Party kicks, petitions NJC, seeks review Says order procured via fraudulent document Ganduje: Their motive is to create confusion in our party, says it's a destructive phenomenon
Wike Wins as National PDP Caucus Gives Nod to ContinuationDamagum’s in Office
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, yesterday, reiterated the apex bank's stance of not intervening in the foreign exchange (FX) market, insisting that the regulator remains firm in its commitment to fostering a market-driven exchange rate system.
The CBN Governor said this during an interactive session at the ongoing hybrid IMF/World Bank Spring meetings in Washington with the theme: “The Governor Talks,” that was titled: “Nigeria: Catalysing Change: Reforming Monetary Policy in Nigeria” Cardoso, pointed out that liquidity was returning to the FX market, signalling growing confidence and activity in the Nigerian economy. Regarding fluctuations in the country’s external reserves which
Upbeat liquidity returning Reveals country recorded $600m inflow in two days Naira appreciates to N1072/$1 on official FX window, now N1,100/$1 on parallel market Tinubu lauds Dangote Group for reducing Diesel Pump Price... Page 10
Ekpo says GSPA for $3.8bn Brass Methanol Project to be executed by May
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in LagosThe Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mr Gbenga Komolafe, yesterday stated that captured flared gas from the proposed Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP) will be deployed for electricity generation, fertiliser and methanol production as well as feedstock for local industries.
Speaking at the NGFCP Investors’ Forum in Abuja, Komolafe said the meeting was convened to bring flare site awardees, technology providers and financiers together for the mutual goal of eliminating flared gas and improving environmental sustainability.
He said that through the NGFCP, flare gas sites were awarded to competent third-party companies who are to harness the resource for value derivation, reiterating the commission’s commitment to the successful execution of the programme.
Komolafe stated that this would help to actualise the attainment of Nigeria’s pledge to end routine gas flaring within this decade and contribute to the reduction of global emissions.
The programme is being executed in conjunction with the United State Agency for International Development (USAID) and Power Africa – Nigeria Power Sector Program (PA–NPSP).
“The opportunity before us is immense as the captured flared gas can be used for electricity generation,
fertiliser and methanol production and feedstock for local industries.
“These, in addition to improving host community relations, environmental sustainability, building local content capacity, creating employment opportunities, and encouraging increased capital inflow to the sector are some of the programme’s benefits to the country.
“Through the NGFCP, the barrier to entry into our complex industry is lowered for many proven small and medium scale local and international players,” he assured. He stressed that the forum represents a unified commitment to decarbonisation and achieving net zero emissions.
Together, he noted that participants were driven by the imperative to transform wasted energy into productive solutions, positioning Nigeria as a leader in sustainable practices.
According to him, the NGFCP
Komolafe
represents a comprehensive triumph that transcends typical business outcomes, delivering substantial environmental, social, and economic benefits.
He assured that requisite due
diligence had been carried out on all award holders and remarkable progress had been made to ensuring that proposed projects are bound to achieve measurable success thus demonstrating tangible benefits of our initiative.
Meanwhile, the federal government has announced that the Gas Supply and Purchase Agreement (GSPA) to support the Final Investment Decision (FID) for the Brass Methanol Project is to be executed by May, Minister2024.of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo announced this yesterday after a meeting held with key stakeholders of the project in Abuja, according to a statement by his spokesman, Louis Ibah.
Ekpo said the meeting was to confirm adequate gas supply to the Brass Methanol Project by the NNPC/Shell/TotalEnergies/ NAOC Joint Venture (JV), as well as
determine the next steps to conclude and execute the GSPA and mature the phase 2 of gas supply to the project.
Present at the meeting were the Head of Joint Venture (JV), Investment Management, NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services, Mr. Olanrewaju Igandan; Deputy Managing Director, Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC), Mr. Richard Orianzi; Managing Director, Shell Petroleum Development Company Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor; Managing Director of Brass Fertiliser and Petrochemical Ltd, Mr. Ben Okoye, among others.
Ekpo informed the gathering of Tinubu’s strong interest in resolving issues relating to gas supply to the Brass Methanol Project.
According to the minister, the president was passionate about the speedy kick off of the project so that it could bring in the much needed FDI with attendant economic benefits
to the country.
“Mr. President is very passionate about this project and wants something positive to happen in respect of the Brass Methanol project before the end of May this year,” Ekpo said.
The Brass Methanol Project, located on Brass Island in Bayelsa State, is sponsored by Brass Fertiliser & Petrochemical Company Limited (BFPCL).
The $3.8 billion project is made up of a gas processing plant, a methanol production and refining plant, product export facilities, among others.
At the end of the meeting, Ekpo announced he had successfully resolved the GSPA issue and that it would be executed by May this year.
“The NNPC/SPDC JV partners are now fully committed to uninterrupted gas supply for the development of the Brass Methanol project,” Ekpo added.
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has received a cheque of $1 million from Nedogas Development Company Limited (NDCL), being part of the return on investment (ROI) on one of the Board’s strategic investments.
The cheque was presented by the Chairman of the company, Emeka Ene when he visited the Nigerian
Content Tower in Yenagoa Bayelsa State, where he was received by the Executive Secretary, Felix Ogbe and other members of the board’s management.
Nedogas Development Company Limited (NDCL) is a joint venture company between Xenergi Limited and NCDMB Capacity Development Intervention Company.
As part of the project, Nedogas Development Company Limited (NDCL) constructed and commissioned a 300 MMscfd Capacity Kwale Gas Gathering (KGG) and injection facility located in the Umusam Community, near Kwale in Delta State, Niger
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday said it had deployed the Generation Loss Detection System (GLDS) which it said plays a pivotal role in detecting and responding to sudden drops in power generation across the network.
The innovation, a statement from the General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, said, stands as a testament to the TCN’s commitment to advancing grid management capabilities.
Designed to empower the National Control Centre (NCC) in Osogbo, GLDS, it said, provides grid controllers in NCC with advanced
tools for real-time monitoring and analysis of grid performance.
“Its intuitive interface allows for the setting of parameters, continuous monitoring of power generating stations, and comprehensive reporting functionalities, enabling swift responses to grid disturbances.
“GLDS incorporates sophisticated data analytics and machine learning algorithms to analyse real-time data and identify patterns associated with sudden generation loss.
“By leveraging anomaly detection techniques, GLDS can promptly alert grid controllers on deviations from normal grid behaviour, facilitating proactive intervention to prevent widespread disruptions, ” the
TCN said.
Furthermore, TCN said that it ensures seamless communication between GLDS and IoT cloud servers, enabling a more rapid response and coordination of mitigation strategies.
“This connectivity underscores TCN's commitment to enhancing grid resilience and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of electricity to consumers across Nigeria.
“Previously, TCN engineers had developed an in-house design that leverages on IoT technology as an innovative solution in response to the challenge of limited visibility of power generators. The IoT devices, which were strategically deployed
across power stations and some substations, facilitate the collection of near real-time data, including power generation levels and grid performance metrics, the organisation added.
The IoT enabled the expansion of visibility of power generating stations from six to 27, and has helped TCN significantly improve its ability to monitor grid load and identify potential issues before they escalate, it stressed.
Recently, it said the IoT device was also used to capture generation from Taopex Gs and Zungeru Hydro Power Station, bringing the total number of power stations visible to the national grid to 29.
to monetize natural gas from their fields through the gas gathering, compression, injection and metering infrastructure of the KGG for quick market access.
Nedogas is one of the several strategic and successful investments of the NCDMB funded from the Nigerian Content Development Fund (NCDF), in line with the board’s mandate to build capacity and catalyse local projects in the Nigerian oil and gas industry as enshrined under the Nigeran Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act.
In his comments, the NCDMB boss stated that the success story of NEDOGAS at Kwale, Delta State could be replicated in other oil- and gas-producing communities to minimise gas flaring.
He declared the board’s readiness to continue collaborating with the company. “Their model should be extended to other parts of the country where gas flaring is continuing. They have shown that with the modular system, we can quickly remove flaring from our operations in Nigeria,” he said.
He confirmed that NCDMB had continued to receive briefings from its investment partners, adding that “we are still waiting for them to come back with success stories. Some of them are near completion and have not started operations yet.”
Chairman of NEDOGAS, Ene conveyed the company’s excitement
in returning part of the credit and profit, adding that this “proves that NCDMB’s investment was a success and they are getting back that investment.”
He added : “We look forward to further collaboration with the NCDMB to expand the scope. NCDMB is now doing effectively and practically and tangibly what it was set up to, which is to impact the economy by direct interventions.
“ That is the way the economy can grow, improve the gas infrastructure in such a way that is sustainable despite the tight economic conditions.”
The value propositions of the Nedogas project include total eradication of flared gas and conversation of environmental pollutants into products of value and creation of a strategic gas gathering hub and injection node for quick access to market for gas owners to monetise gas. “Other benefits include the provision of alternative gas supply to western flank of the OB3 line to add to the volumes of economic sustainability and increase in Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), among other reasons.
The partnership with NEDOGAS is one of NCDMB’s 15 strategic investments geared towards actualising the federal government’s aspirations in key areas of the oil and gas industry. Most of the projects were targeted at actualising the federal government Decade of Gas programme.
The $1.1 billion port rehabilitation project announced by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) five months ago received a major boost yesterday, with the signing of a $700 million facility agreement with Citibank. Speaking during the signing of mandate letter with Citibank Nigeria in Lagos, the Managing Director of the NPA, Mohammed Bello-Koko said the NPA negotiated a loan of $700million from the Citibank to be funded by the UK Export Finance (UKEF) an export credit agency, to rehabilitate the Apapa and Tin-Can Island ports, Lagos. The NPA, Koko revealed, has also opened discussion with another funding agency to secure financing for upgrading of the Eastern Ports including Calabar, Warri, Onne and Rivers Ports as well as the reconstruction of Escravos breakwater. Bello-Koko, said the mandate letter would be sent to Debt Management Office for final review and approval. The funds, he stated, are ready, “and the reconstruction of the Lagos Ports will start soonest as the NPA perfects plans to sign another mandate letter for the upgrading of the Eastern Ports in about a month.”
have sent various proposals that we have reviewed.
According to him, "In the last two years, NPA has realised the need for us to rehabilitate and reconstruct the ports all over the country. We have been having discussions with multilateral funding agencies who
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), yesterday vowed to protect consumers amid the escalating costs of goods and services despite recent appreciation of the Naira against the dollar.
The commission, further declared the situation unacceptable, vowing to shield consumers from exploitation.
The commission’s position was in a statement issued by the acting Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive, FCCPC, Dr. Adamu Abdullahi.
"What we did is to further discussion with interested parties and we realised it is better to separate the ports in Lagos from the ports in the East, and we are in discussion with another funding agencies to fund the construction of ports outside Lagos.”
He said the Citibank facility was the cheapest for Nigeria because its came with affordable interest rate.
He praised the Minister of Marine Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola for assisting the NPA achieve its key performance indicators
country," he added
Speaking earlier, the Managing Director of Citibank Nigeria Limited, Ireti Samuel-Ogbu, said the bank is committed to supporting NPA and the federal government in bridging infrastructure gap.
"We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with NPA especially being the collection bank for foreign and local currency port levies.
He said the commission was aware of the concerns expressed by Nigerians regarding the continued rise in prices of goods and services. Abdullahi, said while the FCCPC cannot directly regulate prices, it would utilise its existing legal framework to enforce fair competition and consumer protection provisions, including monitoring and investigating unusual price hikes, addressing complaints filed by consumers, and taking action against any businesses found to be engaging in anti-competitive practices such as price-fixing, price gouging or cartel formation.
mission is taking proactive steps to address this issue.
“The commission has directed its operatives to intensify monitoring of both formal and informal markets, where businesses may be taking advantage of market conditions to unfairly inflate prices, and ramp up enforcement activities.
He said, “The FCCPC understands the significant financial strain these rising prices place on Nigerian households. As a result, the Com-
The Guinness World Record has declared Clara Chizoba Krongbong, as the world record holder for the longest interviewing marathon that lasted a remarkable 55 hours record time.
In a statement issued yesterday, Guinness World record disclosed that the interview started on March 8, 2024, and was completed on March 10, 2024.
Krongbong, who is a media entrepreneur from Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, also doubles as a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion, deploying the transformative power of storytelling across various media platforms.
Her achievements are a testament to the fact that hard work and dedication can lead to remarkable results.
"As we look forward to her future
projects, we cannot help but feel inspired and motivated by her determination and perseverance," the statement read.
She is the CEO of CCK Ventures & Enterprise SL, a production company based in Spain and her passion for entrepreneurship is inspiring, and she is already planning her next big project, an entrepreneurship TV show and an Online TV network that would connect African/Nigerians in the diaspora, creating opportunities and fostering unity among African and European communities. “Her PR officer, Samuel Samson, and her Manager, Damilare Adebanjo, are already planning a welcome party for her homecoming a few weeks from now. “She plans to return to her hometown in Anambra State, Nigeria where the welcome party will be held,” the statement added.
“The operatives will work collaboratively with trade associations, farmer groups, and other stakeholders to identify and remove unnecessary barriers to entry in various sectors, combat price-fixing, and dismantle cartels. This will encourage increased competition, ultimately leading to lower prices for consumers.”
The FCCPC boss further assured
that it remained committed to educating consumers about their rights and empowering them to make informed choices.
“We will engage in advocacy and public awareness campaigns to raise awareness about price gouging and other unfair trade practices and provide guidance to identify and report such practices.
“The FCCPC recognises the importance of working alongside other government agencies to tackle this complex issue. We will collaborate with relevant regulatory bodies to develop a comprehensive and coordinated response to anti-competitive practices, price gouging, and other consumer protection issues,” he said.
"I want to specially thank the minister for his support and passion for the country. Port efficiency is not about automation, which we have already begun, it's also about the physical infrastructure, which must be in place and that's why we are automating. Automation will naturally bring efficiency, increase revenue and plug leakages, "he said.
Bello-Koko added that the NPA was putting Port Community System, a platform that would improve trade facilitation in place.
"Currently in Nigeria, importers or exporters fill up to 30 to 40 forms for one transaction but the Port Community System will reduce the numbers of forms, human interference and ensure speedy clearance process in or out of the
“Now, supporting this strategic initiative through export credit financing to upgrade port infrastructure in Tin-Can and Lagos Ports is commendable. However, we are committed in supporting NPA and the Nigerian Government in all its endeavours especially in the infrastructure space.
Citibank, she said, was opportuned to have met with the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, a few weeks ago where the port upgrading project was mentioned and he was very delighted about the project.
"Since NPA generates its own foreign revenue, we will be able to support foreign facility from our resources because this project is very strategic and an important project for NPA and the country at large.
"We are looking forward to this project and we thank NPA for giving us this opportunity and hope to bring this into fruition as soon as possible," Samuel-Ogbu said.
With the clock ticking on the recapitalisation deadline of March 31, 2026, given by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for banks to meet their respective regulatory capital requirements, Proshare Nigeria Limited, has estimated that 26 licenced banks that cut across all tiers would need to raise a minimum of N4.176 trillion to fill up the funding gap in their respective shareholders’ fund.
It also projected that post recapitalisation, the banking landscape would be characterised by larger tier-one banks.
The report, which was released by Proshare, a Lagos-based research and investment information provider, titled: “Nigeria Banking Recapitalisation: A Crucial Game, A Risky Gamble and A Lingering Gap,” also stated that the major lesson from the 2005 recapitalisation exercise was that banks
should enhance their managerial competence and risk management capabilities to match the growth in bank capital base.
It stated: “With the clock ticking on the recapitalisation deadline of the CBN, analysts expect to see a banking landscape characterised by larger tier-one banks, the merger of a few second-tier banks and the outright acquisition of banks with no equity capital to talk about.”
It listed Ecobank, Keystone Bank Limited, Taj Bank and Lotus Bank as the only banks that already have enough shareholders’ fund to meet the latest capital base requirement.
The report added: “With the CBN insisting that banks bring fresh capital to meet the new minimum capital requirements, the sector would see a large inflow of fresh money, a possibility of mergers and acquisitions as Tier 3 and a few Tier 2 banks will
likely be absorbed into larger entities, and the sector could possibly see the setting up of new banks with the revised minimum paid up capital. “Banks in what Proshare classifies as Tier 3 or those currently with negative shareholders’ funds will be acquired rather than merged, as was seen during the Soludo’s consolidation era in 2005.”
The report stated that bank capital should combine individual bank operational reviews to ensure that prudential capital adequacy ratios (CARs) are met and CBN’s regulatory oversight to ensure that each bank satisfied the minimum requirements of the regulator's capital stress test).
It warned: “Being over capitalised is just as dangerous as being under capitalised. This issue will be treated in Proshare's forthcoming ‘Tier 1 Banking Sector Report titled 'Recapitalisation: The Death of Banks, and the Resur-
rection of Banking.’
“With earnings per share (EPS) likely to fall, banks' share prices will equally tumble. Financial analysts expect investors to take short (or profit-taking) positions as soon as bank Tier 1 equity increases over the next twenty-four months., as investors realise that bank equity increases come at a cost. “As occurred after the recapitalisation of banks in 2005, banks could go on a lending binge that jeopardises the financial system.
“With large equity positions, banks will look for loans and advances to absorb the additional capital. The consequences would be higher nonperforming loan ratios (NPLRs) and higher loan-to deposit ratios (LDRs) as banks run up larger risk assets without accompanying growth in bank deposits and improved liquidity as the bank cash-to-deposits (C/D) ratio rises.”
L-R: Product Manager, DiamondXtra, Doris Okpara; Regional sales Manager Festac 1&2 and mainland Access Bank, Ngozi Igboanugo; Regional Sales Director Lagos 2 Access Bank Plc. Bolarinwa Animashaun; winner of Diamondxtra, Emeka Ezikeugo; Head Consumer liabilities, Access Bank plc. Adaeze Ume; and the Team Lead, Consumer Liabilities Access Bank, Olanrewaju Adetula at the launch of Diamondxtra Season 16 held at Alaba international market Lagos…
The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive, Financial Reporting Council (FRC) of Nigeria, Dr. Rabiu Olowo, has said a credible valuation system remains key to achieving the present administration’s ambition for $1 trillion- economy by 2026.
Olowo stated that evidence had shown a firm connection between valuation and global competitiveness in business, helping to attract investors as well as improving credible financial reports.
Speaking when he received the Chief Executive, International Valuations Standards Council (IVSC), Mr. Nicholas Talbot, who paid him a courtesy call in Abuja, the FRC boss described the visit as a significant milestone for the council which is responsible for entrenching financial reporting credibility and corporate governance principles towards promoting investor confidence in the Nigerian economy.
He said valuation standards remained at the core of FRC credible financial reporting, having recently established a directorate of valuation standards in the council.
Olowo, said the physical meeting with the global apex valuation body “gives us hope in terms of the support, benefits and aligning ourselves with the global baseline of our valuations to be done or what should be the conducts, ethics and the techniques, even for valuation professionals, ensuring that what they do contributes to credible financial
reporting”.
He stressed that valuation remained at the core of the council’s mandate, adding that the “work that valuation professionals do is absolutely significant to the economy”.
The FRC chief executive said, “Whether it’s valuation of assets, receivables, or anything of its kind, you find that it's key to every financial reporting principle and also the governance process.
“So, at the end of the day, once investors have confidence that the business that we do here and how we value our balance sheet – this will promote that confidence and at the end of the day, it's going to have a catalytic effect on the economy. And our hopes of achieving the $1-trillion economy is only a matter of time.”
According to him, “The work that the FRC do is quite a lot; we are the apex regulatory body for accounting, auditing, valuation, actuarial, and sustainability standards. And for us, all these standards are not cosmetic.
“We want to make sure that the work that we do here and the businesses that run in this country – all align with this global baseline so that when you are comparing the business in Nigeria with the business in the Netherlands or America, we are speaking the same language and that investors from any part of the world can have the ability to compare and have confidence in our reporting style.
“And we are very excited that
we have good relationships with all the standards setting bodies across the world including the IVSC.”
In his remarks Talbot, also corroborated the position of the FRC boss on the relevance of effective valuation principle to achieving the government’s ambitious economic expansion, commending the Nigerian regulator as a “leading practice”. He said strengthening the country’s valuation standards will boost investor confidence and quicken the proposed expansion of the economy
confidence is having a stable financial system but also an approach where you understand it from an external investor point of view.
He told THISDAY, “What investors look for whether they're domestic investors or international investors is confidence and key to
“Imagine a world where there were 195 different approaches to valuation, it would make it very difficult for investors to decide where to invest.
“So, the fact that Nigeria uses international valuation standards and the regulators are looking at strengthening that approach in terms of their oversight is only going to give more confidence to inward investors which will help move you towards the $1 trillion dream faster.”
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, has expressed the federal government's readiness to collaborate with oilfield service companies under the umbrella of Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) in a bid to develop the country's oil and gas resources for increased production and revenue generation.
The minister gave the assurance when he visited members of PETAN in Lagos, where they had far-reaching interaction about the state of the oil sector, especially on ways to address waning investment and production decline.
Lokpobiri, affirmed that the federal government was putting up measures to restore oil production, saying there was need for the minis-
try and PETAN to work together to maximise all available opportunities that could help increase production in the country.
He noted that the quickest way for the country to overcome the current economic hardship was through the exploration and production of oil and gas.
He added, therefore, that the government was actively engaged in policy evolution, aimed at maximising the utilisation of all available oil and gas wells in the country.
Lokpobiri stated, "No country leaves their well idle, in Nigeria so many seismic activities have been done and we have a lot of oil wells that are yet to be utilized.
"Imagine, one of the OML’s has about 150 idle wells. There is no way we can increase production if these wells continue to be idle. The wells
The Kebbi State Government yesterday handed over 10 hectares of land to the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for the establishment of Agricultural Machinery Development Institute (AMEDI) in Birnin Kebbi.
This was in line with the federal government's directive that the six geopolitical zones in the country should host one AMEDI each, a statement by the Director of Information, Mr. Olusegun Ayeoyenikan, said.
The document of the 10
hectares of land situated along Birnin Kebbi-Argungu road was handed over to the Executive Vice Chairman /CEO of the Agency, Khalil Halilu by the Permanent Secretary of Kebbi State Cabinet Office, Dahiru Zaki. Kebbi State, it was learnt, got the nod of the federal government because of its vast arable land in rice production and other farm produce among the seven states of the North-west geopolitical zone. The handing over of the land documents was done on the permanent site of the proposed institute. NASENI's Director of Procurement, Dr. Mohammed
Mohammed, received the documents on behalf of the EVC / CEO of the Agency.
Zaki said that Kebbi State people were grateful to the federal government for locating the institute in the state saying it will accelerate development and create job opportunities for the teeming youths in the state.
He added that Kebbi State was chosen as the site of the new AMEDI due to its agrarian capacity in rice production and other cash crops. He added: ''This land was earmarked by the state government in the last two years
for allocation to NASENI for establishment of AMEDI. We are the leading producer of rice and so many other crops and that is what informed the decision to site this project in Kebbi state.”
Speaking on behalf of the EVC/ CEO of NASENI, Mohammed appreciated Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State for giving NASENI the land at a strategic location along Airport road in Birnin Kebbi to start building the Institute. He said the project would commence immediately as the EVC/ CEO has put all the necessary machinery in place.
are already drilled and capped since 1970s. These are low-hanging fruits.
"Part of our policy direction is to see how we can farm out some of these idle wells for proper utilisation. Now that the world is transiting to cleaner energy, the country must use the available time to maximise the utilisation of the wells to increase production.
‘’Except we increase our production, our midstream and downstream will continue to suffer. So, I believe that I and PETAN need to work together so that we can maximise the opportunities the industry can avail us, for the economic prosperity and development of the nation.’’ The minister said he had made a strong commitment to work with PETAN and other Nigerians in the oil and gas sector, who have shown proven capacity to ensure the growth of the sector.
He expressed conviction that the solution to Nigeria's energy poverty was with every stakeholder, stressing that nobody or nation would come to salvage the nation's oil and gas industry except Nigerians.
The minister said if Nigerians were allowed to play at the desirable level, there would be a lot of improvement in the petroleum sector.
He also pointed out that the essence of the Local Content law was to enable Nigerians to build strong capacity to be able to play side by side with their international counterparts.
Lokpobiri noted that Nigeria has not depleted her oil reserve, saying rather, with the increased reserve that was announced a few days ago by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), it was expedient that the Nigerian government will do all it could to drill more wells.
The NUPRC had announced
a rise in Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves as of January 1, 2024, with the country’s crude oil reserve jumping by 1.087 billion barrels and gas reserves surging by as much as 2.573 trillion Cubic Feet (TCF).
From the NUPRC’s statutory declaration, Nigeria now boasts of 37.5 billion crude oil reserves, while its total gas resources as of the beginning of this year, now stands at 209.26 TCF.
The minister said the President Bola Tinubu-led administration is doing all it could to take the nation to a better economic standing among the comity of the nations. He affirmed that one of the cardinal points of the president was to address the nation’s energy poverty, noting that as the world is transiting, the nation must address its challenges to enable the country transit as well.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of PETAN and Chief Executive Officer of Geoplex Drillteq Limited, Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, reiterated the association’s commitment to supporting the minister and all the efforts of President Tinubu toward increasing oil production and development of the energy sector.
He also called on the government to see how it could grant incentives to stakeholders in a bid to ensure better output and economic benefit for the industry and the nation at large.
Ogunsanya said, ‘’Honorable Minister, we thank you and assure you that we will continue to align ourself with the vision of the president. And as we have continually said, the nation must show its indigenous capacity to explore and drill oil 100 percent." He affirmed his PETAN members' readiness to help in the development of the Nigerian oil and gas sector.
President Bola Tinubu yesterday commended the ‘enterprising feat’ by the management of the Dangote Refinery for its decision to reduce the pump price of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), also known as diesel.
The company, during the week, reviewed downwards the price it sells the product to petroleum marketers from N1,200 to N1,000 per litre.
But the presidential statement said Dangote also provided a discount of N30 per litre for an offtake of 5 million litres and above.
The price review, the statement said, represents a significant drop from the N1,650 rate it hitherto sold at the pumps, stressing that it will in
Oshiomhole, in 2020, and now history repeats itself with Ganduje’s ouster.
But the national secretariat of the party kicked against the latest development, and immediately petitioned the National Judicial Council (NJC). APC demanded a review of the court order issued by Justice Usman Na'abba against Ganduje.
The party also said it would not obey any court order obtained by "fraudulent document" affirming the suspension of its national chairman. Ganduje in his reaction to the court order suspending him from his position, accused the New Nigeria Peoples Party NNPP led Kano State Government of being jittery over the rising electoral profile of President Bola Tinubu in the state. “They are so concerned that we are battle ready to take over the government come 2027. They are so concerned that we got the second highest votes for Mr President and that we will get even higher in order to ensure that 2027 is a walk over", he told his support group who paid him solidarity visit hours after the court order.
He stated further that, “Their motive is to create confusion in our party so that we won’t have the courage and mind to take over the government of Kano and to also ensure that our president does not have intimidating votes from Kano State. Their intentions will fail.
