TUESDAY 9TH APRIL 2024

Finance Minister: FG Has Paid N4.83 Trillion of Ways and Means Advances

List three areas of focus to grow economy

Says former VP is killjoy of project that will boost economies of nine states

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The federal government, yesterday, berated former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his comments on the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, one of the signature projects of the President Bola Tinubu

administration.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said Atiku had allowed

himself to be led into a blind alley by his "poorly informed aides" in his desperation to make the headlines. Onanuga said a statement signed

End of Confrontation in Edo State as 38-year-old New Deputy Gov is Sworn in Presidency Chastises Atiku over Remarks on Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway

He stated that contrary to Atiku’s suggestions, the coastal road project

Obaseki: New partner symbolises belief in power of youth

My impeachment illegal, attack on democracy, says ex-deputy CRPP condemns devt

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

After several months of brickbats and muscle-flexing between Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, peace has finally returned to the state as 38-year-old Omobayo Marvellous Godwins, was yesterday sworn in as the new Deputy Governor. Godwins was sworn in at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, by the Edo State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa. His swearing-in followed the impeachment of Shaibu by the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA). Obaseki, who witnessed the swearing-in ceremony, said the choice of Godwins was a belief in the power of youth to transform the state.

But Shaibu had swiftly responded to his impeachment, describing it as both illegal and a threat to the

on Atiku's behalf by his media office made false allusions pertaining the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project. Sultan: No Report on Moon-sighting, Ramadan Fasting

LAunCh of GirLs in TECh ProGrAmmE for hosT CommuniTiEs in Cross rivErs...

CBN Bans Use of Foreign Currency- denominated Collaterals for Naira Loans

Orders termination of existing facilities within 90 days Approves fresh allocation of FX to BDCs at N1,101/$1, sale to customers not to exceed 1.5% above purchase price

James Emejo in Abuja

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), yesterday, prohibited the use of foreign currency (FCY) denominated collaterals for naira loans by bank customers going forward.

CBN ordered that all loans currently secured with dollardenominated collateral be wound down within 90 days, adding that banks risk both financial and regulatory sanctions for noncompliance.

The central bank disclosed the new directives in a circular addressed to all banks, dated April 8, 2024, which was signed by Dr. Wiliams Kanya, on behalf of the CBN Director, Trade and Exchange Department.

The fresh advices came as the apex bank further announced the sale of another tranche of Foreign Exchange (FX) to Bureau De Change (BDC) operators at N1,101/$1, below current market price – the third consecutive intervention since the apex bank resumed its support to the segment under its current management.

CBN, however, pointed out that FCY-denominated collaterals could only be considered for naira loans where the foreign currency

Court

collateral was either Eurobonds issued by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), or guarantees of foreign banks, including Standby letters of credit.

The bank further warned that exposures shall be risk-weighted 150 per cent for Capital Adequacy Ratio computation, in addition to other regulatory sanctions, should banks fail to comply with the new policy direction.

The latest FX intervention to BDCs was conveyed in a circular dated April 8, 2024, which was addressed to President, Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), and signed by Kanya, on behalf of the CBN Director, Trade and Exchange Department.

The bank explained that the FX allocation was aimed at helping the BDCs meet retail market demand for eligible invisible transactions, adding that the sum of $10,000 would be sold to each BDC at below the market rate.

The apex bank also mandated the BDCs to sell the dollars to eligible end users at a spread not exceeding 1.5 per cent above the purchase price.

The support could effectively

help the local currency to strengthen further to about N1,117/$1, should BDCs adhere to the CBN directive.

The naira traded at N1,251.05/$1 on the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM) over the past weekend.

CBN advised BDCs to continue to abide by the rules and conditions as stipulated in the terms guiding earlier interventions.

On February 27, CBN announced

that it had approved the sale of FX to eligible BDCs to meet their demand for invisible transactions, adding that the sum of $20,000 would be sold to each BDC at the rate of N1,301/$, which represents the lower band rate of executed spot transactions at the Nigeria Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM) for the previous trading day, as of February 27, 2024.

CBN explained that the interven-

tion became necessary following the continued price distortions at the retail end of the market, which was feeding into the parallel market and further widening the exchange rate premium. The move also complemented ongoing reforms in the foreign exchange market, aimed at achieving an appropriate market-determined exchange rate for the naira.

CBN, however, emphasised that

the BDCs were allowed to sell to end-users at a margin not more than one per cent above the purchase rate from the central bank.

Also, on March 25, the central bank approved a second tranche of sale of FX to BDCs, slashing the volume to $10,000 for each BDC at the rate of N1,251/S, which was a N50 reduction compared to N1,301/S allocation in the initial tranche.

FG Unveils Citizens’ Delivery Tracker App for Inclusive Governance

Initiative to allow Nigerians hold public officers to account

James Emejo in Abuja

The federal government yesterday launched an updated and innovative Citizens’ Delivery Tracker App to give Nigerians voice in the governance of their country.

Speaking at the go-live event in Abuja, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination/ Head of Central Coordination Delivery Unit (CDCU), Hajia Hadiza Bala, said the platform would afford citizens the opportunity to monitor and give their own assessment about the performance of public officials, including ministers and their respective portfolios.

Remands Binance

Specifically, she said ministers could be assessed based on some

Executive Tigran Gambaryan in Kuje Correctional Centre Pending Bail

Dismisses objection to arraignment

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Justice Emeka Nwite of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, ordered the remand of an executive of Binance Holdings Limited, Mr. Tigran Gambaryan, in custody of the Kuje Correctional Center.

Gambaryan, a citizen of the United States of America, would remain in custody pending the hearing of his bail application, fixed for April 18, 2024.

The remand order was sequel to his arraignment before the court, on a five-count criminal charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The anti-graft agency is prosecuting Binance, Gambaryan and the firm's Africa Regional Manager, Mr. Nadeem Anjarwalla, who was said to be at large, on alleged breach of the money laundering Act.

Gambaryan, pleaded not guilty to all the five counts read against him, however, the judge refused to grant his plea that he be remanded in custody of the EFCC. Earlier, Justice Nwite, had dismissed his objection to his arraignment and ordered him to take his plea in the money laundering charge.

Attempt by the EFCC to arraign the defendants last week had suffered a setback, when Gambaryan 's lawyer argued that the first defendant had not been properly served with the court documents.

But, the judge in a ruling yesterday, disagreed with the claim, pointing out that the service of the court documents against Binance on the second defendant, Gambaryan was proper. According to the judge, contrary to Gambaryan's submission, he was duly qualified as an agent of Binance

to receive service of the suit.

The judge pointed out that evidence in Gambaryan's affidavit in support of his application showed that he was not only an employer of Binance, engaged in 2021, but was duly appointed to and actually attended a meeting on behalf of Binance with the federal government in February this year.

"I am of the view that there cannot be a better service of the court process of the first defendant on the second defendant. The service of the first defendant on the second defendant is a proper service and the second defendant is hereby ordered to take his plea" the judge held.

Gambaryan had last week objected to his arraignment on the grounds that the court documents have not been served on Binance who is the first defendant in the suit marked:FHC/ABJ/CR/138/2024,

wherein the defendants were accused of money laundering to the tune of $35,400,000.

His lawyer, Mark Mordi, had argued that his client cannot be arraigned when the charge has not been served on the first defendant.

"It is manifestly clear that service under Section 123 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), is yet to be accomplished, adding that the prosecution has not shown, contrary to his claim that the suit was served on the 2nd defendant,” he had argued.

Besides, he had argued that the 2nd defendant did not fall into any of the category of persons qualified to receive service on behalf of Binance, in line with the provisions of Section 123 of the ACJA, having not been a Director, patron or company secretary.

of the deliverables, particularly the 8-point agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration among others.

Hadiza noted Nigerians could lay complaints on specific issues and be heard, pointing out that this had beenSheunprecedented. said the solution was developed in furtherance of Tinubu’s determination to involve Nigerians in governance and hold his government accountable.

She said the tracker app remained a significant milestone in the president’s commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability.

She said, “Now, Nigerians will have access to the deliverables of all ministers thereby acknowledging the citizens as integral stakeholders in monitoring and evaluating the government’s performance. The App will be available on Google Play Store and Apple Store within the next month.

“The innovative application, which was upgraded by the CDCU in consultation with diverse stakeholders, provides citizens with information on priority projects, policies, and programmes of the federal government.

“This application will enable citizens with the opportunity to give real-time feedback on their assessment of governments performance on the implementation of its policies, projects, and programmes from anywhere they are in the country.”

Among other key features of the app, Hadiza said citizens can access detailed information on government priority projects and programmes nationwide, promoting transparency and accountability, and fostering a

sense of shared responsibility.

Users can also submit their assessment of ministries, provide feedback and observations directly through the app, facilitating timely responsiveness from the CDCU and ensuring that citizens' voices are heard.

She said Tinubu, toward actualising his commitment to citizen engagement, will have direct access to Nigerians' feedback on ministerial deliverables through a dedicated dashboard in his office.

According to her, the app will undergo continuous enhancements, incorporating user observations to ensure user-friendliness and maintain a robust feedback loop between citizens and government, ultimately towards ensuring effective and prompt delivery on all government priority areas.

She explained that in addition to the app, the CDCU has also developed a Delivery Reporting Framework and Template, to accurately assess and report the performance of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).

She said, “We are adopting international best practices and utilising globally recognised performance indicators and benchmarks to assess the performance of MDAs in the implementation of the presidential priority programmes, projects, and policies.

“The CDCU assures all Nigerians of its commitment to effectively tracking, monitoring, and reporting the performance of MDAs in line with the Presidential priorities. The CDCU calls for the partnership of all Nigerians in the quest for national development.

L-R: Community Relations Manager, Lafarge Africa Plc, Brenda Effiom; Technical Senior Advisor, Cross Rivers State Ministry of Science & Technology, Edwin Adie; Commissioner, Youth and Sports, Cross Rivers State, Hon Ijom Agim; Human Resources Business Partner, Lafarge Africa Plc, Barong Ita; Commissioner, Women Affairs, Cross Rivers State, Hon. Edeme Erom; Public Affairs Manager, Lafarge Africa Plc, Inyang Bassey; and acting Chairman, Community Relations Committee, Hon. Lawrence Basset at the launch of Girls in Tech Program for Host Communities in Cross Rivers State by Lafarge Africa Plc... at the weekend

UNDP COURTESY VISIT TO GOVERNOR DIRI...

Reuters: NNPC Owing Fuel Traders

$3bn Backlog of Petrol Payments

Company says not aware of such debt, traders pledge supply despite delays Nigeria to get $1bn balance of AfreximBank’s oil-backed loan next month

Nigeria is again running into troubled waters with mounting import bills , with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) currently owing as much as $3 billion to fuel traders for imported petrol, three sources told Reuters.

The report stated that this has been exacerbated by the tumbling naira currency and rising global fuel prices, which have further increased the effective subsidy the country is paying.

But an NNPC spokesperson said

the company was "not aware of any such debt nor any financial issues of such magnitude", adding that “Our focus remains on sustaining sufficiency in the supply of petroleum products in Nigeria."

THISDAY reports that Nigeria has for over a decade fully depended on petrol imports since none of its four refineries is currently refining the product. However, the NNPC has said that its 60,000 barrels per day Port Harcourt facility, which it said achieved mechanical completion in December last year, will soon come on stream.

But even at that, if the refinery

finally starts production today, the output would be just a fraction of the country’s over 40 million litres daily need.

Also, the much-awaited 650,000 bpd Dangote refinery, near Lagos, is projected to significantly reduce petrol import initially and then lead to its total stoppage when it begins to operate at full capacity. The facility is expected to begin petrol throughput next month.

However, the Reuters report said the payment backlog is a blow to the government's efforts in Africa's largest economy to shore up its strained finances by curbing costly energy

subsidies.

"They are paying, but it's slow," one of the sources with knowledge of the matter said. Five sources said that NNPC - the country's main importer of petrol - was taking more than 130 days to make the payments instead of within 90 days.

NNPC's suppliers, including international traders like Vitol, Mercuria and Gunvor as well as Nigeria-based trading houses, are still supplying fuel, the sources said. They declined to be named because they are not authorised to speak to the media. The trading firms declined to comment.

FG Distributes 42,000 MT of Grains to States

Aiyedatiwa gives out 1200 tonnes of grains to livestock farmers in Ondo

The federal government has flagged-off of the release of 42,000 metric tonnes (MT) of assorted food commodities from the National Strategic Food Reserve (NSFR) across the country to vulnerable Nigerians to cushion the effect of the rising cost of food commodities.

This was just as Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, yesterday, flagged off the distribution of 1200 tonnes of palliative grains to livestock farmers across the 18 local government areas in the state.

For the federal government, the exercise was held on Sunday, at the Government House, Sokoto, Sokoto state.

The 42,000MT of assorted food commodities, comprised of maize (23,600MT), sorghum (12,860 M), millet (3,700MT), and Garri (1,840MT).

The allocation delivered to Sokoto state comprises Maize 506.00MT, Sorghum (589.00MT), and Millet (216.20MT) and (44.01 trucks or 26,406 50kg bags).

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the distribution of grains was part of a comprehensive intervention programme of the federal government to cushion hardship in the land and revamp the Nigerian economy for sustainable development and prosperity for all citizens.

He said President Bola Tinubu was concerned about rising food

prices and was determined to make essential food available and affordable for Nigerians, which explained why he approved the distribution of 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted grains, including sorghum, millet, and maize, and 60,000 metric tonnes of rice through millers.

According to him, the federal government was under no illusion that Mr. President’s policy reform would be without some transitional pains, adding there was sustained confidence that, in the long run, the end would justify the means.

“The government calls for continued patience and understanding from Nigerians as we push through these difficult times into a season of abundant benefits and truly renewed Hope.

“As the President never fails to emphasise, these headwinds we face are only temporary, and we will surely overcome them,” he said.

He listed the marked reduction of petrol importation to 50 per cent monthly, the stabilised foreign exchange with the naira waxing stronger daily, and the recent launch of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF), which aims to raise about N20 trillion for investment in critical sectors of the economy as early wins.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the President was desirous of cushioning the effect of the rising cost of food commodities by ensuring a sustained

buffer stock, as provided by the Nigeria Food Storage Policy.

He explained that the National Strategic Food Reserve was expected to keep only five per cent of total annual food production, while 10 per cent was expected to be kept by state governments as a buffer stock to complement the National Reserve, adding the buffer stock programme has, however, remained non-existent in most states of the Federation and had continued to exert avoidable pressure on the Federal Government National Strategic Food Reserve stock.

“Therefore, I want to encourage all the state governments to begin activating the buffer stock in their various states so that in cases of emergency and future food interventions like this, they will have stocks that complement the federal government’s efforts," Idris said.

Aiyedatiwa Distributes 1200 Tonnes of Palliative Grains to Livestock Farmers on Ondo

Meanwhile, Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, yesterday, flagged off the distribution of 1200 tonnes of palliative grains to livestock farmers across the 18 local government areas in the state.

According to Aiyedatiwa, the 40 trailers of grains, supplied by the federal government, would be distributed to poultry, piggery and fishery farmers across the 18 local government areas of the State.

Speaking at the event in Akure,

Aiyedatiwa stressed the importance of implementing measures to address the escalating food prices in the country, highlighting the establishment of the committee on Agriculture and Food Security tasked with taking immediate action in response to this challenge. The governor said: “Today’s programme is the first among the activities and initiatives lined up to make our State zero tolerant to food insecurity accompanied by massive modern agricultural interventions needed to catapult us to an enviable position in the comity of States.

Tinubu Okays

But the payment delays, the report argued, underscore the creeping return of fuel subsidies - scrapped in May 2023 - that sap NNPC's cash for imports and what it can send to President Bola Tinubu's government.

Nigeria had subsidised fuel for years to keep pump prices affordable, but Tinubu removed them as part of wider reforms, allowing prices to triple. Petrol consumption fell by around 30 per cent as higher prices curbed smuggling to neighbouring countries.

In June, the government capped pump prices at a nationwide average of N617 per litre as Nigerians grappled with punishing inflation.

"It's hard to overstate the sig- nificance of fuel subsidies for the administration," said Clementine Wallop, director for sub-Saharan Africa at political risk consultancy Horizon Engage.

"It was subsidy removal and exchange rate reform that had investors and lenders initially positive about his administration, and it was their removal Tinubu hoped would give his team the ability to spend in the many other areas that need funding," he added.

Last week, motorists queued for petrol across Nigeria's commercial capital Lagos, due to a shortage of fuel from depots. Head of the Major Oil Marketers Association (MOMAN), Clement Isong, said logistical issues over Easter caused the constraints, which would soon abate.

Oil industry sources said rising global petrol prices and a weaker naira had also impacted NNPC's ability to import.

At their peak in February, market prices for petrol in West Africa were N1,229 per litre, 150 per cent above the level the government capped prices in June, according to pricing data from Argus Media converted with tracking site Aboxifx naira rates. They have since fallen to around N912 per litre, still N295 above the capped price, Reuters added.

“That left NNPC as the sole importer of the roughly 40 million litres per day the country consumes, as private importers cannot recoup their costs,” the report added.

Since the naira has slid against the dollar and oil prices have risen, NNPC is losing money on every litre sold, traders said.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently warned that capping pump prices and electricity tariffs below cost recovery could shave up to 3 per cent off the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2024.

"The government still needs to begin formulating a plan to remove the fuel subsidy when conditions allow," Tellimer's Patrick Curran said in a note.

Meanwhile, Nigeria, is expected to receive the balance of $1.05 billion loan from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) next month as part of a larger crude oil prepayment facility aimed at shoring up forex reserves and boosting the economy.

Establishment of National Health Fellows Programme in 774 LGAs

To construct over 8,800 new primary healthcare centres across Nigeria

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a National Health Fellows Programme, with young Nigerians to be engaged in all the 774 local government areas in the Thiscountry. is in line with his determination to comprehensively upgrade existing primary healthcare centres and construct over 8,800 new primary healthcare centres across all local government areas in the country for accessible and qualitative healthcare delivery with the provision of new

social accountability mechanisms.

According to a release issued yesterday by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, the well-trained fellows will serve as fiduciary agents to monitor and track primary healthcare centre development and performance, which is to be measured against all financial inflows to the centres nationwide.

The fellowship programme will be domiciled in the Sector Wide Approach (SWAp) coordination office under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. The fellows will be recruited, remunerated, and equipped with

appropriate tools to track the performance of Basic Health Care Provision Fund-supported health facilities across the nation.

“Tinubu, who is the African Union Champion for Human Resources in Healthcare, places faith in young Nigerians, and expects that their engagement in this critical nationbuilding task, which also includes a daily monitoring and tracking of health reforms in their locations, will usher in a new era of world-class service provision to all Nigerians in every part of the country” the statement said.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri (left), and Team Lead, United Nations Development Programme, Joyce Oboro, during the courtesy visit of the UNDP delegation to Government House, Yenagoa... yesterday

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Fidelis David in Akure

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Nume Ekeghe in Lagos

EDo SwEArS iN omobAyo GoDwiNS AS NEw DEputy GovErNor...

L-R: Edo State Deputy Governor, Mr. Omobayo Marvellous Godwins; Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, and Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, during the swearing-in of Omobayo Marvellous Godwins as deputy governor, at the Government House, Benin City ... yesterday

NSE: Nigeria Cannot Boost Manufacturing Without Revamping Steel Sector

Calls for transparency in new power tariff management

The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) yesterday urged the government to sharpen the current focus on revamping the steel sector, insisting that without a virile steel industry, it will be difficult to revitalise the manufacturing sector.

Speaking during a media parley at the NSE headquarters in Abuja, the President of the organisation, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, said it was heart-warming that the Bola Tinubu administration was already heeding its call to revamp the Ajaokuta Steel Company in Kogi state.

However, the first female president of the NSE since its inception over 65 years ago, noted that other such steel companies like Aladja steel in Delta as well as the Steel Rolling Mill in Oshogbo, Osun state, must be equally rehabilitated.

The NSE had in December 2023 demanded that its members should be involved in the acceleration and the reactivation as well as modernisation of the critical steel company.

But Oguntala, during the briefing, stated that the government already heeded the call and had incorporated some of the engineering body’s members to ensure the rehabilitation of the firm.

“Since after the summit, the government has taken some steps to resuscitate and revamp the Ajaokuta steel company. We received an invitation from the Ministry of Steel Development. We received

an invitation from them to join the task team for the revamping. We also received an invitation from one of the consultants that they are using, who also felt that NSE should be part of “Andit.we nominated some of our members, those who are experts in that field. We have one of them who retired from Ajaokuta steel company as a director, who has a lot of knowledge. And we have received feedback that this member of ours is doing very well.

“So, I'm sure that work is ongoing. And, in short, the government has responded to that call to revamp the steel industry. As rightly observed, unless we have the Ajaokuta steel company up and running, and maybe Delta steel, Aladja and Oshogbo Steel Rolling mill, unless we have them up and running, we cannot hope to revamp the manufacturing sector.

“Last year, our conference was on the manufacturing sector, which is what you are talking about. And we all agreed on that sector at that conference that there is no way we can hope to have any progress in that sector unless we revamp the steel industry. The government has responded positively to our call and work is ongoing on that,” he stated.

She also called for transparency in the administration of the recent hike in electricity tariff, advising the authorities to ensure an effective sanctions framework, minimum time for fault repairs, accessible customer service applications, and

reliable metering scheme. She maintained that what is currently happening in the aviation’s sector, where there are no sanctions on the airlines for flight delays, must not be allowed to remain the norm in the power sector. On whether the administration has done well in terms of deploying engineers to head ministries that are

technical, Oguntala explained that the Tinubu administration has done well, but said a lot more needed to be done.

She argued that a number of the ministers who are engineers are currently heading various ministries where their services are needed, explaining that it is why Nigerians are experiencing some difference compared to their predecessors.

Earlier, she stated that the NSE administration was running on five strong pillars as its strategic agenda for the two-year tenure, including membership development and improving intergovernmental/ industry/academia collaboration.

She listed others as: Reinforcing international relations mechanisms,

re-imaging the NSE for better publicity and governance structure as well as improved community impact.

Following from the pillars outlined above, Oguntala explained that the body had been engaging with strategic stakeholders in different sectors for collaborations and partnerships that will ultimately yield the desired outcomes.

Experts Predict Insurance Sector to Maintain 15% Annual Growth via Product Innovation, AI Adoption

Ebere Nwoji

Following the attainment of a N1 trillion premium income mark by the insurance sector in the fourth quarter of 2023, insurance sector operators have predicted that the sector would maintain an annual cumulative average growth rate (CAGR) of 15 per cent this year.

This, they predicted would be achieved through commitment to product innovation, adoption of Artificial Intelligent (AI) technology across insurance value-chain and better customer experience through claims settlement.

The operators predicted that this would happen despite macro-economic upheavals plaguing businesses in the country pointing out that in the past five years,

the insurance industry had been outperforming the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of the economy on annual basis.

The Chairman, Nigeria Insurers Association (NIA), Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, while commenting on recent feat achieved by the sector last quarter, said the insurance sector at the close of the fourth quarter of 2023, recorded impressive growth.

He described the development as a milestone achievement and the beginning of great things that would happen in the industry despite all economic odds.

“Consistently, the insurance industry has been outperforming the GDP growth rate on an annual basis, with an annual cumulative average growth rate (CAGR) of about 15 percent in the last five years.

Tinubu Rejoices with Youth Minister, Ayodele Olawande at 35

Felicitates Olatunde Aluko on 86th birthday

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande as he clocked 35 on April 8, 2024.

Olawande is a youth and good governance advocate with a portfolio of accomplishments to boot.

With our commitment to product innovation, better customer experience particularly in the area of claims settlement, and technology adoption across the insurance value-chain, we can predict a better and brighter future for the industry especially in the light of the commencement of the implementation of the 10-year industry transformation strategic plan,” Omosehin said in a chat with THISDAY.

Omosehin, who is also the Managing Director, Old Mutual Insurance congratulated insurance underwriting firms who constitute the NIA members for the achievement and assured that the industry would perform better this year and in the years to come.

insurances, giving more attention to product creation and development, telling more of its stories in claims payments to create credibility for the industry in the eyes of potential insureds”, he advised.

The Commissioner for Insurance and NAICOM’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sunday Thomas, had said operator’ adoption of AI would accelerate future premium earnings by the industry.

Thomas, had at a recent insurance forum in Lagos, urged insurance operators to adopt AI as a way of improving their product offering and distribution.

Thomas, had said he saw AI as where the future of insurance business in Nigeria lied. He urged insurance operators to increase adoption of AI insisting that it improves service and enhances profitability. He said insurance consumers would experience another dimension in quick service delivery and claims payment if operators could adopt the technology.

The President, in a release issued yesterday by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, commended the minister for his fidelity to service, zest for excellence, and dedication to advancing salient matters affecting Nigeria's vibrant and treasured demography, the youth. Tinubu wished Olawande renewed strength and success in his service to the nation.

to Chief Olatunde Ishola Aluko, a distinguished Nigerian, on his 86th birthday.

The President also yesterday extended his warm congratulations

Tinubu wished Aluko, who is a ‘fine’ model of rectitude, good health, and many more years filled with joy and laughter. Aluko is an accomplished geologist and a knight of John Wesley, an honour bestowed on him in recognition of his devotion to the service of God.

He was Chairman of The Island Club and is a member of the Metropolitan Club, the Lagos Country Club, the Ikeja Golf Club, among many others. He is a Rotarian of repute and former Oregun Rotary President.

For his community services, Aluko was honoured with the titles of Sasore of Ilesa, the Otun of Ibodi-Ijesa, the Baajipe of Lagos, and the Apesin of Ikorodu.

