WEDNESDAY 26TH April 2023

NDDC, US Firm Seal $15bn Deal for Construction of Mega Rail Line Connecting Niger Delta States

Oshiomhole, Peterside, Wabote, others charge commission to entrench sound corporate governance to attract private sector financing

Group

Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com,

EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS CENTRE AT NIIA...

African Union Department, Ministry

Chief of Defence Staff, General Leo Irabor and Director-General, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs,

Early Warning Systems Centre at NIIA, Lagos....yesterday

TCN’s Market Operator Laments Indiscipline in Power Sector, to Disconnect Defaulters

Says adherence to rules below expectation TCN vs Aba Power: Industrialists lament disconnection from national grid, rising cost of production CLO seeks Buhari’s intervention

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja, Dike Onwuamaeze and Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The electricity sector Market Operator (MO) of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), yesterday threatened to activate partial or total disconnection of defaulting participants in the industry.

This was just as industrialists in Aba, Abia State, have risen in stout defence of Aba Power Limited, which was disconnected from the national grid last Friday, by the TCN over an N896.21 million debt owed as fees to government agencies in the power sector.

The market operator is a division of the TCN which issues market settlements and invoices due to the market participants and service

providers in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). TCN licence empowers it to manage the market operator and the system operator, which is responsible for the wheeling of electricity from generation to electricity distribution companies.

But in a statement signed in Abuja, by the MO, Dr. Edmund Eje, he attributed many challenges in the industry to indiscipline, explaining that it remains a factor halting expansion of the sector.

The market operator insisted that power supply industry was governed by rules which it said were absolutely necessary for the viability and sustainability of the sector.

“As such, these rules are sacrosanct and must be complied with by all

existing or new players in the sector,” Eje stated.

He noted that for all the players to interact effectively and create the requisite harmony for growth, efficiency, profitability and continued sustenance of the sector, the rules set for governance and regulation of relationships in the sector must be obeyed and upheld.

“Some of these rules are domiciled with the market operator. Today, adherence to the market rules are below expectation,” he pointed out.

Eje added: “NESI market indiscipline is one of the major factors dealing a disastrous blow to the scalability and growth of the market. Market Participation Agreement (MPA) is signed by all participants, but to comply with them is usually an uphill task for many.

“If the rules of every game are observed, there would be no need for sanctions, he said. Currently, the market operator –TCN, is embarking on sanctioning erring market participants, having given them notices and time to comply with the market rules.

“One of the fallouts of the sanctions will be the partial or complete disconnection of defaulters from their point of connection to the grid,” it stressed.

According to the MO, it is natural that some of the sanctioned players may attempt to politicise the action to score cheap points and whip up unnecessary sentiments.

Eje, however, cautioned that people should be sensitive to the real issues, which is efficiency and survival of the power supply sector.

NSCDC Reiterates Commitment to Combating Illegal Oil Bunkering in Rivers

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reiterated its commitment to fighting the menace of oil theft and illegal dealings in petroleum products in Rivers State.

The State Commandant of NSCDC, Michael Ogar, made the commitment yesterday in Port Harcourt, while reacting to a petition berating his performance by a civil society group, Youth and Environmental Advocacy Center (YEAC-Nigeria and United Kingdom).

The group had in the petition demanded the redeployment of the NSCDC Commandant from Rivers for allegedly failing to perform his duties, abuse of office and continuous frustration of the federal government and President Muhammadu Buhari’s campaign against crude oil theft, artisanal refineries and environmental management efforts in the State.

In the statement signed by Olufemi Ayodele, Public Relations Officer of the command, Ogar said the Executive Director of the Advocacy Center, Fyneface Dumuname Fyneface, and the foreign journalists who visited the command were not prevented from having access to his office neither were there any

intension to embarrass or obstruct their interview process.

He noted that they were politely informed that there would be need for them to get official clearance from the Corps National Headquarters in Abuja, before details of arrests of suspects, convictions and forfeitures could be made available for public consumption by the Rivers State Command.

"Let me further affirm that the Command is a Public environment and my office is open to everyone except there are exigencies of duty or emergencies beyond our control; there is no way a visitor would come to my office and would be denied access.

“The office of the Rivers NSCDC State Commandant is open to the public and under my watch, the command has partnered with state government, sister security agencies, civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations, faith based and traditional institutions which has enhanced the fight against oil theft and illegal dealings in petroleum products in Rivers State.

"In addition, the general public is free to find out and assess the successes and achievements of the Command within my 10 months assumption of office. These are very evidential and visibly published on

social media and press statements.

“It is also expedient to state that within July, 2022, to date, the command has made 180 arrests in which 389 suspects were involved; we have secured 26 convictions with 41 number of convicts while 40 exhibits which includes: Cars, Boats, Trucks and Petroleum products have been forfeited and proceeds remitted

into federal government coffers." Ogar further stated that the command was ready to partner with well-meaning Nigerians, especially YEAC-Nigeria and United Kingdom in order to enhance the fulfilment of their mandate and the collective fight to rid the state from crude oil theft, environmental mismanagement and pollution.

For clarity, MO enunciated the summary of the suspension procedures in the market notification of non-compliance.

"When a participant violates the market rules or fails to pay amounts due to the market operator, the market operator will first notify the participant in writing, specifying the violation and requesting that corrective action be taken within a specified period.

“If the participant fails to comply with the notice, the market operator may issue a notice of intention to suspend a participant’s access to the market. This notice will specify the reasons for the intended suspension, the proposed duration of the suspension, and the conditions for lifting the suspension,” the organisation said.

The statement stressed that the participant will be allowed to respond to the notice of intention to suspend and provide reasons why the suspension should not be imposed.

If the participant still fails to comply with the "notice of intention to suspend', the market operator, Eje pointed out, may issue a 'notice of suspension', which may last for 30 business days after which the MO can escalate the suspension to the commission for the business continuity regulation to click in.

Thereafter, it added that the notice will be sent to the participant by a registered mail, courier, or electronic means, and will also be published on the market operator’s website.

“During the suspension period,

the market operator may also take steps to secure any outstanding payments or obligations owed by the participant.

“After the suspension period, the participant may apply for reinstatement by providing evidence of compliance with the market rules and any other conditions specified in the 'notice of suspension'.

“The market operator will review the application and make a determination on whether to lift the suspension or not,” Eje explained.

TCN vs Aba Power: Industrialists Cry against Disconnection from National Grid, Worsening Cost of Production Meanwhile, industrialists in Aba, Abia State, have risen in stout defence of Aba Power Limited, which was disconnected from the national grid on by the TCN over an N896.21 million debt owed as fees to government agencies in the power sector.

The TCN had in a letter with reference number TCN-MO-003APL-049-VOL2-202, dated April 19, 2023, asked Aba Power to clear its debt within 30 working days, but on the same day the TCN turned around and wrote another letter with reference number TCN-MO003-APL-049-VOL2-202 to the MO directing it to yank off Aba Power from the transmission network from April 21, 2023.

Okpanachi: DBN Disbursed N631bn to MSMEs in 2022

Women accessed 67% of credit, youth 27% Earnings totalled N47.6 billion, PBT N29.5 billion, 250,000 jobs created

James Emejo in Abuja

The Managing Director/Chief Executive, Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Plc, Dr. Tony Okpanachi, yesterday disclosed that the bank disbursed over N631 billion to over 313,000 MSMEs across the country in 2022.

This was a significant improvement when compared to N482 billion which was lent to over 208,000 MSMEs in the preceding year.Speaking at the bank's Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja, he said by deepening impact within five years of operations, the bank had been at the forefront of development, playing a focal and catalytic role

in alleviating financing constraints for Nigeria's underserved MSMEs.

He said the credit disbursements represented 31 per cent growth in financing support and 50 per cent growth in MSMEs impacted.

Of the total MSME beneficiaries of DBN funds over the 5-year period, 67 per cent were women and 27 per cent were young people, with over 250,000 jobs already created.

He said the 2022 financial year-ended with an impressive operational and financial performance, despite challenges within the operating environment.

According to him, within the review period, the bank achieved earnings of N47.6 billion and Profit Before Tax (PBT) of N29.5 billion,

as well as cost to income ratio of 15.9 per cent.

Okpanachi said the low costto-income result emphasis the impact of the cost-saving measures implemented by the development finance institution during the course of the financial year.

According to him, “2022 was a rewarding year despite the challenges. Our focus will continue to be on our mandate. For us, the 2023 outlook is critical, and we will take every opportunity it presents to deliver more value to our stakeholders.

“Based on many projections for the year 2023, it will most likely constitute more challenging times, with many small businesses tak-

ing the hit. However, in all these and against all odds, we remain resolute and optimistic about a brighter tomorrow for DBN and the Nigerian MSMEs.”

However, the DBN boss pointed out that the bank had been recognised globally at different times for its outstanding contribution to the development of the MSME ecosystem in Nigeria, winning the best World Bank project in Nigeria within the five-year period among other laurels including a major financier for women MSMEs by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in collaboration with the World SME Forum.

L-R: Presidential Candidate for Social Democratic Party, Adewole Adebayo; Director,

of Foreign Affairs, Maxy Ogbede; Founder of Julie Pharmacy, Mr. Julius Adelusi Ademiluyi;

Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, during the inauguration ceremony of the General Leo Irabor

PHOTO: ABIODUN AJALA

GAMBARI HONOURED IN JOHANNESBURG...

Agora Report Prescribes Immediate Reforms, Urges FG to Boost Oil Revenues

Says savings from subsidy removal must be spent transparently

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Agora Policy, an Abuja think-tank has urged the federal government to work on boosting oil earnings, stressing that the drastic fall in oil revenue has been as a result of the double whammy of lower oil production and petrol subsidy.

Noting that the government needed to take decisive action to address the two critical issues, the Waziri Adio-led group noted that addressing the drastic fall in oil production requires urgent action to end oil theft in the oil producing areas.

This, it said in a policy paper, would require strong determination from the government and crucial cooperation from host communities and the security agencies.

“ The government needs to review the security architecture in the oil producing areas and give clear instructions about ending oil theft. In addition, both the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited should be given clear oil production and exporting targets, and be held accountable when these are not met,” it stated.

Agora policy stressed that the use of a strategic communication team to engage the public and other critical stakeholders on the benefits and costs of removing the subsidy would be required for the public to buy into the policy measure.

At the same time, it stressed that detailed plans of how funds are saved from subsidy removal need to be extensively discussed and disseminated to the general public

to increase trust as a social capital.

The savings from the fuel subsidy, it advised, could be used to scale up short-term direct cash transfers to the poorest and most vulnerable groups in the country while prices of petroleum products should be market-determined rather that regulated by the government.

As Nigeria prepares to usher in a new administration, it noted that the state of the economy remains a key point of interest, owing largely to the myriad of economic challenges the country faces.

“The key macroeconomic statistics do not paint a rosy picture. The inflation rate rose to 22.04 per cent in March 2023. Real GDP growth rate fell from 3.40 per cent in 2021 to 3.1 per cent in 2022. The latest statistics show that 40.1 per cent of Nigerians are poor, while unemployment is 33.28 per cent.

“Despite favourable global oil market conditions, domestic oil production shocks have dampened oil revenue inflows and have drastically increased the cost of the petrol subsidy, thereby widening Federal Government’s fiscal deficit.

“This has led to crowding-out of critical spending on social services and infrastructure,” it explained.

It noted that many revenuegenerating agencies either fail to remit any revenue, or remit a very small fraction to the government. This , it posited, poses a serious problem that needs to be addressed because it deprives the government of the much-needed revenue.

Moreover, the action of such agencies, Agora said, is in violation of the Fiscal Responsibility Act which mandates revenue-generating

agencies to remit 80 per cent of their operating surpluses to the Consolidated Revenue Fund and retain 20 per cent in their reserve fund.

The Independent think-tank group said there was a need to address the nation’s dismal tax revenue to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio.

“The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has done well in recent times by increasing revenue generated from N6.4 trillion in 2021 to N10.1 trillion in 2022, thereby crossing N10 trillion in revenue for the first time.

“However, for the size of the economy, government revenue and expenditure are grossly inadequate

to effectively drive policy, enhance economic growth, lower poverty, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Agora noted. It further contended that there was an urgent need to broaden the tax net to capture the formal and informal sectors not in the existing tax net.

For the formal sector, it said that a first step would be to properly capture and tax high net worth individuals and large corporations, explaining that FIRS needs to work closely with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) to identify small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) and ensure they pay taxes appropriately.

“Some simple incentives and an amnesty period, following which appropriate sanctions will be meted out, can be given to ensure quick compliance. It would be crucial to continuously communicate the issue of tax reforms to the citizens to gain public confidence in the system. In addition, leakages from taxes collected by non-state actors need to be eliminated,” Agora said. It added that the Fiscal Responsibility Act should be amended to set strict penalties for agencies that fail to remit their stipulated operating surpluses, noting that there was the need to stop funding revenue-generating agencies from the federal budget.

As for improving the budget implementation framework, Agora noted that this entails strengthening the zero-based budgeting framework by ensuring that budget preparation starts on time.

“There is an urgent need to end ‘drip-feeding’ which has inhibited the completion of critical capital projects and perpetuated the ‘ongoing project' syndrome.

“ This comes at zero cost to the key agencies such as the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning and the Budget Office of the Federation. Increased budgetary provisions should be given to capital expenditure,” the group added.

Mustapha, NIMC Boss, Others to Discuss Data-driven Engagement at Communication, Development Confab

Sule, Lalong, Ume, others to be honoured

James Emejo in Abuja

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha, is expected to declare the fifth edition of the International Conference on Communication and Development in Africa open next Tuesday in Nasarawa State.

Also, Director General/Chief Executive, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Mr. Aliyu Abubakar Aziz, would deliver the keynote address at the occasion alongside state chief executives and policy makers who would be

honoured at the ceremony.

The conference, with the theme: "Change Management and DataDriven Strategic Engagement for Development", is being hosted by the Institute of Strategic and Development Communication (ISDEVCOM), Nasarawa State University, Keffi, holds on May 2nd and 3rd.

The Chairman, Local Organising Committee of the conference, Mr. Odoh Diego Okenyodo, in a statement, said over 20 pioneers of development communication and others who have advanced the practice are scheduled for honors

MultiChoice Nigeria Adjusts Tariffs for DSTV, GOTV Subscribers

Some pay television companies in the country have adjusted tariffs, with others expected to do the same as they battle rising operational costs.

MultiChoice Nigeria yesterday announced new tariffs, few days after StarTimes, the Chinese-operated television company announce new prices for its packages.

MultiChoice Nigeria announced adjustment of prices on both its DStv and GOtv packages via a text message to its subscribers.

A sample of the message sent to DStv Premium subscribers’ decoders read: “Dear Customer, due to rising costs of business operations, please note that from May 1, your monthly subscription (Premium) will be N24,500. To retain

your old price of N21,000 for up to 12 months ensure you are active by April 30.”

The new regime would also see the price on the Compact+ bouquet move to N16,600 from N14, 250 monthly. Subscribers on the Compact bouquet would under the new price regime, pay N10,500 as against N9,000, with those on Confam set to pay N6,200 as against N5,300. Those on DStv Yanga and Padi would pay N3,500 and N2,500 respectively as against N2,950 and N2,150. On the GOtv service, subscribers on GOtv Supa package would pay N6,400 as against N5,500, with those on GOtv Max paying N4,850 as

against N4,150. GOtv Jolli subscribers are due to start paying N3,300 as against N2,800, with the tariffs on GOtv Jinja and GOtv Lite also rising from N1,900 to N2,250 and N900 to N1,100 respectively. To cushion the effect of the price review, MultiChoice Nigeria, as usual, has made a price lock offer to subscribers, who renew their subscriptions before their due dates.

The offer allows customers to pay the old rates for 12 months if they pay monthly before the expiration of their subscriptions. Similarly, it grants subscribers, who pay for one year at a go, before the new prices kick in, the opportunity to

pay the old tariffs.

A country-by-country price comparison showed that Nigerian DStv Premium subscribers would pay the equivalent of $33.11 (N740 to a dollar), with those in South Africa paying 879 Rands ($48.48 at 18.1 Rands to the dollar).

The tariff of N16,600 to be paid by Nigerian Compact + subscribers, the equivalent of $22.43, while those in South Africa will pay 579 Rands ($31,94). Compact customers in Nigeria, it was also discovered, will pay the equivalent of $14.19 (N10,500).

Kenyan subscribers on the three bouquets will pay KES 9,500 ($70.06), KES 5,900 ($43.51) and KES 3,300 ($24.34) respectively.

at the forthcoming event.

However, Executive Director of ISDEVCOM, Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, pointed out that the awards are part of the institute's fifth anniversary celebrations and dedicated to the promotion of dialogue between the academia and the society for national development.

He said, “We want to acknowledge the roles played by pioneer researchers, theorists, practitioners and different stakeholders in communicating development.”

Also speaking, on the conference, the Vice- Chancellor of the university, Prof. Suleiman Bala Mohammed, said he remained proud of what ISDEVCOM had achieved in a short span of five years, one of which is organising the conference on communication and development in Africa.

He said, “I am glad that this conference has become a veritable gathering of diverse experts from the academia and practitioners in development communication, alongside policy makers, civil society organisations, key government institutions and the media, and this edition is throwing light on how data has been a driver of strategic engagement for development.”

The institute is credited with championing curriculum development in Science Communication in Africa, partnering with Sci-Dev of London and funded by Robert Bosch Stiftung of Germany.

ISDEVCOM popularised Science

Communication in Nigerian universities and also mentored the Makarere University of Uganda as well as other institutions internationally.

Meanwhile, the honourees include Nasarawa State Governor, Mr. Abdullahi A. Sule; Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong; Chief James Ume (Ike Abam Onyerubi), who is the Founder, Unubiko Foundation, Abuja/ Publisher, The Whistler; founder of the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Centre of Excellence on Development Communication, Prof. Ogah Steve Abah; Director General of the Nigeria Television Authority, Mallam Salihu Adbulhamid Dembos; former Director General of NTA, Professor Tonnie Iredia; and former Vice Chancellor of NSUK, Prof. Mohammed Akaro Mainoma.

Others are the Director General, Sheda Science and Technology Complex, Prof. P.C. Onyenekwe; Executive Director of YIAGA Africa, Mr. Samson Itodo, Center for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI), Mrs. Babafunke Fagbemi, Executive Director of African Radio Drama Association (ARDA), Mrs Data Phido and Country Coordinator of the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) in Africa, Nigeria Chapter, Dr. Rose Gidado.

According to the organising committee, institutional recognition for excellence in development communication will be awarded to ActionAid Nigeria and the Lagosbased Development Communication Network.

Wife of Chief of Staff Dr. Mrs Fatima Gambari (left) and her husband/Chief of staff to the President, Prof, Ibrahim Gambari as he bagged Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (honoris causa) from the University of Johannesburg…yesterday

PRESS BRIEFING ON PEST CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT OF TOMATO...

L-R:

World Bank: 184 Million People Living Outside Their Countries of Nationality

Urges Nigeria, others to make labour migration part of devt strategies Says better migration policies will boost prosperity globally

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

A new report by the World Bank has revealed that about 2.5 per cent of the world’s population or 184 million people, including 37 million refugees—now live outside their countries of nationality, with the largest share—43 per cent resident in developing countries.

As Nigeria grapples with the increasingly knotty challenge of brain-drain, otherwise known as 'japa syndrome', the report urged the country and others to make labour migration explicit part of

their development strategies

The report also indicated that populations across the globe were aging at an unprecedented pace, making many countries increasingly reliant on migration to realise their long-term growth potential.

According to the "World Development Report 2023: Migrants, Refugees, and Societies", which was released yesterday, there are globally about 184 million migrants (about 2.3 per cent of the world’s population), 37 million of them being refugees.

“There are also about 40 per

cent (64 million economic migrants and 10 million refugees) living in high-income countries that belong to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD),” it added.

The 348-page report stated that these were high and low-skilled workers and their families, people with an intent to settle, temporary migrants, students, as well as undocumented migrants and people seeking international protection.

The number includes 11 million European Union (EU) citizens living in other EU countries with extensive

residency rights).

With the reality that populations across the globe were aging at an unprecedented pace, making many countries increasingly reliant on migration to realise their long-term growth potential, the report noted that the trend offered a unique opportunity to make migration work better for economies and people.

It stressed that wealthy countries as well as a growing number of middle-income countries—traditionally among the main sources of migrants—face diminishing

OML 42: Court Extends Restraining Order against NNPC Exploration MD, Others

Wale Igbintade

Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos, yesterday extended till May 8, the earlier exparte order retraining the Managing Director, NNPC Exploration and Production Limited, Ali Muhammed Zarah, from changing, altering or replacing the crude oil evacuation arrangement in place for OML 42 through pipelines from the asset to Keremor Manifold and vessel barging operation to Ugocha export Terminal.

The court also restrained him or his agents from diverting or re-channeling the crude oil to Trans Forcados Fxport Terminal through the Trans Forcados pipelines or any other means pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice for interlocutory injunction filed in suit number no: FHCL/ CS/550 2023.

Justice Osiagor had on March 29, 2023, granted interim preservatory Orders against the Defendant/ Respondent including its officers, employees, servants, members, agents, assigns, privies, affiliates or any their person(s) howsoever described pending the determination of the pending motion on notice for interlocutory injunction filed in the suit.

However, when the matter came up yesterday, Plaintiffs’ counsel, Mr. Uche Valentine Obi, informed the court that the Interim Order of the court made on March 29, 2023, was

not obeyed by the defendants.

He urged the court to hear Plaintiffs' application for contempt proceeding filed against the Managing Director NNPC Exploration and Production Limited, Ali Muhammed Zarah, and others alleged contemnors.

But, Counsel to the defendants, Mr. Kehinde Ogunmuiju SAN, argued that that court lacked jurisdiction to extend the life span of the ex-parte order, and that the Defendants have challenged the order of court at the Court of Appeal Lagos Division.

He submitted that the application challenging court's jurisdiction should take pre-eminence over and above the application for contempt proceeding.

Both counsel to the plaintiffs and the defendants cited plethora of legal authorities to support their position on which of the two applications should take priority.

In his Ruling, Justice Osiagor held that the initial ex-parte order was meant to preserve the Res (subject matter), and made in the interest of justice, but the order has not been obeyed.

"The order of the court, which is yet to be complied with, was made in the interest of Justice. The court cannot walk away leaving a vacuum because there is a pending motion challenging the jurisdiction of the court," the court stated.

Consequently, Justice Osiagor extended the lifespan of the ex-parte order till May 8, 2023, and for hearing

of all pending applications.

The Plaintiffs, Neconde Energy Limited, and Jones Creek Hydrocarbon had in affidavit deposed to by one Olukayode Shobowale, a Litigation Executive in Alliance Law Firm, Solicitors, stated that on March 29, 2023, the court granted interim preservatory orders as stated above against the Defendant/Respondent including its officers, employees, servants, members, agents, assigns, privies, affiliates or any their person(s) howsoever described pending the determination of the pending motion on notice for interlocutory injunction filed in the suit.

He stated that, “On March 30, 2023, at about 2.15pm, the certified true copies of the enrolled Orders of the court together with the Plaintiffs/ Applicants’ Motion on Notice for Interlocutory injunction, writ of Summons, Statement of Claim and other originating processes in the suit were served by the bailiff of the court, on the defendants through its branch office located at 9th Floor, Foreshore Towers, Ikoyi, Lagos.

“As additional precaution and warning against violation of the court orders, the Plaintiffs’ counsel Mr. Uche Valentine Obi SAN, forwarded the aforesaid court order with the endorsed receipt stamp of the Defendant / Respondent under a covering letter dated 30" March 2023 to the official email addresses of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Contemnors / Respondents amongst other persons.

“In the said letters, strict waning

of the legal consequences of flouting, disobeying and undermining the court orders were explained with a call for respect and obedience to the court orders.

“However, despite the aforesaid service of the aforesaid orders, at about 2.15pm on March 30, 2023, the 1st Defendant acting through the 1st - 3rd Defendants had convened a meeting at about 5pm on that same date presided over by the 2nd and 3rd Contemnor which was attended by its staff and workers of OML 42 concession and announced that the planned and threatened switch and diversion of OML 42 crude oil to Trans-Forcados.

“In defiance of orders of this court, the Contemnors instructed its personnel, workmen drawn largely from the contractor, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, to continue with the injuncted works at the Keremor manifold with a view to concluding it expeditiously and achieved its planned switch and diversion of OML 42 Crude oil over the weekend so that it could claim that the injuncted acts had been already concluded and thus undermine the orders and foist a faith accompli on the Court and render its orders impotent and academic.”

It added: “Consequently, the injuncted and forbidden works had resumed at Keremor Manifold by the Defendant’s workmen and personnel in morning of Saturday 1, April 2023 through Sunday 2 April 2023 intensively under the directives

populations, intensifying the global competition for workers and talent.

But most low-income countries are expected to see rapid population growth, putting them under pressure to create more jobs for young people, it added.

Commenting on the report, World Bank Senior Managing Director, Axel van Trotsenburg, said, “Migration can be a powerful force for prosperity and development. When it is managed properly, it provides benefits for all people — in origin and destination societies.”

The report underscored the fact that in the coming decades, the share of working-age adults would drop sharply in many countries, adding that Spain, with a population of 47 million, was projected to shrink by more than one third by 2100, with those above age 65 increasing from 20 per cent to 39 per cent of the population.

However, the report also revealed that countries like Mexico, Thailand, Tunisia and Türkey may soon need more foreign workers because their population is no longer growing.

Beyond this demographic shift, it observed that the forces driving migration are also changing, making cross-border movements more diverse and complex.

"Today, destination and origin countries span all income levels, with many countries such as Mexico, Nigeria, and the U.K. both sending and receiving migrants.

The number of refugees nearly tripled over the last decade. Climate change threatens to fuel more migration. So far, most climatedriven movements were within countries, but about 40 per cent of the world’s population—3.5 billion people—lives in places highly exposed to climate impacts.

"Current approaches not only fail to maximise the potential development gains of migration, they also cause great suffering for people moving in distress.

“About 2.5 per cent of the world’s population—184 million people, including 37 million refugees—now live outside their country of nationality. The largest share—43 per cent—lives in developing countries," the report stressed.

The report underscored the urgency of managing migration

better, noting the goal of policymakers should be to strengthen the match of migrants’ skills with the demand in destination societies, while protecting refugees and reducing the need for distressed movements.

The report provided a framework for policymakers on how to do this, according to Chief Economist of the World Bank Group and Senior Vice President for Development Economics, Indermit Gill.

He said: “This World Development Report proposes a simple but powerful framework to aid the making of migration and refugee policy.

“It tells us when such policies can be made unilaterally by destination countries, when they are better made plurilaterally by destination, transit and origin countries, and when they must be considered a multilateral responsibility.”

Part of the recommendations of the report is that origin countries should make labour migration an explicit part of their development strategy.

Calling on the origin countries to lower remittance costs, facilitate knowledge transfers from their diaspora, build skills that are in high demand globally so that citizens can get better jobs if they migrate, mitigate the adverse effects of “brain drain,” protect their nationals while abroad, and support them upon return.

In contrast, destination countries should encourage migration where the skills migrants bring are in high demand, facilitate their inclusion, and address social impacts that raise concerns among their citizens. They should let refugees move, get jobs, and access national services wherever they are available, it said.

Noting that international cooperation was essential to make migration a strong force for development, the report argued that bilateral cooperation can strengthen the match of migrants’ skills with the needs of destination societies.

"Multilateral efforts are needed to share the costs of refugee-hosting and to address distressed migration.

"Voices that are underrepresented in the migration debate must be heard: this includes developing countries, the private sector and other stakeholders, and migrants and refugees themselves," it said.

National Secretary, National Tomato Growers, Processing Association of Nigeria (NTGPAN), Sani Yadakwan; Director Horticulture, Ministey of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Deola Lordbanjou; President, Nigeria Agricbusiness Group, Emmanuei Ijewere and Head, Bio positive Centre, NIHORT, Oladigbolu Abiola, during a press briefing on pest control and management of tomato in Nigeria held in Abuja...yesterday

PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN

WHO Urges Nigeria to Commit 80% Health Sector Budget to PHC

FG to begin vaccination against cervical cancer in November

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

In order to improve the country's healthcare services, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has asked federal and state governments to devote 80 per cent of their budget towards development and sustenance of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs).

The global health organisation lamented that the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunisation services had driven up the number of zero-dose and under-immunised children.

It stated that the number of underimmunised children have risen by 16 per cent between 2019 and 2021, and was pushing the cumulative total (2019–2021) to around 33 million. This, it stated represents nearly half the global estimate.

Speaking at a media briefing with journalists in Abuja, as part of ongoing African Vaccination Week, the WHO Country Director, Dr. Walter Molumbo, expressed concern over the problem posed by poor access to affordable healthcare services in the country, which he said was inflicting economic hardship on the poor masses.

