SATURDAY 30TH MARCH 2024

Deji Elumoye in Abuja, David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja, Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja, Francis Sardauna in Katsina

Soldiers’ Killing: Wanted Delta Monarch Flown to Abuja for Interrogation

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Sylvester Idowu in Warri

The embattled Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, His Royal Majesty, Clement Oghenerukevwe Ikolo, Urhukpe 1, allegedly involved in the gruesome killing of 17 military officers in Okuama community under his kingdom, has been moved to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja for further interrogation.

The traditional ruler, who is one of the eight suspects declared wanted by the DHQ on Thursday, over alleged connection with the Okuama killings, had surrendered himself to the Delta State Police Command in Asaba on Thursday and was received by the Police Commissioner, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi.

The military authorities were notified and he was subsequently flown to Abuja yesterday morning.

It was learnt that the suspect

was escorted to the Asaba Airport by the Commanding Officer, 63 Brigade Nigeria Army, Asaba, the Delta State Commissioner of Police and other senior military officers.

The Ewu-Urhobo monarch, accompanied by a combined team of military officers and the police, as well as personal aides, later boarded a commercial aircraft and the plane departed Asaba Airport at about 9:10am to Abuja. The Delta State Police Public

Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Edafe Bright, who confirmed the development, said the suspect has been handed over to the military authorities for further investigation.

In response to a question, the PPRO said: “Yes, I can confirm to you that the wanted Traditional Ruler has been handed over to military authorities.He is no longer in our custody. The handover process was concluded this (Friday) morning.”

The traditional ruler had on

IN BIRTHDAY PHONE CALL, BUHARI SAYS HE STANDS WITH TINUBU

Former President Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday, followed up his public statement with a phone call to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in which he personally extended his best wishes for a happy 72nd birthday to the President.

A statement from Garba Shehu, former presidential spokesperson, revealed that in the course of the conversation, the former president said he was fully committed to the success of the APC administration under Tinubu.

Thursday surrendered himself to the Delta State Police Command. Edafe, had confirmed that “he (Ewu monarch) turned himself in and we have handed him over.”

The monarch had been living in London, United Kingdom, before his recent selection and crowning as Ovie of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom and was presented with a staff of office by the Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, in November last year.

The monarch had not returned to his kingdom since his coronation ceremony over a legal tussle arising from his selection following the passage of the former traditional ruler. Briefing journalists before surrendering himself to the Police, the monarch had denied any involvement in the killing of the 17 soldiers, comprising four senior officers and 13 soldiers of the 181 Amphibious Battalion of the Nigerian Army.

Also, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the National Chairman of the party, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, as well as some State Governors congratulated Tinubu on the occasion of his 72nd birthday.

The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka in a statement yesterday, said the APC family stands united with Tinubu as he continues

“In this regard, President Buhari prayed for Tinubu’s success, saying that praying for a leader is imperative as his success and well-being are for the nation (everyone), adding that the accomplishments of the new administration must be seen as national achievements,” the statement added.

his illustrious service to the country.

He said the President was leading the country with determination to steer the ship of state to a safe and stable harbor of peace, unity, security, social cohesion, economic stability and sustainable prosperity.

Morka said: "On this day, we celebrate a true patriot, statesman, veteran democrat and visionary leader whose contributions to the enthronement of democracy and nation building is simply legendary. We proudly salute a preeminent party man, an exemplary progressive, a tireless builder and founding architect of our great Party.

"As he celebrates another year, we join the first family and all wellwishers in prayer for more wisdom, excellent health and divine graces upon our dear President, now and in the many years to come."

Ganduje assured Nigerians of better days ahead with the reforms put in place by the Tinubu-led administration.

In a congratulatory message to Tinubu, he called on Nigerians to exercise patience and understanding with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Ganduje in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, referred to the daily gains

being recorded by the naira against the dollar, the revitalisation of the nation's refineries, infrastructural development as well as the protection of lives and properties as inroads so far recorded by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration.

“The economy is on the right track and on its way to recovery. Nigerians would soon heave a sigh of relief and enjoy the fullness of prosperity as Mr President's reform is already yielding good returns," he said

"We wish you a happy birthday. We wish you a long life in good health and with the wisdom to take Nigeria to her pride of place among

RECAPITALISATION HURDLE: ACCESS HOLDINGS ANNOUNCES $1.5BN CAPITAL RAISING PROGRAMME

authorisation respectively.

But some analysts faulted the exclusion of retained earnings from the regulatory capital composition.

However, the CBN has stressed that alongside law enforcement agencies, it would closely monitor the exercise to prevent the influx of illicit financing into the sector.

On Thursday, the central bank unveiled a fresh set of capital requirements for Nigerian banks, mandating international, national, and regional banks to uphold minimum share capital thresholds of N500 billion, N200 billion, and N50 billion, respectively.

Nevertheless, in delineating the concept of share capital, the Central Bank opted to exclude retained earnings from the computation. Instead, it stipulated that share capital encompasses solely banks’ ordinary share capital and share premium.

Access Holdings Plc, in a statement, announced plan to establish a capital raising programme of up to $1.5 billion or its equivalent.

According to the holding company, the programme aims to enhance the Group's financial strength through the issuance of various financial instruments such as ordinary shares, preference shares, Alternative Tier 1 capital, convertible and/or nonconvertible debt, bonds, or other capital and/or funding instruments.

It explained that the programme may be executed through a variety of methods including public offerings, private placements, rights issues, book building processes, or a combination thereof.

“The specifics regarding the tranches, series, proportions, dates, pricing, tenor, and other terms and conditions that may be associated, will be determined by the Board of Directors, contingent upon securing the necessary regulatory approvals.

“Drawing from the Programme, the Group expects to raise up to N365,000,000,000.00 (Three Hundred and Sixty-Five Billion Naira) specifically via a Rights Issue

of ordinary shares. The proceeds of the proposed Rights Issue would be used to support ongoing working capital needs including organic growth funding for its banking and other non-banking subsidiaries.

“The plans for the Programme were disclosed in the Group’s Notice of the 2nd Annual General Meeting holding on April 19, 2024 which was published on the Nigerian Exchange portal on March 27, 2024,” it added.

However, speaking with THISDAY on the directive for banks to raise their capital base, the Special Adviser to the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions, Prof. Uche Uwaleke, contextualised the move by recalling the CBN's previous capital base adjustment in 2005.

Uwaleke, highlighted the adverse impact of currency depreciation on banks' capital base in dollar terms, necessitating the recalibration to enhance competitiveness on the global stage.

He emphasised the need for fresh capital injection, which he envisioned would proffer a safer and more resilient banking system in line with international standards.

The don explained: “For banks with international authorisation, that has had the effect of eroding capital base in dollar terms and these banks wouldn’t have the base to compete internationally so there is a need to ramp up the base of banks.

“In 2005 the CBN had allowed the entire shareholders’ funds to constitute the capital base. Shareholders’ funds comprise share capital, share premium and reserves of banks. All of that are to belong to shareholders and these reserves can either be revenue reserves or from retained earnings over the years.

“What the CBN is saying now is that for this recapitalisation, all we want to allow is paid-up share capital. The emphasis is on bringing in fresh capital and I think it would go a long way to strengthen the financial system and ensure that banks have enough

capital to absorb losses because the whole idea of capital is to serve as a buffer.

“Going forward our banks are going to be safer, stable, and sound. I am sure the idea is to have a more resilient banking system again this is in line with international standards.”

Speaking further, he said: “If the CBN had allowed retained earnings, a number of our banks today already have shareholders’ funds in the excess of N500 billion. The CBN is focusing on the injection of fresh capital, core capital, and also after the quality of capital. If you include revenue reserves, some of the reserves may be associated with high-risk assets or speculative ventures which would have an effect of diluting the capital and that is why the focus on core capital.”

For his part, a former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Dr. Uche Olowu, lauded the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention to address capital erosion amid currency devaluation.

Olowu, anticipated a high compliance rate among banks within the 24-month window, with some likely opting for mergers or regional focus to navigate the evolving landscape.

He said: “There was a devaluation in the naira and that devaluation means Nigerian banks’ capital has been eroded and most banks, also do corresponding banking with external parties domiciled all over the world. So, you need to confer that assurance and that confidence.

“It has been expected because when capital has been eroded by devaluation, you need to shore-up your capital. It is designed to help banks do better. I think it is a welcome development. “

He predicted that having a 24-month window at least five or six banks would meet it easily.

“Within this window, we should expect at least 75 per cent of the banks would meet the target while the others may merge,” Olowu said.

In his contribution, the Group Chief Executive Officer, Cowry Asset Management, Johnson Chukwu, faulted exclusion of retained earnings from the capital base calculation, advocating for its inclusion to incentivise banks to recapitalise without incurring additional costs.

Chukwu, urged the CBN to align the new capital requirements with industry dynamics to facilitate a seamless transition.

He said: “For international banks to have a capital base of N500 billion is an average of $500 million and for local banks to have a capital base of N200 billion is about $200 million. And if you look at the calculation as at the last time and now is about the same.

“Given the devaluation of the currency overtime and given the size of transaction tickets of banks today, the new capital requirement is not out of place. On increasing it, many of the international banks may have a capital base that handles the new capital requirement. Many of them may go to the capital market to raise additional capital.

“The only adjustment the Central bank needs to do is that the new capital requirement should include the retained earnings of banks. Because if you exclude retained earnings, you will incentivize banks to incur costs to recapitalise.”

“The retained earnings of banks should be recognised by the CBN as share capital so they don’t pay dividend and bring back the money for rights issues. The only adjustment I would recommend is to allow retained earning count.”

Also, the Head of Financial Institutions Ratings at Agusto & Co, Mr. Ayokunle Olubunmi, noted the CBN's decision to solely rely on paid-up capital for regulatory capital qualification flagged concerns over the exclusion of retained earnings, underscoring the potential challenges in raising additional capital for banks.

He said: “Everyone was expecting the CBN to increase the minimum

capital requirements However, nobody thought the CBN would go this route by only allowing their paid-up capital to be used for qualification as base regulatory capital.

“Based on the circular of yesterday, almost all the banks need to raise additional capital. Although some of, their shareholders’ funds are in excess however CBN is excluding retained earnings which is a major controversial issue.

“One of the major concerns is CBN excluding retained earnings for composition of regulatory capital, the only thing that can make sense is that CBN wants them to bring in fresh funds. And if you look at the top banks some of them would need to bring in as much as N200 to N300 billion which is a huge ask.

“Some think that CBN wants the banks to bring in foreign investors because getting such an amount in the Nigerian market might be challenging.

“We think there may be some discussion within the CBN and we anticipate that the CBN may allow retained earnings. However, if CBN maintains they are only allowing paid-up capital, there would be a lot of realignment in the industry.”

He added: “Banks need to raise capital. They need to do rights issues and they’ll need to start talking to their shareholders on how much additional share capital existing shareholders would be willing to bring forward and if existing shareholders can’t take them to the finish line, they should start courting the institutional investors or new investors that have the capacity to support the banks.”

Chief Executive Officer, Eczellon Capital, Diekola Onaolapo echoed support for the new capital base, citing the rationale behind safeguarding banks against currency devaluation.

Onaolapo predicted strategic shifts in banking operations, including mergers, acquisitions, and regional expansions, as banks strive to meet the regulatory standards within the allotted timeline.

MAN: RAISING MPR FURTHER WILL WORSEN ACCESS TO CREDIT, MANUFACTURING COMPETITIVENESS

on the Report of Monetary Policy Committee Meeting held this week.”

The manufacturers stated this just as the CBN yesterday, disclosed that the economy attracted over $1.5 billion due to its monetary tightening stance. The apex bank disclosed this in a statement issued by its acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali.

The MPC decided to raise the MPR by 200 basis points to 24.75 per cent from 22.75 per cent; adjust the asymmetric corridor around the MPR to +100/-300 basis points; retain the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) of deposit money banks at 45.0 per cent; adjust the Cash Reserve Ratio of merchant

banks from 10.0 per cent to 14.0 per cent and retain the liquidity ratio at 30.0 percent.

But, Ajayi-Kadir said, “the higher cost of doing business will be further exacerbated by the decision of MPC, thereby worsening competitiveness of Nigerian products in the global market, which is evident in the drastic reduction in global demand for these products.”

He added: “Data provided by the World Trade Organisation, revealed that South African manufacturing export value was $46 billion, while that of Nigeria was $3 billion in 2022.

“Clearly, this is over 15 times greater than Nigeria’s manufacturing export

value in that year.

“The reduction in global demand for Nigerian products was further buttressed by NBS report that confirmed that manufacturing export value of Nigeria plummeted by 166 per cent from N2.07 trillion in 2019 to N778.44 billion in 2023.”

He added that the exorbitant lending rate of over 30 per cent has contributed largely to a drop in the share of manufacturing export to non-oil export from 82.4 per cent to 24.8 per cent in 2019 and 2023 respectively.

The MAN pointed out that the resultant increase in the cost of servicing loans is a threat to the

financial stability of manufacturing companies.

It said: “The increase will destabilise manufacturers through the disruption of production plans, avoidable stockout situations, and decreased capacity utilisation.

“Clearly, all of these could lead to downsizing of workers, closure of more companies, upscaling of social vices and insecurity in Nigeria.”

The manufacturers also noted that “the increase in merchant banks’ CRR and the narrowing of the asymmetric corridor will further reduce the capacity of banks to lend to the productive sector, such as manufacturing.

“These, in addition to the high interest rates, will limit backward integration, research and development and innovation needed to enhance productivity and rapid industrial-led economic growth.”

The MAN acknowledged that it recognises the rationale behind the MPC’s decision, but added that it is essential for the committee to carefully consider the potential impact of the decisions on manufacturing and collaborate with fiscal authorities to support the sector to play its traditional role as a critical driver of meaningful employment, improved productivity, steady forex proceeds inflow and sustained economic growth.

the comity of nations.

"Your commitment to our country’s welfare, your strategic insight, and your relentless pursuit of better days are sources of inspiration for us all. Your leadership has guided us through challenges and illuminated a path for the country towards ensuring prosperity and greatness."

In his congratulatory message, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, said under Tinubu, Nigeria has the potential to ascend to greater heights.

Soludo stated this in a press statement issued by his Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, described Tinubu as a frontline statesman in Nigerian politics, renowned for his resolute commitment to democracy, fearless leadership, and unyielding patriotism.

Aburime in the release quoted Soludo as saying: "His decades-long dedication to public service from Lagos State to the federal level, as well as his dogged fight for democracy has left an indelible mark on the political landscape of our nation.

"With his astute leadership, Nigeria has the potential to ascend to greater heights, provided we rally together in support of his visionary agenda."

The governor went further to laud President Tinubu’s remarkable journey, marked by his visionary leadership, which has inspired hope and instilled confidence in the hearts of millions of Nigerians

Soludo noted that his steadfast resolve and strategic foresight have been instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s socio-political trajectory, steering us towards a path of progress and future prosperity even in the midst of tough challenges.

In acknowledging Tinubu’s transformative policies and initiatives, Governor Soludo recognises his profound understanding of the challenges facing our nation and his steadfast determination to overcome them.

For his part, Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, eulogised the extraordinary dedication of Tinubu to rekindle hope in Nigeria as the President marked his 72nd birthday yesterday.

In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Ismaila Isah, he joined other Nigerians to celebrate the achievements of Tinubu and his unwavering commitment, wisdom, and leadership in steering Nigeria towards greater economic prosperity and improvement in the security of lives and property under very challenging circumstances.

Ododo, described the President as a steadfast, determined, focused leader and a rare breed of democrat whose commitment to nation building has shaped the development of democratic institutions in Nigeria.

“Mr. President as you mark your 72nd birthday today, I extend my warmest wishes on behalf of the government and people of Kogi State to you for your abiding faith in our county and for your love for our state.

"You have dedicated your life to the service of our great nation, demonstrating unwavering commitment, wisdom, and leadership in steering Nigeria towards greater economic prosperity and improvement in the security of lives and property under very challenging circumstances.

“Your steadfast dedication to the welfare and progress of our country serves as an inspiration to us all.

At Easter, Tinubu, Governors, Rejoice with Christians, Call For Unity, Compassion

Assure citizens Nigeria will overcome its challenges Emulate Christ, Defence chief urges armed forces, others IG orders CPs in 36 States, FCT to ensure round-the-clock security, deploy personnel

Deji Elumoye in Abuja, Hammed Shittu in Ilorin and Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

President Bola Tinubu and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) led by Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, have joined the Christian faithful to commemorate Easter, a significant moment and a glorious celebration of the triumph of life over death, which is being marked tomorrow.

Equally, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa and the Inspector-General of Police (IG),

Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday, urged the citizens and members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to emulate the virtues and the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ whose death on the cross underscored the importance of sacrifice for the greater good of mankind.

The President, in a statement issued yesterday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, rejoiced with Christians in Nigeria and around the world on this occasion, emphasising love, sacrifice, and compassion as the patent themes of this solemn season.

Tinubu noted that the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for humanity was an

National Convention: We Gave INEC Over 100 Days Notice, Says Labour Party

Chuks Okochq in Abuja

Controversy is still trailing the just concluded national convention of the Labour Party in Nnewi, Anambra State as the party has released a document to support its claims that it duly notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) within the stipulated time before its national convention.

The LP had first written to notify INEC that the national convention will take place in Benin, the Edo State capital. Later, it moved the venue to Umuahia in Abia and later also it moved the venue to Nnewi in Anambra State.

In a document to justify that it indeed notified INEC of its national convention, the Labour Party said it gave a 100 days notice instead of the normal 21 days.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Obiora Ifoh, made the document public in Abuja, late on Thursday

According to Ifoh, “The Electoral Act says 21 days notice, Labour Party gave 100 days . And someone says they are not aware.

“Electoral Act of 2022 in Article

82 (2) states “The Commission may, with or without prior notice to the political party attend and observe any convention, congress, conference or meeting which is convened by a political party for the purpose of (a) electing members of its executive committees or other governing bodies.”

In the said letter titled: 'Notice For The Conduct of National Convention' dated December 4th, 2023, which was signed by Julius Abure as National Chairman and Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim as National Secretary , the party said it was planning to hold its convention in Benin, the Edo State Capital on March 29, 2024. The letter was stamped received by the commission on the day it was written.

But, it was gathered that INEC could not monitor the national convention due to the frequent changes in venue from Benin, later to Umuahia and finally, the national convention took place in Nnewi.

The INEC source said, "the frequent changes in the venue did not help the commission keep track of the exact place the national convention will take place".

emphatic lesson for leaders and all Nigerians to yield to selflessness and compassion, and be steadfast in the pursuit of a united, peaceful, and prosperous nation.

The President commended Nigerians for the sacrifices they have made in the past few months for the nation to be steered to the path of recovery and sustainable growth, assuring them that the seeds of patience which they have sown are beginning to sprout and will in no time bring forth an abundance of good fruits.

As Christians celebrate the victory of life over death as exemplified by the resurrection of Christ, President Tinubu assured all citizens that Nigeria

will triumph over its challenges as his administration remains firmly committed to this end.

Also, AbdulRazaq, yesterday, urged Christians in the country to use the celebration of Easter to evoke the time-tested themes of love, sacrifice, compassion, unity, and triumph of good over evil at different times.

A statement issued in Ilorin yesterday, by his spokesman, Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, sent hearty felicitations to the Christian community in the state and across Nigeria on the Easter celebration.

The governor said Easter evokes the time-tested themes of love, sacrifice, compassion, unity, and triumph of good over evil at different times.

He added, "The sacrifice of Jesus Christ to guide the flock and the enduring legacy he left for humanity call for deeper reflection at this time and always".

He urged citizens to seize the moment to renew their faith in God, unite for national and collective growth, and to help one another to uphold goodness and justice in the world.

The governor wished the Christian community a happy Easter celebration.

Also, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, in a statement yesterday, celebrated with Christians.

“I urge everyone to, in the spirit of the season, reflect on the significance of this day by imbibing the virtues of

sacrifice, love, tolerance and selflessness. There is no better time to show this than now when we are faced with dire economic conditions which have put many in distress.

“As we celebrate this year’s Good Friday, we must remember to be our brothers’ keeper and look out for each other at this difficult time, while remaining resolute in our love for God and our nation,” he added.

The Chairman of Northern States Governors' Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, extended heartfelt felicitations to Christians in Gombe State and worldwide as they celebrate this year’s Easter festivities.

PDP to Hold NEC, BoT Meetings April 18

National caucus meets April 17 Appoints caretaker committees in 20 states, LGAs, wards

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has approved April 18,2024, for the 98th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party.

The NEC meeting comes after the meeting of the Board of Trustees (BoT) on the same date, Thursday, April 18, 2024.

In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the BoT meeting would hold at the NEC Hall of the PDP National Secretariat at 10a.m. after which the NEC meeting would commence at 2p.m. at the same venue.

Consequently, he said the meeting of the National Caucus of the party has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

The NWC urged all members of NEC, BoT and the National Caucus to please take note of the scheduled dates accordingly. The last NEC meeting of the party took place in October 2022.

Succession issues like replacement

for the suspended National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu and several issues may top the agenda of the long overdue NEC meeting.

An Abubakar Atiku associate, Segun Showumi, had dragged the PDP to court urging the court to mandate the party to summon a NEC meeting. As at press time, the matter is in the court and has suffered several adjournments.

Also, the NWC of the PDP yesterday appointed caretaker committees for 20 states executive councils that their tenure of offices had expired

Tuesday this week, the NWC of the PDP served notices to all the states, local governments councils and ward executives that their tenure of offices have expired.

A statement by Ologunagba, said that the sack of the states and local governments executive committees was in "pursuant to the provisions of Section 29 (2) (b) of the Constitution of our party on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC), approved the appointment of the Executives whose tenures have expired in some State, Local Government and Ward chapters to serve as Caretaker Committees in the affected states,

Imo Tribunal: WAEC Tenders Gov Uzodinma's Results/ Certificate

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) on Thursday confirmed as authentic the WAEC results/certificate submitted by the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in aid of his qualification for the last governorship election.

The institution made the confirmation just as it tendered before the Imo State Governorship

Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja, Certified True Copies (CTCs) of statement of result and certificate belonging to the governor.

The tendered documents were sequel to a subpoena issued on it by the tribunal hearing petitions against Uzodinma's reelection as governor.

The documents were produced before the tribunal by the Head of Administration at WAEC Headquarters, Mr. Omifenwa Tajudeen Tunbosu.

The first of the two documents produced by Tunbosu was a CTC of Uzodimma Goodhope Odidika's West African Examinations Council General Certificate of Education, with certificate No. SG 904497 of June 1982.

The second was a CTC of Uzodimma Goodhope Odidika's confirmation of statement of result dated December 18, 2014, earlier forwarded by WAEC to the office of the Senate President and delivered on January 7, 2015.

OLOIBIRI LECTURE SERIES.…

Group Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari (right) receiving a plaque from the Chairman, Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Nigerian Council, Salahuddeen Tahir, in appreciation of his role as the keynote speaker during the 2024 edition of SPE’s Oloibiri Lecture Series and Energy Forum (OLEF) held in Abuja...recently

TRAPPED IN POVERTY AND DESPAIR

The ‘Japa’ syndrome reflects the systemic failure and socio-economic inequalities in Nigeria, argues Obiotika W. Toochukwu

In recent years, the term “JAPA” has gained traction among Nigerian youths, symbolizing the mass exodus of talented individuals seeking greener pastures abroad. However, amidst this wave of migration, a significant portion of the population remains trapped in Nigeria, facing myriad challenges. Many professionals and vibrant youths with bright future are inevitably trapped by the present administration. The government in Nigeria is oppressive and cares less for the downtrodden and the poor.

Many artisans and craftsmen who could visualize a prosperous future have equally travelled out of the country. No one survives in the present-day Nigeria without cutting corners. Some of our parents, grandparents lived at the time of austerity in the 1980s or the Great Depression in the USA. Times were indeed tough and paying jobs were hard to find. Frugality was the word of the day and need of the hour. Sadly, while nations and countries of the world developed; striving to prevent such hard conditions, Nigeria repeats history all the time, invokes doom on her citizens to prove that it’s someone ‘turn’ to flourish.

While JAPA represents a quest for better economic prospects, it also reflects the systemic failure and socio-economic inequalities plaguing Nigeria. The country’s youth grapple with high unemployment rate, dilapidated infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, and substandard education system. These factors, coupled with political instability and insecurity, fuel the desire to escape in search of a better life. Taking precaution cannot help anyone out of the quagmire. The best solution is to leave the country for good. When you arrive at a new developed country, the patience, grit and endurance you exhibit will bear fruits in no distant time.

Besides, the scarcity mentality, poverty and lack came upon several countries in the 1930s. Yet, in 21st century, African leaders are bent on impoverishing their citizens through multiple taxations, tariffs, customs dues and duties. At the ripe age of internet, technological advancements and industrial revolutions, there is scarcity of many vital things in Nigeria. Civil servants, and workers in the private sector bemoan their conditions as salaries, wages cannot take care of their basic needs.

Still, for many Nigerians, the reality of JAPA remains elusive. Limited access to resources, stringent visa requirements, and the prohibitive costs of migration hinder their aspirations of leaving the country. Consequently, they find themselves trapped in a cycle of poverty and despair, with few avenues for upward mobility. If I may ask – what use were anger and

TJumai Ahmadu

ADDRESSING THE PLIGHT OF THOSE STILL TRAPPED IN NIGERIA REQUIRES A MULTIFACETED APPROACH.