Also the Executive Secretary Nigeria Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), Mr. Tope Daramola, said it was quite heartwarming to see that the industry operators met the set target in the fourth quarter 2023 report released. “The result is a testament to the renewed commitment of all actors in the industry to break off the cocoon of low penetration. The operators are accelerating their responsiveness in terms of product offerings and taking advantage of insures’ needs across demographic segments of the nation.

“Also, the regulatory oversight by NAICOM has been quite stringent. But since the largest room is the room of improvement, the industry still needs to do more by ensuring full implementation of the compulsory

Thomas, had explained that AI was captured as part of the 10-year roadmap of the insurance industry, and that NAICOM, as a regulator, would continue to evolve policies that would engender the growth of the industry, increase penetration and contribution to nation’s GDP.

NAICOM recently announced that insurance operators had in the fourth quarter 2023 met the N1 trillion annual premium income target it set for them 14 years ago describing it as a milestone.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

W’Bank Projects 3.3% Growth for Nigeria in

2024, 3.4% for African

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The World Bank has predicted that West Africa's biggest economy, Nigeria would grow at 3.3 per cent this year, below its long-term average.

Also, it forecasted that economies in Sub-Saharan Africa would post a growth rate of 3.4 per cent and 3.8 per cent in 2024 and 2025 respectively, although not enough to lower the level of poverty on the continent.

According to the Bank’s latest Africa’s Pulse report, growth would rebound in 2024, rising from a low of 2.6 per cent in 2023 to 3.4 per cent in 2024, and 3.8 per cent in 2025.

South Africa's growth rate was projected to double in 2024, but just to 1.2 per cent, while Angola's was set to pick up to 2.8 per cent from 0.8 per cent last year, driven mainly by the non-oil sector amid falling oil production

democracy.

At the same time, the Conference of Registered Political Parties (CRPP), Edo State chapter, yesterday, expressed disappointment in the impeachment of Shaibu, noting that the development was not what Edo people bargained for.

The vote to impeach Shaibu was okayed by 18 out of 24 lawmakers following the consideration of the report of the seven-man panel set up by Justice Okungbowa.

The impeachment which was the first in state since 1999, ended the disagreement and infighting between Obaseki and Shaibu.

In attendance at the House sitting were 20 members including the Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku but 18 members voted for the impeachment while one member abstained.

The deputy governor's impeach- ment commenced after the Clerk of the House read out Order 10-Presentation and consideration of the seven-man panel report of allegation of gross misconducts against Shaibu, listed in Assembly's items for consideration.

Shortly after, the Majority Leader of the House, Charity Aiguobarueghan, representing Ovia North East 1, moved that the report be considered, his motion was seconded by the Minority Leader, Eric Okaka, Owan East.

Consequently, the speaker assumed

had been praised for how it would improve the quality of life of Nigerians and the economy of the nine coastal states it will pass through, particularly in the areas of agriculture and tourism.

Onanuga alleged, "Seeking to be a kill-joy, Atiku Abubakar engaged in red-herring by raising ill-thoughtout allegations that only exposed his inadequacies and those of his team in getting the basic facts on an issue he badly seeks to nail the government.

"We have decided, however, to respond to Atiku’s misrepresentation of facts in matters of the coastal road if only to set the record straight so that unsuspecting Nigerians are not misled and misinformed.

“We owe it a sacred duty to ensure Atiku and his handlers do not continue to spread disinformation as they wallow in their politics of hatred."

Onanuga said contrary to the claims in Atiku’s statement, at no time did the administrations of former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan award contracts for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway to any company at any varied and revised amount, adding that the question of costs comparison could not have arisen.

Rather, he clarified that the contract that was awarded was that of Lagos-Calabar coastal rail.

Onanuga said, "The rail was designed as part of the standard gauge national rail network. The contract was awarded on August 4, 2021 by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) presided over by former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), at the cost of

In contrast, the East African Community region was expected to grow 5.3 per cent this year, due to strong growth in Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Zambia defaulted on its external debt in 2020, followed by Ghana in 2022 and Ethiopia late last year.

The Africa Pulse report underscored the fact that many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa were hit hard by the shocks of COVID-19 and Russia's war in Ukraine, which pushed up inflation at the same time as rising global interest rates made borrowing prohibitively expensive while drought and conflict have also affected swathes of the region.

"Growth is set to bounce back in Sub-Saharan Africa but the recovery is still fragile.

“Per capita GDP growth of 1 per cent is associated with a

chairman of the committee of the whole House to consider the report, after the Majority and Minority Leaders moved and seconded a motion to that effect, respectively.

During the presentation of the report, Donald Okogbe, Akoko-Edo II, rose to object to part C of the report but his objection was overruled by the speaker.

The House, thereafter, resolved that the allegation of perjury against the deputy governor was not proved but held that the second allegation of disclosure of official secrets was proved against the deputy governor.

At this stage, the Majority and Minority Leaders of the Assembly moved and seconded a motion, respectively, that the Speaker revert to his position as Speaker of the House.

The majority leader further moved that with regard to section 188 subsection 9 of the Constitution, the report be put to vote. At the end of the voting exercise, 18 members voted in support of the impeachment while one member abstained.

In his comment, the Speaker said more than two-third majority of the House voted and endorsed the impeachment. "I hereby from my seat announce that the deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, stands impeached," he stressed.

The camaraderie between Obaseki and Shaibu degenerated after the latter

$11.17 billion. The contract was to be completed in six years. The project didn't take off. "The Lagos-Calabar coastal rail project has always been on the card. It was another testament of the failure of the previous PDP-led government that it could not get it off the ground in 16 years it held sway.

"The Lagos-Calabar coastal highway and Lagos-Calabar coastal rail are two distinct projects. It is unfortunate that the former vice president is confused about the two projects."

Onanuga said Tinubu deserved plaudits for having the courage to embark on the transformative project, and not vilified as Atiku unsuccessfully sought to do.

According to him, "We know there is nothing so sacred for Atiku Abubakar in the pursuit of his undying ambition to be president of Nigeria even in his advanced age. We, however, don't expect a former vice president of Nigeria to continue to fan ill-will and engage in divisive politics in his twilight."

He also faulted Atiku for objecting to the decision to start the coastal road from Lagos and not Calabar, saying he is oblivious of the huge impact such would make on exportimport flow around the industrial zones.

Onanuga said, "We are at a loss as to what the former VP hopes to achieve with his assertion. Is it not a received wisdom that a thousand miles’ journey begins with a step?

Whether the project begins from Lagos or Calabar, Warri or Sapele, what should gladden the heart of any patriotic Nigerian is that this important project that has been in

reduction in the extreme poverty rate of only about 1 percent in the region, compared to 2.5 per cent on average in the rest of the world

“In a context of constrained government budgets, faster poverty reduction will not be achieved through fiscal policy alone. It needs to be supported by policies that expand the productive capacity of the private sector to create more and better jobs for all segments of society,” said World Bank Chief Economist for Africa, Andrew Dabalen.

While noting the economic recovery in the region, the report stated that the recovery remains tenuous.

Just as inflation is cooling across most economies, falling from a median of 7.1 to 5.1 per cent in 2024, it remains high compared to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels. Also, while growth of public

indicated interest in the governorship and by implication, succeed his estranged principal. Attempts to reconcile them failed, especially after Shaibu declined the condition for peace, which was standing down his governorship bid.

Indication that the duo might have crossed the Rubicon became clearer when the governor relocated the office of the deputy governor and moved him far away from him.

This was further compounded by the hostility often shown to each other at public functions. But the had governor waited till after the party’s primary election to fully move against Shaibu, culminating in his eventual ouster by the state assembly, soon after the panel set up by the chief judge indicted him.

Immediately after he was removed from office, a new deputy was nominated and sworn in by the chief judge of the state.

Some of the dignitaries at the swearing-in included Obaseki, Speaker Agbebaku; Secretary to the Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; members of EDHA; and Chief of Staff to Edo the governor, Dr. Osaigbovo Iyoha.

Also present were Chairman, Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi; local governments chairmen, party leaders, permanent secretaries from various ministries,

the pipeline for several decades has finally taken off."

Onanuga affirmed that Tinubu as a leader and nationalist will continue to drive and propel national progress through infrastructural development across the country.

He enjoined Atiku to act his status as a statesman and desist from engaging in fruitless exercises that do not add any value to nation-building.

The statement added, "As to the other poorly researched issue raised by Atiku and his team on the Lekki Concession Company, we urge them to return to the library for real facts rather than rushing to cast aspersions on President Tinubu and his government."

reportedly owes the apex bank about N30 trillion under the Ways and Means advances, the actual amount is being disputed with the minister recently disclosing that the figures would be audited to authenticate the exact sum being owed.

However, while presenting a paper at the recent Lagos Business School (LBS) Breakfast Club, Edun disclosed that the federal government used part of the NTBs and Bonds issued in 2024 to pay down Ways and Means advances by N4.83 trillion.

The upper chamber had on December 30, 2023, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request, approved and confirmed the securitisation of an outstanding N7.3 trillion Ways and Means advances In his paper presented at the LBS Breakfast Club titled, "Reconstructing the Economy for Growth, Investment and Climate Resilience Development," the minister argued

Economies

debt is slowing, more than half of African governments grapple with external liquidity problems, and face unsustainable debt burdens.

Overall, the report explained that despite the projected boost in growth, the pace of economic expansion in the region remains below the growth rate of the previous decade (2000-2014) and was insufficient to have a significant effect on poverty reduction.

Moreover, due to multiple factors, including structural inequality, economic growth reduces poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa less than in other regions.

Sub-Saharan Africa's public debt-to-GDP ratio was forecast to fall from 61 per cent in 2023 to 57 per cent this year, but more than half of countries are still in or at high risk of debt distress, the report stated. While increased private consump-

PDP leaders across the state, and traditional leaders from Akoko-Edo, amongSpeaking,others.Obaseki, said the choice of Godwins would provide the needed impetus to rally round all interests and persuasions within the state to work more closely together in realising the vision for a viable, strong and prosperous state that would be the envy of all.

“At 38 years old, the new deputy governor is a symbol of our undying belief in the power of our youth to transform our dear State, bringing vigour and renewed energy to the drive to place young people at the centre of our politics and developmental agenda. He is a man for this season.

“It is with profound respect and humility that I address you this morn- ing on this auspicious occasion of the swearing-in of Omobayo Marvellous as our new deputy governor, who will be working with me in these last few months of my administration as we make progress on our promise to finish strong for the benefit of our dear people.

“We have run a very interesting and eventful tenure since we took office in 2016 and gained your trust to continue on our mandate for another term in 2020, and at no point in this journey did I envisage that I will be having to work with two deputy governors before the end of my eight-year run in office. But as the Bible says in Proverb 16: 9: ‘You may make your plans, but it is God that directs your actions.’

“The legislative arm of government, in the past few weeks, carried out their constitutional role, providing checks and balances in our democracy, and today, we have arrived at this difficult but inevitable juncture.

“As there cannot be a vacuum in government, we have by consensus selected Omobayo Marvellous to take over the baton as the new deputy governor of our dear State.

“A thorough-bred young profes- sional, his choice will provide the needed impetus to rally round all interests and persuasions within the State to work more closely together in realising our vision for a viable, strong and prosperous State that will be the envy of all.”

In his response, the new deputy

that going forward, output growth has to outstrip population growth.

According to him, as of December 2023, GDP growth was only marginally higher than population growth by less than 20 basis points (bps), depicting several years of sub-optimal growth and productivity.

Edun noted that to successfully pursue meaningful growth, the country would need to focus on three core areas to grow the economy by at least 3.5 per cent in 2024.

These include increasing oil production to 2 million barrels per day (mbpd) (including condensate), ensuring that agriculture sector growth hits 3 per cent as opposed to 2.1 per cent in 2023, and boost trade activities to support a positive current account.

He observed that to guarantee fiscal consolidation, increasing revenues is a critical driver for growth Edun said: "We have set

tion and declining inflation are supporting an economic rebound in Sub-Saharan Africa, however, the report observed that the recovery remains fragile due to uncertain global economic conditions, growing debt service obligations, frequent natural disasters, escalating conflict and violence.

It called for transformative policies to address deep-rooted inequality to sustain long-term growth and effectively reduce poverty.

The report further explained that external resources to meet gross financing needs of African governments are shrinking and those available are costlier than they were prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Political instability and geopolitical tensions weigh on economic activity and may constrain access to food for an estimated 105 million people at risk of food insecurity due to

governor thanked the governor for the opportunity to serve, pledging to work assiduously with the governor to finish well and strong.

Describing Obaseki as a youth- friendly governor, Omobayo said, “This appointment shows the governor seems to understand Akoko-Edo very well and the complexity there in.

“I thank the governor for today is a day of the Lord. If I am to draw the face of the Lord right now with a pen and drawing sheet, I will draw the face of Godwin Obaseki.

“I am not the best youth to come out from Edo State, this could only have been God. I understand my job description which is to actually complement the work of the governor. We have a consummate administrator like Governor Obaseki.

“I have studied his developmental plan over the years very sincerely. I have also looked at the master plan of this administration and will surely support him to finish well. I admire his style of administration and am sure to build on the existing structure in the plan as an engineer.”

His Royal Highness, the Imah of Somorika, Oba Sule Idaiye, in his remarks, thanked the governor for this position, noting that the decision to appoint someone from Akoko Edo as Deputy Governor was historic.

“In the history of Edo State, you have broken the record again with the choice of a deputy governor from Akoko-Edo. We are all celebrating today. This is the biggest position ever for the area.

“You are a magician. As to how you arrived at the 38-year-old Omobayo Marvellous Godwins is surprising. The Deputy Governor is a machine, loved by the people, pleasing to our people. We thank you for what you have done for our people. We thank you for this great thing you have done for our people."

Shaibu: My Impeachment Illegal, Attack on Democracy

Impeached deputy governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has described his impeachment as illegal and a threat to the democracy.

In a reaction through a video shared on his X (Twitter) account, Shaibu rejected the impeachment.

out a robust execution plan for a 78% y-o-y increase in budgeted revenue in 2024 but implementing enhanced government’s revenue assurance model is critical. Target budget deficit of 3.9% of GDP from 6.1% in 2023."

The coordinating minister explained that safeguarding oil revenues, increasing revenue contribution of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), Government Owned Enterprises (GOEs); growing non-oil revenue and optimisation of government assets were part of the fiscal consolidation measures being pursued by the government.

The finance minister also alluded to multiple medium term initiatives to boost supply of ‘sticky’ foreign capital. These include presidential executive orders to boost the United States dollar liquidity, the presidential directives in the oil and

conflict and climate shocks, it added.

Noting that African governments’ fiscal positions remain vulnerable to global economic disruptions, necessitating policy actions to build buffers to prevent or cope with future shocks, it stressed that inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa remains one of the highest in the world, second only to the Latin America and Caribbean region, as measured by the region’s average Gini coefficient.

According to him, “It is with a heavy heart, yet a resolute spirit that I come before you to address the recent events that have unfolded within our dear state.

“I denounce, in the strongest terms, the illegal impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly over trumped-up charges. This is not just an attack on me as an individual, but on the very democratic principles that we hold dear.

“It’s a dangerous descent into dictatorship, a threat to the foundation of our democracy.

“Let it be clear that this impeachment was hatched because of my ambition to contest the Edo governorship election 2024 under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,” he stated.

CRPP: Edo Didn’t Bargain for This

The Conference of Registered Political Parties (CRPP), Edo State chapter, has expressed disappointment in the impeachment of Shaibu, noting that the development was not what Edo people bargained for. The CRPP laid Shaibu's ordeal on the door step of the state Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, for setting up the panel investigating the alleged perjury and breach of public trust levelled against the impeached deputy governor, adding that the haste at which the exercise was carried out showed bias.

Chairman of the group, Dr. Samson Faluyi, in a statement in Benin City, Edo State, noted that, "This is not what the Edo indigenes bargained for. The impeachment of the deputy governor is illegal and should not be allowed to stay.

"I blame the Chief Judge for this illegal impeachment. The process only lasted for three days, which showed that they had their mind made up on what to do. Imagine, the charade that was carried out in few days.” When asked if Shaibu shot himself in the foot by not appearing at the panel, Isibor said, "If he appeared at the panel that showed he agreed with what they are doing, moreso, when the court has told the parties involved to come and show cause why Shaibu quest to halt his impeachment should not be granted."

gas sector, repatriation of foreign denominated assets into the formal financial sector, and local issuance of foreign-denominated Federal Government Bonds.

According to him, the measures expected to be implemented in early second quarter of 2024 include oil and gas companies tax incentives, exemptions and remissions, among others; local content compliance for value as well as reduction of petroleum sector contracting costs and timelines.

Noting that generating trade surpluses consistently will be accretive to growth, the minister states that Current Account Balance turned positive last year as exports improved, albeit marginally. He pointed to plans to position the economy for strong regional trade through harmonised trade policies, enhanced financial systems and payments integration.

World Bank President, Ajay Banga

‘Government Should Consider the Imperilled Economic Condition of the South East’

‘GovernmentShouldConsider the Imperilled Economic Condition of the South East’

Quotable

We are determined to ensure that education is given the proper attention necessary for the country, including skills development programmes. This is to ensure that no one, no matter how poor their background is, is excluded from quality education and the opportunity to build their future.’ - Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

columnIsts

PROF

MIKE OZEKHOME, CON, SAN, FCIArb, PH.D. LLD Constitutional Democracy, means a system of government, in which political and governmental power, is defined, limited and shared by a grundnorm called the Constitution, which provides inbuilt checks and balances. This column seeks to fiercely discuss constitutional, legal and political issues, with a view to strengthening, deepening and widening the plenitude and amplitude of democracy and good governance, without fear or favour.

The writer of this column, Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN, is a Constitutional Lawyer, Human Rights Activist, Pro-Democracy Campaigner, Notary Public and Motivational Speaker. He co-founded the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Nigeria’s pioneer human rights league, on October 15, 1987, the Universal defenders of Democracy (UDD), in 1992, and with Chief Gani Fawehinmi and others in 1998, the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), to push out the military. In his early days, he lectured at the University of Ife. Prof Ozekhome is an author of many books. He is also a Special Counsel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), at The Hague.

Standard of Proof of Complaint of NonCompliance with the Electoral Act

Malabu Oil Case: Team of SANs Rise in Defence of Olanipekun

NBA-SBL Announces 2024 Conference Date, Unveils Conference Planning Sub-Committees

V Arraignment of Binance, Officials, Delayed

FOLAKUNMI PINHEIRO

Folakunmi Pinheiro obtained his LLB degree from the University of Hull, UK in 2017, and an LLM from the University College, London in 2019.

He is a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Cambridge, and an Exchange Student at the Harvard Law School (Fall 2023). His research focuses on the relationship between Competition Law and Economic Development, in African countries. He worked at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, and Olaniwun Ajayi LP.

lawyer

KFC, the Physically Challenged and Hollow Laws

Background

On 9/4/2018, I wrote a piece titled “The Pains of Disability in Nigeria”. I recounted the experience I had when I broke my ankle in December 2015, my leg was put in Plaster of Paris for a few months, and I hobbled around on crutches. In short, I was temporarily disabled for those months, and I described that time period as hell, because I discovered that contrary to Section 42(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended in 2023) (the Constitution) and now, Section 1(1) of the Discrimination Against Persons With Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 (DAPWDA), Physically Challenged Persons (PCPs) in Nigeria are discriminated upon in some ways, at least in terms of facilities available to them.

Discrimination and the DAPWDA

For one, many public places across the country, simply do not have facilities that cater for PCPs, particularly those who do not have use of their legs (and the blind). There are many buildings without elevators or functioning elevators, no ramps and no way for a wheelchair-bound person to access the upper floors. I have never seen someone in a wheelchair, inside a banking hall in Nigeria. The small bulletproof entrance to the banks, cannot even contain a wheelchair, so unless there’s an alternative access for wheelchairs, a wheelchair-bound person would be unable to enter the Bank. Even the building where I worked that is equipped with two elevators, one was permanently out of order with no attempt by the Bank that owns the building to replace it. And, when the second elevator was faulty, it made it impossible to access the office when I was on crutches. Even the Banking Hall in that building is located on the first floor, two flights up, and I heard recently that the second elevator has been out of order for the last few months, which means that any individual who does not have use of their legs and banks with that Branch or works in the building, can neither access the Banking Hall nor their offices, because all the offices are situated on the upper floors!

I ended my aforementioned piece, by saying that it probably wouldn’t be my last word on the topic of disability in Nigeria, as that particular intervention may have just been an introduction to the topic, because there was still plenty to say about this issue. Alas! Almost six years to the day, I am constrained to revisit this issue, as a result of the disgusting treatment that was meted out to Mr Debola Daniel who is wheelchair-bound, at KFC at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport, Lagos. It was all over the news that Mr Daniel was denied access to that KFC because he is in a wheelchair, even though Section 3 of the DAPWDA guarantees people with physical disabilities, the right to access the physical environment and buildings on an equal basis with others (also see Section 9 of the DAPWDA) and Section 21-24 and the Lagos State Special People’s Law 2010 generally (LSSPL). The right to freedom of movement for all people, at least into the physical environment and public buildings guaranteed by Section 41(1) of the Constitution, cannot be derogated from based on the fact that an establishment decides to violate the law by making its premises inaccessible to a PCP, either because its premises hasn’t been constructed or modified to allow them access, or because they are barred from entry for no just reason. Section 34(1)(a)of the Constitution guarantees every individual’s right to respect for the dignity of their person, and prohibits the subjection of persons to degrading treatment, like Mr Daniel was subjected to. See the case of Ezeigbo & Anor v ASCO Investment Ltd & Anor (2022) LPELR-56864(SC) per Mohammed Lawal Garba, JSC; Okonkwo v Ezeonu & Ors (2017) LPELR-42785(CA) per Joseph Tine Tur, JCA.

It is shameful that those unkind and untrained people who denied Mr Daniel access to KFC, people with such low mentality, are employed to work at a place like the international airport. Not that I mean that it is acceptable for this type of discriminatory behaviour to be displayed only amongst us Nigerians, no, far from it; but, because I cannot but mention the fact

onikepo braithwaite

onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com

onikepob@yahoo.com

The Advocate

“In terms of employment, what opportunities do PCPs in Nigeria have?…. how many public and private institutions cater for PCPs?….In 2022, according to the World Bank, in Nigeria, out of 18 million working-age PCPs, only a meagre 0.3%, that is, 54,000, were gainfully employed…. It is imperative that society be geared towards making PCPs independent, and able to go about their normal routines with dignity”

that lasting impressions of a country are created at the airport, which is the first and last point of contact of a person who travels by air to visit a foreign country. Such news could find a way to travel fast, that those with physical challenges are not well treated in Nigeria. However, that would be a false impression about Nigeria, just because of the actions of a few cruel ignorami, though I do believe that Government still has a lot to do in the area of better inclusion of PCPs into society. Even though the DAPWDA is a step in the right direction, everything must be done to ensure that it is fully implemented, if not, it will be nothing but a useless piece of legislation.

By virtue of Section 1(2) of the DAPWDA, discrimination against a PCP is a criminal offence, which upon conviction attracts a N1 million fine for a corporate body, and a N100,000 fine or six months imprisonment or both, in the case of an individual. I hope the appropriate punishment, will be meted out to this KFC Branch and its staff. It seems that just as there has been that regular advert on television, to advocate against tribalism - the one about the Landlord who decides to deny a prospective Tenant accommodation in his house even though she’s responsible and gainfully employed, simply because she hails from a place called Akamata and he hates the people from there, where according to him, they are known for only “bad, bad

things” - tribalism and discrimination of the highest order! Similarly, there should be an advert crusade, educating Nigerians about the evils of discriminating against PCPs.

Existing and New Structures

Despite Sections 4 & 6 of the DAPWDA which provide inter alia that, new structures must be equipped with elevators (where necessary) and other accessibility aids for the physically challenged, and a five year transitory period from the commencement of this law mandated for existing structures to be modified accordingly, we see that such modifications may not have been carried out in many buildings.

I have used the Bank Building where I worked previously, as an example of how laws in Nigeria are observed in their breach, and there are no consequences for doing same. The commencement date of the DAPWDA is 17/1/2019, which means that the five-year transitory period given by this law for the modification of existing structures to accommodate PCPs has expired, and the Bank Building for one, has not been modified. If the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities (NCPD) was performing its functions as stated in Section 38 of DAPWDA, particularly Section 38(g) concerning modifications of existing structures, and for Lagosians, the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) was more up and doing, such

a Bank Building would not be able to get away with not carrying out the requisite modifications and denying the physically challenged access, because of its failure to provide a functioning elevator in the building. Of course, there are no ramps for wheelchairs there either.

Begging for Alms

Though Section 16 of the DAPWDA prohibits the involvement of PCPs in begging for alms, and Section 16(2) thereof prescribes a fine of N100,000 or six months imprisonment or both upon conviction for committing this offence, yet, the roads are filled with beggars, both abled and physically challenged. In Lagos, the junctions of Adeola Odeku and Adetokunbo Ademola Street in Victoria Island, are popular begging spots.

Employment

In terms of employment, what opportunities do PCPs in Nigeria have? For example, in October to December 2023, in the UK, there were 5.53 million working-age PCPs in employment (54.2%). Though Section 28(1) of the DAPWDA guarantees PCPs the right to work on an equal basis with others, while Section 38(d) thereof mandates the NCPD to make available not less than 5% of the work force to qualified PCPs, this hasn’t happened. In 2022, according to the World Bank, in Nigeria, out of 18 million working-age PCPs, only a meagre 0.3%, that is, 54,000, were gainfully employed; this is way below 900,000, that is, 5% of 18 million working-age PCPs, let alone 5% of the whole workforce! Meanwhile, as of 2017, the participation of PCPs in the labour force in Rwanda for instance, was 56%. Nigeria needs to do more. How many PCPs do the Banks, Government Agencies, Multinationals and even Private Companies employ?

