led investment fund to form the $10 billion Nigeria Diaspora Fund.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, recently said Nigerians living in diaspora remained a key source of foreign capital projection, adding that a diaspora bond would be launched by June.

This emerged just as the Naira appreciated to N1,380/$1 on the parallel market yesterday, posting a gain of N70 in one single day, compared to Thursday's close of N1,450/$1.

On the other hand, the the local currency weakened to N1,339.23/$1

on the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange (NAFEM) window, representing a N29.42 decline, compared to the N1,309.81/$1 it closed at on Wednesday.

However, daily turnover on the NAFEM declined by 2.85 per cent to $309.01 million compared to $318.08 million the previous day. The highest spot rate stood at N1,410, with the lowest recorded at N1,051.

Meanwhile, Uzoka-Anite, explained that the 10-year fund, which would be extendable by two years, offers an expected investment period of three to five years with follow-on investments thereafter.

The minister explained that the proposed fund would be managed by fund managers that satisfy the criteria set out in the EOI, adding that the latter would propose fund structures that will focus on various

sectors and stages of investments.

She said subject to the preferences indicated by the managers, the fund would contain multiple investment platforms designed to offer investors different mechanisms for participating in the country’s economic transformation.

Uzoka-Anite further clarified that the fund was intended to encourage remittances, attract investments and facilitate philanthropic endeavours aimed at supporting various sectors including infrastructure, healthcare, education and entrepreneurship in the country.

She noted that the intervention remained part of broader efforts to strengthen ties between Nigeria and its diaspora, promote national development, and harness the potential of The Diaspora Community as agents of change and development

for Nigeria.

The minister also pointed out that the national launch of the fund would serve as an opportunity to raise interest in and awareness of the fund towards mobilising capital investment from the diaspora community.

Among several other requirements, the tender stated that greenfield funds may apply provided the promoters demonstrate a deep experience in fund management, investment execution, multilateral development, and a detailed understanding of the Nigerian environment.

Foreign firms are also encouraged to participate, preferably by partnering with reputable local fund managers that meet any or all the requirements.

However, interested foreign firms must be able to demonstrate an ability for frontier and emerging market investment experience.

officer of Kogi State. She said, "I was surprised to hear that Yahaya Bello evaded the invitation from the EFCC, despite having served as Kogi's former chief security officer.

"As a former governor, Bello should understand the importance of respecting Nigeria's laws and constitution.

"It's a well-known fact that he who comes into equity must come with clean hands.

"As such, I advise him to honour the invitation and clear his name while he still has the chance.

"I'd also like to take this moment to appreciate the diligence of the EFCC in handling the case so far."

Also, former Delta State Gubernatorial aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Sunny Onuesoke has asked the embattled former Kogi State to submit himself to the operatives of the EFCC for investigation.

The PDP chieftain, in a statement issued in Warri, yesterday, urged him to emulate former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose and other important Nigerians who have honoured EFCC’s invitations in the past

“Why is he running? He should submit himself for investigation if his cupboard is so clean. The attempt to delay is not the best in this situation. He should have copied people like former Ekiti state governor, Ayo Fayose who honoured the EFCC invitation as soon as he left the government.

“It is a very simple thing. You have been invited by EFCC, you should go and explain yourself. He is not above the law. He is like any other Nigerian,” he stated.

Kogi Court Orders Service of Suit Seeking Imprisonment of EFCC's Boss

Justice I. A. Jamil has ordered the service of a suit seeking to commit the Olukoyede to prison, for allegedly disobeying his orders.

The order was sequel to an ex parte application made by Bello, seeking to jail the anti-graft agency's board for moving to arrest him against the order of the court.

Justice Jamil had on February 9, restrained the Commission from harassing, arresting or detaining the former governor, pending the determination of the substantive suit.

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which on April 23, ordered service of the money laundering charge against the former governor, would next week decide whether he should vacate the arrest warrant he issued against Bello.

Consequently, the former governor on April 25, returned to the court accusing the anti-graft agency of violating its order, hence should be jailed.

The ex-parte application with No: HCL/190M/2024, was filed and argued by Bello's lawyer, M.S Yusuf, praying the court to issue and serve the respondent with Form 49 Notice to show cause why Order of committal should not be made on the Executive Chairman of the Respondent — Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at EFCC.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

James Emejo in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos

Chairman THISDAY Newspaper/Arise Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena (left) and the deceased's husband, Mr. Chike Ogeah, during funeral service in honour Late Olufunke Olubukola Ogeah held at Trnity House, Victoria Island, Lagos… yesterday MUBO PETERS

NATIONAL STAKEHOLDERS’ WORKSHOP ON FINANCIAL INCLUSION...

L-R:

FG Threatens to Terminate N870bn Contracts with 5 Firms Handling Lokoja-Benin Road

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed the contractors handling sections I-IV of the Lokoja-Benin Road in Kogi and Edo states, to immediately sign the documents on the reviewed contracts or face the termination of their jobs.

The directive was handed down to the contractors during the minister’s meeting with the representatives of Mothercat, CCECC, Dantata & Sawoe, CGC and RCC, held at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. Umahi further directed the ministry to within seven days, carry out a comprehensive audit of ongoing

projects, with a view to knowing the status of work done, the capacity of personnel and equipment being used by the contractors, a statement by his spokesman, Uchenna Orji, stated. He accused the construction firms of playing pranks, wondering why the contractors who were part of the process of re-scoping and reviewing

Judges, SANs Join Call for Review of CJN's Powers

Alex Enumah in Abuja

President of the Industrial Court of Nigeria, Justice Benedict Kanyip, a former member of the National Judicial Council (NJC), Dr. Muiz Banire, SAN, Mrs. Funke Adekoya, Dr. Oliver Stolpe of the UNODC;

Professor Ameze Guobadia of the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos amongst others have joined the call seeking the reduction of the powers of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). Their position was contained in recommendations to the federal government at the just concluded

Tinubu Arrives Riyadh for Special World Economic Forum

Deji

President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia to participate in the 2024 Special World Economic Forum (WEF) on Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development. The President's arrival yesterday evening marked the beginning of the second leg of his two-nation official visit, following his earlier engagements this week in the Hague, Netherlands.

The two-day Special World Economic Forum is scheduled to hold from Sunday, April 28 to Monday, April 29, 2024 8n Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Presidential spokesperson, Ajuri

Ngelale, said Tinubu and his entourage will use the opportunity of the WEF gathering to engage in discussions furthering his "Renewed Hope Agenda" for Nigeria.

Over 1,000 leaders from business, government, and academia from more than 90 countries are expected to attend the high-profile forum in Riyadh which is to build on the success of last year's inaugural Growth Summit held in Geneva, Switzerland.

The Riyadh meeting is expected to address pressing global challenges across three core themes: revitalizing global collaboration, fostering inclusive growth, and catalyzing action on energy for development.

FG, Buhari, House Mourn Veteran Journalists Ali, Ayogu Eze

Deji Elumoye, Olawale Ajimotokan and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The federal government, the House of Representatives and former President Muhammadu Buhari have mourned veteran journalist, author, and politician, Sidi Hamid Ali, who passed away after a long illness. Also, the House has condoled with the family of Senator Ayogu Eze, as well as the people and Government of Enugu State, on his demise.

The late Ayogu Eze, 62, whose sad demise occurred on Thursday, was a member of the National Assembly representing Enugu North Senatorial District on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) between 2007 and 2015.

He served as Senate Spokesman in the 6th National Assembly, where he gained national prominence. The late Eze practised as a journalist before joining politics in 1998, after which he was elected pioneer State Secretary of the PDP, Enugu Chapter. He also served in various capacities as Commissioner for Information and Culture under then Governor Chimaroke Nnamani, and Special Adviser to the then governor.

Eze held the position of Federal Commissioner of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) before his demise, following his confirmation by the Red Chamber in May 2023.

National Summit on Justice.

Kanyip, Banire, Stolpe and Guobadia were all members of a panel on "Assessing the Performance of the National Judicial Council in Discharging its Responsibility for Judicial Appointments into the Superior Courts of Record".

Presenting a communique from the summit to journalists in Abuja, yesterday, Chairman of the Joint Planning Committee, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade, disclosed that amongst the three areas of priority was the process of appointment of judicial officers.

According to Ajibade, "if we don't get the judicial appointments process right, it is difficult to build anything significant on top of that."

He identified funding and eradication of delays in the administration of justice as the other two priority areas.

Speaking further, Ajibade disclosed that the panelists urged for a significant review of the role of the NJC in discharging his responsibility for judicial appointments into the Superior Court of record.

The communique said the panelists expressed concern about the fact that the CJN who is the chairman of the NJC is also the chairman of the Federal Judicial Service Commission, which is the body that initially reviews proposals or lists of candidates by appointment into judicial office.

It is the position of the panelists in the communique that such a situation suggest that the CJN "was then recommending candidates to himself being chairman of both bodies, and being the person who appoints a significant number of the members of both bodies other than those who are statutory members."

Another panel which dealt with the philosophical underpinnings of the judicial appointments, process, structural and constitutional dimensions and proposals for constitutional and legislative reform, stressed the fact that focus should be on increased transparency in the appointment process.

the contract specifications failed to sign the reviewed contract documents after agreeing to do the job based on the new specification.

He said: ”The project was initially N121 billion, but before the administration of President Bola Tinubu, the project was already reviewed to about over N870 billion. When I came in as minister, I saw that the project was over-bloated, and I refused to take the ‘No Objection’ to the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

“I had to go through the road myself, and I realised that some sections of the road could not survive asphalt. So we started meetings that took us over five months with all the contractors. In the meetings, we

agreed to re-scope the project.

“We said the new lanes should be done on concrete and the other ones done on asphalt. So we kept the contracts up and we all signed the documents and based on signing the documents, we took it to Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).

“From the BPP, we went to FEC, and before we went to FEC, we demanded for them to approve that they can do the job. They all gave us letters of approval,” he stated.

The minister said that the contractors were given the jobs without having the required manpower and equipment to do the task, and warned that henceforth any contractor signing a contract must

do so alongside the basic rate and timeline.

He said: “So the position of the government is that if you are not signing the contracts between today and tomorrow, you will forgo the jobs. You can go to court. We will not enter into any condition for further negotiation.

“This contract is over N2 billion per kilometre. You don't have equipment to do the work. Let me even assure you that if you are signing the contract, you will sign it alongside the basic rates. You sign it alongside the timetable, and you deploy in three sections, or I will terminate the job. Enough of playing with the psyche of the people."

Edo 2024: Obaseki, Igbinedion, Danjuma, Ikimi, Others to Lead Advisory C’ttee for PDP Campaign Council

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has been named head of the Advisory Committee for the 2024 Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship Campaign Council, with the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion and National Leader of the PDP and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Tom Ikimi, as members.

Other members of the Advisory Committee include former Senator representing Edo Central Senatorial District, Senator Odion Ugbesia; former senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Senator Daisy Danjuma; former Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Senator Yisa Braimoh and a former Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tunde Akogun.

In a statement, the PDP State Organising Secretary, Tony Anenih (Jnr.), said members of the Campaign Council are very versatile members of the PDP who have been carefully chosen to deliver the party’s candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo.

He explained that apart from the Advisory Committee, the Campaign Council also has a Management Committee; a State Campaign Council made up of 200 eminent members of the PDP; the women wing to be headed by the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki and Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, and the youth wing to be led by the Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor.

While former Majority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, Matthew Iduoriyekemwen serves as the

Director General of the Management Committee, two-time member of Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Paschal Ugbome; Barr. Pedro Egharevba; Hon. Raymond Enogieru and Hon John Yakubu, among others, will serve as Deputy Director Generals.

Also, Prince Joe Okojie would serve as Deputy DG, Finance, while Osaigbova Iyoha serves as Deputy DG Security and Hon. Osaze Ero as Deputy DG Field Operations. Others are Hon. Fidel Igenegbale, Deputy DG, Special Duties; Rev Olu Martins, Deputy DG, Media and Publicity; Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, Deputy DG, Research and Strategy; Hon. Timothy Osadolor, Deputy DG, Youth, and Mr. Paul Akhilomen, Deputy DG, Documentation and Reporting, among others.

Akpabio, Abbas, Barau, Dangote, Obi, Others, Attend Kano, Bichi Emirs' Children Wedding

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas and the Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, were among dignitaries who attended the wedding fatiha of the children of emirs of Kano and Bichi, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero, respectively yesterday.

This was contained in a statement by the Media office of the Senate President.

Other dignitaries who graced the event, according to the statement which took place at the Emir's Palace, Kofar Kudu, Kano, included the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in

the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and the former governor of Kano State, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, among others.

The wedding was between Sanusi Aminu Bayero (Khalifa) and Rumanah Nasir Bayero (Ummi).

The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdulsalam, who is also the Dan Iyan Kano, Alhaji Ahmad Ado Bayero, stood as the representatives of the groom and the bride, respectively.

Akpabio and Tajudeen, congratulated the Emirs and wished the newly wed couple marital bliss.

The Senate President specifically described himself as a member of the

larger Bayero family. He prayed for a peaceful and blessed marriage for the couple, who are both son and daughter from the Bayero lineage.

On his part, the Deputy President of the Senate described the wedding as historic.

Barau said, "We wish the couple a blessed marriage. We pray to Almighty God to bless the wedding, the family, Kano Emirate and the country."

In their separate responses, the emirs of Kano and Bichi thanked the leadership of the National Assembly and others for gracing the occasion. The two emirs prayed for peace, unity and progress of the country.

Elumoye in Abuja

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; representative of governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Clement Buari and Managing Director and CEO of Sterling Bank Limited, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, during the National Stakeholders Workshop on Economic and Financial Inclusion in Abuja…recently

60TH BIRTHDAY THANKSGIVING.…

Peter Obi Calls for Political Will to Address Nigeria’s Electricity Challenge

The presidential candidate of the Labour party in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, yesterday lamented the current electricity crisis in Nigeria, stressing that the

Gov Mbah

situation could be addressed with a strong political will. Obi, was referring to report of uninterrupted electricity in Tanzania, where the country had shut down some electricity supply because it had enough.

He said the current electricity production cannot power or be enough for any of the major cities in Nigeria let alone the rural areas.

The Labour Party chieftain explained that while the Tanzanians could afford to ensure electricity

Inaugurates State Electoral Commission, Charges them on Free, Fair Polls

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has inaugurated the newly constituted Chairman and members of the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) sequel to the provisions of Section 4(1) of the ENSIEC Law, charging them on free, fair, and credible polls.

The new ENSIEC leadership, which had earlier been confirmed by the Enugu State House of Assembly has Professor Christian Ngwu as Chairman, and Solomon Udeh, Chinenyenwa Ogbu, George Ani, Arthur Ede, Paully Eze, and Emeka Ukwuaba as members. Ifesinachi Umeobika is the Commission Secretary.

Performing the inauguration at the Government House Enugu on Thursday, Mbah said the electoral body’s new board was highly qualified in capacity and character as testified to by the dispatch with which their nominations were ratified by the Enugu State House of Assembly.

He said: “The presidential system of government we practice creates several tiers of government and your appointment and subsequent ratification has now put you in a position where you have to administer the conduct of election into the local government councils, the third and a critical tier

of government.

“You are, therefore, charged with the responsibility to ensure that the rule and the procedures governing election into the local government councils are conducted in a free, fair and credible manner.

“As unbiased umpires, the people of Enugu State would be looking up to you to ensure that the rules are applied strictly without fear or favour. Therefore, we will be counting on you to discharge yourselves creditably in your new roles. Some of you are already in the system as you were reappointed and we expect you to bring your experience to bear.

Musawa Celebrates World Intellectual Property Day

The Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has joined the global community in celebrating this year's World Intellectual Property Day.

The minister appreciates World Intellectual Property Day as an opportunity to recognise the invaluable contributions of innovation and creativity to the society and economy.

In a statement by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Nneka Ikem Anibeze, Musawa said: “This year's theme, 'IP and the SDGs: Building Our Common Future with Innovation and Creativity', resonates

deeply with our commitment to fostering a vibrant and sustainable creative ecosystem. It underscores the pivotal role of intellectual property in advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Intellectual property rights serve as a catalyst for innovation, enabling the development of solutions to global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.

“This is a day to celebrate individuals and organisations who enrich our lives through their artistic, cultural, and technological creations.

The Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy is dedicated to empowering creators and innovators

to thrive in an environment that respects and protects their intellectual property. By fostering a culture that values and safeguards intellectual property, we aim to nurture a conducive ecosystem for sustained creative and innovative endeavours.”

Musawa affirmed the ministry’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders across sectors to build a common future, driven by innovation and creativity.

“Through harnessing the power of intellectual property, we can collectively work towards a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable world for current and future generations.

‘Involve Users in Research Process to Ease Implementation of Findings’

Bennett Oghifo

Professionals in research institutions have called on governments and those in the private sector to involve the potential end-users of their research findings in the process to ease the implementation. They also noted that vulnerable people who are mostly impacted by extreme weather conditions were not being captured by statistics and by policy intervention.

These were the views of Professor Andrew Onwuemele, a research Professor at the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Factors, and Prof. Grace Olukoyi, a professor of Urban Planning and Environmental Management at Lead City University Ibadan. They discussed the issues during a Stakeholders' engagement meeting on a joint research being conducted by the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research, Lead City University, Ibadan

and the University of Lagos, on Extreme Effects of Heatwaves.

The engagement, according to the organisers, was to intimate the critical stakeholders in the area of environment about the research with a view to intimating them about the effects of heatwaves on urban dwellers, particularly those at the suburbs. The meeting was also to get inputs from the stakeholders so as to make the research holistic and all-inclusive.

supplies to all their major cities and the rural areas, that Nigeria cannot afford to supply electricity to 60 per cent of its cities and rural areas.

According to Obi, "Yesterday, I read a report in the media on how Tanzania, our East African fellow nation, recently shut down five hydroelectric stations to reduce excess electricity in the national grid. "Their decision to shut down these power stations stemmed from the fact that their electricity production was already enough to power their major cities and give electricity access to the rural dwellers.

"In pain, I wondered how our nation, the giant of Africa, could not be able to power even one of

the major cities, for example, the capital Abuja, while Tanzania has succeeded in powering all their major cities."

Obi, who quoted a World Bank report noted, "A World Bank report showed how strong political will and commitment have been responsible for rapid electricity access in Tanzania which has seen electricity access move from seven per cent in 2011, to almost 40 per cent (37.7 per cent) in 2020."

He added, "A similar report, in June 2023, showed that about 70 per cent of 40 million Tanzanians living in rural areas have received access to electricity, signifying a monumental growth in the sector, while regrettably Nigeria's situation

remains the opposite.

"In Nigeria, 60 per cent of our over 200 million people live without access to electricity, according to a 2022 Energy Progress Report."

According to Obi, "Considering the economic loss resulting from the lack of access to electricity in our nation, which remains immeasurable and with the recent electricity tariff increase, one would expect that we would be able, at least, to power one major city in each geo-political zone soon, and increase our overall access both in the urban and rural areas.

"The government must, therefore, sanitise and rescue the sector for the good of the nation", with a nationalistic disposition.”

Keyamo Seeks Early Dissemination of Weather Forecast to Combat Climate Challenges

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, yesterday, said it has become imperative that weather and climate information are not only accurate but also produced and disseminated early to Nigerians.

To this end, he called for early release of weather forecasts to combat climate challenges in the country.

The minister made the call at the closing ceremony of a 5-day event to communicate the outcome of the 2024 edition of the regional climate forum for West Africa and the Sahel. Keyamo in his address in Abuja, said he was pleased and honoured to be a part of the gathering of scientists, stating: "Over the past few days, experts, researchers, and the best minds in meteorology and climate sciences from across the West African sub-region and the Sahel have

dedicated their energy and intellect to developing a comprehensive forecast for the region, targeting the coming rainy season."

These experts, Keyamo said, "have had discussions and have analysed the prevailing climatic conditions of our region and their potential impact in the coming season. Today, we are not only here to communicate the outcome of their hard work but also to celebrate these men and women who have worked assiduously to ensure the success of this forum.

"The outcome of the regional climate outlook forum for West Africa and the Sahel is a great planning tool for governments and policymakers across the region. Therefore, we are very aware of the great challenge of the 21st Century, climate change, extreme weather events and food security to mention a few."

According to Keyamo, It is

based on this that the Nigerian Government deemed it fit to provide all the necessary support through the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and AGRHYMET Regional Centre to host this year’s forum here in Abuja. Nigeria, like most countries in the region, he explained, is also affected by the devastating effects of extreme weather and climate events. "We are presently experiencing extreme temperatures and heat stress in most parts of the country.

"The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has taken seriously the issuance of Early Warnings for its citizenry to de-risk sectoral activities and avert losses. Just as the general airspace is a continuum in aviation, weather and climate events are also transboundary, hence the need for us to work together irrespective of boundaries."

World Bank, ACReSAL, Others Strategise on Bridging Agricultural Data Gap from $500m Global Fund

Bennett Oghifo

The World Bank, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), through an internationally conceived ‘50x2030 Initiative’, have signed an agreement to, in 10 years, commit the sum of US$500 million towards data gathering to stem agricultural production without a solid information base.

The Initiative is a 10-year, US$500 million multi-agency partnership that

seeks to bridge the agricultural data gap by transforming data systems in 50 countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America by 2030.

According to a statement issued by the parties yesterday, this is a global multi-institutional collaboration planning a deployment of the multimillion dollar fund to engender smartness in agricultural development and policy conceptualisation by igniting efficacious and credible data gathering.

The expected gains from the 50x2030 initiative include among

others, increased agricultural productivity, enhanced livelihoods and development of informed, smart and virile Agricultural policies. The programme aims to build capacity to enable data-driven policies and decision-making.

The partnership through the 50x2030 Initiative would directly impact 50 countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America by 2030. In Nigeria, the mandate for implementing the 50x2030 Initiative is the Agro Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Agnes Ekebuike

L-R: Former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel; his successor, Mr. Umo Eno; his wife, Mrs. Patience Eno; and wife of the Senate President, Mrs. Ekaete Akpabio, at the special thanksgiving service to mark the 60th birthday of Governor Eno, at the International Christian Worship Center, Uyo…recently

One thing is clear, Bobrisky is not a pretender, reckons Tayo Ogunbiyi

Popular Nigerian crossdresser, Idris Okuneye, known in social circles as Bobrisky, has been in the news of late. Bobrisky, a graduate of Accounting from the University of Lagos, became famous on social media for her non-conformist stance. Since, 8th July 2021, when she revealed a new physical appearance after undergoing surgery to become more feminine, she has garnered a huge following on social media.

Always courting controversy, the crossdresser recently became the butt of a huge rage on social media when he was declared the Best Dressed Woman at a movie premier in Lekki, Lagos. The controversy generated by that somewhat awry move nearly consumed some notable Nollywood actors.

Currently, Bobrisky, who dubs himself “the Mummy of Lagos” is cooling off at one of the Correctional Homes in Lagos having been sentenced to six months in prison with no option of fine over the “abuse and mutilation of the Naira notes”.

Even while on sabbatical to the prison, Bobrisky’s accusers will still not allow him to rest. Before his conviction, the self-acclaimed “Mummy of Lagos” had told the Magistrate handling her case that he was a man. Nothing but the truth.

However, his trouncers do not seem to be satisfied with that admission. Some of them still wanted the prison officials to ascertain if he truly still had his ‘thing’ dangling between his legs.

Now that Bobrisky has left the social scene, at least for a season, one would have thought his assaulters would let him be. Curiously, that seems not to be the case. In the typical Nigerian hypocritical style, he has continued to be the target of unending social media criticisms, especially by self-styled moralists.

This has gotten one thinking. The way Nigerians have descended on Bobrisky, one will think he is the country’s number one problem. Is he our major problem? Does he deserve the kind of attention that is being accorded him lately? Is he the one responsible for our many national woes? Is it worth exerting so much energy on him?

My sincere take on the whole Bobrisky saga is that Nigerians have an unbridled penchant for hypocrisy. Many have condemned the crossdresser for what they term his moral decadence. However, what his traducers have not been able to admit is that he is morally better than some of them, at least, in one aspect.

He is not a pretender.

He has deep-rooted emotional/personality identity troubles. He never hides it. He wanted to be a woman. He became a woman. He talks like a woman. He dresses like a woman. He catwalks as a woman. He wriggles his bum like a woman does.

What is, however, yet to be ascertained is whether he acts in the ‘other room’ as a woman!

Unlike his provocateurs, it is quite instructive that Bobrisky doesn’t live a two-faced life! In my view, our traditional hypocritical moral and empty religious postures have been the major bane of the country’s lack of concrete progress over the years.

A few years back, a popular cleric passed on. Being a seemingly pious ‘man of God’, everyone in the society believed he was a monogamist. Of course, that was what he preached. He criticized those who practice polygamy.

However, on the day of his burial, a woman surfaced with three children, claiming with proven proof that he was a wife to the late cleric.

Her mission? She wanted to perform her last respect to the departed. All hell was let loose! In the words of the

late Fela Anikulapo Kuti, “Confusion Break Bone” at the cleric’s graveyard.

That is the typical Nigerian hypocritical bearing. A dove in the day, a snake at night!

A few years ago, a cleric, who was also a Professor at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife was jailed for sexually assaulting some of her female students. Perhaps, if he had not been caught and dealt with by the law, he would have been among those casting stones at Bobrisky now.

This, of course, is the tragedy of our nation. Metaphorical representations of such hypocritical tendencies abound in every facet of our national life. They occupy high places in the corridor of power. They hold high offices in religious circles. They occupy strategic positions in nearly every sector.

These are men to whom talk is cheap, men who don’t act what they preach. Men of two parallel worlds. On the inside, they are snakes. On the outside, they pretend to be doves. Hypocrisy is their stock in trade. Deception is their trademark. They sing the national anthem with pride; recite the national pledge with relish, but stab the nation in the back at the slightest opportunity.

We have turned deception into an art. For us, the end justifies the means. Mind you, this didn’t just start now; it has been a long-standing tradition. While some hapless guys rot in prison for offenses considered trivial, many who should have been forgotten in jail freely roam the streets.

Unfortunately, the hypocritical bug has gotten to hitherto revered institutions where, naturally, one should expect a reasonable measure of morality. Today, we have clerics, of all shades, who desecrate the altar of God, like the biblical Esau, for a pot of porridge.

How does one explain the double standard of a ‘man of God’ who preaches faithfulness to marital vows but secretly keeps concubines? Regrettably, some of them boast of passionate and highly fanatical followers. Talk of the blind leading the blind. What a pity!

The traditional institution is not equally faring better. Today, across the country, we have a few monarchs, who occupy sacred ancestral thrones but carry themselves in manners that would incur the rage of the gods.

We have suddenly turned deceit into a national pastime. We complain of bad leadership, but without knowing it, we are partially responsible for what some of our leaders do. Is it not amusing that people place curses on their relations for upholding integrity and honesty while holding political offices?

This is, to some extent, why some of our compatriots could compromise their electoral preference for a paltry sum as low as a thousand naira. What does it matter? Operators of the informal sector are not exempted from this culture of deception.

If you have ever given your car to a mechanic to fix or you have had cause to deal with plumbers, electricians, carpenters, etc, you will appreciate the ingenuity of the average Nigerian at cutting corners. And to think that some of them will even swear to the high heavens that they have offered you the best deals.

RDIRI

TO THE DECEITFUL MORALISTS WHO WILL NOT ALLOW “THE MUMMY OF LAGOS” TO REST, FIRST, REMOVE THE PLANK FROM YOUR EYE, AND THEN YOU WILL SEE CLEARLY TO REMOVE THE SPECK FROM YOUR BROTHER’S EYE

DIEPRIYE argues that comprehensive sex

eproductive health is a critical aspect of overall health and wellbeing. Yet, misinformation and lack of education on this topic continue Nigeria, especially for women and girls. Comprehensive sex education plays a crucial role in addressing reproductive health misinformation and equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive lives.

Picture this: students in a devotion hall and a health education teacher sing about abstinence being the key to a better life while the children sing alongside her. This is a clear example of what happens in Nigeria, with a lack of comprehensive sex education in schools and communities, which has contributed to widespread misinformation about reproductive health. Many young people are not adequately informed about topics such as contraception, sexually transmitted infections, and pregnancy prevention. Often, abstinence is the message preached. This lack of educa-

education empowers adolescents and

tion can lead to harmful practices such as early marriage, unsafe abortion, and the spread of HIV/AIDS.

Misinformation about reproductive health can also perpetuate harmful myths and misconceptions, such as the belief that using contraception can lead to infertility or that you can’t get pregnant the first time you have sex. These myths can have serious consequences, including unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and adverse health outcomes.

I once went to a school and had a girl talk with adolescent girls and boys, and when I asked them if they used condoms for those who were sexually active, they said they would usually pray to God to keep them from getting pregnant.

Comprehensive sex education goes beyond traditional approaches that focus on abstinence. Education and information on a wide range of topics related to sexual and reproductive health, including contraception, sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy prevention, are very important. Comprehensive sex

To the deceitful moralists who will not allow “The Mummy of Lagos” to rest, first, remove the plank from your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

As for the “Mummy of Lagos”, maybe he truly needs a Sabbatical. Hopefully, he will become more sober and less loud after the expiration of his ‘leave of absence’! Ogunbiyi writes from Ikeja, Lagos

young

people to make informed decisions

education empowers adolescents and young people to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health and helps to dispel myths and misconceptions about reproductive health by providing accurate information about topics such as fertility, contraception, and sexually transmitted infections, helping to combat harmful myths and misconceptions that can lead to adverse health outcomes.

In addition to providing accurate information, comprehensive sex education teaches essential skills such as communication, assertiveness, and decision-making. These skills are vital in navigating sexual relationships and making informed choices about sexual behaviour.

Comprehensive sex education has numerous benefits by providing accurate information about reproductive health. It can help to improve overall health outcomes and reduce the prevalence of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, empowering individuals, particularly young people, to make informed decisions about their

sexual and reproductive health, equip individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to make healthy choices, help to reduce stigma and shame around topics such as contraception and sexually transmitted infections.

To improve reproductive health outcomes in Nigeria, it is essential to prioritize comprehensive sex education in schools and communities. Policymakers, educators, and parents need to recognize the importance of sex education in addressing reproductive health misinformation in Nigeria and not leave it alone to teachers in schools. Likewise, teachers should not leave it to parents alone. By investing in comprehensive sex education programs and ensuring that individuals have access to accurate information and support, we can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health, ultimately improving overall health outcomes and promoting gender equality in Nigeria.

Diepriye is head of programs and advocacy at the Dorothy Njemanze Foundation

Helping Babies to communicate Beyond Crying

The early stages of life are a critical period for neonates, commonly known as newborn babies. During this time, they face various challenges, including the inability to express their needs, pains, and requests except through crying. This form of communicapuzzled, trying to decipher the underlying message behind each cry.

Understanding their unique communication cues and providing appropriate support can help alleviate their distress and foster a deeper connection between caregivers, especially mothers, and neonates. The bond formed during these early interactions lays the foundation for a trusting relationship and positively influences a child’s emotional and social development.

Crying is a neonate’s primary means of communication, signaling a range of needs and discomforts, including hunger, fatigue, discomfort, and pain. While crying is a natural and normal part of infant behavior, deciphering its meaning can be challenging for mothers. Each cry carries subtle variations in pitch, intensity, and duration, offering clues about the neonate’s state of mind and well-being.

Learning to interpret different types of cries and accompanying cues can help caregivers respond more effectively to a neonate’s needs. Neonates communicate through a combination of vocalizations, facial expressions, body movements, and gestures. By observing and recognizing these subtle cues, mothers and caregivers can gain insights into a neonate’s needs and feelings. For example, rooting reflex, where a neonate turns their head towards a touch on the cheek, indicates hunger, while clenched fists and arched back may signal discomfort or pain.

Responsive caregiving is essential in meeting a neonate’s needs promptly and sensitively. Offering comfort, such as holding, rocking, or gentle patting, can help soothe a distressed neonate and meet their immediate needs. Establishing skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, promotes bonding and helps regulate a neonate’s body temperature, heart rate, and breathing. This intimate contact fosters a sense of security and comfort, reducing stress and enhancing communication.

Introducing simple gestures or signs can help neonates communicate basic needs, such as hunger, sleep, and discomfort, before they develop verbal communication skills. Consistency and repetition are key to reinforcing these signs and facilitating understanding. Over time, neonates may begin to mimic these gestures, indicating their comprehension and readiness to communicate.

Creating a calm and soothing environment free from excessive noise and distractions can help reduce a neonate’s stress levels and enhance communication. Soft lighting, gentle music, and comfortable temperatures promote relaxation and well-being, creating an optimal setting for bonding and interaction.

A crucial support parents, especially mothers, can provide to neonates is vigilant monitoring to promptly identify any changes in their condition. Regular pediatric visits allow healthcare professionals to monitor a neonate’s growth, development, and overall well-being. Addressing any concerns or issues promptly ensures timely intervention and support.

Encouraging age-appropriate activities and

interactions can support a neonate’s developmental milestones and enhance communication skills. Engaging in tummy time, playing interactive games, and reading aloud stimulate cognitive, motor, and language development. These enriching experiences foster curiosity, creativity, and social skills, laying the foundation for future learning and communication.

The role of prayers in understanding newborns’ needs cannot be underestimated, as it serves as a guiding force in deciphering the intricate signals and cues they exhibit. While mothers rely on their knowledge and instincts to tend to a newborn’s immediate needs, there might be underlying areas requiring attention that are not immediately apparent. These subtle signs could indicate potential health issues, discomforts, or developmental needs that should be urgently addressed to avoid any complications. Through prayers, caregivers and mothers especially, seek divine guidance and wisdom, aiding them in recognizing these hidden challenges and providing timely interventions to ensure the well-being and optimal growth of the newborn.

In closing, supporting neonates in overcoming their communication challenges requires patience, attentiveness, vigilant monitoring, and understanding. By learning to interpret and respond to their unique cues, providing nurturing care, and promoting developmental activities, mothers can help neonates feel secure, understood, and valued. Building a strong bond and fostering effective communication from the earliest stages of life sets the stage for healthy development, resilience, and lifelong learning.

Nothing to See Here or Ask About

The Melbourne Writers Festival brings together some great writers to discuss the process of story telling, but not this year to answer questions. The usual end of session Q&As have been banned keeping the “Safety and comfort of all artists and audiences in mind”.

There has been a recent spate of protests, sometimes violent and usually disruptive, concerning the conflict between Israel and Palestine and this has often included Police involvement. It was feared there could be conflicts at the Writers Festival from attendees there for other purposes.

The question that can be asked is: should there be a limit to the right to free speech? Recent outbursts in the US by one individual have certainly tested this freedom.

On the side of caution there have been numerous journalists and writers imprisoned and too many killed including Nobel Prize winner, writer Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn and recently Australian journalist Peter Greste. Still there individuals brave enough to speak up.

The simple message is that people have the right to speak and ask questions and one event banning questions will only damage their credibility and will not silence anyone. Speak up and question everything. It’s your right.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

TRADE PARTNERS’ CONFERENCE AND AWARD NIGHT.…

Nigeria Loses over 300,000 Barrels of Crude Oil Per Day to Theft, Says Abbas

Fubara inaugurates new Naval Training Command Headquarters in Rivers

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has lamented that Nigeria loses an estimated 300,000 barrels of crude oil per day to theft.

The Speaker made the assertion in his remarks yesterday, at the inauguration of the New Headquarters Naval Training Command in Ebubu community, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Represented by the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee

on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, Abbas said the challenge has led to the call for the Nigerian Navy to rise up to its mandate of contributing to the survival of the national economy. He further urged the Nigerian Navy to defend and protect the sovereignty of Nigeria's territorial waters against all forms of threats.

He said: "Unfortunately, it is estimated that Nigeria loses over 300,000 barrels of crude oil daily to oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other forms of criminality. This has led to revenue losses estimated at

N1.29 trillion annually.

"Therefore, concerned about the adverse effects of oil theft in Nigeria, I inaugurated a Special Committee on Crude Oil Theft Losses on November 22, 2023, to determine decisive remedial actions to be taken.

"I commend the Nigerian Navy on the steps taken so far, and I urge the Navy to sustain the momentum."

Inaugurating the new headquarters of the training command, Governor Siminalayi Fubara urged the Nigerian Navy to ensure that its investment in the professional development of

naval personnel translated into visible advancement in the security and prosperity of the nation’s maritime interests and blue economy.

Noting that the event completed a development journey that started in April, 2023, Governor Fubara said his predecessor ceded the dilapidated structures of the abandoned former Ambassador Nne Krukrubo Model Government Secondary School to the Nigerian Navy for use.

"Today, we have seen the results of that noble and progressive decision with the comprehensive

Pollution: Group Urges Tinubu to Halt Environmental Degradation in Niger Delta

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has been urged to personally visit the Niger Delta region in order to have firsthand information on the devastating effect of oil spillages in the region.

Addressing a press conference on the cleaning up of the Niger Delta and resolving the prevailing environmental genocide yesterday in Abuja, a coalition of civil society organisations and stakeholders, Coalition for a Cleaned Niger Delta (CCND), claimed that a billion litres of crude oil equivalent have been released into the Niger Delta ecosystem as the price paid by communities in the area for Nigeria’s oil production.

The team which was led by Executive Director, Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), Nnimmo Bassey, and Founding Executive Director, African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), Otive Igbuzor, said: “We trust our President is well aware that the ecosystem of the Niger Delta has for about 70 years been plagued by unprecedented perennial pollution from petroleum production activities, enabled or worsened by a highly dysfunctional, conflicted and compromised environmental regulatory system, since the country struck commercial oil in the Oloibiri Province prior to Nigeria’s Independence. This festering devastation has projected and ranked Nigeria’s Niger Delta among the worst oil and gas polluted regions in the world.

“By the very limited official records of Nigeria’s spill detection body (National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency – NOSDRA), there were 16,263 oil spills within the 17-year period of 2006 to 2023.

“This accounted for about 823,483

barrels of oil spilt, equivalent to 4,103 tanker trucks or 130,933,797 litres of crude oil, from NOSDRA data.

“These figures are a fractional slice of the reality, as they exclude

5,456 spills for which the spiller companies did not provide NOSDRA with estimates of spilled quantities. Besides, estimates are usually and “understandably” grossly suppressed

by operators. Data for some mega spills, like the Aiteo blowout at OML 29 that lasted for 38 days in November-December 2021, are also omitted.

PCN, NBTE Abolish Pharmaceutical Technologists Training in Nigeria

Council seals 751 pharmacies, patent medicine shops, others in Gombe

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has achieved a major breakthrough in its effort to redress a lingering issue in the training of pharmacy support professionals, pharmaceutical technologists in the country by abolishing the certificate in the country. This comes just as the PCN sealed 751 premises that sell drugs in parts of Gombe State for failure to meet the requirements of the council. PCN Director of Enforcement, Stephen Esumobi, disclosed the

closure of the premises during a press conference at the Gombe State office of the council wherein he noted that the affected premises include 39 pharmacies, 128 patent medicine shops and 584 illegal medicine shops.

However, the PCN in collaboration with the National Board of Technical Education (NBTE) announced an end to the training of pharmaceutical technologists by Polytechnics and other institutions in Nigeria, following a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the parties in Abuja recently.

PCN has over two decades made efforts to stop the training of pharmaceutical technologists by Nigerian Polytechnics and other institutions outside the control and supervision of schools or colleges of health education, whose programmes and training are not duly regulated by the national pharmaceutical administrative body.

According to the content of the MoU, PCN and NBTE agreed to accredit and train qualified candidates only for National Diploma in Pharmacy Technicians in approved institutions in the country.

Alumni Marks 4Oth Anniversary

The old students of Ebenezer Comprehensive High School (ECHS) Ijaiye-Ojokoro area of Lagos State have celebrated their 40th anniversary of graduation from the school. The celebration held amid wild jubilation, memories and reflection and a reconnection point for the 1984 set of the school in the last four decades.

The event which held in Lagos was also an opportunity for the old students to celebrate and appreciate some of their teachers who graciously

honoured the event in excitement.

Speaking at the event, National President of Ebenezer Comprehensive High School Old Students Association (ECHSOSA), Captain Makinde Michael Ayokunle, emphasised need to prioritise support for alma mater in the interest of nation's educational development.

Besides, Ayokunle decried increasing moral decadence among present-day students, urging parents to create time for their wards and children.

"Educational value in those days is obviously missing in present days. The fact that most state's schools had boarding facility then limited our chances of being wayward because we were given close markings by both teachers and parents. How many state-owned school has boarding facility today? This, coupled with poor parenting these days have encouraged delinquency among the youths such that most of them are now only interested in making quick money."

transformation and upgrading of the facilities as the Nigerian Navy’s new Headquarters Training Command, which was hitherto domiciled in Lagos State.

"This magnificent training command stands as a testament to the commitment of the leadership

of the Nigerian Navy to invest in the professional development of our naval personnel with the singular objective of cultivating a highly skilled, proficient and motivated naval force capable of advancing the security and prosperity of the nation’s maritime interests."

2.5m Students Enroll on Tertiary Education Research Platform, Says TETFund

Over 2.5 million students have been enrolled in the Tertiary Education, Research, Applications and Services (TERAS), platform provided by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, disclosed that the platform has excess capacity but public institutions are given the preference of onboarding first before it is extended to private universities.

Echono spoke in Abuja at the 2nd Registrars’ Workshop and 75th Business Meeting of the Association of Registrars of Nigerian Universities (ARNU), with the theme: 'Sustainable Legal Framework as Panacea for Industrial Harmony in the Nigerian University System: Challenges and Remedies'.

The TETFund boss said the fund has enlisted the support of registrars of tertiary institutions and other stakeholders to ensure maximum utilisation of the ICT infrastructure

for administrative, research and other purposes by students and staff of their institutions.

“And in fact, I have been threatening our public institutions that because we have excess capacity, if they don’t finish taking them up, we will extend it to private universities, because they are Nigerian students, but we want to give them the opportunity first to finish onboarding their students.

“Currently, we have about 2.4 or 2.5 million students enrolled. But my biggest concern, which is also another advantage of MoUs, is not so much availability, that people are enrolled, we are interested in the usage, how many students are using all these facilities?

TERAS was launched by TETFund in 2023 to provide a “centralised hub for tertiary education services, fostering collaboration, efficiency, and innovation by providing a wide range of capabilities and functionalities for tertiary education institutions, students, researchers, and the entire education ecosystem.”

Itsekiri Disowns Video of Purported Protest against Tompolo, Tantita Security Services Limited

The Itsekiri people working with the Tantita Security Services Limited yesterday debunked a viral video where some persons were seen protesting against High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo and his security outfit, claiming that Itsekiri people have not been employed in the firm.

The Tantita beneficiaries of Itsekiri extraction had gathered at Ugbodede community in Warri South Local Government Area, of Delta State to counter the viral video during a press briefing yesterday.

Fidelis Lori, Coordinator of Obodo, Opumami Cluster, and six other communities asserted that several Itsekiri indigenes have ongoing paid employment with Tantita Security Services Limited.

“We have contract with the Tantita Security Services Limited. We have

those that are employed directly by Tantita Security Services and by the grace of God, most of our coordinators are here.

"We are here to tell the general public that whatever they were saying was indeed misleading. Itsekiri communities to the best of our knowledge have been carried along.

"We've looked into that video closely, and in analysing it, we discovered that those that are involved in the purported protest are not Itsekiri indigenes. These impersonators they're not from our communities. The people you are seeing here now are the people representing Itsekiri communities.

"In my cluster, where I happen to be the coordinator, I have about 135 job slots, it's already ongoing and payment is prompt," he stated.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Progress Family Nigeria Enterprise, Adonri Oghogho; Chief Executive Officer, Sunny Chuks Ventures, Chioma Okafor, an awardee of outstanding performance Distributor for the financial year 2023 in East 1 region; Managing Director, Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited), Eelco Weber; Chief Commercial Officer, Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited), Bola Arotiowa, and Chief Executive Officer, FaithJoe Event Management Limited, an awardee of outstanding performance distributor for the financial year 2023 in West 1 region, Faith Okunbor, at the Trade Partners’ Conference and Award night organised by Chivita|Hollandia in Lagos…recently

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

GLAD TO MEET YOU.…

Makinde to National Assembly: Let Constitution Amendments Strengthen Democracy, Unite Nigeria

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, yesterday, charged members of the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters, to recommend amendments that will strengthen the nation’s democracy and unite the country.

The governor, who gave this charge while playing host to the federal legislators at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, added that Nigerians must be made to have confidence in the nation’s democracy and participate in it.

The committee was in Oyo State to consult with stakeholders on proposed constitution amendments.

While encouraging them to be openminded about their task, Governor Makinde said, “I have seen people who were given the opportunity to change the trajectory of the nation but because of selfishness and personal interest they missed the road. Who

knows who is going to be here tomorrow? Whatever you do, do it in the wider interest of the country; the unity of Nigeria is sacrosanct. A united Nigeria is the route to go.”

He stressed that the committee’s task is big and foundational because participatory democracy means that the laws have to be reviewed regularly to meet the needs of the times.

He added that the nation has to ensure that the outcome of an election reflects substantially the wishes of the people so as to stop the tradition of litigation after every election cycle.

The governor said, “Why do people go to court after an election? It is because they feel cheated. If you open up the space and you have transparency, nobody will go to court.”

He added, “Now that our democracy seems to be holding, because since independence this is our longest democratic experience, it is our responsibility as leaders to deepen the democracy.”

Ogun Monarch Donates Vehicle to

Police

The donation was part of the week-long activities to mark the one-year anniversary of the royal father on the throne.

He had promised the people of the community during his coronation last year that he was going to ensure their security. The Oba also donated a well-furnished security building for the joint use and coordination of the activities of other paramilitary outfits in the community.

A renowned philanthropist and an accomplished businessman, the Oba promised more people-oriented projects in the community while enjoining all the citizens of Ogere to remain law-abiding and support the efforts of the Palace and the security agencies to provide adequate security in the community.

Receiving the vehicle on behalf of the Ogere Police Division, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Commissioner, CP Abiodun Alamutu Abiodun, thanked the Oba for his magnanimity promising that it would be put to judicious use.

He also enjoined other well-meaning citizens of the state to emulate the kind gesture of Oba Saliu by supporting the Police Command and other security agencies in the state with the right equipment and useful intelligence to combat crimes.

He lauded the committee for taking time out to seek the views of young people and women, adding that youths must be encouraged to play pivotal roles in shaping the country’s future. Makinde, who stated that young people would always have his support, noted that many of the nation’s pre-independence and First Republic leaders assumed positions of authority in their 40s. He assured the committee of the support of his administration to ensure its success, adding that the committee’s success would have an effect on the nation’s democratic experience.

Speaking earlier, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters, Hon. Adebayo Balogun, lauded the governor for being a supporter of youths, adding that given the governor’s stance on youths, there was no better place to kick-start the committee’s consultation than Oyo State because of the committee’s interest in inclusion.

He said the Joint Committee is looking at coming up with a legislation that would ensure that all litigations are laid to rest before an elected person is sworn into office.

Speaking in a similar vein, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Chairman, Senate Committee on Electoral Matters and leader of the delegation, said the Joint Committee would be in all the zones of the country to ensure that the views of Nigerians are captured in the amendments.

Jonathan, Akpabio, Udom, Others Eulogise Gov Eno at 60, Describe Him as Focused Leader

Ex-President tasks Akwa Ibom against vandalism of govt facilities

Okon Bassey in Uyo and Agnes Ekebuike

Nigeria's former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has described the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, as a focused leader whose tenure will be impactful.

Speaking at a special thanksgiving service to mark the 60th birthday celebration of the governor, held at the International Christian Worship Centre, Uyo, Jonathan expressed satisfaction with the state of affairs in Akwa Ibom and the large crowd which turned out to identify with and celebrate the governor.

He noted that since the return of democracy in 1999, Akwa Ibom has been blessed with good and focused governors, adding that the operational philosophy of continuity has remained a major factor in the development trajectory of the state.

While congratulating the governor on his 60th birthday, Jonathan said, "I must say that from Victor Attah

down to Udom and to the current governor, Akwa Ibom has been choosing people that are focused. The governor we are celebrating today is focused. He has been here for less than a year, but with what I have seen, I am quite confident he will do very well and will be a good example that the church will be proud of."

Also speaking, the immediate past governor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel, said the thanksgiving service was apt given the many successes Governor Eno has recorded in his life, adding that God has kept him thus far to fulfill his destiny.

While recalling some of the experiences during the last electioneering campaign, he said, "let me borrow from the man who gave the homily today, he said from Psalm 103, when you want to thank God, you have to go a little bit deeper and and be specific. I think that is where the song writer got it from when he said, "count your blessings, name them one by one, and it will

surprise you what the Lord has done."

On his part, the Senate President and former Governor, Senator Godswill Akpabio who was represented by his wife, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, congratulated the governor on his birthday and appreciated him for building bridges of peace in the state.

Similarly, the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, felicitated the governor on his birthday stating: "I have watched you within these few months, as a pastor you have not disappointed the church, as a politician you have not disappointed us, and as a governor you have been a very good shepherd. You are the champion of peace in Akwa Ibom State."

The President-General, Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, and Paramount Ruler of Nsit Ubium LGA, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, described Governor Eno as a man with the fear of God. "I have known him as a man of peace and peace

radiates around him. He is a man to be trusted. What God has used him to do in the state today, is not surprising to me."

In his thanksgiving, Governor Eno who was flanked by his wife, Patience, children, grandchildren, siblings and other members of his family, appreciated God for his life and family, and specifically for being the first grandfather governor in the state.

"I want to say, today is indeed a day to thank God. It is one of my happiest days in life. Something happened inside this hall today, and I know that God is leading Akwa Ibom somewhere.

"I would like to thank God for the life He has given to us, my family. I want to thank Him for all the journey He has taken us through. It has not been easy, but we thank God. From ages past, God has been faithful. Our parents left us when we were very young. Our father died at the age of 50, and I am here today at 60, we just thank God.

Awarri Launches First Multi-lingual Large Language Model to Accelerate AI in Nigeria

Awarri, an enabler of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in Africa, has announced Nigeria’s first multilingual Large Language Model (LLM), in partnership with Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), and data.org.

Large Language Models are vast amounts of data organised to underpin the development of AI applications. Data captured will enable the LLM

to be trained with five indigenous Nigerian languages. With the LLM, Awarri is aiming to build the largest data set of native Nigerian languages to fuel the development of AI models and applications for Nigeria.

Data for fueling the LLM will be captured via Awarri’s data collection platform which is accessible from all mobile and desktop devices via the website www.langeasy.ai. Currently compatible with five of Nigeria’s most spoken languages: Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Pidgin, Ibibio along

with accented English, users can contribute by recording themselves translating an English sentence into their local language. Going forward additional Nigerian languages will be added to the platform.

The launch is the latest step in Awarri’s mission of advancing AI in Nigeria and Africa more widely.

Based in Lagos and founded by Silas Adekunle and Eniola Edun, Awarri is a full-stack AI company. Awarri believes the digital economy can play a key role in solving Nigeria’s sizable

youth unemployment problem, and is bridging Nigeria’s technical knowledge gap by equipping local youth with AI skills. Already managing a team of over 100 locally trained and hired AI professionals, Awarri is planning to train and hire 5,000 youths by 2026.

Speaking on the launch, Adekunle, CEO of Awarri, said: "A first for Nigeria, this launch is a critical step in the development of AI in Africa. One of our goals with the LLM is to demonstrate the key role of technology.

L-R: Kunle Somorin, Hammed Akewusola and Rashidat Akewusola, at the funeral rites of the late Hajia Silifat Anike Akewusola and the 16th fidau prayers for the late Hadji Salman Mobolatan Akewusola at Rotex Hotel, Ijebu Ode... recently

James Sowole in Abeokuta

The Ologere of Ogere, Oba James Obafemi Saliu, has donated a Toyota Sienna bus to the Ogere Police Divisional Headquarters to boost their anti-crime operations in and around the Ogere community.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Olubukola Asafa:

Why SMEs Need Easy Access to Affordable Loans, Grants

Olubukola Asafa is the Chief Executive Officer of OBA Couture, a manufacturer of premium ready to wear clothing and accessories, footwear and handbags. Asafa, a 2011 Youwin beneficiary of the federal government support grant to small business startups and young enterprises, shares her thoughts on the African fashion market, the opportunities, and the challenges which seem to have dampened entrepreneurial spirit. She suggests ways to further assist SMEs in Nigeria.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu brings the excerpts

What is it like to run thekindofbusiness youaredoingnow?

The kind of business I am doing now, in which we manufacture handmade handbags, footwear and ready opportunities and rewards, but also come with its challenges. Some of the opportunities are the growing market. The Nigerian fashion industry is a part of a growing African fashion market with an increasing interest locally and internationally, our large youthful population, our rich cultural heritage and our entrepreneurial spirit. Some of the challenges include, poor and inadequate infrastructure such as erratic power supply, poor road networks and inconsistent water supply all these slow down the pace of timelines. Another challenge is access to funding:

Do you locally source the raw materials foryourproducts?

Some of our raw materials are locally sourced and some are imported.

With the industry still import-dependent areyoucomfortablewiththisscenario?

This has been the narrative for a very long time, but I believe this is part of the reason why the fashion industry in Nigeria is booming, because Western world has only given us fashion designers in Nigeria the opportunity to improve our craft At OBA we make use of unique leathers, and unique fabrics that incorporate our traditional and local heritage which makes us stand out I’m comfortable with the scenario because all things work together ultimately for our good.

However,howhasthebusinessensuredithas fulloperation?

God’s grace has been our number one and to other factors such as adequate skills and craftsmanship, our products are excellently made by very skilled artisans using age old techniques that date back hundreds of years. Our story has always been the made in Nigeria story, and passion for taking made in Nigeria

to the global stage. By expanding our product online presence which includes social media and e-commerce has enabled us reach more local and international customers also collecting customer feedback and regularly.

competitionhowdidthisimpactyourbusiness?

When I received the N8.2 million grant from the federal government back in 2011, I was only a start-up; I had just started the business only

business, I was able to buy some assets and also travel to Italy to get trained by one of the best shoemakers in the industry.

Fromyourpositionnow,howdoyouthink SMEs should be assisted?

SME’s are a crucial element for economic growth and so they must be assisted in a variety of

targeted mentorship and training programmes to improve business management and technical skills, facilitating networking opportunities, fostering an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship and facilitating access to

markets both domestically and internationally.

OBA Couture has exhibited its pieces in you started stocking your products in New

Firstly, it has helped to improve our brand visibility and credibility on a global scale, attracting attention from the international media and consumers. Secondly, we had to start thinking outside the box as to how to make more foreign currency earnings because of the devalued naira. Thirdly, it opens us up to larger and more diverse markets which will potentially increase our customer base and revenue potential. Lastly, it helps to diversify our revenue stream and reduce dependence on the local market. And overall propel us to new heights on our journey to building a sustainable global brand.

How has this shown OBA Couture’s consistencyovertheyears?

Our vision has always been to be world leading manufacturer and creator of authentic and distinctive premium made in Nigeria goods. We are consistent with our vision and every day we are getting closer to its actualisation by the special grace of God.

Prime Video Makes U-Turn, Inaugurates New Nollywood Movies

Months after Amazon Prime Video announced it’s undergoing a strategic shift in its international operations that will see it restructure its business plans, direct attention to focus majorly on European original contents, the streamer appears to

have made a U-turn following a new slate of original Nollywood movies it recently commissioned.

pre-existing content already approved or contracted, the American streaming service had ceased commissioning original content in Africa, the Middle East, and North Africa. As exclusively gathered, aside the newly commissioned movies, the platform acquired a number of exciting Nollywood titles.

Prime Video had in January 2024, downsized and reduced funding and resources allocated to Africa and the Middle East, concentrating on its European originals. By implication, the streaming platform halted new original content in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and North Africa.

Its earlier funded original Nigerian contents include ‘Gangs of Lagos’, ‘She Must Be Obeyed’ and ‘LOL: Laugh Out Loud’, and the last, new slate of Nollywood contents, the recent

Johnel Soars into Space with New ‘Galactic Theme’ Album

For someone who’s spent nearly half his young life as a profes- sional musician, Johnel still has solid work-life boundaries. From using inexpensive tools to mixed songs to launching the label “Nnamani Music Group” to assist independent musicians.

The ‘Galactic Theme’ is a solo Extended Play (EP) that spans 7 tracks, opening with “H20.” Boundaries of genre and style appear to have been neglected in the creation of ‘Galactic Theme’. It portrays a futuristic, outer space outlook.

The concept of the title of the extended play is perfectly embodied in the album artwork, which shows Johnel

levitating in a futuristic setting to the sunny sky while others watch closely. Johnel NG closes the EP with a gospel track “I Still Pray,” featuring vocals from the fast rising singer ‘Elmah’ as choruses.

‘Galactic Theme was released under Johnel’s label, ‘Nnamani Music Group’ and ONE Revolution People’s Music (ONErpm).

was part of initial deal signed with the Prime Video.

Having commenced operations in Africa in 2016 and in Nigeria in 2021, its decision was hinged on plans to make adjustments that will in the African and Middle Eastern Region. It was also gathered that the platform simply wanted to get rid of ‘unproductive’ Nigerian team it had hired as part of restructuring.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Asafa

Johnel

Yemi Laja Continues to Show Versatility in Music, Films

Yemi Laja is a high-pitched singer who conveys much depth and meaning through her song lyrics, expressing the love and power of God in her video of her song titled “The Good News.”

The song takes an unusual approach from verse to chorus to bridge the approach adopted by majority of song-writers and delivering a long verse told in the form of a story similar to Disney movie songs or your typical ‘sheep in the big city’, this time however, it brings hope and ends with a victorious upbeat memorable anthem.

The video tells of the story of resurrection not only as an event of the past, but as power still at work in the lives of the followers of Jesus Christ today. Published on her YouTube channel on the 29th of March 2024, the music video opens to a young lady who after receiving what seemed like a conclusive doctor’s report, begins to embrace a new life in Jesus Christ, through His word.

The Good News is more than a song, it is a confession of a Believer’s victory over sin, sicknesses, death, principalities and every name threatening to work against God’s perfect will for our lives.

When asked about the inspiration behind the song, Yemi said, “I received the song during COVID-19 pandemic but as I meditated on

Ephesians Chapter 1, I became fully convinced that I was far above COVID-19 and any other I sang the lyrics of the song, my convictions were strengthened in the victory Christ won for me. Through the resurrection power and my confession of faith, I fully recovered from the disease.”

A multi-talented artiste, Yemi’s key endeavours take notice of the spark of her consistency in excellence as she is also known to inspire young people and growing professionals as a stage actor, spoken word artiste, life coach, and keynote speaker. She has also produced two movies centered around her faith and the possibility of God’s power to bring new life into everyone who receives Him. Her cool demeanor and bright personality are endearing amongst her growing but loyal

stage actor, Yemi Laja has acted on various stages in Nigeria and London doing solo performances or in concert with other actors. She is a performer in every sense of the word as she uses her acting, singing and public speaking dexterity to achieve a singular purpose of conveying faith-based messages and reviving the hope of those in despair. She has maintained her presence on the faith-based music, stage performance and movie scene, creating interesting and impactful work through her platforms.

Anthony Ikeanyionwu’s Pursuit of Cinematic Excellence

Since he stepped into the and screenwriter, Anthony Chukwunonso Ikeanyionwu has been raising the ante in the Nigerian movie industry famously known as Nol- lywood. Ikeanyionwu, who has played the role of line director in a number of acclaimed movies, has described his odyssey of passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication.”

He noted that from a young age, he was captivated by the magic of cinema

and the irresistible allure of the silver fascination grew, and I knew deep within my soul that my destiny lay in the world of storytelling. But the path to success was not paved with gold; it was lined with challenges and obstacles that tested my resolve at every turn. I faced rejection, criticism, and moments of self-doubt that threatened to derail my ambitions. Yet, through it all, I persevered, fueled by an unshakeable belief in my vision and an insatiable hunger to bring stories to life.”

With an impressive track record of has garnered critical acclaim and accolades for his previous work as line director, in productions like ‘Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons’ (2018), ‘Bad Comments’ (2021), ‘Christmas in Miami’ (2021), ‘10 Days in Sun City’ (2017). His commitment to excellence and dedication to his craft have solidified his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most talented and visionary filmmakers to look out for.

He further said that, “Every production I partake in is a labour of love, and I believe movies have the power

to inspire, provoke thought, and spark important conversations. I have been fortunate enough to helm numerous projects, each one a testament to my passion for storytelling and my commitment to excellence. From intimate dramas to sweeping epics, I have embraced every genre and challenge with open arms, eager to push the boundaries of my craft and leave an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.”

With a reputation for pushing creative boundaries and delivering compelling storytelling, Ikeanyionwu is set to leave industry and beyond.

Allah-Bama Returns with Wajo, Set to Release 24 Track Album

Veteran musician Emma Ike Agu, popularly known as Allah-Bama, has made a triumphant return to the music scene with his latest dance project, ‘Wajo’. After spending several years abroad, he is back in Nigeria, spearheading the ‘Wajo’ dance project, which has gained traction among youth worldwide.

Having risen to prominence in the Nigerian music scene in the early 90s, Allah-Bama’s departure to America was prompted by frustrations and industry conspiracies. However, he’s now back with renewed vigor, set to release a 24-track album in August, aiming to preserve and promote Nigeria’s rich music culture.

Allah-Bama has expressed his commitment to showcasing Igbo culture through music, including plans for an Igbo dance performance. Throughout his career, he has bridged the gap between generations, evolving as a singer, producer, and songwriter.

His latest music embraces contemporary Afrobeats, aligning with global trends while maintaining his signature style.

Tracks like the iconic ‘Wajo Similaya’ from the 90s continue to resonate, cementing his legacy in Nigerian music.

Beyond his musical talents, he is recognised as a media luminary, with accolades for his contributions to the industry. From winning awards as a media personality to headlining prestigious events like the African Inaugural ball for President Obama, his impact extends far beyond music.

Now back in Nigeria, he aims to reclaim his position in the music industry, reconnect with his roots, and introduce his innovative sounds to a global audience. With his timeless creativity and unwavering passion, Allah-Bama is poised to leave an indelible mark on the music scene once again.

Allah-Bama

Yemi Laja

SUPER SATURDAY

There is No Such Thing as Work-Life Balance Tinuade Awe:

Tinuade Awe is the immediate past Chief Executive Officer of NGX Regulation Limited, the independent regulatory subsidiary of the NGX Group (formerly known as The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE)). Prior to that position, she was the General Counsel and Head of the Legal and Regulation Division of the NSE. Also, at various times, she served as Secretary to the National Council of the NSE; Executive Director, Regulation, where she had responsibility for the regulation of the two primary stakeholder groups of The Exchange, that is the Dealing Members that trade on The Exchange and listed companies that have securities listed on The Exchange. Awe previously worked with Banwo & Ighodalo, a law firm in Lagos; the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in The Hague; the United Nations Compensation Commission in Geneva; and the New York office of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, a law firm with global presence. She took Obinna Chima through her early life, career journey and also counsels women on how to ascend to leadership positions in corporate organisations... Excerpts

Canyoutellusaboutyourearlylife?

I was born and bred in Ibadan. I am from Kwara State and I was born into a family of two academics who taught at the University of Ibadan (UI). My parents, Muyiwa and Bolanle Awe, were both professors in UI. So, I was born at the University College Hospital (UCH), I went to the UI Staff School and I think I had an ideal childhood. My parents were not wealthy as is clear from the fact that they were university employees. But there was a lot of love in the family and I was the last of my mum’s children and I think I was just quite well protected as well. I remember my siblings will always tease me by saying: “wait until you are 10,” and that was because my father kept me from house chores, telling all of them, “she can’t wash the dishes, she can’t sweep or do any chores, until she is 10 years.” So, when I now want to join them to have conversations or enjoy sweet gist, they’ll say, “No, wait till you are 10.” So, it was a fulfilled childhood. I had a lot of friends, most of them children of other academics and they lived on the university campus. Life just revolved basically around the university. Nonetheless, my mum was the first and only female of three children and my father was the only male of five children and because of that they had significant responsibilities in their respective extended families. Then, as you can imagine, being academics, our house attracted a fair number of extended family members who were pursuing their educational goals. It was a childhood where my parents allowed us to have exposure to folks from the different strata of life. My mum in particular made efforts to ensure that we had other experiences. She liked going to the market and she would take us along. She’s 91 years now and she still likes going to markets. In fact, she would buy things from those children hawking things and make us understand that those children were helping their mothers to make ends meet. We don’t have to ask for school fees or whatever, but that child hawking is doing that to support his or her parents. She helped me to appreciate early on that there was nothing special about me that should make me look down on anyone. My mother was also active in the South African liberation movement. So, some ideas around oppression and treating people appropriately were certainly important in my childhood. And, finally on this point, my father’s family was actually quite poor and he had been a house boy at some points growing up because it was not unusual in those days, for bright, indigent students to serve as house helps with educators. So, my father was very intentional about ensuring that we treated everyone with respect without regard to class distinctions. These values were recurring themes in my childhood: honesty, integrity, humility, treating others well and being respectful. What influence did your parents have in your

career choice and also in helping you develop ethics?

I think one of the good things about being the last one was that I didn’t have a lot of pressure around my career choice. Probably by the time they got to me, if they had put pressure on my older siblings, they had realised that they should allow me to choose what I wanted to become. But, there was a constant subtle message - I think it was because my parents were both employees - a recurring thing about doing something that allowed you to be able to work on your own if you wanted to. So, I remember they would always tell me to be a professional. I guess when you are good in art subjects in those days, everyone would say be a lawyer. Eventually, I chose law. I attended Queens College, Lagos for my secondary education. I left Ibadan for

Queens College and at Queens College I chose both science and art subjects. So when it was time to do JAMB because I had science subjects, I choose pharmacy. I remember my mum was not impressed with pharmacy and she made me to know that!! But, she did not stop me at all. I was admitted to UI to study pharmacy. But, UI had an age requirement which I was too young to meet. I was 15 and the age cut off was 16. So, in discussions with my parents, we decided that what we will do was to have me defer that admission by a year. And, then they encouraged me – because I think they realized that I was better with the art subjects - to do a year of “A” levels at International School Ibadan (ISI). So, I had that admission for UI to do pharmacy and then I went to ISI to do art subjects for one year of “A” levels. I did JAMB after one year and got into the Obafemi Awolowo University (Ife) to study law. When I look back now, my career was chosen through a process of discussion and encouragement by my parents,

very subtle, and I think that could be because they had had the experience of dealing with my older siblings. So I moved on with law and I loved it. It was wonderful.