IT NECESSITATES COMPREHENSIVE REFORMS AIMED AT TACKLING CORRUPTION, IMPROVING GOVERNANCE, AND FOSTERING ECONOMIC GROWTH

protestations against the silly credulity of the political class? They look at the trapped masses as odious beings. Europe and America glow and benefit from leadership incompetence in Nigeria. Let’s forget about the West and their touted ‘democracy’ which has never developed nor prospered any African country.

Meanwhile, those left behind must contend with the repercussions of brain drain and loss of skilled professionals essential for national development. The exodus of talent exacerbates existing socio-economic disparities, perpetuating a cycle of underdevelopment and dependency. Many are petrified by the utterances and the inarticulate exclamations coming from the corridors of power. They sneer at the imperfect attempt of the masses to seize power because power belongs to the people. Such wretched mockery exacerbates an expression of frantic, powerless furies. Several cowardly agitations and horrid curses can never change any course determined by them.

Addressing the plight of those still trapped in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates comprehensive reforms aimed at tackling corruption, improving governance, and fostering economic growth. Additionally, investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure are imperative to create an enabling environment conducive to progress and prosperity. The executive, judiciary and legislative arm of government agree on looting techniques and amass wealth to the detriment of the masses. Unknown to the trapped masses, the ruling party, APC, continuously makes secret plans to perpetuate herself in power, turn the country to one party state and silence every opposition.

Furthermore, efforts should be made to harness the potential of the Nigerian diaspora and encourage their active participation in the country’s development. By leveraging their skills, knowledge, and resources, Nigeria can benefit from the contributions of its citizens abroad while fostering a sense of belonging and pride among its people.

Lastly, the rural dwellers and farmers are about to enter the exacting and arduous planting season but they have to do this with tears and cliques of uncertainty. The political leaders’ brusqueness in dealing with the poor despite their grim struggle against poverty and misfortune could depict always that they were unlucky. Ultimately, the phenomenon of JAPA underscores the urgent need for systemic change in Nigeria. When would Nigeria realize its full potential and offer hope for a brighter future for generations to come?

Toochukwu writes from Awka

WOMEN AND THE CHANGING NARRATIVE IN BANKING

writes that the appointment of Adaora Umeoji as Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank is a reflection of hard work and excellence

here are three pathways to greatness in William Shakespeare’s play, Twelfth Night: “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them”.

All things considered, the subject of this piece, fits into the second category. Zenith Bank’s Mrs. Adaora Umeoji Nwokoye was recently announced as the first woman Group Managing Director and CEO of the bank.

In an arena of male prevalence, she is a woman who shot to limelight by hard work, discipline, and the abundant grace of God. Her immense capacity, knack for diligent execution of tasks and the content of her character proves that it is not just enough to be intelligent, but equally as crucial is the ability to manage men and resources which is key in generating value for any organization.

The mother of set of twins is from Aguata , Anambra State. Adaora who joined the bank over two decades ago was at a time an Executive Director, as well as General Manager

Abuja and later the Deputy Managing Director of Zenith Bank.

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

She did not rise to this new position overnight, neither was it a bed of roses all along. She has the scars of battles she has weathered through and, far beyond societal expectations. Today fate has chosen her and so she has reasons to thank God for His blessings.

Already an accomplished woman career wise with a very intimidating profile, she combined beauty plus brain, a very cerebral woman with all the knowledge, skills and experience.

Mrs. Umeoji holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Jos. An alma mater of the Class of ’96 like this writer, our paths crossed again at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Kubwa, Abuja.

She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and a first-class honours in Law from Baze University,

Abuja. She also holds a Master of Law from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, a Master in Business Administration from the University of Calabar and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Apollos University, USA.

Mrs. Adaora Umeoji Nwokoye has, by confronting the inertia of societal norms, and with a disdain for superficiality, demonstrated with life’s trajectory that education and politics can fundamentally address transformation of society and the human condition for good. With maturity and experience, she has acquitted herself as deserving of this office.

As the chief executor who supervises the execution of policy and the administrative drive of the Zenith Bank, Adaora, easy going and unassuming but frank to a fault, doesn’t suffer fools for nothing as many have taken to social media to write despicable and unprintable articles against a revered and outstanding woman.

Rightly said, her elevation to a new calling in this new office is “reward for industry and excellence.” It is sad

at the same time that whenever a Nigerian woman makes the news as having been appointed to a high position, it ruffles a lot of feathers in male chauvinists who see such success as a threat and not an opportunity.

With unshaken resolve, it therefore becomes a matter of responsibility to recognize the contributions of a patriot, distinguished and decent Nigerian, who, aiming for a higher purpose, has distanced herself by transcending the trivial and continued to give her all in the service to fatherland.

By becoming beacons of hope and inspiring others, it is our collective prayer that Adaora Umeoji’s years of cumulative experience in banking practices in Nigeria will, amidst daunting challenges, help reposition the nation’s banking sector on the path of transparency, profitability, efficiency, innovation, and count in keeping the financial sector on purposeful path.

Dr. Ahmadu, an Ag. Director, FCTA, is Founder, Helpline Social Support Initiative, Abuja

Easter: Time to Reconnect with God

Easter is the time when we commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who is our Messiah and Saviour. Jesus Christ was a great religious figure, who walked the earth more than 2000 years ago. He was prominent during his stay on earth because of the many miracles He performed and His revolutionary religious teachings, which have had a great influence on the human race, over the years.

Though He was born of lowly-parentage, His father being a poor carpenter; and mother, virgin, He achieved greatness through his performance of uncommon deeds and espousal of religious teachings, which were premised on the themes of love and human beings’ inheritance of God’s kingdom. Jesus Christ, who was part divine, and part human, lived for mere 33 years. And He was part of the triune God.

During His earthly ministry, Jesus Christ healed people, who had infirmities, resurrected dead people, fed a multitude of people with five loaves of bread and two fish(es), walked on the sea, and calmed tempestuous seas. The people marveled at the great miracles, which He performed. And with the passage of time, he had 12 disciples.

However, Jesus Christ’s revolutionary teachings and preachings which had the potentialities of upturning the moral and political order of the day in Israel didn’t sit well with the Jewish rulers at that time. Consequently, His preachings and teachings set Him on a collision course with the Jewish rulers. He was arrested and put to trial for allegedly proclaiming Himself the king of the Jews.

And He was found guilty of the charges they leveled against Him. So He was impaled on the cross and crucified between two robbers, one of whom was named Barabbas. Incredibly, and ironically, too, the people watching the spectacle of His crucifixion demanded that Barabbas, a robber, be released for them, and not Jesus Christ.

The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ was predicted by Jesus Christ Himself when He talked about pulling down the synagogue and re-building it within three days. Though

He had premonition about His own death, He did nothing to prevent it from happening in order that the scriptures would be fulfilled. Jesus Christ died on good Friday and resurrected on Easter Sunday, which was the third day of His death.

Jesus Christ died that we may live, as it’s written in the Bible. And He paid the sacrificial price for our sins by accepting to die for the remission of our sins. We should not forget that we inherited the sins of our forebears, Adam and Eve. But Jesus Christ became the ransom for our sins. He died on the cross so that we may live.

So today, if we exercise our faith in the resurrection power of Jesus Christ, we shall be able to surmount our problems. And death shall have no powers over us. Because, even though we are dead, we shall still live. And we shall enter the kingdom of God upon our demise if we had obeyed God’s commands and lived according to His sovereign will.

Chiedu Uche Okoye, Uruowulu-Obosi

Anambra State

Needed: State of Emergency on Drug Abuse

It is no longer news that in the past three years, the National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), under the leadership of Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd) has been consistent in its weekly arrests and seizures of illicit drugs and substances across the country.

The agency has collaborated with lots of government agencies and non-governmental organisations in the country’s efforts to curb the menace of substance abuse in Nigeria.

With all this effort, one would expect that the arrest figure would reduce drastically over time and that people would be deterred from engaging in the trafficking of illicit drugs. It is, therefore, surprising that the arrest has been on the increase every week. Just a few weeks ago, NDLEA recorded the largest seizure of heroin in its history, a consignment weighing 51.90 kg at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport MMIA, Ikeja, Lagos.

For any deep-thinking Nigerian, this trend is an indication that the drug problem is more severe than we thought. And the Nigerian state needs to take a big step in tackling this scourge. Nothing short of a declaration of a state of emergency will suffice.

We don’t have to be under the illusion that we have a normal drug problem like every other country in Africa for many reasons. Firstly, Nigeria has the largest number of users in Africa. According to the 2018 United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) survey report on drug use in Nigeria, 14.3 million of our compatriots between the ages of 15 and 64 abuse drugs. That was six years ago. The number would have increased significantly by now.

Secondly, the quality of illicit drugs seized by NDLEA in the past three years far outweighed the known seizures in other African countries. Other indicators, like the outbreak of methamphetamine abuse in 2021 in the South East region of the country and the arrest of over 48, 000 drug traffickers in three years, speak volumes about the severity of the drug problem in Nigeria.

However, it is important to give kudos to NDLEA for a job well done within a short time. We must be bold enough to tell ourselves the home truth that the country woke up too late to tackle the drug scourge. Consequently, to remedy the situation, the government, NDLEA and other relevant stakeholders need to address the issue with the severity that it deserves to make up for their complacency over the years.

The federal government needs to declare a state of emergency on this brewing national health challenge, especially in the face of the growing trend of drug abuse among youth.

Moreso, a nexus has been established between illicit drugs and growing insecurity in the country. Therefore, declaring a state of emergency on drugs will help the country to appropriately tackle the national threat that illicit drugs have become.

It is important to note that government intervention over pervasive insecurity in the country would not be effective if one of the identified causes, namely drug abuse, was not addressed.

Tosin Damola, Lokoja, Kogi State

STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIP.…

L-R:

Port Harcourt-Aba Railway to Commence Operation in April, Says Saidu Alkali

Harcourt

The Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Alkali, has announced April 2024 as the new date for commencement of operations on the Port Harcourt - Aba section of the Port Harcourt to Maiduguri railway line.

The minister disclosed this yesterday while speaking with journalists, shortly after inspecting the reconstructed railway track in Port Harcourt.

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation

(NRC), Mr. Fidel Okhiria, had after test running the reconstructed rail track from Port Harcourt to Aba recently, assured that passengers train would start operation by March ending.

However, Alkali, who expressed dissatisfaction over the postponement from the initial date, said the contractor has been trusted to deliver the project in April as promised. He also directed the contractor handling the project to ensure that the railway line was linked to both Port Harcourt and Onne Ports.

"This is the second time I am in Port Harcourt for the inspection of

the rail line, since I assumed office as the Minister of Transportation.

"They gave us March for commencement of operation, but I am sure while they were doing the inspection there were some observations, and because of exigencies and technicalities of the work, it has been extended to April, because we are already on March 29 today.

"They had given us a definite commitment that by April, they will be able to put Port Harcourt to Aba into use and it’s not only Port Harcourt to Aba alone, I am trying also to get the commitment of how

Trailer of Wole Soyinka’s ‘The Man Died’ Unveiled

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

‘The Man Died’, a memoir of Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka’s prison experience initially published in 1972, is set to be released in July this year, on the stable of Zik Zulu Film.

The snippets of the historic movie captured the intricate parts of the narrative that form an account of the story which will make a fascinating cinematic experience for the world and the global community at large.

Produced by Prof. Awam Amkpa, the two minutes thirty seconds trailer offered firsthand, Awam’s easy,

unique style of directing that lets the actors get on with the roles, but focuses on the shots he wants and manages to balance the technical and the visuals. The trailer disclosed the principal cast of the movie like British-Nigerian actor, Wale Ojo, Sam Dede, Nobert Young, amongst others.

The Man Died – Wole Soyinka’s memoir of his arrest and 22-month imprisonment during the Nigerian Civil War – is coming out as a feature film, coinciding with Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday anniversary. Speaking shortly after the release of the trailer, Wale Ojo, who was

cast in the lead, said it’s one of the high points of his acting career to have played Wole Soyinka in the ‘The Man Died’.

Shot mostly in the ancient city of Ibadan, Oyo State, the renowned playwright Awam Amkpa, earlier in an interview with BookArtVille, said that he had received Soyinka’s nod to produce the film. The book does not follow the conventional storytelling pattern. It is a memoir of the author’s extended conversation with himself in confinement. The movie is coming on the stable of Zik Zulu Films.

Court Orders Arrest of Prophet for Jumping Bail

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

An Oyo State Magistrate Court sitting at Iyaganku, Ibadan, and presided over by Justice Olaolu Olanipekun, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Prophet Ojo Amos (a.k.a Elewuogbo).

soon they can link Port Harcourt to Port Harcourt Port and also Onne Port, so that we would be able to start from the two sea ports to Aba." He continued, "Not really that I am not satisfied with the level of work done, but you know when somebody has given you a deadline, and the deadline didn't really work, of course you will be dismayed while he has failed the deadline he gave you ab-initio. But if somebody promises you by March and is able to deliver in April, I think you can manage with that."

The minister assured that the President Tinubu-led federal government is serious and committed to delivery of all ongoing projects across the country.

"Because of the commitment of the government, we have decided to start with the 15 percent component of the federal government to fix Port Harcourt to Aba section of the railway, and we are now trying to fix the line to Port Harcourt and Onne Ports."

Two Million Youths to Be Trained in Wema Bank-FG Digital Programme

Wema Bank has announced the launch of the second cohort of the FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme to train and equip 2,000,000 youths in 1,000,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria with advanced, relevant and highly demanded digital skills for sustainable success in the current digital-driven world.

The initiative, spearheaded by Wema Bank was in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria and the training would commence in Borno and Anambra states at the beginning of Cohort 2.

According to a statement yesterday by the bank, since the launch of the first Cohort in 2023, over 300,000 Nigerian youth and business owners have leveraged the platform as a launch pad for their business and career success.

“This unique Cohort featured 100 per cent virtual learning sessions through which participants from the 36 states were provided with self-paced online learning experiences.

“As Cohort 2 begins in the second quarter of 2024, the FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme is officially transitioning to Physical Training Sessions and the curriculum will cover key digital skills including software engineering, product management, business analysis, cloud computing and product design, among others.”

The statement added that the second phase would be carried out via FGN-ALAT Digital Hubs, which will be set up in the different states across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria to ensure that every Nigerian can access the programme’s full benefits regardless of their location.

“These hubs will be equipped

with cutting-edge training and incubation facilities ideal for advanced and ultra-modern digital-driven learning, allowing participants to acquire marketable and transferrable digital skills in state-of-the-art learning spaces within their reach, and gain a competitive edge in the global digital ecosystem.

Wema Bank’s Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business, Tunde Mabawonku, stressed the role of the programme in bridging the gaps in Nigeria’s macroeconomic landscape towards national development.

“We are unwavering in our commitment to supporting MSMEs and with the FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme, it’s all about the bigger picture—which is why we have partnered with the government to augment the scale of the programme’s impact.

It would be recalled that Prophet Elewuogbo is currently standing trial before the court over alleged defamation of character of Sat Guru Maharaji.

The prophet and a Lagos-based blogger, Gbenga Dan Asabe had through publications in the media accused Maharaj Ji of selling human body parts for money ritual purposes.

Justice Olanipekun ordered that Elewuogbo and his two sureties be arrested and detained till the next adjournment date for refusing to present himself in court after being granted bail.

The court also granted the request for the consolidation of the cases against Elewuogbo and Dan Asabe brought by Maharaji's counsel, Mr. Dapo Akinosi.

Akinosi had prayed the court that since facts of the two cases are related, it would be better if they were merged together.

The court then granted the application and adjourned the case till 30th of April, 2024.

Glo Rejoices with Nigerians at Easter, Reaffirms Seamless Services

Foremost telecommunications services provider, Globacom, has congratulated the Christian community in Nigeria on the successful completion of the 2024 Lenten Season, promising its subscribers seamless services during and after the Easter festivities.

The company, in a goodwill message in Lagos, also felicitated them as they joined other Christians worldwide to celebrate this year’s Easter.

Easter celebrations come up yearly in commemoration of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on Good Friday and

His resurrection on Easter Sunday. Globacom, in a statement, charged Christians and Nigerians at large to embrace peace and good neighbourliness which are central to the life and teachings of Christ Jesus. “Christ made Himself of no repute as He laid down His life for the remission of the sins of mankind. He exemplified sacrifice, hope and love for others. Without these key virtues, no nation, ours inclusive, can ever thrive", the company noted.

The telecommunications giant

said further that these virtues must be imbibed by all to have a nation that will guarantee the good things of life. "We must all have faith in the future well-being of Nigeria and work towards it in unison, “the statement added.

While encouraging subscribers to enjoy the Easter holidays with their families, friends and relations, Globacom promised seamless voice, data and Short Messaging Services as well as other value added services during and after the Easter celebrations.

Gateway Agro-Cargo International Airport Is Game Changer, Says Kwara Governor

James Sowolein Abeokuta

The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has described the Gateway Agro-Cargo International Airport as a game changer in the country's aviation sector.

AbdulRazaq stated this in an interview with journalists after a courtesy visit to his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun, at the Governor's Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The Kwara State governor had earlier inaugurated the 6km SiunOwode Road in the Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the state.

According to him, when the new airport is finally inaugurated, it would relieve the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos State of both passenger and cargo transportation and also help to decongest the airport.

He said, "The Iperu International Cargo Airport is also a game changer. It is my second or third time landing there, and I must say it is more of an economic airport. It will change the way things will be done in the future.

"It will relieve Lagos airport of cargo and with industrial park going on in the state, the two major industrial parks going on in the state and one being funded by AFDB and the other by AFREXIM Bank," he said.

AbdulRazaq described the quality of work being done in the state by Abiodun as impressive, adding that the quality of work done on the 6km Siun-Owode road would ensure it lasts for more years.

The governor also described the road as unprecedented, especially at a time of inflation globally. He said that the state is certain to benefit from new investments that would come courtesy of the investment drive of Governor Abiodun.

"I commissioned the 6km Siun-Owode road this morning. It is unprecedented and with the rate of inflation these days. It is a huge challenge to commission or build one kilometre, talkless of six kilometres.

"Infrastructure work going on in this state is quite impressive. The quality of the road today is quite impressive, and the drainage is first class. That road will last at least twenty years.

"In terms of investment, Ogun State will be recovering a major part of new investments, green field investments in Nigeria today.

Kudos to Governor Dapo Abiodun for the work he is doing," he said.

The Governor's Forum chairman, while noting that economic challenges are worldwide, said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is setting the pace by ensuring the delivery of grains to the people of the country to tackle the current hardship being experienced by Nigerias.

Blessing Ibunge in Port

Governor General of Grenada, Cecil La Grenade; Chairman, Optiva Capital Partners, Franklin Nechi, and Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell, at the exclusive pre- opening ceremony for the newly completed Six Senses Five-Star Resort in Grenada…recently

Clark: N1.067tn Lagos -Calabar Coastal Road Project, New Dawn In Nigeria's Infrastructural Development

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Elder statesman and foremost leader of the Ijaw nation, Chief Edwin Clark, has described the N1.06trn Lagos -Calabar Coastal Road as a landmark project, which if completed will change the landscape of infrastructural development in Nigeria.

Clark, gave the assertion in an open letter he wrote to President Bola Tinubu, copies of which were made available to journalists in Abuja yesterday.

The septuagenarian said it was particularly pleasing to note that the project was being executed as a Public Private Partnership (PPP).

He said, "This means that a substantial portion of the funding, which is over N1trillion, will be coming from the private sector.

"I assure you that we will not

only endorse this project but will fully extend our support to ensure its completion especially at the areas of the Niger Delta where it will pass through."

Like Oliver Twist, he said, "The Niger Delta people are seriously requesting Mr. President to give priority to the very important project which will no doubt cater for the security and welfare of our people having regards to the role of the the region in supporting the economy of the entire country."

Clark said the Coastal Road, therefore, "could not be a substitution to our immediate requirement."

He said, "It is estimated that the portion being constructed by the contractor from the Lagos end, may take at least two years to complete before moving to the second phase.

"I, however, want to remind Your

Excellency that this new coastal road from Lagos to Calabar, as welcome as it is, raises issues as to why the related coastal railway running through the same axis has been abandoned.

"This made the headlines recently and we applauded it as it will open up all the communities in the West to East axis.

"That West-East Coastal Rail line which was supposed to have a length of 1,402 kilometres at the time when it was conceived, had a budget of $11.17 billion and was even passed by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in 2021 under President Muhammadu Buhari.

"I am sure Mr. President not only me but many Nigerians will like to know what has happened to this very important coastal rail line project.

"This is especially as we know that other rail projects including to

neighbouring Niger Republic are going on very well as recently reported by the Minister of Transportation.

"I have also looked into the internet and the available information there about Lagos-Calabar Railway project is shown below.

“Lagos-Calabar Railway also known as West-East Coastal Rail Line is a 1,400 kilometres standardgauge coastal railway from Lagos to Calabar. Connecting Lagos State in South-west to the Southern Coastal cities in the South. "

Going down memory lane, Clark said the Lagos-Calabar Railway Line Project was conceived by the administration of Goodluck Jonathan in 2014 with approval from the Federal Executive Council but that the project never sees the light of the day.

He said, "In February 2016, the administration of President

Otti Brightens Easter Celebration for Abia Retirees, Clears 9 Years Pension Arrears

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Nine years of agony and gloom are finally over for the retired employees of Abia State government as Governor Alex Otti has kept his campaign promise of clearing the accumulated pension by past governments.

Tears of joy flowed from the senior citizens on Thursday as they started receiving credit alert messages of varying amounts of

money with some getting as much as N1.8 million and even more.

The governor had on Thursday morning revealed that the retirees were going to smile before the close of work.

He was addressing the congregation at Christ the King Catholic Church(CKC), Aba, where he had joined the priests and the faithful to celebrate Chrism Mass and renewal of priestly vows.

"Some of you (pensioners) have been owed since 2014. At the end

of today (Thursday) all of you will smile. Check your accounts at the end of business today," Otti assuredly announced.

And true to his words, credit alert messages started flying all over Abia and beyond depending on the location of each pensioner at the time the cheering messages arrived, indicating that the long awaited money had entered their accounts.

Confirming the cheering development yesterday, the state

Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners(NUP), Comrade Chukwuemeka Irondi, said that "many people have told me they have received arrears".

Irondi, who was speaking on a radio programme in Umuahia, poured encomiums on the Abia governor for fulfilling his promise to the pensioners. He said that "we followed him" in the 2023 general election because of his promise to clear the pension arrears.

Schneider Electric Projects AI Disruption, Future Trends in Data Centre Design

Schneider Electric in a recent paper titled, 'The AI Disruption: Challenges and Guidance for Data Centre Design', delved into the crucial attributes and trends surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The paper sheds light on the resulting challenges faced by data centres and offers comprehensive guidance to address these issues in power, cooling, racks, and software management.

According to the white paper, the data centre industry was set to face significant tasks in 2024, as it adapts to the demands and harnesses the potential of AI.

Managing scarcity and powerrelated issues will be paramount, accompanied by the emergence of three key trends: alternative energy, liquid cooling, and quantum computing.

“The surge of AI in data centre workloads, from large training

clusters to small edge inference servers, signifies a shift towards higher rack power densities. AI start-ups, enterprises, colocation providers, and internet giants are urged to consider the impact of these densities on the design and management of data centre physical infrastructure,” it noted.

Schneider Electric predicted that AI would play a pivotal role in enhancing asset management for operators. The impact will extend to various aspects, including utility and backup power control, cooling control, operational optimisation through digital twins, data centre design and construction, maintenance, robotics, and more.

The white paper emphasised the continued adoption of cloud computing and digital transformation by enterprises. However, it identifies AI as the leading driver of data centre demand in the coming year, projecting

three AI data centers for every new standard data centre, each offering higher server densities.

Muhammadu Buhari agreed with the Export-Import (Exim) Bank of China to finance part of the project.

"In April 2017, the project plans were approved and announced by the Federal Government; however, by September of the same year, the Exim Bank of China communicated its inability to fund the Lagos-Calabar rail project.

"In March 2021, Rotimi Amaechi, Minister of Transportation, insinuated plans (loan) for alternate funding options, leading to the Federal Government entering into a counterpart funding with Standard Chartered Bank for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Rail with US$11bn out of the US$14.4bn needed for the implementation of the project.

Shaibu: Impeachment Panel Begins Sitting April 3, Asks Parties to be Present

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The impeachment process initiated, against the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Mr. Philip Shaibu, by the state House of Assembly, moved a step further as the seven-man panel constituted by the state Chief Judge (CJ), Justice, Daniel Okungbowa, announced its sitting.

In a notice issued by the panel vide a press statement, said it would hold its meeting on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at the Judges Conference Room, New High Court Complex, Benin, by 10.00a.m.

The statement endorsed by the panel’s Administrative Secretary, George Odidi, enjoined all parties and, or their counsels to be present on the aforementioned date, while the complainant (Edo State House Assembly), was also asked “to be ready to present its case on that day.”

The text of the one-paragraph statement titled: 'Press Release Panel to Investigate Allegation of Misconduct

of His Excellency the Deputy Governor of Edo State', reads: “Take notice that consequent upon the inauguration of the above panel by His Lordship the Hon. Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice D.I. Okungbowa in line with Section 188 subsection 5 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, the said Panel shall commence sitting at Judges Conference Room, New High Court Complex, Benin City on Wednesday 3° day of April, 2024 at 10:00a.m. prompt. Parties and /or their counsel are expected to be present on that day while the complainant is expected to be ready to present its case on that day.”

It would be recalled that the Edo CJ had on Friday, March 22, 2024, constituted the seven-man panel, headed by Justice S.A. Omonuwa (RTD) to investigate the allegations levelled Shaibu, by the state House of Assembly as part of the processes initiated by the Assembly to impeach the deputy governor.

Naira Strengthens to N1,300/$ on Parallel Market

Addressing the challenges of scarcity and modularity, the white paper suggested that modular data center infrastructure is a viable solution. Purpose-built facilities still require components, leading operators to secure the supply chain as much as possible.

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Governing Council Al-Muhhibah Open University, Abuja, has approved the appointment of Prof. Ahmad Salisu Garba as as the university's acting Vice Chancellor.

The appointment of Garba is contained in a letter dated March 25, 2023, by the Registrar of the university, Muslim Maigari.

Maigari said the appointment follows

The critical issue of power and grid sustainability was also discussed. Operators were urged to consider renewable energy sources and large battery storage systems to meet ambitious goals for carbon neutrality.

the demise of the immediate Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Muhtar Hanif Alhassan who died in Egypt after a protracted illness.

“I am writing to you on behalf of the Chancellor of Al-Muhibbah Open University, Her Excellency Dr. Aisha Bala Mohammed, FNCS, Sarauniyar Bauchi, and the First Lady of Bauchi State to convey the Chancellor's approval for your appointment as the Acting Vice

The naira yesterday appreciated to N1,300 to a dollar on the parallel foreign exchange (FX) market in Lagos State, compared with the N1,350 to a dollar it closed the previous day.

On the official NAFEX, the naira had on Thursday, depreciated to N1,309.39/$, from N1,300.43/$ on March 27. The official arm of the FX market was closed yesterday, due to the public holiday to commemorate the Good Friday.

Chancellor of Al-Muhibbah Open University, effective from Monday, 25th March 2024,” the letter reads.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), yesterday, said the economy recorded over $1.5 billion in foreign exchange (FX) inflow this month, due to its restrictive monetary policy.

“The Chancellor, along with the University's Governing Council, has recognised your exemplary service to the academic community, your leadership capabilities, and your unwavering commitment to the growth and development of our university. It is these qualities that have led to your selection for this prestigious role.

“In your capacity as Acting Vice Chancellor, you will be entrusted with the leadership and administrative oversight of the university.”

Garba an Associate Professor of Public Law ( Law & Religion) until his appointment as the acting vice-chancellor, was the director of academic planning at the university and a former deputy Vice Chancellor Academics at Bauchi State University.

L-R: Uzochi Maduekwe; Funmi Adebayo; Head of School, RiverBank, Mrs. Regina Jemide; Mr. Ndiana-Abasi Matthew; Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Chisa Otokpa; Mrs. Mac-Jaja, Dr. Egunjobi, Mrs. Fadase, and Mr. Aramide Adetayo, during RiverBank School’s annual Funday 2024, held in Lagos…recently

AWARD WELL DESERVED…

L-R: President of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku; Special Adviser on Media and official Spokesman to Senate President, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, and Director Dee Pee Pharmacy Ltd, Dulsia Ikpegi, during the presentation of the ‘Most Outstanding Spokesman Award’ of the NIPR in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja...recently

Ondo 2024: 19 Political Parties Notify INEC of Primaries

Fidelis David in Akure

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that 19 political parties have notified the commission about the conduct of their primaries for the November 16 governorship election in the state.

INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, disclosed this during a meeting with the

representatives of political parties at the commission's office in Akure, the state capital.

"The parties include the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Accord Party, Action Alliance (AA), African Action Congress (AAC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), African Democratic Party (ADP) and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

"Others are Allied Peoples

Movement (APM), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party, Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), National Rescue Movement (NRM), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Youth Party, Young Progressives Party (YPP) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP)," Babalola said.

The REC noted that the commission received notification from the political parties for the conduct of primaries

for the governorship election exercise billed to commence from April 6 to 27.

The meeting, which she said was an opportunity to engage with political parties on the upcoming party primaries represented a critical juncture in the democratic journey in the state, stressing that the role of political parties in ensuring the success and integrity of the process cannot be overemphasised.

Babalola urged all parties to

Utomi: Parliamentary Democracy Will Reduce Cost of Governance, Stop Political Tyrants

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Still unrelenting from his quest for the return to parliamentary democracy, political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi, has said the return of Nigeria to parliamentary democracy would help reduce cost of governance and also bring to an end elections of politicians who are tyrants into public office.

Utomi, who stated this in an interview with one of the national

television stations, said, “A parliamentary form of government is clearly so much more cost-effective for a democracy than a presidential type of system where you have to run around the entire country.”

He explained that in a parliamentary democracy political leaders who have tendencies of becoming political tyrants would be stopped by the system as the essence of a parliamentary system of government would eliminate them

in the process.

According to him, people connect more with the parliamentary system of government than “detached ministers whom somebody brings from nowhere.”

Already in the National Assembly there is a bill seeking a return to the parliamentary system of government.

The bill titled, ‘The Bills Proposing Constitutional Alterations for Transition to Parliamentary System of Government,’ was sponsored by

the House Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, and 59 others.

Although the bill was read on the floor of the House during plenary, it has not progressed since the first reading six weeks ago.

Speaking on the proposed legislation, Utomi said something had fundamentally gone wrong with the leadership philosophy in Nigeria with selfish leaders serving themselves through living opulent lifestyles rather than serving the people.

Defections: PDP Remains Rooted in Ebonyi, Says Odii

Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki

The 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State, Mr. Chukwuma Odii, has expressed confidence that his party was still rooted in the state despite the

massive defections of his members to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued in Abakaliki, Odii noted that the Ebonyi PDP family was not perturbed by the defections.

"In our dear PDP in Ebonyi State, many people have decided to leave

USAID, A'Ibom Partner for Increased Productivity by Information Officers

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) State2State Activity and Akwa Ibom State government have expressed their commitment to enhancing the roles and productivity of Information Officers (IOs) in the management of information for the state government and citizens' engagement in the area. They made this commitment at a three-day workshop for Development of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), organised by the USAID State Accountability, Transparency and Effectiveness (State2State) Activity for some IOs from the state Information Ministry and parastatals and practicing

journalists in Uyo.

The state Information Commissioner, Ini Ememobong, expressed the commitment of the state government towards enhancing productivity of workers, adding that earlier training of the IOs by USAID Nigeria State2State brought a noticeable and remarkable improvement in the productivity of the officers.

Ememobong, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, James Edet, pledged to increase the number of participants and support given to the training because, "this has indeed helped to deepen the knowledge and professionalism of the IOs in the ministry," describing the participants as ambassadors of knowledge.

and join other political parties of their choice and we do not have any intention of stopping them, it is strictly their call. It is important, however, that we state clearly that the PDP family in Ebonyi State is not perturbed by these defections," he said.

The PDP candidate added that the defection was an opportunity for them to rebuild, re-strategise and form a formidable party that is focused and ready for victory.

According to him, "Our party members and supporters must understand that it is in our best interest that persons who may have been a clog in the wheels of the party voluntarily give way for genuine, patriotic, honourable and selfless members who are ready to work and build our state.

"In fact, we see a great opportunity, an opportunity to rebuild, an opportunity to re-strategise, an opportunity to form a formidable party that is focused and ready for victory. We are determined to take advantage of opportunities being presented already to rejig our party for the task ahead."

adhere strictly to their guidelines, rules, and regulations set forth in their constitutions as well all electoral laws in conduct of their primaries next month.

While advising parties to entrench the principle of internal democracy in the conduct of their primaries to

reduce tension, division and preelection cases that may arise after the conduct of the primaries, the REC charged them to ensure that their primaries are conducted in a peaceful, orderly, and transparent manner to ensure the credibility of the outcomes.

Encomiums as Faseke, Adeoti, LASU Professors Bow Out of Service

Oluchi Chibuzor

It was a celebration of academic prowess as two prominent and renowned professors – Prof. Modupeolu Faseke and Prof. Oladele Adeoti, bowed out of service from the Faculty of Arts, Department of History and International Studies, Lagos State University (LASU).

Speaking at the colloquium in honour of the two professors, Head of Department, History and International Studies, Prof. Adewunmi Falode, who thanked the celebrants for their work ethics, appreciated the support of the University’s Vice-Chancellor in making the event come to pass.

He described the retiring historical scholars as worthy servants that devoted their time to training most of them within the university and outside.

He said they realised that most of

their senior colleagues retire without people actually celebrating them after putting many years in service. According to him, "Once they are gone, they are gone and they go into obscurity, nobody celebrates and appreciates them. Most of them are first generation teachers in Nigeria and not just LASU, so we now said we should not allow our own to go the same way others have been going, that we should honour them when they are in the system about retiring.

"Not when they are dead, we now start going to sing eulogy. He was a good person, no, let them feel it now so that they feel the warmth and appreciation with joy that we have for them. I appreciate our VC for supporting us today, so that when they leave here they will still have that wonderful memory that though they are not in service, they still have us in their memory.

Eyiboh Bags NIPR's Outstanding Spokesperson Award

The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity and official Spokesperson to the President of the Senate, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, has won the Most Outstanding Spokesperson Award of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information.

Eyiboh, himself a former Spokesperson for the House of Representatives and Chairman of its Committee on Media and Public Affairs, was selected for the prestigious award on account of his roles in projecting the positive image of not only the President of the Senate but the Senate as an institution of democracy.

The Jury Sub-Committee of the National Spokespersons Awards, set up by the NIPR and the ministry found Eyiboh worthy of the award among

other spokespersons operating across the Legislative arm of government in both state and national institutions in the country.

The ceremony took place at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

In the award, Eyiboh is described as an indomitable non-violent communication expert with deep network and effective practice delivery with clarity in objectives, strategic in framing engagements with his audience. His impact and effectiveness in perception and reputation management is robust.

The letter to the award recipient, read in parts:

"I am excited to inform you that, from the numerous entries, you have been selected as the Outstanding Spokesperson Award - Legislature in recognition of your work and having satisfied the selection criteria.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

As Bobrisky’s ‘Best Dressed Female’ Award Ruffles Feathers

It’s been mixed reactions of some sort on social media in the past few days following the award of the ‘Best Dressed Female’ to Bobrisky, a famous cross-dresser, at the premiere of a Yoruba epic movie ‘Beast of two Worlds’ in Lagos last Sunday. The infamous ‘Best Dressed Female’ award has again raised questions bothering on the gender identity of Bobrisky.

Does cross-dressing qualify one as a female? Can a male be rightfully considered female by means of transgender? Can cross-dressing or transgender assign status on an individual other than that acceptable to a society by nature? Bobrisky had occasionally in recent times laid claim to undergoing surgery to transition into a woman.

In 2020, Bobrisky revealed that he opted for cross-dressing to make ends meet after 25 years of being a man. Born Idris Okuneye, he

had detailed the beginning of his transition Bobrisky also talked about some of the perks he enjoys being a “woman.”

Sadly, in the world of showbiz, anything goes whether good or bad. The controversies trailing Bobrisky winning ‘Best Dressed Female’ speak loud. Not a few observers adjudged the incident as misplaced, condemning the judges who deemed the popular not born female and so does not merit the award which a good number of female celebrity guests at the event deserve.

In the wake of the controversies, Bobrisky has stressed love and allegiance to the “sisterhood”, which further stoked arguments among Nollywood celebrities who condemned the award in totality, expressed shock and dissatisfaction at the organiser’s decision, citing it as destructive and disrespectful to women, culture, and traditions.

While many thought they had heard the last of the matter, popular singer Habeeb

Okikiola, commonly known as Portable, disapproved of the award and took to the studio, releasing a diss track aimed directly at Bobrisky after both parties engaged in a war of words online. Portable’s take on Bobrisky’s choice of lifestyle appeared rather entertaining.

Taking a jab at Bobrisky in the diss song titled ‘Brotherhood’, Portable sang in Yoruba, “You guys should warn brotherhood not to You’re my brotherhood, brotherhood go brotherhood, now you want to join sisterhood. You’re a disgrace to brotherhood. Look at his bum bum like Akpu (Fufu)”.

Concerned about the series of drama that unfolded after awarding Bobrisky the ‘Best Dressed Female, the movie producer Eniola Ajao, a couple of days later, apologised to all the parties involved in the dramaa. She also announced two women as the new best dressed females.

She had previously admitted in an interview that picking Bobrisky was a deliberate action to promote the movie.

Talented Afrobeats Singer, O6a, Emerges, Set to Drop Debut EP

Anumber of young artists have emerged in the Nigeria music scene and same way left the scene and never returned. One just needs to bring something to hold on to that stands out from the pack. “If it’s not your music, it’s the way you carry yourself, if it’s not the way you carry yourself, at least the way you communicate with people; you just bring artiste, O6a (pronounced Oba).

Portable for instance, “he’s arguably a fantastic artiste. But controversial, and that has seen him retain his brand and remained,” following his emergence a couple of years ago, he adds. For the Firewood Records artiste, real name Ariehwe Odafe Isaac, he’s ready for the grind in the music industry, bringing his God given talent and uniqueness. With a touch of Buju’s impact on the way he sings, he revealed there was a period he listened to the former for like two good years.

O6a is convinced with his progression so far. To be sure, he said, “I know that where I am is not where I was. I like to look at it that where I am today, is not where I was last year or last two years. So, I know that this thing I’m doing is what I’m supposed to do. So, I have to keep going.” He enthused, “very, very convinced”.

performance sometime in 2022 to over 2000 spectators at Nana’s Event Centre opposite

06a

the popular Fela Shrine. “I told my parents I was going to the cinema. Meanwhile I was going for a show,” he said laughing. Not like his parents would have stopped him from going, but noticing his drive towards music, they expected or would rather prefer the gospel genre. But that doesn’t count. “Because I have been in love with music before I started singing.” he asserts. What genre of music

is he inclined? Pop music as it were but later with white music, I used to listen to Justin Bieber, Justin Timberlake, that’s when I was still like in Junior Secondary School. I even used to sing for my seniors, and they used to say I sound like these artists mentioned.

“Those were the people I used to listen to but then as I kept growing I started having this passion for Africa, African music then started listening to Burna Boy, Buju (BXN), and the rest like that and as I kept listening to afrobeats, it was just changing my mindset on Africa and everything. I began focusing more on afrobeats than other genre,” he said, letting out a smile as he reclines on a seat.

“I can sing any genre but prefer afrobeats. When I sing afrobeats, there’s this way it feels easier. If I have to rap I have to sit I have to make sure the words I’m saying people are hearing and connecting with it straight.” A silver chain on his neck with the continent shaped pendant symbolizes his love for Africa.

“This chain on my neck I have been wearing African. This is my symbol.” Some budding creatives want to go into music because of the waves and inherent commercial success. To O6a, afrobeats is popping. He shares an experience from his record label owner. “Before he came to set it up he said when he enters the store abroad he’s hearing afrobeats, when he enters the bar, afrobeats… anywhere he enters he’s just hearing afrobeats!”

O6a believes Nigerian music has taken over the world and as an afrobeats artist;

Maiden AIT Music Plus Festival Holds April

Emrose Adinoyi Productions in collaboration with African Independent Television (AIT) has concluded arrangements to host the maiden edition of the AIT Music Plus Festival at the Good Beach

The much talked about festival, which is slated network, AIT cloud TV and HitList ‘n Cruzin YouTube Channel.

Speaking on preparations for the Festival, Executive Producer Emrose, Mursty Adinoyi, disclosed that the security at the event would be topnotch as the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State has approved security during the event, adding that the Lagos State Ministry of health would also be on standby to attend to health issues in the event of any emergency.

The world class event, he said, was another

avenue not only to discover talent but also give upcoming artists an opportunity to showcase their God given talents while also celebrating some notable music icons. He stated that the AIT Music Plus Festival would be an all genre Music Festival for the millennials and Gen Zs who are its target demographic

According to Adinoyi, artists expected to thrill music lovers at the Good Beach venue of the Festival includes Wande Coal, Ruger, Magnito, Guchi, Eltee Skhillz and Qing Madi. Others are: DJ Picasso, DJ Nana, Hypeman Best DJ Spin, DJ Kentro, DJ Flex, DJ Hypeman Sanni, Special Stanley, and Excel Xix Hypeman.

Speaking on the festival, the Executive Producer stated that the aim of the carnival is to connect brands to the youth, expand content strategically, boost its popularity among the new generation, reach more customers and improve acceptance for more visibility.

He hinted that the show which will envision a live network party with over 5,000 people at the venue and over 40 million viewers live on AIT network, AIT cloud TV, HitList ‘n Cruzin YouTube Channel to build a bigger and wider range of influence.

The goal of AIT Music Plus Festival, Adinoyi stressed, is to promote collaboration among young people while celebrating the evolving Nigerian music/culture, create viable opportunities for brands to reach more prospects, engage with and convert prospects to actual customers, create brand loyalty as well as improving return on investment.

Emrose Productions assured prospective revelers that the carnival will be a success. While disclosing Guinness Nigeria the official sponsor of the Festival, and the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA), as one of the partners.

this is the best time to come out. “Because now everybody is seeing us, everybody is noticing us. And the attention is on afrobeats artists. Everybody wants to hear what you got. Now I have an EP coming out next month April, titled Genesis.” Why Genesis?

‘Genesis’, he says because he has been

afrobeats, embarking on his music career. He has had collaborations with a couple of artistes some turned out well, some didn’t as expected. Plus studio sessions accompanied by his supportive dad. His backstory is similar and peculiar.

“I have been free-styling. To me, it wasn’tpened that slowed it down. In 2020, that quarantine period, my best friend and I had some money and we went to buy equipment. used to carry me to studio to make music before I got signed.

at home, and was preparing to drop my then I was still in high school. Then my laptop crashed! Later I recorded a song ‘Bus dropped on streaming platforms in 2022. I collaboration. People started noticing me as I dropped the song. My Instagram followers increased.

“I believe everything I do; everything in this my career, it’s God putting the people there at that time in my life. So, the name ‘Genesis’, that’s the title of the upcoming Something from the scratch, like I’m starting from the beginning. So, this is my debut. This will announce me to what people will know me as. The kind of music I sing, how I sing, the vibe I have, from this my project. So, that’s why I gave the name ‘Genesis’. A six-track solo EP, O6a boasts of all the songs on the new body of work. He revealed he dropped a song titled ‘Money’ early this the album is Genesis, that’s the title track, the second song is ‘My Story’, the third is ‘234 (Gbagbe)’, the fourth song is ‘Yes or song is ‘Men’. And a bonus track which he’s yet to disclose. Is he looking out for collaborations in the future with any of the leading Nigerian artistes if the opportunity comes? “I don’t want to overstretch it. Some people will say Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy; yes I want to work with them. I know it can’t happen just like that. But if I am chanced to work with somebody, it’s still going to be Buju (BXN). I would love to work with Buju,” he concludes.

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Bobrisky

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Douye’: Quality Music Not Bound by Time, Era, But Reflection of Human Experience

Douye’ Youduba, known professionally as Douye’, emerges as a singular figure in Nigeria’s music landscape, particularly within the realm of jazz. Despite her significant talent and contributions to the genre, she remains somewhat overlooked and under-reported. She delves into her artistry unveiling the complexities of her public and private personas, providing insights into the essence of her enigmatic allure. With a blend of humility and confidence, she shares anecdotes from her musical journey, shedding light on the influences and experiences that have shaped her unique style. Through her storytelling and introspection, Douye’ invites listeners to explore the nuances of her personality and the passion that fuels her music. Her narration to Tosin Clegg, offers a glimpse into her multifaceted persona, revealing layers of depth and charisma that captivate audiences, her journey into Jazz and much more

Whatinitiallydrewyoutojazzmusic, andhowhasyourrelationshipwith thegenreevolvedovertheyears?

I was born and raised in Nigeria, where I was introduced to jazz music by my father at a young age. Ever since then, my ears have been titled towards that direction. Over the years, I started to develop my sound and later on went to the Musician’s Institute in Hollywood to study voice and that prepared me in my artistic journey. I began performing as a jazz singer in venues throughout California and later on released multiple albums which showcased her its emotional depth and powerful storytelling, and I have been recognised for my contributions to the jazz genre. In addition to my music career, I founded my own record label, Groove Note Records, and have spoken out about the importance of supporting fellow musicians in the music industry. Overall, I am a highly respected and recognised artiste in the world of jazz music, known for my powerful vocals and innovative approach to the genre.

Jazzisknownforitsimprovisationalnature.Howdoyou approachimprovisationinyourperformances,andwhatrole doesspontaneityplayinyourcreativeprocess?

Jazz is about having your own identity and being true to the genre. The improvisation comes from being able to express yourself freely. You can only do that when you are in tune with yourself and your musical abilities. Being a Nigerian who is exposed to the western world, I am privileged to blend the two together.

Collaborationisoftenakeyaspectofjazzmusic.Canyou sharesomememorablecollaborationsyou’vehadwithother journey?

I am grateful to have been able to work with jazz legends such as Ron Carter, Kenny Baron, Russell Malone, Buster Williams, Lionel Loueke, Sean Jones, and a plethora of others. It was an honor working with them and those experiences broadened my understanding and appreciation for the genre. That encouraged me to evolve as a jazz artist and continue to expand my artistry.

Comparepresent-daymusicandtheoldies?

the human experience, and as long as there are artists who are passionate about their craft and committed to creating something meaningful, there will always be quality music for us to enjoy and be inspired by.

Howdoyouengageandconnectwithyouraudienceduring liveshowstoensureeveryonehasamemorableexperience?

Jazz may be known to be diverse, however, it still demands authenticity. When performing it is important for me to connect with my audience through the music that I perform by being authentic with my emotions and the spirit of the music. When people come to watch one perform, what they are looking for is the artist’s presence in sound, style, and most of all, the trueness in the delivery of the music emotionally and spiritually by the artist, and these are the elements that I bring to the stage.

How do you incorporate elements of tradition and innovation into your music?

One of the beauties of Jazz is that it transcends all cultures. I was privileged to have had a father who loved the genre incredibly and grandly exposed me to it from when I was a child. That exposure broadened my love and awareness of the genre and how I could utilise this thing called jazz to blend cultures and remain authentic to the spirit of jazz. My recent album titled, The Golden Sèkèrè is a body of appreciation for the Western jazz sound. I utilised Nigerian instruments such as the talking drum, sekere, and more with the Western instruments blending both sounds in interpreting the Great American Songbook which is a rare and innovative form in the jazz world.

Can you walk us through your creative process when composing or arranging jazz pieces? How do you draw inspiration and translate it into music?

For me, music is not just a passion, it’s the very air I breathe. It’s my life. My creative process is drawn from life and the issues of the world and most importantly, being open to the spirit of music. Thus, the most critical aspect of the creative process is to be able to listen to what the spirit of music wants you to do because, when I listen, the arrangement, or composition becomes easy to handle.

Finally, what upcoming projects or performances do you have in store for your fans?

unreleased projects in my storage but the idea of a new project is always something in mind. My mind and spirit is open to determining what my next project would be like…I can tell you that whatever, it would be, would be a project that holds substance and quality and of course my sound and style. Being able to perform is something that I always look forward to because it allows me to connect with my fans and share beautiful musical experiences with them.

Ugochukwu’s Transition: From Nollywood to UK Content Industry

Istorytelling serves as both a mirror canvas for artistic expression, few names resonate with the same gravity as Mr. Ugochukwu Favour popularly known as Ugochukwu Favour-Mayor. With a career spanning over a decade, Favour has weaving narratives that transcend boundaries and spark introspection. As he sets his sights on the United Kingdom, his body of work stands as a testament to his unparalleled talent and unwavering dedication to the craft.

At the heart of his cinematic oeuvre lies “The Cathedral”, a tour de force that reverberates with emotional resonance and societal relevance.

Through masterful storytelling and evocative cinematography, Mr. Favour navigates the tumultuous terrain of religious strife and personal

both domestically and internationally, speaks volumes about his ability to craft narratives that resonate deeply with audiences across cultural divides. In “Ponzi Lord,” he assumes the dual roles

that plagues contemporary society. Through a nuanced exploration of the repercussions of fraudulent schemes, he through his works, shine a spotlight on the darker underbelly of human greed, compelling viewers to confront portrayal of societal ills underscores his commitment to using his art as a catalyst for change, a conscience.

With his foray into UK-produced content, such as the acclaimed series “Doctor Who,” his reach extends far beyond the shores of Nigeria, transcending geographical boundaries to captivate audiences on a global scale.

His portrayal of a blade runner in the iconic series underscores his versatility as an actor and his ability to seamlessly assimilate into diverse cultural contexts, further cementing his status as an international talent to watch even though he remains Nigeria’s exceptional producer, and director.

As Mr. Favour embarks on a new chapter in his career in the United Kingdom, the Africa’s biggest Nollywood industry stands as a testament to his indelible impact. His body of work serves as a roadmap for aspiringchange. As he routes the uncharted terrain of the UK’s cinematic landscape, one thing remains certain - his legacy will continue to leaving an indelible imprint on the annals of cinematic history.

Douye’

Ugochukwu

Nick Clegg:

Nigeria is Epicenter for Tech Dynamism in Africa

President, Global Affairs at Meta, Nick Clegg, who visited Nigeria last week, spoke about the multinational technology company’s forthcoming monetisation tools that will allow content creators in Nigeria, just like their peers in America, Australia, Canada and South Korea, to make money through advertisement and other features on Facebook and Instagram from June this year. He also spoke about the huge talents in the Nigeria technology ecosystem. Obinna Chima brings the excerpts:

You have been in Nigeria for some days now, what can you say about the country’s tech ecosystem and why are you in Nigeria?

Nigeria and Lagos in particular, is the epicenter for a lot of tech dynamism in the online community and the online economy in Africa. It is also a huge country with 250 million people in a continent which is really going to grow in significance as by the middle of the century. It is estimated that one in four of the workforce across the world will be African. It’s very young population as 70 per cent of the population is below the age of 30 years. I just discovered from countless Nigerian creators, content creators, whether it’s people designing online tools for education, for health, for humor, for cooking for fashion, that our platforms are being used by lots of very inspiring, funny and creative folks particularly here in Lagos, to build their brands and to earn their living. I was very pleased to be able to explain to the creators I met, many of them who got millions of followers, some 10 million, some 12 million, 15 million followers and some even more. These are people who’ve built amazing businesses that soon, in the next few months, they would be able to monetise their work more fully on Facebook and Instagram, which is something they’ve quite rightly been demanding for some time. But look, at the end of the day, we’re a platform, we’re not selling hardware. We’ve augmented virtual reality, but we’re not principally a phone manufacturer. We’re not like a retailer like Amazon that sends sort of box to your front door. We are an online platform and we enable people not only to express themselves, but also to earn a living on online and of course, our advertising system is entirely oriented to small businesses. We’re a big company, but our business is small business and millions of small businesses, including many here in Nigeria, use our tools to run ads online to reach their customers in a way that in the old days, only big companies with big marketing budgets could do. And this is a very small business oriented economy. So, the final reason why I’m here is that we’ve spent many years investing in the underlying infrastructure to improve connectivity of Nigeria, both internally and with the rest of the world, and we’ve landed not far from here (Lagos), two landing points in Nigeria, for the two Africa subsea cables, which by a long way, are the most powerful subsea cable ever laid. It will have more than two times the capacity of all subsea cables put together. By the way, it will add to the resilience of connectivity in Nigeria. You would have seen the news on the disruptions to subsea cables in the Red Sea, off the coast of Ivory Coast. The way we’ve built our subsea cables to Africa is that it’s sunk by 50 per cent more under the seabed, so it’ll be less susceptible to that disruption, which I think will enhance connectivity. Of course, lots of people I spoke to, whether it was the President, Bola Tinubu; the minister whether it was the Governor of Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, wanted to also talk about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how AI is going to affect the Nigerian economy and we are a major player globally in the emerging generative AI economy. But we’re unique in terms of supporting Nigerian creators, developers, researchers and businesses, because we uniquely, certainly amongst the big American platforms, we open source our AI technology, we give it away. We allow people to use it to run on their laptop or desktop for free. And that’s something we’re very proud of.

How will the monetisation for creators work and since you talked about the subsea cables, there is this talk that the capacity of the existing subsea cables is not being fully utilised with current capacity utilisation estimated at about 20 per cent. What is your take on that?

There are two questions and I will take them one by one. Firstly, in terms of global reach of creators, Nigerian creators already have global reach. I was speaking with Brother Shaggi, a Nigerian content creator and he said he was in Dubai recently and suddenly some Indian tourists were screaming his name and wanted to take photograph with him. He’s got huge presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, India and several other countries. So, he’s got that reach already. But what he doesn’t have, which he would soon have is the ability to run advertisements on streams, to run advertisements alongside reels and he doesn’t have the ability to use some of the other monetisation tools on Instagram, Instagram stars, Instagram gifts, that creators do elsewhere in the world and that’s what we would now make available to him. So, he has got the international reach. He is obviously a very successful creator. But what he’s not able to do at

Nick Clegg

the moment is to turn that creative reach into advertisements and other monetisation plays that he can do on Instagram and Facebook. He’s having to basically monetise off the platform. I think he’s got the international reach. That won’t change. What he hasn’t and is missing sort of is the mile, if I could put it like that, it is the monetisation tools, which I very much hope will be available to him very soon. Certainly by June this year at the latest he would have that. On the second question, there’s just so many different components to this puzzle. You know, Nigeria is, in one sense, lucky that it’s got a lot of subsea cables. That’s not the case for other countries in Africa. Clearly it depends slightly country by country. We’ve got 19 landing points to Africa or around the circumference of the continent. There are some countries where it is by far the most significant landing whereas in Nigeria, of course, the two landing points are significant because of the extra capacity they bring. But Nigeria compared to other African countries has got quite a diversity of subsea cable provision already.

Look, the issue there is the connectivity from the landing point, inland and between businesses and so on.

The government as I learnt from my meetings with the President and the minister in Abuja, are trying to find different ways of leveraging external expertise and external capital to increase internal connectivity. That will happen over time and I think the combination and obviously the huge changes in the online world and eruption in synthetic content and generative AI content online will increase capacity. I suspect they will more than fulfill the capacity that is there currently with time. So, I see it more as a time lag if I can put it like that.

In specific terms, how would creators benefit from monetisation and how much more money will they be getting?

It depends on how successfully they are. We are providing people with tools they can use and it is up to them to use them intelligently and it is up to them to use them to maximum commercial effect.

Nick Clegg: Nigeria is Epicenter for Tech Dynamism in Africa

But with some other platforms one can easily calculate it, just like what creators make from streaming and others?

Since we are launching in June, the specifics would be defined. We cannot calculate how much money you make because it depends on the audience and how good you are with it. Absolutely, by time we get to June and when it becomes available they would know. We would obviously work with the creators on all that. They’re super smart as I’ve just discovered, but we will explain to them how the tools work. They can see how other creators deploy them to good effects around the world. Clearly the advertisements and the reels’ adverts are the most powerful monetisation models. But it’s up to the creators to decide how to make best use of those tools. It’s probably best syncs with us and with them. Once again, I say June is the latest time, but I am pushing the team to try and get these available as quickly as possible. Who knows, it might be earlier than June, but certainly by June at the latest you will have it.

Let’s talk about Llama and Open Source and are you engaging communities in Nigeria as well on these tools?

Absolutely. I was just talking to some team here who’ve already used llama, incredibly, cleverly to start recording and developing and running training databases of oral languages which are formally written down to develop the capacity to run them using our AI tools. There was a lady there who’s using some of our AI-related databases to predict where health demand is going to spike and some of those tools also used to plan energy demand because we can we can provide databases on where people are clustered. I think Llama has been downloaded 30 million times so far around the world. It’s an incredibly versatile tool. As you know, it comes in two forms in pre-trained form and a fine-tuned form. We’re working on the next generation llama three which will be much more powerful, much more versatile and I hope will provide many more use cases for educators, researchers and developers.

What are you doing about content moderation in Africa?

Even if we quintuple the number of content moderators, you can’t only use human content moderators. We also rely heavily on automated systems because that is the nature of AI. It just gets better and better. If you look the global prevalence of hate speech on Facebook, it has declined hugely over the last two or three years by 50 to 60 per cent. Now, the prevalence of hate speech is about 0.01 per cent of total Facebook content and that’s principally because of advances in AI. But to your point, of course, we also need content moderators to deal with edge cases, to make adjudications on new

escalations and so on and we believe that we meet the very highest standards across the industry of care and support for our content moderators. There is a legal process going on in Kenya, which of course I shouldn’t comment on because it’s subjudice. But I am optimistic and I very much hope that we will be able to continue to work effectively with the highly qualified content moderators in Africa and indeed elsewhere. Actually, generative AI will become an ever more effective tool in triaging content; so that the content that human content moderators see, is the is really the sub-category of a subcategory of content that really needs human adjudication and I’m optimistic that we are making real improvements.

Beyond content moderation and hate speech, how are you dealing with misinformation?

We employ the world’s largest network of independent fact checkers. There’s no other company on the planet that uses as many fact checkers as we do. All our fact checkers are independently verified by the International Fact Checking Network (IFCN). They vet whether a fact checker has the necessary independence and objectivity to be able to carry out the task. Fact checkers as you know are able to look at any content to decide for themselves what they think is a form of misinformation. We have again, an increasingly sophisticated automated

system, which NQ’s content, particularly content that we think has signs of misinformation and which our systems believe might go viral. There’s no point us asking fact checkers to look at a piece of content that only three people are going to see. So, we try and orient the channel and funnel the content our fact checkers look at that so that they look at misinformation or potential misinformation which might be seen by large numbers of people and then they are independently able to adjudicate whether it’s false, or partly false or missing context and then depending on that categorisation, we then remove it. Of course we remove contents that are threat to people or poses a threat to people’s safety, but what we do with false information, which is shown by these independent fact checkers to be false is that we demote it, so that it is much lower on your feed. You have to scroll on your feed for a long time to find it and we put a filter on it so you need to double click to see it. And we very clearly say to users that this has been shown by an independent fact checker to be of questionable accuracy or veracity. The names of the fact checkers in Nigeria are Dubawa, Africa check and AFP. These are the three fact checkers in Nigeria which obviously is appropriate for the size of the market. Do they catch every single piece of item? Probably not. But it is by far one of the

most sophisticated by any global platform to try and deal with misinformation. We are the only company that has built an independent oversight board, which is independent of us. We have invested over $700 million into a separate Trust which is made up of an independent panel of scholars, juries, Nobel Prize winners, former Heads of Governments, including from Africa, and they have the independent rights to look at contents that we have moderated and they can adjudicate on issues. In addition to that, we are the only company that every 12 weeks, along with our financial results, we publish to explain not only what human beings are seeing on Facebook, but also what contents we act against, even before anyone reports it to us. That is entirely audited by Ernst & Young. With the sheer volume of contents that operates online, you are never going to catch everything just like within every society you cannot eliminate all crimes. But I do think we have made huge strides in recent years to be more transparent about how effective we are and to have great accountability and scrutiny through these independent institutions and of course the use of fact checkers.

While speaking earlier, you talked about the positive sides of the Nigerian tech ecosystem. How do you think the government can harness these talents to help support the country’s advancement?

Obviously, connectivity is a big issue. At the end of the day, each sovereign government in each country needs to decide how they are they connected. I also think getting the right regulation is pretty important. We’ve made no secret of the fact that, for instance, the regulation or legislation, which was introduced a year or two ago, by the Advertising Regulatory Council is slightly ill-fitting in an online environment because it treats online adverts a bit like they’re sort of traditional analogue billboards.

Advertisers have to basically have each ad prevetted, you have to pay a fee to an administration and administration only meets once a month. That’s simply not the way that ads work in the online world. They’re much higher speed, much lower friction, much more inexpensive, which is the whole point of online ads. We just don’t think regulation like that really serves and supports Nigeria’s small and medium sized businesses because they’re the ones who rely on our platform to reach their customers. So, if you have legislation, which is slightly from the analogue world being applied to the digital world, you get this unnecessary friction. That’s an example where I think government could maybe have a rethink about whether the regulation really makes sense and is properly supportive of Nigerian, small and medium sized businesses. So I think that’s an area where political decision makers can make a difference if they wanted to.

Conundrum in Nigeria?

Nick Clegg

Olusola

Some Side Hustle Ideas to Make Extra Income

Amid soaring inflation rate hitting on basic necessities like food, shelter, education, healthcare and transportation, and others, the need to make extra income becomes a necessity.

As of February 2024, Nigeria’s headline inflation rate rose to 31.70%, up from 29.90% in January 2024, which was a 26-year high.

Regardless, a significant number of Nigerians have had their monthly take home pay unchanged, with only few fortunate to get a meagre rise. Whichever way, the truth is that the take home pay of Nigerians no longer take them home in present economy.

However, many, like Mrs. Paulina Izagaegbe, a contract staff in one of the new generation banks have been surviving through side gigs.

Financial analysts reckon that income diversification remains practical necessity of current economic reality.

Indeed, earning passive income from side hustles has been a proven model in households for scalability. Side hustle is defined as any legal business done outside a regular salary to generate a passive income is not peculiar to Nigeria, much more now that global economic crunch is a reality.

According to the US Census Bureau, 20 per cent of American households earn passive income, with the median earnings sitting at around $4,200 (£3,390) a year, and estimates suggest that around 36 per cent of millennials already make passive income of some kind.

For instance, in Nigeria where unemployment rate is as high as five per cent, side hustle has come to the rescue of several unemployed youths, which to CEO of Jobberman, Ore Boboye was actually their main means of survival.

Gone are those days when these gigs were mainly a preserve of the wealthy given that required resources, especially huge upfront cost, technology has broken erstwhile rigidity associated with it, such that one does not necessarily need to have money to make the money.

Marketing expert, Joe McGoldrick said of diving into side hustle, “All you need is a great idea, a laptop, and an internet connection to start earning, however requires dedication, perseverance, adequate research, and a whole lot of guts.”

As for Izagaegbe, she delivers fabrics and packaged food items on orders which she gets to advertise via WhatsApp and other social media platforms. With additional earning of not less than N50,000 monthly, she is able to cover up for household gaps her salary in the bank could not fetch.

Beyond supplementing income, McGoldrick said side hustles are also harnessed by those who intend to increase living income, save more, or becoming financially independent someday as well as explore potential business ideas.

Asides food and fabrics gigs taken up by Izagaegbe, other side hustle ideas requiring little commitments and capital are presented below as culled from Forbes et al;

Event Planning

Event planning is fast becoming a lucrative side hustle in Nigeria, as many events and celebrations take place throughout the year. As an event planner, one can help clients run and manage their events. This way, they can focus on relaxing and enjoying themselves while a professional handles all the work. With a talent for organising events, one can offer services to

individuals and businesses looking to plan weddings, parties, and other events.

Personal Shopping

Personal shopping is a side hustle that involves shopping for other people. As a personal shopper, one goes out and buy stuff for different clients and earn extra money for it. One can offer services to busy people who don’t have the time to shop for themselves and earn a commission on each purchase. In return, one can get to shop at places not regularly visited and discover cool new stuff along the way.

Mobile Car Washing and Detailing

Car washing is another low-cost side hustle and an ideal gig for anyone who loves working outdoors. One can offer this service to individuals in their homes, or contract with local businesses that run fleet vehicles or that want to offer weekly car washes as an employee perk. Cleaning tools, a sturdy hose and nozzle are the primary startup costs for this side hustle idea.

Tech Setup Services

One who is skilled in setting up home networks, smart home devices, computers and cell phones can easily make extra cash by marketing these skills to community via social media and handyman apps. One may also seek tech certifications, and provide insurance and bonding to boost one’s credibility for in-home services.

Selling Goods via Dropshipping

Dropshipping means shipping of goods from a manufacturer or wholesaler directly to a customer instead of to the retailer who took the order. This lets one builds a robust e-commerce store without worrying about purchasing, stocking and shipping the items to be sold. With dropshipping, one only pays for the items sold when a customer makes a purchase. The dropship vendors take care of all storage, packing and shipping details, then charges the item’s wholesale and shipping costs per order. Dropshipping can be a time-consuming side hustle since one manages one’s website and customer service, but it is the cheapest and easiest way to break into e-commerce sales. To do this, one needs a good e-commerce platform that integrates with dropshipping vendors.

Selling Private Label Products

Many side hustlers create unique branded goods using private label suppliers. These are products that a factory already makes, while one packages them using one’s logo, labels and unique packaging specifications. This supplier method is especially suited to a side hustle since most private label sellers have lower order minimums than ordering proprietary goods direct from a factory. Private label products let one builds a complete grouping of items, such as a cosmetic line, kitchen tool collection or gourmet food brand, without a huge cost investment. One can also wholesale private label goods or sell direct via one’s website, social media profiles and marketplaces.

Selling Artisan Products

For someone that loves painting, woodworking, baking, sewing, knitting or crafting other handmade goods, one can cash in on one’s passion by selling artisan products during spare time. To earn money with this side hustle idea, one can sell ready-made or made-to-order handcrafted goods online and at local fairs and markets. This side hustle idea has upfront costs for supplies and tools, but can be marketed and sold online with little to no upfront costs.

Expert Urges AI Adoption to Stabilise Economy P

resident of Digital Transformation at Reliance Infosystems, Danjuma Audu, has emphasised optimal (AI) in businesses to enhance its Audu, who was speaking at the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management’s (CIPM) conference in Lagos, recently, disabused impression about AI displacing humans, asserting its engagement.

In his presentation titled, ‘Transformative and Employee Engagement’, he remarked that beyond driving technological advancement, AI remained a transformative force capable of revolutionising corporates’ operations.

“With recent advancements in computing power, data availability, and algorithmic innovation, AI has emerged as a powerful tool for driving business innovation and agility. lives, while its potential to reshape the future

is boundless,” he added.

employees compensation, noting that this will automatically clear path for reduction in prices

He averred that AI will spur employees’ productivity and emotional commitment that engenders economic progress.

“Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace 2023 report puts the cost of low employment engagement at $8.8 trillion, which is approximately 9 percent of the global GDP. Embracing AI can

“Optimal employee engagement serves as an innovation catalyst, productivity driver and competitive advantage enabler. AI can be deployed to enhance these qualities through data-driven insights, predictive analytics and personalized interventions”, he convinced.

To get the best of the innovation, he urged businesses to be mindful of ethical considerations around its adoption, stressing responsible deployment.

Experts Seek Collaborative Effort to Tackle Rising Financial Fraud

Nigerians have been urged to embrace synergy in the fight against fraud and corruption said to have eaten deep into the country’s fabrics. According to a 2023 report by the Anti-Corruption Agencies of Nigeria, each Nigerian loses the equivalent of N35,000 to financial crimes annually, with aggregate loss amounting to $18 billion when spread across illicit financial crimes like bribery, internet fraud and non-payment of taxes.

In another 2021 report by Palo Alto Networks, a California-based cyber-security, Nigeria’s annual loss to internet fraud amounts N127 billion, represents 0.08 per cent `of Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP).

Speaking at the seventh Anti-Fraud National Conference & 3rd investiture ceremony of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), Lagos Chapter, a Professor of Forensic Accounting, Prof. M.A Ayeni remarked that the extent of

fraudulent operations in the country, especially those associated with white collar showed how criminal intent had permeated the system.

He blamed surge in anomaly on faulty leadership, lamenting that fraud has heightened Nigeria’s poverty level, responsible for its present ranking as the world capital of poverty.

“We crave for a new Nigeria where fraud will be a stranger and the societal scale will balance.

“For Nigeria to shed the toga of the ‘fantastic corrupt nation’, there must be a paradigm shift from anchoring the fight against crime on the toothless criminal codes in our statutes to a biting, draconian one ‘ with a human face”, he opined.

In his keynote address, Vice-Chancellor of Prime University, Prof. Mainoma, reiterated the role of fraud examiners in changing the status quo, stressing right leadership, ethics and integrity for optimal fraud fighting.

In her acceptance speech, the newly sworn-in President, Dr. Titilayo Fowokan, reaffirmed ACFE’s commitment to minimising fraud incidence and white collar crime in Nigeria.

British Council, PTI Empower Youth with Skills, Grant

The British Council, in partnership with Prince’s Trust International has empowered no fewer than 60 youths under its ‘ Youth Sustainable Enterprise Challenge (YSED) project aimed to unlock prosperity for Nigeria and Africa at large.

Now in its pilot stage, the project enlisted youths in three Nigeria states including Lagos, where they were nurtured with skills, tools and build sustainable ventures.

Country Director of British Council, Lucy Pearson said YSEC was part of the council’s ‘Non-formal Education Youth Connects’ initiative to bridge skills gap and smoothen youths’ career pathway.

minated in a pitching competition among

that harness local talent, innovations and solutions, stating that it is necessary for economic development.

“Our vision of a more peaceful and prosperous world built on trust can only be achieved when young people are provided with the right skills and network to make informed choices and be provided with a clear career pathway. This explains our involvement in the project”, she said.

On his part, Founding Partner at Nardz Factory, project implementation partner, Ade Olowojoba, reiterated the goal of the project that all activities including dedicated pitch workshops will equip participants for the real world of business.

“Witnessing the growth of participants over the course of the programme has been incredibly rewarding”, he enthused.

Viva Expresses Love at Ramadan, Donates Products

Foremost detergent brand, Viva has stressed charity during Ramadan while also taking the lead to practice its stance through products donation across the country.

While announcing ‘Viva-Ramadan gift hampers’ment to family support and hygiene this season and beyond. The organisation also announced the expansion of gifting initiative to Southern Nigeria, beyond present Northern reach.

Nigeria, Santhosh Kumar Nair noted that the way of spreading happiness to Nigerians. “We aim to extend joy and goodwill to households, neighborhoods, and retailers across both the Northern and Southern states of Nigeria. Ramadan is a time for unity and compassion, and we are committed to spreading happiness and support to families across the nation, “he said.

Omolabake Fasogbon

Amid Headwinds, NSIA Grew Net Assets to N2.22tn in 2023

James Emejo in Abuja

The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) said it grew its net assets by 119 per cent to N2.22 trillion in 2023 compared to N1.02 trillion the preceding year.

Total operating income also increased to N1.18 trillion from N101.1 billion in 2022, inclusive of foreign exchange (FX) gains during the period.

The results were contained in its audited results for the

underscores the resilience of the NSIA’s investment strategy

and the quality of its earnings, despite the challenging global macro-economic, and geo-political landscape,” the Authority said in a statement.

Managing Director/Chief Executive, NSIA, Mr. Aminu Umar-Sadiq, said, “Our excellent results in 2023 and consistent positive performance proof of our robust strategic execution of our infrastructure risk management processes.mitted to catalysing positive socio-economic outcomes

through critical infrastructure investments; strategic partnerships that expand our impact across pivotal sectors; and solutions that not only deliver our mandate but simultaneously uphold environmental stewardship.

our focus on creating shared prosperity for current and future generations of Nigerians.”erating income was attributed to the positive performance of portfolios, as well as the positive performance of NSIA’s infrastructure investments.

In addition, the authority’s total comprehensive income increased by 1,122 per cent to to N96.96 billion in 2022.

Also, core total comprehensive income (excluding foreign exchange gains) rose by 670 per cent to N164.69 billion from N21.39 billion in the previous year- a feat evidenced by robust strategic asset allocation and adherence to best-in-class enterprise risk management processes.

It stated that despite challenges in the operating environment including government’s policies, the NSIA Group’s net

Ex-Abia PDP Chairman Lauds Otti for Prioritising Rural Roads

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The priority attention that Governor Alex Otti has given to the infrastructural development of the rural communities in Abia State has elicited accolades across party lines.

Reacting to Otti’s policy thrust, a former Chairman of Abia State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Emma Nwaka, commended the governor for placing rural development on the front burner.

“We are grateful to the governor for this developmental project,” he said in reference to the Nunya-Eluama road

reconstruction in earnest.

Otti had commenced the ongoing infrastructural transformation of the state in Aba and Umuahia but he has brought the rural communities into the mix to achieve “balanced development” of the entire Abia.

Over the past three weeks the reconstruction of no fewer than three critical road networks across the local governments.

The most recent was the 11.5km Nunya-Ogboro-Eluama road in Isuikwuato Local Govon Tuesday, March 26 to the delight of the communities connected by the road.

of the former ruling Abia PDP during its most glorious period, told our correspondent that everyation, should acknowledge the good job that Otti was doing.

He noted that the new governor has not only rehabilitated several roads within nine months reputable contractors to give Abia people quality for their money.

On how he received the that Otti has mobilised CCECC to begin the reconstruction of Nunya-Eluama road, Nwaka said that he couldn’t thank the governor enough for this singular gesture.

“One thing for sure is that every Isuikwuato person is

delighted that Nnunya/Ogboro road is one of the roads in Abia State that has received early Governor Alex Otti,” he said.

“This road is very important to our people, not just because it Port Harcourt Expressway but also for the fact that it will enable our farmers to evacuate their farm produce for sale in Umuahia and neighbouring states,” he added.

Otti had explained his early attention to the rural areas, saying that his economic policy “is structured to achieve balanced development” of Abia so that no part of the state would be left behind.

earnings amounted to N1.18 trillion, including FX gains of N1.02 trillion, marking a remarkable increase of 1,122 per cent compared to N96.96 billion in 2022.

It said, “In 2023, substantial shifts in the Nigerian business environment impacted the disposable income of individuals and communities across the nation.

Estate Demolition: Judge Berates FCTA Officials for Disobeying Court Order

Alex Enumah in Abuja

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sitting in Maitama, Abuja, has berated authorities of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCDA) for disobeying a valid order of the court, which had restrained them from demolishing a property owned by Praco International Ltd.

The multi-billion Naira estate located in Asokoro/Kugbo axis of FCT, is being developed by SNECOU Group and others.

The Judge was reacting to recent developments arising from a suit filed by Engr. Success Obioma, Praco International Ltd, Psalm 127 Ltd, and Peace Be Still Ltd, (Claimants) against the FCT Administration.

Defendants in the suit marked FCT/HC/CV/1739/ 24 and Motion No: M/5827/2024, are the FCT Minister, Federal Capital Development Authority, The Deed Registrar FCDA, Director Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Chairman Abuja Metropolitan Management Council and the Director of Land

Administration FCT, etc.

Justice Eleojor Enenche of the FCT High Court in Wuse, had on March 22, 2024 made an order of interim injunction restraining the defendants/ respondents by themselves or their servants, agents, privies, proxies or whosoever acting on their express or presume authority from further demolishing or destroying claimants developments which include but not limited to infrastructure and house, on Plots 582 Kukwaba, 542 Kukwaba, 454 Guzape, 455 Guzape, Plot 456 Guzape, 458 Guzape, 1577 Guzape, 4577 Maitama Aé Ltd, 5044 Maitama Aé, 3198 Maitama Aé, 5033 Maitama, Aé, 2444 Gwarinpa, 505 Wuye, 2129 Gorki 1, 4143 Jikoyi, 4145 Jikoyi, 4147, 4149, 524 Kukwaba, 527 Kukwaba and 3037 Asokoro, which developments were put on the land by the claimants after securing defendants’ approval upon payments of necessary fees, pending determination of the Motion on Notice for Interlocutory Injunction.

FEATURES

Patience Eno: Seamstress Who Captured Governor Umo Eno’s Heart Three Decades Ago

First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Patience Eno, clocked 57 years recently. Her husband and Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, at an event to mark her birthday revealed some of the qualities that made him to fall in love with his damsel of inestimable value, writes

First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Patience Eno and her husband, Governor Umo Eno are inseparable. Their love is limitless. She means all to her husband - A confidant, an adviser, prayer partner, number-one supporter and soul-mate. Their marriage is blessed with children and several grandchildren.

At the Eket Senatorial District Women New Year thanksgiving service and empowerment, the First Lady gave insight into the secrets of her husband, always looking cute in any attire and entrepreneurial drive.

“Aside from being a governor’s wife, I am a seamstress, you call it fashion designer now. My father gave me my sewing machine when I got married 33 years ago, and it is still in my workshop,” she recalled. Apart from being resourceful and dedicated, she touches people’s lives positively.

Expressing his love and support for his wife of over 37 years, Governor Eno at an event to mark the official launch of the wife’s pet project, Golden Initiative For All’ (GIFA) which coincided with her 57th birthday celebration at Ibom Hall, Uyo, extolled the First Lady’s dedication and passion for uplifting families and the vulnerable in the society.

“I want to say that I am incredibly proud of your dedication and compassion. Your drive to make a difference shines through in every aspect of GIFA, and I am confident that this programme will leave a lasting impact on countless lives.

“You have been true to your name, you have been an incredible wife and mother and I am sure all of us and our children are really proud of you.

“On this day that we celebrate your 57th birthday, and the launch of your pet project, I can assure you by the

Charles Ajunwa

Gov Eno cutting the First Lady’s 57th birthday cake love of God that I will walk side by side with you, support you and do whatever I can to ensure that you fulfil this lifelong ambition of touching lives,” he said.

Former Governor, Udom Emmanuel, during a thanksgiving service for his then Commissioner for Lands and Water

Resources, Eno, to celebrate one-year of his appointment as commissioner, one-year anniversary of his mother Deaconess Eka Eno and the 35th year marriage to his wife, Patience, said the couple bonded spiritually and physically.

Udom recalled how God saved Eno when his second-half took ill at the onset of the COVID-19 just after losing his mother. As doctors were battling to save Patience’s life, he said “prayers were raised and God helped. Today, you can celebrate 35 years of marriage with your wife because she is alive.”

Other dignitaries that attended the three-in-one thanksgiving that took place in Ikot Ekpene Udo, in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of the state, in their goodwill messages commended Pastor Eno’s marriage to Patience.

Former Governor Victor Attah, said, “Your union of 35 years to your wife is a great testimony to the cherished virtues of love, trust and accommodation. Those qualities have enriched your moments of joy and helped you through difficult times. I have no doubt that they will continue to guide you in your future endeavours.”

Senator Akon Eyakenyi has this to say, “Looking back at your 35 years of successful Christian marriage, it is a thing of joy because the Lord has done you well. I congratulate you and your dear wife who is a virtuous and wise-hearted woman. I pray that this bond of love never be broken as many years await this blissful and fruitful union.”

Another testament from All Nations Christian Ministry International: read: “Your marriage of 35 years and counting to Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Eno; has been what might be termed as gracefulness. Hitherto, the Lord has shown you plenteous mercies, blessing you with outstanding children and many grandchildren. The words of Psalm 128:3 perfectly describe these 35 years of love and togetherness. ‘Thy wife shall be a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants around about thy table.’”

Changing Outlook of Ibadan Inner Roads

Kemi Olaitan writes that residents of Ibadan, Oyo State, are in for a new lease of life as the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde is fixing roads within the city

For many Nigerians, most governors if not all elected for second term in the country do not care to deliver dividends of democracy to the people because they believe that they do not need the people again. However, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has continued to change this narrative as since he was sworn in for a second term on May 29, 2023, he has not stopped to deliver on his promises to the people of Ibadan and the entire state as a whole.

But to many people in the pace setter state this is however unexpected as Makinde during his inauguration had assured of moving the State from the level that it found itself as a result of misrule of past administrations to one that would be respected among the comity of states in the country in terms of provisions of necessary infrastructures such as good roads and housing estates.

Thus, in order to continue to endear himself to the people, Makinde last December and barely two weeks after he promised to kick-start the rehabilitation and reconstruction of internal roads in Ibadan, had approved contracts for the construction and rehabilitation of inner roads within Ibadan metropolis totaling 84.75km.

The State Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Prof. Daud Shangodoyin, while addressing journalists after the State Executive Council Meeting, disclosed that scores of the internal roads, would be handled by Messrs KOPEK, RATCON Construction Company Ltd, Messrs Peculiar Ultimate Concerns Ltd, Craneburg Construction Company and the Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency (OYSROMA).

He said, “The brief is in two parts – Lot 1 and Lot 2, which have a cumulative of 12 roads. Lot 1, which is 70.45km, consists of 10 roads and the Council approved the award to Messrs KOPEC Ltd at a contract sum of N24.8 billion for 12 months.

“Lot 2 of this road is awarded to RATCON Construction Company. It has 12 roads of 14.30km at a contract sum of N1.88bn for a duration of six months. The summary is that we approved Lot 1 and Lot 2 of 12 roads with a total of

84.75km for Ibadan feeder roads.

“Lot 1 for Ibadan feeder roads has 10 roads on that axis; Oshuntokun - Housing Corporation – Elewure - Awolowo junction and it is 2.99km. The second road on that Lot 1 is Aare junction-Ashi, along Bodija road, which is 3.48km; Bodija-Oju-Irin-Ashi-Basorun with a spur to Ojoo, which is 3.45km; reconstruction of U.I (Preboye junction)-Bodija marketSecretariat road-Beere roundabout dual carriageway, 15.53km; Government House-NTA junction-Ikolaba-JAMB office-Officers Mess-Federal Secretariat-Custom office dual carriageway, 6.13km; Queens Cinema-Dugbe-Sango-Trans Amusement park junction and 11.74km dual carriage way.

“Others are the construction of Molete (under bridge)-Oke Ado-Oke Bola-Queens Cinema-Dugbe dual carriage way, 9.3km; Iyaganku-7th Day Adventist Church-Oke Bola junction-Olubadan stadium junction-Vale College-NUJ PRESS Centre junction with spur to Total filling station-Radio Nigeria-Kobiowu Estate-Akinyemi Junction-Ring Road, 3.85km; dualisation of Mile 10-Ring road-Mobil-Challenge car park, 8.5km; General Gas junction-Kolapo Ishola-Iyana Church with spur to Dizzengorf, 5.48km. The total length of Lot 1 is 70.45km.

“For Lot 2, we have two roads, which are the reconstruction of Bus Stop-Gate-Oje-Beere-Ojaaba-Molete (under bridge) dual carriageway, 10.8km and Oke Adu-Ode Aje- Aremo-Orita Aperin, 3.5km. The total length of Lot 2 is 14.3km.

“The roads OYSROMA will work on include U.I junction to Agbowo linking Ojoo–Iwo road expressway with a spur to Preboye’s world, which is 2.3km; Sango-Eleyele road, which is 10.6km; Zion Plaza, Olusoji Avenue linking Alao Akala expressway, which is 1.25km; a culvert at Eleyele/Ologuneru road junction; Eleyele roundabout, Water Corporation, Eruwa Garage road, which is 0.63km.”

And less than two months after the roads were approved for rehabilitation and reconstruction, the contractors and OYSROMA have moved to site turning most of the areas to rehabilitation and reconstruction arenas with residents showering encomiums on Makinde for

counting them worthy of having the dividends of democracy. The roads already witnessing reconstruction or rehabilitation include Beere-Oja’ba, Iyaganku-NUJ Road, Moshood Abiola WayRing Road, Akala Express 12.5km, 7.5km Old Ife Road-Onipepeye Underpass with spur to Airport-Adegbayi, Idi Ape-Civic CentreAgodi Junction Improvement, Gate Junction Improvement and 5.48 km General Gas Junction-Kolapo Ishola GRA-Iyana Church with a spur to Dizengoff Junction Road, Iyana Church, Ibadan. Residents and commuters along these areas while relaying how excited they were seeing contractor or OYSROMA commencing work on the roads, said they would continue to be grateful to the governor for hearkening to the cry of the people to fix the deplorable roads within the state capital.

A resident of Oluyole Estate within the city, Mrs. Bola Adeyemo, commended Makinde for rehabilitating the Moshood Abiola Way-Ring Road, stating that it has brought relief to those plying the road as major potholes have been fixed making it more motorable.

According to her, “we have to commend Governor Makinde for what he has done to rehabilitate or reconstruct roads within Ibadan, the state capital. Doing this has not only make it easier for commuters to ply the roads that have been completed such as the Moshood Abiola Way-Ring Road, but it has also brought development to the city.”

Speaking in the same vein, a commercial driver plying Mokola to Iwo Road , Wasiu Olabisi, lamented that the deplorable condition of the Idi Ape-Civic Centre-Agodi Junction often caused traffic gridlock, noting that the rehabilitation has brought great relief to commuters.

NNPC: Changing Narrative through Effective Corporate Communication

Thaddeus Nduka

One of the best things to happen to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) was the appointment of Malam Mele Kyari as its Group Managing Director in 2019.

To the fair-minded analysts, the appointment based on verifiable evidence has changed the trajectory of that company and set it on a path of sound corporate governance with the whole panoply of fiscal responsibility, transparency and ethical discipline.

Before Kyari’s coming the NNPC was rightly or wrongly, viewed by many Nigerians as a conduit pipe for the siphoning of government resources by private interests. It was also perceived by many as operating as a secret society whose activities are shrouded in mystery.

Kyari’ coming changed all that. He came with a plan not only to change the ugly narrative about the NNPCL but to re-engineer its administrative processes and present to Nigerians and the international community, a world class organization run on global best practices. To achieve this, he unfurled his TAPE (Transparency, Accountability and Performance Excellence) agenda. TAPE signposted transparency in operations, commitment to excellence and more robust stakeholder engagement in a way that ensures a smoother relationship and closer collaboration with its partners and the Nigerian public.

It is clear that part of the recipe for the successful reversal of the negative trend of losses and the poor image the NNPC had borne for decades, is Kyari’s leadership style. NNPC insiders say the GCEO has an eye for talent backed with an uncanny ability to guide and coach his subordinates towards achieving the strategic objectives of the NNPCL.

A case in point is the headhunting of veteran journalist and media relations expert, Mr. Olufemi Soneye from his United States base to function as NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communication Officer.

Key industry watchers are of the view that the step is perhaps the most significant decision Kyari has taken in the post-Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) era.

His appointment as NNPCL’s CCCO on October 18, 2023 was received with much excitement especially within the Nigerian media usually critical of its members taking up appointment with government or the private sector. In just six months in office, Soneye, aligning his strategy with the overarching vision of TAPE as espoused by Kyari, has initiated a silent revolution in the communications process of NNPCL. One way he has done this is by transforming the entire Corporate Communications Division of the organization to become a core part of every NNPC Ltd business.

He has done this by motivating and re-orienting his staff to see themselves as the first front desk of NNPCL whose attitude can impinge positively or negatively in the company’s relationship with its internal/external stakeholders.

A key result of his tactics is that today, most business entities within the NNPCL, most of them unknown hitherto, have become recognizable to the Nigerian public through the CCD’s masterful and inspiring telling of their stories.

A few examples in this regard include the NNPC Foundation, whose CSR efforts are now in the public limelight; and NNPC Academy, which is gradually becoming a leader in oil and gas training in the country.

While repositioning these previously unknown business units and entities of NNPCL, Soneye has repositioned the main brand itself to loftier heights through positive projection and promotion of the company’s brand identity. Through his all-round approach to corporate branding, individuals and organisations are coming in their numbers associate themselves with NNPC Ltd.

Today, courtesy of his relentless efforts at repositioning the NNPC Ltd, the company enjoys global brand exposure with Soneye spearheading a 100 percent increase in the organization’s brand visibility through strategic projection as a trailblazer and industry leader on both national and international platforms.

Soneye has secured impressive brand exposure for NNPC Ltd at key industry gatherings such as the Nigeria International Energy Summit {NIES}, COP28 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, CERAWEEK in Houston, Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists {NAPE}, OTL, and SAIPEC, amplifying NNPC’s global

footprint and reinforcing its position as a trusted industry leader on the international stage.

At the 41st edition of the NAPE Annual International Conference and Exhibition held in Lagos, NNPCL clinched the highly coveted Best Innovative Company Award, a testament to Soneye’s projection of the company as relentless pursuer of innovation and excellence in the oil and gas sector.

It is noteworthy that Soneye has humanized the NNPC as a brand through creation and deployment of captivating social media content. Through this effort, he has transformed the NNPC Ltd brand into a relatable and engaging entity, resulting in a substantial increase in followership across all social media platforms, thereby enhancing brand affinity and resonance.

Moreover, Mr. Soneye’s strategic collaboration with top-tier photo/video content producers facilitated the comprehensive deployment of compelling video, graphic, and textual content across NNPC’s digital screen network and other media platforms. This initiative not only elevated storytelling standards but also amplified NNPC’s brand presence and influence, boosting engagement across all stakeholder groups.

Part of Soneye’s retooling of the NNPC Ltd’s public communications process is his introduction of an innovative communication strategy, transforming NNPC’s information dissemination system. Through proactive measures, including press releases, media coverage, syndicated features, interviews, documentaries, and press conferences, he has ensured timely and transparent release of information. He overhauled and curated all episodes of “Energy and You,” NNPC’s flagship TV program on NTA Network, delivering informative and engaging content that educates and empowers viewers on energy-related matters. This proactive approach enhanced transparency and trust within the company and among stakeholders.

Talking about NNPC Ltd’s stakeholders, one clearly sees that this is one area he has left a deep impression. His adroitness in managing his company’s most critical stakeholders has been exceptional. Known by friends, colleagues and associates as “Mr. Relationship”, Mr. Soneye’s remarkable stakeholder management efforts have significantly improved the relationship between the NNPC Ltd and its external stakeholders like the National Assembly and the Media.

As a former journalist, Soneye has been able to manage NNPC Ltd.’s media partners in a way that has been mutually beneficial to most parties. Through his frank and timely response to enquiries, a good many negative reports against

NNPC Ltd. have tremendously reduced or in some areas have been neutralized or substituted with positive ones.

One key example is his handling of the story around the deadline for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries. While critics and cynics were waiting for the bad news, Soneye took a large media contingent to witness and cover the mechanical completion of the Port Harcourt Refinery Company in December 2023, a move that nailed all rumours and renewed the media’s, and indeed Nigerians’ hope, in the entire rehabilitation process.

As NNPC Ltd’s Chief Corporate Communication’s Officer, Soneye tactfully responds to and manages summons from lawmakers, demonstrating resourcefulness in fostering positive relationships with both critical and non-critical committees. Through strategic engagement and effective communication, he not addresses the needs and concerns of these committees while ensuring their alignment with NNPC Ltd’s objectives and values. Clearly, Soneye’s proactive communications strategy has not only strengthened NNPC’s reputation as a trusted partner but has also significantly enhanced the company’s relationship with this crucial external stakeholder group.

Another positive attribute Soneye has brought to his job as NNPC Ltd’s chief image maker, is his proactive approach to crisis management. Since his employment as the company’s spokesman, he has been able to sniff out, and promptly act on, potential reputation landmines for the NNPC Ltd, averting crisis in the process. He has put in place a team that tracks and monitors developments in the media and in its various engagements with relevant stakeholders. This forward-looking strategy of his was evident during the Project Gazelle story(a $3.3 billion AFREXIM Bank crude oil pre-payment loan secured by NNPC Limited on behalf of the Federal Government) which was generating interest in the media and had the traits of degenerating from an issue to crisis. Soneye, employing proactive management and exceptional proficiency in high stakes Public Relations ensured transparent communication and fostered confidence among stakeholders.

Today, barely five months in office, Soneye’s commitment to excellence, Soneye’s creative corporate communications strategy, and his masterful interfacing with NNPC’s critical stakeholders, which have earned the company global visibility and respect, is being acknowledged within and outside Nigeria.

On Wednesday, the Nigerian Institute for Public Relations (NIPR) on March 27, 2024 at its National Spokespersons Award, handed him the NIPR Distinguished Spokesman in Oil and Gas Award. It was a crowning moment of six dogged months of hardwork which drew on the experience of working in three different continents.

Represented at the NIPR event by Kemi Olumuyiwa, Head, Relationship and Stakeholder Management, Soneye, who was away in the United States on assignment, was grateful for the recognition bestowed on him. In a brief message read on his behalf, he said:

“I am deeply honoured to receive the NIPR Spokesperson of the Year Award in Oil and Gas. This recognition means a great deal to me, and I am truly humbled by the acknowledgment of efforts in representing NNPC Limited.

I will like to dedicate this award to the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari, whose unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my role as spokesperson. Additionally, I extend my heart felt appreciation to the entire Corporate Communications team for their collaborative efforts and dedication to excellence. This award is for the whole team.”

He added that the award would spur him to continue striving for excellence in representing NNPC Limited, the oil and gas sector, and upholding the highest standards of communication. Nduka, a Public Affairs analyst, wrote in from Port Harcourt

Soneye

Chuks Nwana: Our Value System Needs Fundamental Overhaul to Have Better Society

Chuks Nwana is the principal, Chuks Nwana and Co, and the Admiralty Law Centre, a law firm specialising in shipping, private maritime disputes and nautical issues. In a chat with Adedayo Adejobi , he bares his mind on what sparked his interest in law at 16, how the seductiveness of water and sea power sparked his interest in admiralty and maritime law, the impact of the Russia -Ukraine war on Nigeria’s shipping market, the liberty of being a lawyer and his hobbies.

Can you share a significant event or experience from your childhood that influenced your career path?

Truthfully, I had no childhood interest in law until I was about 16 years old. I was fascinated by the politics of the time with regular visits to Tafawa Balewa Square to observe proceedings at the National Assembly. Politics had very big attraction after about 13 years of military rule and the quality of the debates in the proceedings eventually triggered my interest in law, even though I made a detour and read Political Science as a first degree and read Law at the University of Ibadan as a graduate student.

What sparked your interest in admiralty and maritime law?

Nobody disagrees with the fact that sea power and activities around water is seductive. Admiralty law is a vibrant and robust field of Law even though its offshoot is actually from contract, but it is a kind of contract that is based on customs and practices over the years. Admiralty and shipping proceedings are customarily treated with dispatch and it is universal. It is so exciting when you realise that shipping is a 24-hour business, because while others are sleeping you are awake, and while they are awake you may be sleeping. It is an area that demands very prompt attention.

Have you noticed any trends in the field or significant court decisions that have most impacted your practice in Admiralty law or in federal court litigation in general?

We have dealt with a lot of memorable cases, but a particular collision at sea involving a huge vessel registered in Italy resonates with me. We dealt with the matter very aggressively and eventually settled in London. Admiralty practice in relation to collision is very unique and you must have an eye for details. Priority of claims under the Merchant Shipping Act was also a matter that presented unique challenges, something akin to winner takes it all.

Can you describe one or two of the most memorable cases that you have been involved with during your career and tell us why?

The shipping industry has receded from the strides it made under the Obasanjo administration when activities ramped especially with the passage of the Cabotage Act with protections for local Shipreneurs who were encouraged to own vessels. It saddens me that we have failed to utilise the moment and our unique location to maximise the benefits from shipping and coastal activities. Government efforts at shipping through the Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL) was an unsustainable experiment, but the enabling environment has not been created for big shippreneurs to emerge. Shipping is an international business and in the absence of local capacity, you cannot compete. I hold out hope that this current administration may be able to activate local capacity and provide means that will witness a resurgence by the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

How would you describe the current state of the shipping industry in Nigeria?

In Malaysia, shipping acquisition enjoys about four per cent interest rate while in Nigeria it is closer to about 30 per cent and for this reason businesses find themselves unable to acquire vessel for maritime business. The cabotage fund is yet to be disbursed while the sub-sector wallows in a debilitating financial situation and foreign vessel owners rule our coastline.

How do you think the Russia -Ukraine war impact Nigeria’s shipping market? How can the fallout be mitigated?

Russia-Ukraine war has had a profound negative effect

on the maritime industry and created long-term systemic disruptions and the war has to end, for us to understand the damage both regionally and internationally. It is really a war on land, but it has impacted shipping activities in very profound ways because the movement of goods has been impaired and the United Nations warned about impending ravages of hunger if the war escalated as food security was threatened.

What is the outlook for Nigeria’s maritime industry?

I want to see tighter and deeper regulation of the maritime and shipping industry as foreigners are engaged in sensitive sectors of the economy to the detriment of national security. Foreigners should not be involved in freight forwarding, logistics and clearing, and some aspects of shipping. These areas are too sensitive for foreign participation. We want Foreign Direct Investments, but the Indigenisation Decree excluded foreigners from certain aspects of the economy on grounds of national security. The Chinese and Indians have become fully involved in the value chain from importation to clearing, logistics, and warehousing. This poses a lot issues in national security and the sad reality is that some Nigerians front for them.

What do you enjoy most about being a lawyer?

I truly enjoy the liberty of being a lawyer, especially in private practice. I will not trade that liberty for anything, not even the bench. Being a lawyer creates a unique awareness in me because we continue to engage intellectually in different spheres. Information awareness is crucial to what we do and I am not essentially bound by a code of conduct other than that prescribed by the NBA.

How has your upbringing shaped your values and principles?

I like winning and when I don’t win I could fall into depression. That really is the aspect of law I do not like because we engage emotionally and a lawyer must believe in the quality of his case before immersing himself body and spirit. It is also important that you let clients know that there are certain variables in the litigation chain that is not under your control. It is important to always remind clients that you are not the judge and quite often litigation hardly results in a draw.

When you are not racking your brain to crack a case, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of your professional life?

I enjoy reading biographies and autobiographies for purposes of having an insight into the minds of the personality of the persons involved and the trajectories of their lives. There was this interesting account by President Clinton where he said that he prepared for his presidential run by engaging all persons who had run and lost elections because he believed he could learn much more from losers than from winners.

Are there any personal milestones or achievements that hold a special place in your heart?

Our value system has gone rogue. You cannot vouch for what children are taught in schools and if we are not careful, we may lose them for the foreseeable future. It is strange that we are unable to draw a parallel between what is being taught in school and the society we live in. Family is at the centre of everything and our value system needs a fundamental overhaul for us to have a better society. Our idea of heroes and heroines have been so altered beyond recognition.

Is there a cause or social issue that you are deeply passionate about?

Success and fulfillment evolve as we grow in life. At a certain point, it may be professional, financial or family success etc, but at some point when we grow older it may become spiritual.

How do you define success and fulfillment in your personal life?

A static mind will never grow. I attend conferences, seminars and read up new developments in my area of interest. When you read and engage with people, you will never go stale.

How do you continuously evolve and reinvent yourself in a country where the legal procedures are constantly changing?

Times are forever changing, pursue your ambitions and take on vocations that give you pleasure while getting paid for it. For you to excel, you must stand out because society has become very, very competitive.

What advice would you give to aspiring individuals looking to pursue a career similar to yours?

Two of my children are interested in law as a passion and not necessarily because they see their father engaged in it. My hope is that they will chart their own course and make their mark in uncharted territory maybe or maybe not related to law .

Can you share a mentor or someone who has had a significant impact on your career?

I read a lot of biographies, and I am not short of mentorship. I have mentors I admire at a distance, and draw inspiration from what they have done or currently doing. Mentorship is not limited by time and space.

What strategies do you use to recharge and find inspiration outside of your work?

I travel when I have to and socialise with old friends in a space spiced with jokes and laughter .

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?

Back in time? I will love to do things at a much younger age and get married to my present spouse at a much younger age. Every adult I know misses and relishes their youth and I do.

Nwana

BUA Cement Resilient Amid Daunting Economic Challenges

BUA Cement reported subdued profit in 2023 amidst headwinds occasioned by monetary and fiscal policies, writes Dike Onwuamaeze

BUA Cement’s full year 2023 financial statement that was presented to analysts and investors last week by its Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Yusuf Haliru Binji, bore the marks of the impacts of Nigeria’s constraining operating environment.

This was also acknowledged by Binji who set the tone for the presentation by remarking that, “the operating environment in 2023 was largely challenging but still affords some joyous moments.

“As you are aware, we faced quite a few headwinds ranging from currency redesign policy to its impact on currency in circulation and also the devaluation of the Naira,” he said.

Other factors that constrained the business environment during the year under review where steep and escalating inflation pressure and closure of Nigeria’s border with Niger Republic as a result of the coup that ousted Niger’s democratically elected president by some military juntas. The border closure contributed in hindering export of Nigerian manufactured products to some West African countries by road.

The overall impact of the difficult operating environment, according to BUA Cement, was that “business performance was sustained by volume and price increase, though muted by increased operational costs, mostly due to Naira devaluation and inflation.”

However, the company’s net revenue grew during the year under review by 27.4 per cent to N460 billion from N361 billion, as at FY 2022. This was sustained wholly by price increase. Its EBITDA also increased by 9.6 per cent to N169.3 billion due to high inflationary environment from N154.5 billion as at FY 2022. But the EBITDA margin went down by 6 percentage point to 36.8 per cent from 42.8 per cent, as at FY 2022.

Profitability

Bingi said: “In view of this together with foreign exchange losses, profit after tax declined by 31.2 per cent to N69.5 billion from N101 billion in 2022.”

Similarly, the company’s earnings per share (EPS) were down by 31.2 per cent in 2023 to N2.05 from N2.98 as at FY 2022.

Yet, BUA Cement sustained its expansion plans as demonstrated with cold commission of 3mmtpa Obu line three and Sokoto line five while sustaining during the year its drive toward the environment, the safety of its staff and community.

He said: “We are committed to minimising the impact of our activities on people and the environment, engagement with stakeholders and implementing community development initiatives through tangible investments into communities.