Education

Despite the Educational Objectives contained in Section 18 of the Constitution and the provision of Section 17(1) of the DAPWDA that entitles PCPs to unfettered access to education, how many public and private institutions cater for PCPs? There appears to be just a few schools spread across about some, not all of the Nigerian States, which cater for PCPs like the blind. Does that mean that a child who is blind and resides in Jigawa State, must relocate to Kano to attend either of the two schools for the blind there? Or those in Oshogbo must go to Ibadan, Ogbomosho or Ikirun for their education?

Though blind students attend several Nigerian Universities, for instance, 126 blind students were said to have been admitted into 40 Nigerian tertiary institutions in 2020, University of Lagos that admits about 9,000 students yearly, only admitted 11 blind students in 2020. My point? There are just a handful of visually challenged students, compared to students without physical challenges. Section 17(2) of the DAPWDA only guarantees free education up to secondary school level for a PCP. Again, this is discriminatory against PCPs and somewhat inconsistent with Section 18(1)(c) of the Constitution, which mandates that Government must strive to provide free university education.

Some years ago, I heard of a wheelchair-bound University student who had to be physically carried to the classroom because it was located on an upper floor. This is degrading, and should not be so. Either the school should have taken cognisance of him and ensured that the classroom was located on the ground floor for easy access, or an elevator or ramp should have been put in place for students like himself.

Conclusion

Are Nigerian laws simply enacted to decorate our statute books and show that we are up-todate in lawmaking, but not to be implemented in our daily lives? So many laws, too numerous to mention, are generally observed in their breach. The DAPWDA is just one example. It is imperative that society be geared towards making PCPs independent, and able to go about their normal routines with dignity. No one created themselves, and it is wrong for society or Government to deny those who are physically challenged their fundamental rights. See the case of Okafor v Ntoka (2017) LPELR-42794(CA) per Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju, JCA (now JSC) on the importance of fundamental rights.

Mr debola daniel

Standard of Proof of Complaint of NonCompliance with the Electoral Act

Facts The 3rd Respondent as the candidate of the 2nd Respondent, together with the 1st Appellants and other candidates, contested the Gombe State Gubernatorial election conducted by the 1st Respondent on 18th March, 2023. At the conclusion of the election, the 3rd Respondent was declared the winner having scored 342,821 of the votes cast as against 233,131 votes scored by the 1st Appellant. He was returned by the 1st Respondent as the Governor-elect of Gombe State. Dissatisfied with the outcome of the election, the Appellants filed a petition before the Governorship Election Tribunal sitting in Gombe State. The Tribunal found no merit in the petition and consequently, dismissed the petition.

Aggrieved, the Appellants appealed to the Court of Appeal which dismissed the appeal and upheld the decision of the trial Tribunal. Consequently, the Appellants filed a further appeal at the Supreme Court.

Issues for Determination

In determining the appeal, the Court considered the issues for determination raised by the 1st Appellant as follows:

(i) Whether the court below rightly held that the Appellants’ petition was a pre-election matter, amounted to an abuse of court process and liable to be struck out?

(ii) Whether the court below was right when it endorsed the finding of the Tribunal that paragraphs 33-35, 39-41, 46-45 and 72-113 of the Appellants’ reply to the 2nd Respondent’s reply and paragraphs 33, 34, 39-41, 46-114 of the Appellants’ reply to the 3rd Respondent’s reply to the Petition contravened paragraph 16(1) of the First Schedule to the Electoral Act, 2022, rendering them liable to be struck out.

(iii) Whether the court below was right when it upheld the finding of the Tribunal that the Appellants’ documents at the trial were dumped without identification relating to specific areas and demonstration, thus, rendering them worthless and of no probative value.

(iv) Whether the court below rightly agreed with the Tribunal that the Appellants did not prove their case, to be entitled to the reliefs sought in the petition.

Arguments

Arguing the 1st issue, Counsel for the Appellants argued that by Section 29(5) and 29(6) of the Electoral Act, qualification/disqualification to contest are both pre- and post-election matters, and that the word “court” in Section 29(6) of the Act should be read to mean election petition. He submitted that Ground A of the petition which challenged the qualification of the 3rd Respondent to contest for the office of Governor of Gombe State on the basis that he presented a forged certificate to the 1st Respondent, does not fall within the definition of pre-election matters in Section 285(14) (a) of the Constitution. On the finding that the petition was an abuse of court processes, Counsel submitted that the suits that commenced at the Federal High Court and terminated at the Supreme Court challenging the qualification of the 3rd Respondent, which the Court held that the petition was abusive of, were never determined on the merit.

He argued further that the lower court was wrong when it held that, there was no pleading to the effect that a false certificate was presented. He contended that the allegation that the 3rd Respondent provided false information in his INEC Form EC9 in respect of his work history, is tantamount to the presentation of a forged certificate.

In response, Counsel for the 1st Respondent submitted that the Apex Court has held consistently that matters relating to the correctness of information given in Form EC9, is a pre-election matter. He relied on Section 29(5) & (6) of the Electoral Act, 2022.

On the issue of abuse of court process, Counsel for the 2nd Respondent argued that having litigated the issue of disqualification as a pre-election issue before the Federal High Court up to the Supreme Court, the Appellants cannot approbate and reprobate, particularly as the appeal before the Supreme Court was still pending at the time the petition was filed. Counsel for the 3rd Respondent, made similar arguments.

On the 2nd issue, Counsel for the Appellants argued that contrary to the concurrent findings of the courts below, the affected paragraphs of the Appellants’ replies to 2nd and 3rd Respondent’s replies did not contravene paragraph 16 of the First Schedule to the Electoral Act, as the 2nd and 3rd Respondent had in their replies, introduced new facts.

Counsel for the respective Respondents submitted

Honourable Kudirat Motonmori olatokunbo Kekere-ekun, JSC

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at abuja On Friday, the 19th day of January, 2024

Before their lordships

Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-ekun

uwani Musa abba aji

Mohammed Lawal Garba

Ibrahim Mohammed Musa Saulawa

Tijjani abubakar Justices, Supreme Court SC/CV/1226/2023

Between

1. JIBRIN MuHaMMad BaRde aPPeLLaNTS

2. PeOPLeS deMOCRaTIC PaRTy (PdP)

And

1. INdePeNdeNT NaTIONaL eLeCTORaL ReSPONdeNTS COMMISSION (INeC)

2. aLL PROGReSSIVeS CONGReSS (aPC)

3. yaHaya MOHaMMed INuWa

(Lead Judgement delivered by Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, JSC)

similarly, that the finding of the lower court on the issue cannot be faulted.

On the 3rd issue, Counsel for the Appellants contended that the documents tendered and relied upon at the trial by the Appellants, were duly demonstrated and linked to specific aspects of their case. He submitted that since documents cannot be varied by oral evidence, the Tribunal ought to have examined and relied on them.

On the 4th issue, Counsel for the Appellants argued that the Tribunal failed in its duty to examine the documents tendered. He argued on the issue of non-compliance that, the testimony of the Appellants’ witness and the documentary evidence tendered, established the election was invalid by reason of non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.

Responding, Counsel for the 1st Respondent observed that notwithstanding the fact that the Tribunal expunged the evidence of PW2 along with Exhibit P35, it still bent over backwards

“….. it is not enough for the Petitioner to prove the alleged non-compliance; the Petitioner must go further to prove that the alleged non-compliance substantially affected the outcome of the election in line with Section 135(1) of the Electoral Act….”

and gave consideration to PW2’s evidence as it touched on Ground B and C of the petition. He submitted that not only did the Appellants dump documents on the Tribunal without linking them to specific aspects of their case, no ballot boxes were tendered to prove ballot box stuffing and multiple thumb printing as alleged, and the Appellants failed to tender any BVAS machine to prove their allegation of over-voting. He contended that aside from the presumption of the correctness of the result, the onus was on the Appellants, who sought declaratory reliefs to rebut the presumption, and not on the 1st Respondent to plead or prove what is statutorily presumed in its favour.

The submissions of Counsel for the 3rd Respondent, were basically in tandem with the arguments of the 1st and 2nd Respondent.

Court’s Judgement and Rationale

In determining the 1st issue, the Apex Court reproduced the provision of Section 29(5) and (6) of the Electoral Act, 2020 and held that clearly, Section 29 of the Electoral Act relates to pre-election matters concerning primary election of political parties. The Court held further that the word “court” used in sub-section (6) cannot be interpreted to mean Tribunal, as argued on behalf of the Appellants, as sub-section (5) clearly states that the suit shall be filed at the Federal High Court. The Court referred to its decision in APM v INEC (2022) 13 NWLR (PT. 1846) 159 @ 181 -182, that

disqualification of a candidate on grounds of false information contained in his CF001 or EC9 is a pre-election matter. The Court held that an alleged false statement as to the candidate’s work history does not fall within Section 182(1)(j) of the Constitution to warrant the disqualification of a candidate on that ground. The Supreme Court also held that the same issue raised in Ground A of the petition had in fact, been pursued from the Federal High Court to the Supreme Court as a pre-election matter, hence, the Court of Appeal was right when it held that the Appellants’ Ground A was a pre-election matter in which the Tribunal lacked jurisdiction, also that it constitutes an abuse of court process, having regard to the fact that the complaint therein was already subject of pending litigation in a pre-election matter before the Supreme Court.

On the 2nd issue, the Supreme Court, reiterated its decision in OGBORU v OKOWA (2016) 11 NWLR (PT. 1522) 84 @ 113 – 114G, that Petitioners are not entitled to set up in their reply to the Respondents’ replies to their petition, either a new cause of action, ground or new facts outside or inconsistent with their petition, and where their reply departs from their petition, the Tribunal will be justified on an application to strike out their reply in which the defect has occurred. The Court held that after taking a careful look at the affected paragraphs in the Appellants’ replies, it was in agreement with the concurrent findings of the two lower courts that the said averments sought to introduce new facts and evidence whereas there were no new issues raised in the pleadings of the 2nd and 3rd Respondents.

In its joint resolution of the 3rd and 4th issues, the Apex Court held that by virtue of Sections 131 and 132 of the Evidence Act, the burden of proof in an election petition where declaratory reliefs are sought, lies on the Petitioner, as he is the party who would fail if no evidence is produced on either side. The Court held that it is not enough for the Petitioner to prove the alleged non-compliance; the Petitioner must go further to prove that the alleged non-compliance substantially affected the outcome of the election in line with Section 135(1) of the Electoral Act, and this evidence is crucial in view of the legal presumption of correctness in favour of election results. Reference was made to the Court’s earlier decision in ATIKU & ANOR v INEC SC/CV/935/2023 delivered on 26/10/2023.

The Court held that although Section 137 of the Electoral Act provides that it shall not be necessary for a party who alleges non-compliance with the Electoral Act in the conduct of an election to call oral evidence where originals or certified true copies manifestly disclose the non-compliance, this does not preclude a Petitioner of the need to adduce oral evidence to prove non-compliance where the non-compliance complained of is not manifest on the face of the documents tendered. The Court held that the documents required to prove over-voting are (1) the voters register; (ii) the Bimodial Voter Accreditation System (BVAS); and (iii) Form EC8As and failure to tender of these documents is fatal to the petition.

On the whole, the Supreme Court found that the documents tendered by the Appellants to prove that polling unit results (Form EC8A) were not signed, stamped or dated in respect of 347 polling units, were dumped on the Tribunal without the Appellants’ lone surviving witness (PW1) demonstrating how many of the Form EC8As were unsigned, unstamped or undated. Also, the Appellants failed to tender the BVAS to show how many of the registered voters were accredited to vote, and prove their allegation of over-voting. The Court also held that the Appellants failed to prove their allegations of multiple thumb printing and ballot box stuffing, which are allegations of crime, beyond reasonable doubt. Relying on Anyanwu v PDP (2020) 3 NWLR (Pt. 1710) 170 B-C, the Apex Court held that the lone testimony of PW1 and the documents dumped on the Tribunal, were inadequate to discharge the burden of proof on the Appellants.

Appeal Dismissed.

Representation

Ahmed Raji, SAN with others for the Appellants. &. Omotayo Olatubosun with others for the 1st Respondent.

Adebayo Badmus with others for the 2nd Respondent.

Dr Muiz Banire, SAN with others for the 3rd Respondent.

Reported by

Malabu Oil Case: Team of SANs Rise in Defence of Olanipekun

Stories by Steve Aya

A formidable team of Senior Advocates of Nigeria have risen in defence of Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN alleging that he has been maligned by an online medium, The People’s Gazette.

In the publication, the SANs alleged that the magazine targeted Chief Olanipekun, disparaging “the name and person of our esteemed leader, Chief Wole Olanipekun, OFR, CFR, SAN in respect of Charge No.: FCT/1-1C/CR/151/2020 FRN v MOHAMMED ADOKE, SAN & 6 ORS wherein he led four other Senior Advocates of Nigeria for the 2nd Defendant - (Alhaji Abubakar A. Aliyu)”.

The SANs further said in the statement that “A well-considered ruling of 77 pages on the No Case Submission, made by each of the Defendants, was delivered by the learned trial Judge, Kutigi J on 28th March, 2024, after which the learned trial Judge discharged all the Defendants on the respective counts filed against them.

“Be it noted by the general public that contrary to the very vexatious publication by the Peoples Gazette, the erudite ruling of the learned trial Judge was not based on any concession purportedly made by the Prosecution to the No Case Submission of any of the parties, rather, it was rooted in the substance and quality of evidence produced by the Prosecution, which was elaborately and painstakingly analysed by the Honourable Judge.

“In the said wicked publication,

based on uninformed and dubious sources, heinous allegations were made against the person of Chief Wole Olanipekun, OFR, CFR, SAN a Doyen of the Nigerian Bar. Ordinarily, we wouldn't have bothered to respond to this handiwork of mischief makers, however, for the sake of the innocent public that have been fed with this toxic falsehood, we need to put the record straight.

“Contrary to the content of the dubious and criminal publication that Chief Wole Olanipekun, OFR, CFR, SAN and Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN attempted to compromise Offem Uket, Esq., the Prosecutor in the matter, the point must be made that Chief Wole Olanipekun, OFR, CFR, SAN did not represent Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN in this case, as he (Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN) was represented by a team of six Senior Advocates, led by the respected Chief Kanu Agabi, CON, SAN, a former AttorneyGeneral and Minister of Justice. Each of the other Defendants was equally represented by seasoned Senior Advocates of Nigeria and experienced Legal Practitioners. Three of the Defendants are multi-national companies, For the avoidance of any doubt, the Defendants in the charge arc: Mohammad Bello Adoke, Aliyu Abubakar, Rasky Gbinigie, Malabo Oil and Gas Limited, Nigeria Agip Exploration Limited, Shell Nigeria Ultra Deep Limited, and Shell Nigeria Exploration Production Company Limited. The trial lasted for four years, in the course of which the Prosecution sought adjournments eight times.

Arraignment of Binance, Officials, Delayed

The planned arraignment of Binance Holdings Limited, along with two of its officials, Tigran Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla, before a Federal High Court in Abuja was delayed due to certain reasons.

Binance, Gambaryan, and Anjarwalla were to be arraigned on two separate charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

As for the charge filed by the EFCC, the arraignment was delayed because

Gambaryan’s Lawyer, Mark Mordi, SAN, objected to the mode of service of the charge on Binance.

The court has adjourned till April 8, to rule on the objection raised by Mordi. Regarding the charge filed by the FIRS, the arraignment was delayed because Gambaryan was served with the charge in the courtroom, which was too late.

He needed time to consult with his Lawyer, on how to plead to the charge. Therefore, the court adjourned the arraignment to April 19, to give Gambaryan appropriate time.

“That out of the 40 counts filed against all the Defendants, only one count related to our client, and which said count, with all sense of modesty was weak and bound to fail, for diverse reasons. Out of the ten witnesses who testified for the Prosecution, nine of them stated in clear terms that they did not know our client.” The statement also said: “Thus, we did not bother to cross-examine them. The Investigating Police Officer who only referred to our client, confirmed under cross-examination that the N300 million was given by our client (the 2nd Defendant) to Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN as a refund of the purchase price for a failed property transaction, and not bribe.

“The malicious publication is meant to malign our Leader in this case, a Leader, who, by the grace of God Almighty, is also a foremost Leader of the Nigerian Bar. We cannot fold our hands and watch any person or group pull down the name that our Leader has built over the years, through hard work, self-discipline and the fear of God.

“We are not unaware that envy and malice are part of the driving and ulterior forces propelling and motivating the wicked authors of this publication, to descend this dirty and low. We are also not unmindful of the fact that, in the course of rendering his professional duties and services to his clients, our Leader, just like any other leading Lawyer of his

pedigree, has stepped on the toes of some powerful people, who are always looking out to seek revenge.

“Without prejudice to any other action or step which our Leader may deem fit to take in the circumstances, we hereby call on the Nigeria Police Force to investigate this sordid and criminal publication, make their findings public, and apply the full force of the law accordingly. This is imperative in the interest of all concerned, and the Nigerian public. From the summary of the case presented herein, it is clear that neither the lazy authors of the odious publication nor their sponsors cared to either source or investigate the truth of the matter, or read the well-

considered ruling of the Court, but were only interested in maligning the character and reputation of the learned Silk. They mischievously brought his name to their publication, so that it could attract attention and for clout chasing,

“For the purpose of clarity, the legal team of our client (2nd Defendant) comprised: Chief Wole Olanipekun, OFR, CFR, SAN; Chief Akinlolu Olujinmi, CON, SAN; Chief Ifcdayo A. Adedipe, SAN; Dr J.Y. Musa, SAN and Olalekan Ojo, SAN. These tested Senior Advocates led several members of the Outer Bar for the 2nd Defendant”, said the statement signed by Dr J.Y. Musa, SAN and Olalekan Ojo, SAN.

NBA-SBL Announces 2024 Conference Date, Unveils Conference Planning Sub-Committees

The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) has announced the dates for this year’s edition of its annual International Business Law Conference. Themed “Survive and Thrive”, the 2024 edition of the International Business Law Conference will hold from Wednesday June 26 to Friday, June 28 at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

This year’s edition, which marks the 18th in the annals of the Annual International Business Law Conference,

aims to stimulate discussions on innovative strategies for navigating the challenges posed by a dynamic business environment. Attendees will also glean insights from experts in law and business, on how to scale the obstacles of an ever-evolving business and legal landscape.

According to Ose Okpeku, Chair of the 2024 Annual International Business Law Conference, “The theme for this year’s edition - Survive and Thrive - was carefully chosen because of the multi-faceted

challenges confronting the Nigerian economy, which span beyond the business and legal landscapes.

The NBA-SBL has also unveiled the Executive Committee and Sub-Committees, that will steer the affairs of this year’s International Business Law Conference.

The Executive Committee is chaired by Ose Okpeku with Isaiah Bozimo, SAN and Frances Eneh serving as Vice Chair and Secretary respectively. Chinemerem Ezenwa will serve as Assistant Secretary. The membership of the Fundraising, Technol-

ogy, Sponsorship Benefits, Media and Publicity, Logistics and Entertainment Sub-Committees and the Regulatory Clinic, was also announced.

Speaking on the introduction of the Conference SubCommittees, Ose Okpeku said: “We are pleased to unveil capable and exceptional individuals in the various Sub-Committees, and we are confident that they will deliver on what promises to be an exceptional Conference as we celebrate our 20th year anniversary.

Entries Invited from Young Lawyers for Legal Essay Contest

The recent bilateral trade agreement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom on legal services, has ignited a fierce debate notably amongst Nigerian Lawyers. While it purports to foster trade and investment through cross-border legal practice, concerns have nevertheless been raised about its potential impact on the Nigerian legal services industry.

This debate forms the subject of this Essay Competition, designed to critically analyse the import of the agreement and its potential consequences on law practice and legal services

in Nigeria.

Known as “The Nonso Azih Legal Essay Contest”, the competition will explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of the process, focusing on issues like access to justice, protection of Nigerian Lawyers, and the development of the domestic legal system.

In addition, participants in the competition whose first edition took place in 2017, are encouraged to consider alternative frameworks for fostering legal cooperation and suggest strategies for ensuring a balanced and mutually beneficial

partnership.

According to a press release made available to ThisDay, the competition is designed to develop legal and related research skills amongst young Lawyers and law students, as well as promote self-development towards enhanced law practice.

The 2024 edition is open to all young Nigerian Lawyers between 1-5 years post Call to Bar experience, and the deadline for submission is 30th April, while winners will be announced on 31st May, 2024.

The prize monies are

N250,000, N150,000, and N100,000 for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd positions, respectively.

The Judges for this edition are made up of accomplished and well-regarded legal practitioners as follows: Desmond Ogba – Partner, Templars; Chinenye Oragwu – Managing Partner, Calmhill Partners; Jamiu

Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN Chairman, NBA-SBL, Dr Adeoye Adefulu Binance Founder & Former CEO, Changpeng Zhao

COMPEDIA

A Cement Cartel?

Examining the recent agreement to set the price of cement

Recently, the main cement manufacturers in Nigeria (Dangote, BUA, and Lafarge) agreed with the Federal Government (Ministry of Works and Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment) to slash the price of cement to between N7,000 to N8,000 per bag. This came after the price soared to between N13,000 to N15,000 per bag. Despite this reduction, housing developers have argued that the price is unsustainable and, in the context of a housing crisis, we need much lower prices in order to build affordable housing.

Nigerian cement and complaints of high prices are like 5 and 6. In 2021, Nigerian cement prices were 240% higher than the global average. And, this is in spite of efforts by successive governments to subsidise, protect, and develop the sector, through restricting forex for cement imports, tax incentives, among other measures. Not to mention the fact that most of the raw materials for cement are available in Nigeria.

That being said, this is a Competition Law column, so, let us look at the legality of this arrangement from a competition law perspective, seeing as this seems to be a very straightforward agreement to fix the prices of bags of cement.

Price Fixing

Price fixing is when competitors agree to set the prices, for the goods or services they provide. In other words, substituting independent commercial decision making for coordinated decision making, often to the detriment of consumers. It is explicitly prohibited under Section 107 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 (FCCPA), and because it is one of the gravest antitrust offences, it could, under certain circumstances, lead to imprisonment of the directors of the companies involved. “People of the same trade seldom meet together, even for merriment and diversion, but the conversation ends in a conspiracy against the public, or in some contrivance to raise prices.” – Adam Smith,

The Wealth of Nations.

In 2022, when Nigerian airlines simultaneously increased their prices to a minimum rate of N50,000 for domestic flights, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) immediately opened a price fixing investigation. According to the FCCPC’s press release, the coordinated price increases came “after a series of meetings over a period of three weeks … [where] the attendees engaged in mutual discussions and exchange of their respective revenue management models or other commercially sensitive information”.

A classic example of conduct that warrants a price fixing investigation.

However, one might argue that the cement manufacturers should not be subject to a price fixing investigation because, by virtue of Section 106 of the FCCPA, a defence to anticompetitive conduct is that the conduct in question was ordered or required by a regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the relevant sector or industry. In this context, the fact that the Federal Government facilitated the agreement could, in theory, amount to a regulatory direction.

But, ‘kó lé werk’ (it cannot work) because there is no ‘regulator’ of the cement sector, as such. At least, not like how the communications sector is regulated by the Nigerian Communications Commission, or

how the insurance sector is regulated by the National Insurance Commission. If there was such an agency, and if that agency directed cement players to charge a set price, then this provision could exempt the arrangement from scrutiny.

Since that is not the case, it seems that a price fixing investigation should be conducted.

However, a price fixing investigation might still be avoided if we reframe this Federal Government intervention as price regulation, because Section 88 of the FCCPA gives powers to the President (and presumably, by extension through delegation, the Ministers) to control prices for the purpose of regulating and facilitating competition.

Already, we have a problem: it is not clear that the Federal Government justified this intervention in terms of ‘regulating or facilitating’ competition, and we also do not know whether this intervention is linked to a broader plan to improve the competitiveness of the cement sector.

Conditions for Price Regulation

Be that as it may, Section 88 includes a specific list of conditions that must be satisfied before prices can be regulated, namely (i) the goods or services will be supplied or acquired in a market that competition is limited or is likely to be lessened; (ii) it is necessary or desirable for the prices to be controlled in the interests of users, consumers, or suppliers; and (iii) the price regulation must be narrowly designed (in terms of the duration and the goods and services affected) in a way that is necessary to remedy the lack of competition.

Section 88 also provides that, before the President regulates prices, the FCCPC must submit a report on the state of competition in the relevant market. The

“…..competition intervention is more effective in the long-run than price regulation, because it can fix the broader structural issues in a market that produces sub-optimal prices”

report must provide recommendations on the desirability and likely effects of price regulation vis-à-vis other measures (although there is no requirement for this report to be published, whether in a Gazette or elsewhere, so we cannot say for sure whether this has actually happened). After the President makes an order, Section 89 allows the FCCPC to recommend that the order should be amended, varied, or revoked.

Importantly, the President retains the final say on price regulation. It is important to emphasise that price regulation is typically seen as a last resort, and rightly so, because governments generally struggle to make business decisions and could end up distorting the relevant market. Also, market forces of supply and demand are more effective than the government at setting prices because their ability to adapt, in real time, to changing market realities makes them better able to reflect the true value of goods and services (at least, in theory).

Competition

So, before resorting to price regulation, we must try other measures to reinstate market forces, and to do that, we must first think about why competition is not working in the first place and whether we can fix it.

Granted, there are only three main players in the cement market to serve a country of an estimated 200+ million people (maybe due to high costs of entry), so competition is naturally going to be limited. Still, it is obvious that competition need not be limited. Three players in a market can compete intensely, provided they are properly incentivised to do so through proper enforcement of Competition Law.

As such, when markets aren’t competitive, and they could be, we have to ask whether Competition Law is being properly enforced.

