Rivers: Wike’s loyalists Reject Fubara's Redeployment, Resign from Cabinet... Page 35
EFCC Hands over 14 Forfeited Properties to Enugu Government... Page 34
Sanwo-Olu: We’ve Offered Free Food to 500,000 Households in Lagos
Segun James Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday said he had fulfilled his promise to stand by the vulnerable amid the global economic hardship.
Declares open national summit on justice Akpabio wants abuse of exparte order curbed We owe president for our achievements, says Ariwoola
President Bola Tinubu has charged the judicial arm of government to embark on reforms that would ensure a functional justice system that would support a rapidly growing economy, guarantee basic human and political rights of individuals as well as provide security and justice to all Nigerians. Tinubu, who was represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, gave the advice yesterday while declaring open this year's National Summit on Justice in Abuja.
Also speaking at the event, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, observed that the summit was not just a forum for discussion but a call to action, adding that expert's recommendations must be translated into effective policies that would address not only the current inefficiencies but also future
Continued on page 10 Continued
L-R: Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu ; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and Vice President Kashim Shettima, during a meeting on the National Council on Privatisation (NPC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja... yesterday
The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) yesterday disclosed that it was set to launch a report into the 13 per cent derivation received by oil-producing states in the Niger Delta, as part of its fiscal allocation and statutory briefs, to determine the use of the accruals in the last five years.
Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr Ogbonnaya Orji, in his quarterly update on the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) implementation in Nigeria, stated that the study will also look into whether the oil-producing sub-national governments fully received what was due them.
Besides, the executive secretary stated that the Initiative was working on a policy brief on domestic resource mobilisation, focusing attention on the areas government could generate funds, rather than embarking on incessant borrowing.
“NEITI conducts three sets of reports: Solid minerals, oil and gas, and the fiscal allocation and statutory disbursements reports, but for the FASD, this time around, we are focusing on 13 per cent derivation.
“There have been a lot of concerns that the 13 per cent derivation, nobody has the figures, whether the states are getting what they should get and where the money is going. What did we use the money for?
“So we are looking at 13 per cent
derivation that goes to oil producing states. At least our target is to establish a baseline information and data for the last five years.
That study is to commence very soon,” Orji stated. According to Orji, NEITI has also commenced the conduct of the 2022-2023 industry reports of the oil, gas and mining sectors, with two indigenous independent administrators conducting the exercise.
The ES explained that September 2024 has been set as the date for the completion of the reports.
In the oil and gas sector, he stated that the terms of reference will include the disclosure of information on the regulatory framework for the sector. procedures for awards and transfers of licenses as well as disclosure on production and export levels.
In addition, Orji stated that further disclosure on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; company payments and government revenues from oil and gas, revenue management and distribution highlighting subnational transfers and revenue sustainability will be made available.
Other areas of reference, he said, will be to disclose information on the contribution of the oil, gas & mining sectors to the economy, show adherence to approved data quality assurance procedures as well as information on the employment data and earnings by gender.
In solid minerals, some of the
terms of reference include: To report on the regulatory framework for the solid minerals industry as well as provide the statutory procedures for awards and transfers of licenses and assess if the procedures were followed in practice. He explained that it will also disclose comprehensive information on property rights to mineral licenses and leases, information on the exploration activities in the solid mineral sector, among others.
On the Dangote refinery, Orji explained that the company is covered by NEITI, since it operates in the extractive industries, pointing
out that he had already paid a visit to the Lagos office of the company to intimate them of what is required of them.
“NEITI also recently met with the Managing Director / CEO of Dangote Refineries where NEITI stressed the need for EITI compliance and the Dangote Refineries have been invited to join EITI as a supporting company.
“Now, the highest investment in the downstream sector is the Dangote refinery. And when we have had a meeting in Lagos with the CEO to begin early to expose them to what NEITI is and what NEITI is
not, and to draw a link on why they will want to work with us.
“And we are working together now, and we have shared a lot of information. The next step will be a formal visit...to inspect the facility, and then some formal rules of engagement,” he stated.
Stressing the organisation has already been given guidelines, Orji noted that the organisation made a case why they should consider as urgently as possible to become a supporting company of the EITI. Besides, he argued that it was even more important to introduce ownership of the refinery to the
process because Nigeria has a 20 per cent stake in the facility and that it pays taxes on Nigerian soil.
Orji further clarified that NEITI has a 15-member board as provided by law and not 16 as reported recently and that he (Orji) was only serving out a five-year single term and not a new tenure.
He disclosed that NEITI was set to host the maiden edition of the NEITI House Dialogue, a quarterly policy engagement, which will see the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, grace the first edition.
To support affordable homeownership for Nigerians, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) will be supporting the 100,000-housing unit Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme with N100 billion in off-taker guarantee, the bank has said.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive of the bank, Shehu Usman
The United States has said that over the past five years, it had through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), invested $15 million in Community Initiatives to Promote Peace (CIPP) programme.
It said it was working with Nigeria to address and mitigate the drivers of conflict in northern and middle-belt Nigeria, including ethnic, regional, and sectarian tensions across communities.
In a statement, it said that the initiative had trained more than 46,000 community members, including traditional leaders, women, men, and youth, in six states.
Osidi, made the disclosure at the maiden edition of the Nigeria Police Housing Summit held at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.
Osidi, who represented the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, as guest of honour at the summit, stated that the N100 billion off-taker guarantee will be provided to the consortium of developers for the project.
He added that the N100 billion is in addition to the bank’s commitment to provide mortgage loans to the off-takers upon completion of the houses, which will be spread across the nation with prospects of several members of the police force emerging as beneficiaries.
“Our police officers are the frontline defenders of law and order, often working tirelessly under challenging conditions.
“The inadequate housing facilities only aggravate their challenges, impacting their morale, well-being, and ultimately, their effectiveness in ensuring the safety and security of the nation,” he said.
Fund (NHF), he noted that over N2.9 billion mortgage loans had been disbursed to 807 police beneficiaries.
Additionally, N2.1 billion, he said, was disbursed to Police Cooperative Housing Development Company to construct 806 housing units, about N158 million disbursed to 22 beneficiaries under the rent-to-own platform and over N289 million as home renovation loan to 316 officers.
Other initiatives, he said, include the funding of ongoing housing projects for the Police Cooperative in various locations of Abia, Adamawa, Ogun, Kaduna and the FCT.
It listed the states as Benue, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kogi, and Plateau, where skills such as dispute resolution, early warning and early response, reconciliation efforts, and prevention of violent extremism, were imparted. The CIPP programme, it said, had helped mitigate violent conflict in at-risk communities and engaged women and youth in peace processes. The statement disclosed that after four years of implementation, the study showed that only 29 per cent of CIPP treatment communities experienced violent incidents, compared to 55 per cent in control communities with a difference of 26 per cent.
shown that a timely investment in peace can yield remarkable dividends. Individuals trained in conflict mediation skills across Nigeria’s Middle Belt helped resolve hundreds of disputes before they escalated further.
“As part of its closeout plan, USAID will transfer some of CIPP’s community structures, such as Conflict Mitigation Regional Councils and Women Peace Councils, to its new Peace Action for Rapid and Transformative Nigerian Early Response activity.
USAID Mission Director, Melissa Jones said: “The CIPP activity has
“This will ensure continuity and sustained progress in our shared mission to promote peace and security in the northern and middle-belt regions,” the statement added.
The chief executive relayed government's frustration at the long term relegation of the issue of police housing, which has resulted in dire consequences for both the officers and the communities they serve.
He commended the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for convening the summit “with the right set of critical stakeholders, central to resolving the challenge of providing shelter to the rank and file of the Nigeria Police.”
Commenting on the theme of the Summit: “Renewed Hope for Police Housing in Nigeria,” he noted that the theme “speaks to the acknowledgement of past challenges, the commitment to overcoming them, and the optimism for a brighter future.”
He reiterated the resolve of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, to ensuring access to decent and affordable housing to Nigerians, noting that achieving this requires a multifaceted approach, one of which is to leverage on partnerships. “Collaboration is essential in harnessing resources, expertise, and innovative solutions to accelerate the pace of development. Through strategic alliances and creative financing mechanisms, we can overcome the constraints that have hampered progress and deliver tangible results within a reasonable timeframe,” he noted.
In this regard, he communicated the minister's desire to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to engage strategically with the FMBN towards realising its renewed vision of providing decent, affordable and safe housing for officers and men of the Force.
Outlining some of the fruits of previous engagements between the bank and the NPF, having enjoyed a productive relationship since the inception of the National Housing
He also listed the refund of a cumulative sum of over N1.8 billion to 18,619 retired police officers as well as N3 billion loan to the Nigeria Police Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society/Nigeria Police Force Property Development and Construction Company Ltd. for the construction of 236 housing units at Goza, Wawa District, Abuja.
He, therefore, expressed the minister's appreciation of the bank's scorecard in addressing the needs of the Nigeria Police on the basis of their contributions to the NHF Scheme, noting that the bank is a ready partner to engage in the Force’s aspiration to deliver affordable housing to their officers and men.
Earlier in his address, Egbetokun, alluding to the essentiality of the summit, disclosed that the housing capacity of the Force was about 10-12 per cent of the over 400,000 workforce.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the takeoff of the first phase of the Consumer Credit Scheme for workers across the country.
Consumer credit serves is the lifeblood of modern economies, enabling citizens to enhance their quality of life by accessing goods and services upfront, paying responsibly over time. It facilitates crucial purchases,
such as homes, vehicles, education, and healthcare, essential for ongoing stability to pursue their aspirations. Through responsible repayment, individuals build credit histories, unlocking more opportunities for a better life.
Additionally, the increased demand for goods and services stimulates local industry and job creation.
The President, according to a statement issued yesterday, by his Media Adviser, Ajuri Ngelale,
believed every hardworking Nigerian should have access to social mobility, with consumer credit playing a pivotal role in achieving this vision. The statement explained that in line with the President's directive to expand consumer credit access to
Aviation stakeholders in Africa have called for partnerships and the elimination of diplomatic boundaries to enhance connectivity among African countries in order to boost trade and create more jobs for teeming youths on the continent.
The stakeholders who met with other aviation experts, suppliers, aircraft manufacturers and others from different parts of the world, yesterday, stated that Africa cannot develop airlines that would dominate the region and beyond unless existing airlines and governments decide to work together, encourage liberalisation to increase market share of African carriers and boost air travel in the region.
The experts met at the on-going MRO 2024 Conference, organised by the African Aviation Services, taking place at the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa from April 23 to 25, 2024.
The conference is on Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) of aircraft; it is an annual conference held in Africa to draw attention to aircraft maintenance, safety and bring aviation professionals together to brainstorm on air travel development in Africa.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, Ato Mesfin Tasew, said although global aviation has overcome the challenge posed by COVID-19, many airlines have restored their operation to 2019 levels, but some effects of the COVID-19 lockdown is still affecting the industry, especially in Africa.
Some of the challenges occasioned by COVID-19 included the high cost and paucity of aircraft spares, high cost of maintenance and regretted that Africa is the most affected by these unfavourable conditions, adding that a few airlines in Africa are making profits.
Tasew said African airlines are bogged down by internal and external challenges, identifying the internal problem as lack of strategic planning and external challenges as hostile operating environment,
absence of MRO facilities, noting that absence of such maintenance facility has created a vacuum in the West and Central sub-regions of the continent.
The CEO of African Aviation Services, Nick Fadugba, said that Africa needs safe, reliable, affordable and profitable airlines that would promote travel, trade and tourism. Fadugba, noted that currently there was need for the training of aviation personnel, need for fair pricing and better communication among industry stakeholders, adding that future prosperity would be achieved with good service, patriotism and cooperation.
In his address, the Secretary General of African Airlines Association (AFRAA), Mr. Abdelrahmane Berthe, said in 2023, AFRAA estimated that the passengers carried by African airlines reached 85 million, representing 89 per cent of the pre-Covid 2019 level, saying since the last quarter of 2023, the traffic has reached the levels of 2019.
In 2024, AFRAA estimates the traffic to fully recover at 98 million passengers above the 2019 level.
Abdelrahmane, said the global Intra-African connectivity has reached the pre-Covid level since December 2022. However, the number of existing connections is far lower than the real potential, remarking that as the aviation community, “we must continue the ongoing joint efforts to transform and foster a sustainable and resilient air transport system in Africa.”
“The air transport sector's priority in Africa is to address sustainability, stop marginalization, gain competitiveness, conquer the intra-Africa market, and grow the global market share. At AFRAA, we have four priorities for 2024.
“The first priority is safety. Safety is critical for our business. AFRAA in partnership with Flight Safety Foundation (FSF) is staging the Inaugural Safety and Operations Summit on 15 May 2024 here in Addis Ababa, back-to-back with the Stakeholders Convention hosted by
Ethiopian Airlines.
“The second priority is intra-African connectivity: African airlines should cooperate more on commercial agreements. New routes development in collaboration with other aviation stakeholders is critical to facilitate the movement of people across the continent. The third priority is sustainability,” he said.
Regarding environmental sustainability, the AFRAA Secretary General said, “Our actions are aimed to create awareness and built capacity within our members. Sustainability is not only environmental. It includes economic and social sustainability as well.
“Under this priority, our ambition to develop cost savings, revenues
generations projects for our members. The fourth priority is continuing the implementation of AFRAA’s 5-year strategic plan which is running since 2021.”
He said the number of aircraft operated on the African continent in the next 10 years was estimated to reach 1,429 units as the result of a growth rate of 2.3 per cent per year from 2024 to 2034. But to operate more aircrafts, it would be critical to facilitate the access to aircraft financing for airlines and to develop MRO capacities across the continent.
Nigerians, the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) has launched a portal for Nigerians to express interest in receiving consumer credit. This initiative, in collaboration with financial institutions and cooperatives nationwide, aims to broaden consumer credit availability. According to the statement, working Nigerians interested in receiving consumer credit could visit www. credicorp.ng to express interest. The deadline is May 15, 2024.
The scheme would be rolled out in phases, starting with members of the civil service and cascading to members of the public.
“Fuel and maintenance are the highest elements of airlines’ operating costs. The cost of fuel is high in Africa. A combination of fuel and maintenance high cost is impacting the tickets fares and making air transport unaffordable for African citizens.
“The GDP per capita in Africa being only 15% of the average global GDP per capita. The second challenge is the labor shortage. To operate more aircraft, we need to develop human resources. According to Boeing global market forecast, the needs for skills in Africa from 2023 to 2042 are 22,000 engineers, 21,000 pilots and 26,000 cabin crews,” he said.
“There are two critical challenges for MRO activities growth to be addressed. The first challenge is the supply chain. This challenge is rising the cost of maintenance for airlines.
The Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) achieves its mandate through the following: Strengthening Nigeria's credit reporting systems, ensuring every economically active citizen has a dependable credit score. This score becomes personal equity they build, facilitating access to consumer credit.
It also offers credit guarantees and wholesale lending to financial institutions dedicated to broadening consumer credit access today and promotes responsible consumer credit as a pathway to an improved quality of life, fostering a cultural shift towards growth and financial responsibility.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has said that various policies put in place by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration aimed at putting the country on the right economic trajectory have started yielding positive results.
According to him, Nigeria has now become an attractive brand that is sellable in the global community, saying it is incumbent on public relations specialists to start selling Nigeria's renewed hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu around the world as a way of attracting more investments to boost the real sector of the economy.
The governor spoke at the maiden edition of Nigeria Public Relations Week with the theme: “Leveraging Public Relations as a Critical Asset for Nigeria's Economic and Reputation Renaissance”, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Abiodun, who was conferred as the Patron of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, also informed the practitioners of the need to help in showcasing the potential that abound in Ogun State through
their professional ingenuity. Abiodun emphasised the need for all Nigerians to be involved in promoting the good image of the country at all times.
He said: "Exploring the power and passion of public relations to engender speedy development and sustainable growth for an economic and reputational renaissance, as the theme of this week implies, is intrinsically an essential requirement for any government.
"I recall that in the last few months and following the appointment of Mr Yemi Cardoso the CBN Governor, as he rolled out his road map of monetary policies he kept on emphasising on the determination to embark on new public relations policy for the bank which has led to the successful management of forex.
"I want to say this exactly defines the leadership being provided by President Bola Tinubu to change the old order and entrench the image of a promising country with a consciousness of sustainability. Indeed, there can not be branding without product.
"The right steps being taken by the federal government towards
total resuscitation of the Nigerian macro-economy, via the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President who started with very bold and decisive goals that have begun to yield positive and desired results to the admiration of patriotic Nigerians and the astonishment of pessimists." Abiodun noted that some of the economic policies such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of naira introduced by the government at the centre to revamping the nation's economy has started yielding positive results as the local currency gains momentum on daily basis. The governor described pubic relations as a strategic communication from an organisation to the public to maintain or cultivate confidence and response to public discuss, adding that it remains the critical asset for any responsive government in the quest to build a vibrant economy and sustainable growth.
Public relations, the governor averred, focuses on the goals of an organisation rather than the specific methods, saying it proffers necessary direction during economic turbulence, shape images and reputations, calling on the practitioners to help project
the image of the State and country in a positive way.
He explained that the state government since inception has embarked on massive infrastructural amenities towards creating an enabling environment to improve on ease of doing business in the state which he said has made the state to be a choice of investment and fastest growing economy in the country
The governor while promising more developmental projects across the state, said that the current administration has constructed over 500 kilometres of roads across the state to ease movement of the people, rehabilitated over 100 Primary Health Centres, and built over 4000 affordable houses as well as tackle insecurity by equipping security agencies with modern gadgets and patrol vehicles. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris, represented by the Director, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Isa Onilu, in his remarks, said for Nigeria to realise her collective vision, there was the need for Nigerians to celebrate their achievements as well as address chart a new way forward.
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The National Council on Privatisation (NCP) has received key recommendations from its committee on the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), including a proposed merger with the Central Bank of Nigeria's NIRSAL Microfinance Ltd and a fresh capital injection to revitalize the bank.
Presenting the committee’s report to the second meeting of the NCP in 2024, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, who doubles as NCP Vice-Chairman, said the Council's decision was informed by the challenges identified and the need for urgent resolution of the issues confronting the Bank.
Edun outlined the major recommendations, including "the immediate reconstitution of the Board of Directors of the Bank to enhance corporate governance" and "a merger of BOA with the CBN's NIRSAL Microfinance Ltd."
He also highlighted the proposal to "cede National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) land titles to BOA so that it reflects in its Balance Sheet, thus increasing its capital adequacy for the purpose of raising funds from institutional investors."
Acknowledging the need for financial reinforcement, the Minister identified "adequate capital injection into the Bank by the shareholders" as a crucial step forward.
The committee's report came after the NCP empanelled an eight-member inter-ministerial body in December 2023 to review the state of affairs
at BOA, given agriculture's critical role in the economy and the Tinubu administration's commitment to food security under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
In 2016, the NCP had approved the collaboration between the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), the then Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and the Federal Ministry of Finance to restructure and recapitalize BOA. A consultant, Lead Capital Consortium, was engaged in 2019 to review the bank's operations and advise on strategies for rebirth and growth. The consultant's core recommendation was for the government to recapitalize the bank, implement reforms, provide technical assistance, and transform BOA into a sustainable agricultural development bank.
Edun further outlined additional recommendations, including "Provision and upgrade of the Bank's ICT infrastructure to automate processes, reduce costs and enhance the Bank's outreach to the grassroots" and "Enhance governance and risk management by appointing qualified Board members and senior management with relevant expertise."
In a move to bring transparency and efficiency to the nation's energy sector, the NCP also noted the proposal seeking approval for the establishment of an independent system operator from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).
In his address at the meeting, Vice President Kashim Shettima, reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to repositioning and reforming BOA to drive the administration’s food
security agenda. He said: “Let’s get very sound professionals with integrity to manage the bank. If we use it well, it’s going to be a tool for the transformation of our economy because agriculture is the key".
Shettima, who is also the NCP Chairman, slso set up a committee
to liaise with the Special Adviser to the President on Energy and the Federal Ministry of Power to provide a roadmap and reach out to stakeholders.
The committee is chaired by Mr. Oye Hassan-Odukale, Technical Committee Chairman of NCP.
On a Strategy Paper for the Optimisation of Oil and Gas Assets, the Council also formed a committee to look into issues concerning oil and gas infrastructure, stressing the strategic importance of investors in the sector. The committee chaired by the Minister for Budget and Economic Planning includes the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare,
the NCP Secretariat, Ministers of Power, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), The committee was given three weeks to come up with its report on optimizing the nation’s oil and gas assets.
Says risks caused by reforms need to be expertly managed
A former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, has briefed a group of 20 global institutional investors, mostly US and Europea asset management firms, valued at over $15 trillion, on the state of Nigeria's economy. A statement from the event noted that Moghalu spoke during the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Annual Spring Meetings, also attended by the US Federal Reserve Bank of New York, in Washington DC.
Themed: “Nigeria: Reform Prospects and Monetary Policy Outlook”, during the event, Moghalu, who is the current Chief Executive Officer of Sogato Strategies LLC, argued that although the current economic reforms
are necessary, the government needs to manage the fallouts better.
He described the reforms as painful but necessary, stressing that they are needed to stabilise the country’s economy as global investors are watching closely.
The CEO of Sogato Strategies LLC, a global strategy, macroeconomic and risk advisory firm headquartered in Washington DC argued that investor sentiment appeared to be shifting from mainly negative to a cautious, wait-and-see mode.
This stance, he said, has been influenced mainly by the policy steps taken by the CBN in recent weeks and months.
“However, Nigeria's external reserves have remained under pressure. If this trend continues, it will become a risk factor for the sustainability of exchange rate stability.
A former President of the Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), Obafemi Onashile, has been elected as the President of the newly inaugurated 10th Board of the Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria (QSRBN).
Onashile, according to a statement issued by the Registrar of the board, Abdullahi Alkali, was unanimously elected by the newly inaugurated members of the Board shortly after their inauguration by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa in Abuja.