“We want to assure Mr President that our party in Kano State is intact. It is solid. It is battle ready in order to give the highest votes to Mr President”. Ganduje who described the
in the leadership crisis plaguing the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a meeting of the national caucus of the party, last night, did his bidding by asking the acting National Chairman, Illya Umar Damagum, to continue in office.
By this fresh bill of health, Damagum is to continue acting in office till the next NEC meeting after today.
To this end, today’s NEC meeting would have nothing to do with leadership change until the next national convention of the party.
This decision was disclosed by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba, who said the decision was aimed at ensuring reconciliation and unity in the party.
According to him, the caucus had directed that the party management should set up a discipline and reconciliation committee to reconcile all members.
“NEC meeting will not discuss any change in leaders. Rather, attention is focused on unity and reconciliation
"Caucus agreed that all congresses in the states and local government should be concluded between June and August this year.
"Caucus agreed on the extension of the constitution review committee of the party to accept new recommendations," Ologunagba stated.
Earlier, PDP governors, had after over four hours meeting, declared that only the NEC could decide the fate of Damagum.
This came as Chief EK Ashiekaa, SAN, lawyer to the suspended national chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, in a letter to the National Working
no small measure, impact the prices of sundry goods and services across the nation.
The move described as ‘unprecedented’ came after an Executive at Dangote Group, Devakumar Edwin, confirmed that the company has begun distributing diesel and jet fuel to the local market.
“We have substantial quantities. Products are being evacuated both by sea and road. Ships are lining up one after another to load diesel and aviation jet fuel. Ships load a minimum of 26 million litres, though we try to push for 37 million litres vessels, for ease of operations,” Edwin said earlier.
In a note from the company, it stated that before now, it had reduced price from the market rate of N1,600
development as a new “destructive phenomenon”, said the APC leadership would ensure that the impersonators are punished.
“We have heard your complaints which is that you have dissociated yourself from the charade and you are appealing to us to take appropriate legal action according to the rule of law.
“This is a new destructive phenomenon in democracy which should not be allowed to thrive, if elements of another political party could sit down and claim that they are executive members of another political party. I think this should be checked even by security agencies”, he said
“After a fair and critical investigation, it was found that those who met with officials of Kano state government are not executive members of either the ward or local government and they are not even members of our political party.
“I have to appreciate you for showing your concern. In fact, what is happening is an incursion into our political party by the NNPP and the government of Kano State in order to destroy our party because they have seen their failures in their first year in office in terms of the economy and political unrest in the state.
In another development, Na'abba fixed April 29, 2024 for hearing on whether respondents in the case between the Kano State government and Ganduje could be served by substituted means. The decision botched hearing in the trial.
APC is going down the same path
Committee (NWC) of the party, announced the withdrawal of Ayu's appeal from the court of appeal.
But indication that Damagum might retain his seat became manifest when the NWC passed a vote of confidence in him to continue in acting capacity pending the national convention of the party proposed for later in the year. At the same time, a former national chairman of the PDP, Uche Secondus, had advised the PDP leaders assembling for the party's 98th NEC meeting to do everything humanly possible and within the law to rescue and restore the party’s glory.
He urged them not to pander to the gimmicks of Wike, because he was only using them to remain relevant with President Bola Tinubu.
Also, yesterday, elder statesman and leader of the Ijaw nation, Chief Edwin Clark, advised leaders of the PDP to dissolve its NWC in order to save the main opposition party in the country from total collapse.
However, fielding questions from reporters at the Akwa Ibom State government house, venue of the meeting, Chairman of the PDP Governors, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, on the fate of Damagum, said" only the National Executive Committee will decide."
He also said other issues affecting the party would be decided at the national caucus taking place at the Bauchi State Government House. Mohammed further said the meeting deliberated on various issues of interest and concern to the forum, the PDP and issued a
to N1,200, about 30 per cent crash, but that even that price has been further reduced.
The Dangote refinery added that the latest development is expected to significantly impact the overall economy which depends partly on diesel to power businesses.
“While rolling out the products, the refinery supplied at a substantially reduced price of N1,200 per litre three weeks ago, representing over 30 per cent reduction from the previous market price of about N1,600 per litre.
“This significant reduction in the price of diesel, at Dangote Petroleum Refinery, is expected to positively affect all the spheres of the economy and ultimately reduce the high inflation rate in the country,” the refinery said in the note on Tuesday.
as four years ago, when Oshiomhole was removed through the court, after a long-drawn battle of survival.
On June 16, 2020, a three-man panel of the Court of Appeal affirmed the suspension of Oshiomhole as national chairman of APC.
In the judgment delivered by Mohammed Lamido, the panel dismissed Oshiomhole’s appeal for lacking merit.
The panel’s decision followed the judgement of an Abuja high court in March 2020, which had ordered the suspension of Oshiomhole as national chairman of APC.
A high court sitting in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) had on March 5, 2020 given an order of interlocutory injunction restraining Oshiomhole from referring to himself as APC national chairman, pending the determination of a suit filed by one Oluwale Afolabi.
Less than two weeks later, on March 16, the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja restrained APC from executing the judgement of the FCT high court, which ordered Oshiomhole’s suspension as national chairman of the party.
In its ruling at the time, Abubakar Yahaya, chairman of the three-man panel of judges, ordered a stay of execution pending the hearing of an application filed by Oshiomhole.
In his appeal, Oshiomhole, through his counsel, Wole Olanipekun, had asked the court to set aside the suspension order.
The appeal court’s ruling came at a time Oshiomhole faced serious backlash over the decision by the
communiqué.
"The meeting reviewed recent developments in the Peoples Democratic Party and urged the National Working Committee of the Party to set in motion the machinery to conduct credible congresses in all the states, where tenures of party officers have expired.
"The meeting noted that there are no factions in the PDP and everybody is working together. We equally want to use this opportunity to reaffirm that in Rivers State, the governors would work assiduously towards resolving all the issues in the state with a view to uniting all the stakeholders," he said.
The meeting was attended by Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, who is the Vice Chairman of the PDP governors forum. Other governors at the meeting were Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Omobayo Godwins and the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ossai.
Meanwhile, in a notice of withdrawal of appeal, Ayu's lawyer, said, "Take notice of the withdrawal of appeal that the appellant herein intends and doth hereby wholly withdraws the appeal against the respondents filed on 27th day of June 2023 vide Notice of Appeal
The Dangote refinery, positioned on a peninsula near Lagos’ commercial centre, represents Africa’s largest refinery project, completed after many postponements and financed by Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest man, with an investment of about $19 billion.
With the capacity to process up to 650,000 barrels per day, the refinery is set to be the largest in both Africa and Europe once it attains full operational capacity, expected later this year.
The Dangote refinery is expected to also significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products as the nation currently imports nearly all of its fuels due to the its insufficient or almost non-existent refining capability.
NWC to suspend the Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, then a member of APC, and bar him from contesting the party’s governorship primaryObasekielection. later announced his decision to quit APC. His now estranged and impeached deputy, Philip Shaibu, also left the party after his principal’s announcement of his exit.
However, yesterday, the application granted by Na'abba followed an ex parte motion by Dr. Ibrahim Sa'ad Esq. on behalf of two executive members of APC Ganduje ward, Dawakin-Tofa Local Government Area of Kano State. They were the assistant secretary, Laminu Sani, and the legal adviser, Haladu Gwanjo (plaintiffs), who were part of the nine ward executive members, who suspended Ganduje two days earlier.
had been a source of concern to some analysts in recent times, the CBN governor noted that it was a typical occurrence, pointing out that Nigeria, like other nations, fulfils its obligations to creditors, which was expected to have effects on its reserves.
Additionally, Cardoso, pointed out that the country received an inflow of $600 million over the past two days, which he stressed was indicative of a positive trend. Hence, there was no need for concern.
Responding to an Arise News Channel question on intervening in the FX market, Cardoso said: “Defending the naira, which from every indication seems to be an elephant in some room. Now, I want to try to make this as clear as possible.
“It is not our intention to defend the naira. And much as I have read in the recent few days, some opinions with respect to what is happening with our reserves, and the central bank defending the naira.
“If you think back to what overall policy and philosophy has been here, you can see it's counterintuitive. Basically, what we are encouraging is for the markets to willing-buyer, willing-seller, price discovery. And ultimately I perceive a future where the central bank will really not need to intervene except, in very unusual circumstances.
“What is important to us is that there is sufficient liquidity in the market which I've spoken about here today. $1 billion is out now, sometimes it is $600, $700 million as the case may be, and that will continue. So as long as we have a vibrant currency market, why do we need to go in there to intervene, we don't need to.”
Speaking further, Cardoso said:
“I can understand that especially at the outset, there have been little cases where the Bureau de Change (BDCs), there was a need to get that segment going. And small amounts of money, relatively tiny amounts of money have gone into that to catalyse that happening because it's important that again, individuals have access to funds to send their kids abroad and do things which are important like health, etc.
“So it's important not to keep them out of the mainstream. But in terms of intervention, frankly, that's not my intention at all to intervene in the market.”
Responding to concerns over the drop in the country’s external
He also highlighted the federal government's 20 per cent stake in Dangote Refinery and why such partnerships between public and private entities are essential to advancing the overall wellbeing of the country.
Tinubu called on Nigerians and businesses to, at this time, treat the nation as a top priority, while assuring them of a conducive, safe, and secure environment to thrive.
Aside diesel, aviation fuel and a few others, which it currently produces, the icing on the cake for the
In the presidential release by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu affirmed that Nigerians and domestic businesses are the nation's surest transport and security to that glorious destiny of economic prosperity.
The court directed the four parties (respondents) joined in the matter, including APC, APC National Working Committee (NWC), APC Kano State Working Committee (KSWC), and Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to henceforth, maintain status quo ante belum as from April 15, 2024, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit on April 30, 2024.
Na'abba, also as prayed, stopped KSWC from interfering with the legally and validly considered decision of executives of Ganduje ward, essentially on action endorsed by two-thirds majority of the executives as provided for by the party’s constitution.
The court ruled, "An order is hereby granted directing all parties in the suit APC (1st), APC National Working Committee (2nd), Kano State Working Committee APC (3rd), Dr. Abdullah
reserves, he said: “And what you have seen with respect to the shifts in our reserves, is a shift that you will find in any country's reserves situation, where for example, debts are due and certain payments need to be made, they are made because that is also part of keeping your credibility intact.
“And other times money comes in. And you know, it takes the reserves up again, and if you watch in the next couple of days, which I think between yesterday (Tuesday) and today (Wednesday) we had about $600 million that came into the reserves account.”
He emphasised that there's no need for undue excitement, saying, “our focus remains on fostering a market that operates independently, driven by willing buyers and sellers and facilitating price discovery.
“The shifts you’ve seen in our reserves has really little or nothing to do with defending any naira and that is certainly not our objective.”
Further speaking on the exchange rate, he said recent developments in Nigeria's exchange rate offered hope. He added that daily liquidity in the foreign exchange market has surged from about $200 to $300 million it used to be to $1 billion, underscoring the growing importance of FX liquidity in monetary activities.
He said: “I do think that what we've seen recently with regards to the exchange rate helps to give people hope, in the sense that when I started, we had a situation where within about a month or two we were regarded as having the worst performing currency of any country.
“Six months later, we are judged to have the best performing currency. So, I think those things speak for themselves. In a situation where in the recent past, the greatest amount of liquidity on a daily basis was in the region of $200 million to $300million to a situation where over the course of the past six months, we have traded up to $1 billion.
“So the FX liquidity has certainly taken the centre stage in activities of the of monetary side and I think people see the exchange rate coming down.
“We continue to talk about the fact that in the pass-through, there's a lag, but ultimately the objective is to ensure we can operate efficiently.”
Responding to a question on if there was lingering currency risk in the country, Cardoso noted that, it
Tinubu
refinery is expected next month, when it begins to refine petrol, Nigeria’s most used fuel.
The decision by Dangote had also drawn applause from select number of petroleum marketers as well as manufacturers in the country.
Umar Ganduje (4th), to maintain status quo ante belum as of 15th April, 2024.
"The order thereby restraining the 1st respondent (APC) from recognising the 4th respondent (Ganduje) as member of APC and prohibiting the 4th respondent (Ganduje) from presiding over any affairs of the NWC and restraining the State Working Committee from interfering with the legally and validly decision of the ward executives of Ganduje ward.
"That the 4th respondent (Ganduje) is prohibited from parading himself as member of APC or doing any act that may portray him or seem to be a member of APC pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit."
But APC, in a petition dated April
Continued on page 36
was indeed a concern.
However, he noted that issues needed to be addressed in a structured manner, saying that as policies unfold over time, people would “gain clarity on our direction in managing currency risk.”
He explained: “Currency risk, the answer to that is yes. But again, these things need to be sequenced. So, in due course, as and when those policies come out I think people will know exactly where we are headed in that direction, but it's certainly something that we are looking at.”
Commenting on how the federal government’s bold policy reforms, he said: “I think it's a combination of both the fiscal side and on the leadership on political leadership, I think there is a pretty strong understanding of what needs to be done to get Nigeria out of a pretty difficult situation.
“I also believe that seeing the massive swings, we saw where the naira was almost falling off the cliff really didn't need a minimum confidence and conviction to be able to say, look a certain way or manner of doing things with fixed exchange rate didn't work and we just needed to be bold enough to try something different.
“And I think that helped in many ways. At the same time, I must say it was not easy, because in a situation like that, people are extremely impatient and many don't believe that the path you are taking will get you there. But I think we were resolute enough. We were prepared to make the hard decisions quickly enough. That is the difference.”
Meanwhile, the appreciated on the official FX window yesterday, even as it depreciated on the parallel market
Specifically, on the official Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange (NAFEM) window yesterday, the naira closed at N1,148.14 to a dollar, which was a N75.4 gain compared to N1,148.14/$1 it closed on Tuesday.
On the other hand, on the parallel market, the naira depreciated to N1,100/$1 yesterday, compared with the N1000/$1 it exchanged on Tuesday, indicating N100 loss.
The daily turnover on the official NAFE saw a decrease of 29.6 per cent reaching $189.12 million yesterday, compared to the $268.75 million recorded on Tuesday.
Furthermore, the highest spot rate observed yesterday stood at N1,220, with the lowest spot rate recorded at N981.04
A former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Prof. Sam Amadi, has urged the federal government to counter the narratives being pushed by non-governmental organisations (NGOs), which are against Nigeria’s political interest.
Amadi, who is also the director, Abuja School of Social and Political Thought Centre for Public Policy and Research, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja at a stakeholders’ dialogue on foreign influences and their impact on democratic values, organised by Dataphyte Foundation.
He was of the opinion that
Congress of the Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF) yesterday said it suspended 11 officers of the group for engaging in conducts aimed at undermining and destroying the foundation.
Among those suspended were Prof. Ukachukwu Awuzie, who was recently elected president of the foundation alongside other executives on April 7.
The Chairman of the Congress, which is the supreme authority of the group, Emeritus Prof. Uzodinma Nwala, made this known yesterday in Enugu at a press conference.
He said the decision to suspend
the members was reached after they conducted a “show of shame called election at Prof, Barth Nnaji’s private compound in a desperate act meant to seize the leadership of the ADF. Nwala noted that they refused to respect the intervention of some of the elders of the ADF who had advised that election into the offices of the ADF should be held on April 11, 2024.
According to him, “It is to be noted that the day they carried out this sham selection at Enugu was the day that Nwala, who had led the ADF for 10 years was hosting guests, including several ADF leaders, at his home in Imo State in honour of his beloved daughter’s traditional marriage.”
Blessing ibunge in port harcourt
Rivers State Governor, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, has assured the state chapter of Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and Nollywood members that the state government will honour Precious Chimaobi Ofurum, a Rivers State indigene who died in a boat mishap in Anam River in Anambra State.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance yesterday when members of the organisation show solidarity to their late member, visited the Government House in Port Harcourt, to formally inform the government of the incident.
Precious Ofurum, alongside a popular Nollywood actor, John
Odonwodo, popularly known as ‘Junior Pope’ and other crew members, was a victim in the recent boat mishap that claimed the lives of five persons.
The state governor, who was represented by the Head of Rivers State Civil Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, said it was their visit that has brought to the knowledge of government that an indigene of the state was one of the victims.
Fubara commended the Nollywood members for demonstrating what he described as enviable solidarity to one of their own, which he said suggested that the 26-year old Precious was distinguished among them.
while some foreign influence undermines political interests, the solution was not to outlaw foreign funding, but to create capacity at home to also fund
what they don’t fund. Amadi noted that the NGOs come with a certain ideological conception of democracy and they decide which aspect of the
electoral system to fund.
According to him, “So this is not about whether they are bad or good people, it is that they come with an idea of democracy
and they push that idea.
“So conceptually, every funding for democracy is a projection of ideas for those who are funding it and it’s an influence.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in abuja
Civil society organisations (CSOs) operating in the country’s health sector have taken steps to develop accountability framework that will help ensure transparency and value for money spent on projects and programmes in the sector.
The initiative is aimed at fortifying Nigeria’s health security preparedness and response to emergencies.
The CSO coalition met yesterday under auspices of Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON), and in collaboration with Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC), African Health Budget
Network (AHBN) and GemHub Initiative to review existing accountability frameworks for health security and COVID-19 vaccines in Nigeria with a view to strengthening them.
Under the initiative being spearheaded by the VNDC, the CSOs sought to establish mechanisms for ensuring transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in the management of health security resources and interventions.
While welcoming participants, Founder of Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC), Mrs. Chika Offor, said there was urgent need for a robust accountability framework to address gaps in Nigeria’s health security architecture.
Hammed shittu in ilorin
The immediate-past Senator representing Kwara South senatorial district of Kwara State at the National Assembly and a top close ally to Senator Bukola Saraki, former Senate president, Senator Rafiu Ibrahim, is dead.
He died in a medical facility in Abuja at the age of 57.
Late Ibrahim was a member
of the Federal House of Representatives from 2011 to 2015 and member of the Senate from 2015 to 2019. He died after a brief illness.
Meanwhile, the news of Senator Ibrahim’s passing was confirmed by his family through his aide, Mr. Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir. Yesterday.
According to his statement, “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved father, uncle, and brother, Senator Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim.
“Senator Rafiu returned to his creator this morning, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, service, and profound impact.
Ugo aliogo
The Linus Idahosa Foundation for Empowerment (LIFE) Africa has empowered widows in Epe, Lagos State, in an outreach programme as parts of its commitment to continuing fostering empowerment in marginalised communities.
Speaking at the event, the Founder of LIFE Africa, Linus Idahosa, expressed empathy for these resilient women in
Blessing ibunge in Port
A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, has fixed June 6, 2024, to hear an alleged environmental pollution suit against Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals and Fertilizer Limited by some indigenes of its host communities in the state.
One Kingsley Mba-Ngei and 69 others from Alesa community in Eleme Local Government Area of the state had filed a suit before Justice Stephen Dalyop Pam of the Federal High Court, alleging environmental pollution by the facility of Indorama in the area.
The case registered in suit
society, stating that one cannot understand what it means to be in the shoes of these women. According to him, “We understand, however, the fundamental role that husbands play for the family as leaders, providers, and protectors. LIFE Africa has committed itself to planting the seeds of change and empowerment for widows to alleviate the pressures that come with the absence of the husband and
Also, yesterday, the state Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has received with shock and profound sadness reports of the death of Senator Ibrahim after a brief illness.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, stated this in a condolence message issued yesterday.
“We kindly request your prayers and support during this difficult time. His burial arrangements will be communicated in due course. “We pray Allah forgives his shortcomings and grants him Al-jannah Firdaus.”
number: FHC/PH/CS/23/2024 could not continue yesterday, following the directives of the trial jJudge that parties should go back and properly file their proceedings.
The lead counsel for the plaintiffs, Mohammed Ndarani Mohammed, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, had earlier told the court how urgent and important the matter is, alleging that the community people are suffering from the effect of pollution in the environment and would want to have a clean and healthy environment.
He urged the court to continue with the matter, saying that Section 20 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria speaks on the protection of environment and safeguard of the water, air, others.
In their separate arguments, lead counsel for the Indorama noted that the ground for filing the originating suit was improper.
father figure in the home. We believe that by cultivating and developing skills, while providing opportunities for entrepreneurship and employment, these women can gain the power to sustain their livelihoods independently.”
He encouraged everyone to recognize the hardships faced by all widows and to provide them with the necessary support systems to flourish.
The governor said: “The best birthday gift you may give me would be a visit to orphanages and homes of the vulnerable people with food items or any other items that may make their lives more meaningful.
“You should take pictures with them and give them
Ahead of his 60th birthday coming up on April 24, 2024, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has announced that he doesn’t need any newspaper or television wishes, and neither would he accept any birthday gift. He has Instead encouraged all his friends, who are planning to celebrate with him on this landmark birthday, to forward all the money and gifts meant for him to the underprivileged and vulnerable persons in orphanages and villages; and forward the pictures to him.
good cheers, and then forward the pictures to me. These pictures would be made into a birthday album and would be better appreciated by me than newspaper advertorials.”
According to Eno, this is his inspired way of appreciating God for His grace and benevolence, and in line with his life-long attachment and identification with the downtrodden.
The Honourable Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, has expressed deep regret over the demise of a former Kwara South Senatorial District senator, Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim, whose transition was announced in a family statement yesterday.
In a condolence message to the Kwara State Government, the people of Kwara South Senatorial District, and the Ojoku
Community in Oyun Local Government Area, the minister said he was saddened by news of the death of an illustrious son of Kwara and former colleague with whom he had a healthy and productive working relationship.
According to him, he and the late Senator Ibrahim were freshmen senators in the Eighth National Assembly from 2015 to 2019, during which period Ibrahim served as Chairman of the Senate
Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions, and was a member of the Media and Public Affairs Committee under the chairmanship of Senator Abdullahi.
The minister described the late Ibrahim as a friend, brother, confidant, and reliable sounding board with whom he shared common views on the welfare of citizens and progress of the nation.
The persons listed below (with passport numbers against their names), who had purportedly claimed to be “THISDAY Newspaper delegates” in a forged letter to the Conference Secretariat of the forthcoming 57th Session of the Commission on Population and Development in New York, USA, are NOT employees of THISDAY Newspapers Limited. They are:
1) Ezeala Okechukwu Godfrey B50060799
3)
5)
The United Nations Information Centre, Abuja; the United States Embassy in Nigeria; the Nigerian Police; and the general public should please note.
Signed: MANAGEMENT
The race for the November 16, 2024 governorship poll in the sunshine state of Ondo has began in earnest with the stage set for direct primary by the ruling all Progressives Congress where a member of the National assembly, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim and 15 other aspirants will jostle for the party’s gubernatorial ticket on Saturday. Fidelis David reports.
It is undeniable that Ondo State has remained stagnant among committee of states and bleeding from all sides and as we look back at what was lost, the task to recover that hope as a state that has enormous potential to be great lies within it’s people.
Good road network, reliable electricity, and adequate portable water supply, employment are significantly in deficit, thereby contributing to the nose-diving economy of the coastal state.
However, this Saturday, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State would produce its candidate for the November 16, 2024 governorship election through a direct primary election.
Basically, out of over 20 gladiators throwing their hats into the ring as gubernatorial aspirants, 16 of them picked the expression of interest and nomination forms while the party’s National Gubernatorial Aspirants Screening Committee last week gave all the 16 aspirants a clean bill of health.
The aspirants are: Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa; former National Vice Chairman (South West), Isaacs Kekemeke, Olusoji Ehinlanwo, Hon. Olugbenga Edema, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Mrs. Funmilayo Waheed-Adekojo; Hon. Mayowa Akinfolarin, former Commissioner for Finance, Wale Akinterinwa.
Others are: Olusola Oke (SAN), Ohunyeye Felix, Morayo Lebi, Diran Iyantan; Prof. Francis Faduyile, Mrs. Judith Omogoroye, Engr. Ifeoluwa Oyedele and Hon. Okunjimi John.
The seven-man Screening Committee led by Senator Joshua Lidani gave all the aspirants the nod to contest the primary after a thorough screening which took place on Friday in Abuja after the inauguration of the Committee and
the Screening Appeal Committees by the Deputy National Organising Secretary, Nze Duru.
However, it is worthy to note that standing out among the aspirants is the lawmaker representing Ondo South senatorial district, Jimoh Ibrahim who on different occasions said his passion and love for seeing the people live in good condition influenced his ambition to provide effective governance to the people of the sunshine state.
Besides, there are persons who have experienced trajectories that shaped who they morphed into today, and over the years, they have proven themselves
as true models of prominence and Ibrahim is one of such persons.
With the success of the screening exercise, Senator Ibrahim is now ready to surmount every obstacle to win the APC Ticket on Saturday, April 20.
For Ibrahim, much has gone into preparations for the election and his only goal is to win and become the next governor of Ondo State.
Ibrahim, fondly called Araba by his numerous political admirers is waxing stronger and forging ahead with his campaign across all the 203 wards in the state and he has focused on issue-based campaign, marketing himself based on his vision for the state.
In a chat with newsmen in Akure recently, the aspirant said his political agenda is centred around key pillars of education, health, job creation, and infrastructure.
His words: “My programmes are very straightforward. We are to create moral efficiency and moral knowledge and making the body more efficient. We must also map Ondo state borders for security networks and then to ensure that we will never have any cases of kidnapping, by making Amotekun a classic and unique security outfit that will come with good strategy to challenge any security issues in our state.
“So one of the areas we are looking at is to ensure that everybody in Ondo state can go to sleep with their eyes closed and that’s top most of our priority. Mapping every systems, the tactical operations of Amotekun have to come more distinct into technology.
“I want an Amotekun that is IT informed because I have PhD in War. So we need to do more of IT, our government will ensure that Amotekun is IT compliant through strategy
and innovations and it’s going to be well funded to ensure that people of Ondo State can sleep with their two eyes closed.
“And if we have security first, if we can be secured individually, we will secure the state. So, I’m saying now that the Amotekun will have the highest attention in terms of information technology, I am an expert in security, I may not be wearing military uniform and when I become the governor, we must have residence card, containing all your data”.
He further said, “We are going to face infrastructural development by making sure that we create employment through that. So we should expect the Bitumen Act that I’m moving at the Senate, which is now at the Third Reading to be more prominent and classic in engagement.
“Also in the North, we are going to do swap contracts, we are not going to spend Kobo to construct our roads. Also, the civil service will be very top instrumental that will run the government to ensure that they are computerized. We are going to devote powers to Commissioners to make them powerful so that they will not be running after the governor for any approval.”
The federal lawmaker said he would deliver on critical concerns in the state, such as insecurity, unemployment, deteriorated infrastructure, healthcare, and education, if elected as Governor.
Besides, the Senator has continued to intensify his mobilisation in the state, breaking new grounds daily as his message of hope resonates with the people’s aspiration for better life.
Former Central Bank of Nigeria’s Director of Banking Supervision and Regulation and Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship aspirant in the 2023 election in Plateau State, Da Jonathan Sunday akuns, in this interview explains why Nigerians should take special interest in the current constitution review exercise embarked upon by the National assembly. Folalumi Alaran brings excerpts:
You seem to be upbeat about the planned review of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and the call for memoranda by the National Assembly Committee On Constitution Review, what explains your optimism?
Thank you. I believe the constitution review effort provides a golden opportunity for rejigging of not only our nation’s democracy, but above all the foundation of our statehood.
In fact, I think Nigerians from all walks of life should participate in the exercise, because of the democratic exigencies that call for a reset in the constitution review exercise entirely. That is a paradigm shift away from reviewing the 1999 constitution created by a military decree, to a review of the 1963 constitution enacted by the sovereign consent of the elected representatives of our people that assembled in Parliament.
What do you consider as the major thrusts of your plan?
A - Two weeks after the House of Representatives published the call for memoranda, I put together my thoughts and various public interventions on the subject matter. I was able to send in the proposal, which I e-signed, by the first week of April to beat the deadline.
I must tell you that the submission was in exercise of my citizenship’s right to contribute to nation building and the search for good governance in a Nigeria that works for all.
Having said that, a look at my past media interventions would show that I subscribe fully to the tenets of federalism that emerged from
the Lagos constitutional conference of July 25-26, 1963. It was upon that conference that the 1963 republican constitution was enacted by “we the people,’ represented by our elected members that assembled in Federal Parliament. I am a strong advocate for the restructuring of Nigeria on truly federal tenets, where the federating units play significant roles in fiscal federalism.
However, it is regrettable that the development and maturity of the tenets of federalism in democracy
was truncated in Nigeria by the military coup d’état of January 15, 1966, leading to prolonged interregnums, which are incongruous to operating a federal system.
And, as a result, a military unitary system of government churned out decrees, including the creation of the 1979 and 1999 constitutions. Obviously, the hue of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), is glaringly of a unitary and un-republican origins.
So, you talked about one being upbeat, yes. I sincerely wish the Constitution Review Committee well and urge it to pay careful attention in stitching the democratic tenets of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in order to build a truly federal system that works for all.
So, you are among those that fault the 1999 constitution?
Yes, the 1999 Constitution was not enacted by a constitutionally recognized process, but by the promulgation of a decree by a military interregnum. This negates the assertion of “We the People” in the preamble of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Every constitution or statute defines the method by which it shall be altered. Obviously, the novelty of 1979 cum 1999 Constitutions is worn out and has thrust forth both documents as grafts and offshoots that are lacking of democratic republican attributes of sovereignty.
To bypass the method of altering a sovereign legal code is a tangent to the republican
attributes of such a code and particularly so, when it is done by the elected members of parliament that are part of a governing administration of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The republican choices of Nigerians via partisan electoral processes are the legitimate corporate body such as the 10th House of Representatives of the National Assembly that is vested with the powers to alter a sovereign legal code such as the constitution. This is the natural process to convey the consent of the constituent autochthones of the ethnic territories from which Nigeria was created as a single territorial entity bounded by the 1963 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. In this regard, the 1999 document titled the CFRN isn’t the right focus for a constitutional amendment exercise due to its unrepublican origins. It is the 1963 CFRN that holds the republican ace for a review, because it was enacted by the representatives of, We the People, as Honourable Members of the Federal Parliament that emerged from a partisan electoral process of 1959 elections.
Consequently, a reset by the House of Representatives is a necessary and sufficient condition that will rightly return the FRN to the path of democracy and foster a parsimonious constitutional amendment process. This will safely deflate the political bubbles that becloud democracy in Nigeria.
Pelumi Nubi, a twenty-eight-year-old, Nigeria-British citizen, arrived in Lagos, Nigeria on April 7, 2024, after completing a solo road trip from London to Lagos, becoming the first black woman to achieve this feat. The event marked a historic moment in her life and was celebrated with glitz and glamour by the Lagos State government, family, friends, cultural dancers, and fans who had been following her journey online. Writes MARY NNAH
The arrival of Pelumi Nubi, a twenty-eight-year-old NigerianBritish citizen and a travel and lifestyle content creator, at the Nigeria-Benin Republic Seme border around 9:15 am on April 7, 2024, was met with a roaring welcome from the representatives of the Lagos State Government, who were on display alongside dignitaries and a cheering crowd. She arrived in a Peugeot car with registration number DY 62FDM.
The Commissioner of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, and the Special Adviser, Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, received Pelumi on behalf of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the border.
Nubi, a UK-based Nigerian global traveller and Travel and lifestyle content creator, began her journey on January 30th, travelling through West African countries, before reaching her final destination, Lagos, Nigeria, on April 7th.
However, she faced several challenges along the way, including a 24-hour hold at the Liberian border and being denied entry into Sierra Leone. As a result, she postponed her original return date from March 23rd, 2024, to April 7th, 2024.
After arriving at the border, Nubi proceeded to Lagos en route to Badagry into the rousing reception at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Yaba area of the state for the homecoming celebration.
In an interview with newsmen, Nubi revealed that her desire to explore the African continent, where she was born, inspired her to embark on the solo trip.
Reflecting on her welcome reception, Nubi said, "I feel so good to be home. Honestly, the homecoming has been so amazing and welcoming. Amazingly, Nigeria is home to me, so I am truly delighted. I expected to be celebrated, but the manner of the homecoming has been overwhelming and incredible. I am grateful."
In turn, the Lagos State government honoured Nubi's achievement with a new car, house, and an ambassadorship for state tourism.
Nubi, who has been to over 80 countries, said her desire to explore the African
continent, which is also her place of birth, inspired her to embark on the solo trip. She talked about how audacious she is, the interesting events that took place as well as the challenges she encountered while journeying down to Lagos.
The UK-based Nigerian global traveller and Travel and lifestyle content creator, has etched her name in history as the first black woman to complete a solo road trip from London to Lagos.
She talked about her desire to explore the African continent, which is also her place of birth, and how this inspired her to embark on the solo trip.
“I was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and grew up in the UK, and each time I came home, I just flew for 6 hours but then, there is this West African region I haven’t met myself and I wanted to. So, I started Googling ‘overland travel’ and I just did not see people that looked like me, there were no explorers just being showcased in the media and I was like this needs to be changed in terms of travel, why is that story not been told, why is the African nation in terms of tourism not been explored”.
The solo traveller stressed further, “I’ve travelled to so many places and explored so many cultures and each time I was travelling, it was mostly to Europe, and Asia but my continent, I barely had any footprint there so I was like I want to explore more of this place
I was born into.”
She also shared her audacious spirit and the interesting events that took place as well as the challenges she encountered while journeying down to Lagos.
Nubi reflected on the toughest experience during the solo drive that began on January 31st, 2024. She said that she felt lonely and missed her family and friends. She also talked about the accident she had in March, which she survived.
“I was shaken when I had the accident but I’m grateful it was just a temporary setback.”
It will be recalled that she survived a crash in March with a video of the wrecked vehicle revealing severe damage to the front and a shattered windshield. Nubi, on an Instagram page, posted about the auto crash where she survived.
The accident scene had pictures of her now-wrecked car, revealing severe damage to the front bumper and a shattered windscreen.
Moreso, an accompanying video shows her being carried in an ambulance, with the caption: “Say a prayer for me.”
Despite the obstacles, Nubi was grateful for the tremendous journey and the support she received from her family, friends, and fans.
Even so, the state government
Nubi's solo road trip from London to Lagos highlights her passion for exploring Africa's rich cultural heritage and tourism potential. Her journey, which was fraught with obstacles and challenges, is an inspiration to many, especially women seeking motivation to excel. Her achievement has earned her a place in history as the first black woman to complete a solo road trip from London to Lagos
commended the resilience and “can do” spirit of Nubi.
Speaking with journalists at the National Stadium, Lagos, Aregbe, commended Nubi for achieving the landmark feat as she put the state on the world map despite having an accident during the solo drive road trip, adding, “She has demonstrated the can-do –spirit.”
The Special Adviser restated the commitment of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration to support youths with creative ideas to boost the tourism sector.
On his part Nubi's father is a Professor in the Department of Estate Management, UNILAG; and the Founder/National Coordinator, Ideal Habitat Initiative. Prof Timothy Nubi described his daughter's safe arrival in Nigeria as the “end of anxiety”.
Prof Nubi said, “I kept on telling people that what looks to you as content creation is a nightmare for my family. Every night we couldn’t sleep, so it’s been two months of fun for the whole world but not for us."
Also, her mother, Mrs Olubukola Nubi said, “When my daughter informed me about the trip, I approved of it because she had visited over 80 countries before and it was her choice to embark on the trip.”
She expressed joy and was visibly excited over her daughter’s achievement, encouraging youths to be focused and persevere to achieve whatever feat; they set their minds upon breaking the barrier of success.
Nubi started from England, crossed into France, Spain and headed to Morocco then through the West Sahara Desert, Mauritania, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Mali, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Ghana, Togo, Benin finally reaching Lagos. Nubi's solo road trip from London to Lagos highlights her passion for exploring Africa's rich cultural heritage and tourism potential. Her journey, which was fraught with obstacles and challenges, is an inspiration to many, especially women seeking motivation to excel. Her achievement has earned her a place in history as the first black woman to complete a solo road trip from London to Lagos.
IFEANYI MADUAKO argues that the FCT minister is wielding too much power
Chief Nyesom Wike, the current minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT) Abuja was a local government chairman for eight years (1999 – 2007). He thereafter served as chief of staff, Rivers State Government House from 2007 to 2011. He was appointed a minister of the federal republic of Nigeria from 2011 to 2015. He capped it all in 2015 when he was elected the governor of Rivers State for eight years (2015 – 2023). All these positions were achieved on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In other words, the party has done a lot of good to Wike because many who
he would work against the same party that made him what he is today because he didn't achieve his ambition of either becoming the presidential or vicepresidential candidate of the party in 2023 general elections. He did not just threaten, but he actually worked against the party.
Wike is a minister today serving in the government of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He may have been given a powerful ministry. However, whatever he is today under the platform of the APC pales into insignificance to what he gained in the PDP. The
founded the party were not that favoured. Some have not even become an ordinary councilor of a ward since 1998 when the party was founded. These unlucky or unfortunate members have not jumped ship to another political party or brought down the roof of the party because they have not been favoured by the party.
Literary icon, Chinua Achebe, in his classic novel, Things Fall Apart, did write that those whose palm kernels were cracked for them by the benevolent gods should not forget to be humble. Wike is a classic example of a man whose palm kernel was cracked for him by a benevolent god but rather seems not to be humble enough.
Wike, a man politically made by the PDP was bold enough to threaten that
As a serving governor, Wike was substantially in charge of the PDP. He installed and removed national chairman of the party at will. Now that he's no longer a governor, should Wike still call the shots in the party that has about 13 serving governors?
highest position APC can afford him is what he is currently occupying. The party can't make him a presidential or vice -presidential candidate in the nearest future. The party only used him to achieve its objective in the 2023 presidential election.
As a serving governor, Wike was substantially in charge of the PDP. He installed and removed national chairman of the party at will. Now that he's no longer a governor, should Wike still call the shots in the party that has about 13 serving governors? Is Wike more powerful than all the governors put together? Is he more powerful than all serving senators on the platform of the party?
Wike has openly confessed that he worked against the party in the last presidential election and that he would work against the party again in 2027 to ensure that President Tinubu is reelected. Why then is he struggling for the soul of the party at both national and state levels? Does Wike want the party that brought him fortunes and national prominence to die? Shouldn't the sitting governors use the forthcoming national executive council meeting of the party to tame Wike?
Maduako writes from Owerri via ifeanyimaduako2017@gmail.com
ELVIS EROMOSELE explores ways many Nigerians can adopt to deal with the prevailing
Two sisters, year five and three were playing behind my resident. The younger one who was drinking pure water started pouring some away, like children are prone to do. And I heard the older sister rebuke her, “Stop it, don’t you know Nigeria is hard?” It was unsettling to realise that children are no longer immune from inflationary pressure.
It is no longer news that Nigerians are facing tough economic times. Recent government decisions like removing fuel subsidies, devaluing the Naira, and now eliminating electricity power subsidies have caused a lot of stress for businesses and citizens. These changes, meant to help the economy in the long run, are right now difficult for everyone. Let's break down what's happening and explore ways for Nigerians to cope.
Fuel Subsidy Removal: The government removed fuel subsidies in its desire to free up money to attend to other important areas in the economy. A fallout of the policy is that businesses that rely on affordable fuel, especially small and medium-sized ones, got squeezed. Costs went up, profits went down, and some people even lost their jobs. Household expenses went up in smoke. This made the whole economy unstable.
Naira Devaluation: As with devaluation anywhere in the world, the goal was to make Nigerian exports cheaper and possibly attract more foreign investment. It however backfired spectacularly. What happened was that the value of the Naira went down and everything became more expensive. People couldn't buy as many goods with their money, and businesses that import things had to pay more for them. Inflation went off as if on steroids.
Power Subsidy Removal: Now, the government has announced that electricity bills are going up. Families and businesses alike are likely to be hurt. Experts argue that this makes it harder for people to afford basic needs and for businesses to be productive. It would equally contribute to widening the gap between the rich and the poor.
The good part is that the same government that triggered the problems can take steps to fix them.
The place to start is the place it has wanted to start for half a century. This is the diversification of the economy. It is time to spread the wealth: The economy
cannot continue to rely so heavily on oil. The government must as a matter of urgency begin investing in things like agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. Through these, it can create a more stable and long-lasting economic foundation.
The second thing has equally been spoken about almost forever. The government must now move beyond talk. It needs to demonstrate that it is careful with the country’s wealth. This means allocating resources effectively, truly cutting waste, and being transparent about spending. The government must not only appear to be cutting the cost of governance, it must be seen to be doing it sensibly.
It is equally critical for the government to boost investment in infrastructure, especially power generation and distribution. It needs to look at all existing projects and actively encourage their completion. The deal with German electricity giant, Siemens, which is expected to lead to the production of 25000 megawatts of electricity by 2025 must be pursued relentlessly. It promises to be a huge game changer for the nation. It will improve electricity access, attract investment, and boost economic activity.
While the above are ongoing, the government needs to urgently create safety nets to support people who are struggling today because of these changes. This could include targeted subsidies, cash transfer programs, and free job training initiatives. And it must communicate more. It is not enough to leave people to make assumptions. The government has to consistently talk to the people, share its goals and where necessary voice its challenges.
The good news is that Nigerians are known for their resourcefulness. People are already exploring ways to deal with these economic challenges. Here are some quick suggestions from experts:
Create a Plan: Make a budget, track your spending, and try (as much as possible) to save some money for a rainy day.
Improve Your Skills: Boost your capacity, learn new skills, or even consider starting your own business. No one can afford to be idle at this time
Explore Multiple Sources of Income: We have to admit at this point that motivational speakers were right after all. Multiple sources of income really can shield one from the effects of economic fluctuations.
Use Your Voice: You may need to join advocacy efforts. For instance, talk to your representatives about the challenges the community is facing.
By working together, Nigerians can build a brighter, more resilient and inclusive economic future for ALL.
Eromosele, a corporate communication professional and public affairs analyst, writes via: elviseroms@gmail.com
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has given a broad outline of the quantity of rain to expect across the country this year. The authorities in the 36 states therefore have enough time to prepare adequate measures against the elements to avert another tragedy. The forecast projected that the rains may be delayed in some states, but the coastal areas would still experience flooding. Blocked drains, especially in areas where flood waters easily accumulate and generate a strong force, should be cleared, and subsequently kept free. These and other measures must be taken to minimise our individual and collective vulnerability.
The annual seasonal climate prediction report provides critical information to help guide decision-making across all sectors of the economy. “As we are all aware, weather and climate have profound effects on aviation, agriculture, maritime, blue economy, water and natural resources, energy, disaster management, and infrastructure investments,” said Festus Keyamo, minister of Aviation and Aerospace, who announced that the NiMet document has been translated into pidgin, Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba languages to promote wide uptake of information and increase access to critical climate information.
the advisory on flash floods.
Floods are among the most frequent and costly natural disasters in terms of human hardship and economic loss. They have caused untold damage in the last couple of years, especially with prolonged rainfall over several days. Therefore, we implore all the relevant authorities to prepare for the rains with great diligence. Individuals and groups living on flood plains should be evacuated or made to stay away from the potential dangers of their places of abode.
Floods are among the most frequent and costly natural disasters in terms of human hardship and economic loss
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According to NiMet, there is possibility of isolated flash floods in areas that are prone to flooding and drought in some northern states where the rainy season is expected to be short. Farmers will feel the brunt of devastating consequences of both, with impact on food security and the economy. Farmers are by the report urged to adopt moisture conservation techniques to mitigate crop losses during the wet season. In the coastal areas, we advise all stakeholders to take this alert seriously because farms, roads, bridges, and homes can be submerged by rainfalls that provide significant flooding. Another important takeaway in the report is
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GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DEPUTY
DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO
TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
The focus should be on prevention and pre-emptive intervention because little is gained when resources that should be put into developmental initiatives are wasted in dealing with avoidable emergencies and calamities. We must also come to terms that the perennial bloodshed between farmers and herdsmen is embedded in the struggle for pasture which is scarce during the dry season in northern parts of the country. It is this scarcity that informs the seasonal migration of herders for fodders and water for the survival of their livestock, a development that occasionally makes clashes with other land users inevitable.
Because of the primacy of farmers and herders in the economic chain of our country, what is expected of government is to put in place measures that will sustain the harmonious relationship between these two groups and avoid needless bloodshed. Another challenge which stakeholders should reflect upon concerns reducing the alarming post-harvest losses in the agricultural sector. These losses that traditionally occur during the peak of the rainy season are detrimental to the country’s economy.
It is one thing to have bumper harvest during the rainy season, but it is another thing to have the capacity to preserve the harvest for immediate gains of the farmers during the high demand for food in the dry season. Nigerians should therefore take seriously the metrological information from NiMet to avert recurring disasters.
The Tinubu administration since it came on board has never hidden its desire to remove anything subsidy. His subsidy is gone speech and the floating of naira are two classical examples. However, since the removal of subsidy which the administration described as conduit pipe for siphoning government's funds, the lives of average Nigerians have gone from bad to worse. Inflation is over 30% which has reduced the purchasing power of Nigerians, millions of whom had been condemned to poverty. While subsidy removal has freed more funds to three tiers of government, evidence has proven that there is no commensurate infrastructural development across the country. The removal of subsidy has resulted in increased pump price of fuel and cost of doing business. Though power sector has been privatised more than a decade ago, Nigerians have been paying for darkness as the Discos have failed to live up to expectations.
The recent decision to remove electricity subsidy has come at a wrong time. With only 44% metered customers, Nigerians have thought that, government through NERC, will provide adequate meters and improve power generation and distribution in the country. There is nothing wrong in ensuring cost
reflective tariff among the numerous energy consumers in the country. The categorisation of customers into different "bands" by NERC can be seen as a good development. But the question begging for answer is: will the new plan address the erratic power supply? For instance, under the NERC new tariff plan, customers on band 'A' will enjoy 20 hours power supply at N225kwh as against N68/kwh. The band 'A' customers which include elites, banks, factories can shoulder the new tariff, but it is an alarming burden on the average Nigerian. Under the new tariff plan, 24 hours of electricity per day will cost a staggering N5,400, amounting to an unbearable monthly total of N162,000 and a yearly total of N1,971,000. These exorbitant amounts are simply unaffordable to the majority of Nigerians. The new tarrif regime will also see factories raising cost of production. Those companies have no options than to pass the burden to the end users. According to the NERC, the new tarrif will affect 15 percent customers who enjoy 40% power supply. But at the end, millions of Nigerians will be worse off.
Ibrahim Mustapha, Pambegua, Kaduna StateI could say that I like playing one sided chess with only white pieces as I never lose but that would make no sense and it would corrupt the nature of the game.
However, the exciting world of scrabble is facing a potentially catastrophic update with collaborative games rather than individual players or even teams.
Depending on the way the four players work together the magic word "CAZIQUES" worth 392 points could finally be played although it might require 'cheating'. If all four play at the same time "Antidisestablishmentarianism", using all of their tiles, could be put down although it would fall off the edge.
The weirdest part in this change is designed to attract GenZ youths, a group that could not get off their screens long enough to even pick up the seven tiles.
Dennis
pius o. Ughakpoteni
Ironically, known as the Sunshine State, Ondo State reveals a stark irony each evening. As the sun sets, it plunges very many communities in five local government areas into deep, suffocating darkness. In Okitipupa, the dwindling light casts a sad scene: a young mother, worry boldly written on her face, comforts her child with the weak glow of a candle. Shadows perform a haunting dance on the walls, reflecting the uncertainty that overwhelms her as she contends with the night’s oppressive darkness.
Just a short distance away, in Irele, silence replaces the usual buzz of activity whenever the power fails. A hopeful entrepreneur watches as his dreams fade with the workshop lights. His tools, once symbols of future success, now gather dust, stark evidence of aspirations crushed by unreliable electricity. This lack of reliable electricity casts a long shadow across the state, stifling progress and dimming the prospects of each community. This grim reality is a daily struggle for the people of Ondo State. It is a story of limits and barriers imposed by the absence of one essential service deeply ingrained in their everyday lives.
However, a new chapter is being written. The recent completion and connection of the 132/33kv electricity substation at Ode-Erinje in Okitupupa to the national grid marks a turning point. This accomplishment by the NDDC, coupled with its ongoing rehabilitation of the power distribution network across Ondo South, signifies the Commission’s unwavering commitment to illuminating the path towards a brighter future for the region. The project transcends the mere delivery of electricity; it represents a holistic approach, ensuring that the lifeblood of progress reaches every corner – homes, businesses, and vital public services. This commitment aligns perfectly with the principles enshrined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The fruits of this intervention will soon be within reach. Imagine classrooms transformed. No longer will children grapple with textbooks in the fading light of dusk. Instead, imagine them bathed in the steady glow of electric bulbs, their faces etched with concentration as they delve into knowledge. This seemingly simple change unlocks an educational opportunity, empowering the next generation to become architects of their destinies. Once hampered by erratic power, hospitals will soon hum with the steady thrum of life-saving equipment. Essential medications can now be securely stored, ensuring that healthcare is no longer a gamble against the whims of an unreliable power grid. The dependable flow of electricity will become the bedrock of safer, healthier, and more equitable communities.
The impact extends far beyond necessities. The NDDC’s work breathes life into SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Local businesses,
previously burdened by crippling outages or the exorbitant cost of self-generated power, can finally begin to dream big. With a stable electricity supply, these businesses can expand operations, innovate, and create a wave of job opportunities. As flickering lights are replaced by the steady hum of progress, a vibrant commercial ecosystem will take root, injecting new life into the local economy. This transformation transcends economic empowerment; it rewrites the narrative of entire communities. Electrification acts as a powerful catalyst, shattering the isolating grip of darkness. As these once-darkened areas become illuminated and interconnected, they attract investment and foster a sense of dynamism that is the hallmark of thriving urban centers. The NDDC’s work is not just illuminating physical spaces; it is illuminating a future brimming with possibility. Ondo State is being lifted from the shadows and placed firmly on the progress map. At the heart of this success story lies the power of collaboration, a cornerstone of SDG 17. The NDDC, acting as a conductor, has skillfully orchestrated the efforts of its own resources and expertise, contracting partners, and local stakeholders. Fueled by a shared vision, this unified effort exemplifies the transformative potential that arises when dedicated groups work together. Sir Victor Antai, NDDC Executive Director, Projects, captures the essence of this accomplishment: “This project is not just about delivering electricity. It is about fundamentally changing lives, empowering communities, and ensuring a brighter future for all.” His words resonate with the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the steadfast dedication of the NDDC leadership to uplift the
Niger Delta region.
Hon. Otito Atikase, Ondo State Representative on the NDDC Board, understands the profound impact of this project. “For too long, our people have yearned for a path out of hardship,” he states. “This project unlocks their potential, setting the stage for long-awaited progress. Reliable electricity is the lifeblood of economic revitalization.”
Securing the longevity and expansion of this success hinges on consistent and adequate funding. Legislative support is crucial to ensure a stable flow of investment from the oil industry. This support will empower the NDDC to replicate this model of transformative development throughout the Niger Delta, expediting the region’s journey towards a truly sustainable and prosperous future.
Dr. Obafemi Ogbaro, Acting National Chairman of TROMPCON, speaks for countless residents of Ondo South when he reflects on the past. “Nothing was more desperately needed than a stable grid connection,” he says, his voice filled with relief. The darkness may have held them back for too long, but the future now burns brightly. The Ode-Erinje substation and the expanding reach of reliable power symbolize a decisive victory over the limitations imposed by a lack of opportunity. With every wire connected and every lightbulb switched on, it heralds a new era of hope and progress for the people of Ondo. The benefits of this project are not merely theoretical; they are tangible, real-world transformations reshaping lives from the ground up. This holistic development approach, promoted by the NDDC, is essential for transforming the Niger Delta region. Picture communities throughout the
Niger Delta emerging from obscurity, all energized by a consistent power supply. Imagine previously dormant industries thriving, revitalized by this fresh influx of energy. Visualize hospitals bustling with efficiency, free from the constraints of erratic generators and power cuts. Envision schools where the illumination of the classrooms matches the bright potential of the region’s young minds. This vision is not merely a hopeful dream; it represents a practical, achievable plan for a sustainable and flourishing future—an attainable future.
The NDDC’s journey has obstacles, but the benefits far outweigh any challenges. The transformation they ignite is a beacon of progress, proving what’s possible with unwavering dedication. Every kilowatt of power delivered represents more than just electricity – it signifies opportunity unleashed and dormant potential awakened. A firm legislative commitment to funding will ensure that this model can be replicated swiftly throughout the region, multiplying the impact exponentially. Each community illuminated represents a victory in the ongoing battle for a better future throughout the Niger Delta. This story is not just about electricity; it is about unlocking the boundless potential of a dynamic region long overdue for its chance to shine. It is about creating a ripple effect of positive change –empowering entrepreneurs, improving healthcare, and educating the next generation that will propel the Niger Delta forward. The darkness is fading in Ondo State. It is time for the dawn to break across the entire region, ushering in an era of progress, innovation, and a brighter future for all.
•Pius Ughakpoteni is Director, Corporate Affairs, at the Niger Delta Development Commission
The Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has approved a full scholarship to little Miss Happiness Nwafor, the Enugu-born minor, who was brutally abused by her Anambra State-based guardian, Mrs. Adachukwu Okafor. Stating that the scholarship would cover Miss Nwafor’s studies from primary to university levels, the governor equally approved her continuous rehabilitation to ensure that her experience does not impede her present or future. This was even as the state government expressed serious displeasure over the incessant record of abuse of minors, who are usually used as house-help, warning that it would not tolerate any act of violence and maltreatment of children by parents and guardians, as such criminal acts fall short of civilized norms, and would be met with dire consequences. The governor stated these in Enugu yesterday during the official handover of the rescued minor to the Enugu State Scholarship and Education Loan
Board for proper documentation and continuation of her education.
Mbah, who was represented by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, said the scholarship would afford Miss Nwafor, a native of Umuanigo Clan, Enugu-Oweri in Awgu Local Government Area, the
opportunity to pursue and fulfil her dreams in life.
Enih said: “The governor is very concerned about the welfare of citizens of the state through deliberate policies and programmes targeted at improving their well-being and also ensuring that their dignity are preserved.
“This is why the governor ordered that the minor be rescued from the claws of her guardian, who had been maltreating her. With the full rehabilitation and scholarship graciously awarded by the governor, Happiness is certain of living her dreams like other children.
“It’s also for the reason that no child should suffer deprivation that the governor is building world-class smart schools and has also declared basic education in the state, free and compulsory.
“The Child Rights and Responsibility Law of Enugu State is also in place to ensure that those who abuse our children face the full wrath of the law.”
On his part, the Head of Administration, Enugu State Scholarship and Education Loans Board, Mr.
Peter Nkwuo, promised that the agency would give full effect to the governor’s directive as they had no excuse for failures.
He further commended the governor for the intervention, adding that the agency has been receiving huge support from the administration.
Also, Miss Happiness’ mother, Mrs. Nwanneka Anioke, who said she was traumatised on hearing about the incident, appreciated the philanthropic gesture of Governor Mbah towards her family and other families, saying the news of the scholarship and the ongoing rehabilitation for full recovery came as a huge relief to her entire family.
The sad incident was first reported on February 1, 2024, in a viral video, which attracted the attention of the Enugu State Government and prompted its immediate intervention to rescue the child in collaboration with the Anambra State Government where the incident occurred.
The minor, an 11-year-old girl, was living with an Anambra State-based lawyer, Mrs. Adachukwu Okafor, as a house help, who carried out the torture on her.
L-R: Accountant, Enugu State Scholarship and Education Loans Board, Obiageli Ogbeke; Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih; victim of child abuse in Anambra State, Miss Happiness Nwafor; victim’s mother, Mrs. Nwanneka Anioke; Head of Administration, Scholarship Board, Mr. Peter Nkwuo, during the presentation of full Primary-University scholarship to little Miss Nwafor in Enugu by the Enugu State Government... yesterday
Emma Okonji
The adoption and use of Nigeria’s .ng domain name in the cyberspace maintained steady growth in the months of December 2023 and January 2024, with a further growth to reach 217,527 in February 2024, according to the latest statistics released by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), the body responsible for managing Nigeria’s country code Top Level Domain (ccTLD).
According to the statistics, the total .ng domain name
registration, renewal and restoration, reached 212,890 in December 2023, and further increased to 215,496 in January 2024, before reaching 217,527 in February 2024. Last year, THISDAY also reported a steady growth in the total number of registration, renewal and restoration for the .ng domain name, which grew from 193,085 in May 2023 to 195,098 and 198,294 in June and July 2023 respectively, with a further rise to 201,442; 203,904; and 206,970 in August, September and October 2023
respectively. It also increased slightly in November 2023.
According to the latest statistics, the .ng domain name registration alone, reached 8,134 in December 2023, and it increased to 10,087 in January 2024, before sliding to 8,258 in February 2024. The .ng domain name renewal alone was 4,796 in December 2023, and it increased to 6,409 in January 2024, before sliding to 4,915 in February 2024, while the .ng domain name restoration alone was 117 in December 2023 and increased to 166 in January 2024 before
sliding to 120 in February 2024. The ccTLD .ng domain name is Nigeria’s identity in cyberspace, which has the .ng at the suffix of every official email address that originates from Nigeria. In the United Kingdom, official email addresses end with .co.uk. In United States of America, they end with .com, while in South Africa, the official email addresses end with .co.za.
In Nigeria, NiRA has carried out several campaigns to sensitise Nigerians on the need to populate the .ng domain name, including the
reduction in the cost of the .ng domain name.
Giving reasons for the continuous increase in the adoption rate and use of the .ng domain name across the county in the past one year, the President of NiRA, Mr. Adesola Akinsanya, told THISDAY that the strategic collaborations between NiRA and some government agencies, aimed at populating Nigeria’s .ng domain name, were largely responsible.
According to him, NiRA holds a pivotal role as the steward of Nigeria’s country
code Top Level Domain (ccTLD), a crucial element in advancing the nation’s digital ecosystem, adding that NiRA recognises the significance of collaborating with strategic partners who share in NiRA’s vision and can assist in achieving its vital objective.
“Our commitment to innovation and the pivotal role of the .ng domain has been underscored by remarkable growth, fueled by impactful collaborations that have driven meaningful change in the Nigerian internet ecosystem,” Akinsanya said.
Emma OkonjiAs technology advances in line with human quest to learn new things that will make them more productive at work, Google has said its largest and most capable family of Artificial Intelligence (AI) models, called Gemini, which was introduced in December 2023, will power significant improvements in products used by consumers, businesses, developers and writers.
With Gemini, researchers can carry out comprehensive search for characters and use the Gemini Chart, Google Lens tools to explore detailed information about the character and convert
such information to tables for graphic illustrations. It also allows for accurate data verification.
Speaking at a recent virtual AI Workshop for Journalists across Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa and Sierria Leone, organised by Google, the Head, Gemini Communications at Google, Claudine Beaumont, said the master-class tagged, “Beyond Buzzwords: Ways AI Can Help You,” was designed to explore the transformative potential of Generative AI (GAI) for journalists, content creators in enhancing creativity and imagination in journalistic works.
Gemini is a multimodal AI model that can generalise and
seamlessly understand, operate across and combine different types of information, including text, images, audio and coding languages. It comes in Gemini 1.0 Pro and Gemini 1.0 Ultra, and it is available across a range of Google products and platforms. It can efficiently run on anything from mobile devices to data centres.
“Our creative collaborator, Gemini Chart, is powered by Gemini 1.0 Pro, bringing huge improvements in summarising, brainstorming, writing and planning. It is available in more than 40 languages across 170 countries and territories. We have also brought Gemini to pixel
devices, powering new features, and enabling developers and enterprise customers around the world have access to Gemini, via Google AI Studio and Vertex AI, enabling organisations to build and rapidly deploy generative AI, using Google’s foundation models, cloud infrastructure and expertise,” Beaumont said.
Beyond Gemini 1.0, Google, which is already thinking about what comes next, unveiled Gemini 1.5 Pro in February this year, which is a new generation of models that deliver a breakthrough in long-context understanding.
“We have been able to significantly increase the amount
of information our models can process, running up to one million tokens consistently, achieving the longest text window any large scale foundation can achieve. Tokens, in the context windows, are the building blocks used for processing information,” Beaumont further said.
Giving details on how AI is powering the future of search, Beaumont said Google launched generative AI in search across Africa in November 2023, allowing people to ask new types of questions in new ways and experiencing the answers in new, richer and more intuitive ways.
“We live in an increasingly
virtual world, so it makes sense to offer people a way to easily search what they see. Al powers our latest search innovation, called Circle to Search, which offers a new way to search on your phone without switching between apps. All you need to do is make a simple gesture. Let’s say you encounter an unfamiliar word in an article. Simply circle, highlight, scribble, or tap on it, and you’ll instantly get the information you need, right where you are. No copying, pasting or switching apps. Circle to Search is now available on Pixel and Samsung Galaxy S24 Series phones,” Beaumont added.
The abduction of 276 students of Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State on April, 14, 2014, remains one of the saddest narratives in the nation’s history. Despite the return of 194 girls, the fate of 82 others remained unknown, leaving their families and communities in anguish. Ugo Aliogo examines the 10 years anniversary of the abduction of Chibok girls
On the night of April 14, 2014, 276 mostly Christian female students aged from 16 to 18 were kidnapped by the Islamic terrorist group, Boko Haram from the Government Girls Secondary School at the town of Chibok in Borno State. Prior to the raid, the school had been closed for four weeks due to deteriorating security conditions, but the girls were in attendance in order to take final examinations in physics.
Amnesty International stated that over the last decade, 276 schoolgirls were abducted from a government secondary school in Chibok, a town in Borno State. Some of the girls escaped captivity on their own, while others were released following intense campaigning efforts from organizations. However, 82 Chiboks girls remain in captivity, while more than 1,400 children have been abducted in subsequent attacks.
Boko Haram has fought a 15-year insurgency battle in northern Nigeria and has kidnapped thousands of people in that time. But the Chibok girls serve as a potent symbol to the world of hope and resilience. The abduction of the Chibok Girls remains a sad narrative in the history of Nigeria.
UNICEF PosITIoN
Recently, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) called for intensified efforts to protect the country’s most vulnerable population—its children.
UNICEF released the “Minimum Standards for Safe Schools (MSSS) Monitoring Report,” revealing a stark reality: the journey toward ensuring every Nigerian child can learn in a safe environment is far from over. Most notably, the report shows that just 37 per cent of schools across 10 states have early warning systems in place to identify threats, such as school attacks.
UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Cristian Munduate, averred that the kidnapping of the Chibok girls was a wake-up call to the severe risks our children face in their pursuit of education.
She noted that reflecting on the tragedy and other recent abductions, it is evident that all efforts to safeguard our children’s futures must be amplified.
According to her, “Given these alarming statistics, we must address not only the symptoms but also the root causes of this crisis. Education is a fundamental right and a crucial pathway out of poverty. Yet, for too many Nigerian children, it remains an unattainable dream.
“As we remember the Chibok girls and all children whose right to education has been compromised, let this somber anniversary serve as a catalyst for change. However, we must acknowledge the recent abductions, which underscore the persistent vulnerability of our schools. To ensure that schools are safe havens, strong political will and proper implementation of safe school standards are essential. Together, we can
restore trust between educational institutions and the communities they serve, ensuring schools are sanctuaries for learning and growth.”
The report examined six result areas such as strong school system, violence against children, natural hazards, conflict, everyday hazards, and safe school infrastructure-and uncovered significant disparities in the implementation of safe school standards across the states.
Borno State, with a 70 per cent fulfilment of the standards, exemplifies a strong commitment to child safety amidst adversity. Yobe State also demonstrates promising progress.
The report further explained that in contrast, Kaduna and Sokoto states lag significantly, with fulfilment rates at just 25 percent and 26 percent, respectively.
In addition to the finding on early warning systems and conflict, the report shows that while schools perform relatively well in terms of training school-based management committees on safety and responding to children’s well-being concerns, only 14 percent of the participating schools across the 10 assessed states have functioning, safe, accessible infrastructure and just 36 percent have school staff trained on natural hazards.
The report comes as a result of increasing cases of violence affecting schools with brazen abductions of students on the rise. In the last 10 years, conflict-related violence has led to more than 1,680 children abducted while at school and elsewhere; 180 children killed due to attacks on schools; an estimated 60 school staff kidnapped and 14 killed; and more than 70 attacks on schools, according verified reports by the United Nations.
The report stated that the threat of abduction of students is severely affecting children’s learning. As of 2021, over one million children were afraid to return to school, and in 2020, around 11,500 schools were closed due to attacks, according
to Policy Weekly by Nextier.
UNICEF Nigeria called on the government, partners, and the international community to take decisive action to ensure all schools across all states have the resources and tools to fully implement the Minimum Standards for Safe Schools, focusing on the most vulnerable regions.
According to the report, “Government, partners and the international community need to address critical gaps in safe school infrastructure, preparedness for natural disasters, conflicts, and comprehensive approaches to violence against children. Strengthen law enforcement and security measures to protect educational institutions and communities from attacks and abductions. Prioritize education and child protection in national policies and budget allocations to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all Nigerian children.
“Ensure the continuity of education and learning when schools are shut through multiple learning pathways such as radio and TV programmes and through digital platforms like the Nigeria Learning Passport. UNICEF is working with the government to ensure that every child can access safe learning environments. The agency has supported the inauguration of state safe school steering committees and the drafting of state costed implementation plans for safe schools in 13 states. It also provides school grants, safety kits, training and awareness raising to accelerate the implementation of the Minimum Standards for Safe Schools.”
sAFE sChools REPoRT
Despite improvement in education access and efforts towards gender parity, children’s right to education in Nigeria faces huge challenges. Continued conflicts in the North-east, increasing tensions in the North-west, and the widespread impact of climate change jeopardize children’s safety and ability to learn.
Climate Action Africa (CAA), a leading advocate for climate resilience and sustainable development in Nigeria, has called for a more impactful and inclusive approach to tackling the country’s pressing climate challenges.
With Nigeria facing significant vulnerability to rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and environmental degradation, CAA emphasises the need for a united front across all stakeholder groups.
Developing countries like Nigeria, and many others across Africa, face unique sets of challenges when it
comes to climate change.
Speaking at a forum in Lagos recently, Cofounder and Executive Director at Climate Action Africa, Grace Oluchi Mbah, said: “Nigeria’s unique position and vast resources necessitate a comprehensive strategy that leverages the expertise and commitment of every
sector. From government and industry leaders to scientists, community organisations, and individual citizens, we all have a role to play in building a more resilient and sustainable future.”
The importance of fostering collaboration in areas like policy development and
As Nigeria continues to attract global attention against the odds as a destination, which cannot be ignored for investment and business opportunities, the 2024 edition of the “Doing Business in Nigeria Conference,” which held in Lagos recently, served as a pivotal event for entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders seeking to tap into the country’s vibrant business landscape.
Delivering a keynote on the theme, “Doing Business in Nigeria: The Opportunities, Challenges and Realities,” Interswitch Group Founder and Chief Executive Officer,
Mitchell Elegbe set the tone for deliberations at the conference, sharing insights and perspectives hinged on over 22 years operating in Nigeria, from where the company has expanded into other African markets, being in the driver’s seat of one of Africa’s most influential digital technology businesses.
Elegbe walked participants through the dynamic trajectory of Interswitch’s business operations, starting from 2002 when key infrastructural elements such as power and telecoms were at a nascent
stage. The Interswitch Founder acknowledged that Nigeria is probably not one of the easiest markets in the world to do business, however stressing that compelling business opportunities exist only where there are challenges, pointing out that regardless of the challenges and constraints in the local operating environmen, some particular industries and sectors have consistently bucked the trend and shown great promise. Other keynotes were delivered by the Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC
Bank, Wole Adeniyi, who was represented by the Executive Director for Personal and Private Banking, Olu Delano, as well as the Chief Executive, BMG Seven Limited, Binta Max-Gbinije, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the discussions.
The conference agenda was designed to address key themes and topics relevant to doing business in Nigeria, with sessions covering market entry strategies, regulatory compliance, risk management, investment incentives, innovation, and sustainability, among other salient themes.
However, Nigeria has committed to safeguarding educational environments through various policies, notably the Minimum Standards for Safe Schools (MSSS). These standards define the essential conditions for ensuring children’s safety in educational settings.
The MSSS remarked that urgent action is required to address deficiencies in several areas, notably in safe school infrastructure, everyday hazards, natural hazards, and conflict.
Priorities include enhancing the physical safety and accessibility of educational facilities, adherence to security and building guidelines, and improving the availability of essential services such as nutrition and WASH.
The MSSS monitoring tool’s pilot in ten states over two rounds in 2023 uncovered a broadly low and static implementation of the MSSS, with merely 9 out of 21 standards being met and an overall average score of 42 per cent across result areas. The implementation at the state level showed considerable variation, from meeting only 5 standards in Kaduna and Sokoto to meeting 15 in Borno.
The report recommended that successful safe school initiatives demand consistent support through both policy and federal and state budget allocations. This report’s findings should guide the development of national and state safe school plans aligned with identified gaps, ensuring adequate resource allocation for necessary interventions at scale.
Federal authorities should ensure adequate support to states to access all resources available for safe school interventions, including from the Federal Ministry of Education and the Federal Ministry of Finance, while closely monitoring resource expenditure to ensure that the current funding model on safe schools addresses all areas of the MSSS.
At the state level, in addition to integrating school safety priorities in sector plans, authorities should develop and annually review costed state-level safe school implementation plans and budgets, using the findings from the MSSS monitoring. For instance, state-wide programmes in Kaduna could focus on training SBMC members, establishing safety focal points, and rolling out early warning systems, while Borno might prioritize programmes that address children’s nutrition, WASH, and health needs, alongside improving school infrastructure.
Speaking during the 10th-year commemoration of the #BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) campaign in Abuja, the Chairperson of the Strategy Committee for BringBackOurGirls (BBOG), Florence Ozor, stated that 48 parents of the girls have died without setting eyes on their daughters.
In a bid to ensure that the elderly and the aged in Nigerian get quality and good healthcare services, three Nigerian students who are presently doing their Masters programme in the United Kingdom have unveiled a startup programme called Sandfortcare, that seeks to address heath status of the elderly.
Founder of the startup programme, Damilola Olaopa, said the idea was conceived after a colleague who works as a healthcare assistant lost his dad on October last year.
According to Olaopa, “24 hours after speaking with his father on how to assist him to cargo some goods to the UK, he received a call from Nigeria that the father had passed on. What’s most heartbreaking about his situation is that he works as a healthcare assistant in the UK taking care of people’s families but he wasn’t there to take care of his aged father due to his absence from home and that was how our startup idea was conceived.”
Co-founded by Hameed Abdulrahaman and Isatayo Samuel, Sandfortcare is a healthcare startup dedicated
to offering personalised and compassionate healthcare and support service to old parents of Nigerians living in the UK. The Startup ensure parents in Nigeria receive the highest quality of care tailored to their unique needs so that the Children in UK can have peace of mind knowing their parents are in good health condition.
According to Olaopa, for a monthly subscription fee, the parents in Nigeria who are the beneficiary gets a personalised care and support plan, regular health checks, nutrition and meal planning, remote consultation and medication management while the family member resident in the UK who is sponsor gets a timely parent wellness report.
“There are plans underway for the startup to be expanded across Europe and to other North America countries like the US and Canada. The startup is for Nigerians in diaspora especially in UK.
We are presently registered in the UK and, Sandfortcare limited is incorporated under the companies act 2006 as a private company and its limited by shares, Olaopa said.
Over the past few years, Port users lost several billions of naira to the traffic gridlock and illegalities on the roads leading to the nation’s seaports in Lagos. But sanity has been restored following the recent cleaning of the busy port access roads of refuse, shanties, illegal checkpoints, and trucks by the NPA and LASG, writes Eromosele Abiodun
Before now, the federal government, importers, exporters, clearing agents and other road users were losing several billions of naira to traffic gridlock, illegal activities on the entry points to the Apapa and Tin-Can Island seaportsApapa-Ijora and Apapa-Oshodi expressway on a yearly basis. The gridlock and illegal activities defied all known solutions as truck drivers spent minimum of two weeks before they could access the Ports, thereby, making importers accrue daily surcharges on their cargoes. Aside from storage and demmurage surcharges accrued by importers, the gridlock also increased cargo dwell time and vessel turnaround time.
During the crisis period, Nigerian ports became uncompetitive among its contemporaries in West and Central Africa as importers were diverting cargoes destined for Nigerian seaports to neighboring countries due to the port inefficiency, a development that became a source of concern to the federal government. To solve the traffic challenge, the federal government through the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), rallied private sector - Dangote and Flour Mills- to firstly, reconstruct the Ijora - Apapa expressway.
The port road rehabilitation cost N4.3 billion out of which the NPA provided N1.8 billion while Dangote Group and Flour Mills provided N2.5 billion to get the road motorable and the premier port accessible to trucks. The effort including the introduction of E-call up system to enhance port efficiency and wrestle lost cargo to from neighboring countries.
Also, to consolidate on the gains, the NPA introduced the electronic Call-up system also known as Eto. The call-up system was part of the solution that ended the perennial traffic crisis on the Apapa and Tin-Can Island port road. The E-call up allowed trucks doing business at the ports to park at the approved truck parks until they are called up into the port through the Eto app. That finally brought sanity to the Apapa road Axis
Moreover, after making the Ijora-Apapa expressway motorable and evacuation of cargoes out of Apapa port seamless, the NPA in collaboration with the Lagos State Government (LASG) turned their focused to Oshodi-Apapa expressway where they cleared the ever-busy road of shanties, illegal checkpoints and trucks. Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, was another major artery into Tin-Can Island Ports in Lagos. The road also leads to several oil and gas tank farms, which explains the volume of tankers that ply the road daily. But, for over a decade, movement in and out of the two ports through the road was a serious challenge due to the bad state of the road and protracted traffic congestion resulting from the indiscriminate parking of trucks. Also, security personnel, ‘area boys,’ and local government officials mounted several checkpoints and truckers spent an average of N10,000 to N30,000 per trip. The situation was so bad that port users were only able to access the port either on commercial buses that ply one-way or motorcycles popularly
known as okada, which claimed many lives. This also created room for petty traders, security operatives and other non-state actors to take over the road. In addition, residents for several years used the expensive road as a dumpsite for refuse as heaps of waste was left on the road unattended. Following public outcry, the Lagos State Government and the NPA swung into action and cleaned up the road and as well restore sanity as it was done in Apapa.
In December 2023, minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, held a stakeholders’ engagement, which preceded the setting up of a committee to see to the problem of extortion and illegal checkpoints on the port access roads. The minister promised to eliminate extortions of truck drivers, illegal checkpoints, and unapproved parking of trucks along the port access road within one week. The minister blamed the above-listed illegalities for traffic congestion along the port access roads. According to Oyetola, the maritime industry is germane to the development of the economy and the goal was to ensure that stakeholders do not lose money due to delays. True to his promise, sanity has returned to the Tin-Can Island Port corridor as the perennial traffic gridlock along Mile 2 and Tin-Can in Lagos disappeared following a recent clearance operation jointly carried out by the NPA and the Lagos State Government.
It is worth stating that for close to a decade, the Apapa gridlock had been a bone in the neck of federal and state law officers. The persistent gridlock, which hitherto defied all known potent solutions, has now become a thing of the past and the port community is hoping that the effort can be sustained. A recent visit to the road showed free movement of vehicles along the corridor as commercial bus drivers and private motorists now have access to the port without having to drive against traffic.
Also, there seems to be orderliness in the movement of tankers accessing tank farms, thereby eliminating the need to
“Our zero tolerance for all forms of impediments to the free flow of traffic is no fluke, and we are poised to consolidate the gains we have recorded first in Apapa and now Tin-Can.”
park on the road and deny other road users the right to move freely.
To ensure that the effort made so far doesn’t go to waste, the Managing Director of NPA, Mohammed Bello-Koko, has been paying weekly-unscheduled visits to both Apapa and Tincan port access roads to monitor activities. Last week, the NPA boss paid another unscheduled visit to the Tin-Can Island Port access road as a measure of sustaining traffic flow on the road.
Bello-Koko said the move was aimed at consolidating the gains recorded in the clearance of illegal check/extortion points and shanties resulting in traffic gridlock.
“Our zero tolerance for all forms of impediments to the free flow of traffic is no fluke, and we are poised to consolidate the gains we have recorded first in Apapa and now Tin-Can. We are grateful to Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine & Blue Economy and the Lagos State Governor for the tremendous support we have received in this regard,” he said.
Describing the port access roads as international corridors, he said traffic gridlock along such sensitive road networks apart from negating port productivity is an international embarrassment that requires the synergy of all stakeholders to tackle sustainably.
“Although the causes of the gridlock are rooted in factors external to NPA, we have a duty as the gateway to the national economy to take the frontline role in tackling this menace,” he said.
On the menace of refuse debris blocking the drainages, Bello-Koko said the NPA has directed the relevant in-house department to commence desilting of the drainages and clearance of the refuse.
He promised that NPA will intensify synergy with Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Federal Ministry of Works under whose purview waste and road management resides to arrest the ugly trend.
Industry stakeholders have commended the NPA and the Lagos State Government for the efforts put into sanitising the TinCan- Mile 2 road.
Reacting, the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), commended the Mohammed Bello-Koko -led management of NPA for clearing the perennial traffic gridlock that hitherto impeded movement in and out of Lagos Ports.
Also, Customs Area Controller of TinCan Island Port Command, Dera Nnadi, commended the Lagos State Government, the Comptroller General of Customs and the NPA on their collaborative efforts to ensure sanity returned to the port access road.
“The greatest glory goes to Babajide SanwoOlu, governor of Lagos State, who gave the political will to ensure the exercise succeeded. We had meetings with NPA, exporters, importers, shipping lines and freight forwarders. We thanked the media for highlighting the challenges we faced on the port access road. The good thing now is that the road has been cleared and the heaps of refuse removed for us to have sanity around the port corridor,” Nnadi said.
Since 2017, he said, the corridor was not in use because of the menace of truck drivers leaving their vehicles on the major road.
He added that opening this corridor will increase cargo throughput, enhance trade facilitation and ensure more revenue collection for the government.
A haulage operator, Bala Mohammed, gave kudos to the duo of Nigerian Ports Authority and Lagos State Government for clearing the Augean stable of Tin-Can.
This, according to him, led to gridlock, the creation of extortion points and shanties that were polluting the environment, and harbouring non-governmental extortion bandits, and criminals using hard drugs and deadly weapons.
“The Tin-Can road clearance would further heighten security within the Tin-Can Port, promote free-flow traffic, and enable the Eto call-up system to function effectively for seamless evacuation of cargo and trade facilitation.
“NPA and Lagos State Government should try and sustain the tempo of the operation to prevent the re-grouping and returning of extortion bandits and other unpatriotic criminal elements that are feeding fat from the artificially induced Tin-Can traffic anarchy to the detriment of port security, import/export cargo delivery trucking business, call-up system and Nigeria’s trade facilitation,” Mohammed said.
Mohammed further called for the integration of the Ports Standing Task (PSTT) into the clearance exercise to achieve a tripod formidable force against national economy saboteurs along the ports’ access roads.
According to him, PSTT has been tackling the obstacles to the free movement of traffic and extortion bandits on the outbound section of the port access roads.
He also called on NPA and the Lagos State Government to come up with a dedicated monitoring task force team that would prevent indiscriminate parking of trucks that don’t have business in the port and fuel depots, the return of extortion bandits causing gridlock, as well as building and hiring of illegal shanties.
He suggested the duo support the acquisition of acres of land proposed by Remi Ogungbemi, AMATO president, around Mile 2 axis to serve as a truck marshalling yard for both containerised and tanker trucks to prevent the indiscriminate parking along the Tin-Can Port corridor.
He said it would facilitate the integration of tanker trucks into the call-up system where tankers’ movement into their respective depots would be scheduled and batched based on requests from fuel depots in contrast to the present arrangement.
The recently enacted Law of Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA), signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in 2022, empowers the agency to collaborate with federal government enforcement agencies to combat fraudulent
practices effectively.
The Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Housing, Barr. Barakat Odunuga-Bakare stated this in a keynote speech she
delivered at a two-day summit organised by the Association of Estate Agents in Nigeria (AEAN) in Lagos recently.
The AEAN is an affiliate of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV).
Odunuga-Bakare said, “By doing so (the collaboration), we aim to restore confidence, trust, and protect the interests of both local and international investors.”
The Law, she said, indicates a significant step towards promoting investment and development within the state’s real estate sector. This legislation mandates the agency with key responsibilities: Issuance and Renewal of Permit licenses annually; Investigation of complaints and petitions against licensed and unlicensed Real Estate Practitioners/Property Developers, and imposition of sanctions where necessary;
Elimination of unethical real estate business transactions; and Conducting training for practitioners in the sector.
She said, “In promoting investment and development in this sector, LASRERA has made commendable progress in addressing grievances that emanated from real estate transactions in the State, having resolved 1027 out of 1577 petitions received.
“Worthy of note is the agency’s intervention in the alleged N40 Million Land scam issue some time ago involving one Mr Kayode Oladipo. The outcome of the whole issue, exemplifies our commitment to transparency and zero tolerance for fraudulent activities in Lagos State’s real estate sector.”
Fadekemi Ajakaiye
Nigeria will host the 2025 IFMA Global Africa Conference, a prestigious event that will bring together industry leaders from across the continent.
Managing Director of International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), Lara Paemen stated this when she visited the IFMA Nigeria Chapter Secretariat in Lagos, recently.
Hosting the 2025 IFMA Global Africa Conference underscores the country’s growing importance in the international facility management landscape, said the President, ESV Olalekan Akinwumi, who led Council members and the workforce to receive Ms. Paemen.
In addition, she unveiled an
initiative aimed at encouraging student participation in the World Workplace (WWP) event, extending the programme to three African students, one from Nigeria, and two from other African nations. These students will receive complimentary access to WWP and will be given accommodation. The visit marked a pivotal moment for collaboration and strategic discussions.
In his response, Akinwumi expressed gratitude for Paemen’s visionary leadership as the Managing Director of IFMA EMEA and sought more support from the global body located in Houston, United States of America.
The Immediate Past President, Mr. Segun Adebayo, highlighted the Nigeria Chapter’s achievements over its 27 years. He made
it known that IFMA Nigeria’s established presence through the Chapter’s collaborative efforts has brought value to the country through various events in promoting the organization, and building relationships with both the corporate and public sectors, thereby increasing membership.
In 2023, the Chapter co-hosted an event on “Delivering Effective and Sustainable FM in the Built Environment” at Nigeria’s largest construction industry event, Big 5 Construct Nigeria. The Chapter has collaborated with various institutions including the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board, Lagos State Safety Commission, and the University of Lagos to champion notable causes within the built environment.
L-R: Segun
“As governments worldwide safeguard investor interests, it is imperative that we provide a conducive environment and adhere to international best standards. LASRERA actively engages in public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities in real estate transactions, thereby empowering them against fraudulent activities.
“As a Professional Body, Investors’ confidence must be restored especially for those in the diaspora, the issues of fake/ dubious practitioners which must be addressed by relevant professional bodies in the industry.
According to the Special Adviser, “LASRERA registers only qualified real estate professionals, registered with recognized organizations that operate in the sector. This measure mitigates the risks associated with unregistered agents and briefcase operators prevalent in Lagos State.
Recognizing the underrepresentation of women in the technology sector, leading innovative and sustainable building solutions company, Lafarge Africa Plc, has launched the Girls in Tech Program, a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering young women in technology. Meticulously crafted to bridge the gender gap in tech and empower 10 young females between the ages of 18-25
years from Lafarge Africa Host communities in Cross River State, this programme is poised to make a significant impact in the region. The Girls in Tech Programme seeks to harness the unique talents of these young women and introduce them to the dynamic world of technology. By providing them with essential skills and opportunities, the initiative aspires to equip them to become self-reliant as well as problem solvers in society.
In collaboration with Aptech and Arena Multimedia,globally recognized leaders in technology incubation and opportunity, as well as The Bridge Leadership Foundation, this boot camp promises to be a transformative experience for the participating girls, who are eager to make their mark in the tech industry.
Speaking during the onboarding to flag-off the program held at Hogis Hotel, Calabar on Friday, April 5, 2024,
the Plant Manager, Lafarge Africa Plc, Sotirios Valsamakis, who was represented by the Human Resources Business Partner, Lafarge Africa Plc; Barong Ita, revealed that the program is in line with the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. She also added that the initiative is designed to ignite a spark of inspiration, hope, and possibilities in the heart of the selected girls across the host communities.
“As an organization, people are an integral part of our sustainability drive, and we are invested in building lasting progress by empowering members of our host communities. We also recognize the need for greater and greener diversity and inclusivity within the tech sector. Today’s event is not just about launching a program. It is about igniting a spark of inspiration, hope, and possibilities in the hearts of these young women. It is
about challenging stereotypes.” Also speaking at the event, the Cross Rivers State Commissioner for Science, Innovation & Technology, Justin Beshel represented by Edwin Adie, Technical Senior Advisor, Cross Rivers State Ministry of Science & Technology commended Lafarge Africa for the initiative adding that it is in line with the State government’s plan towards science, technology and innovation development.
Lasisi Adedoyin K.S
According to the World Bank Group report published in 2016 “Building Regulation for Resilience: Managing Risks for Safer Cities”, the 132-page report offers an astonishing preview of an impending global building spree. Excerpts from the report state “New urban development between 2015 and 2030 will exceed all previous urban de-
velopment throughout history” and “Of the area expected to be urbanized by 2030, 60 per cent remains to be built, primarily in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa.” Without a doubt, the Sub-Saharan Africa region of the world is witnessing unprecedented growth and it’s becoming challenging for city managers. Fueling the surge, experts say, will be a mass human migration away from
rural villages to burgeoning mega-cities as people seek jobs, housing, and medical care, and the very attempt to escape poverty and climate disasters. By 2050, the United Nations estimates that cities will add 2.5 billion people—nearly the entire combined populations of present-day China and India—and will double in area. A staggering 90 per cent of that growth will occur in Africa and
Asia, mostly in countries that the World Bank now defines as low- and middle-income. As a result, cities in these regions are expected to grow magnitudes larger than any urban areas currently in existence.
According to a population model developed by researchers at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology, African cities that today barely register to most Global North
cities — Lagos, Kinshasa, Dar es Salaam, Khartoum, Niamey, Nairobi—could all have populations greater than 40 million by 2100, which would make them larger than today’s Tokyo currently the world’s most populated city at about 37.3 million. Even sleepy cities like Lilongwe and Blantyre, both in the small African nation of Malawi, could grow from barely a million residents to the size of
present-day New York (about 9 million) by 2075, according to the Canadian model. From the model, the City of Lagos, for example, already the eighthlargest metro area in the world, could number 85 to 100 million residents by 2100.
-Lasisi, Adedoyin K.S is an environment and safety Expert and the coordinator of EKO EnviroTalk TV
In January 2019, Nigeria marked a significant milestone in its journey towards fostering inclusivity and safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities, PWDs, after former President, Muhammadu Buhari signed into law, the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act. Precious Ugwuzor writes that inclusivity advocates like Access Holdings PLC are embracing this directive not just as a means to deepen community impact, but has through Access Bank undertaken several strategic initiatives to actively demonstrate and reinforce its dedication to disability inclusion
“Recognising and respecting differences in others and treating everyone like you want them to treat you, will help make our world a better place for everyone.”
– Kim PeekAs organisations continually explore strategies to attract and retain toptier talent, one often-overlooked pool of highly motivated and qualified individuals, who bring a unique set of skills and problem-solving abilities are persons with disabilities.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion have evolved to encompass various dimensions beyond gender, and yet, the experiences of individuals with disabilities in the workplace remain fraught with challenges such as unconscious bias, limited accessibility, stereotypes and misconceptions, lack of inclusive policies, inadequate capacity building, limited Career advancement opportunities, stigma and disclosure concerns as well as underrepresentation.
These challenges lead to a pessimistic view of candidates with disabilities, which is evident in their struggles despite impressive backgrounds. The fear of negative judgment in daily interactions and performance reviews compounds these hurdles.
Furthermore, the pervasive lack of workplace accessibility, including digital features on job boards and websites, further hinders inclusion for those with vision or mobility issues. Underutilisation of available accessibility tools, such as ramps and assistive technologies, adds to the exclusion.
It is vital to dispel misconceptions surrounding disabilities, understanding that this category embraces a diverse range of health conditions. From hearing impairment and autoimmune fatigue to chronic illnesses demanding regular medical care, neurodivergence, and mental health conditions, disabilities are not confined to a narrow definition. Recognising this spectrum is essential in challenging common misunderstandings about the nature and extent of disabilities.
In January 2019, Nigeria marked a significant milestone in its journey towards fostering inclusivity and safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs). After nearly two decades of legislative efforts and public advocacy, former President, Muhammadu Buhari signed into law, the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act.
This landmark legislation not only criminalises discrimination, but also sets the stage for a transformative shift in how society perceives and accommodates the needs of an estimated 25 million PWDs in Nigeria.
The Act goes beyond punitive measures, mandating accessibility requirements for public transportation facilities and establishing a five-year transitional period for modifying public buildings and automobiles to ensure accessibility for the physically, visually, and hearing impaired.
Additionally, the legislation grants explicit rights and privileges to persons with disabilities, encompassing access to education, healthcare, priority for accommodation, and assistance during emergencies. Notably, public and private organisations are mandated to reserve at least five percent of employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, fostering greater inclusivity in the workforce.
Also notable is that the Act empowers citizens with disabilities to seek legal redress by filing lawsuits for damages against entities that violate their rights, reinforcing a commitment to upholding the dignity and rights of every individual in the country.
While this development has jolted many into immediate action and operational remodelling, inclusivity advocates like Access Holdings PLC are embracing this directive as a means to deepen community impact. In its steadfast commitment to cultivate a workplace culture that champions diversity and inclusion, Access Bank has undertaken several strategic initiatives to actively demonstrate and reinforce its dedication to disability inclusion.
The financial institution has completed a thorough examination of the physical and digital facilities of all its subsidiaries – encompassing branches, technology infrastructure, and
communication channels – to ascertain their level of accessibility to all stakeholders.
Following this assessment, the Group’s banking subsidiary, Access Bank, has elevated the accessibility features across its facilities. This strategic move has seen the bank increase the number of wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and sensory-friendly workspaces. These accommodations are aimed at creating an inclusive workplace for employees and customers alike, fostering an environment where stakeholders of all abilities not only feel accommodated but valued and empowered.
Going a step further, Access Bank actively conducts surveys, mobilises working groups, and other collaborative initiatives aimed at gathering first-hand perspectives from employees with disabilities. This inclusive approach extends beyond an acknowledgment of diverse needs; it involves managers in direct dialogue, providing crucial insights into existing accommodations and fostering a deeper understanding of the varied needs of employees with disabilities.
By actively seeking and valuing the input of individuals with diverse experiences, this approach ensures that the Bank remains informed about its current practices and identifies areas for improvement.
Development programmes, integral to Access Holdings’ organisational ethos, are pivotal in instilling a culture of inclusion. Specifically tailored for individuals in the recruitment process, frontline staff, and customer-facing roles, these aim at breaking communication barriers both externally and internally. The goal is to create an environment where customers and employees with diverse needs not only feel supported but also genuinely valued.
These programmes include sign language training for frontline staff, enabling them to communicate effectively with custom-
ers who are deaf or hard of hearing. Simultaneously, HR personnel undergo specialised training to enhance their proficiency in addressing the unique needs of employees with disabilities, fostering an inclusive workplace culture.
Access Holdings’ banking subsidiary, in its role as the Chair of the Nigeria Business Disability Network (NBDN), has taken proactive measures to empower corporates and alleviate concerns within the business community. By leveraging its influence within the NBDN, Access Bank has actively engaged in educational campaigns and awareness programmes, showcased successful case studies, best practices, and tangible outcomes achieved by organisations that have embraced disability inclusion. These are aimed at demystifying the misconceptions surrounding the costs of accommodation.
Access Bank, in line with its commitment to Disability Inclusion, partnered Sight savers to host a two-day Employers’ Disability Confidence training. The training aimed to introduce private sector employees to Sight savers’ Disability Confidence Toolkit and equip them with the knowledge and tools to make their companies more accessible and inclusive.
The sessions also included an introduction to the International Labour Organisation self-assessment tool for enterprises, which supports companies in benchmarking their corporate social policies and practices against the guidance provided in the Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (MNE Declaration).
As part of its Corporate Social Investment efforts, Access Holdings partnered
Empowering people with disabilities is crucial for the economic development of any society, and Africa serves as a poignant case-in-point. The inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the workforce not only aligns with principles of social justice and equality but also contributes significantly to the overall economic growth of the continent
the Kanawa Educational Foundation for the Disabled in collaboration with the Nigeria Association of the Blind (Gombe state chapter), to implement a food relief and medical outreach program for persons with disabilities in Kano and Gombe. The initiative assisted 1,535 direct beneficiaries in Kano in Gombe with focus on persons with visual impairments, particularly women.
The Broader View
Empowering people with disabilities is crucial for the economic development of any society, and Africa serves as a poignant case-in-point. The inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the workforce not only aligns with principles of social justice and equality but also contributes significantly to the overall economic growth of the continent.
By providing equal opportunities and support, Africa can harness the untapped potential of a substantial portion of its population. People with disabilities bring diverse skills, talents, and perspectives to the table, fostering innovation and creativity in various sectors. Creating an inclusive work environment promotes productivity and ensures that the workforce reflects the true diversity of the nation.
Furthermore, empowering individuals with disabilities economically reduces dependency on social welfare programmes, ultimately alleviating the financial burden on the government. Creating accessible infrastructure, offering specialised training programmes, and implementing inclusive hiring practices not only benefits individuals with disabilities but also contribute to a more equitable society.
As these individuals actively participate in economic activities, they become contributors to tax revenue, thus bolstering the nation’s financial resources. Additionally, an inclusive workforce can enhance Africa’s global attractiveness by showcasing a commitment to diversity and social responsibility.
By embracing the abilities and potential of people with disabilities, Africa can build a stronger, more resilient economy that reflects the values of inclusivity and equal opportunity.
Even as various stakeholders continue to work towards bridging the gap for PWDs, we must continue to educate ourselves and take a broader view in our approach to inclusion. As the brilliant Lauren Ridloff succinctly opines, “It is important to showcase people with disabilities with intersectional identities because that allows viewers to see beyond disability. People with disabilities are multi-layered, complex breathing human beings defined by more than just what we lack.”
Kayode Tokede
A linguistics and Asian Studies expert, Dr Adetoro Banwo, has said that China’s rise to global power was not accidental, stressing that it was fueled by pragmatic policies that prioritise the well-being of its people alongside continuous reforms.
Banwo, who lectures at the Department of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies, University of Lagos, said Nigerian could learn a valuable lesson from China.
In a paper titled, “Building a Community of a Shared Future in Nigeria- A Policy of Win-Win Initiatives,” presented in Lagos, he said China’s partnership with Nigeria has dramatically transformed the country’s development landscape.
“New roads snake across Nigeria, connecting cities to hinterlands and towns. Ports have been built to boost trade and grow Nigeria’s Gross National Product. Infrastructure projects of monumental scale,
like the Abuja-Kano, Port Harcourt-Maiduguri, and Lagos-Ibadan railway routes, have been successfully completed through Sino-Nigerian collaboration.
“These railways are the largest in Nigeria’s history, designed to facilitate the seamless transport of people and goods across the country. One immediate benefit is the explosion of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and townships springing up along these railway routes and stops. These SMEs are the backbone of a healthy and thriving Nigerian economy. They provide income, create employment opportunities, and drive national growth by opening new markets for different regions.
“China has bolstered Nigeria’s economy in several key ways. Their billion-dollar investment in the Lekki Deep Sea Port aims to streamline
trade exports and imports not just for Nigeria, but for all of Africa. Constructing this port has created millions of local jobs, boosted Nigeria’s overseas trade patterns, and secured a stable stream of revenue for the country, “he said.
He added that China has emerged as a key development partner for Nigeria through various projects and collaborations, stating that China is actively driving progress in Nigeria’s economy, infrastructure, and cultural sectors. Banwo stressed “ China’s cultural exchange efforts in Nigeria are driven by President Xi’s Global Civilization Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the value and importance of all human civilizations. President Xi promotes respect for cultural diversity, shared human values, and the ongoing exchange and innovation between cultures. People-to-people exchange and cooperation are central to this vision.”
The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Lilypond Export Command has announced that its Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) payments stood at N1.39 billion as at first quarter of 2024.
The Customs Area Controller, Lilypond Export Command, Comptroller Ajibola Odunsanya, stated this at a news conference in Lagos.
The figure, he said, represents an increase of N1.01 billion when compared to N328.2 million posted in the first quarter of 2023.
Odunsanya said that the command also recorded revenue worth $236 million in the first quarter of the year 2024.
Odunsanya attributed the success to the enhanced revenue generation and compliance.
He added that surcharge payment for plants and
machinery as well as imported goods which doubled from N8.78 million in the same period of 2023 to N 18.2 million during the year under review.
According to him, the increase in growth is due to the command aligning with fiscal policy directives.
He said, “In the first quarter of 2024, the command processed a total of 5,891 (20ft and 40ft) containers valued at $236,087,888.53. These comprise diverse commodities such as agricultural produce, manufactured goods, solid and extractive minerals, among others. The breakdown of export activities is as follows: Agricultural Produce, a total of 4,229 (20ft and 40ft) containers were filled with agricultural produce, generating earnings amounting to $153.4 million and receiving N916.4 million
under NESS, underscoring
the robust contribution of agricultural exports to the national economy.
“Not less than 629 (20ft and 40ft) containers dispatched, manufactured goods contributed significantly to export revenue, totaling $22.2 million the NESS payment to the FGN amounted to N112.9 million, reflecting the sector’s resilience and competitiveness in the global market.”
Odunsanya also explained that the export of solid and extractive minerals witnessed a notable upsurge, with 753 (20ft and 40ft) containers dispatched, valued at $34.1 million, representing a NESS payment of N224.1 million.
This, he added, highlighted the immense potential of Nigeria’s mineral resources on the international stage.
Konga, Nigeria’s leading composite e-commerce group, recently launched amazing deals at its Infinix Brand Week.
Infinix, a leading global smartphone brand known for its innovative products and cutting-edge technology promises exclusive discounts and special offers on select smartphones, marking an exciting milestone in the realm of online shopping.
Giving details of the partnership, VP Marketing at Konga, said Rita Ohaedoghasi, said: “At Konga, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the best shopping experience possible. The Infinix Week during Konga Brand Week allows us to continue delivering on that promise by offering
incredible discounts and special offers on some of the most sought-after smartphones in the market.”
She encouraged Konga Brand Week shoppers to connect with Konga across all platforms, including social media and the Konga website to take the opportunity to score big savings and elevate their tech game with Infinix and Konga.
Experts are ready to attend this year’s Nigeria Fintech and Financial Inclusion Roundtable, slated to hold April 26 in Lagos.
The experts include: Dr. Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) Umaru Kwairanga; and Group Managing Director/CEO, Unified Payment Services Limited Dr. Apochi Agada. Both will chair and deliver the keynote address respectively at The Nigeria Fintech and Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2024 with the theme: ‘The Role of Fintech & Financial Inclusion in Citizen Empowerment and Economic Growth’. Other expected speakers at the Roundtable include the Managing Director/CEO, HumanManager Limited, Mrs. Adekunbi Ademiluyi; Vice President, Fintech Association of Nigeria, Dr. Stanley Jacob, and Group Head of Audit, FBN Holdings Plc, Dr. Bode Oguntoke.
In a statement, the convener of the Roundtable, Prince Cookey, said the event would be a unique convergence of top executives and stakeholder groups from the banking, fintech, telecom, insurance, media community and the general public.
Cookey, who is also the Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Business Journal Media Group, listed the objectives/ expectations from the Roundtable to include evaluation of the growth of fintechs in the Nigerian financial system in the past 10 years, analyse the marriage & dichotomy between banks and fintechs, explore the convergence of banking, telecom and insurance in terms of financial inclusion, evaluate the challenges of fintechs and financial inclusion in Nigeria and to project the future of the two financial concepts going forward.
Kayode Tokede
Snapping eight consecutive sessions of investors profit-taking, the stock market segment of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), yesterday posted N57 billion rebound, supported by investors’ demand for FBN Holdings (FBNH) Plc and 16 others.
The NGX All-Share Index (NGX ASI) gained 100.55 basis
points or 0.10 per cent to close at 99,908.89 basis points. Consequently, market capitalisation rose by N57 billion to close at N56.505 trillion.
As a result, the NGX ASI Year-to-Date (YtD) return rose to 33.61 per cent.
The Nigerian stock market the previous day recorded a decline of N1.11trillion in market capitalistion, the biggest single day decline so far in April to
close below 100,000 basis points in NGX ASI.
The upturn was driven by price appreciation in large and medium capitalised stocks amongst which are; FBNH, Fidelity Bank, Ikeja Hotel, Access Holdings and Morison Industries.
As measured by market breadth, market sentiment was negative, as 27 stocks lost relative to 17 gainers. Ikeja
Hotel emerged the highest price gainer of 10 per cent to close at N7.26, per share. Fidelity Bank followed with a gain of 9.88 per cent each to close at N8.90, while Academy Press rose by 9.77 per cent to close at N1.91, per share.
Morison Academy appreciated by 9.71 per cent to close at N3.39, while Prestige Assurance appreciated by 9.26 per cent to close at 59 kobo, per share. On the other side, Livestock Feeds led others
on the losers’ chart with 10 per cent to close at N1.44, per share.
International Energy Insurance followed with a decline of 9.79 per cent to close at N1.29, while CWG shed 9.79 per cent to close at N6.45, per share.
FTN Cocoa Processors depreciated by 9.72 per cent to close at N1.30, while Africa Prudential dipped by 9.42 per cent to close at N6.25, per share.
The total volume traded
decreased by 20.11 per cent to 322.656 million units, valued at N5.820 billion, and exchanged in 9,074 deals. Transactions in the shares of United Bank for Africa (UBA) led the activity with 55.013 million shares worth N1.284 billion. Zenith Bank followed with account of 47.03 million shares valued at N1.691 billion, while Access Holdings traded 44.986 million shares valued at N789.622 million.
The global landscape of sports betting has seen a transformative shift with its legalization in numerous jurisdictions. This change is reshaping the betting industry and creating waves across the financial sector. As the number of participants in sports betting continues to climb, banks find themselves in a pivotal position, needing to reshape their services to cater to this burgeoning market. Davidson Abraham delves into the challenges and opportunities that the rise of sports betting offers to banks, covering areas from payment processing to promoting responsible gambling behaviours
the neeD For secure AnD FAst pAyMent processing
Acornerstone of sports betting is the necessity for seamless and secure financial
transactions. Traditional banking methods like ACH transfers and wire transfers often fall short of meeting bettors’ instant demands. This is where fintech companies shine, offering solutions with real-time or near-real-time
transaction speeds. Bettors can now deposit and withdraw funds almost instantly, greatly enhancing the user experience. In terms of convenience, fintech solutions are integrated directly into betting platforms, eliminating the need for
manual initiation, which is often required with traditional banking methods. Moreover, while conventional banking has well-established security protocols, fintech solutions can address emerging security threats more dynamically.
Developing AntiFrAuD MeAsures For online Betting trAnsActions
The digital realm of sports betting also presents a fertile ground for fraudsters. As banks and fintech companies innovate, fraudsters adapt, necessitating continuous vigilance and adaptive measures.
Banks can deploy enhanced customer verification processes, integrating them with advanced fraud detection tools. Monitoring for unusual betting patterns can help flag suspicious activities. Collaborations with law enforcement agencies can effectively combat money laundering, while the implementation of know-your-customer (KYC) protocols adds an extra layer of security. Additionally, clear and transparent terms of service for betting platforms and secure payment methods with strong authentication can help mitigate chargebacks and disputes.
potentiAl pArtnerships Between BAnks AnD sports Betting plAtForMs
The legalisation of sports betting opens doors for lucrative partnerships between banks and sports betting platforms. Banks can explore co-branded credit and debit cards with sports betting platforms, offering exclusive rewards or benefits to foster customer loyalty. By integrating secure payment solutions directly into these platforms—utilising two-factor authentication and biometric verification—banks can further enhance the user experience. Financial literacy programmes can also be codeveloped to educate bettors about responsible gambling and
sound financial management. the iMplicAtions
oF responsiBle gAMBling prActices For BAnks
As the popularity of sports betting soars, so does the concern for problem gambling. As pivotal financial intermediaries, banks bear a social responsibility to champion responsible gambling practices.
Banks can deploy sophisticated tools to scrutinise customer spending patterns, flagging potential signs of problem gambling and enabling timely interventions. Collaborating with organisations that provide support for problem gamblers can be invaluable. Banks can disseminate information on helplines or addiction treatment programs through their platforms. Offering comprehensive educational resources on gambling risks and responsible practices can empower bettors to make informed decisions.
The continuous meteoric rise of sports betting presents banks with an unparalleled opportunity to harness fintech innovations and redefine their services for a dynamic market. By prioritising secure and swift payment processing, bolstering anti-fraud measures, nurturing partnerships with sports betting platforms, and championing responsible gambling, banks can meet the evolving needs of bettors.
As the lines between finance and betting blur, banks that adapt and innovate are poised to reap significant rewards in this brave new world of sports betting. With these strategies, banks can not only thrive but also contribute positively to the responsible growth of the sports betting industry.
“the continuous meteoric rise of sports betting presents banks with an unparalleled opportunity to harness fintech innovations and redefine their services for a dynamic market.”
For some time now, sports betting operators in Nigeria have been grappling with the issue of multiple taxation involving both state regulatory bodies and federal regulators. Although the case is still in court, operators feel the full impact of paying these taxes while running their businesses.
While some operators have closed down, others still establish themselves in the industry. For the established operators, it’s a waiting game until matters are resolved amicably between the two jurisdictions.
GAMING WEEK, in a recent interview with the Director of BetWinner Nigeria, Maha Otu, inquired into the intricacies of running the gaming outfit amid the jurisdiction wars, her recommendations to regulators, and her unique approach to tackling the gambling menace.
Otu recognises the importance of establishing unified taxation laws for gaming companies across federal and state levels. In her assertions, she emphasises the need for consistency and clarity in taxation processes. She states, “One of our primary lobbying efforts is to encourage federal and state governments to establish consistent taxation processes for gaming companies. This would provide much-needed clarity and stability for operators, enabling us to plan and operate more effectively.
“It’s a very sensitive topic, and it’s a battle we keep going back and forth with. We (BetWinner) had initial issues: they said that if we have the federal licence, since we are operating online, we don’t need it (state licence), but Lagos State insisted that we needed it since our office is in Lagos. And because we’re very compliant and we didn’t want any issues, we got the Lagos State licence, and we have the Oyo State licence as well.”
Otu stressed that “it’s a battle that’s been on for years now, and
we hope it ends soon because we are on the receiving end of it” and that “at the end of the day, we just try our best to ensure that we still are able to survive through that because we can’t put our business on hold until there are any verdicts.”
She added, So, we just have to try and ensure that we survive through it.”
In addition to taxation, Otu is committed to advocating for stronger regulations to prevent underage gambling. She believes that protecting minors from the potential harms of gambling is paramount and talks about “pushing for more robust measures to prevent underage individuals from accessing gambling platforms,” including implementing stricter age verification processes and enhancing educational campaigns to raise awareness about the risks of underage gambling.
Her advocacy extends beyond
BetWinner Nigeria. She actively engages with industry stakeholders, government officials, and regulatory bodies to promote policies that uphold responsible gaming practices and ensure a level playing field for all operators in the gaming sector while prioritising consumer protection and industry integrity.
Otu also thinks the federal government should prioritise operators with a presence in Nigeria over foreign operators granted special licences to operate only in the country. She notes that although market disruption is key to growth, the growth of local operators will contribute significantly to the gross domestic product (GDP) rather than direct revenue earned by the government.
“I feel like the federal government should be more concerned about that. Because issuing out licences to foreign operators… I think
“In the Association of State Gaming Regulators, we have expended a lot of resources working on a uniform regime and standard. The moment we have that activated, operators will not have to run helter and skelter. There will be a platform you can go to apply to one or apply to all. That is what we are targeting. We are hoping that the Supreme Court declares judgment with regard to our jurisdiction matter. If you read the constitution of Nigeria, you will see that there is no grey area. There are dozens of matters in the last 20 years that the various courts have pronounced that all residual matters lie within the states where they occurred. In the previous Senate, the Presidency rejected the National Lottery Commission Act 2017, but the Senate did something else overnight. That is why the President refused to sign it into law because the matter was pending at the Supreme Court. .” – Bashir Are, Chief Executive Officer of Lagos State Lottery and Gaming Authority
they are just seeing the ‘now’ of the whole situation because those people will pay for licences and all of that, just the money that comes in at the time<” said Otu. “But the long-term goal wouldn’t be beneficial to Nigeria, especially. If BetWinner didn’t come into operation in Nigeria, I wouldn’t be sitting down here.”
Otu pointed out that “it doesn’t give that room and opportunity for Nigerians to get jobs, local content promotion, and for those companies over there, they wouldn’t be able to finetune their products to suit the market here because they are not here, and they can’t fully understand the market like people who are actually in the industry on the ground.”
“So, I hope the federal government rethinks it because it would not be beneficial to us and to them as well in the long run,” she stated.
Otu’s efforts are aligned with broader industry goals of promoting responsible gaming and enhancing regulatory oversight. She believes that effective regulation safeguards consumers and fosters trust and credibility within the gaming industry.
“I think the first lobby that would be beneficial to us is having a unified taxation law and process, having the federal and state governments agree on how they want taxation to go. Then, we would also be promoting a better regulation for underaged gambling, something better, something more robust that goes beyond just saying ‘+18’. We need a more robust regulation with regard to that,” she noted.
Otu’s advocacy efforts in taxation and regulatory reforms are instrumental in shaping a more transparent, fair, and responsible gaming environment in Nigeria. Through her leadership and collaboration with stakeholders, she is driving positive change that benefits both consumers and operators, ultimately enhancing the integrity and sustainability of the gaming industry.
Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday predicted that Nigeria will become a major economic force in the world under President Bola Tinubu.
According to him, the Tinubu government is committed to creating an unprecedented enabling environment for both local and foreign investors to thrive.
Shettima who spoke at the
State House, Abuja, while playing host to a delegation from the Commonwealth Enterprise Investment Council (CWEIC) led by its Chief Executive, Rosie Glazerbrook, noted that this is being done through harnessing resources of the country’s youth population in digital technology, improving electricity supply, boosting production and manufacturing, among other initiatives of government.
This is just as he assured a delega-
tion from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) who also paid him a courtesy visit that the executive arm of government would liaise with the National Assembly to consider the review of the institute’s enabling Act of 1965 in order to ensure its current practices are in harmony with global standards and international best practices.
Speaking on the country’s position in the global growth projections, the Vice President said: “Nigeria is where the attraction should be for investors all over the world as Nigeria will become a major global economic force under President Tinubu.
will make or mar that transition.
“By 2050, Nigeria will be the third most populous country in the world and only recently, an investment bank projected that by 2075 Nigeria’s economy will be the third largest in the world. It shows that the trajectory of global growth is facing Africa and Nigeria
Cardoso: CBN to explore digital innovations to boost financial inclusion, productivity
James emejo in AbujaThe Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, has called for critical assessment of the Agenda 2050 and the National Development Plan (2021 – 2025) to determine the place of digital economy in both blueprints.
This comes as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, said the apex bank remained committed to harnessing the power of digital technologies to enhance financial inclusion, productivity, and create an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship to thrive in the country.
Both spoke when they separately received the Senior Executive Course 46 of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) on a courtesy call to their offices.
The minister said the review had become imperative in order to know if issues of unemployment and sustainable job creation were properly captured in both documents.
Otherwise, he said a review was inevitable to enrich it and make them better documents for implementation to better the lives of Nigerians.
Bagudu stressed that the digital economy was not a preserve of a ministry or person but a golden field that should be embraced by all in order not to be left behind in the digital space.
In a statement issued by the Director, Information, in the ministry, Mrs. Julie Osagie-Jacobs, the minister further stated that the creation of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and the separation of the Ministry of Youths from Sports Ministry, were clear demonstration
of the current administration's commitment to better these sectors of the economy.
Bagudu pointed out that a number of interventions including the approval of N300 billion Youth Investment Fund for the ministry; training of three million Youths in the (I –DICE) project and the creation of a National Agricultural Development Fund for every part of the country were laudable programmes of the present administration.
He said the investments are to stimulate the delivery of some of the key priorities of the current administration, especially priority seven, which was to accelerate diversification through industrialisation, digitalisation, creative arts, manufacturing and innovation.
He said, "With the advent of digitisation, the world has become a global village; making the digital economy a financial hub for our youths. The demography of the country highlights that 31 per cent of the population were youths, this number cannot be ignored if we wish to tackle unemployment, accelerate development and ensure sustainable growth, we must think outside the box, create the right synergy in addition to collaboration and encouragement of investments in the technology start-up across regions of the country."
He added that the Nigerian technology and creative ecosystem had been in the forefront of job creation, especially for youths, within the few months of President Bola Tinubu's administration, adding that this made the Nigerians relevant in the country as well as empowered to compete globally.
On the National Development
Plan (NDP 2021-2025), the minister pointed out that the performances, programmes, projects, prospect, investment allocation, strategies and policies for accomplishing set objectives and targets, as well as inherent challenges in the digital economy space of the Nigerian economy were detailed in Chapter 14 of the plan.
He said the plan's objective for the sector was to unleash Nigeria's potential for industrialisation and sustainable economic growth to ensure competitiveness in the global digital economy.
This, according to him, is possible because the NDP has the concept of achieving double digit growth in an inclusive manner with consistency as guided by the National Protection Policy.
He solicited for the cooperation of all stakeholders in realising this objective, and called for the spirit of humility to embrace the change the digital economy had presented.
Meanwhile, Cardoso, who was represented by CBN Deputy Governor, Corporate Services Directorate, Dr. Bala Bello, said the bank had also deployed robust digital technologies in driving most of its processes towards achieving optimal performance.
He said the country’s digital landscape was rapidly evolving, presenting both immense opportunities and complex challenges.
The CBN governor commended the theme of the study tour, "Digital Economy, Youth Empowerment and Sustainable Job Creation in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges, and Opportunities", which he said, deeply resonated with the core priorities and strategic focus of the central bank.
Therefore, he stressed that as a
forward-thinking central bank, it would take advantage of all the opportunities presented by digital solutions to drive the economy.
The CBN governor further noted that the bank and NIPSS have had a long-standing and robust working relationships since the establishment of the institute which had culminated into positive mutual benefits for both parties.
He said the CBN has, on the one hand, provided infrastructural support to the institute through the construction of an auditorium and a hostel, in addition to the provision of technical support.
“So, the future belongs to Africa. If Nigeria works, Africa works. You have come to Nigeria at the right time - a time when a pro-business government is at the helm of affairs in the country and we are ready for business,” the Vice President emphasised.
Shettima said the Tinubu-led federal government is determined to transform the country’s demographic bulge into demographic dividends, assuring that the “administration will harness the resources of its young population to build a more prosperous and progressive country.”
He noted that Nigeria is ready for business and Tinubu, a pro-business leader who rose from the business ecosystem, is committed to supporting the growth of businesses in Nigeria.
Shettima declared that the Tinubu administration is ready to create the enabling environment for businesses in Nigeria to prosper, whether they are indigenous or foreign.
On her part, the CEO of the Commonwealth Enterprise Investment Council (CWEIC), Glazerbrook, pledged the group’s support to the Nigerian government.
She highlighted some of CWEIC’s forthcoming events both in Nigeria and outside, including the Commonwealth Trade and Investment Forum in London in 2025, and the proposed Trade and Investment Forum to be held in Nigeria in the second half of 2025.
Pledging CWEIC’s support to the Nigerian economy, she said: “We want to help boost trade and
investment into Nigeria and equally support Nigerian businesses looking out to develop plans for more interactions with foreign partners.
“We will really like to look up ways where we can encourage the Nigerian government and the business community to take advantage of the commonwealth market across the 56 countries and other partners in the Middle-East and North Africa."
Also yesterday, the Vice President assured ICAN that the executive arm of government would liaise with the National Assembly to consider the review of the Institute’s enabling Act of 1965.
Shettima was responding to the appeal made by a delegation from ICAN led by its President, Dr. Innocent Okwuosa, that the executive should initiate the review of the Institute’s Act 1965 to ensure its current practices are in harmony with global standards and international best practices.
Highlighting the significance of ICAN, the Vice President told the delegation from the Institute that the Tinubu-led federal government is proud of their accomplishments.
“We are very proud of your accomplishments, apolitical stands on issues, standing with the interest that supersedes other considerations. Our task reform committee is headed by one of your best,” he said.
Shettima assured the body of his support at all times, saying he would personally attend ICAN’s forthcoming conference slated for Abuja, even as he said his office will partner with the Institute to achieve set goals.
olawale ajimotokan in Abuja
The federal government has inaugurated an inter-ministerial committee comprising 17 members to organise a memorable and befitting 2024 Democracy Day Celebration. The committee was inaugurated yesterday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. Akume said the commemoration of the Democracy Day was an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of national heroes and heroines who fought for the entrenchment of democratic rule in the country.
A World Press Briefing on June 6 will kick start the activities to commemorate the 2024 Democracy Day Celebration.
It will be followed by a Juma’at Service on June 7, a Church Service on June 9, a Symposium/Public Lecture on June 10 and the Presidential Broadcast alongside Parade on June 12.
In a statement yesterday, the Director, Information and Public Relations, OSGF, Segun Imohiosen said in order to ensure successful and hitch-free execution of the Celebration, the SGF inaugurated
He added that the yearly celebration would afford the nation the avenue to showcase its achievements in dealing with myriads of the socio-economic challenges confronting the nation.
11 Sub-Committees. He listed them as: Church Service Sub-Committee; Juma’at SubCommittee; Protocol Sub-Committee; Venue and Entertainment SubCommittee; Medical Sub-Committee; Security Sub-Committee; Media and Publicity Sub-Committee; Parade Sub-Committee; Public Lecture/ Symposium Sub-Committee, Accommodation Sub-Committee and Secretariat Sub-Committee.
The Committee, which is chaired by the SGF has as members: the Minister of Information and National Orientation and his counterparts from Interior, Finance, Budget and Economic Planning; Foreign Affairs and the Federal Capital Territory.
Edo State Governor and Commissioner of the Nigerian Pavilion, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, at the 60th edition of La Biennale di Venezia, in Italy ... yesterday
Bank hails policy as private sector operators say tariff increase will close down 65% manufacturing, other businesses IMF declares country's debt-service burden has hit 56% of tax revenue, posing fiscal challenges
The President of the World Bank, Ajay Banga, yesterday, commended Nigeria's efforts in implementing electricity tariff reforms while urging the need for further regulatory certainty and clarity in tariff policies.
Banga, made the assertion on same day the organised private sector in Nigeria (OPSN) declared that the new increase in electricity tariff would force over 65 per cent of private businesses, especially manufacturing concerns and Small and Medium Industries (SMIs) to close down.
The World Bank chief spoke during an event titled, ‘Energising Africa: What will it take to achieve universal energy access?’at the ongoing hybrid IMF/World Bank spring meetings in Washington DC.
dated the 26th day ‘of June 2023, Dated this 15th day of April, 2024 .”
The PDP lawyer, M.A. Mahoud, also sent the same withdrawal letter to the party.
Damagum had led the members of the NWC to interact with the PDP National Ex-officio ahead of tomorrow’s NEC.
Immediately after the meeting with the Ex-officio, they moved for another meeting with the state party chairmen from the 36 states, including FCT Abuja.
The meetings were held at the NEC Hall, PDP National Secretariat in Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone 5, in Abuja.
Passing a confidence vote earlier in Damagum, Ologunagba, in a statement, stated: "The decision of the NWC which came at the end of its 584th meeting at the Party’s National Secretariat on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 is in commendation of the efforts and commitment of the Acting National Chairman to stabilise and reposition the PDP as the main opposition Party in Nigeria."
The statement added that the Deputy National Chairman (South) Amb. Taofeek Arapaja presided over the motion for Vote of Confidence on the Acting National Chairman, which was moved by the National Vice Chairman (South East),Chief Ali Odefa and seconded by the National Treasurer, Hon. Yayari Mohammed.
The NWC assured of its commitment in ensuring the continued stability, growth and success of our great Party at all time.
In his intervention, Secondus, a former chairman of the party, advised the PDP leaders to do everything
Banga reiterated the necessity of social safety nets to protect the most vulnerable, and the importance of paying the appropriate amount for electricity consumption.
Furthermore, he pledged, alongside Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), to address the electricity shortfall in Africa. The current deficit stands at 600 million people without access to electricity, to narrow this gap to provide affordable electricity to 300 million individuals in Africa by 2023. Also, in a separate briefing, the unveiling of the updated Fiscal Monitor by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) highlighted that Nigeria's debt-service burden has surged to 56 per cent of tax revenues, presenting significant fiscal challenges.
humanly possible and within the law to rescue and restore the party’s glory.
Speaking ahead of the party’s long-awaited NEC meeting today, he said Wike’s busy bodying gimmick should not distract them as he was trying hard to create a non-existent crisis in the party to make himself relevant before Tinubu.
According to a statement by Secondus Media aide, Ike Abonye, "By deviously trying to create the impression that he is in a tussle of supremacy with the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the party and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Wike who is copiously losing political relevance everywhere from Rivers to Abuja is trying to give the impression that he is a factor in PDP and holding it for his APC interest.
“The critical structures of this party, NEC, BOT, National Caucus, forum of Governors, Chairmen of states and National Assembly caucus of the party must rise to the challenge and isolate mischief makers and meddlers like Wike and move the party forward.”
He therefore, charged the party leaders not to fall into Wike’s trick by giving him undeserved relevance which he no longer possesses.
"I expect the founding fathers and other dedicated members to rise to the challenge and return this great party to its glory by ensuring as they always do at critical moments that nobody or group is greater or bigger than this party," he stated.
Interestingly, Secondus attendance of NEC would be decided by Justice Inyang Ekwo of a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Justice Ekwo's decision was sequel to an appeal filed by Secondus before the Abuja division of the Court of Appeal.
The court had two weeks ago issued an interim order restraining
They made this commitment yesterday at a World Bank event titled Energizing Africa: What will it take to achieve universal energy access? at the ongoing hybrid IMF/World Bank spring meetings in Washington DC yesterday.
Speaking on the energy reforms in Nigeria, he said: “You need utilities to be capable of paying the generators. You need tariffs and policies that make them capable of being liquid and profitable enough. I don’t mean you should raise tariffs on the poorest, we both believe in social safety net and we fund them but it is pay the right amount for what you can pay and Nigeria is currently going through an enormous correction. They have to manage well for the poorest in the society to not be as impacted as the others but they are doing it.
Secondus from participating in the forthcoming meeting of the PDP, pending the hearing of the substantive suit before the court.
He had made the order following an exparte application brought by one Titus Jones, a member of the PDP from Ward 5, Ikuru Town, Andoni Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State.
But the court's decision would affect a similar suit seeking to bar sacked Rivers Governor, Celestine Omehia, and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Austin Opara, from also attending the PDP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting pending the hearing and determination of the main matter.
The suit filed before Justice Ekwo was filed by Precious Wobisike, a member of PDP from Ubima Ward 8, Ikwerre LGA of Rivers State.
“We need regulatory certainty, tariff policy clarity, and good management teams running utilities and transmission lines because that makes the rest of it possible.”
On the joint commitment of providing affordable electricity in Africa, they both noted that power was necessary to foster growth and development and the World Bank would commit to providing 250 million while AfDB would provide for 50 million.
Banga said: “ 600 million people in the continent do not have access to any power and to me, that is an unacceptable situation in the year 2024. Electricity is a human right, it is the basis by which people get access to health, education, the ability to innovate and manufacture, and build productivity.
Elder statesman and leader of the Ijaw nation, Chief Edwin Clark, has advised leaders of the PDP to dissolve its NWC in order to save the main opposition party from total collapse.
Clark gave the advice in a statement in Abuja while reacting to the planned meeting of the National Executive Committee of the party slated for today.
Clark, a pioneer member and leader of the party said the dissolution of the NWC, remained the best strategy to stop former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, from destroying the party.
“The news about 600 million in darkness is not new, but we need to move past the problem and have tangible results and what you would hear from both of us today is a commitment. Back in COP 28 the world bank made a commitment to connect 1 million Africans to affordable energy in six years. What we are doing today is multiply that commitment by bringing in all parts of the bank and all parts of Africa and really thinking of how we can make this work. We have multiplied that commitment to 250 million people out of that 600 million people.
“My estimate for the World Bank alone for the two 250 million is going to take more than $35 billion to make this happen."
Furthermore he added: “So think about this as an important human right which allows us to build jobs and capabilities in Africa.
“I believe that the future in Africa and the jobs for young people depends on five big areas, the first one is energy, infrastructure, agribusiness, tourism and health care.”
On his part, Adesina said: “ We at the African Development Bank, we'll make sure that we are able to provide 50 million access by 2030. But in addition to that, we have to also harness a significant amount of renewable energy potential we have.”
In the Fiscal Monitor report released, on Nigeria states that high debt-servicing costs limit the ability of Nigeria and other low-income developing countries to allocate resources toward essential services and critical investments necessary to enhance economic resilience and alleviate poverty.
It states: “Large shares of loans on concessional terms, high inflation, and resulting favorable interest-growth differentials have helped contain
average public-debt-to-GDP ratios in low-income developing countries, at around 50 percent of GDP since 2020, on average. An exception was an uptick to 53 percent of GDP in 2023, largely driven by exchange rate depreciation in Nigeria.”
“However, countries are carrying heavy debt-service burdens, amounting to 13 percent of total spending and almost 25 percent of tax revenues, on average, in 2023 about double the level 15 years ago. In Nigeria, the debt-service burden amounts to around 56 percent of tax revenues.
Such high debt-servicing costs prevent low-income developing countries from spending more on essential services and critical investment to improve economic resilience and reduce poverty. Economies in this country group are also borrowing increasingly on commercial terms, amplifying their exposure to interest rate and foreign exchange risks.”
Meanwhile, the OPSN in a statement titled, “Preliminary Position of the OPSN on the Over 200 Per Cent Increase in Electricity Tariff,” pointed out that Nigeria now ranks third after Germany and The United Kingdom on the list of countries with highest electricity cost.
The OPSN is made up of top Business Membership Organisations (BMOs) such as Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Nigerian Association of Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Nigerian Employers Consultatice Association (NECA), National Association of Small Scale Industries (NASSI) and National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) and representing more than five million businesses in Nigeria.
The Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has approved N1.3 billion scholarship for 997 nursing and midwifery students who are indigenes of the state.
According to a statement yesterday, the scholarship programme received about 1,080 nominations, 40 from each of the 27 local government areas of the state.
It added that after an entrance examination, 997 applicants passed and qualified to benefit from the scholarship.
Zulum, while launching the schol-
arship programme at the College of Nursing and Midwifery, Maiduguri, noted that with the scholarship, the beneficiaries would, on graduation, bridge the workforce demands in the state's healthcare service delivery due to the increasing population growth.
He said: "The government has allocated a total of N1,305,189,000 for scholarships, with a breakdown of N124,149,000 earmarked for tuition fees.
"The remaining N1,181,040,000 will be disbursed as a monthly stipend of N30,000 to each beneficiary throughout their studies."
Zulum further stated that his
administration was constructing two colleges of nursing, one in the northern part of the state and the other one in the southern part. He assured that the two colleges would be completed and opened for academic activities this year.
Highlighting the government's efforts, the Commissioner for Education, Lawan Wakilbe, disclosed that from May 29, 2019 to date, Zulum's administration had approved over N6 billion for scholarship with N2.7 billion of that amount approved from May 29, 2023 to date.
Meanwhile, the governor has awarded N201 million bursary
allowance to 2,010 students of the Maiduguri College of Nursing who had not benefited from the scholarship. The governor directed that each of the 2,010 nursing and midwifery students be credited with the bursary allowance of N100,000. Zulum also commissioned a lecture theatre complex and a 3,000 peoplecapacity multipurpose hall for the College of Nursing and Midwifery, Maiduguri. The governor also announced automatic employment for the 997 beneficiaries and other nursing students who had excelled academically, on completion of their studies.
Stresses
to attaining economic security
President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, read the Riot Act to those threatening the nation's sovereignty and warned that the characters would face the consequences of their actions.
The President's warning came on the heels of recent incidents, including Yoruba Nation agitators' invasion of Oyo State Governor’s Office and the state House of Assembly in Ibadan last week as well as the agitation of the proscribed Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) in the South East region.
Speaking while receiving a delegation of Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere led by its leader, Pa
Reuben Fasoranti, at the State House, Abuja, Tinubu declared that those who threatened the sovereignty of Nigeria would pay a heavy price. His words: "Those who think they can threaten the sovereignty of Nigeria will have themselves to blame. They have a price to pay. And we are not going to relent."
He further expressed his government's commitment towards addressing security challenges facing the country.
“I am irrevocably committed to the unity of Nigeria and constitutional democracy. Constitutional democracy is reflected greatly here since we assumed office. What we face now is the challenge of terrorism.
“Security of life and property is
very necessary for development. I can tell you we are achieving success. We have degraded terrorism to a level that they cannot threaten the sovereignty of Nigeria any longer. “Banditry and kidnapping will be defeated. And there is no payment of ransom whatsoever. We are taking the battle to them. We are getting results more rapidly than before. We are working hard on intelligence gathering," he said.
The president stressed that his administration remained undeterred in its pursuit of comprehensive economic security for the country while addressing foundational challenges and creating a fair and equitable system in which all Nigerians could thrive. Tinubu said his administration was
re-engineering Nigeria’s finances and seeking to boost the purchasing power of her citizens, spread prosperity down the line, by instituting a credit system, where the element of cash was not an impediment to a significantly enhanced standard of living for all citizens.
According to him, “Nigeria must secure itself economically first before it can achieve any of its more sophisticated objectives. We are committed to the economic survival of our country. “To re-engineer the finances of our country, we must start in earnest. So, first, retool, revamp the economic opportunities available, and resolve to continue taking the firm and steady baby steps that are necessary.
Says 13,000mw for 200,000mw demand unacceptable, wants technical task force
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concerns over Nigeria’s deplorable power situation, saying a sector that has recorded 141 national grid collapse in 11 years calls for urgent pragmatic solutions.
Obi, who noted that Nigeria has only 13,000mw of installed capacity while the demands were about 200,000mw, said even with the 13,000mw, only about 3,500mw were available for homes and businesses.
He lamented that the situation put Nigeria with the lowest per capita wattage in the world.
In a statement titled, “The Collapsing Electricity Sector,” hesaid: “The Nigeria electricity supply industry faces real and present danger of collapse despite the efforts made in more than two decades to initiate a reform of the NESI.
“It is sad today that we suffer periodic and routinised system collapses that are attributed to such avoidable situations as fire outbreaks at critical transmission lines across our major cities.
“It is absolutely distressing and a story of a low level of managerial capability that the entire nation can
be plunged into total darkness for a reasonable period because networks go out because of a lack of diligent attention.
“It should worry any Nigerian patriot that the total installed capacity for a country of more than 200 million people with an aspiration to become a global medium economy power is a mere 13,000. “Worse still, only about 3,500mws are available for homes and businesses from the grid. Sometimes, it grinds to less than 2,500mws. This is unacceptable.
“We can contrast the available supply of electricity with competitor countries in Africa like Egypt and South Africa with respective populations of approximately 112m and 59.6m people supplying about 60,000mw and 58,000 respectively.
“This difference in energy wattage has massive implications for human development and economic growth.
Nigeria today has the world’s lowest per capita wattage in the world, interestingly lower than those of most of our West African neighbours.
“It is really sad that whereas our energy demand is above 200,000mws, we have only 13,000mw installed capacity and can only deliver regularly less than 4,000mw.
“After speaking with experts in
the sector, I have realised that the crisis of power supply in Nigeria relates to two major sectors: (1) generation, and (2) transmission and distribution.
“The major challenges of the generation sector are the lack of a
regular supply of gas arising from the failure of the government in the last eight years to provide adequate gas infrastructure facilities, weak commerciality of gas to power and failure to control the restiveness of angry youths leading to vandalism.”
“Education is a strong weapon against poverty. To empower the people, we must invest in the future of our youths. We have seen the problems parents face in training their children in school. It is the reason we established the National Student Loan Programme, which is taking off well.
“We are equally examining what to do with the high degree of unemployment. We must help vulnerable people by providing social security. We are looking at how to provide allowances for the unemployed.
“We are developing ways to boost the purchasing power of citizens with the Consumer Credit Scheme. If we remove the cash upfront element to buy a car or a house, we will reduce the propensity for fraud and corruption across the land,” he said.
The president thanked the delegation for their prayers and support, assuring them that he would not relent in his resolve to advance Nigeria.
“God bless Nigeria. God bless our unity. Our diversity must bring prosperity for all for the sake of Nigeria,” the president further said.
Earlier, His Royal Majesty, Olu Abo of Ilu-Ilu-Abo, Oba Oluyemisi Falae, commended the president for his courageous decisions and for the rehabilitation of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, as well as other critical ongoing projects.
He urged Tinubu not to relent in ensuring fairness and equity for all
Nigerians while noting the importance of a constitutional amendment to devolve more powers to the states.
“We are delighted about what you are doing for our country, and we assure you of our continued support. We thank you for your visit to Akure in February 2024, and we believe it is right and proper to reciprocate your kind gesture.
“We appreciate this relationship, and we need to make it work in the interest of Nigeria. Mr. President, you are the leader of Nigeria now and the most important political figure in Africa.
“We expect you, in view of your legacy and pedigree, to lead our country with knowledge, courage, and integrity. We have no doubt that your tenure will mark a turning point in the history of our country. Under your leadership, Nigeria will be repositioned.
“We will stand by you as you make all efforts to change the Nigeria story for the better. Be assured Afenifere will not abandon you in fair or foul weather.
“As long as you remain faithful to the principles of fairness, integrity, and courage that is expected of you as the leader of Nigeria, we will stand by you,” Oba Falae said.
Later when he appeared on the ARISE News Night Programme, Falae dissociated the Yoruba nation and leaders from the recent call for a secession.
The Managing Director of Nigerian Export Import Bank (NEXIM), Mr. Abubakar Abba Bello, has urged businessmen, especially importers in Alaba International Market, Aspanda and Trade Fair, to embrace export business as a way of earning foreign exchange and bolstering the economy. Bello, made the call yesterday, during the inauguration of the Nigerian Exporters’ Hub (NEXHUB) Lagos Regional Office, a forum for people to meet for the purpose of international trade.
He said: “I encourage everyone to get on the wagon and start thinking export. Even businessmen from ASPANDA, Trade Fair, Alaba International Market should
start generating their own foreign exchange through exportation.
“I am encouraging you as importers to look away from reliance on import and go into export. You will generate your own foreign exchange and put it into use if you want to import.
“We want you to do less and less import and to do more export for our economy to get stronger and the Naira to get stronger also.”
He added that this shift would demand a new mind step and deliberate steps to achieve.
“We have to start thinking differently. We have to be innovative. We have to explore and exploit all the resources that abound in this country.
“Today the economy is having
issues around forex instability, inflation and unemployment. So, deliberate export of non-oil goods and products is the way to go,” he said.
Bello, explained that the NEXHUB would bring Nigerians and Nigerian products together with the export market by providing market information that would remove the challenges that make it difficult to export from Nigeria.
“It is an export house that aggregates all Nigerian exports and represent them in the international market. This hub will make it easier for me to offer finances because it will assume some of the risks that I fear about as a financial institution.
“Because what stops fund from flowing to export is the very high
risk that is associated with it.
“We are very ready to support every potential exporter irrespective of his or her volume of export. We have facilities that are tailored for every class of exporters, including Nano businesses. Once you have a product and a market we can lend money to you to do that as part of our trade facilitation,” he said.
The Special Assistant to President on Export Expansion, Mr. Aliyu Bunu Sheriff, said exports was a crucial strategy in addressing the country’s economic challenges like shortage of foreign exchange, inflation, etc. Sheriff, said increasing non-oil export would create jobs and generate much needed foreign exchange and reduce dependence on oil revenue.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, Madam Abiola Arogundade (left) and Chief Executive Officer of De Lorenzo S.P.A, Dr. Matteo Prosperi, during the donation of various E-learning software developed by De Lorenzo covering the fields of Automation, Robotics, Electrical Machines and Artificial Intelligence to five polytechnics in Nigeria at the SSA-TVEE’s office Asokoro, Abuja... on Monday
Appeal Court to hear case April 22 Ex-gov urges Tinubu to call anti-graft operatives to order We’ll no longer tolerate obstruction of our operations, agency warns
Kingsley
Nwezeh, Alex Enumah in Abuja and Ibrahim Oyewale in LokojaThe Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday, laid siege to the Abuja residence of a former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, in a bid to arrest and arraign him for alleged fraud and corruption, committed during his tenure which ended few a few months back.
Gunshots were heard at the Wuse Zone 4 residence of Bello, after his successor in office, Ododo, visited him at a time the EFCC laid siege to the Wuse, Abuja, residence of the former governor.
The serving Kogi State chief executive was alleged to have smuggled Bello out of his residence, which gave rise to the confrontation between the EFCC operatives and the security personnel guarding the governor.
There were reported gunshots around the former governor's premises
THISDAY gathered that operatives of the commission barricaded the residence of the former governor early in the day.
It was gathered that the anti-graft agency restricted movement around the house located at Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4 in the nation’s capital.
"EFCC barricades Bello’ house in Abuja. No movement in the area. They are yet to gain access," a source said.
Another competent source close to the investigation earlier told THISDAY that operatives of EFCC were at the
Wuse Zone 4 residence of the former governor. "We are at his residence. We know he is there so we are waiting", the source said.
The move, however, came on the heels of two conflicting judgements of courts for and against his arrest.
While Justice I. A. Jamil of a Kogi State High, Court had in a judgement restrained the EFCC from harassing, detaining or prosecuting the former governor, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, in a ruling delivered same day, ordered the anti-graft agency to arrest and produce Bello for arraignment in courtThetoday.Commission had mentioned Bello as one "at large" in an ongoing trial of the current Chief of Staff to Governor Usman Ododo and one other.
Meanwhile, hearing in the appeal by EFCC against Justice Jamil earlier order is expected to come up on April 22, at the Abuja division of the Court of Appeal.
Before the substantive judgement delivered yesterday, Justice Jamil had while ruling in an exparte application on February 9, 2024, restrained the anti-graft agency from taking any action against the governor.
The Kogi State High Court judge issued the order while delivering judgement in a suit marked: HCL/68/M/2020.
"By this order, the EFCC is hereby
restrained from arresting, detaining and prosecuting the applicant," he said.
But Justice Nwite in a ruling in an ex-parte application filed by the Commission on April 17, 2024, issued a warrant of arrest on the former governor.
In the motion marked: FHC/ABJ/ CR/98/2024, EFCC prayed the court to permit the service of the charge and the proof evidence on Bello through a substituted means.
In addition, the Commission sought another order seeking the immediate arrest of Bello for arraignment.
EFCC's reliefs partly read: "An order granting leave to the complainant/ applicant to effect service of the charge together with the proof of evidence on the defendant by substituted means to wit; by pasting the charge at the last known address of the defendant within the jurisdiction of this honourable court being: 9, Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.
"An order directing and/or issuing an arrest warrant for the immediate arrest of the defendant for the purpose of bringing him before this honourable court for arraignment."
Delivering ruling, Justice Nwite, granted the request of the anti-graft agency and ordered the immediate arrest of Bello.
He also directed that the former governor be produced before him on Thursday April 18 for arraignment.
"It is hereby ordered as follows: That an order of this honourable
court is hereby made directing and/or issuing a warrant for the immediate arrest of the defendant to bring him before this honourable court for arraignment. That case is adjourned to the 18th day of April 2024 for arraignment,"Nwite said.
The EFCC, beside appealing the ruling barring it from arresting Bello, had also asked the appellate court to vacate the order.
"Your lordships will find that the Ex-parte interim orders of injunction which restrained the Appellant from performing its statutory functions under the EFCC Act 2004 as amended was made without jurisdiction, in that the learned trial Court did not have jurisdiction to issue the said orders against the Appellant, on the grounds that the respondent has no fundamental right from arrest and prosecution for corruption and corrupt practices," the Commission had said.
In the motion on notice marked CA/ABJ/PRE/CV/165MI/2024, dated February 27 but filed February 28, the appellant, faulted the decision of the trial court, on the grounds that it was a body created by statute to carry out functions specified in its Establishment Act.
Their lead counsel, Chief Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, argued that under the Act, the EFCC is empowered to investigate and prosecute economic crimes as set out under sections 6 and 7 of the EFCC's Act.
The EFCC in the appeal, apart from
Emma Okonji
Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has confirmed that at least 20 youths were killed in Igbomotoru Community in Bayelsa State, during a military raid in the community in search of killers of the 17 military men brutally murdered last month in Okuama Community of Delta State.
The governor said this after visiting Igbomotoru community on Tuesday with a government-led team to assess the effect of the raid, weeks after it was carried out by the military.
During the visit, the governor assured peace among members of the community, who had already taken refuge in the forest close to the community, but had started returning home.
“People can return to the community and go about their normal businesses, without any form of fear of harassment from the military, because the military will not hurt innocent people.
“The state will continue to engage with the federal government and the military high command in order to address the issue. The military high command has assured me that the military will not raise down Igbomotoru community like they did in Odi community some years ago when similar incidence occurred.
“The era of militancy is over. We are now in the era of intellectual engagement. I have been reliably informed that over 20 youths have been killed, and only one house,
suspected to be the home of Mr. Endurance Amagbeyi, who has been declared wanted by the military for his involvement in the killing of the 17 military men, was raised down. All other buildings in the community were not destroyed,” Diri said.
A member of the governor’s team that visited Igbomotoru community, who is a former head of re-integration of the Presidential Amnesty Programme in the state and former Secretary General of Ijaw Youth Council, Mr. Alfred Kemepado, shared his assessment of the visit on ARISE NEWS Channels.
Although he said there was still military presence in Igbomotoru community, he explained that relative peace hadreturned to
the community.
“I can assure Nigerians that only one building was raised down, believed to be the building that was housing Endurance Amagbeyi, who is now on the run. The governor has already confirmed that at least 20 people were killed in the community while they were fleeing for safety.
“But generally speaking, there is peace in the community during the visit. Our fears had been that the presence of the military in Igbomotoru community would lead to total destruction of the community, but that was not the case as buildings were intact as at the time of the visit. We have no reason to doubt the military that has promised to maintain peace of the community.”
insisting that the trial court lacked jurisdiction to restrain it from arresting Bello, claimed that the judge by the order intended to "castrate" it and by so doing "now constitute a clog in the progress of the Appellant/Applicant’s performance of its statutory functions and duties under the EFCC Act 2004 as amended.
The anti-graft agency argued that by its establishing act, its powers, "include the powers of the police and they are wide and cuts across several legislations promulgated to fight financial crimes."
It pointed out that by going to court to be shielded against criminal investigation and prosecution the respondent is interfering with the powers given by the Constitution to law officers in the control of criminal investigation.
"No amount of semantic or using judicial process can grant safe landing. Whatever orders made when the court lacks jurisdiction is a null and void orders.
“We, therefore, most respectfully urge this honourable court to allow this appeal and to set aside the interim orders made by the trial Court on February 9, 2024 in the interest of justice," the EFCC said.
Meanwhile, Bello’s media office has called on President Bola Tinubu to the Anti-graft agency to order and obey the rule of law.
In a press statement, it stated that despite the subsisting court order by a Lokoja High Court, the operatives of EFCC had consistently wanted to embarrass the former governor.
It recalled that, "About 9:30am today, the 17th day of April 2024, persons who described themselves as officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrived the Wuse Zone 4 Residence of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello to effect his arrest.
"This is despite a subsisting Order of injunction granted on 9th February 2024 by the High Court of Justice, Lokoja Division in Suit No. HCL/68M/2024 between Alhaji Yahaya Bello v. Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, restraining the Commission either by itself or its agents from harassing, arresting, detaining or prosecuting Alhaji Yahaya Bello, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive fundamental rights enforcement action.
"The EFCC was duly served with that Order on 12th February 2024 and on 26th February 2024; the EFCC filed an Appeal (Appeal No.: CA/ABJ/CV/175/2024: Economic and Financial Crimes Commission v. Alhaji Yahaya Bello) against the said Order to the Court of Appeal
Abuja division.
“The Appeal was accompanied by a Motion for Stay of Execution of the Order of the High Court which the Court of Appeal adjourned for hearing till the 22nd day of April 2024.
"Furthermore, judgment in the substantive case between Alhaji Yahaya Bello and the EFCC is to be delivered at noon today in Lokoja.
"Contrary to all of the above, the EFCC has now laid siege to the home of H.E Yahaya Bello seeking to arrest him in contravention of the extant orders!
"It is a surprise that an agency led by a lawyer could flagrantly disobey a subsisting court order by taking actions contrary to the reliefs granted.
"We are aware of the total commitment of the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the rule of law and can say categorically that the leadership of the EFCC might have offered the agency on a platter of gold to desperate politicians to convert to their score settling tool without minding the effect on its integrity and the image of Nigeria as regards the rule of law.
"A situation where law enforcers disregard the rule of law is a definite recipe for anarchy, which will adversely affect every aspect of the nation’s economy.”
Responding, the EFCC, yesterday, warned it would no longer tolerate the obstruction of its operations.
In a statement last night, it stated:
"The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission wishes to warn members of the public that it is a criminal offence to obstruct officers of the Commission from carrying out their lawful duties.
"Section 38(2)(a)(b) of the EFCC Establishment Act makes it an offence to prevent officers of the Commission from carrying out their lawful duties. Culprits risk a jail term of not less than five years.
"This warning becomes necessary against the background of the increasing tendency by persons and groups under investigation by the commission to take the laws into their hands by recruiting thugs to obstruct lawful operations of the EFCC," it said.
The statement noted that, "On several occasions, operatives of the commission have had to exercise utmost restraint in the face of such provocation to avoid a breakdown of law and order.
"Regrettably, such disposition is being construed as a sign of weakness.
"The commission, therefore, warns that it will henceforth not tolerate any attempt by any person or organisation to obstruct its operation as such will be met with appropriate punitive actions."
L-R: Managing Director, Nigerian Exporters Hub, Mr. Adamu Audu Adamu; Special Assistant to the President
Expansion,
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC),yesterday, arraigned a socialite, Pascal Okechukwu, popularly called Cubana Chief Priest, before a Federal High Court in Lagos over alleged abuse of the Naira. He was arraigned before Justice Kehinde Ogundare on a three-count charge of allegedly spraying and tampering with the Naira notes during a social event at Eko hotel in Lagos. When the case was called on EFCC Prosecutor, Mrs Bilikisu Buhari announced appearance for the Commission, while Mr. Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) announced appearance for the defendant.
The defence counsel then informed the court of a preliminary objection challenging the Court's jurisdiction as well as a bail application filed on behalf of the defendant. He informed the court that the prosecution was not opposed to same. Addressing the court, EFCC's prosecutor, Bilikisu Buhari told the court that the defendant committed
Cour T Aff I rm S G A n D uje’ S Su S pen SI on A S e mb ATT le D C HAI
17, 2024 and signed by the chairman of Ganduje's ward, Mahmud Ganduje and 26 others, asked the NJC to evaluate the adherence with judicial guidelines and the constitution in the context of non-interference and political party affairs.
It said, "We, the Executive Committee members of Ganduje Ward, Dawakin-Tofa Local Government Area of Kano State, write to formally bring to your attention and seek intervention concerning the actions of Hon. Justice Usman Mallam Na‘abba, presiding over Court 4 of the High Court of Kano State, in a ruling involving our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).
"Hon. Justice Usman Mallam Na‘abba granted an Ex-parte Order suspending H.E. Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and further restrained him from performing his role as the National Chairman."
The ruling party said the court's decision was issued on April 17, 2024, following an ex-parte motion filed by Dr Ibrahim Sa'ad on behalf of two executive members of the APC, Ganduje Ward.
APC explained that the core of its petition revolved around the principle that the judiciary should not interfere in the internal affairs of a political party without clear evidence that the party's internal mechanisms, as outlined in its constitution, have been exhausted.
It explained that the APC constitution provided specific procedures for handling disputes and disciplinary actions within the party, adding that Article 24.1(i) clearly provides for the right to fair hearing in relation to discipline of members of the party.
The party pointed out that the complaint of the aggrieved members was never served on Ganduje and no invitation was extended to him to attend the purported disciplinary proceedings against him.
APC said the unilateral judicial intervention by Na'abba pre-empted those internal processes and mechanisms, potentially overstepping judicial boundaries.
APC was of the opinion that the judge granted the ex-parte application, “Without recourse to the fact that we had earlier issued a joint press release,
which was widely published in both print and electronic media, wherein the party had completely disassociated itself from the alleged suspension of Ganduje and further stated that the perpetrators of the alleged suspension were done by non APC members in the ward.
"The alleged suspension was, therefore, invalid and of no effects whatever having been issued by persons who impersonated members of our Ward Executive Committees and we wish to reiterate that these persons are non-card-carrying members of our party."
The party stressed that the issuance of an ex-parte order in a politically sensitive matter involving the leadership of a political party without ensuring that all internal remedies had been exhausted, raised concern about the proper judicial process.
It stated that the decision to intervene in internal party affairs without clear and compelling reasons to circumvent the party's own mechanisms appeared to constitute judicial overreach.
APC insisted, "This action sets a concerning precedent regarding the impartiality and scope of judicial intervention in political party governance.
“In light of the above concerns, we respectfully request the National Judicial Council to: conduct a thorough review of the circumstances and justification behind the decision of Hon. Justice Usman Mallam Na'abba to issue such orders ‘against H.E. Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and the APC’.
"Evaluate the adherence with judicial guidelines and the Nigerian Constitution in the context of noninterference and political party affairs.
"Assess potential disciplinary measures if it is found that Hon. Justice Usman Mallam Na‘abba acted beyond his jurisdiction or displayed conduct unbecoming of a judicial officer.
"This petition is submitted in the interest of upholding the integrity of the judiciary and ensuring that political party rights are not unduly infringed upon by premature judicial intervention."
Earlier, the national leadership of the party had responded, saying it would not obey any court order
obtained by “fraudulent document".
Addressing newsmen at the APC national secretariat in Abuja, National Legal Adviser of the party, Professor Abdulkarim Kana, maintained that the court order was a nullity.
Kana stated, "You all have participated in the meeting they just concluded — the visit of the Kano State chapter of the party and that of the local government, that's Dawaki Tofa and the Ganduje Ward.
"These are persons who ordinarily will be involved in some of the issues that are going around. And we all got the information the same way you got it, mostly from your own media that certain persons had suspended the national chairman."
Kana said the party immediately filed a complaint with the police to investigate the individuals, who were behind the suspension, particularly the local government and ward executives.
He further explained that both the ward and local government executives had dissociated themselves from the action and also condemned it.
The legal adviser stated, "We don't know where all this is coming from, our preliminary investigation shows that there is a fraud. A typical 419 situation here.
"And, unfortunately, they've also gone too far by tacking the fraudulent documents circulated to all of you. We're also hearing this afternoon that they use the same for the document to go to court to obtain an order of the court. We haven't seen the order, but we have heard about it.
"Whatever order that will emanate from such a document, and all of us know, even a 100 level law student will tell you that an order obtained by fraud is an unlawful order. It will not be enforceable, and it will not be recognised and it will not be respected."
Kana insisted that the individuals who were behind the order were not APC members.
Asked if the party would seek another court order, when served the Kano high court judgement, Kana stated, "If it is an order obtained by fraud, any lawyer will tell you any order obtain by fraud is a nullity ab initio
"We have not been served with court summons, no one is going to
the alleged offence on February 13, 2024, by spraying the Naira at Eko Hotel, while dancing during a social event.
Buhari also told the court that Cubana Chief Priest while dancing during a social event, tampered with funds in the denomination of N500 notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria, by spraying the same for
court yet. If a judge decides on his own to listen to one side without hearing the other, or without inviting the parties who are mentioned in the process to make an order and then follow the order of the threats.
“You know that the Judge was interested in the case. And, of course, you know what it is, it means that the judge has been compromised."
Twenty-seven party leaders in Ganduje ward in Dawakin Tofa council had stormed the state headquarters of APC and dissociated themselves from the purported suspension of Ganduje. The ward chairman, Ahmad Muhammad Ganduje, further dismissed the claim, and said it was concocted and impersonated. He stated this at an emergency press briefing at the party's headquarters in Kano, Monday evening.
He exonerated themselves from the claim and also declared that they had identified the culprits and were going to take legal action against them for impersonation and defamation of character.
Justice Usman Na'abba of the Kano State High Court fixed April 29, 2024 for hearing on whether respondents in the case between Kano State Government and National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, could be served by substituted means.
Ganduje, a former governor of Kano State, alongside his wife, Hafsat, and his son, Umar Ganduje, were absent in court, due to improper service of court order on him and the seven others.
Counsel to the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, Y. A. Adamu, told the court that they could not serve the respondents personally, but prayed the court to allow respondents be served through substituted means.
But counsel to the sixth respondent (Lamash Properties), Nuraini Jimoh, argued that the law insisted that in a criminal case, the respondent involved must be served personally.
two hours.
According to the Anti- graft agency the offence committed is contrary to and punishable under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act 2007.
After the charge was read to the defendant, he pleaded not guilty to the charge.
In moving the bail application of the defendant, counsel urged the court to grant him bail on liberal terms.
He told the court that the defendant was admitted in hospital by the prosecution following his health condition, adding that due to his weight, the defendant suffers palpitation (A sensation that the heart is racing, pounding, fluttering or skipping a beat). He further told the court that the offence with which the defendant is charged is a misdemeanour and that the prescribed punishment ranges from a fine of N50,000 or an imprisonment term of six months.
He told the court that the defence filed a 25 paragraphs of bail application dated April 17, 2024.
Ojukwu told the court that the
bail application was based on eight grounds and asked the court to grant his client bail as the offence was a bailable offence.
He relied on section 163 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. Ojukwu said," If your lordship grants him bail and give 14 days, in my honour I will perfect his bail.
"He is sick and the EFCC, brought him from the hospital this morning. He has palpitation of the heart, if you look at his weight.”
Counsel also informed the court that the defendant is an employer of labour with over 1000 employees on his payroll, who are dependent on their jobs.
He urged the court to grant bail on very liberal terms to the defendant as he is a first offender with no past criminal records .
In response, the prosecutor said she would leave the issue of bail to the discretion of the court.
Ruling on the bail application, Justice Ogundare granted the defendant bail in the sum of N10m with two responsible sureties in like sum.
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has objected to the continuation of his trial from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
Kanu, who has been in DSS' custody since 2021, when he was rearrested and brought to continue his trial, argued that he could not prepare adequately for his trial while being held by the secret service.
He has therefore asked the court to restore his bail which was revoke in 2019, or ordered that he be kept under house arrest.
Meanwhile, trial judge, Justice Binta Nyako has fixed May 20, to decide whether she will grant the request.
She fixed the date shortly after taking arguments from Kanu's legal team led by Alloy Ejimakor and that of the federal government, represented by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN. Ejimakor told the court that contrary to the claim of the prosecution, he did not jump bail or breach any of the conditions of the bail but had to escape from the country when the military allegedly invaded his
father's house in Abia State.
He claimed that he would have been killed if he had not escaped the way he did, adding that the federal government had misled the court to get the bail revoked in his absence.
He also asked the court to set aside the arrest warrant issued against him by the court while he was out of the country.
In a separate motion, also argued by his legal team, Kanu demanded his removal from the custody of the DSS to a house arrest or in the alternative, to remand him in prison.
He asked that his lawyers must be allowed unhindered access to him to enable him prepare for his defence in the terrorism charges against him, adding that, until those conditions were met in line with Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution, he would not submit himself for trial.
But the federal government's legal team, led by Awomolo, opposed granting all the requests made by Kanu.
Among others, the senior lawyer said, in a criminal matter, no defendant has right to dictate to court how his prosecution would be conducted.
L-R: Deputy Chief Whip and Vice Chairman of Senate Committee on Public Accounts, Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi; Chief of Defence Staff(CDS), General Christopher Musa, and Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, during a courtesy visit by the CDS to Umahi in Abuja…recently
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city
A governorship aspirant of the Labour Party (LP) in Edo State, Mr. Kenneth Imansuangbon, has asked the court to prevent the governorship candidate of the party in the state from contesting in the September 21 election. He filed two cases in Benincity and Abuja in pursuance of Akpata’s disqualification
In a suit No. FHC B/ CS/26/2024 and filed at the Benin division of the Federal
High Court by his counsel, A.A. Malik & Co, Imansuangbon said that Labour Party, which is the second defendant in the suit, erred by declaring Olumide Akpata the winner of the party’s primary conducted on February 23, 2024.
Joined as defendants in the suit are the Labour Party and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as second and third defendants. In the suit, Imansuangbon said Akpata was not qualified
David-Chyddy Eleke in awka
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the South-east region has blamed insecurity in the zone on nonconduct of local government area election by governors of the stats in the zone.
The party stated this during its South-east leadership retreat held in Awka, Anambra State, urging the five South-east governors to quickly conduct local government election in their states or risk being dragged to court.
The National Vice Chairman, Southeast, of the party, Hon Chilos Godsent, who addressed journalists after the retreat, said if the governors failed to heed to their cry, the party would institute court cases against them, beginning with the
Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma.
He said: “We are urging all the governors in the Southeast to immediately conduct local government election.
“The insecurity in the zone can be traced to non-conduct of local government election.
Majority of the youths that you find out today who are engaged in one crime or another are the same people that would have been chairmen of local government area, councillors, and supervisory councillors.
“The youths, who are perpetuating insecurity today are the same people who would have been benefiting from local contracts, some would have been special advisers and senior special advisers.
Dike Onwuamaeze
A chieftain of the Labour Party in Anambra State and former governorship aspirant, Mr. Paul Orajiaka, has emphasised the need for party unity and has assured members of his readiness to work with all stakeholders to ensure that the party remains a major force in the state.
Orajiaka gave this assurance when he met with state executives of the party recently in Awka and emphasised the need for unity among party members.
He said that the party must have a strong dispute resolution mechanism to ensure that issues that could cause rifts among members are speedily resolved.
According to him, “all members of the party and those aspiring for elective offices in coming elections should put the party first and
above personal ambition, as a victory for any Labour Party’s candidate is a victory for everyone.
“Let us be united as a family and let the bond of comradeship hold the chapter together so the party takes its rightful position as a vehicle through which good governance will come to the people, both at the state and national level.”
Orajiaka was welcomed to the party’s office by state executives and state working committee members that included the Anambra State Chairman of Labour Party, Mr. Ugochukwu Emeh; Deputy State Chairman, Hon. Ngozi Obiorah; State Secretary, Col. Victor Ndulue (rtd); State Youth Leader, Mr. Ekene Nnadi and State Legal Adviser, Mr. Uche Ebo, as well as all the party’s chairmen and secretaries in the state’s 21 local government.
to have contested the primary having violated the provisions of the Section 222(c) of the Nigeria Constitution as well as Article 28 of the party’s guidelines for the conduct of the primary.
Imansuangbon further averred that votes garnered by the first defendant in the primary be declared invalid and wasted.
The plaintiff, who listed nine
issues for determination and 18 others for declaration by the court, asked the court to set aside the LP February 23 governorship primary in the Edo State.
He asked the court to determine if Akpata is qualified to have contested the primary having failed to sign or endorse the indemnity form issued him by the second defendant.
Yinka Kolawole inOsogbo
An Osun State lawmaker, Hon. Kanmi Ajibola, has dragged the National Assembly and all the 36 states Assemblies to court, insisting that promulgation of law which will make death as penalties for public fund looters is the only way Nigeria can survive its trials. Ajibola, a one-time Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Ilesa branch, Osun State, approached the court over the failures of both the Senate president and the House of Representatives Speaker to respond to his letter 30 days after receiving it. The lawmaker, representing Oriade constituency of Osun State, had in the said letter asked the both the Senate and the House of Representatives to initiate a bill that will make death sentence as punishment for treasury looters.
In the suit filed yesterday at the Federal High in Osogbo, Ajibola, who sought five reliefs backed up his motion by 53-paragraphs affidavit.
According to him, the respondents in the matter have the capacity to initiate bills and alter the 1999 Constitution, the Money Laundering, Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Acts, the Criminal and the Penal Codes to suit his request of capital punishments for corrupt government officials.
Wale Igbintade
A former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), has called for robust collaboration among the legislature, executive, private sector, civil society, and development partners to address the challenges bedeviling the country.
Agbakoba also stressed the need for the National Assembly to lead by
example in terms of transparency, accountability, and integrity.
Unveiling two publications by Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL), an associate partner and head of Government and Public Sector Practice, OAL, Mr. Collins Okeke, said that the publications were meant to raise awareness about pressing issues facing Nigeria.
The two publications are: “Shaping Nigeria’s Future: Critical Governance
Issues for 2024 and Beyond” and the “Simplified Manual on Environmental Justice in Nigeria.” Okeke stated that the publications focused on implementation plan that prioritises revenue generation, job creation, poverty reduction, and economic growth.
He said: “Both publications aim to raise awareness about pressing issues facing Nigeria, such as governance challenges and environmental injustice,
and to encourage public engagement and dialogue on these topics.
“At OAL, we believe it is imperative to address the most pressing governance challenges facing our nation. ‘Shaping Nigeria’s Future: Critical Governance Issues for 2024 and Beyond,’ provides an in-depth analysis of ten key areas: political, constitutional, regulatory, administrative, electoral, legal, judicial, economic, trade, and maritime governance.
Laleye Dipo in Minna
The Niger State House of Assembly has resolved to invite heads of security agencies in the state for a meeting on the resurgence of thuggery and youth restiveness in the state.
Not less than five youths lost
their lives and several others injured in the last two weeks following clashes between the youths especially in parts of Minna the state capital.
The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Mr. Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, who welcomed his colleagues from break, said that the heads of security agencies are to meet with the lawmakers to find a way out of the trend.
Sarkindaji declared that the return of youth restiveness in the state, especially the state capital is capable of eroding all the gains so far recorded by the present administration in the area of security and the maintenance of law and order, which is why urgent steps should be taken to arrest it.
He disclosed that the House will revisit the law against thuggery in the state in order to empower the security agencies to deal more decisively against perpetrators.
The Concerned Apa Youth Forum (CAYF) has berated Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State over the spate of insecurity in the local government and other parts of the state, saying the governor has abandoned the people to their fate. The group said after a detailed review of events, it was compelled
to declare that Benue state has collapsed under the leadership Governor Alia even as the misery index of citizens has hit a new low. The group in a statement by its leader, Michael Adama, explained that though the insecurity in the state did not start during the administration of Alia but due to his defiance attitude to the challenges, they believe that he has failed.
“It is true that Alia inherited some security challenges upon assuming office as governor, it is also true that the security woes of Benue state further degenerated under his watch as he incompetently failed to address the underlying issues contrary to his campaign promises.
The statement further noted that before now Apa local government
has never been attacked but now more than hundreds of thousands have been displaced by marauder herdsmen in the local government. They explained that since the attack started more than hundreds of people have lost their lives and yet the governor didn’t deem it fit to visit the local government or send representative to assess the level of damage.
The federal government has expressed its determination to partner with the stakeholders in the environmental sector especially the Institute of Environmental Practitioners of Nigeria (IEPN) on environmental sustainability.
The Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal expressed this at the inauguration ceremony
of the first Governing Council of IEPN in Abuja.
Lawal, who was represented by Director Pollution Control and Environmental Health in the ministry, Dr Olubunmi Olusanya, assured the people that they would unlock all the potential in the environment sector and regulate environmental professionalism.
He said: “This institute is going to ensure we have professionalism
in the system. For us in the Federal Ministry of Environment, we are very particular about the quality of professionals that are managing our environmental issues. Therefore, we are going to collaborate with the institute to ensure that we conserve our environment for sustainability and also unlock all the potentials that are in the circular economy in Nigeria. Also from environmental management we can begin to
maximise the profit there. Also, there is a lot of profit in environmental management if properly done, so through this institute I think we are going to achieve that.”
President and Chairman of Governing Council of IEPN, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, noted that the institute was saddled with the responsibility of regulating the activities of its members in the protection of the Nigerian environment.
L-R: Co-founder, eha Impact Ventures, Adam Thompson; Executive Director, eHealth Africa, Atef Fawaz; Board Members, eHealth Africa, My T. Le; Andrew Karlyn, and , Micheline Ntiru, shortly after eha Impact Ventures secured the $1.9 million grant to empower African women entrepreneurs in Italy...recently
Fidelis David in akure
Seven governorship aspirants on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State yesterday raised the alarm over alleged printing of fake membership cards by one unnamed aspirant ahead of the party’s primary slated for next Saturday.
The seven aspirants, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Olusola Oke, Wale Akinterinwa, Diran Iyantan, Prof Dayo Faduyile, Gbenga Edema, and Jimi Odimayo, in a jointly
No fewer than 29 Yoruba Nation agitators were yesterday arraigned before the Chief Magistrate Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, for their involvement and roles in the aborted invasion of the Oyo State Government Secretariat on April 13. They had invaded the state secretariat to hoist the Yoruba Nation flag before they were demobilised by security operatives.
The defendants, which included a young woman and five elderly women, faced a seven-count charge bordering on conspiracy, treasonable felony, belonging to unlawful society, going armed in public,
conduct likely to cause breach of peace, and unlawful possession of firearms.
The defendants include Rofiat Ayanwale, 25; Ismaila Adepoju, 45; Saburi Ayanwale, 28; Adeola Elegbede, 27; Anthony Fatoki, 34; and Mathew Olalere, 54.
Others are Friday Isaac, 27; Peter Ismaila, 65; Wasiu Fatunmbi, 30; Abefe Muritala, 40; Joseph Adeyemo, 29; Peter Adeyemo, 75; Hammed Adesokan, 37; Lateef Adejumo, 60; Alabi Ogundeji, 55; David Ayoola, 40; Olufemi Ojo, 52; Ezekiel Ajani, 42; Amos Ogundeji, 45; Adeniyi Ademola, 29; Wahab Salaudeen, 56; and Dosumu Toyin, 65.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in abuja
The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria (CCSON) has expressed concern over the activities of some people who engage in defamatory publications using online media platform.
The coalition expressed regret over the misuse of the media by individuals who under the guise of investigative journalism, publish defamatory articles without adhering to ethics of the profession.
signed petition addressed the national chairman of the party, alleging that the cards were distributed to nonmembers of
the party in a desperate move to win the Saturday’s primary or discredit the exercise.
Specifically, the seven aspirants
from the southern senatorial district of the state alleged that the desperate aspirant wanted to ensure nonregistered members of
the party with fake membership cards vote in the primary with a plan to present this in the court of law to discredit the exercise.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in abuja
The federal government has said its empowerment initiatives are targeted at pulling women out of poverty as a means of addressing the problem of malnutrition among families and children
in the country. It said that henceforth funds would be channeled towards such programmes that can have immediate and long term impact on improving the lives of the women and children.
The Minister of Women
Affairs, Uju Ohaneye, stated this in Abuja yesterday at the launching of book on guidelines for implementation of empowerment schemes for women and young girls in Nigeria developed by the Civil Society Network (SUN-CSN) in
collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and other stakeholders.
CS-SUNN is a coalition of civil society organisations working in the nutrition space across different countries in the world including Nigeria.
Gbenga Sodeinde in ado Ekiti
In a bid to safeguard the lives and property of the residents of the state by putting machinery in motion to abate incidences of robbery and other associated crimes, the Ekiti
State Government has promised to provide all the required accessories that will make the National Emergency Management Centre more functional and effective.
The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Monisade Afuye, gave the pledge yesterday during a visit to the Centre in Ado Ekiti, to appraise the level of its viability in line with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s poise to tighten noose on perpetrators of crime in the state.
Afuye in a statement issued by
her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, expressed the government’s position to strengthen the Safety Control Centre, which was a partnership between the state and the federal governments via its agency.
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Representative of the Olu of Warri Palace Liaison to Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prevail on the management of the government owned oil firm and its joint partners to give special consideration to Itsekiri in terms of employment and contracts.
He said a prominent businessman, Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, known for his philanthropy was labelled as a sxmuggler by an online media outlet with nothing to substantiate its claim.
The Executive Secretary of the Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE), Alvin Ahmed, who addressed journalists on behalf of the coalition of over 15 CSOs in Abuja yesterday, said that people to be maligned in the guise of investigative journalism without proof can discourage good deeds by such public spirited individuals.
Governor Ademola Adeleke has assented to a bill adopting a new logo for Osun state, describing the new symbol as a signal of new rebirth for the state.
“I am elated to sign this new logo into law as a signal of rebirth of our dear state. The new logo is significant because it rhymes and meaningfully represents our historic anthem, our values and tradition.
“ The new logo is also an educational resource material for our younger generation as it contains symbols of our landmarks, strengths, resources and history.
The logo is also a tool to market the state at home and abroad.
“It is my honour and privilege to introduce the new logo as the symbol of our state. This announcement will herald a new life of prosperity, abundance and sustainability for our people and admirers,” he said.
Also, the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Honourable Adewale Egbedun, described the new logo as “ meaningful and representative of our people, our heritage and potentials.
Tony Icheku in Owerri
Tabling a nine-point demands, the Olu of Warri representative urged the president to direct
Edema, at a press conference held in Warri yesterday, lamented the marginalisation of Itsekiris, host to several oil companies, on employment, contracts and warned that the ethnic group would no longer fold their arms while others are benefiting from their God given natural resources.
NNPCL led by the Group Chief Executive Officer, Malam Mele Kyari, to give special considerations to the Itsekiri people in terms of employment, even beyond what is captured in the Nigerian Oil, and Gas Industry Content Development Act 2010, both in the NNPCL.
Imo State Governor yesterday dashed the hopes of the 16 commissioners-nominees whose swearing-in was tentatively scheduled for April 18. Rather than a confirmation of the inauguration, a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Governor, Oguwike Nwachuku, announced the appointment of 12 Special Advisers (SAs) as efforts to deepen the gains of the Shared Prosperity 3R Government mantra of the Uzodimma administration.
The appointments coming more than two months after Uzodimma’s inauguration takes immediate effect according to the statement.
The newly appointed SAs include Leo Awazieama, Joseph Oputa, Mrs. Ijeoma Ikegwuruka, Austin Chilakpu, Dr. Patrick Uzoma, Dr. Obianuju Nwokejiobi, Chidi Onyewuchi, and Andy Chikwe.
Others are Amarachi Anyaehie, Tonia Chimenem Chinda, John Ikeaka, Mrs. Chinyere Emeziem, Mrs. Esther Ukachukwu, Ezechi Chukwueme, Humphrey Ikeaka, and Mrs. Ngozi Pat Ekeji.
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has flagged-off the North-West Renewed Hope Initiative for Women Agricultural Support Programme in Kebbi State.
Launching the programme,
Laleye Dipo in Minna
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has approved the reintroduction of the monthly sanitation exercise throughout the state.
Already the government has released the sum of N1.2billion
the wife of the president, who was represented by the wife of the Speaker, House of Representatives, Mrs. Fatima Tajudden-Abbas, said the aim of the programme was to empower women and make them self-reliant She said 20 women from the seven states in the region would benefit from the programme where each would collect N500,000.
“Our mother’s initiative is a great initiative that will support women across the country, this programme will be flagged off across the six geopolitical zones.
“Our goal is simple and passive, bringing individuals out of poverty, educating them and guiding them towards a better life for their families,” she said.
In her remarks, the wife of Kebbi State Governor, Hajiya Zainab Nasiru Idris, expressed joy over the programme.
for the purchase of equipment that will facilitate the exercise.
The last administration as a result of lack of political will allowed the exercise to die, resulting in most open spaces in the state capital being turned to refuse dumping sites.
The Director-General of the
Niger State Environmental Protection Agency, Alhaji Abubakar Mohammed, who confirmed the latest development to journalists in Minna, said: “Very soon, the governor will flag off the exercise.”
Mohammed, who did not give details of the plan asked
the people of the state to be prepared for a new monthly sanitation exercise, saying that people should voluntarily clean their environment.
He said the agency is service driven, and as such, it has now all hands on the deck for better service
Holders Manchester City were knocked out of the Champions League by Real Madrid after a 4-3 penalty shootout defeat in their quarter-final second leg at Etihad Stadium.
Regulation and extra time deadlocked aggregate 4-4 before the lottery of shootouts.
Rodrygo started the night
Lunin’s heroics to deny Bernardo Silva and Mateo Kovacic.
Joshua Kimmich's powerful 63rd-minute header from Raphael Guerreiro's cross was enough to send the Germans through to the semi-finals 3-2 on aggregate after the two teams had drawn 2-2 in London in the first leg.
Despite being held at Emirates
In the other quarter final game of the night, Arsenal made a bitterly disappointing exit from the Champions League as they were beaten 1-0 (3-2 aggregate) by Bayern Munich in a euphoric atmosphere at Allianz Arena.
Stadium, Arsenal were confident of advancing against a Bayern Munich side who had endured a poor domestic season and were without key players Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman because of injury.
In a tight and cagey second leg, Gabriel Martinelli had Arsenal's best chance of the first half but shot straight at Manuel Neuer after Jamal Musiala had forced David Raya into a full-stretch save at the other end. perfectly for the visitors, but Kevin de Bruyne pulled one back before the end of the 90 minutes to take the game to extra-time. From there, it was a battle of attrition which ended with Antonio Rüdiger scoring the decisive spot-kick following Andriy
B’Munich 1-0 Arsenal (B’Munich 3-2 agg.)
Man City 1-1 R’Madrid (Madrid 4-4 , 4-3 pen)
Atalanta v Liverpool
Marseille v Benfica
Roma v AC Milan
West Ham v Leverkusen
Stephen Curry will make his Olympic debut for the USA after he was named on a 12-man roster for this summer's Olympics in Paris.
LeBron James, the NBA all-time leading point scorer, will play at the Games for the first time since London 2012.
Kevin Durant is seeking to make history by becoming the first male athlete to win four gold medals in basketball.
Joel Embiid, the NBA's reigning Most Valuable Player, has also been included.
The USA are aiming to improve on a disappointing fourth place at last year's Basketball World Cup. They have won 16 Olympic gold medals in the sport and have been the champions at each Games since 2004.
Nigerian youths keen for brighter future in football have been offered the chance to balance their football and educational pursuits by Coventry City Football Club. The English Championship side are in partnership with some universities in the United Kingdom to get young talents and put them on the path to football career growth.
Steve Kerr, of the Golden State Warriors , will be their head coach, assisted by Mark Few (Gonzaga University), Tyronn Lue (LA Clippers) and Erik Spoelstra (Miami Heat).
USA B’BALL TEAM
Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat), Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns), Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors), Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers), Kevin Durant (Phoenix Suns), Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves), Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers), Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers), Jrue Holiday (Boston Celtics), LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers), Kawhi Leonard (LA Clippers), Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics).
Coventry City FC who have Manchester United to contend with in the semifinals of the English FA Cup this weekend, are in league with Brooke House College, England, Loughborough College and University and Coventry City University on this project Speaking yesterday in Lagos, UK-based Sports Lawyer and Educational Agent , Johnny Ogbah, said that many Nigerians are currently in the UK studying and also getting practical knowledge of football.
and education successfully .
Ogbah, explained that the project was a direct attempt to balance football and academics for interested parents and youths, adding the partnership between Brooke House College with some of the established varsities and Coventry offers the best opportunity for any parent desirous of ensuring that their wards combine sports
“Many Nigerian are lovers of football and some of them also have talented children good enough to take the game as a profession in nearest future and this new project being undertaken by Brooke House College in conjunction with Loughborough College which is number one sports’ degree awarding university in the world and Coventry FC “There are full degree programmes with academic session which usually starts in September while we have flexible three months, six months, nine months calendar for some other students.
“Our coaches come to Nigeria
regularly to pick talented youths on scholarships to the UK. Some of our students have grown to play for the Nigeria age grade teams in the past while some are now in the youth teams of Manchester City, Leicester and other top teams,” stressed the sports lawyer.
According to Ogbah, some former Nigeria’s junior internationals including the duo of Success and Habib Makanjuola had at one time or the other benefited from this educational and sports project by Brooke House College.
He added that Coventry City University are also working with many private universities in Nigeria in the area of sports to get talented
No fewer than 1,500 athletes representing 13 companies in the Nigerian oil and gas sector will take part in the 19th edition of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games beginning in Abuja on Sunday, April 21st. The Games which will be holding in the Federal Capital City only for the second time since inception, have been described as special and expected to be the most competitive ever. The event ends Sunday, April 27.
Speaking at a crowded pre-event press conference held at the Reiz Continental Hotel, Central Business District, Abuja yesterday, Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Dr Ifenyinwa Mojo-eyes said the companies taking part in the week-long fiesta include NNPC, Shell, Chevron, Total Energies, PTI, SEPLAT, NCDMB, NLNG, OANDO and NMDPRA. Others include; ExxonMobil NUPRC and ARADEL.
“We have at least 1500 athletes to compete in different events,” According to Dr Mojo-eyes, the 2024 edition will feature 13 sports, including athletics, golf, football, basketball, 8-ball pool, swimming, table tennis, tennis and chess. Others include volleyball, squash and badminton. She called on Abuja residents to turn out en masse and have fun with their families as she assured that there will be tight security to ensure the safety of both athletes and spectators.
With the theme “Empower Wellness, Ignite Productivity, Dr Mojo-eyes emphasised the essence of the games. Said she, apart from providing a platform for connectivity among industry players, the games engenders “a healthy workforce, which makes a healthy and more productive nation. Above all, it reduces medical bills and enhances productivity.”
Executive Vice Chairman, Greenfield Leasing Services Limited, Jacob Erhabor has emerged winner of the maiden edition of African Reinsurance Corporation sponsored CEOs Golf Tournament, which held at the golf section of Ikoyi Club 1938 at the weekend.
Playing off handicap 14, Erhabor grossed a total of 40-stablepoints to win the tournament, beating Olubayo Latilo who also grossed 40-stableford points on countback. Gilbert Inemesit was further down in the third position shooting 39-stableford points.
Speaking shortly after being declared winner, Erhabor congratulated African Reinsurance Corporation for sponsoring the tournament, stressing that their coming to the golf sponsorship stage has been
long overdue.
The one-day competition which attracted who-is-who in the Insurance industry also saw Abah Oputa winning in the ladies category. Oputa fired 35-stableford points to lead the ladies group. Nomwen Emeghalu ducked in the second position while the sections Lady Captain, Fatumata Coker with 34-stableford points came in the third position.
Other winners in the keenly contested tournament include; Hiltop Insurance Brokers, which won the Corporate Group Stableford Category after garnering 63-points. Guinea Insurance finished second losing on Countback to Hiltop Insurance. Old Mutual Life was third with a score of 57-stableford points.
Satisfied with the turnout of participants, the Group Managing
Director of African Reinsurance Corporation, Dr. Cornelle Karekezi, while thanking participants for the spirit of sportsmanship shown at the event, said the tournament was staged to celebrate the milestone and success achieved by the company.
“Golf is a difficult sport, so also is business. Just like golfers who worked hard, African Reinsurance Corporation has also worked hard to achieve what it has achieved over the years. This explains why we choose golf as the sport to celebrate our success with,” he said.
On her part, Regional Director, African Reinsurance Corporation, Temitope Akinowa said she was impressed with the turnout of golfers saying plans are on to make sure the tournament remains a regular feature on clubs golf calendar.
L-R: Regional Director, African Reinsurance Corporation, Temitope Akinowa; winner of African Reinsurance Corporation CEOs golf tourney, Jacob Erhabor; Group Managing Director of African Reinsurance Corporation, Dr. Cornelle Karekezi and Golf Captain, Tade Adekunle at the prize presentation ceremony...last weekend
“Thislevelofinsensitivitytothepresentsituationandchallengesfacedbythe peopleshouldnotbetoleratedbyanydevelopment-mindednation.Itistimeforour nationtoreassessitspriorities,revisitthebudget,eliminatefrivolousexpenditures andchannelourresourcesproperlyforthebenefitofthepeople.Nogreatnationis builtonafoundationofwasteandfrivolity”—LPpresidentialcandidateinthe2023 generalelections,onthewasteandmisplacedprioritiesinthe2024federalbudget.
Last Thursday, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar doubled down on his allegation that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project is “a highway to fraud”. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election was countering claims by the Works Minister, Dave Umahi, whom he accused of dishonesty. “Umahi had announced that Hitech would fully fund the project, and based on this, there was no competitive bidding. He (Umahi) then said that Hitech could only raise just 6% of the money for the pilot phase. This smacks of deceit,” Atiku stated.
Shortly before Atiku’s response, Umahi had announced that the road project would cost N15.6 trillion ($13bn at an exchange rate of N1,200/$1), with an additional rail through the road to be costed separately. “The total budget of all 36 federation states for 2024 is about N14 trillion. If you add that of the FCT, the entire budget of all sub-nationals is N15.91 trillion,” Atiku argued, wondering why a single road project by the federal government would cost more than the budgets of all the subnational governments put together. He raised other posers. “Umahi had said in September 2023 that Gilbert Chagoury’s Hitech had the money to construct the highway and would be PPP (Public-Private Partnership). Hitech was to build, operate, and transfer it back to the Nigerian government after years of tolling. It was based on this proposal that Hitech was picked. Why did Umahi then turn around to claim that it was not to be a PPP but that the government would pay 15%-30%?”
Incidentally, until Atiku’s intervention, I was also under the impression that the road would be constructed without any financial commitment from the federal government, based on what is in the public domain. While flagging off the project last September, Umahi had told Nigerians that the deal with Hitech Construction was on a PPP model. “Let me announce that this project is under PPP. The Hitech group are going to look for the money. They have already found the money and that
is the good news because we don’t waste our time talking and holding meetings and wasting resources,” Umahi announced on 23 September 2023. “We are engaging seriously because we have seen the financial capacity and capability of Hitech, and this project is going to be delivered in phases. Any section that we complete, we will toll it and then business and transportation will start.”
But Umahi is now changing his story. “This administration never envisaged the project under Private Public Partnership. It has always been under engineering, procurement, construction and finance,” Umahi said last week. “And so, under this kind of arrangement, as you have on the Abuja to Makurdi road project, the federal government is required to pay a certain amount for counterpart funding.” The Minister then went on to cite some technical jargon to rationalize why a multibillion-dollar highway is shrouded in so much opacity.
Whereas the National Assembly approved
N500 million for the project in the 2024 budget, according to Atiku, the federal government has released N1.06 trillion to the company, even when the total cost remans a matter of speculations. “If N15.6 trillion is for the road component alone, then the total cost could be far higher when the railway is included. We want to know the cost of the railway,” Atiku countered as many Nigerians compare the cost with similar highways in other countries. “The essence of competitive bidding is so that Nigerians can get the best value for money. It is so that you can compare prices and pick the company that can afford the project. It is wrong for him (Umahi) to have concluded that only Hitech could handle this project when such a project has been done by other reputable firms in the United States, China and South Africa.” The former vice president claimed that the Hitech promoter, Gilbert Chagoury has a business relationship with President Bola Tinubu. “Until I exposed the dubious nature of this project, no member of the National Assembly thought it wise to investigate. The total cost was never made known until now. The fact that there was no bidding was never made known until I blew the whistle.”
While Atiku may be directing his attacks at Umahi, it is obvious that his main target is President Tinubu. In the process, the former vice president has raised several fundamental questions. But for me, one suffices: the credibility of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) under the current administration. It’s beyond scandalous that the BPP has no say on a project of this magnitude that ordinarily provides opportunities for international bidders to drive the cost down through superior technology, experience, and expertise.
The objectives of establishing the BPP are contained in Section 4 of the Public Procurement Act (PPA). These include establishing pricing standards and benchmarks, as well as ensuring the application of fair, competitive, transparent and value for money standards for the procurement of public assets. Section 16(1)b of the PPA clearly provides that all
Two weeks ago, I used the experience of Debola Daniel to write on the challenge of living with disabilities in Nigeria. The column elicited responses from several Nigerians both at home and in the Diaspora. With his permission, I have decided to run the one by Mr Banji Fatoba because of his family’s experience and the efforts he and his wife are making to help others with similar challenges.
Dear Olusegun, I read your article ‘Debola Daniel and the Inconvenient Truth’ with great interest. As a parent of two neurodivergent children navigating life in Nigeria, let me share my own experiences, which echo the struggles outlined in your piece. In recent years, my wife and I have faced numerous obstacles in ensuring our children receive the education and support they deserve. Despite our best efforts, both of our children have been kicked out of two private schools in Lekki, Lagos, solely due to their neurodivergent conditions. The discrimination and lack of understanding they encountered were disheartening and frustrating,
to say the least.
One particularly distressing incident involved our daughter being barred from participating in ballet classes for an entire school term, despite us paying for the classes. Moreover, a teacher at one of the schools had the audacity to declare that our daughter was unable to learn, further exacerbating our anguish. In response, we were left with no choice but to withdraw her from the school and resort to homeschooling for two years.
Despite the challenges inherent in homeschooling, we persevered, and I am proud to say that our daughter has made remarkable progress. She has not only learned to play the piano but has also developed a love for reading. These achievements serve as a testament to her resilience and the unwavering support of our family.
While Nigeria still has a long way to go in terms of providing adequate support and inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals, similar challenges exist even in more advanced countries like the United States based on my personal experiences. Although such occurrences may be uncommon,
they serve as a stark reminder that the fight for equality and acceptance knows no geographical boundaries.
Meanwhile, my wife and I started a company called Bloom Buddy (www.thebloombuddy. com) to ensure that many other families do not have to go through this harrowing journey alone. We partnered with ‘Autism Speaks’, the largest Autism NGO in the world and launched the first Autism screening app designed for Nigeria and low-resourced communities. We also collaborate with the Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment Disorders (CAND-Do) of the University of Lagos to create access to parents and caregivers.
In conclusion, I appreciate your efforts in shedding light on these issues, and I hope that by sharing my own experiences, we can collectively work towards creating a more inclusive society for all, regardless of neurodiversity or physical disability. I admire your outspoken conviction to promote this inclusion of those who are typically excluded.
procurements shall be conducted by open competitive bidding. But the BPP has since become irrelevant, with tales of compromised officials all over the place in Abuja. Meanwhile, on 19th January 2022, then Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, issued a circular which provides that for works costing over N1.5 billion, the procurement method to be adopted shall be International/ National Competitive Bidding.
There are just too many issues that do not add up on this Lagos-Calabar Highway project. As of today, Nigeria is not yet very experienced in the construction of concrete roads, so we need to know more about the capacity of Hitech in that regard. Then there is the issue of ‘Right of Way’. I am aware that some of the major power transmission projects awarded since the Obasanjo administration are still being stalled due to Right of Way acquisitions. One then wonders how the Right of Way for a road of 700 kilometres was acquired within a matter of weeks. I have no expertise in road construction, but should there not be an environmental impact assessment on this major project that was designed and awarded within seven months? More disturbing is that Umahi has been speaking more like the project engineer for Gilbert Chagoury than a Works Minister who should be promoting and defending the interest of Nigerians. The Coastal Road Project is a necessity no doubt. And it is one that I would love to see constructed because the economic benefits are immense. I also have nothing against any company getting the contract. But the process of engaging Hitech as contractor for the road is against all international best practices. Perhaps it is time to scrap the BPP and we just go back to the era where government officials just award contracts without following any process.
Imust express my appreciation to all the people who honoured us with their presence at our residence last Friday to mark my wife’s 50th birthday. Former Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, who arrived the country the previous night from Kigali, showed up. Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State (with whom I was in the Christian Corpers Fellowship during the 1989/90 NYSC year) sent Senator Napoleon Bali to represent him. My gratitude also goes to Pastors Chinedu and Oby Ezekwesili, Pastors Evaristus and Ngozi Azodoh as well as Pastor Joke Joseph who were in the house as early as 8am for prayers and the 50-minute of praise/dance coordinated by music ministers, Kenneth Ozioma and Uche Okoro. Having refused to reveal who was funding the music (including the afternoon session by Leke Gospel Band), it was only after the ceremony that Uche told us Pastors Julius and Funke Abegunde paid for everything. May God continue to bless them and family. Later in the afternoon, the NEITI Executive Secretary, Orji Ogbonaya Orji was among several professional colleagues that were in the house. Of course, his predecessor, Waziri Adio was around with his wife, Sandra (‘Madam Metro’), as the chief hostess...
NOTE: Piece concluded online