In Nigeria’s cement sector, this is a very pressing question; not just because of the high price of cement and the housing deficit and crisis, as noted above, but because the cement sector across the world is notorious for high prices caused by price fixing cartels. In fact, competition agencies in many other countries have found such cartels to exist in their cement sectors.

Saudi Arabia

For instance, in 2023, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Competition fined 14 cement manufacturers a total of $37 million for colluding to raise prices and divide the market. In 2022, China’s State Administration for Market Regulation issued a total of $65 million in fines on 13 cement companies for price fixing, and an additional $500,000 on the Shaanxi Cement Association for coordinating the cartel. In 2019, the United Kingdom’s Competition and Markets Authority fined 3 concrete companies a total of $45 million for price fixing and market sharing.

There are also examples from Taiwan ($7 million fine in 2023), and South Korea ($1 million fine in 2023), Zambia (amount undisclosed, but 10% turnover fine imposed in 2021), Colombia ($68 million fine in 2017), India ($800 million fine in 2016), and many other countries.

Together, these interventions deterred price fixing, prevented coordinated pricing, and ultimately lowered the price of cement in their respective countries. What we can learn from these interventions is that, competition intervention is more effective in the long-run than price regulation, because it can fix the broader structural issues in a market that produce sub-optimal prices. I suppose my real issue isn’t so much with the Federal Government’s decision to regulate prices – it seems that a plausible case could be made that the requirements of Section 88 have been satisfied (save for the FCCPC’s report, as noted above).

My issue is more with the way in which Section 88 has been drafted.

Conclusion

Ideally, price regulation should not be permitted, save for very exceptional circumstances, because competition intervention is almost always a better alternative, as we can see in Zambia. To reflect this, Section 88 should include language to the effect that competition intervention must first be attempted to remedy the sub-optimal prices and the lack of competition.

In addition, the President should not have the final say on whether prices should be regulated because he/she would likely use it to serve a political end. Rather, a team of economists and other technical experts within the FCCPC should be responsible for engaging with companies, customers, and suppliers to ascertain the appropriate price.

The Independence of the Judiciary in a Democratic Dispensation (Part 6)

Introduction

In last week’s episode, we reviewed the modalities for judicial appointments, the training and re-training of Judges, the importance of the rule of law generally, and in a democratic setting. In today’s installment we shall conclude our discussion of the role of the rule of law, and then we shall draw a perfect conclusion of this interesting treatise. Come with me.

The Role of the Rule of Law in a Democratic Setting (Continues)

In other words, a constitutional government is a government according to rules, that is, institutional government. It is an impersonal system of rules and office that effectively binds the conduct of individuals involved in them.

Contrary to our experience in Nigeria, government being impersonal should not have a temper. By way of contrast, government in a regime of personal rule is uncertain and problematic because it is largely contingent on men, upon their interests, ambitions, desires and aversion, their hopes and fears and all other predispositions that the political animal is capable of exhibiting and projecting upon his political life.

Whereas, in a constitutional democracy where there is a preeminence of the rule of law, where there is absolute “Supremacy” of the constitution, the government has no more powers than are granted to it, either expressly or impliedly, but the constitution, and any exercise by it of power not so granted or which is prohibited to it, is unconstitutional, null and void.

Conclusion

The Judiciary has an important role to play, in this democratic dispensation. But, we have seen from the foregoing that its independence (which is necessary for the effective discharge of the role) cannot be merely assumed, from the mere fact of existence of democratically elected government. All governments, be they military or civilian, seek to water down

the effectiveness of the Judiciary, one way or the other.

Democracy involves the institutionalisation of the rule of law, and guarantee of human rights. There must therefore, be a concerted effort to hold the balance between the traverses of power and instil the spirit of liberty, democracy and social justice in the people. This is where the judicial power conferred on the Judiciary by Section 6 of the Constitution, becomes very vital.

The Judiciary is the soothing balm in the face of frictions accessioned by new expeditions in balancing of power in a nascent

“No institution carries with it the responsibility for democracy’s survival, as does the Judiciary…. They should stop dancing, as if they are an appendage of the legislature or the executive. The Judiciary should act independently”

democracy like ours. The Supreme Court has demonstrated this important role in the manner it judicially resolved burning national issues, like the so-called ‘resource control’ suit, the Local Government Law conflict, the registration of political parties face off, the Anti-Corruption Act case, to name a few. The Judiciary, in a democracy, is a pacifist par excellence! The imperatives for an independent Judiciary are therefore, more urgent in this dispensation than at any other time. Justice must not just be done, but manifestly seen to be done. Nigerians must have implicit confidence, in the Judiciary. We have demonstrated that the viciousness of the judicial fangs, would depend on the level of its independence as perceived by the people. Commenting on the maxim, “de fide et officio non recipitur quaestio, sed de sicentia sirve error juris facti” (the honesty and integrity of a Judge cannot be questioned, but his decision may be impugned for error, either of law or fact), Ogham-Emeka

Counsels:

“The option before a person who perceives that an order was wrongly made against him, is to obey and expeditiously move to set it aside. But, there is so much the judiciary must do, if the people would not soon sneer at this time honoured principle and accuse Lawyers of merely dressing a long rotten apple with lousy Latin and grammatical saccharin. And, may the day never come!”

Accordingly, we all have the challenge to do all that is in our power to maintain the integrity of the court, which in turn, would uphold the hallowed principles of the rule of law. The importance of an independent Judiciary in a democracy, cannot be downplayed.

“No institution carries with it the responsibility for democracy’s survival, as does the Judiciary. In the inevitable confrontation between the State and citizens, between tiers of government and between all manners of political actors, it is the Judiciary that is the last hope for the resolution of disputes.”

It would be appropriate to end this paper by borrowing what would be a present challenge to the Judiciary, indeed a tasking of its independence in this democratic dispensation. We see the constitutional role of the Judiciary in this democratic dispensation as follows:

“To call both the legislature and the executive to order, when they are going wrong. They should stop dancing, as if they are an appendage of the legislature or the executive. The Judiciary should act independently. It should come down heavily on the side of justice, of the masses, of the Nigerian people.”

If we do not stand up for the independence of the Judiciary now, when do we do it? When there is no more government? Or when chaos and anarchy set in? Or when there is no more Nigeria? It is better now than never! (The End)

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK

“The Judiciary perpetuates a breath of State structure. If it fails to purify and justify itself; consequently, all of its systems, evince a collapse. Indeed, it embraces only the destruction.”

(Ehsan Sehgal)

“The bedrock of our democracy is the rule of law, and that means we have to have an independent Judiciary, Judges who can make decisions independent of the political winds that are blowing.”

(Caroline Kennedy)

Chief Justice of nigeria, Hon. Justice olukayode ariwoola

‘Government Should Consider the Imperilled Economic Condition of the South East’

The Nigerian Bar association (NBa) has over the years been vociferous, and played the role of the voice of the voiceless and defender of the people’s rights. But, in recent times, the association is somehow being perceived to be losing that role for which it was held in high esteem. In a chat with Onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi last weekend, Dr Monday Onyekachi Ubani, past Chairman of NBa Ikeja Branch, former 2nd Vice President of the NBa, and immediate past Chairman of the NBa Section on Public Interest and development Law, spoke his mind on sundry issues, including the ongoing face-off between the NBa President and the leadership of NBaSPIdeL. He also spoke on why he believes the release of the incarcerated IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, will bring the much needed peace and economic progress to South eastern Nigeria

The Nigerian Bar Association’s Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL), is currently embroiled in an embarrassing battle with the NBA President, who has gone ahead to suspend the leadership of the Section. You were Chairman of SPIDEL and are still a pillar of the Section, what really happened? What are the real issues? What efforts are afoot to resolve the imbroglio?

I have done my little investigation, and I came to an informed conclusion that the present crisis of confidence between the President of NBA, Mr Yakubu Maikyau, SAN and the leadership of NBASPIDEL, superintended by John Aikpokpo-Martins, occurred due to a communication gap. The President was of the firm opinion that the leadership of NBA-SPIDEL did not carry him along especially over the public interest cases they were handling, that gave public

“I have done my little investigation, and I came to an informed conclusion that the present crisis of confidence between the President of NBA, Mr Yakubu Maikyau, SAN and the leadership of NBA-SPIDEL, superintended by John Aikpokpo-Martins, occurred due to a communication gap”

impression that the entire leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association of which he is the head, was aware of and possibly gave approval.

On the part of the leadership of NBA-SPIDEL, they were of the strong opinion that over matters of public interest including litigation and remedy-seeking measures, they are strictly independent and do not need to obtain the approval of the leadership of the NBA before they embark on the pursuit of administrative or judicial remedies.

As each stuck to their views, clash was inevitable and the consequence is what everyone is now aware ofthe deployment of a sledge harmer by the President of the NBA, over the leadership of NBA-SPIDEL. Is peace elusive? The answer is an emphatic "no". What many persons do not know is that both the NBA Preseason and the Chairman of NBA-SPIDEL were classmates in Law School and have remained friends and colleagues thereafter. Nothing about the present crisis is personal, their official positions brought the present misunderstand-

ing. Both are willing and committed to the amicable resolution of the crisis.

As the immediate predecessor of Mr Aikpokpo-Martins, I owe a godly obligation to the two friends, NBASPIDEL and NBA generally, to intervene to resolve the lingering problem. Luckily for me, both gentlemen are humble, godly and heaven-conscious. I am used to teasing the President, Y.C Maikyau, SAN any time I see him, that he will make heaven. He will immediately remind me, that his candidacy of heaven is not in doubt (laughs). I believe that this matter will be resolved amicably, before the exit of Mr President sometime in August this year. Nothing is impossible with God, In’s ha Allah.

In a few weeks’ time, Nigerian Lawyers will go to polls to elect their national leaders. As a former Vice President of the NBA, what are your expectations from the elections? What kind of national officers would you like in the forthcoming process?

I regard the forthcoming election in NBA, as decisive. What do I mean by that? If we are sincere, there is ap-

Dr Monday Onyekachi Ubani

‘Government

Should Consider the Imperilled Economic Condition of the South East’

parent division lurking around NBA as one umbrella body of Lawyers in Nigeria. Part of the reason for the agitation by those who feel that one umbrella body like NBA cannot serve the needs of thousands of Lawyers in Nigeria, stems from previous elections that some aggrieved candidates felt were not free and fair. Whether they are right or wrong is another topic for another day, but suffice it to say that alleged electoral malpractices are part of the reasons some aggrieved members feel that NBA has failed to satisfy their needs and aspirations, hence, their agitation for another body that may address their quest for justice, equity and inclusiveness.

Therefore, everything must be done by the Election Management Team of the upcoming election, to ensure a transparent and fair electoral process that will not give room for those waiting in the wings to jump ship, and bid a final farewell to NBA.

My expectations of the new leadership of the Bar that will eventually emerge is very high, and hopefully, will not be misplaced. We need leadership that will be a strong voice for the Bar over matters of good governance, rule of law and protection of the members of the Bar against poverty in the profession, and against maltreatment by government institutions especially security agencies.

A strong, bold, wise and inclusivedriven leadership, is the desire of every average Lawyer concerning the incoming leadership. I am looking forward to reading communiques of NEC, where issues pertaining to the nation and the profession will be adequately addressed by them.

Thank God that Maikyau's leadership pursuit for Judges' welfare, is yielding positive results. Like Oliver Twist, we need a more aggressive drive for quicker administration of justice in Nigeria that is technology-driven with content of justice, to all parties who come to court seeking for judicial remedies.

A few years ago, some Lawyers. even Seniors, complained that the NBA was not performing the role of a Bar Association. Would you say the NBA is back on track?

If there is any professional body that Nigerians expect to speak on their behalf all the times, it is the Nigerian Bar Association. The NBA, the civil society groups, including civil and human rights groups and persons, went to sleep after the military was successfully driven back to the Barracks in 1999. Everyone felt complacent, after all, we have taken our common enemy out of the system, we erroneously thought. That sleep mode affected all the aforementioned groups and individuals, including the NBA. That sense of accomplishment may have affected NBA, no doubt.

Therefore, the critics of NBA meant well by saying that to whom much is given, much is expected. It is expected that NBA as a body, should take these criticisms as an elixir that will stir the giant to action. Nigerian Bar Associa-

tion is the only professional body in Nigeria naturally expected to hold Government accountable and give direction to good governance, obedience to rule of law and protection of fundamental rights of the citizens. ICAN, Chartered Secretaries, Nigerian Medical and Dental Association or Nigerian Society of Engineers etc cannot be expected to play these roles naturally expected of Lawyers in a developing country like Nigeria. Therefore, we should rise up from slumber and take up our natural role as the voice of the voiceless in Nigeria.

You are known more as a Human Rights Lawyer. How would you score the human rights record of President Tinubu’s administration so far? There seems to be an emerging developing negative trend, particularly in the Niger Delta these days, about three or four incidents where law enforcement agents - Soldiers and Police have been murdered, and in some cases, their corpses mutilated. What do you think may be responsible for this ugly trend? Obviously, the way these incidents are handled will also be a litmus test for this administration’s respect for the rule of law. How do you think this matter should be dealt with by the authorities?

My assessment of the present Government on human rights issues, will be objective and fair. The ability of the present Government

“The murdering of those security agents in Delta State is barbaric, crude and unacceptable, just as the alleged retaliatory acts by the security agents against innocent women, men, youths in the area are condemnable…There is no group or village culpability in law, except where conspiracy is well established”

to take corrections immediately any infraction is noticed or pointed out, stands out for me.

Two instances will suffice for now. The Government of President Tinubu removed the Vice Chairman of Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Mr Babatunde Irukera, without complying with the extant statutory provision that provides for Senate's approval before removal. Immediately that error was brought to the attention of the Government, there was no grandstanding or name calling. The error was immediately corrected.

The second instance of respect for rule of law by this administration, is the recent Police arrest of one young man popularly called VeryDarkMan in the social media space. The young man's account of his arrest and interrogation revealed a cordial and civilised encounter, despite the Complainants' quest for him to be maltreated.. His account is a departure from normal stories of intimidation, torture while in detention of the security agencies in Nigeria. His account was a refreshing breath of fresh air. He was also released timeously when civil society groups, human rights bodies and individuals raised alarm about his arrest and detention.

Arrest of any person alleged to have committed any crime is not an issue to me; what matters to me and for which I will always be compelled to pronounce judgement, is the procedures adopted by the security agencies during arrest, interrogation and the length of detention after arrest. I abhor detention without trial. Presumption of innocence inures in favour of any accused person in Nigeria, and that presumption should not be destroyed no matter how heinous the crime.

The murdering of those security agents in Delta State is barbaric, crude and unacceptable, just as the alleged retaliatory acts by the security agents against innocent women, men, youths in the area are condemnable.

The Government owes a responsibility to fish out the culprits using

advanced technology, and at the same time, ensure that innocent people of that region are not meant to pay supreme sacrifice for what they know nothing about. Any misplaced destruction of lives and properties in the area where the killing took place, will not portray the security agencies in good light. There is no group or village culpability in law, except where conspiracy is well established.

Blanket judgement, including mob action by the security forces, will not paint the Government in great light. The handling of the killings by the present Government will either raise their positive points on respect for human rights, or make it to nose dive. We counsel that the best approach that accords with best international practice, be employed in the whole matter.

After an epic legal battle with the EFCC over your 20-day detention in 2022, the court eventually declared that your detention to be illegal and a violation of your rights. This is in addition to an order to pay you an amount in compensation.

How has this case been settled?

Did EFCC comply with the court order?

The amount awarded to me by the court was N12 million, with a restraining order against future arrest in respect of that same matter. It was an unfortunate incident that my effort to help the agency establish the innocence or guilt of an accused person, was mismanaged by Magu-led EFCC. The God I truly serve, cleared my name, compensated me with the handsome sum of N12 million, and finally disgraced Magu out of service. It was a prayer point for me.

They are yet to pay the said sum, because they went on appeal which I consider as "a voyage of discovery". You need to see the grounds of appeal, very laughable; but, as you know, it is their constitutional right they are exercising. No matter how long they want to waste the precious time of the court by delighting on appeal, they will certainly pay that sum at the appointed time with the attendant interest awarded by the court. It is only a matter of time!

Dr Monday onyekachi Ubani

‘Government Should consider the Imperilled economic condition of the South east’

cont'd from page IX

But, by and large, the experience was a great learning curve for me. You know that experience is the best teacher. EFCC as a body, especially under the present leadership, remains an ally in fight against corruption at every level.

You recently threatened to sue the Federal Government over the ban of pòmò (cow hide) which has been identified as unhealthy and having no nutritional value. So, what informed your threat to sue?

My threat to sue the Federal Government of President Buhari if they had banned pòmò (cow hide) was not a joke, but real. I felt that pòmò is a delightful delicacy, both for the poor and rich in Nigeria. Everyone including my humble self delight in munching it it. Any stew without pòmò is incomplete, or regarded as "empty". Whether it has nutritional value or not, is very inconsequential to me and also to millions of Nigerians who consume it. What matters to those that enjoy it is the taste, having something to chew in the absence of meat and fish that are very costly and unaffordable. On a lighter note, a world without pòmò in stew and soup, will be very boring (laughs).

Therefore, the threat was real, and I would have gladly pursued the case up to Supreme Court as one of the ground- breaking public interest matters. The then government of President Buhari got the message, and advised themselves.

I believe that President Tinubu's Government that is pro-masses, will not nurse such an idea. My belief is that we should rear enough cows that will be meant for consumption, for the hide and skin industry and other uses. An attempt to dissuade Nigerians from its consumption without making meat and fish cheaper and providing alternatives, will be seen as wicked, unacceptable and shall be resisted by the people.

Nnamdi Kanu of IPOB has continued to be detained, despite his discharge by the Court of Appeal. You recently advised the Government to release him. Does it mean his alleged offences, which include treason and terrorism, don’t warrant his arrest, detention and prosecution? Some believe that, whether Nnamdi Kanu or the Insurgents/Terrorists, they should all be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, particularly as innocent lives have been lost as a result of their activities

After the Supreme Court's verdict on Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, I did modify my advocacy on him. Before the court judgement, I had requested that he should be released since the Court of Appeal exculpated him from every charge on his head. When the Supreme court hinged their position that our jurisprudence does not favour such acquittal based on wrong arrest and that he should be tried no matter how frivolous the charges are, I did change

my plea and they are two-fold. One of my strongest advocacies for him, is that Nnamdi should be granted bail by the court. Remember that the Supreme Court has affirmed the position of some of us, that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu never jumped bail on the first bail he got, but was pursued outside the country by the military while he was still on bail. The Supreme Court echoed that position loud and clear on the judgement of 15th of December, 2023. I was in court for a different matter ,when the judgement on that matter was delivered by Hon Justice Emmanuel Agim of the Supreme Court. Therefore, he deserves to be released on bail on this new case that is pending before Hon Justice Binta Nyako, right? That is my position.

My second advocacy is that if I am to advise the Government of President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, I will plead with him to take into consideration the economic condition of the South Eastern Region, which had been imperilled since the prosecution of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu began afresh. Sometimes in the region, a whole week can be declared as "sit at home" whenever it fancies the interest of those who are making the declarations. Several instances abound where lives, properties are wasted and insecurity created in the region, as a result of the ongoing criminal trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

The Government can take strategic consideration of these unfortunate happenings, including

“There is nothing wrong, with the Presidential system of government we are practising presently….. If we play by the rules, we will find out that every system is good, but the people that run it are the factors behind the failures we have experienced so far with the two systems”

a compassionate look into the health of Nnamdi Kanu, and advise that a nolle prosequi be entered terminating the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu and hand him over to the leaders of the South East with an advice that he should maintain peace to himself, the region and the country by reciprocating the kind gesture of the Government. This kind of gesture has been extended to some persons in this country whom we know in the past, and the then government was appreciated.

It is a measure that is being suggested which the Government could consider dispassionately, and take a considered position. One thing I know, as a grassroots person and one who is in touch with South Eastern Region that I frequent regularly, is that such gesture will catapult the love of many Igbo Youths including the aged ones for Tinubu's Government to the high heavens. I am not speculating, I am only stating the truth and nothing but the truth. Only the truth can set many of us in Nigeria free.

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu enjoys very popular support in the East extending to some South South States, Western States and even in the North.

I say it with utmost responsibility that, if forgiven, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu should reciprocate by calling out himself and his supporters to maintain peace and tranquillity in the region and Nigeria. No matter the perceived injustice and marginalisation in the country, it can be addressed through peaceful measures, advocacy and political and constitutional rearrangements. The present Government is taking measures to reduce items on the Exclusive Legislative List by transferring some of them to Concurrent Legislative List, and more will hopefully take place under the ongoing constitutional rearrangements. Proper restructuring of Nigeria, will reposition Nigeria and the various regions to rapid growth and progress. Again, it is a matter of time.

Do you believe in IPOB’s cause for Biafra or are you for one Nigeria? If you are for one Nigeria, do you think it should be as Nigeria

is presently constituted, or should there be restructuring? If you are in favour of restructuring, kindly, share some of your thoughts on how it should be done, and your views on constitutional amendment

I am a strong advocate for one Nigeria that is properly federalised, with adequate powers given to the federating units (States and Local Governments) for good governance. Nigeria is better by being united, but governed under the principles of equity, justice, equality, integrity, mutual respect, good governance, humane leadership, patriotism and love for the country and to all. Nigeria has enough for all, but greed and corruption have made a few richer at the expense of the majority. However, we can get it right, if humaneness is brought to bear in governance and leadership.

Are you satisfied with the Presidential system of government, or do you think Nigeria should go for the Parliamentary system? What are the reasons for your position?

There is nothing wrong, with the Presidential system of government we are practising presently. If there is any problem with it, hold the human beings running it responsible. We have forgotten so soon, what made us to change from the Parliamentary system to Presidential system. As long as we run our system differently from those we copied it from, we will keep on experimenting with every system without attaining perfection. If we play by the rules, we will find out that every system is good, but the people that run it are the factors behind the failures we have experienced so far with the two systems.

My final advice is that, if we want the Presidential or Parliamentary systems of government, we must be prepared to run either of them in accordance with the way the Americans or the British where we copied from run theirs. As long as we mix the system with strange indices, we will experience failure and we will end up advocating for a change all the time!

Thank you Dr Ubani.

Dr Monday onyekachi Ubani

THOUGHTS ON THE NEW ELECTRICITY TARIFFS

The new tariff regime will deepen social inequity, and reduce the quality of life of majority of Nigerians, argues AUSTIN TAM-GEORGE

TACKLING

KATSINA WATER CRISIS

IBRAHIM KAULA

MOHAMMED reckons that the state is adopting a proactive approach to address the problem

EDITORIAL

THE IMPERATIVE OF LAND REFORM

See page XIII

ADOKE, EFCC’S MEDIA TRIAL AND THE COURT OF LAW

The

former

Attorney General of the Federation did

no wrong, writes AHMED DALHATU AHMED

On 28 March 2024, Justice Abubakar Kutigi of the FCT High Court made far-reaching pronouncements in his ruling on the charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Mr Mohammed Bello Adoke, former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, and six other defendants in the long-running OPL 245 saga. The judge accepted the no-case submissions made by Adoke and the other defendants because the EFCC did not establish a prima facie case for a full trial. He lambasted the EFCC for filing frivolous charges and wasting the court’s time for four years.

This is not the more familiar issue of lack of diligent prosecution. This time, it is an abject lack of evidence to substantiate the 40-count charge. Inhouse, EFCC lawyers reportedly admitted long ago that the case was so bad and was going nowhere, although Mr. Offem Uket, the commission’s lead prosecutor, was not expected to concede this in court. He irked his bosses when he did. With many people not paying attention to the details of the case, the spin doctors went to town saying the trial was bungled by Uket. They accused him, without evidence, of collecting bribes from the defendants.

Nonetheless, it was not Uket that filed the case on behalf of the EFCC. The abject lack of evidence should, therefore, not be blamed on him. The case was filed in 2020 by Mr Bala Sanga, who abandoned it in 2022 after seeing that it was weak. Uket was then brought in to salvage the situation.

On March 28, Justice Kutigi took the EFCC to the cleaners. I have taken the time to read the full text of the judgment and I would advise EFCC’s lawyers to bury their pride and learn. They should stop wasting the time of our courts and focus on concrete and viable cases. The OPL 245 case was simply watery, hopeless and beyond redemption.

Justice Kutigi first declared that the charges were poorly drafted. This is not about the regular grammatical errors but poor articulation of arguments. He also said the EFCC failed to lead evidence linking Mr. Adoke and his co-defendants to the alleged crimes. For instance, the EFCC accused Adoke of “knowingly disobeying the direction of law with intent to cause injury to the public” but did not provide the facts. “During

the trial, none of the witnesses for the prosecution gave evidence or alluded to the nature of the direction of law that was disobeyed,” the judge said in his ruling.

The EFCC accused Adoke of granting tax waivers to Shell and Eni. Tax waivers are granted by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) subject to presidential approval and not the AGF. Justice Kutigi noted that the EFCC did not produce any evidence to back its claim against Adoke, not even a testimony by an FIRS official. “Absolutely no evidence whatsoever was led as to the tax [Shell and Agip] were due to pay under the OPL 245 agreement or indeed any other tax and also how they instigated 1st Defendant (Adoke) in a manner geared towards committing the alleged offence,” the judge said. The EFCC did not produce even the minimum evidence required to prove its case.

The EFCC accused Adoke of collecting a bribe of N300 million from Aliyu Abubakar, a property magnate who was also arraigned, and this was supposed to be the smoking gun. The EFCC did not even attempt to prove this charge. The judge said: “I have carefully gone through the evidence led by the prosecution witnesses and nobody alluded to any offer or gratification of N300 million by 2nd defendant (Abubakar) to 1st defendant (Adoke) and/or that they were privy to 1st defendant accepting any form of gratification from 2nd Defendant as a motive for showing favour in the exercise of his official functions. In addition to the failure to establish if a gratification was offered and accepted, no purpose for which

the alleged gratification was given was defined or slated.”

