Raises maximum cover for DMBs to N5 million, MFBs N2 million, PMBs N2 million, MMOs N5 million High uninsured deposits pose risks to financial stability, Hassan declares Analyst says move will boost confidence in banking system
Says economy already tottering towards eclipse when they took over Hints Nigeria was subsidising fuel consumption of entire West Africa UN declares country’s progress key to Africa's devt
Kashim Shettima,
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
ExxonMobil's Nigerian petroleum assets sale to Nigeria's Seplat could be approved in less than two weeks, the country's oil regulator, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), said yesterday.
The news came a day after THISDAY reported that NUPRC was trying to speed up the conclusion of regulatory oversight on the ongoing oil assets divestment by International Oil Companies (IOCs).
When the pending transactions are concluded, Nigeria could add at least 700,000 barrels per day (bpd) to its current daily crude oil production volume, to hit about two million bpd before the end of the year.
In February 2022, Seplat Energy announced its acquisition of oil
Laments state of power, wants verifiable commitments from minister Power generation rises by 625mw to 4800mw, as Lagos supply improves with 63MVA mobile substation
James Emejo in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos
Former Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Dr. Shamsuddeen Usman, yesterday, challenged President Bola Tinubu to match words with actions by sacking some ministers in his cabinet to serve as a deterrent to other non-performing cabinet members and government officials.
Usman made the suggestion at the opening of the Second Chronicle Roundtable, with the theme, “Tinubu Administration’s Economic and Social Agenda: How it Will Transform Nigeria,” in Abuja.
The former minister, who was the chairman of the occasion, particularly lamented the state of power in the country, and called for accountability from the current Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu.
However, Adelabu said Nigeria's power generation had recorded a major improvement with additional 625 megawatts (mw) from the
likelihood of bank runs with dire impact on the stability of the financial system.
However, he noted that factors including deposit distribution, the impact of inflation, per capita GDP, exchange rate, and other statistical models often necessitated the review of deposit coverage.
Under the new template, he said coverage for Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) had been increased to N5 million from N500,000 to provide full coverage of 98.98 per cent of total depositors compared to the current 89.20 per cent.
In terms of the value of deposits covered, he said the revised coverage would increase deposits covered by deposit insurance to 25.37 per cent compared to the current 6.31 per cent of total value of deposits. Hassan, who disclosed the adjustments at a media briefing in Abuja, said under the new regime, the maximum deposit coverage for Microfinance Banks (MFBs) had also been increased to N2 million from N200,000 to offer full coverage of 99.27 per cent of depositors compared to 98.76 per cent currently.
The NDIC chief executive said this would increase the value of deposits covered by deposit insurance to 34.43 per cent compared to 14.38 per cent.
Furthermore, deposit coverage for Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs) was raised to N2 million from N500,000 to provide full coverage for 99.34 per cent of depositors compared with the current 97.98 per cent.
Hassan further stated that this would increase the value of deposits covered by deposit insurance to 21.04 per cent compared to 10.77 per cent currently applicable.
The adjustments also included an increase of deposit cover to N2 million from N500,000 for Payment Service Banks (PSBs) to offer full coverage of 99.99 per cent of depositors, to increase the value of deposits covered to 43.10 per cent from 40.60 per cent.
In addition, the maximum Pass-through deposit insurance coverage for Mobile Money Operators (MMOs) was increased to N5 million from N500,000 per subscriber per MMO as the applicable coverage level for depositors of DMBs.
Meanwhile, the development has already attracted
Zungeru Hydro Power Plant, consequently raising the wheeling capacity of the national grid to 4800mw.
The minister made the disclosure yesterday in Lagos at the inauguration and energisation, simultaneously, of the 63MVA, 132/33kV Mobile Substation at Ajah, Lagos State, and Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State. Usman said Tinubu must follow through with his declaration to members of his cabinet during the presidential retreat that they must deliver or get sacked. He said all officials should be measured by the performance indicators they committed to.
The roundtable was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima and other officials of the Tinubu administration.
The former minister called on Adelabu to make time-bound commitments to fixing the perennial and embarrassing collapse of the power system. He said, “It is a shame that up till today, the whole electricity
commendations from analysts.
President, Association of Capital Market Academics of Nigeria, Prof. Uche Uwaleke, told THISDAY that the increases in deposit coverage was a welcome development amid elevated inflation and naira depreciation.
He said, “This would no doubt boost confidence in the nation's banking sector and deepen financial inclusion.”
Nonetheless, the NDIC boss said the revised deposit coverage had balanced the corporation's goals of deposit protection and financial system stability with incentives for depositors to practice market discipline and prevent banks from unnecessary risk-taking and moral hazard.
He said consideration was given to ensure that the coverage was limited but adequate to protect a large number of depositors and credible enough to prevent the destabilising effect of bank runs.
According to him, the adoption of the revised maximum coverage was supported by the corporation's current funding, represented by the balances in the various Deposit Insurance Funds (DIFs), expected annual premium collection, enhanced supervision that would reduce the likelihood of bank failures, effective bank resolution frameworks and other funding arrangements provided by the NDIC Act No. 33 of 2023.
He said, "I would like to reaffirm the NDIC's unwavering commitment to protecting depositors and contributing to the stability of the financial system.
"These adjustments to the maximum deposit insurance coverage reflect our dedication to adapt and evolve in response to the changing landscape of the financial industry, and we remain steadfast in our pursuit of a secure and resilient banking environment for all."
He said NDIC's mandate of deposit guarantee remained a critical component of depositors' protection, as it guarantees the payment of deposits up to a maximum limit in the event of bank failure.
Hassan explained that the maximum deposit insurance coverage is determined through periodic research-based studies, to ensure its adequacy and credibility.
He said based on these considerations, and in line with the NDIC’s commitment to
system of the country collapsed.”
Usman stated that he spearheaded the development of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for public officials while in office, adding that ministers and public officials should be measured according to what they promised to do within a certain timeframe.
Using Malaysia as an example, Usman said that country had “exactly the kind of challenge we are having with power”, with one particular region being far behind in terms of availability of power.
But, according to Usman, there was one particular Malaysian power minister, “And he committed publicly that ‘I am going to fix the power problem of that region within six months or else, I will resign’.
“And because he had made that commitment he was able to move and achieve that. Can we have a minister of power who can promise that he will stop this system collapse?
“It is a shame that up till today, the whole electricity system of
enhancing depositors' protection, public confidence, financial inclusion, and stability of the financial system, the NDIC Interim Management Committee (IMC), during its 18th meeting held on April 24-25th, approved the new templates for deposits coverage going forward.
According to him, following a survey in 1989, the maximum cover for DMBs was set at N50,000 at the inception of the NDIC.
The amount was set in a way that up to 85 per cent of the total depositors in the nation's insured banks would be 100 per cent covered. Subsequently, 96 per cent of depositors were protected when the coverage ceiling was raised to N200,000 from N50,000 in 2006. The coverage limit of N100,000 was also set for the first time, for MFB and PMB depositors in the same year.
In 2011, the coverage limit for DMBs was increased to N500,000 from N200,000 and to N200,000 from N100,000 for depositors of MFBs and PMBs.
The coverage level was further adjusted to N500,000 in 2016 for PMB depositors as well as subscribers of licensed MMOs.
The coverage of N500,000 was equally extended to depositors of PSBs in 2020 while that of DMBs remained at N500,000.
However, Hassan said, “As part of the periodic evaluation of the effectiveness of the deposit guarantee, the corporation conducted a Study in 2023, to determine the adequacy of the maximum deposit insurance coverage.
“This is in line with Principle 8 of the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI) Core Principles for Effective Deposit Insurance, which advised jurisdictions, to periodically review their deposit insurance coverage, to ensure that, it is credible and covers a large majority of depositors to prevent the risk of bank runs, but leave a substantial amount of deposits exposed to market discipline.”
He said findings further indicated that high percentages of depositors ranging from 89.20 per cent to 99.99 per cent were fully insured under the maximum deposit insurance coverage levels across different bank categories while a substantial portion of deposits, remain uninsured.
the country collapses. And when we underline those performance indicators for the minister of power, we measure over a particular twoyear period – this man has had so many collapses; we give him the statistics – we then say, okay, develop a programme by which you will tell us when you will bring this to an end.
“Now, if the minister of power commits to that, and if he doesn’t achieve it, he should be sacked or forced to resign. That’s the only way…”
Usman also said leadership remained a critical factor, alleging that many people are not interested in the country's success because of their vested interests.
He said Tinubu “needs to make one or two examples based on these measures of performance that are clear objectives and can be made available to the Nigerian public so that if he drops anybody on that basis, it would be understood that he/she promised to do this and that and she is far behind doing that.
“And it would not be said that he/she is a Muslim or Christian – Igbo tribe or Yoruba and so on – which we are very fond of doing in this country.”
However, Adelabu said there had been a major improvement in power generation in the country, with additional 625mw from the Zungeru Hydro Power Plant, in Niger State. He said this had raised the wheeling capacity of the national grid to 4800mw.
The minister spoke yesterday during the inauguration and energisation of the 63MVA, 132/33kV Mobile Substation at Ajah, Lagos State and Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, simultaneously.
The mobile substations are part of the transmission infrastructure being deployed under the Phase One of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), commonly known as the Nigeria-Siemens power project.
The minister said the inauguration was a testament to the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda’s commitment to transforming Nigeria's power landscape. He said the mobile substation represented a strategic deployment aimed at improving the transmission capacity constraints by over 1300MW across the country.
He said the strategic placement of the facilities at key sites, such as Okene, Amukpe, Potiskum, Apo, Ajah, Birnin Kebbi, and others, underscored the current administration's dedication to enhancing transmission efficiency and reliability nationwide.
Adelabu stated, "Today, as we inaugurate this 63MVA Mobile Substation in Ajah, Lagos State, we recognise its multifaceted significance. Not only does it serve as a catalyst for capacity enhancement within our transmission network, but it also stands as a beacon of hope for the businesses and households reliant on uninterrupted power supply.
"Furthermore, the versatility of this mobile substation cannot be overstated. From addressing major load centres to serving as a stopgap measure during maintenance and emergencies, its flexibility ensures swift responses to fluctuating power demands, thereby contributing to uninterrupted service delivery."
In tandem with the unveiling of the facility, the minister, who at the Lagos event, remotely inaugurated a 60-MVA Power Transformer in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, stressed that together, these equipment would boost Nigeria's transmission wheeling capacity by 123MW, thereby paving the way for enhanced electricity supply for all Nigerians.
He stated that these endeavours signified more than just infrastructural development, explaining that they represent a pivotal step towards revitalising the country's power sector and reaffirming government's commitment to improving the lives of the citizens.
The minister emphasised that the PPI embodied government’s strategic approach to tackling
$1.28BN SEPLAT-MOBIL
and gas assets belonging to Mobil Oil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU), in a deal seen at the time as the first since the signing of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by then President Muhammadu Buhari in August 2021.
Seplat Energy Plc had entered into the Sale and Purchase Agreement to acquire the entire share capital of MPNU for a purchase price of $1.283 billion plus up to $300 million contingent consideration.
The transaction encompassed the acquisition of the entire offshore shallow water business of ExxonMobil in Nigeria to create one of the largest independent energy companies in the country.
However, since then, the deal, which is awaiting ministerial consent and other required regulatory approvals, has been stalled.
Recently, Chief Executive of NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe, reiterated the criteria to be met before any divestment might be concluded. He listed some of them as due diligence relating to host communities , the financial strength of the interested buyer, resolution of Decommissioning and Abandonment issues, technical competence, the legal status of the party, among others.
However, a Reuters report stated yesterday that the $1.28 billion sale in Africa's largest oil exporter, which
had awaited regulator approval since 2022, could be signed off on in less than two weeks.
Komolafe told the news organisations that the parties involved would be invited to a meeting on Friday (today).
"Subject to the outcome of the meeting, consent...could be given in less than two weeks from the date of the meeting," he said.
NUPRC would give the companies two mutually exclusive options that, if accepted, would permit approval of the deal, he said.
He did not spell out what the options were but said the law required money to be set aside for decommissioning, host community development and environmental remediation.
THISDAY earlier reported exclusively that the two options on the table for the interested parties were either to wait for the full audit of the process to be completed before signing off on the deal or conclude pending when the assessments were released.
However, the latter option comes with a proviso that whatever is the eventual outcome of the review must be accepted by the buyers.
"As a commission, we don't want our nation to carry unwarranted financial burdens arising from the operations of the assets over time
Nigeria's longstanding challenge of unreliable power supply.
With an installed power generation capacity of 14 gigawatts (GW), he said it was imperative that the country maximised operational capacity to meet the needs of the growing population.
Adelabu expressed his happiness with the collaborative efforts between the German government and the Nigerian government under the PPI, which he noted promised to deliver reliable power supply to every corner of the country. He added, "As we celebrate the activation of this mobile substation, let us not only acknowledge its technological prowess but also reflect on the socio-economic impact for our communities. Enhanced power infrastructure serves as a catalyst for industrial growth, job creation, and improved standards of living.
"In conclusion, let me extend my gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making this project a reality. Together, we embark on a journey towards a brighter future for Nigeria, one powered by innovation, resilience, and collective determination.
"I, therefore, call on the management of the FGN Power Company and all other stakeholders in the power sector to work with extra determination to ensure that the timelines, which we have set for this project is achieved."
In his remarks, Managing Director of FGN Power Company Limited, Mr. Kenny Anuwe, stated, "As we stand on the cusp of a transformative era in Nigeria's power sector, FGN Power Company remains steadfast in our commitment to driving progress and delivering tangible improvements in electricity access for all Nigerians.
"With unwavering dedication and collaboration, we are poised to unlock the nation's full potential and illuminate a brighter future for generations to come." Usman
by the divesting entities," Reuters quoted Komolafe as saying. A spokesperson for Seplat declined to comment. An Exxon spokesperson did not immediately comment.
Observers said approving the deal would bring much needed investment into Nigeria's petroleum sector. While it is pending, there is little incentive to put money into the assets, which means production will gradually decline.
Former Buhari initially consented to the transaction, but withdrew that consent days later after the oil regulator refused to sign off on it.
President Bola Tinubu, who took office last year, has made attracting investment a key priority.
Last year June, just over a week after taking over the reins of government, Tinubu welcomed a team from the company where he had earlier worked as a treasurer to the State House.
The president tweeted after the meeting, “It was a pleasure to play host to Exxon Mobil executives, Liam Mallon and Adesua Dozie at the State House earlier today. The meeting marks the continuation of this administration’s efforts to secure the collaboration of critical players in the oil sector towards ensuring stability, transparency, and fair competition in the sector.”
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The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment yesterday announced a seven-day extension of deadline for the submission of Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the proposed $10 billion Nigeria Diaspora Fund.
According to a notice from the Office of the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the deadline was shifted to May 13, 2024 from May 6, 2024 to allow for more participation in the process.
The minister explained that the extension was intended to accommodate stakeholders who required more time to prepare their applications in accordance with the guidelines provided for the fund.
The EOI is open to fund
managers interested in the development and establishment of a multisectoral, multilateral private sector-led investment fund.
“We encourage prospective applicants to use this additional time to finalise their submissions that meet the outlined criteria, ensuring comprehensive and competitive proposals,” the notice added.
As part of efforts to attract and accelerate the inflow of private sector capital and Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) into the economy, the federal government recently unveiled plans to float a $10 billion-Nigeria Diaspora Fund to among other things, improve FX liquidity in the system as well as strengthen the Naira.
According to a tender shared
by the minister on her X handle, formerly Twitter, the Nigeria Diaspora Fund Multisectoral Investment Initiative will be designed and managed by the fund managers selected through an Expression of Interest (EOI) exercise where winners are expected to emerge.
The minister explained that the 10-year fund, which is extendable by two years, offers an expected investment period of three to five years with follow-on investments thereafter.
The ministry has therefore issued an EOI Expression to fund managers for the development and establishment of a multisectoral, multilateral private sector-led investment fund to form the $10 billion Nigeria Diaspora Fund.
The minister explained that
the proposed fund would be managed by fund managers that satisfy the criteria set out in the EOI, adding that the latter would propose fund structures that will focus on various sectors and stages of investments.
She said subject to the preferences indicated by the managers, the fund will contain multiple investment platforms designed to offer investors different mechanisms for participating in the country’s economic transformation.
Uzoka-Anite further clarified that the fund was intended to encourage remittances, attract investments and facilitate philanthropic endeavours aimed at supporting various sectors including infrastructure, healthcare, education and entrepreneurship in the country.
The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) yesterday received officials from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), as part of fresh plans to rejuvenate the public service and introduce a new framework for assessing performance.
Speaking at the event in Abuja, which also saw the inauguration of the Employee Performance Management Champions (EPMC), the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the bank, Shehu Osidi, stated that the
programme involved the enunciation of clear performance metrics for all civil servants.
He stated that the bank recognised the critical importance of performance management and had commenced the journey even before the circular from the Head of Service of the Federation (HoSF), Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan, with the existence of a performance management unit coordinating the endeavour.
Osidi argued that performance management wasn’t just about evaluating individuals, but about fostering a culture of continuous
Naira Declines at Both Official Market, Parallel to N1402/$1, N1,380
Nume EkegheThe naira yesterday declined at both the official window and the parallel market. At the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange (NAFEM) window, the naira recorded depreciation as it closed at N1,402.67/$1 a N11.71 loss compared to N1,390.96/$1 which closed on Tuesday. By the end of trading
yesterday, the parallel market concluded at N1,380/$1, a loss of N20 compared to the Monday rate of N1,360/$1.
The daily turnover recorded an increase in transactions of 3.32 per cent, to $232.84 million yesterday compared to the $225.36 million recorded on Tuesday. Furthermore, the highest spot rate observed yesterday stood at N1,445, with the lowest spot rate recorded at N1,299.
improvement and development.
According to him, it's about recognising achievements, identifying areas for growth, and providing the necessary support and resources for employees to thrive.
He maintained that the session was not just about understanding the mechanics of the system, but about embracing the philosophy behind it.
“It's about recognising that performance management is not a one-time event but an ongoing dialogue between management and employees. It's about empowering our teams to take ownership of their destiny as well as that of our esteemed institution - the FMBN, “ he added.
Stressing that every worker plays a vital role in making the performance management system a success, the FMBN chief executive explained that feedback, engagement, and commitment were instrumental in driving positive outcomes for both individuals and the organisation as a whole.
He pointed out that management was keenly aware that human capital remains fundamental to the achievement of the bank's strategic goals, noting that the holding of the event within the first 100 days of his tenure attests to this.
In his remarks, the Mr Rikko Owutte of the Performance
Management Department office of the Head of Service, said that many times the capacity of government to deliver services had been questioned, thus the need for a performance system to safeguard the quality, capacity, productivity, and integrity of the service.
Stressing that the public had at various times doubted government agencies’ resolve to deliver optimal service to the citizen, he explained that this prompted the government to make necessary changes, with the central delivery and coordinating unit.
“You find all manner of things in the government sector. And because of that, you have diminished productivity,” he argued, calling for more quality work, transparency, professionalism, anonymity, political neutrality, patriotism and accountability.
“So, you need to understand that it's all about Nigerians. What we are doing as public servants is to render services to the generality of Nigerians. So, if what we are doing here in FMBN does not translate to the good of Nigeria, then we are not yet there,” he added.
In order to transform the service, Owutte stated that the HoSF developed a roadmap for the federal civil service strategy as well as an implementation plan.
She noted that the intervention remained part of broader efforts to strengthen ties between Nigeria and its diaspora, promote national development, and harness the potential of The Diaspora Community as agents of change and development for Nigeria.
The minister also pointed out that the national launch of the fund would serve as an opportunity to raise interest in and awareness of the fund towards mobilising capital investment from the diaspora community.
Among several other requirements, the tender
stated that greenfield funds may apply provided the promoters demonstrate a deep experience in fund management, investment execution, multilateral development, and a detailed understanding of the Nigerian environment.
Foreign firms are also encouraged to participate, preferably by partnering with reputable local fund managers that meet any or all the requirements.
However, interested foreign firms must be able to demonstrate an ability for frontier and emerging market investment experience.
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Access Bank Plc has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering positive transformation in healthcare across Africa and advocated for innovative financing models that would foster the realization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Access bank made these known at the 2024 Medic West Africa Event, which was organised by the ABCHealth in collaboration with Informa Markets.
The event, which served as a platform for stakeholders across industries to deliberate on the theme “Healthcare Investments in Africa: Mobilizing the Private Sector to Drive Healthcare Investments in Africa,” was aimed at charting a path through which corporates could leverage innovative financing models and strategic partnerships to foster the achievement of the United Nations’ SDGs.
The discussions also explored strategies for strengthening healthcare infrastructure by leveraging technological advancements and enhancing community health initiatives.
Lending his voice to the conversation, the Group Head, Commercial Banking Division, Access Bank Plc, Mr. Ralph Opara, stressed that “the government cannot carry the burden of the health sector
alone. Hence, it is imperative that the private sector explores and implements innovative financing models and strategic partnerships to bridge the healthcare investment gap.”
Opara noted that collaborative effort between the public and private sectors is not only crucial but essential to driving innovation, improving healthcare accessibility, and ensuring sustainable development across the continent.
Walking the talk on partnerships, Access Bank has partnered with the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), to launch the Adopt-A-Health Facility Program (ADHFP) with the primary aim of delivering, at least, one global standard Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in each of the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria.
So far, the initiative has resulted into over 180 PHCs adopted across the country.
Other notable participants at the event included the CEO of ABCHealth, Ms. Mories Atoki; Head of Specialised Sectors Business & Commercial Banking, Stanbic IBTC, Ms. Jane Ike-Okoli; Executive Director, MTN Foundation, Ms. Odunayo Sanyo; Group Head, Health Finance, Sterling Bank, Ms. Ibironke Akinmade, and MD/CEO, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Ms. Zouera Youssoufou.
Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, yesterday, called for the full implementation of the Cybercrimes Act 2004 and the operationalisation of the National Cybersecurity Fund.
A statement signed by Head, Strategic Communications, Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Zakari Mijinyawa, said the call was in view of the need to "secure Nigeria’s Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), counter terrorism and violent extremism, strengthen national security and protect economic interests.
"This notice calls for the full implementation of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Amendment Act 2024, including the operationalisation of the National Cybersecurity Fund by all regulators and businesses specified in the second schedule of the Act".