“Furthermore, we have taken steps to align our reporting to S1 and S2 IFRS sustainability disclosure standards.”

Binji also observed that the company experienced contraction in its margin amid rising costs and controlled pass-through costs. The impact of the rising cost in the environment and BUA Cement’s response thereon enabled its revenue per ton to increase by 18.7 to N68,293/ton from N57,511/ton as at FY 2022 due to price increase.

He added: “It is important to highlight here that though we instituted an ex-factory price cut from October 1, 2023, which has a retrospective effect because we extended the gesture to customers with undelivered products as at that time.

“Following our decision to price less aggressively considering rising cost, EBITDA increased by 9.6 per cent to N169.3 billion (2022: N154.5 billion),

resulting from growth in reported net revenues, which increased by 27.4 per cent to N460 billion from N361 billion, but partly offset by increases in cost of sales, along with selling and distribution expenses.

“Therefore, EBITDA margin for the reporting period contracted by 6.0 percentage point to 36.8 per cent (2022: 42.8 per cent) due to the above highlighted cost lines.

“We believe that we can leverage the increased volumes from the newly commissioned plants, drive further efficiencies across our operations and improve the contribution margin,” he explained to investors and analysts.

As expected, revenue increased by 27.4 per cent or N99 billion to N460 billion from N361 billion (2022), due to price increases and volume growth.

However, the cost of sales rose by 39.5 per cent or N78.1 billion to N276 billion from N197.9 billion (2022), primarily from increases in energy costs, repair, operations and maintenance expenses as well as staff costs and depreciation charges.

In addition, selling, distribution and administrative cost (net) was up by 72.2 per cent or N6.2 billion to N14.7 billion from N8.5 billion.

The rising costs were attributed to the following major factors. They were foreign exchange losses, distribution costs resulting from higher fueling costs and increased fleet size (trucks), depreciation of PPE etc.

“The net selling distribution and administrative expenses increased by N6.2 billion to N14.7 billion from N8.5 billion in 2022 due to forex losses, distribution costs resulting to higher running cost

etc.

“Sales per ton increased by 30 per cent to N40,983 from N31,535 in 2022. Energy cost per tonne increased by 26 per cent to N18, 301 from N14,500 in response to price increase and devaluation of the Naira.

“Selling, distribution and administrative expense increased by 28 per cent to N6,141 from N4,799 in 2022 due to increase in fuel charges and cost from enlarged buses.”

Nevertheless, BUA Cement is as poised as ever to reinforcing its purpose-strategic priorities through synergy, new markets, sustaining innovation, expansion and sustainability.

As part of its strategic priorities, the cement company would drive continued revenue and cost synergies across revenue and margin lines, harmonise sales and marketing strategy across the two plants and reorganisation with the creation of the strategic supply department to purchase all critical inputs.

It also planned to increase its customer portfolio and capture new market areas, including export markets and expansion of its fleet of trucks.

To realise its expansion, the company is constructing lines 3 and 5 at Obu and Sokoto plants, respectively while deploying innovative solutions that would enhance customer experience and further drive internal efficiencies through sales automation and payment integration that have been completed as well fuel management system.

The company is also transiting from Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in Sokoto, commence work on the

70MW gas power plant at Obu, which is currently at an advanced stage and commence work on the 70MW gas power plant at Sokoto.

Yet, BUA Cement is keeping tabs on its social responsibilities. “Our social impact was enhanced with the launch of 49 initiatives across local communities, focusing on education, 35 per cent; health, 33 per cent; WASH, 16 per cent; infrastructure, 12 per cent and empowerment, 4.0 per cent.

“Furthermore, we created over 58 jobs, with over 21 per cent of the jobs contracted to local contractors who provided specialised services for our projects,” it said.

Its Greenhouse Gas Emissions Energy Management was 650kg CO2/ton cement produced in 2023 against 644kg CO2/ton cement produced in 2022.

“We improved our production by 9.0 per centand deployed more onsite vehicles, which increased our fuel usage. However, we achieved reduced energy consumption by 1.0 per cent resulting in a net emission increase of 1.0 per cent.

‘We improved our water recycling by 3.0 per cent with impact reduction on freshwater aquifer by 45 per cent,” Bingi added.

The managing director used the event to clarify certain assumption entertained by the general public. One, is the clarification that no specific price was pegged for the sale of cement in the country by the government. Rather there was an understanding to keep the price within a range.

He said: “It was not that the government pegged the price of cement. I do not think that exists. The price range that was advisory between the government and the manufacturers are being met. I can confidently confirm that if you go to the markets you will find cement selling within this price range.”

He also clarified that BUA Cement “only carry out export when the Nigerian market is fully satisfied with cement. So, we only export our excess capacity.”

He added: “Price is determined by certain factors among, which include exchange rate as there are inputs that go into the cement making that are priced in dollars.

“The major source of cost in cement production is energy, which may come in the form of gas. Today, energy constitutes between 50 to 60 per cent depending on the plant.”

Chairman of BUA, Abdul Samad Rabiu

Ogho Okiti: Fiscal Side of Economy Punching Below Its Weight

Dr. Ogho Okiti is the Chief Executive Officer, ThinkBusiness Africa. He is a former Managing Director of BusinessDay. He is an economist, strategic and policy thinker, who had previously served in the presidency as a special assistant to the Chief Economic Adviser to the President. In this Interview he speaks on the latest decision by the Central Bank of Nigeria to further tighten monetary policy. Excerpts:

What are your thoughts about thelatestinterest ratehikebythe MonetaryPolicy Committeee (MPC)?

It was not surprising. If you read the personal notes of the MPC members explaining their decisions in February, you can tell that a lot of them see hike in the monetary policy rate (MPR) as key to tightening monetary policy necessary to see that raising the MPR would allow the CBN align it with other monetary tools and elements that would attract some foreign capital. Thirdly, you could actually tell that they were hawkish. I mean, most of them actually voted for raising interest rates by more than 400 three contexts, I was not surprised that they raised interest rate by another 200 basis points, though my expectation was a 100 basis points interest rate hike.

So, how long can we continue with monetarytightheningconsideringthe

In Nigeria, that is one question you get every time there is a raise in interest rate. There are two schools of thoughts phenomenon. In that sense, it is excesstion is structural in nature. By that, it is caused by the insecurity, infrastructure nothing to do with liquidity. However, my experience and research on Nigeria’s two.

To directly answer your question, given May, perhaps in the region of about 33 But that may not happen in the next MPC because it may not have peaked yet, so I expect them to hold rates from July 2024, all depending on the dynamics months, the variance would not be as high as we have seen in the last six time frame of the next two MPC cycles before they hold rates, what is more important is that I expect them to hold expect to hold for another two to three down for another two to three months, they would begin to ease monetary policy. But note that the most important reason for the interest rate hike this time is so capital. Of course treasury bills and bond rates are up.

That would enable them stabilise the naira. Once they can stabilise the expectations begin to come down. In summary, I see tightening for another six to seven months and then we begin to see an ease, given that by then the Naira volatility would have eased and we would have started attracting some capital and then we can begin to ease

monetary policy.

ButbesideattractingFPIs,thepolicymakersseemnottocareaboutattracting FDIsbecausetheyarenotcreatingthe opportunity to incentivise FDIs?

Yes, at the moment you are attracting the high treasury bills and bond rates and of course the interest rate. However, FDIs at the moment. The conditions, be it insecurity, infrastructure issue, those that there are measures in place by the government to address them. However, the most important issue in the Nigerian economy in the last six months is the naira volatility. When we begin to have some measures of stability in the value of the naira, then that allows the government to focus on all other issues that can drive long-term investments and long-term with the issue of naira volatility, we would still be having the conversation even in six that I believe we are making progress on moving to the second and third thing.

Whatdoyouthinkisthelikelyimpact of monetary policy transmission on Nigeria’s huge informal sector?

It doesn’t have direct impact on their activities. However, that is why I keepary expectations. When you deal with which is what the CBN is dealing with

at the moment, that would have implication for what happens in the huge informal economy that we have. Yes, it does not have direct impact because credit is most people in the informal sector invest from retained earnings, even they don’t collaborate, meaning that they don’t pool capital and many of them prefer to hold cash these days because of the experience they had from the naira redesign elements, the main concern for -

thoritiesbedoingatthistimeto supportwhatthemonetarypolicy authorities are doing?

I talk to CEOs and I organise a monthly breakfast meeting for executives. I am always careful to stress that Nigeria’s long-term growth and economic stability right. In fact, I was speaking at the launch of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Human Development Report in that. We often make the mistake of putting enormous pressure and focus on short-term monetary policy measures, whereas the real work

policy. I understand why and I will tell it is political. Well, I think the government by dealing with the escalation of debts

last week, our debt has gone up again by another N10 trillion. If I was the President, my goal for 2024 would have been zero growth in debt. It is achievHowever, if we don’t have that target, then we would not focus on reducing the growth of debt. The growth in debt are talking about 10 per cent growth in debt. Now, let’s assume that zero per cent growth in debt is not achiev- able, why not limit it to about 2.5 per cent? What that does is that it eases the pressure on monetary policy. The source of our problem is not monetary policy, its weight, the monetary policy side is forced to overwork.

Tell about Think Business Africa and the work you do?

Think Business Africa is a combination of all the work I have done in the last 20 services, Advisory – whether investment or economic and the third one is that we are working tremendously on Data. Data support business decisions in Nigeria and in Africa.

Okiti

NEWS XTRA

FG to Reopen Third Mainland Bridge on Thursday Next Week

Bennett Oghifo

Lagos residents will heave a sigh of relief on Thursday, next week, when the federal government reopens all lanes and exit points of the Third Mainland Bridge.

Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, while inspecting the bridge, accompanied by the Senate Committee on works, gave a seven-day deadline for the reopening, stating that close circuit television would be installed at strategic points to monitor the activities of illegal sand mining under the bridge.

Umahi said, “When the lane marking is over, we will open the bridge but formally it will be commissioned by Mr. President when he is going to flag off the coastal road. So we will combine it.

“The most important thing is the lane marking. The moment the lane marking is done we open the road unofficially. In seven days Nigerians will be able to ply this road.

“We also discovered that there is a need to put CCTV both on top of the bridge and under the bridge and we don’t want to put CCTV that is powered by diesel generator so we are going to be procuring solar generator and we are putting CCTV all through the 11.8 kilometers and we are going to put CCTV under the deck to watch the illegal mining of the sand which is a problem we have encountered as far as the integrity of the pipes that were driven by skin friction is concerned and so tomorrow when we go there we will look at it.”

He added:“The bridge before

now and over the years and administrations, was being maintained by overlaying asphalt upon asphalt on top of the concrete decks and the dead loads designed for the concrete deck is just two inches of asphalt.

“So over the years we have had asphalts overlay between 10 cm to 30 cm and so it shot dead weight on the bridge. Let me say that part of this bridge has undergone some measure of depletion. But we have removed the dead weight. So when we came on board Mr. President went through this bridge and he directed for immediate rehabilitation of the bridge. So we started with a contract of milling just two inches.

“We thought it was two inches that had failed and so we procured the bridge as follows: milling of two inches asphalt, 8 lanes of 11.8 kms and replacing it, you know, changing of 90 percent of the expansion joints, painting the parapet capes, changing all the electric poles and changing them to solar poles that was the initial scope.”

Speaking further, the Minister said: “But then the additional scope increased. At the median, we are putting a single pole at 30, 30 meters but we are making it to have two solar panels and then at the side of the bridge we are also putting another electric pole.

“So this is a totally new introduction. So what we had hitherto day one was at the middle of the median. And then we discovered that the ramps were not factored and so we have factored the ramps to have solar lights on them and

that has increased the cost of the project.

“So we started with a contract of milling just two inches.

“We thought it was two inches that had failed and so we procured the bridge as follows: milling of two inches asphalt, 8 lanes of 11.8 kms and replacing it, you know, changing of 90 percent of the expansion joints, painting the parapet capes, changing all the electric poles and changing them to solar poles that was the initial scope.

“But then the additional scope increased. At the median, we are putting a single pole at 30, 30 meters but we are making it to have two solar panels and then at the side of the bridge we are also putting another electric pole.

“So this is a totally new introduction. So what we had hitherto day one was at the middle of the median. And then we discovered that the ramps were not factored and so we have factored the ramps to have solar lights on them and that has increased the cost of the project.

“We have also discovered that we needed to mill between 10 cm and 30 cm and we looked at it within the text and we discovered that we were still at the point of risking the bridge if we allowed just to mill two inches so we milled everything and that cost another additional job.”

The federal government had enforced partial closure of the bridge and redirected traffic to ensure comprehensive rehabilitation of the bridge for more than three months.

NSCDC Nabs Three Suspects over Oil Theft in Anambra

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Three suspects have been arrested and paraded in Anambra State by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence (NSCDC), for oil theft.

They were conveying 1,625 litres of adulterated diesel also known as Automotive Gas Oil in Odekpe in Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects, Okechukwu Okeke (28) from Ojoto, Idemili South LGA; Emeka Chukwuma (34) from AkiliOzizor, Ogbaru LGA, both in Anambra State and Ifunanya Ike (29) of Mbano LGA of Imo State were arrested on Thursday, March 28, 2024 along Atani road.

Parading the suspects at

the State Command, State Commandant, Olatunde Maku said they were nabbed by Joint Operating Team of Anti- Vandalism Squad of the Command headed by ACC Chinenye Chinweze and the Nigerian Navy.

He said the suspects were conveying the products in two shuttle buses, one a white coloured bus with plate number Anambra AWK 429 XY and an ash coloured bus with registration number Anambra GDD 277 XB.

He said the suspects would be arraigned after investigations were concluded, vowing to step up the fight against crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering and petroleum products black market racketeering in Anambra State. The NSCDC boss called

on the public to assist the command in its renewed vigour to stamp out illegal oil refining activities in the state through provision of intelligence on illegal oil bunkering activities within their domains.

He said, "This arrest was made possible in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy and preliminary investigation revealed that the illegally refined products were loaded at Ogbakuma and headed to Okoti community, both in Ogbaru area.

"I want to commend the Nigerian Navy for their support in the fight against criminality in the state. This type of synergy is what is needed to wage a full-scale war against perpetrators of the heinous crime.

NGO Seeks New Cohort of Promising Teachers, Leaders

Teach For Nigeria (TFN), a non-profit organisation dedicated to addressing education inequities by building a movement of leaders from diverse academic fields to teach in underserved communities as full-time teachers, has launched applications for its eighth cohort of fellows.

The Teach For Nigeria fellowship is a two-year paid commitment that mobilises fresh graduates and professionals as Fellows to make a meaningful impact on the

lives of children.

According to a statement, the initiative would enable fellows harness their leadership skills while designing solutions to address the everyday struggles of placement schools and communities.

“Prior to their placement, each cohort participates in an intensive six-week pre-service training. The training exposes fellows to the organization's theory of problem and change, its vision, mission, and core values. Fellows are

also trained in 21st-century teaching pedagogy, leadership, and entrepreneurship while undergoing a community immersion experience.

“In their classrooms, fellows not only get a chance to teach but also deepen their understanding of the challenges facing the education sector in Nigeria, engage and work collectively with the community stakeholders to change the trajectory of children in their placement communities.

Transformative Power of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway

Temitope Ajayi

Barely a month after the Federal Executive Council approved the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal superhighway, the contractor has moved to site to build what will be a monumental civil engineering project that Nigeria has ever seen.

Since the construction of the iconic Third Mainland Bridge that stretched over 11 kilometres across the lagoon, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal road will usher in a new era of ambitious road infrastructural development projects in Nigeria.

The Third Mainland Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world, started during the administration of President Shehu Shagari in 1980. It was completed 10 years after, in 1990, by the military administration of President Ibrahim Babangida.

When completed, the 700km long coastal highway will also enter the world record books among iconic coastal routes like the Wild Atlantic Highway in Ireland and the Pacific Coastal Highway in the United States.

The first phase of the new 700km highway that will run through the nine coastal states is the 47.47km section beginning from Victoria Island. It has five lanes on each side of the dual carriage way and a train track in the middle.

The superhighway is being built by Hitech Construction Company. Part of the funding will be sourced by Hitech, the contractors.

Starting from Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island in Lagos, the Coastal road will pass through Lekki Deep Seaport, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River and Akwa-Ibom States. At a recent press briefing, Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, said the Coastal road would have two spurs that will link up with Northern Nigeria to further integrate the North and South in terms of movement of the people, goods and services.

Economic analysts have revealed that the completion of the first phase of the project alone could increase the size of Lagos State economy by 50% because of the connection to Lekki Deep Seaport and the Lekki economic corridor where Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Complex is situated alongside other multinational industries.

One of the fascinating and interesting features of the coastal road is how it will compress the distance between Lagos and Ondo State. For instance, the distance from Ibeju-Lekki in Lagos to Araromi in Ondo State is about 50 kilometres along the coast. This distance translates to about an hour journey. From Araromi to Ore, a major connecting hub in Ondo State is about another 50 kilometres, whereas the existing route from Ibeju-Lekki to Ore currently in use by motorists is 150 kilometres.

Speaking on the game-changing effect of the coastal road and how it will transform the economy of Cross River State, the

Commissioner of Information, Erasmus Ekpang, in a press statement, said the state government is overwhelmingly grateful to President Bola Tinubu for embarking on the project decades after the necessity for the coastal road had been mooted.

The highway, according to the Commissioner, “will serve as a catalyst to transform the economy of Cross River State for optimum impact. I want to applaud President Tinubu for the political will to translate this lofty dream into concrete reality.

“This coastal highway is going to be a game changer for the socio-economic status of Cross River. It is bound to add value to our rich agricultural produce while enhancing the profit base of local farmers. The benefits in the value chain is unimaginable.”

Ekpang further averred that the highway would boost the tourism economy of Cross River.

“When completed, the road will also boost tourism traffic to our unique tourism sites by attracting an unprecedented number of tourists, given the thrills and frills synonymous with road travel.”

Speaking in like manner, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Cross River, Alphonsus Eba, praised President Tinubu for fulfilling a key aspect of his campaign promises to the people of Cross River.

“President Tinubu has once again demonstrated that he is a man of his word by keeping to his promise. When Senator Ben Ayade voiced out this request during the presidential campaign in Calabar, he knew the economic importance of the road.

“Nothing is more gratifying at the moment than the cheering

news of the commencement of the highway. This is a huge boost to the current drive of Governor Bassey Otu to alter the socio-economic narrative of our state. The highway is bound to ensure our rapid transformation in all facets of economic development by driving traffic of investors and tourists,” the state party Chairman noted.

While many Nigerians are excited that the road project has finally taken off after many years, that the highway is starting now speaks to the capacity of President Tinubu to conceive bold ideas and take on huge and transformational projects. President Tinubu’s penchant for high impact projects preceded his presidency.

As Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, he superintended over the financial and infrastructural renewal of the state. Apart from the major road projects his administration in Lagos undertook and completed, he set up Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) to modernise public transportation systems in the state through intermodal public transport infrastructure. The Red and Blue Rail Metro lines that were recently commissioned formed part of the grand vision he laid down for the state. The Lekki Deep Seaport, Lekki Free Trade Zone, and Eko Atlantic City projects are landmark projects that will eternally bear the footprints of President Tinubu as governor of Lagos State for eight years. Also imminent for implementation is the 4th Mainland Bridge, conceived during the Tinubu era in Lagos.

Indeed, like his many impactful achievements in Lagos, the coastal highway will be one of the many critical transformative economic projects that will hallmark the Tinubu’s presidency.

Ajayi is Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Media & Publicity

Caption: Managing Director of Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL), Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo; and Head of Marketing at TNL, Mr. Bayo Olawoyin, with national winners of the 17th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest in the 8-11-year category, Oluwalani Tamara Oshinubi, 1st position; Sochikaima Nwizu, 2nd; and Vivian Ugooma Emeh, 3rd, receiving the award certificates along with other gift items at theTNL head office in Lekki, Lagos… recently

L-R: The winner, Innovative Award, Youth Sustainable Enterprise Challenge, Olabisi Emmanuel; Business Partner, Nerdz Factory, Matthew Ozigbo; Director, Programme, British Council Nigeria, Chikodi Onyemerela; Personal Assistant, Mayowa Kosoko representing Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Lagos State; Mentor, Youth Sustainable Enterprise Challenge, Dr. Anthony Nwosu; and the winner Most Innovative Business, Youth Sustainable Enterprise Challenge, Alero Thompson during Youth Sustainable Enterprise Challenge sponsored by the British Council and Prince Trust’s International held in Lagos recently.

AsterIML

L - R: Senior Manager, Partnerships, Showmax Nigeria, Uchenna Micheal; Head of Marketing, Showmax Nigeria, Arinola Shobande; Integrated Marketing Communications and Public Relations Manager, Infinix Mobile, Oluwayemisi Ode; and Marketing Manager, Infinix Mobile, Opeyemi Adewunmi at the official signing of the Showmax and Infinix partnership in Lagos… yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: Head Corporate Marketing, & Key Accounts, Shalina Healthcare, Folorunso Alaran; Chief Commercial Officer/Pharma Head, West Africa, Shalina Healthcare, Arun Raj; Second Runner Up, Shalina Rising Stars Contest Season 3, Dr. Maryam Abdullahi; Grand Winner of Shalina Rising Stars Award Season 3, Dr. Lere Oluwadate; First Runner Up, Shalina Rising Stars Award Season 3;, Dr. Josephine Onumaku; and MD, Shalina Healthcare, Nigeria, Mrs. Opeyemi Akinyele, at the Grand Finale of Shalina Rising Stars Award Season 3 in Lagos.. yesterday... DAN UKANA

Akapo Emmanuel: At Tenstrings, We Localised Music Training, Incorporated

Akapo Emmanuel, the founder and director of Tenstrings Music Institute, one of the music institutions in Nigeria, understands music and the basics of sounds. A multi-instrumentalist, Emmanuel is passionate and dedicated to imparting knowledge. And this has seen him actualise his dream and nurture it to fruition as the music industry evolves globally. On the occasion of the school’s 17th anniversary, he disclosed some laudable initiatives and novel projects embarked on by the institute. Ferdinand Ekechukwu brings the excerpts

An Audacious Beginning

So, this is a special occasion. I don’t celebrate. But this particular year seems to be extraordinary for us as an institute and so we decided to embark on some very serious projects. 17 years ago I was only a music teacher in a primary, secondary school; a couple of schools here and there, and I think my biggest job was with Wale Adenuga Productions (PEFTI) as a music instructor in the institute. But there was a major challenge in everywhere I taught music in Nigeria, and that was we were teaching a curriculum students were not asking for.

The focus of music education was strictly classical music. So, students will come into class we teach them Beethoven, Mozart, Handel and the rest. And these students after class you can see the frustration. And there’s a sharp disconnect with what they were learning in the class and what they truly want to be which I think is a major issue with the Nigerian university system. So, I went back every time to my boss (that’s Wale Adenuga) to let him know that the students were really complaining that the classical music we were doing was not what they want to do. And he said ‘no, no, Akapo, globally student learn classical music when you are in a music school and when you finish you go and do what you want to do.’ So, it was like out of my rebellious spirit that I kept asking that what will happen if a music school set up and decide to let the curriculum be around the desire, the dreams of the students. You come in and we are teaching you the basic principles of music then your repertoire, your songs that you perform be the kind of songs you want.

Why can’t your project, your exercises, and your performances and productions be something that you will eventually go to do? There wasn’t anybody doing it; the only successful music school in Nigeria 17yrs ago was Muson Centre and I think they are still quite successful. And so they were like the role model for other music school.

Peter King in Badagry started before and they also did a lot of classical music and some jazz. He was a jazz enthusiast. So, but the young Afrobeats, hip hop 17yrs ago was the time we were graduating from the 2face Idibias and the remedies into this new phase that we are into. You know a lot of music people wanted to discover themselves and create something new.

That was when Nigeria was pregnant for this new afrobeats generation that we are now. And so there was no school attending to that and to be very sincere, my idea, and the real motivation for starting the school was like ‘let’s start and see what will happen.’ So, it wasn’t like a business, I didn’t perceive it as any business or source of income.

It was like ‘what if we have a music school where we do this, that’s afrobeats, will the heavens fall? Will I fail? Failure didn’t mean so much to me because I didn’t resign my job at PEFTI. My N30,000 salary job at PEFTI was still ongoing. I was music director at Soul Winners Cathedral, Festac, I was earning N17, 500 and I had about three private lessons – N10,000 here, N7,500 there. So, I was like “I could actually start, the worst that would happen is that we would fail.”

But the truth is that I didn’t have a dime to my name. But I was quite ready to start. So, I moved down to a studio in Festac to speak with the owner. It was the largest recording studio in Festac and one of the largest in Lagos at the time. He invested his money. I told him I want to start a music school there. That whatever we make we split the money. He took the risk. We signed an agreement. At that time 17yrs ago I was playing like six musical instruments –

trumpet, piano, guitar, clarinet, euphonium, and other instrument. But I had no instrument to start! A week later the man brought 750,000 cash. We went to Alaba International with the list I gave him of everything we needed. And he bought brand new and equipped the room and that was how we started February 2007. Unfortunately, in the entire year we enrolled just two children, and one adult. One day the studio owner called me during work and shot the studio down for pure water business. I went back home shamefully in 2008, not because I failed, I was happy that I tried, but because the two kids their father paid me for more than a year. He believed so much in me and the dream and really supported. I didn’t know how to tell him the music school was over. So, I was avoiding his call for a while until one day I picked up and I told him the story. He said I should have told to him. That he has a property in Festac and for the sake of his children, offered to give two rooms in the property to start there. I went and inspected the place. And like the first man, he said I can start when I’m ready. Again, there’s actually no instrument, no equipment. He gave me a cheque of =N=500,000 that day. I went to Alaba bought those instrument and we started. Mr. Andy Aihigbe who is the father of the first two kids but now a director at Tenstrings.

Tenstrings’ Growth, Assets, and Expansion

That year we did about a 100 students, the next year we did like 500. By 2010 we opened Surulere, 2012 we opened Ikeja. And by 2013 we opened the Ajah campus. And then we kept spreading – Ikorodu, Port Harcourt, Abuja, and Agege finally. And as we speak, we are not just Nigeria’s largest music school; we are Nigeria’s largest music company by asset; by what we have tied down in all our location.

The London campus is kicking off by middle of this year. We have calls from Kenya, and a

couple of other places to use our franchise but it’s something I’m not rushing into. Overall we have trained over 25,000 students from 20 countries. You see the lesson I took out is that when you dare to do something a bit differently there’s always a future.

So today, I can beat my chest to say Tenstrings enroll more international students than any Nigerian university in music. Nigerian immigration calls us that ‘people keep asking for visa letter from Kenya, South Africa, Namibia, and Uganda to come to Tenstrings what are you people doing?’

I said it’s just a music school. As we speak we are doing Visa for a student from Panama, we are doing for a student from Jamaica, we doing for a student from Germany. And I think our biggest problem is Nigeria Immigration because people don’t know Nigeria visa is one of the hardest visas to get in the world. Students are always lamenting.

At the moment we have counted 20 countries we have successfully enrolled from and as we speak, we have students from 12 countries at the moment in the country; majorly from other African countries we have a lot of West Africans and East Africans. But currently, we have a student from the US, we a have student from Canada, and we have an Indian student. They are all at the Ajah campus studying as we speak.

Impact of Nigerian Music Industry on Tenstrings

I would not just say this is because Tenstrings is superb or we are extremely good. I think also the growth Nigerian music industry is experiencing is extending. People are like ‘if the industry is doing this fine, then why don’t you go there and find out the secret of this success? So, they are partly studying but they are also partly to see what they can take from the industry.

We have raised some remarkable musicians. DJ Spinall attended this school and graduated

successfully. Eva Alordia the rapper attended and graduated from here. We have had a number of musicians graduate from here. Even Bez Idakola, the late Sound Sultan did courses with us. Even Harrysong… One of the top five gospel artists, JudiKay was in this campus.

My biggest pride today over the years is that the average young person now believes that you can learn reggae in music school. You can go to a music school and your course work would be Fela, it would be Bob Marley, it would be Sunny Okosun. You can learn with the music of your choice. It was a burden going to a music school because Mozart was going to be forced down your throat.

So we had lots of music school student graduates who didn’t have anything to show. They go into the industry and there’s a sharp disconnect between everything they have learnt and the reality of the industry. But at Tenstrings Music Institute by the time you graduate from here and you go into the industry, it’s a smooth transition. So, I think that’s our biggest success story.

Initiatives and Novel Projects Embarked on by Tenstrings

But for us mow we are looking at the business side of it. So, for the first time this year, we are going to launch our online school. So, the issue of visas that we are having will be minimised by the time we launch our online school. And since we know that afrobeats is the biggest selling point, we would launch the first two courses – would be Afrobeats Performance Diploma and Afrobeats Production Diploma.

So, if you want to be a performer or a producer in the afrobeats category at least you can have that 12 weeks course that you can enroll for instantly. Some of the lecturers will also be people from outside of Nigeria who have some level of reputation in that field. But majorly will be working with our in-house instructors as well as notable industry brands in the field of afrobeats, especially the legendary ones. The pioneers and the newbies will all be on the course.

Also the second project we are in talks with Lagos State government to invest in the music school to be in every major local government of the state with the state sponsorship. I’m an indigene of Lagos and I’m pushing extremely hard to get young people who are talented. Also this year for the first time we are shooting our first musical for Netflix.

We have a partner who produces for Netflix and they are interested in sponsoring a musical film. We have auditioned all the talents they are now screening the script. It’s a story of a young talented Nigerian musician how he, against all odds, rose to fame and stardom. So, we are using that opportunity to just show the steps, the growth in the afrobeats industry in Nigeria what it is like with plenty of music in between and of course as we tell the story.

Additionally, we would also be having a couple of events. Our Joy of Music Africa in June, Freedom First on October 1. We are also opening our Lekki Phase 1 centre back this year. This year we would open two new centres but not in the traditional way; three actually with London. We are partnering with those who have music spaces that are underutilising it.

So, if you have a studio, a music company, a record label, we pay you a fee. We have identified a partner in Lekki Phase 1. We used to be there until Covid when we shut down that campus. We have also identified a partner in Ibadan, Yinka Ayefele who is eager to share the space with Tenstrings. And then in London, an ex-student of Tenstrings has volunteered. He’s been there for a number of years now.

Akapo Emmanuel

07052343083

Toyota By CFAO MD: How Nigerian Market Received Us

The Managing Director of Toyota By CFAO, Mr. Boye Ajayi, has stated that the company’s acceptability is facilitated by the pedigree of CFAO’s over 120 years presence in Nigeria, as well as the quality of products its markets among others. He speaks with Bennett Oghifo on other issues like customer service, relationship with Toyota Tsusho Corporation, among others in an interactive session with journalists in Lagos

Toyota By CFAO is recognized as the second official distributor of Toyota in Nigeria. Could you elaborate on the significance of this distinction and how it sets you apart from other dealerships in the region?

Our designation as an official distributor stems from our partnership with the CFAO group, a subsidiary of Toyota Tsusho Corporation. This affiliation grants us rights to distribute, sell, maintain, and repair Toyota authorized products in Nigeria. Furthermore, we have the authority to appoint agents, service centers and dealers to join our expansive distribution network. This association is significant as the CFAO group boasts the largest automotive distribution network across the continent. Notably, we play a pivotal role as a primary distributor of Toyota in 37 countries, highlighting our prominence and extensive presence in the region.

CanyouprovideanoverviewofToyotaby CFAO’sjourneysinceitsestablishment?What milestonesorachievementshaveyoureached thus far?

From April 2023 till now, Toyota by CFAO has undergone a remarkable journey marked by notable achievements. We have successfully built a proficient team comprising skilled aftersales technicians, professional sales executives, and dedicated customer care personnel, all geared towards ensuring a seamless and redefined Toyota experience in Nigeria. Our milestones include significant market penetration for a newcomer, active customer engagement, and enhanced operational efficiency. Throughout this journey, our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service and cultivating enduring customer relationships has been a driving force behind our success.

In terms of market acceptance, can you share insights into how Toyota by CFAO has been received by the Nigerian market? What steps have been taken to ensure a positive reception?

Toyota By CFAO Nigeria has been warmly embraced in the Nigerian market, leveraging the longstanding presence of CFAO in the country and the trusted reputation of Toyota globally. However, the company hasn’t rested solely on these laurels; it has actively pursued strategies to ensure a positive reception. Emphasizing exemplary service and customer satisfaction, Toyota by CFAO Nigeria goes beyond mere sales to deliver tailored solutions that meet each customer’s unique needs. With direct access to Toyota and CFAO platforms

Toyota By CFAO Nigeria can tap into a diverse inventory of vehicles and offer customized solutions to Nigerian customers. We are able to respond

Ajayi

swiftly to requests for specific models, ensuring a seamless and satisfying customer experience. These efforts underscore Toyota by CFAO Nigeria’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the Nigerian market.

Couldyoudetailtherangeofmodelsthat ToyotabyCFAOoffersinboththePassenger andCommercialvehiclesegments?Howdo these offerings cater to the diverse needs of yourcustomers?

We provide what Toyota Motor Corporation has designed specifically for the Nigerian market as a distributor. To meet the diverse needs of our clientele, we offer an extensive selection of cars that includes city, sedan, family, SUV Crossover, 4x4, pickup, bus, and light commercial models. We guarantee that there is a Toyota car for every lifestyle, and business need with our selection, which includes the newest models renowned for their safety, fuel economy, and cutting-edge technology.

With CFAO’s nationwide network, how does this extensive reach benefit Toyota by CFAO’s customers in terms of accessibility,

service,andsupport?

The expansive nationwide network of CFAO is a key asset that significantly enhances the overall customer experience for Toyota by CFAO. As we continue to build our network by leveraging existing CFAO dealerships in major hubs such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, along with the appointment of authorized service centers and dealers offering 2S & 3S (Sales, Service, and Spare Parts), several advantages emerge in terms of accessibility, service, and support for our valued customers.

What is the after-sales experience like for customersatToyotabyCFAO?Doyouprovide genuineToyotasparepartsandwhatmeasures areinplacetoensurehigh-qualityservice?

At Toyota by CFAO, our after-sales experience is characterized by high-quality service, prompt turnaround times, and an overall commitment to customer satisfaction. We proudly offer genuine Toyota spare parts and employ skilled technicians specifically trained by the manufacturer to maintain and repair Toyota vehicles, ensuring the longevity and performance of our customers’ cars.

WhenacustomervisitsaToyotabyCFAO after-salesfacility,whatshouldtheyexpectin termsofservicequality,turnaroundtime,and overallexperience?

Customers visiting a Toyota by CFAO aftersales facility can expect top-notch service quality, quick turnaround times, and an overall positive experience. Our dedicated team is committed to providing efficient and reliable service, ensuring that customers leave our facilities satisfied with the level of care and attention their vehicles receive.

Are the technicians at Toyota by CFAO specifically trained for the Toyota brand? How does this specialized training contribute to the quality of service provided?

Our technicians undergo specialized training focused on the intricacies of the Toyota brand. This expertise contributes significantly to the quality of service we provide, as our team is well-equipped to handle the unique specifications of Toyota vehicles, ensuring precision and reliability in every repair and maintenance service.

Couldyououtlinethewarrantyofferingsthat Toyota by CFAO provides to its customers? How does this demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction and product reliability?

Toyota By CFAO is dedicated to customer satisfaction and product reliability. Our vehicle offerings are backed up with a 3-year warranty, which can be extended for up to 7 years showcasing our confidence in the durability and performance of Toyota vehicles. This commitment reflects

Nigeria is on the march towards a sustainable Autogas future that will assist vehicle owners save between 40 percent and 60 percent running cost as the pump prices of petrol soar.

Recently, many local automobile engineers and technicians received intensive training and education in Lagos and Abuja on the installation of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) kits in vehicles, following the groundbreaking innovation from Fixit45 with Mijo Autogas India as technical partners.

Some weeks ago, President Bola Tinubu was in India to discuss areas of bilateral economic relations, and one of the highpoints of the talks between the Nigerian and Indian governments was in the area of energy utilisation and collaboration.

while the second phase of the training took place at the CNG Training and Fitment Centre in Abuja.

Led by the co-founder of Fixit45 Nigeria, Pankaj Bohhra and the director of Mijo Autogas India Pvt Ltd, Gaurav Goyal, the training encompassed theoretical lectures and

our dedication to ensuring that our customers experience peace of mind and value in their vehicle ownership.

What are the unique value propositions that Toyota by CFAO brings to the market, distinguishing it from other dealerships in terms of service delivery, customer support, andoverallcustomerexperience?

Toyota by CFAO stands out for its dedication to customers exceptional service, and surpassing expectations. Our emphasis on quality, reliability and innovation distinguishes us, providing customers with a memorable experience. One way we do this is through trade-in options.

Can you provide an update on the status ofToyotabyCFAO’spartnershipwithToyota TSUSHO?Howdoesthiscollaborationcontribute totheoverallstrengthandcredibilityofyour operations?

Our partnership with Toyota Tsusho Corporation remains strong and vibrant. This collaboration is integral to our operations, providing us with access to the latest technologies, product updates, and ensuring that we align with Toyota’s global standards. This partnership reinforces the credibility of Toyota by CFAO as a reliable source for genuine Toyota products and services.

agestocustomers?Howdoesthisadditional servicecontributetomakingToyotavehicles moreaccessibletoawiderrangeofcustomers?

packages to customers through the corporate lease option provided by Loxea by CFAO. This in payment structures but also aligns with the high-quality and reliable Toyota vehicles within reach for a wider audience. As a result, this service enhances affordability, promotes widespread vehicle ownership, and contributes to a more inclusive automotive experience for our valued customers.

Lookingahead,wheredoyouenvisionToyota byCFAOafteroneyear,particularlyinterms ofmarketshareandimpactontheautomotive industryinNigeria?

Looking ahead, we envision Toyota by CFAO as a key player in the Nigerian automotive industry. Our goal is to not only increase our market share but also to contribute significantly to the growth and development of the industry. We aim to continue providing exceptional value to our customers, setting new standards for service, support, and overall customer experience.

hands-on practical sessions. -

of CNG as an alternative fuel.

compared to traditional fuels, emphasising its potential to reduce operating expenses for vehicle owners.

He declared that the aim of the partnership with the Mijo Autogas India is to spearhead Nigeria’s transition to Autogas and align with the country’s energy transition initiative with the purpose of being a technical partner in the area of training, employment generation and seamless execution through its technology and installation centres.

The ultimate goal is to establish authorised installation centers with Fixit45’s vast network, save 40 percent to prices for CNG kits, reduce automatic fuel detection and create digital job opportunities that will contribute to the nation’s economic growth and sustainable future.

Fixit45 and Mijo stated that their collaboration aims to establish six training centres across Nigeria with Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt as key.

L-R: Director, Mijo Autogas Pvt Ltd, India, Gaurav Goyal; co-founder, Fixit45, Pankaj Bohhra, and trainees during the nationwide CNG Kits installation training programme for Nigerian technicians… recently

Finidi George

Finidi George Front Runner to Doubts

When Super Eagles interim manager,Finidi George led Nigeria to defeat the Black Stars of Ghana, he was praised to high heavens with some asking the Nigeria Football Federation,NFF,to confirm him on permanent basis for the Eagles top job.However,it turned out to be‘come easy,go easy’for the Enyimba ofAba sweat merchant after his team collapsed four days later against Mali and it was the sound of‘crucify him’that rented the air by the same hosanna’hailing lot

Amidst the uncertainty following Jose Peseiro’s departure as Nigeria’s coach, this month’s friendlies represented an opportunity for erstwhile assistant, Finidi George to stake a claim for the national team job.

The Enyimba coach is, according to reports, one of as many as 30 applicants for the Super Eagles role on a full-time basis.

The 52-year-old was placed in charge for games against Ghana and Mali, with the view that a good pair of results would bolster the former international’s chances.

The outcomes in Morocco, however, were mixed - with the 2-1 win over the Black Stars followed by a 2-0 defeat by Mali.

Public reaction swung from positive to negative over the space of four days, with critics saying George is not ready for the top job.

However, veteran defender Kenneth Omeruo is keen for the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner to be handed the reins.

“One difference is he wants us to play good football and I like that. I actually think he knows what he is doing, and he deserves to be given the job,” the 30-yearold told BBC Sport Africa.

George blamed the team’s loss to Eagles of Mali on the unavailability of some of his strikers in the warm-up game onTuesday night.

Speaking with NFF TV, Finidi whose win over Ghana boosted his chances of becoming the substantive Eagles Coach said lack of option in the attack forced them to play wide leading to their loss to Eagles of Mali.

“I think just few mistakes cost us the

match. It was not a bad game, good intensity we had some good chances but didn’t score.

“And in a game like this if you fail to make use of your chances and make mistakes you will be punished for it.

“This is a team that keeps the ball very well but if we had our injured strikers available, we would have changed the one on the pitch immediately. Losing two strikers forced us to play wide and as aggressive team, we did all we can. And you know football is all about victory.

“Lost one and won one and we were not outplayed in the two matches gives me joy as a coach of the Super Eagles. I would have loved a different result in this game but that’s not the case but if we look at the performance of the players, it’s commendable,” he concluded.

Former Real Sociedad midfielder, Mutiu Adepoju has however thrown his weight in support of Finidi to be named the Super Eagles substantive head coach.

As caretaker coach of the Super Eagles, Finidi led the national team to a 2-1 victory over Ghana last Friday, before suffering a surprise 2-0 loss to Mali four days later.

Finidi was praised by many after that win over the Black Stars. Still, the manner of the Super Eagles’ defeat to Mali, where Nigeria failed to muster a single shot on target in 90 minutes, has left some in doubt of his ability to coach the three-time African champions.

However, Mutiu does not want Finidi to be assessed only by the Super Eagles’ display against the Malians.

Adepoju contends that coaches do not have to win all the time, especially in friendly matches, and believes Finidi will

work hard on improving the team when fully entrusted with the reins.

Citing errors made by some fringe Super Eagles players against Mali, Mutiu is convinced that the absence of key stars played its part in the loss to Les Aigles.

“With only two games under his (Finidi’s) belt, his record of one win and one loss is not bad at all,” Mutiu said.

“He has a lot of room for improvement. I firmly believe that these Super Eagles will prosper under his leadership if he gets the job.

“It would be a serious mistake to judge Finidi solely on our defeat against Mali. When José Peseiro was the coach of the Super Eagles, did he win every game? Finidi deserves our trust so that he can cultivate the confidence necessary to build on our current base. “I expect improvements in all aspects of the game. This is a friendly match and the first two matches under Finidi’s direction. I think he has identified the areas that need correction.

“We were victorious against Ghana, but unfortunately we suffered a defeat against Mali. This means that we have achieved a victory in two games, which, in my opinion, is not a bad result for the Super Eagles in general.

“During the match against Mali, we showed greater possession of the ball in the second half, and the players exhibited more determination.

“Furthermore, the absence of Victor Osimhen and some of our regular players was noticeable.

“However, I wouldn’t downplay the contribution of the players we fielded. They put in a commendable performance,

but the first goal we conceded against Mali was a costly mistake that should have been avoided. It’s a lesson they must learn.”

For Adepoju, the time is right for a local coach to take the national team on another successful adventure.

The former Real Madrid B star argues that no one is better positioned to lead that charge than Finidi, who enjoyed a trophyladen career, winning the Champions League title, three Eredivisie titles, two Dutch Super Cups, and a European Super Cup with Ajax Amsterdam.

“If we don’t trust our team, how are they going to gain valuable experience? Offering Finidi a permanent position would not be a bad decision on the part of the Nigerian Football Federation,” Mutiu said of Finidi, who guided Enyimba to the Nigerian Professional League title in 2023.

“Finidi is not a stranger to the team, as he was part of the coaching staff at CAN and has a distinguished career as a player at the highest level. In addition to his ability as a coach, his extensive experience as a player will undoubtedly be very valuable. I firmly believe that he has a lot to offer.”

The Nigeria Football Federation is expected to appoint a new head coach for the Super Eagles before Nigeria face South Africa and the Benin Republic in June in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Among those who have applied for the vacant post include 1994 African Footballer of the Year, and former Tanzania coach, Emmanuel Amuneke who however remains the most popular choice amongst sporting Nigerian fans.

Finidi George handing down tactical instructions to Calvin Bassey

Man City Welcome Arsenal to Etihad in Premier League Title Showdown

With the business end of the season to navigate, Manchester City will tomorrow take on leaders, Arsenal, in what might shape where the Premier League title tilts to. Both sides would definitely be going for a win knowing a draw would not do any much good as another title contender, Liverpool, would be the most beneficiary should a winner fail to emerge between the Citizens and the Gunners at the Emirate Stadium

An Easter Sunday Etihad extravaganza headlines the return of Premier League football following the international break, as holders, Manchester City welcome leaders, Arsenal to their headquarters for a battle of epic proportions.

Mikel Arteta returns to his former stomping ground with his side boasting a one-point lead over the treble winners, which will increase to four if they can banish their nine-year Etihad curse.

A changing of the guard may occur before tomorrow ‘s blockbuster showdown commences at the Etihad,

as Liverpool need only glean a point from their 2pm kickoff with Brighton & Hove Albion to rise to the summit of the rankings, thereby making the closing act an encounter between the silver and bronze medallists.

For the men in sky blue, finishing on the lowest spot on the podium would be an unwanted collector’s item under Pep Guardiola - whose former student Arteta has quickly become a master of sorts - although that is nothing to do with their nearunblemished form in 2024.

As much as Guardiola may downplay it, the dream of back-to-back trebles remains a realistic one for the reigning English and European champions, who rained on Newcastle United’s parade with a 2-0 FA Cup quarter-final success before the twoweek domestic pause; Chelsea now lie in wait at Wembley next month, following a tantalising Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid.

the toughest examination of their title credentials now awaits.

Quickly exorcising the demons of a woeful winter period, in which Arteta mustered just one win from seven matches amid the festivities, Arsenal’s perfect Premier League record in 2024 now reads an extraordinary eight wins from eight matches, a feat never achieved before in the club’s rich history.

As Brentford raged over Kai Havertz still being on the field, the in-form German rejoiced in his 86thminute winner to send Arsenal to first place in the table, a position they would hold over the international break thanks to Man City and Liverpool’s failure to best one another.

THISDAY NEWSPAPERS

The two-goal beating of the Magpies stretched Man City’s exceptional unbeaten run across all tournaments to 22 matches since December’s humbling at the hands of Aston Villa - including each of their last 13 in the Premier League - and their streak without defeat on Etihad turf stands at an astonishing 38 games.

Not since Brentford’s surprise 2-1 win in November 2022 have Man City been on the losing side in front of the sky blue wall, where they have won each of their last four matches across all tournaments, but arguably

The Emirates exploded into pandemonium just three days later too, as David Raya made himself the 12-yard hero against Porto in their Champions League last-16 battle, and a shot at revenge against frequent conquerors Bayern Munich is their reward for ending a barren of seven successive last-16 eliminations.

Before thoughts of Bavarian vengeance take priority, Arsenal could match the nine-game Premier League winning run only previously managed by their title-winning crops of 1997-98, 2001-02 and 2003-04, and across their last-three top-flight away matches, Arteta’s outfit have notched a spectacular 17 goals while shipping a grand total of zero.

Furthermore, after repeated failures to get one over Guardiola, Arsenal

have won their last two games versus Man City, in the Community Shield and October’s slender Emirates success. However, not since January 2015 have the Gunners emerged victorious at the Etihad, and the time is nigh to emulate Arsene Wenger’s charges if Arsenal’s name is to be etched on the Premier League trophy again.

Arsenal defender. William Saliba nullifies Erling Haaland’s threat when the Gunners hosted Manchester City in the reverse fixture at the Emirate Stadium

GLOBAL SOCCER

Forest Boss, Espirito Santo Doubts Awoniyi’s Return Amid Relegation Battle Rangers Attribute Discipline, Determination, Hard Work to NPFL Top Spot

Rangers International F.C’s new kid on the block and defensive midfielder, Ejike Ugochukwu, who has stood out in the team’s smooth run in the 2023/2024 NPFL season is full of praise for the coaches, management, and teammates for the journey thus far and stated that discipline, determination and hard work which currently permeate the team will help them end the season in an appreciable position.

The former F.C One Rocket captain in an exclusive chat stated that the squad was in perfect shape to end the season amongst the top finishers due largely to the motivation that they enjoy from management and the tactical instructions from the coaching crew ably led by Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu.

The midfield maestro who had played for amature side, F.C Betel in Lagos from where he was spotted by NNL side, F.C One-Rocket before transferring his services to the ‘Flying Antelopes’ at the start of the ongoing 2023/2024 NPFL season has shone like a million Stars in the defensive midfield role in all the matches he has featured.

Ugochukwu, who is full of appreciation to his teammates

and coaches for the cordial welcome given to him when he joined the club, said, “I thank God for making my coming to Rangers a success and I also thank my teammates for making it possible for me to adapt to the playing philosophy of the club. It has been a success all the way.”

The player who has appeared in all matches played this season by the club, starting and finishing in all 27 matches but three, further said, “Playing top-flight football with a club like Rangers is the best thing to have happened to my career. I owe a lot to the management, coaches, and players I met in the team for allowing me to exhibit my God-given talent even though, it has not been an easy task.”

The Oji-River L.G.A of Enugu State-born talented footballer, when probed on the chances of his team emerging champions of the league this season, said, “I believe that we have all it takes to be crowned champions but we are taking the matches one at a time as there are no two matches that are the same. We respect every team in the premier-

ship but we don’t fear any. I believe that with the discipline, determination, and hard work from everybody in our team, I am very optimistic that we will end the season well.”

He described the encounter against Kwara United in Enugu as one of the hardest he had featured in as he was not at his very best and rues the missed opportunities in that fixture that ended goalless.

Ugochukwu who is full of running and marking abilities to disposess opponents of the ball and initiate attacks for his side picks Super Eagles and Leicester City of England midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi as his role model, described the match schedules in the league as very stressful but the proper arrangement from Rangers management and the technical acumen from the technical crew has helped him and his teammates to overcome what could have been a heavy load on the players in the field of play.

The lanky box-to-box midfielder aspires to play the game to its highest level by representing his country, Nigeria at various levels and exporting his talent to Europe where the game is appreciated more.

St. Saviour’s Ikoyi Wins COBIS Primary School Games for 6th Consecutive Time

St. Saviour’s School Ikoyi, was on Wednesday, March 27, in Mombasa, Kenya, crowned champions of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) Primary Games 2024, for the 6th consecutive time.

The COBIS Games was hosted by the prestigious Braeburn Schools Group – the biggest schools group in Africa.

According to a statement issued by the school’s officials, “It’s been a journey from our first outing at COBIS 2014 in Abu Dhabi to 2015 in Athens, to 2016 in Astana to 2017 in Milton Keynes to 2019 in Bangkok (then COBIS shut down due to COVID) and to our 6th outing in 2024, in Mombasa, Kenya.”

It was the school’s 6th straight COBIS competition and the 6th straight win as overall champions. It is the second time St. Savoiur’s Schools have won all three eventsoutright-athletics, swimming and football.