Justice Kutigi pointed out a very amazing fact: “None of the prosecution witnesses even spoke to this Count at all and this is fatal. There is really nothing on which the court can even rely on to proceed to determine whether a prima facie case was raised ab initio.” How can you charge a defendant to court for allegedly receiving a bribe and not even one of your witnesses said anything about it? What is the court supposed to do? Should it help you create evidence and witnesses? The EFCC case was so bad there was going to be only one outcome and those who were more circumspect in the commission were said to have said it several times, right from when Mr Ibrahim Magu was the EFCC boss.

You would be forgiven for thinking the entire OPL 245 case was about Adoke. Of the 40 counts, only four mentioned his name, but he was made the poster boy. Indeed, 29 of the 40 counts were against Mr Rasky Gbinigie, the company secretary of Malabu Oil and Gas Ltd, who was accused of removing Mohammed Abacha’s name as a director of the company and thus denied him the benefits that accrued from the sale of OPL 245 by Malabu to Shell and Eni/ Agip in 2011. Instructively, Abacha was EFCC’s No 1 prosecution witness. Adoke has always said he did no wrong, that the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari was only trying to help the Abacha family get a share from the proceeds of OPL 245. Adoke said there was a plot to criminalise him so that Nigeria could use that as evidence to win its OPL 245 cases in Europe. I doubted him before but I do not doubt him again. I have nothing but pity for him. He has been vilified for nine years and till date, he has not been found guilty of any wrongdoing. Nigeria lost all OPL 245-related cases everywhere. All the courts said there was no evidence of corruption. There is a huge difference between a court trial and media trial. The EFCC does excellently well in media trials but it now has to sharpen its skills when it goes to the court of law, where hearsay and speculations cannot take the place of evidence.

Ahmed, public affairs commentator, can be reach via dalhatu1985@gmail.com.

While receiving the chairman and members of the Presidential Technical Committee on Land Reforms (PTCLR) recently, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, pledged the commitment of the current administration to land reforms. But there is nothing on ground to suggest that it is a priority for the government, despite all the promises on revamping agriculture and working towards food sufficiency. To the extent that effective land reforms will improve livelihoods, maximise the land market, and create more efficient systems, we hope the current administration of President Bola Tinubu will make that part of its legislative agenda.

According to the World Bank, land reform involves changing the institutional structure. This includes a review of how access to land is regulated, property rights are defined, and how ownership conflicts are resolved. Fortunately, much work has already been done by the Peter Adeniyi-led committee. If the Tinubu administration is serious, all they need to do is tinker with the draft bill before sending it to the National Assembly. As we have argued repeatedly on this page, land reforms require a lot of thinking, a definition of clear objectives, the creation of the right instruments, the development of effective administrative mechanism, improved governance, and processes to drive inclusion, transparency, and efficient customer service. The urgent task to unlock the wealth in our land resources cannot be delayed. And such efforts cannot be based on knee-jerk reactions or the mouthing some populist platitudes.

Nigeria needs reforms that can help create an equitable system that will lead to affordability, improved titling and property registration procedure to reduce corruption in the land market

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

In Nigeria today, the law that government uses to manage land resources is the Land Use Act of 1978. This 46-yearold legislation was passed under the military and has not been reviewed since then. The last time a president showed significant interest in land reforms was under the late Umaru

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR

NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO

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Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be

such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com.

international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be

com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the

HIT’S TIME TO REDESIGN HAJJ MANAGEMENT THISDAY

ajj management in Nigeria is facing two main problems. Firstly, funding is tied to the dollar; once there is a fluctuation in the value of the dollar against the naira, the hajj fare in Nigeria becomes uncertain. This is currently happening. The second problem relates to flight schedules to and from Saudi Arabia, etc. These problems are two-fold, and should be collectively tackled by both the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and state Hajj commissions.

The solution to these problems could be as follows:

Firstly, the Nigerian hajj fare should be tied to or pegged to the Saudi Riyal. The Riyal is stable due to the country's strong economic fundamentals and prudent financial management. Additionally, apart from pegging the Nigerian hajj fare to the Saudi Riyal, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria should study the Malaysian hajj management model.

In Malaysia, the Hajj has a funding management system called the Tabung Haji. Research on the Malaysian system of hajj management indicates that it involves several components. The Tabung Haji (Pilgrims' Fund Board) plays a crucial role in managing the financial aspects of Hajj for Malaysian pilgrims.

Malaysian Muslims intending to perform Hajj must make reg-

ular contributions to Tabung Haji. These contributions accumulate over time and cover expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and other logistical needs associated with Hajj. NAHCON also implements a similar savings scheme, albeit with limited success. It's time for NAHCON to redesign the Hajj Savings Scheme in collaboration with banks and other financial institutions, particularly those offering Islamic banking services. The new scheme should allow intending pilgrims to enter into an investment plan for more than one year. As pilgrims deposit funds into their accounts, the bank or financial institution would invest the money for a period ranging from two to several years. By the end of this period, pilgrims would have accrued enough funds for the Hajj fare, along with additional profits. This approach would streamline the process for both pilgrims and commissions, providing ample time for planning.

Taking a clue from the Malaysian Tabung Haji, it manages its funds through various Shariah-compliant investment instruments, such as equities, real estate, and sukuk (Islamic bonds). The returns from these investments sustain Tabung Haji's operations and cover the costs of Hajj for Malaysian pilgrims.

In addition, the Malaysian Tabung Haji has achieved remarkable success by offering diverse Hajj packages customised to meet the

Musa Yar’Adua but he couldn’t complete the process before he died. By the law currently in operation, the power over the land within the territory of a state is vested in the governor. While we know that the governors have assumed their full powers based on the vesting done by this law, there is little to show they have managed the powers as trustees nor have allocated land in a fair and transparent manner.

All over the world, land is such a vital resource that it determines the wealth of nations, individuals, and society, influences the balance of power and how resources are used and managed. The contest for land has also led to wars and age-long conflict that government must be involved in its management. That Nigeria is currently ranked 186th out of 190 countries on the World Bank Ease of Doing Business index in terms of ease of registering properties is a reflection on land management. Meanwhile, States such as Kaduna, Nasarawa and Kano have tried to carry out reforms of the land system with some minimal results.

Nigeria needs reforms that can help create an equitable system that will lead to affordability, improved titling and property registration procedure to reduce corruption in the land market. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), about $900 billion, which is twice Nigeria's GDP, can flow into the economy if we get our land reforms right. The PwC report claims that the real estate market alone holds between $230 billion and $750 billion of value that is locked up. To do this, there is an urgent need to review the Land Use Act. The enormous power granted the governor needs to be reduced and an accountability framework created to ensure the governor continues to function as a real trustee. But overall, reform of land administration in Nigeria is essential for the economic prosperity of our people.

We hope President Tinubu will make it a priority of his administration.

needs and preferences of Malaysian pilgrims. These packages encompass a range of services, including luxury accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, transportation, meals, and guidance.

Moreover, Tabung Haji extends financial assistance to eligible Malaysian pilgrims who may require support to undertake the Hajj journey. This assistance may comprise subsidies for Hajj expenses or loans to cover pilgrimage costs, which can be repaid in installments.

The National Hajj Commission has demonstrated commendable efforts over its three decades of existence. However, the current instability in the exchange rate between the dollar and the naira underscores the need for the commission to consider pegging the hajj fare to the stable Saudi Riyal. Additionally, NAHCON should revamp the Hajj Savings Scheme to offer long-term, Halal investment options for intending pilgrims. This approach would contribute to a more organised and financially sustainable hajj management system.

To achieve these goals, NAHCON should establish a diverse team comprising individuals from various sectors to assist in redesigning the Hajj Management System, particularly the pilgrim savings scheme.

Zayyad I. Muhammad, Abuja

NGX Group GMD, Temi Popoola Elected Chairman of CSCS

Kayode Tokede

The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Mr. Temi Popoola, has been elected Chairman of Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc, effective April 1, 2024; succeeding Mr. Oscar Onyema, who retired after thirteen years of exemplary service.

Popoola who previously served as the CEO of Nigerian Exchange Limited in a statement expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating, “As I step into the role of Chairman at CSCS, I am honoured and humbled by the opportunity to guide this esteemed organization to new heights of success and impact. With a steadfast dedication to our mission and by building on the very strong foundation that has been laid, I am committed to working with my colleagues

on the board, management, and staff to drive growth, foster innovation, and uphold the highest standards of integrity and excellence. Collaborating with all our stakeholders, I am confident that we will chart a course toward continued excellence, delivering value to our clients, shareholders, and the broader financial community.”

“Joining Popoola on the Board are Mr. Samuel Onukwue and Mr. Nonso Okpala, esteemed professionals with extensive experience in the Nigerian capital market ecosystem. Their addition to the Board is expected to further enrich the quality and the collegiate decision-making process at this level of leadership of the company, “the statement added.

“We are delighted to welcome Mr. Temi Popoola as our new Chairman and Mr. Samuel

Onukwue and Mr. Nonso Okpala as Non-Executive Directors to the CSCS Board. We are confident that their addition to the Board would further enrich the quality and the collegiate decisionmaking process at this level of leadership of the company,” said MD/CEO of Central Securities Clearing System

Plc, Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri.

Jalo-Waziri extended gratitude to Ms. Tinuade Awe, Mr. Seyi Owoturo, and Mrs. Tairat Tijani, who also retired from the board along with Mr. Onyema, for their outstanding service to the company.

This appointment marks a significant milestone for CSCS as it strengthens its position in the Nigerian Capital Market. Stakeholders extend their best wishes to Mr. Popoola and looks forward to a successful tenure under his leadership.

APMTerminals Invests 9696 Man-hours Annually in Learning, Development

APM Terminals Apapa has said it spent a total of 9,696 man-hours in 2023, investing in employees’ learning and development.

This, the company said, cut across no less than 20 different trainings across various functions, some running concurrently.

In a statement, Senior People Business Partner, Omolara Olatunbosun said, “Every year, a training calendar is designed towards the training and professional development of our employees.

“Our employees are one of our core values; ensuring that we have the right person with the right skills for each job is integral to the success of our operations, so we understand the importance of investing in Learning and Development to enhance their skills, efficiency, productivity and overall wellbeing.

“On average, there is an investment of 24.1 man-hours

in the training of an employee annually.”

Adding that the terminal was committed to cultivating a culture that fosters continuous learning and development, she described it as an ongoing and transformative journey, as there is a training session/ workshop almost on a weekly basis at APM Terminals Apapa.

She said employees had access to a diverse range of learning resources ranging from various training programs, which may be internal or external, formal or informal, to a vast global e-learning resource within the Maersk group. She said the terminal’s trainings comprise of soft skills training, leadership abilities to skills development to help employees build technical skills, industry knowledge, regulatory compliance, safety and many more. Olatunbosun also mentioned that for new joiners,

training usually commences immediately as a part of their onboarding journey.

“At APM Terminals Apapa, we are continuously upskilling and reskilling our employees to deliver services that fulfil the global APM Terminals goal of being the world’s best terminal company for all stakeholders. We are equally equipping them to ensure they remain relevant and capable to compete with their colleagues in other terminals around the world,” she said.

Terminal Manager Steen Knudsen said, “Ensuring that your employees remain updated with the relevant skills and latest development in their various fields is a huge task. Our operations run at all hours daily. Managing a training calendar annually also means having to constantly pull employees out from their daily tasks so they can be available for any scheduled training.”

Eterna Appoints Lawal as New Managing Director/CEO

The Board of Eterna Plc has announced the appointment of Mr. Abiola Lukman Lawal, an Oil Executive and renowned Economist as the successor to the outgoing Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Benjamin Nwaezeigwe, who resigns his position after two years of service to the Company.

The board, in a statement, thanked Mr. Nwaezeigwe for his significant contributions to the Company during his tenure.

“The incoming MD/CEO, Mr. Abiola Lukman Lawal, has a proven record of positive performance in executive leadership at multiple CSuite level roles locally and internationally. A Global Executive with over twenty-five years of Management Executive experience in private and publicly listed companies across diverse industries, Mr. Lawal has expansive experience in the Oil & Gas sector and a proven record of value delivery in several aspects of executive management.

“Lawal most recently worked with Eroton Exploration and Production Company Limited as Deputy Managing

Director & Chief Financial Officer. Prior to which he served as Group Chief Strategy Officer of Oando Plc during its transformation from downstream to upstream and Gas. While at Oando, he oversaw the successful implementation of Oracle ERP technology as a game changer to transform the operations of the company. He also served as Executive Director of Oando Gas & Power as well as Gaslink (now known as Axxella) during the rapid growth and expansion phase of the then subsidiary, “it said.

Eboumbou Bags“Outstanding Woman in Renewable Energy”Award

The Chief Executive Officer, All On, Caroline Eboumbou has won the Outstanding Woman in Renewable Energy award at the just-concluded 2024 edition of the Women in Maritime & Energy Award in Lagos. The 2024 WIME award tagged #InspireInclusion - Powering Partnerships for Progress is the third edition of awarding women in the Maritime and Energy sectors and it is committed to celebrating the

outstanding achievements of women in these sectors, while establishing a platform for knowledge sharing to influence the future of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in these industries.

“I am honoured by this recognition” Caroline said as she received the award adding, “All On’s mission is to increase access to commercial energy products and services for under-served

and un-served off-grid energy markets in Nigeria. This award is an acknowledgement that the work that we do is creating value and I look forward to more collaboration and support as we work to reach more communities. I am grateful for the tremendous work the All On team delivers with constant passion and determination. I humbly accept this award on their behalf as well.”

L-R: Head, LPG Sales & Marketing, Falcon Corporation Limited, Godwin Okoduwa; GM, Fulfillment and Corporate Service, Viathan Engineering, Solabomi Oreagba; MD/CEO, Falcon Corporation Limited, Prof. Joe Ezigbo; MD, Industry Ecosystems (Interswitch Indeco), Chinyere Don-Okhuofu, and VP, Energy Ecosystems, (Interswitch Indeco) Adeyinka Adekoya, at the Interswitch Energy Summit recently held in Lagos…recently

FBN Holdings to Seek Shareholders’ Approval for N300bn Fresh Capital

Kayode Tokede

FBH Holdings Plc, yesterday said it will be seeking shareholders’ approval to raise N300 billion via private placement in additional capital at the group’s Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) scheduled for this month.

The group in its unaudited full year ended December 31, 2023 declared N1.7 trillion total

equity as against N995.7 billion in 2022.

FBH Holdings’s share capital and share premium stood at N17.95 billion and N233.39billiion in 2023 respectively, while retained earnings increased to N675.12 billion in 2023 from N397.71 billion reported in 2022

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in March announced new minimum capital require-

ments of N500 billion and N200 billion for commercial banks with international and national authorization respectively.

Meanwhile, the Acting Company Secretary, FBN Holdings, Mr. Adewale Arogundade in a signed statement posted on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), said shareholders at the EGM would be considering and if though fit authorised to undertake a capital raise up to

N300 billion via a public offering, private placement, right issue in the Nigerian or international capital markets.

Accordiing to the notice on NGX, Arogundade said “the issuance of shares will be in such tranches, series, or proportions and at such periods dates, coupon or interest rates within such maturity periods and upon such other terms and conditions as may be

determined by the board of directors, subject to obtaining the approvals of the relevant regularly authorities.

“At the upcoming EGM, the shareholders will also have the opportunity to consider and pass the following special resolutions: That the capital raise referred to in resolution {a) above may be underwritten on such terms as may be determined by the directors subject to obtaining

the approvals of the relevant regulatory authorities.

“That the directors be and are hereby authorized to undertake all necessary actions to secure the listing and admission to trading of securities issued pursuant to the foregoing resolution on the official list of the Nigerian Exchange Limited, and/or on any other securities exchanges or market.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF APRIL 8 /24

BUSINESS WORLD

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The 11 electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) raked in N3.2 trillion in the last four years, growing revenue by as much as 109 per cent between 2020 and 2023, a period of four years.

However, while in 2020, Nigerians received 22,042.28 Gwh of power, in 2023, the year with the latest data, power supply rose marginally to just 23,942 Gwh, a growth of just about 8.6 per cent.

Similarly, in 2022, the power distributors raked in about N828 billion, more than rounding the figure off in the 12 months of 2023, with N1.1 trillion as revenue.

This implies that between 2020 and 2023, the total revenue grew by over 100 per cent from N526.7 billion in 2020 to N1.1 trillion in 2023, while supply increased by just over 8 per cent. Nigeria, a country of over 200 million population, is the least ‘electrified’ nation in the world, with just between 3,000mw to 4,500mw and incessant national

An THISDAY analysis of historical data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), showed that in 2020, popularly regarded as the COVID-19 year, the total revenue made by the Discos was N526.77 billion, while in 2021, it rose to N761.17 billion.

power grid collapses.

A recent report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) stated that Nigeria’s national power grid collapsed 46 times from 2017 to 2023. In 2024 alone, the grid has failed about three times.

Of the N1 trillion revenue made by the electricity distributors in 2023, Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) had N218.6 billion, followed closely by the Eko Distribution Company (EKEDC), which got revenue of about 177.6 billion during the period.

Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) generated

revenue of N167.4 billion from N125.7 billion recorded in 2022, while Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company got revenue of N111.3 billion.

Besides, Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) got revenue of N82.5 billion, Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) got N22.3 billion, and Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) had N84.6 billion, while Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KAEDC) made N32.4 billion. Similarly, Kano Disco was N55.2 billion and Port-Harcourt Disco made N74.7 billion.

However, it should be noted

that Discos get just a percentage of the collection as the Generation Companies (Gencos) get the lion’s share, while the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) also get a percentage.

But the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) while defending the recent decision to hike electricity rates for premium customers, stated that in spite of the over 230 per cent recent increase in the electricity tariffs for Band ‘A’ customers, Nigeria still remains the 4th cheapest among 18 countries surveyed in Africa.

In a frequently asked questions (FAQs) released by the organisation,

it stressed that despite the perceived high prices of on-grid electricity, it remains the cheapest and most reliable compared to other alternatives.

According to the commission, while Togo is priced at N251/kWh; Benin is N235 per kWh and Niger at N235/kWh, making Nigeria’s rate one of the most affordable on the continent.

“Contrary to popular belief, grid power in Nigeria is not only one of the cheapest in Sub-saharan Africa, it is also significantly cheaper than the readily available alternatives.

Gilbert Ekugbe

The Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) has lamented that only 10 per cent of Nigeria’s Cocoa beans are being processed in the country.

The National President of CFAN, Mr. Adeola Adegoke, said that the 10 per cent is a far cry from the 50 per cent being processed by Ghana and Ivory Coast.

Adegoke said: “We must make

sure that there is a deliberate policy to ensure that 50 per cent of our cocoa is processed locally to give job opportunities for Nigerians and strengthen the value chain.

“At least, 50 per cent of our cocoa must be processed locally against the 90 per cent of our cocoa beans currently being exported with only 10 per cent processed locally.”

He added: “The government and stakeholders must invest more in our local processing to

create more markets and create better opportunities in terms of consumption.

“We can key this into the school feeding programme of the federal government. These are deliberate strategies that can create a boom and boost for our local cocoa economy in Nigeria.”

According to him, Nigerian cocoa farmers presently are enjoying their best of the moment due to the skyrocketing prices of cocoa

beans at the international markets and especially considering the fact that Nigeria is presently operating a deregulated cocoa economy after the abolition of the cocoa board in the year 1986.

“Presently, we are not envying our counterparts cocoa farmers in Ghana and Ivory Coast due to the system of their cocoa economy which does not give them the opportunity to enjoy the present surge in cocoa prices as a result of the future cocoa contract

being executed by their respective cocoa boards.

“In fact, we were reliably informed that the price of the two respective giant cocoa origin countries are paying their cocoa farmers were the prices of cocoa as at April, 2023 that was around $ 2,700 per tonne,” he said.

“Let us forget the new increment in cocoa prices in Ivory Coast and Ghana of recent where it was done at 50 per cent increments at both

countries just last week and this week respectively,” he added. He tasked the federal government to increase the production and productivity of smallholder cocoa farmers’ farms holdings through the provisions of subsidised farm inputs, credit facility, capacity building and the likes to improve their livelihoods.

FG, Vietnam to Explore Rice, Cashew Value Chains

Gilbert Ekugbe

The federal government is partnering with the Vietnamese government to explore areas of investment in Nigeria’s rice and cashew value chains.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, at a meeting with the management of the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), said that the ministry recognised the immense potential within the rice and cashew value chains, particularly in processing and marketing, where Vietnam has

excelled.

“We aim to learn from their model and attract investors to Nigeria to invest in these value chains,” he said.

He further stated that training programmes would be implemented for farmers and extension workers to adopt Vietnamese techniques in rice and cashew cultivation, as well as youth-focused programmes on agricultural small machine fabrication and processing.

He pointed out that the initiative aims to increase production, improve quality, and enhance

competitiveness in rice and cashew farming, ultimately reducing reliance on imports and enhancing food security and nutrition in Nigeria.

“Moreover, it seeks to generate employment and income for our

youth and citizens,” he added.

In his words, “to ensure the long-term sustainability of these efforts, the project will focus on building the capacity of Nigerian institutions and farmers.

“This includes establishing

partnerships with the private sector and investments in rice and cashew production and processing infrastructure. Through these collaborative endeavors, we are committed to advancing Nigeria’s agricultural sector and securing a

prosperous future for our nation.” At the meeting, the ministry agreed to facilitate exchange visits of agricultural policymakers, scientists, researchers, and extension workers between Nigeria and Vietnam.

Nigeria Emerges Chair of UN-Habitat Executive Board

Nigeria has emerged the chair of the executive board of the United

Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), a statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Housing and Urban

Shell Sees Significantly Lower Q1 LNG Trading Results

Shell has said that it expects significantly lower results from its liquefied natural gas trading business in the first quarter of 2024 compared with the

previous three months.

In an update ahead of quarterly results on May 2, Shell also said its oil trading results are expected to be

significantly higher than the last quarter of 2023.

Shell, the world’s largest oil and gas trader, said its LNG volumes are expected

between 7.2 million and 7.6 million metric tons in the first three months of 2024, compared with 7.1 million tons in the previous quarter.

Firm Partners Israeli Experts to Establish Dairy Farm in Abia

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Abia State is set to attract an ultra modern dairy farm and milk processing plants, the first of such project in the South East zone.

Already a proposal for the establishment of the project has been tabled before Governor Alex Otti for his approval.

The proposed dairy farm is being promoted by Blue Ribbon Limited, with technical support and partnership of an Israeli

agro-processing firm, Afimilk.

The management of Blue Ribbon got a partial approval from Governor Otti to establish the dairy farm when they visited him with the proposal for Abia to host the project. A statement from the office of the Abia governor, said that Otti gave his tacit approval when he received the management of Blue Ribbon led by Sir Idris Wabara, pending when the details of the project would be worked out.

While explaining the proposal for the dairy farm, Wabara,

who hails from Ohambele in Ukwa East Local Government of Abia, said that the technical partner, Afimilk, is an Israeli firm renowned for its expertise in agriculture.

He outlined the significance of the project in strengthening the economic landscape of Abia State and its potential impact on the lives of its citizens by enhancing the state’s agricultural productivity.

Wabara said that by producing milk and other dairy products for local consumption and

possibly for export, the company would help to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported dairy products.

“What we want to do is to feed the local market with milk; we want to conserve foreign currency and train our people(in milk processing),” he said.

According to him, “the Israelis are keen in training our people in local expertise, so we intend to train people here and send some of them to Israel for training, and I think it’s a win-win situation for the country.”

Chivita|Hollandia Reaffirms Commitment to Rewarding Customers

Gilbert Ekugbe

One of the leading fruit juice and value-added dairy manufacturers in Nigeria, Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited) has restated its commitment to rewarding the exceptional contribution of its distributors and wholesalers.

The move according to the company is a clear demonstration to acknowledge the critical role distributors and wholesalers play in the success and business goals of Chivita|Hollandia.

At its 2024 distributor confer-

ence with the theme, “Break boundaries exceed expectations,” which served as a platform to recognize and reward the exceptional contribution of the distributors and wholesalers who play a critical role in success and business goals for the year, the Managing Director, Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited), Eelco Weber, stated that the company’s success story is incomplete without the strong partnerships it has built with trade partners. “Today, we celebrate not only the achievements, but the col-

laborative spirit that has made our growth possible,” he said.

Also speaking, the Chief Commercial Officer, Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited), Bola Arotiowa, in his statement revealed that, the event which was first of its kind will continue to be an annual meeting to enable the company work more closely with its distributors, share insights and action points, help the trade partners familiarise themselves with the company’s goals and objectives for each year, and serve as a driver for mutual success.

On her part, the Chief Executive Officer of Smabirm Nigeria Limited, Hajiya Bilikisu Saida, who won the outstanding distributor of the year in North 1 region, and got a reward of two million Naira worth of Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited) products expressed delight at the company’s recognition and stated that the awards served as a way to inspire distributors to do more and put in more effort, which in turn would help both the distributors and the company to grow.

LAPO, TEDx, Champions ‘African Women’s Ideas’ on Global Stage

Sunday Ehigiator

Leading Microfinance Bank in Nigeria, LAPO, has joined TEDx Lagos in spotlighting, and championing African women’s ideas on the Global stage through the TEDx Lagos Women conference recently held in the bank’s head office in Lagos

The event brought together high-flying Nigerian women to expound timeless ideas which resonate with people all over the world who hope to transcend stereotypes and achieve greatness

despite existing challenges.