It would be recalled that on July 6, 2022, Nigeria joined 66 other countries that have signed and ratified the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime to enhance international cooperation, provide common platform and procedural tools for efficient and safe cyberspace pursuant to section 41(2) (a)
Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has reacted to the allegations of incitement leveled against him by the federal government over his position that the trillions of Naira Coastal Highway Project was not a priority in today's Nigeria.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, had Wednesday said Obi was inciting the South East against the federal government.
But Obi, who insisted that his position on the coastal road project remained the same, stated that the allegations of inciting the people were divisive actions to distract the people from the main issue he raised, that such a project would lead to loss of jobs and increase hunger and spread poverty in a land already troubled.
He however, said priority should be put on internal roads
first to move the economy forward.
A statement by his Chief Spokesman, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, Obi said, "Regarding allegations of incitement against the government, I firmly reject these unfounded accusations aimed at tarnishing my character. My focus is on fostering constructive dialogue and inclusivity, rather than engaging in divisive politics.
"Claims of incitement are baseless distractions. I advocate unity and advancement, refusing to partake in reactionary politics. My commitment to serving with integrity remains steadfast, and I encourage all Nigerians to unite for a prosperous future.
"I stand by my record as governor and reject any attempts to distort the narrative for political gain. My commitment remains unwavering: to advocate for the rights and well-being of all Nigerians, ensuring that
development initiatives prioritize the needs of the people," he said.
The former Anambra State governor, insisted that the circumstances were different and wondered why they were not addressing the issue of poverty that was fast spreading in the country.
"It has come to my attention, and I strongly denounce the distortion of facts surrounding my actions and statements during my tenure as governor of Anambra State, particularly concerning the ongoing demolitions for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal super highway. I aim to address these issues directly, devoid of political rhetoric, to ensure clarity for all.
"Let me be unequivocal: during my governorship, I made it abundantly clear that all structures obstructing existing roads and lacking approval would be removed.
The circulated video clearly stated this, and I only initiated removal when construction had already commenced.
"Any insinuation otherwise is a blatant misrepresentation of the truth. I challenge anyone to verify and show me where the demolished structures on existing roads or ongoing businesses were not encroaching on the road and built without government approval while I served as governor.
"To provide further clarity, consider concrete examples. I decisively demolished the Onitsha North local government headquarters situated on the only existing stadium, relocated, and built a brand new structure for the local government office away from the stadium. This action was necessary to restore the stadium to its original purpose as a sporting facility for the people,” he explained.
Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa
Ex-militant leaders under the aegis of the 21st Century Youths of Niger Delta and Agitators With Conscience (21st CYNDAC) have warned critics against the construction of the Calabar-Lagos highway to desist from discouraging the federal government from achieving the first major landmark project in the Niger Delta or face their wrath.
While commending President Bola Tinubu, for the approval of the road that would transverse the moribund coastlines of the Niger
Delta, they said the highway was both a political and economic masterstroke by the present administration.
In the press release signed by its Coordinator, 'Gen'. Izon Ebi, they said the project when completed would unleash an economic boom, a tourism renaissance of unquantified proportion to the people of the Niger Delta.
The statement added that they were baffled that some people are up against the noble economic thrust of the president.
"We are forced to wonder if it's
because the project is not sited in their region or they can no more hide their hate and disdain for the Niger Delta people. We the people of the Niger Delta support the president’s noble stride and on these note, send clear warnings to haters of the Niger Delta to steer clear.
"We reiterate our total support for the winner, and the Man of the year award given to President Bola Tinubu GCFR for his outstanding and purpose driven leadership in his first year in office.
"The economic benefit of the
Lagos/ Calabar coastal highway that will transverse the moribund coastlines of the Niger Delta are both a political and economic masterstroke.
"This project when completed will unleash an economic boom, a tourism renaissance of unquantified proportion to the people of the Niger Delta. It thus baffles the 21st century youths and other critical stakeholders in the region why some people are up protesting this noble economic thrust of Mr President," the statement added.
of the Cybercrime Act 2015 requiring conformity of Nigerian cybercrime and cybersecurity laws and policies with regional and international standards.
"This is further emphasised by one of the resolutions reached during the High Level African International Counter Terrorism Meeting which held in Abuja between 22 and 23 April 2024. "The resolution called for the improved deployment of greater support and resources towards strengthening cybersecurity activities in Africa and taking concrete steps to prevent the use of social media and other platforms by terrorists and organised criminal groups", it said.
Funmi Ogundare
President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Mrs. Margaret Aina Oguntala, will take the stage as a panel speaker at the Nigerian Pavilion of the OTC in Houston, USA, as part of her engagement at the 2024 Offshore Technology Conference (OTC).
The 2024 edition of the programme, themed 'Sustainable Energy Solutions for Africa's Future', is expected to host thousands of professionals, industry leaders, and delegates from the African continent and across the globe.
The NSE Corporate Service Board, in a statement, explained that Oguntala will be speaking as a panelist at the African continent collaboration session, themed, 'Elevating Local Content Excellence: Collaborative Strategies for Africa's Oil and Gas Industry', scheduled to hold on May 7, at the Wyndham.
Notable speakers at the session include the President of the Association of African Petroleum Producers (AAP) from Senegal, and the President of the Association of Service Companies of Angola (ASSEA), among others.
The President of the NSE, Margaret Aina Oguntala and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri; and his State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), counterpart, Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, will officiate the opening of the Nigerian Pavilion at OTC.
The opening declaration event is scheduled to hold on May 6, at the NRG Park. Dignitaries expected at the programme include the Group
Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited, Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari, and the commission's Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, among others.
According to the statement, "this marks the first time the President of the NSE will be speaking at OTC. The President's participation underscores the NSE's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and promoting sustainable practices in the energy sector.
"The President's trip is being sponsored by one of the NSE's strategic partners, highlighting the importance of collaboration and partnerships in advancing the goals of the engineering profession.
"As part of the sidelines of the conference, the President will engage directly with members of the NSE Houston Branch."
The statement further added that the engagement will provide members with insights into the future direction of the NSE as well as updates on the branch's activities and initiatives.
"The President will provide insights into her agenda for 'Rebirthing NSE for the Growth, Empowerment, and Advancement of Engineering', highlighting key strategies and initiatives aimed at advancing the engineering profession. Of particular interest will be the recent inauguration of the society's diaspora international mobility committees, aimed at facilitating seamless integration and practice of Engineers across borders," it stated.
Dike Onwuamaeze
A report that was published by Afrinvest has disclosed that three major brewers that are listed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), namely Nigerian Breweries Plc, International Breweries Plc and Guinness Nigeria Plc, booked historic pre-tax losses of N254.8 billion in 2023 financial year.
The report also projected that the industry’s volume of
sale would contract further in 2024 by 2.7 per cent, adding that the average unrealised foreign exchange losses for the industry would range between N20 billion and N33 billion if foreign exchange rate would average at N1,057 per dollar in 2024 against 2023 average foreign exchange loss of N76.3 billion.
The report, which is titled “Nigeria Brewery Sector Update: Turning the Tide on Bottled Gains?,” said that
James Emejo in Abuja
Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Mr. Bashir Adeniyi yesterday launched the Advance Ruling trading tool to reduce compliance costs and foster a conducive business environment for traders.
He said the scheme also creates a more transparent business environment for the service's stakeholders in the trade and serves as a critical mechanism that allows traders to obtain binding decisions from Customs administrations on the classification, origin, and valuation of goods before importation.
Speaking at the ceremony in Abuja, Adeniyi said, "Today, we shall be taking the first step towards launching the Nigeria Customs Service Advance Ruling, starting with stakeholder engagement."
The CGC, who recognised the significance of the project, as it aligns with the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), also emphasised its relevance in facilitating both domestic and international trade while also promoting Customs compliance.
"According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), Advanced Ruling enhances predictability and transparency in customs procedures, streamlining trade processes and minimising delays, uncertainties, and costs associated with Customs clearance."
He commended President Bola Tinubu for laying the groundwork for improving the Nigerian economy and supporting the service.
Adeniyi said the launch of the initiative was apt and aligns with the policy directive of the president to facilitate trade for legitimate traders.
He said, "This is reflected in the Policy Advisory Document of the government, which signifies recent achievements, such as the approval to decongest the ports and make them free and accessible for importers and operators."
He further explained that the service had made all arrangements to conduct workshops and sensitisation sessions at Customs Area Commands to ensure that all stakeholders are well-informed and prepared to utilise the new mechanism effectively.
He, however, applauded the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and other partners for their unwavering partnership and continued support towards achieving a significant milestone in trade facilitation activities under the Nigeria Energy Support Programme.
He said, "It is essential to acknowledge that initiatives like advanced ruling necessitate investments in capacity building for both officers and stakeholders. We are committed to leveraging our internal capacity while exploring collaboration opportunities with external partners like GIZ."
the rapid spikes in the cost of raw material inputs, cost of doing business in Nigeria and the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) hike in interest rates compelled the brewers to adjust products’ prices upward by an estimated average of 25 per cent across brand segments in order to stay afloat.
“On the back of these dynamics, the industry’s pre-tax profit (PBT) fell by 1,824.3% y/y to a negative region of N254.8 billion, as all three major brewers: the Nigerian Breweries, International Breweries and Guinness Nigeria booked significant losses – the first time of such on record,” the report said.
It stated that while price increases of breweries’ products supported a modest 12.0 per cent y/y expansion in the industry’s sales revenue, which rose to N1.1 trillion against N976.1 billion in 2022, the sector’s estimated sales volume
declined by 5.0 per cent y/y to 18.9 million hectoliters (mhl) in 2023.
The report further noted that the analysis of the performance of the industry’s key cost elements in 2023, like the cost of goods sold (COGS), operating, and financing cost vis-a-vis their impact on the bottom line, revealed that brewers sailed on stormy waters in 2023.
The report said: “For instance, industry COGS rose 15.9 per cent y/y (outpacing revenue growth of 12.0 per cent) to N749.5 billion – the highest on record.
“The faster increase came on the back of intensified pressure on direct production input costs owing to the low domestic supply of key farm inputs, increased excise tariffs on product categories, knockon effects of the plummeting exchange rate, and the subsisting vacuum in the global supply volume of key
inputs – wheat, malt, barley, gasoline, and aluminum created by the lingering Russia-Ukraine war (Russia and Ukraine are among global largest suppliers of these items).
“As per the operating performance in the year, we noted a 10.2 per cent and 3.1 per cent y/y jump in the industry’s administrative, marketing and distribution costs to N80.9 billion and N198.6 billion, respectively.”
The report furthermore showed that the industry’s finance cost accentuated 461.1 per cent y/y to N119.1 billion.
This, we believe, reflected the combined impact of negative exchange rate movement on FCY loans as well as tighter domestic and foreign interest rate environments.
It added that even as brewers increased their leverage positions to sustain operations, the industry’s average leverage metric worsened to 0.71:1.00
from 0.43:1.00 in 2022.
The report, which foresaw a mixed bag of boom and gloom, said that the prevailing weak fiscal capacity of the nation has made it compelling for the federal government to remain aggressive with taxation to meet part of its growing expenses.
“On the back of this reality, we do not rule out the possibility of a further upward review in the excise charge on alcohol, wines and spirits products later in the year, given that the 2022-2024 excise roadmap would be due for review by mid-year,” it said.
On the positive we see the potentials for brewers to expand sales to neighbouring countries without ant tariff hindrance due to Nigeria’s membership of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement and cheaper export opportunities presented by Nigeria’s weak exchange rate.
Umahi visits scene of Rivers carnage, blames drivers’ recklessness
Emmanuel Addeh in AbujaThe Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has visited the site of the gas explosion at Ita Oshin in Abeokuta, Ogun State, which resulted in loss of life and destruction of property.
At the site, he stressed that government was encouraging the direct piping of gas into the homes of Nigerians to avoid such future accidents like the one in Ogun which occurred when a truck conveying Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) experienced brake failure, crashed into the road barricade and caught fire.
On the minister's entourage were the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed, members of the minister's technical team and officials of the agency.
The minister was received by the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who stressed the importance of a thorough investigation to unravel the root cause of the accident and implementation of recommendations made to forestall future occurrences.
The minister commiserated with families affected by the tragedy and Gasco Marine Ltd, owners of the gas truck and commended the swift response of fire service personnel, and first responders in the aftermath of the gas explosion.
Ekpo said going forward, rather than trucking to end users, the regulators will emphasise issuance of distribution licences that will ensure that licensed distributors invest in the installation of pipelines to deliver gas directly to end users.
He said the shift from trucking to pipeline transportation would not only enhance safety, but
improve efficiency and reliability in delivering gas to consumers.
"I am committed to growing the gas space, but however I can assure you that every effort is being made to prevent such accidents as this one from occurring in the future," he said.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has visited the site of a tanker inferno that led to fatalities and left several vehicles in flames in an accident between a tanker truck driver carrying petroleum products and a trailer driver at the Indoroma-Aleto bridge, East-West road, Eleme in Rivers State.
Umahi said that it was the recklessness of the two drivers that caused the avoidable disaster, according to a statement by his spokesman, Uchenna Orji.
He therefore called for enhanced enforcement of driving rules and
road safety checks, especially as regards drivers of heavy-duty vehicles.
He argued that it was wrong to blame Renolds Construction Company, (RCC) for the accident, describing it as a misrepresentation of facts. He maintained that reports and eye witnesses' accounts showed that it was a case of drivers' recklessness and impatience that caused the incident.
"The RCC, they are trying, they are doing well. But my visit is going to ensure that they open the construction in a number of sections.
“That is what they must have to do. But the quality of what they are doing is quite commendable. But they must listen to us and open the construction. Whether they are delaying or not delaying has nothing to do with the accident," the minister added.
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The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday charged the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) to strengthen its level of advocacy with the public sector to drive an all-inclusive economic growth in the country.
peaking at the Nigerian Economic Summit (NES) at 30 public lecture and Founders' forum organised by NESG, themed: "In the National Interest: Reflecting on the Past, Reimagining the Future", the governor said NESG should prioritise the principles of collaboration to build a multi-
stakeholder alliance.
"I think NESG can scale up its relevance and we will work with you at achieving this. I would therefore like to touch on the linkage between policy work and public consciousness, because the more an organisation is able to connect with the general public, the greater
Vice President Kashim Shettima, is set to deliver the keynote address at the inaugural edition of The Duke's Economic Summit, scheduled to take place at the Pullman Hotel in Euston, London, on May 18, 2024. With the theme: "Creative Industry as a Vehicle for Economic Growth," the summit boasts an impressive line-up of confirmed speakers, including Mr. Kola Adeshina, Member of the Presidential Economic Coordination Council; Prof. Koyinsola Ajayi (SAN) and Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Chairman of Odua Group. Also expected to attend are: Segun Awolowo, Executive Secretary of AFCFTANG; Jammie Simmonds, Managing Director of Access Bank UK; Prince Bimbo Olashore, Deputy President of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce and Abike Dabiri, Chairperson of the Nigerian
A former employee of Duport Midstream Company Limited, Mrs Oyinlola Dairo, yesterday gave evidence in the alleged bribery trial of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr Akintoye Akindele.
Akindele is standing trial on a one-count charge of bribing a police officer in order to compromise his investigation on alleged diversion of the sum of $5,636,397.01, belonging to Summit Oil International Ltd.
Justice Modupe Osho-Adebiyi, of a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), hearing the case had last month adjourned for further hearing and cross examination of Dairo, who is the second Prosecution Witness (PW2).
The witness who at the last proceedings stated that she left the company, last year, because she was no longer comfortable with a lot of things about her company in the social media, explained to the court how she was constrained to sign a payment of N50 million to Summit Oil International Limited.
At the resumed trial, the witness
recalled that while still working at Duport, she had on August 15, last year received a WhatsApp chat from one Dr Ponmile of Platform Capital Ltd, a company under Duport in respect of a memo she was supposed to prepare.
The witness who claimed to have headed the commercial section of Duport and had as responsibilities; drafting of contracts, management of product sales, commercial support, amongst others, explained that because it was her consulting day at the hospital one Joshua forwarded the memo to her to append her signature.
She said after going through the memo she discovered that although the instruction was that the sum of N50 million be paid to Summit Oil, however, the money was to be paid into an account other than that of Summit Oil.
"The company was supposed to pay Summit but there was another beneficiary listed (Lisdom) and I did not understand.
"I called Joshua who sent the memo to say, it was not clear. I asked a number of questions. I asked if there was an agent. I asked if the proceed of Summit had been assigned to Lisdom," the witness informed the court.
Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), among others.
In a statement by the Executive Chairman of The Duke of Shomolu Foundation, Joseph Edgar, the summit's promoter emphasised the pivotal role of the creative industry in driving economic growth.
He stressed the need for clearheaded policies and initiatives to harness revenues from the sector and its impact on strategic subsectors such as infrastructure, job creation, tourism, and youth empowerment.
The summit will commence with the exciting stage play "Awo the Musical" at the nearby Shaw Theatre.
Noteworthy sponsors of the event include British Airways, Access Bank UK, UBA UK, Cruxstone, The How Foundation, and Unified Payments.
its effectiveness.
“ This is why I think NESG should explore ways of deepening the public-facing side of its work. I am pleased to know that you have recently launched a podcast that allows engaging conversation with experts as one of the ways to bring your work to new audiences.
“ I encourage more effort taking advantage of digital technology so that more Nigerians can see not just the work that you do, but also how that work contributes to improving the quality of their lives and livelihood," Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor opined that one of the ideas that the public sector needs to improve on is its level of synergy among key stakeholders of the economy to pursue a collective agenda of service for the benefits to the citizens.
Earlier, the NESG Board Chairman, Mr. Niyi Yusuf, pointed out the gathering celebrates and reflects on the three decades of transformative dialogue and economic reform facilitated by NESG.
"Thirty years ago, at a critical juncture in our nation’s history, the NES was born out of a necessity when the winds of economic challenges blew fiercely, necessitating a platform for robust public-private dialogue.
“Since our inaugural summit in 1993, the NES has been a progressive economic discourse rooted deeply in collaborative efforts between government leaders and private sector visionaries," he said.
He stated that at the heart of the NESG's advocacy efforts, the annual NES remains a flagship event, and marks a significant milestone in the journey of progress and impact.
"Therefore, in commemorating this 30th anniversary, it is essential to assess and discuss the role of this public-private dialogue platform in Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape to provide us insights for future engagements," he averred.
On his part, the Chief Executive Officer, NESG, Dr. Tayo Aduloju, said NESG's interventions over the last 30 years had moved the country from what was a very closed economy to what is now a more open economy.
"However, the NESG is not just pursuing the openness of the economy. We are pursuing the competitiveness of the economy, the sustainability of the economy and the inclusion of the economy.
“Whilst then, even when Nigeria was growing, Nigeria's growth has been characteristically ‘uninclusive’ and so the challenge at the 30th
anniversary now is how do you drive a country forward right over the next 30 years in such a way that it is not just growth, but growth that creates jobs and opportunities for everyone and no one is left behind,” he said.
He pointed out the need for the government to build strong institutions, appoint competent people in charge of those institutions while also backing it with political will.
"There is also a need to build a plan, and let's follow the plan through to execution, clear the way of political interests so that business can grow, create jobs and attract investments, and then we will get it right again," Aduloju urged.
The Dean, Lagos Business School (LBS), Prof. Chris Ogbechie, said NES offers a platform to reflect on the impact, progress it has made over the past 30 years, saying that it is the shared vision of its founding fathers to create a platform for instructive engagements between the private and public sector leaders.
"The summit has served as a beacon of hope and a platform for constructive dialogue between the public and private sector. It has been instrumental in shaping policies and driving sustainable development across various sectors of the economy," he said
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Maureen Allagoa, has said the agency is determined to contribute towards the actualisation of the President Bola Tinubu’s eightpoint agenda on health, education, social investment and agriculture.
She said that as a leading social security institution in Africa with over 60 years’ experience in the social security sector, NSITF has a huge role and responsibility in realising the key priority areas of the present administration.
A statement by the NSITF General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Nwachukwu Godson quoted the MD as having made the pledge
in Abuja at a workshop on the Role of the Fund actualising the government's eight priority areas.
Allagoa said the NSITF has already launched an initiative that would improve the lives of Nigerians through an enhanced human and capital development .
She said: “The NSITF as the leading social security institution in Africa with over 60 years’ experience in the social security sector has a huge role and responsibility in the actualisation of these key priority areas, particularly the key priority area No. 6 that speaks to Social investments to improve the lives of Nigerians and enhance human and capital development.
“We have commenced a strategic drive into the informal sector of
the economy with a view to providing social security services for the employees through our close collaboration with Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) using their various associations and bodies.
“This strategy extends even to associations and umbrella bodies of small and medium scale enterprises in the agricultural sector with a view to improving productivity and boosting food production which will invariably enhance food security.
“This aligns with the key priority area , which speaks to boosting agriculture and achieving food security.”
Allagoa further said that the NSITF with 57 branches and 12 regional offices across the nation, and over 5,000 staff strength of
diverse academic backgrounds. According to her, the organisation has a strong institutional memory and database to provide leadership in data generation, storage and sharing same with relevant agencies towards success in the eight key priority areas of the Tinubu administration.
In his remarks, the NSITF’s Executive Director of Administration, Prof. Gabriel Okenwa emphasised the crucial importance of policy coordination for the success of any organisation. He said: “Policy coordination is vital for the success of any organisation. It ensures that our activities are aligned with the overarching vision, maximising our impact and effectiveness.”
Matthew Nwobodo writes about the need for Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State to fill the vacuum created with the expiration of the terms of office of all the 17 Local Government Council Chairmen in the state.
The recent vacancy created by the expiration of the terms of office of elected Local Government Council chairmen has added to the suspense in Enugu State. The 17 council chairmen vacated their posts on March 4, 2024, it heightened expectations of the political class from the state Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah.
Since his inauguration as governor, Mbah had devoted his time and attention to governance and implementing the programmes he promised the people of Enugu State during the campaigns last year.
When he appointed members of his executive council, some politicians were left disappointed, because some names of people who were not members of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were included as commissioners.
The work we were getting by then was that the governor included those names to ensure that their godfathers would not work against him if there was a re-run of the governorship election.
Some people even explained that some appointees that came from those who contributed to the campaign funds during the governorship would be dropped during a cabinet reshuffle after the government marks one year in office. Inside the state cabinet, some commissioners believe that the rating scale adopted by the governor was to be used to drop some underperforming appointees.