In being champions of each event, St. Saviour’s Schools was

crowned as the overall winners of the COBIS 2024 Primary Games, Mombasa, Kenya.

It is an outstanding achievement for the school, a testament to the children’s wonderful abilities, commitment, dedication and focus.

The school is therefore grateful to the selfless dedication of the Head of PE - Mr Momodu and the entire P.E. Dept., just as it appreciates the unwavering support the children received from their parents whilst in Mombasa, which really made

a difference.

“The management of St. Saviour’s Schools also sincerely appreciates Mandilas and First Bank for believing in the team and giving their generous support.

“It is another breathtaking achievement for everyone connected to St. Saviour’s School, Ikoyi and one they can be very proud of and enjoy.

“The school is proud to have achieved this success for Lagos and Nigeria,” the statement said.

Nottingham Forest Manager, Nuno Espírito Santo has provided an update on Taiwo Awoniyi’s injury status as they navigate through a challenging relegation battle in the English Premier League.

Awoniyi has faced setbacks this season due to a groin surgery aimed at addressing a persistent issue. Despite making a comeback in January, he has struggled to regain full fitness, leading to intermittent appearances.

Unfortunately, another injury has sidelined Awoniyi, forcing him to miss recent Super Eagles

friendlies against Ghana and Mali, as well as the upcoming matches for Forest.

Speaking ahead of the Crystal Palace clash, Nuno expressed concern over Awoniyi’s injury, describing it as serious and a significant setback for the team.

“He is doing treatment. It is a serious injury, unfortunately,” Nuno said. “It is a big blow for us because he had just come back [from an injury spell]. The importance of Taiwo is huge. He gives us another option.”

Looking ahead, with Nigeria set to participate in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

against South Africa and Benin Republic in June, Nuno could not specify a return date for Awoniyi but remains hopeful of his availability before the season ends.

“I don’t know exactly how long he will be out for, but I am positive we are going to see him again this season. He will definitely miss these two games.” Nuno added.

Awoniyi’s impact has been notable whenever he returns from injury, and there’s optimism that his return to form could aid Forest in their battle against relegation.

War, Spirit, Baddo, Others in Action as GOtv Boxing Night Returns May 1

Flykite Productions, organisers of GOtv Boxing Night have announced that the 31st edition of the premier boxing event will hold on May 1. In a statement released yesterday, the company said the event, scheduled for the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos will feature seven national bouts.

The biggest fight on the night will be the 10-round West African Boxing Union (WABU) light welterweight title clash between the crack-

ing pair of Segun “War”

Adeyemi and Adeyemi “Spirit” Adekanla, which is deemed as the biggest possible match-up in the category. Also scheduled for the night is a national welterweight challenge between Raheem “Baddo” Animashaun and Samuel “Apata Roro” Moses.

Similarly in action at the show will be the national flyweight champion, Sifon ‘Best’ Iwatt, who will take on Sikiru Ogunyaju in a national challenge bout.

The super featherweight category will see a challenge fight between Sikiru “Omo Iya Eleja” Shogbesan and Arabambi “Power” Ojo, with Emmanuel Abimbola facing off with Azeez Ayobami in the national lightweight category.

In other clashes, Afikun Gbenga will square up against Adewale Oladeji in a super welterweight challenge fight; while Hammed ‘Ese’ Ganiyu will confront Yusuf Ogunbumi in the light welterweight category.

2nd FCV Gladiator Football Camp kicks off in Lagos

Hundreds of participants are expected at the 2nd FCV Gladiator Football Camp taking place at Grange School Lagos from April 1 to 5 as top UK coaches have arrived for the exercise.

The camp organised by Dynaspro Promotion Limited in collaboration with UK-based FCV International Academy is aimed at unearthing talents with four outstanding students expected to be awarded scholarships by the organisers.

Also, the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) is expected to be part of the one-week camp while the participants will be tutor on the The Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP)

Borussia Dortmund will travel to the Allianz Arena to face Bayern Munich in a crucial Bundesliga clash.

Bayern won the reverse fixture 4-0, with Harry Kane scoring a hat-trick.

This epic match between these two German giants, Bayern Munich vs Borussia Dortmund, will air live on World Football channel on

which is based on the Olympic philosophy that learning takes place through the balanced development of body and mind.

Ex-Super Eagles star Mutiu Adepoju and ace sportscaster Deji Omotoyinbo will act as mentors while three top UK coaches led by former Leicester City defender Grant Brown will take charge of proceedings at the camp.

Head of Marketing at FCV International Academy, Sam Nicholls said the camp would be unique as it will provide participants the opportunity to receive elite level coaching from experienced coaches and former professional footballers in England.

StarTimes at 6:30pm, this evening.

While Bayern’s dominance in the league seems to be fading with Bayer Leverkusen leading by 10 points, they’ll be looking to secure a win against Dortmund.

The good news for Bayern fans is that Harry Kane is set to return from injury and will feature in the match.

He added: “Nigerian students participating at the camp will get the opportunity to develop their football skills and techniques under the guidance of our UEFA qualified coaches as well as gain tactical knowledge and awareness that will allow them to take their game to the next level.

He however, acknowledged Nigerian football culture, when he said: “We know that Nigeria has a fantastic football culture, with many of its top talents playing in Europe’s top leagues, and particularly the Premier League, as well the Super Eagles regularly playing in the World Cup and competing for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Bayern need to complete the double over their rivals to cling onto any hope of catching Leverkusen, while Dortmund are in danger of dropping out of the top four.

For football fans in Lagos, Bundesliga will be hosting a Klassiker Watch Party at the Common Ground at the LSDPC Estate in Meiran, Ojokoro Local Council Development Area, in Lagos.

Awoniyi

Ejike Ugochukwu in action against Lobi Stars

Six-time winner of COBIS Primary School Games, St. Saviour’s, Ikoyi, posing with thier medals and trophy

GSM: Take, Not ‘Pick’, Calls

AN aside concerning telephony: You take/receive, not ‘pick’, calls. Blueprint headline goof of March 6 formally welcomes us this week: “FG blames principals over (for) poor performance at unity schools”

Next on focus is also the above edition which committed the following offences: “Labour unions dare FG, shun return to work order” News: returnto-work order

“As the strike action lingered beyond this point….” Thinking with you: delete ‘action’!

“…which castigated the institutions that opened their doors for lecturers for one serious business or the other (or another) during the strike.”

“Nordic Nigeria connect: CBN threatens to sanction illegal forex transaction” The apex bank cannot sanction forex transaction, but those behind the transaction—the operators.

“Lagos killer driver (killer-driver) surrenders to police, to be charged for (with) manslaughter”

“We wish you God’s abiding grace and blessings as you contribute your quota in (to) the service of our dear State.”

“I wish to congratulate you, on behalf of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, for (on or upon)….”

Wrong: revenue generating agencies

Right: revenue-generating agencies

“I am exceedingly glad to felicitate with my dear brother….” A rewrite: I felicitate my dear brother…. (If you are sad, you will not felicitate your brother or, indeed, any other person)!

Daily Independent Online Back Page of March 1 fumbled on NLC: “…the union sticks to its gun (guns)….”

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER, last week, goofed copiously: “For a secured (secure) nation…”

“Harnessing potentials of Calabar carnival” Travel & Leisure: ‘potential’ is non-count, unlike ‘potentiality’.

“A honour well deserve” (A full-page congratulatory advertorial for…by friends and brothers) A rewrite: An honour well deserved

Still on THISDAY under review: “Government College, Ughelli Old Boy’s (Boys’) Association, Lagos Branch…Annual End of Year Luncheon Party” (Full-page advertorial) Keep the ship sailing: End-of-Year Luncheon

The last three mistakes in The Saturday Newspaper under examination are from a full-page congratulatory advertorial: “Another feather to (in) Matawallen Bauchi’s cap”

“…the entire people of Bauchi State on occasion (on the occasion) of his installation as the….”

“This honour is indeed an attestation of (to) your outstanding achievements….” Yet, the FCT Minister has SSA (Media), Chief Press Secretary and others in the superfluous communications team!

Overheard: “I saw him frowning his face….” What else would he have frowned?

Daily Trust of February 28 terrorized the English language on a few occasions: “Kidnappers to be charged for (with) murder, terrorism”

“Aliyu’s last minute (last-minute) retreat, mark of insincerity—Vatsa”

Out of the four headlines on the Politics Page of Daily Trust of the edition under review, three contained ‘says’! That was sheer laziness on the part of the page planner as there were other verbs that could have been used to avoid monotony.

Next is the views page with two improprieties: “The acquiescence of President Bola Tinubu’s administration for (in) a constitutional conference remains a bold decision.”

“The late Professor Ben Nwabueze has (had) recently canvassed in a well publicised (wellpublicized) article that….”

“Cases of sexual harassment, under-aged (underage) girls offering their bodies to teachers for marks and other favours….” Why not simply ‘prostituting for marks…’?

“Police threaten to arrest monarchs over Plateau

attacks” News: either arrest for attacks or arrest in connection with attacks (not ‘arrest…over’)

The following three goofs are from Leadership of March 8: “…the recanting of voluntarily given evidences by witnesses….” The prince of Nigeria paradigm: voluntarily-given evidence—which is non-count.

“We must start addressing the pervading (pervasive) injustice that has….”

“…despite all manners (manner) of intimidation….” (DStv NEWS, March 7)

Vanguard Politics Page of March 20 localized the English language thrice: “CNPP publicity secretary… in a statement yesterday said it is (was) alarmed over (by/at) Obi’s penchant for ethnic card….”

“Okoye, who was one of the governorship aspirants under (on) the platform of the PDP….”

THE NATION ON SUNDAY of March 24 comes next with some school-boy howlers: “…INEC said the commission is (was) working assiduously to deliver a credible general elections in 2027.” Delete ‘a’!

“The impression will be allowed to fester that Amaechi is only vocal because of his alleged personal grudges with (against) the president and his party.”

“Export Council sensitizes stakeholders on (to) ECOWAS scheme”

“I do a lot of jotting (jottings).”

“…CBAAC organised series (a series) of dancedramas and art exhibitions for children.”

“Yorubas (Yoruba) to endow education legacy”

“Police arrest six over (for) inter-communal clash in Bayelsa”

“Sports Minister drums (drums up) support for Super Eagles”

Finally from Nigerian Tribune of March 22: “With more than 400 reportedly killed in Cairo last week Wednesday.” All the facts, all the sides: last Wednesday or Wednesday, last week

“Already, we are suffering from his double standards (standard) with regard to the war…!

“Now that the administration appears to be at its wits (wits’) end, perhaps President Tinubu

Antidotes For CBN’s Missteps

We conclude today the vociferous denunciation of the struggles of the Yemi Cardosoled Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) by well-regarded economist and business strategist, Marcel Okeke during his radio chat a couple of weeks ago. He was asked: “What is the way forward? How can naira get better?”

OKEKE: FAJ, let me tell you - that is why in some articles I’ve written in recent times, I called what the CBN is doing, even the federal government…anything and everything they are doing now is a panic measure. And that is where all you hear at the federal, state and local levels is palliative. That word, palliative, has now become the only word you hear in the Nigerian environment. Palliative, you know, is a medical term. You don’t use a way of managing the symptoms - not even the problems…so, now that they are talking about salary awards here, subsidized transportation there…opening up food markets in local government areas…all those are palliatives.

Coming back to your main question, the government is applying what is called market forces in determining the demand and supply of the dollar…I mean the foreign exchange market. Since that time, demand has been overwhelmingly much higher than supply…and everyday it keeps rising. What has been the problem is scarcity - shortage of forex in the foreign exchange market. So, what the government must do, like yesterday, is to increase the supply of dollars. And FAJ, I must tell you, the mainstay of our economy today - where the dollar comes from - is still crude oil. And as we speak, that sector is seriously challenged. We have oil theft. Unfortunately, let me tell you, the former president of this country, Olusegun Obasanjo said a few weeks ago that up to this moment, about 80%

of oil produced is still being stolen. So what are we left with? 20%! So, under the control of OPEC we have only 20% to sell. Official statistics show that our oil production output is going down…and for many years, Nigeria has been producing far short of OPEC quota. Our quota is up to two million barrels per day…at a point we were producing around or below one million… see that gap between OPEC quota and our production? But they gave us statistics that we have somehow come up to 1.2…to 1.3… I’m telling you the OPEC quota is up to two million barrels per day. And the 2024 budget is based on the assumption that we will be producing 1.78m barrels per day. But as I’m talking to you, we have not been able to come up to 1.3 or 1.4… so, is the budget not terribly threatened already? The first quarter of the year is almost gone…so, it is only when the government deploy everything to secure and safeguard oil production, to raise the volume of exports, and so raise the volume of foreign exchange inflow from oil…that we may be able to handle this crisis we are having in foreign exchange market.

That is on one hand. On the other hand, since the removal of the petroleum subsidy…it is now about nine months, what has the government done to get us refined fuel here… to get PMS locally? So that, instead of relying on 100% fuel importation, we’ll be relying on about 30% or 40%... because the truth is that most of our foreign exchange is being dissipated on the importation of PMS. So as soon as we are able to refine locally, and have 80% or more of our PMS locally, we will now save ourselves from frittering away a huge chunk of our available dollars. So, those are the things the government must do to save the situation…but that is why I said earlier that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel.

They have not started doing anything in this regard. Look at the Port Harcourt

may consider convening a national stakeholder’s (stakeholders’) summit….

“…which we signed sometimes (sometime) in July.”

“…in view of the increasing hazards that is (are) being….” (A goodwill message at NGE Uyo 2023)

“I want to congratulate our Guild for (on/upon) rising to the challenges….”

Still from the editors’ conference: “…Nigerian media is freer than any other media in (on) the continent….”

“For enquires (sic) call….” (NTA Channel 35) Showing the light: For enquiries, call….

Instead of ‘flash’, use ‘bleep’ or ‘beep’ to let someone know you want them to telephone you.

“2027: Can the opposition seize the opportunity?” From the other side: you take (not seize—which is American English) the opportunity.

“N23bn monthly allocation crash inter-bank rates” Business English: allocation crashes.

“2027: Anglican bishop wants vigilante groups to help policemen protect ballot boxes” In the interest of eschatology: vigilance groups.

“Today, it is becoming increasing (increasingly) clearer that a free and fair election is possible in Nigeria….”

“…this he applied in fighting the cause of oppressed (the oppressed). He was Igbo (an Igbo) leader.”

“Itse Sagay accuses Supreme Court justices of setting bad precedence in the country’s judicial history.” There is a morphological distinction between ‘precedence’ and ‘precedent’, which applies to the extract.

“Economics, as if the poor matters!” Voice of the nation: the poor matter!

From THE NATION of March 20 comes this entry: “N699b went to banks as interest on borrowed loans in 2023 alone.” Is there any loan that is not borrowed? (Contributed by Stanley Nduagu/08062925996).

Refinery they say they are repairing, the Managing Director of NNPC has been making empty promises, and shifting the goalposts…he would say it’s next week…when next week comes, he would say it’s next month…when next month comes, he would say in next two months…and when next two months come, he would say it’s next quarter! But the truth is that as I speak to you, there’s no local refining…whether by governmentowned refinery or even the Dangote one. The Dangote one has started, it’s not refining PMS... it’s refining some other products. And unfortunately, and seriously surprisingly, it is importing crude oil from outside to refine. Does that give us any breather?

FAJ: Can we not insist on conducting international trade in our local currency?

OKEKE: (Laughs) International trade! The Nigerian currency is very very weak. It’s very weak because we’re not productive. Because the respect of any country’s currency is a function of how productive and how diversified the economy is… that is why people do give China as an example. And when they look at the rate of exchange between the Chinese currency and the dollar, they say our currency is overvalued. No. Did you know that in China, if you begin to count the things that are produced there, and exported, you cannot finish naming them in one year! So that gives their currency the strength…but in Nigeria, like I told you, the only major thing we export is crude oil. And our economy has largely been import-dependent over the years… since the pre-colonial years, and the

colonial times…our taste is dependent on outside…so, we always import more than we export. What do we even produce, apart from oil? Name it.

You see, all the main factories and companies you used to know, have all folded up. In recent months, you can count them: how many that have even left the economy of Nigeria. With that kind of scenario, our currency is weak, and will keep getting weaker. So, that is the situation, we cannot do what you’re proposing. We cannot use our currency, it’s not convertible.

FAJ: What’s your parting advice to managers of our economy?

OKEKE: First and foremost, we need improved security in Nigeria. Security. One of the major drivers of high inflationary rate that we have is food. So, we are talking about improving our agriculture in Nigeria. But the farmers cannot go back to their farms - whether mechanised farmers or subsistence farmers - because of the high level of insecurity. Unfortunately, the insecurity in the land… the kidnapping, the activities of bandits, and all that… are so serious in the region we call the food basket of this country, if you check. So, because of that it will always reflect in food scarcity. And then high prices of whatever is available. So, to begin with, we have to feed ourselves… government have to do everything humanly possible… it’s only people that are alive that will be talking about economic prosperity. So, let them put their focus on security, and secure us.

Abure to Ajaero

“Unfortunately, the NLC is the one that is on the part of war against Labour Party. I must state clearly that Ajaero as NLC President has not been able to organise a successful strike action. Not even a single protest or even picketing government establishment in order to bring government to accede to the numerous requests of workers. As we speak, there are unfair labour practices meted out to workers by several organisations in the country. I have not seen Joe Ajaero go to such organisations to picket them.” –National Chairman, Labour Party, Julius Abure, to President, Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero.

OKEY IKECHUKWU

EDIFYING ELUCIDATIONS

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

Old Crucible for New Igbo Trajectory

As Lead Speaker at the Ohaneze Ndigbo Retreat which ended a few days ago in Enugu, I saw the gathering as part of the cocktail of measures being put in place by the current leadership of Ohaneze to ensure greater group cohesion and more strategic engagement, going forward. As Ndigbo would say, the mother hen that does not bring its chicks together from time to time to educate them about their environment, to warn them about the dangers in that environment and also to explain to them how to successfully navigate the environment, has laid a solid foundation for their eventual decimation by hawks and other predators. Ndigbo say that it is by coming together to review existential issues that a family can periodically re-ignite and strategically address its interests in a lasting and sustainable way.

I had the option of giving the theme of the retreat, “Ako Bu Ije” a purely academic treatment. I could have delved into the foundations of this deep philosophical concept, its meanings, its implications for social morality and cohesion, and how this could be used to carry out a review of the Igbo worldview as a whole. But the clear and present existential dangers facing Ndigbo as a people ruled out that option. It was better to use the occasion to trace the possible root causes of these dangers and propose viable remedial actions; weaving same around the concept of Ako Bu Ije; as the essential philosophical, and even spiritual, underpinning of a way forward.

It is a matter of record that some of the problems of Ndigbo today are self-inflicted. It is also a matter of record that many of these problems have been externalized in such a way that others are being blamed for them. The factors undermining Igbo collective political and even spiritual well-being revolve around a mercilessly conspiratorial (and not objectively competitive) political environment that the people do not seem to fully understand.

I touched on the significance of the kolanut, on the essence of the ritual of the breaking of the kolanut and on why the kolanut is a symbol of communion and not a snack in Igboland. The full spiritual meanings, and implications, of the statement “He who brings kolanut brings life” was explained. The ceremonial consecration of the kolanut by Ndigbo was represented as no empty social gesture, but as a very important step of first calling on the forces of nature for protection and guidance in support of all that is good.

The bringing of the kolanut is, first and foremost, an opportunity for prayers for life more abundant. Since prayers bring blessings and is meant to strengthen life, whoever brings and offers the kolanut has brought an opportunity for life to be enhanced through prayers; hence the call at the beginning: “He Who lives Above, the Giver of life, protect us”.

The kolanut ceremonies also emphasize the interdependence in the community of all living things. That is why it is said: “May the river not dry up and may the fish not lack water to swim in”. The river looks more beautiful because of the fish, while the life of the fish depends on the steady flow of the river. Ndigbo also pray this before and after eating the kolanut: “Elders shall

live and the young shall live. Our harvest shall be rich and none shall pray for the misfortune of another, lest his farm be the only patch of earth without rain’, etc.

From the foregoing, a proper understanding of who the Igbo man really is, is central to any attempts at finding a lasting solution to any, or all, of his problems. The average Igbo man likes to be consulted, noticed or at least taken into account as part of what is going on around him. He does not like to be hurried to a decision, or asked to simply comply with what has been decided upon. He would rather be involved in events he can influence to some extent. He likes to air his opinions and be acknowledged as a person, a contributor, or facilitator. He loves fair competition and visible, effective and sometimes dramatic performance.

Many proverbs bring out these points about the Igbo essence. He will proudly declare: “Onye aju na-ebu anaghi aza ide ji uno” (A person who is unsteady on his feet, drowsy, or staggering, is never given the title of “The pillar that holds the edifice). Ndigbo will also tell you: “Onye nmanya na egbu anaghii aza akwaa akwuru”. (A drunken person is never hailed as the unshaken, and unshakable, one)”. No family or kindred sends out its mad offspring to represent it in the village square as “Onu na-ekwuru oha” (Voice of the people).

These proverbs point to core values that make a clear distinction between the appropriate and the inappropriate, between the absurd and the norm, and between the sublime and the ridiculous. It was with this last observation in mind that the discussion dovetailed into the notion of Ako Bu Ije

The deeper “sense” of Ako bu ije literally means “Wisdom and deep insight into the core values of life gives you the true path to anything lasting in the journey of life”. We can describe “ako” as

“having deep inner promptings”, or knowing how to navigate life in a sustainable way and without undermining yourself or harming others in the long run. The Igbo saying “Agbusi gbaa otele, ya amuru ako’ (when the buttock is stung by an ant, it learns the wisdom of paying close attention before choosing where to sit) bears this out.

“Ije”, on the other hand, literally means to walk. But its deeper meaning refers to the journey of life, or the way to go in what you are doing and maintain an edifying and sustainable trajectory.

From the foregoing, therefore, we said, for the purpose of the retreat, that ako bu ije simply means: Life is best guided by wisdom, insight, discretion and a deep sense of propriety. The question that arose therefrom was this: In what ways can ako bu ije now become the rousing bell for a gathering of wits in the form of an Igbo renaissance? The answer is simple. It means that deep thinking, patient understanding of the operating environment, commitment to lasting values, or strategic engagement and evidence-based decisions and alliances, offer the best foundation for lasting success in every sense of the word.

The dummy out there, that the Igbo society is always essentially atomistic, and in a way that makes it largely ungovernable, does not have a leg to stand on at all. This questionable thesis is sometimes justified by referring to the misunderstood saying: “Igbo enwe eze”. (Igbos know/have no kings). This assertion simply means that Ndigbo do not confer on any single feudal authority an unquestioned, and unquestionable, right to decree and overrule all and sundry. When the Igbo man says: “Agbara nyekaria nsogbu ezi ya osisi esi nweta ya” (literally “when the oracle, or your talisman, becomes so powerful as to even try to terrorize its owner, then it is time to take it outside and show it the tree from which it was carved”).

Ndigbo are simply saying that the collective

right of the people should be invoked to remind anyone with tyrannical aspirations that a hero is always a people’s hero. That is also why Ndigbo say that “A masquerade that flogs its drummers and followers ceases to dance, because it walks alone”.

From the foregoing, it should be clear that the Igbo concept of power and authority rests more on respect for the laws of the land, than on personal whims. The true Igbo concept of success is always linked with respect for Omenala. The people, and the laws of the land, always determine the difference between right and wrong. That is also why Ndigbo say: “Asokalie eze anya ekpuchie nkata na iru wee gwalua ya okwu aru”.

The idea of covering the face with a basket is often assumed to be out of fear for the life of the person who decides to speak out before the king. But it is not! No one has the right to walk up to the community leader and insult him, for any reason. It is just not done, no matter how wealthy you are. To dare such, you must either be part of a select group sent to admonish the leader, or you are stepping forward as the messenger of the community – sent by the community.

Once you are sent in this way, you no longer represent yourself; just as a man is presumed to have transcended to the spirit world once he is dressed up as a masquerade. The covering of the face upholds the dignity of the office of Eze and affirms that no one may insult the office in his capacity as a mere mortal. But this mysterious being from the beyond, speaking for the gods and men (but using the voice of a man) may do so to any unworthy occupant of an office.

The major trade mark of the traditional Igbo charlatan is that nothing he does can ever lead to sustainable development, or a healthy communal, religious or Family life. He is dangerous to social morality and the economic life of the people; because of his ‘Okpata otitaa’ approach to life. It is such charlatans who parrot the proverbs like: “Ewu na eso onye bu igu” (The goat runs after whoever has palm fronds - read ‘green leaves ‘)

This statement is true, but it applies only to goats and any other nonvolitional living thing that behaves like a goat. Such sayings were originally meant to warn people against thoughtless materialism and immorality as a philosophy of life. But today it is freely used to justify irresponsibility, unfaithfulness and every form of debauchery.

How can it be true that only the person who offers immediate material satisfaction deserves loyalty? In Igboland, where the cardinal communal philosophy says: “A human being is no goat’’ The fact that this proverb and others like it have become the most popular in Igboland in recent times shows that we Ndigbo are facing greater existential threat at the philosophical level of distortion of pristine concepts than at the purely material.

The road from this culture of leadership charlatanry lies in progressively creating and nurturing new values. If all the avenues and platforms for opinion molding machines are deployed in the right way, there should eventually arise the needed critical mass of Ndigbo who will one day say: “Thus far and no further”.

Ako Bu Ije can only hold true where reciprocity is nurtured alongside the need for self preservation.

Ohanaeze President, Chief Emmanuel Iwuayanwu