Speakers at the TEDx Lagos Women conference were drawn across various sections of the creative industry making their mark in history in Nigeria.

Director of Marketing, LAPO MFB, Mr Oluremi Akande, said that at the heart of the bank’s partnership with TEDx Lagos, is the dream to see women’s ideas heard and seen around the world.

He said as a bank, the partnership is an opportunity to support female-inclusive

programmes, in line with this year’s International Women’s Day theme. He said. “The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day ‘Inspire Inclusion’ is what has translated into this event. We are very proud to partner with TEDx Lagos because we believe this is an opportunity for women’s voices to be heard.”

Curator of the TEDx Lagos event, Mrs. Mercy Akamo, on her part, noted that at the core of the TEDx Lagos Women event, is a drive to

showcase the ingenuity of women breaking boundaries in careers and businesses, inspire younger women from across the world and help women garner the support they may need both locally and across the globe.

Akamo added that promoting women’s voices adds to the idea bank of the world and through the TEDx Lagos Women conference, more viewers from across the world can get access to these ideas, connect and inspire growth in their careers and businesses.

Development, Badamasi Haiba, has said.

The confirmation of Nigeria as chair of the board was made known during a meeting with the UN-Habitat office and the ministry in Abuja.

The Minister of State in the ministry, Abdullahi Gwarzo, on behalf of the Nigerian government accepted the position, assuring that Nigeria would accomplish the mission of the organisation.

Gwarzo lauded the UN-Habitat and the African Group for the confidence reposed in Nigeria’s quality leadership caused by her continuous commitment and exemplary role in the implementation of the African Urban Agenda (AUA) and the

2030 Agenda in the continent, assuring Nigeria’s commitment towards the achievement of the mandate of UN-Habitat.

The minister acknowledged a notable milestone achieved in the human settlement sector in Nigeria since the establishment of the UN-Habitat Programme support office in 2003, saying that it was the result of the robust collaboration between the UN-Habitat and the federal government.

Gwarzo reiterated the commitment of the ministry to execute its primary mandate of providing affordable housing in a secure, healthy and decent environment of both urban and rural areas for Nigerians.

Discos Rake D in n 3.2tn in Fou R -yea R s a mi D n egligible i mp R ovement in p owe R s upply

“For comparison, while grid power is charged N225/kWh, diesel generator sets cost N500/ kWh at diesel price of N1,600/ litre while petrol generator sets cost N417/kWh. Compared to 18 other Sub-Saharan African countries, the recently approved N225/kWh for Band A customers still ranks Nigeria as the 4th cheapest for residential customers. For context, Togo is priced at N251/kWh; Benin-N235/kWh; and Niger is N235/kWh,” the sector regulator stressed.

NERC has always argued that it considers some key indices before embarking on an upward review of the tariff.

According to NERC‘s Multi-year Tariff Order (MYTO), some major factors considered include the exchange rate, inflation rate, United States inflation rate, gas-to-power prices, among others.

In spite of dwindling power supply nationwide, Nigeria’s electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) raked in an additional N62.63 billion in revenues in the last quarter of 2023, compared to

Q4, 2022.

The NBS indicated that compared to the previous Q4, 2022, revenues by the Discos increased from N232.32 billion to N294.95 billion during the period, a growth of over 23 per cent.

Almost all of Nigeria’s 11 electricity distributors have in the past been accused of underinvesting in infrastructure to boost power supply to over 200 million Nigerians, who currently depend more on self-generated power for their homes and businesses, instead of the national grid.

Some experts have opined that the Discos remain the weakest link in the electricity distribution value chain, with just a peak capacity to distribute 5,500mw at a time, while the Gencos can generate 13,000mw and the TCN has the capacity to wheel 8,000mw at any point.

But the Discos have at various times also complained that they are not allowed by the government to collect cost-reflective tariffs, a development that has hobbled their ability to markedly raise investment in the sector.

c ocoa Fa R me R s: o nly 10% o F n ige R ia’s

c ocoa b eans a R e pR ocesse D locally

He said, “We must start to regulate and promote the Nigerian cocoa economy through the National Cocoa Management Committee (NCMC) where more investment into the sector will be guaranteed and the committee can achieve stable regulatory framework that controls quality, smuggling, pesticides control, extension management, R&D, traceability, FMAFS and State Cocoa Producing Governments synergy, child

labor eradication, deforestation control and National Cocoa Plan implementation.”

He advised that the NCMC must not get involved in buying and selling cocoa beans, but provide cocoa beans stabilisation support funding in future when necessary especially when cocoa price nosedive downwards beyond cocoa farmers economic capacity as being done in other developed countries on other commodities.

Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in abuja

Nigeria, Spain to Deepen Cooperation on Maritime Security

The Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Juan Ignacio Sell has declared that the Spanish Government is desirous to deepen cooperation with Nigeria through further collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

Ignacio made this declaration while inspecting the two new Bulletproof Security boats, built for NIMASA by a Spanish Company, Aresa. This is just as the Director General of NIMASA Dr. Dayo Mobereola says deploying the vessels is priority.

Juan said, “This is one more

milestone in the cooperation between Spain and Nigeria for maritime security. The Spanish government sees Nigeria as prime in attaining security in the Gulf of Guinea. We also have a naval ship present in the Gulf of Guinea to enhance security. The message from our President back home is for the Embassy to seek more partnership with Nigeria in the Maritime Sector. The creation of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry by President Bola Tinubu GCFR is a sign that this administration is committed to harnessing the Ocean potentials

Parthian Partners Appoints Akintomide into Board

Nume Ekeghe

Parthian Partners, has announced the appointment of Ms. Cecilia Akintomide, to its board of directors.

The firm in a statement noted that this strategic move underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.

Ms. Akintomide is slated to brings a wealth of experience to the table, with a distinguished career spanning development finance, corporate governance, law, and general management. Her proven expertise, particularly in development finance, aligns perfectly with Parthian Partners’ vision for the future.

and Spain is ready to support Nigeria all the way. This is why I came from Abuja to see the DG”, he said.

On his part, NIMASA DG noted that Management under

his leadership will fast track the deployment of the patrol Boats as soon as possible. He also welcomed the partnership with Spain noting that security in the maritime domain cannot

be done in silos. “Maritime security cannot be done in silos by any country. Collaboration plays a major role in achieving safety and security in the maritime domain.

We appreciate the gesture from the Spanish Government and we will explore areas of collaboration particularly in terms of both human and infrastructural development.

Petroleum Ministers to Address Global Stakeholders at Energy Week

Following the Executive Order by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) and the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) will be delivering the Ministerial Addresses at the 23rd annual NOG Energy Week 2024 to shed light on the government’s strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s energy sector.

The Presidential Executive Order, particularly regarding

fiscal incentives for non-associated gas, midstream, and deepwater developments, offers promising opportunities for the development of gas resources in Nigeria.

Historically, industry stakeholders at NOG Energy Week have stressed the need for clearer policy direction for non-associated gas exploration and production.

As a major contributor to Africa’s oil and gas potential, Nigeria has substantial natural

gas reserves, ranking as the ninth largest in the world. Significantly, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) announced that Nigeria’s gas reserves currently stand at 208 trillion cubic feet with the potential to increase production to more than 5 billion cubic feet per day. The Executive Order addresses the much-needed policy direction that will enable stakeholders

to make informed decisions for funding, advance gas activities, and infrastructure development. Speaking at a retreat, which was organised to create the roadmap for achieving the targets set by President Tinubu, the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo stated that, “Ensuring the widespread penetration of gas nationwide is essential to realising its full potential as a transition fuel.

Beyond her corporate experience, Ms. Akintomide actively contributes to the African development landscape. She chairs the Global Sanitation and Hygiene Fund and holds directorships at CcHUB Growth Capital and SWAgCo. Her prior role at the African Development Bank further exemplifies her dedication to impactful initiatives across the continent.

“We are honored to welcome Ms. Akintomide to the Parthian Partners board,” said Mr. Adedotun Sulaiman (MFR), Chairman of the Board. “Her remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to sustainable development make her an invaluable asset. We are confident her insights and expertise will be instrumental as we pursue excellence in all our endeavors.”

Previously serving as a Senior Executive Advisor at Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, Ms. Akintomide oversaw operations across 33 African countries. Her extensive background and strategic thinking will be instrumental in guiding Parthian Partners’ growth trajectory.

Afreximbank, Woodhall Capital Host Workshop on Supply Chain Finance

Nume Ekeghe

Afreximbank and Woodhall Capital recently hosted a successful one-day workshop on Supply Chain Finance and Factoring in Nigeria.

The event, which convened Corporates, Financial Institutions and Sovereigns, served as a platform to explore the opportunities and challenges within the Payables Finance Industry in Africa’s biggest economy.

The workshop was well attended by industry stakeholders, among them the key guests - Mrs. Folasade AmbroseMedebem, Honorable Commissioner for Trade and Investment in Lagos and Mr. Abayomi Arogundade representing Dr. The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria Olayemi Cardoso.

The workshop was followed

by a joint launch of the innovative Payables Finance product, branded as ‘Afreximbank Tradelink’ in partnership with Sterling Bank.

The introduction of Payables Finance is the next stage on Afreximbank’s roadmap to promote Supply Chain Financing in Africa. The Bank currently provides US Dollar and Euro financing across Africa and plans similar partnerships in other African countries while incorporating local currencies.

The workshop provided a platform for corporates and banks to gain insights into the benefits and applications of supply chain finance and factoring. Through informative sessions and interactive discussions, participants had the opportunity to explore practical strategies for

leveraging these financial solutions to optimize working capital management and drive business growth.

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, represented by Deputy Director of the Other Financial Institutions, Supervision Department, Mr. Abayomi Arogundade, highlighted the significance of the workshop, he emphasized the ongoing collaboration, particularly in establishing regulatory frameworks for factoring. Both institutions are committed to exploring regulatory measures to support the development of supply chain finance.

Founder of Woodhall Capital, Mrs. Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu, asserted to the Central Bank of Nigeria, the unwavering support of financial

institutions towards the receivables financial industry, underscoring its growing visibility.

She added, “We are thrilled by the overwhelming response to the workshop,” said Adegboyega Festus, Chief Executive Officer at Woodhall Capital. “The presence of esteemed guests from Lagos State and The Central Bank of Nigeria, such as Mrs. Folasade Ambrose-Medebem, further highlights the importance of collaboration in advancing the payables finance industry in Nigeria. We believe that by equipping businesses and financial institutions with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the complexities of supply chain finance and factoring, we can contribute to the sustainable development and growth of the African economy. “

SAnWo-olu meeTS lonDon-lAGoS Solo DriVer...

Ceremony in honour of Pelumi nubi...

Sanwo-Olu Receives Pelumi Nubi, Makes Her Lagos Tourism Ambassador

Governor rewards her with car, house I feel so blessed as a Lagosian, says Nubi

Segun James

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide

Sanwo-Olu, has named a United Kingdom-based Nigerian solo driver on a road trip from London to Lagos, Ms. Pelumi Nubi, as Lagos Tourism Ambassador.

Sanwo-Olu, also presented a house and a branded LAGRIDE vehicle with the customised number plate NUBI

9JA to the 28-year-old adventurer. According to a statement yesterday, the Governor assured the travel content creator that the Lagos State Government would write off the entire bill for her solo drive from London to Lagos. Sanwo-Olu made the announcement when Pelumi Nubi, accompanied by her parents, Prof. Timothy and Olubukola; CEO/Chairman,

Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, among others, paid a courtesy visit at Lagos House, Marina.

He charged Pelumi Nubi to use her platform to showcase the rich cultural values and aesthetics of Lagos to the world, which are part of her responsibilities as Lagos

Emefiele Remanded in EFCC Custody as Counsel Pleads for Bail

Says ex-CBN governor not flight risk

An Ikeja Special Offences Court yesterday, remanded the embattled former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) pending the determination of his bail application on Thursday.

Justice Rahman Oshodi, remanded Emefiele in the EFCC custody while his co-defendant, Henry Isioma-Omoile, was remanded in Ikoyi Custodial Centre where he was currently being held.

Emefiele is facing trial over his alleged abuse of office to covet $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion to himself.

The judge adjourned the case to Thursday, April 11, 2024, for determination of bail application and commencement of trial.

The EFCC had arraigned Emefiele on a 23-count charge bordering on abuse of office, accepting gratifications, corrupt demand, receiving property fraudulently obtained and conferring corrupt advantage while his co-defendant, was arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on acceptance of gift by agents.

The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the 26-count charge.

The EFCC Counsel, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo, asked the court for a trial date following their not guilty plea.

Counsel to the two defendants, Mr. Abdulakeem Labi-Lawal, had in his two bail applications urged the court to grant the defendants bail on self-recognisance and on liberal terms pending the determination on the case.

Labi-Lawal, in his 35 affidavits paragraphs, said that the first defendant (Emefiele) had complied with

the bail application which was given to him by Justice Hamza Muazu in his ongoing alleged fraud trial in Abuja. He added that the charges were filed against the first defendant were bailable offences and not a capital one.

According to him: "Though the first defendant was granted administrative bail by the prosecuting authority.

"He is seeking for bail based on self-recognisance and he is ready to attend trial.

"The court should also take into consideration, the status of the first defendant as he was the former CBN governor and number one banker."

The defence counsel further said his client had religiously presented himself before Justice Hamza Muazu in Abuja, to answer the allegations before him.

According to him, the first defendant was not at ‘flight risk’ as he was the first person to arrive in court.

He also prayed the court to grant bail to Emefiele on liberal terms

Labi-Lawal also moved bail application for the second defendant and also urged the court to grant him bail on liberal terms.

The prosecution, however, did not oppose the bail application moved by the defence counsel.

Oyedepo, however, urged the court to exercise its discretion judiciously in granting bail to the defendants.

EFCC in one of the charges, alleged that Emefiele abused the authority of his office as CBN governor by allocating foreign exchange in the aggregate sum of $2.2 billion without bids, the act which was prejudiced to the rights of Nigerians.

It was also alleged that the ex-CBN governor corruptly accepted the aggregate sum of $26.5 million from NIPCO Plc through Donatone Ltd on account of allocation of foreign exchange in favour of NIPCO by CBN.

The commission also accused Emefiele of receiving the sum of $400,000 from the Source Computer Ltd on account of the approval of "contract" in favour of the said company by CBN, the institution wherein he served as the governor.

The anti-graft also alleged that Emefiele used his position as the governor of CBN to confer a corrupt advance on his associate, Limelight Multidimensional Services Ltd by approving payment of the aggregate sum of N900 million to the said company.

Emefiele was also alleged to have used his position as the CBN governor to confer a corrupt advantage on Comec Support Services Ltd, by approving the sum of N149 million to the company.

EFCC also alleged that the former CBN governor used his position to confer a corrupt advantage on Andswin Resources and Solutions Ltd by approving payment of the sum of N398 million to the company.

The commission also accused Emefiele's co-defendant (IsiomaOmoile) to have given the sum of $100,000 to the governor as gift reward for allocation of foreign exchange.

According to the prosecution, the alleged offences violated Sections 8, 10, and 19 of the Corrupt Practices And Other Related Offences Act 2000, Sections 65, 73, and 328 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2011.

Tourism Ambassador. Sanwo-Olu, said President Bola Tinubu was aware that Pelumi Nubi was back in the country, and the President was willing to meet with her.

He said Lagos' gesture to the 28-year-old Pelumi was not really about the gifts and heroic welcome given to her, but to encourage more women to break barriers and compete favourably with their male counterparts in any sphere of life.

"Your experience and journey, which lasted over 68 days, are indeed very inspirational, and you have actually shifted mountains. This is indeed a true African and Lagos spirit that you demonstrated. It is a true Nigerian capability that you have demonstrated, but more importantly, this is a story of Lagos no dey carry last.

"For us in Lagos, we will work with your planners to see how we further celebrate you. And it is not really about you being the one celebrating; it is about the future. It is about the girl-child. It is about the power of possibilities. It is about the power of the mind. You are a complete African story that we can showcase," Sanwo-Olu said.

Responding to the good gesture by the Lagos State Government, the visibly delighted Pelumi Nubi, who could not contain her tears of joy, appreciated Sanwo-Olu and the State Government for making her Lagos

Tourism Ambassador and giving her a car and a house.

She said, "Honestly, it is just amazing feelings. I wasn't expecting this; it was just supposed to be a courtesy visit to thank the Governor for his kindness so far. So making me a Lagos Tourism Ambassador and giving me a car, house, and many more blows my mind. I am so grateful.

"Honestly, I feel so blessed as a Lagosian. I feel so blessed that I have done this London to Lagos road trip, and my sincere thanks to Governor Sanwo-Olu, President Bola Tinubu, and everyone that has made this happen. My advice to the youth, especially girls, is, Go for it."

Nubi appreciated Nigerians, particularly Lagos residents, for supporting her and for trooping out in large numbers to welcome her at the Nigeria/Benin Republic in Seme Border in Lagos State. She promised that the end of her solo trip would gear her up to promote the Africa continent, Nigeria, and Lagos, especially being the commercial nerve center of the country.

Also speaking, Dabiri-Erewa, applauded Pelumi for her bravery and courage, noting that her car for the trip would be placed in the Lagos Museum. She said the Nigerian Government was solidly behind her throughout the journey, which lasted for over two months.

The Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Ogunsola, said Pelumi was a role model to the young generation, and that was why the institution celebrated her entry into Nigeria on Sunday.

She commended Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos Government for giving Pelumi a hero’s welcome, saying the University of Lagos was proud of her. Pelumi’s father, Prof. Timothy Nubi, also appreciated Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, and all the government officials and institutions at the federal and state levels for their support during her daughter’s solo drive trip from London to Lagos. Pelumi Nubi began her solo trip from London, the United Kingdom, on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, and arrived in Lagos, Nigeria, on Sunday, April 7, 2024. Nubi's road manifest from the United Kingdom took her through France and Spain in Europe and into Africa through Morocco. She drove across Mauritania, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Mali, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and finally Lagos, Nigeria.

The 28-year-old Nubi was given a hero's welcome at the Seme border, Badagry on Sunday by hundreds of Lagos residents, who trooped out to celebrate her courage and determination in setting a record as the first black woman to drive from London to Lagos.

160 Medical Doctors Provide Volunteer Care for 5,000 Patients in Abia

emmanuel ugwu-nwogo in Umuahia

No fewer than 60 Nigerian medical practitioners plying their trade in the United States of America have teamed up with 100 their local counterparts to offer healthcare services to indigent patients in Abia State.

The medical mission which commenced on April 4, is going on in three selected health facilities in Umuahia, including Federal Medical Centre(FMC), and the two state-owned Specialist Hospitals in Umuahia and Amachara.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, the Abia State Commissioner for Health, Dr Ngozi Okoronkwo, said that the mission which would last for a week, would involve hundreds of surgeries and

other medical services.

She said that in the course of the programme, 70 medical doctors would attend to the needs of 5,000 patients out of which 500 would undergo cataract surgeries while over 300 patients were booked for hernia operations. Those with goitre and fibroid would also receive free surgeries.

"We've been planning and waiting for this," the Commissioner said, adding that the week-long medical mission "is an extension of a project we started last year" which ANPA has now keyed into. She said that aside giving their services free of charge, the association has also brought in medical supplies and consumables as well as skill transfer.

President of ANPA, Dr Chinyere Anyaogu said that Abia was

selected as a beneficiary of ANPA week, because the vision of Governor Alex Otti "aligns with our own".

"We're excited to be here," she announced, adding that the patients would be glad to have benefitted from the medical outreach.

Anyaogu stated that ANPA was looking at the possibility of a long term intervention in Nigeria's healthcare system by training 1 million healthcare providers from the front line responders. She said that the japa syndrome which has been draining manpower in Nigeria's health sector could be minimised with the right policies and incentives.

"If you train people and want them not to japa, you have to encourage them to develop their profession," she said.

L-R: Divisional Head, Retail and SME Products, Wema Bank, Ayodele Olojede; First Woman to Solo Drive from London to Lagos, Pelumi Nubi; and Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, at the Lagos home coming ceremony in honour of Pelumi Nubi at University of Lagos...recently

L-R: London-Lagos solo driver, Ms. Pelumi Nubi receiving eyo plaques from Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during the governor’s meeting with Ms. Nubi, at the Lagos House, Marina, ... yesterday

funke olaode

FIRST CLASS LAWYERS FROM IMO VISIT UZODIMMA...

L-R: Dean of Law Faculty, Imo State University, Prof C.K. Okorie (SAN); Chief Judge of Imo State, Hon. Theresa Chikeka; Mr. Chinonso Oparaji; Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State; Miss Chipuruime Udeh and Vice Chancellor of Imo State University, Prof. U.U. Chukwumaeze (SAN), when Governor Uzodimma received Oparaji and Udeh, two indigenes of Imo State, who made first class at the Nigerian Law School in his office at Government House Owerri... yesterday

Keyamo Assures of Plans to Boost Fleet of Nigerian Carriers to Make Them Competitive

Explains how aero-politics, intrigues denied Air Peace Heathrow Airport slot Reveals Emirates may resume flight to Nigeria before June

Chinedu Eze and Funmi Ogundare

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has said Nigerian airlines would soon be able to obtain aircraft and increase their fleet as the federal government’s interventions in the sector begin to kick in. Keyamo said the increase in fleet would help to bring down airfares in the domestic market, while boosting the airlines’ capacity to compete effectively on international destinations.

Keyamo gave the assurance yesterday during an interview on “The Morning Show” on Arise News Channel.

The minister disclosed how far he had gone in trying to resolve the issues that stopped lessors and aircraft manufacturers from granting long term lease of aircraft to Nigerian carriers, known as dry lease. He also spoke on the intrigues that denied Nigerian major airline, Air Peace, the Heathrow Airport slot in its Lagos-London flight services and forced the airline to choose the second option of Gatwick, where it had been operating from since March 30, 2024.

Keyamo disclosed that Emirates Airlines, which stopped services to Nigeria about two years ago, might resume flight operation before June. He stated that as the naira exchange rate continued to appreciate and the economy improved, the aviation market would continue to build up to what it used to be.

On boosting the fleet of Nigerian carriers, the minister said as a member of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), Nigeria had authorised international creditors

and lessors, under the Cape Town Convention, to reclaim aircraft in case of lease default.

Nigeria had been developing a practice direction to align with Aviation Working Group standards. If these are guaranteed, Nigerian airlines would be allowed to lease aircraft on long term basis.

In order to implement the policy, the minister said he had collaborated with the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, and Chief Justice of Nigeria to fortify airline support. He said he had also briefed the president and vice president on enhancing the ease of doing business.

Keyamo highlighted challenges Nigerian airlines faced in competing with foreign carriers on international destinations, disclosing that 70 per cent of the challenges border on their inability to acquire aircraft.

Keyamo regretted that Nigerian airlines were made to compete with international airlines that relied on dry leases and single-digit, long-term loans to obtain their equipment and manage their operations.

He said Nigerian carriers obtained credit facilities from banks at upwards of 26 per cent interest and could not acquire aircraft on dry lease. So they faced difficulty in leasing and even in purchase of aircraft due to the outrageous interest on loans.

Keyamo stated that he had held discussions with the Aviation Working Group, co-chaired by Boeing and Airbus, and indicated that Nigeria must amend its injunction practices to access dry leases.

He said lack of credit facilities for the carriers made it extremely tough for the airlines to buy aircraft outright

or lease rentals.

According to the minister, “The real reasons why we (Nigerian carriers) cannot compete with international airlines is that we don’t have access to aircraft on the same terms with the big airlines around the world.

“The biggest airlines in the world, like Qatar, British Airways, Emirates, KLM and others, don’t run their fleet 100 per cent based on the actual purchase of the aircraft.

“For all the fleet you see, 80 per cent of the fleet across the world is on a leasehold or dry lease. The airlines have access to loans in single digits. Our banks are doing 26 per cent and our banks are not big enough to finance wide-body aircraft. For you to survive, you must have access to these aircraft.”

On the blacklist of Nigeria by aircraft lessors because of default by operators and the difficulty faced by aircraft owner in retrieving their equipment, Keyamo expressed sadness over the action of the culprits. He explained that the action was in contravention of the Cape Town Convention, which

Nigeria is a signatory to. Keyamo disclosed that the federal government was working with the Aviation Working Group on a practice direction to enable domestic airline operators to dry lease aircraft. He said, “So, I went around to enquire about what guides aircraft leasing around the world, and I discovered it was the Cape Town Convention, which regulates aircraft leasing across the world.

“Nigeria is a signatory to that convention. We have signed and ratified that convention. And there is a group responsible for the observance and compliance of that convention. The group is co-chaired by Airbus and Boeing. The group is called the Aviation Working Group, headed by Jeffrey Wool.

“I called all of them and held a meeting to ask why our local operators are not getting these aircraft. According to them, they have blacklisted Nigeria because it didn’t comply with the convention.

“So, I told them I would do that. I spoke with the Attorney General

of the Federation, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the President and Vice President, who is the head of the Ease of Doing Business; all of them have agreed that it is a critical issue.

“We are in the process of drafting a practice direction to satisfy the Aviation Working Group that once we give a practice direction that says, please, our judges, don’t grant injunctions to detain aircraft that are on dry lease in Nigeria because it gives us a bad image and it is against the Cape Town Convention of the Aviation Working Group.”

On the operation of Air Peace from Gatwick instead of Heathrow, Keyamo explained that when he was appointed minister, Air Peace faced challenges in its bid to operate to London. He revealed, “When I came, I saw that Air Peace was struggling and had been struggling and I said this is one of our objectives: to support private businesses in Nigeria. I called Allen Onyema (Air Peace Chairman) and he told me all his problems and I said, ‘look, let’s start on this.’

“I wrote a very stern letter to the transport minister in the UK that under our BASA, we will not allow this to continue. I told him that he is taking 21 slots from Nigeria and we deserve 21 as well.