With that suggestion in mind, many politicians and their supporters have been looking forward to Governor Mbah’s one year in office, which comes up on May 29, 2024.
So, the governor is now faced with two crucial decisions that would show his political calculations. Everybody in Enugu State is looking at how Governor navigates through the two rivers, which concern the Local Government and change of his cabinet.
Politicians are more eager to see how the governor reshuffles his cabinet to change those with complaints about their performance or political alignment. PDP chieftains in the state claim that Governor Mbah ought to put a strong politician as the Chief of Staff and select a technocrat that worked for the party’s victory at the poll as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
The PDP chieftains some of whom failed to win their elections to the State House of Assembly and House of Representatives think that only an SSG that is a card-carrying member of the party can guide the governor in choosing loyal members for appointment into various positions.
It is also argued that Chief of Staff, Government House and the SSG should not hail from the same Senatorial zone. That argument gave rise to the general feeling that Mbah would right the wrong during the impending cabinet reshuffle.
But, the belief in some quarters is that the governor’s plan to separate the Chief of Staff Government House and SSG followed allegations that the SSG was not a Professor as he had never disclosed the University that awarded him the professorial position.
Some commissioners in the current cabinet maintain that the current SSG, Chidiebere Onyia, was recommended to Mbah by some powerful outsiders that contributed to the governor’s election.
But, as the man that receives briefs from the commissioners, the SSG, Onyiah, tried to supress those allegations by claiming that those attacking him were envious of the successes he has brought about by checkmating corrupt practices.
The SSG also says he is the brain behind Mbah’s campaign manifesto, noting that those who want him replaced want the policies and programmes of the government to fail.
Some of those who claim that the SSG does not understand his schedule of duties allege that Onyia decided to be everywhere to keep himself in the good books of the governor to survive the impending reshuffle. They said the cold war between the SSG and the state Deputy Governor, Ifeanyi Ossai is caused by the SSG’s over bearing influence.
It was based on the infighting between the SSG and the Deputy Governor that some former academics in Mbah’s administration wrote the
maintaining that Professorship is usually based on previous research efforts and experience in a university.
According to the memo, the former academics informed the governor that the SSG should show evidence that he actually earned the promotion through sustained university-based teaching, research and required publications in academic journals in his chosen area of specialisation.
“We suggest that the SSG should take the bold step by publishing an unabridged copy of his detailed curriculum vitae, a list of his academic research reports and published works in academic journals with impact factor reference, as well as names of some masters and doctoral students he supervised in the course of his sojourn in the academia,” the former academics recommended. What has made the issues of cabinet reshuffle and appointment of caretaker committee chairmen for the 17 Local Government Councils of Enugu State very intense is the recent defection of some politicians from opposition parties to PDP in the state.
The challenge before Enugu Governor is many sided. Some people think that the delay in announcing Caretaker Committee Chairmen for the councils is the notion that those appointed would automatically get the PDP ticket to contest the positions during the anticipated Local Government polls.
-Nwobodo writes from Enugu
NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com
Philip Agbese lauds the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, on the completion of the National Assembly Library, and renovation of House of Representatives Chambers, a project he facilitated as Speaker of the 9th House.
As the dust settles on the newly renovated main Chambers of the National Assembly, a sense of pride and accomplishment fills the air. As I sit down to write this piece, I can’t help but marvel at the transformation that has taken place within the hallowed halls of the National Assembly, all thanks to the indomitable spirit and vision of Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila.
The recent renovation of the main Chambers of the National Assembly, which now houses the Representatives and the Senate, is nothing short of a dream come true.
The newly established National Assembly Library and Research Centre stands as evidence of the unwavering dedication of Femi Gbajabiamila, the current Chief of Staff to the President.
The Book of History was filled again with overwhelming salient paragraphs when the Chief of Staff to the President and immediate past Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, visited the new National Assembly Library/Resource Centre and the Newly renovated House of Representatives Chambers, projects facilitated in the 9th Assembly under Gbajabiamila’s leadership. There, he was received by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, principal officers, and other members of the House of Representatives at the National Assembly on Monday.
In a manner reminiscent of a woman in the labour room discovering she’s been carrying twins, the unveiling of these projects has brought an unexpected and delightful surprise to the forefront. The parallel between the birth of new life and the rebirth of the National Assembly is both humorous and enlightening, underscoring the unforeseen potential that lay dormant, waiting to be realized.
What sets these achievements apart is not just their aesthetic appeal but the fact that they were executed and delivered by indigenous contractors. The successful completion of these projects and the inspection of both facilities on Monday has confirmed what many of us have long believed – that we are more than capable of achieving greatness without relying on foreign companies who often seek to exploit us for their gain.
The inspection of these facilities has not only confirmed their quality but has also served as a resounding rebuttal to the notion that foreign companies are the only ones capable of delivering large-scale projects. This display of homegrown excellence stands as a testament to the ingenuity and proficiency of Nigerian contractors, dispelling the myth that foreign entities hold a monopoly on quality construction.
Drawing parallels to the biblical story of Solomon completing the temple started by David, the current Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, exemplifies humility and dedication, which I found admiring and worthy of note.
Just as Solomon saw to the completion of his predecessor’s grand vision, Speaker Tajudeen has carried forward Gbajabiamila’s initiatives with grace and commitment.
Hon. Abbas is not given to self-aggrandizement, but the one I know to be filled with total humility and respect. His leadership and collaborative approach have been instrumental in ensuring the successful realization of these projects, thereby further reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance.
The significance of these developments extends beyond the physical structures
themselves. The renovated chambers and the establishment of the research center not only elevate the image of the parliament, but also reflects the grandeur of renowned parliaments, positioning the National Assembly as a hub for legislative research and innovation, not only within Nigeria but across the African continent.
This development opens doors for collaboration and knowledge sharing among lawmakers, fostering a more informed and progressive legislative environment. The impact of these facilities will undoubtedly reverberate far beyond the walls of the National Assembly, leaving an indelible mark on the legislative landscape.
Reflecting on my visit to the British Parliament in 2018, I am struck by the uncanny resemblance between those esteemed halls and the newly refurbished chambers here in Abuja. This is a testament to the remarkable work of Gbajabiamila, and I am honoured to witness such a significant milestone during my tenure as a member of the House.
Now let’s picture this – the National Assembly undergoing a makeover, complete with a stylish new library and research centre. It’s as if the hallowed halls received a fabulous makeover, courtesy of none other than Gbajabiamila. The thought of stately politicians surrounded by the trappings of modernity is enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
In the spirit of education and enlightenment, it’s crucial to highlight the transformative power of these developments for a clearer understanding. The establishment of a state-of-the-art research centre within our National Assembly is a cause for celebration, as it signifies our commitment to intellectual growth and legislative prowess.
With these new facilities, the possibilities for groundbreaking research, innovative legislation, and collaborative efforts are simply boundless.
-Hon Agbese is Deputy Spokesperson, 10th House of Representatives.
NOTE:
ABIODUN FAKALE argues that the nationwide fuel scarcity is due to logistics problem
The hydra-monster of endless queues at petrol stations reared its ugly head recently, months after it was banished by the Bola Tinubu government and the management of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, led by Mele Kyari. Expectedly, tempers rose as commuters waited for hours to board buses to their various destinations, and motorists lamented at the productive man hour wasted at the filling stations.
Amidst this ensuing fuel scarcity that has become the most topical issue on the national frontburner, it is imperative to put the challenges being faced in right perspectives. Contrary to the fake news being sponsored and peddled by economic saboteurs who were displaced from the fraudulent petrol subsidy scheme that the nation has run dry of petroleum products, particularly petrol, there is actually stock to the tune of 1.547 billion litres that can last another 30 days.
The main challenge is the logistics, primarily caused by middlemen who are lifting petrol from
various NNPCL’s depots nationwide. The logistics crisis, partially contrived by unscrupulous stakeholders in the sector, is to create a situation for arbitrage, where they can mercilessly profiteer and take advantage of helpless Nigerians. In economics and finance, arbitrage is the practice of taking advantage of a difference in prices in two or more markets – striking a combination of matching deals to capitalise on the difference, the profit being the difference between the market prices at which the unit is traded, according to Wikipedia.
The crave for inordinate profiteering as explained necessitated product diversion, hoarding and other sharp practices by petrol marketers and other unpatriotic Nigerians. By hoarding the product, people panic, thereby struggling to engage in panic buying and also store up petrol in jerry cans in anticipation for a full-blown scarcity that would never be.
Meanwhile, there is a need for Nigerians to collectively rise against these unscrupulous elements who are bent on scuttling the gains of reforms in the petroleum sector, and force us back to the heinous days of an unsubstantiated subsidy regime that almost wrecked the nation.
The National Assembly, particularly the standing committees that oversee the midstream and downstream sector of the petroleum industry, including agencies regulating the sector have spoken up on the issue and assured Nigerians that the queues will disappear in a matter of days. They have intensified their monitoring of supply of petrol loaded at depots to ensure they are not diverted. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), formerly known as the Department for Petroleum
Resources (DPR), security agencies are also checking and sanctioning petrol stations that are taking advantage of the challenge by selling above prescribed limits of the NNPCL. The rumour of possible increase in the price of petroleum products as being speculated is largely unfounded. Nothing indicates that there could be a hike in pump price of petrol, even now that the fiscal and monetary policies and other interventions by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the management team of the nation’s economy have strengthened the Naira against the Dollar in the Forex market. Moreso, the local refinery capacity is being revved up, and Dangote refinery has demonstrated capacity to provide substantial supply as local refineries get set for production.
Buttressing the position of the petroleum sector regulators, the House of Representatives Committees on Petroleum Resources (Downstream and Midstream) on Wednesday assured that supply disruption was being addressed and that normalcy will return in a few days. The Chairmen of the two committees, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere and Hon. Odianosen Henry Okojie, reiterated that there is availability of petrol products in NNPCL storage facilities, about 1.5 billion litres of petrol that can last for 30 days.
Hon. Ugochinyere who represents Ideato North South Federal Constituency of Imo State, stated that in the last few days the House committees on downstream and midstream committees reached out to the stakeholders in the distribution value chain; the NNPCL, NMDPRA, Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), and the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and engaged extensively with them, with a view to ascertaining the cause of the resurgence of the fuel queues across the country.
While empathising with Nigerians on the pains and difficulty in getting petroleum products, he noted that it is as a result of logistics that the queues have resurfaced. These issues range from difficulty in transporting products from the mother vessel to the respective petrol stations. According to him, assurances have been given by the regulators in the value chain that these bottlenecks would be cleared soonest.
He also assured that the committees which oversights activities in the downstream and midstream petroleum sectors, have resolved that going forward and in order to avert the re-occurrence of this temporary challenge of distribution disruption, they shall work with the NNPCL, NMDPRA, PETROAN, NARTO and other key stakeholders in the distribution chain, towards finding a sustainable solution to the problem.
His words, "…As of today, the reports we are getting suggest that the fuels queues have started disappearing and products have started arriving at the petrol stations. We urge Nigerians not to engage in panic buying, nor be enmeshed in unnecessary rush to buy products. As a country we have a storage of over 1.5 billion litres which can last us for over 30 days. More products are arriving and more products are on the high sea. The only challenge that caused this disruption was the logistics issue that had to with the marine shuttle vessels, which was to move products to marketers, who are on standby waiting to serve the people. The logistics issues have now been resolved.”
Fakale writes from Abeokuta, Ogun State
It
pays to do the right thing the right way, writes
JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA
WE WILL PAY FOR THIS
I spent some of my time in 2010 living in a supposedly highbrow estate in Ikoyi, Lagos. I learned an essential lesson about the psychology of the Nigerian elite. I was taken aback by the fact that, whenever it rained, the entire street got waterlogged. You’d see homes of some of the richest people in the country flooded with water. I just could not understand why that could happen in a place where between their influence to get the government to fix the issue or their resources to do it themselves, it just looked like a problem that should never be. I was even more shocked to learn that what I was witnessing had always been the issue in that estate long before my residency.
This is 2024, 14 years later, when it rains heavily, the exact problem that confounded me then continues this day.
The average Nigerian thinks they are better than their leaders. That illusion of moral superiority is something we all appear to share. It does not matter that there is no fundamental difference in the leadership outcomes we deliver
when it is advertised as free. That consensus is reflected in this common truth; virtually everyone who can afford private primary and secondary education for their wards and children have them in private schools. Exceptions can be made for the Unity Schools and Model Colleges because they remain relatively attractive to some parents who otherwise are able to afford private schools. We may not agree on everything, we do agree — by our choices —that the public school system is only meant for the poor. If you see the wards or children of the rich or middle-class in a public school, outside of the special schools and their likes, they are the exception. Most likely there to make a point for their parents as a collateral for someone’s ambition.
We gave up on education. It became one of those things that everyone decided to find their own solution for. Like that Ikoyi estate where between their SUVs and the option of their houses elsewhere, there was no challenge offered by a flood or waterlogged street that defied a private solution; a resignation to find one’s way.
in our little spaces compared to the ones we get from our politicians.
Take a random leadership group from an estate residents’ association, a religious group, a major WhatsApp group, a school alumni association, a professional union, and other such organisations, you will come to realise that there is nothing accidental about the default leadership we get from elected and appointed politicians. They are us; we are them.
Out of government, you are a saint, in government, you are evil until proven to be less so. You could earn your sainthood again after your time in office. So, it is not impossible for instance to have had houses removed without compensation for a road construction when you were governor, you are in a good position to criticize such an action — even if it comes with compensation — when you are out of power. It is not because you suffer some form of amnesia, it is that you know that if you align with people’s agenda, they generally do not care about your history. Two legs good, four legs better.
Because of our guaranteed hypocrisy, it is at times difficult to have a consensus on what is right or wrong, because right and wrong have attained a subjective hue. Like that beauty that is neither there or could be there, judgment must be left in the eye of the beholder. Here, the eyes are often coloured by politics, religion, or ethnicity. Or their different combinations.
In the end, we live together and suffer together, one nation bound in hopeful freedom, a protracted search for peace and aspirational unity. Thankfully, even when we pretend not to agree, our actions and certain outcomes reflect some form of consensus. For instance, we agree that the public school system is not fit for purpose, even
This was what probably influenced the design of Nigerian houses in the past when gates and fences became the norm. Anyone who’s never been at places where houses are without gates could grow up thinking hiding beautiful houses behind ugly fences is as natural as the rising of the sun.
We want to build a civilization on the back of a largely illiterate and an unskilled population. That is wishful thinking. We know what to do. We know our teachers are poorly paid. We know most of those poorly paid teachers are also not fit for purpose. We aren’t blind to the inadequacy of resources in our public schools. For every problem that required a collective solution, we chose the easy way out. One failing we can’t be proud of is our inability to organize around most of our challenges. We are given to exploring that personal way out.
This is reflected in the predominant design of our houses, it is reflected in our choice of cars, it shows itself in the way we build our wealth and family safe from the unpredictability of our country. The proliferation of private nursery schools and secondary schools in a different time and season, that of the universities that followed; all form the same thread of our way of addressing what bedevils the collective. This is not to blame anyone; it is just to say it as it is.
Even the pandemic of corruption across private and public service fit into this psychology. Me, myself and I, the collective be doomed!
There are costs though. We cannot wish these problems away. Those children of the poor who are left to bear the brunt of our choices will organize in their own way to take their pound of flesh on society. We will need bigger armies, better Intelligence services and more police officers to meet the insecurity challenges of the future that could make today’s child’s play. One could say, “God forbid,” however, action and reaction are equal and opposite. That’s a foundational principle.
is chief strategist Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing
Editor, Editorial Page PETER
ISHAKAEmail peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
Tunde Onakoya’s rare exploits in chess hold lessons for the youths
Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya, has become a global celebrity after breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest consecutive hours of playing chess. A board member of the New
Ferkingstad.
Onakoya, who will
this year, learned to play shop in a suburb of
Having grown up in the neighbourhood where life was challenging,
had given up on the project when things were tough,
What is remarkable about Onakoya is that the whole idea is about helping others. With his plan to train over one million African children in Nigeria, Kenya, and other parts of the continent within the this uncommon Nigerian who has overcome his alluded to this while applauding Onakoya for setting a new world record and sounding
The inspiring grain of his rise to stardom is that anybody with focus and perseverance can overcome poverty and become whatever they want to be
children in impoverished communities like Majidun Chess to them. He somehow got partnership with an educational tool for classrooms. A year later, his
boy with cerebral palsy who won the tournament in
with Ferdinand, Onakoya explained: “Now, his
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resilience, self-belief, and ingenuity. “Onakoya has shown a streak customary population, the audacity to make good change president said.
in Nigeria will now begin to pay more attention to story for many Nigerians of his generation. Onakoya came from a family that was too impoverished to education, prompting him to stay at home for two housekeeper to save for his education. This humble
young people, many of whom are not in school, the platform to work and support their families. The inspiring grain of his rise to stardom is that anybody with focus and perseverance can overcome poverty and become whatever they want to be.
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.
history as the only core civil servant who became the governor of the state at least in this current democratic dispensation. Whereas his predecessors didn't have the privilege of working in the public or civil service sector, he traversed the state's civil service sector rising to the peak of his career as the accountant -general of the state before becoming the governor of the oil- rich state.
Granted that Governor Fubara should be grateful to the former Governor Nyesom Wike for picking him as his successor among the many interested aspirants to the throne, should the governor be hobbled and tied to the apron strings of Nyesom Wike because he facilitated his emergence as the
ter of the federal republic of Nigeria and ultimately the governor on his own strength without the rec-
ommendation or political assistance from any quar-
lady, Patience Jonathan, would Wike have emerged
All Governor Fubara's predecessors including Wike himself had a free hand to govern the state. Nobody was their godfather or dictating to them. Why should Fubara be an exception? Why should the state's House of Assembly members lend themselves to the unfair determination to frustrate and emasculate the governor? Are they modern day slaves without the mind of their own?
Wike is gearing up and threatening to either reeven before then through impeachment. Who inservient to him as governor? Was Wike not in this
son who was the governor could disagree politically, how much more another person?
Wike's son may not be of age to become governor
Fubara? Will he choose another civil servant or from his array of political associates? What's the guarantee that another person won't be worse than Fubara a civil servant like Fubara could resist Wike, would a core politician as governor tolerate his domineering attitude for one day? Wike should allow Fubara to breathe. He's not the only former governor that imposed his preferred successor. Almost all former the loudest owing to Wike's style of politics.
Ifeanyi Maduako, Owerri
Nigeria may lose over 1.1 million barrels of oil per day (mbd) if helicopter operators carry out their threat by grounding operational activities in response to the newly imposed charges on their operations by the federal government through the Ministry of Aviation.
A recent memo by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, directed helicopter operators to compulsorily pay helicopter landing fees at all Nigerian aerodromes, helipads, airstrips, floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) units, floating storage and offloading (FSO) units and other oil platforms.
According to the memo signed by the Minister, Festus Keyamo, the landing fees would exclusively be collected by a private company,
NAEBI Dynamic Concept Limited.
“It is imperative that all operators and stakeholders fully comply with this mandate, by granting total access to Messrs NAEBI Dynamic Concept Limited for the collection of the levy, effective immediately, Noncompliance with this directive will constitute a breach of this mandate and will be met with appropriate sanction,” the memo stated.
Keyamo in a recent TV interview explained that he inherited the process and approved it because it would generate more revenue for the federal government.
He further stated: “The company will put the infrastructure in place, employ personnel and remit to the Federal Government. So, everything will be going to the Federation Account and the company will get their cut.”
But helicopter operators have
vowed to resist the payment and threatened to ground their operations if the federal government insists on the payment of the landing fees.
Stakeholders say 95 per cent of helicopter operations in Nigeria is connected to oil and gas services, warning that if the operators ground their operations, Nigerian crude output may drop to 300 bpd.
It was learnt learnt that Nigeria’s daily crude oil production output currently hovering around 1.3 million bpd may drop to an abysmal 300 bpd, if the threat by Aviation Ministry to impose additional charges on helicopter landing cost in Nigeria is sustained, as helicopter operators have vowed never to accept additional charges from the Ministry.
An insider told THISDAY that 90 per cent of Nigeria oil and gas production activities are conducted deep offshore where helicopter is
the only viable means of daily transportation to and from the facilities. Also, in the recently published Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) approved heliport certification list, oil production helidecks constitute over ninety percent of the 105 listed on the document dated April 2024.
“If the Ministry and the operators lock horns, as it appears apparently, owing to the Ministry’s resolve to see through the new charges to be collected by a consultant, NAEBI Concept, oil and gas production in those deep offshore waters will be threatened without helicopter flight operations. It is believed that 95 percentage of daily civil helicopter operations in Nigeria relates to oil and gas activities in deep waters. Therefore, the impact is headed more to oil and gas activities than to VIP or other minor helicopter flight users
in the country,” the official of one of the helicopter companies engaged in oil and gas services, told THISDAY.
The Managing Director and CEO of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi, whose company pioneered helicopter shuttle for oil and gas services in Nigeria, told THISDAY that helicopter operators may likely shut down their operations or go to court.
He said there is no basis for the landing charge because the operators pay for services rendered to them, “and the helipads where helicopters land and take off in offshore operations and elsewhere are owned by international oil companies and therefore, not property of the federal government, adding that the operators pay their due charges to aviation agencies.”
“I don’t think it is a good thing to do because the International
Civil Aviation Organisaton (ICAO) recommended that service providers in the aviation industry, which are government agencies, should engage in cost recovery, but unfortunately government has turned the agencies to profit making organisations in the aviation industry,” he said. Sanusi posited that in terms of security and knowing all the helipads in Nigeria, such is a duty of National Security Adviser (NSA), the Air Force and related security agencies, insisting it has nothing to do with civil aviation.
The operators said there is nothing bad in the minister trying to increase revenue for government but noted that, “there are some untruthful assumptions that we need to bring to his attention.”
A member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Philip Ikeazor, has expressed concerns that a consecutive aggressive monetary policy tightening would further depress the economy.
He stated this in his Personal Statement at the MPC meeting held on March 25 – 26, 2024.
Ikeazor, who voted to raise the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by 150-basis points from 22.75 per cent to 24.25 per cent, specifically expressed worry over the imbalance between the exposure of the oil and manufacturing sectors, highlighting their poor contribution to growth.
