WEDNESDAY 20TH MARCH 2024

Zenith Bank Appoints Adaora Umeoji GMD/CEO

Kayode Tokede

Zenith Bank Plc has announced the appointment of Dr. Adaora Umeoji, as its Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive with effect from June 1, 2024.

The appointment is however subject to approval by the Central

Bank of Nigeria (CBN). She takes over from Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose five-year term expires on May 31, 2024, after a very successful tenure.

According to a statement, Umeoji is the first female GMD/CEO since the inception of the bank, and her “appointment is consistent with the

bank’s executive transition tradition, succession plan, and strategy of grooming leaders from within.”

Prior to the appointment, Umeoji had been the Deputy Managing Director of the bank since October 28, 2016 and has close to 30 years cognate banking experience of which 26 years has been with Zenith Bank.

She is an alumnus of the prestigious Harvard Business School where she attended the Advanced Management Program (AMP) and an alumnus of Columbia Business School with a Certificate in the Global Banking Program. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Jos, Continued on page 10

a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and a first-class honors in Law from Baze University, Abuja. She holds a Master of Laws from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the

NeiTi: With 23.56% rise in revenue, fg, states, Lgs shared N10.14tn in 2023...

Wednesday 20 March, 2024

Vol 29. No 10570. Price: N400

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Continued on page 10

Oborevwori Briefs Tinubu on Delta Killings, Says State Taken Aback By Development

deji elumoye, sunday aborisade, Juliet akoje in Abuja, sylvester idowu in Warri, olusegun samuel in Yenagoa, sunday ehigiator in Lagos and James sowole in Abeokuta

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori briefed President Bola Tinubu yesterday at State House, Abuja, on the recent killing of 16 military personnel in the state. Oborevwori, who met with Tinubu behind closed doors, said Delta State was stunned by the horrific incident at Okuoma, in Ughelli South Local Government Area.

The governor addressed newsmen after the closed-door meeting with the president, promising to end attacks in the area and assuring that the killers of the military men would be brought to justice.

The senate commenced a probe into the March 14 killings yesterday.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, while condemning the killings, said the investigation should be open-minded, as the perpetrators might be foreign mercenaries.

The House of Representatives also mandated the armed forces to conduct a thorough investigation

Continued on page 10

Co-Founder and Vice Chairman of S&P Global, Daniel Yergin, (left) and GCEO, NNPC Ltd, Mr Mele Kyari, during a Leadership Dialogue Plenary Session at

CERAWeek Conference in Houston, United States, ... yesterday.

Rachel Toku-Appiah during Bill and Melinda Gate Foundation team's visit to discuss areas of collaboration at Bala Usman's office in Abuja ... yesterday.

emmanuel addeh in Abuja Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kyari, yesterday

SIGNING OF AGREEMENT ON SHIRORO SOLAR GENERATING POWER...

L-R: Mr Kolapo Joseph, Chief Corporate Finance&Corporate Development Officer, North South Power Company; Mr Aminu Umar Sadiq, MD/CEO NSIA; Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power; Vice President Kashim Shettima; Engr Olubunmi Peters, EVC/CEO North South Power Company; Mr Yusuf Umar, Programme Lead, RIPLE NSIA at the joint venture agreement signing ceremony for the Shiroro Solar Generating Company between Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority and North South Power Company Limited at the Office of the Vice-President, Presidential Villa, Abuja....yesterday GODWIN OMOIGUI

NEITI: With 23.56% Rise in Revenue, FG, States, LGs Shared N10.14tn in 2023

Delta got highest allocation of N402.26bn, Rivers N398.53bn, A’Ibom N293.58bn Nasarawa received least sum of N73.32bn, Ebonyi, Ekiti states shared N73.91bn, N74.04bn

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Despite being a mostly tough year for Nigerians, the three tiers of government shared the total sum of N10.143 trillion from the Federation Account as statutory revenue allocations in 2023, a new report by the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) showed yesterday.

A breakdown of the revenue receipts showed that the federal government received N3.99 trillion, representing 39.37 per cent of the total allocation.

In the same vein, the 36 states got N3.585 trillion, representing 35.34 per cent, while the 774 local government councils of the federation shared 2.56 trillion equivalent to 25.28 per cent, the report said.

The review attributed the increase to improved revenue remittances to the federation account due to the removal of petrol subsidy and the floating of the exchange rate by the new administration.

President Bola Tinubu had after taking over the reins of power on May 29 last year, announced the withdrawal of subsidy on petrol, shooting the price per litre from about N195 to between N600 and N750, depending on the location.

Also, the dollar rate to the naira, which was about N460/$ at the Investors and Exporters (I&E) window in May 2023, has now overshot N1,600/$, causing a massive rise in the prices of imported goods.

But NEITI said that a further analysis of the N10.143 trillion disbursements in 2023, showed an increase of N1.934 trillion or 23.56 per cent when compared to the disbursement of N8.209 trillion

shared in the corresponding year 2022.

It highlighted that while total revenues distributed from the federation account recorded an overall increase of 23.56 per cent in 2023, the increase accruing to each tier of government varied, largely due to the type of the revenue streams contributing to the inflows into the federation account.

According to the report, the federal, states and local governments cumulatively received N1.934 trillion more than the amount shared in 2022, with the first quarter of 2023 increasing by N579.71 billion (33.19 per cent) when compared to the first quarter of 2022.

The second quarter also increased 10.32 per cent, third quarter by 27.49 per cent, while the fourth quarter had an increase of 23.42 per cent respectively.

It further indicated that the federal government’s share increased by N574.21 billion (16.79 per cent) from the N3.42 trillion it received in 2022 to N3.99 trillion in 2023, while the state governments shared N3.59 trillion compared to the N2.76 trillion they got in 2022, showing an increase of 29.99 per cent .

Similarly, local government councils’ share of federation allocation was N2.57 trillion in 2023 compared to N2.032 trillion in the 2023 which amounts to a 26.22 per cent increase.

Besides, while total distributed revenue from the federation account recorded an overall increase of 23.56 per cent in 2023, the increase accruing to each tier of government varied, largely due to the type of revenue item contributing to the inflows into the Federation Account.

“In the same period (2023), states and local governments recorded increases in their allocations of 29.99 per cent and 26.22 per cent respectively. The increase in allocation to the federal government however was 16.79 per cent.

“State by state share of the allocations showed that Delta state received the largest share of N402.26 billion (gross). The figure is inclusive of the state’s share of oil and gas derivation revenue.

“Delta was followed by Rivers State which received N398.53 billion. Akwa-Ibom State received the third largest allocation of N293.58 billion. Nasarawa State received the least amount of N73.32 billion while Ebonyi and Ekiti states received

N73.91 billion and N74.04 billion respectively,” the report said.

The review observed that the first five states that topped the allocation during the period under review are amongst the major oil producing states in the country.

On the share of 13 per cent derivation revenue, nine states received the 13 per cent allocated to mineral producing states from the proceeds from mineral revenue.

“The derivation revenue remains a significant portion of revenue for states like Delta, Akwa Ibom, Anambra and Rivers states. Also, the derivation revenues of states such as Delta, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa, which were 161.47 per cent, 141.25 per cent and 127.89

per cent respectively, eclipsed their statutory revenues. “Rivers state‘s derivation revenue was 74.15 per cent during the period.

Notably, the other five oil producing states recorded lesser derivation revenue compared to the four above. For example, Ondo state had 27.71 per cent, Edo had 30.04 per cent, while Abia, Anambra and Imo recorded a derivation revenue of about 20 per cent or less,” it added.

The NEITI report noted that solid minerals producing states did not receive derivation revenues during the last quarter of last year because of the need to allow the revenues to accumulate over a period of time before sharing can occur.

On direct deductions from state,

it stated that Delta state recorded by far the largest debt deductions in 2023, totalling N12.97 billion.

NEITI said that other key findings of the report showed that revenue remittances to the federation account fluctuated significantly on monthly basis due to corresponding fluctuations in oil and gas revenue.

The report also revealed that revenue from solid minerals sector was very negligible, and reflected the under-performance of the sector.

On recommendations, the NEITI Quarterly Review urged government to adopt more conservative estimates for crude oil prices and output to enhance budgetary performance, reduce budget deficits and borrowing and strengthen fiscal stabilisation.

TCN Announces Capacity Increase of P’Harcourt Substation with 100MVA

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday said it had commissioned a 100MVA 132/33kV power transformer at its Port Harcourt main substation, enhancing the bulk transmission capability of the substation by 80MW.

This initiative, which is a TCNWorld Bank project, it stressed, also includes the complete rehabilitation and expansion of the 132/33kV transmission substation and the addition of three feeders and associated accessories.

With the installation of the 100MVA power transformer, the substation's installed capacity increased from 180MVA to 280MVA, the government-owned company stated in Abuja.

Notably, it said that industries in the Trans Amadi industrial environment and communities beyond Port Harcourt city will benefit significantly from this capacity expansion.

Within the first quarter of this year, TCN said it has executed a number of projects in its PortHarcourt Region, and currently has several ongoing projects which are at various completion stages.

According to the company, these include a 100MVA transformer installation in Port Harcourt Town which will soon be completed and commissioned.

It added that transformer projects are equally ongoing in Port-Harcourt Town, Itu, Umuahia, Aba, and Alaoji, aimed at bolstering bulk power transmission within the region.

“In its Port Harcourt Sub-region, TCN recently received four power transformers including two units of 100MVA capacity transformers, one each at Port Harcourt Main and Port Harcourt Town transmission substations, two units of 60MVA

Customs Seeks to Operationalise AEO Concept to Ease Business at Ports

James Emejo in Abuja

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, yesterday pushed for the deployment of the Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) programme to enhance the efficiency and predictability of trade facilitation efforts in the country.

Essentially, the AEO status is an internationally recognised standard indicating that the business role in the international supply chain is secure and has customs control procedures that meet Authorised Economic Operator standards and criteria.

Speaking at a stakeholders’

engagement to promote the concept, Adeniyi said the programme would foster collaboration between the service, Other Government Agencies (OGAs), and experts to boost AEO programmes.

The CGC underscored the determination needed to work together and ensure that the narrative about the ease of doing business in and around Nigerian ports was changed for the better.

He said, "And if you have observed, you will also see that AEO cuts across virtually every player in the sector, the exporter, the importer, the government agencies, regulatory agency, the customs, and

everybody in one way or the other.

"This allows us to address some of those issues so that when next operators talk about compiling how much it takes them, we will see data that are a little bit more friendly.”

According to him, the NCS in February 2024 launched a Time Release Study (TRS) as another measure to optimise the trading experience within the country.

Adeniyi further assured the stakeholders of customs’ preparedness to run the AEO pilot programme, which would hopefully start on April 15, 2024.

He also explained that the objectives of the pilot were to evaluate

the visibility and effectiveness of implementing the AEO initiative within the service and to solicit feedback from all our key stakeholders.

According to him, “All these pilots that we want to run, we aim to identify potential challenges, fine-tune our processes, and lay the groundwork for a full-scale rollout of the AEO programme.”

He expressed optimism that the service will be committed to fostering transparency, inclusivity and collaboration while ensuring that the program's designs and execution align seamlessly with international standards.

"Why we do this is we want to remain attuned to the unique realities of our local context. Seven key stakeholders that are legal entities whose operations span across the international supply chain have been carefully selected by the pilot programmes.”

He further expressed his readiness to partner with business stakeholders to enhance trade in the country, urging participants to expedite their commitment to ensuring the potential of the programme, which would foster a culture of efficient customs processes compliance, integrity, and collaboration that will propel the country.

power transformers, one each were also sent to Rumuosi and Port Harcourt Main transmission substations.

“ Collectively, these will increase available capacity within TCN’s Port Harcourt region for Port Harcourt Distribution company to offtake for its customers.

“At the Uyo Work Centre, TCN is also currently upgrading the Itu Substation with a 60MVA 132kV transformer and associated switch gears. Upon completion, the station's capacity will increase by 48MW.

“Ongoing new substation projects within the region include the construction of a 2x60MVA 132/33kV transmission substation at Oron and a 2x30/40MVA 132/33kV Substation at Ididep both in Calabar,” it stated.

To increase maintenance efficiency and invariably reduce downtime, the regional store, according to the TCN, received bulk consignment of spare parts, including circuit breakers, 33kV lighting arresters, battery chargers, battery banks, toolboxes, and safety kits.

“TCN remains steadfast in its effort to put in place a robust and more efficient transmission grid through strategic initiatives and project implementation across regions.

“It is also committed to swift maintenance and fault response by ensuring it has available, necessary spare parts in its stores nationwide,” it added.

Dialogue on the Constitutional Future oF nigeria...

L-R: Senator Aminu

Shettima: We're Committed to Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, Renewable Energy Solutions

NSIA, NSP sign agreement for Shiroro solar generating company

Deji elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that Nigeria’s energy transition journey as well as its resolve to embrace clean and renewable energy solutions are on track under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Shettima, disclosed this yesterday, at the State House, Abuja, during the signing of the joint venture agreement for the establishment of the Shiroro Generating Company, Nigeria’s pioneer 20MW On-grid Solar-Hydro Hybrid project, between the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and North South Power (NSP) Company Ltd.

The Shiroro Generating Company

is a joint venture project between the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and North-South Power, investing in a pioneer 20MW solar-hydro hybrid project in Shiroro, Niger State.

The 20MW Pilot Project (Phase 1a) is embedded within a larger 300MW solar programme, to be co-located within NSP’s existing 600MW Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Plant concession area in Shiroro, Niger State.

According to the vice president, the event “marks a significant milestone and will boost the country’s energy transition journey,” and an affirmation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s resolve to embrace clean and renewable energy solutions.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria under the able leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains steadfast in supporting initiatives that drive economic growth, enhance energy security and protect our environment,” the Vice President noted.

Speaking on the significance of the project, Shettima said the signing of the agreement for the 20 MW solar plant is, “a journey which is pivotal to our sustained growth and development as a nation.”

“As a nation, our resolve is to take proactive steps to diversify our energy sources, reduce our carbon footprints and ensure a more sustainable future for generations to come. And this is a pioneering

CBN: Financial Literacy in Schools’ Curriculum by October

Increases financial literacy level to 33%

James emejo in Abuja

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), said it is working to ensure that the final copy of the National Financial Literacy Curriculum is included in schools’ academic calendar by October this year.

The central bank stated that though the document was still being drafted, the curriculum should be integrated into academic programmes in the next school sessions.

Speaking at the opening of the School Mentoring Programme to commemorate the 2024 Global Money Week (GMW), with the theme, “Protect your Money, Secure your Future”, in Abuja, CBN Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability (FSS) Directorate, Mr. Philip Ikeazor, emphasised the importance of inculcating financial literacy early in the lives of pupils and students.

He said besides making money, students must also understand the concepts of frauds and scams, saving as well as investing for their future.

Ikeazor said being equipped with such skills at a tender age would enable the students to achieve financial independence and a financially secure future.

Represented by acting CBN Director, Consumer Protection Department, Nuhu Othniel, the deputy governor said, “Truth be told, having an income, and making

a substantial amount of money does not guarantee financial security. What is important is your ability to develop and hone skills and attitudes to manage your financial resources to have a secure future.”

He said it was vital to know the types of frauds and scams, how to respond to scammers and various ways to protect money both online and offline.

He said this also implies knowing how to report to a bank should any of them encounter scammers or fraudsters.

Ikeazor said, “In essence, the financial decisions you make today and the education you acquire today have a huge impact on your future. Therefore, when you learn these skills at a young age and with consistent practice, you will have a brighter future. So, be smart about your money while you are still young; save, budget, and become educated.”

Also speaking to THISDAY at the ceremony, held at the apex bank’s headquarters, CBN Head, Consumer Education and Evaluation Division, Consumer Protection Department (CPD), Mr. Gbadamosi Lawal Lanre, said the inclusion of safety tips to secure financial transactions further made the 12th edition of the Global Money Week special.

He said, “We are educating the children on how to cultivate the habit of saving and protecting their savings as well as educating teachers

and those intermediaries who are involved in the teaching methodology of school and curriculum.

“One of the initiatives is to get financial literacy topics, financial literacy skills, and knowledge embedded in national school curriculum.”

According to him, “You cannot divorce financial literacy, consumer protection from financial inclusion, and for Nigerians to have a financial well-being, financial literacy is one of the core factors to make a wellbeing beyond income levels for us to improve the standard of living.”

However, he said the central bank has also recorded an increase in financial literacy levels over the years amid slow progress.

Lanre said, “The level is not encouraging as we speak. But we’ve moved from the level of 13 per cent to about 33 per cent, and as you all are aware, financial literacy is an embodiment of financial inclusion.”

He also stressed that financial inclusion had increased to 74 per cent in 2023, up from 68 per cent in 2020.

On her part, CBN Director, Consumer Protection Department (CPD), Mrs. Amina Ahmed Habib, said this year’s edition “speaks to the importance of distinguishing between your needs and wants, money management, fraud, and scams and investing to enable you, our young ones have a financially secure future”.

project in terms of hybridising power in solar and hydro.

“I believe that this is a harbinger of greater things to come. This project will serve to attract further investments in the space by growing both the business and financial models for such projects," he added.

The Vice President also commended the vision, innovation and commitment of the NSIA for the project, noting that, “it is commendable as strategic partnerships like this will create opportunities for economic growth and technological advancement while simultaneously addressing the urgent need for clean and accessible energy.

“This project will catalyse the realisation of other hydro-solar projects and serve as a test case for deployment of solar energy on to the national grid.”

He then implored the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET), Transmission

Company of Nigeria (TCN), Bank of Industry (BOI) and all other relevant stakeholders in the project to ensure that they collaborate effectively with its sponsors to guarantee the timely delivery and operation of this project.

“I also urge all stakeholders involved in this venture to uphold the principles of accountability, transparency and inclusivity throughout the project’s life cycle,” he added

Earlier in his remark, Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, said the initiative aligned with the critical priorities of his Ministry in terms of striving to increase energy output and also diversifying into renewable energy. He said the project was expected to attract additional capital as well as utilise the country’s abundant renewable energy resources, noting that it is a testament to the potential partnership to ensure sustainable development.

Also speaking, MD/CEO of NSIA, Mr. Aminu Umar-Sadiq, said the

partnership “will deepen Nigeria’s clean energy portfolio, create jobs, and re-affirm our dedication to energy efficient solutions as a lever for socio-economic development. It further exemplifies NSIA's role as a catalyst for positive change, steering Nigeria towards a more sustainable future.”

On his part, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of North South Power Company Limited, Engr. Olubunmi Peters, affirmed the company’s dedication to renewable energy solutions by stating its strategic intent to embark on this Solar-Hydro Hybridisation Project, He noted that the project, “is a testament to our sustained focus on renewable energy as an integral component of economic growth. Through this project, we have further revalidated our over-arching mandate to uphold the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility, demonstrating innovation and market leadership."

FG Inaugurates Steering Committee for Nigeria’s Digital Identity W'Bank Project

olawale ajimotokan in Abuja

The federal government has inaugurated the newly constituted Steering Committee for the Nigeria Digital Identification for Development (ID4D) World Bank Project.

In his inaugural speech, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, charged the committee to ensure that every Nigerian was enrolled on the digital identification system, which would facilitate access to services, improve service delivery and bolster Nigeria’s digital economy.

The steering committee is to be chaired by the SGF while it has the Director-General of National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Abisoye Coker-Odusote as Secretary.

Other members include the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate; Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi; Minister of Budget and National Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; Minister of Finance, Wale Edun; Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.

Akume, who was represented by

the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Nnamdi Maurice Mbaeri, expressed the readiness of the federal government to expedite the implementation of the Strategic Roadmap for the project through the establishment of a three-tiered institutional framework consisting of a steering committee, strategic unit and an implementation unit within the NIMC. He noted that, the institutional frameworks were tasked with

overall governance, coordination and communication with ecosystem partners and day-to-day project implementation.

He underscored the high premium the Tinubu-led administration places on the digital identity with the recent reinforcement of the extant approval for the mandatory use of National Identification Number (NIN) for digital services and the issuance of service-wide circular from OSGF to this effect.

Gains at

nume ekeghe

parallel market gained N10. Also, the official Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange (NAFEM) appreciated yesterday closing at N1,560.57 signifying a N36.77 gain compared to N1,597.34 it closed on Monday. The daily turnover recorded yesterday was $195.13 million indicating a 38.96 per cent increase from $140.45 million, quoted on Monday.

Tambuwal; former Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku and Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during the National Dialogue on the Constitutional Future of Nigeria in honour of Prof. Ben Nwabueze themed: Lawful Procedures for Actualizing a People’s Constitution for Nigeria, at the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos... on Monday

FOLA TAYO 80TH BIRTHDAY BOOK LAUNCH...

L-R: Managing Director, Merit Healthcare Limited, Dr. Lolu Ojo;Director, Business School of Netherlands, Prof. Lere Baale; Book reviewer, Prof. Mbang Femi-Oyewo; Celebrant & Guest of honour, Prof. Fola Tayo; Chairman of the Occasion, Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, wife of the celebrant, Mojisola Fola-Tayo, and President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Prof. Cyril Usifoh, during the book launch to mark Prof. Fola Tayo's 80th birthday in Lagos…yesterday.

SUNDAY ADIGUN

Senate Demands N30bn Ways and Means Details from CBN

Okays Gbenga Alade as MD of AMCON, three other executive directors Passes N1.282tn FCT 2024 budget Extends 2023 supplementary appropriation Act implementation to June

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate ad hoc Committee probing the N30 trillion Ways and Means loans advances to the federal government and the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) had insisted that the loans must be recovered in full.

Chairman of the Committee, Senator Isah Jibrin (Kogi East), stated this after a meeting of the Committee with officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) at the National Assembly complex yesterday.

The CBN team, led by Bala Bello, Deputy Governor, Corporate Services made their presentations on Ways and Means and Anchor Borrowers.

Jibrin, told journalists that the committee was able to extract useful information from them, which would guide their next level of discussion.

He said the committee had issues with approvals in areas where it was discovered that the CBN governor, “unilaterally gave approvals,” which he said was abnormal to the committee.

The committee could not get immediate explanation for that and therefore gave the CBN 24 hours to provide the necessary explanation.

He said, “We believe that every approval must be given by the Committee of Governors (COG), the governor and his deputies. That is the standard rule.

"Where the governor alone uni-

laterally gives approval that calls for questioning. I think they will provide answers for us very soon.

"However, the Anchor Borrowers’ amounting to N1.1 trillion has an impressive repayment rate of up to 70 per cent performance and the rest 30 per cent of N358 billion are loans given low income farmers with very high risk.”

Jibrin said the risk there was that those low income farmers don’t have what it takes to perform to expectation in terms of, “equipment and technical know how to manage those farms effectively.

He said, "That is where we are going to having possible problems of loan default of about N358 billion.”

The committee advised that, to the extent that the loans were processed through the commercial banks, the credit risks lie with the commercial banks.

He added that the commercial banks should in turn go after the borrowers to recover their monies.

Jibrin said, “We have advised them that they should try into round table discussion with those commercial banks that purportedly guaranteed those loans.

"To the extent that those loans have been guaranteed and those commercial banks are still in existence, the credit risks lie with the commercial banks and they know what to do.”

The Senate also yesterday,

confirmed the nomination of Gbenga Alade for appointment as the managing director of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

The Senate also confirmed the nomination of Adeshola Lamidi, Lucky Adaghe and Dr. Aminu Murktar Dan’amu for appointment as executive directors in AMCON.

The resolution of the Red Chamber followed its adoption of the recommendations of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other financial institutions that screened the nominees.

Chairman of the Committee, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, presented

the report.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier forwarded the nominees to the Senate and urged them to consider and confirm them for appointment.

The Senate also yesterday, passed the sum of N1.282 trillion FCT 2024 budget. The passage of the budget followed the adoption and approval of the recommendations in the harmonised report of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on FCT on the 2024 FCT statutory Appropriation Bill at plenary.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT, Senator Ibrahim Bomoi, presented the report.

Of the amount, the sum of

N140,915,003,856.00 was for personnel cost while N373,027,373,668.00 was for overhead cost.

The balance sum of N768,328,232,759.00 was for capital projects for the FCT financial year commencing from 1st of January to December 31.

Also yesterday, the Senate approved the extension of the implementation of the 2023 Supplementary Appropriation Act from 31st March 2024 to June 30th. The amendment followed a bill by the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele. Additionally, the Senate yesterday, passed for second reading, the amendment to the Extradition Act, 2004.