According to Molumbo, a recent study carried out on impact malaria in the country showed that most households spend over 70 per cent of their income to access medical treatment.

"This is an aspect in which both the government and the private sector need to work together to change that narrative, the government budget should devote more proportion to the health sector and a proportion of that increase should also go to

the Primary Healthcare services," he said.

Molumbo said at present, PHCs get just about 20 per cent of the health budget in the country, while the rest go to the secondary and tertiary healthcare institutions.

"We need to have discussions around this and to make sure that when the budget is released that 80 per cent of the funds get allocated to healthcare centres in the communities," he said. Molumbo also said government should change the narrative to ensure that vaccines when procured are made to reach these local communities Molumbo, also spoke on the declining rate of vaccination among children in Nigeria.

He projected that an estimated 33 million children would need to be vaccinated in Africa between 2023

and 2025 to put the continent back on track to achieve the 2030 global immunisation goals that include reducing morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases.

In Nigeria, he said WHO had estimated in 2019 to 2021, that 6.2million children were on zero dose; a consequence of the negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic.

Molumbo said reaching these children would require renewed and intensified efforts by government and partners.

"To galvanise the commitments required, WHO conducted a highlevel event during the African Union Summit in February 2023, where African heads of state endorsed a declaration aimed at revamping and scaling up routine immunisation across the continent and implementing urgent measures

to address persistent bottlenecks in vaccine and health care delivery systems," he said.

WHO scribe added that in order to realise the declaration, this year's African Vaccination Week and World Immunisation Week, is being held from 24–30 April, with the theme “The Big Catch-Up” has been announced.

According to Molumbo, "This is a global push by WHO and partners to intensify efforts to reach children who missed vaccinations, as well as to restore and strengthen routine immunisation programmes.

“The Big Catch Up” is actually a year-long campaign aiming to reverse the serious setbacks in routine immunisation."

Molumbo, also spoke of the efforts to reduce the havoc caused by cancer, saying WHO and fed-

eral government have concluded arrangements to introduce the Human Papillomavirus vaccine for treatment of cervical cancer in the country.

According to the WHO Director, the administering of vaccines against cervical cancer would commence latest by November this year.

He said Nigerians would begin to see the impact of the HPV vaccination in eradicating cancer scourge in the years ahead because the campaign is currently targeting the adolescent population.

"The plan to introduce malaria vaccine in routine immunisation, and Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV) in 2023 and 2024 are commendable as it aligns with establishing a life-course platform for immunisation for optimum dividend from vaccination," he said.

Chuks Okocha, Emmanuel Addeh Adedayo Akinwale and Alex Enumah in Abuja

National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu, and other prominent party leaders, yesterday, visited the president-elect, Bola Tinubu, who returned to the country on Monday after a month stay in France.

Tinubu had gone to take a rest after an exhausting presidential campaign, which culminated in the election on February 25.

Other APC leaders on the national chairman’s entourage during the visit included Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji; Senators Godswill Akpabio, Jibrin Barau, Olamilekan Adeola, Opeyemi Bamidele, Emma Bwacha, and Tokunbo Abiru; and Hon. James Faleke.

Indications, however, emerged from the visit that the party leadership might have decided on the zoning formular for the 10th National Assembly leadership, with the South-south allegedly penciled in for senate president while the North West is being considered for speakership.

Although details of the development have yet to be made public or concluded as discussions were still ongoing, there were other interests said to be pushing the North Central for speakership, based on their support during the presidential poll.

The visit to the president-elect had come amid uncertainty over the

contest for principal offices of the incoming 10th National Assembly.

The APC National Working Committee (NWC) appeared helpless in the face of an unwieldy number of aspirants jostling for the National Assembly leadership positions.

But it seemed the party has begun to make a headway with the purported agreement to zone the two most import offices – the senate presidency and speakership – to the south-south and north west respectively.

Meanwhile, the presidential candidate of Hope Democratic Party (HDP) in the 2019 general election, Chief Ambrose Owuru, yesterday, filed a fresh suit at the Court of Appeal, Abuja, against the swearing-in of the president-elect, some 33 days to May 29 handover date.

That was as the United States Department of the Interior, through the National Park Service, granted the request of protesters under the Coalition of Nigerian Organisations in the Americas, to demonstrate against the allegedly “flawed” conduct of the February 25 presidential election in Nigeria.

Tinubu returned to Nigeria from France on Monday after a month's rest ahead of his inauguration on May 29.

Adamu, too, had been out of the country for about two weeks but resumed at the national secretariat of APC yesterday before heading to Tinubu's house in Asokoro.

The APC national chairman resumed a day to the expiration

of the seven days ultimatum given him last week by APC National Vice Chairman, North-west, Dr. Salihu Lukman, who threatened to drag him to court if he refused to convene the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party.

Although details of the meeting with Tinubu were still sketchy at the time of filing this report, it might not be unconnected with the zoning of leadership positions of the 10th National Assembly.

But the inability of the NWC to streamline the number of contestants by zoning the leadership positions of the 10th Assembly might have made the contest somewhat cumbersome.

yesterday in Lagos, at a one-day NDDC PPP 2023 Summit, with theme, "Rewind to Rebirth: Building a Sustainable Future through Public Private Partnership for Progress in the Niger Delta." NDDC Managing Director, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, said the deal with the American company was history in the making. Ogbuku added that it was the first harvest of the PPP approach.

He stated, "I think this is history in the making as part of our first harvest of the PPP. You can see that and this ceremony is to showcase other benefits that will come thereafter."

Some of the dignitaries who spoke at the occasion included Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Umana Okon Umana; Ogbuku;

At the moment, contestants for Senate President include Senator Barau Jibrin (Kano State, Northwest); former governor of Zamfara State, Abdul Aziz Yari (Zamfara State, North-west); Senator Orji Uzo Kalu (Abia State, South-east); Senator Osita Izunanso (Imo State, Southeast); Senator Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom State, South-south); and Senator Sani Musa (Niger State, North-central).

Similarly, contestants for Speaker of the House of Representatives include Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase (Plateau State, North-central); Hon. Mukhtar Betara (Borno State, North-east); Hon. Abbas Tajudeen (Kaduna

Chief Executive Officer of Atlanta Global Resources Inc, Mr. Tony Ekpele; and Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Mr. Simbi Wabote.

Others were senator-elect and former National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Adams Oshiomhole; former Managing Director of NDDC, Chief Timi Frank; and former Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside, among others.

Umana said he started the process of resetting and repositioning NDDC immediately President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as Niger Delta Affairs minister. He declared that he inherited a messy

BUHARI: NIGERIA SPENT $195M TO FIGHT PIRACY IN GULF OF GUINEA IN 2021

The president disclosed that in June 2021, the government launched $195 million worth of boats, vehicles and aircraft to fight piracy in the region through the Deep Blue Project. He identified regular meetings among countries that make up the Gulf of Guinea Commission as a critical route towards peace and security in the region.

Speaking for the last time as Nigeria’s president at the assembly in the Ghanaian capital, Buhari stressed that the theme for the session, "Building a Safe, Secure and Prosperous Gulf of Guinea Region for Sustainable Development," was apt and significant towards addressing the challenges in the region.

The president stated, “Nigeria continues to deploy significant resources towards tackling piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.

“In June 2021, the government of Nigeria unveiled $195 million worth of boats, vehicles and aircraft to spear-head the country's fight

against piracy in the Gulf of Guinea through the Deep Blue Project.”

Buhari added, “As a demonstration of Nigeria's strong commitment towards the repositioning of the GGC into a more vibrant organisation that will effectively deliver on its mandate, the 5th Ordinary Summit of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the Gulf of Guinea Commission was hosted on 13th October, 2022 in Abuja, where the Assembly adopted policy decisions towards revitalising the commission.

“Nigeria considers the effective and optimal function of the GGC as strategic to the global security interests in the Gulf region. These commitments include addressing issues of piracy, proliferation of small arms and light weapons, protection of marine resources, as well as irregular migration to the region.

“In June, 2019, Nigeria's National Assembly passed the Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences Act, 2019, (SPOMO Act), which aims to prevent and suppress piracy, armed robbery and any other unlawful acts against any ship lawfully operating in the

gulf region."

The president expressed his appreciation to the chairperson of the Assembly, President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, for the invitation, as well as the outgoing Nigerian Executive Secretary of the GGC, Ambassador Florence Ukonga, and her management team for their dedication and selflessness in the discharge of their functions.

According to Buhari, “We must remain committed to our regular GGC summits and the Extraordinary Sessions and use these deep-seated fundamental platforms to essentially continue to work out key modalities that could afford us the opportunity to discuss, identify, support strategies and develop capacities to achieve peace, security and prosperity in the Gulf of Guinea region.”

Emphasising Nigeria's commitment and steps towards fighting maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea, the president encouraged member countries to enact laws against piracy and other criminal acts, as Nigeria had done. He explained steps so far taken by the country to further show its steadfastness to the revitalisation and strengthening of the GGC in

order to achieve set objectives.

Buhari especially commended the dignified way Ukonga had faced the daunting financial challenges without compromising the integrity of the organisation. He urged member countries to be alive to their financial commitments and responsibilities.

The president lauded the team for elevating the status of the GGC to such a level that enabled it to partner with the African Union to implement some of its sub-regional programmes on maritime security, safety and sustainable developmental issues with profound impact on Central and West Africa.

“We very much look forward to May 15, 2023, when the proposed joint Africa Naval Exercise of the commission would take place in Lagos,” he said.

Earlier in his welcome address, Akufo-Addo expressed his delight at the physical summit, after several virtual meetings since 2019 due to COVID-19 pandemic. He reminded delegates of the challenges the commission faced, and enjoined member states to promptly discharge their financial obligations to enable it fulfil its statutory responsibilities.

State, North-west); Hon. Sada Soli (Katsina State, North-west); and Hon. Aminu Jaji (Zamfara State, North-west).

Speaking with journalists after the meeting with Tinubu, Akpabio said his record qualified him for the 10th Senate presidency.

"My records will earn me the Senate presidency," he boasted.

Nonetheless, the NWC of the party is scheduled to meet for its weekly meeting today. It is expected that the zoning of the leadership of the 10th National Assembly would be a key agenda at today's meeting.

Owuru Asks Appeal Court to

situation at NDDC and received over 1,000 messages about pending payments for contracts.

After understanding the things that went wrong in the commission, Umana said he gave a commitment to the president as well stakeholders that he would change the story of the interventionist agency.

The minister said the ministry and the commission were now on the right track towards achieving badly needed development and progress in the Niger Delta.

Recounting how past leaderships of NDDC allowed politics to come in the way of the commission's mandates in projects, Umana warned the new managing director of the commission to perish any possible political ambition while in office.

ADAMU, APC LEADERS VISIT TINUBU, CONSIDER S’SOUTH FOR SENATE PRESIDENT, N’WEST FOR SPEAKER third Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the Gulf of Guinea Commission (GGC).

He said, "Before I make my speech, I would like to briefly comment on some of the issues. I had visited a state and when we met with the governor, the governor said that not one kilometre of road had been done by NDDC in his state. I was shocked, it was an extreme position.

"Yes, NDDC has not done as well as expected. But when a governor comes out openly and is saying that not one kilometre of road had been done, I also felt it was a problem, and when I inquired further, I discovered that a former MD of NDDC had been his opponent in an election for governorship and, therefore, he could never see NDDC as a partner that he could collaborate with.

"He saw NDDC as a competitor. So he had to play down on the achievements of NDDC. So the message we are also taking away is, I hope the new MD, you are not planning for governorship? Because we don't need this kind of disruption again in this commission.

"We need professionals, who will be committed to the job of running the NDDC, not people who will come and after one year, two years, they are planning to run for governorship. I know this MD will be different and I know this

Stop Tinubu’s Inauguration

Presidential candidate of Hope Democratic Party (HDP) in the 2019 elections, Chief Ambrose Owuru, filed a fresh suit at the Court of Appeal in Abuja against the May 29 inauguration of the president-elect, Bola Tinubu.

Owuru, who participated in the 2019 presidential election on the platform of Hope Democratic Party (HDP), is asking for an order prohibiting President Muhammadu Buhari, the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), and the Independent National Electoral Commission

Continued on page 44

board will be different."

Umana warned the new leadership of NDDC to avoid the practice of the commission siting projects and executing them in the states without the knowledge and collaboration of the authorities in the states.

According to him, the partnership with stakeholders, the oil companies, is also extended to state governments.

Umana said he was excited to be part of the important summit initiated by NDDC. He said the initiative was in line with the emphasis of government to harness the expertise and energies of all stakeholders and partners in the drive to develop Niger Delta.

He said government was totally in support of such kind of initiative conducted within the framework of due process and best practice in public governance.

Umana added, "The event we are witnessing today ties back with my action plan to reset and reposition the NDDC following my appointment as minister. I have faithfully implemented the action plan.

"Public Private Partnership will not be realistic in a government institution that is burdened with trust deficit. Keeping with the action plan to do things right, government approved for implementation of some of the key recommendations of the forensic audit into the activities of the NDDC.

"As recommended in the report, contracts of over 4,000 projects were cancelled for non-performance and the cancellation was published in the newspapers. The process for recovering money paid for the cancelled contracts has begun.

"The plan is fully on for the Niger Delta region to optimise the benefits from its abundant natural resources, especially oil and gas, which have contributed significantly to the national economy and development, but the region faces many challenges such as environmental degradation, poverty, unemployment, insecurity,

NDDC, US FIRM SEAL $15BN DEAL FOR CONSTRUCTION OF MEGA RAIL LINE CONNECTING NIGER DELTA STATES

YOU ARE WELCOME TO IMO...

Buhari, Obaseki, Sanwo-Olu Mourn Foremost Journalist, Enahoro

Say he was known for fearless writings, commitment to truth

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki and his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and associates of one of Nigeria’s foremost journalists, Peter Enahoro, who died on Tuesday at the age of 88.

The president, according to a statement issued yesterday, by his Media Adviser, Femi Adesina, believed that as a gifted and iconic journalist, author and publisher, Enahoro earned the public trust by his fearless writings, tenacity, and commitment to the pursuit of truth.

Buhari recognised that the passion of the former Editor-in-Chief/ Managing Director of the Daily Times, Assistant Publicity Officer, Department (now Federal Ministry) of Information and Pioneer Chairman, Nigerian Broadcasting Commission for public service was second to none, and he used his knowledge and mastery to mentor people, who have also added value to journalism practice in the country.

The president urged those who mourn the demise of this compatriot to reflect on his contributions to the country and build on the many honours credited to him for journalistic excellence. He also prayed that the soul of Peter Pan rest in peace.

On his part, Obaseki said he was, deeply pained by the news of the passing of the renowned journalist and scribe, self-styled ‘Peter Pan’ in his newspaper column, “where he made insightful and critical commentary on the Nigerian nation and its march to a free, fair and just society.”

According to Obaseki, “Pa Enahoro,

who hails from Uromi, in Edo State, was sired by a lineage of politicallyconscious parents and as he grew older, he made a lasting imprint on journalism practice in Nigeria and internationally.

“He ventured into journalism at an early age and rose rapidly to the highest positions in the field in the 1960s, becoming the Editor of the Sunday Times at 23 years and then Editor of the Daily Times in 1966.

“Pa Enahoro conquered the local scene and launched an impressive international journalism stint that heavily impacted how the outer world views and understands the complexities of Nigeria today.

“A quintessential columnist, his takes on Nigeria’s pressing and nagging issues were deeply thought-out and poignant, a reflection of his very matured political opinions as well as critical views of those in power at various times in the history of the country.

“He can be rightly described as a national treasure, who secured his place in history in the feisty early years of Nigeria’s nationhood. Working as a newspaper editor, he spared none of the Premiers of Nigeria’s three regions at the time in his satirical pieces – he would engage in gutsy debates with the Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello; spar with the Premier of Western Nigeria, Ladoke Akintola, on topical issues, and Dr. Michael Okpara of Eastern Nigeria was not left out.

“Pa Ehanoro later went into selfimposed exile for about 13 years, during which time he worked at reputable international publications, bringing issues bedevilling Nigeria to the attention of the global community.

“He was a cerebral journalist, who deployed his intellect in the service of the country, providing and nurturing the space for healthy debates on national policies that impact the lives of the people.

“One can rightly say that his engagements were a labour of love for the development of Nigeria, and the vibrant press in the country today owes much of its credit to Pa Enahoro’s bold and courageous skill with the pen to hold those in power to account for their deeds.

“On behalf of the Government and

people of Edo State, I express my sincere condolences to the Enahoro family, the Nigeria press, and all admirers of the great ‘Peter Pan’ and pray that God will grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Also, Sanwo-Olu mourned the passage of renowned columnist, describing his death as a colossal loss to journalism and the media industry in Nigeria.

Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message issued yesterday, by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said the death of the ace

columnist, popularly known as "Peter Pan" because of his column in New African Magazine, was painful and heartbreaking.

Enahoro, a well-celebrated journalist, author, businessman and publisher, died on Tuesday in London, at the age of 88 years.

Sanwo-Olu said the rich experience and knowledge of the late Enahoro, described as “perhaps Africa’s best-known international journalist” would be sorely missed.

He added: “The death of our iconic journalist, Peter Enahoro, is a

great loss to the media industry and Nigeria, as well as his family and friends. 'Peter Pan' will be greatly missed. He made lots of positive impacts during his lifetime, contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of journalism in Nigeria.

"Peter Enahoro also made the mark as an international journalist. He worked as Contributing Editor of Radio Deutsche Welle in Cologne, Germany; Africa Editor of National Zeitung in Basel, Switzerland and Editorial Director of New African magazine in London.”

Osinbajo Lists Pathways for Climate- positive Economic Growth in Africa

Deji Elumoye in

The Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has posited that African countries can only attain middleincome status as well as societal and individual prosperity for its people if the issue of energy poverty is tackled frontally and reflected in the global energy transition conversations.

He has, therefore, outlined specific pathways that could lead to climate-positive economic growth in the continent and at the same time lead to the realisation of the global net-zero emissions targets.

Delivering a special public lecture entitled "Energy Transition in Africa," at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, United States of America (USA), the vice president spoke about Africa’s potential in the realisation of the global energy transition targets.

According to him, Africa's endowments, renewable energy, natural resources and a young workforce, present a compelling set of circumstances for several pathways to climate-positive growth.

Osinbajo listed the pathways to include: “Low emissions consumption and production, the point being

NNPC Invites EFCC to Probe Libelous Report against Kyari, Ajiya

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has invited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to probe a report published in some media platforms that the national oil company erred in paying, "gratuity in billions," to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mele Kyari and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Umar Ajiya.

There had been some reports published in some online media platforms that alleged inappropriateness of the disengagement of Kyari and Ajiya from the services of the old corporation and their subsequent appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari to commence a new tenure as Group CEO and CFO in the new NNPC Limited.

The NNPC had clarified the misrepresentation by the publications based on the provisions of Section 59(3), which nullified

previous appointments after the successful transition of the defunct NNPC to the commercially driven National Energy Company, the NNPC Limited.

Consequently, the EFCC has on the invitation of the NNPC Ltd scheduled to commence an investigation on the payment, by the NNPCL to Kyari and Ajayi today.

The commission had also requested that Kyari avail the company’s Chief Officer (Human Capital) and the Chief Financial Officer for an interview on same day.

“They will interact with the Commission’s head of Foreign Exchange Malpractices Section on a wide range of issues connected with the alleged payment of gratuities,” the EFCC’s Director of Operations, Abdulkarim Chukkol said yesterday.

During the interview, both of them are expected to present “Certi-

fied True Copies of entitlements and retirement benefits of directors and above; evidence of payments of gratuities to the Group Managing Director, Director Accounts or any other director of the company."

Two weeks ago, the NNPCL had taken legal action against the same newspaper after the report.

In a statement, the NNPC recalled the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act and the successful transition of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation to a commercially driven National Energy Company, the NNPC Limited.

The National Oil Company said the PIA 2021, had in addition to the creation of NNPC limited made clear and unambiguous provisions relating to Governance, Administration, and the appointment of a Chief Executive Officer (CEO), a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Board of Directors by the President.

The statement read in part: "The PIA 2021 is deliberate about the long term sustainability of the 20 years long petroleum industry reform that climaxed in the creation of NNPC Limited as a commercially driven National Energy Company, with focus on sustainable value creation.

"Pursuant to the provisions of the Act, appointment of the CEO and CFO of NNPC Limited by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is on the basis of distinct terms and conditions of Service including tenure, employment benefits and termination.

"The appointment of CEO and CFO is not a career posting as erroneously presented. Specifically, section 59(3) of the PIA 2021 has clearly stipulated the conditions to be considered in appointing the CEO and CFO of NNPC Limited without recourse to previous employment ranks in the Corporation.

that Africa can, instead of going the carbon-intensive path to providing energy, goods and services for its own needs, takes full advantage of green technologies and practices. There is the distinct advantage that Africa can actually pursue a green course of growth without worrying about costly legacy infrastructure.

“The second pathway is that having recognised the fact that global zero carbon ambitions cannot be realised without intentional carbon removal technologies and practices, Africa can ramp up her own potential to do this at scale through a combination of planned land use and ecosystem management, and investment in emerging engineered removal technologies.

“Already Africa's large carbon sinks, currently store years of global emissions and the abundant supply of unused agricultural waste is available as biomass for clean energy production and soil improvement.”

He added: “The third pathway, is that, with its abundant reserves of renewable energy and raw materials, Africa can become a hugely competitive green manufacturing and energy hub for the world that could also accelerate the greening of global industry. Thus, the paradox of an energy-poor continent becoming the green industrial powerhouse of the world is easily resolvable and must be."

He, however, proposed that the developed world changes its perception of Africa, and not see the continent merely as a victim but as a solution in the climate change conversations and the attainment of the global net zero targets by 2050-2060.

According to him: "Africa's own

growth and development are not being seriously accommodated in the global Energy Transition conversations. Yet, a strategic key to attaining global net zero by 2050 may well lie in seeing Africa from a different paradigm, not merely as a victim but as a solution.”

He noted that beyond climate justice, may lie a real opportunity for Africa and the world. This opportunity is the distinct possibility of Climate Positive Growth for Africa. In other words, a paradigm where Africa pursues a climate positive or carbon negative path to middleincome status and beyond.

Continuing, he said, “this contains, in and of itself, part of the solution to global net zero ambitions. Because if, as is the case, some countries will not meet their net-zero-by-2050 targets, then some significant portion of the world must be climate positive or net negative, for global net zero to be achievable.

“Put differently, since many regions are already off track to achieve net-zero by 2050, some other regions must fill the gap, if global targets must be met.”

On energy poverty, Osinbajo argued that it can only be resolved, “if there is a significant investment in renewable energy, and that can only happen if we create the energy intense anchor demand that makes the investment in additional renewable energy bankable.

“Therefore, it is not which comes first - renewable energy generation capacity or industrial deployment, both must be developed concurrently.”

Cites continent's endowments, renewable energy, natural resources, young workforce as compelling channels Says Africa offers solutions for global net zero ambitions

Abuja

L-R: Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma exchanges pleasantries with the Executive Secretary, Nigeria Pilgrims Commission Board, Rev. Yakubu Pam at the Government House Chapel, Owerri... Sunday

FOREIGN DESK

South Africa Wants to Pull Out of ICC Amid Putin Arrest Warrant

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has said the country will quit the International Criminal Court, which in March issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ramaphosa made the comments at a joint press conference with visiting Finnish counterpart Sauli Niinisto.

Ramaphosa said there had long been a feeling in the governing African National Congress that the ICC treats certain countries unfairly, likely referring to the fact that many African leaders have been brought before the court in The Hague, Netherlands.

“Our view is that we would like this matter of unfair treatment to be properly discussed,” Ramaphosa said, “but in the meantime, the governing party has decided once again that there should be a pullout, so that will be a matter that will be taken forward.”

The ANC wanted to pull out of the court some years ago but was prevented by a South African court that found the move unconstitutional.

Recently, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Putin over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Putin has been invited to a meeting of the BRICS group of emerging nations in August in Johannesburg. BRICS nations include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

The ANC is a staunch friend of Moscow and has refused to condemn the invasion of Ukraine.

South Africa is obliged to arrest him if he does attend as a signatory to the ICC.

However, Pretoria refused to arrest former Sudanese dictator Omar al-Bashir when he visited in 2015, despite an ICC arrest warrant out for him.

Global Public Perception of Russia’s Leadership Eroded Sharply in 2022

In the aftermath of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine last year, global attitudes toward Russia’s leadership have shifted dramatically, with large majorities of the population in dozens of countries reporting disapproval of the Kremlin.

Data compiled from surveys of thousands of people in 137 countries and regions showed a marked decline in approval of the Kremlin, according to a report released by the Gallup organisation on Tuesday.

Globally, 57 per cent of respondents reported that they disapprove of Russia’s leadership in 2022, up from just 38 per cent the year before.

Only 21 per cent of respondents said they approve of Russia’s leadership, down from 33 per cent in 2021.

The approval and disapproval figures were the most extreme Gallup has measured since it began asking the question as part of its annual survey tracking attitudes toward global leaders in 2007.

Sudan’s Warring Military Forces Agree to Three-day Ceasefire

A three-day ceasefire between Sudan’s warring factions went into effect Tuesday after what the United States called “intense negotiation.”

Both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) publicly pledged to uphold the halt in fighting.

“To support a durable end to the fighting, the United States will coordinate with regional and international partners and Sudanese civilian stakeholders to assist in the creation of a committee to oversee the negotiation, conclusion, and implementation of a permanent cessation of hostilities and humanitarian arrangements in Sudan,” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

The World Health Organisation warned Tuesday of a “huge biological risk” after one of the sides in the Sudan conflict occupied a lab that holds measles and cholera pathogens and other hazardous materials.

Nima Saeed Abid, the WHO’s representative in Sudan, did not specify which side was involved but told reporters the situation was “extremely dangerous.”

“This is the main concern: no accessibility to the lab technicians to go to the lab and

safely contain the biological material and substances available,” he said.

At least 427 people have been killed and more than 3,700 wounded, according to UN agencies, since fighting began on April 15.

Libya: 57 Bodies Washed Ashore As Migrant Boats Sink

At least 57 bodies have been washed ashore after two migrant boats sank in the Mediterranean off different towns in western Libya, a coast guard officer and an aid worker said on Tuesday.

One survivor, Bassam Mahmoud from Egypt, said there were about 80 passengers on one of the boats that set off for Europe at around 2 a.m. on Tuesday. There was an argument as the boat was sinking but the man in charge refused to stop, he said.

Eleven bodies, including that of a child, were recovered off Qarabulli in eastern Tripoli, said coast guard officer Fathi al-Zayani.

A Red Crescent aid worker in Sabratha in western Tripoli said they had recovered 46 bodies from the beach in the past six days, and they were all “illegal migrants” from one boat.

Pictures were posted online by the Sabratha Red Crescent agency showing bodies in black bags being placed at the back of pick-up trucks by the aid workers wearing facemasks and gloves.

The aid worker said more bodies would be washed up in the coming days.

Biden Announces Reelection Bid for 2024 US Presidency

After weeks of hinting at a run for reelection, US President Joe Biden on Tuesday formally announced his candidacy for 2024 in a three-minute video ad that drew a stark picture of what he believes is at stake: the very soul of America.

“When I ran for president four years ago, I said we are in a battle for the soul of America. And we still are,” Biden says in the video, released on his website.

Biden said in the video he had righted the affairs of state in America and could advance the cause of democracy with another four-year term in the White House.

“The question we are facing is whether in the years ahead we have more freedom or less freedom, more rights or fewer,” Biden said in the video. “I know what I want the answer to be. This is not a time to be complacent. That’s why I’m running for reelection.”

Donald Trump Goes to Trial, Accused of Rape

Donald Trump goes to trial on Tuesday,

struggle.

Since the OLA broke off and started fighting, a string of armed groups in Oromia have risen up, claiming to be part of its cause, though are only loosely tied.

HRW: Iran Authorities Abused Children in Protest Crackdown

Human Rights Watch said Iranian security forces suppressing mass protests in the country have killed, tortured and sexually assaulted children.

“Iranian authorities have also arrested, interrogated, and prosecuted children in violation of legal safeguards, and judges have barred children’s families from hiring lawyers of their choice to defend them, convicted children on vague charges, and tried them outside of the youth courts that have sole jurisdiction over children’s cases,” HRW said in a report released Tuesday.

The rights group said Iran had blocked children released from detention from returning to school, and authorities have blocked their families’ access to social welfare programs.

where the writer E. Jean Carroll is accusing the former US president in a civil lawsuit of raping her in a department store dressing room in the mid-1990s.

Jury selection is expected to begin in Manhattan federal court, where the former Elle magazine advice columnist is also accusing Trump of defamation.

Trump, 76, has denied raping Carroll, 79. He called her claim a “hoax” and “complete scam” in an October 2022 post on his Truth Social platform. He has said she made up the encounter to promote her memoir and declared that she was “not my type!”

Trump is not required to attend the trial. His lawyers have said he may not appear, citing the likelihood of security concerns and traffic delays. Carroll’s lawyers said they do not plan to call Trump as a witness.

If Trump testified, he would likely face an aggressive cross-examination. Trump has repeatedly attacked Carroll and, in personal terms, since she first publicly accused him of rape in 2019. He has claimed she is mentally ill.

US District Judge Lewis Kaplan, who oversees the case, is keeping jurors anonymous from the public, including the lawyers, to shield them from potential harassment by Trump supporters.

The trial could last one to two weeks.

Talks Begin Between Ethiopia, Oromo Rebel Group

The first phase of talks between Ethiopia’s government and the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) began in Tanzania on Tuesday, a spokesman for the rebel group told AFP.

The foes kicked off preliminary negotiations in the semi-autonomous region of Zanzibar, said the spokesman Odaa Tarbii.

“These initial talks are intended to establish a foundation for more extensive discussions in the very near future,” he said, adding that Kenya and Norway were mediating.

“The focus at this point is confidence building and clarifying positions.”

Ethiopia’s government in Addis Ababa could not be reached for comment.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced last week that talks with the OLA would begin on Tuesday but gave no further details.

On Tuesday, Tanzania’s Foreign Minister Stergomena Tax told reporters that they had accepted a request to host the talks, and some delegates had begun arriving.

The OLA, an armed insurgent movement from the country’s Oromia region, has been fighting Addis Ababa since it split in 2018 with the historic Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) when it renounced armed

Tara Sepehri Far, a senior Iran researcher at Human Rights Watch, said in the report that Iran has used state power to “silence even children” during the seven months since the start of protests of the death in police custody of Mahsa Amini.

“Iranian leaders have unleashed their brutal security forces to sexually assault and torture children, and have not spared children from ludicrously unfair trials,” Sepehri Far said.

Prince Harry Takes on Murdoch’s UK Group Over Phone-Hacking

Britain’s Prince William has settled a phone-hacking claim against Rupert Murdoch’s UK newspaper arm for a “huge sum” after a secret deal struck with Buckingham Palace, lawyers for the heir’s brother Prince Harry said in court documents.

Harry, the younger son of King Charles, is suing Murdoch’s News Group Newspapers (NGN) at the High Court in London for multiple unlawful acts allegedly committed on behalf of its tabloids, the Sun and now defunct News of the World, from the mid1990s until 2016.

In preliminary hearings this week, NGN, which has paid out millions of pounds to settle more than a thousand phone-hacking cases, is seeking to strike out claims by the prince and British actor Hugh Grant, arguing they should have taken action sooner.

It also denies anyone from the Sun was involved in any unlawful activity.

In a submission to the court, Harry’s legal team said he had not brought action before because a deal had been agreed between NGN and the “institution” — Buckingham Palace — to hold off any claims until the conclusion of other outstanding phonehacking litigation.

Germany Detains Syrian Suspected of Planning Attack

German authorities have detained a Syrian man on suspicion of planning to carry out an explosives attack motivated by Islamic extremism, officials said Tuesday.

Federal police said officers detained the 28-year-old man early Tuesday in the northern city of Hamburg.

Investigators say the man is suspected of trying to obtain substances online that would have allowed him to manufacture an explosive belt “in order to carry out an attack against civilian targets.”

Police say the man was encouraged and supported in his action by his 24-year-old brother, who lives in the southern town of Kempten. The men, whose names weren’t immediately released, are described as being motivated by “radical Islamist and jihadist” views.

Authorities said they had no information indicating a concrete target for the planned attack.

10th Senate Presidency: Beyond Issue of Zoning

Campaign for the leadership position of the 10th National Assembly intensifies as President-elect Bola Tinubu returns to Nigeria on Monday. Sunday Aborisade in this report captures the frenzy political atmosphere among the aspirants jostling to become the next Senate President.

As the elected representatives in the nation’s apex legislative institution brace up for the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly in June, the clamour for the various leadership positions in both chambers has started creating tension and anxiety with interested ranking lawmakers justifying their suitability for the positions they’re eyeing.

Apart from the fact that aspirants, who are from different geo-political zones across the country are intensifying their campaigns and lobbying other elected lawmakers for the presiding and principal officers positions, some had taken their campaigns to other critical stakeholders in the All Progressives Congress circle.

The tension and anxiety are felt more in the Senate as the entire Nigerians are interested in who becomes the number three person in the land that would also double as the Chairman of the National Assembly.

Many people are watching how the APC leadership would come up with a zoning arrangement that would address the ethnoreligous imbalance in the polity following the emergence of a Yoruba Muslim and a Kanuri Muslim as President-elect and Deputy Presidentelect respectively.

There are clamours among major ethnic groups like the Igbo, Hausa, and Fulani while the minority ethnic nationalities in the North Central and the Niger Delta regions are also fighting tooth and nail to clinch any of the presiding officers positions.

The second angle to the intrigues among the aspirants is the need to balance the religious and tribal diversity of the country by allowing the Red Chamber in the 10th National Assembly to be led by an Igbo Christian from the South East or any of the minority ethnic nationalities in the South-South.

Those who are opposed to the above argument among the aspirants are insisting that the APC leadership should compensate the regions with the highest number of votes during the last presidential election with the leadership positions in the National Assembly instead of trying to employ sentiments to patronise regions where the party performed poorly in the poll.

However, the silence of the APC leadership on the zoning arrangements had led to an increase in the number of politicians jostling for the presiding officers positions in both the red and the green chambers.

The aspirants in the Senate include Senators Jibrin Barau (Kano North); Sani Musa (Niger East); Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom NorthWest); Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North); Abdul-Aziz Yari (Zamfara West); Ali Ndume (Borno South), Osita Izunaso (Imo West), Dave Umahi (Ebonyi South) and Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North).

Different stakeholders from the various geopolitical zones have been campaigning for their preferred candidates while the aspirants continue to lobby their colleagues, party lead-

ership, governors and other critical personalities within the APC.

Stakeholders in the North West geopolitical zone where the APC got the highest number of votes had insisted that the region should produce the next Senate president in appreciation of their support for the party during the presidential election.

They argued that despite being a strong base of the APC the North West had never produced a Senate president in the country.

According to the last presidential election results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission, the North West zone recorded the highest number of votes while the South East produced the least.

The results showed that the zone gave the APC 2,653,235 votes, followed by the South West with 2,279,407 votes. The North Central gave the party 1,670,091 votes, while the North East produced 1,185,458 votes. The APC also got 799,957 votes in the South South zone.

But one of them, Senator Sani Musa from the North Central geopolitical zone had offered to sacrifice his ambition and contest the office of the Deputy Senate President to guarantee national peace and cohesion, which had already been threatened by the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket of the APC.

Nevertheless, strong leaders of the APC in the North West zone had argued that if the zone should produce the Senate presidency it would brighten the chances of the party in the 2027 elections.

They insisted that the APC leadership should reward performance at the polls for the sake of unity, peace, progress, and national cohesion.

The current Chairman, Senate

Committee on Appropriation, Senator Barau Jibrin, is the only aspirant from the zone who has shown significant interest in contesting the position of the Senate President.

He had not only set up a formidable team working on his ambition, he had also put in place a campaign office at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton Hotel in the heart of the nation’s capital.

Party leaders from the zone have said Jibrin remained the most experience and competent Senator for Senate presidency in terms of character, education and legislative performances over the years, considering his years of experience in the parliament and his understanding of legislative business.

Jibrin was first elected in 1999 to the House of Representatives to represent the Tarauni Federal Constituency of Kano State. In the green chamber, he chaired the committee on appropriations and also served as a member of the committee on power.

He got elected into the Senate in 2015 to represent Kano North and has won re-election since then. In the red chamber, Barau was appointed vice chairman of the Committee on Petroleum Resources (downstream) of the Senate and subsequently became the chairman of the same committee.

In 2016, the then Senate president, Dr Bukola Saraki, reshuffled the leadership of standing committees, and Senator Barau Jibrin was reassigned to the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETfund as the chairman.

Apart from being the Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriation he also serves as a member of several others, including Niger Delta, industries, and land transportation.

His political strength was determined by the fact that he was the only APC senatorial candidate from Kano State who confronted and survived the political tsunami of the NNPP in the last election in the State.

Meanwhile Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, for instance has argued that Muslim aspirants from the North should not be elected as President of the Senate being of the same Islamic faith as the president-elect and vice president-elect,

Nevertheless, strong leaders of the APC in the North West zone had argued that if the zone should produce the Senate presidency it would brighten the chances of the party in the 2027 elections. They insisted that the APC leadership should reward performance at the polls for the sake of unity, peace, progress, and national cohesion. The current Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriation, Senator Barau Jibrin, is the only aspirant from the zone who has shown significant interest in contesting the position of the

Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima.

The Muslim-Muslim ticket, caused a lot of uproar in the build up to the presidential election and analysts have argued that the APC should consider it in zoning the National Assembly leadership positions.

In dismissing the argument Jibrin in an interview with journalists recently said calls for religious balancing in the composition of National Assembly leadership, were unnecessary.

He warned that competence should not be sacrificed for sentiment.

He recalled a time the federal parliament had David Mark as Senate president; Ike Ekweremadu as deputy and Patricia Etteh as House Speaker, all Christians.

He said, “They were the most experienced and ranking at that time. Competence was not relegated to sentiment then. Bringing religious sentiment won’t fly.

“It is about competence, not sentiment. When we talk about experience, I’m the most experienced,” he argued.

Similarly, the Chairman of APC in Kano, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, noted that the senator was central to the 513,000 votes APC got in Kano. Abbas, therefore, implored the party leadership to reward hard-working Jibril with the position of the Senate president, pointing out that he was the most qualified to lead the Senate in the 10th National Assembly.

He noted that due to Jibrin’s influence, no other party had made in-roads in Kano North where he hails from.

The APC Chieftain said, “Significantly, Kano State gave APC tremendous victory in 2015, 2019, and now 2023 elections, with the state producing the highest votes across the federation.

“This is time to reward a hard-working member who had contributed immensely to the growth of our party; by supporting Barau Jibril to lead the 10th Senate”.

Also, a senator representing Jigawa Northwest, Danladi Sankara, has thrown his weight behind Jibrin’s bid for Senate presidency.

He spoke while while addressing the youth wing of the APC from Zamfara State recently.

Sankara said, “Barau Jibrin is a ranking senator; he edges others in experience and sound relationship with his colleagues.

“He is the kind of Senate president the 10th National Assembly needs to consolidate the achievements of the 9th assembly.

“As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, he was the brain behind the redesigning of Nigeria’s budget circle starting from January.”

Similarly, a pan-African organisation, the Centre for African Progress and Development (CAPD), has urged the APC to zone the Senate presidency to the North West.

Tinubu

Abdullahi

Jibrin

House and Its Obnoxious Doctors Migration Bill

Members of the House of Representatives recently passed for second reading a Bill which seeks to make it compulsory for graduates in medical and dental fields to work in Nigeria for five years before being granted a full license.

This bill is not only discriminatory but harsh and not in the interest of the people.

The proposed legislation tilted, “bill for an Act to amend the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act, Cap. M379, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to mandate any Nigeria trained Medical or Dental Practitioner to Practice in Nigeria for a minimum of five before granted a full licence by the council in order to make quality health services available to Nigeria,” was sponsored by Hon. Ganiyu Johnson (APC, Lagos).

The lawmaker had in his lead debate, said the proposed legislation seeks to cure the exodus of brain drain and build the manpower in medical sector. Despite the criticisms the Bill sponsor is however not backing down. Johnson in a recent interview said the parliament is preparing a similar Bill to stop nurses, pharmacists from relocating abroad.

For many years Nigeria’s healthcare system has been plagued by brain drain which translates into a very poor doctor-patient ratio. Annually the health sector faces an exodus of skilled workers to Europe and other continents. Recently, it was reported that the UK licensed 91 Nigerian doctors within 15 days, bringing the number of Nigerian-trained physicians to more than 10, 200 comprising of specialists, associate specialists, general practitioners and doctors in training.

During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, according to the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), about 5,000 doctors had applied for, and met the requirements to work abroad: they were only waiting for the ease of lockdown in order to leave the country to various parts

of the world. Subsequently, officials from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were in Nigeria scouting for medical personnel to fill up available spaces in their health sector. These are doctors and other medical specialists trained in Nigeria and who were working within the country at the time.

In 2020, the Migration Policy Institute showed that among the 958,000 physicians in the U.S, 269,000 (28 percent) were immigrants.

Of the 21,000 African born physicians, 6,000 (28 percent) are from Nigeria.

There are many narratives concerning the emigration of our doctors to more developed countries. The views cut across a broad spectrum from outright condemnation of health professionals for leaving their country to commendations for every health worker that has been able to leave.

However, some of the major reasons for the continued brain drain in Nigeria’s healthcare sector are poor

welfare of the personnel, inadequate facilities and poor working environment.

Doctors Kick Against Bill

Since the day the bill was passed through second reading, the Bill which will now be scheduled for public hearing for stakeholders to make input, has generated criticisms, as many Nigerians have condemned it describing it as obnoxious and harsh.

The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria said the bill is discriminatory, harsh and not in the interest of the people.

The MDCAN in a press statement signed by its President, Dr Victor Makanjuola, and Secretary-General, Dr Yemi Raji, said the bill is an excellent example of modern-day slavery.

According to the duo, the passion and concern for the health of Nigerians demonstrated by the sponsor of the bill as the panacea for physician brain drain is misdirected, illinformed, and poorly thought through.

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), on its part, said it will strongly resist plans to enslave doctors in the country.

The association, in a communique after a

meeting of its national officers committee (NOC), said it agreed with the lawmaker about the dangers of brain drain in the health sector, but described the bill as “obnoxious” and “modern-day slavery”.

President of the World Medical Association (WMA), Dr. Osahon Enabulele, also kicked against the Bill, saying as one who has engaged the issues of Nigeria’s health system, including the crisis of brain drain, for over two decades, he considered the proposition of the sponsor as “not only outlandish, but totally retrogressive, unresearched and very ill-formed.”

Enabulele who spoke after attending the 5th Global Forum on Human Resources for Health in Geneva, said the sponsor of the Bill claimed there are about 10, 000 doctors practicing in Nigeria, adding that the claim alone clearly showed the unresearched nature of the proposal.

As more condemnation trailed in, Dr Uche Ojinmah, President, Nigerian Medical Association, the umbrella body for medical doctors in Nigeria, while describing the Bill as dead on arrival, vowed to challenge the bill in court and warned of an imminent showdown with government.

Will the Bill See the Light of the Day

It’s clear that the proposed legislation is dead on arrival, as it will be rejected by stakeholders in the medical sector during the public hearing. Rather than coming up with this type of anti-people Bill, lawmakers should task the federal government on a proper overhaul of Nigeria’s decaying health sector. That’s the only way to reduce the mass exodus. With an improved welfare and emoluments of the workers, most doctors won’t see the need to migrate to another country.

Also, an efficient healthcare system can be a source of foreign exchange earnings as Nigeria would become a medical hub for foreigners.

Expectations High as Akeredolu Resumes after Vacation

State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, is back on his desk after 15 workingday

On Monday, April 3, 2023, Governor Akeredolu proceeded on a 15 working-day vacation as first instalment of his 2023 Annual Leave.

In a statement signed and made available to Journalists in Akure by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde and transmitted to the State House of Assembly and addressed to the Speaker, Bamidele Oleyelogun, Governor Akeredolu said the leave was to commence from Monday, 3rd to Tuesday, 25th April, 2023, both days inclusive.

Akeredolu explained that while on vacation, the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa will perform the functions of the office of the Governor. No doubt, the vacation was the third of its kind in the last two years.

Akeredolu while away, his wife, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu shared a captivating picture of herself and her husband sitting on a couch, picturesquely like a typical successful indian couple or like some experienced Indian movie stars.

Obviously, it was shared to mark their 42nd wedding anniversary on April 18. It also showed a moment they reunited in another environment with a heart assumed to be enriched with excitement, strong passion and ardent desire, coupled with zealous consciousness of an excellent life, all burning in the renewed glory of love with a perfect partner. It was not just beautiful but also exquisitely classy, desirable and soul-winning.

While it remains to be seen where they travelled to enjoy the holiday, their outfits suggest the photo was not taken in Nigeria.

Accelerating Ondo’s Growth as Akeredolu Resumes Work

As Akeredolu resumes from vacation, the expectation of many residents of Ondo state including Mr Kehinde Ogunkorode is for the governor to renew his commitment to pursuing policies and programmes that would accelerate

economic development and progress of the people.

According to Ogunkorode, “Akeredolu must continue to work in tandem with the aspirations and yearnings of the people for the overall development of the state. In the last six years, the governor has made bold footprints in the infrastructural sector. Another landmark testimony of his commitment to infrastructural development is the 250-bed hospital he’s building in each of the Ondo and Akure complexes of the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital”.

Others who spoke said they expect the takeoff of the ultramodern and befitting Judiciary Complex in Akure, the State capital which the governor hinted will house 20 different Court buildings from Court one to Court 20, aside the Chief Judge’s Court.

Anthony Sunday, on his part, said aside the quick completion of Ijoka and Oda roads, the governor should show

more commitment to providing accessible roads and agro-logistics hubs in rural communities in order to boost agricultural development in the state amongst others.

Aiyedatiwa’s Stewardship as Acting Governor

The Acting Governor, perhaps, understands that the failure of responsibility could be much frustrating and disappointing but that, the joy of triumph over a dream come true could be more exciting and awakening, even more refreshing than when the most flavoured delicacy is eaten.

In other words, while Akeredolu was away, Aiyedatiwa demonstrated a rare commitment to state service. He showed dedication to upholding the vision of the Akeredolu’s REDEEMED Agenda. In other words, in pursuance of the commitment to the REDEEMED agenda of Akeredolu’s administration and his desire to leave a good legacy, Aiyedatiwa went on immediately with his first assignment under his new Acting Governor status by declaring open the Skill Acquisition and Empowerment Program organized for the Ondo State Youths,

in Akure, the state capital.

On Easter Sunday, April 9, aside celebrating with Christian faithful in the state, the sixth edition of the multi-event auto racing spectacle, the Ondo auto rally was flagged off by Aiyedatiwa, at Smoking Hills Golf Course, Ilara Mokin. Speaking at the event which came to an end on Monday, Aiyedatiwa said motorsports has become an inevitable ingredient in the state’s youth engagement plan.

On April 10, the Acting Governor, alongside Alara of Araromi, Ilaje Local Government, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, joined indigenes of the State at Araromi Sea-Side, Ilaje Local Government as part of activities to commemorate the Easter Monday celebration.

On Tuesday April 18, Aiyedatiwa declared that the State would rally other South West States in the Country to bring about regional rail system and power supply in the region.

Aiyedatiwa made the declaration when the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN), led by their Director General, Dr. Oluseye Oyeleye and his management team paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Alagbaka Akure.

As the Acting Governor, the major achievement he had was the proper management of the Ikare crisis. If the crisis in Ikare Akoko was not properly managed, it would have resulted into breakdown of law and order. If he wasn’t a strong person who knows how to take decision at the right time, the crisis would have degenerated to another thing entirely.

Another achievement was the management of the jungle justice which is the lynching of a suspected internet fraudster, identified as Olorunfemi Tope that killed two people along Ijoka road in Akure, the Ondo State capital on April 10.

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

Fidelis David reports that Ondo

vacation, during which he transmitted powers to the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Akeredolu

Udora Orizu writes that the bill presently before the House of Representatives seeking to curb brain drain in the medical field is obnoxious and may not see the light of the day

Gbajabiamila

Johnson

Aiyedatiwa

How Builder Impersonated UK Institute, Scammed Government, Investors in Award Racketeering

It came well packaged with juicy promises of attaining the exalted inner ring membership reserved for those who have reached the apogee of professional performance, which, unknown to the unsuspecting, was a veneer for an empty shell. It even claimed to be an easy path for those wanting foreign recognition.

The glamorously packaged and publicised 'CIOB Meet Nigeria' award and exhibition event, staged by a local builder, Adekunle Onabekun, claimed to be organised by the Chartered Institute of Building, CIOB, based in the UK, had no involvement of the CIOB as an investigation by Omolabake Fashogbon reveals

From their mood, it was glaring that some of the unsuspecting operators and investors in the Nigerian building and construction industry were gearing up for an acclaimed high-profile event tagged, 'CIOB Nigeria Meet 2023', purportedly organised by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). CIOB is a UK-based global association of professional builders that exists to promote and advance, for the public benefit, the science and practice of building and construction. Findings showed that the institute is an eminently competitive professional body for construction players across the globe, wherein membership of the body translates to career fulfilment for any holder.

Being an awardee of the prestigious institute puts a recipient on the global stage. Among the supposed many benefits of the 'CIOB Nigeria Meet 2023' are recognition and awards, product and service exhibition, and an opportunity to obtain CIOB membership in the UK.

Findings showed that participants must part with a maximum of N10 million ($21,000) before accessing the highlighted benefits, especially the industry awards. The CIOB affiliation and the award perks, explained the rush and attractions for the occasion, as well as endorsement by both state and federal governments. According to the self-acclaimed CIOB Nigeria representative and the event's initiator, Adekunle Onabekun, the theme was arrived at with a focus on the prevailing situation in the building and construction industry and how to improve it for effective contribution to the national economy.

Just as Onabekun has projected, the programme is coming at a period when the construction sector is plagued by incessant building collapse and standard deficit, with government and stakeholders rallying to chart a way out.

According to the Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG), the latest statistics showed that Nigeria recorded no fewer than 552 building collapses between 1974 and 2023, with over 1000 deaths. In 2019, the BCPG forewarned that Lagos alone should gear up for more than 36,000 building collapses. Thus, an opportunity to improve the status quo and get things right through a programme like this is not a bad idea. The programme's flyer sighted by THISDAY revealed the theme: 'Construction Industry Development Collaborations, Innovations and CIOB Capacity Building'.

However, as the chosen date draws closer, so also did suspicion mount regarding the genuineness and affiliation of the programme to CIOB, even as the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) was sidelined.

THISDAY checks showed that CIOB would always communicate any of its events via email to NIOB, its offshoot in Nigeria. NIOB is the "professional body for builders and those who are about to be engaged in the building profession." CIOB usually hosts its event through accredited country offices, not individuals.

NIOB Abuja branch member, who did not want to be named for security reasons, expressed scepticism about the event. Onabekun is a member of the NIOB Abuja branch too.

"I almost registered to attend the programme since it assured of an opportunity to be a CIOB member, which I have so longed for. On second thought, I withdrew, knowing CIOB won't attach a monetary demand to an award, and especially that NIOB is not carried along," she stated, also pointing out that there is nothing like 'CIOB Nigeria'.

A national executive of the NIOB contacted by THISDAY spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak for the association. Asked if he was aware of an event holding in the country this April, he said, “We are aware that one of our members, Onabekun, is putting up a programme which claimed to be in partnership with CIOB, and because he identified

CIOB as the organisers, many members and others have shown commitment. It is not possible that CIOB will hold a programme in Nigeria and not get in touch with NIOB. This is strange to the leadership of NIOB. They are already investigating."

CIOB Denies Involvement, to Investigate Impersonation

Further investigation revealed that Onabekun exploited the CIOB brand name to drive participation in the 'CIOB Meet' event by registering ‘CIOB Nigeria Hub' as a search at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) revealed that CIOB Nigeria Hub was registered as a Nigerian entity with CRBN no: 870626.

THISDAY contacted CIOB to confirm its connection with the forthcoming event. Although CIOB, according to the information on its website, permits members like Onabekun to use its logo, but not without its awareness or permission.

After six days, a response came from CIOB.

The institute's Media Relations Manager, Becky Trotman, dismissed any association with the event or the organisers and discredited CIOB Nigeria Hub, founded by Onabekun.

"Thanks for getting in touch. The event you refer to is not a CIOB event, and we do not have a ‘sister Institute’ in Nigeria called CIOB Nigeria Hub. We assume someone is using the CIOB name to promote an event, which is nothing to do with us, and we’ll be investigating why this is the case," the CIOB told THISDAY in the email.

Nigeria's Who's Who, Political Bigwigs Lured to Grace Event

In the meantime, many, including NIOB members and corporates, have been lured to sponsor the event, which claimed to offer numerous gains. Also, on the event's flyer, the names of some government functionaries expected to grace the event and, most likely, get an award on April 26 and 27 are conspicuous, including the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, Minister of FCT, Muhammad Musa Bello and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Others on the guest list are Elesi Alaye of Odogbolu, Oba Adedeji Olusegun Onagoruwa, the Special Adviser, Works and Infrastructure to Lagos governor, Engr Aramide Adeyoye and

Executive Director of Admin, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Zubairu Bayi.

Contrary to the norm, Onabekun said an awardee or sponsor of the event needs a pass to obtain a CIOB membership. After getting confirmation from CIOB not to be part of the event, posing as a construction company's staff in Lagos interested in getting corporate and individual awards, THISDAY contacted Onabekun.

Asking how and the criteria for the award, Onabekun requested the reporter's email and address of the company she represents to provide registration details. When this reporter delayed responding for about 30 minutes after the conversation, Onabekun called and sent a reminder. No sooner had the reporter sent him the information than he responded with registration details. He reiterated that one would need to sponsor the programme to enjoy its dividends. Reeling out the benefits of sponsoring the event, Onabekun claimed sponsors would enjoy easy "entry" into CIOB.

"The essence of the award is to quicken member's registration into the CIOB. In fact, it is the reason why we put the programme together. We want to know those that are interested in becoming a member. Their details will be compiled and sent to our CIOB office in the United Kingdom, who will then check to process enrollment. Irrespective of the applicant's background, the CIOB will adopt you as a member to achieve your dream to a status level,” claimed Onabekun.

But a check on the CIOB website shows that applicants will need to pass the institute's exam and interview to become a chartered member. Also, admission into CIOB is determined by the applicant's professional experience, education, membership with other professional bodies, etc.

Award for Sales

A marketing executive, Temitope Osunrinde, in an opinion published on Business Insider Africa, titled, 'How to fix the awards craze of African Business Leaders', wrote that regulators, industry associations, or relevant news organisations should give awards and stressed that to give an award, "you have to be in a position to confer prestige, which indirectly confers some form of status."

From the information forwarded by Onabekun to THISDAY, the event sponsorship ranges from N1 million to N10 million, as sponsorship categories come with different benefits. In a telephone conversation, Onabekun told the THISDAY reporter that the category a participant subscribed to determines the award grade for the individual or organisation, indicating that the best award goes to the highest bidder, regardless of whether the individual or entity is qualified.

"The award is an industry award and they are in categories. There is award for individual and corporate, either way, interested ones are expected to provide a document of their profile and accomplishments which will then be screened by our judges for appropriate decision," said Onabekun. "Note, however, that you, first of all, commit yourself to any of the sponsorship categories before you are entitled to an award."

His claim flies in the face of CIOB not organising the event nor sending judges to decide on the awards.

Award Scams as a Lucrative Business Award initiative is seen as a tool to promote excellence, reward performance and inspire exceptional deeds. But it is gradually losing its esteem with criminal elements hijacking the space for dubious motives. A trending practice in this regard is creatively and indirectly putting up an award for sale and then seeking sponsorship deals and financial commitments from intended awardees.

NIOB president, Prof. Yohana Izam Adekunle Onabekun

Flyer of programme

www.thisdaylive.com

FIVE-YEAR MANDATORY SERVICE FOR MEDICAL DOCTORS

It is only fair for those who benefitted from the country’s endowment to give back, argues DANLADI IBRAHIM

See page 25

5G CONNECTIVITY NOT YET FOR MASS MARKET

SONNY ARAGBAAKPORE contends there are still many challenges in the deployment of services

See page 25

EDITORIAL A CLOSURE FOR DEATH-ROW INMATES

Sudan holds the key to nearly all of Africa’s significant strategic exposures from governance, through Climate Change to international terror, writes CHIDI ANSELM ODINKALU

FOR AFRICA, WHY SUDAN MATTERS

There are two countries whose wellbeing and stability reach into nearly every part of Africa. One is the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which is nominally in the central African region but which shares borders with nine countries extending to all of the continent’s four other regions - Angola, Burundi, the Central African Republic, the Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. Unsurprisingly, the DRC is in the regional organisations of every region of Africa except those of the North and of West Africa.

The second is Sudan. With a current landmass of 1,886,068 km2 Sudan is nearly double the size of Nigeria and the third largest country in Africa behind only Algeria and the DRC. Its neighbours include Chad, Central African Republic, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Libya, and South Sudan; and its regional reach extends to the Middle East and North Africa, Central Africa, Eastern Africa, and West Africa. Even more, Sudan’s geo-strategic fragilities, including the Congo Basin, Horn of Africa, the Great Lakes of Africa, the Gulf of Aden, the Maghreb, the Nile Basin, the Sahel, and the Indian Ocean. A popular land route for Muslim pilgrims and a magnet for all manner of irregular hawkers of violence, Sudan holds strategic exposures from governance, through Climate Change, to international terror.

But Sudan has known little peace since independence in 1956 as a Condominium of Egypt and the United Kingdom. In 67 years of Independence, it has seen at least 17 attempted coups, six of which were successful. Two of those successful coups have occurred in the in the overthrow of the 30-year long rule of General Omar Al-Bashir, and the second in October 2021 resulting in the overthrow of the power-sharing arrangement that was to return the country to civil rule in 2022.

On both occasions, Egypt, itself at once both uneasy neighbour worried about the course of Sudan before emptying in its territory) and former colonial power, was always an enthusiastic business partner with the Armed Forces of Sudan. To many people, General Burhan, who nominally heads the Sovereignty Council, as the ruling military arrangement in Sudan is called, is a client of Egypt.

These two recent coups were a joint enterprise between the two most organised Sudan’s armed forces commanded by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, a four-star General; and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commanded by Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, better known by the nom de guerre, Hemedti. The RSF is the new name for an entity that used to be known as the Janjaweed, an expeditionary unit of largely lawless irregulars, to whom the government of Omar Al-Bashir outsourced the

the Army could conserve its assets; the regime could deny direct responsibility; and the leadership of the Janjaweed could make a lot of money and political capital too.

In the decade and a half from the beginning of the Darfur campaign around 2004 to the overthrow of the regime of Omar Al-Bashir in 2019, Hemedti, who comes from one of Sudan’s most troubled regions in Darfur, built up considerable personal wealth and strategic capital, and the bandit force which he originally constituted as the Janjaweed emerged to become what Alex de Waal described as “now the real ruling power in Sudan. They are a new business enterprise, a transnational mercenary force that has captured a state.”

In Darfur, the Janjaweed were responsible for a long and distinguished record of credibly attested atrocities, including crimes against humanity that have since become the subject of investigation and prosecution by the International Criminal Court (ICC). They also managed to export their skills in the deployment of indiscriminate violence to clients in the Gulf States, including Saudi Arabia, who found them useful for outsourcing atrocities in Yemen. From his early origins as a bandit and violence rustler, Hemedti managed through these kinds of arrangements to insinuate himself into respectable company in the region, becoming an almost indispensable factor in the security of arguably the most fragile region in Africa, with support from an assortment of actors including the Gulf States and renegade General Khalifa Haftar in Libya.

The threat posed by the Janjaweed was always very evident even to the uninitiated. underneath Sudan’s velvet gloves. After the overthrow of Bashir, Hemedti, as the commander of the Janjaweed-in-Government power behind the throne. The marriage between him and Burhan always seemed rather convenient. It was only a matter of time before he made his bid for power.

On or around 15 April 2023, Hemedti Sudan’s 18th coup attempt by bringing the guns and heavy artillery into Khartoum which were formerly trained on Darfur. The

build up to this unfolded almost in slow the RSF into Sudan’s Armed Forces. While struggling to retrieve some respectability from that, Hemedti reportedly picked up rumours that the assets of Egypt’s Air Force stationed at the Merowe Air Base in the north-west of the country, including the relatively sophisticated Egyptian MiG-29M medium weight ‘4+

Whether this could end up as Sudan’s seventh successful coup is presently unclear. The fact that Burhan and Hemedti, both committed Islamists, were too impatient to defer the outbreak of military hostilities until after the end of the Holy Month of Ramadhan is notable. As Muslims all over the world rising civilian casualties in this most urban of Africa’s recent wars, both sides proclaimed an the victims mark the Eid.

Anyone with even limited knowledge of Sudan may be disappointed but not in anyway surprised by this turn of events. Much of the present tragedy was both foreseeable and predictable. The most surprising thing addressing it. While the people of Sudan are slaughtered by those supposed to protect them, the world and the region carries on in apparent resignation and confusion. Karim Khan, the Prosecutor of the ICC, appears in Sudan, where Darfur, itself currently an active case under the watch of both the ICC and the UN, has also degenerated into warfare.

For its part, the United Nations Security Council appears to have outsourced the situation to the African Union who have in turn outsourced it to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), which is chaired by Sudan, whose duelling rulers each seem to believe that they have the military solution to this war. All they can muster at the moment appear to be Zoom meetings.

While regional countries try to scramble, Nigeria, Africa’s self-appointed big-brother, has barely noticed. Yet, the links between both countries are beyond geographic. In 1903, Frederick Lugard sacked Sultan Attahiru of Sokoto, who made a last stand at Burmi (now near Bajoga in Funakaye Local Government Area of Gombe State) where he and over 700 of his family and followers were slaughtered nearly 120 years ago in August 1903 in the “destruction of the town by a British force of surviving son, Mohammed Bello, led the remainder of Attahiru’s survivors into exile in Sudan where their descendants have lived since then. Above all, the embassy in Sudan is Nigeria’s most lucrative foreign mission.

A lawyer and a teacher, Odinkalu can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu

FIVE-YEAR MANDATORY SERVICE FOR MEDICAL DOCTORS

SONNY ARAGBA-AKPORE contends there are still many challenges in the deployment of services

5G CONNECTIVITY NOT YET FOR MASS MARKET

Ibrahim writes from Kano

It is only fair for those who benefitted from the country’s endowment to give back, argues DANLADI IBRAHIM

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

EDITORIAL

A CLOSURE FOR DEATH-ROW INMATES

It is a violation on rights and dignity of prisoners to keep them indefinitely on death row

The practice of keeping convicts perpetually on death row is not only inhumane, but also a violation of their rights. Yet, no fewer than 3,298 inmates are currently on death row in the country, according to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). In Abuja and the 36 states, authorities must act on what is becoming another emblem of shame.

To put it in context, prisoners on death row are condemned to a kind of existential limbo, existing as entities in cold storage rather than living as human beings. “There are often long periods of uncertainty for the convicted while their cases are being appealed at higher levels. Inmates awaiting execution live on what we call death row;

been executed more than 15 years after their convictions,” said NCS spokesman, Abubakar Umar who bemoaned the fact that some condemned inmates have spent decades in

It is an inherent violation on their rights and dignity to keep people interminably on death row, especially for cases that have been concluded by the Supreme Court. Statutorily, governors are not bound to sign the warrants for the execution of people on death row. They can exercise their prerogative to commute such sentences to lifetime in jail or reduced the jail terms. They can also grant such convicts state pardon, therefore putting a closure to the matter. But it is unacceptable for them to leave inmates perpetually on death row. The delay in carrying out this executive function is breeding congestion that has in Nigeria. That is aside the helplessness endured in the roller coaster of emotions for these condemned inmates who have practically been reduced to the status of the living dead.

T H I S D AY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D

PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

enshrined in Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution as well as Section 221 of the Penal Code and Section 319 of the Criminal Code. All this prescribes capital punishment for murder while sections 37 and 38 of the Criminal Code prescribe the same punishment for treasonable felony. There is of course a global campaign against capital punishment, but it is still applicable in Nigeria. Majority of these death row inmates are in robbery. Some states in the country have also enacted capital punishment for those convicted of kidnapping. That death row inmates “constitute about 4.5 per cent of the total number of inmates in our various statistics, is disturbing. Against the background that the NCS Act provides for some mitigations, we urge the Attorney General of the Federation to liaise with relevant authorities in the 36 states on how to operationalise Section provides that “where an inmate sentenced to death has exhausted all legal procedures for appeal and a period of 10 years has elapsed without execution of the sentence, the Chief Judge may commute the sentence of death to life imprisonment.”

In 2018, the large turnover of inmates on death row in the country prompted the National Economic Council to voice concern by asking the state governors to take prompt action on the matter. We can understand that some governors dither in signing death warrants on humanitarian, political, religious, emotional, and ethnic grounds. But whatever may be the mitigating sentiments, prolonged solitude is a punishment that is detrimental for the psychology of death row inmates. It also negates the international treaties, declarations and other documents that establish the scope of prisoner rights to which Nigeria is a signatory. We therefore enjoin governors to deal with the issue of condemned inmates, one way or another. That is what leadership demands.

Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LETTERS

SOCIAL MEDIA AS DRIVING FORCE OF DRUG ABUSE

by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has been consistent over the past two years. Every Sunday, Nigerians are informed about fresh developments in drug law enforcement.

Most Nigerians are aware that our country has a drug problem. To say that NDLEA is doing a good job is an understatement. But if we are to be sincere, we will acknowledge thatselves is: how may we assist NDLEA to save our society from the menace of illicit drugs?

can be of help is in ensuring that young people are kept away from illicit drugs. NDLEA reported that 40 percent of Nigerian youths, between 18 and 35, are deeply involved in the abuse of drugs. This is alarming. At the same time, the society cannot completely claim ignorance of how its younger generation is lured into drug abuse.

a growing concern to modern society. These days, the fear of social media is the beginning of wisdom. Unfortunately, so-

cial media is now seemingly an integral part of our lives. For teenagers, whether they are at home, work, in school, shopping with friends, or visiting family for the holidays, their eyes are part of this is that we’re more connected to each other than ever before. The bad aspect is that social media connections aren’t amounts of time on social media, it can heighten the chances

on the disposition of youths: their fashion sense, their taste in music, their lifestyle choices, and career paths. In this new social paradigm, celebrities have replaced parents as teachers of norms and values. What is so heartbreaking is that these celebs behaviours. They smoke marijuana and advocate for its legalisation in their Instagram photos and videos. They abuse alcohol, and swallow the blue and green pills in their snapchat videos. Some of them have been seen dissolving methamphetamine in drinks in some online videos. Yet, these are the people

our children regard as role models.

standardise such deviant action as appropriate.

Parents and teachers can help NDLEA stem the tide of drug abuse among youths by holding discussions with the younger ones and teaching them about the dangers of drug abuse. This should become a standard practice in every family.

Fathers, mothers, uncles, aunts, and teachers need to counter the life of our young people.

For children or wards who are already caught in the drug professional assistance. In this regard, one of the wonderful developments in recent times is the establishment of the NDLEA Drug Abuse Call Centre. The facility is toll-free and it is open abuse of illicit drugs among youths.

Philemon Akwu, Lugbe, Abuja

That death row inmates constitute about 4.5 per cent of the total number of inmates in our various custodial centres nationwide

Respite as FG Moves to Tackle Devastating Tomato Disease, T uta Absoluta

James Emejo in Abuja

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) yesterday said it is desperately looking for funding to tackle the current outbreak of the deadly tomato disease, known as Tuta Absoluta, which had already ravaged over 300 hectares of farmland in Kano alone.

Other states affected by the outbreak include Katsina, Kaduna,

and Gombe with the possibility of further spread.

Speaking at a media briefing organised by the Nigeria Agri-Business Group (NABG) in partnership with the Dutchfunded HortNigeria Programme, Director, Horticulture, FMARD, Dr. Deola Lordbanjou, estimated the cost of the Tuta Absoluta in Kano alone at about N1.3 billion.

He said amid the current fiscal challenges, the ministry was making efforts to leverage

the Tomato Levy Fund in order to respond to the crisis.

Lordbanjou also said the Ministry of Agriculture is currently in talks with the Federal Ministry of Finance to access the levy.

The FMARD director also berated tomato processors in the country for reneging in the backward integration initiative of the federal government.

According to him, the local processors were expected to uptake 50 per cent of locally

grown tomatoes as their raw input adding that most of them still imported 100 per cent of raw tomato into the country, stressing that the government is currently looking into the situation.

The President, Nigeria AgriBusiness Group (NABG), Chief Emmanuel Ijewere, said the losses incurred from the pest attacks had been unimaginable, pointing out that climate change had enhanced the rate at which plant pests move around the fields as

a warm environment helps them to spread wider.

He said though the disease may be restricted to a number of states for now, “they don’t need a visa to go to any other state as long as the conditions are right” adding that the devastation is usually total.

He recalled that many years ago, the country had witnessed the tuta absoluta attack which was devastating.

“And they are attacking us at

a time our economy is so weak,” he said.

Ijewere, said to avoid a repeat of the devastation caused by the tomato disease to smallholder farmers particularly as seen in 2016, it was imperative for key stakeholders to collaborate and harness resources needed to address the issues early and reduce the negative consequences that will be felt across the

Nume Ekeghe

Three big banks, Access Holdings plc, United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) and Guaranty Trust Holding Plc has announced

N7.19 trillion Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) transactions in 2022.

The same figure was reported in 2021 financial year.

For GTCO, its USSD transactions dropped to N3.21trillion in 2022, a decline of 22 per cent, while UBA announced N1.56trillion USSD transactions in 2022 from

N1.15trillion in 2021.

Access Holdings reported N2.4trillion USSD transactions in 2022, an increase of 26.3 per cent from N1.92 trillion in 2021.

For GTCO, it announced 972 million volume of USSD transactions in 2022, an increase of one per cent from 966.9 million in 2021.

The lender in a presentation to investors & analysts attributed the decline to the introduction of 2-factor authentication and the impact of N6.98 flat fee that weigh negatively on the volumes and values of transactions

consummated using USSD.

The financial institution added that the two factors lead to behavioural change as customers switched to GTWorld to consummate their NIBSS Instant Payments (NIP) and other electronic-payments.

In the year under review, GTCO reported N32.8 trillion mobile banking transactions, an increase of 28 per cent from N25.6trillion in 2021 as volume of mobile banking transactions hits 490.6 million in 2022, a growth of 18 per cent from 414.1 million reported in 2021.

The Group in a statement said, “Increased adoption of electronic banking platforms with strong growth in both volume and value of Mobile Banking.

“28 per cent year-on-year growth in Mobile Banking value grew from N25.8 trillion in 2021 to N32.8 trillion in 2022 on the back of an 18 per cent increase in volume from N414.1 million to N490.6 million from new users on the platforms.”

The report added that transactions on internet banking dropped by six per cent to N2.62 trillion in 2022 from N2.78 trillion

in 2021, as volume of internet banking significantly dropped to 8.8 million, 20 per cent below 11.1millin reported in 2021.

“The value of internet banking transactions declined but remained strong at N2.62 trillion, ”the Group explained.

Investigation revealed that the Group announced N23.2 billion income from electronic -banking transactions in 2022 from N21.08 billion in 2021, while commission on touch points dropped to N2.25 billion in 2022 from N2.48 billion reported in 2021.

The Group Chief Executive

Officer, GTCO, Mr. Segun Agbaje, in a statement said, “Our ability to successfully navigate the peculiar challenges in the different markets where we operate underscores our strong business fundamentals and unwavering commitment to sound business strategies.

“Despite the varying challenges and headwinds that weighed on growth in 2022, we were determined to deliver a decent performance and scale effectively to strengthen our competitive edge and drive long-term growth.”

NDIC Begins Verification of Insured Depositors of Defunct Peak Merchant Bank

James Emejo in Abuja

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance corporation (NDIC), has said verification of insured depositors of Peak Merchant Bank inliquidation had commenced towards payment of their insured sums.

Director, Communication and Public Affairs, NDIC, Mr. Bashir Nuhu, in a statement said the move was in line with the corporation’s mandate of deposit

guaranty and reimbursement of depositors in the event of bank failure.

He noted that the verification exercise would enable depositors of the defunct bank to crosscheck and ascertain their account information as well as balances with the bank as at closure.

Nuhu also explained that the process is a prelude to the payment of insured sums to such depositors.

He said, “Depositors are therefore enjoined to visit the bank’s old premises or the corporation’s office nearest to them with proof of account ownership and verifiable means of identification for the exercise.”

The NDIC added that insured sum is the first and mandatory payment that depositors are paid, up to specified limit, if a bank fails.

Depositors are paid amounts in excess of the insured sums

subsequently, as liquidation dividends from proceeds of the closed bank’s assets as realised by NDIC as liquidator.

The central bank in March 2003, announced the revocation of the operating license of Peak Merchant Bank Limited following alleged overbearing influence of the chairman who was also a major shareholder in the bank.

The liquidated institution reportedly suffered from

Hassan-Odukale Cautions Nigerians against Ignoring Weather Forecasts

Ebere Nwoji

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Leadway Assurance, Tunde Hassan-Odukale, has cautioned Nigerians against ignoring the early warnings on weather especially rainfall and flooding issued by the relevant weather monitoring and emergency management agencies of government for this year’s rainy season .

Hassan-Odukale gave the

warning in a statement he issued in reference to the weather forecast issued last year by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET).

To cushion the effect, he said his company has designed insurance policies to help victims of devastating flooding recover from the massive financial losses, which experts estimated at over N4.2 trillion.

Last year, the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMET) issued a grim forecast saying that

2023 would witness an early onset of rainfall accompanied by flooding. According to the agency, effect from March, coastal areas in the South-South, particularly Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers State, will experience downpours; Southern Inland cities will see precipitation in April, while central states will see rain in May.

Hassan-Odukale said, “This year’s weather forecast paints a bleak picture, especially against the backdrop of the

prevailing global inflation and economic vulnerabilities and uncertainties. As expected, these projections call for a prompt response from all stakeholders. As a nation, as agribusiness investors, business owners, property and asset managers, families, and individuals, we must proactively take action to mitigate the disheartening and devastating human and material losses from the flooding incidents in 2022.”

SON Drafts Operational Guidelines for Halal Industry

James Emejo in Abuja

The Director General/ Chief Executive, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Mallam Farouk Salim, has said it is currently working with relevant agencies and stakeholders to develop an operational framework for the take-off of the Halal industry in the country.

He said SON remained committed to continually driving the initiatives that promote the development of Halal products standards

in line with internationally accepted benchmark for both domestic and foreign consumers.

Speaking during the validation meeting for the final draft report on the Roadmap and Operational Framework for the Development of Halal Industry in Nigeria, Salim said the standards regulatory agency had taken steps to ensure that globally accepted standards are developed or adopted for the Nigerian Halal industry.

He said SON had also

ensured that products and services meet the right specifications as well as deliver on consumers’ expectation which will allow for access and acceptance in international markets.

Represented by Head, Halal Desk, SON, Mrs. Amina Haliru, he emphasised the crucial role of standardisation towards achieving the set objectives in the industry.

The SON DG, in a statement by Director, Public Relations, Mrs. Foluso Bolaji, also disclosed that it has established

a training center in Kano where all trainings on Halal certifications had already taken effect so as to have Nigerian businesses and industries partake in the sector.

In her remarks, Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Maryam Katagum, hailed the committee on the strides achieved thus far, noting that the commencement of the industry would be a useful tool in the ministry’s mandate of facilitating trade and growing the Nigerian industrial sector.

Transcorp Hilton Abuja Receives Global Accolades

Transcorp Hilton Abuja, challenged over 37 Hilton properties worldwide to win the Sales Team of the Year Global Award at the 2022 Commercial Services Summit Awards.

This accoladed come despite the challenges posed post-pandemic, where the sales team at Transcorp

Hilton Abuja has continued to exceed their targets and drive growth for the company. Their innovative strategies, unwavering determination, and strong work ethic have enabled them to consistently deliver outstanding results, even in the face of adversity.

Commenting on their achievement Hotel Manager,

Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Islam Elmaddah, said: “The Sales team’s collaborative approach has been a key factor in their success. Each member brings a unique set of skills and expertise to the table, and they work together seamlessly to achieve their goals.”

He further added that they are committed to offering an

persistent illiquidity, poor asset quality, significant insider abuses and poor track record of profitability.

However, the process of liquidation had been delayed by litigation from aggrieved shareholders.

SMEDAN Partners Bloc to Empower MSMEs

Nume Ekeghe

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has partnered with Bloc, a financial services infrastructure company that provides tools and software for SMEs to efficiently manage their financial operations and how they serve their customers with financial technology.

The Director General of SMEDAN Olawale Fasanya, in a statement, said the prevalent challenge for businesses in Nigeria has been a lack of/poor infrastructure to manage business operations and access financial services amongst other things, and this is one of the challenges this strategic partnership with Bloc aims to solve.

He said the partnership is aimed at promoting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises in the country by providing them with easy access to FinTech tools and infrastructure in alignment with SMEDAN’s responsibilities as a government agency. He states: “If micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) do well, they can contribute significantly to employment generation, wealth creation, poverty reduction, and sustainable economic growth and development in Nigeria.”

Explaining the role of Bloc in the partnership, He said it is a financial services infrastructure company that provides access to an array of easy-to-use tools and software for SMEs with little or zero technical know-how.

RESPITE AS FG MOVES TO TACKLE DEVASTATING TOMATO DISEASE, TUTA ABSOLUTA

value chain- from the farmer to consumer.

Director-General, NABG, Mr. Manzo Maigari, added that farmers in affected states will have the benefit of demonstration of strategies for containment and prevention by technical officers in the field.

On his part, Executive Director, National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Dr. Mohammed Attanda, said in response to the current outbreak, the institute has developed sustainable environmentally friendly Integrated Management Packages which include biopesticide to effectively kill the egg and the damaging larvae of Tuta and Tuta Trap Tray which kill adult Tuta.

unwavering topnotch customer service and experience.

Also commenting on this feat, Director of Sales, Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Daniel Ekun said: “Our guests remain the greatest beneficiaries of these achievements as we are challenged to consistently exceed their expectations and deliver world class experiences to them.”

He said the institute had successfully demonstrated and trained farmers on the use of the technologies in Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Jigawa and Plateau states as well as engaged in enlightenment programmes through the mass media in affected states.

Represented by his aide, Mr. Abiola Oladigbolu, the NIHORT

boss recommended that FMARD should incorporate NIHORT sustainable tuta integrated management package for tomato production in the national tomato policy to stem the tide of the occurrence.

Among other things, he said tomato farmers should endeavour to use NIHORT Tuta integrated management package rather than the current reliance and indiscriminate application of synthetic pesticides.

On his part, National Secretary of National Tomato Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN), Alhaji Sani Danladi, said farmers are already counting their losses occasioned by the pest attack.

Essentially, Tuta Absoluta, moth family specie, is a destructive pest that destroyed many tomato farms in Nigeria in 2015.

The loss of yields led to scarcity and an increase in the cost of tomatoes a daily vegetable staple for most Nigerian families leading households to use less nutritious alternatives.

Nume Ekeghe

L-R: Sub-Dean Faculty of Management Sciences, UNILAG, Dr. Ekundayo Badejo; Chairperson, Technical and Enlightenment Committee, FMAN, Mrs Fadekemi Obasanya; Winner of the Quiz Competition, Hyacinth Flourish; Vice-President, FMAN, Ms Adaku Ijara and President FMAN, Mr. Aigbovbioise Aig-Imo ukhuede during a sensitisation of UNILAGE students on investment opportunities in the capital markets in Lagos… recently

Ahmed: Subsidy Removal Will Not Cause Huge Spike in Inflation

The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, in this interview at the just conclusion IMF/World Bank Spring meetings in Washington DC , speaks on the impact of fuel subsidy removal on Nigeria’s economy, the $800 million facility by the World Bank and other pertinent issues.

The World Bank recently approved a facility of $800m to cushion the effect of removal of fuel subsidies on vulnerable Nigerians, can you give an insight to how the funds would be utilised?

The $800 million has been negotiated and approved by the federal executive council and we now have a request before the parliament for approval. And once the parliament approves it, we roll. We’ve also been doing preparatory work side by side along the approval process. And that includes the building of the social register, which will be used for the electronic transfers of the funds. We needed to have this ready because when the government eventually removes the fuel subsidy, there will be an immediate transport palliative that will be provided to the most vulnerable members of our society who have been identified, registered, and now contained in our national social register. This effort is led by the Ministry of humanitarian affairs, disaster management, and social development. They developed that register with the support of the World Bank. The register has about 10 million households and that’s an equivalent of 50 million Nigerians.

The initial design is to disburse cash transfers of N5,000 per month per household for a period of six months. So, whether this is enough is an assessment that we are undertaking with the transition team. If it’s not enough, the country has to raise additional resources to be able to cover more people, extend the period or increase the amount; whichever is finally negotiated upon. When the subsidy is removed, there would be additional revenue that would now accrue to the Federation account. One of the things we are working on is how to use this incremental revenue would be used. The money belongs to the federal, state, and local governments. So, we need an of how to use this.

We hope that we’ll be able to still fence this incremental revenue and apply it to measures that will help to ensure that the fuel subsidy removal is actually sustained so that It won’t be another start-and-stop program. But this has to be a collective decision. The current administration and the incoming administration are working on a plan to make sure that we have a consensus on how to use that incremental revenue. In the issue of other palliatives beyond the transport sector, again it would be part of the compact so depending on what the various stakeholders we’ll be engaging with including what the organised labour will be asking for. You mentioned the issue of the transport sector, so there will be a consideration of whether some of the support to the transport sector directly but again it’s not a decision that has been taken yet on how to deploy the incremental palliative because it has to be a consensus between the various stakeholders and these stakeholders include the states different unions, the incoming administration as well as the outgoing administration.

The issue of debt sustainability came up in various sessions during the meetings, and you keep saying we are still within the thresholds but with the increasing borrowings how much more can we borrow until it becomes unsustainable? Also, what is the government thinking in terms of restructuring and creating more room to attend to other sectors of the economy?

On debt sustainability, debt was one of the main things that were discussed throughout the sessions at the World Bank. It is an issue for most developing countries. Today as we speak because of high inflation globally and the continuous quantitative easing by the central banks globally are undertaking, interest rates continue to rise. So, if you have taken a foreign debt, your cost of debt just rises without you doing anything.

So, we all have these challenges such that what you have planned in budget and provided for just keeps changing because interest rates keep changing. So, it is a global problem, there hasn’t been a specific landing but it is a lot of considerations that globally there must be some initiatives that would improve the fiscal space of countries that have high debt burden including things like debt standstill or the freezing interest rate at some certain point and several options that are being discussed but there has to be an agreement on what to do. During covid, there was a Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI) as a global initiative and after that, there was a common framework. So, it is something similar that is being worked on. So, this discussion includes the debtor nation, creditor nation, credit rating agencies and the multi latria development banks.

There are reports that the federal government will pay $23.3 million to consultants who facilitated the $800 million loan from the World Bank, can you confirm this?

I have no clue as to what this is about. We raise our funds ourselves. We don’t need consultants to raise funds from these

institutions. The $800 million, we raised this by discussing with the Debt Management office, the Ministry of finance, and the World Bank country office in Nigeria. We don’t need consultants to help us raise any kind of finance. We have internal expertise that has worked well over time, so we don’t need consultants for that.

Can you speak on the discussions on the aviation sector with the International Finance Corporation (IFC)?

When we met with the IFC, they said they were engaging with the Nigerian aviation sector to see how they can provide financing for the operators of the sector. So, the operators of the sectors are airlines that are operating within the sector, so it would be the IFC funding the private sector to enhance their operations. It could be airlines, or other operators but not the government.

We learned the transition committee had meetings, can speak about their participation at these meetings?

We also understand they had meetings, they also joined some of our meetings but they didn’t join all of our meetings. The good thing in Nigeria today is that this transition process is guided by executive order. The executive order requires that there is a joint transition team. So, the transition team is both the incoming as well as the outgoing administration. And when we were preparing for this meeting, they sent a formal request that they want to participate

and we welcomed it. And because of that, we organized some of the meetings to have them involved in. They were part of the bilateral meetings we had today. They also joined the deep dives that we did we had on Monday. So, we are working collaboratively.

Nigeria’s latest inflation figure is pegged at 22.04% and with subsidy removal in the horizon, how much more impact do you foresee the subsidy removal would have on inflation?

The fuel subsidy would always come with some challenges like increased inflation, which would naturally happen. It would happen initially, it would spike and then it will moderate and normalise. Anywhere in the world where you remove any kind of it has that effect. That is why that initial fund is necessary so that you are deploying it quickly and reducing the impact on the lives of the most vulnerable people in our society. So yes inflation may go up but our assessment is that it would not go up by much because as it is, the fuel cost in Nigeria or the cost Nigerians are already paying for fuel reflects the high cost of what would be attained when the fuel subsidy is removed. People are buying fuel at very high rates, it is not the pump price. So we think that inflation is already built into it. There might be some increase but it would not be a huge spike and even if there is, it would be transient and it would quickly come down and moderate.

NOTE: The story continue online on www.thisdaylive.com

Ahmed

Nume Ekeghe presents the excepts;

Essaadi:

Hike in Excise Duty Will Have Devastating Effects on NB Businesses

Kayode Tokede

The Managing Director/ CEO, Nigerian Breweries Plc (NB), Mr. Hans Essaadi, has said that the rumoured increase in excise duty by the federal government may have a devastating impact on its business, stressing that the brewery maker is dialoguing with the government.

Speaking at the company’s PreAnnual General Meeting in Lagos, he said, “It is our firm belief that as a big corporation, we’re partly an alcoholic beverage and part of non-alcoholic beverages but we have to pay our duties and we respectfully want to pay our duties and taxes

in full.

“At the same time, the notion of further excise tax increases, including significant ones that are being rumoured at this point in time would have a devastating effect on our business.

“We believe that especially at this moment in time, this is the wrong thing to do. We are in dialogue with the Government but wanted to pay fair amounts of tax without overdoing it because ultimately, an excise tax increase means a price increase in the market.

“Because increases significant mean price increases in the market because it’s indirectly a

tax to consumer leading to higher consumer prices with restricted disposable income which will lead to less revenue, but ultimately also lead to more poverty in the market.

“We are not alone as we are a oneoff business confronted with these challenges. It is for us to continue to have constructive dialogue with the authorises that excise duty hike at this time is the wrong thing to do.”

He said the company’s in the first quarter of 2023 performance faced challenges amid the scarcity of both foreign and local currencies.

According to him, “We have moved from foreign exchange scarcity to local currency scarcity.

Nigeria’s formal economy is based on cash and we have all seen if you disallow people to trade with cash, it allowed the whole economy comes to a standstill.

“The good thing is that we are slowly coming out of it. We do not know what is going to happen with the new government coming May 29th. Until then, cash has returned to the market and we have seen our numbers improving. But including financing costs, our business is under pressure for profitability.”

He said the company has the right strategy in place and is confident of overcoming 2023 challenges and continuing to be successful.

Seinde Signature Partners Providus Bank on New Product

Sunday Ehigiator

Nigeria’s leading, and first-of-itskind fragrance studio in Nigeria, Seinde Signature Limited, has announced a partnership with luxury British perfume brand, ‘Clive Christian’, alongside Providus Bank to launch Clive Christian’s latest product, ‘Town & Country’ in Nigeria.

Speaking at the official launch event held at Providus

Head Office, Victoria Island Lagos, the MD/CEO, of Seinde Signature, Seinde Olusola, said the company’s partnership with the Clive Christian brand and the launch of its new product in Nigeria was to further expand the niche market in Nigeria to compete at the global stage.

According to him, “Clive Christian coming into the Nigerian space with their prestige all over the world further projects what

we stand for as the best in the country.

“Apart from validating the business, that we don’t do fake, and communicate directly with niche manufacturers, Clive Christian’s partnership further expands the Nigeria niche market.”

Speaking on the partnership with Providus Bank, he said, “Our partnership with Providus goes as far back as October 1, 2022. We understand that if any

of their customers use their cards in any of our stores they get a specific discount, while they talk about us to their customers. So the partnership at both ends is all about customer acquisition. We get customers through them and they also get customers through us.”

Also speaking, the Regional Director of Clive Christian, Tate Torongo said, “Town & Country was created in 1925 and famously worn by Winston Churchill.

FinbersBusiness Launches e-Resume Platform

Finbers Business, a company focused on career advancement and simplifying the way candidates and employers connect, is excited to announce its new e-resume platform and app, which are already helping jobseekers land

their ideal positions.

The announcement is especially timely as more than half of American workers say they are in the market for a new job this year, citing layoffs at major companies like McDonald’s, Amazon, and

Google, and concerns over a looming recession.

Finbers Chief Executive Officer, Cynthia Eguzouwa, stated: “The Electronic Profile Resume (EPR) allows individuals, regardless of their profession, to showcase

their business, skills, achievements, abilities, and opportunities through a shareable link. At a time when the workplace and job market are changing rapidly, this innovative technology can help job seekers get noticed and get hired fast.

Oilfield Firm, Baker Hughes, Beats Profit Estimate on Strong Oil Prices

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Oilfield firm, Baker Hughes, has beaten first quarter profit estimates as stronger oil prices supported demand for its equipment and services.

Global oil futures are currently trading around $83.12 a barrel, down about 22 per cent from a year ago but still well above a level where firms can drill profitably.

Markets have been choppy in the past month, with the price of a barrel falling to around $70 amid concerns of a banking crisis and economic jitters before rebounding on a surprise cut by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

“While 2023 has already started off with some macro volatility, we remain optimistic on the outlook for energy services,” Chief Executive,

Lorenzo Simonelli said in a statement.

He sees the current spendingcycle for oil and gas as “less sensitive to commodity price swings,” pointing to factors such as the development of liquefied natural gas projects, according to Reuters.

The company is anticipating double-digit spending growth by upstream oil and gas companies this year, eyeing full-year revenue

of between $24 billion and $26 billion, up from $21.2 billion in 2022.

Shares of Baker Hughes were up 1.4 per cent in pre-market trading at $29.90 each. They are flat year-to-date.

Revenue from Baker’s Oilfield Services & Equipment business rose 19 per cent year-over-year, while sales in its Industrial & Energy Technology business grew by 18 per cent.

Ebere Nwoji

Airtel Nigerian has partnered AXA-Mansard, one of the big HMO’s in Africa, to launch an innovative health bundle.

The company said the bundle was aimed at addressing the healthcare needs of millions of Nigerians who are unable to afford the high cost of healthcare in the country.

Speaking at the media launch of the product, the chief Commercial officer, Airtel Nigeria, Femi Oshinlaja said, “we are all aware, the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the inadequacies of the healthcare system in Nigeria. Many Nigerians do not have access to proper healthcare, and over 90 percent of the population do not understand the importance of health care protection. The majority of Nigerians rely on self-medication, closet doctors, and traditional healers for healthcare. This is a situation that needs urgent attention, and Airtel is taking the lead in addressing it.”

He said the Airtel AXA-Mansard

health bundle is an innovative solution that empowers more Nigerians to conveniently access best-in-class health insurance value offerings, adding that Airtel customers can now access affordable health care insurance when they buy airtel data bundles. This is a new and innovative service that has not been done before, and it shows that Airtel cares about its customers.

Also speaking AXA Mansard Chief Executive Officer Tope Adeniyi said the Airtel AXA-Mansard health bundle provides three healthcare services: Telemedicine, Pharmacy Services, and Hospitalisation reimbursement. According to him, Airtel customers can access the bundle (Data b+ health insurance) directly by dialing *141*44#. There are three bundles available: N700 that gives you 1Gb data and health care insurance valid for 7 days, N1700 that gives you 2Gb data and health care insurance valid for 30 days, and N3500 that gives you 10Gb data and health care insurance valid for 30 days.

NNPCL: Group Urges FG to Obey Court Judgment on Araraume’s Reinstatement

A front-line Nigerian civil society group, Justice Now Coalition!, has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria, to consider giving effect to the judgment of the Federal High Court that reinstated Senator Ifeanyi Godwin Araraume as non-executive chairman of the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), instead of heading to the Court of Appeal to challenge the judgment, and prompting faceless civil society groups to be demeaning the temple of justice and the rule of law on account of the court judgment.

The group, in a statement signed by its National Convener, Comrade Tony Erha, said that obeying the judgment of the court was a better and more preferred option, in the circumstance, saying appealing the judgment should be treated as a distant alternative option.

According to the group, appealing the judgment would only dilate the matter and keep it on the front burner such that it would restrain the international oil companies (IOCs) from investing their total commitment in the country’s oil sector that has virtually been rendered tentative and unstable by the court action.

The group appealed: “The Federal Government should take the window of opportunity provided by the Federal High Court judgment to correct its mischief and put an end to the issue once and for all.

“Afterall, Senator Godwin Ifeanyi Araraume was a director in the board of NNPCL before he was simultaneously appointed as the non-executive chairman, thus enjoying the privilege of having his name in the company’s records with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

“Araraume remains a part of the NNPCL family in the face of the law. All issues settled in his favour in the judgment can be quietly revisited and resolved in ways that there will be no losers at the end of the day.

“This is the best way to go about quick restoration of the Board of the NNPCL to normalcy. The government cannot pretend not to know that all is not well with the NNPCL, especially now with the specific order nullifying all the decisions and resolutions taken by the Board in the absence of Senator Araraume from January 17, 2022 when he was removed as nonexecutive chairman of the Board.

L-R: Managing Director, Power Gas Limited, Sumeet Singh; Managing Director, Aggreko Nigeria, Teryma Denen Toryila; Managing Dir ector, Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company Ltd, Engr. Seyi Omotowa; Chief Financial Officer, Axxela Limited, Timothy Ononiwu; Co-Founder/Deputy Managing Director, Falcon Corporation Limited, Audrey Joe-Ezigbo; and Chairman, NEDOGAS Limited/Oildata Inc., Emeka Ene, during the panel session on ‘Gas Infrastructure – Physical/Virtual, Network Code, Midstream Infrastructure Fund’ and the just concluded Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2023, held at the International Conference Centre, FCT, Abuja, Nigeri a… recently

MILESTONE

Adenuga @70: His Success Strategies

Williams Orji

Although he shies away from publicity and prefers to do his business and live his life quietly, Dr. Michael

Adeniyi

Adenuga Jr., Chairman of Nigeria’s foremost digital services company, Globacom, who turns 70 on April 29, is today one of the most prominent names on the African continent.

Not known to be among Nigerian businessmen who made their fortune largely by befriending every government in power for bogus contracts, concessions and waivers, yet by the time he turned 50, Dr. Adenuga was already a multi-billionaire sitting atop what is generally regarded as one off the continent’s largest business empires. His octopoidal hands stretch from oil and gas to telecommunications, aviation, banking, construction and real estate.

In each of these critical sectors of the economy, Dr. Adenuga has built his companies into major players. In the oil and gas sector, for instance, Conoil Plc is one of the most profitable oil marketing companies in Nigeria. He had bought over a dying National Oil and within a few years turned it into a thriving business now known as Conoil Plc. Conoil Producing, the downstream arm of the conglomerate, made history by becoming the first Nigerian company to strike oil and produce it in commercial quantity. In banking, Equitorial Trust Bank (ETB) was one of the few banks that effortlessly met the N25 billion capital requirement without going to the stock market or merging with other banks except Devcom Bank which was also owned by Adenuga. ETB later merged with Sterling Bank where he is the largest shareholder. He is also one of the biggest shareholders in Transcorp Plc and Nigeria’s oldest bank, First Bank of Nigeria Plc. It doesn’t end there; Adenuga is equally the largest shareholder in Nigeria’s foremost construction companies, Julius Berger Plc.

In telecommunications, Globacom is reputed to be the most innovative network in Nigeria as well as the pacesetter in Nigeria’s quest to become a digital society. His investment in real estate alone is said to be worth over three billion dollars. These companies provide direct employment to thousands of Nigerians and millions of others indirectly.

That Adenuga is one of the world’s wealthiest men is not in doubt; what may not be well known is the driving force behind this business phenomenon. How do you decipher the mind of a man who hardly grants press interviews or speaks in public? He does not attend public functions, does not go out to court political leaders like other Nigerian businessmen do. Indeed, his preference for privacy is such that even some of the workers at his numerous businesses have never set eyes on him.

But what perhaps gives an insight into his mind, personal and business philosophies and what drives his existence is his postulations on ”Achieving” which he released on April 29,1993, to mark his 40th birthday.

To help understand what has made Dr Adenuga the symbol of enterprise and success he is today, this masterfully crafted business bible bears recalling:

“Achieving is a thing of resolve and

persistence,” Adenuga wrote. “It is the state of attaining success as a goal through sustained consistency. The achiever is a leader, a winner, all the time, not just once. Achieving is an attitude.

“Leading the pack is the only worthwhile resolve for the achiever.

There is no room for second place. It is often said that it is not the winning that counts, but the participation. This adage does not reflect an achieving attitude. It is not the mere participant, but the achiever, the winner, the leader who makes the difference that advances the course of humankind in the judgement of history.

He continues: “High profile corporate game playing is an arena where the pervading zeal is on achieving in every

single endeavour: to be the first, and always the first; to be the one who holds the aces that determine the pace of play. You do not enter the arena to depend on luck. You match your wits against others, with your entire constitution springing to action. Every fibre from innermost recesses of your being, to the fore, becomes combative in a synchronised zeal to achieve. With this strategy, you’re never going to come off the arena a loser”.

On how to successfully run a business concern, Adenuga submits: “Essentially, running a business is similar to leading a military operation or orchestrating a political campaign, or performing as a great athlete. The fundamental principles are the same. The overriding objective is to outmanoeuvre the opposing forces; to outsmart the other party; to out-perform the competition; to outwit the other guy - to achieve. This may sound harsh. But that is the way it is”.

To be able to achieve success, he counsels that entrepreneurs must engage the best hands, those with a competitive spirit and winning attitude. No wonder then that Adenuga pays special attention to recruitment process in his companies: “Success is the goal of every business, and the most successful businesses engage the most competitive men. They are there to compete - to savour the grind and brutal discipline of epic combat - and to achieve”.

Notwithstanding the firm and pragmatic business philosophy, Adenuga remains a strong believer in God, in equity and fair play: “Let my words not be misunderstood. I do not believe that men must be dehumanised or brutalised to acquire an achieving attitude. I am a staunch believer in the Divine Presence of God, and recognise the necessity

of human decency and goodwill. But at the same time, I strongly believe that a corporate player’s greatest fulfilment is that critical moment when he engages in that epic corporate combat with all he’s got and emerges as the man of the moment: the achiever.

“In the end, the achiever has a moral obligation to reflect upon the general condition of humanity in the larger field of play. Such a reflection should materialise in a philanthropic attitude – that which is responsible, organised and reasoned – as well as promotion of knowledge…”

With this mindset of an “Achiever” as defined by Dr Adenuga, it is easier to understand the sheer gut and determination that have characterized his resounding successes. From his perseverance to go into oil drilling when the odds seemed against him and his mates were selling off their oil blocks to his bouncing back with Globacom in 2003 after the setback of losing $20 million in the 2001 GSM license auction when government awarded him an encumbered frequency, it has been one story after another of rushing in where angels fear to tread.

Despite his humongous accomplishments, Adenuga has remained an embodiment of humility. And in spite of his overriding preoccupation with success, he holds as his motivation in business not to become the richest man in Africa (even though those close to him vouch he already is) but to add value to the life of Nigerians. “If I can be seen as adding value to Nigerians, it is more fulfilling,” he enthused.

Adding value to Nigerians Adenuga has done in his 70 years, through his companies, particularly Globacom, and through his quiet but numerous philanthropic gestures. He deserves all the accolades on his platinum jubilee.

“Despite his humongous accomplishments, Adenuga has remained an embodiment of humility. And in spite of his overriding preoccupation with success, he holds as his motivation in business not to become the richest man in Africa (even though those close to him vouch he already is) but to add value to the life of Nigerians. “If I can be seen as adding value to Nigerians, it is more fulfilling.”

Adenuga

Seplat Energy: Building Capacity in Education Sector through Teacher, School Empowerment

Determined to equip teachers with skills to thrive in the 21st century learning environment, Seplat Energy recently graduated 271 beneficiaries of the 2022/2023 edition of the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme, launched in 2020 in Edo and Delta States. Uchechukwu Nnaike reports

Today’s realities have made the call for school, teacher and student empowerment germane and justifiable given the falling standard of education in the country.

This sort of empowerment encompasses learning, teaching and leadership in the sector. These interventions don’t only impact the education system with respect to teachers’ welfare and development, but also have major economic impacts on the country.

Over the years, Nigeria has witnessed a decline in the standard of education and the level of academic excellence, a situation mostly attributed to poor attitude of students towards their academics.

The saying “to whom more is given, more is expected,” especially comes into play as it concerns teachers’ welfare and teachers’ empowerment in the country.

The ‘hidden’ disease of the country’s education sector is said to stem from the poor motivation of teachers.

Apart from funding, teachers’ empowerment also implies the training of teachers to become better at their responsibilities; providing them with better learning experiences and resources to improve their creativity, providing them with better work environment and impacting on their personality and professional methods are all few ways of empowering teachers for them to grow and be able to generously give back quality education to their students.

That is where Seplat Energy has made another giant stride towards improving the standard of education in the country.

In 2020, the company launched the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP); an initiative for enhancing teachers’ competence for effective teaching. The programme was designed to train teachers on a model built on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), as well as leadership and self-improvement.

The structure of STEP involves a three-month intensive training programme created for teachers to enhance competencies and empower them with the knowledge and skills to implement STEAM education. The programme kicks off with a four-day residential workshop which provides leadership and self-improvement training, training on STEAM modules and its application to teaching. The teachers are also provided with STEAM gadgets and apps to support their delivery of quality teaching in our host states. Teachers are the critical success factor for the STEAM model, thus Seplat has been empowering them with the STEAM knowledge and skill sets to enable them deliver.

On April 14, 2023, the company held the graduation ceremony for the beneficiaries of the 2022/2023 session of the STEP initiative. The event was accompanied with an education roundtable and the Seplat Teachers’ Empowerment Programme (STEP) award ceremony was for 271 beneficiaries, comprising 260 teachers and 11 CIEs.

The STEP initiative by Seplat Energy builds teachers’ competencies to teach the STEAM model of learning to secondary schools students to promote their creative thinking abilities, allow for higher student engagement, and offer a wellrounded education where Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics are equal contributors to the process of learning.

The programme provides teachers with access to STEAM learning through workshops and a customised e-platform with a collection of STEAM resources that teachers can access on a free device provided by Seplat Energy.

In her remarks, the Director, External Affairs and Sustainability, Seplat Energy Plc, Dr. Chioma Nwachuku, said secondary school teachers in public and private schools in the company’s host states were open to benefiting from the laudable programme.

According to her, the STEP programme has been enormously impactful in touching over 25,000 students within its third year. It has

recorded a total of 634 beneficiaries, which comprise 574 teachers and 60 Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs).

Over the years, Seplat Energy has invested significantly in other educational Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes such as the PEARLS quiz competition to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Number 4, which promotes education for all.

The Director, New Energy, Seplat Energy, Effiong Okon, who commended the Edo and Delta State governments for providing a conducive business environment for the company, said Seplat’s new energy focus ties strongly to “the sustainability programmes in our host states and Nigeria at large”.

Okon added: “Seplat Energy crave for innovation and excellence as it continues to empower teachers and CIEs, and remains committed to celebrating the success stories of the benefiting teachers as well as the students that are being impacted.”

To commemorate the certificate presentation ceremony, Seplat Energy hosted a chat session to further deliberate on the role of technology for quality education aligning with the theme of the Education Roundtable, ‘Transforming the Education Workforce’. The roundtable, which had tech professionals, educational and technological experts and officials was highly engaging. The panelists comprised the Dr. Chioma Nwachuku, Director, External Affairs and Sustainability, Seplat Energy; Mr. Yinka Akibu; M&E Specialist, UNDP Spotlight Initiative; Kemi SokenuMorris, Chairman of the Executive Council, Sustainability Professionals Institute of Nigeria (SPIN); Audrey Odogu, Philanthropies Lead, Microsoft; and Birghitta Eno Okodugha, Permanent Secretary, Information Communications Technology Agency, Edo State. The session was moderated by Dr. Mories Atoki, Chief Executive Officer, African Business Coalition for Health.

Whilst delivering the Keynote, the Edo state Commissioner for Education Dr. Joan Oviawe assures that

“technology remains critical to transforming the education workforce and that the 21st century interaction between teachers and students could be massively impacted and boosted leveraging the right technologies and methods.”

She called for project-based and competencybased learning approaches in schools, adding that: “Our teachers must become technologically-savvy at this time. Data gathering has become very key now and technology provides the right platforms. It is a new era and we are in a new world. Thanks to Seplat Energy and its partners for leading this journey.”

The Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Augustine Oghoro, commended Seplat for its people-focus initiatives, saying the interventions were timely given the need for teachers and students to be equipped with relevant skills to become global champions.

Speaking on the company’s commitment to sustainability of the programme, Nwachuku said: “We strongly believe that education is the bedrock for national development and our STEP deployment aims to enhance teachers’ competencies and empower them with the knowledge and skills to implement STEAM education, amongst other benefits. Seplat Energy is committed to providing this programme annually because of its relevance and positive multiplier effects on boosting quality education.”

Seplat Energy has continued to drive positive change in the Nigerian educational sector with a strong bias for innovation and technological progress. The company equally crave for the appropriate application of same to schooling, as new competencies could become game-changers for the country and the Nigerian people. With the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme, Seplat Energy boosts value creation in the country’s education sector for the realisation of quality education.

The occasion was also used to launch the Seplat Innovation Initiative to donate wellequipped STEAM laboratories to schools to promote a learning environment where students can participate actively in hands-on, practical STEAM learning. The goal is to unleash students’ potential and assist them in developing their Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Art skills by using technology to create, collaborate and complete projects. The STEAM laboratory, supported by solar energy, has internet access to provide the teachers with a technology-enhanced learning environment to support project-based learning for their students.

Seplat STEAM laboratory is designed to help students learn how to work as part of a team, solve problems and apply their knowledge in advanced and creative ways.

The company commenced the initiative with the donation of a well-equipped laboratory firstly to Ihogbe College, Benin City, Edo State. It will extend to more schools in the state and Delta.

Speaking at the event, Nwachuku noted that, as a company, Seplat distinguishes itself by implementing distinct educational initiatives to support achieving quality education for students and teachers in its states of operation.

“Seplat is excited that the STEAM laboratories will further strengthen the application of STEAM learning that the company has continued to promote in schools through the STEP. She affirmed that the STEAM laboratory would create a student-centred learning environment, focusing on developing their skills and connecting the STEAM subject areas while preparing them for future careers and the real world”.

The Principal of Ihogbe College, Johnson Egharevda, expressed the excitement of the entire school as he remarked that his students have also attended Seplat-organised competitions, noting that three of the school’s STEP-trained teachers have developed power banks based on knowledge gained STEP.

Selecting schools to qualify for the STEAM laboratory donation entails a competitive process. There will be a periodic review of schools of STEP-trained teachers to choose from those who display utilisation of their learnings at the STEP programme to create remarkable positive learning outcomes for their schools and students in their respective schools. Seplat is pleased to note that the STEP-trained teachers at the first school to receive the STEAM lab, Ihogbe College, Benin City, had, despite a relative lack of infrastructure at the school, demonstrated outstanding achievement by applying their learning. These teachers of Ihogbe College, who were beneficiaries of the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programmes, put into practice the knowledge gained in the STEP programme by designing and producing a Power bank utilising the STEAM principles.

Seplat Energy has continued to validate its commitment to quality education through its flagship educational programmes for schools and teachers. The company pledges to ensure the sustenance of this new initiative and donation of STEAM laboratories to schools through monitoring and provision of support required for the efficient running of the facility.

Mr. Effiong Okon, Director, New Energy, Seplat, hands over keys of the STEAM laboratory to the Commissioner for Education, Edo State, Dr. Joan Oviawe as the Principal, Ihogbe College, Johnson Egharevda (left), and Dr Chioma Nwachuku, Director External Affairs, and Sustainability, Seplat (right), watch

Afe Babalola Says Ado Ekiti Poly is His ‘Baby’

Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

The founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, has again reaffirmed his consummate penchant for developing the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, which establishment he described as his personal project.

Babalola said this while receiving in his office the new polytechnic rector, Dr Temitope John Alake, alongside some of the management staff of the institution, on a courtesy visit heralding the beginning of familiarisation visits to some relevant stakeholders of the polytechnic.

Babalola, who was also the chairman of the Governing Council at the inception of the polytechnic, assured them of his support whenever the need arises to stabilise the institution, which he described as a senior brother to ABUAD.

The foremost educationist and visionary philanthropist further noted that it has always been his dream not only to see the polytechnic develop but also to rank high as one of the very best institutions in Nigeria.

Babalola recounted the trajectory of its establishment through his patronage from the federal

Corona College of Education Tackles Educational Migration at 5th Convocation

government in 1982. He promised that he would work with the institution’s management to liaise with necessary authorities to ward off arbitrary encroachment on the polytechnic land.

He bemoaned the insensitivity of successive governments to the development of education, especially the polytechnic sector in Nigeria. He noted that he founded ABUAD a few years ago, and it is currently ranked the best university in Nigeria and 321 in the world, according to the Times Higher Education Impact Ranking 2022.

The ABUAD founder, who accused successive governments of paying lip service to the development of technological education through several policies summersault and poor funding of the polytechnic sector, said, for instance, it was wrong for JAMB to lower admission requirements into polytechnic below (160), i.e. 40 per cent of its score, while the average for universities stood at (180), i.e. 45 per cent for less rigorous courses.

The ABUAD Vice-Chancellor, Prof Smirinda Olarinde, commended the collaboration between the polytechnic and ABUAD.

LASU Trains Staff on Open Educational Resources

Funmi Ogundare

The Lagos State University (LASU) recently held a three-day training for selected members of staff on Open Educational Resources (OER), designed to enhance its online resource repository.

The training was organised in partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) at the Senate Chamber, Babatunde Raji Fashola Senate Building. It was declared open by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello.

Addressing the 30 trainees drawn from sections of the university, including academic and non-academic staff, OlatunjiBello said it has become imperative for the institution to adapt its practices to embrace hybrid teaching methods because of its many advantages, one of which is the opportunity it provides for workers to gain an education.

Olatunji-Bello added, “Truth be told, given the complexity of today’s globalised economy and its demands on employees, physical learning may be obsolete for many prospective students who desire access to quality education without the constraints of physical learning.”

She said the university had committed huge resources to digitalise her teaching and learning process to actualise the vision of becoming the

Uchechukwu Nnaike

The Corona College of Education (CCED), Lagos, has restated its commitment to global education standards, as educational migration increases in the country.

The Provost, Dr. Olajumoke Mekiliuwa, said this at the fifth convocation ceremony and lecture, where 170 students of the college received various certificates and diplomas for the 2021/2022 academic session.

She said that the college will continue to ensure value and technology-driven education, to further develop the sector.

With the theme ‘Education

and Globalisation: A Nigerian Perspective’, the convocation lecture, delivered by Prof. Charles Ogbulogo from Covenant University, raised veritable concerns about the high educational migration and called for government’s urgent intervention in the sector.

Ogbulogo noted that Corona College aims to ensure global education standards through its output and how much training it gives its teachers.

The lecture also highlighted how skills in education are global, and how destitute nations and their young people who are not satisfied with their countries eventually move away for

greener pasture

According to him, “in a country that is called destitute, you can see there is a high disconnect between their institutions and their industrial sector.”

Concerning educational migration, Ogbulogo said the only reason people can migrate and become useful elsewhere is that their grades are transferable. “Global education makes your grades transferable.”

He added that due to transferable skills, teachers and students have the mobility to do things anywhere in the world, which ensures employability.

Earlier, the provost urged

the graduands to continue to be good ambassadors of the college and the Corona Schools’ Trust Council. She promised that the college will continue to remain true to its core vision, mission, and values as it recognises that academic is is a collaborative endeavour.

Currently, she said CCED is collaborating with local and international organisations/institutions such as EDVES, to offer digital education to global learners on its personalized learning platform. This she said has positioned the college within the rank of trailblazers in digital transformation of education in Nigeria.

best in West Africa, adding that the OER training will go a long way in strengthening that drive.

She also revealed that part of the university’s investment is deploying the OER platform.

“Recently, LASU deployed its OER platform, a repository of study materials designed to meet students’ needs,” Olatunji-Bello.

“These materials are warehouses with dedicated support services to help students access them on the University website.”

Representative of the partner organisation, the Commonwealth of Learning, Prof Francis Egbohare, during a courtesy visit to the vice-chancellor earlier, stated that LASU is one of three universities in Nigeria where the COL is partnering on the project.

He revealed that the training would, among other things, help the university to develop a tailored policy on open resources and online education. He was joined by Mr Felix Okechukwu and Mr Felix Okafor from the COL for the three-day training.

The Director of the Directorate of Information and Communication Technology (DICT), Prof Toyin Enikuomehin, while welcoming the three-person team, thanked the VC for giving speedy approval to the training, noting she had demonstrated uncommon passion towards the development of OER in the university.

YWCA Lagos Rewards Spelling Bee Winners

Oluchi Chibuzor

Recognising the importance of mental reasoning among school children, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), Lagos branch, has concluded its spelling bee competition for children ages five to 10, rewarding the winners with education materials.

Speaking at the event in Lagos recently, the Chairman, Lagos Branch, YWCA, Mrs Oluyomi Oludipe, described the event as timely and needed, calling for

more corporate interventions in the educational sector.

She said the association saw the need to grow and bridge the education gap.

“This is one of the programmes that we do, and it is the first we are doing when it comes to the spelling bee. What we have done previously is to have programmes about citizenship: why you should be a good citizen of this country and why you should have self-worth and self-discovery,” Oludipe said.

Explaining the rationale

behind the competition, Oludipe stated, “At this spelling bee competition, we are looking at the very young, especially those between the ages of four to 10. Our reason for doing this is that we want our society to be better informed and cultured to build leaders.

She added the need to focus more on other subjects and not only on spelling.

“We need people to revive what we used to have, like JETS clubs, encouraging people to do science subjects, humanities and

local languages. Local languages are our identity, and we cannot go abroad and be speaking another person’s language,” Oludipe explained. “We should also let them know our language and culture, so people should promote culture, language and sciences.”

The President of the YWCA Methodist Church, Festac, Mrs Fola Adeshina, said the competition would empower young ones with educational materials to support the church community.

Teesas Partners FranklinCovey, Holds Leadership Boot Camp for Children

Oluchi

Chibuzor

Teesas and its US-based coaching partner, FranklinCovey Education, recently held a technologydriven boot camp for children using a transformative model of ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’.

The two-week boot camp, held at the new tech-enabled Teesas Learning Centre in Lagos, was designed to help children channel their energies while schools are on break, to build leadership skills towards

achieving academic success, home-based and environmental productivity, and self-discovery.

While taking journalists on a tour of the learning centre, the Founder Teesas, Osayi Izedonmwen, stated that the seven habits leadership boot camp further entrenches the company’s partnership with FranklinCovey Education.

He stressed the need for children to imbibe social skills early, above and beyond academics. The organisation also inaugurated the Teesas App, an online learn-

ing platform offering 360 hybrid solutions and liberalising African education access.

According to Izedonmwen, Teesas was launched as an online learning platform via the Teesas Education App. It remains a game changer for the education sector that provides language-centric digital content delivered by certified tutors.

He also emphasised the Teesas Learning Centre, saying it “will help us actualise that vision through the provision of neighbourhood after-school

coaching centres for children preparing for secondary and university entrance exams and critical skills such as leadership and coding.”

Izedonmwen added, “We have the leadership curriculum which covers the ‘7 Habits for Kids,’ for children aged 7 to 11 years, and the ‘7 Habits for Teenagers,’ for children between the ages of 12 and 18 years. In addition, Teesas offers the ‘Exam Prep’ programme for grade 5 and 6 students who are transitioning to secondary school.”

Babcock Lecturer Tasks EFCC on Equipping Forensic Accounting Unit

Funmi Ogundare

A professor of Forensic Accounting at Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Samurai Dada, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)

to enhance the investigation of corruption cases by equipping its forensic accounting unit. Dada, who said this while delivering the institution’s 41st inaugural lecture, titled, ‘The Forensic Accountant in a Global World of Corrup-

tion and Stunted Economic Growth’, recommended the engagement of trained experts with attractive remuneration to facilitate investigation of corruption cases or the use of forensic accounting experts from professional accounting

firms to serve as investigators and expert witnesses. He noted that this would assist the court in concluding corruption cases without delay.

The don also called for strengthening the legal

framework to ensure that courts apply section 19 subsection 2 of the EFCC Act, 2004, for the accelerated trial of corruption cases and the non-interference in corruption cases by the government.

Apart from attractive pay,

he attributes the success of the anti-corruption campaign in Hong Kong to the country’s anti-corruption agency’s independence from political interference and separation from the police force and the civil service.

Some members of the Young Women’s Christian Association with some of the participants of the recent spelling bee competition, organised to catch them young

CITYSTRINGS

Inside Katsina Community Where Water is Gold

Residents of Ungwan Liman community in Batagarawa Local Government Area of Katsina State are left to their

they scramble daily searching for water, writes Francis

Sardauna

For 45-year-old Halima Ahmadu, accessing potable water in her Ungwan Liman community in Batagarawa Local Government Area of Katsina State, is a nightmare. Halima, like many other women in the community, wake up as early as 3 am daily searching for the scarce commodity for family use.

The mother of ten often scrambles all the trenches dug by the men in the community to see if any would have sprung out water during the night. But most times, Halima returns home without water and even when she is lucky to scoop a small amount, it is usually contaminated.

Located a few kilometres away from Katsina, the seat of power, Ungwan Liman community, has a deplorable road with most residents looking bemire, skinny and weak seemingly because there is no potable water for them to drink.

With potholes and craters, commuting on the road leading to the community has become a nemesis for motorists and commuters in the area. When it rains, plying the route becomes a nightmare for residents, who complain of frequent breakdown of their motorcycles and vehicles.

However, Halima said getting water at those odd hours is usually not without a struggle with other women who also left behind the safety of their homes in the wee hours of the day, searching for the crucial human need often referred to as life.

Water fetched from the ditches is little and dirty, but Halima, as many other women in the community, content herself with her lot. Even when she attempts to purify the brown coloured water with potassium alum, the colour always remains the same.

Sadly, Halima and other women in the community always tussle with domestic animals for the coloured water. "We will go back to the ditches in the afternoon, by 2pm, we will nose across all the ditches like snakes alongside our animals to see if there is enough water to scoop", Halima said while lowering her voice as if she would cry.

It usually takes hours for Halima and her peers in the community to fill their buckets and jerricans with such coloured water which runs contrary to the World Health Organisation’s water standard, which states that water should be colourless.

Narrating her abhorrent experience to THISDAY in the community, Halima added that: "We will sit there and wait. We will dig the ditches deeper atimes. If we notice the water is coming out from one source, we scoop it into our buckets and take it home for drinking and domestic purposes."

Although the community has three wells, the Community Leader, Ahmadu Shuaibu, said all the three locally constructed wells normally dry up during dry season, adding that they were dug by individuals but have been abandoned by the government.

He said: "So, we resort to digging up holes in sand for dirty water which we drink, use to cook and for other household activities. We dig the holes and scoop the dirty water which has

accumulated into a bowl, then wait for it to accumulate again.

"We and our animals drink from the same holes we manage to dig through community efforts. The cattle rearers also use the holes with their cattle. This has been our sad experience for so many years. Government should please come to our rescue by constructing motorised boreholes for us".

THISDAY observed that the struggle to get water for cooking and house chores makes bathing optional in most households in the community. Residents, mostly children, hardly bathe due to the acute water scarcity bedeviling the agrarian community for decades.

"Due to the difficulty of getting water to drink and to perform ablution for our daily prayers, most of us can stay for days without bathing", another resident, Mohammed Kabir said.

He added that the daily competition for water among women, men and animals in the community has degenerated into an unhealthy rivalry.

He called on the state government to pay urgent attention to the water

crisis in the community, which presently threatens the lives of an estimated population of 2,000 residents, especially children, women and expectant mothers.

Kabir explained that there was an existential threat looming dangerously, and which may overpower the state government's health care sector if nothing is urgently done to tackle the acute water shortage experienced by inhabitants of the community.

While the people of Ungwan Liman suffer daily searching for clean water, the community is littered with abandoned water projects that could have alleviated their suffering if they were functional. Thus, there are two abandoned hand boreholes in the community.

Investigation by THISDAY revealed that one of the moribund boreholes was constructed by a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member 11 years ago. It was rehabilitated in November 2018 by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with other partners but got spoiled a year after it was repaired. The second one, according to residents, was drilled by Batagarawa Local Government Council in 2007 but got spoiled in 2009.

Woe betides any resident of the community who falls sick or requires medical attention because there is no building in the community that can

safely be called a Primary Healthcare Centre nor a primary school for children to even acquire elementary education.

There has been little or no government presence in the community despite its proximity to Katsina, the state capital. Residents said their children usually trekked about six kilometres daily to access the only primary school located in a neighbouring community, Makurdi.

In a bid to facilitate easy access to education for their children, the residents said they contributed money and acquired land within the community two years ago for the government to build a school for them "but nothing has been done by the government".

The seemingly distraught residents appealed to the state Governor, Aminu Bello Masari, to approve the immediate establishment of a primary school in the community to enable their children get easy access to education.

"How can we be subjecting these kids to trekking six kilometres in this 21st century, in Nigeria? Just to access primary and secondary education. The life we lived, our children cannot live it, talk less of our grandchildren.

"How can you ask your son to trek 6km every day and five days a week? It is not going to work! That is why we put our efforts into acquiring a plot of land for the government to come and build a school for us", Hassan Idris, one of the residents added.

He said the long distance discourages most parents from sending their children to school, a development which has resulted in many out-of-school children roaming the community.

He lamented that some of the children have resorted to hawking and farming activities, adding that most of them don't go to school during the rainy season "because of the distance and the difficulties of crossing the only bridge linking our community and Makurdi where their school is located".

Another resident, Yakubu Usman, who spoke on the deplorable nature of the road leading to the community, said: "We have complained to government officials on several occasions about the road but they have not done anything to assist us. Sometimes, we apply self-help by putting stones, sand and gravel on the road but they are easily washed away".

While claiming that both the local and state governments have abandoned the community despite working for the success of the APCled government in the state, Usman said the road needs to be reconstructed. "The road, if constructed, will go a long way in improving the life of people in the area".

But the chairman of Batagarawa Local Government, Hon. Bala Garba-Tsanni, could not be reached for comments as he did not pick his calls or reply to text messages sent to his phone numbers.

With this development, residents of Ungwan Liman community are left to their fate as they scramble daily searching for water which they referred to as gold. Lack of access to basic education for their children, good roads and electricity remain the major predicaments of the agrarian community.

So, we resort to digging up holes in sand for dirty water which we drink, use to cook and for other household activities. We dig the holes and scoop the dirty water which has accumulated into a bowl, then wait for it to accumulate again. We and our animals drink from the same holes we manage to dig through community efforts

fate as

Usman fetching water from one of the trenches

10-year-old Naja'atu and her friends waiting for water to accumulate in one of the wells

One of the abandoned hand boreholes in the community

FAD: Urgent Investment in Rural Areas Needed to Safeguard Global Food Security

To avert future food crises and growing global hunger, the President of the United Nations’s International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Alvaro Lario has called for increased investment in the small-scale farmers who produce one-third of the world’s food.

According to him, “About 3 billion people live in the rural areas of developing countries and rely to a significant extent on small-scale farming for their food and livelihoods. Rural economies and specifically agriculture have suffered from chronic under-investment in recent decades. Continuing to neglect rural people will increase poverty, hunger, migration, and make conflict and instability more likely. Food and income security are essential for national security.”

IFAD is the UN’s only specialized agency exclusively focused on rural development and boosting rural economies.

“The populations we serve, who produce so much of our food, are not looking for hand-outs. They are seeking to overcome limits such as lack of access to finance, technology and connectivity. They deserve our support, “said Lario.

Coming from the G7 Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting in Miyazaki, Japan, Lario will make several stops in Washington, D.C. on Capitol Hill to meet with members of Congress and their staff, and then to New York to participate in the Global Citizen NOW event.

“Today’s food crisis results from the convergence of multiple crises including climate extremes, conflicts, economic shocks and food supply chain disruptions, many linked to

the war in Ukraine and the global pandemic. Food and fuel prices globally were at record high levels by the end of 2022, and though commodity prices have now come down in international markets, food prices have remained high in developing countries which depend greatly on imported food and currency strength against the US dollar.

About 80 per cent of the world’s extremely poor people reside in rural areas. While being essential for global food security, smallholder farmers often live in poverty and hunger, making just six cents for every dollar worth of food they produce.

We urgently need to increase investment in rural areas of developing countries to safeguard global food security and ultimately, national security,” said Lario.

Purple Real Estate Income Reports 385.4% Growth in Gross Earnings

Purple Real Estate Income Plc has announced a gross earnings of N20.4 billion for the full year ended December 31, 2022 as against N4.2 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2021.

According to a statement, the company said its net revenue which stood at N2.4 billion, represented 36.5 per cent year-on-year increase over N1.8 billion of 2021.

“Also, Purple recorded total other income of N14.5 billion, up by astronomical 853.8 per cent year-on-year over the full year 2021’s N1.5 billion. Besides, operating income was N16.9 billion, up by 411.6 per

cent year-on-year fromm N3.3 billion in 2021: “Total expenses of N2.2 billion, up by 22.5per cent year-on-year to (FY 2021: N1.8 billion); Profit before income tax of N14.7 billion, up by 873.5per cent year-on-year (FY 2021: N1.5 billion); Profit after tax of N13.1 billion, up by 895.9per cent year-on-year (FY 2021: N1.3 billion). “it said.

It added that it recorded a total assets of N45.8 billion adding, “This translates to an increase of 73.5 per cent year-on-year over the position of N26.4 billion in 2021. On the other hand, total liabilities stood at N23.1 billion, up by 32.5per cent year-on-year over the full year 2021’s N17.4

MARKET INDICATORS

billion. Shareholders’ funds of N22.8 billion, represented 152.9 per cent over N9 billion of the previous year.

“Purple is morphing into a tech-powered real estate and financial services business. At the heart of this integration is Purple Proptech, a wholly owned Purple entity deploying tech based solutions, with the ultimate goal being to bring down barriers and access to world-class retail, entertainment, financial services and investments. Purple is leveraging on technology, to create a unique ecosystem of interconnected products in the cloud, and offline.”

42Markets Group Secures $10m Growth Capital

Nume Ekeghe

42Markets Group, has said it secured $10 million in growth funding from Convergence Partners, a leading private equity investor dedicated to the technology sector across sub-Saharan Africa. This funding is coming after it recently closed its Convergence Partners Digital Infrastructure Fund (CPDIF) at $296 million.

In a statement, 42Markets Group Chief Executive Officer,

Andries Brink stated, “This is a real vote of confidence in the positive impact investment in digital financial infrastructure can have, both in developing and in mature markets.”

On his part, Chief Executive Officer of Convergence Partners, Brandon Doyle added: “This is one of our first investments in the digital transformation of financial markets. We see 42Markets as an emerging winner in this space. Their group companies

have a long track record of consistent double-digit growth and a quality leadership team with deep expertise and experience in the capital markets.

“Fourteen leading global development finance institutions (DFIs) based in Europe, the US and Africa are the investors in CPDIF and Brink said, “This is the connected capital we have been looking for. We are proactively engaging with these investors to explore further opportunities to work together”.

Momas: License Local Meter Manufacturers to Bridge Nigeria’s Metering Gap

Gilbert Ekugbe

Momas Group has called on the federal government to license local manufacturers of meters to bridge Nigeria’s huge metering gap currently at over five million.

Speaking on the sidelines of the graduation of 10 Offa youths on a five week Printed Circuit Board (PCB) training course, the Chairman, MOMAS Group, Engr. Kola Balogun, explained that most of the enterprises that are sustainable in the country are licensed, stating the urgent need for local manufacturers to be licensed to sell to the unmetered public.

He also stated the need for an increased level of support and encouragement to local manufacturers of meters while also pointing out the need to encourage and allow consumers acquire meters on their own.

In his words: “The federal government must continue to encourage local companies sufficiently or allow consumers to be able to buy meters on their own and if they can buy meters on their own, we will be able to invest. This means we should be licensed and most of the enterprises that are sustainable today are licensed enterprises. License meter

manufacturers so that we will be able to reach more users.”

Also speaking, the Chairman, One Innovation Hub, Waheed Olagunju, said for Nigeria to eradicate poverty by 2030, its population need to be well educated, skillful and healthy, pointing out that the training speaks to the skill acquisition aspect.

“For any nation to be productive, it needs to be skillful and the skills being imparted will enable them navigate the world better. We are in a knowledge based economy and PCDs are the heart of electronics, “he stressed.

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage)

OPEC

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $84.37 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $84.59 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 8 MARCH, 2023

L - R : MD/CEO CashToken Rewards Africa, Lai Labode; Director, CashToken Rewards Africa. Dr Israel Ovirih; MTN Winner, Douglas Ohnohuome Airiofo and Chairman, CashToken Rewards Africa, Taiwo Olashore during the 5th anniversary celebration of CashToken Rewards Africa in Lagos...recently

Awori: ETI to Create More Value Amid Developments in Technology, Payments, SMEs

Kayode Tokede

The new Group Chief Executive Officer, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), Mr. Jeremy Awori, yesterday in Lagos said the pan-African financial institution is poised at creating more value in Nigeria amid the developments in technology, payments and Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Awori, who led an Ecobank

delegation to meet Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), Mr. Temi Popoola, and then joined the brokers’ community to “ring the gong ceremony”, explained that Nigeria, being the largest economy in the African region was a core market for SMEs.

“As a pan-African bank, we are working on tapping value from the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA).

“We will continue to create

more value in the country amidst the developments in technology, payments and SMEs.” Awori added.

Commending NGX for its leadership role and innovations including the NGX Technology Board, Exchange Traded Funds market development, and sustainability drive, the GCEO stated that ETI would actively work with the Exchange on developmental initiatives.

“We will be building up our

corporate and SME banking businesses as we are focused on growth transformation and maximising value for shareholders and investors.”

“We commend the great work the Exchange has accomplished to forge a vibrant capital market. As a listed company on the NGX, we must continue delivering value to our shareholders, while remaining accountable to stakeholders. We are excited about the growth opportunities in Nigeria.

“We have the largest panAfrican footprint across 35 countries in Africa and are uniquely positioned to seize these growth opportunities for the benefit of our customers and clients.

“Furthermore, we recognize that responding to the evolving needs of the Nigerian customers and clients is critical to delivering our pan-African strategy. We are therefore determined to double down our efforts to support the

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF 25/04/23

growth of Ecobank Nigeria, which is a core business for the Ecobank Group”.

As he concluded, he added: “Ensuring we bring the market and the entire investment community to a clear understanding of our strategy and progress, as well as ultimately delivering returns to shareholders above the cost of equity, is fundamental for the market to reward us with a stock price that reflects Ecobank’s intrinsic value”.

TickerPricePriceChg%

JAPAULGOLD0.3310.0%

HONYFLOUR2.559.9%

BERGER8.359.9%

TRANSCORP2.699.8%

IKEJAHOTEL1.529.4%

CHAMPION4.849.3%

FTNCOCOA0.297.4%

FCMB4.087.1%

ACCESSCORP10.607.1%

CUTIX2.356.8%

TickerPricePriceChg%

WAPIC0.38-7.3%

NGXGROUP25.30-4.9%

RTBRISCOE0.24-4.0%

AIICO0.53-3.6%

ROYALEX0.61-3.2%

FIDELITYBK5.63-2.9%

FBNH11.00-1.8%

PZ11.80-0.8%

ETI10.95-0.5%

TickerVolumePriceChg%

ACCESSCORP217.47.1%

TRANSCORP111.59.8%

FIDELITYBK30.7-2.9%

ZENITHBANK27.60.5%

UBA18.20.6%

GTCO16.90.0%

STERLINGNG12.50.6%

DANGSUGAR9.12.3%

JAPAULGOLD8.610.0%

OANDO7.92.7%

TickerValuePriceChg%

ACCESSCORP2313.57.1%

ZENITHBANK608.80.5%

GTCO423.20.0%

MTNN320.02.2%

TRANSCORP299.99.8%

FIDELITYBK175.8-2.9%

DANGSUGAR157.32.3%

UBA143.60.6%

NAHCO56.80.0%

WAPCO55.52.0%

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 20Apr-2023, 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.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

L-R: Head of Brands, Seasonable Lager, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Okwudilli Nwakobi; Managing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Hans Essaadi; and Portfolio Manager, Premium Lager, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Sampson Oloche, at the Tiger Uncaged Xperience in Lagos…recently

Director of Operations, British-American Tobacco (BAT) Nigeria, Alberto Kauer (right), receiving a complimentary plaque from Col. Sylvester Anyaogwu (left) on behalf of Major General A.A. Adeyinka, Commandant of the Nigeria Army College of Logistics and Management (NACOLM), during the visit of NACOLM students to the BAT factory in Ibadan, Oyo State...recently

L-R: Managing Director, R-Jolad Hospital, Dr. Funsho Oladipo; Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi; Chairman, R-Jolad Hospital, Mr. Babajide Ogundare; and Chairman, AfyA Care Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, at the unveiling of the new R-Jolad Plus facility in Lagos…recently

L-R: Head of External Communications and Partnerships, Reckitt Sub Saharan Africa, Mrs. Cassandra UzoOgbugh; Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Sustainable Developmental Goals and Investment, Mr. Lekan Fatodu; and Mortein Brand Ambassador, Ms. Kate Henshaw, at the commemoration of the 2023 World Malaria Day by Mortein in Lagos…recently

L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Afrihealth, Cornelius Umanze; Master of Ceremony and television host, Simi Drey; medical doctor and brand ambassador of Rigour+ medical super app, Dr. Chinonso Egemba; Chief Executive Officer of Afrihealth, Linda Obi; medical doctor, Dr. George Uchendu; and Vice President, Partnerships of Afrihealth, Jude Chikezie, at the unveiling of the Rigour+ medical super app in Lagos…recently

cross-section of women, children, and youths receiving gift items during the Eid-el-Fitr festival held at Olorunishola Estate in Lekki, Lagos…recently

PHOTO: MUBO PETERS

PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

NIGERIAN STUDENTS IN PENNSYLVANIA INTERACTING WITH OSINBAJO...

Postgraduate Nigerian students at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia who interacted with the Vice President YEMI Osinbajo ahead of his Special Lecture at the University…yesterday

2023 World Malaria Day: Poor Use of Local Content Poses Challenge in Combating Disease, Lawmakers Lament

Nigeria not Among eight African countries set to meet malaria reduction target, says WHO 11 million malaria related deaths averted in 21 years

USAID - IHP empowers 30 lab scientists Obaseki urges increased efforts to enhance deployment of new tools, expand access to services for endemic population

Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Udora Orizu, Juliet Akoje in Abuja and Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

As countries across the globe yesterday marked the World Malaria Day, the House of Representatives noted that the disease was still a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, stressing that lack of use of local content was inhibiting the fight against the disease.

The House Spokesperson, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, in a statement to commemorate this year’s ‘World Malaria Day’ stated that four African countries, including Nigeria, accounted for over half of all malaria deaths worldwide.

He stated, “Nigeria alone accounted for (31.3%) of global malaria deaths, followed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo (12.6%), the United Republic of Tanzania (4.1%), and Niger (3.9%).

“In Nigeria, malaria remains a significant public health challenge with an estimated 97 million cases and 300,000 deaths annually. Although progress has been made in reducing the burden of this disease, much work still needs to be done to eliminate it,” he added.

Kalu said, the key areas of challenge to address the Malaria burden in Nigeria have been issues of donor dependence for malaria intervention

in the country.

He said, “Hence, the 9th National Assembly has identified lack of domestic financing and lack of use of local content in terms of production and patronage of local manufacturing of LLINs (long-lasting insecticidal nets) and antimalarial drugs as a key challenge.

“To address this, the sum of over $300 million has been approved under the World Bank and the Islamic Bank IMPACT projects to address and compliment donor support.

“The theme of this year’s celebra- tion is “Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, implement. It is with a

particular focus on the implementation of strategies to reach especially the vulnerable age group children under 5 years and Pregnant women."

WHO: Nigeria Not among Eight African Countries Set to Meet Malaria Reduction Target

Relatedly, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said Nigeria is not among the eight countries in Africa expected to meet the 2025 Global Technical Strategy target on malaria incidence reduction. The world body said in terms of reduction in malaria incidence, "eight

UN Laments Increasing Gulf between Government, Governed in Nigeria

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The United Nations (UN) has lamented the widening gulf in the relationship between the government and the governed in Nigeria.

It insisted that multidimensional poverty in the country is currently affecting more than 139 million people in the country.

In his remarks at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth

Forum 2023 Watch Party, held at the UN House in Abuja, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Matthias Schmale said Nigeria has its own share of internal challenges including the insurgency in the Northeast, the limited scope of the social protection system, multidimensional poverty affecting more than 139 million people and a somewhat broken social contract between those who govern and the citizens.

He noted that: “All these have made a significant portion of Nigeria’s young population more vulnerable, as evidence by a 34.9 per cent rate of youth unemployment and 20 million out-of-school children.”

Schmale lamented that: “Your generation has had its educational experiences and job prospects disproportionately hit by global crises such

as COVID-19, the war in Ukraine and the resulting downturns in the global economy.”

He, however, told the youth that: “If your generation can triumph, then so will Nigeria and the broader African continent. With a median age of 18, this country has one of the highest populations of young people in the world and will play a critical role in promoting sustainable development and achieving peace and prosperity on a global scale.”

The Resident Coordinator while stating that the theme of this year’s forum: “Accelerating the COVID recovery and the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda with and for youth,” was especially relevant to young Nigerians, said: “The resolutions produced at ECOSOC’s Youth Forum will help shape the agenda for the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development being held in July and the SDG Summit being held in September.”

He noted that: “These events are important stocktaking moments, and will help shape the course of action for rescuing the global development agenda 2030 and the associated SDGs.”

“Today’s dialogues and discussions are an opportunity to make your generation’s voices heard and to surface creative ideas which can

contribute to building back better from the devastating pandemic and other challenges.

“Nigeria’s young people must be effectively included in the design, implementation, and monitoring of policies and programmes aimed at addressing the impacts of the pandemic and achieving the SDGs. We must leave no one behind.”

He noted that recently, the UN and the Government of Nigeria together

signed a Cooperation Framework which provides a five-year roadmap for UN efforts to accelerate progress towards the SDGs in partnership with the government and people of Nigeria.

He revealed the Cooperation Framework was centred around four pillars - people, planet, prosperity, and peace - and includes a package of key Transformative Initiatives which really move the needle on development across the nation.

countries - Cabo Verde, Ethiopia, the Gambia, Ghana, Mauritania, Rwanda, South Africa and Zimbabwe are on track to meet the 2025 Global Technical Strategy target.”

It expressed worry that malaria deaths have remained unacceptably high, and that cases have continued to increase since 2015.

In her message to mark this year's World Malaria Day, yesterday, WHO African Regional Director, Dr. Matsidisho Moeti, said Africa alone accounted for an estimated 234 million malaria cases and 593 000 deaths, thus bearing the heaviest burden of over 95 peecent of cases and 96 percent of deaths globally.

While giving update on progress at tackling malaria scourge in Africa, Moeti said about eight countries were on the verge of achieving 2025 target while 15 countries have achieved insufficient reduction with 20 others witnessing stagnation or increase in cases.

In the message read on her behalf by the WHO Country Director, Dr. Walter Molumbo in Abuja, Moeti further said more than 1.6 billion malaria cases and 11 million malaria deaths were averted in the WHO African Region from 2000-2021.

She regretted that 10 countries saw increases in malaria deaths, adding that the pace of progress must be accelerated in order to achieve the set targets for 2025 and 2030.

While congratulating our Member States and development partners for

achievements over the last year, Moeti said : "we are greatly concerned that malaria deaths remain unacceptably high, and cases have continued to increase since 2015."

"Nearly 30 percent of the popula- tion in most African countries cannot access essential health services, and most people face unacceptably high expenditures on health care.

“Significant inequities affect the most vulnerable, young children and women, whereas about 80 per cent of malaria cases and deaths occur in children under five," she said.

In order to reverse the trend and accelerate progress, Moeti said countries must rethink and revitalise their strategies by investing, innovating and implementing smartly.

She suggested that increased investments in funding for malaria interventions through primary health care approaches should be intensifies so that malaria services are accessed by the most vulnerable populations wherever they are.

USAID - IHP Empowers 30 Lab Scientists

Meanwhile, in commemoration of the World Malaria Day, the Integrated Health Programme of United State Agency for Development (USAID -IHP), yesterday disclosed that it has trained and equipped 30 laboratory Scientists in Bauchi State.

Sahara Group Advocates Backward Integration to Bolster Energy Sector Sustainability

Deploying seamless backward integration in the energy sector would foster growth and sustainability enabled by improved efficiencies, innovation, upgrade in local expertise and participation, the Director, Governance and Sustainability, Ejiro Gray has said.

Gray who addressed journalists at the 6th Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) in Abuja, according to a statement yesterday, said building local capacity for extraction and processing of natural resources facilitates job creation and

economic growth. She also joined other panelists that discussed “Local Content Investment and Sustainable Energy Future” at the summit.

“Backward integration helps to reduce the cost of raw materials, providing a more stable and predictable supply chain that presents opportunities for growth and self-sufficiency in the oil and gas sector.

“This is arguably one of the best ways of developing and enhancing local expertise and sustainability

in the sector,” she said.

According to Gray, the sector needs to work on developing policies that prioritise the development of local capacity and offer incentives for backward integration.

She noted that such policies should have input from all stakeholders, with a transparent and sustainable implementation framework.

“We need to be more intentional about building internal capacity for backward integration in the extraction and processing of our

natural resources to strengthen our local supply chain networks. The more we neglect this, the more we will continue to see an exodus of our youth population for greener pastures,” she stated.

She urged stakeholders, operators, and regulators in the sector to “close ranks” in the pursuit of safeguarding the future of the sector amid growing strides towards energy transition. “Outsourcing value addition and capacity building opportunities is tantamount to outsourcing development potential.

EMPOWERING YOUTHS, CREATING ENABLING ENVIRONMENT FOR INNOVATION...

L-R: Head, Entrepreneurship Department, Edo State Skills Development Agency (EdoJobs), Segun Majekodunmi; Managing Director, EdoJobs, Mrs. Violet Obiokoro; Edo State Commissioner for Business, Trade and Cooperatives, Afishetu Braimoh; Chief Executive Officer, Jenny’s Glow, Mrs. Jennifer Edosmwan, and Edo State Manager, Small & Medium Enterprise Development Agency (SMEDAN), Moses Egbabor, at the one-day engagement with the theme, ‘Business Networking Series,’ in Benin City.

Be Calm, Desist from Travelling to Border Towns, FG Tells Nigerians Stranded in Sudan

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The federal government yesterday advised Nigerian citizens currently stranded in crisis-ridden Sudan to remain calm and keep in touch with the Nigerian Mission in the troubled country for information about their planned evacuation.

It also advised them to desist from traveling to border towns, stressing that such a move remains a huge risk.

In a joint statement issued

by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, they stated that all machineries were being pulled together to ensure safe evacuation of every Nigerian willing to leave the crisis-ridden country.

The statement signed by Director Overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Janet Olisa and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs,

Disaster Management and Social Development, Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo read: “The Honourable Ministers, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development express concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan and empathise with the entire civilian population in the country, including the Nigerian students, and other members of the Nigerian community caught

up in the on-going crisis between the Sudanese Army and the Paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. “The Ministers note with concern that some of these students are trying to find their way to contiguous borders of either Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia or Chad on their own.

“In line with the directive of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, the Humanitarian Sector

comprising FMHADMSD, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI)) is working very closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nigerian Missions in the countries bordering Sudan, as well as with other relevant stakeholders especially the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigerian

Sanwo-Olu: Our Second Term'll Be Greater Than the First Tenure

Says Tinubu has capacity to chart new course for Nigeria

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide

Sanwo-Olu yesterday assured residents of the state that his administration's second term would be greater than the first tenure.

He said the rising prosperity of Lagos was on course, pledging that his administration was committed to the safety, security, and prosperity of the citizens

Sanwo-Olu, according to a statement yesterday, gave the assurance on Monday, during the Year 2023 1444 AH Eid-El-Fitri Celebration, with the theme "After Difficulty, comes ease” taken from the Holy Quran 94 vs 6.

The event which was organised by the First Family of Lagos State, took place at Lagos House Ikeja.

Sanwo-Olu, congratulated the Muslim faithful for completing the Ramadan fasting and for using the occasion to pray fervently for Nigeria, Lagos State, President Muhammadu Buhari, and the president-elect, Bola Tinubu, among others.

He also commended the people of Lagos State for their steadfastness in the last general elections, which ultimately allowed him to be re-elected to run the affairs of Lagos State for another four years.

“I want to enjoin all of us to continue to remain steadfast and continue to know that even as we end our first tenure and we are beginning our second tenure, the rising prosperity of Lagos is on course. This government will ensure

that the Greater Lagos agenda, which will improve the quality of life and make life a lot more meaningful for every one of you, is what we are about. We believe that the additional four years will be easier, bigger, stronger, and better than the last four years,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu, also assured Nigerians that the president-elect, Tinubu, who is expected to be sworn into office on May 29, has the capacity to chart a new course for Nigeria.

He said: “We will continue to remember him (Tinubu) in our prayers. God will strengthen him. God will be with him and abide with him. God will help him be able to deliver all the good things he has in stock for this country because indeed we need to chart a new course.

“We need to chart a new beginning for our country and it is at this critical time that we are having a change in government; from one government to another; that new chart is most important.

“And we believe that with our president-elect, we have the faith and belief that he is a man that can do it and God will give him the strength and intellect to take this country to the next level.”

Also speaking, the Deputy Governor, of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, urged Nigerians to continuously pray for their leaders, especially Tinubu as he resumes office on May 29, for a successful tenure.

He also charged Muslim faithful to train their children in Godly way.

Speaking earlier, the Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, urged Muslims to sustain the principle of the teachings of the month of Ramadan by being truthful, peaceful, kind, compassionate, and living peacefully for continued cordial relationships among all, irrespective of ethnic

and religious affiliation.

The First Lady also appreciated Lagosians for their massive support and vote of confidence reposed in Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat by re-electing them for a second term in office.

In a Lecture titled 'Charting a new Course For Our NationDrawing on the Ideals of Ramadan'

the Chief Imam of Lagos State University, Prof. Amidu Sanni urged the Muslim faithful to look beyond Ramadan and sustain the lessons learned.

He said God had not created us to suffer but to enjoy, thus, he enjoined all the Muslim faithful to reciprocate all the teachings and doctrines as enshrined in the Holy Scriptures.

Armed Forces, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and International Humanitarian Organisations such as International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to immediately evacuate these Students and other affected Nigerian citizens.”

The ministers therefore urged parents to advise their wards that while concerted efforts were being made to evacuate them, the students should endeavor to remain calm and maintain constant communication with officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Sudan for instructions and updates.

“They can reach the Embassy Officials on the following telephone numbers, +2348035866773, +249961956284, +2348063636862, +249961956274, +2349066663493.

“Furthermore, they are also advised to guard against undertaking the treacherous journey to the borders on their own, in view of the dangers involved.

“On this note, the Honourable Ministers emphasise that concrete plans are underway, to deploy, very shortly, air transport to evacuate all stranded Nigerian citizens through the identified safe transit areas back home to Nigeria in safety and dignity,” it added.

Meanwhile, arrangements have been concluded to get buses to convey the stranded Nigerians to Cairo in Egypt.

FG: Sixty Projects Inaugurated in Edo by Buhari’s Govt

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The federal government has said that no fewer than 60 projects have been cited in Edo State under its Economic Sustainable Plan.

The Minister of State, Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba, stated this while inaugurating and inspecting some projects in the Edo-North Senatorial District of Edo State yesterday.

Some of the projects completed and inaugurated by the minister included 1.5km Mogbe-Edegbe road, 4.5km Agenebode-Unedeger road, 2.5km Ekiwosor-Ivikhue road, Imukena road, Installation of 500 KVA transformer in Agenebode, open stalls market and solar street lights

Other projects inspected by the minister included construction of 31km Uzanu-Ajaokuta road in

Kogi, 21.5 km Uzanu-Okpekpe road, 6km Ogeneda-Ugochi road, 10km Egbegeri-Ate road and Somorika road.

It also included Uzanu mini market, Uzanu Divisional Police Station, Uzanu mini stadium, Uzanu internal roads and construction of 80 bed seater with two theaters and doctors’ quarters at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital Uzanu Annex.

Agba, while speaking to journalists, said the inauguration of the projects in the rural area was as a result of 60 per cent post- harvest lost by farmers and to reduce multi-dimensionally poverty in rural areas. According to him, the President Muhammadu Buhari's policies were geared towards reducing drastically the multi-dimensionally poor Nigerians spanning over 130

million.

"From the last count including what we have in 2023, I think we have about 60 projects in Edo and I am glad that you have seen some yourself.

"We have seen some write ups on the social media where they said the president has done nothing in Edo.

"Apparently, those who have done nothing but signing MOU's are the ones saying this. But, seeing like they say is believing. Just that we have not been making a lot of noise, after all we are not empty vessels.

"The president has done very well for the state. You saw a bridge today at Uzanu and I also told you that we have a modern bridge we facilitated under the Economic Sustainability Plan, these are two bridges in Edo," Agba said.

Agba, explained that the massive construction of roads in the rural communities under the National Roads Reduction Policy was to link rural areas together to transport their farm produce to neighboring communities for economic benefits.

The Minister, however, allayed fear of abandoning any of the ongoing projects, saying they have been captured in the 2023 budget which the incoming administration of the president-elect, Bola Tinubu would continue.

Some community leaders, Mr. Peter Okpnokhe, Simon Ogie, and Julius Enakhena commended President Muhammadu Buhari as well as the minister for attracting such laudable projects to the senatorial district.

They, however, appealed for the speedy completion of the other projects in the senatorial districts.

TRAINING SESSION ON SKILLS OF EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE...

LP Alleges Withdrawal of Obi's Petition, Others at Tribunal By Apapa's Faction

Laments rising insecurity, asks FG to brace up, tackle killings

James Sowole in Abeokuta and Emameh Gabriel in Abuja

The Labour Party has alleged that the Bashiru Apapa-led National Working Committee of the party was responsible for writing to all election petition tribunals to withdraw all its petition, including that of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from various tribunals.

The party, therefore, called on tribunals and courts to ignore their moves as the party maintained its stance on their suspension.

But in a brief telephone interview with THISDAY, the National Legal Adviser, Akingbade Oyinlekon, who is also a member of the Apapa faction, described the allegations as antics deployed by the Abure-led NWC to regain public confidence and sympathy.

This is as LP, yesterday, asked the federal government to brace up in tackling insecurity in various parts of the country and particularly in Benue State.

However, in a statement by Obiora Ifoh, the Acting National Publicity Secretary of the Abure-led NWC, the party disclosed that its legal team was confronted by the stark revelation that Apapa and his men have advanced their plot by approaching all the tribunals where our numerous candidates lodged their election petitions arising from the recently held general election.

"Alongside Lamidi Apapa on the plot to frustrate Labour Party's destined victory in the tribunals and also to derail the fledging democracy are some of the suspended members including the Samuel Akingbade, Gbenga Daramola, Anselem Eragbe and Abayomi Arabambi erstwhile National Legal Adviser, National

Financial Secretary, National Youth Leader and National Publicity Secretary respectively amongst others.

"Recall that the leadership of the Labour Party has been swimming through the murky waters of conspiracy, treachery and sabotage orchestrated by these former officers of the party. We had long suspected that moles were planted to sabotage the efforts of the party to offer Nigerians an alternative to the wicked and clueless governance in place today, but the desperation to satisfy their pay master are beginning to threaten our common peace and of course our democracy.”

He lamented that approaching the tribunals to withdraw all the cases lodged by Labour Party candidates across board was the height of subterfuge and treachery, and Nigerians would resist this ploy to plunge the nation into unnecessary turmoil.

He explained that, "their actions show that they are working against the party and that they are working to destroy the party.

According to Obiora, "If they claim that they have problem with the national leadership of the party, will they also claim that they have problem with the candidates of the party? What offence has the candidates of the party committed that they are now moving around to withdraw their matters from the tribunal.

"The leadership of the Labour Party is therefore calling on the tribunals to disregard any letter emanating from our suspended National Legal Adviser, Samuel Akingbade to the effect that all our cases are to be withdrawn. We are also calling on the presidential election tribunal to disregard such letters from these ex

officials of our party asking for the withdrawal of HE Peter Obi's petition.

"We also call on the Police, DSS and EFCC to quickly apprehend and question these agents of destruction before they succeed in igniting the nation.”

But the Apapa led group has described the allegations as unfounded, saying it was one of the antics by the Abure-led group to win the public to it side.

Speaking with THISDAY, Oyinlekon, who spoke on behalf of the group challenged the accusers to come out with evidence of the allegations, pledging full support for Obi and other candidates of the party at the tribunal, and vowed to take over all the Labour Party cases

in the court going forward.

Akingbade said: "I want to state categorically and I want to let Nigerians know and all our ObiDient supporters and members of Labour Party worldwide that Abure in his usual manner has raised allegation that Apapa wrote to all tribunal to withdraw petitions of our candidates from the tribunals. I want to say that is not correct. I want the world to ask Abure and his group for a copy of what he is alleging.

"We already know this is there only way to get sympathy from the public. We are not withdrawing any petition. We will go ahead till the end. They should look for another way. We have discovered their antics and it's no longer working for them.

"I want Nigerians to be committed and all our members to be focused. We will follow our petition to the latter. On Obi's mandate and competence we stand. Nothing will happen to any petition. "They have ignored the legal department of the party but the legal department will take over all the cases that belong to Labour Party. If there is any petition to disqualify any candidate, they should bring it to the public,” he added.

LP Laments Rising Insecurity, Asks FG to Brace Up

The Labour Party, yesterday, asked the federal government to brace up in tackling insecurity in various parts

of the country, particularly in Benue State.

The LP call was sequel to the murder of the party's Ward Chairman, Mr Nathaniel Ocoche and three other mourners in Benue State by yet to be identified assailants.

In a statement by Comrade Abayomi Arabambi on behalf of the National Secretariat, described the gruesome murder of Ochoche, of Edukwu Ward II Apa Benue State, as unfortunate and wicked.

Arabambi said the National Secretariat of the party received the bad news with great shock, describing it as unfortunate acts against fellow humans.

Buhari, Service Chiefs, Others to Attend Parade of Army's New Regimental Colours

Motorists urged to seek alternative routes

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Army Headquarters, yesterday, said President Muhammadu Buhari would Thursday unveil 81 national and regimental colours for the newly established operationalised units and retired unit colours of the Nigerian Army.

Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, the Director, Army Public Relations, Brig Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said the trooping and presentation of colours parade would take place at the Eagle

Square, Abuja.

He said President Buhari, the service chiefs, captains of industry were expected to be at the event.

Nwachukwu said the last trooping and presentation of colours parade for the army units was conducted in 2007, adding that new units were established and operationalised since then in line with the increasing operational commitments of the army as well as provisions of its extant Order of Battle (ORBAT).

Noting that the colours were

CAN,Youth Wing Bicker over Congratulatory Message to Tinubu

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and its Youth Wing Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) have disagreed over the decision of the latter to congratulate the president-elect, Bola Tinubu, with CAN saying it is ill-timed.

YOWICAN had in the congratulatory letter urged Tinubu not to pursue ethnic, religious and tribal agenda in his administration.

In the letter signed by YOWICAN National Chairman, Belusochukwu Enwere, the youth group said Tinubu should use the opportunity to develop and unite Nigeria irrespective of religion and tribe.

The YOWICAN letter did not, however, go down well with the leadership of the parent body, CAN, which described it as ill-timed.

According to the spokesman of CAN, Mr. Luminous Jannamike, CAN has no problem with issuing congratulatory open letter to whoever becomes Nigeria's next leader, irrespective of how he/she emerged. CAN said it favoured waiting for the outcome of the judicial process.

Jannamike stated, "CAN, as a stakeholder, will write one eventually, but it is a little too early considering the fact that the judiciary has not even started adjudicating on the various petitions against his victory."

The YOWICAN letter read, "Dear President-elect, I write on behalf of myself and the entire Christian youth in Nigeria to congratulate you on your resounding victory, well-deserved and overlong success at the just concluded presidential election.

"You have undoubtedly worked very hard to achieve this victory and your commitment and dedication for the unity of our dear country has helped you to achieve this goal. This will benefit the country as a whole as new and young minds will emerge.

"It is not disputable that, with your vast experience and leadership acumen, you easily fulfil all your campaign promises. You have been

an apostle of restructuring Nigeria and entrenchment of true federalism in line with global best practices. Please, kindly hit the ground running by fulfilling this promise.

"Please, use this opportunity to develop and unite Nigeria irrespective of religion, ethnicity and tribe as well as shine brightly in the comity of nations. We believe that Tinubu's Presidency will bring everlasting peace and disappoint all those who never wished Nigeria well."

YOWICAN said it looked forward to working with Tinubu not only to develop closer relations between him and the entire Christian youth, "but also to concert our efforts in the cause of development, peace and the brotherhood of all peoples."

usually retired after 10 years of service, the army spokesman stated that, most of the colours in the Nigerian Army had been used in multiple operations in various geopolitical zones of the country as well as foreign countries, hence deserving retirement and the presentation of new ones.

“It is against this backdrop and in line with the traditions, customs and ethics of the Nigerian Army, trooping and presentation of colours parade 2023 will be conducted to retire torn or worn out colours. A total of 81 units will, therefore, be participating in the parade, 53 colours will be due for retirement, while 28 will be presented to new units.

“The event is a unique ceremony not only to the units eligible for colours presentation, as many are looking up to this ceremony to witness the height of military discipline and regimentation. No doubt the parade will win more admirers for the Nigerian Army as it will provide another opportunity to showcase its reputation for excellent and colourful parades,” he said.

While disclosing that Buhari would review the parade, he added that, “The event will also have in attendance members of the National and Executive Council, members of the Diplomatic Corps and Governors of the States

benefitting Units.

“Others are Service Chiefs, past Chief of Army Staff, senior military officers both serving and retired, captains of industries as well as other important dignitaries.”

Nwachukwu explained that the national and regimental colours carried by army units during parades and ceremonial activities were important source of identity and pride not only for the units involved but for the army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

He added that the sight of the colours created a feeling of pride in soldiers and ex-soldiers, noting that, from ancient history, colours had served as inspiration for heroic acts of self-sacrifice and became the symbol of the fighting spirit of regiments.

He further explained that colours also symbolised the campaigns, battle honours and badges granted to the regiment in commemoration of the gallant deeds performed by its members from the time it was raised.

“The association of the colours with heroic deeds of the units emblazoned on them has led to the custom of regarding the colours with veneration,” he said, even as he advised motorists to make use of alternative routes and all proximate routes to the Eagle Square from 5.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. on Thursday.

L-R: Ingenium Customer Service Foundation Course Alumni, Ayeni Oluwadunsin, Nwanneka Adebayo, CEO of Ingenium Concepts Limited, Jennifer Orode and Queen Onyeukwu at the opening of a training session on skills of excellent customer service organised by Ingenium Concepts Limited in partnership with the United States -based National Customer Service Association (NCSA) in Lagos recently

RECOGNISED FOR SUPPORT FOR WOMEN EMPOWERMENT...

L-R:

Ozekhome: Why Politicians Ask Aggrieved Parties to Go to Court

Insists 2023 elections worst ever in nation’s history

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Constitutional lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof Mike Ozekhome, yesterday, said the reason Nigerian politicians were in the habit of asking losers in any election "to go to court" was borne out of the belief that the Nigerian courts could hardly do justice to election matters. Ozekhome, who spoke against the background of the outcome of the recently concluded general election,

which he described as the worst in the history of Nigeria, maintained that based on this confidence, politicians had been very successful in messing up the country's hard-earned democracy.

"They carry out unspeakable acts – bizarre acts drained of logic, legality, constitutionality and morality – and then tell you to your face: ‘go to court’. This is a sad sarcasm of their obvious derisive, pejorative and derogatory euphemism for our

beleaguered justice delivery systems.

"What the politricians are saying cheek-in-tongue, in effect, shorn of all pretences, affectation and braggadocio, is that they believe you cannot get justice in the courts. So, they taunt you to ‘go to court’.

"Before, during and after elections, they kill, maim, burn, thumbprint, steal and allocate ballot boxes and paper, steal BVAs machines, propel their candidates to ‘win at all costs’, select their winners, and collude with

INEC to announce their preferred victors. Then, they humour you with, ‘go to court’. For you, my readers, if you do not like this my introductory part, please, do me a favour – go to court," Ozekhome said, jokingly. He, however, insisted that the 2023 elections "were the worst I have ever witnessed in this contraption called Nigeria since the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates by Lord Frederick Lugard.

He said he guffawed when President Muhammadu Buhari, in congratulating Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on his presumed victory at the February 25, 2023 presidential election, said, “None of the issues registered represents a challenge to the freeness and fairness of the elections.

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Police Service Commission (PSC), yesterday, approved the appointment of 12 commissioners of police to different state commands in the country.

A statement by the spokesman of the commission, Ikechukwu Ani, listed the new commissioners to include Mohammed Gumel, Kano; Haruna Garba, Federal Capital Territory Command; Tajudeen A. Abass, Delta State Command; Oladimeji Yomi Olarewaju, Ogun State Command; Taiwo Jesubiyi, Ondo State Command and Julius A. Okoro, Benue State Command. Others were Romokere Ibiani, Bayelsa State Command; Mohammed Bunu, Yobe State Command; Garba Musa Yusuf, Kaduna State Command; Garba Ahmed, Zamfara State Command; Hayatu Kaigama

Ali, Sokoto State Command and Aliyu Musa, Katsina State Command.

Chairman of the Commission, Solomon Arase and the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba,

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, yesterday, justified his choice of the late Professor Eleazar Uche Ikonne to succeed him in office, saying he was the most qualified to assume the reins of power and take Abia to the next level.

Speaking at a colloquium in Umuahia, organised in honour of the late governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),

called for greater dedication to national duty from the commissioners.

Arase said, "the new posting comes with a lot of commitment and innovativeness and demanded

Ikpeazu said his sterling qualities stood him out among all the PDP governorship aspirants.

According to him, he needed "a successor who has courage and is ruthlessly committed to the realisa- tion of the ideals of Abia State and the fear of God, because I swore I must handover to someone with these qualities.

“After a long search, I found from among other aspiring contestants, that late Professor Ikonne was the most qualified. By his death, we

of them total loyalty to the Nigerian nation," noting that, "at this national transition period, the commissioners must brace up for challenges in the course of their duties."

PSC Approves Posting of Police Commissioners to 12 States Ikpeazu: Late Ikonne Most Qualified to Succeeded Me

have lost a rare gem. We shall keep him in our hearts hence he did not die in vain."

Though Ikonne, who was the immediate Vice-chancellor of the Abia State University Uturu (ABSU) emerged the governorship standard bearer of the PDP, he died before the 2023 election and was replaced by Okey Ahiwe.

The ruling Abia PDP eventually lost the March 18 governorship poll to the Labour Party's candidate, Mr. Alex Otti.

"No sir, Mr. President. I humbly disagree, sir. The last elections were neither free, fair, transparent, honest, respectable, nor imbued with any iota of integrity and dignity. They represented an abysmal retrogression into Australopithecus stone-age election farce. The elections were clearly shambolic, unsystematic, mismanaged, violent, vicious, highly compromised, and drained of any local or international respect and recognition.

"The outright rejection of, or at

best, very lukewarm tolerance of (not wholesome acceptance or embrace) by the international community, speaks volumes of the elections’ lack of rectitude and honour. Any final emergent product of the fundamentally flawed presidential election will have a moral burden to contend with – even if court judgements were to favour him.

"The moral burden will hang like an albatross, on his neck throughout his entire tenure of office. It will be more like an ignoble trophy or diadem. I shudder to conjecture the ricocheting effect and dire consequences this forebodes for Nigeria. I am not a seer or clairvoyant, but I can tell Nigerians categorically to brace up for harder times ahead. If you are not comfortable with these humble views of mine, then go to court."

NDDC, US FIRM SEAL $15BN DEAL FOR CONSTRUCTION OF MEGA RAIL LINE CONNECTING NIGER DELTA STATES

and under-development.

"The federal government recognises the need to address these challenges and progress to ensure that people of the Niger Delta enjoy the benefits of their resources and potential."

to do all within their powers to project it in the best of light.

Wabote stated, "This should be evident in your branding, your signature projects, the type of interventions you get involved in, your eagerness to open your books and project sites to scrutiny, your prudence in funds management and others.

ADAMU, APC LEADERS VISIT

In the fresh suit marked CA/ CV/259/2023, the plaintiff also wants the court stop Buhari, AGF and INEC from taking any further steps on the 2023 presidential election that produced Tinubu as winner.

Owuru predicated his case against the swearing-in of Tinubu or anybody else as successor to Buhari on the grounds that he was the constitutionally adjudged winner of the 2019 election and had not served his tenure as required by law.

Among others, Owuru insisted that Buhari had been usurping his tenure since 2019 because the Supreme Court had not determined his petition filed in 2019 in which he challenged the purported declaration of Buhari as winner of the poll.

Among the reliefs he sought from the court were an order of prohibitory injunction compelling Buhari, AGF and INEC, their servants, agents and privies to preserve and give due cognisance and abstain from any further undertaking or engaging in any act of usurpation of adjudged acquired constitutional rights and

TINUBU, CONSIDER S’SOUTH FOR

mandate as winner of the 2019 presidential election.

Owuru also prayed for an order directing and placing on notice that any form of handover inauguration, organised and superintended by Buhari on May 29, 2023 outside the adjudged winner of the 2019 presidential election, subject of the pending appeal, remained and was viewed as an “interim place holder” administration pending the hearing and determination of his substantive appeal on constitutional interpretation thereof.

Listed as respondents in the motion on notice were Buhari, the AGF, and INEC as first to third, respectively.

The motion on notice filed on his behalf by Mr Odion Peter, has been served on Buhari and the AGF through their counsel, Mrs Maimuna Lami Ashiru of the Federal Ministry of Justice in Abuja, while that of INEC was served through the Head of Legal Department and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr S. O Ibrahim.

The motion was supported by an eight-paragraph affidavit praying

SENATE

PRESIDENT,

N’WEST FOR SPEAKER (INEC) from swearing-in Tinubu as President on May 29.

the Court of Appeal for expeditious hearing before the inauguration of Tinubu.

The affidavit deposed to by an Abuja-based legal practitioner, Adebayo Anafowode, and filed at the Court of Appeal in Abuja, expressed apprehension that Owuru’s suit against Buhari would be rendered nugatory unless given quick hearing. No date has been fixed for hearing on the matter.

US Grants Nigerians Right to Protest against Presidential Poll

The United States Department of the Interior, through the National Park Service, granted the request of protesters under the Coalition of Nigerian Organisations in the Americas to demonstrate against the “flawed” conduct of the February 25 presidential election in Nigeria. The country’s agreement to the appeal and issuance of a public gathering permit followed a letter written by the leader of the group, Franklin Ekechukwu, to the US authorities.

A letter seen by THISDAY indicated that the anticipated number of participants would be about 2,000 and on the conditions that the applicant and all participants authorised must comply with all conditions of the permit and with all reasonable directions of the United States Park Police.

It stressed that all sidewalks, walkways, and roadways must remain unobstructed to allow for the reasonable use of the areas by pedestrians, vehicles and other park visitors.

“In accordance with Park Regulations as contained in C.F.R.. Title 36, Chapter 1, Section 7.96, permission is granted to conduct a public gathering,” the letter stressed.

The Nigerian group, which fixed the demonstration for May 6, at the Lafayette Park-Southwest Quadrant from 9am, had listed part of the reasons for the event as the need to ensure the judiciary did the right thing in examining the various cases before it with regard to the presidential election.

Earlier in his address, Umana explained that over the years, implementing the Niger Delta Regional Development Master Plan, which had a 15-year timeline, failed due to various factors, including inadequate funding for the commission emanating from inconsistent statutory contributions from the federal government and failure of certain oil and gas operating companies to remit their stipulated contributions, among others.

Chief Executive Officer of Atlanta Global Resources Inc, Mr. Tony Ekpele, said the company was partnering with NDDC to as much as possible provide funds for the commission to construct, operate and also manage the rail line.

According to him, "We commit ourselves to ensure that we do all we can to deliver this project."

In his keynote presentation, Wabote said the initiative by the commission to attract additional funding via PPP was very commendable.

He, however, warned that capital attraction was a big challenge when there were real or perceived infractions, corruption, lack of accountability, and other vices within the organisation seeking funding.

Wabote said the federal government had made efforts to address the issues of transparency and accountability in the commission, imploring the board and the management of the commission

"By law, the sources of your funding from the Federation Account, oil producing companies, state governments, and local or international grants are quite massive and first requires the commission to demonstrate financial ingenuity before leveraging for more capital.

“It is, therefore, my belief that once the finances of the commission are adjudged transparent, and prudently managed, it will attract genuine partnerships locally and internationally."

Wabote added, "From what I can see with the current management, a new dawn is in the horizon and I look forward to very exciting times at the commission."

Oshiomhole, Frank and Peterside admonished the new NDDC management to entrench sound corporate governance to enable them secure private sector financing needed to support them in executing their projects.

Oshiomhole, specifically, advocated that the budget cycle of NDDC should be in line with the normal budget run.

He argued, "Sometimes half way through the year, the budget has not been approved and, therefore, you are spending money that is not quite clear and you may thereafter require ratification, and should the ratifying authority decline, you know you are in trouble."

Publisher/Chief Executive Officer, E-Business Life Communications Ltd., Ufuoma Emuopedaro; Director, Policy, Competition and Economic Analysis, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Yetunde Akinloye; Chief Executive Officer, TechLife Media Communications Ltd, Ugochi Emmanuel, and Director, Public Affairs, NCC, Reuben Muoka, at the Women of Excellence Awards, where the Commission was recognised for its support for women empowerment, held in Lagos…recently

COURTESY VISIT TO OSINBAJO…

L-R: Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Architects’ Integrated Infrastructure Research for Development Conference, M.B. Bello; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and President, Nigeria Institute of Architects, Enyi Ben Eboh, during a courtesy visit to Osinbajo in Abuja…recently

Gunmen Demand N500m Ransom for Abducted NPC Commissioner

Olusegun Samuel

Gunmen, who abducted a Federal Commissioner with the National Population Commission (NPC) for Bayelsa State, Mrs. Gloria Izonfuo, has demanded a ransom of N500 million for her release. Mrs. Izonfuo, who recently

resumed as the Federal Commissioner for NPC, was reportedly abducted by the gunmen along the East-west Road in Rivers State.

A former Head of Service in Bayelsa State, she was abducted at the Ogbakiri junction of the East-west road around half past Six on Sunday evening while

Makinde Swears In Yerima as Substantive Chief Judge

Kemi Olaitan inIbadan

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, yesterday sworn in Justice Iyabo Yerima as the substantive Chief Judge (CJ)of the state.

The governor, who performed the swearing-in at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, said his administration would continue to support the judiciary by prioritising the welfare of its members.

Makinde further explained that his administration will give Justice Yerima, the support needed to carry out her duties diligently.

Justice Yerima was confirmed as acting Chief Judge by the

Oyo State by the State’s House of Assembly on April 12, 2023, following the retirement of the immediate past Chief Judge, Justice Muntar Abimbola.

Governor Makinde indicated that his administration will soon complete the rehabilitation of the High Court complex at Ring Road, Ibadan and the Magistrate Court at Iyaganku.

The governor, who charged Justice Yerima and other judges to discharge their responsibilities as judicial officers without giving in to hindrance from any quarters, said that the judiciary must justify the sacred trust reposed in it by the people of the state.

Four APC Legislators-elect Receive Certificates of Return in Niger

Laleye Dipo in Minna

Four members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) elected into the Niger State House of Assembly in the last supplementary election have received their certificates of return.

Those who received the certificates of return from the state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Alhaji Ahmed Yushau Garki, were Alhaji Mohammed Garba (Agwara LGA), Alhaji Bako Bello (Rijau LGA), Alhaji Mohammed Musa Etsugaie

traveling to Port Harcourt from a trip to Brass in Bayelsa State. She was reportedly whisked away by the gunmen alongside

her driver and maid with her abductors demanding five hundred million Naira ransom for their release.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, who confirmed the incident via

telephone said the Commissioner of Police had mandated tactical teams to ensure she regains her freedom.

NDLEA Warns Skit Makers against Use of Paraphernalia of Law Enforcement Agencies

Michael OlugbodeinAbuja

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has advised skit producers to show restraint, responsibility and decorum in the use of paraphernalia of law enforcement officers to avoid misconceptions and insinuations.

The advice came on the heels

of a trending video where some men dressed in what looks like operational kits of the NDLEA were involved in what ridiculed the operational ethics of the antinarcotics agency.

The spokesman of the agency, Femi Babafemi, in a statement yesterday said:

“We wishes to reiterate that a trending video of some persons

wearing red jackets similar to the ones used by officers and men of the agency for operational purposes, operating in a minibus, is an old skit, which the agency had disclaimed a year ago.”

“The agency had in a wellpublicised statement released on Saturday 21st May 2022 stated that it had established, following series of public enquiries, that the video

with screenshot pictures attached to the statement is a skit produced by one Mathew C Eze who lives in the Lekki area of Lagos.” He lamented that: “A year after, the video has returned to the social media space, a development that has led to several enquiries from concerned members of the public on the authenticity of the content of the video.”

I Installed Umahi as Governor in 2015, Says Okorie

Benjamin NworieinAbakaliki

A former member of the House of Representatives and Ebonyi South Senatorial Candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Mr. Linus Okorie, has revealed how he installed David Umahi as Governor of the State in 2015.

Briefing newsmen in Abakaliki, Okorie, who dragged Umahi to the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in

Abakaliki, stressed that he would retrieve his mandate from the Governor against all odds.

Okorie had alleged that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stole his mandate and gave it to Umahi during the last election.

According to him, “I got connected to the family of the former President Goodluck Jonathan, within my very first tenure

in the House of Representatives. I was close enough by the Grace of God, that I had ears at a very important point.

“And as late as February, 2014, the issue of who becomes the Governor of Ebonyi state was raised by me and taken by me to the first family. I was the one who made the arrangement and the connection, the introduction of David Umahi as the deputy governor to the then

Jonathan family. “I had the chance to run for Governor. I had the chance to run for the ticket of PDP governorship in Ebonyi state in 2015. Only the will of God, will ultimately give power to whom He wants to give power. But if I did, Umahi wouldn’t have gotten to where he is today because a lot of the effort that made him (Umahi) was mine and that of my wife.

N4.6bn Money Laundering: Court Orders Release of Exhibits, Document to EFCC

Wale Igbintade

(Agaie LGA), and Alhaji Zubairu Ismaila (Rafi LGA).

Presenting the certificates to the members-elect at the INEC headquarters in Minna, Garki congratulated them for their “resounding victories” in the supplementary election, saying: “In any contest, there must be a winner and a loser, therefore, I urge you to extend your hands of sportsmanship to the losers, so that together you can contribute your quota to the development of the state.”

Man to Die by Hanging in Ekiti

Gbenga Sodeinde In Ado Ekiti

A High Court in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, has sentenced one Mr. Ismaila Mohammed Ojo to death by hanging for murder.

The first prosecutor witness, Inspector Arowosola Tunde, had told the court that one Mrs. Agnes Adu rushed to the police station with the complaint that her husband had been killed at Odo-Uro in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state.

According to the prosecution witness, the complainant, Adu, accused one Ismaila Mohammed Ojo of physically engaging her late husband in a tussle over a motorcycle during which the defendant was said to have strangulated the deceased.

The second prosecution witness, Inspector Lasis Bashiru, said: “The convict confessed to the crime that on May 13, 2018, when he was taking his bath, the deceased came to carry a motorcycle which he parked in front of his house.”

Following the judgement of the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, which quashed charges of misappropriation of N4.6 billion and money laundering brought against former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, alongside a former Minister of Finance,

Mrs. Nenadi Usman, Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday ordered the release of all exhibits and documents tendered during the hearing of the matter back to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

When the matter came up yesterday, EFCC Prosecutor, Mr.

Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN told the court that in view of the judgement of the Court of Appeal, all exhibits and documents tendered by the prosecution should be released to enable the Commission commence the matter afresh at the Federal High Court Abjua.

Justice Mohammed Aikawa of the Federal High Court in

Lagos had on September 25, 2017, dismissed an application by Femi Fani-Kayode, and Nenadi Usman, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the case. Dissatisfied, the Defendants challenged the ruling at the Court of Appeal Lagos, Division and urged the court to quash the charge filed against them.

‘18,000 People Displaced in a Month in Benue’

George Okoh in Makurdi

Benue State Government has disclosed that it recorded over 18,000 displacements in one month as a result of increased herders attacks.

The Executive Secretary State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Emmanuel Shior, made

this known while speaking with journalists in Makurdi yesterday during the distribution of relief materials to internally displaced persons in the State.

According to him, over 60 persons have been killed in attacks on Omugidi, Otukpo and Apa local government areas.

He added that in Otukpo, there

are 8,000 IDPs who are camped in Adoka while 10,000 others are in Apa taking refuge in Ugbokpo, the local government headquarter.

“Benue has continued to be under siege for a long time. Recent killings in Benue State has added burden of taking care of the IDPs.

“We continue to appeal to federal government through

National Emergency Management Agency, (NEMA), the National Commission for Refugee, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCRMIP) and other partners who are already here assisting us to come to our aid as our humanitarian crisis has not lessened. They should do more to increase their support.”

Osun Promises Support for Infrastructural Devt in Rural Areas

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has asserted that his administration would focus on infrastructural development in the state while all necessary requisite would be put in place to achieve the objective.

The governor, who paid a

familiarisation visit to the state Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), Old Government Press Building, Aderin, Osogbo, where he promised his unflinching support and commitment for infrastructural development in the rural areas of the state through RAAMP.

Adeleke, who was represented by the Supervisor on Infrastructural Development, Dr. Bashir Tokunbo Salami, noted that the administration would focus on infrastructure development in the state and all necessary requisite would be put in place to achieve it.

He emphasised that the present administration knows the

importance and relevance of the project being an externally funded project working assiduously for the emancipation of the grassroots people and elevation of value-added chain through the rehabilitation and construction of access roads as well as the construction of Agro Logistic Centre.

SHALINA HEALTHCARE’S AWARDS CEREMONY…

L-R: Head of Consumer Business, West Africa, Shalina Healthcare, Suresh Karuppiahsamy; Chief Operating Officer, West Africa (Pharma) Business Operations, Arun Raj; Shalina Brand Ambassadors, Samuel Animashaun Perry(Broda Shaggy); Kafayat Oluwatosin Shafau Kaffy; Emmanuela Samuel; Mark Angel; Zadok Aghalengbe, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shalina Healthcare, Shalina Clifford, at the end of the financial year gala night and awards in Lagos… yesterday

REA Boss, Ahmad, Dragged to CCB over Alleged Breach of Contract Code

Alex Enumah inAbuja

An aggrieved consultants in the Advanced Cargo Declaration/Cargo Tracking Note Scheme, Donnington Nigeria Limited has written the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) over the alleged unlawful role played by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Rural Electrification Agency(NREA), Mr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, in the award of the project.

The firm in a letter of complaint dated April 25, 2023 and addressed to the CCB’s chairman, specifically accused Ahmad of conflict of Interest

as well as breach of Section 5 and 6 of the CCB and the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) Act.

According to the petitioner, it was wrong and unlawful for Ahmad to hold the position of a Director in Velocity Logistics & Marine Services Ltd (Velocity), while at the same time being the boss of the NREA.

Donnington Nigeria Limited in the letter recalled that while Velocity “was incorporated at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) with RC:666694 with Ahmad as one of the directors in September 14, 2006, the federal government however appointed Ahmad as the Managing

Sudan: Ensure No Life Is Lost, Group Tells FG

Adedayo Akinwale in

Abuja

A group, The Natives, has called on the federal government to put in more efforts and ensure that no life of any Nigerian citizen is lost in the ongoing crisis in Sudan.

The leader of the group, Hon. Smart Edwards, in a statement issued yesterday called on all politicians across board and all Nigerians in high places to use their diplomatic contacts to ensure safety of all Nigerians residing in Sudan, particularly in Khartoum.

It said while the initial efforts put in place by the Nigerian government to ensure evacuation of Nigerians are noted, it demanded that more needs to be done by the government and all well-to-do Nigerians to ensure

immediate evacuation of Nigerians who are helpless students and youths in the war torn country.

The group noted: “Save our helpless students and youths and ensure no life is lost. We recognise efforts put in place so far but we demand that more are done and done urgently. We, the Natives, believe that Nigerian government has capacity to evacuate our brothers and sisters trapped in Sudan, and we are urging all the stakeholders to ensure that no life of a Nigerian is lost in the ongoing crisis.”

While calling on Nigerians to learn a lesson of peace in the ongoing Sudan experience, the group stressed that no sacrifice was too much to ensure a peaceful coexistence in the country.

Gunmen Kidnap Priest in Anambra

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Gunmen operating in Nnobi area of Anambra State have reportedly kidnapped an identified clergyman, leaving behind his steaming car.

A source said that the incident happened on Monday’s night, but said it was not yet clear if the clergy man was a Catholic or an Anglican priest.

The priest was, however, picked at Nnobi roundabout in the Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, where he stopped to buy fruits at the popular junction.

The source said: “The man stopped at Nnobi junction, parked his Lexus RX 300 with plate number Anambra GDD 882 PW, while coming from Awka-Etiti.

Director/ Chief Executive Officer of REA in 2019, adding that “the said appointment was accepted by Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, without relinquishing his Directorship of the private Company, Velocity Logistics & Marine Services Ltd”.

Lead lawyer to the firm, Dr. R. O. Atabo, SAN, went ahead to point out that, “Ahmad, being a prominent personality in this administration, at the helm of affairs of REA and on the corridors of power, must have

directly or indirectly influenced the ‘’No Objection’’ granted on 24th November, 2022 By Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for the fraudulent award of Contract for the Implementation of Advance Cargo Declaration/Cargo Tracking Note Scheme Regime to include Crude Oil Tracking to five companies, including Velocity Logistics & Marine Services Ltd, on the Board of which Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad remains an active director, but must have

deliberately refused to disclose the fact on oath to BPP, who in due diligence, would not have issued ‘’the No Objection’’, if the fact of such conflict of interest was disclosed. A suit has been instituted at the Federal High Court, Abuja in this regard”.

He argued further, “that the object of Velocity is such that Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad’s continuous sojourning as a Director of Velocity Logistics & Marine Services Ltd

even as he serves as the MD/CEO of REA is tantamount to conflict of interest and contravention of Code of Conduct as a public officer as provided in Sections 5 and 6 of the Code of Conduct Bureau Act. Consequent upon the forgoing ’Dr. ReubenAtabo’ SAN humbly request the CCB to use its good offices pursuant to Section 23 of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act to investigate and sanction this impunity.

EFCC Arraigns Ondo Speaker, Two Others over Alleged N2.4m Fraud

Fidelis David in Akure

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday arraigned the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Bamidele Oloyeloogun, before the state High Court in Akure, the state capital, over alleged fraud. The arraignment marked the beginning of the official trial of the head of the state legislature.

Also arraigned before the court were the lawmaker representing Akoko South-West Constituency 2, Felemu Bankole, and a civil servant, Segun Oyadeyi Bankole. They were alleged by Hon. Iroju Ogundeji, the ex-deputy speaker of the Assembly, of collecting and sharing the money for a seminar in Lagos that was slated for December 11 and 12, 2019, which they never attended.

According to the details in the document requesting for fund, “The seminar was aimed at institutional productivity, consciousness and excellence in service among workers and organisations in both public and private sectors, to accord workers and organisations the platform to achieve high productivity as well as giving impetus to the seminar in charting the pathway in revitalising

the education sector.”

However, it was discovered that there was no such seminar organised, thereby the money released by the state Ministry of Finance amounting to N2.4million allegedly went to private pockets. Thus, the Speaker, alongside others, was docked on two-count charged involving fraud, but they pleaded not guilty of the allegations level against them.

Irabor: Early Warning Systems Centre to Boost Nation’s Security

Rebecca Ejifoma

The Chief of the Defence Staff, General Leo Irabor, yesterday said that the newly inaugurated Gen. Leo Irabor Early Warning Systems Centre (GLIEWSC) would help to proffer solutions to the security challenges in the country.

Irabor made this remark at the commissioning of the GLIEWSC at the Nigerian

Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos State.

Irabor said: “The centre will help to expand on research, give early warning, and proffer possible solutions to problems being forecast.

“I congratulate the director general and the entire management of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs.”

Speaking also, the chairman of the occasion, Mr. Julius Adelusi, described Nigeria as fortunate to have this facility.

“This centre will take Nigeria into the international loop system. We would have information; we would improve our security; and we would be able to manage the problem of security issues in the country,” Adelusi said.

The Presidential Candidate

of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, who noted that the world is a volatile place, said that Nigeria is a safe home.

Adebayo said: “You could see the events in Sudan and Ukraine and how many Nigerians say ‘bring us home’. So, it’s important that the home is safe. And the early warning system is one of the ways to keep the homeland safe.

Diri Empowers 840 SMEs with N200m Grant

Chuks OkochainAbuja

“He was making a phone call while alighting from the vehicle, and his vehicle was still steaming, when the men swooped on him and picked him.

“The men shot randomly at the junction before taking him away, causing traders to scamper for safety.

“They forcefully bundled him into their jeep, leaving his car steaming on the road before driving off.”

The source said that there was no casualty at the scene, even though there was pandemonium during the shooting.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), of Anambra State Police Command, DSP. Ikenga Tochukwu, said that the incident had not been reported to police.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, yesterday presented a grant of N200 million to 840 beneficiaries under the government’s Women and Youth Empowerment Programme for small and medium scale entrepreneurs (SMEs).

The grant was presented to four beneficiaries each from the

105 political wards across the eight local government areas of the state for January and February 2023.

In a statement, Chief Press Secretary to the Bayelsa State Governor, Daniel Alabrah, said that it was part of the administration’s initiative to spur micro businesses and economic growth in the state with each beneficiary getting N200,000. Addressing the beneficiaries

in Yenagoa, Senator Diri said the SMEs’ programme was one of series of empowerment schemes designed for Bayelsans desirous of doing business.

The governor said the programme, which had been running for 11 months, had empowered 2,310 women and youths so far, noting that his administration was encouraged by its impact on the beneficiaries.

The governor also directed that an additional N1 million be given to a beneficiary, Nyanayo Inara, who was shot on the leg during the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2019 governorship campaign in Nembe.

His words: “We are encouraged that this programme has impacted lives. This initiative of the prosperity administration is designed for small and medium scale enterprises.

Adhere to Traffic Rules, Safety, Ministry Advises Motorcyclists

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, has advised motorcycle riders and operators in the transportation system to adhere to traffic rules and observe road safety measures in order to reduce the rising cases of

motorcycle-related road accidents in Nigeria.

She gave the advice during an interaction with the executive and members of the Riders and Owners of Motorcycle Association of Nigeria (ROMAN) who were on a courtesy visit to her in Abuja recently.

Ajani’s advice came in the wake of increasing reports of the

recklessness of motorcycle riders, harassment of other road users, and non-compliance with traffic rules and safety measures which have led to avoidable accidents and deaths.

Many state governments, including the FCT, have banned commercial motorcycle operators from the city centres.

The permanent secretary

stressed that the ROMAN should constantly enlighten its members on the attitudes, measures and ideas that would bring about safer motorcycle transportation system. She said: “Sensitise your members on putting on their helmets, regulating the speed limits and other safety measures for safe motorcycle riding.”

DAN UKANA

Flying Eagles Step up U20 World Cup Training in Argentina

The Flying Eagles have stepped up preparations for next month’s FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina as they will play two test matches this week, while invited foreign professionals are expected to

join up. This week, the team led by coach Ladan Bosso began to train twice a week.

Bosso disclosed the team will play two friendlies against academies Friday and Saturday,

before they tackle Premier League sides the following week.

“Test games against academies allow us to play at good tempo, while the Premier League clubs offer us their

physicality and maturity,” he explained the decision to play both academies and Premier League clubs. The coach further said he expects invited overseas-based professionals to begin to report

to the Flying Eagles training camp in Abuja.

Bosso has maintained only foreign pros who will address the problem areas in his team have been considered.

Gent striker Ahmed Abdul-

lahi and central defender Abel Ogwuchi from Swedish club Trelleborgs were the only two foreign pros who featured at the recent U20 AFCON in Egypt that qualified Nigeria to the U20 World Cup.

Iheanacho in Action as Leeds, Leicester Share Points at Elland Road

Femi Solaja with agency report

Kelechi Iheanacho was twice denied before substitute Jamie Vardy scored a deserved equaliser as Leicester City played a 1-1 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road last night.

The draw leaves Leicester still at 17th spot, outside the drop zone on 33 points while Leeds are 16th on 30 points.

However, Iheanacho who started the build up that resulted in the equaliser for Leicester, was substituted in the dying minutes

having pulled what looked him a hamstring injury. A detailed scan will today reveal the degree of the injury to the Nigerian forward.

Vardy slotted home the cool finish in the 80th minute from James Maddison's pass and the former England striker then thought he had won it when converting from close range, but it was ruled out for offside.

Colombian winger Luis Sinisterra opened the scoring in the first half with a header at the back post from Jack Harrison's pin-point cross, but

AFN Names Athletes for African U18, U20 Championships

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Athletics Federation of Nigerian (AFN), has named 42 athletes to compete for honours at the combined 4th African U18 Championships and the 15th African U20 Championships scheduled to start this weekend in Ndola, Zambia.

The list is made up of 23 U18 girls and boys as well as 19 U20 men and women.

Nigeria U20 women's record holder, Tima Godbless is spearheading Nigeria's challenge for podium places in the U20 category while National Sports Festival 100m and 200m silver medalist, Faith Okwose tops the list of 23 U18 athletes listed for the SomeChampionships. others listed in the U18 category are Ewa Peace, Eyakpoeyan Justina Tiana, Saibu Yetunde Olayinka, Israel Okon Sunday, Monday Ebuka, Francis, James Musa Jimoh, Justin Osigwe and Abujei Chinedu.

For the U20, Sule Rejoice Adijatu, Oke Opeyemi Deborah, Usenbor Osaretin Joy, Bright Ada Princess, Ajayi Kanyinsola, Adebisi Musbau, Musa Nurain Kola, Unorji Kingsley Emeka and Caleb Joshua also made the team.

AFN Technical Director, Samuel Onikeku, said that the federation has selected the best athletes that will do Nigeria proud in Ndola and follow in the footsteps of their predecessors who launched their way to stardom at the Championships.

“The AFN has selected the best crop of young athletes who will not only be medal contenders in Ndola but will grow to become one of the best in their events,” said Onikeku, a former Nigeria international athlete.

Onikeku revealed that the last edition of the combined championships held four years ago in Abidjan, Ivory Coast produced stars who have grown to be Nigeria and African record holders today.

“Enoch Adegoke cut his teeth at these championships when he ran a 10.29 Championships record in the 100m in Ivory Coast four years ago and two years after that he became the first Nigerian man to run in the final of the Olympics,” said Onikeku who also revealed Favour Ofili sped to fame with double championships records in Ivory Coast.

“Favour was exceptional in Ivory Coast, setting two Championships records in the 200m (23.38) and 400m (52.28) events in the U18 category. Today she is the African record holder in the 200m indoors and Nigeria's 200m record holder outdoor.

“Rosemary Chukwuma successfully completed a sprint double in Ivory Coast in the U20 category and she is today the fastest over the two events so far this year.

“Javelin thrower set championships record of 74.71m to win the gold and he is today the Nigerian record holder in the event after breaking Pius Bazighe's over two decades record,” said Onikeku.

Barca Close to Title After Madrid Concede Four

Taty Castellanos became the first player this century to score four past Real Madrid in LaLiga as Girona beat Los Blancos 4-2 at Montilivi on Tuesday to put Barcelona a step closer to the title.

Madrid went into the midweek round of fixtures 11 points adrift of their bitter rivals with eight games left, and this deserved defeat could see the gulf widen even further.

Castellanos netted twice inside 24 minutes to put

the hosts could not hold on. Like Iheanacho, he too was pulled out of the game earlier for groin.

Iheanacho’s Nigerian teammate at Leicester, Wilfred Ndidi was unused sub in the match-day 33

fixture . Elsewhere on the night, Wolves took a huge step towards securing their Premier League status for next season with 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Molineux.

In a match low on clear-cut chances, Wolves went in front after three minutes when Ruben Neves' corner bounced off the knee of Palace centre-back Joachim Andersen and in off the crossbar.

The goal came in a lively opening few minutes that quickly gave way to an altogether more scrappy and tetchy affair that was settled by Neves' stoppage-time penalty.

Girona in charge, and although Vinicius Junior pulled one back just after the half-hour mark, Madrid largely looked blunt without the injured Karim Benzema.

Girona picked up where they left off at the start of the second half, Castellanos quickly completing his treble before adding a fourth that rendered Lucas Vazquez's late goal irrelevant.

Guardiola,

Arteta Agree Tonight’s Clash May Not Decide Premier

Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta both say the top-of-the-table game between Manchester City and Arsenal tonight will not decide the Premier League title race.

League leaders Arsenal are five points above Pep Guardiola's side before Wednesday's match at Etihad Stadium.

However, second-placed City have two games in hand on the Gunners who have drawn three matches in succession.

"It is really important, but not decisive because there are many games to play," City boss Guardiola said.

The two Spaniards worked together at City before Arteta left to become Arsenal manager in 2019, but Guardiola says "nothing changes" their relationship when their sides face each other.

"We see each other less and we speak less but our relationship is always happy," he said.

The Gunners have suffered defeats by City in both the league and FA Cup already this season and Arteta expects another "difficult" game.Arsenal, who last won the Premier League in 2004, drew 3-3 against bottom-placed Southamptonon Friday, after squandering two-goal leads against both West Ham and Liverpool.

"If we win Wednesday we have not won the league. It will shift probably the percentage, but five games in this league is very tricky

League Winner

still," he said.

"We knew we had to go to Etihad, it will be difficult, but will it decide the season? No,"

Arteta added. "The belief is there, I look at how the players reacted after Southampton, they defend each other in every moment. We really want it and we are again going to show it tomorrow night."

Jamie Vardy celebrating his equaliser against Leeds...last night

Argentina forward Valentin Castellanos (left) is the first player this century to score four goals past Real Madrid as Girona beat the Los Blancos 4-2 in Montilivi...yesterday

MISSILE WHO to African Countries

“AfricanRegionaloneaccounted in2021foranestimated234millionmalariacasesand593,000 deaths,thusbearingtheheaviestburdenofover95% ofcasesand96%ofdeathsglobally.Our region,therefore,continuestobehardesthitbythisdeadlydiseasepartlybecausetoomanypeople donothaveaccesstopreventiveandcurativeinterventions.Significantinequitiesaffectthemost vulnerable,youngchildrenandwomen;about80percentofmalariacasesanddeathsoccurin childrenunderfive.” ––The World Health Organisation (WHO) expressing worry that Nigeria is one of the eight African countries that would fail to meet the target on malaria incidence reduction.

ALIKODANGOTE

GUEST COLUMNIST

With Urgent Innovative Investment, Zero Malaria Spread is Possible

The World Malaria Day is observed each year on April 25, to underline the need for malaria control and total elimination. Adjunct to this is the galvanization of global efforts towards advocacy and sustained political will and investment all aimed at ending the scourge of the disease in identified communities.

Since 2000, global partnerships and investments in the fight against malaria have yielded positive results – preventing some 2 billion malaria cases, saving 11.7 million lives, and putting eradication within reach.

At a historic Global Fund Replenishment meeting in Geneva, Switzerland in 2022, billions of dollars were pledged by donors to boost the fight against HIV, TB and Malaria. However, an unprecedented shortfall of more than 50% in global malaria funding is now holding countries back from maintaining life-saving malaria programmes at current levels, from and reaching everyone currently living with the risk of contracting malaria.

Consequently, according to the 2022 Malaria Report, 96% of malaria deaths globally were found in 29 countries, with Nigeria sadly among the four countries which accounted for just over half of all malaria deaths globally in 2021; alongside the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of Niger and the United Republic of Tanzania.

A number of biological threats have also emerged, putting existing and future progress at risk. However, recent investments in R&D have produced the most robust pipeline of malaria interventions in over a decade to address these threats. Despite this remarkable progress, many proven interventions are still waiting to be implemented at scale. Countries and partners are working tirelessly to hold the line against malaria, implementing innovative approaches to tailor and deliver lifesaving tools to the most vulnerable and hard to reach communities.

However, funding gaps are contributing to declining progress in the countries with the highest burden of malaria. Countries will not reap the rewards of these investments without further commitment to scale-up and roll out these innovations where they are needed most. For Africa to move forward, we really have to get rid of malaria once and for all.

Despite previous recorded successes in program implementation, there is an ever-increasing need to step up our efforts and escalate investment. Now is the time to take decisive action to deliver

on our goal of zero malaria, spur overall development and achieve 2030 targets. The commemoration of World Malaria Day requires us to bolster the fight against this life-threatening disease once and for all.

The theme of this year’s World Malaria Day: “Time to Deliver Zero Malaria: Invest, Innovate, Implement” highlights the need for urgent action and further investment to ensure existing investments deliver maximum impact in the fight to end malaria. As a United Nations (UN) Malaria Ambassador for Nigeria, I would like to add my voice to the global call on countries and partners around the world to:

bridge critical funding gaps and accelerate progress towards total elimination of malaria. solutions to end malaria that are tailored to those who need them most.

accelerate progress against this age-old disease, by demonstrating leadership, adopting innovative and sustainable approaches, and scaling up national malaria programmes to deliver lifesaving tools to those at highest risk.

On this World Malaria Day, I urge joint action to prioritise our interventions to

fight Malaria. In addition to the human suffering, the economic toll of this disease on global productivity is very high, and even more impactful in these times of economic fragility. More than ever, we must collaborate to ensure that no child or person dies of malaria again. As we celebrate our progress, we must also drive further progress toward malaria elimination in Nigeria and Africa at large by focusing on two key areas:

*Ensure that malaria elimination remains high on Nigeria’s public health and development agenda with strong political commitment from leaders at all levels; and

*Advocate at all levels to ensure sufficient funding to sustain the progress made so far, as we jointly seek to end malaria for good.

*Encourage my fellow private sector leaders to implement Malaria prevention and treatment programmes in their companies, as we do across our businesses in the Dangote Group.

Happily enough, our fight against the malaria scourge has been buoyed by the emergence of a new malaria vaccine - R21/ Matrix-M, which was developed by the University of Oxford and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), which approved the R21 vaccine use after it conducted its in-house checks, said Nigeria expects to get at least 100,000 doses of the vaccine in donations soon.

All efforts must be made to sustain the adequate sourcing and application of this innovative vaccine in the fight against malaria; akin to the noble efforts made to ensure the eradication of polio in Nigeria and Africa. We at the Aliko Dangote Foundation pledge to spearhead the collective effort to ensure adequate provision, supply and application of this malaria vaccine.

In my role as the Chairman of the Nigeria End Malaria Council (NEMC), my Foundation and I will continue to engage with the National Malaria Elimination Program (NMEP) and key stakeholders to support the efforts of NMEP to address malaria in our workplaces, communities, and especially high burden areas to renew commitments to help Nigeria attain its goal of malaria elimination by 2030.

Together, we can save our children, families, nation, and continent. The time to act is NOW!

*Alhaji Dangote, GCON, is the Chairman of National Malaria Elimination Council (NMEC), United Nations (UN) Malaria Ambassador for Nigeria.

“My Foundation and I will continue to engage with the National Malaria Elimination Program (NMEP) and key stakeholders to support the efforts of NMEP to address malaria in our workplaces, communities, and especially high burden areas to renew commitments to help Nigeria attain its goal of malaria elimination by 2030”

United Nations Secretary- General Antonio Guterres