He said even as non-performing loans (NPLs) continued to rise, and considering the vulnerability of the manufacturing and oil sectors to
rate hikes, “consecutive aggressive tightening will further depress the economy”.
During its last meeting in March, the CBN had resolved to further increase the benchmark interest rate by 200 basis points to 24.75 per cent from 22.75 per cent. The bank also reversed the asymmetric corridor around the MPR from +100/-700 basis points to +100/-300 basis points.
The apex bank also retained
the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) of Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) at 45.0 per cent, and jerked up the CRR of Merchant Banks (MBs) from 10 per cent to 14 per cent, and left the Liquidity Ratio (LR) unchanged at 30.0 per cent.
However, Ikeazor said, “The pressure point is already manifesting as indicated in the projected contraction of PMI in the industrial sector by 7.1 index points occasioned
by rising input cost and low-capacity utilization.”
He noted that as the various economic reforms implemented by the federal government continue to yield results, economic growth will be sustained in 2024 and boosted in 2025.
He added that further harmony of fiscal and monetary policies was critical for achieving a noninflationary growth and stable
The MPC member also stressed the importance of distilling the drivers of price, including inflation, exchange rate, and interest rate, before deciding on the appropriate instruments and in what proportions to adjust the instruments to address the current inflationary and exchange rate pressures.
The Group Chief Human Resources Officer of Sterling Financial Holdings Company, Temi Dalley, has identified artificial intelligence (AI) as a crucial driver in talent management and how it is a strategic imperative that transcends traditional HR functions and assumes a central role in driving organizational success.
In her opening address at the just concluded Employee Engagement & Experience (E3) Conference in Lagos, themed, “The Dynamic Intersection between Technology, Talent, and Transformation; a Journey fueled by Innovation,” Dalley mentioned that organizations are confronted with the imperative to adapt, evolve, and innovate; and the forces of globalization, digitization, and demographic shifts are reshaping the very fabric of work, presenting both opportunities and challenges on an unprecedented scale.
She stated that at the heart of this transformation lies the fusion of AI and digital transformation—a potent catalyst that promises to revolutionize how
we attract, develop, and retain talent. From predictive analytics to personalized learning experiences, from intelligent automation to augmented decision-making, the possibilities are as vast as they are exhilarating.
She said, “Yet, through all of this, one thing remains constant: the paramount importance of our PEOPLE. We need not forget the human element that infuses meaning, purpose, and dignity into every interaction and every decision. At the heart of every successful organization is a diverse group of individuals with their distinct set of skills, passions, and goals. It is our collective responsibility to nurture, empower, and engage this human capital to unlock its full potential and drive organizational success.”
Addressing common concerns about AI’s impact on talent acquisition and management, Temi stated that Talent Managers must remember that these are not merely tools or technologies; they are enablers of human progress.
“I recently came across a video clip of Sam Ransbotham where he said, ‘Don’t be afraid of AI
taking your job; be afraid of other humans that are better at using Artificial Intelligence… because they are the ones that will take your job!’. When wielded with wisdom and foresight, they have the power to revolutionize how we attract, motivate, develop, and retain talent. They can streamline processes, enhance collaboration, and unleash creativity in ways previously unimaginable.”
She also warned that professionals exercise caution, for the promise of technology must be tempered with a deep understanding of its implications on the human experience. As we embrace automation and digitization, we must never lose sight of the human touch—the empathy, connection, and sense of purpose that distinguishes our profession.
In her closing remarks, Dalley encouraged participants to harness the power of AI and digital transformation to redefine HR, reimagine talent management, and create workplaces that are not just efficient and productive but deeply human-centric and fulfilling.
Africa World Airlines (AWA) has announced its strategic partnership with Paystack, the continent’s leading payment gateway.
This collaboration, the airline said, would mark a significant milestone in AWA’s commitment to enhancing the passenger experience by introducing a new and seamless way for customers to book flights and make payments.
The partnership with Paystack introduces a diverse range of payment options tailored to meet the needs of all AWA’s passengers in Ghana, Nigeria and beyond. Passengers will now have the convenience of choosing from three payment options
including Card, Mobile Money, and Apple Pay. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, passengers will benefit from an even broader range of payment methods, including Cards, Bank Transfers, USSD, PayAttitude, and QR.
Head of Commercial, Africa World Airlines, Jonathan Kofi Appiah, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Paystack to offer our passengers a more convenient and streamlined booking and payment experience. At AWA, we are constantly seeking ways to enhance the overall travel experience for our customers, and we believe that this partnership with Paystack will significantly contribute to achieving that goal.”
Through the integration of Paystack’s robust payment
gateway, AWA passengers can now enjoy a hassle-free booking process, with secure and reliable payment options tailored to their preferences. Whether booking flights from Ghana, Nigeria or the rest of the world, passengers can expect a seamless transaction process that ensures a smooth and efficient journey from start to finish.
Co-founder and CEO of Paystack, Shola Akinlade, said: “We are excited to partner with Africa World Airlines to provide passengers with a convenient and reliable payment experience. By offering a variety of payment options, we aim to make the booking process more accessible and inclusive for travelers across the region.”
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has expressed desire for strong partnership between Akwa Ibom and the federal government in the aviation sector, especially in the state-of-the-artMaintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the cusp of completion in the state.
The governor made this known
when he participated in Ibom Air’s inaugural Uyo-Lagos flight and attributed the projects’ success to strategic vision, highlighting the need for partnership, particularly in establishing the MRO. He noted that while the facility was almost completed, it would take the federal government longer time build a new MRO facility, adding that the best thing is to push for full utilisation of the one that is almost ready.
“My role is to back their
endeavors. Supporting this visionary initiative is paramount. Regarding our MRO, we’re ahead. Nigeria is yet to establish one; hence, we invite the Federal government to collaborate to expedite the process.It is a deliberately planned ecosystem around the vision to be able to have the MRO, take care of flights not just Ibom Air but all around. We have one on the ground already so we are saying Nigeria, come and let’s partner and get it done,” the governor said.
Many aviation insiders believed that if public servants are forced by law to patronise Nigerian airlines while travelling overseas, it will keep in the country huge amount of money that would have been otherwise repatriated by foreign airlines.
Industry observers believed that such revenues would have strengthened domestic airlines that operate international routes and reduce pressure on the naira.
That is the reason why some stakeholders in the aviation industry are canvassing for Fly Nigeria Act. The mechanism is that if government will pay for travel of an official or anybody or group of persons, those involved must patronise any Nigerian airline that operates to that destination; but if no Nigerian airline operates in that route, they will patronise the airlines that partner Nigerian carriers.
One of the key campaigners for Fly Nigeria Act is a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, (NBA), Dr. Olisa Agbakoba.
In a recent press conference, he held on Fly Nigeria Act, he advised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Space Management, Festus Keyamo, to enact the Fly Nigeria Act to strengthen the aviation industry.
Agbakoba explained that the Act would ensure that all public funds that require air travel, whether by government or government consultants would be on a Nigerian carrier, adding that it would immediately give Air Peace and other airlines passengers.
He observed that the Act would strengthen the aviation space, noting that there have been too many failures in the aviation sector.
He recommended for the insertion of a corporate governance code into the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Act to strengthen the Act, adding that it is akin to what happens in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
“The Nigerian aviation sector faces significant challenges that have hindered its contribution to the country’s economic growth.Despite the potential to generate revenue, create jobs, and stimulate other industries like hospitality and tourism, the sector has experienced a high turnover of registered airlines, with many having a short lifespan of 5 to 10 years. The absence of Aviation Cabotage, an enabling legal and policy environment for national airlines, is a fundamental factor contributing to the failure of Nigerian airlines.
“Proposals such as the Fly Nigeria Bill, Aviation Corporate Governance Code, and the domestication of international conventions have been suggested to address these challenges.
Nigeria.OAL is committed to working with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to facilitate the passage and implementation of comprehensive aviation sector reforms, unlocking the industry’s potential and positioning Nigeria as a major player in the global aviation market,’ he said.
Also speaking on the Act, the Secretary General of Aviation Round Table (ART), Olu Ohunyo said if the Act is passed into law and is enforced it would save Nigeria a lot in forex.
“I am not only looking at the savings in dollars, but it will also strengthen the naira and also attract partnership and investment in our carriers and the Nigerian aviation industry. We will be the ones to benefit, we will be the ones the economy will smile at and there will be that improvement in services provided, looking at what will be coming into the purse. So I strongly support the Fly Nigerian Act. We have been on this for more than 15 years and we will not relent in the push for the Fly Nigeria Act to come to fruition. But happily, the Minister has shown that he is ready to work with the domestic airlines, those who are willing to fly on the international routes.
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Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL) has been working on these issues for 15 years, advising several ministers, with the current Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, being the most responsive,” he said.
US major carrier, Delta Air Lines, has announced that it would resume flights to Lagos from New York, a route it suspended its operations after the covid-19 lockdown.
Currently Delta operates daily service between Atlanta and Lagos and, with the resumption of daily New York-JFK service, it will offer a total of 14 weekly flights to Nigeria in December through the first half of January and 10 weekly flights for the remainder of winter 2024.
Delta said it is reinforcing its No. 1 position as the largest U.S. carrier to Africa this winter by relaunching daily service to Lagos, Nigeria
(LOS), from New York-JFK on Dec. 1. Fleet enhancements in service to Accra, Ghana (ACC), and South Africa are also underway.
The airline said it would carry more than half a million customers between the US and Africa each year on more than 34 weekly flights.
Delta’s Senior Vice President of Network Planning, Joe Esposito, said: “These enhancements reflect our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our customers. We’re expanding our options for customers to experience the premium service and elevated hospitality they expect from Delta.”
He explained that the OAL Fly Nigeria Act, remained modelled to the Fly America Act and aims to make it compulsory to apply public funds for air travel exclusively to Nigerian carriers, generating passenger traffic and supporting their international growth.
Agbakoba said other critical components of the proposed reforms include: amendment of the NCAA Act to introduce a strong governance code as most national airlines are one-man businesses; domestication of international instruments; enforcement of Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASAs) and concessioning of airports.
“These reforms will free the government from direct management of airports, create jobs, drive revenue, and allow for a limited government focused on policy while enabling private sector growth. Recent successes of Air Peace, with its direct flights to London, and the Dangote Group, with its world-class refinery, have brought down prices and reduced pressure on foreign exchange. These achievements highlight the potential of private sector-driven growth in
“It is a clear departure of what happened in the last eight years, whereby there was no interest in encouraging local carriers. So I think with the zeal we have seen in the Minister, this can also be pushed; we can work with the him, work with the House Committees on Aviation to see how we can push this because it is only by legislation that you can get the public organizations, the public sector to use public travel on Nigerian airlines on routes operated by Nigerian carriers. It is a push that we have to do. We have done it before under former Minister, Babatunde Omotoba. Omotoba took it all the way to the Presidential Council and then at the last minute it was knocked down; looking at the ownership structure of the airline,” Ohunayo said.
He expressed optimism that if the agenda is pushed this time, it will sail through.
“We can just fly and begin to work on how to bring everybody along and see what areas, what adjustment to come in, whether in legislation, whether in structure of ownership. But most importantly, it must be Nigerian carriers that will benefit from it. And I think it also helps the dream of having Nigeria control its destiny, coupled with SAATM (Single African Air Travel Market), that is in place that we can also expand on. But I am very positive that we will be able to attract more investment to the airlines, we will attract more commercial partnership when they see the volume. And I think we should also take a cue from what the Australians are doing.
He said that while travelling at government expense you must patronize Australian carrier; it is only when there is no availability on Australian carriers that other airlines are sought and all these airlines come and bid with the agency controlling public travel.
“I look forward to it,” he added.
Recently, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo acknowledged in a television interview that there is inherent corruption in the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority. The Minister is however aligning with the new NCAA’s management to stamp out corruption, writes Chinedu Eze
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a recent interview with a local TV station said corruption and unethical practices are rife among officials of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), alleging that some officials falsified airlines’ safety reports and engaged in other nefarious activities that negate their core and primary responsibilities of prioritising and ensuring safety and global best practices in the aviation sector.
Keyamo went further to say that public servants in the aviation sector acquired unexplained wealth by endangering the lives of Nigerians.
But in a swift response, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA, Mr. Michael Achimugu, told THISDAY that what the Minister said was what he inherited from past administration and he had been trying to change it.
According to Achimugu, the minister appointed new management, which he detailed to change the situation and it is what the Acting Director General, newly appointed directors and others are striving to change in the agency.
“It is because of that situation that the Minister decided to change the management; so that such will not continue to happen under his watch. Corruption is systemic and can exist in any organization. The Minister was not referring to the present management that he appointed. He appointed the new management to clean out the system. Our duty is to investigate and carry out forensic audit and weed out the corrupt elements. So, I reiterate that the Minister was not referring to the present management,” Achimugu said.
Industry stakeholders, however, are of the view that changing the management of NCAA cannot stamp out the said corruption.
They stated that if the minister really wishes to eliminate corruption, certain policies must be changed and the technical officers in the agencies must be well remunerated.
LINGERING COMPLAINTS
There have been a lot of complaints by airline operators over some certain policies that are inimical to the operators, which could be changed to ease operation for them because they do not add to improvement of safety; rather, they are just bureaucratic processes that tend to cause delays and make things difficult for the operators.
In 2020, the management of Tropical Arctic Logistics (TAL), led by its Chief Operating Officer, Femi Adeniji, accused the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority of frustrating the company from renewing its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC).
According to Adeniji, TAL applied for the renewal of its AOC on September 7, 2020, which was seven days before the expiration date and in accordance with the Nigerian Civil Aviation requirement Part 9.
“Some of those who are entrusted with certain positions at NCAA go above the board to help. There is abundant evidence that all the manuals we submitted and re-submitted with amendment were lost by the NCAA Airworthiness Standards Directorate. And as proof, two manuals were brought back last weekend out of seven that we reprinted. They just found them after seven months of submission. It is on record that futile attempts were made to heap the blame on COVID-19,” Adeniji narrated.
He said that new manuals were however reprinted and resubmitted, “but surprisingly, the lost manual, despite meeting the regulator’s requirements, the AOC renewal was still delayed by the Directorate of Airworthiness and Standards.
Consequently, (our) operation has been grounded, which delayed the process of the AOC too. We did apply for extension to avoid grounding of our operation, but we were denied on the 16th of December. Up till date, NCAA still has our maintenance control manual at the Airworthiness Directorate and our AMP, which is the Aircraft Maintenance Programme.
“The department claimed that its refusal to approve the manual was based on the fact that we do not have post holders on manuals submitted in September 2020. Yes, presently some post holders have resigned because when you don’t have operation for 18 months, and we still pay salaries, how do you justify that and pilots and engineers, based on what their profession is, need to put their hands to work.”
He alleged that the directorate was corrupt and cited an example. “Generally, why does Airworthiness Directorate replicate manuals? When you submit manuals they expect you to put them in CDs, USB and Word document because they use that, copy paste to work for somebody else when they are supposed to be a regulatory body. Indeed, I have never seen a situation where initial certification is the same process as renewal when the regulator already has information of the company with you,” he alleged.
However, the then Director General of NCAA, Captain Musa Nuhu, in his reaction, said that the NCAA has no reason whatsoever to refuse the renewal of anybody’s application. He said TAL never met the requirement for renewal of its AOC, stressing that its AOC would not be renewed until the company met all the regulatory requirements.
This issue aroused discussions on the processes of obtaining Air Operator Certificate and renewal of same, as some insiders were asking why it should take the same procedure.
Some senior airline officials who spoke to THISDAY then disagreed with the NCAA’s policy of renewal of AOC every two years, and also complained that it is the same process which a new airline goes through to obtain the certificate
that an existing airline that has been operating also goes through despite the fact that NCAA regulates the airlines and appointed officers that monitor the activities of the operators.
A top official of one of the major airlines in Nigeria, who had worked with two well-known mega carriers in the world, told THISDAY that in many countries AOC is for life for the airline, unless if the regulatory authority rescinds it. The source said that NCAA hurts the airlines through stiff regulations and also introduces stringent measures that may not even be necessary for the operating environment.
The source frowned at the situation of repeating the same process for initial AOC on airlines that are renewing theirs.
“Every process they use for airlines that want to get new AOC is what they use for renewal. The same process; that is what we do every two years and the problem really is that Airworthiness Standards Directorate has few experienced hands who worked with the defunct Nigeria Airways Limited (NAL), but the others started work with NCAA from the university,” the source said.
The source added that NCAA does not think about the survival of airlines, unlike the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which looks at financial implication of processes for airlines, noting that as regulatory authority, NCAA ought to also look at financial implications of its directives to airlines and review those that do not have bearing on safety and may not also be urgent.
The operators also criticised the policy of flying NCAA inspectors overseas to go and insect aircraft after maintenance or during the acquisition of new equipment. Former Director General of NCAA, the Late Captain Muhtar Usman, had told THISDAY that the policy does not improve safety but it was a policy decided by the Nigerian regulatory body, which need had been overtaken by events with ICT.
He cited the instance of Brazil where the
regulatory authority would specify to the airlines what it wants in the aircraft and it would be brought into the country and the civil aviation authority would inspect it and approve or disapprove if the conditions given were not met.
The Managing Director and CEO of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi, told THISDAY on Wednesday that over the years certain actions and policies have encouraged the creation of corrupt environment at NCAA, “and unless the environment is cleansed of the corrupt system, if you bring new people and keep them in the same environment, they will become corrupt over time.”
“When you create a corrupt environment there is the tendency that anyone that comes into that environment will be corrupted. When you are travelling overseas to inspect aircraft or maintenance facility for simulator training or aircraft maintenance; if you require the operator to give you flight ticket money per diem, you are creating environment for corruption. It is not good for NCAA inspectors to see travel as a source of money making. NCAA should review their remuneration. They are not paid like their counterparts in the industry. A pilot who is a captain goes home with about N6 million, the inspector’s salary may not be up to a quarter of that. This encourages corruption. The main problem is that if you are corrupt in aviation it could cost lives,” Sanusi said.
On travelling overseas to inspect aircraft, the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) said, “if we copy countries with advanced aviation system as we are inclined to do, we should also look at how they inspect their aircraft.”
“You don’t have to send inspectors to travel to inspect aircraft. If you have approved MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) where the aircraft is taken for maintenance, you don’t have to send an inspector. You give specifications and if these are not met when the aircraft is brought back, you report the MRO facility to the Civil Aviation Authority of that country and then blacklist the facility.
The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com
To APM Terminals, Nigeria is a key market in Africa and we are proud of the central role we play enabling containerized trade between the country and the rest of the world.
A.P. Moller-Maersk has been present in Nigeria for more than 35 years and our vessels have been serving the country essentially since Independence. Today, our two container terminals in Lagos and Onne handle about half of the containers going in and out of Nigeria, and our vessels transport close to a third. APM Terminals have been operating in Nigeria since 2006 and have invested more than $600 million during this period in equipment, including trucks and container cranes as well as in advanced operational controls, digital interfaces, and extensive training of employees to provide customers with a fully modern and safe experience. We employ about
2,500 people directly (99% Nigerians) and indirectly create employment for about 65,000 according to a recent socio-economic study.
At APM Terminals, we believe strongly in the future prospects for the Nigerian economy, and the long-term opportunities that the current economic reforms and invitation for international investments will generate.
At Onne, we are concluding a $115m upgrade project to ensure the terminal has sufficient capacity and capabilities to service the south/eastern Nigeria market and the growth expected in coming years, while the Apapa port continues to offer a unique access to Nigerian importers and exporters to international markets through not just road, but also rail and waterways, by means of barges Having been present there for close to
two decades, we believe that Lagos, as the main port, needs further investments to cater for increasing trade volumes and to be able to attract large container vessels. While greenfield terminals like Lekki and later on Badagry will support economic growth in the long run, the more urgent requirement is in our view to upgrade the existing port infrastructure to ensure road, rail and barge networks can connect directly to mainline shipping.
We have developed plans to undertake the necessary terminal upgrade investments in Apapa to give access to vessels with deep draft and requiring large ship-to-shore cranes. We seek to do this under a long-term agreement with the government to support our ambition to continuously improve the import and especially export opportunities for the country, creating jobs and diversifying opportunities locally.
As we are still not at the finish line, we have intensified talks with the administration and port authority to make these plans concrete and I’m pleased with the significant progress made towards implementation. That is why I earlier this year publicly told about the proposal to invest more than $500 million that we have discussed with the President Tinubu both in February, and which we further elaborated in late April. It should go hand-in-hand with a long-term partnership.
For us in APM Terminals, it is important that we not only operate highly efficient terminals, but also that we play a role contributing to the development of the local communities and bring in opportunities for growth and new prospects for Nigerians.
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
30-April-2024, unless otherwise stated.
Chuks Chibundu is the Managing Director/CEO of DoctorCare247, easily the nation’s leading tele-health platform enabling doctors and specialists to diagnose and treat patients remotely. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes on DoctorCare247’s recent partnership with the Turkish Healthcare Travel Council (THTC) which allows Nigerians to access advanced medical diagnosis and treatment abroad through virtual consultations.
Anew wave of innovation is transforming the healthcare landscape in Nigeria – telehealth, currently spearheaded by DoctorCare247, a robust tele-health platform enabling doctors and specialists to diagnose and treat patients remotely. DoctorCare247, just as its name suggests, is available for 24 hours every day, shatters geographical barriers, and connects patients with specialists across the country, regardless of location.
The digital era empowers patients with a wealth of information. DoctorCare247 platform provides access to details on potential medical tourism destinations, hospital reputations, and success rates. This transparency allows individuals to choose healthcare providers and destinations that best suit their needs.
Telemedicine also streamlines pre and post-operative care for medical tourists. Virtual consultations facilitate discussions about treatment plans, address concerns, and provide remote follow-up care. This minimizes the need for extended hospital stays, ensuring a more convenient and costeffective healthcare experience.
DoctorCare247 is led by Chuks Chibundu, a management expert, enterprise strategist, and business communications practitioner whose work experience cuts across consulting, digital marketing, and financial services, where he rose to the position of Country Managing Director at defunct Bank PHB and Keystone Bank.
In a revolutionary game-changing move for Nigerians seeking quality healthcare, Chucks Chibundu, CEO of DoctorCare247 recently led his firm to sign a partnership with the Turkish Healthcare Travel Council (THTC) which will allow Nigerians to access advanced medical diagnosis and treatment abroad through virtual consultations and thus exemplifies the power of telehealth in medical tourism. “This collaboration expands our healthcare offerings and provides Nigerians with convenient access to high-quality medical care, even if it’s beyond our borders,” explains Chibundu.
The convergence of digital health and medical tourism opens doors for patients seeking comprehensive healthcare solutions. Telehealth dismantles geographical limitations, allowing Nigerians to connect with renowned international specialists without the burden of travel. This global reach transforms medical tourism, making it more accessible and convenient.
A pivotal aspect of telehealth in medical tourism is the ability to obtain virtual second opinions. Patients can consult with experts from esteemed healthcare institutions worldwide. These consultations offer valuable insights into diagnosis, explore alternative treatment options, and instill confidence in their chosen healthcare path. This virtual approach empowers patients to make informed decisions about their health.
Digital platforms connect patients with various stakeholders involved in their medical tourism journey. From initial inquiries with DoctorCare247 to post-treatment follow-ups with international hospitals, this platform ensures seamless communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals, travel agents, and local service providers.
As digital health continues to evolve, patients can expect even more personalized, accessible, and patient-centric healthcare experiences. This evolving landscape is not just transforming medical tourism; it’s revolutionizing the way Nigerians engage with their health.
“DoctorCare247 remains committed to harnessing the power of telehealth to bridge the gap in healthcare access for Nigerians,”
Chibundu said. “We believe that with continued innovation, Nigerians will have the power to take control of their health decisions and access quality care, both locally and internationally.”
Indeed, as digital health continues to evolve, patients can anticipate even more personalized, accessible, and patientcentric healthcare experiences. This evolving landscape not only transforms medical tourism but also revolutionizes how individuals worldwide engage with their health. The integration of digital health and medical tourism signifies a promising future where patients can take control of their healthcare decisions effortlessly.
Chibundu’s vision for Doctorcare247 underscores a commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare delivery, paving the way for a brighter future where telehealth plays a central role in revolutionizing healthcare access and services in Nigeria. This is against the backdrop that Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, faces a significant challenge in providing accessible and affordable healthcare to its citizens.
Long travel distances, limited specialist availability, and financial constraints often restrict access to quality care.
DoctorCare247 in its partnership with Turkish Healthcare Travel Council (THTC) is also taking advantage of healthcare tourism which is a rapidly growing industry that involves
“DoctorCare247’s
individuals traveling across international borders to receive medical treatments, procedures, or healthcare services. This phenomenon has gained significant traction in recent years due to several driving factors.
One of the primary reasons for the rise of medical tourism is the disparity in healthcare costs between countries.
Many individuals, especially those from developed nations with higher healthcare expenses, seek medical treatments in developing countries where the costs are significantly lower. This cost advantage can be substantial, even after factoring in travel expenses, making medical tourism an attractive option for those seeking affordable healthcare solutions.
In addition to cost savings, medical tourism offers patients the opportunity to combine medical treatments with recreational activities or tourism experiences. Some destinations have strategically marketed themselves as medical tourism hubs, offering not only top-notch healthcare facilities but also attractive tourism packages that allow patients to recover in a relaxing and rejuvenating environment.
The availability of specialized treatments and cutting-edge medical technologies in certain countries has also fuelled the growth of medical tourism. Patients may travel to countries that excel in specific medical fields, such as cosmetic surgery, dentistry, fertility
partnership with the Turkish Healthcare Travel Council (THTC) expands our healthcare offerings and provides Nigerians with convenient access to high-quality medical care, even if it’s beyond our borders.”
treatments, or alternative therapies, to receive high-quality care that may not be readily available or as advanced in their home countries.
To deepen the DoctorCare247 partnership with Turkish Healthcare Travel Council (THTC), Chuks Chibundu led a team of DoctorCare247 staff to participate at the recently held 6th Global Healthcare Travel Forum and Conference in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Amongst other immersion programmes, the DoctorCare247 team learnt from Emin Çakmak, the Founding Chairman of the Global Healthcare Travel Council and President of the Turkish Healthcare Tourism Development Council, about Turkey’s remarkable journey in becoming a preferred global healthcare travel destination, which this partnership offers Nigerians an opportunity to benefit from.
Over the past two decades, Turkey has invested heavily in its healthcare infrastructure, allocating more than $50 billion to build new hospitals and acquire the latest medical technologies. This investment has enabled the country to offer world-class medical services, including cutting-edge treatments such as CyberKnife, GammaKnife, TrueBeam, and da Vinci robotic surgery, as well as advanced stem cell therapies and organ transplantation procedures.
Furthermore, Turkey boasts a highly skilled medical workforce, with over 15,000 doctors who have graduated from Western and Turkish medical universities. This pool of talented healthcare professionals, combined with state-of-the-art facilities, has positioned Turkey as a formidable player in the global healthcare travel market.
Turkey’s success in healthcare tourism can be attributed to the convergence of several factors, including its world-class medical services, well-developed hospitality infrastructure, geographical convenience, and natural beauty. This unique combination has made the country an attractive destination for various healthcare travel segments, such as medical treatment, wellness, spa and thermalism, sports medicine, retirement, and accessible tourism.
The Turkish government has played a crucial role in facilitating the growth of the healthcare tourism industry. The Ministry of Health has established a dedicated department to monitor the competencies of hospitals, ensure compliance with regulations, and maintain pricing transparency for medical tourism services. Additionally, many private hospitals in Turkey have obtained accreditation from renowned agencies such as the Joint Commission International (JCI), TEMOS, and the Turkish Healthcare Travel Accreditation Council, further enhancing the sector’s credibility and quality assurance.
Like Turkey, Nigeria must prioritize investments in modern healthcare facilities, cutting-edge medical technologies, and the training and retention of skilled healthcare professionals. Upgrading hospitals with modern equipment and technology is crucial to attracting patients seeking advanced medical care. This will not only improve the quality of healthcare services for Nigerians but also position the country as a competitive medical tourism destination.
But as the Chuks Chibundu led DoctorCare247 deepens its partnership with Turkish Healthcare Travel Council, Nigerians seeking quality healthcare now have access to advanced medical diagnosis and treatment abroad through virtual consultations and thus exemplifies the power of telehealth in medical tourism.
Stories by Mary Nnah
The11theditionoftheannualInspiring Change Conference, convened byesteemedfounder;Adesunmbo Adeoye,concludedwithresounding success and impactful moments, inspiringandempoweringattendees.
Theconference,whichtookplace virtuallyandon-site,attractedwomen from diverse backgrounds in business, career, and ministry. Kicking off with a fireside chat on Thursday, March7th,thehonourableCommissioner for Health in Ekiti State, Dr. BanjiFilani,engagedparticipantsin adiscussionon“NavigatingHealth Challenges with Confidence.”
Dr. Filani emphasised the
The organiser of the Industry Summit, an annual gathering for professionals and experts in brand marketing, finance, sustainability, and entertainment, has announced the speakers for the fifth edition of the summit in Lagos.
The event themed: Sustainable Marketing for Growth would feature the marketing director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Emmanuel Oriakhi as keynote speaker while the head of unit, sustainability at Access Bank, Mrs. Omobolanle VictorLaniyan and manager of brand, strategy & communications at Stanbic IBTC, Ms. Rita Akao would feature as guest speakers. The summit, which is sched-
importance of prioritising healthy livingandmaximisinggovernment healthpackages,sparkingatrending onlinediscussionunderthehashtag #EnormousPossibilities.
ContinuingonSaturday,women fromLagosandbeyondgatheredat the Wisdom Arena in Agege for a dayfilledwithwisdom,inspiration, andnetworking.Theeventfeatured esteemed speakers such as Ayo Megbope and Mayokun Oreofe, who shared personal anecdotes of overcoming challenges to achieve success.Additionally, a lively “Girl Talk” session, moderated by the Convener, featured panellists Financial Jenifer Ariwigwe and Morenike Molehin, encouraging attendeestoleveragetheirskillsand
consistency for online growth and product development.
Inheropeningremarks,Convener Adesunmbo Adeoye highlighted the vast opportunities available to womenandurgedattendeestopersevere,citingherrecentrecognition as the winner of the inaugural Wema Bank She Empowers Her Award. She emphasised the significance of every effort, no matter how small, and rewarded two businesses with cash grants totalling N250,000 each to support their growth.
The conference concluded with a celebration of female entrepreneurship, honouring outstanding entrepreneurs such as Oluwatemilorun Adeola of Oretide Foods and Ifeoluwa
Odegbami of theRadiatingWomen Network,Abeokuta,amongothers.
“It was such a wholesome and inspiringevent,”remarkedaparticipant,reflectingthesentimentshared bymanyattendees.The11thAnnual Inspiring Change Conference reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women, igniting passion, and fostering excellence in every endeavour”, she noted.
The Inspiring Change Conference is an annual event dedicated to empowering women in business, career, and ministry.
FoundedbyAdesunmboAdeoye, the conference aims to inspire, educate,andconnectwomenfrom diverse backgrounds, fostering a communityofgrowthandexcellence.
uled to be held on Friday, May 3rd, 2024 at Marcelina’s Place Ikeja GRA, Lagos would feature some exhilarating panel sessions with some of the contemporary professionals in the Nigerian brand and marketing industry.
The panellists include; Ms Chioma Mbanugo, Head of Marketing PZWILMAR, Mr. Abiodun Coker, Team Member Media, UBA, Mrs. MabelAdeteye, Head, Brand & Marketing Communications, Wema Bank PLC, Mr. Kevin Olumese, Marketing Communications Specialist, and Mr Adeola Kayode, Head, Brands & Creative Services, 9mobile Nigeria. Others who have confirmed participation are Ms Aisha Anaekwe, Head, Brands
& Comms, Coronation Group, Mrs. Victoria N’dee Uwadoka, Public Relations, Public Affairs & Sustainability Lead, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Mr. Samson Adeoye, Public Relations Manager, Airtel Nigeria, Mrs Oluwatosin Odiagbe, Marketing Manager, Simba Solar and Ms. Arinola Shobande, Head of Marketing, Showmax.
While Oriakhi will be speaking on the topic, “New Age Marketing – Catalyzing Transformation Through Value Chain Innovation, Technology, Analytics & Sustainability”, Victor-Laniyan and Akao will present papers on the topics; “Aligningorganizationalobjectives with sustainable marketing for the good of the people, society and
business, and “Reimagining Sustainable Growth Through Green Marketing” respectively. In the press statement signed by the Publisher of The Industry Newspaper/Convener of The Industry Summit/Awards (TIES), Mr Goddie Ofose, he said that “The 5th edition of the Industry Summit is focusing on sustainable marketing, which is a purpose-driven practice that works to orientate businesses, brands and society towards a sustainable future, influencing appropriate awareness, aspiration, adoption and action across economic and sociocultural systems by taking necessary accountability for its impacts and opportunities.
In the highly spiritual ceremony, the Odia Samaj Association of Nigeria, the state unit of the Indian community in Lagos celebrated the 7th anniversary of Lord Jagannatha temple at Ilupeju, Lagos. Thousands of devotees joined this celebration and participated in various pujas to lord Jagannatha and prayed to eradicate all problems in Nigeria and the universe.
Consulate General of India to Nigeria, Mr Chandramouli Kern and Head of Chancery, Mr N.
Mahesh inaugurated the Kalasa Yatra (Beginning of the Puja) in which 108 ladies participated.
Various pujas were offered to the lord during the three-day-long event and many devotees from all over Nigeria participated including Indian and Nigerian communities.
The pujas were performed by a special team who came from Odisha, India and Mahaprasad was served on all days to all devotees throughout the event. It is worth noting that the
Lord Jagannatha temple was constructed 7 years back at Lagos Palmgrove by assembling the temple which was prebuilt in India and is full of stones.
The special attraction of the event was the One District One Product(ODOP) exhibition, Govt of India initiative to promote states’ Art & craft, tourism, food, industries etc which was conducted on the 4th day, in which Odisha residents celebrate their state foundation day anniversary as well. The Consulate General of
George Asamani, Managing Director of the Project Management Institute in Sub-SaharanAfrica, has emphasised that economies that limit women’s contributions are unable to realise their full potential. Conversely, an economy can achieve its maximum dynamism when all citizens, regardless of gender, are empowered to contribute equally. Asamani made these remarks while recently speaking on why women should receive the same recognition as men in project management from companies and government agencies.
Asamani cited the saying, “The one who carries the firewood feels the weight the most.” The proverb reflects the gender disparity in Nigeria and continues to dim women’s prospects, denying them opportunities to fully participate in the economy. According to the World Bank’s Women, Business, andLaw2023report,whichsurveys approximately190economies,only 14 of these economies are gender equal. The remaining countries have room for improvement, and at the current rate of reform, will require approximately 50 years to
catch up. In project management, male project managers outnumber their female counterparts by 3:1, according to recent research conducted by the Project Management Institute. TheInternationalLabourOrganization reports that the global labour force participation rate for women is just under 47%, compared with 72% for men. The gender gap in employment is even more stark in project management.
According to a recent salary survey conducted by PMI, female project managers earn less than
The Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria has reelected Rev. (Dr.) Sam Aboyeji as its General Overseer for another term of five years, effective November 2024. The announcement was made by the Northern Regional Coordinator of the Church, Rev. Prof. James Nda Jacob, who chaired the electoral (Affirmation) committee.
The election, which took place on Monday, April 8, 2024, during the church’s special convention at the Foursquare Camp Ajebo in Ogun State, received an overwhelming vote of 1,931 (i.e. 97.6%) out of 1,979 votes cast by the delegates. According to the church’s constitution, the General Overseer must secure a simple majority vote from delegates to renew his mandate at the end of his first five-year term in office. Part IV, Section 2 (h) of the constitution states that the General Overseer is to serve for five years in the first instance, and after that, his tenure is renewable for another final term of five years through a secret ballot of “yes” or “no” held in April at a Special Convention.
The affirmation exercise was conducted in a peaceful and godly atmosphere, and the electoral process was described by the delegates present as transparent and acceptable to the church membership.
In his remarks after the exercise, Aboyeji expressed his appreciation to the delegates for the peaceful conduct of the Affirmation election. He also called for the cooperation and participation of all members in fulfilling the mandate of the church.
Aboyeji is the 5th indigenous General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria. The church, which has its roots in the United States of America, was founded in 1923 by a Canadian-American Lady Evangelist, Aimee Semple McPherson. It was established in Nigeria in 1955 and currently has over 4,700 branches spread across the 36 states of the Federation and the FCT.
During his first term, Rev. Aboyeji focused on the training and development of ministers, upscaling their healthcare/welfare, intentional youth engagement and empowerment, as well as outreaches to both the hinterlands and major cities. Before assuming office as the General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria in November 2019, Rev. Aboyeji had a successful career with the Anglo-Dutch oil giant, Shell, where he served for nearly 20 years. In 2010, he left the corporate world to pursue full-time ministry. Before joining Shell, he worked at the premier stockbroking firm, Nigerian Stock Brokers Limited, a subsidiary of NAL Merchant Bank, now known as Sterling Bank Plc. The re-election of Rev. Aboyeji is a testament to the confidence and trust that the church members have in his leadership and vision.
The church will continue to play its God-given pivotal role as a frontline evangelical and Pentecostal Movement in Nigeria, guided by its Inreach, Outreach, and Nextgen focus. The welfare of all ministers will be further enriched as the church accelerates its pursuit of evangelistic and mission thrust.
India encouraged all exhibitors for their great effort to showcase products from various districts of Odisha.
OSAN President, Mr Ramesh Mallik, Event Chairman MrAnant Sabat and OSAN General Secretary Mr Sanjay Das, other trustees and event committee members supervised the programme. They thanked all devotees and donors including the Consulate General of India and other corporations for their valuable contribution and support.
their male counterparts in every country surveyed, despite the pay gap in most countries being lower than the global average for female project managers.Asamani believesthatwomen’slivesinAfrica are often complex projects, requiring them to manage and balance multiple responsibilities, roles, and expectations. Project management skills, such as risk management, stakeholder communication, and resource allocation, are directly translatable to managing finances, negotiating workplace dynamics, and advocating for social change.
In today’s hectic world, finding peace amidst the chaos is essential. By intentionally planning for a stress-free life, from organising your schedule to cultivating healthy habits, each step you take towards a stress-free existence brings you one step closer to bliss. When it comes to smooth sailing through life’s inevitable challenges, having the right tools at your disposal is key and that is where owning a payment card that effortlessly streamlines your transactions comes into play, paving the way for a life of ease and enjoyment.
Just imagine you’re out and about, living your best life and you are suddenly hit with the dreaded task of paying for stuff. Ugh, talk about a buzzkill, right? But fear not, because Verve cards are here to save the day!
These magical cards aren’t just your average pieces of plastic— they’re your golden tickets to a stress-free shopping spree! With over 15 years of spreading joy and over 65 million cards circulating like confetti, Verve isn’t just a card—it’s a lifestyle movement! Verve isn’t just about numbers; it’s about making your payment experience smoother than silk. With their awesome global partnerships with renowned global brands such as Google, Netflix, Amazon Prime and many more, you can kiss those pesky transaction troubles goodbye and say hello to seamless payments, no matter where you are in the world.
And the perks? They’re endless! From being able to binge-watch your favorite shows on Netflix or jam out to your top tunes on Spotify, all with just a flick of your Verve Card. Plus, the cost saving discounts waiting at Addide stores tills, it’s like getting a present every time you swipe!
There is more; ever heard about the Lagos State multi-purpose ID, powered by Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA), Sterling Bank and Verve? It’s not just your average ID—it’s your ticket to loans, LAG buses access, and a whole lot more!. And let’s not forget about Paycode—your secret weapon for stress-free payments, even when you’ve left your ATM card at home. With Verve by your side, banking has never been so breezy! So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to kick those payment woes to the curb and embrace the Verve life! Head on over to your nearest bank and snag yourself a Verve Card today. Remember, to take a moment to ensure it’s a Verve Card with the Verve logo. Trust me, your future self will thank you. Don’t settle for less because life’s too short for anything less than fabulous!
The board and mangement of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, have said they will continue to work hard to ensure mouth-watering returns for shareholders.
They made the pledge at the group’s 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos yesterday.
At the meeting, its shareholders approved N428 million dividend pay out for 2023 financial year results, among other resolutions.
The Group Chairman of Odu’a Investment, Bimbo Ashiru while announcing the modest 7 per cent growth in operating revenue from N3.68 billion in 2022 to N3.95 billion in 2023 reiterated that despite the economic headwinds of 2023, it was another year of good performance by the company as it posted a Profit
Before Tax of N1.96 billion.
He expressed satisfaction that with improved collaboration and synergy within the Group and leveraging shared services, cross selling, joint marketing and astute business innovation, Odu’a Investment is translating the timeless vision of the founding fathers of the company into reality by the implementation of the Group’s 5-Year Strategic Plan which aims to sweat, create and revive businesses and assets to deliver continuous growth and value to shareholders and stakeholders.
The Group Managing Director/CEO, Mr Adewale Raji, who officially will be retiring on 31st May, 2024, in his report, appreciated all the esteemed shareholders for the opportunity given to him to serve the company for two successive terms lasting 10 years during which the Group with
their support enthroned a new corporate governance framework that depoliticized its operations, appointments and management. Raji said the group in this past ten years witnessed repositioning that was driven by her SRC - 2025 Strategy (i.e. Sweat, Revive & Create) to be a lean non-operating investment holding company focused on 8 sectors of Real Estate, Hospitality, Financial Services, Agriculture, Energy/Power, ICT/Digital, Healthcare/Pharmaceuticals and Logistics/e-Commerce. It is such focus on ‘’Sweating’’ that necessitated the consolidation of the entire Group real estate portfolio under our Wemabod Limited subsidiary leading to the massive redevelopment either through own resources or joint venture partnerships of our real estate portfolio to optimize yield and return.
Dubai-based leader in Citizenship by Investment (CBI) and Residency by Investment (RBI) solutions, Imperial Citizenship has expanded its operations with the launch of its new office in Lagos, Nigeria.
The move according to the company signifies its recognition of Nigeria’s growing political and economic influence, alongside its rising population of High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) seeking international travel freedom and security. Speaking at the launch, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Imperial Citizenship, Mr. Zaid Al Hindi, Nigeria’s position as a leading African economy, coupled with its
increasingly mobile and globalised population, creates a significant demand for its services, maintaining that over 800,000 of all its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) would be cultivated in Nigeria.
In his words, “Our presence in Lagos allows us to directly address this need, offering Nigerians strategic solutions for enhanced global mobility, international diversification, and a secure environment for themselves and their families.”
He noted that Imperial Citizenship’s expansion aligns with Africa’s growing importance on the global stage, even as the International Monetary Fund (IMF’s) outlook for sub-Saharan Africa is gradually improving, after four turbulent years as the
continent’s growth is expected to rise from 3.4 per cent in 2023 to 3.8 per cent in 2024, with growth projections reaching 4.0 per cent in 2025.
The Founder said Imperial Citizenship’s expansion aligns with Africa’s growing importance on the global stage, recognising the increasing desire of Nigerians to participate in the international community.
“Through CBI and RBI programmes, Imperial Citizenship offers Nigerians access to visa-free travel to a wider range of countries, potentially stronger passports for international business ventures, and the security of alternative citizenship in times of political or economic instability,” he stated.
Shareholders associations in Nigeria have given their nod to plans by Nigerian Breweries Plc to raise N600 billion through Rights Issues on the back of foreign exchange exposures that precipitated a loss of N106 billion for the 2023 financial year.
The company had announced at its pre-AGM briefing held on April 10, 2024, that the funds, when raised, would be used for payments of all overdue foreign exchange debts, eliminate forex exposure, and strengthen the company’s balance sheet and liquidity position.
In separate statements, National Coordinator, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria (PSAN), Boniface Okezie, National Coordinator, Pragmatic Shareholders Asso-
ciation (PSAN), Bisi Bakare, and National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association Of Nigeria (ISAN), Moses Igbrude, gave their backing to the Rights Issue, saying it will help steer the company back to profitability.
In his own statement, Okezie regretted the headwinds that triggered the erosion of shareholders’ funds but expressed satisfaction with plans by the nation’s biggest brewer to return to profitability.
“The Rights Issue is the way to go. Nigerian breweries need to rebuild their shareholders’ funds that were eroded by FX losses. The N600 billion proposed for Right Issues is going to fly as long as the foreign partner commits to
take up their right when open,” Okezie said.
In her statement, Mrs Bakare, of Pragmatic Shareholders Association, expressed her association’s support for the Rights issue, expressing the optimism that the offer will be over-subscribed at the end of the day.
Also in his statement, Moses Igbrude, ISAN Coordinator, said Nigerian shareholders and investors are happy about the Rights Issue, being as he said, the most creative way the company could address the balance sheet challenges that lead to the poor returns during the 2023 business year.
Igbrude said Nigerian Breweries needs the capital injection as a sure way to mitigate against future losses.
CEO of Eko Electricity Distribution Company, Mrs Rekhiat Momoh has concluded a comprehensive tour of the company’s six districts across Lagos State. The tour covered Lekki, Ibeju, Ijora, Festac, Ojo, Ajah, and Agbara. The primary objective of this extensive visitation was to foster closer connections with EKEDC’s dedicated staff members, reinforcing their pivotal role in serving the community. During her engagements, Momoh took the opportunity to engage directly with employees, emphasizing the significance of their commitment to customer
service. She underscored the importance of understanding the successes achieved within each district and the areas where improvement is necessary. This dialogue aimed to empower staff members with a renewed sense of purpose and direction in serving the company’s diverse customer base.
In her address to employees, Momoh outlined EKEDC’s strategic vision for growth, articulating a clear path toward becoming the premier electricity distribution company in Nigeria and a beacon of excellence in the industry.
She reiterated the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering reliable and efficient electricity services while embracing innovation to meet evolving consumer needs. Reflecting on the tour, Momoh remarked, “Our journey towards becoming a leading electricity distribution company in Nigeria and Africa is anchored on our collective dedication to service excellence, growth, and operational efficiency. As we navigate the challenges ahead, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering value to our customers and communities.”
FCMB Group Plc has declared growth in deposits, loans, assets under management, revenue and earnings and improved its environmental, social, and corporate governance scorecard in financial year ended December 31, 2023. The Group recorded a profit before tax of N104.4 billion, a 186per cent year-on-year (YoY) increase compared to N36.6 billion in 2022 and earnings growth
across its business segments: Banking Group 212.6per cent, Consumer Finance 67.3per cent, Investment Management 40per cent, and Investment Banking 89.7per cent. FCMB Group, which proposed a dividend of 50 kobo per share for its shareholders, contributed to food security and import substitution in Nigeria by increasing lending to the agricultural sector by 38.4per cent from N147.4 billion in 2022 to N204.3 billion in 2023.
In safeguarding the environment, it switched six additional branches of its retail and commercial banking subsidiary (First City Monument Bank Limited) from grid/diesel generators to solar power last year, taking the number of branches running on renewable energy to 160, which represents 78per cent of total branches. In addition, the Bank secured funding of up to N13 billion from local development finance institutions for on-lending to
customers requiring solar energy solutions to further support its commitment to driving renewable energy. FCMB’s customer base grew by 15.6per cent YoY from 10.9 million to 12.5 million for the period ended December 2023, whilst users of its mobile app that offers lending, wealth and payment solutions grew by 31per cent YoY to 3.4 million. Similarly, the Bank’s agency banking network grew to over 164,000 agents. With an enlarged
customer base, an expanded distribution platform, and the use of artificial intelligence to automate and optimise loan underwriting processes, the Group successfully disbursed over 1.5 million loans worth N100.8 billion to individuals, N14.4 billion to micro-enterprises and N177.9 billion to SMEs during the period.
Commenting on the results, the Group Chief Executive of FCMB Group Plc, Mr. Ladi Balogun in a statement said, “We continue
to leverage our unique Group structure to build a technologydriven ecosystem that is fostering inclusive and sustainable growth in the communities we serve. “This strategy is enabling us to deliver robust performance in spite of the challenging domestic and global environment. Barring unforeseen circumstances, we believe this trend will be sustained and accompanied by improving efficiencies arising from greater scale and ongoing digitisation”.
Thisday Afrinvest Index Up 1.6%
Thisday Afrinvest 40 index rose 1.6% to print at 4,042.25 points due to buy interest in GTCO (+7.0%), ZENITH BANK (+2.0%), and ACCESSCORP (+3.9%). index.
Bullish Start to the Month... ASI up 0.6% GTCO (+7.0%), DANGSUGAR (+9.9%), and FBNH (+4.6%).
Consequently, the NGX-ASI rose 55bps to 98,762.78 points, YTD return improved to 32.1% (previously
rose 20.5% to 665.2m units while value traded dipped 62.9% to 5.5bn.
Performance across our coverage sectors was posi-
AFR-ICT Banking index led the
GTCO (+7.0%) and FBNH (+4.6%). Trailing, the Oil & Gas and Insurance indices rose 0.9% and 0.7% reWAPIC (+9.5%), and PRESTIGE (+9.4%). Gains in CAP (+6.6%) pushed the Consumer and Industrial Goods
Outlook
improved to 0.19x from 0.12x in the prior session as
Today, we expect the local bourse to post a mild
Parade 63 crime suspects As IG sustains deployment of chopper for aerial support, proactive measures along train route
Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja
The Nigeria Police said yesterday that operatives arrested the masterminds of the Abuja-Kaduna train bomb attack which led to the killing of many passengers and the abduction of others
The police also paraded 81 armed robbery suspects, 40 kidnap suspects, 73 murder/homicide suspects, 36 rape suspects, 22 suspects involved in cult-related crimes and 28 suspects engaged in other criminal activities.
A statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said one of the major cases was the arrest of one Ibrahim Abdullahi, aka Mande at Abuja-Kaduna Road Flyover by Rido Junction.
"The suspect confessed to being the leader of a kidnap syndicate terrorising Kaduna-Abuja highway, ranked among other criminals like Dogo Gide and Bello Turji.
"He had participated in various kidnapping incidents including the kidnapping incident at Green
Field University and partook in almost all the kidnappings along the Abuja-Kaduna highway", it said.
"Similarly, from the confessional statements of the suspects, on March 28, 2022, Ibrahim, alongside one Auwal Ayuba who was also paraded for kidnapping and one Babangida Alhaji Bello were part of the armed group that attacked the train on its way from Abuja in the Kateri-Rijana area of Kaduna state, with several persons killed and others abducted", the statement said.
The statement said recent sustained deployments along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway and Kaduna State at large led to massive successes in the fight against violent crimes in the state from January 2024 till date.
"The Nigeria Police Force, under the astute leadership of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun continues to make significant strides in combating crime and ensuring the safety and security of citizens in the country.
"Notably, a strategic initiative
Wale Igbintade
Celebrity barman, Okechukwu Pascal popularly called Cubana Chief Priest, charged with the abuse of the Naira by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opted for out-of-court settlement.
At the resumption of trial, yesterday, before a federal high court in Lagos, Cubana Chief Priest’s counsel, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), informed Justice Kehinde Ogundare of the defendant’s intention to toe the path of plea-bargain subject to Section 14 of the EFCC Establishment Act.
"We have looked at the charge and pursuant to Section 14 of the EFCC Act
which encourages plea bargain agreements,’ he said.
Also, EFCC counsel, Bilkisu Buhari confirmed the position.
Ojukwu then prayed the court to give a short date for parties to return and update the court on the deal.
He also withdrew the earlier preliminary objection he filed challenging the jurisdiction of court to entertain the charge.
"In the interest of justice, we're urging the court to strike out the motion since the prosecution has not responded to it,” he added.
Granting his prayer, Justice Ogundare struck out the preliminary objection, and also adjourned the case till June 5, for report of the plea bargain agreement.
implemented along the AbujaKaduna expressway is the deployment of a helicopter as an escort for trains traversing the route.
"This measure, under the directive of the Inspector General of Police, serves as both a deterrent to criminal elements and a rapid response mechanism in the event of any untoward incidents, ultimately enhancing security along the corridor and in the state at large", it said.
"The relentless efforts of the
Nigeria Police Force have yielded remarkable outcomes, including the arrest of 81 armed robbery suspects, 40 kidnap suspects, 73 murder/homicide suspects, 36 rape suspects, 22 suspects involved in cult-related crimes, and 28 suspects engaged in other criminal activities.
"Similarly, the Police has successfully recovered 16 firearms of various types, along with 686 ammunitions of diverse calibres. Additionally, our operations have led to the retrieval of 28 stolen vehicles, over 200 harmful weapons,
and 600 bags of fertilizers", the statement said.
The Police high command further stated that N3,350,000 previously paid as ransom to kidnappers was successfully recovered.
"Our swift and coordinated efforts have resulted in the safe rescue of 158 kidnapped victims, all of whom have been reunited with their families unharmed.
"The majority of the suspects have been charged to court. The parade, however, comprises
63 suspects who are yet to be prosecuted", it said. The Police statement said the IG reaffirmed the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. He emphasised that the force was committed to "replicating these successful intervention and operations across the country to ensure that movement from one part of the country to another does not become challenging due to the activities of criminal elements in the society".
The Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, yesterday praised the commitment and drive of the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, to making the dream of grooming 3 million technology talents (3MTT) across Nigeria a reality in the state.
Speaking in Ilorin at the graduation ceremony for the 3MTT Cohort (1) and Launch of Kwara Digital Economy platform, the minister described the support of the state government as "amazingly huge" and commended AbdulRazaq’s partnership in building and transforming effective learners from the project.
Represented by the Community Manager for the Initiative, Ibrahim Zulkifuli, the minister stated that the initiative was transforming Kwara.
"We have all seen the digital transformation in the state and what the Honourable Minister envisioned is to ensure capacity building for everybody, but we can see how it is transforming from Kwara through the support of the governor,” Tijani said.
After a state-wide sensitisation and registration, Kwara got
more than 40,000 entries early January, thereby enjoying massive commendation from the federal government.
He said: “Firstly, the governor deployed the right head for the job, in the person of Special Assistant to the Governor on Digital Innovation and Technology, Hon Ishola Kayode.
"He is doing an amazing job in the area of going to underserved communities in Kwara State. That actually makes Kwara the best when it comes to 3MTT support so far. And then, the governor is giving resources support like laptops and among support. I must say that no other state is doing that."
The minister also said the ministry has a mission of getting the right skill and building something that is going to transform the state.
“We are going to have a lot of digital transformation when it comes to business innovation. That is why we had a stakeholders' engagement last month.
"We have the synergy and collaborative efforts to ensure that everything is going on smoothly and we are going to deploy a business star hub from this initiative”, he added.
The event was graced by AbdulRazaq, who was represented
by the Senior Adviser, Sa'adu Salau; other cabinet members and government officials in the state.
The programme which was themed: “Harnessing the Unlimited Potential of the Digital Economy “, also featured panel discussions.
AbdulRazaq, for his part, said the ceremony signposted the reality and prosperity of the commitment of the administration to transform Kwara state to a digital economy.
“We all know that this state was regarded as a civil servants state. You know the series of multibillion naira investments we have put in place in the last five years to make sure that we transform from analogue to digital economy.
"This is because the preponderance of the younger generation, the youth, constitutes a major programme of this government,” the governor said.
AbdulRazaq congratulated the participants and appreciated the minister for giving the state the right support to thrive on the digitalisation drive.
“The investment essentially opens Kwara State to a lot of foreign investors in the digital economy and transforms the state from what it used to be to a digitally prepared economy in the global community,” he added.
State Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Damilola Adelodun, said the gathering attested to the governor’s plan to fostering a culture of innovation and supporting tech programmes that are instrumental to creating opportunities for the upcoming tech professionals.
She said the administration had created the Ilorin Innovation Hub to nurture and support tech talents, start-ups and innovations in the state.
“We also have programmes such as the e-hackathon, partnership with IHS and other internal bodies which are currently ongoing, and others coming up in the areas of connectivity, data transfer, e-government, e-health, and much more”, she said.
The commissioner therefore advised the trainees to continue to embrace challenges and think outside the box to solve them, saying she has confidence in their potential to make significant impacts in the tech industry.
Chief Executive of Plat Technologies, Taofeek Abdulkareem, said the graduates had acquired a solid foundation through that 3MTT training, but enjoined them to take a step further by cultivating a digital mind-set.
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
L-R: Permanent Secretary, Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Ogun State, Lateef Benson; Head, Teaching Service Commission, Ogun State, Melutia Ogunremi; Regional Manager, Sales and Business Development (West), Interswitch Financial Inclusion Services (IFIS), Tomilayo Timi-Adepoju; Board Secretary, SUBEB, Ogun state, Dr. Mikail Lawal; and Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Establishing and Training, Lydia Fajombo; and Permanent secretary, Service Matters Dipo Ogunfowora at the flag off ceremony of the sale of rice at discounted rates to civil servants in Ogun State... yesterday
Chuks Okocha
Governors of the federation after a virtual meeting on Wednesday said they would review the report of the tripartite committee, when submitted and each state reached a decision on what they would be able to pay.
They also said whenever the report was submitted, they would review the fiscal position of states to determine their ability to pay, but nonetheless, they pledged to cooperate with the federal government on the implementation of the minimum wage
In a communique of their meeting signed by AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor
of Kwara State, the governors were clear about their position.
“While we acknowledge various initiatives adopted of recent by way of wage awards and partial wage adjustments, it is imperative to state that the 37-member tripartite committee inaugurated on the National Minimum Wage, is still in consultation and yet to conclude its work.
"As members of the committee, we are reviewing our individual fiscal space as state governments and the consequential impact of various recommendations, to arrive at an improved minimum wage we can pay sustainably," the communique stated.
The communique added: “We remain committed to the process
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Apparently left with no options, a former representative of the Rivers South-East senatorial district at the National Assembly, Senator Magnus Abe, yesterday, disclosed he hadsettled his differences with the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 general election, said he remained a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Rivers State.
Abe, in a post on his Facebook account titled: “I Have Made Peace with the Minister of FCT, and Former Governor of Rivers State“ stated that his decision for true reconciliation would enable the APC in the state to benefit from the process of peaceful reunification, and reintegration.
The statement read in part: “I have made Peace with the former Governor of Rivers State.
I accompanied him to Chief Tony Okocha’s thanksgiving to show my commitment to end the rifts
in our party is total.”
Thanking the Minister for the reconciliation, Abe said, "He could have behaved like other politicians, made peace with me, and still encourage me, Tony and others to continue fighting, but his style is direct, truthful and sincere, and it will create a united team".
He said the disagreements within the APC is over and gone for good, because the oxygen for conflict has been extinguished.
"It may take a little while but the end result is that all those with us, who sincerely wish us well will go with us and tow the path of unity because we all know that it is the right way to go,” he said.
The former Senator also thanked Okocha for the warm reception accorded him, reiterating, “my home is in the APC, therefore, let’s come together as everyone will benefit from us working together.”
He emphasized the need to face the economy and support President Bola Tinubu’s government to succeed for the benefits of all Nigerians.
and promise that better wages will be the invariable outcome of ongoing negotiations," congratulating workers across the country for their dedication to service and patience.
"We work with the federal government, labour, organised private sector and relevant stakeholders in arriving at an implementable national minimum wage,” the communique added.
The communique stated that, the governors received the outgoing Country Director, Mr. Shubham Chadhuri, and the incoming Country Director, Mr. Ndiame Diop, of the World Bank, to discuss the bank’s vision for transitioning.
They said Chadhuri appreciated the governors for the strategic role it has continued to play in coordinating collective action for developmental change.
He also applauded the non-partisan character of the forum, the professionalism of its secretariat, and state governments’ commitment to mutual accountability mechanisms such
as performance-based financing interventions by the Bank.
The governors expressed confidence in the choice of Mr. Diop, to lead the collaboration going forward and looked forward to a sustained and deepened relationship.
They further discussed the revised National Policy on Justice (2024 -2028) from the just concluded National Summit on Justice on 24th and 25th April 2024, and agreed to consider the submissions from the summit as might concern the individual states, including recommended legal amendments, administrative improvements, and policies to strengthen the justice sector.
The governors reiterated that they were committed to looking into issues bordering on remuneration of state judicial officers and the infrastructure of the Courts.
The governors equally received a presentation from the National Human Capital Development (HCD) Programme – Core Working Group Secretariat, led
byMs. Rukaiya El-Rufai and Dr. Ahmad Abdulwahab.
It stated that both highlighted the marginal progress made by the states and its contribution to Nigeria’s Human Development Index (HDI), especially across health, nutrition, education, and labour force participation.
"Having reviewed the previous programme design and national strategy, a revised governance and implementation roadmap was proposed to scale up impact and ensure sustainability. Members pledged to support the effective domestication of proposed revisions to the national HCD strategy,” the communique stated.
Also, it indicated that governors received a briefing from Mrs. Oyinda Adedokun, Programme Manager, State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Federal Ministry of Finance Program Coordination Unit.
"The briefing highlighted States’ performance in implementing advocated reforms
relating to land administration; regulatory framework for private investment in fiber optic infrastructure; services provided by investment promotion agencies and public-private partnership units; efficiency and transparency of governmentto-business services, under the World Bank financed program.
"The Forum commiserated with the Governors of Rivers State, H.E Siminalayi Fubara and Ogun State, H.E Prince Dapo Abiodun, over the petrol tanker explosion and Gas explosion that occurred on 26th and 27th April 2024, respectively. Members called for proper maintenance of Trucks especially those fitted to convey Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and recommended appropriate training for truck drivers.
"On enforcement of regulations, members resolved to engage relevant Ministries, Departments & Agencies (MDAs) in order to align the activities of federal regulators with the operations of officials at the sub-national level," the communique stated.
A former governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Senator Shehu Sani, and others, yesterday, at the Emeka Obasi Inaugural memorial lecture, agreed that Nigeria was not working as a nation but crawling with no national developmental vision.
According to them, there must be a national leadership consensus on what Nigeria meant to everybody and on how to manage the nation's resources while ensuring transparency and accountability at local levels.
Delivering his keynote lecture, at the event in Lagos, Fayemi, maintained that the theme, ‘If This Giant Must Walk; Manifesto For A New Nigeria’, is most appropriate for these times.
He maintained that only those with delusions of grandeur would
not agree that this “giant is crawling and not walking yet.
“Although the challenges of nation-building have been manifest for several years, it is now evident that they are actually deteriorating as evidenced by the many cases of violent conflicts that are being played out with regard to the governance of the nation-state and discontents with the nation-building experience.
“Indeed, the recurrent predictions about the imminent collapse or failure of the Nigerian state are beginning to look more credible by various developments in the polity.
“The violent activities of separatist agitators in the South East and South western parts of Nigeria, vociferous revisionist contestations of the amalgamation act of 1914, generalised discontent with the prolonged underperformance of the Nigerian economy, heightened
recrimination, insecurity, and violence, feelings of marginalisation, exclusion, and injustice, and concerns about various dysfunctions in the federal system are some of the sources of concern about the future prospects of the country.”
He argued that the thirst for excuses and culprits to blame for the nation's obvious challenges was an insatiable one and so the blame game continues.
The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Lekwachi Emetu, said Nigerian youths must learn from the last election that brought his boss, Governor Alex Oti into Office in Abia State.
“The youths need to be positive and always make sure that the lies that have been birthed amongst us through cultural divides and our religious beliefs should not divide us as youths.
“We should come together as
Nigerians and deliver the country into the hands of God and not just that but into progressiveness because hunger is everywhere,” he said.
A former senator representing Kaduna Central, Mr. Shehu Sanni, was of the opinion that if the giant that Nigeria seemed to proclaim was to come out, a credible and fair electoral system must be put in place.
"Firstly, is a credible election, we have an electoral system that produces people who genuinely rig elections to be in positions of authority across all levels.
“We have illegitimacy of leadership across all levels and I don't know any magic that can be done when the system and the process to which you got to power or in position of power is faulty. Secondly, insecurity all across the country must be solved,” he said.
L-R: Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot
Authority Chief Executive, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, during a courtesy call on the go vernor by the minister who was on a fact-finding visit to the state last Wednesday, over Saturday's gas explosion at Ita-Oshin, Abeokuta.
Segun James
The Lagos State Government has said despite the economic challenges in the country, it has recorded a quarterly revenue size of N433,408bn budget performance in the last one year.
Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr Ope George, disclosed this during a ministerial press briefing to mark the second term in office of Governor Babajide SanwoOlu in Alausa, Ikeja.
George stressed that the total Recurrent Expenditure performed at 80% which represented N189,624bn.
The performance, he said, represented a 92% was as a
result of strategic planning carried out to expand the tax net especially in the informal sector
The total capital expenditure recorded a performance of 54% / N178,728bn. The total expenditure (budget size) recorded a performance of 65% / N368,352.
According to him, "The Y2024 Budget aligns with the THEMES + agenda and is crafted to solidify the developmental accomplishments of this administration with primary focus on the conclusion of ongoing projects such as the Blue and Red Line Rail System, Stadia, Lekki-Epe Road, New Massey Children Hospital,
Opebi-Mende Link Bridge, etc.
"It is also geared towards ensuring that every endeavour, investment, partnership, and policy translates effectively into
tangible positive outcomes in the lives of Lagos residents and its environs. Total Budget size of N2.267 trillion was approved and signed into law by the
Governor on 15th January 2024. “The approved Y2024 Budget has a total revenue of N1.880 trillion, Deficit Financing of N387.125bn; Capital
Expenditure of N1.315trn and Recurrent Expenditure of N952.431bn (including Debt Charges), establishing a Capital to Recurrent ratio of 58:42.”
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has announced plans to review rates of mining licenses and other sundry fees payable by mining operators in the country.
Speaking during a consultative meeting with
stakeholders in the mining industry, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, stated that the review became necessary to boost the capacity of government to effectively reposition the mining sector.
Highlighting efforts to reposition the mining industry,
Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja
The military high command said yesterday that two military personnel involved in the misfired drone strike that killed scores of civilians in Kaduna would be court-martialled.
This came as it pooh-poohed the fresh sit-at-home order by the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), describing it as empty
and "mere propaganda."
It the armed forces were in full control as the group remained decimated even as it said troops were building and sustaining the tempo against terrorists across the country, noting that troops vanquished 715 terrorists in the month of April.
The strike killed over 80 civilians in Tundun Biri,
Kaduna State in December 2023.
Defence Headquarters, had following the development, tendered an unreserved apology to the community and condoled with the families.