In the proposed law, Section 2 (1)

and Section 7(4) of the Act are to be amended, according to Opeyemi, in his lead debate on the floor of the legislature in Abuja.

He explained that in Section 2, the, “Act is amended to allow Nigeria to accede to extradition requests from countries with which Nigeria has signed an extradition treaty - as opposed to only Commonwealth countries, as is the case today.

“The present position of the Act applies only to countries within the Commonwealth and any other country with whom Nigeria establishes an extradition treaty or arrangement.”

Continues online

National Assembly Members Meet Agric Ministers On Way Out of Food Crisis

$500m food security programme debuts in Kwara

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The National Assembly through its joint Committee on Agriculture Production Services and Rural Development, yesterday, met with the Minister of Agriculture and Food

Shareholders Excited as Umeoji Emerges

GMD/CE Designate of Zenith Bank

Kayode Tokede

Shareholders of

Bank Plc yesterday, expressed excitement following the emergence of Dr. Adeora Umeoji as Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive designate of the most profitable financial institution in Nigeria.

The bank in a filing on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), yesterday disclosed the appointment by the board of Directors, of Umeoji as the Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive of Zenith Bank takes effect from June 1, 2024, subject to approval by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Umeoji is to take over from Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose tenure expires on May 31, 2024.

The company secretary, Mr.

Michael Otu in a signed statement stated that the appointment was consistent with the bank’s tradition and succession strategy of grooming leaders from within.

Commenting, the National Coordinator, Progressive Shareholders Association (PSAN), Mr. Boniface Okezie, said the appointment of Umeoji was a reflection of the board’s succession plans.

He said, “Dr. Umeoji has been in the banking system for years. She has all the experience to operate the bank in profitability and I am sure she will continue on the trajectory Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu built during his five-year tenure.

“She has all it takes to grow shareholders' return, grow the balance sheet of Zenith Bank and improve on profits. I know she

has all it takes to strengthen the bank further since she was the former deputy managing director of the bank.”

Also, the President Pragmatic Shareholders Association, Mrs. Bisi Bakare said the appointment was a welcome development to the growth of Zenith bank.

“As investors, we are happy about the appointment and seeing the bank transparent in its gender equality with a female in top management position,” she added.

Prior to this appointment, Umeoji had been the Deputy Managing Director of the bank since October 28, 2016, and has close to 30 years of cognate banking experience of which 26 years has been with Zenith Bank.

Security, Abubakar Kyari and his Minister of State, Sabi Abdullahi, on urgent solution to food inflation bedeviling the country.

This was just as it emerged that a six-year new $500 million food security programme supported by the World Bank and the federal government has been designed for the people of Kwara State.

The Joint Committee Chaired by Senator Saliu Mustapha (APC Kwara Central), at the meeting with the ministers interrogated him on plans being put in place to arrest the high cost of food prices in the country and making it affordable and available to the poor masses.

Kyari, said the federal government has the commenced distribution of 42,000 metric tonnes of grains to some focal points of state capitals nationwide.

“We have received directive and approval from Mr. President to distribute for immediate impact 42,000 metric tons of assorted grains free of charge to the Nigerian population.

"This was received mid-February, as we are speaking, we have a record of the distribution being carried out, but I will want to plead with the honorable House and distinguished Senators that some of the movements can’t be made public but a lot of states have started receiving their grains.

“We are distributing to State capitals in the first instance as you

all are aware the risk involved in the vandalisation of foodstuff so we are working with the office of the National Security Adviser and other national security agencies.

"Furthermore, 58,500 metric tons of milled rice from mega rice millers will also be released into the market for stabilisation," he said.

He explained further that actions being taken became necessary in other to cushion impacts of hardship on Nigerians which he said would soon become a thing of the past.

For security purposes, he informed the committee members that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security was currently working with the Office of the National Security Adviser, and other national security outfits to address issues on vandalisation food warehouses across the country.

Speaking with newsmen shortly after the interactive session, the Chairman of the Joint Committee, Senator Saliu Mustapha, expressed satisfaction with the steps being taken by the federal government.

He said, "From our interactive session, we on the other side of the parliament, we are fully in the picture of what is happening, we are convinced that the steps being taken by the federal government is in the right direction.

"All we did again is to further emphasise the need for certain things

to be done on time, I think from this collaborative approach by the grace of God, Nigerians will have a better feel of the government policy on food security."

Meanwhile, a six-year new $500 million food security programme supported by the World Bank and the federal government has been designed for the people of Kwara State.

The new agriculture project would be Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (LPRES) and would provide platforms for livestock value chain production and commercialisation in the state.

Speaking at the flag- off of the programme in Ilorin yesterday, the State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said that, "the present administration has invested in the development of the livestock sector to maximise its potential, particularly in beef and dairy production."

He said, "Kwara has a comparative advantage in all areas of livestock production, particularly in beef and dairy production.

"It serves as forms of income and wealth for families to better access financial services. It is a major form of financial instrument to families, especially now that we are talking about financial inclusion, improvement in standard of living, and improving our GDP in the state.

Continues online

House Summons Health Minister, Others over Alleged Misappropriation of $300m Anti-malaria Fund

Halts implementation of trade partnership agreement to allow UK lawyers practice in Nigeria

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Malaria, HIV/ AIDS and Tuberculosis yesterday, summoned the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, and the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom to appear before it over allegations of misappropriation of $300 million meant to fight malaria since 2021.

The Committee members also resolved that the Permanent Secretary should be arrested if she fails to honour the summons within 72 hours having failed to appear before it after three invitations to answer questions on allegations that indigenous manufacturers of insecticidal nets were denied from participating in the contract for the procurement of insecticidal nets and other related products.

into the circumstances that led to the killings.

But Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri and former Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva, yesterday, squabbled over comments made on the killings.

That was as President of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Jonathan Lokpobiri, accused the Nigeria Army of carrying out reprisal attacks on Egbomotoro II community in Bayelsa State as a result of the killing of the military personnel in Delta State.

However, determined to apprehend the killers of the military men, operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF) extended their search to neighbouring Bayelsa, Edo and Ondo states.

The military authorities had announced that an attack on soldiers on a peace mission in Okuoma community of Delta State last Thursday led to the death of a commanding officer, two majors, one captain, 12 soldiers and one civilian.

But Oborevwori, who told reporters that the situation was already under control, both in Okuama community and its environs, dismissed the possibility of further attacks.

The governor said, “You know the happenings in Delta State since 14th of this month and it is necessary for me to brief the Commander-in-Chief and that's what I've come to do, the full details of what happened.

“People may not have knowledge of what we're doing since I came on board. Since last year, we’ve been enjoying peace in Delta State and we commend all the security agencies,

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon Amobi Godwin Ogah, during his ruling expressed displeasure of his members over the absence of the Permanent Secretary, stressing that the cost for the procurement process of anti-malarial commodities by the Ministry was over $3 million.

Ogah noted that, "Malaria is now an epidemic in Nigeria. The government has always wanted to help the people but most times the civil servants are our problem.

“This money has been made available since 2021. We have been inviting the Permanent Secretary. This is the third time we are inviting her to come and explain to us what has happened.

"Have they used the money? If they have not used the money, where is the money? It is a matter of simple explanation. But they have been running away, calling all manner

but an unfortunate thing happened last week that people who don't have the knowledge have started talking about.

“The two communities in question have been having issues for years and last month, on the 7th of February, they were invited by the state government; the two communities, the members representing those two local governments, the council chairmen, and the leaders of those communities, and they agreed to work together, signed a peace accord.

“When this unfortunate thing happened, it was very sad because Delta State is governed within the tenets of the rule of law and decency. So, what happened is not in line with what we're doing in Delta State because I have promised Deltans that I’m going to be governor for all Deltans and we've been enjoying peace and one of my MORE Agenda is that we’ll enhance peace and security, and that's what we've been doing.

“So, I decided to come here to brief Mr. President on all the things we’ve been doing to maintain peace and Mr. President has assured me that he’s in support of the peace and we both condemned the killing of the officers and the soldiers because they were there on peace mission.

“What is happening now is something that we did not bargain for, but we want to assure everybody that there’ll be no more attacks on the villages, if there's been any one that had happened in the past…

But we know that those who are culpable will be brought to book, but the innocent citizens will not

Prof. Ali Pate

of people to talk to us. But we are here to defend Nigerians.

“We were elected to represent our people. Nigerians cannot continue to die of malaria, even when government has made every

be attacked.”

Asked to comment on the number of casualties and the reprisal attacks by soldiers on the community, Oborevwori declined comments, saying it is a security issue and there are certain things he cannot say in public.

The governor revealed that he met with the security heads in Bomadi but was yet to meet with the community involved, as the place had been deserted.

According to him, "When something happens like this, it’s always easy to manage tension. Yesterday, I was in that local government, I was in Bomadi for security meeting, to get full details and briefing.

“So, some of those issues are security issues that you can't say publicly. That’s the truth, and we’re managing the situation. So, the issue of whether a place has been burned down or people have been killed, has happened, but what is the way forward?

“The way forward are two ways: the people that have been killed, the officer and soldiers, we must see how we can find succour for their families and give them a befitting burial.

“Also the community, anything that has happened in the community in the past will not happen again. We assured them. But the people who are culpable will be brought to book."

He said while his government had met with the military, it had yet to meet with the community because it was deserted.

NNPC To TAke FID oN $25bN NIgerIA-MoroCCo gAS PIPelINe IN DeCeMber 2024

said the Final Investment Decision (FID) on the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline (NMGP) Project will be taken in December 2024.

Kyari also advocated a differentiated approach to attaining energy transition for the African continent.

He spoke during a leadership dialogue session at the ongoing CERAWeek Conference in Houston, United States.

According to the GCEO, energy transition is a very difficult subject for countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, because geographically, the situations are different. He stated that a number of the countries were dealing with energy availability, not transition, and energy availability was closely linked to energy security.

Kyari said, “The world has seen all the challenges thrown up recently by geopolitical events. It is clear that before energy transition, countries must first attain security of energy supply in their countries.

“You cannot talk about energy security when it is not even available. In most sub-Saharan Africa, 70 per cent of the population don’t have access to clean cooking fuels. Therefore, you must fill the supply gap first.”

about using the renewables to close the energy transition gap, the money for the renewables, too, must be found.

Kyari stated, “If you insist on completing substitution today, then you have to deal with the problem of supply. For us, today, the transition must be differentiated. Even if Africa decides to switch off its fossil fuels, it only accounts for just about three per cent of the entire global emissions.”

He said, currently, NNPC’s focus was to build its capacity to deliver gas to the domestic market and beyond, stressing that as a gas-endowed country, Nigeria must utilise its abundant gas resources to provide the alternative fuel that it needs.

Kyari said, “We understand the arguments towards attaining energy transition, but the cheapest way to achieve that is through gas. We see clear opportunities that gas creates. Today, we are building a number of trunk lines and other gas infrastructure that will supply gas to a number of gas networks.”

He stated that as the largest oil and gas company and corporate entity in Africa, NNPCL was critical to Nigeria’s resource management and economic development.

He said the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 had reformed Nigeria’s oil and gas industry by ensuring that the NNPCL emerged as a fully commercial entity that was not only accountable and responsible to its shareholders, but also one that was on the pathway to getting quoted on the stock exchange.

Kyari said Nigeria was fighting the menace of crude oil theft frontally and through the joint efforts of government and private security agencies, and there had been some reasonable improvement in the restoration of the country’s crude oil production.

necessary effort to see that eradication is being achieved by 2030."

According to him, "The National Assembly will no longer tolerate the attitude of civil servants taking the parliament for a ride. Enough is enough. We were elected by our people to represent them.

“We were elected to talk for them and defend them. And we are talking about a disease that has turned to an epidemic. We will not hesitate to invoke our constitutional right to compel the Permanent Secretary be arrested if fails to honour the summons.

"The Committee received a petition, few weeks ago from Seasons Law Firm on behalf of Rosies Textile Mills Limited in which they petitioned the Ministry of Health and Permanent Secretary for denying indigenous manufacturers of insecticidal nets from participating

He explained, “First and foremost, the community people… the place has been deserted, so the issue of whether we’ve been able to see the community leaders, no.

“We’ve only gotten full briefing from the army and we’re on it because this week the traditional council is going to meet and discuss. I'm going to invite stakeholders, we're on top of it.”

Oborevwori stressed that perpetrators of the killings will be brought to book and innocent residents will not be victimised.

He stated, “Like I said, we had a meeting yesterday with the security heads, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division of Nigerian Army was there, the JTF Commander was in attendance.

“We've all agreed, all the security agencies are putting heads together, we're on the same page to fish out the real culprits because innocent people will not suffer for it and they have assured us that no innocent person will be victimised.”

Senate Begins Probe of Killings

The senate, yesterday, commenced a probe into the March 14 killing of 16 military personnel in Okuama Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The upper chamber mandated its committees on Army, Defence, Air force, Navy and National Security to immediately commence the investigation.

The decision of the senate was sequel to a point of order raised by Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar'adua (APC, Katsina) during yesterday's plenary.

The motion was tagged, "The killing of Nigerian Army Personnel in Okuama Community, Delta State, and the Necessity for an Urgent Investigation."

The upper chamber also urged the federal government to ensure that those responsible for the crime were identified, apprehended and made to face the full consequences

in the contract for the procurement of insecticidal nets and other related products."

He further revealed that: "Nigeria borrowed $100 million from the Islamic Bank which was approved by National Assembly in 2021, out of the $100 million, $10 million was grant and another $200 million borrowed from World Bank in the same year for Impact Project (Malaria Financing Agreement). Making it a total of $300 million.

“The resolution by National Assembly is that Local Content must be prioritised to enable local manufacturers, but the Ministry went ahead to contract UNOPS to do the procurement process at cost of over $3 million for the purchase of anti-malaria commodities."

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives yesterday, urged the Federal Ministry of Industry,

Trade and Investment to immediately halt the signing and implementation of the trade partnership with the UK, to allow UK Lawyers Practice in Nigeria, until the terms and conditions governing the agreement are fully examined and ascertained.

The House also mandated its Committee on Treaties, Protocols, and Agreements to investigate the matter and asked the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to appear before the House Committee on Treaties, Protocols and Agreements during investigation and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.

These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion on the Alleged Trade Deal between Nigeria and the United Kingdom (UK) allowing UK Lawyers to Practice in Nigeria moved by Hon. O. K Chinda and 43 other lawmakers.

of their action through a fair and transparent legal process.

Citing Orders 41 and 51 of the Senate Standing Rules, Yar'adua described the incident as "a serious threat to national security and stability of the nation," adding: "This highlights a serious threat to national security and stability of the nation.”

Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, in his contribution, said what happened was despicable.

Barau said, "It is inhuman and it is something that cannot be accepted. We need to commiserate with the Nigerian Armed Forces and, indeed, the entire nation

"It should be condemned, what happened is inhuman and no stone should be left unturned in trying to find out the culprits, who are responsible and they must face justice and this should never happen again in this country."

Similarly, Senator Ahmad Lawan said the military needed support at all times and not assault, as happened in the Delta community.

Lawan said, "What happened in Delta was not an accident but well-orchestrated to kill our men," he said.

The former senate president called on the executive and the legislature to ensure better welfare for the military.

Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa) described the act as sad and dastardly, and called for an inquiry to ascertain the totality of the facts of the matter.

Akpabio, in his comments, said the senate and the entire country were concerned.

He said, "We condemn this dastardly act. It portends danger for the entire society. Every single culprit involved must be brought out to face the full wrath of the law. This is not acceptable in any sane society in the world."

Senator Dafinone Edeh, who seconded the motion, consoled the military and the families of the slain soldiers, adding that since the motion centred on the same issue, he would only propose an additional prayer of a minute silence for innocent civilians killed in the incident.

Senator Ned Nwoko seconded Dafinone's additional prayer and called for a minute silence for innocent victims of the soldiers' invasion after their colleagues were murdered. His proposal was, however, rejected by the senate president, who said holding a minute silence for civilian casualties or victims of collateral damages would come after a thorough investigation had been carried on what led to what on the tragic and very embarrassing incident.

Akpabio stated, "That is why I am saying that your additional prayer should actually be to carry out a thorough investigation to know whether these people are mercenaries from outside Niger Delta, who came to commit this crime because I don't think these people are Niger Deltans.

"We are not at war to lose such number of personnel. No community will go to the extent of doing this kind of thing. I don't think they are from Niger Delta

"So, I think the first point is that we should first establish the culprits, who committed these crime. We must take this seriously. Supposing they are not from Niger Delta, supposing they are not even Nigerians and we now come and be giving relief materials to…

"People should bear their consequences of their characters. We will not support relief materials.

"What has happened is condemnable and stand condemned. The senate will hold a minute silence for the 16 military personnel gruesomely murdered and condole with President Bola Tinubu, the military and families of the deceased for now.

"After investigation, civilians involved in the collateral damage will be honoured by minute silence or whatever action that may be necessary.”

House Urges Armed Forces to Investigate Killings

The House of Representatives mandated the armed forces to conduct a thorough and wholesome investiga-

Continued on page 37

Ze NITH bAN k A PP o INTS A DA or A U M eoj I g MD/C eo

A statement by NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, quoted Kyari as saying that although people talked

o borevwor I b r I e FS T INU b U o N DelTA kI ll IN g S , S AYS S TAT e TA ke N Ab AC k bY Develo PM e NT University of Calabar, and also has a doctorate in business administration from Apollos University, USA. She holds a Certificate in Economics for Business from the prestigious MIT Sloan School of Management, USA, and has attended various management programmes in renowned Universities around the world including the strategic thinking and Management programme at Wharton Business School, USA. She also attended the executive program in Strategic Management, and has a Certificate in Leading Global Business all from Harvard Business School, USA. She is a fellow of notable professional bodies including the Chartered Banker Institute, UK; Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria; Nigerian Institute

The GCEO said there was an ongoing engagement on the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project (NMGP), presently at an advanced stage, to create a pipeline that will pass through 13 African countries and all the way to Europe.

He stated, “It is an abnormal situation, but it is well within control. We were able to recover some of our production and build back confidence so that investors can bring in their money. We are also doing global advocacy to governments and institutions, because stolen oil has to be taken to the market.”

He said an example of the improved security situation was when in 2022, Nigeria’s production fell below one million barrels per day, which was restored to 1.7 million barrels per day.

of Management; Institute of Credit Administration; Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Nigeria; Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, and the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria among others.

In 2022, the Federal Government of Nigeria honored Umeoji with Officer of the Order of the Niger, as a recognition of her contributions to nation building. She is a Peace Advocate of the United Nations (UN-POLAC). “She has impacted many lives through her philanthropic and humanitarian activities through her NGOs; Pink Breath Cancer Foundation and the Adorable Foundation that educates, caters for Cancer patients and indigent

children education especially the Girl-Child.

“Her contribution to humanity was recognized by the Sun Newspaper which recently bestowed on her the Humanitarian Service Icon Award for 2023.

“As a result of her passion for promoting professionalism in the banking industry and improving the well-being of the less privileged, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON founded the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria (CBAN), a platform she uses to promote ethical banking and service to humanity.

“She is a Lady of the Order of Knights of St. John International (KSJI), and was awarded a Papal Knight of the Order of St. Sylvester by His Holiness Pope Francis,” the statement added.

Quarterly consultative meeting between inec and leaders of political parties...

L-R: INEC National Commissioner, Barr May Agbamuche-Mbu; INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu and INEC National Commissioner, Sam Olumekun

INEC and Leaders of Political parties held in Abuja ... yesterday PhOtO: JuLIuS AtOI

FG: Nigeria Accounts for 23% of Tuberculosis Deaths in Africa

$300m needed to bridge funding gap, says NTBLCP

onyebuchi ezigbo

The National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, (NTBLCP) has said Nigeria alone accounts for 23 percent of deaths resulting from Tuberculosis in Africa.

It also revealed that about $300 million would be required to fill the

funding gap for intervention efforts geared towards ending tuberculosis scourge in Nigeria. It also disclosed that undetected TB carriers in the country were capable of infecting between 12 per cent and 15 percent of the nation's population annually.

The National Coordinator of

NTBLCP, Dr. Laraban Shehu, said this while speaking yesterday, at the 2024 Pre-World TB Day press conference in Abuja. He also revealed that one person dies of tuberculosis disease in every five minutes in the country. The National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme,

NTBLCP was established in 1989 by the Government of Nigeria to coordinate TB and leprosy control efforts in the country. While advising persons experiencing cough for more than a week to approach hospitals to check the nature of the disease, Shehu regretted that Nigeria still has a huge funding

45% Reduction in Human-induced Emissions Will Save 255,000 Lives Per Year, Say Stakeholders

blessing ibunge in Port Harcourt Stakeholders in the environment protection space yesterday expressed concern that aside fossil fuel, humaninduced or anthropogenic methane emissions have emerged as the new threat to Nigerians.

The groups after a seminar in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, warned that such emissions account for 60 per cent of the methane emissions in the country, and that this causes over 255,000 deaths and 775,000 asthma cases in hospitals.

The groups led by the Environmental Centre for Oil Spills and Gas Flaring (ECOSGF), and

African Initiative for Transparency, Accountability and Responsible Leadership (AfriTAL) said they have mapped out plans to fight the menace.

Briefing non-state actors that worked on the plan of abatement of methane emissions, the group said: "In February 2024, TrustAfrica provided a take-off seed fund for the project. It is hoped that as the project progresses, other funding partners will show interest in collaborating with ECOSGF and AfriTAL to achieve this project goals.

year. This is what a mere 45 per cent reduction of methane emission would achieve," they said.

Methane (CH4) is said to be the second most significant contributor to emissions after Carbon Dioxide (CO2), which has caused about a 30 per cent rise in global temperatures since the Industrial Revolution.

concerning climate change.

gap for TB.

Shehu, who regretted that Nigeria still has a huge funding gap as 17 percent of its TB budget was not funded, disclosed that the country requires $300 million to bridge the gap.

"The meaning of this is that in Nigeria, every five minutes, one person dies of TB. So this is the disease killing people more than the number of people that died of COVID. And the regrettable thing is that this is a disease that is curable and can be prevented.

have a lot of interest in diseases of public health importance, especially diseases like Tuberculosis, HIV, Malaria, among others.

"The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare is up and doing. He came in with a four-point agenda, given that you are not expecting less from him.

“There is definitely going to be improvement in resource mobilisation, advocacy and of course, support from the Federal Ministry of Health to the TB Control Programme.

"In Nigeria, over 70 per cent of people with this disease have spent what they have just to treat TB. This is happening because people are not aware that the drugs are there free. They don't go to the right place to access drugs.

"I must appreciate and thank our partner, the Stop TB Partnership. People must know that TB is curable and that it is free. We need support of everyone to stop the disease in Nigeria," he said.

Senate Passes N446bn Federal Inland Revenue Service Budget for 2024

budgeted cost of collection which stood at N320.90bn.

"The objective is to cut down at least 255,000 deaths and 775,000 asthma-related hospital cases in one sunday aborisade in Abuja

The Senate yesterday passed the sum of N446,342,656,992.00 as the 2024 budget of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), following its adoption and approval of the recommendation of its Committee on Finance that considered the budget.

The Chairman of the Committee, Senator Sani Musa (APC - Niger East) presented the report.

Out of the total sum, N177,441,479,682.00 is for Personnel Cost, N156,454,385,053.00 is for overhead cost and N112,446,822,255.00 is for capital expenditure.

Part of the report read: “The Service Year 2024 budget estimates is based on zero based budgeting. That the 2024 projected cost of collection of N446.34 billion is 39 per cent higher than the 2023 approved

“The personnel cost is based on staff strength on the payroll, including social benefits (such as NHIA, Pension contribution etc.) and anticipated performance bonus for the year.

“The increase in overhead projection can be attributed to the need for more robust operational activities which are critical in driving the achievement of Service core objectives e.g. Tax automation projects and other critical ones that relate directly to tax collection and administration.

“The capital cost estimates include ongoing and new projects which are to be executed during the 2024 financial year. These are as a result of expected completion of projects, payment of retention on completed projects and some new projects for effective revenue drive.”

The stakeholders expressed worry that while contending with and focusing on methane emissions from oil and gas production, little attention is paid to emissions from anthropogenic sources linked to man’s natural activities like farming, waste management, others.

The researchers said methane emissions from food waste, food systems’ emissions, trash, landfills, livestock breeding, and bush burning, contribute about 60 per cent of global emissions, but they don’t have the type of attention carbon dioxide has

In his opening remarks, at the meeting held in Port Harcourt, the Executive Director at AfriTAL, Louis Ogbeifun, stated that the project would focus on decreasing methane emissions from anthropogenic sources such as human wastes, landfills, the rearing of ruminant animals, rice cultivation, and other agricultural processes.