“Much depends on whether the Government of Nigeria will be able to earn more forex income from increased oil production and exports, as well as an anticipated positive impact of the Dangote Refinery on forex exchange pressures,” he maintained.
According to the statement, inflation trends and monetary policy prospects, as well as the selective removal of subsidies on electricity tariffs, were also reviewed by Moghalu in his presentation.
He projected that inflationary pressures would remain elevated over the next two years despite the best efforts of the CBN, owing to a combination of security challenges and their impact on food supply, and the imminent introduction of a higher minimum wage that has become imperative.
He expressed the view that low levels of electricity generation and distribution remain the Achilles heel of the Nigerian economy and projections of its future growth, as economic productivity will remain suboptimal if a transformation does not take place in the power sector.
The global investors and Moghalu , the release said, then discussed his briefing in a question-and-answer session under Chatham House rules (that is, without attribution of views expressed or questions asked and answered to specific participants).
“The consensus view was that caution still reigned regarding the possibility of an immediate return of large-scale capital inflows into Nigeria at the present time,” it added.
As Nigeria continues its difficult journey towards economic stability, Moghalu pointed out that the road ahead will be rocky, with inflation remaining high and public resistance to change persistent.
The Inauguration ceremony according to Alkali also had in attendance the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Gwarzo and the Permanent Secretary, Marcus Ogunbiyi.
who are qualified to practice and be addressed as quantity surveyors in Nigeria.
The QSRBN established by Decree 31 of 1986 and subsequently made an Act of the National Assembly under the Laws of The Federation of Nigeria 2004, is the statutory agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria responsible for the regulation of the training and practice of quantity surveying services in Nigeria. It is the body that certifies persons , whether individuals or corporate bodies ,who can practice quantity surveying in Nigeria. The board by virtue of the Act is saddled with establishing and maintaining a register of those
By virtue of clause 9 of the QSRBN Act, the board is responsible for determining what constitutes relevant training to become a registered quantity surveyor and to as well approve educational institutions.
The Act gives power to the Board to investigate and discipline any quantity surveyor that has been proven to have erred in unethical behaviours or involved in misconducts unbecoming of a registered quantity surveyor.
Onashile a graduate of quantity surveying from the University of Ife, Ile-Ife, (now Obafemi Awolowo University) and a holder of master's
degree in project management (MPM) from University of Lagos, has been in private consultancy business and brings a wealth of close to 40 years experience to the QSRBN. He is a qualified project manager, Construction Contract Arbitrator and a Transaction Advisory specialist for Public Private Partnership Infrastructure Concessions.
Apart from Onashile, members of the newly inaugurated Board are: Abubakar Gengle, a Managing Partner in private practice who was elected as Vice President of the Board and Samuel Pemi, a Director in the Federal Ministry.
Others are: Patrick Edem, a Retired Director ; Oribu Georgewill, a pro-
prietor in construction development; Dr. Fatima Bello, a senior lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University; Dr. Aminu Bashir, the Deputy President NIQS; Bamidele Mafimidiwo, the Vice President NIQS and Priscilla Akabudike, a director in an Oil & Gas Services firm.
Also inaugurated
Aba; Dr Kasimu Mohammed, a Chief Lecturer, Federal Polytechnic Bida and Idris Abdullahi, a Director at the Kaduna State University.
"If they can maintain this course, the country's long-term prospects remain bright. But Nigeria's leaders must be prepared for a protracted battle against entrenched interests and the inevitable backlash against short-term hardship. The world is watching, and the stakes could not be higher," he explained.
The event also focused on the “subsidy trinity” of fuel, currency, and electricity subsidies that have been the cornerstone of Nigeria’s reform agenda.
“Nigeria’s reforms are a classic example of the short-term pain required for long-term gain. The government’s political will to tackle entrenched subsidies is commendable, but the reforms could have been introduced more expertly.
Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, yesterday emphasised the need for increased capacity building to enhance tax administration processes among member countries of the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA).
Adedeji, also the current President of CATA, said expanding the capacity of tax personnel of member countries would empower them to deal with the challenges that have negatively impacted the tax administrative landscape globally.
Speaking at the opening of CATA management meeting in London, he urged members to embrace the adoption of technology in improving tax processes, noting that the rapid advancement in tax technology presented opportunities and threats.
Adedeji said, “We must equip ourselves with the knowledge and skills to understand these evolv-
challenges.
According to Tinubu, much could be achieved when institutions of government, including the three arms of government vis executive, legislature and judiciary, unite to acknowledge their challenges and brainstorm with a view to proffering solutions to the problems bedeviling Nigeria.
He urged the judiciary to align its activities within the tenets of his administration's Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly as they related "to the priorities on inclusivity, fairness, rule of law, and anti-corruption stance, among other things."
Noting that his administration had pledged to be impartial and adhere to constitutional principles, Tinubu said the summit availed institutions in the justice sector "an opportunity to push boundaries by identifying needed system changes and critical reforms that would allow Nigerians to reap the benefits of huge investments in the sector."
Delivering the president's address, Shettima explained that the federal government was determined to implement its policies
Sanwo-Olu explained: “We have fulfilled the promises we made during the Media Chat in February – that we will not leave the vulnerable among us on their own – in health, transportation and education.
“We created 59 markets and turned them into Sunday markets. We promised that we will be selling food at 25 per cent discount. That we have kept faith with. The medical outreach will start next week at the latest to give medical attention to a lot of our citizens who may not want to go to our hospitals. Medicines will be given and counsel will be given. “You have continued to enjoy the 25 per cent fares rebate on our ferry services. On our buses and on our trains.”
The governor added: “Today we will be launching an attempt to reach 500,000 households. All we have done is a tip of the iceberg.
Now the real deal is about to start.”
The objective, according to him, was to see that food would no longer be a challenge to the poor.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic measures and urged citizens to play their own part.
Sanwo-Olu added: “You can see that the tides are turning. That is why we must commend the intervention of the President, who has been leading from the front.
“He has been able to pass on grains to all the 36 states. We will be distributing ours to all of you. You can also see that Mr President has not sat back to fold his arms…
ing discussions and contribute to formulating transparent and beneficial rules for our respective jurisdictions.
“Furthermore, the rapid advancement in tax technology and digitisation has presented opportunities and challenges for tax administrators worldwide.
“The discussions surrounding pillars one and two of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) can redefine international tax rules.
“Additionally the landmark tax convention resolution at the United Nations (UN) Assembly has underscored the importance of international cooperation and inclusivity in addressing tax challenges.”
Dr. Zacch Adedeji
OECD address how to expand tax revenue annually based on the profit thresholds of companies that do not operate physically in countries but make sales from such countries through digital platforms or other means.
Adedeji, however, commended the management committee and members who have agreed to host the body’s programmes in 2024, describing such commitment as a testament to the devotion to the success of the association’s strategic plan.
influenced by ongoing reforms.
He said the board, given its crucial role in the nation’s tax administration landscape, must position itself to fully utilise future opportunities.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Dare Adekanmbi, the CATA president said, “The discussions surrounding pillars one and two of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have the potential to redefine international tax rules.
and promises made to Nigerians for a renewed hope, through the instrumentality of the "law and the dictates of justice to create opportunities for our people."
Outlining the preliminary measures he took in order to reposition the Judiciary in the bid to support a just and rules-based Nigeria, Tinubu recalled that his administration made funding for the third arm of government a top priority, doubling it in the Renewed Hope budget 2024 by more that 100 per cent from last year's budget. He listed other efforts his government has made to reposition the Judiciary to include full complement of 21 Justices of the Supreme Court as required by law for the first time after many years, and his approval of "a substantial increase in the salaries and emoluments of judges, which is currently undergoing legislative action." The president noted that despite progress being made in the justice sector, there "is an urgent need for a functional justice system capable of supporting a rapidly growing economy, guaranteeing basic human and political rights of individuals,
to let us have a free flow of the issues that started this thing, which was the currency.
“Now we have seen that there has been a rebound. We can see that the currency is now getting strengthened. Naira is becoming a currency that we are truly proud of now because it is taking its proper pride of place. Now we should ensure that all garri sellers, all beans sellers are not increasing prices just because dollar went up.
“Prices don’t have anything to do with dollar. Even diesel is coming down. We have no excuse again. We need to be our brother’s keeper.”
According to Sanwo-Olu, the food items would be distributed through religious leaders, Community Development Associations, Trade Unions and grassroots organisations. He warned that they should not be hoarded. Besides, the governor said the Sunday Market initiative would continue.
Speaking on the issue of minimum wage, Sanwo-Olu said, "The Unions are here everybody and we have all listened to ourselves and I know that by the Grace of God, very soon we will see a new minimum wage that will be approved for the federal and state government.
"And all public officers in Lagos, they know that since January we have continued to pay the wage in minimum of N35,000 over and above what they were earning before, if they are not saying it, let us say it.
"So what it means is that people that were earning a minimum
“In light of these developments, it has become increasingly evident that the need for improved and more comprehensive capacity building for CATA members is paramount.
and providing security and justice to all."
Observing that this was why continued reforms had become imperative, Tinubu continued: "Justice sector leaders and professionals need to find the right responses to the challenges we face through policy innovation, citizen-centered reform, systems change, and legislative reform, where necessary.
"I accordingly urge the leadership of all justice sector institutions to seek a new direction and focus on outcomes by creating a justice system that truly responds to the needs of our citizens – one that serves Nigerians now and for generations to come.
"I demand informed and coordinated responses to the identified challenges plaguing the effectiveness and efficiency of the sector. I demand performance so that Nigerians can feel and acknowledge the impact of your reform efforts.
“Ultimately, the expectations are that law and justice should aim to ensure public safety, economic development, peaceful co-existence, and the well-being of our people."
N25,000 before will now be earning over N70,000. That is what they have been enjoying since January.
“So, it's important for people to know and for us to lay these things very clearly that this government has doubled up to ensure that at this difficult time, it has not left its citizens on their own.
"And we are out here today again to assure that we are in government to make life better for you, to provide a succour that is required, security of lives and property and to be an activator so that you can leave a decent life."
Members of the Special Dispensation Advisory Committee set up to advise the government on the initiatives were specially recognised by the Governor who asked them to stand up. They were praised for rendering their service pro bono.
Agriculture Commissioner Bisola Olusanya took the Governor on an inspection of the food items, displaying the contents of the food boxes.
In his welcome address, Commissioner for Information Gbenga Omotoso commended Sanwo-Olu for the initiatives, describing him as, “a leader who is bound by his words.”
He noted that ‘Eko Cares’ was for the vulnerable, adding that Sanwo-Olu’s administration has touched the lives of every Lagosian.
“The launch of Eko Cares is a testimony that the administration will not leave poor to their own devices,” Omotoso said.
“Moreover, we must be prepared to effectively implement these rules once they are concluded, to ensure their successful integration into our tax administration frameworks and maximize the benefit they will bring.”
Pillars one and two of the
Earlier in his speech, Akpabio commended the commitment of all stakeholders in the justice sector in building a consensus that would ensure a more robust judicial system that guarantees justice for all irrespective of background and social status.
He underscored the commitment of the National Assembly for a more vibrant and transformative justice system, assuring them that the legislature would play its part by deliberating on the outcome of the summit in a bid to enshrine the outcomes into law.
Maintaining that reforming the justice system was a moral imperative, Akpabio suggested that key recommendations for amendment or review be clearly highlighted and sent to the National Assembly in the bid to ensure speedy and fair dispensation of justice, recommending a bottom to top approach in the proposed reforms.
An area Akpabio claimed required urgent reform was the need for obtaining the Attorney General’s consent before executing judgments.
He observed that the requirement often acted as a bottleneck, delaying justice and undermining the autonomy of the judicial system. He equally sought reform in the misuse of exparte orders in political cases by judges, saying to curb it, it was imperative the National Judicial Council (NJC) exercised stringent oversight and met out decisive punishment for judges found to abuse their authority
at N1,308.52/$ yesterday, compared with the N1,300/$ it closed on Tuesday. Also, on the parallel FX market, the naira depreciated to N1,300/$ yesterday, lower than the N1,270/$ it was on Monday.
However, daily turnover on the NAFEX surged by 47.8 per cent to reach $197.54 million yesterday, compared to $133.65 million recorded on Tuesday.
However, on the NTBs’ auction, the CBN eventually allocated N362.45 billion to investors to complete its NTBs auction for April 2024.
Investors sustained strong demand for the 364-day NTB as it was oversubscribed by 595.94 per cent to N725.66 billion, as against the N121.77 billion offered.
The CBN allocation for the 364day NTB stood at N333.98 billion after conducting its auction, reflecting heightened investor appetite amidst the current economic landscape.
On the other hand, for the 182-day NTB, the result revealed that its oversubscription grew by 104.09 per cent when investors subscribed N13.48 billion from the offered N12.95 billion, leaving the CBN
The management meeting had in attendance tax administrators from the United Kingdom (His Majesty Revenue and Customs), Canada, Australia, Malaysia, Barbados, Papa New Guinea, Ghana, Lesotho, Maldives, Uganda, Mauritius, Nigeria, and others.
Meanwhile, Executive Secretary, Joint Tax Board (JTB), Mr. Olusegun Adesokan, said the country’s domestic tax ecosystem was being
in this manner.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Okukayode Ariwoola, said given expectations from the judiciary, undertaking a holistic reform of the sector had become necessary, noting that "constitutional, statutory and operational reforms in the justice sector is imperative in meeting the aspirations and yearnings of the general public."
He attributed most of the achievements recorded in the judiciary to the support of Tinubu administration, particularly in the enhancement of the welfare of judicial officers and improvement in their working environment.
On his part, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, emphasised the significance of the revised draft national policy on justice, noting that building a national consensus on the advancement of the justice sector has become necessary.
According to him, the policy sought to improve mechanisms for fair and speedy dispensation of justice; detention and correctional services; restorative justice; alternative dispute resolution (ADR) — developing Nigeria into an arbitration hub on the continent; commerce and economic activities; compliance with treaty obligations; synergy and cooperation across the justice sector; and independence of the judiciary; among others.
"Regarding the emphasis on strengthening the independence and welfare of the judiciary, it is to be recalled that one of the
to allocate N11.99 billion.
Finally, the 91-day NTB had an offering of N7.85 billion, but recorded a subscription of N18.7 billion with the CBN’s allotment at N16.48 billion.
The 91-day NTB had the secondhighest subscription of about 238.36 per cent. Data seen by THISDAY showed that the stop rate on the 91-day, 182-day and 364-day NTBs remained flat compared to auction of April 19, 2024.
The auction results, showed that the stop rate for 364-day stood at 20.7000 per cent, the 82-day NTB at 17 per cent and 91-day NTB at 16.24 per cent.
The auction results however, revealed that the bid range for 364-day stood at 19.0000-25.7600 per cent. Bid range for 182-day and 91-day NTBs was at 15.0000-21.0000 per cent and 15.0000- 18.5000 per cent, respectively.
The CBN governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso had promised investors higher rates as the apex bank tackle inflation.
On the backdrop of rising inflation, the Monetary Policy
Speaking at the opening of the 2024 JTB Staff Strategic Retreat in Abuja with the theme, “Encouraging a Culture of Collaboration, Innovation, and Adaptation to Respond to Emerging Challenges While Positively Projecting the Image of JTB”, Adesokan maintained that to achieve its objectives, it was essential that the JTB Secretariat staff fully imbibe the culture of collaboration and innovation, to enable a full understanding of their role under the emerging dispensation.
He pointed out that the theme of the workshop reflected the underlying inspiration behind the various topics to be treated, adding that “It is expected that the outcome of this exercise will meet the objectives and goals earmarked for it”.
cardinal items on the Renewed Hope Agenda of this administration is to drive judicial reforms to achieve sustainable socio-economic growth and investment, facilitated by the rule of law, and to address the challenges militating against judicial development in our country.
"One key theme that has been added to the National Policy on Justice is Justice for Children. This is in line with our commitments under various inter national, regional and national instruments on protection of children consistent with the guiding principles on the best interest and welfare of the child. The idea is to adopt deliberate and strategic interventions for dealing with children in contact with the law" he added.
National Programme Manager, RoLAC II, International IDEA, Danladi Plang, observed that quality reform would attract the much needed Foreign Direct Investment to grow the economy. He said investors would not want to come to a country where their money would be tied down.
"When you go to litigation they ask somebody to pay money into the court until the case is determined. We have cases that have gone up to 10 years. No investor would want to come to a country like that.
"So improving the efficiency of the justice system is important not only for commercial cases but also criminal, we have seen many people detained for a very long time because their case has not been heard," he said.
Committee of the CBN had raised the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by 200 basis points to 24.75per cent from the previous 22.75per cent.
Also, with an inflation rate of 33.2per cent as of March 2024, a stop rate of 21.12per cent for the 364-day bills was indicative of a negative yield of about 12.5per cent.
Analysts had noted that the recent auction by CBN represented a move by the apex bank to address liquidity in the financial system.
Managing Director, Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adnori, said the performance of the 364-day NTB showed that investors have confidence in the current government and the reforms it had embarked on.
He explained, “Firstly, the investors are seeking higher rates for funding due to CBN signalling further tightening due to accelerating inflation and other factors. Secondly, interest seems skewed towards the longer end of the curve which is an indication of confidence in the government and its reforms.
“Also, the massive over–subscription shows the significant system liquidity.”
The Kaduna state House of Assembly has finally succumbed to calls from various quarters for the investigation of the administration of ex governor Nasir El-Rufai.
El-Rufai was governor of Kaduna state for eight years from 2015 to 2023.
Calls for the investigation of his administration followed revelations by his successor, Senator Uba Sani, that the state was strangulated by huge debts he inherited from his predecessor.
Sani, had at a Town Hall meeting with stakeholders in Kaduna, on March 30, 2024, lamented that the huge debts he inherited from El-Rufai were making it difficult for his administration to fulfil its promises as debt servicing was taking a substantial part of state resources.
The governor had told the stakeholders that the state is shackled by $587 million foreign loan, N85 billion local loan and N115 billion contractual liabilities, among others.
Sani told stakeholders that N7.5 billion was being deducted monthly from the state’s share of federal allocation, leaving it with N3.6 billion
“The money we received from federal allocation is N3.6 billion, our wage bill in Kaduna state is N5.2 billion. We will require N2 billion to add to it to be able to pay salaries”, the governor had told stakeholders during the Town Hall meeting.
These revelations were followed by strident calls on the governor to probe the El-Rufai administration.
First to demand for a probe was Shehu Sani, who as a Senator that represented Kaduna central, alongside two other Senators from Kaduna state, blocked El-Rufai from accessing the $350 million World Bank loan in 2018, on the grounds that the state was highly indebted and more loans will impoverish it.
Sani had on his verified X handle, urged the governor to courageously constituted a panel to probe the former administration.
“The looting of Kaduna State cannot be remedied by revelations alone; but by courageously constituting a probe panel headed by an independent professional Accountant or Auditor who will invite and investigate ex-government officials and their proxy contractors to account for the millions in dollars and billions in naira that were misused or outrightly stolen, including the $350million (World Bank) loan”, Shehu Sani said.
He added that “Kaduna state is at its hour of reckoning with the truth I foretold and the truth for which I was vilified.”
On its part, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noted that the governor’s revelations were just a scratch, saying he should be encouraged to dig deeper.
In a statement by its spokesperson in the state, Abraham Catoh, the PDP said, “Though it did not come to us as a surprise, we believed that this revelation is just a scratch on the surface on the real issues, therein; we encourage him to go full fledged in this show of transparency.
“The PDP urges the governor to set up and mandate a judicial commission of inquiry for full investigation into all the allegations to unravel the state of affairs of the $587 million foreign loans, N85 billion local loans and N115 billion contractual liabilities of unpaid abandoned contracts inherited from the Nasir El-Rufai government”.
On Tuesday, April 16, 2024, the state Assembly yielded to the calls by setting up a 13-member fact finding committee to investigate financial and contractual dealings of the El-Rufai administration from 2015 to 2023.
Hon. Yusuf Mugu representing Kaura state constituency, moved the motion under matters of public importance, asking the House to investigate the loans borrowed by the former governor.
He said it was important for the people of the state to know how the loans were utilised.
The lawmaker noted that “there have been uncomplimentary comments and assassinations of character on the leadership of the state, which the Assembly cannot sit and watch.
“That is why I came up with this motion that
the Speaker constitute a committee to investigate the allegations and negative comments on them.
“This is the only way the state can rekindle its confidence in its development partners, collaborators, and also those who give us loans and grants. Failure to do this will push the indicators of the state to a situation whereby nobody will want to do business with us,” he said.
Also in his contribution, the immediate past Speaker of the Assembly, Hon Yusuf Zailani, alleged that he denied approval of some of the loans, but el-Rufai still found his way.
“I suffered a lot in order not to give approval for the loan to be collected ($350m World Bank loan), even the then Deputy Speaker, Isaac Zankhai, was against me because I disagreed with the loan to be collected.
“I told the then governor to look at the number of loans we had at hand, and he didn’t listen to me”, Zailani said.
The 13-man committee was mandated to investigate loans, grants
and project implementation from 2015 to 2023, the period in which el-Rufai served as governor.
The Assembly resolved to invite the Speakers of the 8th and 9th Assemblies and all other relevant stakeholders and agencies to answer questions regarding the issues at stake.
The lawmakers also requested a copy of the handover notes to Governor Uba Sani, so as to guide the committee on the financial status of the state.
However after the setting up of the committee, Hon Bello El-Rufai, a federal lawmaker and son of the former governor was alleged to have, in defence of his father, sent insulting and subtle threat messages via WhatsApp to the speaker of the assembly, Hon. Yusuf Liman.
Bello was also alleged to have, through a post on his X handle, which he later deleted, insulted the House of Assembly and called for a “fight.” Efforts to reach the federal lawmaker who represents Kaduna North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives for his reaction was unsuccessful as his mobile phone was not connecting.
“On Tuesday, April 16, 2024, the state Assembly yielded to the calls by setting up a 13-member fact finding committee to investigate financial and contractual dealings of the El-Rufai administration from 2015 to 2023. Hon. Yusuf Mugu representing Kaura state constituency, moved the motion under matters of public importance, asking the House to investigate the loans borrowed by the former governor. He said it was important for the people of the state to know how the loans were utilised. The lawmaker noted that “there have been uncomplimentary comments and assassinations of character on the leadership of the state, which the Assembly cannot sit and watch.”
The Speaker of the state assembly in a statement by his spokesman, Suraj Bamalli expressed concern over Bello’s attitude, noting that a federal lawmaker could resort to such behaviour and attempt to obstruct legislative duties.
Bamali said, “Shortly after the establishment of a committee to investigate financial dealings, loans, grants, and projects implementation from 2015-2023 in Kaduna State, Hon. Bello El-Rufai took to social media with two tweets, now deleted, insinuating a call to “fight” and disrespecting the entire legislative arm of government.
“Additionally, he sent insulting and subtle threat messages to the Speaker of Kaduna state House of Assembly, Hon Yusuf Liman via WhatsApp.
“The screenshots of these tweets and messages have been widely circulated, causing concern among the citizens of Kaduna state.”
The statement said the assembly remains committed to serving the people without fear or favour.
“The members of the Assembly took an oath to uphold the integrity of their office and ensure due diligence in their duties, regardless of any attempts at intimidation or threats. Threats and intimidation from anyone, including federal lawmakers, will not deter the Kaduna House of Assembly from its pursuit of justice and accountability”, the statement said.
In an interview with newsmen after the committee was constituted, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Hon Henry Zachariah, said the Assembly was not out to witch-hunt anybody but to get the facts and set the records straight.
“We are not having any problems with the loans collected. If all that the loans were intended to achieve, were achieved, we will not be doing this”, he said.
Speaking further, Zachariah said, “We cannot have projects littering everywhere with people finding it difficult to drive to their houses because of the uncompleted roads.
“If we cannot pay salaries, where are we going to get money to complete those roads where monies were borrowed to do?This is just simple logic! We are not accusing anybody. What we are saying is that before you collect a loan, you will tell them what you want to use the loan for. You cannot collect that loan and then the job is not done and people will keep quiet…”
According to him, the committee will invite all relevant people to answer questions warning that anyone who refuses to honour invitation by the committee, the instrumentality of the law will be used on him or her.
“If you don’t come we will use our laws to get you here to explain to the people what happened. Truly speaking, I can’t imagine over N61 billion coming to Kaduna state and we are still this poor. If they had spent the money in this state, I can bet you, we will not be this poor”, he said.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state and the state chapter of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), applauded the setting up of the committee, saying it is a welcome development.
The state Publicity Secretary of the APC, Salisu Wusono, said the committee will unravel the actual situation of things.
“I want to remind all Nigerians that the APC believes in the rule of law and so also Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. Whatever we are doing is in the best interest of the good people of Kaduna State. Maybe the past administration spent N20 million, while people are saying it is more or less, only the committee can verify and tell the general public the true situation of things,” Wusono said.
On his part, the state Chairman of the NLC, Ayuba Suleiman, while expressing support for the probe, said the union would also want the committee to probe the unpaid severance packages of the over 32,000 workers sacked by the administration of El-Rufai.
Amid the accusations, El-Rufai is yet to make any public statement on the allegations levelled against his administration.
The citizens of Kaduna state are anxiously waiting to hear how the resources of the state were managed in the eight years of El-Rufai’s governance.
In less than one year, the Rivers State Police Command under the watch of the Commissioner, Mr. Olatunji Disu, has recorded tremendous achievements in the fight against crime and criminality, with the highlight being the arrest of a dreaded gang who specialises in 'One Chance' and car snatching. Blessing Ibunge reports that these strides and many more have ensured the state and its residents thrive in a peaceful environment
Undoubtedly, the Rivers State Police Command has been recording successes in the ever-raging battle against crime and criminal elements.
In the past one year, the command has clamped down on kidnappers, armed robbers, cultists, car snatchers, serial killers troubling the state while many of the suspects, who tried to engage the police on gun battle, were fatally wounded.
In this regard, the command recently, apprehended a gang of kidnappers that utilise the one-chance format to prey on unsuspecting victims. The four-person gang pick up their victims under the disguise of being passengers in a taxi. When they get on any of the flyovers, they proceed to threaten the victim with a locally made pistol and daggers before robbing them of their belongings.
The unholy gang started operating in October 2023 when the group leader, still at large, Smart Obele, met with one of the arrested suspects, Michael Gershon and sold the idea of using his vehicle to begin one-chance operations.
In his confession, Michael, 27, a native of Ikolinem-Ikot-Okon in Esemudim Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State consented, and they sealed the agreement over beer bottles. After Obele explained the details of the operations, he assured Michael that he would get weapons ready while the latter was to ensure that his car was in good working condition. The pair then agreed to recruit other members as Obele explained that the task was a four-person job.
Obele recruited a dreaded criminal among the Rumuola axis of Port Harcourt, one Ofonime, also at large. Michael introduced the deal to a fellow he had brought to Port Harcourt from Akwa-Ibom state, Nsikak Ibanga, 26, who he described as a ‘minded guy’, indicating that he was a fearless operator. Nsikak was Michael's primary schoolmate. He also informed his girlfriend of 8 months, Peace Paul, 22, a POS agent, that he would frequently send her money to withdraw for him.
With all set, the gang met at a bar in Rumuekini to flesh out the strategy for their onslaught. The fallout of that meeting was that the frequency of their action would be weekly, and on each day of operations, they would head out at 9 pm, and targets would be ladies only.
The next was to assign specific roles to the team members. Afonime was charged with holding one of the daggers in the passenger seat while Obele would drive the vehicle. Nsikak was to sit in the passenger seat with Afonime, and Michael would sit in the back seat with another dagger.
On the first day of their operation, the victim they picked only had a small Techno phone with buttons and no money bar her transport fare. This annoyed the gang, and she was severely beaten and thrown out of the vehicle. The phone was sold for 3,000, and this further offended them. The gang had a spat but regrouped to strategise and go after another victim.
Nsikak, who is in Police Study, was so vexed that he returns from that day’s work were less than the NGN 2,000 they had each contributed for fuel in the operational vehicle. He said he fought with Obele for this reason, but they resolved their differences and set out on another day.
The next victim, another woman, was picked up at the Presidential Hotel Bus stop, and when they got on the Waterlines flyover, they stopped and threatened to slit her throat. She surrendered her phone and handbag to Michael, who was in the backseat. He removed the money in the bag, N10,000, and they dropped her off and moved on to share the loot. They immediately went to the Presidential Hotel area, sold the phone for 55,000, and shared it and the 10,000.
The operation that saw the gang meet
their Waterloo was on February 2, 2024 at about 9pm. They picked up an unsuspecting Miss Ebe Damilola Hanwah in their operational vehicle at Pleasure Park, Aba Road, Port Harcourt. As they got on the Garrison (Rebisi) flyover, they stopped and violently asked her for her belongings, which was their practice. She delayed a bit and was slapped and beaten by Michael and the non-driving members of the gang. The victim then pleaded with them to leave her phone and offered to give them some money. This got them angry, and they beat her some more and forced her to reveal the pins of her ATM cards and phone passwords.
Once they got the pins and passwords, Michael called his girlfriend, Peace, and asked her to wait for them with her POS in hand at the Obiri-Ikwerre flyover. When they reached the flyover, she handed the POS machine to them, and they sped off with the victim. They continued driving but began transferring money using the ATM cards with the POS Machine. When they exhausted the funds in the accounts associated with the ATM cards, they moved them from the account on her mobile bank app.
When they reached the transfer threshold, they drove the car to the Rumuokoro flyover and waited till 1am the following day to continue the transfer. After they had emptied her accounts to the tune of NGN1.8million, they dumped her half-conscious at the Garrison bus stop at about 3am.
The victim made a complaint to the Police when she regained consciousness and they sprang into action. Men of the C4I Strike Force commenced a specialised investigation and forensic analysis that led to the apprehension of three suspects, Michael, Nsikak and Peace, who confessed to the crime and are cooperating with the Police in apprehending the other two members of the gang.
When quizzed about the choice of flyovers for their operations, Michael stated that no one pays attention to them as no one was willing to trouble themselves with a parked vehicle on a flyover, making it conducive for them.
The Police have so far recovered one ash-coloured Mazda 323 with Reg. No ARP 231 KY with which the gang operate.
Tackling Car Snatching Syndicates
On March 27, 2024, 26 suspects were paraded at the State Police headquarters, on Moscow Road Port Harcourt, over car theft. CP Disu disclosed that the suspects are responsible for stealing of about 79 cars stolen from the state. The commissioner of police who expressed joy over the arrest of the suspects, revealed that one of the suspects, a herbalists who prepared charm for them before operation was also apprehended and is helping in investigation. It was also disclosed that 17 cars were recovered from the suspects stolen from across the state
The CP said: "For sometime now we noticed that a lot of cars have stolen and some robbed. So we tasked officers of our tactical team to investigate it. I am very happy to inform you that about 26 suspects specialised in stealing vehicles and robbing them have been arrested. He also disclosed the suspects areas of operation to include Akpajo, Eleme Junction, Trailer Park, Eleme, Owerri, Aba and Onitsha, adding that the command greatest joy was the arrest of Chidozie Onyekwe, leader of the gang and Kelechi Uzogwe, a mechanic who specialises on removing tracker from stolen cars.
"Chidozie is the leader of persons who come into Rivers state to steal cars. Not only does he come into here, he trains personnel. He is linked to all the suspects who have been arrested at one time or the other for this same offence of stealing cars. He ensured that his men are well trained before he brought them to come and perpetrate their crime here.
"At the same time, Kelechi Uzogwe is an expert in removing trackers in vehicles. All most all the vehicles stolen from Rivers state must passed through Kelechi for him to remove the
trackers. He is also a wonderful mechanic. Most of these cars stolen were taken to Anambra, Kano and some of them find their ways out of the country. The cars where taken to Mgbuka Obosi in Onitsha, where they are pieces and sell as scraps.
"In total, 79 vehicles have been linked to all these suspects paraded here. Most of the suspects met themselves while they were in the Correctional Centre, about five of them are ex-convicts. They have alot of spear keys that have been recovered from them, they also use master keys to move the vehicles away."
Chidozie who was accused of being the gang leader of car snatching syndicate, said "But it is not true. I am not the kingpin. I am a buyer, when they give me car, I buy. When I buy it I take it to Onitsha to sell. I buy from Kelechi and one Tommy. They are the ones that normally give me cars, these cars are stollen cars".
When asked the amount he pays for each of the car he bought from his alleged team members, Chidozie said "It depends on the car, if it is Camry tiny light, I buy N250, 000. I buy N300,000 and sell them at N430 to N450 thousands. I bought upto 15 vehicles, all the cars are from Rivers State and I sold all of them at Onitsha where they butcher it".
Chidozie who regretted his actions, said "Is because of my sick mother, she had an accident so they took her to India for brain surgery that was what led me into it. Since then about two years now I have been in the business. My mother is back, she has been treated, I paid for the treatment and charity organisations also contributed to her treatment".
No Longer at Ease for Kidnappers
Kidnapping syndicates are no longer at ease to perpetrate their evil in the state, as operatives of the command are closer to them than expected. A pastor whose name was not unveiled as at the time of this report, recently died in the hands of years these perpetrator after he was abducted at Abuloma axis of Port Harcourt.
A 37 years old Victor Ukwu, an indigene of Emohua Local Government Area in Rivers State, has confessed how he was part of a kidnapping gang that ended the life of the pastor out of greed to get ransom from his family members.
Ukwu who was an ex-convict, recently regained his freedom from the Port Harcourt Correctional Centre, believed that quick money is the way to go after spending years in the prison. He decided to look for his friend who he knew understands the business of quick wealth, they began the deal, thought he claimed he was just their driver in all the operations he participated in.
"I was involved in four kidnapping last year. In the last operation at Abuloma axis of Port Harcourt, one of our members mistakenly shot a kidnapped Pastor dead. We don't get information ahead of our operations, we just pick our victims on the road. But that of the pastor, somebody brought the information before we struck. That was what happened".
"In my first operation with them, we collected N20million for ransom, the second operation, as their driver they gave me N400, 000, the third was N200, 000, but we have not succeeded yet in this fourth operation before I was arrested. I came out of the prison in 2023. When I was freed I started following wrong friends who introduced me to kidnapping business", he regretted.
The Commissioner of Police, Disu, has not also in all achievements failed to commend the men of the State Police Command for embracing the use of technology in crime fighting. On car snatching, he also assured the public that the Police will continue its frequent patrols in the state and pay more attention to suspicious actions and inactions, such as vehicles parked in strange places. He also charged residents of Rivers State with reporting every unexplainable occurrence around them and every crime, even those suspected.
SINS
Bello’s travails provide lessons of power, argues KUNLE JENROLA
See page 21
Alex Otti’s revelation on corruption is nothing new, contends ETIM ETIM
See page 21
EDITORIAL ENDING THE MALARIA SCOURGE
The vindication of the former Attorney General of the Federation Mohammed Adoke in the OPL 245 trial is a triumph of Justice, writes OJOCHENEMI FATIMA AUDU
While most Nigerians followed the OPL 245 trial at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja Division, via media reports, I was in court at every sitting — except if I was not in town. As a legal practitioner myself, I took keen interest in every detail of the proceedings. I took notes from when proceedings started in 2020 till when the ruling was delivered in 2024. I listened to the testimonies of the 10 witnesses presented by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). I listened to the submissions of the commission’s legal counsel.
That the case ended the way it did was inevitable. That Justice Abubakar Idris Kutigi upheld the no case submissions of the seven defendants, discharging and acquitting them, was just the fitting end to a show trial that was clearly lacking in substance and targeted at convicting one person: Mr Mohammed Bello Adoke SAN, the former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice. No competent and conscientious judge would have ruled otherwise.
For all the drama, none of the prosecution witnesses mentioned the name of Adoke, the first defendant, regarding committing any infraction during the entire proceedings. Adoke was charged regarding the OPL 245 Settlement for “disobeying the direction of the law with intent to cause injury”, “disobeying the direction of the tax laws”, and “collecting gratification of N300m” from the second defendant, Aliyu Abubakar. Most of the witnesses only said they knew Adoke as former AGF and had no dealings with him.
The only witness who mentioned Adoke’s name was Mr Ibrahim Ahmed, the police investigation officer. He ended up contradicting himself on the source of the N300m which had been charged as gratification. Before Justice Kutigi, Ahmed said it was a bribe from the OPL 245 resolution. Before Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, he said it was a mortgage Adoke took from Unity Bank. That effectively killed the allegation. That the EFCC filed two different proceedings using the same particulars but making contradictory claims was fatal to their cases, as both courts ruled.
I need to make full disclosure at this point: I know Adoke very well. Having worked with him for over 10 years, I can testify at gunpoint that he did not break any law or dirty his hands in the OPL 245 Settlement of 2011. He did not need to tell me that he did not collect a bribe: I knew he didn’t; I knew he wouldn’t. That would
go contrary to everything he stood, and still stands, for. I knew, and still know him, as a man of integrity. He always warned us, his proteges and subordinates, to avoid greed and corruption. He did everything possible within his financial means to make us comfortable so that we would be able to work honestly and think straight in all our dealings. I say this with every ounce of honesty in me.
When he was the AGF and Minister of Justice from 2010 to 2015, I saw him turn down gratifications running into billions of naira and millions of dollars. I saw him do favours for governors, ministers and business people without as much as collecting a cup of tea from them, much less material benefits. He always told them he was only doing his job. I saw him help people get paid judgment debts running into billions while turning down offers of “thank you”. These are the people that should have stood by him during his travails but they ran away for the fear of EFCC. For someone who turned down $20m from an oil magnate in 2011, there was no way in this world I would believe he collected the equivalent of $2m from the OPL 245 Settlement. It does not make any sense. In fact, Mr Vincenzo Armanna, a former manager of Eni/Agip, testified before the Court of Milan during the trial of Shell and Others that Adoke threatened to jail him and others for discussing kickbacks in the OPL 245 deal. That is the Adoke I know. That is the Adoke that became my role model early in life.
When the federal government, under former President Muhammadu Buhari, decided to impugn the sanctity of the OPL 245 settlement, picking on Adoke as the scapegoat by accusing him of all sorts, it was not Adoke that was on trial. It was Nigeria that
was on trial. It was the way Nigeria rewards its patriots that was on trial. As all the court documents show, it was former President Olusegun Obasanjo who revoked OPL 245 from Malabu Oil in 2001 that decided to restore the oil block to Malabu Oil in 2006 after a series of litigation leading to an outof-court settlement. All Adoke did in 2010 was to advise former President Goodluck Jonathan to respect and implement the legally binding consent judgment. That was what led to the final resolution of the OPL 245 dispute that had lingered for a decade. Adoke was put on trial for stirring Nigeria in the direction of the rule of law.
In the Court of Milan, Italy, and the Commercial Court of England and Wales, it was Nigeria, not Adoke, that was on trial. Lawyers after lawyers and witnesses after witnesses spoke, most of them exonerating Adoke. But the EFCC collaborated with the Italian prosecutors to accuse Adoke of collecting a bribe of N300m, all in an attempt to stain the OPL 245 Settlement and get the oil companies convicted for international corruption and, in the imagination of some people, get them to pay for OPL 245 a second time. The Italian judges commended Adoke for the role he played in settling the OPL 245 dispute and said rather than being an accomplice with Chief Dan Etete, the beneficial owner of Malabu Oil, Adoke actually threatened him to either take the deal or the federal government would be forced to pull out of the resolution. That was the act of a patriot. In the UK, the judge dismissed all allegations against Adoke and said there was no evidence of fraud, or any proof that Nigeria was shortchanged. Nigeria tried to throw Adoke, an innocent man, under the bus. Nigeria put Adoke on trial across the world hoping to disgrace and destroy him for the rest of his life in order to exact a price from the oil companies as well as compensate those who wanted a pound of flesh. Those behind the plot succeeded for over eight years, threatening him and chasing him out of his fatherland. But it was Nigeria that was on trial in the end, losing all the cases and wasting millions of dollars home and away. Those behind the wild goose chase should face the music for misleading the country and wasting precious time and resources. But I know I am asking for too much. Nevertheless, Adoke has been vindicated and he will be back on his feet again. As it is said, it is better for a man to fall and rise again than to stand hopelessly forever.
Audu, a legal practitioner, writes from Abuja
Though gains have been made, there is still much to do to
With Nigeria among the eleven countries that carry approximately 70% of the global burden of malaria, it is important to take seriously the Yaounde Declaration signed last month by Ministers of Health of the continent. The pledge is to provide stronger leadership and increased domestic funding for malaria control programmes, ensure further investment in data technology, apply the latest technical guidance in malaria control and elimination, and enhance malaria control efforts at the national and sub-national levels. In signing the declaration, they expressed their “unwavering commitment to the accelerated reduction of malaria mortality” and “to hold each other and our countries accountable for the commitments outlined in this declaration.”
As people across the world today mark the 2024 Malaria Day with the theme, “Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world”, it is another reminder to the health authorities in Nigeria that this is still one battle that needs to be won, even when gains have been made in recent years. Many citizens would gladly wish that the problem of malaria in Nigeria can be solved at the mere mounting of an insecticidetreated mosquito net. But with the environmental conditions and associated ailments, which have all combined to make malaria a scourge for both the young and old, and especially the millions of pregnant women and young children under the age of five years, the statistics of death from the disease remain startling.
children under five years of age, refugees, migrants, internally displaced people, and Indigenous Peoples continue to be disproportionately impacted.” More concerning, according to WHO, is that the “African Region shoulders the heaviest burden of the disease – accounting, in 2022, for 94% and 95% of malaria case and deaths.”
However, the situation is not all bleak. The World Bank has revealed that over the past decade, eleven African countries have reduced confirmed malaria cases by more than 50 %. The bank has also reported steady progress in Nigeria. The National Malaria Control Programme is moving to increase access to malaria prevention, treatment services and community mobilisation so as to reduce the burden of the disease. However, combating Malaria requires multifaceted actions and partnerships involving public and private, international and civil society sectors.
The World Bank has revealed that over the past decade, eleven African countries have reduced confirmed malaria cases by more than 50 %
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
In recent years, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), progress in reducing malaria has ground to a standstill. “Not only does malaria continue to directly endanger health and cost lives, but it also perpetuates a vicious cycle of inequity,” WHO reports. “People living in the most vulnerable situations including pregnant women, infants,
Funding for malaria control globally is also inadequate. In 2022, US$ 4.1 billion – just over half of the needed budget – was available for malaria response. Globally the number of cases in 2022 was significantly higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic, rising to 249 million from 233 million in 2019. In the same period, the African region saw an increase in cases from 218 million to 233 million. The region continues to shoulder the heaviest malaria burden, representing 94% of global malaria cases and 95% of global deaths, an estimated 580,000 deaths in 2022.
Last October, the federal government promised that the WHO-recommended R21/Matrix-M vaccine for the prevention of malaria in children would be available in Nigeria by June. Will it get to those who need it most? To the extent that defeating malaria is critical to ending poverty and improving maternal and child health, Nigeria cannot afford to lag. As the world therefore marks the 2024 Malaria day, the hope is that the Nigerian health authorities will adopt the best possible strategy that will help in the efforts to eventual eradicate the scourge from our country.
I do not mean “Ten-hut!” in a literal sense. Of course, I’m a “bloody civilian.” But, I am alarmed at the news of killing of officers and men of the Nigerian Army. My father was a 63 NA trooper, a Civil War vet who did his best to keep Nigeria intact. In the normal schedule of men-allotment during battle conditions, a sergeant leads a squad of four troopers, a lieutenant leads a platoon of 12 troopers and, a captain leads a company of two or more platoons (let us say five platoons of 60 troopers). And a major? He is a desk-warming upward moving admin officer. Now, how come bandits ambushed and finished-off a half-platoon contingent of soldiers consisting of a major, a captain, and four soldiers? Is the Nigerian Army so terribly short of personnel nowadays? This brings up the kernel of the matter that should excite our military planners,
that of activation of native national guard battalions that can be federalised in times of national crises but whose main function is maintaining the peace in their states or local domains of identification. Thus, there ought to be a Benue National Guard Brigade consisting of Tiv and Idoma battalions protecting the Gwer-Adoka flank and other combustibles places. There ought also to be a Kaduna National Guard brigade consisting of Atyap battalion and battalions of the other tribal make up. Ditto one for Plateau and Niger and other distressed states. The national guard security-complement concept works very well in the US. It should be operational here pronto.
Sunday Adole Jonah, Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State
There are so many scams out there it seems the whole world is dishonest. It's not just money being stolen but also the time taken to delete the emails and sms messages. But what if it is an honest, legal scam?
We all feel scammed every time we go to a supermarket or buy petrol but that's legal. We all feel ripped off when the latest reality show is just a bunch of narcissistic instagramers but that's legal and surprisingly popular. Being 'scammed' is hard to precisely define.
Everyone giving to charity knows that some will go to running the charity but when most does them it should be labelled a scam but it is honest and legal,
basically.
The latest and greatest apparent scam is when donations to politicians and political parties are used for a 'wider' range of payments including for lawyers to keep you out of jail and still available to be elected. Probably not a unique event but certainly a topic for discussion in the current US elections. A lot of people say don't trust politicians, they are right in many cases.
If you want to help, donate time as well and give money to local, volunteer-based charities so that the money, help and resources goes to those that need it.
Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 23-April-2024, unless otherwise stated.
Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.
Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF.
Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.
NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.
Emma Okonji
Ahead of the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2024, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the United Nations agency responsible for managing global telecommunication standards, has stressed the need for global digital innovation that will drive sustainable development.
WTISD promotes digital technologies and connectivity for all and it is celebrated annually on 17 May, a development that marks the founding of ITU, which began with the signing of the
first International Telegraph Convention in 1865.
In her key message for WTISD 2024, Bogdan-Martin, said: “Innovation should unite, not divide. Our goal is to bridge the innovation gap for a more inclusive digital future where everyone has equal opportunities. Digital technologies can help achieve 70 per cent of targets under the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030. They play a crucial role in areas like eliminating hunger, eradicating poverty, and fighting climate change. Meaningful digital innovation does not happen in isolation
– it thrives on collaboration. Collective, multi-stakeholder efforts are key to drive global digital innovation.”
According to ITU, the whole world needs digital innovation and this can be achieved through collaboration. WTISD 2024 is a chance to explore how digital innovation can help connect everyone and unlock sustainable prosperity for all.
ITU is of the view that sustainable social and economic development in the years ahead will depend on global efforts to build networks and partnerships between big corporate players and the world’s innumerable micro,
small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are typically defined as those with annual turnover up to about $ 50 million or employing up to 250 people, but in recent years, emphasis have shifted increasingly to the micro players, those employing up to 10 people or with annual turnover of $ 2 million or less.
According to United Nations estimates, formal and informal MSMEs make up over 90 per cent of companies worldwide, accounting for 70 per cent of total employment and up to 50 per cent of global GDP.
Convinced by the United Nations statistics on small businesses, ITU is insisting that with their innate flexibility and knowledge of local markets, MSMEs can be uniquely well placed to solve global market-specific challenges or meet emerging needs on the ground.
ITU is also of the view that MSMEs are essential to achieving the level of connectivity and digital transformation that countries are striving for, and has called for collaboration between the big, medium and small business in order to achieve global digital innovation that will drive sustainable development.
Over the last ten years, ITU has
progressively increased its focus on the role of small businesses in the digital ecosystem, targeting small tech firms with knowledge-sharing and mentoring programmes, dedicated networking events, awards, and a discounted ITU membership category.
The ITU Telecom World SME Awards Programme, for example, has spotlighted innovations with the potential to change lives for the better using information and communication technologies (ICTs). The awards have also given small and medium enterprises (SMEs) a platform to connect with vital resources and partners for sustainable tech projects.
Emma OkonjiIBM, a global technology company has released its 2024 X-Force Threat Intelligence Index, highlighting an emerging global identity crisis as cybercriminals double down on exploiting user identities to compromise enterprises worldwide.
According to the report, the global trend is reflecting more in the Middle East and Africa region (MEA), with the use of valid local accounts and valid cloud accounts, making up the primary cause of cyberattacks against organisations in the region. The report therefore highlights` the need for strong user access and control strategies by enterprises.
The IBM X-Force Threat Intelligence Index, explained that in 2023, cybercriminals saw more opportunities to ‘log in’ versus hack into corporate networks through valid accounts, making the tactic a preferred weapon of choice for threat actors, adding that Saudi Arabia is the most targeted country in MEA, representing 40 per cent of overall incidents that X-Force responded to in the region, followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has 30 per cent of the attack.
At the industry level, the most targeted sectors in the region were finance and insurance, making up 38 per cent of incidents, followed by transportation and energy at
19 per cent each, the report said.
The X-Force Threat Intelligence Index is based on insights and observations from monitoring over 150 billion security events per day in more than 130 countries.
Analysing the threat report across the region, General Manager and Technology Leader, IBM Africa Growth Markets, Babacar Kane, said exploiting valid accounts became the path of least resistance for cybercriminals, with billions of compromised credentials accessible on the Dark Web today.
“The use of valid local accounts (52 per cent) and valid cloud accounts (48 per cent) represented the most commonly observed initial infection vectors in cyberattacks
against organisations in the Middle East and Africa region, with espionage making up the top impact.
“Globally, in 2023, X-Force saw attackers increasingly invest in operations to obtain users’ identities, with a 266 per cent uptick in infostealing malware, designed to steal personal identifiable information like emails, social media and messaging app credentials, banking details, crypto wallet data and more. The use of malware was followed by DDoS, email threat hacking, server access and the use of legitimate tools for malicious purposes, all at 17%, respectively,” Kane said.
“As threat actors start to look up to Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimise their attacks, embracing AI-powered solutions isn’t just a choice anymore but a necessity to fortify organisations against evolving cyber threats that will scale. Partnering with the right technology provider ensures businesses remain ahead of the curve, fostering resilience and trust in their operations while propelling the region’s economic prospects,” Kane further said. To help protect organisations against evolving cyber threats, X-Force report recommended that organisations should consider implementing solutions to reduce the damage that a data security
incident could potentially cause by reducing the incident’s blast radius- namely the potential impact of an incident given the compromise of particular users, devices or data.
It also recommended stress-test in the work environment by hiring hackers to stress test the work environment and identify the existing cracks that cybercriminals could exploit to gain access to organisation’s network and carry out attacks. Also having incident response plans that are customised for your environment is key to reducing the time to respond, remediate and recover from an attack, the report further recommended.
L-R: Chairman, Finance and membership Committee, Ship Owners Association of Nigeria (SOAN), Mr. Emmanuel Okene; 2nd Vice President, Mr. Gbolahan Shaba; Former Executive Secretary of Nigerian Shipper’s Council (NSC), Hassan Bello; 1st Vice President, Dr. Louis Ekere; Chairman, Ethics & Privileges Committee, Ms. Bassey Adie; SOAN President, Mr. Sonny Eja; Chairman Technical Committee, Ms. Iroghama Ogbeifun; Chairman, Training & Capacity Building Committee, Mr. Bem Garba; Financial Secretary/ Treasurer, Mr.. Babalola Adefariti and the immediate past president, Dr. Mkgeorge Onyung, at the inauguration of SOAN’s new executive council members in Lagos… recently
The business relationship between the MTN Group and three Nigeria’s leading creative agencies; DDB, TBWA and Yellow Brick Road will end this year, THISDAY can authoritatively confirm.
According to a statement jointly issued by the Telco company and M&C Saatchi Abel, during the week, copy of which was sighted by THISDAY, MTN Group said it has embarked on a new era of innovation, which necessitated the appointment of M&C Saatchi Abel and Group of Companies as its global marketing partner.
agencies on the business in Nigeria; DDB, TBWA and Yellow Brick Road, will quit, while SO&U, the M&C Saatchi’s affiliate in the country will come on board with effect from 1 January 2025.
The statement further indicated that the business would be executed in partnership with all the African affiliates of the pan- African marketing services firm across the continent. By this declaration, the three existing
The statement further stated that the partnership underscored the telco company’s ongoing commitment to pioneering innovative and impactful marketing strategies across its diverse markets.
It as learnt that M&C Saatchi Abel was selected following a meticulous process for their expertise in fostering growth and enhancing brand value for multinational corporations. The statement added that the firm’s proficiency in digital transformation and customer engagement strategies perfectly aligns with MTN Group’s forward-looking vision.
“We look forward to commencing this new chapter
Transport industry stakeholders drawn from the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Nigerian Police Force, and the ride-hailing company inDrive have agreed to join forces in deepening awareness of safety issues among drivers and riders.
This submission was made during the Safety Education event organised by inDrive recently in partnership with the Nigerian Police Force and the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation.
with M&C Saatchi Abel and their Group of Companies. Their progressive perspective and achievements in the marketing domain are precisely what MTN requires to elevate our brand. We believe this partnership will not only redefine our brand presence but also enrich the experiences of our customers globally,” remarked MTN Group Marketing Executive, Bernice Samuels. Group CEO of M&C Saatchi
Abel and Group of Companies, Jacques Burger, said, “It’s a great honour to partner with MTN Group, a distinguished leader in the telecommunications arena. We are dedicated to applying our comprehensive industry insights and cutting-edge marketing strategies to support MTN’s growth ambitions and boost customer satisfaction. We are eager to achieve remarkable milestones together in the industry.”
Speaking at the occasion, the Director of Transport Operations, Lagos Ministry of Transportation, Olasunkanmi Ojowuro, emphasised that all relevant stakeholders should intensify yearly efforts to train commuters and drivers, focusing on safety measures and road signage.
Stories by Emma OkonjiThe Chairman, Technology Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law, Ikemesit Effiong, has raised concerns about the sustainability of Nigeria’s telecoms sector amid ongoing economic challenges.
In an article titled: “The Imperative of Upholding Nigeria’s Telecoms Lifeline,” Effiong emphasised the pivotal role of telecommunications as both an economic engine and societal enabler, adding that with approximately 15,000 direct employees and a significant 16 per
Ojowuro equally called on law enforcement agencies to step up to ensure adequate enforcement of violators of traffic laws in the State, He stated that the Lagos State Government was playing its part in providing the much-needed
infrastructure to enhance road safety and providing manpower support.
Also speaking, Senior Business Development Representative inDrive Timothy Oladimeji highlighted the newly added safety features on the inDrive app that form part of inDrive’s existing Safety Center. These features allow users to add more emergency contacts, make it easier to share ride information with authorities, and improve in-app communication between riders and drivers.
Oladimeji stated that the ride-
cent contribution to Nigeria’s GDP, the sector’s health is crucial for the nation’s well-being. Effiong highlights various obstacles facing the telecoms industry, including frequent fibre optic cable cuts due to road construction and vandalism, multiple taxations, and challenges in acquiring rights-of-way. These issues, he said, compounded by exploitative rent-seeking practices, have persisted despite efforts to resolve them.
“Central to the sustenance of any industry is a conducive economic environment that allows for
sustainable growth and innovation. However, regulatory constraints that limit tariff adjustments hinder the sector’s ability to adapt to market dynamics unlike other industries. Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicates a rise in inflation to 33.20% in March 2024, up from 31.7 per cent in February 2024. This poses significant challenges for businesses striving to manage staff welfare and make necessary investments amid economic strains.
“The inflationary pressures have led to price increases across various sectors, including agriculture,
hailing app has many security features that can assist the rider and the driver against security threats.
Highlighting some safety features, he urged road users, including drivers, to avoid any act that goes against the tenets of safety on the road.
Also speaking, Senior Business Development Representative inDrive Timothy Oladimeji highlighted the newly added safety features on the inDrive app that form part of inDrive’s existing Safety Center.
beverages, and services. Companies such as Nigerian Breweries Plc and Netflix have adjusted prices multiple times this year to cope with rising costs,” Effiong said.
According to him, recently, the quality of service has become a significant concern for subscribers across the country. Available data indicates that this issue may persist for the foreseeable future. The 70 per cent broadband penetration target was severely impacted in 2023, experiencing a decline of 14.2 per cent from a peak of 48.28 per cent in March to 41.87 per cent in November.
In a bid to reduce the increasing rate of suicide, depression, divorce, drug abuse, and other mental health-related issues; the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria (ICN) has launched a dedicated online platform, Your Wellness Clinic.
The platform, ICN said will give people the opportunity irrespective of their income, background, belief, or status to access 24/7 topnotch therapy and counseling services at their convenient time from anywhere in the world from the institute’s certified experts.
The institute unveiled the portal at a press conference held at its office in Lagos.
According to ICN, it is leveraging technology to democratise counseling and therapy by ensuring that everyone has access to the support and guidance they need whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental health
concern, regardless of their financial situation.
The Executive Director of ICN, Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire, said people were going through a lot, many don’t have the right people around to share their challenges with who can offer them quality counseling, which has led to the increasing rate of suicide, divorce, drug abuse, and others.
She added that depression affects people’s performance at work including their relationships and life in general which is why people need to seek counseling. She explained further that experts revealed that about 85% of psychiatric cases are a result of relationship issues. “This should explain to you the level of ignorance around the role of professional counselors and therapists in making sure people move towards optimal functionality rather than mental illness in the mental health spectrum.”
9mobile, Nigeria’s telecommunications company, recently partnered Microsoft to host a capacity-building session for journalists aimed at empowering them with innovative tools to improve their skills for maximum performance in their field. The learning session held at Microsoft Africa Development Centre, had in attendance media partners from print and online platforms.
The training session provided a
platform to introduce journalists to the benefits of Microsoft Copilot, built on Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
Speaking at the training session, PR Lead, 9mobile, Chineze Amanfo, expressed her enthusiasm and satisfaction with the session, emphasising the company’s commitment to fostering innovation and empowerment within the media industry.
“We are thrilled to collaborate
with Microsoft in providing this invaluable training opportunity for journalists. At 9mobile, we recognise the pivotal role that the media plays in shaping public discourse and driving societal change. Therefore, equipping them with the requisite knowledge and tools such as the Microsoft Copilot, will enhance their capability to deliver on their respective assignments efficiently by disseminating accurate and impactful information to the public, “he said.
Senior Business Programme Manager, Marketing Communications, Microsoft Africa Development Centre, Yemi Orimolade, who explained the operations of Microsoft Copilot and how journalists could effectively use it for maximum productivity, appreciated the participants for their contributions in making the session an engaging experience and enjoined them to champion the message of AI responsibility.
The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNG), a leading advocate for sustainable energy solutions, has launched the CNG Solutions Hackathon 2024. The launch, which held yesterday at the Art Tech District in Abuja, promised to accelerate the widespread adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Nigeria.
According to the organisers, the top-performing ideas will progress to an incubation phase, where participants will receive ongoing support and mentorship to develop and scale their projects into viable solutions for the CNG landscape.
Commenting on the Hackathon, the CEO at PCNG, Mr. Bankole Oloruntoba, expressed enthusiasm
for the event, stating, “The CNG Solutions Hackathon is a testament to our commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. By fostering collaboration and providing a platform for creative solutions, we aim to contribute significantly to the growth of CNG adoption in Nigeria.”
The Programme Director/Chief Executive of PCNG, Mr. Michael Oluwagbemi, said: “I am thrilled to express our enthusiasm and support for the CNG solutions Hackathon. We Look forward to engaging the participants and supporting the development of innovative solutions that will accelerate the growth of CNG in Nigeria.
Ending terrorism financing in Nigeria requires the concerted efforts of the federal government, intelligence agencies and other state actors, writes Ugo Aliogo
Terrorism financing is a global problem that poses significant threat to security, hinders economic development, and undermines financial market stability.
In Nigeria, terrorism financing is a major issue that is fuelling the activities of insurgency groups such as the Islamic State in West African Province (ISWAP), and Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT).
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in a recent report, revealed that the current pattern of mass abductions of school children, particularly in the northern part of Nigeria, is new and unique in its complexities and attributes as well as in its devastating effects on children, parents and teachers alike.
The UN body stated that girls were disproportionally affected as parents are typically more concerned about their safety while their education is less of a priority.
The report urged the federal government to develop effective, holistic and evidence-based interventions to prevent the emergence of violent extremism.
It stated that there is need to scale up support to community-based and youth crime prevention and enhance resilience to violence and crime.
Meanwhile President Bola Tinubu has accused the global community of complicity in the disturbing rise in illegal mining, illicit financial flow and terrorism funding in Africa.
Tinubu said the international community owed the continent a duty to assist in the fight to eradicate the menace.
Tinubu spoke recently in Abuja, while declaring open a two-day African High-Level Meeting on Counter-terrorism.
He emphasised that it was funds from other continents that fuelled illegal mining and terrorism financing in Africa,
FG’s CommiTmeNT
As part of Nigeria’s commitment to tackle insecurity, Tinubu approved the reconstitution of a 15-man National Stakeholders’ Working Group (NSWG) for Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI).
He emphasised the need for African countries to strengthen regional cooperation and institution-building to address the evolving threat of terrorism on the continent.
He stressed that terrorism posed a big threat to peace, security, and development in Africa.
The president said illegal mining had robbed countries on the continent of the natural resources that ought to have been deployed to meet citizens’ needs.
He asserted that the resources were now being hijacked by terrorist groups in exchange for foreign cash, which is used to buy arms and ammunition.
According to him, “While we seek to address the root causes of terrorism, we must also attack the roots that feed this evil branch. Evolving from the tactics of yesterday, terrorism is becoming a greater threat as it perfects ways to continuously finance, re-equip and re-supply itself for its sinister mission.
“Not only does it kidnap people; it kidnaps precious resources. Billions upon billions of dollars that legitimate governments should be using to sculpt better societies by providing education, health care and food for its people, now go to pay for weapons and mayhem.
“Look at the illegal mining that plagues so many of our nations today. Those who think illegal mining has no connection with financing terrorism are sorely mistaken.
“The international community has both the moral and legal obligation to help in this cause because it is outside money, not African money, that fuels the illegal operations. We shall be knocking on this door of the international community to answer this call for justice, peace and fair play.”
Tinubu, however, revealed that Africa must strengthen existing counter-terrorism structures, such as the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit (RIFU) in Abuja, the African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT) in Algiers, and the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA) in Addis Ababa.
He underscored the importance of a regional standby force that included tackling terrorism as part of its mandate, declaring, “It must not be abandoned.”
Tinubu said: “I am mindful of the funding, legal, and logistical complexities that face the proper establishment
of such a force. However, with a prudent and clearly defined mandate that accords with the international law and respects national sovereignty, such a force can serve as a rapid deployment mechanism, capable of swiftly responding to major threats and bolstering the security of our region.
“Such a force can stand as a strong deterrent to large scale and protracted terrorist operations and the capture, occupation or disruption of strategic land and resources. We must continue to make careful yet meaningful progress toward this goal.”
He added, “Establishing an all-inclusive African Union Ministerial Committee on Counter Terrorism is also a high priority as envisaged in the Declaration of the 16th Extraordinary Summit of the African Union Assembly two years ago in May 2022. This would ensure that a forum of high-level government officials meets regularly to assess our counter-terrorism efforts and provide guidance on how to further improve. Key to our collective efforts against terrorism is the urgent need for a fully operational regional counter-terrorism centre.”
The president also spoke on efforts by Nigeria to beat the menace. He disclosed that the country’s counter-terrorism capabilities had been enhanced through the enactment of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, establishing the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).
He stated: “We have and will continue to take bold steps forward in safeguarding our nation and the wider region. Dedicated to coordinating and implementing counter-terrorism strategies, the NCTC significantly enhances our capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to terrorist threats.
“The centre has become a platform; fostering greater collaboration among stakeholders and promoting synergy in our approach to fighting terrorism.
“Similarly, our security forces continue to demonstrate courage and dedication in the fight against terrorism, often at great personal risk. I am grateful to the selfless work and sacrifice of these patriotic men and women. They are the best of the best.
“I must also mention the ongoing need to halt the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) on the continent. No one state can solve this problem for itself. It requires continuous and concerted action by all of us.
“We need to reposition our regional organisations and build the capacity of our national institutions to effectively address this element of terrorism and violent extremism.”
In his welcome remarks at the African High-Level Meeting on Counter-terrorism, National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, posited that terrorism in Africa was driven by
a number of factors, including organised crime, foreign terrorist financing and training, poverty, inequality, and prolonged conflicts, among others.
Ribadu remarked that Nigeria was dealing decisively with all drivers of violent extremism, including economic and social enablers, while enhancing intelligence gathering through enhanced inter-agency collaboration and confidence building with citizens.
He also said Nigeria was strengthening its judiciary to effectively deal with cases of terrorism and had earmarked a fund to boost counter-terrorism efforts.
“We have resumed the prosecution of Boko Haram suspects across the country,” Ribadu disclosed.
Equally speaking, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Amina Mohammed, suggested that one of the ways to remove the engenderers of terrorism on the continent was for Africa to work to rebuild its social contract with its citizens, and deliver good governance.
She said, “Rebuilding the social contract is necessary for recovery. We must pay attention to women and girls who are greatly impacted by terrorism, including the youth. Providing support and healing those impacted by terrorism is important to us.”
On his part, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), Mr. Vladimir Voronkov, commended Nigeria for its leadership in counter-terrorism in Africa and for hosting the meeting.
According to Voronkov, “Terrorism is a threat to peace and security, particularly in Africa where its impact is mostly felt. The success of UNOCT in Africa hinges on its support for Africa-led programmes and solutions.”
NFiU ViewpoiNT
Meanwhile, in a recent report, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), stated that terrorism financing is a means through which terrorist groups raise, move and utilise the financial resources needed to fund their activities, such as recruitment of new members, training, payment of stipends to their fighters and acquisition of weapons.
The report posited that the due to factors such as porous borders and proximity to countries with active terrorist groups, Nigeria is exposed to terrorism financing threats emanating from other jurisdictions.
Groups like Boko Haram are known to have received funding internationally from foreign terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and the Islamic State in West
Africa Province (ISWAP). In addition, terrorist groups in Nigeria derive their funding from sympathisers, contributions from diaspora members as well as sales of souvenirs and cryptocurrency donations as in the case of IPOB.
As part of their funds generating move, the group also request for motorcycles and recharge cards from the families of kidnapped victims to aid their movement from one place to another and to recharge their phones to contact their targets respectively.
According to the report, “The prevalent use of motorcycles by terrorists operating in the West African region has highlighted the exposure of the country to TF activities. A study has shown the high rate in which terrorists acquire motorcycles from Nigeria. For instance, a branch of IS Sahel currently based in northern Tillabéri, and one of the borders between Nigeria and Niger, is used for smuggling motorcycles and other goods to armed groups. This indicates the movement of funds by international terrorist groups and the utilization of such funds in Nigeria.”
GiABA’s RepoRT
In another report, the Inter Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), stated that Nigeria has shown serious commitment in the fight against terrorism and terrorist financing and as such has domesticated the various United Nations Security Council resolutions for the prevention and suppression of terrorism and terrorist financing and the government has remained resolute in continuing the fight until a total eradication of the terror group is achieved.
It added, “Terrorist financing funds are raised through abuse of legitimate or clean sources like trading, charity organizations, and donations including alms giving. Financing is required not just to fund specific terrorist operations, but to meet the broader organisational costs of developing and maintaining a terrorist organization and to create an enabling environment necessary to sustain their activities.”
The report espoused the use a wide variety of methods to move money within and between their organisation and other terrorist organisations, including; the financial sector, physical movement of cash by couriers and movement of goods through the trade system.
“It has been established that over 80 percent of the funding for terrorists’ attacks take place outside the formal financial system while only about 20 percent or less was routed through the financial sector.A wide array of illegal and criminal activities such as kidnapping extortion, armed robberies, smuggling etc that yields high returns to the sect, “it said. Both reports acknowledged the following four categories as sources of terrorist financing such as terrorist financing through trade and other lucrative activities, terrorist financing through NGOs, charity organisations, and levies, terrorist financing through smuggling of arms, assets and currencies by cash couriers; and terrorist Financing through drug trafficking.
AFDB CommiTmeNT
To tackle the menace, the African Development Bank and the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), recently launched a three-year support project to combat money laundering and terrorism financing in their member countries.
The project titled: “Capacity Development for AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism in GIABA Member States in Transition,” would be backed by a $5 million grant from the African Development Bank Group.
GIABA said the project will contribute to resilience in the West African region, by improving anti-money laundering/terrorism financing regimes, “and by developing the capacity of GIABA member states, with a particular focus on countries in transition.
“The grant complements the Bank Group’s strategic and operational engagements at country and regional levels. It also aligns with its policy and action plan on the Prevention of Illicit Financial Flows, as well as with the Bank’s group Strategy for Economic Governance in Africa.”
In a bid to address the pressing demand for upskilling in Nigeria’s fintech industry, the Africa Fintech Foundry Ecosystem Roundtable gathered industry experts to share insights on how Nigeria’s tech talent can continue to upskill in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.
Giving the keynote address at the event, Managing Director of Kuda Microfinance Bank, Musty Mustapha,
emphasised the urgent need for upskilling in response to the swift rise of advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, automation, and blockchain.
Speaking on the need for continuous learning, Mustapha said: “Continuous learning is a must at this time, and we have no excuse because knowledge is more accessible than it has ever been. We can learn anything we want online.
From YouTube to learning platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning, resources that can help us get better at what we do are at our disposal, oftentimes at no cost.”
In addition to technical proficiency, there is a growing recognition of the importance of soft skills in fintech careers. Mustapha emphasised the need for skills such as communication, teamwork,
project management, innovation, and problem-solving, which are essential for career advancement and fostering collaboration within diverse teams.
Ethical considerations are also taking centre stage in Nigeria’s fintech landscape, with professionals prioritising responsible innovation and ethical decision-making. According to Mustapha by integrating ethics into fintechspecific digital literacy initiatives,
we can make informed ethical decisions, thereby contributing to the conscientious progress of emerging technologies in finance while considering their broader societal implications.
“We must seek to acquire expertise in green fintech, sustainable finance, eco-friendly technology solutions, and waste reduction.
In addition, understanding environmental policies tailored to
fintech, such as responsible investing and the development of sustainable financial products, are instrumental in tackling sector-specific challenges,” Mustapha said.
As Nigeria’s fintech workforce embraces upskilling amid the technological revolution, the industry is poised for continued growth and innovation. By prioritising continuous learning, ethical decision-making.
The Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), Tayo Aduloju has revealed that the Lagos Free Zone - the first private Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Nigeria, holds immense potential to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, if fully harnessed.
Aduloju made this declaration while leading a delegation of Nigeria Economic Summit Group alongside the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) headed by its Chief Executive, Rosie Glazebrook, on a courtesy visit to Lagos Free Zone, Ibeju Lekki. Aduloju explained that the integration of Lekki Port with Lagos Free Zone remains a unique advantage that will not only help in improving trade facilitation in Nigeria but make the economy more competitive especially, with the Africa Free Continental Trade Area coming on stream soon. He further revealed that the integration of the port to the zone would have game-changing effect on Nigeria’s
revenue stressing that forex supply was bound to increase through export of manufactured goods. Urging the government to play their part in showcasing both the zone and Lekki Port at every international platforms in order to attract much needed foreign investments, he said, “We need to ensure that the port and Lagos Free Zone are bundled together at international promotion opportunities and sold like they are to the rest of the world because I think that if we sell it together as an opportunity, it will do better than if we sell the Lagos Free Zone and the port apart. I believe that, in three or four years, the impact on jobs, GDP, FDI and the whole competitive nature of Nigeria will be high”.
In her remarks, the Chief Executive, Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), Rosie Glazebrook, described LFZ as a business ecosystem that offers diverse opportunities, which companies from Commonwealth countries can harness.
She shared that Lagos Free
Zone, which is a strategic partner of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council has, no doubt, contributed to breaking down barriers associated with trade in Nigeria, by providing plug and play solutions to the common business operations challenges in Nigeria such as access to power, security, logistics and dealing with regulators.
In his welcome remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, Lagos Free Zone, Dinesh Rathi described the zone as the best investment destination in Nigeria given the number of incentives as well as worldclass infrastructure available to prospective investors or businesses.
Rathi noted that the zone remains a one-stop shop for businesses that are desirous of leveraging shared facilities and infrastructure. He maintained that the zone redefines the Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria with the provision of tax incentives geared towards encouraging manufacturing, trade and investment.
In a bid to help youths fulfil God’s purpose for their destiny and to snatch them from myriads of ills bedeviling them in the present world, Christ Miracles Church Mission (CMCM) worldwide has given Scholarships to over 100 indigent students who are members and non-members of the church as the Church, its 19th Annual International Youth Convention with the theme: “Prosperity, Progress, and Testimony.” The convention which had in attendance youths, teenagers and young adults in thousands across the country featured developmental teachings, health seminars, skills acquisitions, career Counseling and mentoring as well ICT training which featured among other things; how to
stream church programs , how to snap and edit pictures for social media page, Live coverage of church services using phones and Video Camera, how to bring audio into live stream for online members, how to use Vmix to mix video images and also to display Bible verses, project information and announcements, how to set up a Web Page as well as digital Evangelism. To ameliorate the sufferings of the masses lilikwise CMCM constantly gives food items such as Rice, Beans, Garri, Yams and other food gifting every Service days in the Church.
According to the President Christ Miracles Church Mission (CMCM), Prophet Abiola, the Annual Youth Convention is to teach Youths on how to discover
God’s purpose for their lives and work in it. It is a means of Evangelism and mainly to capture the youths, teenagers and young adults for Christ.
Abiola, however emphasized that total submission and surrenderness to the will of will solve myriads of challenges bedevilling individuals and country at large.
Abiola stressed inability to obey God’s will, mad rush to get wealth without God and wanting to do things outside God will are major sources of problem in the country.
For a better Nigeria. Abiola called on Nigerians both leaders and followers to jointly pray for the country and deliberately confess positive words to the country.
The Order of Knights of Saint Mulumba (KSM) Nigeria, Lagos Metropolitan Council, has inducted 127 Knights into the Order, noting that the move was a confirmation that the knights have been tested and certified to take leadership positions.
The Head, Order Knights of St Mulumba, Nigeria, Cameroon and Uganda, Dr. Charles Imbelede, speaking on the sidelines of its 3rd degree
investiture ceremony in Lagos, said the investiture signified that the brothers and sisters inducted into the Order are competent and worthy to be called Knights in all ramifications as far as the Order is concerned.
In his words, “This is aimed at qualifying and certifying brothers and sisters who have sat for the examinations and they have been found worthy and have been invested as Third degree knights of our honoured Order.”
Meanwhile, responding to a question about the welfare of Christians in the Northern part of the country and the nation at large, the Metropolitan Grand Knight, St Mulumba Lagos Metropolitan Council, Sir Don Eze, said as Catholics, the Knights are committed to national peace, explaining that there are existing partnerships with other churches to express their positions as a church for the betterment of the society and the nation at large.
Oluchi Chibuzor
The Adeola Azeez Community Care Foundation (AACCF) and HerVest have empowered about 130 women farmers in Ijebu, Ogun State, through training and grants.
The empowerment was part of activities to mark International Women’s Day 2024 by the organisation and aimed at advancing gender equality in agriculture.
Speaking at the event held recently, the Ogun State First
Lady, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, said the theme, “Empowering Women in Agriculture Through Technology,” resonates deeply with her.
According to her, “My recent attendance and participation at the Renewed Hope Initiative program with Nigeria’s first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu where I emphasized the importance of agri-finance for women.
“In Nigeria, women make up 65 percent of farmers,
yet many of them are poor, smallholder farmers in need of empowerment to become more productive. I commend Mrs. Adeola Azeez, the founder of AACCF, for recognizing this need and working tirelessly to meet it among women in our communities.”
Meanwhile, Mrs. Azeez emphasized the collective power of collaboration and innovation in promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and success in the agricultural industry.
The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes
Kayode Tokede
The stock market of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) yesterday sustained the bearish run as the overall capitalization dropped by N673 billion.
The NGX All-Share Index (ASI) depreciated by 1,190.24 basis points or 1.20 per cent to close at 98,121.30 basis points from 99,311.54 basis points when the stock market opened for trading.
Also, market capitalization declined by N673 billion to close at N 55.494 trillion from N56.167 trillion when the stock market opened for trading.
Consequently, the NGX ASI Month-to-Date and Year-toDate returns settled lower at -6.2per cent and +31.2per cent, respectively. Sectoral performance was mixed, as the NGX Banking index dipped by 0.8per cent
and Insurance index dropped by 0.3per cent, while the NGX Consumer Goods index added 0.1per cent. Meanwhile, the NGX Industrial Goods and NGX Oil & Gas indices closed flat.
However, market breadth closed positive, as 22 stocks gained relative to 19 losers.
SUNU Assurance, Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals and The Initiates Plc (TIP) emerged the highest price gainer of 10
per cent each to close at N1.21, N1.98 and N1.98 respectively, per share. CAP followed with a gain of 9.90 per cent to close at N28.85, while UPDC rose by 9.76 per cent to close at N1.35, per share.
On the other side, Transcorp Hotels and MTNN led the losers’ chart with 10 per cent each to close at N87.93 and N201.60 respectively, while Oando followed with a decline of 9.90 per
cent to close at N9.10, per share. FBNH depreciated by 9.82 per cent to close at N19.75, while Fidson Healthcare down by 9.75 per cent to close at N14.35, per share. The total volume traded declined by 31.10 per cent to 395.751 million units, valued at N9.576 billion, and exchanged in 7,907 deals. Transactions in the shares of Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) led the activity with 81.407
million shares worth N2.931 billion. Zenith Bank followed with account of 46.156 million shares valued at N1.691 billion, while United Bank for Africa (UBA) traded 41.600 million shares valued at N953.518 million.
FBNH traded 23.44 million shares worth N480.999 million, while Access Holdings traded 22.301 million shares worth N361.895 million.
Davidson Abraham writes that the financial world on Wall Street, including investment banks and analysts, is increasingly bullish on the sports betting sector’s prospects, projecting substantial growth in the coming years. This enthusiasm has led to more extensive coverage and higher price targets for these companies
Sports enthusiasts have plenty of reasons to cheer. Recent sporting events such as the NCAA basketball tournaments and the Masters have provided electrifying moments and attracted vast audiences. Remarkably, the women’s college basketball championship set a new record, drawing nearly 20 million viewers, even outpacing the men’s championship game for the first time. This surge in interest spells excellent prospects for online sports betting platforms like DraftKings (DKNG).
This upbeat climate might be the driving force behind Goldman Sachs’ recent decision to initiate coverage on DraftKings stock. Analyst Ben Miller and his team gave the stock a “buy” rating, setting a price target of $60 per share. This suggests a potential 42 per cent increase from its closing price just last Wednesday.
The premium valuation attached to DraftKings mirrors the company’s anticipated growth trajectory. They forecast a substantial increase in revenue for 2024
compared to 2023. Miller’s team expresses unwavering confidence in DraftKings’ capacity to maintain at least
a 20 per cent annual revenue growth rate. This optimism stems from the growing popularity of online gaming
and its increasing regulatory approval across various states. However, it’s worth noting that DraftKings currently trades at a relatively elevated valuation. Despite not achieving profitability, the company has a price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of around 5.5. In contrast, many well-established casino operators, some of which also have online platforms, trade at P/S ratios closer to 1.
Yet DraftKings’ growth rate significantly outstrips that of traditional casinos. Moreover, the potential market size could continue expanding as online betting legalisation gains momentum across additional states. These factors bolster Miller’s positive outlook on the stock.
DraftKings presents itself as a promising investment opportunity. However, investors should exercise caution, recognising that a broader stock market downturn could potentially cause a high-value stock like DraftKings to suffer more significant losses than the broader market.
In the realm of traditional casinos, Caesars has carved out a well-known name for itself. Expanding its reach, Caesars has ventured into online sports betting. Leveraging its strong brand recognition in this new market has proven fruitful, with Caesars’ stock witnessing positive movement as a result.
The financial world on Wall Street is also buzzing about the potential of sports betting stocks like DraftKings.
Investment banks and analysts are increasingly bullish on the sector’s prospects, projecting substantial growth in the coming years. This enthusiasm has led to more extensive coverage and higher price targets for these companies.
Goldman Sachs’ endorsement of DraftKings is just one example of Wall Street’s growing interest. Other major financial institutions are also closely watching these stocks, highlighting the sector’s rising prominence in investment portfolios.
As more states legalise online sports betting, the market’s potential size continues to grow. This expansion provides a fertile ground for companies like DraftKings to increase their market share and revenue. With regulatory approvals becoming more widespread, the barriers to entry are gradually lowering, paving the way for further growth and innovation in the industry.
Sports betting platforms like DraftKings are evolving from niche interests to mainstream investment opportunities. While they present promising growth prospects, they also come with risks associated with their high valuations. Investors should weigh these factors carefully and stay informed about market trends and regulatory developments to make well-informed investment decisions.
“Sports betting platforms like DraftKings are evolving from niche interests to mainstream investment opportunities. While they present promising growth prospects…”
Iyke Bede delves into the complaint of an aggrieved punter, Issa Lukman, who is insisting on receiving an outstanding balance of N13 million despite entering a full and final payment agreement with Bet9Ja several months ago
Issa Lukman, a disgruntled punter who placed a bet on the Bet9JA platform, has resurfaced online, accusing the betting company of withholding his entitlement. This comes after Bet9JA paid him N3 million from his N16 million winnings several months ago.
Lukman, on Sunday, September 10, 2023, visited a Bet9JA shop located at 20 Shadare Compound, Iddo, Lagos, to place a total of 37 games played over several days, hoping to win despite such high odds. He staked N1,000 on ticket B928CTTCZSPWRE-10675073 to cash out the sum of N16,705,938.18.
At the end of the final game, he discovered he had won and proceeded to the shop, but only to be told the ticket had already been cashed out days earlier by another person, who apparently had an identical ticket. Perplexed by the development, he visited the sports betting platform’s head office to make a complaint.
By October 5, 2023, N3 million was transferred to his account by one Bamigbade Gbenga through a Providus Bank account. Currently, Lukman expects the remainder of his winnings to be paid, rallying netizens to his aid.
“I visited Bet 9JA shop located at No. 20, Shadare Compound, Iddo, Lagos State, (and) placed a bet with ticket number B928CTTCZSPWRE-10675073 and won the sum of N16,705,938.18 (sixteen million seven hundred and five thousand, nine
hundred and thirty-eight naira and eighteen kobo) and the amount has been paid into my bank account. That I have settled with the defendant amicably,” said an affidavit dated September 10, 2023, and sworn by Lukman at the Chief Magistrate Court of Lagos shared with GAMING WEEK.
The affidavit suggested that the individual in question had previously resolved their issue with the defendant in an amicable manner after receiving payment. Although it did not expressly state N3 million, the affidavit confirmed he was paid in full without detailing how they reached an amicable agreement.
To delve deeper into the matter, we sought clarification from Adewale Akande, the Head of Legal at Bet9Ja, to understand why Lukman is now insisting on receiving the outstanding balance of N13 million despite several months’ passage.
“The guy was supposed to win N16 million, but while the game was still running, the cashier who had originally printed an original ticket and a ‘second’ original ticket—I don’t know how that is possible. Only those in operations would know—gave it to her boyfriend, and the boyfriend came to claim a cash-out,” Akande revealed.
He added, “The ticket was sent to the agent who unknowingly approved it, and they cashed out N1.7 million. Unfortunately for them, probably because they have been doing this for a long time, the game was a winning ticket. The customer came to collect his winnings, and of course, he’s entitled to his winnings. It was at that point they discovered the ticket had already been cashed out.
“So when they did the investigation, they discovered it was the cashier in connivance with her boyfriend. The two of them were picked up by the police and transferred to Panti (State Criminal Investigation Department), detained, and arraigned before the magistrate court a few weeks ago.”
Considering the punter’s predicament, which was neither Bet9JA nor the punter’s fault, both parties entered a settlement agreement. Akande elaborated that the customer reached a compromise agreement with Bet9JA, and they paid him N3 million. He then undertook to collect the sum of N3 million as the full and final payment of his winnings.
The court case involving the unnamed cashier and her boyfriend is currently underway.
In its quest to close the infrastructural gaps in the country and rejuvenate the country’s sinking economy, the federal government established the National Lottery Trust Fund, NLTF, to support national development, taking into consideration the importance of institutional building in the realisation of the government policies and programmes. Section 35 of the National Lottery Act 2005 gave life to the NLTF to facilitate the achievement of national development goals by promoting access to lottery funds for Good Causes projects that would drive national transformation.
It is also mandated to strategically complement the federal government’s efforts in improving the quality of life of all Nigerians through the investment of lottery funds in innovative projects that address Nigerians’ yearnings and aspirations in pursuit of sustainable social investment in a broad, inclusive, distinctive, and
integrated approach. NLTF’s activities since its inception were not much heard about until February 2018, when former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Dr Bello Maigari as its executive secretary. The appointment, which was described by most players and stakeholders in the lottery industry as “well deserved,” marked a turning point not only for the agency, which recorded many successes and achievements but also in rebuilding the public and stakeholders’ confidence and trust in its activities.
Maigari, a first-class graduate of Applied Economics and a master’s degree in business administration, politics, and international affairs from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, is a highly accomplished professional, technocrat, and seasoned administrator with over 30 years of experience in public service. He is known for his dedication to duty and humane disposition. He succeeded in introducing many result-oriented reforms that refocused the institution on
effective service delivery. Today, the agency’s narratives are changing as a catalyst for national infrastructural growth and development through the proceeds of the lottery in the country.
His ebullient qualities, brilliant performance in all the places he served, educational attainment and leadership acumen made him an attractive bride to NLTF. He was brought on board in 2011 as the coordinator of its Lagos office, where he rose through the ranks to become the deputy director of operations through hard work, commitment, and dedication.
He was subsequently promoted to the substantive director of operations of the agency, a position he held until 2018, when Buhari appointed him as the executive secretary of NLTF. On assumption of duty, Maigari swung into action to bring his leadership sagacity and vision to bear in the agency’s activities. He started by restoring the lost glory of the agency by introducing significant policy reforms and strengthening the legal framework to reposition and rebrand the
agency to meet its obligations, culminating in various successes recorded by the agency in various sectors of the national economy.
Some of these operational and legal frameworks include guidelines on how to access the lottery fund for intervention projects, a guide for project management and planning, a guide for monitoring and evaluation, post-impact assessment standard operating procedures, a whistle-blower policy, a scheme of service, and conditions of service, among other reforms, which have repositioned the agency for optimal performance.
Within a short time in office, Maigari has succeeded in making the agency attractive to most stakeholders and players in the gaming industry, who continue to invest massively in lottery businesses.
This enabled the agency to raise more funds, which were channelled into the national economy to improve the lot of Nigerians and bridge the country’s infrastructure gaps.
“Responsible gambling for us is a major thing. Actually, It’s one of the cardinal points of His Excellency. Under 18 should not be gambling. We go out to betting shops. I will say we have a robust task force that goes to the betting houses to make sure that that is not happening. We do community outreach with a lot of advocacy with parents and guardians, but again, the only place we fall short is online. We cannot control if a child picks up their phone now, and somebody that is under 18 starts using their phone to bet. But we do awareness on the radio, on TV, and in print and online media to let them know that it’s not allowed and for the retail ones, we make sure that we are enforcing them. There are hefty fines that we impose if we ever find somebody who is under the age of 18 in your betting shop.”
– Olajide Boladuro, Director General , Oyo State Gaming Board
The 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna, typically a bastion of healing for wounded soldiers, recently found itself grappling with an unseen enemy within its walls with the outbreak of Lassa Fever.
However, through a remarkable display of unity and collaboration, the combined efforts of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, ISTH, have successfully curtailed the spread of the virus, marking a triumph over adversity.
Lassa fever is an acute and potentially fatal viral haemorrhagic disease endemic in many West African countries. It is caused by the Lassa virus and transmitted primarily through contact with food, household items contaminated by the urine or excreta of the mastomysnatalensisrat species and through contact with body fluids of infected individuals, particularly among caregivers.
In Nigeria, Lassa fever is characterized by yearly outbreaks that occur typically during the dry season when rats are dispersed by bush burning and other human activities.
The 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Kaduna is a tertiary healthcare facility established in 1944, offering clinical care, laboratory and radiological services as well as preventive services to military personnels, their relatives and neighbouring communities on inpatient and outpatient basis.
Between February 19 and 21, 2024, the hospital, a sprawling facility housing 600 beds and led by Acting Chief Medical Director, CMD, Colonel N. S. Onuchukwu, faced a grave health crisis. During this period, the facility tragically recorded four deaths- three healthcare workers and a patient, from a suspected outbreak of Lassa Fever.
This occurrence was said to have resulted from the management of a patient with acute severe febrile illness suspected to be the index case on the 2nd of February 2024.Samples taken from the suspected cases and analysed in the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Kano office confirmed an outbreak of the disease in the hospital.
In a swift response, the hospital undertook prevention and control measures which include shutting down the accident and emergency department of the hospital for thorough disinfection as well as post exposure prophylaxis with ribavirin tablets given to the staff.
To curtail further fatality, the hospital’s management sounded the alarm, seeking support from medical experts at ISTH and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. This collaborative effort underscored the severity of the situation and the urgent need for a coordinated response.
In a letter addressed to the management of ISTH, the Reference Hospital lamented the outbreak of the disease, noting that despite measures to curtail the spread of the virus, much is still needed to stem the tide of the dreaded Viral Haemorrhagic Fever, VHF.
While acknowledging the expertise of lSTH in managing VHFs’ the CMD called for the urgent deployment of its personnel 44 NARHK to support the NA in laboratory, case management and Infection Prevention and Control at the health facility.The objectives of the emergency response are to conduct Lassa fever diagnostic investigation in real time using Lassa virus Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction, to isolate and treat confirmed cases of the virus in the health facility and to train and retrain the staff of the health facility on Lassa fever prevention and control.
Defying all odds, management of ISTH, after clearance from the ministry, deployed its emergency response team, and upon arrival, the team in collaboration with the medical team of 44 NARHK sprang into action to rescue the hospital from the grip of the virus.The team conducted an assessment, which included identification of suitable site for installation of the mobile laboratory, assessment of existing prevention and control resources and measures in the 44 NARHK and provision of recommendations for improvement among others.
From its findings, the team reported some challenges bothering on inadequate isolation wards, shortage of manpower and health equipment, lack of personnel training and short practice of hand hygiene.
The team, led by Dr Joseph Okoeguale, Director Institute of Viral and Emergent Pathogens Control and Research at ISTH, recommended restructuring of the isolation center, personnel
training, provision of equipment and material resources, promotion of hand hygiene, in addition to the provision of personal protective equipment for health workers in the facility. It also recommended proper management of wastes and methods of serving foods to patients without having to come in physical contact with them.
In swift implementation of the recommendations made by the team of VFH specialists, the management of the Reference Hospital undertook a series of restructuring within the isolation ward.
A new entrance into the isolation ward was created, different from the staff entrance, facilitating streamlining patients’ admission into the ward. The facility also repaired its broken doors, torn window nettings, fans and air conditioners to improve ventilation.To improve hand hygiene, a
cleaning facility was provided at the exit of the isolation ward.
A dialysis machine from the hospital’s dialysis unit earmarked for use in the treatment of suspected infectious cases from the isolation ward. The hospital also engaged in the training of its medical, laboratory and support staff of the 44 NARHK. The training session was necessary to enlighten the officials on infection prevention and control practices with special emphasis on measures to prevent and control Lassa fever.
Chief Medical Director, ISTH, Prof. Reuben Eifediyi said it took the combined efforts of the response team to successfully contain the outbreak through real-time laboratory testing, isolation, and treatment of confirmed cases.
“The incident underscored the importance of effective partnerships and rapid mobilization of expertise in tackling public health emergencies,” said Eifediyiwho also made recommendations for ongoing capacity building and the establishment of a biosafety molecular laboratory at the hospital.
Through the combined efforts of the Nigerian Army, ISTH and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, under the leadership of Prof. Ali Pate, the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna State has heaved a sigh of relief as the spread of the virus was successfully contained.
Though the battle against Lassa Fever may have been won, the lessons learned from this experience will endure, serving as a testament to the importance of unity, collaboration, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
•Blessing Yakubu is a community health specialist.
L-R: Director General, African Development Bank, Nigeria Country Department, Lamin Barrow and Vice President, Agriculture, Human and Social Development, African Development Bank, Dr. Beth Dunford, during the Vice President's visit to Nigeria... yesterday PHoto: ENoCK REUBEN
Ugo Aliogo
President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Akinwumi Adesina, has stated that Africa's immense economic potential is being undermined by non-transparent resource-backed loans that complicate debt resolution and compromise countries' future growth.
Adesina spoke at the Semafor Africa Summit titled: Rising Global Middle Class: Is Rising Developing Nation Debt a Blessing or a Curse?” which took place on the sidelines of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank 2024 Spring Meetings in Washington, USA. Adesina highlighted the challenges
posed by Africa's ballooning external debt, which reached $824 billion in 2021, with countries dedicating 65 per cent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to servicing the obligations. He said the continent would pay $74 billion in debt service payments this year alone, a sharp increase from $17 billion in 2010.
"I think it is time for us to have debt transparency accountability and make sure that this whole thing, these opaque natural resource-backed loans actually end, because they complicate the debt issue and the debt resolution issue," he stated.
While acknowledging the fiscal pressures faced by African nations
Stresses no woman must die in childbirth
UNFPA highlights inequalities in sexual, reproductive health
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed the commitment of his government to the welfare and empowerment of girls, women, and young people in the country.
Unveiling the United Nations Fund for Population Activities’ (UNFPA) State of the World Population 2024 Report at the State House, Abuja on Wednesday, the President stressed the need to address the challenges facing the vulnerable people in the society.
The UNFPA’s flagship State of the World Population Report, which was themed “Interwoven Lives, Threads of Hope: Ending inequalities in sexual and reproductive health and rights”, followed the global launch, which held in Geneva on April 17, 2024.
Represented by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, President Tinubu highlighted the importance of ensuring that girls stay in school and avoid early motherhood, providing access to quality healthcare and services, and implementing laws to end genderbased violence and harmful practices such as early/forced marriages and female genital mutilation.
He expressed his administration's commitment towards keeping hope alive for girls, women, and young
people by fulfilling its promises to accelerate actions in Nigeria, adding that his government will ensure that no woman dies during child birth while every girl will have access to quality education and healthcare.
The President explained that with a focus on strengthening the four D Principles - Development, Democracy, Demography, and Diaspora - the government aims to integrate modern solutions into policies and programs that benefit this demographic.
He stated that the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, launched in December 2023, is a testament to the administration's commitment to the health and well-being of girls, women, and young people.
His words: "This initiative aims to improve access to quality healthcare services, including reproductive health and family planning, and address the unique challenges facing this demographic.
“Meeting the aspirations of the population affected by these interwoven threads, who are mostly women, girls and young people, places a great demand and a sense of duty on us all to keep that hope alive. We must fulfil the promises to accelerate actions in Nigeria and ensure no woman dies giving birth.
“We must ensure that girls stay in school instead of becoming mothers at tender ages, provide access to quality health care and services everywhere, including accelerated access to family planning as fundamental for managing our population.
“Also, we must ensure the implementation of laws to end gender-based violence and harmful practices like early/forced marriages, female genital mutilation, that are against women and girls and indirectly against true and enduring development of our nation and people.
“The narrative in the paragraph that was just quoted above, are part of the concerns that formed the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly anchored on strengthening the four D Principles: Development, Democracy, Demography and Diaspora, aimed at integrating modern solutions into our policies.
“With a dynamic population of 220 million that is youthful, growing fast and projected to 450 million by 2050, making us among the fourth or fifth largest, most populous countries in the world by then, and with our rich cultural diversity, we are poised to harness our demographic potential for development of our country.
“I want to assure you, that we are taking bold steps and committed to
addressing issues that affect our youth reproductive health, and in December 2023 I launched the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, which is anchored in a sector-wide approach and the Basic Healthcare Provision Pact”.
Earlier in his speech, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State expressed outrage over the continued high rate of maternal mortality in Nigeria, calling it "unacceptable" and "a shame" that women still die in childbirth in 2024.
due to the Covid-19 pandemic, infrastructure needs, and rising inflation, Adesina explained the need to address the structural issues in Africa's debt landscape.
He pointed out the shift from concessional financing to more expensive and short-term commercial debt, with Eurobond debt now accounting for 44 per cent of Africa's total debt, up from 14-17 per cent previously.
He also criticised the "Africa premium" that countries pay when accessing capital markets, despite data showing that Africa's default rates are lower than those of other regions.
He called for an end to the risk perception, which he said leads to higher borrowing costs for African nations.
The AfDB president stressed the importance of putting in place an orderly and predictable way of dealing with Africa's debt, urging for faster implementation of the G20 Common Framework.
He also highlighted the need for increased concessional financing, particularly for low-income countries.
“What's particularly interesting in Africa is that the level of concessional financing itself has actually gone down, has shrunk significantly. The African Development Fund—the Bank Group’s concessional lending arm to low-income countries—is providing long-term financing at low interest rates to the 37 most vulnerable countries,” he disclosed.
Adesina discussed various instru-
ments and initiatives employed by the AfDB to de-risk projects and attract institutional investors, such as partial credit guarantees, hybrid capital, and synthetic securitisation.
Looking ahead, Adesina expressed optimism about the opportunities in Africa, particularly in renewable energy, given the continent's vast solar potential.
He also disclosed that the Africa Investment Forum, a platform created by the Bank and its partners, that brings together investors from around the world to facilitate largescale investments in key sectors like infrastructure, digital, and renewable energy.
"Africa is the best investment destination in the world," Adesina concluded, emphasising the AfDB's commitment to creating an enabling environment for investments to thrive.
The Semafor summit brought together a range of participants for conversations on the increasing debt burden faced by developing countries as borrowing costs have risen.
Other notable participants included Xavier Becerra, US Secretary of Health and Human Services; Raj Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation; Andrew Steer, President and CEO of the Bezos Earth Fund; and Brent Neiman Assistant Secretary for International Finance, U.S. Treasury. Shah emphasised the importance of balancing developing countries economic needs with the need for climate action.
The Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has directed the immediate release of counterpart funding for all interventions related to the activities of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in the state. He also reiterated his administration's commitment to partner with UNICEF to address the challenges plaguing the health sector in the state.
The governor further assured that his administration will continue to support such activities across the state, especially for the welfare and wellbeing of children and women as well as effective and efficient maternal healthcare delivery services in the State.
The governor was speaking when he received a delegation from the UNICEF led by the Chief of Bauchi Field Office of UNICEF, Dr Tushar Rane. Among the delegation was
Nollywood Actress and UNICEF Child Health Ambassador, Ms. Kate Henshaw who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House Bauchi. Mohammed said that his administration has welcomed the various programmes being implemented by UNICEF across the state, assuring that his administration was ready to complement the efforts for the advancement of healthcare service delivery and educational development.
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah (left) and the Executive Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, during the official handover of 14 assets forfeited to the Federal Government to Enugu State Government at the EFCC head office, Abuja... yesterday.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday, handed over 14 properties initially forfeited to the federal government and now ceded to the government and people of Enugu State.
This was sequel to the request by the Governor Peter Mbah Administration and approved by President Bola Tinubu.
The transfer of the properties to Mbah, was performed by the Chairman of EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, at the corporate headquarters of the commission in Jabi, Abuja.
This was even as Governor Mbah assured that the recovered assets would be deployed to the optimum the benefit of the people of Enugu State.
Speaking before the brief handover ceremony, Olukoyede, who disclosed that the road to the forfeiture dated back to 2007, stated that event spoke of the mutually beneficial relationship existing between the federal and state governments.
“What we are witnessing today testifies to a symbiotic relationship that should exist between the federal government and the state governments.
"The essence of our meeting here today is for us to handover properties that were forfeited to the federal government, which of course belong to Enugu State people back to the
people", he said.
"It shows that governance can work in Nigeria. Our people deserve the benefits of good governance and that is what is being evidenced here today.
“If you look at the history of this particular matter, it takes us back to 2007 when we started the prosecution. So we are looking at about 17 years since the matter has been on.
"Eventually some of the properties were forfeited and since then, the EFCC has been managing those properties even though the titles of quite a number of the properties have been revoked by the Enugu State government", he added. The EFCC chair further declared: "we are witnessing here today is the official handing over of the properties to the people of Enugu State through His Excellency, Dr Peter Mbah".
Earlier in his remarks, Governor Mbah expressed gratitude for the handover and thanked the EFCC chair and the commission for ensuring that the people of his state reclaimed their common patrimony.
“I would like to express my profound gratitude for the event we are witnessing today.
"The importance and significance of this event can never be lost on us and we do not also take it for granted.
So, I want to take this opportunity to convey my profound gratitude and deep appreciation to the chairman
and members of the EFCC team that have brought us to where we are today", he said.
"This is a journey that began several years ago and we are marking a formal closure to that journey here today. A journey that saw the successful prosecution of certain companies in possession of assets belonging to the people of Enugu State," he said.
The governor who noted that the properties were forfeited not to his state but to the federal government expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for making it possible for
them to be returned to the government and people of Enugu State. “Those assets were forfeited to the federal government. And this brings me to another gratitude that I want to convey here today. I want to acknowledge and recognise the important role played by the President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
"Without the proactiveness and speed at which he acted on our request to cede these assets back to the people and government of Enugu State, we wouldn’t have been here today. So I want to thank
Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court in Lagos has adjourned sine die (indefinitely) the suit filed against First Bank Holdings by the bank's shareholder, Olusegun Onagoruwa, seeking to stop the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the bank.
The judge adjourned the matter till further notice to allow the Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal to hear and determine an appeal
filed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) seeking to join the suit as an interested party. Onagoruwa had filed an application urging the court for an order to stop the now-cancelled Extraordinary General Meeting of FBN HOLDINGS earlier scheduled to be held on April 30, 2024.
In the application, which is yet to be heard before the court adjourned indefinitely, Onagoruwa is seeking the following reliefs: "An order restraining First Bank
him most sincerely for granting our request for these assets that were forfeited to the federal government to be ceded back to Enugu State. The Enugu State Chief executive further asserted that "those properties would be used for the benefit of the people of Enugu state.”
"All the assets without any exemption, and they would be deployed to optimum use for the benefit of the people of Enugu state,” he stressed. He lauded Olukoyede’s initiatives at making the EFCC a strong institution and cautioned against attempts by some individuals to distract the
Privies or anyone acting on their behalf or at their behest, from conveying, conducting and holding the first respondents’ Extraordinary General Meeting scheduled to hold virtually on the 30th day of April 2024, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive action.
Listed as defendants in the suit
commission.
“I will not end this remark without acknowledging the work the EFCC chairman is doing in strengthening this very important institution. It is important that we do not weaken our institutions.
"Thank you very much for all the great work you and your team are doing and particularly for the effort that you have put in to make today a reality,” the governor stated. The properties comprise houses, transmission equipment for radio and television stations, a building for medical operations, among others.
Chinedu EzeThe Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has directed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to suspend the operations of Dana Air following a runway excursion incident in Lagos that occurred on Tuesday. This was contained in a letter addressed to the acting Director General, NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, signed by the Permanent
Secretary, Ministry of Aviation, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, directing the DG to suspend the airline over safety concerns.
“As the supervisor overseeing our nation’s aviation safety and regulatory compliance, it has come to the Honourable Minister’s attention that recent incidents involving Dana Airline have raised serious concerns regarding both the safety and financial viability of their operations.
“In light of these incidents and with the paramount priority
being the safety and well-being of our citizens and travelers, the Honourable Minister has directed that you immediately initiate the suspension of Dana Airline’s fleet until a comprehensive audit can be conducted.
“This audit should encompass all aspects of safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health to ensure full compliance with our aviation regulations.
“The recent incidents have underscored the urgency of this
matter, and it is imperative that swift and decisive action be taken to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders involved.
“I trust in your expertise and diligence in carrying out this audit thoroughly and expeditiously. Please keep me informed of the progress and any significant findings throughout this process.
“Your dedication to upholding the highest standards of aviation safety is deeply appreciated,” the letter stated.
At
resumed hearing of the matter
the lawyer to the defendants, Fred Onuobia (SAN), informed the court that the business of the court is to hear their application challenging its jurisdiction, an application to set aside the Exparte order made by the court, and the petitioner's contempt application against the defendants.
However, a lawyer to the CBN, Olumide Adebowale, urged the court to stay all proceedings in the suit. Adebowale told the court that his application was based on the appeal filed against the court's
ruling, which refused to join his client as a party in the suit.
He also told the court that the parties had exchanged briefs, and the Court of Appeal had fixed July 3, 2024, for the appeal hearing.
He, therefore, urged the court to adjourn the matter 'sine die' till the determination of his appeal.
In response, counsel to the petitioner, Adesoji Adedoyin, opposed the submission of the CBN's counsel on the ground that there are contempt proceedings against all the defendants.
He told the court that the contempt proceedings had to do with the court's order granted on July 15, 2022, which all the defendants allegedly disobeyed.
Onuobia, in his only response, told the court that he did not oppose the CBN's application for adjournment.
He said if the court proceeds to hear the petitioner's contempt application, he will equally urge the court to listen to his application challenging its jurisdiction.
In a short ruling, Justice Aluko held that since an appeal is before the Court of Appeal, the best thing to do is to stay further proceedings to await the verdict of the upper court. Justice Aluko, consequently, adjourned the matter sine die.
The two cabinet members in the Governor Siminalayi Fubara government, who were redeployed to new ministries,have resigned their appointment.
The former commissioners, Prof Zaccheaus Adangor and Isaac Kamalu, loyalists of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), had also sent in their resignation letter through the office of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Tammy
Danagogo, yesterday.
In their separate resignation letters addressed to the governor, they claimed that the job was no longer convenient for them.
The former Attorney General and Commissioner for justice, Adangor,
who was reassigned to Ministry of Special Duties, said "I wish to state for the record, that I am no longer willing to continue to serve in the administration of His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, in any capacity
tony Icheku in Owerri
Several top ranking national officers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Imo State, representing the South-East zone, yesterday, resigned their positions.
This development, however, followed the resignation of a former Imo State governor, Hon Emeka Ihedioha, from the party on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, citing the lingering controversy over the position of the PDP national secretary.
National officers from the State whose resignation had been confirmed included Chief Chris Okewulonu, a Board of Trustees, BoT member; four zonal officers including Mr. Stanley Ekezie, exofficio Zonal Officer; Chief Austin Okeke, Zonal Publicity Secretary; Chief Emeka Nwokeke, Zonal Organising Secretary and Mrs. Ruth Nkwocha, Zonal Woman Leader.
In addition, three state officers and a local government chairman have resigned. They were Mr Kiss-
inger Ikokwu, State Legal Adviser; Mazi Emenike Nmeregini, State Publicity Secretary; Chief David Abanihi, State Assistant Treasurer and Hon Sambazz Iheaturueme, Obowo LGA Chairman
Other top ranking officers of the party who had exited were Hon Obinna Onwubuariri, former member of the House of Representatives; Mr Chibuzor Agulana, former Aboh/Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency candidate for House of Representatives.
Others were Prof Obioma Iheduru, Hon Mrs Amarachi Owuamanam and a host of others, all totalling 22 members.
Chairperson of the PDP Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara, had in his remarks at the recently concluded NEC meeting, said, “Furthermore, the contentious issue surrounding the office of the National Secretary, has regrettably sown seeds of discord within our party.
“The ambiguity surrounding this position has led to confusion
and internal strife, hindering our collective efforts to pursue our noble objectives.”
Specifically, the bone of contention in Imo PDP is a tussle for supremacy between Ihedioha and Senator Samuel Anyanwu, PDP's National Secretary on one hand and the South-East PDP caucus and the National Executive Council, NEC on the other hand.
The South East PDP caucus, rising from its February, 2024 Zonal Executive Committee meeting, had urged the NEC to ratify Sunday Udeh-Okoye as the party’s National Secretary, in line with the zone’s decision and a valid court order.
The South East PDP in its communiqué issued at the end of the meeting in Enugu maintained that Udeh-Okoye was the zone's choice for the position and accused the party’s national leadership of mistreating the zone by neglecting their earlier nomination.
They insisted that they would no longer tolerate the delay in ratification of Mr Udeh-Okoye as
Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, yesterday said Nigeria was facing multiple security threats to its sovereignty from insurgents and bandits across the nation.
Oborevwori stated this when he received the House of Representatives Committee on Defence, led by Hon. Babajimi Benson, at Government House, Asaba.
He said that his administration had set up an Ad-hoc Committee to address humanitarian concerns emanating from the crisis in Okuama community, adding that President Bola Tinubu and the Army high command had assured that no innocent citizen of the community would suffer as a result of the crisis.
The governor assured that efforts
were in top gear to rehabilitate the people of the community.
He said: "Without doubt, this is one of the most important committees in the House because it has to do with the defence of our territorial integrity. "In recent years, Nigeria has faced multiple threats to its sovereignty and security from bandits, insurgents and the like. But God, in His infinite mercy, has helped our leaders to navigate the situation.