Military service chiefs had also visited the affected families and traditional rulers in the area to condole with them.
At a media briefing in Abuja, the Director, Defence
Media Operations (DDMO), Maj Gen Edward Buba, said military authorities conducted investigation into the incident and found out that the incident should not have taken place.
"On the Tundun Biri incident, investigation has been concluded and we found out that the incident should not have taken place in the first place.
he revealed that aside from the on-going reforms, the federal government was also sanitising the mining environment through the newly unveiled mining marshals.
This, he disclosed, had been conducting operations in parts of the country to protect legitimate miners and combat illegal mining.
Soliciting the support of stakeholders for the impending increase in fees for mining licenses and other sundry fees, Alake stressed that this became inevitable if government was to effectively fulfil its obligations of providing an enabling environment for mining operations whilst also raising more revenue for government.
"For us to continue to ensure that we secure the mining environment and keep putting in place measures that will ease the operational difficulties and challenges that confront
miners, we need to review the rates of mining licenses and other sundry fees. We felt that we can't just do this without letting you know because invariably, you are the players in the industry," the minister added. On the recent revocation of dormant mining licenses, Alake noted that the government followed due process and extant laws guiding the action, emphasising that a 30-day restitution window still exists for operators that were affected.
In his submission, the Director-General of the Mining Cadastral Office, Engr. Obadiah Nkom, who also chaired the fees review committee, stated that the committee recommended new rates that were affordable and would enhance the competitiveness of the fiscal regime of the mining sector in comparison with regional and global standards.
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Minister of Works, Mr Dave Umahi, has cautioned drivers and other road users against the use of hard drugs and other substances that could make them reckless while driving. The minister gave the advice in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital shortly after inspecting the scene of the tanker fire incident,
which claimed lives with over 70 vehicles burnt along the Onne section of the East-West Road in the state. Umahi, who said the cause of the incident was typical of persons consuming Mkpurumiri (ice) and other hard drugs, sympathised with the Rivers State Government and families of the victims of the explosion. He clarified that the accident was
not caused by any failure on the side of the federal government or Construction Company, Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) as being peddled by some persons.
"Firstly, my sympathy goes to all the families of the victims for the unfortunate loss which can't be recovered and to the government and people of Rivers State, I extend my sympathy to them.
"When somebody is dead,
we are no longer talking about who is right and who is wrong because life can't be recovered.
One funny person that says he's a president of Ogoni Youth Federation or whatever he calls himself made a very careless and inciting statement.
"Yes, the bridge there that we are reconstructing, there were very large and upto 16 meters wide of diversion that we made over the
past year and that's where vehicles are following and he made a very nasty statement trying to blame the contractor, Reynolds Construction Company, and blame the federal government and even said he was going to the International Criminal Court.
"Now the accident was caused, as I was briefed by the carelessness of two drivers, who were struggling for right of way. They were
competing with their lives and the trailer and tanker that have fuel now collided.
"I think that the road safety should mount a number of checkpoints to examine people against 'Mkpurumiri' (ice) and other hard drugs because it is only 'Mkpurumiri' and other hard drugs that can make you use your life to compete and that's what happened.”
NSITF
Members allege leadership has refused to reform itself, form a new group Party sets up caretaker committee for Imo
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
The ripple effect of the resignation of a former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, had further results in massive resignation of more members of the party in Imo State.
The aggrieved members, who claimed the party leadership was not disposed to reform, have however, formed a new political group known as rebuild Imo movement.
This, notwithstanding, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, has announced a caretaker Committee to take over the affairs
of the party.
However, at a press conference addressed by Prof Jude Njoku, they said their decision to leave the PDP in the state was because of their leader, Ihedioha, who left the party and PDP leadership to effect reforms in the party.
According to the text of their press conference, they said, "The decision to leave the PDP was not easy for our great leader. The decision became necessary after deep reflection on the direction of the party.
“We are convinced that the time was right for us to join hands with other well-meaning citizens and groups in the effort towards engendering
democracy and good governance in our dear nation.
"Following the resignation of His Excellency Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, an unprecedented number of leaders and members of the party in Imo State, have followed suit.
“The mass resignation of majority members of the PDP in Imo State, which is still unfolding, is an expression of total confidence on the leadership of Rt. Hon, Emeka Ihedioha, whose integrity and democratic credentials endeared him to Imo people across party lines.”
Those who had resigned from the party included, former governor, Air
Commodore Dr. Luke Ochulor; former deputy governor, Gerald Irona, former ministers Charles Ugwuh, Chief Chuka Odom and BOT member, Chief Barr Chris Okewulonu.
Others were former NEC member of the party, Chief Henry Ekpe; former elected members of House of Representatives: Hon. ThankGod Ezeani, Hon Mayor Eze, Hon Uche Onyeagucha, Hon Ugonna Ozurigbo, Hon Obinna Onwubuariri and Hon. Jonas Okeke.
There were also the Chairman PDP elders committee, Prof Jude Njoku, Secretary PDP elders Committee, Prof. Obioma Iheduru, Members
of the South East Zonal Executive Committee, Chief Stanley Ekezie, Chief Augustine Elochukwu, two senatorial candidates of the party in the last election, including Chief Emmanuel Okewulonu.
There were four House of Representatives candidates of the party in the last election including, Hon Chibuzo Agulanna, former speaker and deputy speaker of Imo House of Assembly, Hon Lawman Duruji, Hon Okey Onyekamma, 27 former LGA IMC chairmen and 291 IMC members, who served under the Ihedioha administration.
House of Assembly candidates
in the last election including SunnyUnachukwu Chukwuemeka John, the PDP candidate for Ikeduru State Constituency, and other top leaders and financiers of the party across the state, including 29 out of 39 members of the State Executive Committee. Meanwhile, the. PDP in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said the NWC has, on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC), pursuant to Section 29(2)(b) of the PDP Constitution (as Amended in 2017), approved the composition of Imo State Caretaker Committee to run the affairs of the Imo State Chapter of the party.
already tottering towards an eclipse when they took over from Buhari.
Shettima, who made the call during the 2nd Chronicle Roundtable organised by 21st Century Media Services, publishers of 21st CENTURY CHRONICLE, as part of its public service enlightenment series in Abuja, was confident the economy would witness positive changes after the sacrifices.
Also, at another event, Shettima, yesterday, told the United Nations that the decision of the federal government to remove fuel subsidy was inevitable because the nation was literally subsidising the fuel consumption of the entire West African subregion.
At the same time, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr Mohammed Fall, said the body would collaborate with the Tinubu government to ensure the success of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria. For emphasis, however, he said, whoever had "succeeded the previous government would have either chosen to steer the ship through the storm as President Tinubu is doing or jumped ship and let the country implode."
Yet, in another breath, he declared: "Soon, Nigeria’s economy will experience significant growth once we've overcome these sacrifices. Positive changes will soon be evident across all economic indicators – inflation, per capita income, GDP numbers, poverty reduction, food security, and all aspects close to the hearts of our people."
Shettima observed that those, who contested the presidency with President Tinubu did not feel morally justified to question the decision to remove fuel subsidy, because it was part of the solutions they also tabled before Nigerians.
"This was because, whether in handling the subsidy matter or the forex crisis, they had also promised the solutions we had adopted. Those who attempted to eat their words were instantly proven wrong by data, history, and their antecedents—those
emotionless reality checkers," he pointed out.
Shettima, who was the Guest Speaker at the roundtable, explained some key policy decisions taken by the Tinubu administration as well as its economic and social agenda, including the removal of subsidy on petroleum products, which he described as the 'biggest elephant in the room' before President Tinubu took charge.
Appealing for patience and time to address the serious challenges they met on ground, especially the nation's ailing economy which was already tottering towards an eclipse, the Vice President reiterated his optimism.
"We look forward to the positive impact on the economy that will be brought by some of our new initiatives in the oil and gas sector, creative arts sector, the newly rejigged steel and solid minerals sectors, our housing sector, the blue economy, and the digital sectors, to mention but a few.
"There is no doubt that there’s a time to plant and a time to reap. In between those times, we appeal for patience and seek collective sacrifice from all, especially from us. We wish there were a way to treat this ailment without surgery."
In his speech titled: "Because These Shortcuts Are Not The Right Ways," Shettima noted that though the decision to remove fuel subsidy was quite tough considering its negative impact on the lives of the citizens, it became inevitable when it was discovered that the immediate past administration of Buhari did not make provision for it in the 2023 budget.
According to him, "President Bola Tinubu, chose the option that would save the life of the nation, instead of one that would merely prolong its imminent and predicted economic death. Before we took charge, the biggest elephant in the room was the question of fuel subsidy removal.
"We understood why our predecessor made the decision to remove it and refused to budget for it in their final fiscal year. The year
before we took office, Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio had grown to 111.8%.
“The anticipated debt crisis may sound like fancy economic jargon to the man on the street, but you and I are in a better position to understand how such miscalculations have played out in other countries. It’s an economic death sentence.
"In plain terms, our debt servicing was such that if you earned, say, N100,000, the entirety of the money wasn’t only paid to your debtor; you were forced to borrow an additional N11,800 to pay the debtor. How do you intend to survive this, and how many more loans before you become a pariah?
"We are not even discussing the nation’s budget deficits, diversions of resources from critical sectors of the economy, and corruption masterminded in the subsidy regime."
The Vice President regretted that for long, Nigeria had endured economic sabotage, leading to the resolve by Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Yemi Cardoso, and the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, "to take matters into their hands to neutralise the overpowering influence of currency manipulators who had conspired to frustrate our reforms.
"Today, I stand proud to say that their interventions have translated into desired results, and Naira’s pushback against all odds is an inspiring journey that doesn’t have to be learned in Buenos Aires, as some would want us to do," he added.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, chairman of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated and former Finance Minister, Dr Shamsudeen Usman, praised the content of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration, describing it as one of the most detailed and carefully crafted policy document in the history of the country.
He stressed the need for the Renewed Hope Agenda document to be reviewed and integrated into the
medium and long-term development framework of the country, noting that policy consistency with a long-term vision to transform critical sectors of the economy, is the way to go.
Usman also commended the administration’s establishment of a central coordination delivery unit to track the performance of programmes, policies and key interventions of the federal government, insisting that the monitoring of key performance indicators in the policy document was critical to the success of the government.
The CEO of the 2nd Chronicle Newspaper, Malam Mahmud Jega, had while welcoming guests to the event, said the need to critically analyse government policies and programmes was not just an expectation from the media but indeed borne out of the necessity to collectively contribute in shaping the nation’s development trajectory.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima, yesterday, said the decision to remove fuel subsidy was inevitable because the nation was literally subsidising the fuel consumption of the entire West African subregion.
Shetiima, who disclosed this while receiving a United Nations delegation, however, said Nigeria would work closely with the global body to address all of the country's challenges as a people.
Addressing the UN delegation, he said removing fuel subsidy and unifying exchange rates were tough but necessary decisions to rescue Nigeria from an economic "cul de sac."
Shettima said the Tinubu administration inherited a dire situation when it took over the government of former President Muhammadu Buhari last year.
"Fuel subsidy has been an albatross
around the neck of successive governments in Nigeria. We had two options – either we got rid of subsidy or subsidy will get rid of the Nigerian nation.
“We have to be our brother's keeper, but we were literally subsidising the fuel of the entire West African subregion," he told the UN delegation, in what seemed like a fresh revelation.
He noted that President Tinubu's decision to abolish the subsidy and unify exchange rates allowing the Naira to float freely "created a lot of challenges from the humanitarian end."
The Vice President assured the UN delegation that Nigeria would close ranks with the global body, saying, "we will work closely together to address all of our challenges as a people."
In his response, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr Mohammed Fall, said the body would collaborate with the Tinubu government to ensure the success of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria.
He however, said it was of the conviction that the success or failure of Africa depended on the country.
According to the global body, the progress of Nigeria translated to the development of Africa because if Nigeria did not make it, there was no chance for any country on the continent to make it.
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr Mohammed Fall, disclosed this when he led a delegation from the UN system in Nigeria on a courtesy visit to Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House, Abuja, yesterday.
Proposing a humanitarian response plan for Nigeria, Fall said, “If Nigeria doesn’t make it, there is no chance for any country to make it. If Nigeria lifts it here, not only our sub-region but the entire continent and the world at large will be on track for the SDGs.
“If we succeed in Nigeria, today, the whole of the continent succeeds, but
if we have challenges or difficulties to succeed in Nigeria, I am sure it is all of our continent that will be pulled down,” he maintained. On the proposed humanitarian response plan for Nigeria, Fall said, “The plan is beyond helping those who are in need but to set the ground for a transition towards medium and long term development.
“We need to act now. It is the only way to sustain the successes recorded by the government and other partners to reduce vulnerability in society.”
Commending the measures so far taken by the Tinubu administration to reposition the economy, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria emphasised that Nigeria was critical to the progress of Africa and must be supported to succeed.
He pledged UN system’s support for the reforms undertaken by the Tinubu administration, just as he sought the partnership of the federal government to initiate a social safety programme that would mitigate the impact of the reforms on the most vulnerable in the society.
“Your decision is commended everywhere but we (at the UN) felt that before we get the results, there is a high risk that it impacts the most vulnerable segments of our community. And at the UN, we stand next to you to try to look for solutions on how we can mitigate those impacts on the most vulnerable people.
“This is what we want and that is our first initiative – how can we do and work together to step up our work on the social protection front?
“To make sure that a safety net is in place, bring coherence, bring consistency in a way that helps us address vulnerability that is still prevailing in the country.
“The humanitarian situation in the north has improved and this is thanks to your leadership. But as we speak there is still a humanitarian need. There is still a need to save lives;there is still vulnerability,” Fall emphasised.
L-R: Divisional Head, Large Enterprises, Bank of Industry (BoI), Dr. Isa Omagu: Co-Chairman, iDICE Technical Committee, Dr. Femi Adeluyi; representative of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Dr Aristotle Onumo; Director General, National Council for Art and Culture, Mr Obi Asika, and representative of the Country Director, African Development Bank/ Divisional Manager, Human Capital Operations in West Africa & Nigeria, Tapera Jeffery Muzira, during the BoI- iDICE stakeholders’ engagement forum held in Lagos…yesterday
Laleye Dipo in Minna
Police operatives in Minna said they have arrested four ex-convicts for conspiracy and armed robbery in the Niger state capital.
A police statement made available to newsmen in Minna yesterday gave the names of the ex-convicts as Yahaya Mohammed of Kpakungu area Ayuba Simon (Douglas) Menasse Makama and Nuhu Azuka (Junior), of Maitumbi area.
arrests, prosecution and conviction for various terms of imprisonment.
Police Spokesman Superintendent Wasiu Abiodun, said in the statement that the four suspects confessed to have committed series of crimes including armed robbery and thuggery which led to their
Onuminya Innocent inSokoto
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar 111, has said that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has fulfilled its objective through nation building and uniting the nation and urged stakeholders of the scheme to sustain it.
Sultan Abubakar stated this during an interactive session with the 2024 Batch A Stream 2 corps members that were posted to Sokoto State
He urged Nigerians to embrace the scheme because of its immense contributions to national integration.
The Sultan enjoined corps members to continue to engage on nation- building initiatives and to always promote cultural and religious harmony among Nigerians.
The monarch also urged government and wealthy individuals to assist graduates with capital to set up businesses after their service year, saying white collar jobs, because of the high level of unemployment in the country.
According to him, such assistance would reduce poverty by providing employment opportunities as well as discourage youths from getting involved in criminal activities.
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
In a bid to equip young school learners with life-long skills and entrepreneurship for self-reliance, the federal government has disclosed that it is introducing a School-to-Work scheme to enable youths become productive and self-employed.
The Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, disclosed this yesterday during a meeting with Commissioners for Education, Executive State and FCT Universal Basic Chairmen,
Education Boards and UBEC on the School-to-Work Scheme.
Bobboyi, in his keynote address, disclosed that the target group for the scheme are learners in the junior secondary schools.
He added that it would provide them the opportunity to detect early in life where their talents and potential lie-between academic pursuit and vocational skills development.
“It is expected that ultimately, generations of school leavers who are productive, self-employed, and contributing to the economic well-being of the country will emerge.
Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia
Former Governor of Edo State, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, yesterday advised the federal government to emulate the industrialisation policy of the Nasarawa State Governor, Mr. Abdullahi Sule. Oshiomhole gave the advice while fielding questions on a political discussion programme on Channels Television, which was monitored from Lafia on Wednesday night. He, therefore, commended Governor Sule for taking the bold step to industrialise Nasarawa State, stressing that that was the way to go.
The former National Chairman
of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was particularly happy with Governor Sule for not crying over the situation he met in the state on assumption of office.
“I am very excited Sir, you are looking out, not crying over the situation you met in Nasarawa, maybe a civil service state. You are boldly taking steps to become one of the industrialised states. That is the way to go,” Oshiomhole stated.
He particularly commended the Executive Order introduced by Governor Sule mandating companies coming into Nasarawa State to mine solid minerals to also process the products locally.
Aboodun said the latest robbery by the four man gang was at Brighter Area of Minna where they invaded a residence, robbed the victim and carted away one
Honda Odyssey vehicle and other valuables before police detectives arrested them.
“The confessions of the suspects led to the recovery of the Honda Odyssey vehicle with Reg. No. AG 400 PAK, one POS machine,
a Samsung TV, two standing fans and other valuables from them” Abiodun said.
Adding: “The suspects are under investigation at “the Crack Squad office, Minna” and they will be charged to court for prosecution at
the conclusion of the investigation.” Abiodun also disclosed that a lone suspected armed robber , who robbed some students at the female hostel of the Federal University of Technology Minna Bosso campus, was also arrested
Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja
Residents Doctors at the Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja, (FTHL) yesterday protested the shortage of manpower and alleged obnoxious policies introduced by the management of the hospital led by Dr. Olatunde Alabi. The residents doctors in their
Blessing IbungeinPortHarcourt
Some Ogoni indigenes under the aegis of Ogoni Peoples Assembly (OPA),have blacklisted 29 contractors working for the HydroCarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) over alleged projects abandonment.
number displayed placards with various inscriptions such as: ‘We want to work, not to work and die,’ Don’t kill us, Stop using no work no pay to threaten us,’ Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja doctors are dying help,” give us call meals,’ end casualisation of doctors”Federal Government, Mr President, come to our aide, among others.
The Association of Resident Doctors , Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja protested round the hospital premises to register their grievances against the management of the hospital.
Addressing journalists, some of the protesting doctors who preferred anonymity for fear of victimisation, noted that their female colleagues have been loosing their pregnancies because of too much work load.
“The management of FTHL Lokoja has been very disappointing to us. One of the issue we have been raising with them for over time is shortage of manpower. I want to put it on record that in 2020, we have about 222 resident doctors in this hospital.
The contractors are among 39 who were handed over 39 oil polluted sites for remediation on April 27, 2023 for the duration of two years.
OPA Leader, Probel Williams, who raised the alarm in a statement in Port Harcourt, yesterday said only two per cent of the contractors have
made significant progress while the rest are foot dragging and are yet to even mobilised to site.
This situation, the group said, was unacceptable and “can no longer continue to be silent in the face of clear sabotage and lack of technical capacity by the contractors.”
They therefore, called for
the revocation of their sureties, performance bonds and APG within next seven days and process initiated for their “de-qualifications and delisting from any further contracts with HYPREP or any government agency in Nigeria for lack of performance and gross incompetence.”
Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Osun State Command under the leadership of Commandant Michael Adaralewa, has apprehended one Oladiti Saheed Toyin (m) 32yrs old, of No 2, Lakewu area, Ororuwo, Boripe
Local Government Area of Osun state for parading himself as a medical doctor.
He allegedly attended to pregnant woman during childbirth which led to her death.
The suspect whose highest qualification is Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) has been operating an unlicensed
clinic for the past six years and two months. He also has people who are undergoing training in his clinic as staff.
While making his confessional statement, the suspect, Toyin said on the 15th of April, 2024, a pregnant woman with nine months and three weeks pregnancy visited his hospital popularly known as Oloruntoyin Clinic at No 2, Lakewu area, Ororuwo, Boripe Local Government, Osun State. According to him, the pregnant woman could not continue her antenatal care at her previous hospital because she had misunderstanding with her husband.
Economists, policy analysts and stakeholders in Nigerian financial industry have listed education and electricity as factors that would set the country on the path for economic growth.
They stated this recently in Lagos at the Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer of FundQuest Financial Services Limited, Mr. Bisi Oni’s 60th birthday celebration.
Speaking at the event, Oni advised the government to take a focus on a sector that has linkages, especially electricity and education.
According to him, “Solve this problem because it has a multiplier effect on the economy. Electricity is central, without it, you cannot build infrastructure, effective transport and corporations. So the government must solve the electricity problem and you
will see so many things that will revolve around it.”
Giving his opening remarks, the MD/CEO of FundQuest Financial Services Limited, Abiodun Akinjayeju, explained that the theme of the discourse encapsulates a critical aspect of the country’s economic landscape.
A chartered accountant, Ms. Omafume Augustina Ayinuola, who has been denied bail twice by two justices of the federal high court sitting in Lagos has challenged the decision before the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division.
Omafume was arraigned by the Police from the Force Criminal Investigation Department (ForceCID) Annex, Alagbon, Ikoyi, Lagos, for allegedly defrauding a Nigerian stockbroker and entrepreneur, Peter Ololo, and his companies of N1, 072, 254 411 and $975, 102.58 respectively.
She was arraigned alongside her company, Patridia Resources Limited, on a 15-count charge bothering on conspiracy, unlawful conversion of funds, money laundering and fraud. However, her applications to secure bail pending trial were dismissed on two occasions.
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Four months after its 2024 fiscal policy became operational, the Abia State Government has come up with the “citizens’ version” of
the approved budget to enable the citizenry understand the details of the budget.
The implementation of the approved budget outlay of N567.24 billion commenced at the outset of the first quarter of 2024 but it appeared that
Dissatisfied, Omafume in her Notice of Appeal filed by her lawyer, Olubusola Ashiru is praying the court to set aside the ruling of Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court, in Lagos delivered on the 5th day of September, 2023 in Suit No: FHC/L/405C/2023 on the Appellant’s’ application for bail.
citizens were in the dark as to what the figures repesented.
At the presentation of the ‘Citizens’ budget’ held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Conference Centre in Umuahia, the state Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr.