Tell us about your career trajectory. I started my career with Banwo & Ighodalo in Lagos. It was a young law firm them and I worked very closely with Asue Igholdalo and Femi Banwo. They made it clear that I had to work hard from Day 1. It was also the time of June 12. I used to stay off Queens Drive and the office was on Awolowo Road, both in Ikoyi. There was a time when other lawyers couldn’t come to the office because they lived on the mainland. So, for a short period of time during the June 12 riots, I was the only lawyer regularly going to the office because it was unsafe for others. I would walk from home to the office and that really gave me a sense of responsibility very early in my career. And, when you expect something from somebody, a normal person rises up to that challenge. Asue in particular would constantly tell me “this is not good enough.” He would mark up my documents with his green pen. That was the start and I am very thankful for that training.

I then went to do my Masters because I got the best results in my year at The Nigerian Law School, 1992. I was the first female ever to top the class in the history of The Nigerian Law School. One of the things about getting the best result was that I got the opportunity to interview for a British Council Chevening scholarship. It was called the Sir Daniel Alexander Memorial Scholarship Award. I got that and went to the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). I came back from the LSE and I wanted to do a PhD. I think I wanted to do a PhD because my sister was at that time doing a PhD in Environmental Engineering at Imperial College and she’s the only sister I have and a role model for me. But, now, I’m very glad that even though I got admission to do the PhD, I couldn’t find the funding because it is very lonely degree. At that time, I was pretty competitive with others. That was a piece of feedback that Asue gave me and he admonished that if I wanted to succeed in life, I shouldn’t be competitive with anyone but my best self. I am grateful for that feedback from Asue. With a PhD you are alone. So, I probably would not have done well with a PhD.

Around the same time as I was mulling the PhD, I found out about an opportunity to go to the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and it was in The Hague in the Netherlands. I really thank God for Justice Karibi-Whyte whom I worked with as a Law Clerk at the ICTY. The European Union (EU) had an arrangement with the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), which is an NGO based out of Geneva, the United Nations (UN) and the ICTY, that they would provide young lawyers to work as Law Clerks to support the Judges and the

Tinuade Awe: For Women to Rise to Leadership Positions They Must Bring Their ‘A-Game’ to Table

Registrar of the ICTY. Justice Karibi-Whyte, insisted that he was not willing to take a law clerk who wasn’t a Nigerian. These are the kinds of things that I think people in positions of authority and influence should do. I also had a mentor who was working with the ICJ, Mrs. Tokunbo Ige who encouraged me to apply. I guess I was in the right place at the right time. I applied and I got selected. Working with Justice Karibi-Whyte was just amazing. I was about three/ four years at the Bar working with somebody who had been on the Supreme Court for years. It was a great experience for almost two years, living in The Hague. I can’t describe the experience, especially the people I met because it just opened my mind and my world. The work was also ground breaking work. Remember, the last major war crimes trials before the ICTY were after the Second World War, Nuremberg! As I was opening my mind, I was soaking up knowledge, information and it was at that time that I realized that my written work product was not of the quality it should be. I thought I was a kingpin after coming out with a 2:1 from OAU, Ife; First Class from Law School, and I even went to LSE. But when I got to The Hague, I started looking at the work product of my colleagues and I knew I had lots more to do. And, I did what I needed to do to be my best. For example, I got a book about how to write and the proper use of grammar. Till today I still have it in my library. The intent of the arrangement at the ICTY was to try and get young lawyers from around the world to learn about international humanitarian law while providing a service to the judges and the registrar. It was about a two year engagement. So, before the end of that, I started looking for a new job. By this time, I was clear I didn’t want to return to Nigeria yet and I was talking to an old friend of mine who actually grew up as a UI campus kid as well, Dapo Akande. He is now a Professor of Law at Oxford University. I told him I was looking for a job and he referred me to an advert from The Economist. It was on the last day for application and I applied. They invited me for the interview in Geneva and I also did the test. It was with the United Nations Compensation Commission (UNCC). The UNCC was set up after Gulf War I, following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. The UN had determined that Iraq was the perpetrator and will pay for the losses. But what they were now looking for was for people and corporations to make compensable claims. Again, I went there and that was my first experience working in multi-disciplinary teams with loss adjusters, valuers, accountants, economists, psychologists and others. The UNCC humbled me as a lawyer because I worked with a whole lot of other professionals and I saw what everyone brought to the table. We created compensation methodologies. I was in the team that helped to create the methodologies for high value personal property claims like luxury automobiles, antique furniture, horses etc. Basically, we started building something out of almost nothing, just as had been done at the ICTY.

At both of the ICTY and the UNCC, I had interacted with American lawyers and I thought these guys were on a higher level of competence than others from around the world. So, as my time at the UNCC was coming to an end, because it was a specialized agency that was not meant to operate forever, I started thinking of the United States. Towards the end of the second year, I felt like I needed to become more like an American lawyer. So, I started trying to apply for jobs in the US, but I was too foreign for the American legal employment market. I realized that I needed an American stamp of approval. I applied to Harvard for a Masters Degree in Law and I put everything I had into that one application and I got in. They also gave me a fellowship called the Landon H. Gammon Fellowship. Harvard is a wonderful place. I always say to people if you’re going to do a Masters, do it after you’ve worked for a while. The difference in my experience at the LSE and Harvard was like night and day. I allowed Harvard to pass through me. I wasn’t focused on grades. The grades came out fantastic by the way, but that wasn’t my focus. It was to engage with people, meet the lecturers and enjoy the atmosphere – become attractive to the Americanlegal employmentmarket. Everybody comes to speak at Harvard and so I was going to listen to people speak and that kind of thing. Before you knew it, I started applying for jobs and of course, because I had very good grades in Harvard, eventually, I got a job, even though I didn’t get the job immediately. I got a job with a prestigious law firm called Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, which is always among the top three to five firms in the United States. By this time, my mum, who is always my greatest critic and my loudest cheerleader, said to me, “a rolling stone gathers no moss” and that I needed to sit down at one place. Remember she had worked all her life in one place, UI. So, she warned that The Hague today, Geneva tomorrow, New York the day

after was dangerous! So, I sat at Simpson Thacher for seven years before I left. Now the thing with professional firms is that they are pyramids. You start with a lot of people, a wide base, and then its gets narrower as people keep getting out of the pyramid to partnership at the top. After a while, I came to realize that it was unlikely that I would get to the top of that pyramid, even though some excellent folks did. Another thing was that I was getting burnt out because White Shoe law firms (as they are called) will give you fantastic experiences but if you are not intentional about your wellness, you will burn out. So, I needed to take a break.

So, I started looking around for my next move around the fifth/sixth year at Simpson Thacher. I had always been interested in Nigeria and I had become the President of the Nigerian Lawyers Association in New York. I had in the course of that presidency made contact with a number of law firms in Nigeria and I realised that law firms in Nigeria were doing very well. Remember this was the era of banking consolidation and the law firms were growing fast and I felt that I could come back to Nigeria and enter the scene.

One of the things I liked about my experiences is that I wasn’t hampered. My mind was open so I really believed that I could do anything. In the course of my searching for the next thing, my sister told me about a leadership school in South Africa and I decided to check it out. I met up with the guys promoting it when they came to New York and I joined them as the Anglophone Director of Admissions for West Africa at the African Leadership Academy (ALA) for a year. It was my break from the law and I loved it. I came back to Nigeria and I was based out of Nigeria and I was traveling to a number of West African countries to recruit their best students to become the first set of students of the ALA. It was a subtle way to ease myself back into Nigeria.

As my time at ALA was coming to an end, I also started trying to get into a law firm in Nigeria but that did not work. I did not find an appropriate position. In fact, I was working with a number of colleagues to see whether we could set up a law firm, but that didn’t pan out as well. So, I sat down with my good friend, Oyinda Ige and we set up a consulting firm which we named MUN2 Solutions, and we told anyone that cared to listen that it’s a knowledge shop. We basically did all sorts of stuff, using the knowledge that we had. It was great. But the thing about having a small consultancy start up and having to put food on the table, especially after working with a not-for-profit organisation, ALA, for a year, was that my income dropped significantly!! But, we persevered and kept our eyes open for opportunities.

And, a great opportunity came when the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under Ms. Arunma Oteh and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) decided to investigate the capital market activities of the intervened banks. I was invited to come and assist in this effort. So, for about five or six months, I directed a multidisciplinary team that looked into

work I did leading my team as the first CEO of NGX Regulation. Some of the things I am most proud of from my time at NSE/NGX include the operationalisation of the Investors’ Protection Fund; the total revamp of the rules to global standard and the world class rule making procedure; the introduction of Minimum Operating Standards for the Dealing Members; the introduction of Risk Based Supervision for our Dealing Members and a comprehensive Compliance Monitoring Program; use of technology in regulation; building meaningful relationships and interactions with major stakeholders such as the EFCC, ICAN, Womens World Banking, the Financial Reporting Council and the International Sustainability Standards Board; and providing regulatory services to other African countries such as Ethiopia and Ghana. There was a lot, given that I was there for thirteen and a half years. And, I was truly blessed with a fantastic team; over ninety highly competent professionals worked as my team members over that period of time. It was a good run. I have left that stage now and I feel fulfilled.

In all of these, is there a particular mentor or leader who inspired or empowered you?

the activities of these intervened banks, Afribank, Finbank, etc. That was the opportunity I got to enter the Nigerian Capital Market. I was blessed because the work gave me the opportunity to interact, albeit in a limited manner, with Ms. Oteh and others at the SEC.

Once we were done with the investigation, I got on with the business of continuing to build MUN2. But, God has a sense of humor. Just as I was picking up at MUN2, I got a call from the SEC inviting me to join its intervention team for the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). As you may recall, the SEC intervened in the management of the NSE in August 2010. I joined the team as Special Adviser to Mr. Emmanuel Ikazoboh who was appointed the Interim Administrator of the NSE. The Interim Administration had a number of remits from SEC. I will not go into all of them now because it is unnecessary but one of them was to appoint a new executive management for the NSE. One of my first tasks was to be the contact person for the NSE, working with Accenture on the selection process for these executives. That selection process, which was approved and superintended by the National Council (Board) of the NSE, brought in Oscar Onyema and Ade Bajomo as CEO and Executive Director, Market Operations and Technology, respectively.

There was no dull moment during the Interim Administration. I was working with the National Council, Legal, HR, Administration, Security, and Finance etc. Then, of course, there was the investigation by the SEC, various appearances and submissions to the legislative bodies, and interactions with law enforcement. I succeeded at some things. And, of course, I also failed at some things. I learnt fast and quickly. I think I had my greatest growth in emotional intelligence during the Interim Administration! It was that intense. It was also a period of immense professional growth and responsibility for me. I think I was also greatly helped by the fact that I was new to the market so I did not owe anyone any favors or even know who people were. I remain indebted to Emmanuel Ikazoboh for his support as my boss.

When Oscar came in, he said he wanted me to remain as a consultant and I agreed. It was an exciting time because he had a lot of great ideas and the new executive management, which was subsequently joined by Bola Adeeko and Haruna Jalo-Waziri and just super. In the course of that consultancy, the executive position for Company Secretary and Head of Legal and Regulation at the NSE opened up. I applied for it and I got the job after a competitive process. So, it was a question of someone that came in as a consultant and just never left. That was not the original intention. Remember, MUN2 was waiting for me to come back. So, once I decided to apply for the job at the NSE, Oyinda and I had a conversation and we gave up on MUN2.

So, I was part of the executive headed by Oscar Onyema that did a lot of transformative work at the NSE and then the demutualisation, which was a huge deal. I don’t think you will be interviewing me now if not for the work I and others did at the NSE/NGX, right! I feel a sense of pride about all we were able to achieve individually and as a team. I am proud of the

I have already spoken about Mr. Ikazoboh. It was just 10 months, but he respected me and allowed me come up with my own ideas and he supported me to get things done. His support was crucial because we had some tough times. At Simpson Thacher, a number of folks were impressive. But, one stands out. I worked with a banking partner called John Walker. He was a real gentleman and his client service was the best I had ever seen. We had corporate clients who had very high stakes matters. Any misstep and you can literarily kill the company. So managing the emotions of those clients is a skill in itself and John was the master of the art. I would see clients lose their cool, be emotional and John would always keep cool and he would advise. He had empathy and he knew the exact words to speak. Then, I noticed that whenever clients decided on the course of action they wanted, John would tell us to go and do it and then he would show the client that it has been done, but he would still go ahead of explain to them the implication of their decision, honestly and firmly especially when they were about to do something he considered wrong for them. He also had excellent relationships with the regulators, but in a very ethical way. When I became a regulator, my approach when I listen to regulated entities was to be respectful and you don’t treat them like they are stupid. That approach of respectfulness I learnt from John and watching his interactions with regulators and clients. I have spoken about Asue Ighodalo. He made it clear to me that he expected so much from me and he forced me to jump to meet those expectations. Again, what I learnt from that was that as a leader, when you tell your team that they can do something, you are supposed to be inspirational. You must select the right people to come into your team and then you get out of their way. You just have to tell them they can do it and support them. Justice Karibi-Whyte was another remarkable boss. He also believed in me. No matter how complicated the matter, he will say “Tinu, raise a draft.” And, that was all I needed to hear. How can a whole Justice Karibi-Whyte ask me to raise a draft of an ICTY Trial Chamber decision and I won’t bring on my “A” game? IT was an honor to be raising drafts for such a distinguished and humble individual.

All of these gentlemen knew I could swim, they were there to save me if I was drowning and when I made mistakes they didn’t hold it over my head. They were constant with measured praise, none of them berated me and they acknowledge me privately and publicly. I think good leaders also acknowledge their team members. It is important.

Is there a particular book that made significant impact on you?

A number of books. But my favorite writer is a Colombian writer. He is dead now and his name is Gabriel García Márquez. He died in 2014, but his last book, “Until August” was just released by his family this year. I am yet to get that one. His book that had the greatest impact on me, that really blew my mind is called “A Hundred Years of Solitude.” Part of the book that speaks to me is that even in noise, you should find solitude to move on and that one person’s reality is not another person’s reality around the same event. So put yourself in somebody else’s shoes before you react. When he was my boss at the NSE, Oscar Onyema would always say “Tinu, consider the principle of duality.” And, I agree with him. García Márquez is known for magical realism, just like Ben Okri.

Awe

Williams Popoola: With ‘Japa,’ Digital Agencies’ Biggest Challenge is Retaining Skilled Personnel

Managing Director, Wow Effects Communications, Williams Popoola, is one Nigerian entrepreneur, redefining the marketing communications landscape across three continents. Driven by vision, strategic thinking, analytical skills, creativity and a passion for consistently delivering exceptional results for his clients, he has built a team committed to impacting Nigeria’s Digital marketing landscape over the years. In this encounter with Adedayo Adejobi, he speaks about how and why he’s built Nigeria’s coveted digital agency, his love for books and continuous learning. Excerpts:

How do you see digital marketing impacting enterprises in Nigeria and what are the top trends you see in the marketplace?

Dgital marketing is rapidly revolutionising how Nigerian enterprises engage with customers and drive growth. As smartphone and internet penetration continue rising, businesses are prioritising digital channels to capture this increasingly digital-savvy market. Key trends we’re seeing include the surge of social media marketing on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok that allow precise micro-targeting. Influencer marketing, leveraging trusted voices to authentically promote brands, is also rapidly gaining traction. Within Nigeria’s unique market landscape of over 200 million people, 60 per cent of whom are under 25 years old, early digital adoption is crucial for enterprises to capture market share. The appetite for digital experiences combined with the infrastructural challenges of offline retail makes digital marketing indispensable.

There is the notion that digital doesn’t necessarily translate to sales. Is your skepticism towards creativity about whether creativity itself can help a business grow, or just towards the way agencies package and sell that creativity?

Creativity is the heart of effective digital marketing. It’s about crafting compelling messages that resonate with audiences. At Wow Effect, we believe creativity rooted in strategic insights, is vital for driving business growth, but it must be purposeful, data-driven, and measured rigorously. In the Nigerian market where consumers are bombarded with brand messages across channels, it’s creativity that allows campaigns to break through the clutter and forge emotional connections. Ultimately, unbridled creativity untethered from performance metrics is something we’re skeptical about. But we fundamentally believe that creativity, when thoughtfully blended with data-driven execution, is one of the most powerful assets for Nigerian enterprises to unlock growth.

What do you like most about digital marketing?

The constant evolution. Digital marketing is a dynamic field, always adapting to new technologies and consumer behaviours. It requires continuous learning and innovation, which keeps things exciting. Plus, the ability to measure results in real-time allows for constant optimisation and

improvement.

What skills or qualities do you feel helped you in building your digital marketing agency?

Key qualities include strategic thinking, analytical skills, creativity, adaptability, and a passion for consistently delivering exceptional results for clients. Building a talented and driven team has also been critical to our success. Ultimately, it’s the combination of strategic vision, creativity, analytical depth, technical excellence, and an exceptionally talented team committed to impact that has propelled our agency’s growth.

What do you wish you had known when you started out?

Looking back, one of the biggest lessons I wish I had understood from the start is the importance of establishing robust processes, systems, and operational infrastructure. In those early days, we were hyper-focused on crucial client delivery, but I underestimated how critical foundational elements like workflow management, knowledge sharing, professional development, and human resources frameworks are for enabling sustainable expansion while maintaining quality standards. As we grew quickly, there were growing pains around maintaining consistency and operational excellence during periods of hyper-growth. Of course, while it’s true that you can’t fully prepare for the inevitable curveballs of entrepreneurship, having the right processes and systems in place early creates a scalable foundation to capitalise on opportunities from a position of strength.

Is the growing importance of the digital world a threat to traditional advertising?

I don’t necessarily view the ascent of digital marketing as an existential threat to traditional advertising channels. However, it is inarguably disrupting the landscape and forcing a rethink of how brands approach offline channels in complementary ways.

The most effective marketing strategies intelligently combine the precise targeting and measurability of digital with the mass media impact of traditional channels. That said, brands will increasingly need to integrate digital at the core of their marketing mix and shift investments, operating models, and measurement frameworks accordingly. Those that fail to evolve risk being left behind as consumers’ attention is split across an ever-fragmenting array of digital platforms and experiences take precedence over push advertising.

Who has been your greatest inspiration?

There isn’t one single person. I draw inspiration from various

leaders in the digital marketing space who constantly push boundaries and redefine what’s possible. It’s difficult to pinpoint one single source of inspiration. I find myself motivated by a variety of individuals who excel in different areas. In the digital marketing world, Will Reynolds of Seer Interactive and Michael King of Ipull Rank constantly inspire me with their innovative approaches and data-driven strategies. Their work demonstrates the power of combining creativity with a deep understanding of customer behaviour. Beyond digital marketing, figures like Elon Musk inspire me with their audacious vision and relentless drive to push boundaries. His ability to think big and disrupt entire industries is a powerful reminder to never settle for the status quo.

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?

Develop a genuine passion for the ever-changing world of digital marketing. Be curious, experiment, and always be willing to learn and adapt. My advice would be: Immerse yourself in a mindset of continuous learning, curiosity and adaptation. The digital marketing landscape and the broader forces shaping consumer behaviour never stop evolving. What may be the leading edge today can become obsolete tomorrow. Constantly invest in expanding your knowledge – not just around marketing tactics and technologies but also creative ideation, strategy, data literacy, and horizontal skills like communication and critical thinking. Read voraciously, take courses, attend conferences, and join communities of practice. Never be complacent.

Google Developer Groups Lagos Partners Seerbit, GOMYCODE on #BuildWithAI Hackathon

The Google Developer Groups

Lagos (GDGLagos) has announced a regional edition of the global #BuildWithAI hackathon, in partnership with Seerbit, one of Africa’s leading and trusted payment solutions provider and GOMYCODE. The event taking place today and Wednesday, May 1, 2024, would empower participants to explore Google’s AI tools, Gemini and Vertex AI, and develop innovative solutions for real-world challenges.

A statement quoted Co-Organiser, GDGLagos, Femi Taiwo, to have said: “We are excited to partner with Seerbit and GOMYCODE to bring the #BuildWithAI hackathon to Lagos. This event fosters innovation and empowers individuals to use AI to solve real-world problems. We encourage everyone interested in AI to join us for this inspiring event.”

For his part, Founder/CEO of SeerBit, Omoniyi Kolade, articulated the profound

impact of the collaboration, saying, “At SeerBit, we are committed to pioneering innovative solutions that enhance financial security and foster trust in digital transactions. Collaborating with GDG Lagos amplifies our quest to combat fraud eectively. Together, we aim to empower developers to harness the power of technology for the greater good, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.”

“At GOMYCODE, we are committed to unlocking the potential of innovators across Nigeria and beyond through accessible technology education. The ‘Build With AI’ hackathon with Google Developer Groups Lagos oers a hands-on chance for innovators to use AI for real-world solutions. We’re excited to create a space where technology meets creativity, empowering participants to actively shape the future,” Country Head, GOMYCODE Nigeria, Babatunde Olaifa said.

According to the statement, the #BuildWithAI hackathon aligns with Google’s

global initiative to democratise access to AI technology.

“This regional event in Lagos oers a unique opportunity for developers, data scientists, designers, students, and anyone curious about AI to: Gain hands-on experience with Google’s cutting-edge AI tools, Gemini and Vertex AI; tackle real-world challenges across various sectors like sustainability, finance, education, healthcare, and social good.”

Others include to leverage Seerbit’s expertise in digital payments to create solutions with tangible applications, develop in-demand skills with the support of GOMYCODE’s training resources, collaborate in teams and network with fellow AI enthusiasts, and compete for a chance to win a cash prize of NGN 1,000,000, oce space to further develop their winning solution, and the opportunity to partner with Seerbit, with NGN 500,000 and NGN 250,000 for second and third place respectively.

“The GDGLagos #BuildWithAI hackathon

serves as a springboard for the global Google AI Hackathon, taking place online. This international event focuses on pushing the boundaries of what Generative AI apps can do with Gemini. Participants in the Lagos event are highly encouraged to consider entering the global competition as well.

“GDGLagos will provide ongoing support and guidance to the regional winner as they prepare to compete on the global stage. This includes access to mentorship, resources and technical expertise to help them refine their solution and showcase their talent to a worldwide audience.

“Startup founders, experienced developers, data scientists and expert resources and designated mentors will be available during the hackathon to provide guidance, refine ideas, answer questions, and oer technical support to participants. This ensures they receive the necessary guidance to tackle the challenges and bring their innovative ideas to life. Registration for the #BuildWithAI hackathon is now open! Apply to secure your spot at https://gdglagos.com/ai,” it added.

GDGLagos is a community of developers interested in Google’s developer technologies. They organise meetups, workshops, and hackathons to help developers learn and grow their skills.

Popoola

Managing Business Risks

Recently, no fewer than 15 buildings harbouring people’s investments at Dosunmu market, Lagos Island, went barely three weeks after four buildings were razed down of investment lost to these recent disasters, report

investment and workplace such as building collapse, chemical exposure, electrical and importance of proactive safety plan while

Lead Consultant at Safety Consultants and Solutions Provider Limited (SCSP), a risk consultancy and engineering solutions in life, stressed that all businesses must health and safety

According to the safety expert, investment continue by preventing and mitigating losses saved money on workers’ compensation and Sadly, Beri, noted that many corporates still take Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) with She explained, “In fact, some believe that their as an economic giant should lead the revolutionisation of the continent through sustainable business practices of which safety and security

“In fact, consulting giants like PwC, Delliote, Arthur Anderson, Accenture make this a core

Stressing safety culture as one of the safest moves in business, she maintained that doing it right would keep workers and businesses

She insisted that organisations, regardless of their size must engage competent and compliant risk professional with proven record in crisis prevention, mitigation and response to manage

“Risk engineering is a specialised niche to be practiced with strict compliance to codes and standards by experienced consultant s, especially since it serves as a basis for insurance

She further emphasised that safety remains a critical path of business risk management chain, adding that any measure of business

there has been long time argument on how much of operating cost should be set aside Regardless of how much spent, the output often

“It is being established that for every $1 an fact, more recently with economic revitalisation, it is estimated that every $1 organisations invest

“Conversely, the direct opposite cost of

business owners on the right path of the tragedy could be averted or be minimal where there is total adherence to safety

“I am aware that government is planning the area to prevent a reoccurrence, as well as to create awareness on safety practices, I mean this should have been before now,

“Why wait for disaster to happen before doing the right thing, you can imagine that the loss of life and investment could have

look down on process safety will keep reinvesting in disaster and divert resources for growth on disaster management and Beri, asserted that executing process safety was more important now in work place where occupational hazards has it reached its apex, noting that ignoring such is to risk asset, environmental,

According to the International Labour Organisation, ILO, occupational enterprises and economies, contributing

with innovative safety gadget, Beri paid to build capacity of employees on safety updates, how they could interface

-

ing reliable and practical engineering and safety solutions, we also prioritiseability and continuity has sustained our huge investment in capacity building and safety education in public and we deliver in line with global best practice and industry standards such as NFPA, ISO, OSHA, IBC, SABS, BS

“We try as much as possible to updatement manufacturers (OEMs) on modern

She also called for review of safety plans in organisations to be done at said would help to discover changes in regulations as well as failings or

She submitted that strengthened regulatory enforcement of codes and standards through constant checks and minimise loss incurred to workplace hazards

Access Bank Equips 90,000 Children with Financial Literacy Skills

Ofrom across six African countries, including empowerment initiative sponsored by Access Bank Plc, as part of activities to mark the

In a recent survey by United Nations Edu-

Participants were taken through sessions on saving, investing, and earning, while a

Speaking, the Head of Sustainability at Access Bank, Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan, expressed plans by the bank to support 25 schools in management skills, we are not only securing their future but also laying the groundwork

literacy gap among children spurred the

of Aguda Senior Grammar School, Blessing Collins shared her success story from according to her was able to start a coconut chip business following the knowledge from

Businesses Urged to Target Innovative,

Administrative Goals

As technology continues to shape the future, organisations have been reminded on the need to adopt innovative office administration and management process, crucial to business relevance

Experts who gathered at the 2nd biennial national conference of National Institute of Office Administrators and Information Manager (NIOAIM), reaffirmed the influence of digital tools and data in running modern office, insisting

Speaking at the event, President of the NIOAIM, of sector dynamism that propelled the conference so as to update professionals on evolving trends and innovations that would boost their

Addressing the conference theme, ‘Office Administration and Information Management in the Digital Era’, Adenekan explained that the theme was necessary to explore the intersection of She asserted that present and future competitive

demands await professionals who are able to leverage evolving technology to scale, stressing that only agile and adaptable administrators would be able to propel business success and

our intelligence to drive organisational efficiency, enhance information flow and foster collaborative

expertise and networking opportunities to make a lasting impact in the world of office administration

She further established a connection between office management and economic prosperity as he referred to sector actors as engine room of On the sidelines, the institute inducted 31 new members and presented honorary award

workshop where experts across disciplines took turns to deliberate on workshop theme, “Navigating the complex work environment with your

SystemSpecs Initiative to Promote Digital Literacy in Children

Financial technology company, SystemSpecs has pledged commitment to boosting digital literacy among closing its fifth Children’s Day Essay

N1million to the overall winner of the contest in which it said was intended to motivate more According to the organisation, winners of the competition from all categories including public schools across the country will be announced

Speaking, Group Head, Corporate Services, SystemSpecs, Bukola Adeboye, reiterated that the initiative was part of the firm’s Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) initiatives designed to facilitate capacity development in the Information

declared open to eligible pupils and students to present essay on the topic: ‘Protecting the Nigerian topic was carefully selected because as a technology powerhouse, we recognise the importance of online safety and the contribution of parents, guardians, and teachers in reinforcing digital resilience for

Firm Restates Commitment to Service at 20th Anniversary

nformation Communications and

Iits dedication to innovative service

its delivery in tune with prevailing market Group Head of Brand and Marketing at DreamWorks, Miss Chinyere Aylor, explained

for continued partnership, innovation and

“It is a refreshed look that embodies the

Aylor, expressed that it has been years of impact and growth, evident in the evolvement

“For two decades, we have been a trusted partner for businesses and individuals, delivering innovative solutions across computing, power, consumer electronics, accessories,

Omolabake Fasogbon

NUPRC: Fostering Resilient, Sustainable Upstream Oil Industry through Sound Regulation

Since the commencement of the Petroleum Industry Act in 2021, the Nigerian oil and gas industry has undergone significant transformation. The PIA which passed by the National Assembly was signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari. It is one of the most audacious attempts to overhaul the petroleum sector in Nigeria.

The Act provides legal, governance, regulatory and fiscal framework for the Nigerian Petroleum Industry. Despite being a major source of revenue, the oil sector before the passage of the law had lagged other sectors in terms of Gross Domestic Product contribution. It is on this basis that the PIA was formulated to help facilitate Nigeria’s economic development by attracting and creating investment opportunities for local and international investors.

The PIA also created specific institutions to drive the operations of Nigeria’s petroleum sector. One of the regulatory institutions created by the PIA is the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

Since the commencement of the Act, the NUPRC under the leadership of the Chief Executive, Engr Gbenga Komolafe, has taken up the statutory responsibility of ensuring compliance to petroleum laws, regulations and guidelines in the upstream oil and gas sector. The discharge of these responsibilities involves monitoring of operations at drilling sites, producing wells, production platforms and flow stations, crude oil export terminals, and all pipelines carrying crude oil, natural gas, among others.

The new dynamics in the global energy arena had necessitated that Nigeria, a country that has long depended on the exploitation of oil and gas as the mainstay of its economy, re-examine its strategy to secure a blossoming energy future while meeting the global climate goals.

This is why the legal, governance, fiscal and regulatory frameworks provided in the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 (PIA), amongst several objectives, is aimed at promoting transparency, efficiency, and innovation for sustainable development of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources as well as meet the global environmental sustainability goals.

As a country, Nigeria boasts of 36.966 billion barrels of oil which ranks her second in Africa, 8th in OPEC and 11th in the World. Nigeria is also richly endowed with 208.83 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves with upside potential estimated at 600 TCF. Aside the hydrocarbon potentials, Nigeria is blessed with potentials for green and blue hydrogen, solar,

wind, biomass and other sources of renewable energy to leverage for right energy mix in the energy transition regime, as well as critical minerals such as lithium, manganese, copper, graphite and nickel for development of clean energy technologies.

Indeed, Nigeria’s potentials are derived from its human, natural and material resources which must be mobilised to propel her on a path of economic growth and development and for her sustainable energy future. Unfortunately, in the years preceding the enactment of the PIA (2021), investments in the Nigerian oil and gas industry declined mostly due to regulatory uncertainty, de-funding of fossil fuel development occasioned by energy transition and the global call for decarbonization.

However, the Commission under the leadership of Komolafe is charting a new course in the upstream petroleum sector through its 10-year Strategic Plan (2023-2033) unveiled in May 2023. This is being implemented through the forward-thinking technically and commercially viable priority regulations developed so far to support energy security and drive emissions reductions pursuant to the PIA.

As the government navigates through the complexities of the global energy transition, the future that the NUPRC foresees for the Nigerian petroleum industry is one that should promote the utilization of the country’s hydrocarbon resources for shared prosperity, energy accessibility, affordability, sustainability, security as well as energy independence and energy sovereignty. These are the underlying goals upon which the federal government declared natural gas its immediate transition fuel and designed the ‘decade of gas’ programme. At the heart of this programme is the vision to ensure that gas actually plays a role to lift Nigeria from the challenges that confront the country in order to drive sustainable development.

Recent study has revealed that growth in gas demand outstrips supply. Between 2020 and 2030, demand is expected to grow exponentially at a compound annual growth rate of 16.6 per cent per annum. This is why the NUPRC is proactively pivoting the industry to close the supply gap as natural gas production is projected to increase from 8 billion cubic feet per day in 2020 to 12.2 bcfd in 2030 driven by major projects such as NLNG Train 7 & Train 8, Nigeria/Morocco pipeline, Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Natural Gas Pipeline Project, and so many other gas projects.

The import of this is to showcase the huge opportunities in gas business for both the existing investors and new entrants in the Nigerian upstream gas sector. Further investment opportunities have been created through the intensified efforts of the NUPRC towards eliminating flared gas, methane abatement and reduction of fugitive gas emissions.

As part of the efforts to deepen our gas market and ensure decarbonisation of upstream operations, the Commission recently awarded 49 flare sites to successful bidders for flare gas commercialization through the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialization Program (NGFCP).

Through this initiative, more gas is being made available for domestic utilization as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), feedstock for power generation plants, fertilizer plants, petrochemicals and export. Further investment opportunities are also available in the licencing rounds by the NUPRC, which would be conducted more frequently in line with the provisions of the PIA and the relevant Regulations.

In addition, there are also huge opportunities in Seismic acquisition on multi-client basis, development of deeper hydrocarbon opportunities as there are also business prospects in carbon-pricing system currently being stewarded by the Commission. Each of these areas provides a unique entry point for willing investors.

In the area of the implementation of the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) which is a provision of the PIA, the NUPRC, under the leadership of Komolafe, has restored confidence and created social inclusion for the host communities by the operators. It is in this regard, that the Commission, in carrying out its oversight roles, has registered a total of 103 HCDTs, and has deployed an intelligent digital, platform for reporting, monitoring and ensuring transparent administration of the HCDTs for sustainable operations in the Nigerian communities.

Also, the Commission has worked assiduously to reposition the upstream oil and gas industry in Nigeria through a Strategic Plan that aligns with the mandate of the PIA. The NUPRC is also not resting on its oars as it had, in furtherance of the strategic plan, undertaken regulatory activities, and implement strategic initiatives articulated in the NUPRC Regulatory Action Plan (RAP) for 2024 and the Near Term. The RAP is centered around ensuring regulatory certainty and predictability, vacating entry barriers, promoting global competitiveness, deepening transparency and accountability, value creation and monitoring, host community and environmental sustainability as well as acceleration of field developments.

The commission is also fostering a resilient and sustainable upstream oil and gas industry in Nigeria through effective collaborations with industry stakeholders while focusing on 24 cardinal areas of the RAP benchmarked against international best practices.

L-R: Chief Operating Officer, RedGecko PR Agency, Mr. Cornelius Onuoha; General Manager, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group, Mr. Abiona Babarinde, and Acting Chief Operating Officer, Soulcomms PR Agency, Mr. Ugochukwu Uwajeh, at the Nigeria Public Relations Week held in Abeokuta, Ogun State...recently

L-R: Executive Director, Coleman Wires and Cables, Michael Onafowokan; Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State, Prof. Barth Nnaji; former President of Nigeria / The Promoter, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Chairman, Coleman Wires and Cables and the Donor, Asiwaju Dr. Solomon Kayode Onafowokan at the inauguration of Asiwaju Dr. S.K. Onafowokan Coleman Wires and Cables Building, donated to the Bells university in Ota, Ogun State … recently

L-R: Corporal, Nigeria Police Force, Mr. Bankole Mathew; Senior Business Development, Representative, inDrive, Mr. Timothy Oladimeji; Chief Superintendent of Police, Nigeria Police Force, Mrs. Funmilayo Omosehin and Director, Transport Operations, Lagos Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olasunkanmi Ojoowuro during the Safety Education event organised by inDrive in partnership with Lagos State Ministry of Transportation and Nigeria Police Force held in Lagos today

L-R: Youth Empowered Training Facilitator, Tolu Oladipo; Youth Empowered Training Facilitator, Oluwatosin Idu-Okojokwu; Executive Vice President, REACH, Toyin Adegbite-Moore; Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd, Olukemi Ogunsakin; Youth Empowered Training Facilitator, Rantiade Benson-Idahosa; and Youth Empowered Training Facilitator Nkemjika Onuoha at a training program held recently in Abuja as part of NBC’s Youth Empowered initiative aimed at educating and empowering youths on employability and entrepreneurship skills in Abuja…. recently

Onuba, a Chartered Accountant wrote in from Abuja

Ifeanyi Onuba

How Dapo Abiodun Stimulates Prosperity through Creativity

Olaniyi Ajibola

When the leadership of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) concluded on the choice of Ogun State as the venue of their maiden week, and as well picked the Governor of the Gateway State, Dapo Abiodun as the Patron of the Institute, little did they know that their resolutions were the best in content and in context.

The President of the Institute, Dr. Ike Neliaku, while delivering his speech at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto- Abeokuta, Ogun State, had informed the audience that one of the reasons behind the choice of Ogun State for the event was being the State of many firsts, ranging from civilization to education, politics, commerce and industry and many more, aside the fact that the Governor of the State in the last five years have provided exemplary leadership that directly touched the lives of his people.

He eloquently eulogised Abiodun for turning around the fortunes of the state through different initiatives, adding that the Institute over the past two weeks has been promoting the remarkable achievements of Abiodun-led administration in the State on their websites, which Neliaku described as a way of putting Ogun State on the global map.

In truth and indeed, Abiodun, through genuine intention and clear vison to lead his people to the desired heights, as envisaged by the founding fathers of the State adopted distinct style of governance, in total departure from the old order of deception and political chicanery of the past administration, which regrettably impoverished the people and put the State in reverse gear of development until Abiodun came into the saddle in 2019.

Unarguably, Abiodun must have stumbled and carefully pondered on the inspiring postulation of the 35th American President, J.F. Kennedy, who submitted that: “Those who refused to participate in the politics of their environment end up being governed by their inferiors”, hence his unrelenting and consistent efforts towards the gubernatorial seat, amid suffocating and hostile political atmosphere.

This was coincidentally corroborated by one of the participants at the event on Tuesday, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, the Director General of National Orientation Agency, who represented the Minister of Information and National Orientation. Issa-Onilu, one-time National Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) recounted how at different occasions he had travelled with Abiodun from Lagos to Abuja during the governorship struggle in 2019.

“As Publicity Secretary of APC at the time, I have had the reasons to travel with His Excellency severally to Abuja during the 2019 governorship election, and each time we travelled, he kept on saying when I get there; when I get there; I told myself, does this man understands what it takes to be a Governor. Today, I am very happy that the man has performed exceptionally well, he did not disappoint us”.

Such testimonies abound about the Prince of Iperu-Remo, the man who has tremendously brought a deep knowledge of financial management and coordination of the private sector to bear in the administration of the State, as he has constantly described himself as the Chief Marketer of the State.

In the first instance, one will wonder how a Chief Executive of a State suddenly became a Chief Marketer and of which product in particular? “Ogun State is the Gateway to Nigeria’s prosperity, the industrial capital of Nigeria, and the educational capital of this nation. On assumption of office and in appreciation of our competitive and comparative advantages, we were very clear about our vision, which is to provide good and qualitative governance whilst creating an enabling environment for public private partnership, which is fundamental to economic growth and individual prosperity of our residents.

“We realised this can only be achieved through our “Building our future” together mantra and our ISEYA development pillar where I stands for Infrastructure, S for Social Welfare and Wellbeing, E for Education and Human Development, Y for Youth Empowerment and A for Agriculture and Food Security; we have achieved significant milestones, covering substantial grounds across the state.

“We have prioritized the provision of the required infrastructure, by implementing our multimodal infrastructure policy in appreciation of the importance of the need to facilitate people to live,

work and play in Ogun state with ease and utmost comfort. Some of you either came by road or rail and I am sure your experience was nothing but pleasant. That is possible because we deliberately closed our eyes on whether a road is a federal road or state owned.

“To date, we have constructed over 500 km of roads. Very soon, you will be coming here by air, this week, our airport will be approved for non-scheduled flights, meaning that Chatererd flights can file their flight plans and land at our gateway international airport and in another 2 weeks or less we will receive formal approval for scheduled commercial flights. “I was sharing at the breakfast with private sector CEOs earlier that we will soon be establishing the Kajola dry container Port.

I will not miss an opportunity to share with you that in the last 5 years, we have been very deliberate and intentional about strengthening law enforcement and provision of security by supporting our law enforcement architecture with funding, logistics and technology, which has today earned us the safest state in Nigeria, as there cannot be socio economic development in the atmosphere of insecurity.

“We will continue to be proactive in implementing policies and initiatives to increase the ranking of Ogun State in the ease of doing business index, we remain the industrial capital of Nigeria with over 6000 industries and the investors destination of choice, the state with the most improved IGR, being no 3 heading to no 2, and the fastest growing economy in Nigeria.

“In the last 5 years, we have built over 4000 affordable homes and still building as we target 10,000 homes by 2027, we have rebuilt over 1000 schools and over 100 PHCs. Our commitment to energy transition and cushioning the effects of the petrol subsidy removal is clearly evident. We were the first state in Nigeria to deploy compressed natural gas (CNG) fueled buses, which has resulted in reduced transport fares.

“We are prioritizing ICT & digital economy and have

Changing Narrative with Women in Technology Startups

Raheem Akingbolu |

Technology startups are more than catalysts for growth. They are the engine of growth itself. They solve problems no other sector is addressing with innovative thinking, thus pushing society forward - all while creating jobs, stimulating the economy, and attracting foreign investment.

In today’s evolving economic landscape, technological innovation is already seen as a big tool that is moving the needle in every sector of the economy. From education, transportation, maritime, technology has continued to be a major driver helping to create different opportunities and new industries for the people.

Many developing economies including Nigeria are now catching up to build an innovation-driven economy as governments have become fully involved in the establishment of tech hubs across their countries. In Nigeria alone, tech hubs have become success stories, especially with the emergence of companies such as Flutterwave, Andela among others which sprang up from its

Williams Shakespear once said: “Some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them.” This quote is a personification of Mrs. Nkoli Imoh. More importantly, it is interesting to note that Imoh’s rise to fame and fortune came by unshakeable faith in God and dint of hardwork. Like her peers, she saw everything very quickly and acted on what she saw. Her rising and the greatness she had achieved is a testament to her philosophy and upbringing. Among her contemporaries, she is the ultimate symbol of womanhood. Born into the noble Christian family of Chief and Lady Simeon Arazu of Umuakabuike-Umudike Ukpor in Nnewi-South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Imoh had a sound moral Christian up-bringing. She had her primary school education at Premier Primary school, Onitsha and secondary education at Anglican Girls’ Secondary School, Onitsha. She was admitted to the University of Lagos to study Business Administration. Her degree in Business Administration paved the way for foray in business.

creation.

Despite the increasing rise of startup innovators, many women in the rank have become disadvantaged and at best neglected not only in terms of support but also in recognition. This situation has led to the dearth of many businesses which hold the prospect of becoming great enterprises. This trend has elicited concerns that it might well be true that there is a deliberate attempt to deny women the opportunity to fly as they strive to.

For more than a decade now, there has been a deliberate shift in focus from women in tech startups. This is largely due to a number of factors that include bias, stereotypes and low representation of women role models in tech related fields. A research conducted by a leading mobile app, inDrive in three countriesNigeria, Brazil and Malaysia revealed the same bias against women.

Though the research revealed that the percentage of girls in STEM-related education in Brazil, Malaysia and Nigeria is the same as the percentage of boys, there is still a significant gap between the amount of startups founded by men and women. According to statistics, The Venture Capital funding to

female startups is not more than 1%, a clear demonstration of a huge funding gap between men and women in IT i.e. number of female founded startups is significantly less than male in all countries.

As if that is not enough, another statistics obtained by Crunchbase revealed that only 2.3 per cent of venture funding goes to womenled startups. Poised to change the status quo, inDrive, a mobility app that provides both passengers and drivers a fair deal across 45 countries worldwide has come up with an initiative, Aurora Tech award, to assist and encourage women in tech startups. Until the Aurora Tech award came into focus, many women in innovation entrepreneurship have had to fall by the wayside due to a number of factors ranging from discrimination. The award, which is targeted at providing seed funds for women-led start-ups, was established with a view to helping women unleash their power of innovation.

The Aurora Tech Award 2024, founded in 2020 by inDrive, received an unprecedented 694 applications from 102 countries this year, underscoring the global impact of women in technology and innovation.

Owodunni

In addition to the prestigious recognition, the winners of the Aurora Tech Award received cash prizes of $30,000, $20,000, and $10,000 for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, respectively, along with access to an inDrive mentorship program. Through the award, inDrive hopes to set new and fair standards in the venture world.

Footprints of Trailblazer

She began her business life as a trader, dealing mostly, in vehicle tyres in Lagos and from there, her flagship organisation–Windward International Limited evolved; catapulting her into a business icon, whose business philosophy anchored on ideals of quality, efficiency, transparency and perfect finishing. This business philosophy coupled with her unconditional use of a formidable team of intellectuals as consultants holds the key to her business successes.

Imoh who loved by all and sundry, is fondly called Ada – a name derived from Adadioramma, is not a stingy business woman. She gives out and finds joy in giving, especially, to the less-privileged. This positive attitude of sharing and giving did not just start today, but dated back to her teenage years, and this has led her to become a global philanthropist. Thousands of Nigerians both young and old, male and female have benefitted in one way or the other from her philanthropic gestures. Her uncountable philanthropic activities

have projected her as a pillar of different communities and organizations who have variously embellished her with different titles, which include: Adadioramma Gburugburu, Ukpor; Adadioramma, Ebenator; Igolo, Mbaise; Ugo Si Mba, Adaziani; Nne Ife, CWO, Nnewi Diocese; Ada Ejiejemba, Abatete; Nne Ora nile, Aguata among others.

In the same vein, the echoes of Adadioramma’s philanthropic escapades have crossed national boundaries and earned her the International Peace Award, 2003 by the American Biographical Institute; Entrepreneurial Excellence Award by the Rotary Club International; Paul Harris Fellowship Award by the Rotary Club International; on 20th December, 2015, Panters Sports Club, Nnewi awarded her the “Social Mobiliser of The Year 2015”. Also in 2018, the International Women’s Conference held in Dubai, United Arab Emirate (UAE), recognized Imoh as “Africa’s no. 1 Women Mobiliser.”

Above all, she has bagged two Honorary Doctorate Degree awards from the Pilgrims

University, Burlington, North Carolina, USA, and Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria respectively. In 2013, she was made the Grand Patroness of the department of Education Foundation, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

Imoh is not only, a successful business woman, a philanthropist or winner of awards and titles, she has also made impacting incursion into politics. This experiment brought her very close to the yearnings, needs and woes of the society hence, the phenomenal increase in her philanthropic strides, and expansion of her philanthropic boundaries, culminating in the establishment of her Foundation – Adadioramma Foundation in the year, 2000. This foundation enjoys international affiliations, one of which is the Anambra State Association (ASA) USA. Her Foundation empowers all, but with greater emphasis on the unemployed youths, orphans and widows. By rough estimation, Nkoli Imoh has given out to the public, a total of 50 cars and buses of various classes,

Kingsley Aliamaka

Olaniyi Ajibola, SSA on Strategic Communications to Governor Dapo Abiodun writes from Abeokuta.

Mike Adenuga:

Portrait of an Industrialist, Philanthropist

Ayodeji Ake writes on the philanthropic role and entrepreneurial excellence of the Chair- man of the Mike Adenuga Group, Dr. Mike Adeniyi Ishola Adenuga Jr., and his contribution to nation-building

The Chairman of the Mike Adenuga Group, Dr. Mike Adeniyi Ishola Adenuga Jr. who was born on April 29th, 1953, would be 71 years on Monday. Adenuga, who is the founder of Globacom, is a study in diligence and entrepreneurial excellence. In the last few decades, he has emerged a shining symbol of the irrepressible spirit of the quintessential African entrepreneur. He is passionate, committed, resilient and extremely hardworking.

The billionaire was born in the ancient city of Ibadan, into the family of Chief Mike Adenuga Snr. and Madam Oyindamola Adenuga, a successful trader and Yeyeoba of Ijebuland. He attended the famous Ibadan Grammar School, in Oyo State, Nigeria, for his secondary education and studied Business Administration at Northwestern State University, Alva Oklahoma, in the United States. He also earned a Master’s degree at Pace University, New York, majoring in Business Administration with emphasis on Marketing.

In recognition of his business accomplishments and outstanding contributions to the growth of the country, he was awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). He also holds honorary doctorate degrees conferred on him by the University of Ibadan and the Ogun State University. During Nigeria’s 50th anniversary celebration, Adenuga was one of the 50 pre-eminent Nigerians who were conferred with the Special Golden Jubilee Independence Anniversary Awards by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The hard work has paid off spectacularly, and he is today one of the best known names in business and investment on the African continent. Adenuga has put his imprimatur of excellence on key sectors of the Nigerian economy, leading him to currently preside over one of Africa’s largest business empires, spanning oil and gas, telecoms, aviation, banking and real estate.

Each of his businesses in these sectors plays leadership roles, helping to set the pace and contributing to the growth of the Nigerian economy.

For instance, in the oil and gas sector, Conoil Plc is one of the largest and most profitable oil marketing companies in Nigeria. Conoil Producing, the downstream arm of the conglomerate, made history by becoming the first Nigerian company to strike oil and produce it in commercial quantity in 1991. In banking, Equitorial Trust Bank (ETB) was one of the few banks that effortlessly met the N25 billion capital requirement during the 2005 banking consolidation exercise without going to the stock market. It only merged with Devcom Bank which was also owned by Adenuga. Few years back, ETB merged with Sterling Bank.

Adenuga also has a multi-billion-dollar investment in real estate. These companies provide direct employment to thousands of Nigerians and people from the international community, as well as millions of other indirect employment.

In telecoms, Globacom is one of the most innovative networks in Africa and has operations in Nigeria and Ghana with footprints in Senegal, Gambia and Cote d’Ivoire. Adenuga made history in 2010 when his telecoms firm inaugurated its solely-financed international submarine cable, Glo 1. The cable has provided a solution to the long-standing problem of insufficient internet bandwidth for Africa and has led to a much faster and robust connectivity for voice, data and video. He is credited with playing a major role in the telecom revolution in Nigeria as Globacom’s historic introduction of Per Second Billing and crashing of SIM cost to as low as N100 led to the over 165 million active telephone lines in Nigeria today. The network also pioneered such revolutionary products as Blackberry, mobile internet and mobile banking services in Nigeria.

Digital solutions provider, Globacom, has since it began operations in Nigeria on August 29, 2003, pioneered numerous innovations which have helped propel the rapid growth and revolutionary changes witnessed in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry. Its crashing of the cost of acquiring SIM cards from about N25,000 to just about N200 and pioneering of

Per Second Billing system are primarily responsible for the massive telephone penetration in the country. Prominent among the innovations Glo pioneered in Nigeria are Blackberry Services, Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), Magic Plus, Glo Direct, International MMS, Inflight Roaming, Prepaid Roaming, Glo Mobile Internet, GloFleetmanager, M-Banking, Glo Mobile Office, Glo TV, Glo Cloud, Glo Always On, and Glo Berekete.

The company is the only operator with a wholly owned submarine cable, Glo 1, which connects West Africa directly to the United Kingdom and the rest of the world. It also connects 12 nations in the West Africa sub-region, including some of them that are landlocked. This ensures the availability of bandwidth to Wholesale, Enterprise & SME customers in West Africa. The undersea cable delivers a much faster and robust connectivity for voice, data and video with some of the lowest latencies between Africa and its gateway in London. It unleashes limitless opportunities for global and other African carriers, global content and digital media providers, government and corporate bodies in Nigeria and West Africa.

For instance, telecommunication subscribers in Nigeria and some other countries in Africa were few weeks ago thrown into panic following a major cut in submarine cables and the disruption persisted for weeks. Major undersea cables close to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, were reportedly damaged, and this caused internet outages in West and South African nations. The West Africa Cable System (WACS), the Africa Coast to Europe (ACE), MainOne, and SAT3 were the undersea cables that were impacted.

However, in the midst of all the confusion, Globacom subscribers continued to enjoy uninterrupted internet connection and other services as they were not affected by the interruption.

The development was a reflection of the strength and capacity of the telco, which has made significant

investment in infrastructure.

This was made possible due to the foresight of a man who entered the telecommunications industry and became a leading light with a list of firsts - Dr. Mike Adenuga.

Glo-1 powers financial institutions, internet service providers and data consumers and all organisations that are Globacom’s subscribers have continued to carry on with business as usual despite the breakdown of other telcos and internet services producers.

Industry observers were of the view that Glo-1 International Submarine Cable’s resilient construction and durability were the reasons the damage did not compromise the cable.

The telco was the only company among its peers that invested over $250 million to install its own submarine cables from Nigeria to Europe.

Glo-1 or Globacom Main 1 is a submarine fiber optic cable that rans from Nigeria to Europe.

Globacom was the first African telecom company to build an intercontinental submarine cable, the Glo 1 cable, which ran from Bude, a seaside rural town in north Cornwall, England and traversed seventeen countries, including Ghana, before terminating in Nigeria, findings showed. The 9,800-km-long cable with 169 repeaters originates from Bude in the UK and branches out at Osu landing station, Accra, Ghana, and terminates at Alpha Beach landing station, Lagos.

By going from Europe to the West Coast of Africa, the company avoided the more turbulent but cheaper to maintain Middle-East and North Africa region.

Just like it did with the 2.5G and 3G technologies, Globacom was the first telecom operator to accomplish a nationwide launch of 4G-LTE network in Nigeria in 2016. With the 4G LTE Network in Nigeria, Glo provides seamless voice and data connectivity; enabling superfast HD video streaming, video downloads, online gaming and much more.

The 4G LTE Advanced technology combines three

spectrums of 700 MHz, 1,800MHz and 2,600 MHz to provide a better internet experience to subscribers. It is faster, stronger, and better. The video and voice quality in video calls on different applications like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Viber etc is a lot clearer while the picture quality is crispier, and the transmission is faster. It also enables optimum performance for use in a variety of other life-enhancing cases such as telemedicine, e-agriculture, 3D Games, etc.

Additionally, Glo is credited with crashing the cost of internet services and is today the preferred cable system by global OTT providers. It connects thousands of kilometres of national fibre to all parts of Nigeria and cross connects with landlocked West African countries providing them access to world class internet services and enable these countries connect with Content Delivery Networks (CDN) & caching with Over The Top (OTT) networks in Lagos.

The business accomplishments of Adenuga have continued to seek him out for national and global accolades. In Ghana, he was given the highest national award, “The Companion of the Star of Ghana” in 2016, while in 2017, he was honoured by the French government with the award of the “Chevalier la Legion d’Honnuer” in 2017. In July 2018, the French President, Emmanuel Macron, elevated him to ‘Commander of the Legion of Honour’, France’s highest national honour.

A self-effacing philanthropist, Adenuga Jr., through his company, Globacom, is the biggest supporter of football in Africa and has raised the profile of football in Nigeria and Ghana with the sponsorship of the Premier Leagues and national football teams of the two countries for several years.

The company spent over N15 billion in cash and kind on Nigerian football. It also transformed the annual CAF Awards and made it the most glamorous sports event on the continent. CAF awarded Adenuga the Pillar of Football in Africa for his strong support for African Football at both national and continental levels.

Adenuga has won numerous other awards in recognition of his personal and business accomplishments among which is the African Telecoms Entrepreneur of the year for his courageous and rapid investment in the telecoms sector. He was early 2010 voted Nigeria’s Most Outstanding Business Personality in the last 50 years by This Day, Nigeria’s most influential newspaper.

In 2009, Adenuga won the coveted Silverbird Man of the Year Award, polling over 75 per cent of the votes cast to beat other eminent personalities nominated for the same award. Similarly, several other media organisations, Sun Newspapers, Independent Newspapers, Leadership Newspapers; City People and Ovation International Magazine have also honoured the Globacom Chairman with their Man of the Year Award within the last few years.

In 2020, THISDAY named him ‘Entrepreneur of the Decade’ at its Silver Jubilee celebration, while Nigeria’s oldest private newspaper, Tribune, awarded him Nigeria’s Most Outstanding and Innovative Entrepreneur at its 70th anniversary event. He is the first Nigerian to be conferred with a Knight of the Legion of Honour (Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur) award by the President of the French Republic, Mr. Emmanuel Macron.

The award was presented to Adenuga at the glamorous Bellisma on the Waterfront, Banana Island, Lagos, by the Ambassador of France in Nigeria, Denys Gauer, on behalf the France President.

While decorating Adenuga with the award insignia, Gauer had said, “I have the great pleasure to inform you that, by decree signed on the 10th of May by the President of the French Republic, you have been made a Knight of the Legion of Honour (Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur).”

The Legion of Honour, (Ordre National de la Legion d’Honneur) is the highest French order of merit for military and civil merits, established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte.

As Dr. Adenuga marks his birthday on Monday, we wish his more grace, good health of mind and body and that he would continue to add value to humanity and remains committed towards nation-building.

Adenuga

Oba Saheed Elegushi: Celebrating 14 Years of Modern, Meaningful Monarchy

Sunday Ehigiator

Amidthemaelstromofmodernpoliticsandthepervasive influence of civilisation, today’s generation views the traditionalinstitutionasapurposeless,antiquatedrelic that should be disposed of because they do not know anybetter.Thereisalsothewidespreadmisconception that the traditional institution belongs to a past that is distant and buried. However, the counter thesis to this widespread amnesia and wilful ambivalence is that this deified institution is the repository and custodian of tradition, culture, and continuity in ever-changing times. No other arm of government can boast of same.

Those versed in the essence of the traditional institution reckon that it helps to remind people of what they truly represent and where they came from and ensure peaceful co-existence and stability in their domains and beyond. Alas, like it is in many parts of the world that had once embraced monarchy but now romances democracy, the relevance of the traditional institution has dwindled especially without clearly defined constitutional roles like the Nigerian case.

Conversely, many of Nigeria’s new generation Kings still understand the roles, responsibilities, and nuances of core monarchy. They hold court like the days of yore, arbitrate in communal disputes and issues of development, and are effective social builders. Even beyond this customary remit is the amount of social empowerment they execute in their domains without making a song and a dance of like the average politician. For them, it is all in a day’s job.

Noteworthy among this rarefied class is the urbane Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi (Kusenla 111) who rules over Ikate Kingdom, the coastal community in the heart of Lagos that is fast evolving into a prime real estate and major tourist destination with its many private beaches. He is one of the few who has helped to blur the line between the old traditional and modern monarchy.

Away from the stereotypical perception of a traditional ruler as a wizened, unlettered geriatric, the Elegushi is as youthful, exposed, educated, dynamic, and suave as any other top-flight professional in a position of power. Yet, he has not lost the lustre that makes ancient traditional rulership significant and relevant.

Rather, Oba Saheed Elegushi continues to help buoy and boost it with his initiatives and interventions that revolve around reinforcing his long-held argument that while the Nigerian constitution may have exorcised, banished, or condemned the symbolism and relevance of Nigeria’s traditional rulers to the background, he will be a salve in times of political turmoil or communal disharmony, and a stabilising force for the state at large.

Indeed, while leadership may be hard to define, it is easy to identify in times of crisis. Over the years, the Elegushi has proved that he is a traditional ruler that can rise to the moment, demonstrating resolve, civility, courage, empathy, and respect for his subjects and stakeholders.

Fourteenyearsaftersucceedinghisfather,thelateObaYekiniAdeniyi Elegushi, reputed as the first Idejo (white cap) chief to become an Oba, Ikate Kingdom has evolved from a swampy community into a major commercial and residential and tourist destination under his sterling rulership. The kingdom continues to witness significant progress in various areas of development like education, healthcare, social welfare, and infrastructure among others.

As part of his commitment to bequeathing knowledge to today’s generation, Oba Elegushi instituted an endowment for the establishment of the Centre of Lagos Study at the Lagos State University, his alma mater, which he said was driven by the need for an institutional

body that would act as a research and reference point for studies related to Lagos. The centre, according to him, is also for scholars and researchers from all over the world who desire to study the history, culture,andsocio-economicactivitiesofthepeopleofLagosacrossits five divisions. He added, “(The centre) will serve as a research institute forthestudyofthesocio-cultural,economic,andpoliticaldevelopment of the state, and a hub for seminars, workshops, and conferences for issues relating to Lagos for policy formulation.”

Aside paying the health bills of indigent indigenes and sponsoring healthoutreachprogrammesandscreening,theElegushihasfacilitated the construction of a 40-bed health centre fitted with a dental and eye treatment facility in Ikate Kingdom. Similarly, he sponsors and superintends over the monthly distribution of sanitary towels to over 1,000 secondary school girls to promote menstrual hygiene. He also gives out education support grants to indigent students in Eti-Osa and periodic financial support for primary and secondary schools within and outside the kingdom.

A redoubtable lover of the arts, Oba Elegushi is a prominent sponsor of various art exhibitions and programmes, and is currently the Chairman of Africa Fashion Week, Nigeria; and Patron of the International Women’s Society, founded in 1957 to work for the advancement of womenofallracesandtoencourageanddeveloptheircommoninterests. He is also a patron of the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), and a honourary member and major donor to the Rotary Foundation. Enthroned in April 2010 as a fresh-faced public servant who had served as Personal Assistant to former Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu between 2003 and 2007; and from June 2007 to 2010 as a Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties to Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, the Elegushi is a recipient of many honours including Excellent Leadership Award in Community Development, Babcock University; Outstanding Leadership Award, Lagosians in Chicago, USA; and honourary doctorate degrees in Public Leadership, Peace and Community Development by the European-American University; Public Administration from the Igbinedion University; and Public Policy and Community development, Lagos State University.

In 2018, the New York Times cited a study conducted by Mauro Guillen, a professor at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, which discovered “robust and quantitatively meaningful evidence that monarchies outperform other forms of government and provide nations with stability that often translates into economic gains.”

While this is subject to a debate, it is doubtful if any political office holder within the Ikate kingdom or beyond has impacted the people more than or, as much as the Elegushi.

Shade Okoya: Shattering Glass Ceiling in Male Dominated Sector

Mrs. Folashade Okoya, (MON) stands out as a leading figure in the manufacturing sector. She has continued to shatter the glass ceiling in a male dominated terrain. Smart, beautiful and intelligent. The Bewaji of Lagos, who has been honoured and recognised both at the academic front and national level, knows her onions. Since the mantle of leadership fell on her as the Managing Director of Eleganza Industries Limited, she has used her magic wand to turn the famous conglomerate around. She turned 47 on April 25th and also celebrated her 25th wedding anniversary. Meet Mrs. Okoya, the industrial genius and workaholic entrepreneur whose unmatched enterprising acumen continues to dazzle in the manufacturing sector. Bennett Oghifo writes

It has been over 25 years since her path crossed with that of the giant of the famous Eleganza industry, Chief Rasaki Akanni Okoya, but this amazing and talented diva has continued to shine like diamonds in the sky, as a wife and mother at home and as an outstanding entrepreneur. Her early years with the Aare of Lagos and Landlord of Oluwanishola Estate saw her raising four wonderful children. Done with child bearing, the Ogun State ljebu Ode-born beauty plunged herself into the act of manufacturing. She learned the ropes under the tutelage of an established husband, combined this with determination, and interest, and soared. Today, she has held her head high and commanded respect as one of the outstanding business magnates in Nigeria.

With over 60 years of experience, Eleganza Industries has invested heavily in machines and molds. Now at the helm of Eleganza Industries Limited, she oversees operations on a vast 35-acre site near the Pan Atlantic University on the Ibeju-Epe Expressway.

The facility in the factory is state-of-the-art, producing a wide array of goods that meet both high-quality standards and international benchmarks.

She is proud of the Eleganza exploit in the Manufacturing. “Take for instance the plastic chairs; their robustness, elegance, and durability are second to none. With over 200 diverse designs, it’s hard to believe these chairs are crafted in Nigeria—they rival global standards. Some feature upholstered seats, adding to their appeal,” she said during an encounter with journalists.

She said, “We’re setting sights on exporting these chairs globally, confident that their distinctive designs and marketability will resonate worldwide. Their affordability is another plus, thanks to locally sourced materials from our petrochemical industry. Available in various colours and shapes, they’re perfect for any event, making venues both presentable and inviting. According to her, they also cater to schools. “In addition to our

renowned chairs, we offer tables and desks that surpass traditional wood in durability and elegance. They’re cost-effective too, thanks to our use of local petrochemical materials, making them accessible for any school. Schools highly favour them for enhancing classroom aesthetics and student comfort.”

Reeling out what has made Eleganza stand out over the years, she added; “Our cooling boxes and food warmers set us apart as West Africa’s pioneers. Despite growing competition, our standards remain unmatched. Our coolers are known for their superior durability and cooling efficiency, a testament to our unrivaled experience.

“Our Casserole Sets collection boasts over 150 patterns, combining durability with style, available in various colours. We lead in quality and durability, making us the top choice with no compromise on quality and affordability.”

Not limited to household items, it caters for babies: “For the little ones, our baby diapers are designed for extended wear without discomfort or rashes, ensuring durability and the utmost care for baby’s skin.”

Managing an industry of this size is no easy feat for anyone, how have you as a woman been able to succeed in steering its affairs in a male-dominated world, successfully?

“Thank you very much. It’s indeed a very interesting experience. To be honest it has not been easy but I just get on with work and deal with the challenges that come with it. The problems of Forex, Power, and Customers’ Satisfaction cannot be solved with gender preference. So, my focus is always on maximizing our available resources to deliver first-class quality products, made in Nigeria, at the most affordable prices to meet the demands of our customers.”

The sector you operate in- manufacturing- has been beset by many challenges in the last few years (FX, input costs, energy costs etc); how are you navigating these challenges to stay afloat?

“Among all these challenges, the cost of power generation and the unstable Foreign Exchange Rates are among our biggest nightmares.

“We predominantly run on diesel generators and thus have had to come up with creative strategies, amongst which is reducing our profit margins in order to remain in business.”

Industries have been urged to embrace backward integration to reduce FX exposure, how much has this helped you and how much of your needed materials are locally sourced?

“For us at Eleganza Industries, we indulge into backward integration by producing our packaging materials which has helped us to control our costs significantly amidst all the instability.”

You have been credited for a lot of the transformation efforts this business has undergone in the last decade, tell us a bit about them and how they have kept Eleganza relevant?

“I’ll begin by acknowledging that nothing we have achieved at Eleganza Industrial City would be possible without the guidance and support of our Chairman, Chief Razak Okoya. He laid the foundation by building a strong brand name for the Eleganza Group. Eleganza was mostly known for its cooling boxes and biros back in the day. I embarked on market research to determine new routes for expansion and came up with several product lines that had not been produced before.

To the Glory of God, we produce most of the party and events chairs in Nigeria right now.

Oba Elegushi

Shade Okoya

FG’s CNG Initiative Undermines Nigeria’s New Auto Policy, Auto Makers Allege

The recent announcement that the federal government will 5600 “palliative” compressed natural gas (CNG) and elecanniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has set the Nigerian automotive industry wondering why the choice of the semi knock down (SKD) assembly, which is almost like importing the vehicles fully built and “coupling” them locally, instead of getting the local manufactures to build them.

The stakeholders alleged that this decision by the government goes against the spirit of the new Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP-2023).

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, had in a press statement recently announced that the vehicles and 20,000 CNG conversion kits, worth about N100 billion, were procured as part of the many intervention programmes to reduce the burden of increase in the pump prices of petroleum products following the removal of petrol subsidy on May 29, 2023.

Onanuga disclosed that the PCNGI committee’s plan to deploy “CNG buses and tricycles and the vision to get at least one million natural gas-

driven vehicles on Nigerian roads by 2027, will mark a major energy transition in our country’s transportation industry.”

With many vehicles, including trucks and buses running on CNG, and electric vehicles infrastructure expanding, the use of more expensive diesel and PMS will gradually be phased out.

Four plants owned by JET Motors, Mikano Motors, Kojo Motors, and Brilliant EV “located in various parts of the country,” are involved in the assembly of the semi knocked down (SKD) components of the CNG buses.

The press statement informed that JET Motors, “is coupling” the buses in Lagos towards of the Tinubu administration.

But the disclosures in the presidential press in the Nigerian auto manufacturing sector.

Some of the key players and stakeholders have been wondering the criteria (if there were actually some) adopted by the PCNGI committee the huge patronage, and why the SKD option, which will have little or no impact on the local industry, was chosen.

With the exception of Brillant, which it has Automotive Manufacturers Association of Nigeria

in the industry. The option of SKD assembly, which is almost like importing the vehicles fully built and “coupling” them locally, has also been heavily knocked by the stakeholders as being against the spirit of the new Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP-2023).

Reacting to what he described as government’s policy inconsistency in the auto sector, the Managing Director of D.V.C Ltd, Dr. David Obi, said it was unfortunate that years after vehicle plants like PAN Nigeria, Kaduna; ANAMMCO, Enugu; Volkswagen in Lagos; and lately, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd (IVM) in Nnewi, took giant steps in CKD mode of auto which has little or no local value addition.

“Are we moving forward or going backwards?” asked Obi who was once the Chairman of ALCMAN, the umbrella body of automotive local content manufacturers in Nigeria. “If we did not do it before, it would have been understandable. But, these companies did CKD production years ago and I supplied chemicals and sealants to some of them. So, why are we going back to SKD?”

Obi, who until recently, was the Chairman of the auto group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), argued against the production

of the 6000 units scheduled for delivery this year and the total of one million for production between now and 2027, based on SKD.

According to him, “coupling” vehicles on SKD basis, is also an irony considering that the NAIDP-2023 for which an inter-agency and inter-ministerial committee was inaugurated early this month by the Industry Trade & Investment Minister, Dr. Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, is promoting “the transition of SKD to CKD type of automotive manufacturing over the next 10 years.”

This is a view shared by the General Manager of a company behind the success of a Japanese brand in the local auto industry, who pleaded anonymity.

He lamented a situation where the NAIDP-2023 seems to be signposting the way forward, while the implementers “are suddenly approving something else and giving contracts to companies who have not delivered such tasks before.”

He further remarked, “How were the companies that won the contracts even selected? Was there a transparent bid process? If so, how come an entirely new assembly plant that is yet to commence operation was awarded the contract for the assembly of tricycles?

And, what roles are the existing and popular bus assemblers and manufacturers with pedigree playing in the entire presidential CNG initiative?”

The question of whether there was a bid process was addressed by another key player in the industry, and Managing Director of Transit Support Services Ltd (TSS), Mr. Frank Nneji, who took a wider view of the bus contract, declaring that assembling the vehicles locally whether on

The most important thing, he stated, is to advance the local production capabilities and create better technical transfer. This is in addition to the larger public being served through lower costs of transportation.

Nneji further stated, “The information that orders have been placed is not new one. I also know that sometime ago, there was some kind of competitive bid. We (TSS) were called in to participate. In a competitive bid, the experts have the right based on their criteria to choose what they want or who they want based on the laid down criteria.”

But, not a few of the other auto makers and stakeholders have since cast a huge question mark on the claim of a bid process by the PCNGI committee, even as some have questioned the composition of the “experts” none of whom is a member of the auto manufacturers association or is a core industry player.

They argued that since the “experts” are not auto makers, and may not have even heard of the Auto Policy (NAIDP 2023) not to talk of

and CKD or know who has capacity to produce what vehicle.”

Interestingly, when contacted on Wednesday, two prominent managers in PAN, Kaduna and ANAMMCO, Enugu, said their companies were neither contacted to bid to produce the buses, nor were they even aware.

Similarly, speaking on phone, the Chairman of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Co Ltd, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, CON, said his company, which is a member of NAMA, did not know when the bid process opened or when it closed.

Chery Captivates Lagos with Spectacular Roadshow

Chery, the renowned automotive brand synonymous with innovation and elegance, delighted Lagos residents with a mesmerizing roadshow yesterday.

The event, featuring a captivating procession from the Carloha showroom to the iconic Palms Mall through scenic routes, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Ikoyi, and Victoria Island, culminated in a vibrant celebration at the Palms.

The roadshow extravaganza, a testament to Chery’s commitment to engaging experiences, showcased the brand’s latest masterpiece, the Tiggo 8 Pro,Tiggo 4 pro and Arrizo 5, in an unforgettable manner.

The highlight of the event was a unique “Sip and Paint” session led by a notable artist, who skillfully captured the essence of the Tiggo 8 Pro on canvas. Guests were invited to unleash their creativity as they painted their own interpretations of the iconic Chery logo, adding their personal touch to the artistic narrative.

The climax of the evening came with a breathtaking moment as Eben, acclaimed for

his impressionistic prowess, unveiled his masterpiece - a stunning portrayal of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro. The artwork, met with awe and admiration from attendees, encapsulated the essence of Chery’s dedication to innovation, style, and sophistication.

The roadshow not only showcased Chery’s exceptional vehicles but also celebrated the spirit of creativity and community. It provided a platform for guests to immerse themselves in the world of art and automotive excellence, forging unforgettable memories along the way.

Carloha promises to provide automotive solutions to customers by emphasizing on the 6 years free service and 6 years warranty or 200,000 km, whichever

“Chery extends its heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, partners, and supporters who contributed to the success of this extraordinary event. As the brand continues its journey of innovation and inspiration, it remains dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences that captivate hearts and minds,” Carloha officials said.

CNG-powered bus built by Innoson in Nnewi, Anambra Sate

Chery Arrizo 5 Smart sedan

GLOBAL SOCCER

Kelechi

Kelechi Iheanacho Where Next?

With just 22 appearances for Leicester City in the English Championship out of a possible 43,and several of them coming in from the bench,Kelechi Iheanacho’s days at

the King

Power Stadium seem to be numbered.Manager,Enzo Maresca for most part of the season preferred the frontline duo of JamieVardy and Patson Daka to the Nigerian and they have not let him down.With the contract of the 2023AFCON silver medalist expiring this summer and the egg heads of the Foxes not showing any sign of renewal,there is every indication that the Super Eagles forward would have to ply his trade elsewhere next season

With a meagre 105 minutes in four appearances for Leicester City since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast and wasn’t even considered for a place on the bench in Foxes 5-0 demolition of Southampton midweek inspite of not being injured, Kelechi Iheanacho does not need a soothsayer to tell him he’s no longer in the plans of manager Enzo Maresca. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, speculation is rife regarding his future, with clubs like Fenerbahce SK, Trabzonspor, Galatasaray, Besiktas and Crystal Palace reportedly interested in securing his services.

According to transfer insider, Dean Jones, Kelechi Iheanacho’s days at Leicester City appear numbered predicting the striker’s departure this summer.

The Nigerian forward’s contract expires in June and with Leicester on the cusp of returning to the Premier League, a move away seems increasingly likely.

Iheanacho, who many expected to flourish in the Championship, hasn’t been very impressive, registering just six goals in 25 appearances.

The 27-year-old’s lack of playing time further strengthens the case for his departure.

Iheanacho has only started a meager 23 per cent of Leicester’s Championship fixtures, a clear indication that manager

Maresca doesn’t see him as a key part of his plans.

Even when Vardy’s latest injury concern was reported last weekend many thought it would open door for Iheanacho’s playing time, but it was not to be as Maresca still prefered a not fully fit Vardy to Iheanacho against Southampton.

“We have some doubts over Jamie (Vardy) who had a kick in the week and Ricky Ricardo Pereira because of the amount of games he has played. Kiernan has been unwell. Kasey is back. “Very significant. For Jamie and Ricky, it’s more a physical problem. Kiernan has been just unwell. We still have 24 hours. We’ll see if we can. Rumours are however rife suggesting that the Nigeria forward fell out of favour with Maresca for choosing to represent his country at the tournament against the manager’s wishes.

With his contract expiring, Leicester are unlikely to offer him an extension, paving the way for a free transfer.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones hinted Iheanacho’s next destination could be Turkey. Super Lig giants Trabzonspor have reportedly expressed an interest in the striker.

Jones believes that a move to Turkey might be the most realistic option for Iheanacho.

“It looks like he will leave Leicester, and at the moment, the most likely path for

him to take is to Turkey. Trabzonspor are one of the teams for him, and these sorts of options might have to become very real, even though it seems to be early in his career,” said Jones.

“From a Leicester point of view, keeping him doesn’t seem a wise move as he is one of the higher earners in that side, and he has only started 10 games in a season when they are going for a Championship promotion.”

The Turkish stalwarts are not alone in their quest of securing the signature of Iheanacho, as Pr emier League side Crystal Palace appear to be monitoring the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup winner’s contract situation, hoping to sign him on a free transfer.

The 2023 AFCON silver medalist has racked up a combi ned total of 231 appearances for the Foxes since joining from Manchester City in 2017, registering a total of 61 goals.

Recent reports emanating however indicates that Iheanacho may snub Galatasaray, Fenerbahce and Besiktas for Premier League return as he is reportedly considering a departure from Leic ester City as his contract with the club approaches its end this season.

Iheanacho’s time on the pitch has been limited since his return from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament. This

lack of consistent playing opportunities has fueled speculation that he may be looking to move on from the Foxes. In light of his situation, several Turkish clubs, including Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, and Besiktas, have shown strong interest in acquiring the services of the Nigerian attacker. They see him as a potential key addition to their squads and are eager to bolster their attacking options.

However, amidst the Turkish interest, Crystal Palace has emerged as a contender for Iheanacho’s signature. The Premier League club has been actively scouting Super Eagles talents and is keen to add Iheanacho to their roster, alongside fellow Nigerian stars Wilfred Ndidi and Raphael Onyedika.

Reports have it that despite the allure of a potential move to Turkey, Iheanacho’s heart may be set on a return to the Premier League. His desire for regular playing time and the chance to prove himself in one of Europe’s top leagues could sway his decision in favour of Crystal Palace.

If Crystal Palace can offer him the opportunity to be a key figure in their squad, it may be an offer too good to refuse.

It however remains to be seen where the next destination of Iheanacho would be as he is bound to leave King Power Stadium next season.

Iheanacho opened his goal account for Leicester in the Championship against Stoke City

Tottenham, Arsenal Divide North London in I95th Derby

With Arsenal aiming to win the Premier League for first time since 2023/24 season,Tottenham Hotspur are hoping for a top four finish, therefore both sides have everything to play for as they go head-to-head in tomorrow’s 195th North London derby at the new White Hart Lane.While the LilyWhite’s would be coming to the encounter fresh having not been involved in any game since April 13,Arsenal would however be boosted by the 5-0 demolition of another London side-Chelsea onTuesday

Looking to take the next step towards their first Premier League title in two decades, Arsenal will make the short trip across the capital to face fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby tomorrow afternoon at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Gunners are coming into this clash following a five-star demolition of West Londoners Chelsea on Tuesday night, whereas the Lilywhites have been afforded a fortnight to dwell on their limp display at Newcastle United earlier in the month.

In what is a total rarity at this stage of a hectic campaign, Manchester City’s involvement in the latter stages of the FA Cup has allowed Tottenham a two-week break between Sunday’s North London

derby and their last fixture on April 13, when the Lilywhites produced an insipid display at St James’ Park to seriously dent their top-four hopes.

With the North East contest pitting two sides who have struggled massively with inconsistency this season, it was Newcastle who managed a positive day at the expense of Spurs, with Alexander Isak’s brace - alongside strikes from Anthony Gordon and Fabian Schar - sealing a 4-0 win for Eddie Howe’s Magpies.

Since that defeat a fortnight ago, Champions League-chasing rivals, Aston Villa have recorded back-to-back wins over Arsenal and Bournemouth to extend their advantage on Ange Postecoglou’s men to six points, however the Lilywhites crucially have played two games fewer than Unai Emery’s troops.

Consequently, it is needless to say that Spurs cannot afford any more poor performances if they wish to bring Postecoglou’s full-throttle football to Europe’s premier stage next season - a brief that appears extremely difficult considering that the Gunners, Liverpool and Pep Guardiola’s Citizens are still to come before the campaign’s end.

With Harry Kane now battling away for Champions League glory in Bavaria with Bayern Munich, Son Heung-min is the last-remaining North London derby legend for the Lilywhites ahead of Sunday’s clash, with the South Korean netting six goals and providing two assists versus Arsenal over the years, including a brilliant brace earlier in the season to force a share of the spoils.

Following successive defeats to Aston Villa and Bayern Munich, there

were plenty of concerns that Arsenal’s season was about to capitulate at a critical moment, although Mikel Arteta’s men are back on track after convincing wins over Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea in the Premier League.

A London derby on Tuesday night had some of the ingredients of a potential slip-up for the Gunners as Mauricio Pochettino’s side visited to the Emirates, however a pair of braces from Ben White and Kai Havertz - as well as Leandro Trossard’s opener - sealed a 5-0 success against the Blues, representing Arsenal biggest-ever victory over Chelsea.

Following Manchester City’s 4-0 thumping of Brighton & Hove Albion on Thursday night, Arsenal’s lead at the summit of the Premier League standings stands at a single point ahead of Guardiola’s double-chasing Citizens, who are showing no signs of weakness as the title race approaches its dramatic conclusion.

Consequently, you feel as if there is going to be little room for error if Arsenal want to prevent Man City from collecting a record-breaking fourth straight English crown, with matches against Spurs, Bournemouth, Manchester United and Sean Dyche’s Everton on the horizon before the end of the term. Much has been made of the Gunners’ lack of a natural-striking option this season, however the sensational form of Champions League winner Havertz has put that discussion on the backburner in recent weeks, with the German now sitting on 11 top-flight goals for the campaign.

PREMIER LEAGUE

Premier League Table

Tottenham’s James Maddison shadowed by Arsenal duo of Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard

SOCCER

Eagles Striker, Boniface Hails Alonso, Says He

Helps Improve His Game

NPFL Suspends League Action by One Month for Rivers United

The board of the Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL, have announced that all league fixtures will be postponed for a month.

The announcement was made on Thursday to allow Rivers United to complete their outstanding games on or before May 18. A week’s break will ensue before all 20 teams resume on the 25th of May.

In a memo released by the NPFL Chief Operating Officer,

Davidson Owumi, it was stated that the league was put on hold to provide a level playing platform for all teams going into the last six fixtures of the season.

Rivers United have played 26 games in the league so far, while most of the teams have played 31 games already. This is due to the club’s participation in the CAF Confederations Cup.

Matchday 32 will go on this weekend as scheduled, but after, all teams in the league except

Rivers United will go on break for a month. The President’s Federations Cup will also be played during that period; currently, it is in the round of 64.

Rivers United defeated Katsina United 2-0 on Thursday. They are 12th on the NPFL table with 40 points from 26 matches. Should they win all their outstanding five matches, they will dethrone Rangers who are currently top of the table with 54 points.

Ndidi, Iheanacho Promoted to Premier League with Leicester

Leicester City have won promotion back to the Premier League at the first attempt after Leeds collapsed to a shock 4-0 thrashing by QPR yesternight. Goals by Ilias Chair, Lucas Andersen, Lyndon Dykes and Sam Field have severely damaged Leeds’ own hopes of earning promotion, with Ipswich now in the driving seat to finish as runners-up behind the Foxes Leeds had to win tonight to suspend Leicester’s promotion party and ensure they themselves remained in the hunt for a return to the Premier League.

Instead, Leicester’s place in next season’s top-flight was sealed before Enzo Maresca’s side take to the field against Preston on Monday night.

Former midfielder Maresca was the surprise choice to lead Leicester back to the Premier League. The Italian had enjoyed the best possible coaching education as assistant manager to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Leicester’s style has taken inspiration from the reigning Premier League champions.

Maresca’s previous experience as a head coach included an ill-fated 14-game reign at Parma. He had also overseen City’s U21 side in the first of two spells on the Etihad campus. The 44-year-old credits Guardiola for his understanding of the game.

“I’ve been lucky, I’ve worked under Carlo Ancelotti, Marcello Lippi, Manuel Pellegrini, all fantastic managers, but in terms of understanding the game, Pep has 100 per cent had an impact on me,” Maresca said last August.

Klopp Backs Slot to Replicate His Legacy at Liverpool

Liverpool boss, Jurgen Klopp has said he likes the way Feyenoord manager and potential successor Arne Slot’s team play football.

The Reds are in talks with the Dutch club about recruiting Slot to replace Klopp, who is leaving at the end of the season.

Slot confirmed on Thursday that he hopes to get the Anfield job and that “the clubs are in negotiations”.

“I like a lot about it if he is the one who wants to take the job,” said Klopp, who has not been involved in the process of finding his successor.

“I like the way his team play football, all the things I hear about him as a guy say he’s a good guy. “I like that a lot - good guy, good coach and looking forward for the club if he is the solution. I’m more than happy, it sounds all really good.” The attacking style of the 45-year-old and his ability to develop players, along with his personality, are believed to appeal to Liverpool.

Slot led Feyenoord to the 2022-23 Eredivisie title, while this season they have won the Dutch Cup and are set to finish second in their league.

Asked about the job Slot would be taking on if appointed, Klopp added: “Best job in the world, best club in the world. Now it looks like [Slot is] helped by [Liverpool] not finishing on a high so there’s space for improvement.”

Liverpool’s defeat by Everton on Wednesday severely dented their Premier League title hopes. It was a second defeat in three games for the Reds, who have earned just four points from the last 12 on offer. They are three points behind leaders Arsenal and two behind second-placed Manchester City, who have a game in hand.

NOGIG 2024: NNPCL Tops Table as Curtain Falls

The 19th Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games end today at the main bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. The Games which began Sunday, April 21, will be declared closed by the CEO of NNPC Ltd, Malam Mele Kolo Kyari. He will be assisted by CEOs of various participating IOCs.

The Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh is also expected to grace the closing ceremony.

The high points of the closing day’s activities include the finals of the male and female 4x100meters relays, 200 and 100 meters races. There will also be

a lot of side attractions to look up to. Meanwhile, unless there is a dramatic change of fortune, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPC looks set to win the 19th Nigeria Oil and Gas In dustry Games.

Team NNPC who are the defending champions are currently topping the medal table with a total of 24 medals, as at c lose of events yesterday. A breakdown of the medals shows that the company has won seven gold, five silver and 12 bronze medals.

The Oil giants are closely followed by Team Chevron with four gold, three silver

and four bronze medals, while NLNG follows with four g old, two silver and five bronze medals.

NCDMB is breathing down their necks with three gold, four silver and three bronze medals. Other companies that are on the medals table include Shell with two gold three, silver and four bronze medals, while Total Energies with one gold and five bronze medals are placed as SEPLAT with a solitary gold are placed seventh.

ExxonMobil, NMDPRA, NUPRC and PTI have also put up some encouraging showings at the Games. Only ARADEL and OANDO were yet to win a medal as at press time.

Bayer Leverkusen and Nigeria striker, Victor Boniface said Xabi Alonso has a particular advantage over other coaches on the training pitch.

“Imagine you’re training and your coach is doing better than you,” Boniface told AFP in an interview. “Then you want to step up your game. “For him to be involved in training gives us a boost,” Boniface said of Alonso, who “has won everything that can be won in football”.

“Sometimes he tells me of players he played with, with similar abilities to me. He tries to improve me in my weakest areas.” Leverkusen host thirdplaced Stuttgart today knowing they are four games away from becoming the first team to go through a Bundesliga season unbeaten.

Their runs to the German Cup

final, where they face seconddivision Kaiserslautern, and Europa League semi-finals, where they take on Roma, mean they have gone a record 45 games unbeaten in all competitions this season.

Boniface, 23, was born in the southern Nigerian city of Akure and told AFP he was “always” a football fan.

Earlier this month, he coolly dispatched a penalty to open the scoring in the 5-0 home rout of Werder Bremen which made Leverkusen Bundesliga champions for the first time.

Leverkusen had never previously won a league title in their 120-year history. The club’s record of second-placed finishes -- often somehow snatching defeat from the jaws of victory -- saw them tainted with the unwanted ‘Neverkusen’ moniker, but Boniface

said he was not nervous when he took the spot-kick.

“No. To be honest, I didn’t feel pressure. We’re football players.

“Moments like this -- I took the responsibility to help the team. That’s why I’m here. I love penalties.”

The pressure of a spot-kick pales in comparison with some of the struggles Boniface has already endured in his young career.

He moved from Nigeria to Norway at 18, signing with Bodo/Glimt. Despite playing a part in the club’s first-ever Norwegian title in 2020, he tore his ACL twice and later said he considered quitting the game.

After a successful stint with Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, he moved to Leverkusen last July, receiving his first Super Eagles call-up earlier this season, which he called “a dream come true”.

Participants Jostle for Honours at The Athletics School Games

Yaba College of Technology Sports Centre will come alive today, as 15 schools across Lagos State vie for hnours at The Athletics School Games (TASG).

TASG is a groundbreaking annual event set to redefine the athletics landscape in Lagos and it has been sanctioned by theLagos State Athletics Association (LSAA)-sanctioned as a brainchild of Seun Akinbohun, a sports enthusiast, with the sole aim of elevating youth athletics in the country.

Speaking at a media parley held in Lagos on Wednesday April 24, Founder of TASG, Akinbohun said, “We aim to unearth hidden gems by providing them with a stage to showcase their skills, passion,

and dedication. The Athletics School Games (TASG) is not just about winning medals; it’s about shaping the character and aspirations of our youth, instilling in them the values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience that will serve them both on and off the field.”

“The games encompass a variety of track and field events, including sprints, middle-distance races, hurdles, shot put, long jump, high jump, and javelin. This diverse range of activities ensures that athletes can showcase their skills across multiple disciplines, contributing to the overall success of their school in the league. Beyond the quest for victory, The Athletics School Games place a strong emphasis on sportsmanship.

Athletes will have the opportunity to forge new friendships, learn from one another, and appreciate the value of fair play. This focus on character development is integral to the event’s mission of nurturing well-rounded individuals,” she added.

She, however, said, “We are committed to delivering an event of unparalleled quality and excellence. From top-notch facilities to expertly curated competitions, every aspect of The Athletics School Games is designed to rival the best youth events worldwide. We aspire to set a new standard, one that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the World Athletics and other global governing bodies.”