"However, the problem persists. Therefore, Nigerians expect a lot from this committee. I have full confidence that this committee will do justice on the matter because we believe in justice.
"What people don't know is that before this incident happened, there
was a peace accord signed by the Okoloba community and Okuama community.
"Last Saturday, I went to Okuama community to see the place to know the extent of damage. Today, we have set up a committee, Ewu IDP Committee, by which we can rehabilitate the people. By next week, by God's grace, they will commence work; so, we will do our best to ensure peace across the state."
Earlier, the Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Hon Babajimi Benson, said they were in the state based on the resolution of the House to unearth the remote cause of the crisis that led to the death of 17 military men in Okuama community.
the party’s national secretary at the meeting chaired by Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State alongside PDP National Vice Chairperson, South East, Ali Odefa.
Senator Wabara, in his remarks, said he was pained that the national leadership of the party had treated the South-East zone of the party with levity.
Odefa, who read out communiqué at the end of the meeting stated: “The meeting reiterated and reconfirmed its decisions in its earlier meeting held on 20th October 2023, which asked Senator Samuel Anyanwu to stop parading himself as the National Secretary of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), as he has relinquished the office by virtue of the constitution of the PDP, which has been upheld by a court of competent jurisdiction.
whatsoever."
He claimed that "the Governor of Rivers State had in the past couple of weeks wilfully interfered with the performance of my duties as the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Rivers State by directing me not to defend, oppose, or appear in suits instituted against the Honourable Attorney-General and the Government of Rivers State by persons admittedly hired and sponsored by the Government of Rivers State.
"That having served the government and good people of Rivers State dutifully as member of the Rivers State Executive Council for the past five (5) years, it has become imperative for me to quit the administration in order to preserve my reputation."
On his part, former Commissioner for Finance, Kamalu, who was redeployed to Ministry of Employment Generation and Economic Empowerment, and also rejected his new posting expressed that he would rather quit than be in the government where the atmosphere was not peaceful.
He said after the peace agreement meeting with President Bola Tinubu, he expected a government that would work in accordance with the laid down rules.
Kamalu also disagreed with the announcement of the increased in State Internally Generated Revealed (IGR) by the governor,
saying although the amount was not as declared but achievement was accumulated efforts of past government.
In his long resignation letter addressed directly to the governor, Kamalu said, "Your Excellency would recall that I served under the Administration of His Excellency, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, now Honorable Minister of the Capital Territory, Abuja, originally as Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning (2015-2019) and subsequently as Commissioner for Finance - with oversight responsibility for the Rivers State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning (2019- 2023).
"The mandates of the respective Ministries were to the best of our abilities (as ministries) duly carried out and at all times material relevant reforms were embarked upon for improved performance and effective and sustainable service delivery.”
On the peace pact, Kamalu said, "You will respectfully recall that when the climate of discord became unbearable I and other likeminded members of the Executive Council that were appointed by you resigned.
"In the course of official engagements I have reiterated the need for this peace and the fact that we all are wiling and determined to work for this. It is very difficult to deliver good governance where there is acrimony and discord.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has scheduled its Ondo State governorship primary to hold today, April 25 2024 The party's National Working Committee (NWC) also set up a seven-member Governorship Primary Election Committee to be chaired by the deputy governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Ewhrudjakpo Oborawhartevwo. This was contained in a statement signed by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, in Abuja, yesterday. According to Ologunagba, “The NWC of our great Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); pursuant to
the provisions of the Constitution of our party, has appointed the following underlisted members of our party to serve on the Ondo State Governorship Primary Electoral Committee;
“…to conduct the Governorship Primary Election for the purpose of nominating the candidate of our great party for the upcoming governorship election in Ondo State. The exercise is scheduled to hold at International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, Akure, Ondo State.
“Other members of the committee are Hon. Oluwole Busayo Oke, Rt. Hon. Muktar Ahmed, Haj. Hassana Diko, John Mathew, Hon. Nnena Ikondon and Hon. Dare Adeleke, Secretary.”
A statement by the State Publicity Secretary of party, Kennedy Peretei, said a total of 627 Delegates from the 18 council areas of the state were expected to elect the standard bearer of the party for the 2024 governorship election.
The party has also adopted direct mode of primary for the election of its candidate ahead of the November 16 governorship election in Ondo. He said aspirants cleared by the Senator Sam Egwu Screening Committee to participate in the primary election included former deputy governor, Agboola Ajayi; former Secretary General of Yoruba Social Political Organisation, Afenifere, Chief Olusola Ebiseni; a member of the House of Representatives, Kolade Akinjo; Adeolu Akinwunmi, John Mafo, Otunba Benson Akingboye (Oba) and Arebuwa Bosun.
L-R:
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has withdrawn its appeal at the Abuja division of the Court of Appeal, challenging the temporary order restraining it from arresting the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Mr Yahaya Bello, over alleged money laundering offence.
This was as a legal practitioner, Daniel Bwala, has blamed the commission for behaving like a prosecutor and judge in the case of Bello, saying media trial could pave the way for his escape.
The Notice of Withdrawal, cited by THISDAY was dated April 22, and signed by one of the Commission's lawyer, Jibrin Okutepa, SAN.
Hearing in the appeal on Monday, did not go on due to the ongoing judges conference in Abuja.
EFCC had gone to the appellate court to seek an order staying the exparte order issued by Justice Isa Abdullahi as well as appealing the ruling.
However, on the said date the hearing was supposed to come up, the anti-graft agency applied to the court to withdraw the appeal.
The applicant predicated its action on the grounds that event had already overtaken the appeal.
The Notice of Withdrawal read in part: “This honourable court take notice that the appellant herein intends to and do hereby wholly withdraw her appeal against the respondent in the above mentioned appeal.
“This notice of withdrawal is
predicated on the fact that; on April 17, 2024, the application filed by the appellant herein was overtaken by the decision of the same High Court of Kogi State in the case of Alhaji Yahaya Bello vs, EFCC-Suit No: HCL/68M/2024 Per A.I Jamil.
"The orders made ex-parte by Jamil on the February 9, 2024 in the said suit which is the subject of this appeal, was made to last pending the hearing and determination of the Originating Motion on Notice which was finally determined by Jamil J. on April 17, 2024.
"Furthermore, the notice of appeal was filed out of time and we therefore pray that the appeal be struck out for being filed out of time and incompetent. Dated this April 22, 2024."
Following the withdrawal of the appeal against the exparte order, it is expected that the Commission would now file an appeal against the substantive judgement.
A legal practitioner, Daniel Bwala has blamed the EFCC for behaving like a prosecutor and judge in the case of Yahaya Bello.
According to him, his attempted arrest by the EFCC, coupled with the media trial would pave the way for him to escape and relocate to other country.
Bwala, who spoke yesterday on the Morning Show of ARISE News Channels, said the several press conferences organised by EFCC to explain why the anti-graft commission was hunting Bello without him
present at such press conferences, amounted to media trial.
According to him, Nigerians were asking whether the EFCC actually intended to prosecute Bello or it was indirectly giving
opportunity for the accused to escape before legal trail in a competent court. “EFCC’s approach to arrest and prosecute Bello had always been the same approach for all
criminal cases brought against some persons in the past, which have led to EFCC losing high profile cases in the past,” Bwala said. He condemned the recent press conference organised by the EFCC
to give the public some details about the planned arrest and prosecution of the former Kogi State governor, insisting that the media conference was a plan to offer Bello an escape route.
Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan
Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, yesterday, said he hadbroken the jinx of ‘who is your father’ in the political space of the state. He, therefore, charged the Nigerian youths to be more actively involved in governance by increasing their participation and exposure in politics.
"For us here, we have seen the common situation where 'who is your father' was the order of the day but we have been able to break that in Oyo State. My father was a ‘nobody’ and the Oyo State people still gave me the opportunity to lead," he said. The governor equally noted that he would join others as a worthy ally to prepare Nigerian youths for the future, saying, "We may not be able to prepare the future for the youth, but we can prepare the youth for the future.
"Please, don't see this event as just an opportunity to look at the issue of leadership in this country. And, in me, Seyi Makinde, the youth have an ally and we will prepare the leaders of the next generation
amongst the youth.”
Makinde spoke at the Students' Legislative Summit organised by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, in conjunction with the Students' Representative Council, University of Ibadan.
Present at the event held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, were the Minister of State for Youth, Ayodele Olawande; a former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, who was represented, and Speakers of Osun and Ekiti States Houses of Assembly. Makinde maintained that the issue of leadership was imperative in preparing the youth for the future and governance. "I am here this afternoon to encourage the youth. If you look at the history of Nigeria, we had our independence in 1960 and six years after, in 1966, the person that became the Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, was 31 years and some months old. After him, during
Emma Okonji
Former Chairman, Kaduna State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has said the planned probe of the former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, by members of the State House of Assembly was in order, with no trace of witch-hunting. Hayab, who spoke on the Morning Show of ARISE NEWS Channels, said such probe was expected and would bring about accountability of the previous government. He said during the administration
of El-Rufai, several things went wrong and many people, including members of the Assembly, could not stand up to speak the truth about the killings and kidnapping of Christians, including issues with loans, abandoned projects and non-payment of workers’ salaries because they were afraid of the former governor.
“The current governor, Uba Sani, when he assumed office as the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, noticed that the state was divided and the people were not at peace, and as a gentleman, he chose to unite everyone in the state, irrespective f
their religious affiliation. “He started with dialogue and talking with the people of the state. During the dialogue, certain realities that hitherto divided the people began to show up and he promised to address them amicably.
“During the regime of El-Rufai, projects were done half way, commissioned and abandoned, workers’ salaries were not being paid and people were divided.
“The planned probe is not an attack on the former governor of the state. It is about accountability. What I think they want him to do
is to provide information on areas about governance and expenditure of public funds that seemed not clear to the present government.
“There is need for leaders to be accountable. Nobody is accusing him of stealing public funds but to give account of how the funds were spent on certain projects claimed to have been completed during his regime.
“I want to commend the current members of Kaduna State House of Assembly for their courage to set up a committee to investigate the level of financial expenditure under the watch of El-Rufai.
the Second Republic, former President Obasanjo retired as a General at the age of 39.
"You should dream big; people have ruled this country at very tender ages. So, for you, don't think that at 29 or 30, you are too young to rule and I am glad, because this is almost like catching them early.
"You have the students here and in about three years, some of you will be out there to move on. If I were you, I wouldn't start looking for work; I would start doing my own thing at a very early age of 24 or 25. With the kind of energy you still have, you can pull down the kingdom of Satan.
"Before the 2019 election, I told him that from the data available to us, Oyo State people would give us the opportunity, because they wanted to try something totally different. That we were coming from a background of no-godfather and the people wanted a change. I told him that was their mood and he agreed.
"I predicted that he would win and when the election came, it turned out to be what we predicted and he became the Speaker of the House. I can see that Osun State is following in our footsteps. You see, our people just want us to deliver.
"For the Speaker himself, the opportunity came in 2018 to replace a former Speaker from his Constituency. He became a member of the House of Assembly.
Juliet Akoje in Abuja
The House of Representatives has asked the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Mr Mele Kyari to appear before it on May 8, 2024 over alleged environmental degradation caused by the activities of oil companies in oil-producing communities in the country. The Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Julius Pondi, made the remarks at an investigative hearing on the need to investigate the services and ‘unprecedented’ environmental damage within the communities yesterday.
The House Committees which includes Environment, Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Petroleum Resources (Downstream) and Climate Change besides the NNPC, further summoned Chevron Nigeria Limited, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Total Energies, Oando Oil Limited, Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited Seplat Energy among others. Government agencies also summoned included the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) National Oil Spill Detection Response Agency (NOSDRA) as well as the National Environmental Standards Regulations and Enforcement Agency (NESREA) Pondi, during his remark said the matter to be addressed was critical and threatened appropriate sanctions if those invited failed to turn up. When the probe commenced on Wednesday, only four out of 35 oil companies and agencies invited for the probe showed up.
May peg demand at N150,000 - N200,000 NAAT demands N350,000 instead
The federal government has fixed a meeting for today to consider proposals by the organised labour for a new minimum wage.
The meeting which is to take place at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) will be attended by the government representatives on Tripartite committee on new minimum wage only.
A letter scheduling the meeting, dated April 24 and signed by a Permanent Secretary in the SGF Office, said that, "the purpose of the meeting is to deliberate and agree on government position on the new minimum wage which will be presented at the next meeting of the triparted Committee".
The two major labour centres, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), had earlier made separate
proposals for the new minimum wage based on what they called existing economic realities."
The asked government to accede to their demand for a living wage that sustains an average worker based on the ever-rising cost of living.
TUC had proposed a figure of N447,000 per month, while the NLC later adjusted its stance to request N794,000 per worker. However, in their latest submis-
sion to the government, both unions jointly proposed N615,000 as the new minimum wage, reflecting a compromise in the face of economic challenges.
At the meeting summoned by the SGF today, the government side is expected to consider all positions including that of the governors under the auspices of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum before arriving at a middle ground. A source at the SGF office, said
Ahead of the September 21 governorship election in EdoState, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Monday Okpebholo, has described his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) counterpart, Asuerinme Ighodalo, Okumide Akpata of Labour Party and the others as baby politicians who believed that speaking fine English would translate into victory.
He said he and his party would teach them a lesson they would never forget on election day.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),
Monday, announced that political parties were now permitted to start campaigning in public from yesterday, Wednesday April 24, 2024 and end at midnight on Thursday 19th September 2024.
However, Okpebholo in a statement by his media office assured the Edo people that he would not disappoint or deceive them.
“As the campaign kicks off, I urge our supporters to remain calm and focused. They should not allow anyone to provoke them.
“I am assuring them we will win this election and take over the state on the 12th of November this year, when the current anti-people regime would have left office.
“My running mate, Hon. Dennis Idahosa and I, alongside with other party faithful, will be speaking with the people directly during the campaigns. We will address their concerns and leave no stone unturned.
“We will not lie to the people or deceive them. Our word will be our bond. We will address their concerns and ensure that everyone is carried along.
“We will talk to our people directly and give them reasons why they should give us a chance to serve them. We have done it before. We will do it again.
“The good thing is that my running mate and I have contested
and won elections before. We are currently members of the National Assembly.
“Those trying to challenge us are baby politicians, who believe that speaking fine English will translate to victory. We will teach them a lesson they will not forget on election day.
“Our traditional institutions have been messed up by Obaseki. The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II and other Royal Fathers will be held in high esteem, unlike the Peoples Democratic Party's disrespectful arrogance towards our traditional institutions."
michael olugbode in Abuja
Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, has said swift and decisive actions were needed to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. The minister made the statement on yesterday while delivering a speech at the 17th meeting of the Council of Environment in Abuja.
He decried that “Climate change is threatening ecosystems, livelihoods, and biodiversity, environmental degradation disproportionately impacts mar-
ginalised communities, exacerbating inequalities and perpetuating social injustices.
“We must redouble our efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, embrace renewable energy solutions, and foster sustainable practices across all sectors.
"Mobilising more financial inflow for environmental sustainability is essential because it allows for the allocation of resources towards projects and initiatives aimed at protecting and preserving the environment.
"As we are all aware, environ-
ment financing is capital intensive, to mobilise more financial inflow for environmental sustainability. There is the need to implore innovative financing mechanisms, such as Green Bonds, Carbon Pricing, and Public-Private Partnerships,” he said.
Noting that this would help in generating the resources needed for effective environmental protection and conservation efforts, the Minister added: “I therefore urge members of this council to intensify exploration and implementation of financing mechanisms at their disposal.
"As we convene amidst pressing
global challenges, from climate change to biodiversity loss, our duty as custodians of the environment has never been more paramount. Each decision we make within these walls reverberates far beyond, shaping the health and sustainability of our planet for generations to come.”
On his part, Minister of State for Environment, Dr Iziaq Salako, in an address of welcome stated that the need to galvanise more financial windows for environmental sustainability efforts was not just an aspiration but a commitment that would define our era.
from all indications, the federal government might consider amounts ranging N150,000 to N200,000 as the template for further negotiation. But one of the university-based unions, the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has recommended a new national minimum wage of N350, 000 for workers in the country.
NAAT 's proposal came just as the Minister of Education, Prof. Mamam Tahir, assured university workers of the federal government's determination to fix challenges of the education sector, including prioritisation of staff and students’ welfare.
Addressing members at 5th National Delegates Conference of the NAAT, its President, Ibeji Nwokoma, said the non-payment of backlog salaries remained a pressing concern, impacting the financial stability on members
and causing disaffection and low morale.
To address this challenge, he said the leadership of the association would pursue proactive measures, including dialogue with relevant authorities, recourse to necessary action within the ambit of the law, and sustained advocacy to ensure the prompt and fair resolution of outstanding salary arrears, and prioritising welfare of members.
But Tahir, who declared the conference open, said the federal government was taking proactive measures to address the challenges in the education sector.
He described technology as the centre of the country's current drive for development, adding that the association was very relevant “because today's world is driven by technology,” adding that technology rules the world and was at the centre of everything we do.
APC Lauds Ododo over Guber Primary as Oke’s Group Seeks Tinubu’s Intervention
The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee (NWC) has commended the Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, for his impressive performance in the just concluded Ondo State governorship primary election, where he served as chairman of the committee.
But a group supporting one of the aspirants, Chief Olusola Oke, Movement of Truth, has urged President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene, even as he called for cancellation of the primaries.
National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje gave this commendation while receiving the report of the election committee presented by Ododo at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday.
This was contained in a statement by the special adviser on media to the governor, Ismail Isah, in Lokoja. Receiving the report, Ganduje congratulated the governor for a job well done and noted that the
party was proud of his performance in the conduct of the governorship primary election, being the first national assignment of the governor.
He praised the leadership skill and manner the Ododo managed the primary election, adding that the collation of results from the 203 wards and the 18 council areas was viewed live on national television.
Earlier, Ododo thanked the APC National Working Committee for finding him and his committee members worthy of the all important national assignment.
Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of Movement of Truth, a political group that supported Oke in Lagos, Dr Benson Enikuomehin, appealed to the president to urgently look at the way the primaries were conducted, cancel it and order and one conducted.
Crying that the people of Ondo would not accept the "charade that was conducted on Saturday", it claimed, "if APC should go ahead and accept this shenanigan, the people of Ondo won't take it proper, it may affect the chances of the party."
L–R:Head Media and Corporate Communications, Emerging Africa Group, Kuburat Yakubu; Head, Trust Services/Director, Emerging Africa UK Representative Office, Olutoye Sanni; Director of Financial Institutions/ Key Accounts ; Nike Kolawole; Managing Director, Emerging Africa Trustees Limited, Felicia Sonubi; Executive Vice-Chair, Emerging Africa Group, Dr. Toyin F Sanni; Group Executive Director, Mahmoud Shuaib; Managing Director, Emerging Africa Asset Management Limited, Ada Ijara, and Regional Head, South-south Emerging Africa Group, Collins Olise, during the inauguration of the company’s office in Port Harcourt...recently
John shiklam in Kaduna
A father and his son have been arrested by the police for impersonation during the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
unfortunate that some parents have descended so low in morals to the extent of resorting to such shameful act.
“We have a case of a father
Oloyede said that the father whose name he did not disclosed, impersonated the son during the exam.
He said that it is very
The Registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, disclosed this in an interview with journalists yesterday after inspecting the Kaduna State University University (KASU) Computer Based Test (CBT) Centre.
Omon-Julius Onabuinasaba
Vice-Chancellor(VC) of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, Prof Andy Ogochukwu Egwunyenga, has urged Nigerians to brace up to the fact that quality education cannot be obtained on a platter of gold but demands financial sacrifices from those desiring to have it. Egwunyenga said that it would amount to wishful thinking for Nigerians to expect quality university education anywhere without paying reasonably for it, stressing that university system operate is also affected by the economic forces just like every other sector.
The VC stated this during a press conference yesterday in Abraka campus of the university on the 16th Convocation of DELSU, whose programme of activities is to be concluded on Saturday.
Fielding questions from newsmen, including claims that the state-owned university was charging increasingly high fees for its academic programmes, Prof Egwunyenga noted that the complaint was attributable to the seeming lack of political will by the country’s leaders in the past to accept the fact that quality education, especially at tertiary Ievels, demands a huge financial budget.
KemiOlaitaninibadan
The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) yesterday called for effective collaboration with the media in the country towards tackling the menace of copyright infringements.
The Director-General of the commission, Dr. John Asein, who made the call at a media parley in Ibadan, said while the commission has the power to arrest and prosecute people involved in copyright infringements, it still needs the support of journalists to achieve its aims, maintaining that copyright infringements have negative impact on authors and the society as a whole.
impersonating his son, writing examination for the son and I wonder! Are you not destroying your son’s future?
“Of course, two of them
are now in custody. I cannot understand what the father will now tell his son when they are both locked up in the same cell.
“This definitely did not happen in Kaduna, but I don’t want to disclose the state,” the JAMB registrar said.
Wale i gbintade
Justice Ambrose Lewis Alagoa of the Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday sentenced two businessmen, Ifeuwa Moses and Ayogu James, to two years imprisonment for unlawful importation of 1,570 pump action rifles into the country.
However, the Judge ordered the convicted businessmen to pay fine of N1 million on each of the counts, as fine in lieu of the jail terms.
The Judge gave the judgment based on the plea bargain agreement reached between the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and counsel to the two convicted businessmen, Yakubu Galadima.
The two convicts alongside their company, Great James Oil and Gas Limited, were first arraigned before Justice Salisu Saidu (now retired) sometimes in 2018 on an eight count-charge of conspiracy, unlawful importation of the 1,570 pump action rifles and forgery and uttering of Customs’ import documents.
igbawase Ukumba in lafia
The Nasarawa State House of Assembly yesterday summoned the Area Manager of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to appear before it over persistent power blackout and over billing of customers across the state.
The House, therefore, directed the AEDC Area Manager to appear before it on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.
Speaker of the House, Hon. Danladi Jatau, gave the summon after Hon. Solomon Yakubu Akwashiki (SDP- Lafia Central) raised the issue on Matter of Public Importance during the House proceedings in Lafia.
The speaker said that the House wanted to know why there is epileptic power supply and over billing of customers across the state.
Jatau said: “This is affecting the lives of our people and their businesses negatively across the state, as many people could not afford paying light bill again. Even those that could pay hardly enjoy the electricity.” He said that the constitution has empowered the House to invite anybody operating in the state for questioning on matters of public importance.
A security consultant with the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL), Chikwe Udensi, has urged Abia State Governor, Alex Otti not to mix his good works with some falsehood when passing information to the people.
Udensi, a chieftain of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), said that he is disturbed at the way the current Abia government is treating with kid gloves, the alleged embezzlement of N107 billion Abia money.
He said that the manner Otti’s
administration is treating the case of the money it alleged to have been embezzled by the immediate past government of Dr Okezie Ikpeazu after forensic auditing, sends a disturbing signal that such allegations may not be true.
A few days ago, Governor
Otti, while speaking to some Abia people in the United States said: “N79.3 billion was paid to seven contractors for contracts that were not executed at all. Another N15.9 billion almost N16 billion was paid to 63 contractors with no supporting documents anywhere.
KuniTyessiinabuja
The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA), Mr. Emmanuel Abimbola, in his contributions, urged governors of Southwest states to reduce fees charged on book review for publishers, stating that this will reduce cost of books in the markets which has become a burden to most parents in the country.
He said: “We need your support to stamp out copyright infringements. This means we all have responsibility. “We have the power to search, arrest and prosecute. But, we rely on police, NSCDC and other security agencies so as to get it done. We have a good working relationship with the security agencies. The problem of enforcement is real.”
Veteran journalist and columnist, Ray Ekpu, has lost his wife, Uyai Ekpu. Ekpu, in an emotional statement issued yesterday, said: “With a humble acceptance of God’s will, but with a huge dose of sadness, we announce the passing of Uyai Ray Ekpu, wife of Ray Ekpu, former Editor-in-Chief/Chief Executive Officer of Newswatch, on April 21, 2024, after a brief illness. She was aged 73 years.
“Uyai was a senior staff of the Centre for Management Development (CMD), and retired
in 2011 as an acting director, Management Education and Training Department. “She obtained both a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a Master’s degree in Library Science from the University of Ibadan, Oyo State. She also obtained a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Enugu State University of Technology, Enugu State. She also earned diplomas from the Maastricht School of Management and the Ghana Institute of Management and Personnel Administration, Ghana.”
The National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) has continued to push for a new constitution that would devolve the concentration of power at the centre to federating units in order to enable them take charge of their security.
In view of this, they have pledged to liaise with the ethnic nationalities and commence the process of giving Nigeria a new constitution in 2024.
The National Secretary of NCEF, Pastor Bosun Emmanuel, reeled out the suggestions in a communique issued after its meeting on the ‘State
of The Nation: Racial Displacement Invasion’, chaired by former Deputy Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Samuel Gani, where they called on the indigenous ethnic nationalities to come together to renegotiate Nigeria.
The communique read: “The Forum of Christian Elders alerted
Nigerians that the nationwide activities of terrorists are deliberate acts of displacing indigenous ethnic nationalities from their ancestral lands for non-indigenes and foreigners to occupy the lands. The owners of the land end up as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in their own country.
An Anambra lawyer, Mr. Anthony Agbasiere, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to beam its searchlight on banks and people who trade Nigeria’s currency in public events.
The lawyer said that doing so would reduce the rate at which people abuse the Naira at public events, and would be more rewarding to do than going after people spraying the Naira note at social events.
Agbasiere said: “Let the EFCC go after those selling and stealing naira and not dissipating their energy on people spraying Naira just as they did to the controversial cross-dresser Idris Olanrewaju Okuneye popularly known as Bobrisky.
“Bobrisky is currently serving a six months imprisonment without an option of fine for abusing the Nigerian currency, naira, but I see people do worse.
“There is nothing wrong in spraying money, it is just an act done while in a happy mood.
“Currency is been sprayed across the globe, even in the United State of America, people also spray dollar there without any arrest let alone arraignment.
yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
In an effort to grease the wheel of nation’s development, the Chairman, Governing Council Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke (OSCOTECH), Hon. Diran Odeyemi, has called for
adequate funding of technology institutions to enable them to train students on skill acquisition programs that are required for development of the nation. Odeyemi noted that there is no nation around the world that developed without given priority to polytechnic and technological institutions, adding that much attention should be given to polytechnic education in Nigeria. He said that polytechnic education should be given a pride of place because that is the only institution where skills are acquired for self-development.
“The world is changing and technology is already driving the world and every nation yearning for development must embrace technology.
“Our government must focus and encouraged polytechnic education capable of turning the nation around,” he said.
Femi Solaja
Kwara United have been charged for providing false information which led to a fixture adjustment that disrupted the live television broadcast schedule of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 31.
In a two count summary jurisdiction, the Ilorin-based club was charged for breach of Rule C1.1 and B6.23, attracting a total fine of
N6million.
Kwara United caused their scheduled Matchday 31 fixture against Akwa United to be moved from Saturday, April 20 to Sunday, April 21, citing a letter claiming that the state government had planned an event at the stadium.
It turned out that there was no such activity by the state government at the stadium which rather hosted a lower league fixture. The first charge contained in Form
16 of the Summary Jurisdiction notice dated April 22, read, "You are in breach of Rule C1.1 of the Frameworks and Rules of the Nigeria Premier football League, in that on Thursday 18 April 2024, prior to your Match Day 31 Fixture: Kwara United FC vs. Akwa United FC, you brought a late application for the rearrangement of the fixture outside of the prescribed time for making such applications, basing your application on a lie and relying
on falsified documents, an act capable of bringing the game to disrepute".
The second charge read, "You are in breach of Rule B6.23 of the Frameworks and Rules of the Nigeria Premier football League, in that on Thursday 18 April 2024, prior to your Match Day 31 Fixture: Kwara United FC vs Akwa United FC, you disrupted the live broadcast of a game by making false claims about the unavailability of your home ground".
Dominic Calvert-Lewin (centre) was on target as Everton moved closer to Premier League survival and put a huge dent in Liverpool's Premier League title challenge with an outstanding 2-0 win at a thunderous Goodison Park. Jarrad Branthwaite's first-half goal and a towering header from Dominic Calvert-Lewin after the break gave Everton their first Merseyside derby win at home since October 2010 in a victory that could assume huge significance.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) Africa has announced Nigeria as the regional winner of the Cricket Initiative of the Year 2023.
The PwC Under-17 Cricket Championship, which has been the rallying point for Nigeria’s developmental initiative, won the award for the Uyi Akpata-led Nigeria Cricket Federation.
According to the ICC statement on the project, “The ICC Development Initiative of the Year award recognises the outstanding development initiative delivered during the year and regional winners include Nigeria Cricket Federation, whose Under-17 Cricket Championship continues to provide competitive playing opportunities for boys and girls across the country.”
In his reaction to the award, President of the Nigeria Cricket Federated, Uyi Akpata, said the Award couldn’t have come at a better time.
“This is an award that celebrates the power of collaboration. PwC and several partners took a gamble on us and backed our developmental initiatives. It is gladdening that, it is yielding results on a global dimension,” observed the NCF Chief.
In recent years, Nigeria have been winner of “Cricket 4 Good Social Impact Initiative of the Year” for the developmental activities of the federation at the IDP camp in Edo State and the 100% Female Cricket Initiative of the Year for the massive girl-child enrolment initiative in Zamfara State.
The Nigerian women’s team have been on a steady rise, climbing from 39th on the global ranking to 26th in four years. This progress culminated in the country winning the Bronze medal at the African Games a few weeks ago in Ghana.
“It has been encouraging to know that the ICC has been keeping tabs and particularly recognising the efforts of our team of passionate cricket development officers and the Board of the Federation. This will only spur us to go further.”
Sam Abu, Country Senior Partner at PwC Nigeria, sponsors of the U17 Cricket tournament said the development confirms the potential they had seen and the belief that Cricket can galvanize, empower and equip the youths of Nigeria
for global impact.
“This global recognition for our joint initiative with the Nigeria Cricket Federation is one we are proud of, especially for the fact that it confirms that the game has the potential to galvanise, empower and equip the youths for global impact,” he concluded.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has congratulated the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire for emerging the winner of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. He gave the commendation yesterday when the Ambassador of Cote d’Ivoire to Nigeria, Mr Kalilou Traore, paid him a visit in Abuja.
Cote d’Ivoire’s Elephants defeated Super Eagles 2-1 in the final match played in Abidjan to join Nigeria as the only two countries to win the coveted competition on three occasions.
“Even though that is particularly not what we wanted. We wanted to come back home with the cup, but God said that it is your own turn.
“So, I congratulate you for that and also for being a good host for the tournament,” Wike said. He commended Cote d’Ivoire for taking steps to develop the plot of land allocated to its Embassy in Abuja, stressing that the FCTA had insisted that all allocated land must be developed as part of measures to check insecurity in the Federal
Capital City.
“I thank you for developing the land that was given to your embassy.
“The whole essence is to ensure undesirable elements do not convert the land to their hideouts to carry out nefarious activities. We do not want to leave certain areas for miscreants, and so we thank you for the cooperation,” the FCT minister said.
He also stressed the need for stronger ties among ECOWAS countries for the development of the sub-region saying Nigeria will continue to strengthen its relationship with other countries.
“Luckily, our President is the Chair of ECOWAS, and so, we will do everything we can to see that our relationship is smooth, cordial and symbiotic,” he said.
Earlier, Traore said that the visit was to inform the minister that the Embassy was about to begin the development of the land allocated to it in Maitama.
“We were given two plots in Abuja: one at the Diplomatic Drive area and the other at Maitama.
The maiden edition of The Athletics School Games (TASG) will kickoff on Saturday, April 27, at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Centre, Lagos.
Speaking at a press conference to herald the games at Safron Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday, founder of The Athletics School Games, Dr. Seun Akinbohun, said the driving force behind the games was to give the burden talents across Lagos State opportunity to express themselves.
"We are a country that is full of talents but there are not enough athletics competitions in Lagos State, hence the need to catch these burden talents at an early age informed the founding of TASG.
"Beyond competition amongst the participating schools, TASG would also be building discipline and uprightness amongst the pupils,"
Akinbohun said.
Some of the events that the pupils would be participating in, include 100m, 200m, 400m, long jump, 4 x100 and 4x400 relay races amongst many others.
Participants will include both primary and secondary school pupils from the ages of three.
For Keke Hammond, a founding member of TASG, the games would not be a one off event, as plans have been put in place at ensuring that TASG outlived its founders. Lagos State Athletics Association will also be on hand to give the games the necessary technical support needed and also ensure the participants play by the rule.
One of the popular food drinks giants in the country, Maltina, is also on hand to support the games, and its brand manager, Clementina
Expectations are high as the 10th edition of the Okpekpe international 10km Road Race marks 30 days before the start of the first World Athletics
NOGIG 2024: Ogwuche of Team Chevron Guns for More Gold
The 19th Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games (NOGIG 2024) continued yesterday at the Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Complex Abuja, with various events winding down to the semi finals and final stages.
In chess, Otokini Ogwuche of Chevron won gold in the women's event while a player from Team Total Energies (who didn't want his name in print) won gold in the men's category.
In table tennis, it was a battle of
wits between Joseph Adebayo of NCDMB against his counterpart representing Exxon Mobil in the men's singles quarter final match. Adebayo who was silver medalist in the 18th edition of the games outstroke his opponent to advance to the semi final. “The match was good, both offensively and defensively. The guy from Exxon Mobil was good, I was lucky I had an edge over him,” said Adebayo, after his victory. There was also stiff competition in
tennis where finalists have emerged in the men's and women's singles events.
In the women's final to be played today, Princess Akata of PTI will clash with Effiong Eje of Total Energies, while in the men's singles category, it will be an all-NNPC affair as Awin Ganjang and Williams Ibiba clash in the final.
label road race in West Africa. Organisers of the historic race have confirmed that a lot of prgrammes have been lined up to commemorate the 10th anniverssary of the first race to be internationally recognised and the first to have its race course measured by a World Athletics certified course measurer.
“We are also optmistic the race will produce its first sub-28 minutes runner as we have confirmed Daniel Ebenyo, the defending men's 10km race winner and World Athletics Championships and World Road Running Championships silver medalist for the event.
“We are celebrating the 10th anniverssary of the race that opened the door to others in Nigeria to get World Athletics recognition,” observed Dare Esan, the media and activation director of the race.
In the men's singles final, Ikechukwu Ewa is in the frame for double honours as he will square up against Jauro Rimantari of NNPC in the men's single semi final match. The other semi final match will see Lapo Faturoti of Shell against Joseph Amali of NNPC.
The Squash courts were not idle either as Tope Fatoki of Shell defeated Banjo Onasanya of NNPC to advance to the final in the men's veterans category. Ikechukwu Ewa of NLNG will clash with Gangangha Taridouy representing NCDMB in the other semi final.
Esan stressed that this year's race will see the assemblage of world-class athletes who want to follow in the footsteps of some Okpekpe race champions who have gone on to carve indelible niches for themselves at the World Championships and World road running championships.
“Ebenyo set a new 28:28 course record last year and the certainly much improved 28 year old is coming back to not only become the first man to successfully defend an Okpekpe race but also the first to run sub-28 minutes over the distance,” added Esan.
Esan also revealed everything is almost ready for another world-class delivery of the only gold label 10km road race in Nigeria, especially the volunteers who have always worked to make the race the resounding success it has been since the first edition as a label race in 2015.
“My problem with Lokpobiri started in December 2023, when he sent one of his undocumented aides within his Ministry to my office in Yenagoa (Blackson) requesting me to increase NCDMB budget by N30 billion for the office of the Minister, and I said it had never been done before”—Immediate-pastExecutive SecretaryoftheNigerianContentDevelopmentandMonitoringBoard(NCDMB),onthe friction between him and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources. Simbi Wabote to Heineken Lokpobiri
It doesn’t surprise me that the former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, is now a fugitive from the law. Any discerning person would know that the man who bullied the people of his state for eight years is simply a coward. Four years ago, I wrote the following words after Bello was re-elected for his second and final term in office. “While the body bags are still being counted in Kogi State, with fresh killings even after the results have been declared, Yahaya Bello is back as I predicted,” I stated in the opening paragraph to my November 2019 column, following his re-election marred by several killings. “I watched him (Bello) on television yesterday and he couldn’t even spare a word to condole the families of those who died. So, to the people of Kogi who will have to endure another four years of purposeless government, please accept my commiserations.”
An Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN)-certified accountant, Bello worked with the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) from 2001 (after his mandatory NYSC) until he retired into transport business and politics. He joined the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) of Muhammadu Buhari, who would later become president. Elected governor in November 2015 without even being on the ballot (he inherited the votes of Abubakar Audu who died before the results could be announced), one would expect Bello to be humble. But for eight years, he behaved as though he was above the law. In fact, he saw himself as the law. He repeatedly told appointees that in his own dictionary, ‘loyalty comes before efficiency’.
Governor!
Under Bello’s stewardship, every election in Kogi State was like war. In a video that went viral before the 2019 gubernatorial election, Bello’s female supporters were threatening his opponents with gunshots. Ahead of the 2023 election, there was another trending video of Bello where he said: “I will personally light a fierce fire in my hand. Whoever want it, we shall use it to burn them, whoever survives it will thank God… Whoever is against us, we will make him or her (to) join my mother and lie with her (my mother) in the grave.” By that video, according to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) spokesman, Debo Ologunagba, Bello revealed himself. “From his outburst, Nigerians now know the individuals who engineered the gruesome killing of many of our citizens including the PDP Woman Leader in Kogi State, Mrs. Salome Abu, who was burnt alive in her house in 2019. Also, Nigerians now have more insight into the disappearance of Hon. Adelabu Musa, the PDP Chairman in Okene Local Government Area for over three years now,” Ologundana said in a statement released at the time.
Ordinarily, the impeachment process is guided by unambiguous laws as to how it could be prosecuted. But not in Kogi under the ‘White Lion’ who held the three arms of government in his firm grip. On 20 October 2019, Bello illegally terminated the tenure of his deputy, Simon Achuna, using his cronies in the State House of Assembly and a compromised judiciary. The then Chief Judge of Kogi State, late Justice Nasir Ajanah, empanelled an impeachment committee in line with section 108 of the 1999 constitution (as amended) to investigate allegations against Achuna by lawmakers. The committee reported back that there were no verifiable grounds for impeachment and consequently returned a verdict of not guilty. At Bello’s insistence, the same Justice Ajanah, whose panel acquitted Achuna of any
For eight years, Bello projected the image of a tough guy, apparently because he misunderstood the real meaning of power. Acting under a purported resolution by the State House of Assembly in October 2022, the former governor deployed armed thugs to seal the Dangote Cement Plc in Obajana. He claimed that Kogi State owns the plant and resorted to self-help in what appeared a not-so-subtle attempt at a shakedown. After much damage had been done, the company was reopened following the intervention of the federal government.
The litany of misdeeds by Bello, who combined hubris with narcissism, is quite extensive. During the Covid-19 pandemic that led to a lockdown in most countries across the world, including Nigeria, the former governor insisted there was no such health challenge in Kogi State. When Justice Ajanah died at the Gwagwalada COVID-19 Isolation Centre in Abuja and had to be buried at Gudu cemetery in compliance with the COVID-19 burial protocol set by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Bello was livid. He said the Kogi Chief Judge died of natural causes, and not of anything else as is “being insinuated by certain persons for political and mischief purposes”, while describing Covid-19 as a ‘hoax’.
Meanwhile, Bello has a criminal case with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding double registration in both the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Kogi State. “Following reports of the alleged double registration by the governor of Kogi State in the on-going Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, the commission set up a panel of investigation into the involvement of staff in the matter. The initial report submitted by the panel was referred to the Appointment, Promotion and Disciplinary Committee, which made recommendations to the commission,” the INEC National Commissioner & Member, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, announced on 14 December 2017. “While the governor of Kogi State currently enjoys immunity from prosecution, the commission took the following decisions in respect of its own staff: Summary dismissal of
two staff for acts of gross misconduct, immediate and compulsory retirement of an electoral officer for acts of gross misconduct.”
So serious was the matter that on 28 February 2018, the Senate mandated its Committee on INEC to investigate. “The governor of Kogi was involved in double voter registration and weeks after, INEC confirmed that by sacking three of its staff,” Senator Mohammed Hassan said in a motion that was unanimously adopted. “It was reported that he (Bello) was issued another Temporary Voter Card (TVC) at his Okene ward.” Then Senate President, Bukola Saraki, explained the gravity of the matter: “The issue you are talking about is one that is important because the stability of our democracy depends on the credibility of our electoral process. It is something the INEC committee should investigate and report back to the Senate.” Despite the indictment, Bello claimed that if anybody was engaged in double registration, it must have been his ghost. Now that he no longer enjoys immunity from prosecution, the law must find that ‘ghost’ and hold him to account.
Readers may argue that the foregoing has nothing to do with Yahaya Bello’s case with the EFCC. That is true. I am just not interested in that drama of corruption. As I have always reiterated on this page, fighting corruption requires proper investigation that will lead to trials and convictions. It’s not about telling tales in the public. In the instant case of Bello, the only evidence of corruption that is credible is the one presented in a court of law. Not at press conferences. In November 2017, then Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen, established the Corruption and Financial Crimes Cases Monitoring Committee (COTRIMCO). In its report, the committee said of the EFCC: “Offenders are charged to court before proper investigations of the charges are done, and afterwards, expecting the court to detain such alleged offenders till conclusion of their investigations”.
I am aware that the former governor and his nephew, Ali Bello (currently the Chief of Staff to the incumbent Governor Usman Ododo) and two other accomplishes are being accused of laundering a total sum of N80,246,470,088.88, belonging to Kogi State. The allegations may well
be true. But he will not be the first governor to be so charged. A former governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle (around whom EFCC staged a similar drama last year) is now a member of the federal executive council! So, this intervention is not about how Bello fiddled with the resources of Kogi State and his hide-and-seek game with the EFCC. It is about the perils of power for politicians who behave as though there is no tomorrow. The question that arises is, why do the Yahaya Bellos of this world thrive in our political system?
Since early last year, I have been working on a book regarding 25 years of unbroken democracy in Nigeria. Despite my best efforts, it is not likely to be out till the end of this year or early 2025. The reckless abuse of power is one of the issues I am interrogating since those who abuse power have no qualms about looting public funds. We must wonder why a constitutional republic continues breeding so many rudderless apprentice emperors who rule with impunity, fiddle with public funds, violate the rights of the very citizens they were elected to govern, and literally run amok with power.
But it is not all negative. The strength of our system lies in the chilling lesson that after the wildness of uncontrolled power comes a return to sanity when the cloak of absolute immunity yields place to the cold reality of common ordinariness. By his action, Yahaya Bello has suddenly come to terms with the full implications of that reality. What he has failed to understand is that he cannot continue to deploy the services of his successor, Usman Ododo, to shield himself. I am sure there is an expiry date to that relationship between the godfather and his godson as we have seen in numerous states over the years.
Overall, I fail to understand why Bello is on the run. If he is well advised, he could surrender himself to EFCC followed by drummers with his ‘Ta ta ta’ female supporters as cheerleaders. With enough resources to hire as many Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) as he wants, I am sure Bello would spend not more than a few days in Kuje before he walks free. A ‘Lion’ (white or black) should not regress into the rascality of behaving like a weather-beaten chicken in a bid to frustrate the law and evade accountability.
The ten-minute BBC Yoruba interview with a former United States-based wrestling legend, who is now Oba James Oladipo Buremoh, Aroko Ola Ajagungbade 1, the king of Idera community in Kwara State, has continued to generate considerable interest. In the video clip, the man renowned in the past as ‘Ladi the African Tiger’, told the story of his emergence as king, and the initial pact with his people which included allowing him to spend six months annually working in the United States and returning home to spend six months…