Kingsley Anosike, gave a detailed breakdown of the 2024 budget. However, he did not hide the fact that the budget has a deficit of N319 billion which would be sourced through loans.
L-R: General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Onubogu; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; and Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig Gen Ebenezer O. Oduyebo, during a courtesy visit to the governor in Benin City...recently
Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki
A source also disclosed that a health centre in the community was among several buildings burnt and destroyed by the attackers.
Ezza Effium and Uffiom
No fewer than 10 persons were killed in a fresh attack at inikiri village in Ezza Effium community in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. The attack on the Umuezeoka community on May 1, 2024, also led to the destruction of property by the gunmen whose identities have not been ascertained.
Sylvester Idowu inWarri
The Vice-Chancellor of Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Professor Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, has been conferred with Ambassador of SMARTLIFE Award.
The Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SMART LIFE, Herman Van Niekerk, gave the award to Professor Rim-Rukeh last Wednesday during a Public Lecture organised by the university on the nexus of “Timing and Attitude.”
Van Niekerk, who also featured as the distinguished guest lecturer during the event, described the award as “a token of gratitude in honour of the. Vice-Chancellor’s commitment towards allowing
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I formally known and addressed as MR. OSOYONG ASUQUO SAMUEL, now wishes to be known and addressed as MR. OZEM OBASI SAMUEL. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.
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SMARTLIFE to participate in promoting its mentorship program for the enhancement of personal growth of the university’s students.”
The vice chancellor, while receiving the award, expressed profound gratitude to SMARTLIFE for the recognition and reaffirmed the university’s continued dedication to providing students with diverse learning experiences.
“I am honoured to receive this recognition, and I firmly believe that partnerships with organisations such as this are essential in preparing our students to successfully navigate the complexities of the modern world of the 21st century,” he stated.
Dike Onwuamaeze
The members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) have paid a glowing tribute to their past president in 1983 to 1984, Late Dolanimi Babafemi Olabamidele Ogutuga (FCA), during a special valedictory council session in his honour at the council chamber of the institute.
The 59th President of ICAN, Dr. Innocent Iweka Okwuosa (FCA), in his eulogy during the valedictory service, said that Ogutuga’s passing “leaves an irreplaceable void not only in our hearts but also the hearts across the vast expanse of the accounting community” in Nigeria.
According to Okwuosa, “Ogutuga embodied the principles of integrity, excellence and service that make the core of what it means to be a charted accountant.
“In this assembly we are gathered to remember the enduring legacies he has left behind. He was a beacon of commitment to the ideals and advancement of ICAN. A testament to a journey marked by profound impact and steadfast leadership.
people both in Effium town have been having an intra-communal crisis for about four years which has claimed hundreds of lives with thousands displaced.
A source, who spoke to THISDAY noted that Uffiom people were harboured by labouring Ngbo and Agala communities where they
coordinate their attacks on Ezza people.
Gory pictures of the victims showed little children, nursing mothers and elderly men in the village killed in the attack. The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, said he was not aware of the incident.
Ayodeji Ake
The former Minister of Information Prof. Jerry Gana, former Governor of River State, Donald Duke, and Prof. Steve Okecha have called for a state of emergency on the education system in Nigeria.
Speaking at the recent unveiling
of the book written by Prof. Steve Okecha, titled ‘The Nigerian University System: Downswings and Way Forward’, Prof. Gana lamented that the Nigerian university system is deteriorating and needs swift intervention for research and innovations.
“Creating an environment in
the university that can create inter-development research is important. We must celebrate creative thinkers to sustain them. Research and innovation are fundamental. To sustain academic excellence, institutions must prioritise research activities across disciplines.
“Balancing student engagement and teaching activities to ensure that all students have the opportunity to reach their potential. Unfortunately, in our universities today, the infrastructure is overwhelmed. Classrooms designed for 50 students now accommodate over 200 students.”
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Usaini Gumel, has said the Police Command under his watch has arrested and prosecuted more than 3,000 criminals for various offences in the last one year. Gumel disclosed this during an
interactive session with journalists as part of activities to mark his one year in office yesterday.
According to him, the offences included banditry, kidnapping, trafficking, armed robbery, human trafficking, illicit drug and thuggery.
He said the Command had also received and profiled a
total of 623 repentant thugs, whom are currently engaged by the state government in various life-changing empowerment programmes.
“Other heinous crimes committed include kidnapping, the threat of infiltration of bandits in LGAs, especially Falgore and
Danshoshiya forests, buying and selling of minors, motor vehicle theft, cross-border organised crimes, illicit drug dealings among others.
“Through collective efforts, we succeeded in fighting and bringing down the wave of crime in the state,” the commissioner added.
John Shiklam in Kaduna
The Nigerian Police have said that the proactive measures adopted on the Abuja- Kaduna highway has paid off with the arrest of 280 suspects on the highway and other parts of Kaduna state.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this yesterday at a press conference highlighting the achievements of the police in Kaduna in the past four months.
He said those arrested include 81-armed robbery suspects, 40 kidnap suspects, 73 murder/homicide suspects, 36 rape suspects, and 22 suspects involved in cult-related crimes and 28 suspects engaged in other criminal activities.
According to him, 158
kidnapped victims were also rescued while the total sum of N3, 350, 000, paid as ransom to kidnappers was recovered. Adejobi said further that 16 firearms of various types, along with 226 ammunition of diverse calibres were also recovered from the suspects.
Kayode Tokede
United Bank for Africa (UBA)
Plc yesterday held the second edition of its expanded Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP) where 400 graduates were inducted into the pan-African tribe after an intensive six months learning experience.
The graduates, from Nigeria, Ghana among other African subsidiaries, completed an intense capacity-building programme, combining learning with on-thejob training experience, garnered while rotating across the bank departments and units.
Speaking to the graduate at the 2024 GMAP in Lagos, the Group Chairman, UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu, stated that the ceremony simplifies that the financial institution is indeed a pan-African institution as it has participants across countries where it has presences.
Elumelu said: “Moments like this remind me of my own journey. It involved training, development and mentoring that helped me sharpen today’s Elumelu. What you have been through for the past six months is so important and remarkable in your career journey. You will cherish the six months spent in the classroom, difficult times and conditions that all prepared you for the task ahead.
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
The federal government has announced plans to hold a crucial retreat to address grey areas in relations between the federal government and states on managing challenges of the mining industry.
The Minister of Solid Minerals
Development, Dr. Oladele Alake, disclosed that he has initiated talks on the retreat between the ministry and the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State.
Receiving Katsina State Governor Dikko Umar Rada in his office, Alake emphasised that
the federal government places premium on Katsina State in its plans for the development of the mining sector because of large deposits of viable minerals.
Reiterating that solid minerals belong to the exclusive list, Alake urged states to seek the approval of the federal government before making policy pronouncement on mining activities.
He said: “If a state notices that an operator is conducting his operations against laid down procedures or regulations, we must be notified. Once we are notified, even if the state wants to take action, we give them our blessing.”
Assembly declared May 3 to be World
Press Day, to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press and remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression enshrined under Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Their call was contained in a statement announcing their collaborative activities to commemorate the 2024 edition of World Press Freedom Day (WPFD 2024) through separate events taking place in Lagos and Abuja on May 3.
Premier League top-four seeker, Aston Villa, have joined the race to sign Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho who is set to leave Leicester City this summer.
The Nigeria international has also been linked with Crystal Palace as well as Trabzonspor as an alternative option to Southampton loanee Paul Onuachu.
Aston Villa want to bolster their attack with the signing of another forward this summer and have identified Iheanacho as a potential target.
Ollie Watkins is the first choice striker at the club presently with Jhon Duran playing as a backup to the English international but they want to add another forward to the duo in the summer.
The Villans stand a good chance of participating in the UEFA Champions League next season and it is not a surprise that they want to inject more quality to their squad.
Iheanacho could be open to moving to Villa Park with his contract at Leicester City coming to an end in the summer and he has reportedly rejected a contract extension from the club.
He has fallen down the pecking order of Enzo Maresca recently, failing to make the matchday squad in the last four games, thereby making the chances of him leaving brighter.
Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbeemail:Duro.Ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
Femi Solaja with agency report
Flying Eagles Coach, Ladan Bosso, has said new Super Eagles Head Coach, Finidi George, will not be taking any risks to invite Benjamin Frederick for next month’s must-win World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin.
Frederick, 18, has signed a four-year contract with Premier
League club Brentford after he first shone with the Flying Eagles under Bosso last year.
“Benjamin Frederick is already ripe for the Super Eagles,” a proud Bosso told SCORENigeria
“This is a boy who has made the big jump, from Nigeria and directly to the Premier League.
“The (Super Eagles) matches against South Africa and Benin next month are very important
Zenith Bank Inter-Primary
The Primary School event of the 7th edition of the Zenith Inter-School Swimming Competition will take place at Ikoyi Club 1938 on Saturday May 4.
Chairman of the club’s swimming section, Ikedichi Kanu, said 15 schools will compete for honours in the youth event.
“We are all set for it and registration has been in process in the past weeks. The kids will have fun and we will be glad to see how they will display their skills in the competition,” Kanu said.
The Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Ebenezer Onyeagwu, has advised all participants to take advantage of the event.
“A journey of one thousand miles starts with just a step. We expect these kids to launch their career with this competition and get better in the years ahead.
“We are always passionate to stage youth sports events so that we can make impact in the career of young ones.”
Grange School emerged champions in the Primary and Secondary school events of the competition last year.
matches, but even if we were to play against world champions Argentina, Frederick will be good to go.”
Bosso was full of praise for the class and versatility of the former Flying Eagles star.
“He’s one player who I call small but mighty,” the Flying Eagles coach remarked.
“His football intelligence is great.
“He is also versatile as he can play at right back, central
defence or even as a box-to-box midfielder.
“At the U20 World Cup in Argentina, he was at his best, we could not do without him.”
Elderson Echejile, Brown Ideye, Efe Ambrose, Chukwuma Akabueze and Ikechukwu Ezenwa featured for the Flying Eagles under Bosso in the 2007 U20 World Cup in Canada before they went on to feature for the Super Eagles.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reiterated the desire of the administration to harness the transformative power of sports to deepen unity and cohesion in the country.
He made the remarks yesterday in Abuja when he received the management of Ministry of Sports Development, led by the Minister, Senator John Enoh, on a courtesy visit to his office.
He said sports have long served as a unifying force that transcends boundaries and brings people together irrespective of their religious, ethic or political inclinations.
“There is also something I think that we need to talk about and that is the issue of national integration and cohesion that all of us are aspiring to achieve.
“As you look forward to the ministry to partner with you to pursue sports development, we also look forward to the Ministry of Sports Development to forge further national unity and cohesion.
“If you are in doubt of what sports can do for our country, just
try to be on the streets when Nigeria is playing. Everybody forgets about North-south, South-west, North-east and North-whatever. Everybody comes together and nobody talks about the person who has scored whether he’s from my village or he’s from another village. Everybody talks about Nigeria; everyone wears the Nigerian flag on that day,” Idris said. He added that in a demonstration of his unprecedented support for sports development in the country, President Tinubu took a decisive action to offset about N12 billion in salary and allowances arrears owed to sportsmen and women as well as sports administrators as a form of motivation.
Idris believes that sports should be on the front burner of government’s priorities because of its significance role in nation building and development. He commended the Minister of Sport for the enthusiasm he has displayed so far in the development of sports in the country particularly the dazzling performance of the Super Eagles at the 2023 AFCON, preparations for the 2024 Olympics and the qualification of the Super Falcons for Paris 2024.
Paris St Germain is not used to playing the return leg at home in this season’s Champions League and coach Luis Enrique hopes their fans will make the difference when they try to overturn a 1-0 semi-final deficit against Borussia Dortmund next week.
Dortmund’s Niclas Fullkrug fired in a first-half goal to seal victory over visitors PSG who had more possession throughout Wednesday’s game but could not take their chances.
While PSG beat Barcelona in the quarters and Real Sociedad in the last 16, playing the second leg away both times, Luis Enrique knows their home fans could be crucial if they are to reach the final at Wembley on June 1.
“We saw an even match with two teams that play good football when they have the ball,” Luis Enrique told a press conference on Wednesday.
“We both created many scoring chances. This time our opponents scored and we didn’t. The result reflects how close the game was.
“In the last two rounds, they had the home game as their second game, whereas it was the other way round for us. Now it’s a different and new scenario, we’ll have the crowd on our side in the second leg.
“I would have liked to create the chances we have created, but you have to be effective to score. We’ll see what version we show in Paris.”
Despite creating more chances after the break, PSG lost without scoring for the first time across all competitions this season.
“We missed our chances in the second half,” PSG defender Achraf Hakimi told Canal+.
“We knew what they were going to do, with long through balls. We were very focused, the coach repeated it all week.”
PSG have progressed from two of their previous four Champions League knockout ties when losing the first leg, with the first of those coming against Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 in 2019-20.
“We’ve come back from 1-0 down before,” added PSG captain Marquinhos.
RESULTS
EUROPA LEAGUE
Marseille 1-1 Atalanta
Roma 0-2 Leverkusen
Aston Villa 2-4 Olympiacos
Fiorentina 3-2 Club Brugge
NTIC Student Wins Gold at Gov Bago Open Taekwondo Championship
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Nafisat Ibrahim, a student of the Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC) has clinched gold medal at Governor Umar Mohammed Bago Open Taekwondo Championship.
The maiden edition Governor Bago’s Takwando Open Championship took place last weekend at the Minna Township Stadium, Niger State.
In a statement yesterday, the Managing Director of NTIC, Mr. Feyzullah Bilgin, commended the student for her feat at the competition.
The statement read: “Nafisat Ibrahim of NTIC School taekwondo athlete, clinched the gold medal at the prestigious Governor Umar Mohammed Bago Open Taekwondo Championship.
“Congratulations girl! Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off!, “ concludes the NTIC statement.
TRUTH & REASON
Friday, May 3, 2024Price: N400
“The other thing which we notice is the age of those who have applied to go to the university. Some of them are really too young. We are going to look at it because they are too young to understand what a university education is all about. So if they are too young, they won’t be able to manage properly. That accounts for some of the problems we are seeing in the universities. We are going to look at that” –Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, reveals the FG’s plan to review and peg the entry age into universities in the country at 18 years.
akinosuntokun@thisdaylive.com
fa is the embodiment of the soul of the Yoruba nation and the repository of their knowledge, religious, historical and medical-Epega
As anyone who knows me well can attest, I have been engaged in the study of Yoruba prehistory, especially the Ifa aspect, in the past few years. Hitherto I had embraced this subject matter as a hobby. I transited from this leisure occupation to become a serious student of the subject at the University of Oxford where I was privileged with a one year fellowship at the School of Global and Area studies. I have always been predisposed towards the demystification of social reality, to shed light where there is darkness. This preoccupation has acquired a sense of urgency when it dawned on me that we are on the verge of losing the core of Yoruba history to a warped sense of post colonial modernisation.
In an excerpts from “The destruction of Black civilization”, the young traveller asked the old man, “What happened to the Black people of Sumer? For ancient records have it that the people of Sumer were Blacks. What happened to them?”* “Aaaaahhhhh!!!!” sighed the Old man, “They lost their history, and they died.”
Thoroughly beguiled by residual colonial mentality, self-willed ignorance and lack of self-confidence, people actually take pride in being perceived as detached from the moorings of their heritage and supplant same with the hypocritical posture of pseudo Christianity and Islam. They find it funny that anyone can publicly commit himself to the study of Ifa. Not knowing that the joke is actually on them.This is how successful the legacy of colonial brainwashing has become. They will pass off their immorality and decadence with the affectation of being born again Christians. Less than a month to her nemesis at the Ministry of humanitarian affairs, Betta Edu was waving her Christian identity in our faces and attributed her ministerial appointment to the intercertion of her spiritual father, Bishop David Oyedepo of the winners chapel fame. It will be interesting to know the disposition of Oyedepo to the uniquely fraudulent nature of his God daughter.
Irked at the persistent and prevailing defamation and demonisation of Ifa, Professor Wande Abimboa retorted “There are people we call Onisegun, they are not Babalawo. Babalawo does not do evil and if they stray from the straight and narrow path they become liable to the severest punishment.
My friend, Taiwo Lakanu, a retired Deputy Inspector General of police, related an experience he had while serving as commissioner of police in Delta state. They caught up with a notorious gang of armed robbers who had proved elusive for a long time but were unable to catch up with their spiritual mentor, a Babalawo. Of his own volition, the babalawo voluntarily gave himself up at the police station having come to terms with his ultimate fate of death by firing squad. He frequently came to chat with Lakanu who sought to alleviate his anxiety by giving him a false hope of reprieve from capital punishment. He waved off Lakanu and told him that he
knew he had two options. One is summary execution and the other is the fate that Orunmila had reserved for him for betraying Ifa with his evil conduct. He said Orunmila told him that he was going to run mad and would be conscious of his insanity. Given the two options, he had no difficulty opting for summary execution.
In his monumental work (Olodumare: God in Yoruba Belief) the former Primate of the Methodist church and pioneering scholar on Yoruba culture and tradition Professor Bolaji Idowu asserted that the predominant canon of Ifa is that good character (iwa) must be the dominant feature of a person’s life “..a person of a good character is called Omoluabi (one who behaves as a well born)..In odu ogbe ogunda, Orunmila once sought the means of success in life and was told that the only way was for him to marry iwa. He accordingly married iwa and became very successful. Hence everyone has been seeking after iwa, with the result that iwa became the mother of many children..”
Idowu bore the testimony that the greatest obstacle to efficacious worship is impurity of heart.
“Thus moral and ritual cleanliness have from time immemorial been accepted as a prerequisite of Yoruba worship”. It is laid down that a babalawo must not abuse his office in any way..Therefore no babalawo should use his position to enrich himself in any way; he must not refuse anybody his service on account of money-if any person is too poor to pay the customary pittance for divination, the babalawo must divine for him free of charge; or if the person cannot afford the prescribed sacrifice, the babalawo must take whatever he can afford....it seems, in fact, that the babalawo is under a vow of poverty, to spend himself in service of the community... now that materialism is the order of the day, this sacred injunction is largely disregarded, and there are many who appear not to know it at all. Charlatans abound “
He counselled that ‘we must begin to think deeply about our indigenous philosophical traditions, history and culture, and relate them
to the present”. Several decades later, Chiamanda Adichie echoed Idowu “If we reclaim our past, it will give us the confidence that comes from knowing who we are, we need more stories so that we can turn our myths into memory.”. It is noteworthy that the preponderance of earliest writers on Ifa were Christian clerics. These were Reverend Samuel Johnson, The Reverend E Lijadu, Bishop James Johnson, Dr J.O Lucas and Professor E. Bolaji Idowu, ‘who, regardless of being ordained priests of the Anglican communion, were able to free their minds of Christian prejudice, to undertake an examination of the merits of their native culture’.
Among the Yoruba, there is indeed something of a paradox in the contradiction between the subconscious individual belief in the relevance of Ifa to the resolution of any resurgence of crisis in human experience and a conscious social and collective disavowal of its reality. It is a paradox that is borne out in the ambiguity of individual and private accommodation of Ifa by those who simultaneously profess Christianity and Islam.
Newell S. Booth observed that whilst 95% of the Yoruba professed Islam or Christianity, the answer to the question of what percentage practice the traditional religion was equally 95%!. it is widely agreed that while only a small minority of the Yoruba identify themselves exclusively with the traditional religion, a large majority still relate to it for some purposes.
Abimbola lamented “It is not a mistake for people to practise a way of life different from the one practised where they were born. The problem comes when you reach a stage and throw away your original way of life. It is not a problem if someone travels to Mecca and returns with the Arab traditional cap. The problem comes when he decides to burn his traditional clothes because they are no longer good for him. That means the man is insane. We have taken foreign religion to a level of insanity”
On the philosophical concept of the cycle of birth and rebirth, three sages consulted Qrunmila and asked why man should suffer death at all.
Orunmila replied “The creator has bestowed death to man as a blessing. Life is a stream that flows out and flows back. When it flows out men call it Death. When it flows back they call it Rebirth. If the stream does not flow out and flow back, it becomes a cesspool stagnant with shameful impurities. Without Death there can be no Rebirth. And Rebirth is the invalid that travels out only to return home with newfound health”.
It may also come as a surprise to many that Ifa recommends and prescribes monogamy. Consistent with his rational disposition and persuasion, Orunmila recommended it as rational behaviour not as scriptural doctrine or dogma. His recommendation is encapsulated in the following odu. “Okan soso pere l’obinrin dun mo nile oko. Bi won ba di meji a d’ofofo; bi o ba di meta, won a di eta n tule, won ba di merin won a dika, won ba di marun, won a di aje…Translation:
The ideal choice, therefore is one wife. When they are two, they resort to gossip; when they become three, they destroy harmony in the homestead, when they are four, wickedness is let loose, when they become five, they embrace witchcraft etc
These were my ruminations when I was suddenly distracted by the recurring controversy on the related subject matter of Oduduwa and Oranmiyan and the allied supremacist struggle between Ile-Ife and Benin. The important element pertaining to this struggle is that the creation myth of both communities is almost synonymous. Against this backdrop I want to introduce another dynamic to the foggy contention over the emergence and reckoning of Oduduwa. This perspective does not reckon with the chicken and egg conflicting accounts of Ife and Benin as claimants to the paternity of Oduduwa. I contend that the relationship between Ife and Benin was quite close and intimate for whatever reason. There is, however, the suggestion that the true nature of the relationship will constitute an embarrassment to either party. To preclude this eventuality both parties resolved that neither of them must reveal the truth of what actually transpired between them and binded the resolution with the oath of fidelity and secrecy. They thereby deliberately contrived opacity and obfuscation of the true story.
This is what the Yoruba call imule (covenant) and the practice was rampant among the Yoruba, both ancient and modern. It is a recurring theme in Yoruba theatre and arts and whoever breaks the oath is liable to the severest penalty, usually death. It is not a coincidence that both parties commonly share the same creation myth. It is an evidence of how fraternal they were and might have instrumentalized the creation myth to supplant the awkward migration myth. Up to this day, no one knows the true story of the treasonable felony trial and conviction of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Mum is the response of the alleged participants especially those who went to Ghana to get militarily trained. Those who act this way are routinely believed to have enter into a covenant never to reveal the truth of their assignment.