He noted that, from the information gathered thus far, there is a lack of knowledge about anthropogenic methane and its hazards to human health.

"Nigeria’s methane emissions situation is more precarious because methane emissions from oil and gas activities like gas flares, pipeline vandalism, artisanal refining, others, are already high; hence, civil society must advocate for its curtailment as soon as possible," he said.

"We have adequate resources but no adequate political commitment. There is a huge funding gap for TB in Nigeria. Over 17 per cent of TB budget is not funded. That means we are not able to take these services to every nook and cranny of Nigeria," he added.

On his part, the Director, Public Health, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Chukuma Anyaike, described the 2024 World Tuberculosis Day celebration as a special one, given that the country has a new government determined to tackle diseases of public concerns.

"The 2024 World Tuberculosis Day celebration is special, special in the sense that there is a new government on ground that is passionate and

Chairman of the 2024 World Tuberculosis Day, Dr. Bolatito Aiyenigba, called for support from the 774 local government areas across the country in eradicating Tuberculosis.

He said the committee had gone to schools to educate students and teachers about tuberculosis, just as she assured that it would extend the same exercise to Kuje Prison to screen inmates on the disease and apply free HIV screening.

In his remarks, Executive Director, KNCV Nigeria, Dr. Bethrand Odume, said this this year’s theme of World TB Day 2024, "Yes! We Can End TB-"No gree for TB, Check am O," aptly conveyed the urgent need to come together and ramp up the fight against TB, to achieve commitments to end TB by 2030.

CSO Raps EU, Says Union's Concerns over Nigeria's Expatriate Employment Levy are Ill-advised

wale igbintade

National Convener of Labour and Civil Society Coalition, Comrade Tony Erha, has taken on the European Union (EU) on its concerns about the launch of Expatriate Employment Levy (EEL) announced by President Bola Tinubu on February 27, 2024.

Erha said that the recent expression of concerns by the EU was ill-advised.

He noted that though the concerns stemmed from how the new levy was introduced by the Nigerian government, including alleged potential negative impacts on investor confidence, the EU, however, overlooked the necessity

and rationale behind the introduction of the EEL in Nigeria.

Erha stated that the Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Nigeria, Massimo De Luca, who voiced the concerns during the fourth session of the steering committee of the support programme for Fiscal Transition in West Africa (PATF) held in Abuja, failed to realise that the levy was a strategic measure aimed at promoting local employment opportunities and addressing challenges related to expatriate employment.

According to him, “The disparity in wages between expatriates and local workers is ridiculous, whereas immigrant workers, particularly in

some European countries, often earn significantly lower wages, even when qualified, compared to other cadres of employees.”

He noted: "In Nigeria, however, many expatriates rather contribute to economic disparities and hinder the development of indigenous talent, while the minimum wage, which immigrants predominantly earn in European countries, is notably low, raising concerns about the fairness and equity of the employment landscape.

“We need a context-specific policy tailored to address the unique socio-economic dynamics of the country. Unlike European countries, Nigeria faces peculiar challenges in its labour market, including

high levels of unemployment and underemployment.

"As such, measures such as the EEL are essential steps towards promoting inclusivity and creating opportunities for Nigerian citizens.”

He stated further that the inconsistency in the EU's stance, particularly regarding immigration laws was clear.

He said: “European countries are known for frequently reviewing and adapting their immigration policies to address evolving challenges and priorities.

"Given this context, it is preposterous to imagine why similar scrutiny and adaptation are not extended to Nigeria's immigration laws.

at the 1st quarterly consultative meeting between

CourtESy viSit to Edo GovErnmEnt HouSE...

Court Refuses Shaibu's Request to Temporarily Halt Impeachment Proceedings

CRPP berates Edo lawmakers for continuing with attempts to remove deputy governor

Alex Enumah in Abuja and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

Justice James Omotosho of a Federal High Court in Abuja, has refused to grant an exparte application by the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Philip Shaibu seeking to stop alleged moves to impeach him from office.

Omotosho rather ordered the applicant to put the respondents on notice.

Besides, the court on Tuesday fixed Wednesday March 20, for hearing in the deputy governor's motion for substituted service of the main suit against the respondents.

Shuaibu had dragged the Edo Governor, Godwin Obaseki, the State Chief Judge and six others to court in his bid to stop his removal from office over alleged misconduct.

Pending the hearing in the main suit marked: FHC/ABJ/ CS/321/2024, the deputy governor had through an exparte application prayed the court to stop any purported moves by the respondents to initiate impeachment proceedings against him.

However, the court in a ruling delivered on March 13, declined to grant the application.

The enrolled order, sighted on Tuesday by our correspondent read, "That the Motion Exparte for Interim Injunction dated and filed March 8, 2024 is hereby refused." This is contrary to reports by other news outlet that the court granted the order.

Shaibu, in the suit, is seeking an order of the court restricting the third to fifth defendants from commencing any impeachment process by issuing notice of allegation,

holding proceedings or setting up of any panel of investigation for his removal pending the hearing of the main suit.

He also sought an interim injunction restraining the defendants whether by themselves or their agents, from interfering with the res/subject matter of the Originating Summons filed in the suit either by way of taking any adverse actions in relation to any attempt or process targeted at his removal from office as the Deputy Governor of Edo State, pending the hearing of the motion on notice.

One other relief sought include an order of interim injunction restraining the 1st-8th defendants from preventing the plaintiff from performing his official duties and discharging his responsibilities as the Deputy Governor of Edo State, including, attending State Executive Council meetings/functions and other duties.

The 1st to 8th respondents are; Edo State Government; Edo State Governor; Edo State House of Assembly; Edo state House of Assembly Speaker; Clerk, Edo state House of Assembly; The Chief Judge of Edo State; Inspector General of Police and Director General of the Department of State Services.

Meanwhile, the Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) Edo State on Tuesday expressed surprise that in spite of series of interventions by well-meaning Nigerians to jettison the impeachment plan, they are still adamant.

This was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Samson Isibor Chairman CRPP Edo State and made available to journalists in Benin.

"Most disturbing is the rejection of the Federal High Court Summons delivered to the House of Assembly by the Federal High Court Bailiff who was harassed and chased out by the Assembly security men on the orders of the leadership of the Edo State House of Assembly.

"It is quite appalling that the

law makers that are supposed to honour a court summons should behave in such unbecoming manner by harassing and chasing out a harmless Court Bailiff discharging his constitutional duty from one of the three arms of Government recognized by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"We describe this action of the state assembly as condemnable, especially when the assembly failed to realise that the case is not a personal issue,

"Those who live in glass house must not throw stones, If they believe in justice and fair play they should gladly honoured the court summons and present their allegations against

the Deputy Governor in an open court instead of displaying rascality. "A clear conscience fears no accusation as we in CRPP had earlier affirmed the innocence of the Deputy Governor of any accusation level against him, which we saw as witch hunting and political victimisation of the highest order," CRPP said.

Enugu Teachers Laud Governor Mbah over Minimum Wage, Dismiss Planned Protest

The Enugu State wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has expressed gratitude to the state government for showing concern for the welfare of teachers in the state, including the extension of the state’s minimum wage to primary school teachers after several years of waiting.

The teachers also noted that the Governor Peter Mbah administration had in about nine months in office met four of the five-point demands the union presented to him on assumption of office.

It dismissed a purported plan by some “mischief-makers” to incite a teachers’ protest, adding that there was no basis whatsoever for such.

Chairman of the Enugu State NUT, Theophilus Nweke, stated this while briefing journalists in Enugu, stressing that Mbah had demonstrated readiness to not only pay wage awards to teachers in addition to their salaries since December 2023, but also resolving the

Mainstack Commits to Empowering Women Creators

Gilbert Ekugbe

Mainstack has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women creators to drive inclusive economic and sustainable growth in Nigeria.

In a statement, Mainstack added that the move was aimed at empowering women creators while also providing them with the necessary tools and resources they need to succeed in the creator industry.

The Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Mainstack, Ayobami Oyaleke, explained that as the creator industry continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to empowering

women creators.

Recently, in a display of support for women creators, Mainstack showcased several prominent female leaders in the industry on the iconic New York Times Square billboard during the International Women's Day week.

Oyaleke stated that Mainstack's commitment to empowering women creators was evident as they provided a platform for these trailblazers to amplify their voices and showcase their work to a global audience.

"From photographers and writers to entrepreneurs and influencers, the featured women represent a diverse

range of talents and backgrounds, each making significant contributions to their respective fields," Oyaleke stated.

According to the Founder, "At Mainstack, we believe in the power of women creators and are committed to supporting their growth and success. International Women's Day was the perfect occasion to shine a spotlight on their incredible work and achievements."

He pointed out that Mainstack's initiative to highlight women creators on International Women's Day serves as a testament to the company's commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable creative space.

three-year minimum wage faceoff with previous administration.

“When the current administration came in, we met with them and presented our challenges to the governor who promised to address them.

“True to his word, the governor quickly set up a committee to look into the issue and on November 10, they submitted their report in which it was recommended that these teachers be paid.

“On February 19, 2024, the

governor called the leadership of NUT and conveyed his approval for the full implementation of the minimum wage. When the February salary came in, the teachers were paid as approved and this was greeted with wide jubilation. “This administration has demonstrated its commitment to our welfare, thus why should we embark on any protest? Does that make any sense to anyone? What exactly should be the reason

for the protest?

“As a union, we have laid down procedures of pressing home our demands and we have judiciously followed them. These approaches are yielding the required results. Calling for outright protest has never been part of it and we won’t promote such,” he said. He explained that the five-point requests made to the governor were receiving adequate attention, with four already implemented and the fifth one underway.

Strike: FUOYE Management, SSANU on War Path as VC Denies

The management of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Ekiti State, has debunked claims of opposing the applications of members of Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) to join Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU). It also denied obstructing the deduction of the said new members dues from their salary, describing the claims as baseless and inflammatory. This was made known yesterday in a press conference in Ado-Ekiti addressed by the Vice Chancellor of the Institution, Prof Abayomi Fasina represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof Tajudeen Opoola.

He said the SSANU Chairman of Ekiti State University, Mr. Temidayo Aguda in a radio programme alleged that the "VC created obstacles by insisting that approval must be sought from management before a staff could join a union.

Blocking Union Membership

The Deputy VC described the claims as, "inaccurate, baseless, and inflammatory".

While speaking on the approval of staff to join the SSANU, he said the process of membership forms of the new members of SSANU must follow due process.

"Membership is free and the institution can not compel members to join the Union, neither can SSANU compel non-members to follow their instructions," he stated . He added that the letter SSANU claimed they wrote seeking the deduction of due from the said new members did not specifically contain call for deduction of dues.

Also, he noted that the SSANU Chairman was not harassed by security officers under the order of the VC as claimed, saying that the VC was not in Ekiti State on Monday, March 18, 2024 which was the day of the alleged harassment.

"The University is created by law and the university has its own autonomy; the law will take its course, and the union will strive.

Those who are non members of the unions must not be forced to follow their policies.

“ They are directing everyone, and directing where should be locked. The university is making an effort to ensure that there is no clash between non-union members and the members," he added.

Speaking on the strike, called by the national body of the union to make the federal government pay withheld 2022 salaries, he said that FUOYE management does not have the authority to pay the outstanding salaries but the federal government.

"The strike commenced yesterday and it was peaceful in many universities in Nigeria. In Ekiti here, out of the three universities, FUOYE is the only university occupied on the directive announced on a radio.

“ The strike was not observed at all in the other universities. Members of SSANU and NASU in EKSU did not join the strike. Yet a member of staff of EKSU had the temerity to orchestrate crises in FUOYE," he said.

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with the National President of the Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye, during a courtesy visit, at the Government House, Benin City, ... yesterday

Northern, Southern Senators Seek Peace after Ningi’s Suspension

Recent Pledges by new leadership of Northern and

Senate have created a fresh atmosphere for peace in the Red Chamber.

New leadership emerged last week in the Northern Senators Forum (NSF) and Southern Senators Forum (SSF) following the amicable resolution of the crisis of confidence ignited by the erstwhile Chairman of the NSF, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central).

Ningi had used the platform of the NSF to making disparaging comments against the President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the leadership of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio in the red chamber.

He had claimed that the current budget being operated in Nigeria was different from the fiscal document passed by the National Assembly last December.

Ningi had also claimed that about N3.7trn allegedly inserted in the budget being implemented were not tied to any project, neither were the locations of the projects identified.

The Bauchi Central Senatorial District Senator had also alleged in an interview he granted to the Hausa Service of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) that the fiscal document was skewed in favour of the South.

When the matter came up at plenary last week Tuesday following a motion by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriation, Senator Solomon Adeola, some Northern Senators across party lines solicited the understanding of the Senate to forgive Ningi if he apologized to the Red Chamber over his excesses and misinformation.

The insistence of the majority of the Senators across party lines and geopolitical devide, forced the upper chamber to sanction him.

The eventual suspension of the embattled Bauchi Senator for three months by the Senate after a rowdy session, and his resignation as chairman of the NSF, had led to the emergence of a new leadership in the Northern Senators camp with Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua (Katsina Central) as Chairman.

The Forum also named Senator Muhammed Tahir Munguno (Borno North) as its new spokesperson to replace Senator Sumaila Kawu.

Yar’adua is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Army while Monguno is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters.

The announcement was made at plenary by President of the senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio on Thursday.

Yar’adua in his acceptance speech said he was deeply honoured and humbled to communicate to his colleagues in the Forum his acceptance as the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum.

He thanked the Northern Senators for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to work towards a harmonious relationship between them and their southern colleagues in order to achieve peace in the 10th Senate.

Yar’adua also vowed to address the challenges facing the northern region through effective legislation and collaboration with the leadership of the Senate and senators from the southern part of the country.

He said, “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my distinguished colleagues for this vote of confidence in me following the resignation of my distinguished elder brother, Senator Abdul Ningi whom I hold in high esteem.

“I wish to acknowledge and commend the decent outing and the contributions he made during his tenure.

“I am aware of the challenges facing the Northern region which Include security, agriculture, education, healthcare, drug abuse and human trafficking. Others are so numerous to mention.

“The major objective of the Northern Forum is to promote the interest of Nigeria first followed by development of the North through collaboration with our distinguished colleagues from the South and cooperating with the executive arm of government to ensure that the challenges of the region are attended to.

“We shall therefore work in consul-

tation with our distinguished colleagues to preserve the unity and progress of our dear nation. In advancing these noble objectives, I am committed to streamlined activities within the Northem Senators Forum. We shall operate with transparency, accountability, and integrity, upholding the trust placed on us by the electorate.

“Our legislative discourse will continue to be characterized by civility, dignity, and adherence to the rule of law as we fulfill our lawmaking, policy-making, and oversight functions. I am confident that with our collective efforts and cooperation, we can effect positive change, uplift the North, and contribute to the overall development of our great nation.

“Together, let us embark on this journey with unwavering dedication and a steadfast commitment to serving our constituents and our country. May our actions be guided by wisdom, compassion, and a shared vision for a better and brighter future”

Speaking with newsmen shortly after his announcement, Yar’adua also promised to deploy diplomacy and lobbying to perfect a soft landing for Ningi so that he could join his colleagues before the expiration of his three months suspension.

Similarly, in their quest to achieve a peaceful coexistence in the 10th Senate, members of the Southern Senators Forum, also last week, elected their new officers.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking Insurance and other Financial Institutions, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, emerged Chairman of the Forum.

Abiru who is representing Lagos East Senatorial District on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, took over from

Keen watchers of political development in the Red Chamber are, however, quick to stress that the instant revival of the Southern Senators Forum might not be unconnected with the alarm raised on the floor of the Senate last Tuesday by the former Chairman of the Forum who is now the Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.

Bamidele had alleged that the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, Senator Abdul Ningi, was acting the script of some people using the NSF platform working towards the impeachment of the Senate President before June this year.

the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, who has been the Chairman of the forum since the 9th Assembly.

The Vice Chairman of the forum is Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central); the Secretary is Mpigi Barinada (Rivers South East), the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the forum is Asuquo Ekpenyong (Rivers South) while Kenneth Eze (Ebonyi Central) emerged as the treasurer of the forum.

Speaking after his election at a meeting of Senators from the South West, South South and the South East, Abiru said they will partner with the Northern Senators Forum to move the country forward.

According to him: “The Southern Senators Forum is to champion the course of Nigeria and Nigerians. We have our northern brothers with the Northern Senators Forum. We will work together with them to move the country forward”.

The Lagos East Senator said his leadership would swing into action and roll out plans for the betterment of the region and Nigeria.

“We will work out our plans,” Abiru said adding that the last leadership had transferred power to them.

His words: “The last leadership has transferred power to us. We’ve been running the Forum as if we don’t exist. The present leader of the Senate was the leader of the Southern Senators Forum. He was too engaged on other issues but we now have new leadership which is headed by me”.

In the meantime, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Sani Musa who is representing Niger East Senatorial District, has described as untrue, allegations in some quarters that he was working against the interest of the North.

Musa in a statement last weekend explained that he stayed away from the NSF activities for some time because the Abdul Ningi leadership was not carrying him and many others along in their decisions.

He said, “I would like to address the recent accusations levelled against me regarding my alleged betrayal of the North. As a Senator, my commitment to the Northern Senators Forum and the development of the North, Nigeria, and the integrity of the Senate as an institution has always been unwavering. In my capacity as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance and an active member of the Northern Senators Forum, I have consistently supported and advocated for the interests of the North.

Bamidele Ningi

Abiru Yar’Adua

Samson Ezea

TGburugburu: Celebrating Rare Pacifist @ 60

he name Gburugburu is unique. It exemplifies all-round. It means a man of the people. Ex-Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, popularly known as Gburugburu, is indeed a friend of all. He is a gentleman from sole to crown.

He is a sexagenerian today having attained 60 years of age. He has remained himself, a unique personality with unblemished record and outstanding selfless service to humanity and mankind. He is disarming, amiable and awesome. He is an ex-governor whose political attainments in the murky waters of Nigerian politics and other human endeavours have been impressive, divine, quiet, smooth and seamless.

He is not the usual Nigerian politician, but a leader with many positive, exemplary, enigmatic and phenomenal parts. He is indeed a living school for leadership and followership.

Relating with him at any level leaves one with good knowledge, pleasant experiences, practical lessons and testimonies to give about his person.

I have continued to find it difficult choosing my words or the most suitable adjectives to describe him whenever I want to write about him. Not that I don’t know what to write, I know. But my problem is how I will write about him without omitting or forgetting anything.

This has been my challenge over the years. The more I struggle to overcome it, the more he springs up surprises by his wonderful and commendable actions and inactions that bring out the uniqueness and rare attributes in him.

Ugwuanyi, who clocks 60 years today, has never seen political office and politics as a door-die affair. To him, it should be a peaceful, rancour-free and communal exercise. This is not far from the reason he is often called Priest in politics by many.

Meanwhile, I can vividly recall that as a young man who was desirous of making a name in journalism practice more than a decade ago, I was fortunate and privileged to commence practice of the noble profession on the politics desk.

Writing and covering politics, politicians and their activities exposed me to many things and brought me in contact with many politicians and critical stakeholders across the country, of which Ugwuanyi is one of them.

Since then, I have meticulously followed Ugwuanyi’s political trajectory and leadership exploits, just like other colleagues of his who are political players.

Without mincing words or sounding hyperbolic, I can confidently and unequivocally say that Ugwuanyi, is not a typical Nigerian politician, who often politicises and sees everything from the prism of partisanship, even after elections. This is the attitude that has been the bane of good governance, peace, development and security in Nigeria since the return of democracy in 1999.

To Ugwuanyi, partisan politics is secondary, while good governance associated with the general wellbeing of the people and peaceful co-existence is primary. Politics to him, starts and ends before, during and after elections.

Immediately after that, good governance takes the centre stage. The overall interest, welfare and wellbeing of the people irrespective of party affiliation, religion, tribe or status take precedence over any other interest. This has been his leadership style before and since 2015 he became Governor of Enugu State, amidst daunting and obvious challenges. He is neither pretentious, political nor hypocritical about it.

As could be seen and experienced, while he was in office as Governor, his government’s policies and programmes had always been fashioned in that direction. It is not in doubt that it is in his nature to care and cater for others. He places so much premium on it more than any other thing. He has been passionate and consistent about it and derives joy in doing it.

No wonder, he has been often described as a compassionate leader, rare humanist, welfarist, pacifist and humility personified.

Of utmost concern and worry to Ugwuanyi at every given time is how to take care of the immediate welfare and wellbeing of the people, especially the downtrodden. He believes so much in humanity and mankind.

As a Governor, he massively touched lives and provided comfort for people at the grassroots level with the provision of numerous critical

infrastructure which include roads, hospitals, schools, jobs, and others in the rural areas across Enugu State in an equitable and unprecedented manner.

These rural areas or communities have only been remembered or accessed by politicians before and during elections. Indigenes and residents of some of these rural communities have not seen buldozer, or asphalted roads for years. The people had lived and survived on self-help and communal efforts, that were not enough to make life meaningful and comfortable for them before now.

Ugwuanyi government’s massive infrastructural development and opening of the rural areas across the state, led to the completion of more than 248 rural roads. That was what changed the condition for the good of the people of Akpugo community in Nkanu West Council Area, Nimbo and Nkpologu in Uzo-Uwani Council Area, Ogboduaba in Udenu Council Area and other rural communities across the state.

Ugwuanyi is a man who is at peace with his people and God. He can sacrifice anything to ensure that peace reigns. He was never carried away by the paraphernalia of his office and exalted position of governor. He rather demystified and commonalised the myth surrounding political office, by making it accessible and available to people. He used his then position and power as Governor to unite and develop the state. Very unassuming and urbane, he is a listening leader, who loves details, people around him and good results.

He was born into the modest and cultured family of Mr David and Mrs Veronica Ugwuanyi, of Ohom Orba in the present Udenu Local Council Area of Enugu State during the lenten period.

He was christened Lawrence and was also given Igbo name-Ifeanyichukwu, meaning “nothing is impossible with God." A name that is meaningful, philosophical, symbolic and spiritual in all ramifications.

A name that has lived with him and has continued to manifest in all his endeavours.

Ugwuanyi, just like his siblings, was brought up under strict Christian precepts. This has in addition to nature and nurture clothed him with humility, taciturnity, intelligence, honesty and diligence.These virtues remain his greatest assets and strengths.

Growing among his peers, he shone like a star both in academic and extracurricular activities during his primary, secondary and tertiary education pursuit. His exemplary leadership quality began to manifest early in his life as a secondary school student at the prestigious St. Theresa College, Nsukka, where he was outstanding in character and learning.

After his secondary education, he secured

admission into the Nigeria’s foremost university, University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) where he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance and M.Sc degree in Marketing, majoring in Public Relations.

In his quest for deep and wider knowledge, he moved further to acquire MBA degree in Finance and Accountancy from Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT). While his colleagues scrambled for white collar jobs, within and outside the country upon graduation, Ugwuanyi, who has always believed and preferred working for and with his people for the common good of all, picked a job at Premier Brokers Limited, a prime insurance broking firm in the Southeast zone owned by the five states of the zone and African Continental Bank (ACB) now defunct.

After many years of excellent performance, he rose to become the Chief Executive Officer of the Premier Broking Firm. In 2002, he became the 16th President of the Rotary Club of Emene, Enugu. It was at this point that his leadership qualities and exceptional philanthropy, especially to the downtrodden and the less privileged in the society, came to public fore.

Without hesitation and in appreciation of his rare philanthropy, the people of his town, Orba, in an elaborate traditional ceremony conferred on him the title of Dunukenyi Gburugburu 1 of Orba, meaning the man of the people. Satisfied with his exploits and track record in public and community service, Ugwuanyi’s people beckoned on him to offer himself for political office. His foray into Nigerian politics commenced with his quest to serve as chairman of his local council area, Udenu.

Despite losing the opportunity due to political intrigues and backbitting, Ugwuanyi remained undaunted and focused in his political pursuits, banking on God, his people’s support and prayers.

In 2003, true to Ugwuanyi’s belief, expectation and hope, the political opportunity came calling. He won the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to contest for Igbo-Eze North/ Udenu Federal Constituency seat. He overwhelmingly won the election and his constituents enjoyed his quality representation.

He was rewarded and appreciated by his people with reelection in 2007 and 2011, making him the longest serving House of Representatives member in Enugu State before 2015 general elections.

While in the House of Representatives, he moved so many motions and initiated some people-oriented bills. He also chaired and cochaired so many committees,including Marine Transport committee, which he chaired for eight consecutive years. He built bridges across party lines and the divide.

Following his philanthropy, performance and antecedent, while in the House of Representatives for more than a decade, Ugwuanyi’s desire to contest for Enugu State governorship seat on PDP platform in 2015 received massive support and accolades across the state. He won the PDP governorship ticket, contested and won again the governorship election in Enugu State in 2019.

Unfortunately for him and for the first time since 1999, his party, PDP lost the presidency to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2015 election. That was how Ugwuanyi unlike his predecessors didn’t enjoy the privileges and advantages of his party being in control of the state and the centre as well.

On assumption of office, Ugwuanyi was not perturbed by the change in the political equation at the centre. In the face of the obvious and daunting financial challenges occasioned by the country’s recessed economy in 2015, Ugwuanyi first sought the face of God and handed over the affairs of the state to Him. He faced his job with utmost diligence, equanimity and fear of God.

Knowing that nothing could be achieved in an atmosphere of crisis and insecurity, Ugwuanyi’s administration aggressively embarked on peace, security, reconciliation missions. First, he reached out to Enugu people, which include the opposition members, youths, elders, religious leaders, women and politicians, asking them to join hands with him to move the state forward.

He reminded them that elections were over and the wellbeing and peace of Ndi Enugu remain paramount. Initially, not many believed and took him serious until he convinced them by his actions that he is sincere and genuine in his approach to finding a lasting solution to myriad of problems confronting his people and government.

With this, the people’s belief and support for his administration improved tremendously because they saw in him a man who can sacrifice anything for peace to reign. Ndi Enugu, irrespective of status, tribe, religious or party affiliation, wholeheartedly joined hands with him and his government to move the state forward.

That was how and why Ugwuanyi was able to reconcile the political heavyweights and rivals in the state, who have been at loggerheads over age-long political differences. That was why and how estranged political allies, enemies and friends begin to talk to each other in Enugu. This was not possible before Ugwuanyi assumed office in 2015.

Ugwuanyi is an apostle of peace and peace reigned in Enugu under his watch like never before. That was why he was conferred with the award of the most peaceful Governor in Nigeria by Messengers Of Peace Foundation Nigeria.

In the area of infrastructural development and appointments, Ugwuanyi’s administration equitably and sincerely distributed and allocated them without minding whose ox is gored or compromising quality, competence and standard. His penchant for youth inclusion in governance was unparalleled. This, he demonstrated by the number and quality of youths he appointed into his government.

Many youths were also elected chairmen and councillors during his tenure in office. The autonomous communities, three senatorial zones, 17 local government areas and 260 electoral wards in the state felt the impact of Ugwuanyi’s administration one way or the other. If it is not by appointment, it is by developmental projects and others.

No group or individual or community was excluded or marginalized in the business of governance in the state especially at the grassroots level. Apart from rejigging and repositioning the state security apparatus for optimal performance, it was Ugwuanyi’s government that first introduced and commenced the Forest Guard model in the country with the recruitment and equipping of 1700 personnel to work as Forest Guards in the state.

The state, despite not being an oil producing state or ranked high in the monthly federation allocation remained a reference point in financial and human resources management, courtesy of Ugwuanyi’s prudence, fiscal discipline and transparency.

Massive infrastructural development were taken to the rural areas where people have been neglected and abandoned for years. That was how the people of Amuri, a sleepy town close to Agbani in Nkanu West Council Area saw and enjoyed for the first time an asphalt road in more than100 years of their existence.

-Ezea writes from Amuwo Odofin, Lagos State.

Ugwuanyi

Mr. Ambrose Ezichi lgwe and his bride, Mrs. Agada Janet Egboyi Igwe, during their wedding ceremony held at the Federal Marriage Registry in Ikoyi, Lagos... recently

L-R: Guests at a book presentation, Dr. Lance Elakama, Enakhe Abu Agbonoga, and Enakhe Stan Atekhame; the author Abdulahi Enakhume, standing at the back; former Minister of Environment, Abdullahi Hassan Mohammed; Vice Chancellor of Summited University, Offa, Kwara State, Alhaji R.A. Ebiti; and former House of Representatives member, Alhaji Jide Jimoh, at the presentation of Law of Wills and Flowers of Paradise books at the NIIA in Victoria lsland, Lagos...recently

PHOTO: DaN UKaNa

L-R: Children of the celebrant, Chinemelum, Chinwweuba, and Chidera during the 70th birthday symposium of their father, Pastor Chinedu Ezekwesili, ‘Purposeful Men’ held in Abuja...recently

L-R; Osun State Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi; Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke; and Zonal Manager, Southwest, Bank of Agriculture, Mr. Adekunle Osho, during a courtesy visit to the state governor by the zonal manager of Bank of Agriculture, in Osogbo...recently

L-R: Head of Performance Marketing, Moniepoint Inc, Tomisin Araoye; Managing Director, First City Monument Bank, Yemisi Edun; and former Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, after the presentation of Fintech of the Year award to Moniepoint Inc, at the 16th Leadership Conference and Awards in Transcorp Hilton Abuja...recently

The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Secretary-General, Haitham Al Ghais (left), presenting the 2023 Nigeria Energy Industry Recognition award to Chairman, Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG), Mr. Abdulrazaq Isa, for IPPG’s Excellence in Energy Sector Leadership (Advocacy) at the Gala Dinner/Award Night of the 7th edition of the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES 2024) held in Abuja...recently

L-R: Academic, Prof. Anya Anya; former National Vice Chairman Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South-west zone, Chief Bode Ibiyinka George; former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; and former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, at the National Constitutional Dialogue on Lawful Procedures for Actualising a People Constitution for Nigeria, held in Lagos...recently

Amid Fintechs Threat, Seven Banks Generate N495.57bn from E-banking, Others

Kayode Tokede

Despite the threat posed by Fintechs, which employed strategies such as zero charges on customers deposit and transfers, a total of seven Nigerian banks generated N495.57 billion from electronic-banking charges, account maintenance fees, among other charges in the 2023 financial year.

This represent an increase of 36 per cent from N365.11 billion reported in the 2022 financial year.

The seven banks are; FBN Holdings Plc, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, Fidelity Bank Plc, FCMB Group Plc, Wema Bank Plc, Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc and Jaiz Bank Plc.

Ananlysis of the banks’ 2023

results revealed that the banks generated significant increase from fees and commission on the backdrop of growth in customers’ base.

So far, the seven banks only released unaudited result and accounts for full year ended December 31, 2023 as market stakeholders await audited result and accounts. The likes of Zenith Bank Plc, Access Holdings Plc, among others are to announce audited results on or before April ending.

Nigerian banks are competing with Fintechs such as: MoMo Payment Service Bank (MoMo PSB), Fintech subsidiary of MTN Nigeria. Airtel SmartCash, Opay, Palmpay, others that charges customers zero charges on fund transfer to another Fintech company or banks.

As technology evolves, customer demands continue to affect how businesses operate especially in the banking sector. In recent times, fintech start-ups have raised the bar, offering customers easier, faster, and cheaper financial services particularly in areas such as zero transfer fees, more attractive interest rates on savings, full online banking experience, speed and simplicity.

These competitive advantages are endearing them to an increasing number of customers and strengthening their position in the industry. With the emerges of more Fintech companies, electronic payment transactions in Nigeria hit an alltime high in 2023 as it rose by 55 per cent to N600 trillion, compared

Nume Ekeghe

The African Guarantee Fund (AGF) has joined forces with the Nordic Development Fund (NDF) to tackle the pressing issues of green SME funding and climate challenges in Nigeria. This collaboration marks a significant step towards fostering sustainable development and combating climate change in the region. As part of their joint effort, they hosted the 9th Edition of the Green Finance Conference in Lagos themed, “The Role of Africa’s Private

Sector in the Paris Agreement on Climate Change,” which convened government representatives, senior executives from financial institutions, key regulatory-policy stakeholders, and green SMEs to deliberate on strategies for enhancing green synergies and advancing sustainable finance practices.

Speaking at the Opening Ceremony, AGF Group Chief Executive Officer, Jules Ngankam emphasised that the Green Finance Conference is a crucial response to the challenges posed by climate change within a framework of

National Determined Contributions (NDC) with a focus on providing enhanced expertise to Africa while proposing practical solutions to addressing financing for smaller and medium-sized enterprises committed to green growth and climate-resilient development.

“Our aim is to support the banks to improve, increase or develop their green portfolios. Through the combination of our Green Guarantee and Capacity Development support, we are able to bridge the knowledge gap between both financial institutions

to N387 trillion in 2022, according to Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS).

THISDAY investigation revealed that electronic-banking income, foreign currency service fees and account maintenance fee are the two major drives of these banks’ fees and commission income in the period under review.

In the period under review, FBN Holdings announced N204.9 billion fees and commission income, a growth off 42 per cent from N143.98 billion in 2022, while Stanbic IBTC Holdings reported N117.84 billon fees and commission income, representing 23 per cent from N96.07 billion reported in 2022.

FBN Holdings generated N66.04 billion from Electronic banking fees

in 2023 unaudited financial year, representing an increase of 20 per cent from N55.1 billion reported in 2022 and also generated N22.08 billion from account maintenance as against N19.88 billion reported in 2022

As FCMB Group declared N60.78 billion fee and commission income in 2023 unaudited result and accounts, an increase of 38 per cent from N44 billion in 2022, Fidelity Bank reported N44.91 billion fees and commission income in 2023, a growth of 44 per cent from N31.15billion reported in 2022. Sterling Bank fees and commission grew by 17.6 per cent to N26.32 billion in 2023 from N22.28 billion in 2022, while Wema Bank announced N25.14 billion fees and commission

income in 2023, a growth of 51.5 per cent from N16.59 billion declared in 2022.

In addition, Jaiz Bank declared N2.34 billion fees and commission in 2023, a growth of 43 per cent from N1.64 billon reported in 2022. Financial market analysts said the management of some of the banks before now lacked ideas on how to find alternative sources of fees and commission. They expressed that many commercial banks were engaging in exorbitant charges of customers and noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria had failed to sanction such banks.

and their customers. This is not only for the SMEs to understand how the lending process works, but also for the financial experts to learn how they can provide solutions tailored to suit the needs of the SMEs,” Jules said.

Backed by NDF’s support, AGF has been able to support financial institutions through its risk-sharing mechanism, which is crucial to incentivizing banks to provide climate finance to SMEs.

NDF Managing Director, Satu Santala said: “We are committed to financing green and inclusive low-

carbon and climate resilient growth of African economies to improve the livelihood of communities. Partnerships are at the core of NDF’s approach to climate finance and the African private sector plays a pivotal role in climate action and creating employment.”

The President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Dr. Kenneth Opara, in his welcome address, noted the important role the private sector plays in climate change in the Paris Agreement, emphasizing that the private sector plays a pivotal role in unlocking new

growth, job creation and sustainable agriculture.

Opara said, ‘’We hope that climate change efforts will unlock new opportunities for green growth and job creation, ranging from renewable energy and clean technology to sustainable agriculture. There are countless avenues for the private sector to get the required private solution that deliver environmental, social, and economic benefits”.

PORT INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT…

Oyetola: FG Poised to Increase

Blessing Ibungeh

The federal government has assured that it’s poised to provide the necessary infrastructure and advocacy required to grow the vessel traffic to the Eastern ports.

The minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola stated this yesterday during the commissioning of a 4.8km road and Marine craft at Onne port, Rivers State.

Oyetola, disclosed that deepening efficiencies and full capacity utilisation of the Eastern ports constitutes one of the tools deployed to achieve the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) assigned to the ministry under the Presidential Performance Bond.

The Eastern ports comprised of ports in Onne, Rivers Warri and

Calabar.

The minister who expressed happiness that the Onne and Calabar Port Complexes have met the requirements of the International Organization for Standardisation and are ISO certified said the newly commissioned mooring boats would further enhanced the security and safety at the Eastern port.

According to him, providing enabling environment for investors to patronise the Eastern ports is top priority of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry.

“This road infrastructure constructed by the Nigerian Ports Authority and the mooring boats we are gathered here to commission, is another testament to the commitment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under my watch to maximize the entire gamut of

opportunities conferred on us by our maritime endowments, in line with the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Mooring Boats are used to safety berth and unberth vessels calling at various pilotage districts. These six Mooring Boats is our own way of further enhancing the security and safety of our maritime space,” Oyetola stated.

Speaking, the Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed Bello-Koko, stated that the commissioning of the newly constructed road and deployment of the marine craft will positively impact cargo dwell time and win back huge revenues hitherto lost to terminal operators’ inability to meet their performance targets on account of inaccessibility to their lease areas due to bad road.

According to him, the vast expanse

of reclaimed land already leased for port development is actually a link to growth in new business opportunities and increased revenue for the national economy.

“The Phase 4B houses a significant portion of the untapped potentials of the Onne Port Complex, thus the completion of the Road “D” which the major arterial link to the new Berths 9, 10, 11 & 12 at Federal Ocean Terminal (FOT) and vast expanse of reclaimed land already leased for port development is actually a link to growth in new business opportunities and increased revenue for the national economy.

“This road which stretches over a total of 4.8 Kilometres, covering two container terminals and caters to almost 1,000 trucks daily is indicative of the Authority’s positioning for the growth, competitiveness and future-

CRMI Maps Out Strategies to Strengthen Risk Culture in Nigeria

Stories by Nume Ekeghe

The Governing Council of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI) has undertaken a strategic initiative to fortify and integrate its mission of fostering a robust risk culture among all stakeholders in the Nigerian economy.

President of the Governing Council, Ezekiel Oseni stated this at the governing council’s retreat focused on pivotal dialogues aimed at propelling the adoption of efficient risk

management practices across diverse sectors.

Oseni underscored the pivotal role of the Institute in providing essential guidance for the implementation of robust risk management practices amidst the prevailing economic challenges in Nigeria.

He emphasized the Institute’s responsibility in offering advisory support to both the government and its agencies at national and sub-national levels, with a focus on value creation, enhancement, and preservation.

In a statement, he acknowledged the prevailing economic trends, Dr. Oseni highlighted concerns regarding the high inflation rate, soaring food prices, and escalating unemployment levels.

He commended recent measures taken by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to address inflation, including the increase in the minimum interest rate and the adjustment of the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) of banks.

However, he cautioned against potential repercussions

such as increased cost of capital to businesses, which could further exacerbate inflation and unemployment rates.

Reflecting on past monetary policies and global interventions, Oseni raised questions regarding the effectiveness of interest rate hikes in controlling inflation and the impact of external economic policies on Nigeria’s sustainable growth. He cited historical instances, including IMF’s involvement in 1987, which led to challenges in currency devaluation.

Credit Management Professionals Charged on Transparent Credit Appraisal

Credit management professionals across industries in the economy have been called upon to strictly observe ethics, transparency, and duty of care in their handling of the customer credit appraisal process.

Nigeria’s statutory body for the control, supervision, and regulation of the credit management profession, the National Institute of Credit Administration, gave this advice.

In a statement, the Registrar/ Chief Executive Officer (NICA), Prof. Chris Onalo, said these attributes are

necessary for a sound credit system.

Onalo said: “When we talk about being ethical, transparent and carrying out duty of care to make sure that credit appraisal process is transparent, we are looking to keep credit professionals on their toes by being very professional, ethical, and transparent. This is against the backdrop of credit possibly going bad as a result of unethical conducts, some of which may not be economically motivated, but could be factors that can be prevented.

“When a credit professional is

appraising a customer for either credit line, credit review, or credit limit upgrade, the customer must be thoroughly assessed based on the knowledge of the customer and the industry that the credit professional has had.”

He noted that credit assessment, appraisal or evaluation must put into consideration the business growth, or business downtown experience that the credit professional may have observed with the customer over time.”

He said NICA is holding credit

professionals to that commitment. To this end, when credit appraisal is being carried out, appropriate credit and business information must be gathered to build mitigation bridges against defaults, he said.

Onalo noted, the bigger the information you got on the credit customer, the more likelihood you have on the success of that account, except other things happen which are beyond the control of both the credit customer, the credit provider organisation, or the credit professional.

Schneider Electric Reinstates Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion

Oluchi Chibuzor

Schneider Electric has reinstated its commitment to continue making significant strides in fostering inclusion and diversity within its workforce.

According to the firm, they have made huge strides in ‘The Schneider Electric Pay Equity Framework’

to address the gender pay gap, which has been implemented in all countries since 2019, covering 99 percent of Schneider Electric’s total workforce.

Speaking on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at Schneider Electric, Yewande Ayowole, Talent Leader, Anglophone Africa, Schneider Electric shed light on their mission to

ensure a sense of belonging for each employee and the need to support young women professionals.

“At Schneider Electric, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is an integral part of who we are and what differentiates us. We want our people, no matter who they are or where in the world they live, to feel they belong and are

valued and safe to contribute their best. To this end, we believe in supporting the growth of young women professionals through sponsorship and mentorship programmes to develop their leadership skills,” she said. Yewande further mentioned Schneider Electric’s stride in achieving a gender diverse workforce.

readiness. By promoting the ease and speed of doing business in the port, this infrastructure deployment will positively impact cargo dwell time and win back huge revenues

Ebere Nwoji

The Managing Director, Zenith General Insurance, Mr Jude Modilim, has said that the company paid a total of N5 billion claims last, 2023 to its various clients. Modilim stated this while interacting with members of the National Association of Insurance and Pension Editors(NAIPE) who paid courtesy visit to his office in Lagos.

He said as an industry, Zenith Insurance pays claims adding, “Last year Zenith General paid about N5 billion as claims to so many organisations thereby helping them to return to business. These are organisations that ordinarily would have failed because of one catastrophe or the other” he explained.

“Many times when I engage those who said insurance companies are not paying claims to come forward

hitherto lost to terminal operators’ inability to meet their performance targets on account of inaccessibility to their lease areas due to bad road,” he stated.

with any claim they have that has not been paid, none of them have been able to do that, so the public needs to know that insurance Companies are paying claims. What you guys are doing will make people know that insurance works.”

Modilim, affirmed that his company was ready to work with NAIPE to drive insurance growth in Nigeria. He commended NAIPE for introducing initiatives and embarking on programmes that were industry’s growth driven, noting that this would go a long way in changing the industry’s narrative.

“We are open for the partnership; the kind of partnership that is a win-win; partnership that will project Zenith General to the public, telling them what we are doing, especially about our ability to pay claims. We are willing to work with you as long as it is a mutually beneficial partnership.

AXA Mansard, a member of AXA has empowered 200 female Small and Medium Enterprises with financial literacy and digital business skills.

In collaboration with SME 100 Africa, the two-day training, which was held in Lagos, is part of AXA’s lined-up programmes to commemorate this year’s International Women’s Day.

In addition to the series of women empowerment Initiatives, AXA Mansard has been training female SMEs over the past few years as part of its plan to Increase financial and digital literacy amongst female-owned SMEs In Nigeria.

Speaking, Head of Marketing AXA Mansard, Olusesan Ogunyooye, said the training was aimed at empowering female SME owners with skills to improve business output and position them for the increasing economic opportunities available in an increasingly digital marketplace.

Ogunyooye noted that the move was in line with AXA Mansard’s sustainability agenda, explaining that the company was convinced that support for women through its inclusive protection programmes was pivotal to its purpose of acting for

human progress by protecting what matters and its mission of moving from being a payer to a partner.

He further said that focusing on digital skills was important because the company realised the importance of digital skills to the growth of the SME sector in Nigeria and wanted to ensure that women were empowered enough to be a consequential part of that growth.

“It’s almost trite to say that SMEs are the engine for economic growth, especially in developing countries like Nigeria, where over 45 million adults are business owners. What needs to be continually discussed is how Nigeria is going to unlock that potential for economic development and how much of that potential will be unlocked by women and for women.”

“For us at AXA Mansard, we are aware that digital will play a major role in unlocking these current opportunities and Nigeria’s economic future. So, to ensure that women are equally represented in unlocking these future potentials, that’s why we have collaborated with SME 100 Africa to support them in developing the required skills”.

Honourable Minister of Marine & Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola (Middle); Managing Director/ CEO, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mohammed Bello Koko (Right); Executive Director Finance & Administration, NPA, Vivian Richard Edet (1st Left); Executive Director Marine & Operation, NPA, Olalekan Badmus (2nd Left) and Port Manager Onne Port Complex, GC Zhattau during the commissioning of Road “D” the Arterial Road Link to the Phase 4B Portion of the Federal Ocean Terminal (FOT) of Onne Port Complex in Rivers State… yesterday

Onifade: Future of Aviation Education Will Involve Combining Traditional Teaching with Technology

Ifeoluwa Onifade is a trailblazer in the aviation industry, boasting over 15 years of expertise in flight dispatch, aviation training, and travel consulting. Her journey began with a passion for aviation, leading her to earn certifications in air ticketing and reservation. In this interview with Tosin Clegg, she speaks on the aviation industry, her career and being a licensed flight dispatcher and flight operations officer

How has your background in Mass Communication influenced your approach to your work in aviation, particularly in terms of communication skills?

Studying Mass Communication at Lagos State University has profoundly influenced my approach to work in aviation, particularly in terms of communication skills. The program provided me with a solid foundation in various communication theories, media analysis, and interpersonal communication techniques. These skills have been invaluable in my interactions within the aviation industry, whether communicating with colleagues, coordinating flight operations, or engaging with stakeholders. Effective communication is essential in ensuring clear understanding, maintaining safety standards, and fostering collaboration among team members.

Moreover, my background in Mass Communication has equipped me with the ability to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner, which is crucial in the fast-paced and dynamic environment of aviation. Overall, my education in Mass Communication has greatly enhanced my communication skills, enabling me to effectively navigate the multifaceted landscape of the aviation industry.

You’ve transitioned from air ticketing and reservation to flight dispatching and aviation training. Can you walk us through your journey and what motivated these transitions?

My journey in the aviation industry began with roles in air ticketing and reservation, where I gained valuable experience in customer service and understanding the logistical aspects of air travel. However, I was motivated to explore other areas of the industry that offered opportunities for growth and advancement. The transition to flight dispatching appealed to me because it allowed me to work more closely with flight operations and play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient conduct of flights. It was a natural progression that aligned with my interests in aviation and my desire to take on more responsibility. Similarly, my move into aviation training stemmed from a passion for education and a desire to share my knowledge and experience with others. I saw an opportunity to contribute to the development of future aviation professionals and help shape the next generation of talent in the industry.

Overall, these transitions were motivated by a combination of personal interest, professional growth opportunities, and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the aviation sector.

As a licensed flight dispatcher and flight operations officer, what are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your role, and how have you overcome them?

Being a licensed flight dispatcher and flight operations officer comes with its share of challenges, for sure. One common challenge is dealing with unexpected changes in flight plans or weather conditions, which can throw off schedules and require quick thinking to resolve. To overcome these challenges, I’ve learned to stay calm under pressure and adapt to the situation by prioritizing safety and efficiency. Communication is also key—I make sure to keep everyone involved in the loop and work closely with the flight crew and other team members to find solutions. It’s all about staying flexible and proactive in a fast-paced environment.

You’ve had the privilege of shaping the futures of aviation professionals globally as an instructor. What aspects of teaching do you find most rewarding, and how do you ensure your students receive a comprehensive understanding of the industry?

As an instructor, the most rewarding aspect

of teaching is witnessing the growth and development of my students as they acquire new knowledge and skills. I find fulfillment in helping them realize their potential and become competent professionals in the aviation industry. To ensure my students receive a comprehensive understanding of the industry, I focus on creating engaging and interactive learning experiences that incorporate real-world examples and case studies. I emphasize practical applications, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to prepare them for the challenges they will face in their careers. Additionally, I encourage open dialogue and collaboration to support a dynamic learning environment where ideas can be exchanged and explored. Overall, my goal is to empower my students with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in the ever-evolving field of aviation.

How have your academic qualifications contributed to your professional growth?

My journey has been multifaceted, encompassing a pursuit of Masters Degrees in both Airline and Travel Management and Mass Communication. These qualifications have provided me with a comprehensive understanding of two distinct yet interrelated fields. The degree in Airline and Travel Management has equipped me with specialized knowledge in the aviation industry, including airline operations, marketing, and strategic management. On the other hand, the Mass Communication degree has enhanced my skills in communication, media analysis, and public relations. Combining these areas of expertise has been invaluable in my professional growth, allowing me to approach aviation from both operational and communicative perspectives. It has enabled me to effectively navigate the complexities of the industry, communicate ideas clearly, and develop innovative strategies to address challenges. These qualifications have broadened my skill set and enhanced my ability to make meaningful contributions to the aviation sector.

Balancing a career in aviation,

academic responsibilities, and family life can be demanding. How do you manage your time effectively, and what advice do you have for others striving for a similar balance?

Effectively managing the demands of a career in aviation, academic responsibilities, and family life requires meticulous planning and prioritization. I rely on efficient time management techniques such as creating schedules, setting realistic goals, and delegating tasks when necessary. Add+6 itionally, maintaining open communication with family members and colleagues helps ensure understanding and support. My advice for others seeking a similar balance is to establish boundaries, prioritize self-care, and remain adaptable to unforeseen challenges. Finding harmony among these aspects of life is an ongoing process that requires patience, resilience, and a commitment to personal well-being.

What inspired you to become a licensed Remote Pilot and Ground Instructor in the United States, and how have these certifications enhanced your expertise in the field?

The inspiration to become a licensed Remote Pilot and Ground Instructor in the United States stemmed from a desire to broaden my understanding of aviation and contribute to its advancement. These certifications have enriched my expertise by providing in-depth knowledge of unmanned aerial systems operations and the principles of flight. They have enabled me to impart valuable insights to students and colleagues, enhancing safety

practices and promoting innovation in the rapidly evolving realm of aviation technology.

As someone deeply involved in both the aviation industry and academia, how do you see the future of aviation education evolving, especially in Nigeria?

The future of aviation education in Nigeria will likely involve combining traditional teaching with modern technology. There’ll be more focus on practical training and using simulations to prepare students better. Collaboration between schools and industry will increase to make sure students learn what’s needed in the real world. Also, there’ll be more emphasis on sustainable practices and addressing global aviation issues like safety and security.

Finally, what legacy do you hope to leave in the aviation industry, and what advice would you give to aspiring aviation professionals looking to follow in your footsteps?

In the aviation industry, my legacy would be marked by advancements in sustainable aviation technology and a commitment to enhancing safety standards globally. To aspiring professionals, I would advise gaining diverse experience across various sectors of the industry, networking with seasoned professionals, and staying adaptable in the face of technological advancements and regulatory changes. Additionally, prioritizing ongoing education and training to stay abreast of industry developments is crucial for longterm success.

Onifade

Bagudu Urges IFAD to Boost Investments in Agriculture

James Emejo in Abuja

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, has urged the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to increase investments in agricultural projects in the country.

Speaking when he received a high-level delegation of IFAD which paid him a courtesy call in Abuja, the minister pointed out that over the years, IFAD had been investing and empowering small scale farmers and producers with emphasis on those who were mostly at risk, to ensure inclusiveness.

He said the fund had invested in technology, administration, finance planning and human

resource, all aimed at optimising corporate effectiveness and efficiency to tackle administrative bureaucracy.

Bagudu said the current administration is committed to implementing a multi-faceted approach that combines sustainable agriculture practices, climates smart technology and social protection programmes.

In a statement issued Director, Information, Julie Osagie-Jacobs, Bagudu said, “We believe it represents both an opportunity and challenge today because of exchange rate devaluation.

“Our food is relatively cheaper for most West African and some central African countries to buy.

“So, that calls for us to respond and do more for our own

domestic needs as well as be able to support other countries whose food system are not elastic as ours”.

In his remarks, the Associate Vice President, Programme Management Department, IFAD, Dr. Donal Brown, said he was impressed with the commitment of the federal government in their effort towards food security, agriculture and the implementation of Food Systems Transformation Pathway, in the country.

He said that Nigeria remained one of its strongest partners and biggest programme, adding that the fund needed to engage with the current administration to review the IFAD replenishment process.

Axxela Promises More Investments in Gas Sector, Wins Award

L–R: Independent Non-Executive Director, Vitafoam Nigeria Plc, Abdul Bello; Commercial Director, Dahiru Gambo; Non -Executive Director, Achike Umunna; Finance Director, Joseph Alegbesogie; Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Taiwo Adeniyi; Chairman, Professor (Mrs) Rosemary Egonmwan; Non-Executive Director, Ademola Bolarinwa; Non-Executive Director, Zakariah Sasa; Technical Director, Sola Owoade,; Company Secretary and Legal Adviser, Lekan Sanni; Supply Chain Director, Olaoluwa Ogunfeytimi and Non-Executive Director, Gerson Silva, during the 62nd Annual General Meeting of Vitafoam Nigeria PLC, in Lagos... recently Ejiofor Alike

A leading sub-Saharan African gas and power company, Axxela Limited, has promised to make more investments in Nigeria’s energy sector, describing the gold medal award it received recently in the 2024 EcoVadis Sustainability Rating, as an encouragement and motivation for it to improve and do more.

This rating, according to a statement by the company, underscores Axxela’s steadfast commitment to sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and ethical business practices.

Among the companies evaluated by EcoVadis over the past twelve months, Axxela achieved an impressive 97 percentile rank, showcasing its dedication to continuous progress in sustainability and ESG practices.

This accolade marks a significant advancement from its previous silver medal rating, highlighting the company’s increasing efforts in this domain.

Commenting on the award, the Chief Executive Officer of Axxela, Mr. Bolaji Osunsanya stated: “Achieving a Gold Medal in our 2024 Sustainability Rating from a globally renowned authority on business sustainability ratings, serves as a superior validation of Axxela’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.

Over the past years, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that we incorporate and embrace the principles of sustainability across our business operations for the benefit of our customers, employees, partners, and investors. This

outcome is both an encouragement and motivation for us to persistently improve and do more. ”

Osunsanya reiterated Axxela’s pledge to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, aligning with the UN SDG 9 Agenda on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

Also commenting, the General Counsel and Company Secretary, Axxela, Tuoyo Ejueyitchie said this recognition is a testament to Axxela’s excellence and continued improvement in the area of sustainability.

He said: “It is a true definition of team effort and general commitment to developing and adhering to processes and procedures that demonstrate our company’s dedication to maintaining world class Sustainability/ ESG standards.”

CISI Nigeria Members Parley on Benefits of Infrastructure Financing

In a strategic move to strengthen its members’ capacity , the National Advisory Council (NAC) of Nigeria Group of Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI), has identified how to maximize investment opportunities in a volatile market, especially through infrastructure financing.

Besides, the Nigeria Members’ Forum, themed, “Exploring Opportunities in Volatile MarketGetting the best of Infrastructure Funding, Risk Management and Social Responsibility Investing,” held in Lagos recently, unveiled a blueprint of CISI activities in

Nigeria for the rest of the year.

Speaking on “ Infrastructure Funding via Capital Market Instruments, , the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Limited, Mr Jude Chiemeka, explained that robust infrastructure was necessary to grow an economy and improve the quality of life. But Chiemeka, who was the Special Guest, noted that traditional funding sources like budgets and bank loans could not meet the growing demand for infrastructure investment.

The Assistant Director, Global Market Development, CISI, Mrs

Helena Wilson, offered some tips on the activities for CISI Nigeria Group this year, saying: “There will be more options for renewal of membership , CISI shall continue to partner with more institutions, more education projects in the universities, including joint community development, increased media presence and exposure of members to new learning styles amongst others.”

Commenting on the Forum, the CISI Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr John Osuoha, urged the members to take advantage of numerous opportunities that it provides.

Glovo Partners Visa to Empower Growth-minded SMEs

Leading multi-category app Glovo has announced that it has teamed with Visa, to empower small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) through a series of online training courses.

“The collaboration is a result of Glovo and Visa’s shared belief that SMEs are the pillars of our global economy. The programme sits under Glovo’s umbrella programme, Glovo Local – an initiative to help bolster SMEs so that they can thrive in an increasingly digital world, “it said in a statement.

Head of Impact and Sustainability at Glovo, Sébastien Pellion, said: “We are using this opportunity to further

our offering to SMEs and to strengthen a collaborative ecosystem for entrepreneurs and business owners that shape our cities. Only 20% of SMEs in the markets where we operate sell via digital channels, resulting in a huge potential for them to tap into new customer bases. Partnering with Visa is another opportunity to support SMEs on their digitalisation journey and accelerate small and independent businesses in regions like Africa, which has ample opportunities for local business owners.

We’re confident that Visa can aid us in fuelling local economies through formalised, community-driven initiatives.”

Vice President and Head of Social Impact, CEMEA, Visa, Carl Manlan, said: “Visa acknowledges that SMEs are the backbone of economic growth and inclusion and equipping them with innovative solutions and resources with our partners is essential. Small, independent businesses account for more than half of Europe’s GDP and employ around 100 million people[1]. In Africa, SMEs account for 95% of all registered businesses and contribute to about 50% of the total GDP in Sub-Saharan countries[2]. Globally we are moving from hundreds of millions of sellers – large and small – to billions of sellers around the world.

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage)

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $81.30 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $79.70 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

Stock Market Drops by 0.11% on Profit-taking in MTN, 22 Others

Kayode Tokede

The domestic stock market yesterday sustained its bearish performance as losses in MTN Nigeria Communications (MTNN) Plc and 22 others pulled the overall market capitalization lower by N62 billion.

As MTN Nigeria dropped by 3.03 per cent to close at N 240.00 per share, the Nigerian

Exchange Limited All-Share Index (NGX ASI) declined by 110.03 basis points or 0.11 per cent to close at 104,553.31 basis points from 104,663.34 basis points.

Also, market capitalisation shed N62 billion to close at N59.116 trillion from N59.178 trillion the stock market opened for trading. However, the market breadth closed positive, as 27 stocks

gained relative to 23 losers. International Energy Insurance emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent to close at N1.32, per share. International Breweries followed with a gain of 9.89 per cent to close at N4.89, while Juli rose by 9.85 per cent to close at N5.91, per share.

NEM Insurance increased by 9.59 per cent to close at N8.00, while FBN Holding

(FBNH) added 9.06 per cent to close at N43.95, per share. On the other side, DAAR Communications led the losers’ chart with 9.86 per cent to close at 64 kobo, per share. CWG followed with a decline of 9.09 per cent to close at N5.50, while Sovereign Trust Insurance shed 8.51 per cent to close at 43 kobo, per share. UPDC Real Estate Investment Trust depreciated by

6.36 per cent to close at N5.15, while Fidson Healthcare down by 6.25 per cent to close at N15.00, per share. The total volume traded rose by 6.82 per cent to 307.047 million units, valued at N7.594 billion, and exchanged in 9,548 deals. Transactions in the shares of FBNH led the activity with 37.807 million shares worth N1.573 billion. United Bank

for Africa (UBA) followed with account of 36.855 million shares valued at N954.382 million, while Access Holdings traded 28.087 million shares valued at N649.273 million.

Transnational Corporation (Transcorp) traded 21.573 million shares worth N322.628 million, while Fidelity Bank traded 19.814 million shares worth N200.457 million.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF MARCH /18/24

Thisday Afrinvest Index up 28ps

Thisday Afrinvest 40 index gained 28bps to print at 4,564.60 index points on the back of price uptick in UBA (+1.6%), WAPCO (+2.8%), and FBNH (+9.1%). Cumulatively, these stocks account for 17.3% of the index.

Bears Prevails Again... ASI down 0.1%

Yesterday, the local bourse sustained its bearish performance as losses in MTNN ( 3.0%), ZENITH ( 2.3%), and GTCO ( 1.7%) pulled the NGX ASI lower by 0.1% to 104,553.31 points. As a result, YTD return declined to 39.8% (previously 40.0%), while market capitalisation fell 0.1% to ₦59.1tn. Activity level varied as volume traded rose 6.8% to 307.0m units while value traded declined by 29.7% to ₦7.6bn respectively.

Bullish Sector Performance

Performance across sectors within our purview was upbeat as five indices gained, while one lost. Leading the gainers, the Banking and Insurance indices rose 1.1% and 0.6% respectively due to price uptick in UBA (+1.6%), WEMABANK (+2.6%), NEM (+9.6%) and AIICO (+4.0%). Following suit, buy interest in INTBREW (+9.9%), FLOURMILL (+3.6%), WAPCO (+2.8%) and CUTIX (+1.8%) saw the Consumer Goods and Industrial Goods indices gain 0.2% and 0.1% respectively. The Oil & Gas index gained 4bps due to price appreciation on ETERNA (+1.3%). Conversely, selloffs on MTNN ( 3.0%) and CWG ( 9.1%) dragged the AFR ICT index down 1.2%.

Outlook

Investor sentiment, as measured by market breadth, weakened to 0.06x from 0.12x in the prior session as 27 stocks advanced, 23 declined, while 72 closed flat. Today, we anticipate a bearish market on the back of weakened sentiment.

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

Sotunsa: Brain Drain Can be a Blessing to Africa if Well

Managed

Prof. John Sotunsa is the provost of Ben Carson College of Health and Medical Science, Babcock University, and the Chief Executive Officer of Global Vision Support International Foundation. He explained to Funmi Ogundare why Nigeria has to effectively manage some of the challenges confronting it so that the country can turn its fortunes around, among other issues. Excerpts:

How do you juggle your roles as provost, surgeon, pastor, and chief executive officer of Global Vision Support International Foundation?

I have a principle: it’s one day at a time. You plan out your schedule and try to follow it as much as you can.

What are some of the challenges you face at the medical college?

It is about creating a new scenario. My goal is that every graduate of our school should be internationally competitive, so what it means is that we are not only going to meet the local demands but also meet the international requirements such that once our graduates leave here, skills and academic wise, they will be on top. Much more, we are placing a lot of emphasis on research because research is answering unanswered questions. So with that, wherever you get to, you will know how to find solutions to problems that you didn’t even premeditate that they will exist. With all those, it’s bringing in new dynamics to what we do and bringing that to the level of the Gen-Z people who are very dynamic and fluid in their way of life.

What is the cost of research to you?

It is not just about doing research for research’s sake but to solve a problem. What are the problems that exist? What really makes those problems exist, and how do we get out of the problem? You don’t have the answer that is why it is a research and I ask people to look at their resources, develop tools and get information. From the input of people, you will be able to come up with ideas that, if we do it in one way or another, will work. That can be applied in every phase of life, and that is how it’s going to work, and that is what we want our doctors to be able to do.

What is your view about research generally in Nigeria: are we there yet?

We are not there yet due to several factors responsible for that. One of the factors is mentorship. When you have good mentors, they are meant to help you develop the desire, discipline and commitment because research is not fun. It requires total commitment, concentration and tenacity that will make you not give up because sometimes it could be challenging. If you have good mentors, they will help you appreciate integrity. For instance, there is a work we are doing on ‘intimate partner violence and perionatal mental illness and pregnancy outcome and the role of partner involvement in pregnancy care’. How

does it affect the outcome of pregnancy in the light of intimate partner violence and perionatal mental illness? When we look at the literature, physical intimate partner violence has a greater prevalence of 50 per cent in some of the studies.

So we used that, and we got a sample size that was a little bit less than 1,000. However, when we went into the field, we found out that the women we were dealing with were totally different from those ones. They are more educated. About 87 per cent had secondary school and tertiary education, and 95 per cent were gainfully employed, unlike the 30 to 50 per cent of the data that we used. In the long run, we found out that the problem that we thought was colossal was small within the subset. The perinatal mental illness that we were seeing was just about 5.1 per cent. So, if you have not learnt discipline and integrity, you will wonder how the work you have done has been a waste. So that is where you need mentorship so that you would be able to move on.

People often complain there is poor funding for research. What do you think?

It is because we don’t know what research really is. Most of the time, we want to do what we want, the way we like, and expect people to fund what you think is right. I put my money where I think is relevant to me and to my establishment.

So that is why if you are a researcher, your major job is to look out for things that will be of interest to the funders. So I can now release my money to fund the research. For instance, there is a study that has to do with breast cancer, and an idea came that when breast cancer fully develops, it becomes a problem. Here we do radiotherapy, but how many radiotherapy centres do we have in Nigeria? There are very few and it’s very expensive.

When it comes to chemotherapy, they are available here, but very expensive. When it comes to some of the tumours we are seeing now they will require the newer generation medications which will cost millions. But come to think about it, why should we wait until it is fully blown? The idea we are toiling with has to do with the male partner. Almost 90 per cent of women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer in Nigeria have a male partner. He has to help in examining the woman’s breast and ensure that the woman goes to the hospital immediately if she detects a lump.

If this is done, we are going to have less of this problem. That is why the key to preventing breast cancer is early diagnosis. You can not get it early, except somebody identifies it early. The woman should also do a self-breast examination. So much noise has been made about it, but less than 13 per cent of women do it regularly and consistently. When research is relevant to the people, funders will be ready to break their banks.

Since you started your foundation, what impact has it made, and how would you describe it?

The objective of the foundation is making a difference. As a foundation, we do several things. Firstly, we do a lot of youth and women empowerment. The main thing we do for youth empowerment is computer literacy, and we help young people appreciate the use of the system. The young man directing the programme now also benefitted from it and has completed his undergraduate programme and we have a lot of young people who have gone through our programme. Apart from that, we also do direct scholarships, as well as medical outreaches. For instance, in December, we were in Iperu, Ogun State, where we were able to see 1,600 people over a one-week-long programme and did 83 free fibroid surgeries and 85 minor surgeries. We are going to extend our medical outreach to Osun State from March 24 to 31. The next one will be in Ibadan, Oyo State, from April 8 to 13, and we are going to be doing the same thing we did in Iperu.

What challenges have you faced over the years?

We have had a few people who had infection and were able to treat it. Another had a humongous fibroid. Whenever you have such, it displaces a lot of the other strictures in the body.

Looking ahead, what are your plans for the less privileged in society?

One main thing I desire for the less privileged is ‘The Vision College’ concept. I took that out from my background and Adventist philosophy of education. The philosophy states that you train the head, hand and heart. The head is so that you are able to think outside the box and find a solution. The hand is so that you are ready to work and make a difference, and the heart is so that you are compassionate and empathic. In my own background, my parents were very poor, but when I became an Adventist in 1983, my old teacher, who is presently in the UK, taught my class as a kid. She has always stressed the need for us to use our hands to work.

She taught us that once you do your normal duty, ask your parent for a little work, and as you do it, they pay you, and from the little they pay you, you turn in your tithe and church offering.

When things got pretty bad in the family, I pleaded with my father to allow me to work. Had it not been for that, I wouldn’t have done my school certificate exam and would not have gone to school. So what we are doing now is that we are setting up the vision college, our goal is to take 100 young people into JS I every year. They will be with us for six years. We will take care of their feeding, books and other expenses. We plan to start that in Ogun State. As soon as we build up the structures, we are going to start taking in pupils.

The beauty of this is that I have sponsored a lot of people in school in our current system through my social capital, and when they are done, they get jobs. That is the beauty of NGO work. Right in the school, we teach them what to do. Some can work in the agric sector, for instance, and ensure a division of labour, and before you know it, they are earning money. Some could also be good at marketing. They can sit on their computers and make sure that customers are interested in what their friends are producing, and by the time they are done with school, they are skilled. So they don’t need to wait for employment. Unemployment does not exist.

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

American University Confers Doctorate, Fellowship on 34 Nigerians

Uchechukwu Nnaike

The Institute of Arts Management and Professional Studies (IAMPS), in collaboration with Prowess University, Delaware, USA, recently conferred doctoral and fellowship awards on some prominent Nigerians.

The award ceremony was held recently during the 10th leadership summit/induction ceremony of IAMPS at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

The recipients were awarded Doctor of Philosophy (honoris causa) in Business Administration, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Divinity, Social and Human Development, Financial Management, Information and Communications Strategy, Educational Management, Technology Management, Health Care Management, Public Administration, Human Resource Management, and Cyber Leadership and Strategy.

Seventeen persons were also inducted as fellows and associate members of IAMPS at the event.

The Registrar of IAMPS and African representative of Prowess University, USA, Prof. Eze Nwauba, said the institute, established in 2016, was registered at the Corporate Affairs Commission and recognised by the Federal Ministry of Education.

He said IAMPS expertise receives adequate professional training and updating to guarantee a high level of performance in line with core professional ethics, which includes maintaining and enhancing their qualifications through functional persistence.

The representative of Prowess

University in Nigeria, Prof. Justice Esibe, said a committee was set up to scrutinise the final list of awardees, saying that “we did good screening before these set of people emerged.” He urged the recipients to continue with the good work and to start partnering with IAMPS because the desired change begins with everyone.

The Group Managing Director of Britking Group

of Companies, Nwankwo Bright Izuchukwu, and the Executive Director, Ojukwu Chukwuemeka Kingsley, were awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (honoris causa) in Business Administration.

Izuchukwu said, “I see this as an opportunity to do more because I believe for the school to have nominated me and decorated me with this honorary doctorate degree, it shows more is still being expected from me.”

He advised the youth to be dedicated and consistent and always to give their best in any situation.

Kingsley described the award as a dream come true, showing that “all our dedication to work and empowerment of the youths is noticed by some set of people who have honoured us with this award.”

“We have always dedicated our time in doing that thing we have passion for, chief among them is empowering the youths through the skills God has also given us in the area of real estate,” added Izuchukwu. “So at no time, did I dream that this award will come today but we are grateful to the school for this honour.”

He urged the youth always to have a good mentor and advised them to avoid shortcuts in achieving their goals.

Sotunsa

Prof. Nwauba, with Izuchukwu, Ojukwu and others at the award ceremony

Crime&Punishment

The Lagos Division of the Federal High Court has ordered the remand of Ayotunde Richard, a blogger and former member of Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries (MFM), in Ikoyi Prison custody, pending the hearing and determination of his bail application.

Also remanded alongside Richard was Adewale Ajimisogbe, charged alongside the blogger in a 12-count charge of conspiracy, cyber-bullying and libel.

Justice Lewis-Allagoa ordered the remand of the two defendants after they pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.

While the two defendants were jointly charged on three counts of conspiracy to commit felony to wit: cyberstalking, libel and defamation, the first defendant (Richard) was slammed with nine counts of defamation.

The prosecutor, Nosa Waltson Uhumwangho, told the court that the duo committed the alleged offences between December 2023 and February 2024.

He told the court that the defendants, through a blogging platform named ‘Postreporters’, a social network, made a report with the caption: ‘He is a criminal and behind all illegal acts - Ex-MFM Church singer sues founder, Daniel Olukoya, others, seeks N15.5 billion in damages over illegal detention,

breach of human rights’.

The prosecutor also alleged that the blogger posted on another social media platform, ‘Moment of Truth’, with the caption ‘Daniel Olukoya the Police Pastor’, ‘Mountain of Police and Alagbon Ministries’, ‘A powerless clergy who depends on Ayoleyi Tawose in order to deal with his perceived enemies’.

The blogger accused the MFM general overseer of lying to his former RCCG pastor to flush him out of the church.

The two defendants denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty to the charges. Following their not-guilty plea, the prosecutor asked for a trial

I Fainted After Delivering Ransom to Kidnappers, Witness Tells Court

Funke Olaode

The prosecution witness, Mohammed Buhari, has told the Ikeja Division of the Lagos High Court how alleged kidnappers called him to drop a ransom at Ojuelegba road following the kidnap of his boss’ child.

Shortly after dropping off the ransom, he fainted and only woke up in his house the following day, Buhari said.

The witness testified before Justice Adenike Coker at the ongoing trial of three suspects (Lima Auwal, Abdullah Usman, and Seidu Abbas), who allegedly kidnapped the nine-year-old son of his boss. The police arrested them with the ransom they collected from Buhari.

The trio of Auwal, Usman and Abbas were alleged of kidnapping the boy at about 7:30 p.m. at Ajayi Street, Idi-Araba, Mushin, in Lagos on November 4, 2022.

Wale igbintale

Justice Yelim Bogoro of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court on Monday declined an application seeking to amend the pleas and claims by Anchorage Leisure Ltd and its sister companies against Ecobank Nigeria Ltd.

The upheld the argument of Ecobank’s counsel Kunle Ogunba (SAN) in the suit marked FHC/L/ CS/352/2023.

The parties in the suit are Anchorage, Siloam Global Limited, and Honeywell Flour Mills Plc, as plaintiffs

At the last proceeding on February 7, the father (Mr Aliu Abubakar) of the kidnapped boy recounted the ordeal his son went through. He said the boy’s life had not been normal since then. The court heard that the boy was traumatised following his release and could not speak well.

The Lagos government had arraigned the defendants on a two-count charge of conspiracy to kidnap and kidnapping.

However, at the resumed hearing, the witness gave a vivid account of how he followed the kidnapper’s instructions to drop the ransom inside a tyre placed by the roadside towards Ojuelegba.

Led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, Ms Titi Adeyegbe, the witness recounted that after the closing of work, he drove home the father of the kidnapped boy.

Buhari said they did not meet Abubakar’s wife and his boss’ brother,

and respondents, and Ecobank, as defendant and counterclaimant.

Anchorage is owned by or linked to businessman Oba Otudeko (also sued as a defendant in the counterclaim filed by Ecobank). At the resumption of proceedings, Benjamin Nwosu appeared for the plaintiffs and the first to third defendants in the counterclaim, while Ogunba appeared for the defendant and counterclaimant.

Elijah Akefe appeared for the fourth defendant in the counterclaim, C.I. Umeche for the fifth defendant, and O. Akinduro represented the sixth

Ibrahim, at home but learnt that they had gone out searching for the boy when the child did not return home from school on a Friday.

Buhari said he joined Ibrahim in the search and slept overnight on the street.

“My boss went to report to the police. But on the second day, I got a text message. I went straight to show my boss, Abubakar,” Buhari explained. “The message was that, ‘Your son is with us. We needed $3000 and N200,000’. I later got a call and the voice said, ‘Oga na we carry your son’.”

He said, “I asked if I can speak to the boy. He gave the phone to the boy and I asked how he is. He responded fine. They didn’t call me again till Sunday morning when the negotiation continued.”

Buhari added, “He spoke to me in Hausa language. I told him we are both speaking Hausa. He asked

defendant.

The plaintiffs had filed an application dated October 23, 2023, seeking to amend their Writ of Summons and all other originating processes in the suit.

But, refusing the application, the judge held that it was overreaching as it was filed to change the plaintiffs’ case.

The court observed that the plaintiffs had deleted the admission contained in the processes through the proposed amendment and that the application was filed to override Ecobank’s application for summary

how much I have with me and I said N400,000. He said he would tell me where to get the boy that I should follow their instruction. When I got the money, I put it inside black nylon. Again, they called me back around 7 o’clock in the evening and said that having involved the law enforcement agency (police), they would not call me again.”

But the accused contacted Buhari again.

“They called me again around 10:00 p.m. to bring the money. I was told to go to the front of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). He told me to move towards Ojuelegba road,” said the prosecution witness. “He asked if I have seen tyre placed by the roadside by vulcanizer. He assured me that I would see the boy.” Buhari said when he did not see the boy as promised by the abductors, he passed out and only woke up in front of his house.

Claim

judgment, noting that Ecobank’s application for summary judgment was filed due to the plaintiffs’ admission.

The court consequently struck out the application for lacking merit.

Following arguments by the parties on the priority of pending applications to be heard, the court ruled that it would hear all pending applications (ripe for hearing) on the next adjourned date, including Ecobank’s application for summary judgment.

The judge adjourned the case until April 17.

Federal High Court Judges Begin 2024 Easter Vacation on Friday

Wale igbintade

The Federal High Court of Nigeria has announced its 2024 Easter Vacation and Roster for Vacation Judges. According to a circular signed by

Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, the court will begin its Easter vacation from March 22 to April 8.

The statement said the court would resume sitting on April 9

in all judicial divisions, adding that during the break, the Abuja, Lagos, and Port-Harcourt divisions will remain open “only for cases of extreme urgency.”

“It is essential to stress that, during

the vacation, only matters relating to enforcement of fundamental rights; arrest or release of vessels and matters that concern dire national interest are to be entertained by vacation judges,” the statement said.

Funke Olaode

date while urging the court to remand them in prison custody, pending when their bail applications will be heard and determined.

However, the defendants’ lawyer, Sesi Hundeyin, pleaded with the court for a short date to bring his clients’ bail applications.

He also pleaded with the court to remand his clients in police custody until their bail applications were heard. But the prosecutor vehemently opposed the request, arguing that the police remand facility was overstretched.

The judge ordered the defendants’ remand in prison custody and adjourned the case until March 21 for a hearing of their bail application.

The Ikeja Division of the Lagos High Court, presided over by Justice Rahman Oshodi, has sentenced a man, Rasheed Wasiu, to life imprisonment for having sexual intercourse with his neighbour’s eleven-year-old daughter (name withheld).

The judge convicted Wasiu in a defilement suit filed by the Lagos government.

In handing down the judgment, Oshodi, who held that the offence was grave and attracted a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment, insisted that the convicted Wasiu lied during his evidence before the court.

“Notwithstanding the overwhelming evidence against you, you continued to deny your offence. At sentencing, you showed no remorse. The evidence shows that you had sexual intercourse with an eleven-year-old girl,” said the judge.

Oshodi added, “She was your neighbour’s daughter. She was, to your knowledge, a child. You grabbed her in the toilet, pushed her to the wall and had sexual intercourse with her in a beastly manner. This is unacceptable. You must be ashamed and punished according to the mandatory sentence.”

The judge added, “Therefore, the sentence I pass upon you is one of life imprisonment. You shall be registered as a sex offender in the Lagos State Sexual Offenders Register.”

In the charge designated LD/8444C/2018, dated December 7, 2018, the Lagos government accused the convicted Wasiu of defiling the survivor on or about March 9, 2018, at about 8:00 p.m. at the minor’s residence. Wasiu had pleaded not guilty to the charge when he was arraigned on December 10, 2021.

In an earlier arraignment on June 13, 2019, the convict claimed he was elsewhere at the time of the alleged sexual assault.

During the trial, the government called four witnesses to establish its case against the convict, while

the defence.

The prosecution had tendered three documents as exhibits, namely, the extrajudicial statement of the survivor who testified as a prosecution witness (PW3), the extrajudicial statement of the survivor’s father who testified as prosecution witness four (PW4), and the defendant’s extrajudicial statement who had testified as defence witness one (DW1).

In his argument, the convict’s counsel, Yusuf Oyebanji, urged the court to discharge and acquit Wasiu because the prosecution was unable to establish his client’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and that the defence of alibi deflated the defilement allegation.

But the prosecutor, through its lawyers, B.T. Boye, O. Aluko, and I.D. Solarin, insisted that it produced direct eyewitness and circumstantial evidence to justify the defendant’s conviction for defilement.

Taking a position, the judge who held that in criminal law, the prosecution must establish a crime against the defendant referred to section 135 (1) of the Evidence Act 2011 to state that the standard of proof is beyond reasonable doubt.

“Each element of this crime must be established beyond a reasonable doubt. Any doubt must be resolved in favour of the defendant. The charge of defilement occurs when a person has sexual intercourse with a child. A child cannot consent to sexual activities,” said Oshodi.

The judge added, “In law, where a witness testifies on a material fact in controversy, in this case, whether the prosecutrix was a child, and the defence does not cross-examine the witnesses on this point, I can consider the silence as acceptance that the defendant does not dispute the fact.

He explained that there “is consistent evidence that the prosecutrix (PW3) was 11 as of March 2018, when the events” that led to this prosecution occurred, stressing, “I have accepted this as accurate.”

Wale lgbintade

TRIBUTE

Ugwuanyi: A Good Man Turns 60

By Louis Amoke

Adeep reflection on the striking traits of Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the immediate past governor of Enugu State, as he clocks 60, is indeed a compelling excursion. It is also a veritable opportunity to relive his unique personality, leadership nous and their positive impact on the people.

Marking his Diamond Jubilee on March 20 is a great feat for the former governor who was remarkable in entrenching peace, security, and good governance in Enugu State, amid local, national and global governance challenges.

Ugwuanyi must be a fulfilled man for elevating the state’s development narrative to an enviable height through his special focus on rural development aimed at growing the local economy and giving the rural dwellers and the long-neglected, a sense of belonging.

Ugwuanyi is always grateful for God’s unmerited favour which availed him the opportunity to: serve his state and country selflessly; work as God’s instrument in raising the poor, the underprivileged and long-neglected from the ash heap and make them to inherit a throne of honour; heal the broken hearted and stamp peace and harmony on the state’s marble, in keeping with the dreams and aspirations of the founding fathers.

Former Governor Ugwuanyi is a good man, a very calm person, a devout Roman Catholic and a bridge-builder who does not segregate irrespective of class, ethnic, political or religious differences nor sacrifice the needs and wellbeing of the people on the altar of selfishness and parochial sentiments.

He sips deep from the Church’s moral teachings, especially the Christian obligation towards promoting peace, love and unity, and sharing in the pains of others by ameliorating their suffering.

No doubt, the ex-governor has always returned all glory, adoration and thanksgiving to God for his remarkable accomplishments in office through his resourcefulness, dint of hard work, vision, dignity, philanthropic and patriotic gestures, peaceful disposition, humility, inclusiveness, kindness, sacrifices, forbearance and commitment to God.

Consequently, Ugwuanyi, fondly known as Gburugburu, even after leaving office as governor, has left no one in doubt about the genuineness of these striking traits of his which have over the years defined his life story and also carved an enviable niche for him as a phenomenal leader with a unique leadership philosophy.

A proud member of the G5, Ugwuanyi during the 2023 presidential election period, alongside his G5 colleagues, led by the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, patriotically exhibited courage and firm commitment to peace, unity, and progress of Nigeria as well as the equitable rotation of power between the Northern and Southern parts of the country.

Highly detribalized and a deep man of faith, Ugwuanyi’s broad-minded style of inclusive politics, sacrifice, and commitment to peace and unity have seen him play a unique statesman’s role for the common good and sustainable development of Enugu State, the South East Zone and Nigeria as a whole.

A rare leader who, even when he receives bad coins from his beneficiaries in return for his good coins, remains calm, unprovoked, and willing to do more good for peace to reign.

As a kind-hearted leader with wealth of experience, and one with good conscience always grateful to God for His goodness and amazing grace, Ugwuanyi in keeping with his long held tradition of marking his birthday, is committed to prayers, charity, almsgiving and thanksgiving.

The nucleus of this year’s remarkable event (Diamond Jubilee) is, therefore, anchored on the wellbeing of the needy and underprivileged in the society.

Ugwuanyi’s pre-birthday message, in the spirit of the Lenten Season, has always been that his friends and well-wishers who intend offering him birthday gifts should “channel them to charity homes and orphanages in appreciation of God’s mercies and kindness”. He had also expressed aversion to marking the occasion with public activities.

In keeping with his philanthropic gestures, Ugwuanyi has a rural-based medical programme, “Gburugburu Free Medical Outreach” that renders free medical services to underprivileged patients with surgical conditions but lack funds for treatments, among others. This free medical programme, which has been running effectively and efficiently to date, has successfully saved the life of over 2,340 people through the “Gburugburu’s Free Surgery Programme”.

The ex-governor is unrepentant about his disposition and passion towards alleviating the sufferings of the people and giving succour to the needy and the long-neglected in the society.

This obviously informed his administration’s decision to pay special attention to rural development to benefit the majority of indigenes of Enugu State, who reside in the rural areas.

In his inaugural address as governor in 2015, Ugwuanyi was deliberate when he stated that “Enugu State under us will pay a special attention to rural development because majority of our people live in the rural areas”.

Consciously, the then governor disclosed that his administration in line with the above will equip and modernize Nsukka - a university

town founded over half a century ago and the second largest town in Enugu State. As Ugwuanyi, the pioneer of rural development model in Enugu State clocks 60, one is proud to identify his visionary leadership and indelible footsteps as a peacemaker and one who enjoyed an enduring harmonious working relationship with the legislative arm of government, the judicial arm, the state workforce (labour union), the religious and traditional institutions.

Remarkably, Ugwuanyi is the founder of a university located in Nsukka Zone, the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS), Igbo-Eno, Enugu State; the man who attracted a federal polytechnic to Nsukka Zone, Federal Polytechnic Ohodo, Enugu State; the first governor of Enugu State to construct a flyover bridge in the state, the T-junction Flyover Bridge, Nike, Enugu; the hand that remodeled and reconstructed the ancient, historic and undulating 11km Enugu Milliken Hill-Ngwo-9th Mile road; the man who changed the face of major roads at the heart of 9th Mile Corner, Udi LGA and ended the heavy gridlock in the commercial area with the construction of two bypass roads.

The former governor also constructed the 13km Nike Lake junction-Harmony Estate-Amorji Nike-Adoration Pilgrimage Centre-Orie Emene road linking the ever-busy Abakpa Nike with Emene satellite town in Enugu East LGA; reconstructed the Nike Lake Road and Abakpa Nike Road in Enugu East LGA; reconstructed the Airport Roundabout/ Orie-Emene/ St. Patrick’s College/Eke-Obinagu Road in Enugu East LGA; constructed the 8.2km Inyi-Akpugoeze road in Oji River LGA;

reconstructed different roads in Enugu City, among numerous other road projects.

Ugwunayi is outstanding as the man who brought transformational development to Nsukka Zone through the construction of the state-of-the-art 12km Opi-Nsukka dual carriageway with underground drainage system and fitted with street and traffic lights, among other numerous roads which gave the university town of Nsukka a major facelift.

The ex-governor is equally the man who constructed the ultra-modern 5,000-seat Nsukka Township Stadium, a befitting State Secretariat Annex at Nsukka and interestingly, a massive Conference Centre adjacent to it. The former governor, in opening up the rural areas, constructed numerous roads and other amenities. These include the 31km Udenu Ring Road, the 8.8km Nkalagu-Eha Amufu road in Isi-Uzo LGA, neglected for over 35 years, the 26.66km Ukpabi-Nimbo-Ugbene -Ajima-Eziani road in Uzo-Uwani LGA (RAMP-2); the 22.443km Neke-Mbu-Ogbodu Aba-Obollo Etiti inter-community road linking Isi-Uzo and Udenu LGAs (RAMP-2); Type 3 Healthcare Cenres; massive Amenity Ward Facility located at the upgraded Ogrute General Hospital, Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North LGA; numerous educational facilities across the state, such as classroom blocks, school furniture, etc.

One of Ugwuanyi’s greatest achievements for Nsukka Zone was the stepping down of 30MVA in Nsukka from the 132KV Makurdi Feeder, which his administration facilitated. This milestone achievement has effectively improved the quality of electricity supply to the area and has also enhanced the growth of business activities.

The 30MVA Injection Sub-Station in Nsukka, was the programme of the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) but received maximum support from Ugwuanyi’s administration which provided sundry assistance such as resolution of all legal issues concerning the project, bush clearing as well as dealing with other obstructions impeding the line’s passage, and construction of the outgoing feeders to supply power to end users.

On security, Ugwuanyi achieved several milestones in making Enugu one of the safest states in Nigeria. He achieved this by the overwhelming support he gave to the various security agencies in the state. One of such support was the purchase and donation of 100 units of Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing (IVM) patrol vans fitted with communication gadgets to the security agencies in the state to effectively aid their operations.

The former governor also employed 1,700 forest guards, repositioned the vigilante/neighbourhood watch groups, and purchased 260 security vehicles for their community policing operations, among other time-honoured interventions.

During the recent maiden Founders’ Day celebration of SUMAS, the Chairman of the Occasion and Chairman, South East Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu applauded Ugwuanyi for his foresight in establishing the “unique university” during his tenure as governor of the state.

Igwe Agubuzu described former Governor Ugwuanyi as “an inimitable and inscrutable politician who deserves to be acknowledged and honoured not just for founding this university (SUMAS) but for the lightning speed with which he did so in the twilight of his second tenure as Governor of Enugu State,” congratulating him for the remarkable achievement and legacy.

According to him, “This unique university, located in a unique place, was conceived and delivered under unique circumstances by a unique person, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, CON; former Governor of Enugu State, an inimitable and inscrutable politician.” The monarch acknowledged Ugwuanyi for developing his constituency.

Continues online

15 UK Varsities Announce Job Cuts as Foreign Student Enrolments from Nigeria, Others Plummet

71% decrease in Nigerian recruits envisaged

Emmanuel Addeh

Hundreds of university staff are at risk of being fired as educational institutions scramble to cut costs following a substantial drop in the number of foreign students enrolling in courses, The Independent has reported, quoting a The Times report.

University chiefs have warned of a range of cuts, from shutting down courses to shedding teaching staff, as the institutions are pushed into deficit.

This academic year, at least 15 universities in the UK have announced job cuts and additional cost-saving measures in an effort to salvage their finances, the report said.

Earlier in March, more than 120 staff at Sheffield Hallam University were served with “risk of redundancy” letters, which gave them until 18 March to take voluntary redundancy or apply for “a limited number of roles”.

In February, the University of Kent proposed cutting 58 jobs along with nine courses in response to “financial challenges”. Following a freeze in tuition fees, most universities have covered their costs by enrolling overseas students, who pay far more than domestic students.

According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency, overseas students comprised 24 per cent of all students

in higher education during the 20212022 academic year. However, early acceptance data indicates a 37 per cent decrease in overseas recruits for the coming financial year.

Northumbria University said the cuts were necessary because of “a sudden reduction of the number of students” arriving in the UK from Nigeria, where the currency has collapsed against the pound.

Acceptance data suggests there could be a 71 per cent reduction in the number of students arriving from Nigeria, The Times reported.

John Rushforth, Executive Secretary of the Committee of University Chairs, said: “I’ve been in higher education for

30 years and senior leaders are more worried than I’ve ever seen them.”

He told the newspaper that “bankruptcy is a realistic possibility” for some universities, which are being pushed to do “really difficult things” to stave off the prospect. “Taking fewer British students is a last resort, but if you’re making a loss on something, people have to consider it. Everything has got to be looked at because the situation is so serious.

“Universities have to think hard about what they want to protect, and make choices about divesting themselves of things that are not core to the institution. There will be less choice for students.

“Fundamentally, either you have to increase income, or you reduce quality or volume,” he said.

Last year, thousands of staff belonging to the University and College Union participated in a walkout to protest against the “punitive” pay deductions imposed on those who had engaged in a summer marking boycott.

“I’ve not received full pay for five months for taking part in an entirely lawful boycott,” Tanzil Chowdhury, a senior lecturer in law at Queen Mary University of London, told The Independent.

The drop in foreign student attendance, particularly from countries

like Nigeria and India, has been so impactful that some universities might see themselves forced into making “really difficult” decisions to remain solvent, it was learnt. The decline in international student numbers has been partly attributed to the economic challenges in their home countries, such as the significant devaluation of the Nigerian naira against the British pound.

Also, policy changes by the UK government, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s announcement to restrict international graduate students from bringing dependents to the UK, have exacerbated concerns regarding future enrolment numbers.

in Abuja

Ugwuanyi

Current Forex Scarcity Presents Challenges, Potential Opportunities for Construction, Says NIOB

Bennett Oghifo

The current scarcity of forex in Nigeria presents presents challenges and potential opportunities in the nation’s construction industry, the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) has said.

The President of NIOB, BDLR (SIR) Alderton Ewa

Ewa, “As a Nation faced with the present impact of foreign exchange (forex) on construction, it is important to note that it is multifaceted, presenting both challenges and potential opportunities.”

The president, represented by the Lagos State chapter’s chairman, BLDR Adeoye T. Adeyemi, stated this at a

press conference in Lagos to mark the Builders’ Day 2024, whose theme is, “The Role of Builders in Sustainable Housing Delivery.”

He said the challenges are, “Increased cost of imported building materials: A significant portion of construction materials in Nigeria are imported, and fluctuations in the exchange rate

can drastically affect their prices. This makes project budgeting and cost control more difficult. An example can be seen in the recent cost of cement.

“Limited access to foreign currency: Due to forex scarcity, construction companies might struggle to access the foreign currency needed to import essential materials, leading to

project delays. Reduced investment: Uncertainty surrounding the forex market can discourage foreign investors from entering the Nigerian construction sector, hindering potential growth and innovation. Erosion of profit margins: Construction companies face pressure to maintain profit margins amidst rising material costs, potentially

leading to compromises in quality or project delays.”

The potential opportunities, he said are: “Stimulation of local production: The high cost of imported materials can lead to the development and expansion of local production of building materials, fostering economic diversification and job creation.

Riel Homes Offers Home Ownership Made Easy Programme Spreads Balance for 20 Years

Bennett Oghifo

Leading Real Estate Company in Nigeria known for renewable, green and smart home ownership, Riel Homes and Investment Limited has offered Home Ownership Made Easy (H.O.M.E ) programme to all Nigerians that offers a 20% down payment and spreads the balance for 20 years.

Giving an insight into the programme, the Managing

Director/CEO of Riel Homes and Investment Limited, Dr. Kolade Adepoju, said, H.O.M.E is a financial instrument and home funding programme designed to make home ownership accessible to all Nigerians irrespective of class or status.

“Home Ownership Made Easy is designed by Riel Homes to be a trusted solution for achieving home ownership dreams. It is meant to ensure that everyone has

the opportunity to become a homeowner.

“H.O.M.E programme also offers opportunities to all stakeholders like Real Estate Companies, Construction companies, Realtors and others to participate in giving affordable homes to Nigerians.”

According to Dr. Adepoju, H.O.M.E Programme is designed to make home ownership accessible to over 50,000 Nigerians in the next

five years. He said, “Our vision is to make home ownership accessible to over 50,000 Nigerians in the next 5 years, with a special focus on Nigerians in the Diaspora, by providing access to financial instruments and innovative home funding solutions. Through this programme, our property company is dedicated to empowering individuals to own their homes through flexible and advanced

approaches.

“H.O.M.E is a powerful financial tool that enables every Nigerian to own a home without the need for an upfront lump sum payment. Pay 20% down payment and spread the balance for 20 years. This Programme is here to guide you through this process, making home ownership accessible to all.” Adepoju stated that “whether you are in Nigeria or the

Oyedemi Clinches Top PWAN Group’s MD Awards

Funmi Ogundare

In the grandeur of the prestigious Eko Hotels & Suites, Lagos, the spotlight shone brightly on Professor Julius Oyedemi, Managing Director of PWAN Plus, as he clinched the 2023 Most Outstanding PWAN Group MD Award. This accolade marks a con-

secutive triumph for Oyedemi, who also secured the same honour in 2022. However, the triumph did not stop there, as PWAN Plus, under his astute leadership, secured all five top positions at the 2023 PWAN Group annual Awards.

PWAN Plus, a distinguished entity within the PWAN Group, was lauded as the

Top PWAN Company for 2023, with subsidiaries such as PWAN Perfection and PWAN Lighthouse contributing to this sweeping victory. This remarkable achievement underscores the dedication and vision of Prof. Oyedemi, whose commitment to excellence has propelled PWAN Plus to the zenith of success.

In a statement following the awards ceremony, President/ CEO of PWAN Group, Dr. Jayne Onwumere, praised the exemplary performance of the winners, emphasizing the rigorous competition they faced. She particularly commended Prof. Oyedemi for surpassing expectations, citing his ambitious targets and

unwavering determination.

Her words: “A year before this award, the eventual winner, Prof. Oyedemi had come to me and said he would cart home the top five positions this year (2024). I encouraged him, and true to his spoken words to do a N10 billion investment, he even surpassed his target.”

diaspora, the home funding programme is open to all qualified individuals. If you meet the necessary criteria, you’re eligible to access our financial instruments.

“To qualify for H.O.M.E funding with Riel Homes, your business or employment status is considered. Additionally, maintaining a healthy credit status and a consistent cash flow is crucial for eligibility.

While congratulating the winners, the President however advised them not to drop the ball, saying, “I remember in 2018, somebody became an ambassador in PWAN and was told not to let it end with him. It ended with the person. Next year, I want to see new directors and affiliates.”

Lontor Hi-Tech Development Company Launches Green Air Conditioners, Other Products

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

Lontor Hi-Tech Development Company Limited, a reputable name in household appliances, has launched some consumerfriendly air conditioners and other systems into the Nigerian market.

Lontor Hi-Tech launched the Auto Clean: The AC is equipped with evaporator autocleaning technology. It adopts the methods of dewing, frosting, defrosting and drying, to keep the indoor evaporator clean and the outlet air fresh. R410A is a new environmentally friendly refrigerant. Compared to conventional R22 air-conditioning,

it is of less global warming potential while significantly higher cooling efficiency.

There is the Sleep Mode: In sleep mode, AC automatically & gradually increases temperature by 3°C in two hours, to protect users from over-cool while sleeping, and LED display partially dims out for good dreams; in 10 hours. AC shuts off automatically, users have no worries of forgetting to turn it off before leaving home. They launched the Premium compressor: top brand compressors, with cutting-edge technology, precisely control temperature and save electricity. turbo capacity cools down the

room in a few minutes.

Anti-Rust|Outdoor Casing

The outdoor unit casing is made of electrolytic zinc steel plate, which adopts reinforcing design to further enhance the structural strength of AC unit, and resists corrosion for years.

During the launch, the Managing Director, Andrew Wei said, “Consumers should expect quality products from a dedicated brand. Lontor is a household name. We are the first to introduce the rechargeable fan models in Nigeria. Now we’re coming out with quality air conditioning. And that’s why we’ve come up with a slogan, the Air experts.

CDK Integrated Industries Initiates Collaboration with Industry Stakeholders

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

CDK Integrated Industries, leading manufacturers of Premium Porcelain tiles in Nigeria, recently hosted the Tilers Association of Nigeria for a productive engagement aimed at exploring mutual opportunities, partnerships, and collaboration.

The visit, which saw executive members of the Tilers Association of Nigeria converging at CDK’s state-of-the-art facility, provided a platform for constructive dialogue between

industry stakeholders, with a focus on leveraging each other’s strengths to drive innovation and growth, as well as fruitful discussions regarding potential synergies and joint ventures in tile manufacturing and distribution.

The occasion marked a significant milestone as both entities came together to explore avenues of collaboration, partnership, and mutual growth within the thriving tile industry. Set against the backdrop of CDK’s cutting-edge manufacturing facility, the visit provided

an invaluable opportunity for insightful discussions and a firsthand exploration of the company’s latest tile offerings.

During the visit, representatives from CDK showcased the company’s latest innovations, including its cutting-edge range of swimming pool tiles, which have recently been introduced to the market. The Tilers Association of Nigeria had the opportunity to explore these new offerings firsthand, gaining insights into the unique features and benefits that these tiles bring to the table.

UNEA 6: How Minister of State for Environment, Salako Showcased Nigeria to the World

Olufemi Idowu-Adegoke

The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) is the world’s highest level decision-making body on the environment, with a universal membership of all 193 UN Member States. Created in 2012, as a result of decades of international efforts initiated at the UN Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm in 1972, which was aimed at creating an effective system of international environmental

governance. The assembly meets biennially to set priorities for global environmental policies, develop international environmental laws, and serve as the governing body of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

The Sixth Session of the Assembly (UNEA-6) with the theme “Effective, Inclusive, and Multilateral Actions to Tackle Climate Change, Biodiversity loss and Pollution”, was held from Monday 26th February

to Friday 1st March, 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya.The meeting was attended by more than 7,000 participants from 182 UN Member States, including 170 Ministers, 17 High-Level officials, Environmental Conventions Executive Directors/ Secretaries, MultiStakeholder Groups, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Community Based Organizations (CBOs) and other Environment Stakeholders.

From left, General Manager, Siji Ogunsiji; Managing Director, Andrew Wei and Deputy Managing Director, Eason Cai all of Lontor Hitech Development Company Limited at the unveiling of Lontor new product and Partners Conference held in Lagos… recently

Fayemi: I’ll No Longer Allow Babalola Control Narrative about My Time in Office

Says legal giant indulging in failing memory Worries he’s suffering narcissistic personality disorder

Former governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, yesterday, said he would no longer allow elder statesman and fellow Ekiti man, Chief Afe Babalola, control the narrative regarding his time in office, because it was obvious his constant attacks were intentional.

Fayemi, in an exclusive chat with THISDAY, said while he might grant the legal luminary the indulgence of failing memory, he was worried Babalola might be suffering from a narcissistic personality disorder that prevented him from seeing the good in others.

Reacting to a recent news report, where Babalola was quoted as saying all former Ekiti State governors did nothing to develop the state, Fayemi

said he was the target, as that was not the first time the elder statesman would be going all out against him.

Fayemi stated regarding Babalola, “If you have followed events in the state very closely, you’d know that this is not the first time he has done it. But I've restrained myself for a long time. First, he is an elder whose first child is older than me and I'm quite friendly with his children.

“Second, my wife has begged me not to respond in the last one and a half years that he has been on the attack. Even now, she will not be happy with me, but Chief Babalola has been relentless in his attack. I'm sorry, I won't allow him control the narrative about my time in office.

“It is important for people to know

this is malicious and not a dispassionate and objective assessment. The only thing I brought to public service is my name and I won't let people take my silence as consent as far as Chief Babalola's opinion is concerned.”

The former governor, who said he had never earned Babalola’s support, stated, “He never supported me, he supported Segun Oni in the 2007 election. But that's fine. He has a right to support anyone. I don't begrudge him for that.

“Even when I challenged the stolen mandate in 2007, he was Segun Oni's lawyer in court. So, as far as he was concerned, this little David defeated the giant Goliath of Ekiti. In spite of that, I embraced him as governor

and asked him to chair the Airport Viability Committee, which he was keen on during my first term in office.

“If you ask him, he will give you a cock and bull story about how President Jonathan wanted to build an airport in Ekiti and I stopped him, which is an untruth. The truth is that Tunde Omotoba, an Ekiti man, was aviation minister under President Yar'Adua.

“He seized that opportunity to put in the aviation ministry budget about N300 million for exploratory work on Ekiti airport. That money was in the budget but it was never released. Do I control federal budget?

How unfair can a person be?

“In spite of the fact that the federal government did not do anything,

Ganduje: Late Olubadan’s Image Towered Beyond Ibadan

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, yesterday, described the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, as somebody whose image towered far above Ibadan, which he reigned over and the entire Oyo State.

Ganduje, who said this during a condolence visit to the Alarere, the Ibadan residence of the late monarch, stated that the late Oba Balogun was not only the father of Ibadan or that of Oyo State, but the father of Nigeria.

He described the death of the late Olubadan as very sad and shocking, but added that as human beings,

Labour Party's Attack on Our Members Tactless, Uncharitable, Says House Caucus

Adedayo

Akinwale in Abuja

The Labour Party caucus in the House of Representatives, has described the recent media attack against them "by the yet to be confirmed" National Publicity Secretary of the party, Obiora Ifoh, as tactless, unprofessional and devoid of emotional intelligence.

The caucus also added that it was unbecoming of a party official, who was still in an acting capacity. Leader of the Caucus, Hon. Afam Ogene, stated this in a statement yesterday by his Media Adviser, Edward Dibiana, in response to the earlier statement by Ifoh.

Ogene had on Sunday called on the LP leadership to postpone the proposed national convention of the party, which was scheduled for month end, in order to allow room for wider consultations and proper planning.

This, he said was because of

the internal bickering among the leadership and the fact that many stakeholders, including the lawmakers, were not carried along in the processes leading to the choice of date and venue for the convention.

He, however, said rather than respond to the call for further consultations and proper planning he raised, “Ifoh strangely went on a disgraceful tirade, accusing the caucus Leader of lying to the public that the caucus was not informed about the contentious convention and rushing to the press to misinform members of the party.”

The caucus noted that, "Ifoh has by this unprofessional, tasteless and infantile outburst, which is fast becoming his trademark, failed to represent his party in a manner that supports a capacity, strategic thinking and emotional intelligence disposition that the position of a party's spokesman demands.

there was nothing anybody could do to halt the inevitability of death when it was the appointed time by the Almighty Allah, adding that, "What we should do is to continue to pray for the repose of his gentle and peaceful soul."

The APC National Chairman, who was bestowed with the honorary Chieftaincy title of Aare Fiwajoye of Ibadanland alongside his wife, as Yeye Aare Fiwajoye, recalled the colorful ceremony which was held in 2022, a few months after Oba Balogun came to the throne.

He also recalled the relationship between the late monarch and

the former political leaders in the Northern part of the country, especially in Kano and Kaduna States, where both the late Abubakar Rimi and Balarabe Musa, held sway during the Second Republic, which he said had established unbroken bond between Ibadan and Kano.

The Aare Fiwajoye noted that, "Our late father made his marks on the sands of time. He left behind imperishable legacies as a bridge builder, peaceful and loving personality. His nationalistic outlook set him apart from his peers and we would continue to cherish our relationship."

no government before mine took any concrete step on the airport, apart from acquiring the land. No compensation was even paid for the land until my government paid those land owners. In spite of our limited resources, we went on to build the airport.”

Fayemi alleged, “His main problem with me was because he offered to construct a terminal building for the Ekiti airport, and I explained to him that the funding we had for the airport included the construction of a terminal building and we had to fulfil the obligation of the bond.

“I then appealed to him to take on other items in the airport since an airport has many components to it. He was very unhappy about that and there is nobody he has not reported me to for this. We finished the runway, taxiway, apron, all the internal roads and the terminal building and had a test flight before I left office.

“He now returned to my original suggestion of supporting another project at the airport and helped with the procurement of navigational aids and the construction of the car park for the airport. I'm glad he did, but it is so difficult for him to appreciate the good in others.

“He wants to give the credit of the airport to Oni, who did not put up a single brick at the airport and take every opportunity to demonise Fayemi, who, according to him, did not do anything for his university and the state. Well, that's for posterity to judge, not for him to say with an air of finality.”

Arguing that Babalola’s hatred for him was entrenched, Fayemi stated, “He carried his hatred to the point where he even approached King's College London if, indeed, it's true that they made me a Visiting Professor. Haba!

“How can an old man behave this way? And my counsel to him has always been that he should see himself as the father of all and refrain from partisanship when it comes to issues of governance and development in Ekiti.

“Age is supposed to imbue one with a level of circumspection in what one says, but not this old man who believes he owns Ekiti and any governor who chooses not to grovel before him and shower him with sycophantic adulation of the Almighty Afe Babalola must be brought down. Unfortunately, I will not grovel before any human being. Only God is Almighty in my books.

“Chief Afe Babalola has always been unfair to me personally, and to Governors Adebayo and Fayose equally. I can say categorically without any fear of equivocation that every governor that has occupied the exalted seat in Ekiti performed well in the circumstance they operated in.

“They all handed the baton to their successors who took the state further than they met it. Chief Babalola's prejudiced view can never be the final word on their times in office, certainly not on my time in office because I know and the record is crystal clear that I improved the state on every developmental indices than I met the state.”

Report: Global Natural Gas Demand to Rise 34% by 2050

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

A new report from the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) has projected a significant growth for the natural gas sector, predicting that global demand for natural gas would rise 34 per cent by 2050.

The eighth edition of the GECF’s Global Gas Outlook 2050 report made optimistic global forecasts on the future of natural gas, projecting a rise in demand from 4.02 trillion cubic metres (tcm) in 2022 to 5.36tcm in 2050.

Total global production was also forecast to grow by 33 per cent to reach 5.3tcm by 2050.

Much of the projected growth were attributed to the rise in de-

mand for blue hydrogen – hydrogen resulting from a production process fueled by natural gas coupled with carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) technology to limit emissions. Hydrogen is frequently touted as the solution for decarbonising hard-to-abate industrial sectors.

However, the report noted that the lion’s share of demand expansion comes from the power generation sector, which constitutes 37 per cent of the total predicted demand increase.

This was due to greater demand for electrification alongside global efforts to phase out coal-fired power plants.

It predicted that natural gas

would become an important source of back-up power as renewables usage grows. As regard to trade, liquefied natural gas (LNG) was predicted to overtake long-distance pipeline trade by 2026.

LNG trade was expected to more than double by 2050 to eventually constitute 64 per cent of traded gas.

The LNG share of European Union (EU) gas imports was set to skyrocket by 2030, rising from 24 per cent in 2022 to 46 per cent by 2030.

According to the report, production of natural gas was, “set for major regional shifts”, with Africa, Eurasia and the Middle East predicted to gain market

share to account for 10 per cent, 22 per cent and 22 per cent of global natural gas production, respectively, by 2050.

As a result, North America’s market share of natural gas production is set to decline to 26 per cent.

In 2022, Africa exported approximately 42 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of LNG – or around 5.7 per cent of global LNG exports. Historically, Algeria and Nigeria have been the largest African exporters of LNG, with several exporting terminals operating for decades. With six trains, the Nigeria terminal has an LNG production capacity of 22mtpa, which is expected to increase to 30mtpa by 2030.

L-R: Mr. Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Ryan; Publisher, The Abuja Inquirer Newspaper, Dan Akpovwa; and the Deputy Irish Ambassador, Mr. Shane Rice, during the celebrations to mark St. Patrick's Day by the Embassy of Ireland in Abuja...recently

LAgOs CP's FAMILIARIsATION VIsIT TO AREA C COMMANd...

L-R:

Kanu: Anyone Committing Crime in IPOB's Name Won’t Go Scot-free

Alleges govt officials complicit in s’east crisis Lawmakers kick against court's refusal to admit Kanu to bail

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, yesterday, dissociated himself from the ongoing insecurity in the Southeast, warning that those behind the wanton destruction of lives and property in the name of IPOB would not go free.

A visibly angry Kanu, who spoke with journalists inside the courtroom, shortly after the end of proceedings, however, alleged that the crisis has festered in the zone because some persons in government were complicit.

He claimed that were he to be free, nobody would make an order stopping people from going

tion into the circumstances that led to the killing of the military personnel in Delta State. This resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance on the need to investigate and apprehend perpetrators of the killings by Hon. Babajimi Benson at plenary.

Benson, while presenting the motion, stated that the fallen soldiers were on a peaceful and mediatory mission to quell a communal clash between Okuama and Okoloba communities in Ughelli South and Bomadi local government areas of Delta State, respectively, when the horrific incident occurred.

He stated, "Aware that these military personnel were only responding to a distress call in their service to their fatherland when they were ambushed and killed on Thursday.

"The perpetrators of this heinous act did not only stop at killing these military personnel, but also went ahead to sacrilegiously debase their remains by ripping out their hearts and other body parts.

"Unless checked and stopped, acts like this, by the very people the AFN is meant to protect, have a potential of demoralising the military and affecting the war on insecurity, which has so far recorded some successes."

The House observed a minute silence for the deceased military personnel and mandated its committees on defence to interface with the armed forces to ensure compliance and report to the House within four weeks.

Diri, Sylva Bickers over Killing

Diri and Sylva disputed over the killing of 16 soldiers in the Delta community.

Sylva berated politicians, particularly, Bayelsa State Government, for arming non-state actors with guns

about their legitimate businesses on Mondays.

Residents of the region have been forced to observe a sit-at-home every Monday, since the arrest and detention of Kanu, especially anytime Kanu was being taking to court for trial.

He said, "Anybody committing crime cannot go free. I swear it. Anybody committing crime in the east cannot go free. They are doing it because they know I am in DSS ( custody). “If I were to be outside, nobody can try this, and I suspect that some people in government are complicit. They are making money with the insecurity. They know if Nnmadi Kanu is outside, in two minutes, this nonsense will stop.

and ammunitions during the last governorship election. But Diri rejected the allegation, taking a swipe at the former petroleum minister.

The governor alleged that Sylva’s statement was akin to the proverbial pot calling kettle black, saying his antecedents as a politician is like an open book known to everyone.

A statement by Diri’s Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, condemned Sylva’s statement, and the introduction of politics into the highly condemnable killing of men in active service

Sylva had said in a statement,

"I condemn in totality the killing of men of the Joint Task Force in Okuama, Delta State. This again shows why politicians should not arm irresponsible non-state actors.

"The last Bayelsa governorship election featured disheartening state sponsorship of gunmen. And today, we all see the result of that act of desperation and the unnecessary loss of precious Nigerian lives. My heart goes out to the families of those gallant soldiers that lost their lives."

But Diri accused the former petroleum minister of dancing on the graves of the slain soldiers by alluding to the use of non-state actors in the governorship poll in the state.

The governor alleged that Sylva was whipping up negative sentiments and spreading falsehood over the presence of soldiers in Igbomotoru, a Bayelsa community, where the military had reportedly extended their investigation into the Okuama incident.

“It is, therefore, very unfortunate and sad that Chief Sylva chose to play politics with the evil act of the killing of Nigerian soldiers at a time patriots in our country were outraged and mourning,” the statement said.

"Anybody involved in any form of violence in the East in the name of IPOB is a goner and they know it. Let me come out of this mess, only two minutes there will be peace in the East".

Meanwhile, some Southeast members of the House of Representatives led by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, have described the rejection of Kanu's bail application as another major setback for a healing process and the return of peace in the region.

The lawmakers, which included Hon. Obi Aguocha and leader of the opposition party, said they received the rejection of the bail application with sadness, adding that if it were granted, it would have been the beginning of healing process in

Lokpobiri Accuses Army of Reprisal Attack

President of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Jonathan Lokpobiri, accused the army of carrying out reprisal attacks on Egbomotoro II community in Bayelsa State, following the killing of 16 soldiers in Delta State.

Speaking in an interview with Arise TV, Lokobiri stated, “Part of the reason why we are concerned is that the civilian casualty is getting to an unprecedented one, especially in Bayelsa.

“I don't know the exact status of Okuama but, like I said, regardless, every community that is suffering from the yoke of this military occupation or invasion, it is Nigerians that are suffering.

“That position is clearly to be known. As leaders of the people, we do not subscribe to violent crimes against the state. So, this is a crime against the state, which is condemned in the highest terms.

“But our take on this is that Nigeria, with a professional military, must evolve in targeting criminals in our communities rather than razing down the entire community on account of pursuing criminals.

“Let me take our minds to the days of Odi. Very few criminals who were even recalcitrant youth held an action against the state but because they were well aware of the crime they were into many escaped, the innocent community was completely razed down, and people were killed and buried.

“What is happening today in Bayelsa from an incident that happened in Okuama community, an Urhobo community in Delta State, and it is having the greatest impact on the Bayelsa community called Egbomotoro II in Bayelsa.

“The military, perhaps, will tell

the region.

Ugochinyere, who represents Ideato South and North in the House, appealed to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to invoke the relevant section of the Constitution to discontinue Mazi Kanu trial. "We received the news of the rejection of the bail with sadness and we just lost an opportunity to commence the process of healing in our land. That bail application, if granted would have brought an opportunity to open doors for discussion to bring about peace in the South East,” he said. Justice Binta Nyako of a Federal High Court in Abuja, had turned down a fresh application for bail by Kanu.

Nigerians the nexus or the connection between what happened in Okuama community and how our people get to be the greatest people punished for what had happened in Okuama community.”

Military Extends Search to Bayelsa, Edo, Ondo

Operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF) extended their search for the killers of 16 of their men to neighbouring Bayelsa, Edo and Ondo states.

Security sources told THISDAY yesterday that officers of the intelligence units had been deployed to the affected states based on intelligence extracted from those arrested so far.

A source said, "Officers from the intelligence units have been deployed to Bayelsa, Edo and Ondo states while others are combing some communities in Ughelli and Warri for now.

"The military is deploying as intelligence are being gathered about the movements of the suspected killers of the soldiers. For now, some of them are fleeing into those states and the military are in pursuit of them."

The security sources said the military high command in Abuja would brief the nation soon on the extent of investigations and how many suspects had been arrested so far.

Speaking on the razing down of Okuama village by soldiers on reprisal attack, the source maintained that many buildings were still standing in the community and residents were still in their houses unmolested but that they were mainly elderly men, women and children.

"It is only the houses and residency of the suspected killers that were touched. Many buildings are still standing in that community," the source said, while showing a video allegedly recorded after the invasion by soldiers.

Nyako, who turned down the application however, ordered accelerated trial of the case, adding that the only option opened to Kanu was to have gone to Court of Appeal to challenge the earlier refusal.

The judge also refused to give

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

unfettered access to just anybody to visit Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Service (DSS), over security concerns. The court had on February 26 adjourned to March 19, for ruling in the fresh bail application.

Tinubu to Succeed

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has said it was in the collective interest of all that President Bola Tinubu to succeeds as leader and political father of the nation.

He stated this while playing host to members of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), who paid him a courtesy call at his new rehabilitated Government House, on Monday, which also made it the first official assignment to be performed at the new abode.

While congratulating the new management of the housing authority, Adeleke wished them successful tenure.

He said the president was aware of the complete support that the Osun State Government has for his policies and programmes for the country.

While assuring them of his support, Adeleke asserted that

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, said the contract with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) covering training of Nigerian personnel to oversee Abuja Light Rail project, has been reviewed from $128 million to $75 million. He disclosed this Monday when he presented the proposed FCT N1.15 trillion 2024 statutory budget before the Senate and House committees on FCT.

The contract has 29 months timeframe for the operation of railway signals at the 12 stations of Abuja Light Rail.

Wike said the review from $128 million, which was approved by the previous administration saved the FCT Administration a whooping sum of $53 million on the metroline project.

“It was a back and forth argument but at the end of the day the com-

his government would not leave out anything in supporting the government of Tinubu.

Also, in making housing project a fruitful one in Osun, he added that the state was open to partnership with the FHA for the President's Housing Agenda for all, to which he added there was a stakeholder from the state on the board.

Responding, the Chief Executive, Chairman of Federal Housing Authority Board, Hon. Oyetunde Oladimeji Oyero, appreciated the governor for the warm welcome given to him and his team, despite the short notice.

He added that they brought good tidings from President Bola Tinubu on how to develop and build low cost houses for both low and medium income earners in the State.

He explained that the housing board have toured the South West states, where Osun happened to be part of, and that the buildings would be sold to low income civil servants

mittee recommended $63 million.

And they said it should be without design but I insisted design must be part of it.

“And when I came on board I arrived at $75 million largely because of the additional work and since we are preparing for the opening before May 29, they got 12 stations to clean up put them in order.

“I am making a note to FEC. If they (CCEEC) had not agreed, my suggestion was to tell Mr president there was nothing we can do. It means we can’t go on with the project considering our revenue,” Wike said.

The minister also said reason provision was not made in the 2024 budget for infrastructure in the Maitama 2 District was because the military refused to approve access to civilian population to the new cite because of concern about the security to many barracks located in that axis.

Oniwaya of Iwaya, Yaba, Oba Sulaimon Owolabi; Onisabe of Igbobi-Sabe, Oba Owolabi Adeniyi; Onikate of Ikate-surulere, Oba Lateef Atanda Adams; Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fayoade Adegoke Mustapha; Commander, Area C Command, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ayoola Oladunni; National Vice-Chairman, Police Community Relations Committee(PCRC), Prince Yemi Adenowo and PCRC State Chairman, Apostle Kehinde Showemimo during the familiarisation visit of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to the Area C command in Surulere, Lagos...yesterday PhOtO AbIOduN AjALA

Ob

PROPAGATING THE GOSPEL…

Police Arrest 58 Suspects for Kidnappings, Armed Robbery, Gangsterism in Adamawa

Arrest suspect for incessant cult killings in Rivers

Daji Sani inYolaand Blessing Ibunge inPortharcourt

and other offences from February to date.

L-R: Secretary, Publicity Committee, Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (BCS), Mega Event, Christ Ambassador. Ikechukwu Nweze;BCS Deputy spokesman, His Grace, Archbishop Emmanuel Ekuri, and State Administrator, Lagos BCS, Bishop Ibiyekaribo Jack, at the media briefing on the universal celebration of BCS mega event tagged ‘’ Divine Assurance of the Christhood’’ held in Lagos...recently ETOP UKUTT period under review, 40 Shila boys, 11 kidnappers, and seven armed robbery suspects were arrested.

The Commissioner of Police in charge of Adamawa State Police Command, CP. Dankombo Morris Fallings, has said that a total of 58 suspects have been arrested by his men for kidnappings, armed robbery

Similarly, operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have arrested a suspect who allegedly confessed of involvement in the recent cult related killings in Port Harcourt, capital of the state.

Fallings said that during the

Six Convicted for Cybercrime Fraud in Kwara

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the conviction of six persons charged for cybercrime and fraud related offences.

A statement issued in Ilorin yesterday and signed by the Head of Media and Publicity of EFCC, Mr. Dele Oyewale, stated that “the convicts, who were prosecuted on separate charges, stood their trial before Justice Evelyn Anyadike of the Federal High Court and Justice

Adebayo Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin respectively.

“They are Aransiola Oluwaseun Stephen from Odo-owa, Oke-Ero Local Government Area of Kwara State; Owoeye Adeyanju Ezekiel, from Ibadan, Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State; Idris Yekini Kayode from Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State; Abdulrahmon Abubakar from Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State; one Rafiu Ashimiu Adisa and Raheem Ayomide Monsur from Ita-Amodu, Ilorin, Kwara State.”

Oyebanji Disburses N500m Gratuities to Pensioners

Gbenga Sodeindeinadoekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has assured pensioners in the state that his administration has concluded plans to make disbursement of N200million monthly gratuities to them henceforth, promising to also review pensions in line with current realities.

Governor Oyebanji, who gave this assurance while disbursing over N500million in gratuity cheques to 152 pensioners in Ado- Ekiti last Monday, also promised to review the monthly pension following the discovery that some pensioners still receive abysmally low amount as

monthly pension.

The governor expressed his disapproval for the usual gathering of elderly people in a hall for the purpose of disbursing gratuity cheques to them, and directed the PTAD office to ensure they disburse gratuity on monthly basis henceforth.

Oyebanji, who also assured pensioners that the government has started working out modalities to defray over N40 billion owed, said he had already approve N100million each for both state and local government retirees which must be disbursed on monthly basis to deserving pensioners.

Ali Pate to Deliver Keynote Speech at NDFF 2024 Confab

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, is one of the confirmed dignitaries billed to speak at the Nigeria Development and Finance Forum (NDFF) 2024 Conference, a high-level gathering of public, private, social, and international sectors leaders scheduled to hold on the 8th and 9th of May 2024 in Abuja.

The NDFF conference is holding in Nigeria for the first time following five previous editions that have been successfully hosted in London, Washington DC, and New York. The theme of this year’s conference is “The Road to Economic and Social

Welfare Transformation,” and it aims to provide a strong backing for a holistic and transformative reform agenda for the Nigerian economy.

Commenting, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Financial Nigeria International and Convener of NDFF, Jide Akintunde, said the confirmation of Professor Ali Pate as a keynote speaker is a mark of progress as the Planning Group for the conference aims to bring together leaders who are critical to the objective of fostering fiscal reform, monetary stability, and social welfare towards achieving sustainable economic progress in Nigeria.

According to him, “as soon as l assumed duty in February this year as CP, l assessed the security situation

in the state and discovered that one of the major challenges we have is the menace of ‘Shila boys,’ a young group of armed men terrorising and making lives unbearable for the good people of the state.

‘Nigeria’s Lack of Production Capacity Attracting Global Disrespect’

Ndubuisi Francis in abuja

Former Economic Adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo, Prof. Magnus Kpakol, yesterday identified the failure of Nigeria to be a production-driven economy as the cause of the disrespect it attracts from its

peers from across the world.

Kpakol, who is the founder of the Economic Growth and Development Centre, also fingered human capital deficiency as a major problem confronting the country. He lamented that even as a professor of business economy,

it was extremely difficult for him to fathom how the country walked into some of the current challenges besetting it.

In a goodwill message he delivered at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) during the flag-off of Africa’s first university-based Institute of

Capital Market Studies (ICMS), Kpakol observed that unlike Nigeria, all other successful countries made production the cornerstone of their economies

He said: “Whether it is in Singapore, United States of America, Europe or China, they are into production.

Alake Calls for Legislative Backing for Local Value Addition

Folalumi Alaran in abuja

The Minister for Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has called for legislative support to promote local value addition in the mineral sector, highlighting its potential to create significant employment opportunities

and benefits for mineral-rich communities.

Alake made these remarks during a visit by the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals led by its Chairman, Jonathan Gbefwi, to the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.

Updating the committee

on recent ministry initiatives, the minister emphasised the importance of value addition and mineral processing in Nigeria’s mineral agenda, stressing their role in job creation and resource optimisation. He mentioned his advocacy for local value addition during recent

international mining conferences held in Riyadh and Cape Town.

Alake, who was recently elected as the inaugural chairman of the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), declared an end to the era of exporting solid minerals without adding commensurate value.

APC Ratifies Suspension of Federal Character Commissioner from Party

Gideon Arinze in enugu

The All-Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-east Zone has ratified the suspension of the federal commissioner representing Enugu State at the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Ms. Ginika Tor.

Recall that the Enugu State chapter of the APC had suspended the federal character commissioner over alleged gross misconduct, anti-party activities and an attempt to create a parallel executive of the party in the state.

The State Executive Committee (SEC) of the party had received

two petitions against Tor, which were referred to the State Disciplinary Committee (SDC) of the party headed by Mr. Vincent Chieyine. After the investigation, the committee submitted a report to the SEC with a recommendation for her suspension, including

seeking her replacement as a federal commissioner, among other sanctions.

After reviewing the report, the SEC yesterday met at the zonal secretariat of the party where it unanimously endorsed the recommendations of the disciplinary committee.

ECOWAS: We’re Committed to Helping Sub-region Attain Food Security

David-Chyddy Eleke in awka

The Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS) has expressed its commitment to helping the West Africa sub-region attain food security. The Commissioner for

Education:

Economic Affairs and Agriculture, ECOWAS Commission, Mrs. Massandje Toure-Litse, stated this yesterday during a convocation ceremony organised for 150 Anambra State youths, trained by the ECOWAS Commission on

table fish production business. Toure-Litse, who was at the convocation in the Anambra State Polytechnic, Mgbakwu, where the youths were trained, told the trainees that by agreeing to join in the training, they have committed to being

a part of the team to help the West African sub-region attain food security. She said: “I celebrate a significant moment like this. We are today handing out certificates to young trainees in table fish production business.

Zulum Approves N1bn for Teachers’ Training

Michael Olugbode in maiduguri

The Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has approved N1 billion for the training of basic-level teachers across the 27 local government

areas of the state.

Zulum announced the approval yesterday while inaugurating the newly appointed local government education secretaries who will administer the affairs of primary education in their

respective local government areas.

The governor noted that over 1,000 teachers who have O’Level certificates as their highest qualification would undergo additional training to enable them to attain minimum

teaching qualifications.

The training, according to Zulum, would cover teachers who do not have teaching qualifications but were found to be trainable based on the record of the competency test conducted.

Ilaje Oil and Gas Producing Communities Hails Otuaro’s Appointment as PAP Coordinator

Sylvester Idowu in warri

Ilaje Oil and Gas Producing Communities in Ondo State yesterday commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Dr. Dennis Otuaro as the Coordinator of Presidential Amnesty

Programme (PAP) saying it was well deserved. Former Chairman of the Ilaje Oil & Gas Producing Communities of Ondo State, Mr. Sam Kokor Obazuaye, in a statement yesterday noted that president got the appointment of Otuaro “super right.”

Obazuaye, who is a chieftain of All Progressive Congress (APC) and a grassroots developer, declared “on behalf of Ilaje people, I thank President Tinubu for appointing a competent and experienced hand to manage and administer the affairs of the Presidential

Amnesty Programme.”

Whilst congratulating Dr. Otuaro on his appointment he said that with Dr. Dennis Otuaro’s appointment, the president has exhibited that real peace is not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice and fair play.

Finidi George Demands Full Support from Backroom Staff

Olawale Ajimotokan

Barely hours after his appointment as interim Head Coach of the Super Eagles, ex international Finidi George, had his first meeting with backroom staff of the Nigerian senior national team in Marrakech, Morocco.

The three-time African champions who finished as finalists at the AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire last month are in the Moroccan city for international friendlies against Ghana and Mali.

Finidi stepped out of the shadows of Portuguese Jose Peseiro to take full charge of the Super Eagles until the Technical Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation conclude their search for a substantive gaffer for the team.

Camp sources in Morocco hinted yesterday that the former Ajax star told his staff his relationship with them will not change from when he was assistant coach to Peseiro.

The 52-year-old former winger who also had stints at Real Betis in Spain before hanging his boots for coaching, will be in charge as Super Eagles and the Black Stars renew their rivalry in the North Africans can city on Friday.

Finidi made a scoring debut for Nigeria in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Burkina Faso at the National Stadium, Lagos on 27th July 1991.

On his debut in 1991, George,

CARETAKER EAGLES COACH

who also featured for Calabar Rovers and Sharks FC in the domestic scene before heading to Europe, scored one and made four assists for legendary ‘goalsfather’ Rashidi Yekini (of blessed memory), and also assisted the latter to score Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal against Bulgaria in Dallas, USA on 19th June 1994.

Actually, George scored the goal that took Nigeria to her first FIFA World Cup finals, when he put Nigeria ahead against hosts Algeria in a crucial qualifier in Algiers on 8th October 1993. The match eventually ended 1-1 and earned Nigeria a ticket to the finals in America.

On Friday, George, from a family of football stars (elder brother Alari and younger brother Igeniwari of blessed memory were established players), will bellow instructions from the touchline, 21 months after he began to understudy Portuguese José Santos Peseiro, who led the Eagles to runner-up position at the 34th Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire earlier in the year.

As at Tuesday lunchtime, 12 of the 22 players expected had arrived in Morocco’s fourth-largest city, with defenders Gabriel Osho and Tyronne Ebuehi, and forwards Victor Osimhen and Taiwo Awoniyi having been knocked out by injury.

At the team’s Adam Park Hotel in Marrakech are goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Olorunleke Ojo, defenders Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi,

Jamilu Collins, Bruno Onyemaechi and Benjamin Tanimo, midfielders Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika and Alhassan Yusuf, and forwards Moses Simon, Nathan Tella, Cyriel Dessers, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Sadiq Umar and Ademola Lookman.

Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho, defender Chidozie Awaziem, midfielders Frank Onyeka and Wilfred Ndidi, and forward Kelechi Iheanacho were being expected in Marrakech last night. Only Turkey-based defender Bright

Osayi-Samuel is being expected on Wednesday.

The African vice champions will also take on the Les Aigles of Mali at the same Grand Stade de Marrakech on Tuesday, 26th March.

Falconets Good to Retain Games’Gold,

Coach Chris Musa Danjuma is expectedly sanguine following his Nigeria U20 girls’ progress to the final of the women’s football event of the ongoing 13th African Games in Ghana.

The experienced tactician watched with delight as substitutes Judith Adaobi Okah and Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, off the bench, provided the goals that sent Uganda’s U20 packing and sent the defending champions to the final against hosts Ghana on Thursday night.

“We should have put away some of the chances we created in the first half, but we are happy to get two second-half goals and reach the final. It is an opportunity to retain our gold medal from the last edition in Morocco and we will do everything to win and make Nigerians happy.

“In as much as we are not thinking about revenge, we know that we have unfinished business with Ghana. Our primary objective is to retain our gold medal in the African Games and by doing that, we would have sorted out the unfinished business.”

The ‘unfinished business’ that Danjuma referred to was the WAFU B U20 Championship hosted by Ghana last year, in which the host

Says Danjuma

nation edged out the Falconets in the final in Kumasi to win the regional title.

Danjuma’s girls have been imperial in Cape Coast, scoring eight goals in three matches without conceding any, and looking quite settled in several departments as they countenance this year’s FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup finals in Colombia, for which they have already qualified.

The veteran gaffer made use of three different goalkeepers in the home-and-away World Cup qualifying duels against Tanzania and Burundi, but appears to have finally settled for World Cup bronze medallist Faith Omilana, who has kept goal in all matches in Cape Coast.

Shukurat Oladipo, Jumoke Alani and captain Oluchi Ohaegbulem are keeping things very tight at the back, while the experienced Yina Adoo and Chioma Olise have been boosted by Loveth Edeh and Bunmi Oladeji in the middle. In the attack, Chiamaka Okwuchukwu and Chinyere Kalu now have to contend with Olushola Shobowale and Adaobi Okah.

Thursday’s final will commence at 8pm Ghana time (9pm Nigeria time).

Nigeria Denied Sprint Gold as Itsekiri, Olajide Settle for Silver, Bronze

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Team Nigeria missed out of the gold medals in both the male and female sprint finals yesterday at the ongoing 13th African Games in Accra, Ghana.

Cameroonian Emmanuel Eseme clinched the men’s 100m gold in 10.14 secs, leaving Nigerian Usheoritse Itsekiri who clocked 10.23 to settle for the silver. Namibian sprinter Hainuca Gilbert took the bronze with 10.29.

Nigeria’s other finalist in the sprint, Consider Ekanem finished fourth with 10.42 in his first African Games debut.

In the women’s version of the 100m, Gina Bass of The Gambia lived up to her favorite tag as she flew past Nigeria’s Olayinka Olajide to claim the gold medal with 11.36secs.

Liberia’s Alyse Maia McCoy took the silver with 11.49secs while Olajide could only settle for the consolation bronze with 11.55secs in a photo finish with Claudine Njarasoa of Madagascar. Justina Tiana Eyakpobeyan was fifth with a time of 11.60secs.

However, it was not all gloom for Team Nigeria from the track & field as Shot Putter Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, Triple jumper Ruth Usoro and the country’s 4x400m women’s relay team harvested three gold

medals yesterday. The 31-year-old Enekwechi was the pre-Games overwhelming favourite to win and he fulfilled expectations in a historic manner, becoming the first Nigerian man to successfully defend a Shot Put title at the African Games.

Enekwechi threw 21.06m to win

Nigerian Chess Community Mourns Odega’s Death

Femi Solaja

The Nigeria Chess community was thrown into mourning mood yesterday after the news of the death of its foremost supporter of the game, Engineer Jonathan Odega broke. He was aged 65 and hailed from Ubulu Okiti, Aniocha South Local Government area of Delta State.

According to the Media Director of the Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF), Seun Ogunsiku, the foremost

philanthropist of the brain game died on Monday, March 18, 2024.

The President of Nigeria Chess Federation, DIG Sani Mohammed (rtd), noted that Engineer Odega had served on the board of the federation as the sponsor's representative and was a passionate advocate for chess.

“We all know him as a philanthropist, and the chairman of Orchid-Lekki Chess Club (OLCC), our gracious host for the National Chess Championships.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Odega family, the OLCC family, and the entire Orchid Group community during this difficult time,” he noted.

Aside from the Chess boss, notable stakeholders both within and outside the shore of the country also conveyed their sympathies to the family of the late chess enthusiast.

All notable chess WhatsApp platforms were buzzing all through yesterday with active and former

chess players relating their respective encounters with the man described by many as the main pillar of the game. He consistently hosted the annual Nigeria Chess Championship in the last four years through the Orchid Chess Club.

He was passionate about the project that would see Nigeria produce a player with a Grandmaster title and in the last few years, he invested in youth chess tournaments

and clinics, many budding stars have emerged from the project conquering boundaries at tournaments in recent years.Odega was actively involved with Nigeria staging the African Individual Chess Championship in Lagos in 2022 when top African chess players contested for honours for nine days over the chess board which the continental body, African Chess Union, considered one of the very best-staged events in recent time.

the gold. He however was unable to beat the 21.43m games record he set in 2019 in Rabat Morocco.

US-based Usoro grabs her first African Games gold in the triple jump and is aiming for a double when stepping out next to battle Ese Brume for the long jump gold. Usoro hopped, stepped and jumped to her first African Games gold with 13.80m . She becomes the third Nigerian lady after Rosa Collins (1995) and Grace Anigbata (2019) to win a triple jump gold at the Games.

In the women’s 4x400m relay, Omolara Omotosho dug deep into her deserve to finish strongly ahead of Botswana ladies to pick the precious gold for Team Nigeria.

Omolara who collected the fourth leg baton with the Botswana anchor leading by almost 30metres, opened up at the homestretch and sped pass the Botswanan and charged towards the finish line to the admiration of spectators in the stand inside the University of Ghana Stadium. She coasted to the gold medal in 3.13.25secs.

The Nigerians must now focus on the 4x100m relays where they can gather speed and make up for missing the top prize.

Meanwhile in the 400m semi-final Chidi Okezie and Esther Elo Joseph offered hope that Nigeria can win gold in the flat with their heartwarming performances. Okezie ran 45. 63seconds the third fastest time.

The fastest time belong to Muzala Samukonga of Zambia had 45. 51 in the third heat which also saw Dubem Nwachukwu running 45.89. Senegal’s Tidiani Diouf ran 45. 59 in the second heat.

Elo Joseph ran 51.74 seconds, she has Kenya’s Mary Morra to contend with in the final, she won her semi-final heat with 51.55 seconds.

Interim Super Eagles Head Coach, Finidi George (right) discussing game plan with defender Calvin Bassey during the AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire

Chukwuebuka Enekwechi won gold in the men's shot put at the ongoing African Games in Accra, Ghana... yesterday

MISSILE

Builders to CBN

“Due to forex scarcity, construction companies might struggle to access the foreign currency needed to import essential materials, leading to project delays. Uncertainty surrounding the forex market can discourage foreign investors from entering the Nigerian construction sector, hindering potential growth and innovation.”---The President of NIOB, BDLR (SIR) Alderton Ewa Ewa, the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) addressing the Central Bank of Nigeria on the impact of forex scarcity on the construction sector.

Kayode Komo LA fe

On the Okuama Tragedy

Adeeply human dimension was introduced yesterday evening into the tragedy that occurred in the Okuama community of Delta state when an elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, appeared on Arise News. He offered a lot of words of wisdom in the television show to help douse the tension arising from the killing of 16 soldiers.

Clark, an Ijaw leader with Urhobo blood in him, said that a few days before the killings he spoke with Lt. Col A.H. Ali and Captain D.E. Obi, two officers among the 16 soldiers who went on a peace mission following a land dispute between Okuama, an Urhobo community, and their Ijaw neighbours of Okoloba. In a notably balanced intervention, Clark reminded the two Niger Delta communities in conflict of their common ancestry and cultural overlaps. They “are the same people,” he said with the full authority of his age. He recalled that he himself attended primary school in the area 82 years ago.

Ironically, Clark’s calls to these officers were in respect of the funeral of his younger brother, Colonel Bernard Clark (retired), which took place last Friday.

In an emotion-laden tone, Clark animated things, saying repeatedly that he knew the officers as he condemned the killings while urging the military authorities to avoid collective punishment of the innocent people in the Okuama community.

Clark also called for a thorough investigation, cautioning against reaching a wrong conclusion on the criminal act. What Clark said about Lt. Col Ali and Captain Obi is a proof of the obvious fact that the issues involved are far from being abstract. The soldiers who lost their lives in the course of duty were first and foremost human beings. They were not just

numbers. This elementary fact should not be forgotten in the heat of the moment. The Okuama killings constitute a sad reminder that our common humanity matters a great deal even when there are different perspectives to telling a story.

The discussion of this tragedy must, therefore, be imbued with a good sense of humanity especially in the media. The tragic story should not be told in a manner that could inflame passion. The headlines must not be disrespectful of the dead. The sensibilities of the bereaved families, friends and colleagues of the fallen heroes should be well considered in the way

SamAmADI

the bloodletting is reported.

Therefore, the circulation of bestial clips should stop. Gory pictures should not be printed. It is enough to say that the soldiers were callously killed. It is unhelpful in the situation to keep repeating the barbaric and provocative details of the killings. Perhaps, referring to what happened as a “slaughter” is even inappropriate in the circumstances. After all, one of the dictionary meanings of the noun, “slaughter,” is as follows: “the killing of animals for food.” In any case, in the mainstream journalism of the old an editor would prefer to simply publish that the soldiers were killed instead of splashing it on the front page of his newspaper that human beings were “slaughtered.” Definitely, savage photos would not be published. Sadly, the permissive nature of the social media with its huge deficit of humanity has now rendered such journalistic ethics ancient.

In the situation, the discussion of the tragedy should be sufficiently compassionate so as to avoid creating multiple tragedies in the form of what happened in Odi in Bayelsa state and Zaki Biam in Benue state. Those two communities were severely attacked by the military in reprisals following the killings of soldiers and policemen by some criminals while President Olusegun Obasanjo was in power.

It is also important that the members of the elite from the communities in dispute should be circumspect in their statements. The Urhobo and Ijaw versions of what happened are widely circulating in the various media outlets. However, caution is the word. It is advisable that credible information should be made available to the those who are officially given the task of investigating the crime. It is quite appropriate that President Bola Tinubu in his position as the Commander-in-Chief has directed

that justice must be done. In a well-humanised statement personally signed by the President the point is made unequivocally: “The cowardly offenders responsible for this heinous crime will not go unpunished. This incident, once again, demonstrates the dangers faced by the servicemen and women in the line of duty. I salute their heroism, courage, and uncommon grit and patriotism.” The President also said that the defence authorities are “already responding to this incident.”

Now, it is left to be seen if the response of the military high command would lessen the growing anxiety about what would happen next going by the promise from the defence headquarters: “The military assures that there would be measured responses and injurious consequences for the perpetrators of these dastardly acts. Nevertheless, the armed forces being a disciplined force that complies with rules of engagement, laws of armed conflict and respect for human rights, would be tempered by these provisions. We would not be led by emotion, but by the rule of law.”

So, while the investigation is on nothing should be done by any of the parties to worsen the problem.

Meanwhile, the issues brought to the fore by the tragic incident ought to be pondered upon by policymakers and the public alike. For instance, state governments should take the resolution of conflicts among local communities in the state as a serious security matter. Maybe, the Okuama tragedy could have been averted if the conflict between the Urhobo community and its Ijaw neighbour had been amicably resolved by the Delta state government. Isn’t the land constitutionally vested in the governor in the first place?

In Policy Reform, Wisdom, not Boldness is the Principal Thing

It might be true that, as Goethe stated, “Boldness has magic’. But in policy reform, boldness has limits.

In short, we can confidently say that in matters of policy reform, wisdom is the principal thing. Wisdom is the capacity to penetrate the nature of things, to gain insight into the complexities of reality and not be charmed by the splendor of appearance. Wisdom pays attention to complexity and variation and proceeds from the point of view of inquiry not of conclusion. The lack of wisdom and the surfeit of boldness is a dangerous combination in policy reform.

The Tinubu administration is suffering from this inordinate combination. The government revels in taking bold policies. Its supporters and promoters regale how the president on day one acted boldly by abruptly yanking of petrol subsidy with a gleeful intonation of ‘subsidy is gone’. Today, his opponents are shouting in chorus ‘Subsidy is gone. Long live subsidy’. Today, it is reported that the government pays about N1 trillion to subsidize the same petrol whose subsidy Gladiator Tinubu boldly yanked off. His energy advisor argues that the President has the authority to pay petrol subsidy. No one reasonably argues that a president who is also the minister of petroleum lacks the authority to subsidize petrol in a presidential system of government. What wise people doubts is whether it was wise to end subsidy in the manner President Tinubu did. Tinubu’s men said boldness has magic. But wisdom always has the last laugh.

Admittedly, there is an allure about boldness in policy reform, especially in developing economies. First, it fits the narrative of neoliberal orthodoxy. According

to this orthodoxy, the reason these economies are still underdeveloped is because they have shied away from the fundamentals of a market economy. Public choice theory tells us that public officials who superintend these economies are self-serving. The government is entrenched in rent-seeking. It needs an outside warrior to crash through and uproot bad policies. From this perspective of the transition from economic failure to success, the required virtue is not wisdom but boldness.

Another reason why boldness is recommended in the folklore of policy reform is the overcommitment of policy reformers to implanting in their countries institutions of market orthodoxy from other parts of the world. If there is one recipe for development, then what matters is not context but courage to implant. A leading African political economist, Thandika Mkandawire, calls it “institutional monocropping”. This breeds ‘monotasking’. Just do the same thing they have done elsewhere notwithstanding the difference of social or geopolitical contexts. So, if the work of reformers is to disregard the constraints of cultural and social differences and implant the same institutions of a market orthodoxy, what you need are bold leaders, the more reckless the better.

This advisory has been the staple of development policy for a while. The story is that good leadership of policy reform requires bold actions, actions that are based on the mythologized power of the market to correct all perfections. To make shock-therapy work, they created enemies who must be vanquished to ensure successful transplantation. Of course, that enemy in the Nigerian context will likely be the organized labor movement. Witness President Tinubu’s railing against labour leaders as politicians who want to contest political power with him in 2027. Noami Klein captured the reformer’s ghoulish mindset in her book, The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism. She chronicles how the Chicago Boys in Latin America and their disciples elsewhere in the world, animated by the gospel of ‘There is No Alternative’, crashed through all contexts and left disaster as economic reform.

We do not need to go far to see the spirit of hubris in reforms. Nigeria’s ‘bold’ reform in the electricity sector shows some aspect of ‘boldness has magic’ mindset. We hastily privatized when we had not set up the room for great performance. Perhaps, if we had diligently carried out requisite commercial and regulatory reforms and sequenced the transition by first building capacity in distribution and transmission, a delayed and sequenced privatization may have worked better. Less than a year after our rushed privatization, one of the investors dropped one of the distribution companies. 11 years after, about four distribution companies have become bankrupt and repossessed by financiers. The policy is obviously a failure. Privatization may not be a bad policy. But its implementation was guided more by boldness than wisdom. Wisdom is profitable in policy reform. The problem is that wisdom requires humility to pay attention to context. Sadly, humility is not one of the things they teach in policy school. Context matters. If President Tinubu had sequenced the removal of fuel subsidy and managed a float of the currency in a manner that wisely responds to the vagaries of economic tides, we would not be in the situation we are today where efforts to shore up the naira from an avoidable freefall could lead to stag-inflation. If President Tinubu was not too gung-ho about abruptly ending the subsidy and deliberatively searched for mitigations before announcing the policy, perhaps he would not be in such a quandary where government is flipflopping on mitigation policies.

Chief of Defence Staff General Chris Musa

President Bola Tinubu