“What they gave Air Peace was even below the standard of the BASA we have because BASA does not only talk about reciprocity, it also talks about the airport.

“We have given you our tier one airport, which is MMIA, you should give us Heathrow, and we kept going back and forth and they asked him to bring a huge amount before they could allow him to Heathrow.”

Keyamo added, “They gave the excuse that they had given Heathrow Airport out to private concessionaires. The British government said they were no longer in control of Heathrow, so, we cannot give you Heathrow.

“I told Onyema to let us start with Gatwick and they started giving us all kinds of excuses to fly by 3am. I travelled again to London and put our foot on the ground before we were able to eke out what we had.

Wike Orders Decrepit International Conference Centre Closed for Renovation

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has ordered the closure of international Conference Centre, Abuja for eight months to enable renovation work to be carried out on the facility.

He gave the directive yesterday after inspecting the facility that was constructed by Julius Berger in 1991. The minister declared that all events and activities booked for the venue had been cancelled forthwith.

Nigeria, AU Set to Develop National Blue Economy Strategy

The federal government in collaboration with the African Union (AU) through the African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) is set to develop a national Blue Economy Strategy for Nigeria.

This was revealed by the Minister Of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola at a stakeholders consultative workshop to define priority issues for development of National Blue Economy Strategy for Nigeria in Abuja yesterday.

Speaking at the event, Oyetola hinted that considering the huge potential of the national marine

resources, the institutionalisation of the expanded partnership committee on sustainable blue economy in Nigeria was approved with the view to develop a strategic plan for the national blue economy.

This, he revealed, was what has eventually resulted in the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

He stressed that the event marked a significant milestone to review the draft strategy document for the Marine and Blue Economy sector.

"This workshop comes at a time when we are harmonising governance structures, developing strategies and plans of action for promoting blue economy develop-

ment initiatives and this strategy document is expected to provide a comprehensive framework for harnessing the potential of our oceans while safeguarding its health for the present and future generations," he said.

He posited that the blue economy presents significant challenges and promising opportunities for sustainable development.

"One of the greatest challenges lies in balancing economic growth with environmental conservation. Overexploitation of marine resources, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change threaten the health and resilience of ocean ecosystems.

"Addressing these challenges

requires concerted efforts to promote responsible resource management, mitigate environmental impacts, and build resilience to climate change. However, within these challenges lie significant opportunities.

"The blue economy has the potential to drive inclusive growth, create employment opportunities, and alleviate poverty, particularly in coastal and island communities," he noted.

He added that by harnessing the vast potential of the country's oceans sustainably, "we can unlock new sources of economic value, such as fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, renewable energy, and biotechnology."

He raged at the terrible state of the facility and wondered why the contract for the maintenance of such an edifice meant for international events would be handed over to an incompetent firm. He lamented that on several occasions, the nation had been subjected to many avoidable embarrassments before the international community in form of power outages, poor cooling system and facility decay.

“We have gone round, you and I know that it is unacceptable. No way we can accept this as an international conference centre. You can call this a conference centre, but not international.

“We cannot continue to be embarrassed in this way. So, we are sorry to announce this, every booking meant to be used here is cancelled. Because we will start immediate rehabilitation of this centre, to meet up with international standard.

“We have called the original contractor that built this edifice, that is Julius Berger, to come back, because if we had brought a new contractor, it would take us time.

We believe that in the next seven to eight months, we will be able to do something that people will appreciate.

“And then that means the FCDA will now take over the rehabilitation with Julius Berger, and then hand over to Abuja Investment Company,” Wike said.

He, however, said he would probe the previous contractor on their handling of the facility and warned that he would wield the big stick on the new Managing Director of Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL), Ambassador (Dr) Maureen Tamuno, if she failed to meet up with what was required of her job.

“I’m not here to probe anybody, I don’t want to begin to find excuses why the jobs are not doing well. The Managing Director of Abuja Investment Company knows what to do, mine is to give the country a befitting International Conference Centre.

‘And if she does not do it well, we have no choice but to wield the big stick, but I believe she has the capacity to run it well,” he said.

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Unlock Training Programme For Skill acqUiSiTion...

L-R: Commissioner for Youth Development in Kwara State, Miss Nafisat Musa Buge; the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, Madam Abiola Arogundade; Hon. Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr

Sultan: No Report on Moon-sighting, Ramadan Fasting Continues Today

By

Declares tomorrow Eid-el-fitri Leaders call for prayers for country

our correspondents

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared the continuation of the Ramadan fast for the Muslim faithful today.

The sultan said the decision was because there was no positive report of the sighting of the crescent of Shawwal 1445 AH on the 29th of Ramadan 1445 AH.

In a statement by Deputy Secretary-General of NSCIA, Professor Salisu Shehu, the council said, “Consequently, Ramadan fast will continue tomorrow Tuesday, 9th April 2024 as the 30th day of Ramadan.

“Therefore, Wednesday, 10th April 2024 is hereby declared as the 1st day of Shawwal 1445 AH and the day of Eid-il-fitr.

“The Council prays that Almighty Allah accept our fasting and other virtuous acts in Ramadan and grant us all peaceful and blissful Eid celebrations.

“Wassalamu alaikum waRahmatullah.”

Earlier, the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious

Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee, had also said it did not receive any report from various Moon Sighting Committees across the country confirming Shawwal 1445AH.

The group said, in a statement by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, Chairman, Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council, “Therefore, Tuesday, 9th April, 2024 is the 30th day of the month of Ramadan 1445AH. His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar CFR, mni, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has accepted the report and accordingly declared Wednesday, 10th April, 2024 as the first day of Shawwal 1445AH. (Day of Eid-El-Fitr).

“His Eminence, the Sultan, felicitates with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and wishes them Allah's guidance and blessings. The Sultan while urging the Muslim Ummah to continue to pray for peace, progress and development of the country.

“He also wishes all Muslims a happy Eid-El-Fitr. May Allah (SWT) accept our religious deeds.”

Some Nigerian leaders had yesterday, believing that today

was Eid-el-fitri, gone ahead to call for prayers of peace and unity for the country as Muslims from all parts of the world, supposedly celebrated the end of the Ramadan fast, congratulating the Muslim faithful for the Eid-el-fitri.

For instance, President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, congratulated Muslims in Nigeria for the successful end of 30 days Ramadan fast, and wished them Eid Mubarak as they celebrated the feast of Eid El Fitri.

Akpabio's congratulatory message was contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh.

He also urged Muslims to continue to offer prayers for peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria, saying, "Islam is a religion of peace and if its adherents go to God in prayer with sincerity, He will surely answer.”

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, also, while congratulating the Muslim faithful in his state on the end of Ramadan, advised the Muslim Ummah to uphold the lessons of kindness, forgiveness and sacrifice, which the month of Ramadan taught.

The governor identified insecurity and unstable economy as major

challenges standing against speedy development of Nigeria and the state. He called on Muslims to always remember to put the state at the centre of their prayers.

His Cross River State counterpart, Senator Bassey Otu, extended his congratulations to the Muslim community in the state on the occasion of the 2024 Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

Otu, in a goodwill message by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Nsa Gill, in Calabar, urged Muslims to reflect upon, and practice the fundamental principles and teachings of Ramadan, while giving thanks for successfully completing their fasting period. Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urged Lagos residents, particularly Christians and Muslims, to continue to live in love and peace, just as they demonstrated during the Lenten and Ramadan seasons. Sanwo-Olu assured that his administration would continue to do everything that made Lagosians proud of his government in the areas of infrastructure, education, transportation, and health, among others.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, spoke during

We Won't Haunt You, Fubara Tells IPAC

Blessing ibunge in Port Harcourt

Rivers State Governor, Mr Siminalayi

Fubara, yesterday, told the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Rivers State Chapter, that his government would not haunt the group.

According to him, no person who truly loved the state, whether embittered or not, would want to burn it down to achieve personal or political agenda.

The governor said whatever political strength anybody claimed to have amounted to nothing without the state and its people.

Fubara spoke while hosting the IPAC leadership led by its Chairman, Mr Sensei Osaro, on a solidarity visit to the Government House in Port Harcourt.

The governor assured them of a right environment for all political parties to operate so that they could engage with government and offer credible opposition.

He emphasised that it was the best thing to do, believing that

the opposition political parties had acknowledged that elections were over, and were resolved to offer effective support required to advance good governance in the state. The governor insisted that an egalitarian society would be engendered so that people can feel free to voice their opinions without intimidation, saying those criticisms would contribute to having more focused implementation of policies that would serve the general good of the State.

"So, we are happy to identify with you. We are assuring you, even when you leave here, criticise me, I don't have problem with that. It is meant to spur me to do well. We will continue to give you the freedom. We will not cage anybody. We will not revoke your property.

"You can also take my message to your National Secretariat, we will continue to stand on the right path. We will support them because we can see that they are also doing what is right. Anytime they need

our support, let them feel free to ask for it," the governor said.

IPAC chairman, Osaro, thanked Fubara for the opportunity to meet with them, and announced that IPAC has passed a vote of confidence on

the Governor.

He also announced the decision of IPAC to honour the Governor as the Grand Patron and Leader of the umbrella body of all political parties in the State.

the Iftar programme held for media practitioners at the Lagos House, Ikeja. Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, rallied the people of the state towards collective prayer, unity and resilience amidst prevailing economic challenges. Yahaya assured the people that the current difficulties were transient and better days laid ahead.

Speaking during the closing of Ramadan Tafsir at Government House Mosque, a session led by the Mosque's chief Imam, Sheikh Zakariyya Ajiya, Yahaya urged the faithful to remain steadfast in their devotion and to channel their energies towards productive ventures, particularly as the wet season approached.

Emphasising the importance of agriculture in fostering economic growth and food security, the governor encouraged citizens to seize opportunities in farming.

Police Uncover Plans to Disrupt Sallah Festivities

Kano State Police Command said it uncovered plans by some faceless groups in the state to disrupt the forthcoming Sallah festivities. Commissioner of Police in the state, Usaini Gumel, disclosed this while briefing newsmen on the command’s readiness to maintain law and order during and after the festival.

Gumel said sponsors of the plan were also in their close watch, as security agencies were following up and trailing them. He added that the planners would be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law. He stated, “We are aware of all these, and we are fully ready to

decisively deal with this ill-fated decision unless the planners change for the better.

“The command is aware of plans by some already identified religious and political pressure groups who are mounting pressure on the state government to succumb to disregarding the ongoing judicial processes, such as the matter before the court on Sheikh Abduljabbar Nasiru Kabara and to speak on issues related to the status of the Emirates and Emirship in the state.

"The plans that have been uncovered show that they are aimed to disrupt the Sallah activities, the existing peace in the state and to cause embarrassment to the State Government planned activities.

"In addition to physical security, we have deployed plain clothes security personnel in the state across the five (05) Emirates capitals of Kano, Bichi, Gaya, Rano and Karaye and including other identified areas to work with the communities in identifying spoilers and the enemies of the society to apprehend them for the overall community safety."

NSCDC Deploys over 40,000 Personnel

Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr Ahmed Audi, ordered the strategic deployment of over 40,000 personnel of the corps across the federation to ensure the protection of lives and property, and safeguard the nation's critical national assets and infrastructure during this year’s eid-el-fitri.

continued on page 21

UNDP Offers N200m Support to Bayelsa MSMEs

olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) yesterday offered a N200 million support to Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Bayelsa State.

Leader of the UNDP team, Joyce Oboro, who presented a cheque to Governor Douye Diri at the Government House in Yenagoa, said the objective of the initiative, which was co-sponsored by the European Union (EU), was to mitigate the effect of the current socio-economic challenges through

the empowerment of medium and small businesses across various sectors.

She said the components of the programme include financial support and capacity building while the cluster-based approach will be adopted to achieve set objectives.

Expressing the optimism that the project will stimulate economic growth and improve the standard of living of Bayelsa people, Oboro urged well-meaning groups and individuals to key into the project.

Diri, in his remarks, welcomed the partnership between the govern-

ment and the UNDP to develop MSMEs in the state, stressing that his administration was already doing a lot in developing and supporting MSMEs.

He said in line with the prosperity mantra of his administration, the government had trained many Bayelsa people and empowered them with starter packs as well as offered grants of N200,000 monthly to 420 small business owners across the 105 wards as part of its effort to encourage small businesses.

He assured the UNDP delegation that the state will play its role in

the partnership, insisting that whatever will add value to the lives of Bayelsans his administration will take it seriously.

The governor equally acknowledged the support of the UNDP when Bayelsa battled a terrible flood in 2022, describing the organisation as a true friend of the state.

He said: "For us as an administration, our mantra has been shared prosperity. Our people have to prosper in all aspects of their lives. So we are very happy to meet development-oriented organisations like yours.

Ayodele Olawande and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Social Events, Princess Atika Ajanah during day two of the Unlock Training Programme at the SSA-TVEE’s office Asokoro, Abuja... last Thursday

LaunCh Of a bOOk: ‘IMpErfECtLy awEsOME’...

L-R: Registrar/CE, Nigerian Institute of Management (Chattered), Taiwo Ganiyat Olusesi; Head Project Finance, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Ibrahim Nafada; CEO/Executive Producer ZURI @24 Media, Femi Odugbemi; Author/Publisher of ‘Imperfectly Awesome’ Embracing and Becoming a Wholesome You, Dr. Omotola Bamigbaiye; Chief Launcher, CEO/Managing Director GDM Group, Victor Afolabi; Managing Director/CEO of Nitro121, Lampe Omoyele; and President and Chairman of Council National Institute of Marketing of Nigerian(NIMN), Idy Enang, during the book launch of 'Imperfectly Awesome', Embracing and Becoming a Wholesome You held in Lagos...

Labour Party Stakeholders Set Up Transition Committee to Organise Convention

Obi’s aide sues for peace as pro-Abure protesters set for showdown with NLC

Labour Party stakeholders, yesterday, set up a Transition Committee that will reconcile aggreived members and help organised an all-inclusive national convention, with a view to forestalling leadership vacuum.

The committee was, however, mandated to consult widely and to organise the national convention within the next three months.

At the same time, the spokesperson of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Tanko Yanusa, has sued for peace as the party undertakes another leadership journey.

This was as protesters from Utako area of Abuja stormed the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) commission, spoiling for a showdown.

The stakeholders’ meeting was convened by the NLC under the auspices of its political commission, acting in its capacity as the registered trustee of Labour Party to devise ways of resolving the leadership conflict in the party.

Among the resolutions reached at

the meeting held in Abuja were the constitution of a Transition Committee of party with a mandate to organise congresses and all-inclusive national convention.

In a communique issued at the end the meeting, the stakeholders unanimously adopted a motion to accept the recommendations made by the NLC Political Commission in order to reposition the party from a mere platform for contesting elections to a viable political vehicle for the emancipation of Nigerian workers. The stakeholders resolved to: "Constitute a Transition Committee under the leadership of the NLC Political Commission and working with all stakeholders with a mandate to set up structures at national, state, local government and ward level for the conduct of an all-inclusive and expansive national convention of the Labour Party.”

They passed a vote of noconfidence on the purported Labour Party national convention held in Nnewi, Anambra State and regarded as inconsequential, the leadership that claimed to have emerged from the convention.

The meeting resolved to write the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and all the relevant security organisations in Nigeria urging them to immediately recognise the Transition Committee as the interim leadership of the Labour Party pending the conduct of an all-inclusive and expansive National Convention of the Labour Party.

"That the Transition Committee once constituted should fully take over the secretariats of the Labour Party all over Nigeria. That the Transition Committee shall immediately set up an assets recovery process of all the properties of the Labour Party.

"The Transition Committee shall also ensure that all the cases of fraud, impersonation and forgery of government documents pending against a few discredited former officers of the Labour Party are forensically audited and culprits are diligently prosecuted as demanded by leader of the Labour Party - Mr. Peter Obi. It is unfortunate that the actions of these few dishonourable characters have splashed mud on the white

satin of Labour Party. "That the Transition Committee shall within three months of its constitution ensure the conduct of an inclusive national convention of the Labour Party starting from ward congresses to local government congresses to state congresses culminating in an all-inclusive and expansive National Convention in Abuja."

The Transition Committee was in addition mandated by the Stakeholders Meeting to begin the process of revalidation of current members of the Labour Party and the registration of new members through the issuance of new membership cards and receipt of membership dues for the purpose of the conduct of an all-inclusive and expansive national convention of the Labour Party However, Obi, who was represented by Yanusa, said the former presidential candidate wanted the stakeholders to work for a peaceful resolution of the contending issues in the party, adding that Obi would want the reconciliation to begin from resolving all litigations pending at

PDP Lawmakers Threaten to Quit Party over Alleged Doctored Caretaker Lists

Demand removal of Damagun

adedayo akinwale in Abuja

A group of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has threatened to quit the party if the alleged doctored list of local government caretaker committees of the party in Rivers and 10 other states allegedly skewed in favour of the All Progressive Congress (APC) was not nullified.

The lawmakers led by a member representing Ideato Federal constituency in the House of Representatives,

Hon. Imo Ugochinyere, under the aegis of Opposition lawmakers coalition disclosed while addressing a press conference in Abuja.

The lawmakers also demanded the resignation of the Acting Chairman of PDP, Umar Damagun, to pave the way for a North Central person to emerge as acting chairman of the party pending the conduct of convention as required by the party's constitution. Ugochinyere, who was flanked by

other leading members of the G60 lawmakers noted that the members could not be in a political party, where the activities of such a party were determined by another political party.

The lawmakers accused Damagun of working for APC alleging that the list of Caretaker Committee members in Rivers State was doctored in favour of former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, and the members of the Rivers House of Assembly, who defected from PDP to APC

with card-carrying members of APC emerging as would be officers of the PDP.

They further accused Damagun of approving the plot to impeach the Rivers State Governor, Similayan Fubara.

"Damagun is fully aware of the entire details of the plots to impeach the Rivers State governor and he gave his approval to the plot, yet he refers to himself as a Chairman of a party," he said.

Ford Foundation Renews Commitment to Fight against GBV

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Ford Foundation yesterday renewed its commitment towards supporting the ongoing fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Nigeria.

The commitment was made by the visiting Vice President, International Programmes, Ford Foundation, Martin Abregu, at a roundtable organised by UN Women at UN House Abuja with stakeholders.

Abregu said having listened to all the contributions of the stakeholders in the battle to end GBV in the

country, the Ford Foundation was ready to collaborate and ensure its success. He noted that fight against gender based violence and discrimination were topmost on the agenda of Ford Foundation.

At the roundtable discussions titled: “Diverse Approaches to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention in Nigeria”, were representatives of other global organisations, the federal government as well as traditional and religious leaders.

The Country Representative of UN Women, Ms. Beatrice Eyong,

on her part, said the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria, like many other parts of the world, remains a pervasive issue that undermines the fundamental rights and dignity of women and girls, impeding progress towards gender equality and sustainable development.

She noted: “Globally, an estimated 736 million women—almost one in three—have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once in their life.

“Now, 33 per cent Nigerian women have experienced physical violence by the age of 15. Similarly, data from the Mirabel Centre in Lagos show that 81 per cent of reported cases of sexual assault between 2013 and 2019 were perpetrated against children – 67 per cent of the perpetrators were known.

“In Nigeria, these staggering statistics have worsened because of the security challenges arising from armed conflict, insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings across the country.

the courts.

Chairman of the meeting, and former President of NLC, Comrade Waheed Umar, said the reason for the meeting was for all the various groups and coalitions to form a strong union with the aim of salvaging LP from a dubious clique that is holding it down.

He said there was the need to adopt a procedure for an expansive, all-inclusive national convention According him, if nothing was done to correct the anomalies in the leadership structure of labour party now, opponents of the party might take advantage of the situation and go to court and rubbish whatever candidates the party will be presenting to INEC.

SulTA n: n o Repo RT on Moon- SI g HTI ng, R AMADA n FASTI ng Con TI nue S To DAY

According to a statement by the spokesman of NSCDC, Babawale Afolabi, the commandant general gave the directive based on current security challenges and the need to proactively tackle crime and criminalities before they were perpetrated.

He stated that the corps would deploy both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to nip in the bud all acts of criminality before, during and after the eid-el-filtri celebration in various states of the nation.

The statement said, “As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, on behalf of the management and personnel of the NSCDC, it is my pleasure to congratulate all our Muslim brothers all over the nation, wishing them a blessed, peaceful and joyful Eid-el-Fitr.

"This felicitation is with unwavering assurance that the celebration will go very smoothly and without any hitch as officers and men of the corps would be deployed strategically to public places, Eid prayer grounds, shopping malls, markets, motor parks and various flash points across various formations and states of the federation.

"Notably, the state commandants have been directed to deploy their personnel to strategic locations and flash points while ensuring strong collaborations with other sister security agencies and adequate supervision of their personnel for effective service delivery."

Biu Directs Operatives to Cover All 51 Critical Corridors

The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Dauda Biu, directed the over 28,000 corps’ operatives (Regular and Special Marshals) to effectively cover the 51 critical corridors in the country during the Eid-El Kabir special patrol. This directive was in view of the envisioned increase in vehicular movement and the need to make the highways safe by eliminating all variables that propelled road traffic crashes, fatalities and injuries on the country's highways.

Among the corridors to be covered by the operatives are AkwangaLafiya-Makurdi, Jos-Bauchi-Gombe,

Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Birnin Kebbi corridor, Katsina-Kano-WudilDutse-Azare-Potiskum corridor, Kaduna-Saminaka-Jos corridor, Abuja-Kaduna-Kano corridor, and Okene-Ogori-Isua-Owo corridor. Also covered are MakurdiOtukpo-Obollo Afor-9th Mile corridor, Asaba-Abraka-Ughelli-Warri corridor, Ibadan-Ogere-Sagamu corridor, Sagamu-Mowe-Lagos corridor, Bauchi-Alkaleri-Kaltungo, Kaduna-Kachia-Kwoi-Manchok, Keffi-Nasarawa-Toto-Abaji-Lokoja, and Lekki-Epe-Ijebu Ode, among others.

Speaking in Abuja, Biu appreciated the motoring public for their cooperation in making the roads safe during the 2024 Easter outing.

To achieve a better result during the Sallah celebrations, he directed operatives of the corps to deploy all professional expertise towards ensuring that there was free flow of traffic, prompt clearing of obstructions and effective enforcement of traffic laws.

Cleric Tasks FG on Cost of Food

A cleric and National Missionary of Daaru-r-Rahmat(DARMAT) Islamic Society, Sheikh Musibau-deen Olawale, urged the federal and state governments to intensify efforts on the reduction of food prices in the country to reflect the relief on exchange rate.

Olawale, in a statement issued in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, said, "The prevalent economic situation occasioned by the increase in the prices of foods in the country has continued to have a toll on the livelihood of all the Nigerians. "The development is so devastating that it is very hard for the people to meet their three day’s meals and this has affected the health growth of the populace.

"And with the improved Nigerian naira against dollar, I am appealing to the federal and state governments to work together on this and ensure that the prices of foods stabilised so as to enable the people have access to the foods with easy."

Chuks Okocha and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

yesterday

LAGOS SUBSIDISED FOOD BANK…

L-R: Chairman, Community Development Committee (CDC), Lagos Island Local Government Area, Chief Abu Elemoro Martins; Chairman, All Progressive Congress (APC), Ward C3, Lagos Island Local Government Area, Hon. Alejo Omotayo Saheed;Member, Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Lagos Island 1, Hon. Omolara Oyekan- Olumegbon; Chairman, APC,Ward B1, Lagos Island Hon. Akanni Fatai, and Woman Leader, APC, Ward B1, Lagos Island, Fatima Wahaab, at the second edition of Food Bank Market in Lagos…recently ETOP UKUTT

Police Raid Notorious Criminal Gang’s Hideout, Kill Two in Rivers

Gunmen abduct NRM guber candidate, Sobomabo Jackrich

Blessing Ibunge in port

Harcourt

In a bid to end the ongoing activities cultists and other related crimes in Rivers State, operatives of the state Police Command yesterday raided the hideout of notorious criminal gang, killed two of the suspects in Ahoada West Local Government Area of the state.

In another development, gunmen in military uniform early hours of yesterday abducted the governorship candidate of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) in the 2023 general election in Rivers State, Mr Sobomabo Jackrich

Gunmen Kill 30 Security Men in Niger

Laleye Dipo inMinna

Not less than 30 local security men have been killed in DogonDawa village in the Mariga local government of Niger state.

Some of the security men were said to be missing while some others sustained serious matchete and gunshot injuries.

The incident was reported to have happened last Saturday night when the local security men trailed the gunmen into the forest.

According to a report, the gunmen got wind that the local security men were on their trail

resulting in their setting up an ambush for the security men which they ran into resulting in their massacre.

The Chairman, Mariga Local Government Council, Alhaji Abbas Kasuwar Garba, confirmed the incident and expressed concern that as residents prepared for the farming season as a result of restoration of peace the bandits have resurfaced to wreck havoc on his people.

Garba commiserated with families of the deceased promising that called for government will investigate the circumstances leading to the incident.

ESUT VC Inaugurates Solar System for Improved Power Supply

The Vice Chancellor (VC) of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), AloysiusMichaels Okolie, has inaugurates a 12 kva high-tech solar systems donated by the Nigeria Fellowship of Evangelical Students Alumni Fellowship (NIFESAF).

Inaugurating the solar system yesterday, Okolie said that this was not the first time that the NIFESAF was donating a solar system as part of efforts to improve power supply in the institution.

THISDAY learnt that a team of police personnel stormed the forest in Ogbologbo in Ahoada West, in search of the notorious

gang leader, Ikem ThankGod (aka General 2man), where the suspects opened fire on the officers on sighting them.