Afikun ‘Ijebu’ Targets Fame at GOtv Boxing Night 31

Super welterweight boxer, Afikun “Ijebu” Gbenga, has said he aims to launch himself to limelight at GOtv Boxing Night 31, scheduled for the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, on May 1. His super welterweight challenge fight against Adewale Oladeji, is one of the seven bouts lined up for the boxing showpeiece. Speaking about his preparations for the fight, Gbenga said he wants to follow the footsteps of other local

boxers who have made a name for themselve on the GOtv Boxing Night platform.

He said: “This is a big opportunity for me to announce myslef to Nigerians. The likes of Esepor, Kadima, Babyface, Olowu, have become popular in Nigeria due to their performances at GOtv Boxing Night.

As a young boxer, these are the kind of opportunities we need, and I plan to make it the most of it.”

The biggest fight on the night will be the 10-round West Afri-

Nadal Unsure of French Open Participation

Rafael Nadal is still not sure if he is going to play at the French Open in June, saying he is sometimes only able to play at “40 per cent” at the moment. Nadal, a 14-time champion at Roland Garros, couldn’t learn much from his comfortable straight-sets win over American teenager Darwin Blanch in the first round of the Madrid Open, cruising to a 6-1 6-0 victory over the mistake-prone 16-year-old

on Thursday.

“I didn’t test much my body today,” the 37-year-old Nadal said. “I played a decent match doing the things that I had to do to be through, but at the same time I played against a player making more mistakes.”

“I try to play at my 100 per cent, but I can’t give my 100 per cent every day,” said Nadal.

“The thing is before, most of the time, I was able to give

can Boxing Union (WABU) light welterweight title clash between the cracking pair of Segun “War” Adeyemi and Adeyemi “Spirit” Adekanla, which is deemed as the biggest possible match-up in the category.

Also scheduled for the night is a national welterweight challenge between Raheem “Baddo” Animashaun and Samuel “Apata Roro” Moses.

Also, the national flyweight champion, Sifon ‘Best’ Iwatt, will take on Sikiru Ogunyaju in a national challenge bout.

my 100 per cent of the 100 per cent. Today I’m able to give my 100 per cent of sometimes 40 per cent, sometimes 60 per cent, sometimes 70 percent,andifIam able to raise this percentage day after day or week after week, why not in the future what can happen? If not, it’s impossible.”

Nadal looked in good form and showed no physical limitations in just his third competitive match since returning from his latest injury lay-off.

L-R: Brand Manager of Maltina, Clementina Kayode, Founder of TASG, Sean Akinbohun, Founding member of TASG, Keke Hammond

L-R: Past Vice President, Lagos Country Club, Otunba Olatunji Amosun; Representative, Ademiluyi Family, Prince Kanmi Ademiluyi; Winner, Under 16 Girl’s Category, Ogunkolade Bisola; Tournament Chairman, Honourable Justice Adesuyi Olateru-Olagbegi; and Olakunle Yusuff, Head, Brand and Marketing, HumanManager Limited, during the Prince Dr. Joseph Adewunmi Ademiluyi Tennis Foundation (JAATF) 20th Youth Tennis Tournament held at the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja. recently

First Lady, Not ‘Tinubu’s Wife’

YOU are welcome to the last edition this month: “Lagos commercial bus drivers protest lock up (lock-up) of garage”

“…organizes bully prevention (bully-prevention) training programme”

“…nurtured up to world standard is a testament of (to) your value not only in Ebonyi State but in Nigeria.”

“There is nothing in this country that can give hope to an ordinary man on (in) the street that one day….” The man in the street is inevitably ordinary and, therefore, does not require any worsening embellishment (ordinary) on his unfortunate circumstances!

“State Police: To be or not to be (be?)”

“Tinubu’s wife (First Lady) decries alarming rate of school dropouts among girls in Nigeria”

“…which he and his kinsmen (fellow Igbos) (fellow Igbo) initiated by….”

“…willing to fight for the realization of their ideal Sharia ruled (Sharia-ruled) Islamic state.”

Daily Trust front and inside pages of April 3 welcome us this week with this kindergartener goof: “…the first set of casualities was recorded yesterday.” Spell-check: casualties

From the front page to views: “…why did he not use his immense power against few (a few) individuals that want him out….”

“These nouveau riche (nouveaux riches) could channel their resources to insurgency cause if it suits them.”

“This is a welcomed (welcome) development….” “Dumpsites takeover (take over) Lagos communities”

“Group raises alarm (the alarm) on drug abuse” Incredible! Most Nigerian journalists, particularly reporters and copy editors, do not read hence the recurrence of blunders in the media use of language. It is indeed a tragedy

of gargantuan implications!

“Youth Ministry inaugurates anti corruption (anti-corruption) unit”

Finally from one of the inside pages of Daily Trust under review: “In October 2002, tens of heavily armed members of Islamist militant separatist movement from Chechnya laid siege on (to) the crowded….”

Daily Independent online edition of March 30 posted advertorial and editorial faulty lines:

“This is one game we have all been impatiently waiting for and the pride and honour of the nation will be upheld as the Super Eagles knockout (knock out) Ghana.”

Drink (and write) responsibly if you are 18 or above: “To leave your good will (goodwill) messages for the Super Eagles….”

Next is Leadership of April 20 which circulated four blunders: “Altogether, the apex bank said it has (had) observed that….”

“…as some BDCs (BDC) operators are reportedly using foreign exchange purchased from its window to fund unauthorized transactions.”

“For instance, the foreign reserve which early this year was $40bn have (had) fallen to $35bn last month….”

“Beyond this, there is strong indication (a strong indication) that the operation of BDCs has encouraged the dollarisation (dollarization—no spelling variation in this particular etymological circumstance) of the economy and money laundering.”

“MTNF/MUSON Music Scholars (Scholars’) Programme: Applicants who possess the above practical or theory (theoretical) certificates must also satisfy the GCE (O/L) or SSCE requirements.” (Full-page advertisement by MTN…Everywhere you go!)

“Poor electricity: PENGASSAN calls for revocation of new DISCOs licenses (DISCO licences)”

“AGF blames N’Assembly over (for/on) delay in

implementation of audited Federation Accounts”

“We most sincerely thank God on (for) your aptly deserved recognition….”

“Fondly (Fond) regards from us all.” (Hanging sign-off sentence…!)

Corrigendum: A critical and eagle-eyed reader intervened last week, after some scholasticism, and professorially declared that the phrase ‘nooks and crannies’ exists. This columnist agrees with him based on the revelations of Oxford Learner’s Dictionary (International Student’s Edition) with Compass CD-ROM.

THE NATION ON SUNDAY of April 21 smuggled in ‘lexical contraband’: “Inhabitants of Totowu Village, Igbesa in Ogun State (another comma) may not be fishermen but they cannot do without canoes as their daily activities revolve around it (them)….”

“Why Ogoni is at logger heads (loggerheads) with Shell”

“…he gives fresh insights on (into) the lingering crisis between Shell and its host community in Ogoni land.”

THE NATION, SATURDAY, April 20, offered readers many slip-ups: “Don’t get me wrong, the fashion of yesteryears (yesteryear) was also very interesting, filled with sartorial splendour.”

“…the JNC report would most likely end up in the waste paper basket but the point would have been well made.” An illumination: wastebasket (American English) or wastepaper basket (British English)

Daily Trust of April 9 slipped several times:

“NDLEA arrests food vendor over (for) cocaine in private part”

“…the minister said no fewer than 5.3 million youths are (were) jobless in the country, while 1.8 million graduates enter (entered) the labour market every year.”

“…top shots spill the bean (beans)”

Vanguard of April 10 fumbled so many times:

What’s Greater than a Good Name?

Recently, I got a strange call from my professional friend, and long distance conversationalist, Bolu (not real name). After the usual pleasantries, he staggered me with his series of questions and comments. “When is Otunba Mike Adenuga’s birthday? I know it’s in April,” was his first salvo. Equally, straight faced, I replied: “I believe it’s on April 29”.

“My friend, we use British English here, have you forgotten? It should be 29 April!” Slightly peeved, I retorted: “Shey, it’s a lecture you called me for, abi what again?”

“Ol’boy, no vex… but really life is not working out well for me… I need to get his attention, so he can also be my benefactor…”.

Apparently, one had lost the way; so we asked: “Whose attention are you getting?” I asked innocently. “Adenuga, of course,” he snapped back at me, and continued: “I may have to use Paul Dairo’s style or one of your Angel of Hope interventions.”

He could read the shock and confusion in my grunts, so he quickly added: “I also have a serious challenge that if well publicised, and moderated in the right quarters, could attract Adenuga’s attention, especially as the media will be awash with goodwill messages and other platitudes during his birthday week.”

I was speechless. But Bolu was relentless: “I know the man is genuinely caring, and blessed enough to help people - remember you told me how people like Adenuga were supportive of your ‘Angel of Hope’ programmes… Well, if you still insist that your focus is for ‘hopeless children’, I do have a child who also needs medical treatment - it’s even more desperate than my own as it involves a congenital heart disease we have been dealing with for ten years.”

Stunned and bemused at once, I tried to stop Bolu: “What are you talking about? Are you serious? Paul Dairo’s style? Angel

of Hope? Mr. Man, you’re not communicating.”

“I’m dead serious, my friend,” Bolu replied without a break in the gravity of his voice. “I will send you a transcript of Paul’s statement that you posted in April last year. I missed the live radio programme you dedicated to his 70th birthday last year…but trust you to give us a written recap. I want to be able to share that kind of statement, and speak of the man with that sort of gratitude. Adenuga must do something for me too, or more importantly, for my son.”

My closing remarks: “Please, send it…I didn’t know your case is that serious o… you won’t believe the coincidence: we are working on the review case of the boy with a hole in the heart whom we collaborated with others to help get surgery in India in 2017. He needs another surgery. Maybe Adenuga will hear his cry, and yours too… and God will touch his heart for your sake.”

Less than five minutes after our call ended, Bolu sent me this, and republished verbatim: The story is titled ‘Incredible Story of How Adenuga Saved Me From Jaws of Death - Paul Play Dairo’ (broadcast on TopRadio 90.9 FM of Saturday, 29 April, 2023; and dubbed ‘MikeAdenuga@70 Special Episode’ on The Vintage Talkshow’)...:

“Paul Play Dairo: He’s my godfather; he’s my benefactor; he’s my mentor…he’s my everything. He took me a long time to be able to talk about the issue I had in 2009 in South Africa. In fact, I was at the point of death. I just went to shoot my video… the next thing I saw was that I was peeing blood…to the extent that when I got to the hospital, the doctor told me that I had only one week to survive…

“Well, at that moment I started arranging myself, my finances…in the midst of that, while I was on my hospital bed, in the Intensive Care Unit…the Dr. (Adenuga) called me… I don’t know how he heard. He said in Yoruba, “Paul, kilon ṣe ? (What’s

“Bravo, Our God-sent Governor…” Get it right: our godsend governor

“Why Fulani, farmers clash may continue— Northern Christian youths” National News: farmers’ clash

“FG okays 6 months (months’) imprisonment for smoking in public”

“Marketing Edge holds stakeholders (stakeholders’) summit”

“Atiku’s friend, Gado (another comma) who told the heart rendering story said….” Crime Watch: heart-rending story

‘Deworming’ (sometimes known as worming or drenching) is a medical/animal science terminology. It is a procedure for expelling worms from the intestines etcetera of humans and animals. Hence the familiar drugs known as ‘worm expellers’ or ‘dewormers’ which scientists call anti-helminthic. The Global Charity Evidence Action Initiative is well known for its ‘Deworm the World Program’. Merriam Webster Dictionary and online dictionaries like The Free Dictionary and English language portals like Google, Wikipedia, Ask.com, Dictionary.com and Grammarly.com approve the word. (Sunny Agbontaen/Benin City/08055162531), with additional information by this columnist

THE next five blunders are from THE NATION ON SUNDAY of April 14 and Vanguard Allure of April 7: “A majority of the youths having not attended primary schools….” Get it right: youths or the youth

“And for the medical school to be at per (par or on a par) with others….”

“When somebody is in a dire straight (in dire straits)….”

“Indeed, people seat (sit) in their comfort zone and blame….”

“…on a daily basis to irk (eke) out a living for themselves.” (THE NATION, Saturday, April 20)

the matter with you, Paul?) Well, I told him… I had a tumour on my kidney, and doctors say I’ve to take it out, or else the tumour would spread…and if it spreads, there is nothing else anybody can do… It was a terrible moment for me… in fact, when I was talking to him, I was crying…. He said, “ok…ma worry, everything will be okay”.

“The next thing I know somebody came from their office in South Africa…he brought me…I don’t know if I can mention that kind of amount…in fact, all the bills that I was piling up to pay…it was like nonsense…like nothing! Otunba Mike Adenuga paid all the bills… in fact, after the surgery, he told his manager to call me: “I want to come to South Africa to see Paul…he must not leave South Africa now…”

“Because I was already planning how to get back to work in Lagos… he called and said, “what are you coming to do in Lagos… don’t you want to recuperate?”

“The Chairman had booked a suite for me in South Africa… in one of the best areas of South Africa. I stayed in that suite for a whole month… I don’t want to mention the amount of money that was paid for my stay there…

FAJ: I beg don’t…we don’t want to have nightmares after calculating (general laughter).

PPD: Baba has done a lot for me… if I begin to recount some of the things he has done for me, we won’t leave here today…

“There was a time he told me to go to South Africa…I went… you know, a lot of musicians, when it comes to dealing with people of that level…you know, elites…they might say let me take advantage, because he’s a rich man…I want to

do business with him. I didn’t mention any amount… I said “Oya!”... I went to South Africa without thinking about the cost… agreement… I jumped into the plane… I was in South Africa for two weeks… then Baba sent a message to me… Paul has been in South Africa for two weeks, what is he doing? He has finished the work, and he’s still there… But I just want (to be) there to see what’s going on…

“Baba sent $13,000 for me to go and buy peppermint…and ice cream! That’s how generous the man is… He’s a man with a heart of gold.”

Well, in a couple of days, it will be another birthday celebration for the enigmatic business mogul famous for his philanthropic outreaches. Let us end this piece as we did 12 months ago: “Otunba Mike Adenuga…if you get to read this article…we thank you for what you did for us (18) years ago…and (you must be tired of hearing this)... for what you continue to do for your culture, your state, your nation and your continent…including the monumental and often stupendous generosity you show to friends, acquaintances and complete strangers whose foibles and anguish touch a chord in you…to stretch forth a massive helping hand…again and again. Your years will continue to be a testimony of honour, a tapestry of inspiration and a global index of a uniquely magnificent specie divinely planted in a wan and weary nation…to give life…salve wounds…lift broken spirits… mend crooked systems…and soar over adversity and diversity as the authentic spirit of the African experience”.

Happy 71st anniversary to the colossus bred as Michael Adeniyi Agbolade Ishola Adenuga.

“All of us fought for you to be there, and Wike fought for you to be there. So if you want to continue to insult Wike, be prepared, you will run. You’re just a civil servant, you’re not a politician. You have not paid any price that we have paid in the past... From tomorrow, we will be observing your supporters, we will be observing your followers. Any further attempts to insult the president of Nigeria, to insult our grand patron, Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, then be ready for war, and you will pay the price” –Bright Amaewhule, a loyalist of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, warning Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, over alleged insults directed at the former governor.

OKEY IKECHUKWU

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

Thoughts on Tinubu’s Planned School Census

The decision of President Bola Tinubu to inflict a census on the Nigerian school system is a welcome one. Education planning and development of a nation’s human capital industry without reliable data is like heading into battle armed with guesswork about your enemy’s military capabilities. Until a few years ago, the nation paraded the claim that Nigeria had 10 million children out of school. Development partners, the National Assembly, education planners and the Federal Ministry of Education swore by this data.

Then, without any basis in logic, study of demographic trends, or commonsense whatsoever, a new figure of 13 million out of school children was announced by everyone – and by no one in particular. Just like that! And that was after bandying around the 10 million out of school children figure for about 11 years. Pathetic, is it not?

Let us do a little math and, perhaps up-end the spurious statistics about out-of-school children in Nigeria, generally. Let us suppose that 19 states of the North each has one million children out of school. Let us also suppose that 17 southern states each has half a million children out of school. That will give you nearly 30 million out of school children in Nigeria. If you, however, decide to move from guesswork to actual calculations, knowing the contribution of states like Kano, Sokoto and a few others to the number of out of school children, then you must conclude that we have been cheerfully kidding ourselves; perhaps for too long, about statistics, national planning and national development.

That is why the presidential directive, calling for a census that would provide reliable and real-time data for meaningful planning, is a development that would enable the detection and better understanding and management of the number and specific needs of all schools in Nigeria, from primary to tertiary level. This is really more of an audit, to determine their present conditions and live-in facilities, their proximity to each other, and their infrastructural needs.

Beyond the foregoing, part of the expected outcomes includes reliable data on the number of teachers in the country, their qualifications, training support received, the self-development initiatives they can explore, as well as the number of pupils and students in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. Not to be left out in the gamut of data to be gathered are the gender, academic performance and other indices that would give a holistic picture for meaningful interventions in the sector.

Looking at the government’s Data Repository, Out-of-School Children Education, Teacher Training and Development, and Skill Development and Acquisition (DOTS) policy initiative, the only conclusion one can draw is that the aim is to completely and comprehensively transform the education

sector and upgrade overall human capital development. This would mean bringing about different, and improved, learning outcomes, skill acquisition and overall academic security of the nation’s learning demographics.

Because the information to be derived will aid federal and state interventions in teacher training, provision of teaching aids, etc., it is expected that the resulting data on gender-specific learning at various levels of the educational system, drop-out rates, indigency, and more will be monitored through dedicated portals/dashboards in the Federal Ministry of Education, offices of state governors, and local government chairpersons.

At least that is the idea and intendment. The hope is that the implied gain that is presupposed by this drive, which should help the government track the progress of students and use evidence-based, data-driven machinery to guide its interventions are realized. This should be very useful when you consider the problem of planning for out-of-school children, the girl child and others with specific learning disabilities.

In contrast to the foregoing, there was a lot of idle pretensions about educational development under the immediate past President, Muhhamadu Buhari. He left on a rather questionable note on education matters. Recall that his last Federal Executive Council (FEC) proved the sum of 4.7 billion for the construction of seven Model Schools in the six geo-political zones of the country, and Abuja. That decision prompted an article on this page on May 31, 2019, titled “Objection Mr. President”.

The article under reference, in objecting to the initiative, said: “The federal government can choose one Unity School from each of the geo-political zones and upgrade it to a Model School, or school of reference of some sort, instead of starting fresh school projects.

A simple costs-benefits analysis shows that 4.7 billion Naira will go a very long way in rescuing the schools. To build new model schools is to award building contracts to “reliable” contractors. Construction of the schools will probably take some two years, or more, to be followed by the provision of state-of-the-art amenities; which essentially boils down to a series of procurement contracts”.

The article continued: “The seven Model Schools will not make any impact whatsoever on human capital development, or contribute to the growth of education, one way or another in Nigeria in the next five years. But upgrading some Unity School will do just that within the same timeframe. So, the proposed new schools will be nothing but a major capital project, resting on the mistaken assumption that the provision of learning infrastructure is the same thing as sustainable investment in education”.

On the matter of the unwisdom of the move, the article continued thus: “It is not right that we should have a huge budgetary provision that will go down on record as proof of government commitment to education when it is not. We should not be content to celebrate cash evidence of massive government investment in education, when in fact the name of the Nigerian child is being taken in vain by contractors and government jobbers. Who builds models schools without simultaneously training Models Teachers? Should part of this freshly budgeted sum of 4.7 billion not perhaps go into strengthening the National Teachers Institute (NTI), the Teachers Registration Council (TRC) and probably reinvigorating the academic content and quality of various faculties of education nationwide/ do our teacher-producing facilities not need specialized short courses on contemporary teaching and learning paradigms and much more?

My take today, regarding the current move of the Tinubu government on school census, is that the Presidency must note and emphasize the difference between investment in physical infrastructure for education, and/ or learning environment, and investment in learning, teacher education, teacher knowledge upgrade, up-scaling of learning outcomes and other measures that would impact the quality of the products of our school system.

That article pointed out that “The expenditure of most states of the federation on education over the last twenty years of our democracy shows huge budgetary allocations to education, at the same time that we also show a precipitous decline in educational standards and learning outcomes. Some states with very high records of expenditure for classroom rehabilitation, the supply of desks, books, etc., also have the worst teacher training, school enrolment and retention records. Check the investment of the federal and state governments on the training of teachers, provision of teaching aids and more in the last 20 years. So, let us pull the blinkers off our eyes and get real”.

Besides the above objectionable intervention of FEC under Buhari, referenced above,

this column had also cause to pick on the government of Kebbi State, on June 14, 2021; for the same blunder of mistaking investment in physical infrastructure for realistic investment in education. That was after the state government pulled the sum of N4.5billion for the construction and renovation of schools; with other reports suggesting that the state government was also to build brand new schools in every local government of the state.

Though the case of Kebbi was almost made less offensive by the fact that no fewer than 758 primary school teachers were said to be undergoing training on methodologies to impart more knowledge on students at the same time that the construction work was going on makes, the following questions were still addressed to the Kebbi State Government by the article, at the time: “(1) Is there a difference between expenditure on education infrastructure and actual investment in education and human capital development? (2) How many candidates enrolled for SSCE and related examinations in the last 10 years, and why? (3) Are your secondary teachers so versed in their respective teaching subjects that what they need now is “methodologies to impact more knowledge on students.” (4) Can you say, in all good conscience, that less than seventy per cent of your state’s education budget of the last 20 years have not been more of procurement contracts? And (5) Has there been an improvement in enrolment, retention and education outcomes?

As the Tinubu government zooms off with a commendable data-sensitive focus in education, for better planning, let us all bear in mind that this must not turn into another case of investment in education census for the records, as distinct from census for better national human resource development. The results should help the nation with measurable, and sustainable, outcomes.

If the expenditure of most states of the federation on education over the last twenty years of our democracy shows huge budgetary allocations to education, but with very embarrassing decline in educational standards and learning outcomes, it means that the problem of education in Nigeria goes beyond mere funding. Several states with recorded high expenditure in classroom rehabilitation, procurement of desks and supply of books, do not have wonderful teacher training, school enrolment and retention records. What is the level of the investment in the training of teachers in moder teaching methods in the last 20 years, nationwide?

All states of the federation need more schools, better equipped schools, better qualified, teachers and verifiable statistics for sustainable planning and development. More than that, they need authentic data, for meaningful planning. The planned school census is better late than never; and should leverage new era of education administration in Nigeria – if properly carried out and its deliverables fully implemented.

Amaewhule to Fubara

Tinubu