It was also gathered that in the heat of the gun battle, General 2man who was alleged to be an ally with the killed two

kingpins, 2Baba and Odereke, escaped while his second and third in command lost their lives in the battle.

Political Scientists: Nigeria’s Democracy Not Translated into Inclusive Growth

Hammed Shittu in ilorin

Nigeria Political Scientists Association ( NPSA) has alleged that the democracy in the country has not translated into inclusive growth as the successive elected governments have sidelined security and welfare of the citizens.

In a statement issued in Ilorin, Kwara state capital and was signed by NPSA’s president, Prof. Hassan Saliu, the association, however, said that the ugly development has continued to threaten the livelihoods of majority of Nigerians and the stability of the nation.

According to the statement, “Nigeria is in the throes of a governance crisis that straddles the political and economic spheres in view of the alleged failures of the successive elected governments in Nigeria to address the security and economic mess facing the citizens.”

The statement added: “It appears to be at its worst point since its( Nigeria’s) transition to democratic rule in 1999.” The statement noted that though the country has been able to conduct regular and periodic elections after turning away from decades of authoritarian military rule, democracy has not translated into inclusive growth because the security and welfare of citizens have been side-lined by successive elected governments.

Itsekiri Graduates Threaten Shutdown of Chevron Facilities over Alleged Secret Recruitment

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Itsekiri graduates under the aegis of National Association of Itsekiri Graduates (NAIG) have threatened to shut down Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) oil facilities in protest against secret employment of staff members contrary to the laid down Local Content Act.

The group accused the American oil giant of secretly employing about 300 persons “in flagrant disregard to the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act 2010” and threatened showdown with the company if those mobilised for the perceived vacancies we’re not Itsekiri, Ijaw and Ilaje.

NAIG, in a statement issued yesterday and signed by its President and Secretary, Messrs Ben Eyitemi Eburajolo and Mino Esiategiwa, respectively urged the company to reverse the employment and follow the laid down laws in its recruitment. The group demanded that those purportedly engaged by Chevron Nigeria Limited, be demobilised and sent back immediately, while Itsekiris were called up to occupy at least 60 per cent of the alleged vacancies.

Alleged Certificate Forgery: It’s Suicidal to Field Aiyedatiwa for Election, Edema Petitions

Adedayo Akinwale in abuja

Ahead of the April 20 governorship primary in Ondo State, one of the aspirants, Hon. Olugbenga Edema, has said it would be suicidal for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to field the state Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for the November 16 governorship election due to alleged certificate forgery.

Recall that the former governorship candidate of the APC in the 2019 Bayelsa State gubernatorial election, David Lyon, was declared winner of the election, but a day to his swearing-in as governor, his election was invalidated by the Supreme Court.

The apex court ruled that his running mate, Degi Eremienyo Wangagra, submitted a fake certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), while ordering that Douye Diri of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who came second in the election, be issued a certificate of return, which would make him governor-elect.

Speaking further, he noted that most developmental strides in top institutions of the world come from Alumni, pledging that the management will make optimal use of this facility.

In his address, Global Chairman of the ESUT NIFESAF, Fred Nnadike, said that the fellowship has so far invested a total of N25 million to improve power supply in the institution.

“They donated a 10 Kva system, but it was destroyed by fire. They have shown us that the remain committed to the growth and development of the institution even after they graduated,” he said.

Firm, Partner Donate Sanitary Facility to Ogun Poly

JamesSowoleinabeokuta

In pursuance of the their Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR), an oil company, the TotalEnergies, and a partner, Nigeria-Sao Tome, have donated a multi-million naira hygiene and sanitary facility to the Ogun State Government- owned MoshoodAbiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta.

The project was put in place in response to the health challenges that students are likely to face due to use of poor sanitary facilities.

The facility is a block of 10 toilets, divided into two parts of five toilets each for females and males, including

urinals for male with other ancillary items like water closet, wash hand basins, hand dryers, and tissue holders. The facility also has a borehole with a 5.5HP automatic solar- powered submersible pump and 5.5kva hybrid solar power system KVA solar power system.

The Managing Director, Total Energies Nigeria Limited, Mr. Matthieu Bouyer, while speaking virtually at the project inauguration ceremony held on the campus of the polytechnic, noted that basic hygiene such as hand washing and a good sanitary environment must be cultivated to protect the populace from harm.

With 100,000 Committed Delegates, Jimoh Ibrahim Confident of APC Victory in Ondo

Sunday Okobi and Ugo Aliogo

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in the Ondo State upcoming gubernatorial election, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, has expressed confidence of APC victory in the election with 100,000 committed delegates at the party’s disposal.

Speaking in Akure, the state capital, during a party rally, Ibrahim said although the party cannot afford to pay for 200,000, 300,000, or 400, 000 delegates, which would raise the financial cost to over N900 million and bring a lot of money to the party, he has actually paid for 100,000 committed members who will vote in the primaries.

He remarked that as part of their cost-cutting measures, “we decided to take a huge number of a 100,000 among 487, 000 people in the 203 wards and paid for them to vote in the primary, and those are the people that are committed to go there and vote in the primary, that will make us to win.”

According to him, “Each of these booklets is a register of All Progressives Congress (APC) members in the 203 wards and 1,100 units.”

Makinde: Assault on OYRTMA Officials Condemnable

Kemi Olaitan in ibadan

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State yesterday condemned the brutalisation of two officials of the Oyo State Road Transport Management Agency (OYRTMA) by Nigeria Immigration Service personnel in Ibadan.

The governor decried the inhumane treatment meted out to the OYRTMA officials for apprehending an officer of the Immigration Service for the violation of traffic rules. Makinde stated this yesterday when he paid visits to the two assaulted officials, Mr

Nurudeen Abiola, resident at Binukonu Olunloyo Area and Mr Taiwo Adeagbo, resident at Oke-‘Badan area as well as the Nigeria Immigration Service, Oyo State Command. He described the incident as an unfortunate one that should never have happened, noting that

Oyo State wants to be known for upholding the rule of law and that everyone must obey traffic rules, irrespective of their status.

The governor assured the victims that the state government would take necessary action and bring the culprits to book.

North-east Conference of SDA Inaugurates New Mission Field in Numan

Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

The North-East Conference of Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Nigeria has inaugurated the Savannah Nigeria Mission Field to take charge in continued spread of the gospel of the

second coming of Jesus Christ in Adamawa, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe States.

The new Mission Field which will be having its headquarters in Numan, Adamawa State, where the ceremony took place, is the latest administrative

reorganisation which now sees the defunct North-East Nigeria Conference (NENC) now taking a new name, Plateau-Bauchi Nigeria Conference and retaining its headquarters in Bukuru, Plateau State.

In his charge to the new

Mission Field officials and entire membership, the Northern Nigeria Union Conference President of the Church, Pastor Istifanus Ishaya, tasked the new Mission to be up and doing by being on fire for Jesus Christ.

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

Super Falcons Set for Winner-takes-it-all Clash with South Africa Tonight

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will tackle their Banyana Banyana counterparts in a winner-takes-it-all clash inside the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria this Tuesday night with the mindset of sustaining a record of never having lost to South Africa in that country

in senior women's football.

Tonight’s game is scheduled to kick off at 7.30pm South African time (6.30pm Nigeria time).

After the slim 1-0 advantage Falcons earned in Abuja last Friday,

Randy Waldrum and his wards know the Paris 2024 Olympic Games women’s football event ticket is not secured yet. It is for them to take even as the host country will not be easy prey. Yet, history favours

Nigeria to triumph and smile away with the ticket in the bag. Since March 19, 1995 when the Super Falcons humiliated the Banyana Banyana 7-1 in front of their own fans in Johannesburg in a FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifying match, the gap between both countries have been narrowed to

City’s Guardiola Wary of Vengeance Seeking Madrid

Manchester City boss Pep Guar- diola believes Real Madrid will be determined to get revenge after they thrashed the Spanish giants on their way to winning last season's Champions League. City beat Real 5-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals.

However, Guardiola has no doubt the 14-time winners will pose a tough test in this Tuesday night’s quarter-final first leg in Madrid at 8pm.

"It is very difficult for the same thing to happen again," Guardiola said.

"Beating Real Madrid twice in a row is impossible. They have learned and will want revenge. They have pride.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti wants his side to show more mental strength than they did when the

two sides met last season.

After a 1-1 draw in Madrid, Manchester City thrashed Real in the second leg 4-0. “We played without courage, without personality," said Ancelotti. "Courage and personality are fundamental in this type of game, we lacked them in the second leg. The important thing is to be at our best, the mental aspect is very important."

TODAY @8PM

Arsenal v B’Munich

R’Madrid v Man City

WEDNESDAY @8PM

Atletico v Dortmund PSG v Barcelona

Four Students Win Scholarships at 2nd FCV Gladiator Football Camp

For five days, over 100 students converged on Grange School, Lagos for the 2nd FCV Gladiator Camp and at the grand finale, four outstanding players that distinguished themselves were awarded scholarships for training tours.

The five-day clinic was organised by Dynaspro Promotion Limited in collaboration with UK-based FCV International Academy with the sole aim of unearthing talents in their bid to contribute to the football ecosystem in Nigeria.

The scholarship awardees were Chikwere Ikpo, Yakubu Danladi,

Stephen Akhimien and Sadiq Musa and they are expected to embark on a two-week training tour of UK-based FCV International Academy come July.

Former Super Eagles star, Mutiu Adepoju, who mentored the students commended the organisers for staging such camp that will improve the lots of football development in the country.

Mutiu urged the players to combine education with sports, while tasking them on the need to be resilient in all they do.

“I served as an example to you all. My career would have been cut

short should I fail to imbibe the spirit of resilience. I almost gave up when I was dropped by club and national team coaches but the capacity to withstand difficulties kept me going and here I am today telling you all my success story. I urge you all never to give up and I pray you will succeed in all endeavours,” he stated.

Reacting to the successful scouting programme, Senior Manager at FCV International Academy, Kerem Karacauli described Nigeria as a hotbed of football talents that should be well harnessed.

“I’m satisfied with what I have

seen so far. Although most players are still a work in progress, I think they will all improve as time goes on. We sighted some qualities in some of the players and ability to take the ball under control instinctively is another key skill we all observed. Some players know exactly what they’re going to do before receiving the ball and I think with all these, the lads will go places,” he stated. In a similar vein, FCV International Academy youth coach Laim Merrick hinted that the academy would be willing to help shape the players to high standards.

warrant the South Africans to dream of shock treatment for Nigeria. Yet, the fact remains that the Banyana are still looking for a first win over the Falcons in any match played in South Africa.

In 24 previous encounters (with seven played in South Africa), Nigeria have won 15, with five ending in draws and South Africa winning on four occasions. One of the drawn games was the final match of the 11th Women Africa Cup of Nations, which Nigeria eventually won 4-3 after a penalty shootout in Accra.

South Africa’s four wins have been in Bata, Equatorial Guinea (1-0, 2012 Women AFCON); Cape Coast, Ghana (1-0, 2018 Women AFCON); Lagos, Nigeria (4-2, Aisha Buhari Cup) and; Rabat, Morocco (2-1, 2022

Women AFCON).

Of the seven previous encounters inside South Africa, Nigeria have won five, drawing two. The only times the Banyana have been able to hold the Falcons in South Africa were on 12th March 2004 (Athens Olympics qualifier which ended 2-2) and a friendly match on 3rd June 2012 that ended 1-1.

However, with the rapid growth of the women’s game in the continent, Super Falcons cannot rely on history alone tonight. They need to get the job done with all seriousness.

After the fairytale run at the last women’s World Cup Down Under in Australia last year, it is only fitting for Super Falcons to end the 16-year No-show at the Paris Games this 2024 summer.

NPFL: Shooting Stars Claim Famous Win Against Kano Pillars

Shooting Stars continued their push to the top rung of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following a rare 2-1 victory in Kano on Monday evening. Before now, they have always been battered with basketful of goals in their away duels with Kano Pillars.

In some instances, the score lines were as wide as 6-0. But on Monday, Shooting Stars continued their chase of the frontrunners. It initially looked a continuation

of the past when in the opening two minutes, Shooting Stars were already a goal down. Veteran Rabiu Ali shot the hosts ahead and held on till half time. Three minutes into the second half, Taiye Murtala levelled up for Shooting Stars before serial scorer, Christian Pyagbara scored the winner in the fourth minute of the added time for the Oluyole Warriors go smile away from the ancient city with all three points in the bags.

As Gunners in search of first s’final ticket in 15 years host Bayern tonight

Arsenal will not "fear" Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane when they face the German champions in their Champions League quarterfinal first leg tonight, says captain Martin Odegaard.

Kane has scored 38 goals since joining Bayern from Tottenham Hotspur last summer, having netted 14 for Spurs in 19 games against the Gunners. The first leg at Emirates Stadium is tonight at 8pm. "(He's) a good player, we know his quality in the box," said Odegaard. "I think we should respect him but I don't think we should fear anyone and we should focus on ourselves."

Kane is joint top of the Champions League scorers chart this season with six goals in eight matches, a feat matched by Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann. Nobody across Europe's top five leagues has scored more top-flight goals than his 32 this campaign.

Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus called Kane "the best finisher in the world" while manager Mikel Arteta said "his numbers over the past 10 years are unbelievable".

Despite Kane's goalscoring achievements, Bayern are very unlikely to secure a 12th consecutive Bundesliga title this season. They trail leaders Bayer Leverkusen by 16 points.

As for Arsenal, they are top of the Premier League on goal difference ahead of Liverpool with seven games remaining. The Gunners are hoping to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League for the first time in 15 years.

Bayern last reached the semis when they won the competition in 2020 and boss Thomas Tuchel wants his side to put disappointing domestic form behind them - though he said Arsenal will provide a "massive test".

Super Falcons are primed to pick the Paris 2024 Olympic Games women’s football event ticket against South Africa tonight in Pretoria

Harry Kane striking fears in the heart of Gunners

Manchester City defeated Real Madrid in the semi final in Etihad last season

Global Agency to FG

“Food insecurity is exacerbated by heavy dependence on imports, which climbed 22.12 per cent year-on-year from February 2022. Inflation reached 31.7 per cent in February 2024, a 9.8 per cent increase from the same month in 2023 ( National Bureau of Statistics). These combined security challenges and economic strain make food unaffordable for vulnerable people and limit their access to agricultural lands.”

--WorldFoodProgramme(WFP),warnsthatfoodsecurityisdeterioratingacrossNigeria.

Philip Shaibu: Lessons in Power

Philip Shaibu, the Edo state politician who was Deputy Governor in that state until yesterday afternoon, would seem to have failed woefully to learn certain basic lessons of power. He has said that he is a victim of an act of injustice and that he would fight to the very end. He may have been led by his counsel to believe that he can fight this to the finish and get back his seat. He would be mistaken to be so misled. He had it coming. He has just been taught a few lessons in the dynamics of power play. The 48 Laws of Power is the title of a book written by Robert Greene, an American author in 1998. It was a massive bestseller, selling over 1.2 million copies in the United States and even more world-wide, offering simple commonsensical advice, illustrated with narratives and historical examples to prove the point that power is a dangerous game, and only persons who understand its dynamics can survive in the palace. Greene recommends humility, obscurity and skillful navigation as the best skills of survival.

One of the reasons, Philip Shaibu, Deputy Governor of Edo State got impeached yesterday was due to hubris, defined in the literature as a flaw of character. And to worsen his agony, both the legislature and the Executive further conspired to nominate, approve, and swear in a replacement, within hours after his impeachment, in the person of Omobayo Godwins from Ibilo, Akoko Edo, the oldest local government area in Nigeria, in specifically, Edo North where Philip Shaibu himself hails from. In the power play that we have just witnessed in Edo State, it is clear that the intention of Governor Godwin Obaseki is to crush Philip Shaibu completely. He has publicly humiliated Shaibu, and forced him to know who the master of the game is. Less than a week after Easter, days after the betrayal of our Lord Jesus Christ by Judas Iscariot, Shaibu, a Christian has just been made to remember, forcefully, Acts 1: 20 – “For it is written in the book of Psalms, let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein and his place let another take”. Yesterday, someone else took Philip Shaibu’s place in Edo State.

How did he get here? Philip Shaibu emerged in 2016 as the running mate to Godwin Obaseki in the gubernatorial election in that state that year. They both won on the platform of the All Progressives’ Congress (APC). Shaibu was the unanimous choice as Obaseki’s running mate. He had behind him, the support of Comrade Governor Adams Oshiomhole who was his political Godfather and who left no one any choice in the matter. Shaibu and Oshiomhole are from the same homestead and Senatorial district. The APC won the election and assumed office in November 2016. To be fair, Shaibu and Obaseki cut the perfect picture of a team. Many were surprised because it was unusual to have a Governor and a Deputy Governor working together so peacefully like brothers. Shaibu was not just powerful, he was visible and influential. Whenever the Governor went on vacation, he handed over the reins of power to his Deputy. In 2020, when ahead of the struggle for a second term, Obaseki fell out with his former mentor, Adams Oshiomhole and had to leave the APC to find a new political abode in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Shaibu stayed with his principal, the Governor. The big men in the rival PDP did not want him as running mate. They didn’t want him as part of the deal. But Obaseki and Shaibu were so much together, Obaseki insisted that Shaibu was part of the deal. He would not ditch him. He had his way. In 2020, Obaseki and Shaibu began a second term in office.

The Deputy Governor’s high moment came in 2021, when he led the National Sports Festival 2020, hosted by Edo State, as the Chairman of the Organizing Committee. Governor Obaseki was full of accolades for his Deputy. The Federal Government did not provide necessary funding, yet Edo State

pulled it off, delivering one of the most memorable sports festivals many Nigerians had seen. Shaibu’s reputation as a go-to, can-do person soared. His political scorecard looked even brighter. At the University of Jos where he obtained a B. Sc degree in Accounting he was President of the Students’ Union from 2000 -2001. In 2003, he was elected into the Edo State House of Assembly. He spent two terms representing Etsako West Constituency. In 2015, he won election into the Federal House of Representatives on the platform of the APC, representing Etsako Federal Constituency. Having served subsequently as Deputy Governor, and having been such a star in that position, Shaibu decided in 2023, that it was his turn to become Governor and succeed his boss. The Edo Governorship election is slated for September 21, 2024.

Shaibu defined his declaration and ambition as a “a call to destiny”. This was the beginning of his problems. He did not have the support of his principal, Obaseki who thought, along with others that Edo North where Shaibu hails from, has had more than enough shot at the Government House position in Edo State. Oshiomhole, an Etsako man, was Governor of the state for eight years. Shaibu, believed to be his relative even, was going to serve for eight years as Deputy Governor. A powerful lobby group in the state believes that the people of Edo Central should be given a chance. Since the return to democracy in 1999, only one person from Edo Central, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor had shown up as Governor but even his tenure was truncated by the courts, paving the way for Adams Oshiomhole from Edo North. Whereas Governor Obaseki has insisted that he has no preferred candidate in the election, it was clear that he did not want his Deputy to succeed him. Thus, the impression that Edo State had shown a better example in terms of the tumultuous relationship between Governors and their Deputies ended up as mere illusion in the end. The fight between Shaibu and Obaseki turned messy and acrimonious, finally fitting into an established pattern with the impeachment of Philip Shaibu yesterday. It is unfortunate because it is so familiar.

The office of the Deputy Governor is a creation of the 1999 Constitution to the extent that Section 187 (1) makes it clear that a candidate for the office of Governor shall not be deemed to have been validly nominated unless he nominates another

candidate as his associate for his running for the office, that is a Deputy Governor. The joint ticket nature of the Gubernatorial process has been proved, beyond a scintilla of doubt in PDP and 2 ors v. Biobarakuma Degi-Eremienyo and 3 ors in the November 2019 Bayelsa Governorship Election. David Lyon could not become Governor because of discrepancies in his running mate’s qualifications. Despite this twinning of the ticket, this Siamese-twins, umbilical cord connection between Governors and their Deputies, what has happened, since 1999, is that upon assumption of office, there has been no love lost between the duo. One reason is that the 1999 Constitution does not expressly assign powers to the Deputy Governor. The Governor, like the President at the Federal level, is like a monarch. He controls everything. His word is law, and so everyone from traditional rulers to lawmakers in the State House of Assembly learn very quickly that the man to fear and worship is the Governor, who claims that he is an “Executive” or that he is a “constituted authority.”

This “Kabiyesi” syndrome is the bane of Nigerian politics. The Deputy Governor gets a generous mention in Section 191 of the 1999 Constitution which upholds the principle of jusaccrescendi inherent in the joint ticket, to wit a Deputy takes over in the event of death, resignation or incapacitation, but which is interpreted to mean that a Deputy Governor is a spare tyre waiting for the main tyre to develop a fault so it can be replaced and he, the Deputy can become the main driver. In a superstitious country such as ours, a Deputy Governor is treated with suspicion. Any sign of self-expression or assertiveness on his or her part is seen as a sign of disloyalty. Political courters capitalize on this and have always tried to cause problems. When the Deputy and the Governor have different Godfathers, the crisis is assured. It is rare to find any incumbent Governor who openly encourages his Deputy to succeed him. It happened in Zamfara once upon a time, but Alhaji Sani Yerima and his successor, Aliyu Shinkafi soon fell apart. Section 193 further reduces the role of a Deputy Governor to the discretion of the Governor. What is the pattern is conflict in Government Houses in the states and even in the Presidential Villa to varying degrees.

For example, President Bola Tinubu as Governor of Lagos State, 1999 – 2007 had three Deputy Governors. Mrs. Kofo Bucknor-Akerele and Mr. Femi Pedro both have stories to tell. Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje served as Deputy Governor to Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso (1999 – 2003, 2011-2015) but his former boss did not consider him good enough to succeed him. He got there by his own means. They have remained tough adversaries since then in Kano politics. The late Christopher Alao-Akala, deputy to Governor Rashidi Ladoja became Governor in 2006, only because his principal was impeached. Ladoja was reinstated by the Supreme Court in December 2006. Bala Ngilari became Governor in Adamawa state in 2014 only because Governor Murtala Nyako was impeached. In Ondo State, to cite a recent example, the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu had issues with his Deputies. In his first term, a certain Agboola Ajayi who was his Deputy fell out of favour because he was eyeing the Governor’s seat. His successor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa would also eventually run into trouble. He is Governor today because his principal died. At state level, only 10 out of 149 Deputy Governors have taken over from their bosses since 1999, across the 36 states of the Federation, and not necessarily because their bosses wanted them there. In Kebbi, Kano, Imo, Niger, Nasarawa, Plateau and Benue states, we have seen incumbent Governors supporting candidates other than their own Deputies who stubbornly sought to succeed them. Engr. David Umahi, now Minister of Works became Governor of Ebonyi State in 2015 in

spite of his former principal Governor Martin Elechi who insisted that Umahi was not his choice. At the Federal level, the Obasanjo Presidency became a “BolekajaPresidency” because then Vice President Atiku Abubakar wanted to unseat his boss before the 2003 general election. Obasanjo’s second term was a divided Presidency because the principal needed to teach his Deputy a lesson. In 2010, it took the invocation of a doctrine of necessity to get then Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to succeed President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua first as Acting President and later as President. Those who did not want Jonathan as President never gave up.

In sum, there is nothing unusual in the latest development in Edo State. What must be noted is the sheer stubbornness with which Shaibu took on the war against his principal. In the process, he was banished from Government House and restricted to a corner of Benin City. His media crew was withdrawn. He was stripped of all responsibilities. He was told in no uncertain terms that he would not be Governor. He went to court to defend his rights. He later withdrew the case. He apologized. But nothing changed. When the PDP held its party primaries, he organized his own event in his own house and declared himself as the chosen candidate. The next thing that came his way was the commencement of impeachment proceedings against him. On the surface of it, the state House of Assembly tried to follow the motions prescribed in Section 188 of the Constitution on the removal of a Governor or Deputy Governor from office. Shaibu and his lawyers claim that the House acted in violation of an ongoing process at a Federal High Court. Abuja. Without prejudice to Section 188 (10), the only remedy available to Shaibu is to prove in court that his removal was unconstitutional and seek to rely perhaps on Rashidi Ladoja’s case – see Muyiwa Inakoju and Ors. vs. Abraham Adeleke, Rashidi Ladoja and ors. (2007). But the times are different. The circumstances have changed. Shaibu’s political future hangs in the balance. Whatever tricks his lawyers may still think they have in their bags, when Shaibu is alone let him reflect on how he ignored the laws of power. Law One says: “Never Outshine the Master.” Shaibu got so carried away he began to sound as if he was the master of the Governor. He openly boasted that without him Obaseki could never have been Governor and that he in fact funded his ambition and mobilized support for him. Obaseki has just shown him where power lies. He also violated the fourth law: “Always say less than necessary.” Shaibu believes that he can talk his way to the ticket for Osadebey House. Worse, he disobeyed Law 18: “Do not build fortresses to protect yourself. Isolation is dangerous.”. Shaibu isolated himself. He parted ways with Senator Adams Oshiomhole who helped him to build his political career. He quarreled with party big wigs like Dan Orbih. He abused elders and burnt bridges. He lacks the kind of support that propped up Dave Umahi in Ebonyi and Abdullahi Ganduje in Kano State. Isolation is indeed dangerous. Shaibu’s only saving grace would be how he stands in relation to Robert Greene’s Law 26: “Keep your hands clean”. Let us hope that his hands are clean. Nonetheless, no man should be subjected to the kind of pain that he has had to endure simply because he wants to exercise his fundamental rights under the law. A system that turns Governors into mini-gods who determine other people’s fate is deplorable. The sycophantic breed of commissioners, special advisers, lawmakers and courtiers who would do anything to please the Governor of a state pose a serious threat to the democratic process. In the long run, Nigeria must make up its mind what it wants to do with the position of Deputies: it is either we protect that office constitutionally by assigning specific powers, or we scrap it.

Former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu