Advonics Gets AQC Award Days After FEC Approved Railway, Aviation Security Equipment Supply, Installation
Oluwaseyi Adedotun
A frontline security outfit, Advonics Services Nigeria Limited (ASNL), was recently named the Best World Quality Security & Safety Products
& Services Company in Africa for the last Decade, by Africa Quality Congress (AQC), a few days after the Federal Executive Council (FEC), approved the supply and installation of security equipment for the nation’s
Railway Stations and Airports to the company.
The award was presented to Mr. Emmanuel Egboh, the Managing Director/CEO of ASNL, at the 9th African Quality Achievement
Awards (AQAA) held at the Civic Center, Lagos.
In selecting Advonics for the Awards, the AQC noted that the company, has maintained its leadership position in the industry,
by sticking to its long-sworn commitment of leveraging quality to develop creative solutions in the quality assurance and security field.
Speaking at the event, organised by World Quality Alliance (WQA)
and African Quality Institute (AQI), the MD/CEO, who was represented by Hon. Emeka Ajih, appreciated the Congress for the Awards and
Continued on page 33
Emefiele: Without CBN’s Monetary Tightening Regime, Inflation Would Reach 30.48% in April... Page 12
www.thisdaylive.com
Presidency: Tinubu Will Get Seamless Handover Ceremony, Aso Rock Emptied Already
Says president-elect, deputy have 60% of total invitees’ list
PDP challenges FG
over alleged plan to declare public holiday on Friday against Supreme Court ruling
Chuks Okocha and Emmanuel
Addeh in Abuja
The presidency, yesterday, said a ‘perfect’ arrangement had been put in place to ensure a seamless handover ceremony for the incoming Bola Tinubu’s administration, assuring that the embarrassing moments
that allegedly trailed the Goodluck Jonathan government on the day he exited office would not happen.
Speaking on the state-run Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Senior Special Assistant to President Muham-
Continued on page 36 madu Buhari on Media and Publicity,
Buhari, Finishing Strong, Seeks Support for APC, Tinubu
Declares he has difficulty coping with official pressure Charges security agencies not to relent in protecting citizens, nation At valedictory FEC meeting, president thanks ministers for loyalty, support since 2015 Keenly awaits tending his cattle in Daura
FINISHING FABULOUSLY...
President Muhammadu Buhari addressing State House staff shortly after the valedictory Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja... yesterday
Stories on page 33
PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI
Thursday 25 May, 2023 Vol 28. No 10270. Price: N250 TRUTH & REASON
THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 • THISDAY 2
THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 • THISDAY 3
THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 • THISDAY 4
Shettima: Akpabio, Barau Will Ensure National Stability, Unity
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Vice-President-elect, Senator Kashim Shettima, yesterday,
explained that the All Progressives Congress (APC) endorsed Senator Godswill Akpabio for the position of Senate President, because
his emergence would guarantee national stability, and unity. Shettima stated this when Akpabio and Senator Jibrin Barau,
visited him in company with some senators-elect, who were members of the Stability Group working for the emergence of the
Gbajabiamila, Wase Clash at Plenary
Udora Orizu in Abuja
The Speaker of House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and his Deputy, Hon. Idris Wase openly clashed during plenary yesterday over the announcement by the Speaker that the Order Paper for today be made lighter to allow members attend the official Commissioning of the permanent site of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies(NILDS).
Before adjourning the plenary, the Speaker announced that the NILDS permanent site along Airport Road would be commissioned by 3.00pm today by President Muhammadu Buhari.
He asked the Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, Hon. Hassan Fulata to ensure that the order paper was not crowded by the day’s business so that the House could adjourn early enough for the event.
But Deputy Speaker, Wase said
the primary business of the House was lawmaking and other official businesses, adding that the commissioning of NILDS headquarters was not enough to adjourn the House.
Wase said members willing to attend the commission could do so while the business of the House was not disrupted.
But the Speaker said: “DS, may be the importance of NILDS is not clear to you like it is to some of us. We are not adjourning the House for members to attend the commissioning. I said the order paper should be made lighter because I will attend the commissioning.
But Wase fired back saying, “Mr. Speaker, the House is not about I, but us.”
Gbajabiamila first ignored his Deputy, made another announcement before returning to address him saying, “DS, I have been in this House long enough to know that this is the first time in the history of this House that a Deputy Speaker
will openly oppose what the speaker says.”
Turning to the Chairman of the Committee on Rules and Business, Gbajabiamila said: “make the order paper light for tomorrow. This House will adjourn at 2.00pm” while members present at plenary screamed carried
‘Uzodimma Not against APC's Choice of Senate President’
Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, was never part of any overt or covert gang-up to scuttle the All Progressives Congress (APC) choice for the Senate President.
The Imo State Government, which debunked the allegation yesterday said the governor could not have been associated with such a plan being a loyal party man to the core.
The government said media reports linking Uzodimma to mischievous plan of any group to
support a Senate President other than the one chosen by the APC was unfounded.
In a statement in Owerri, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon Declan Emelumba, explained that, "At no time did Uzodimma contemplate working against the choice of APC and the President-elect, Alhaji Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the leadership of the 10th Senate.
"As a loyal party man, the governor will stand firmly behind the choice of any person or persons chosen by the APC and the presidentelect to lead the 10th Senate, and will in fact, work assiduously for their emergence.
"The governor as a loyal party man would never work against the choices of the party talkless of supporting another candidate," adding that "since Uzodimma joined politics over forty (40) years ago, his reputation and integrity as a loyal party man has remained unassailable."
APC anointed candidates for the position of Senate President and Deputy Senate President.
The group of senators-elect was led by Senator Ali Ndume.
Shettima told his guests that the choice of Akpabio as the number three citizen in the country was the best decision made by the party leadership and the President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Noting that it was in the interest of a stable polity based on competence, Shettima said, "Politics shouldn't be a means of disuniting our people.
"It should rather be a means of uniting us. The President-elect and the vice-president elect are both Muslims. It is in the interest of the stability and unity of this country that the next position be given to the Christian faith, if not, it would further validate the allegations in some quarters that there were plans by the APC to execute an Islamism agenda in the country.
"Doing so would also be an insult to our Christian brothers and sisters who stuck out their necks to support us. That was why I was quite pleased with the choice of the party leadership that my uncommon brother and leader in the person of Senator Godswill Akpabio should be
the number three citizen of this country.
"The stability of this nation is much more important than whatever political considerations we may think of. We need to have a stable and united nation before we can talk about politics and positions. This is what our leader could do to unite this country in the current circumstances.
"Akpabio had the exposure, competence and experience to occupy the office of the Senate President in the 10th Senate, ditto Senator Barau, his deputy. Apart from the need for religious balancing, competence and experience also came into play in our choices.
"Senator Abdulaziz Yari, is my brother and friend. We became governors together in 2011 to 2019 on the same political platform, but the nation is superior to other personal considerations. I am quite happy with what I see here today. It is a reflection of those who crave stability and unity of this country in a bipartisan manner."
Akpabio, in his response, on behalf of the Solidarity Group congratulated the Vice Presidentelect on his election, and described his choice as the right step in the right direction, saying, "Your (Shettima's) choice is putting a square peg in a square hole."
Ugochinyere, 62 Others Endorse Abass, Kalu for Speakership
Udora Orizu in Abuja
Spokesman of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, and 62 members-elect from the opposition parties, have endorsed the All Progressive Congress (APC) consensus candidates, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for Speaker, Deputy Speaker of the 10th National Assembly. Ugochinyere, who's the memberelect representing Ideato North South Federal Constituency, made this known at a live press conference
in Abuja, yesterday. He called on other candidates in the race who were banking on opposition votes to stage a rebellion against the Tajudeen Abbas/Benjamin Kalu ticket to withdraw from the race as the opposition votes they were banking on would no longer be available for them.
While describing Abass and Kalu as men of integrity, and competence to preside over the affairs of the 10th House of Representatives, Ugochinyere said it was time for national development, growth and
stability and not the time for party politics.
He called on the APC not to do anything that would tarnish the character of Abbas and Kalu or the independence of the House if the duo emerged victorious.
The CUPP spokesman stated that controversy that the House Rules were tampered with were not true, but that the House Rules were last printed in December 2020 and not after the 2023 election and by the Rules, the election would be by open ballot system.
5 THURSDAY, THISDAY
AbassKalu
WORKSHOP FOR JUDGES ON BANKING AND FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR...
Judgement Debt: Buhari Seeks Senate Approval
for $566.7m, £98.5m,
N226.2bn Promissory Note
Don't approve president’s fresh loan request, Afe Babalola tells lawmakers
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
Barely five days to the end of his administration, President Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday, asked the Senate to approve a request to pay judgement debt in the sums of $566,754,584.31, £98,526,012.00, and N226, 281,801,881.64.
But legal Icon and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Chief Afe Babalola, called on the Senate and House of Representatives to decline an $800 million fresh loan request tendered by Buhari.
Buhari said the federal government owed the judgement debt through the issuance of promissory notes.
Buhari’s letter of request was read at plenary by Senate President Ahmad Lawan.
Promissory Note is a signed document containing a written promise to pay a stated sum to a specified person or the bearer at a specified date or on demand. It ensures that a borrower agrees to be indebted to a lender for loan repayment.
Buhari's letter read, “The Distinguished Senate President may wish to be informed that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at its meeting of March 29, 2023, approved the liquidations of
top priority judgement debts and general judgement debts owed by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) through the issuance of promissory notes.
“The judgement debts are to be settled through the issuance of promissory notes, which will then be redeemed over time through provisions in the budgets of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
"Thus, debt securities have been issued for the settlement of the judgement debts and approval of the National Assembly is required for this purpose.
“In view of the foregoing, I wish to request the Senate to kindly consider and approve through its resolution the settlement of the top priority judgement debts and general judgement debts incurred by Federal MDAs in the sum of $566,754,584.31, £98,526,012.00 and N226,281,801,881.64 through the issuance of promissory notes.
“The Honourable AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Minister of Justice and the Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning shall provide any information that may be required by the Senate for the consideration of this request.”
However, Babalola urged the National Assembly to decline the $800 million fresh loan request tendered by Buhari. Babalola stated
this yesterday, while addressing newsmen at a public lecture organised in his honour by the Adetunji Fasanmi-led Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Ado Ekiti branch, held at ABUAD.
The 12th series of the lecture was part of the 2023 Law Week in the state.
Babalola said Nigeria was suffering from the trauma of outstanding debts; hence, there was no reason for fresh loans, especially, when the president would exit office on May 29. He pointed out that no country or financial institution would lend the country money, considering the trillion dollars in debt it owed.
According to Babalola, "How can we be owing so many trillion of dollars and yet when you are about to leave office, you are asking for another $800 million?
"If you have the right type of House of Assembly, they would say, no. They would say they can't do it, because the interest would be high and there are outstanding debts on ground.
"How can you be an undeclared bankrupt, and yet borrowing money? It's not allowed, I don't think anyone can still give us further loans to the trillions of naira we are owing now and I believe that the parliament will reject it."
Buhari recently sought the approval of the National Assembly for a fresh $800 million loan to finance the National Social Safety Network Programme (NSSNP). He said the programme was intended to expand coverage of shock responsive safety net support among poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
Earlier, Fasanmi noted that the 2023 Law Week was crucial
and monumental, considering the timing and current happenings in the country.
The NBA chairman said, "This year's event is monumental because it is happening at a time when Nigeria, our dear country, is passing through a democratic transition. Hopes are high and expectations are in the altitude for economic restoration and national development in the new
dispensation."
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, in his address, pledged partnership with the NBA state chapter in the formulation of right economic policies.
Oyebanji, represented by Femi Onipinde, hailed the role of NBA in the state, adding that his partnership with NBA will foster unity and smooth running of his administration.
Nigeria’s GDP Growth Slows to 2.31%, Driven by Non-oil Sector in Q1
Oil production increased to 1.51mbpd
James Emejo in Abuja Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate slowed to 2.31 per cent (year-on-year) in real terms in the first quarter of the year (Q1, 2023) compared to 3.52 per cent recorded in the preceding quarter, and 3.11 per cent in Q1 2022, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) disclosed yesterday. The NBS attributed the decline in GDP to the adverse effects of the cash crunch experienced during the quarter.
However, it pointed out that the economy was largely driven by the non-oil sector which contributed 93.79 per cent to growth while the oil sector contributed 6.21 per cent.
According to the GDP Report for Q1 2023 which was posted on the NBS website, aggregate GDP stood at N51.24 trillion year-on-year in nominal terms compared to N45.31 trillion in Q1 2022.
This represented a year-on-year nominal growth of 13.07 per cent.
Real GDP stood at N17.75 trillion.
In Q1, average daily oil produc-
Paris Club Refund: FG Orders Stoppage of Deductions, Directs Refund to States
Kwara’s Abdulrasaq emerges new NGF chair, Makinde is deputy Gombe governor leads northern colleagues
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
The federal government, yesterday, ordered the immediate stoppage of further deductions from the federation account over the Paris Club Funds and immediately directed a refund to the states, the deductions so far made.
In another development, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has elected the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, as its new chairman for the next four years. At the same time, the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, was elected the vice chairman of the governors’ forum.
Also, the Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, has been elected the new Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, ahead of the
next dispensation kicking off May 29, 2023.
In a communiqué at the end of the governors’ meeting released in the early hours of yesterday, outgoing chairman of the NGF, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal said the governors "were briefed by the Chairman of the Forum that the Minister of Finance, has granted the request of the Forum to immediately stop further deductions from the accounts of States to meet Local Government Councils London Paris Club obligations and the monies so far deducted paid back to the states."
In 2005, the Paris Club in Nigeria, justified the federal government’s economic reforms as far-reaching and focused and therefore cancelled 60 per cent of the country’s $30bn debt.
Between 1995 and 2002, before
the debt was written off, the federal government had agreements with state governments to deduct certain amounts from their federal allocation to service the debts.
Following a final agreement with the club in October 2005, some states that had been over-charged in the debt servicing arrangement, applied for a refund.
However, in December 2016, the federal government agreed to refund the states but in three tranches. The first and second tranches had been released.
But controversy arose over money that would be paid to the consultants that facilitated the fund.
The controversies led to series of legal actions, accusations and counter-accusations that the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of
the federation, Abubakar Malami, supported the consultants against the governors.
As the controversies raged, the NGF opted for a legal solution to the dispute over the federal government’s planned payment of the $418 million Paris Club Refund fee to consultants.
The governors, in a communique after one of their meetings, said, “Regarding the $418 million Paris Club Refund and promissory notes issued to consultants by the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Debt Management Office (DMO), the forum remains resolute in exploring all legal channels available to it in ensuring that resources belonging to states are not unjustly or illegally paid to a few in the guise of consultancies."
The communiqué also stated that Governor AbdulRazaq has
emerged Chairman of NGF for the new regime, while Makinde emerged his deputy.
He emerged by consensus at a closed door meeting of the governors held in Abuja, Tuesday night.
The Kwara governor is to succeed Tambuwal, who has been acting chairman since last year. This was contained in statement by Tambawul.
Immediate past governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, was the substantive chairman of the NGF until his second term in office as governor ended last year.
Tambuwal, who was Fayemi’s deputy then was named as acting Chairman of the Forum.
Meanwhile, Yahaya has been elected as the new chairman of the Northern Governors Forum.
tion increased to 1.51 million barrels per day (mbpd), higher than 1.34 mbpd in the preceding quarter by 0.17mbpd and 1.49mbpd recorded in Q1 2022.
The services sector contributed 57.29 per cent to the aggregate GDP, agriculture 21.66 per cent, and industries 21.05 per cent in the period under review.
Others included manufacturing 10.13 per cent, trade 12.28 per cent, and finance and insurance 5.35 per cent.
Furthermore, information and communication sector contributed 17.47 per cent to GDP in Q1.
The NBS stated, “Although the growth of the industry sector improved to 0.31 per cent relative to -6.81 per cent recorded in the first quarter of 2022, agriculture, and the industry sectors contributed less to the aggregate GDP in the quarter under review compared to the first quarter of 2022.
“The real growth of the oil sector was –4.21 per cent (year-on-year) in Q1 2023, indicating an increase of 21.83 per cent points relative to the rate recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2022 (-26.04per cent).
“Growth increased by 9.18 per cent points when compared to Q4 2022 which was –13.38 per cent.
On a quarter-on-quarter basis, the oil sector recorded a growth rate of 20.68 per cent in Q1 2023.
“The oil sector contributed 6.21 per cent to the total real GDP in Q1 2023, down from the figure recorded in the corresponding period of 2022 and up from the preceding quarter, where it contributed 6.63 per cent and 4.34 per cent respectively.”
THURSDAY, THISDAY 6 NEWS Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0809 7777 322, 0807 401 0580
L-R: Chief Judge of Osun State, Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo; Administrator, National Judicial Institute (NJI), Justice Salisu Garba; Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele; Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola; President, National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Justice Benedict Kanyip; Chief Judge of Imo State, Justice Ijeoma Agugua; and Director, Legal Services Department, CBN, Mr. Sirajuddin Kofo Salam-Alada, at the opening of the Judges’ Workshop on Banking and Financial Services Sectors, held at the National Judicial Council (NJI), Abuja... yesterday
THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 • THISDAY 7
ACCESS HOLDINGS' FIRST AGM...
Lawmakers Call for Forensic Audit of NNPCL over Discrepancies in Fuel Importation Between
2015 and 2023 Insist no data on daily consumption of fuel
Orizu in Abuja
The House of Representatives has called for the forensic audit of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) in order to unravel discrepancies in the importation and supply petrol from 2015 to date.
According to the House ad-hoc committee on the volume of fuel consumed daily in the country, the audit would give clarity on the Direct Sale, Direct Purchase (DSDP) programme and the consortiums of DSDP operators.
The committee whose report was considered and adopted at plenary
yesterday, found that there were no data to conclusively arrive at the daily consumption of petrol, hence records or information on the daily dispense at the various retail outlets/fueling stations were not readily available.
The ad-hoc committee chaired by Abdulkadir Sa’ad Abdullahi (APC,
Sokoto), said it extracted information from the NNPCL submission in comparison with the Nigerian Midstream Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Nigerian Navy (NN) and Nigerian Customs Service (NCS)
UBA GMD: Women Must Be Empowered for Africa to Unlock its Abundant Opportunities
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Group Managing Director of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Oliver Alawuba, yesterday declared that African women must be empowered to become critical stakeholders in the development agenda before the continent could unlock its abundant opportunities which are in its people, natural resources and talents.
Alawuba stated this in Lagos, during the UBA Africa Conversation 2023, with the theme “Innovating the Continent for Growth,” which reflected the United Nations’ and the Africa Unions’ vision of innovation, technology and the need to create opportunities in the continent.
He said: “The irony of African challenge is that in Africa we have challenges and opportunities sitting side by side. Now between the opportunities and the challenges there can be a gap. How big the gap is, is actually the conversation. If you think the gap between the challenges and Africa is huge then the conversation will take too long.
“But for us in the UBA, we believe that between the challenges and the opportunities is a thin line. And we are committed to unlocking the opportunities in other to fill up those challenges.
“This year too, we are believing that women of Africa need to be celebrated. And we think for us to unlock those opportunities, we must empower African women to be critical stakeholders in the development agenda for Africa.
“So today, we have carefully chosen this conversation to celebrate the achievements of the African women. We are going to have a panel today that will be really amaze you and give you the confidence that we are on the right path to
development.”
He stated that UBA Group was expressing its believe in empowering women by ensuring that over 50 per cent of members of its board were made up of women, adding that the bank was committed to developing financial products that would address the needs of the African woman.
“In the UBA too,” says Alawuba, “we will continue to develop products that will speak to the challenges that African women are going through in their businesses and their workplaces.
“You would like to know that in UBA we are the banks with the highest number of female directors on the board. Over 50 per cent of our board members are females. And out of those women we have three executive directors. In fact, for the first time in the life of the UBA, we have one of the executive directors as the chief executive officer of the UBA Ghana. And she is one of the panelists that you are going to hear from today.”
He added: “We know that in Africa we have a continent of vast opportunities, talents and resources that we need to unlock.
“So, as individuals and as corporates we need to corporate with each other to innovate and create the change needed to develop this continent. The time to develop it is now. The people to develop it are we here. And like our group chairman will always say ‘no one but us can develop Africa.’”
The GMD of UBA further stated that he believed that the founders of the African Union (AU) had today and, “us in mind in all their discussions when they believed that a time would come, and that time I do say is now, when we take up the challenge to develop this
continent for ourselves and our future generation.”
He explained that a look at UBA’s vision and mission statements would highlight two critical words: Africa and institution.
“So, our institution is more than a bank. UBA is more than a bank. We have a mission to change Africa. We have a mission to change the world. And we believe that once we change Africa, we will indeed change the world,” he said.
Alawuba noted that the theme for this year’s conversation was apt to the challenges and economic problems that Africa is going through now in a world of turmoil.
He said the 2023 conversation was part of the UBA’s annual Africa Day celebration because the banking institution is highly committed to Africa becoming the continent of the future.
“So, the month of May is a month that everyone in UBA
looks up to because we believe that Africa needs to be celebrated. Our culture and our uniqueness as Africans need to be celebrated too,” he said.
The 2023 UBA Africa Conversation was graced by the Group Chairman of UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu, who lent support to the event that commemorated Africa Day.
The all-female choice panelists were made up of the Chief Executive Officer of UBA Ghana, Ms. Abiola Bawuah; President and Group Chief Executive Officer of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp), Mrs. Owen Diana Omogiafo; Business and Technology Executive, Ms. Foluso Gbadamosi; the current holder of Guinness World Record for Longest Cooking Time, Ms. Hilda Effiong Bassey and the Creative Director and Founder Bankee Kuku, Ms. Bankee Kuku-Lawson.
relating to the crude oil lifted under the DSDP programme operated by the NNPCL within the period of Year 2016-2021.
The committee therefore found that the sum total of 974,550,000 Barrels (BBL) of crude was designated as the domestic quota for the year 2016-2021 available for the DSDP programme, from the record of NUPRC.
It also found that, "the total sum of crude lifted under the DSDP program within 2016-2021 from the record of NNPCL was 738,759,194 (BBL) while record from the NUPRC indicates a sum total of 733,260,525 (BBL), with a difference of 5,498,669 (BBL) when compared with the NNPCL record.
“The record from the NMDPRA indicates a sum total of 732,319,016 (BBL), with a difference of 6,440,178 (BBL) when compared with the NNPCL record.
"The record from the NN indicates a sum total of 989,562,195 (BBL), with 250,803,001 (BBL) in excess, when compared with the NNPCL record, and the record from the NCS indicates a sum total of 498,647,923.318 (BBL)."
The committee noted that the daily average of PMS supply within the years 2017 to 2022, as presented by NMDPRA was at variance with the other stakeholders such as the NNPCL.
On the storage of PMS the committee found that there were 242 depots approved for operations in Nigeria, 143 received fuel from 20172022, while six of them received the product within the period through
they are not on the list of depots approved for operation in Nigeria. The lawmakers said some of the depot owners were gradually closing down their investment, due to the harsh and unhealthy economic conditions under which, they were constrained to operate.
According to the committee, over 5,000 km network of pipeline connecting the federation, which was deemed to be the cheapest and the safest means of transporting or distributing petroleum products had been abandoned due to theft, vandalism and economic sabotage.
They noted that a truck distributing PMS conveys an average of 41,000 litres contrary to the regulated quantity of 33,000 liters, adding that the sum total of 66,703,905.72 liters estimated as the daily average supply of PMS in 2022 by NMDPRA, it will require an average of 1,519,4 trucks moving between locations on a daily basis.
"There is delay in the supply of the PMS by the NNPC/PPMC after payment. The delay, consequently resulted into huge accumulated interest on the loan obtained from banks by depot owners.
“Indiscriminate offer of credit sales by NNPC/PPMC to selected depot owners, thereby creating unfair platform for competition; indiscriminate access to foreign exchange by selected marketers, while others are compelled to patronise the parallel market to obtain their forex in spite of the huge significant difference, thereby creating unhealthy rivalry in the industry," the lawmakers alleged.
House C’ttee Reinvites Malami, Ahmed over Illegal Sale of 48 Million Barrels of Crude
Juliet Akoje in Abuja
The House of Representatives
Ad hoc Committee investigating the alleged illegal export of 48 million barrels of crude oil to foreign destinations, yesterday, re-invited the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Abubakar Malami, and the Minister of Finance, Dr Zainab Ahmed, to appear today, Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 10:00 am unfailingly.
Chairman of the House Ad-hoc Committee, Hon. Mark Terseer
Gbiillah, re-issued the summon during the ongoing three days investigative hearing on the $2.4 billion alleged to have been siphoned by oil companies and some government agencies on the deal.
At the resumed hearing, the Committee said the two ministers were to come and shed lights on the whistleblower policy of the federal government and provide the committee with all requested documents on the issue under probe by the House. The lawmakers had earlier
grilled the Director of Development of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Mr. E. Amadusun, over the N21 billion paid as loyalty by oil companies to the coffers of the agencies.
They demanded from many oil companies invited to the hearing, their pre-shipment inspection certificates, detail of vessels used for the export of crude, financial accounting of the lifting and the details of their banking as well as the statements to unravel the truth.
Responding to questions,
the Operational Manager of of Millennium Oil and Gas, Mr Kingsley Etuk Akpan, informed the lawmakers that 20 Square KM oil field was acquired by the firm. Akpan while responding to further questions on whether his company had documents in support of the ownership, he answered affirmatively, adding that the operational document was from Shell, and disclosed to that they bided for the contract as letter of award, among other documents, were intact in their custody.
8 THURSDAY, THISDAY NEWS
L-R: Independent Non-Executive Director, Access Holdings Plc, Fatimah Bello-Ismail; Non-Executive Director, Roosevelt Ogbonna; Group Chief Executive, Herbert Wigwe, and, Chairman, Bababode Osunkoya, during the 1st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Access Holdings Plc held in Lagos ... yesterday
Udora
valedictory address valedictory address valedictory address
President Muhammadu Buhari addressing s tate House staff after his valedictory cabinet meeting as he prepares to leave office May 29
THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 • THISDAY 9
L-R: Secretary to Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari on the right cheering the President Muhammadu Buhari in the middle as he addresses State House Staff ... yesterday
GroUP caBiNet PHotoGraPH aFter valedictory Fec MeetiNG...
President Muhammadu Buhari with the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (center ) in a group photograph with members of the Federal Executive Council shortly after the valedictory session held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja …yesterday
THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 • THISDAY 10
THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 • THISDAY 11
COMMEMORATING AFRICA DAY WITH UBA CONVERSATION...
Emefiele: Without CBN’s Monetary Tightening Regime, Inflation Would Reach 30.48% in April
Says apex bank to adopt moderate contractionary policy as MPR increases to 18.5% Urges Dangote to make petrol cheaper for Nigerians, having benefitted from government funding Says with local refining capacity, time’s ripe for subsidy removal, estimates 20% savings from $25 billion annual import bill Projects $5 billion to $10 billion in FX accretion Warns Nigeria’s oil production at dangerous low
James Emejo in Abuja
Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, yesterday, said save for the contractionary monetary stance adopted by the bank since May 2022, the country’s inflationary pressures would have been higher by over 800 basis points.
Emefiele said without the bank’s efforts, inflation would have been 30.48 per cent, compared to the current 22.22 per cent recorded in April.
The CBN governor made the clarification against the backdrop of concerns that the continued hike in the benchmark interest rate had not helped to douse inflation.
Addressing journalists at the end of the two-day meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) in Abuja, Emefiele said the committee noted the persisting uptick in inflation, as headline inflation (year-on-year) rose to 22.22 per cent in April 2023, from 22.04 per cent in the preceding month. He added that this amounted to a moderate increase of 0.18 percentage point.
He said the recent uptick was driven largely by the increase in both the food and core components, which rose moderately to 24.61 and 20.14 per cent in April 2023, from 24.45 and 19.86 per cent, respectively, in March 2023.
Emefiele’s assertions came as the MPC resolved to raise the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), otherwise known as interest rate, by 50 basis points to 18.5 per cent, from 18 per cent.
The MPR is the rate at which the central bank lends to commercial banks and often determines the cost of funds in the economy.
Emefiele said the moderate hike in MPR was made to further rein in inflation, adding that the lingering
insecurity in major food-producing areas; high cost of transportation driven by rising energy costs; activities of middlemen in the food distribution channels, as well as the persistence of shocks from legacy infrastructural bottlenecks, remain major drivers of the inflationary pressure.
Emefiele said if the apex bank had not taken aggressive actions along the line, inflation would have been unbearable for Nigerians currently. He
declared that taming headline inflation through a hike in MPR remained at the heart of the apex bank’s policy, adding that it is a global phenomenon, which has started yielding positive results for the country.
Emefiele, however, assured that CBN would no longer be aggressive in MPR adjustment, but would maintain moderate adjustments going forward in order not to blur the gains so far achieved through prior interventions.
He said the MPC was convinced that monetary actions so far deployed had impacted positively on the economy. The CBN governor said the newly inaugurated Dangote Refinery could save the country about 20 per cent of its $25 billion annual import bill as well as attract an additional $5 billion to $10 billion in foreign exchange into the country. He further pointed out that with the country’s new local refining
capacity, the time was ripe for the federal government to finally eliminate petrol subsidy.
Emefiele made a passionate appeal to Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, to ensure that petrol was sold at a cheaper price to Nigerians, given that the CBN and the federal government had helped in funding the new refinery.
...Efficient, Fair Judicial System Crucial to Economy
Ariwoola: Collaboration key to navigating challenges posed by modern banking, digital services
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, yesterday said an efficient, fair and just judicial system remained critical to strengthening confidence in the economy and bolstering the apex bank's efforts to attract domestic and foreign direct investments into the country.
Speaking at the opening of the 2023 CBN Capacity Building Workshop on Banking and Financial Services Sector for Judicial Officers
in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja, he said investors are more willing to invest in jurisdictions where the rule of law takes prominence in shaping business and investment decisions.
Emefiele said the judiciary helps to ensure that all parties adhere to legal and ethical standards, and individuals and businesses can seek relief through the law courts on violations of agreements.
This is as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola said collaboration between the judiciary,
financial regulators, and industry stakeholders remained of utmost importance “if we must successfully navigate the challenges posed by modern banking and digital services”.
Emefiele said, “They can also be sure that disputes will be treated swiftly and fairly in accordance with the prevailing laws. The presence of a fair and just legal system will help in attracting much-needed foreign investments.
“Such investments will help to reduce pressure on our foreign reserves, enhance monetary and
Abuja, Kano Airports Concession Didn't Follow Due Process, NLC, Unions Insist
Issues caveat emptor to firms
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliate unions in the country's aviation sector have opposed the recent concession announced by federal government of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and the Aminu Kano international Airport in Kano.
The NLC and the unions warned the firms involved in the concession deal over the two airports to steer clear from the facilities, insisting that the whole exercise was fraught with illegalities and lacked transparency.
They said the hasty concession deal amounted to setting a bubby trap for the incoming administration
as it was bound to fail.
In addition, the unions alleged that purported concession of two airports was handled in a most secretive manner.
They said, "from the selection of the Transaction Adviser, through the pre-qualification and selection of bidders/winners, to the development of the Full Business Case and conclusion of the concession, only the Minister, his henchmen in the Ministry and the ICRC and the favoured bidder, apart from the wind and walls, have any inkling of the concession process, whereas the whole exercise, by regulation, ought to be carried out transparently within the public view."
On his part, NLC President, Joe
Ajaero said the NLC was in solidarity with the aviation sector unions on the current concession crisis.
"It is illegal to the extent that it violated the laws of the land and it cannot stand. We urge the private sector firm seeking to take over the airports through the faulty concession arrangement to stay away. The position of the unions in the aviation sector is the position of the NLC,” he added.
Ajaero advised the incoming government not to accept the concession deal, arguing that it was like a bubby trap set for it.
Addressing a press conference at the Labour House in Abuja, yesterday, the unions faulted the
process leading to the approval of the concession exercise by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), alleging that the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, operated a one-man show and sidelined the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria under has constitutional mandate to manage the airport facilities.
The aggrieved unions included: the National Union Of Air Transport Employees, (NUATE) Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, (ATSSSAN) Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals, (ANAP) and Nigeria Union of Pensioners FAAN Branch.
price stability, and reduce exchange rate volatility.”
Emefiele said the workshops are designed to help in updating the legal community on emerging trends in the financial services industry, with a view to enhancing their knowledge on how to build legal frameworks that will contribute to the growth of the financial services industry, and at the same time dealing with some of the emerging risks associated with these innovations.
He stressed that the judiciary invariably contributes to the effectiveness of monetary policy, financial system stability, economic growth, and development through their interpretation of statutes and sometimes giving effect to the acts of the government and its agencies, where such statutes and acts relate to monetary policy, financial system stability, growth, and development.
He said the judges' workshop, of which the CBN has had the honour and privilege of being a part for several years, was commendable as it ensures that the learned justices remain abreast of current trends in the banking and financial services sectors and important developments on economic matters.
He also commended the institute for its consistency in organising the workshop and for ensuring that its themes and sub-themes are carefully selected to cover issues of critical economic and commercial importance.
He said as customary, that the theme of this year’s workshop was centered around the banking and financial services sectors while the sub-themes are expected to examine issues such as the mandate and operations of the CBN; the CBN's
banking relationship with the federal government and commercial banks; malpractices in Nigeria's foreign exchange market; the Payments System Vision 2025 as well the Bank Verification Number Framework and its impact on electronic fraud.
Emefiele, while wishing all participants a thought-provoking, intellectually stimulating, and successful session, he appealed that the issues that would come up for discussion should be deliberated and examined dispassionately in the best interest of the economy.
Speaking at the occasion, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, commended the CBN governor and the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, Justice Salisu Garba Abdullahi, for their unwavering efforts dedication, and proactive initiatives in organising the workshop.
The CJN said the event was apt, especially at a time when the country is witnessing rapid technological advancements, particularly within the financial sector, where conventional practices are swiftly being displaced by digital products and services that offer unparalleled convenience and efficiency.
He said in light of recent development, it has become expedient to have a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework put in place by the central bank and juxtapose it with other relevant laws and regulations establishing the legal frameworks governing digital products and services, particularly the Cybercrime Act 2015; the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR), and the BOFIA Act, 2007.
12 THURSDAY, THISDAY NEWS Continues online Continues online
James Emejo in Abuja
L-R:: Business and Tech. Executive; Foluso Gbadamosi; Foodpreneur and Chef, Hilda Baci; Group Chairman, United Bank for Africa(UBA) Plc, Mr. Tony Elumelu; CEO, UBA Africa, Abiola Bawuah; Group Managing Director-CEO, UBA Plc, Mr. Oliver Alawuba; Founder, Banke Kuku, Banke Kuku-Lawson; and Group President, Transnational Corporation (Transcorp) Plc, Dr. Owen Omogiafo; during the 2023 UBA Africa Conversation themed: Innovating the Continent for Growth, in commemoration of Africa Day in Lagos ... yesterday.
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THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 • THISDAY 15
Young professionals, especially those with medical background, are emigrating to the West in large numbers. What exactly is the federal government doing to reverse the trend?
As I said earlier, the first step in the treatment of a patient is diagnosis. We must diagnose to know what we are dealing with. We have to sit down and look at the massive emigration of professionals from the federation. The root causes are not far-fetched. The proverbial green pasture or golden fleece is not always true.
It is only in the deserts that you do not see green pastures. Israel, for instance, is a desert. But they are not having desert experience. They live in abundance.
A lot of our young professionals are not satisfied with the situation back home. It is not about being gainfully employed alone. Even those who are employed are not happy in terms of their conditions of service, emoluments and quality of life.
They are also not happy with the security situation. These are issues that we must first confront as a federation. If you look at the health sector, for instance, our hospitals are not what hospitals should be in terms of personnel. Where we need 10 nurses, we probably have two nurses. Where we need five medical doctors, we probably have one. As a result, personnel become overburdened. It could be issues around inadequacy and non-existence of medical equipment.
It is not about having beautiful structures. If equipment is not available, there is little or nothing those personnel can do.
It could also be issues revolving around emoluments and remuneration.
All these issues are important for us to examine critically and address purposefully. The University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan used to be a teaching hospital of choice for the high and mighty, even from the Far East. Princes from the Far East were coming to UCH. When people are talking about medical tourism, we benefited from it at some points.
People were coming to UCH because it was one of the best teaching hospitals in the Commonwealth of Nations then because the services were there. The personnel were also there. Facilities were available.
The first thing is to diagnose the reasons for this syndrome. Thereafter, we move to address the problems. Even when we succeed in addressing the challenges, it does not mean people will not go where they want to go because it is in human nature.
Some may be borne out of adventure.
But we must first address the issues back home. We can then begin to inculcate the spirit of patriotism. But the basic things must be in place first. If we want our citizens to die for our country, governments - federal, state and local - have duties to make people have those demonstrable commitments. It is not rocket science. It is just about sitting down to address all these issues I have mentioned.
At some point, you transited from medicine to politics, what informed this decision?
There are reasons for my decision to embrace politics. First, my father, then a renowned teacher, was also a politician. My father’s students are always excited whenever they see. The first question they will ask me is: are you the son of Merry Chief? Merry Chief is my father’s nickname. They will also ask me: Are you from Ijebu Ife? I will answer them “Yes.” Then, they would start telling me stories. Some of my father’s students are Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Chief Bola Ajibola (now late), Bashorun M.K.O Abiola, among others.
My father taught all of them at Baptist Boys High School, Abeokuta. Apart from being a teacher, my father was the Founding Principal of POBUNA Teachers’ Training College, Epe. He was also a politician.
He was a leader of Action Group in Ijebu East Local Government Area, Ogun State. The meetings of the political party were always held
in my father’s compound. Also, campaign motorcycles and vehicles were always parked in my father’s compound. It was so fascinating to see party leaders and members each time they had meetings in our compound.
On many occasions, political rallies would be held in our frontage. I still remember with nostalgia when Mama H.I.D. Awolowo would stand right on the balcony of my father’s house to address political rallies. That was when Pa Obafemi Awolowo was in prison.
I was really fascinated with all these political meetings. I got interested somehow.
Second, my experience as a medical doctor tells me clearly that politics itself, which has to do with governance at the end of the day, takes its roots from medicine.
When you attend to your patient as an individual, you must diagnose the cause of his ailment before you can commence treatment. If you do not diagnose correctly, it is like beating about the bush.
So, the first step in the treatment of a patient is the right diagnosis. Politics, therefore, is like medicine
on a larger scale. It entails moving from individual to society. It also entails you first diagnose the problems of society and apply politics to solve them. In fact, one of the renowned German pathologists, Rudolf Virchow, corroborated this hypothesis in a report he submitted to the Berlin Government then.
He said: “Medicine is politics at large.” He made that statement after he was appointed to chair the community sector and look into the problem of the people. There was an epidemic. Virchow, as a pathologist, was appointed to look at the root causes.
In his report, he came down heavily on the government. Of course, he was vilified for producing what was later tagged a political report. He said scabies was “a disease of overcrowding. The problem we are having is as a result of overcrowding.” He then proved it. There is obviously a nexus between medicine and politics. His statement in response to being accused of producing a political report was based on that.
Third, medicine is humanitarian. One of the greatest things that gives a medical doctor joy is to see his patient recover following his intervention. Till date, I still see people who run to me and say you delivered my baby. Some will say doctor, that is your baby and she is married now. That happened decades ago. This is one of the things that really gives me joy and a good standing anywhere.
As a medical student, you were involved in the students’ union politics. How did you cope with the task of studying medicine and the burden of students’ union activism?
I gave you background earlier. When I was still very young, especially in my days in primary and secondary schools, I developed interests in politics. I indeed grew up observing my father holding political meetings and rallies in our compound.
When I got to the university, what I had imbibed in terms of politics and politicking simply followed me. I got involved in the students’ union politics, which was almost an abomination for medical students. It appeared to our lecturers then that I was not serious. That was the perception they had about me. But I was involved in the students’ union politics to the point of standing for an election. I contested the position of Financial Secretary, and I won. I was also a member of the Students Representatives Council at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University).
Some of my contemporaries, whom I am still very proud of, include Prof. Ayo Olukotun (now of blessed memory). I think he was the President of the Students’ Union Government in 1975. Since that time, we were friends until he passed away recently. Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredole, was a good friend. We were in Ife together in those days. He was the Vice President of the Students’ Union Government.
Former Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Mr. Segun Adesegun, was also the Vice President of the Students’ Union Government at different times.
Dr. Olusegun Mimiko was a vibrant member of the Students’ Representatives Council.
Of course, Mimiko later became the Governor of Ondo State. We were all together and involved in the students’ union politics.
As a member of Action Group, your father was a progressive. Why did you join the National Republican Convention (NRC), which was a little to the right?
When I left the university, I had my house job at the State Hospital, Abeokuta. That was 1981 and 1982. I came to Lagos State for my National Youth Service Corp (NYSC). I served at Federal Technical College Clinic, Akoka. After I finished my national service, I served as a medical officer in one of the private hospitals in Lagos.
We had then formed Lagos Forum. It was a forum of professionals - doctors, lawyers, engineers and accountants. We were holding meetings regularly. We discussed current affairs as young energetic professionals. During this period, those political parties started emerging with the plan to return Nigeria to democracy. That was under General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida.
Prior to the NRC, there were so many political formations. I initially belonged to Liberal Convention. With what I called Babangida’s years of political experimentation, those political parties were dissolved. At the end, two parties - NRC and SDP - were decreed into existence. Many of us in Liberal Convention were persuaded to join the NRC. As far as I am concerned, the difference between NRC and SDP is just the difference between six and half a dozen.
All these nomenclatures - a little to the right or a little to the left - are just expressions of convenience. A good number of my friends were from Liberal Convention. A good example is Dr. Doyin Okupe. I remember the first national convention that we had in Abuja. I was a national delegate from Lagos, representing Somolu then. There were five of us that represented Somolu. It was at that national convention that Doyin Okupe became NRC National Publicity Secretary.
Of course, Chief Tom Ikimi, emerged National Chairman. All the exercises were a managed process. That was just the basis.
16 THISDAY THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 POLITICS Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com (08033025611 SMS ONLY ) NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Olorunnimbe Mamora, in this interview with Gboyega Akinsanmi, recalls his
into
links Nigeria’s woes to weak political leadership recruitment process; faults bicameral legislative system and proffers solutions to emigration of young professionals from the country.
to Review Nigeria’s Legislative System
foray
politics;
Mamora: There is Need
Mamora
We do not really see much of the kind of legislative activism that I engaged in when I was in the Senate. If you ask me now, we need a review of our legislative system. I am beginning to question the need for us to adopt a bicameral legislature because of cost implication and delay. Of course, we have advantages and disadvantages of unicameralism and bicameralism. If I were to look at the totality of my experience vis-a-vis what is happening now, I will say we do not need a bicameral legislature.
Identifying, Tackling Operational Gaps in EOD-CBRN for Optimal Performance
Chiemelie Ezeobi reports that the recently held second quarterly conference of the Explosive Ordnance DisposalChemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear, not just provided an avenue to deliberate and identify operational gaps and challenges of the command in order to create proactive measures in tackling such emerging threats, but also assess its performance during the just concluded general elections and expectations for the forthcoming inauguration
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) - Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) recently held its second quarterly conference for the year. Held at EOD-CBRN conference hall in Ikeja with the DCP EOD-CBRN, DCP Akoh Benedict Gabriel; ACP EOD- CBRN, ACP Umar Sokoto Abubakar; base and unit commanders, as well as other senior officers in attendance, the EOD-CBRN Commissioner of Police, CP Zannah Shettima, said it was an avenue to deliberate and identify operational gaps and challenges of the command in order to create proactive measures in tackling emerging threats and proffer solutions to challenges of the command.
Commending officers and men of the command on their efforts at curbing and curtailing the negative use of explosive/allied materials in the country, particularly in the last general elections, he said IGP Alkali Usman Baba also personally appreciates their efforts, dedication professionalism.
Stressing that the command's success in the last election can be attributed to the support and leadership of the Inspector General of Police who through his good office gave the command moral and material support in terms of equipment procurement and training programmes, he said these resulted to the enhancement of the professional competence of EOD- CBRN Officers and men.
He said: "The theme for the last conference held on 26th January, 2023 was "Proactive and Strategic EOD-CBRN Security Coverage During the 2023 General Election". At the conference, officers and men were charged to be determined as bomb technicians and Investigators to constantly review our existing operational approach as well as to be in consonant with crime fighting strategies and to be abreast with the standard of modern day policing.
"It is gratifying and heartwarming to state that reports from different Departments, State Commands and formations disclosed that EODCBRN Officers and men performed very well before, during and after the general election.
"I thank you all for your patriotism, commitment, professionalism, diligence and adequate deployment and coordination of the limited human and material resources for the election.
"The operational measures put in place by officers and men of the EOD-CBRN Com-
mand to prevent, detect and neutralise any threats associated with Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE) materials before, during and after the election should be sustained and even reinforced as we approach the upcoming inauguration." Giving further account of achievements recorded within that period under review, he said: " On 06/02/2023 at about 1330hrs personnel of EOD-CBRN Base 35 Abakaliki recovered three IEDs from IPOB camp at NigerCem, Nkalagu, Ishielu LGA, Ebonyi State, while on 08/02/2023 at about 1230hrs a smoke hand grenade was recovered by personnel of EOD-CBRN Unit MMIA at 7 Star Global Hanger LTD, at Murtala Muhammed Airport Ikeja - Lagos.
"Also on 15/04/2023 at about 0645hrs
personnel of EOD-CBRN Base 21 Warri recovered an improvised Incendiary/ Explosive Device comprising 21kg of high explosive, one piece of electric detonator, 335feet of firing cable and 10 liters gallon containing suspected petroleum product at Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office, Warri-South LGA, Delta State.
"On 03/05/2023 at1530hrs personnel attached to Base 3 Enugu recovered and demolished an unexploded ordnance (Mortar) at Umuabi, Udi LGA, Enugu State."
Speaking on the theme of the conference, "Post-election Assessment and Operational Readiness for the
Inauguration Ceremony" he said it was in preparation for the forthcoming inauguration exercise that will usher in a new administration.
He said: " Internal security remains a herculean task for security agencies to surmount. However, it is important to ensure smooth and crime free inaugural process especially now that Nigeria is faced with serious security challenges threatening her territorial integrity.
"This demands that all hands must be on deck. Personnel must remain resolute and unwavering in our commitment to fight against any form of criminality in the country, through continuous synergy with other security agencies to curtail this societal menace.
"The EOD-CBRN Command has commence preparations for an inaugural ceremony free of explosive/allied materials, by putting in place a robust and elaborate security arrangement and crime prevention strategies to ensure that all the nooks and crannies of the Nation is free of Explosive, Radioactive, Chemical and other hazardous materials.
"The command is making efforts to improve the capacity of her personnel by liaising with key Ministries Departments and Agencies, International Partners, Local and International NGOs to invest more in capacity building programmes in order to enhance the capability of its officers and men for effective service delivery.
'There is no gainsaying that EOD-CBRN personnel have been performing their statutory responsibility professionally and will do same during the inauguration ceremony across the federation. You are directed to strengthen your CBRNE detection and response standard operating procedure (SOP) to reduce response time and emplace mitigating strategies before, during and after the inauguration ceremony to deter, detect and neutralise any threats."
He further charged officers and men to continually collaborate with sister Security agencies, Emergency responders, Logistics Companies, Regulatory bodies such as Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control(NAFDAC) Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Technical support agencies like Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) and other relevant stakeholders towards ensuring that imauguration ceremonies across the states are not truncated by illegal application of CBRNE materials.
Building Trust is Essential to Protect the Future of Digital Money
Irene Auma
The rapid adoption of new payment technologies such as contactless and e-commerce has changed spending both online and offline. However, it has also led to a rise in fraud and cybercriminal activity, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to building and maintaining trust among all stakeholders.
Visa's recent Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa (CEMEA) Security Summit, held in Dubai, brought together over 200 financial institutions, merchants, payment service providers, media representatives, and industry thought leaders to discuss the future of trusted digital money. The Summit's theme was "Trust 360," reflecting on Visa's approach to earning trust through consistent and sustained efforts to protect customer data and ensure their financial well-being.
Visa has invested over $10 billion in cutting-edge cybersecurity in the last five years to combat increasingly sophisticated criminals, using artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced data analytics to reduce fraud and prevent it before it even happens. These efforts are crucial to ensuring the continued growth and success of the region's economy, driven by a young, tech-savvy population and a growing middle class.
Protecting the future of digital money requires more than just investment in technology. It also requires a focus on ethical and responsible business practices, transparency of
policies and practices, and collaboration with trusted partners.
The future of digital money in the region is bright, but it requires a comprehensive approach to building and maintaining trust. Visa's commitment to investing in cutting-edge cybersecurity and prioritizing ethical and responsible business practices is an example that should be followed by all players in the payment ecosystem. This way, we can ensure the continued growth and success of the region's economy and protect the future of digital money.
The trend of digital acceleration shows no signs of slowing down, with Visa’s CEMEA payment volumes rising steadily after the dip caused by the pandemic in April to June of 2020. Data shows the accelerated adoption of seamless and secure payment experiences across CEMEA where contactless payments grew to 82% of all CEMEA transactions in 2022.
The pandemic has also accelerated cybercriminals' ability to cause harm, giving crooks the time to learn and accelerated their ability to cause harm. Furthermore, social engineering has become a popular tactic that cybercriminals use to extract confidential information
from consumers, jeopardizing their security.
There is also a great need for increased security awareness and constant vigilance, as the global economy lost $7 trillion to cybercrime in 2022, which equates to $19.2 billion per day or $200,000 per second. Visa's cybersecurity strategy consists of five key elements: top talent, zero trust architecture, adaptive defense, data protection, and supply chain risk management.
Looking ahead, the increased use of stable coin is a global challenge for banks, leading to many new questions, such as “How do you protect stable coins from cybersecurity attacks?” or “How do you run AML (AntiMoney Laundering) checks on stable coins?” Companies must build trust to get the data necessary to create data-driven products and propositions, as that is the only way to be competitive in today’s landscape.
In conclusion, building trust is essential to protect the future of digital money in the region. Visa's efforts to prioritize cybersecurity, ethical and responsible business practices, and collaboration with trusted partners are a model for all players in the payment ecosystem. By working together, we can ensure the continued growth and success of the region's economy and protect the future of digital money.
FEATURES Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 07010510430
19 THISDAY DAY, MAY 19 , 2023
Irene Auma - Head of Risk, SSA
17 THISDAY DAY, MAY 25, 2023
CP Zannah Shettima
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AFFIRMATIVE ACTION FOR WOMEN
The incoming administration should implement affirmative action for women in Nigeria, writes
WAITING FOR THE NEXT PRESIDENT
In a matter of hours, President Muhammadu Buhari, the second Nigerian leader to be in the saddle twice, will vacate the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguably political actors of this era, will collect the baton and step into the palatial, prestigious estate. And the country will continue on its unbroken but bumpy democratic journey seamlessly. Hopefully. May 29, 2023 will be the beginning of the 25th year into the long walk away from the shadows of military adventurers in government. Two of the soldiers at the helm of
term tenures. But, perhaps not coincidentally, the ‘pure’ civilian presidents in the current
See page 21
NAL, MEDIA AND NATIONAL INTEGRATION VICTOR C. ARIOLE
argues it’s the duty of the mainstream press to sieve what makes for national integration and project it
with two terms. Those are subjects of enquiry for another day. Any historical account that of future generations can’t seriously lay claims to true scholarship and documentation.
Compared with all his four predecessors in the present political dispensation, the longer involvement with partisan politics. From the early 1990s, he has participated widely and consistently in it both at the state and federal levels. People close to him think he always had his eyes on the top job, something eventually handed to him via the victory pronouncement by the National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral in the early hours of March 1, this year. Tinubu is, therefore, a remarkable man.
I also support his rivals, particularly Wazirin Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples’ Democratic
See page 21
EDITORIAL FOOD EMERGENCY IN THE NORTHEAST
challenging the validity of that result and the processes that led to it. But we shouldn’t be in doubt about the credibility of the ceremony being planned for Eagle Square in Abuja of the declared winner. So are tradition and precedence. For the sake of order and peace
this basic knowledge. The earlier we do so, Anthony Blinken, to Senator Tinubu angered protests. The act by the American top diplomat was only a display of diplomatic of governments around the world are set to grace the inauguration, not necessarily because they’re convinced of the integrity of the presidential poll but, in line with best global practices.
Relationships at governmental levels are between and about nations, not individuals. The election umpire has given its verdict and the aggrieved parties have since taken the judicial route, thankfully. What stops
felicitating with her during a crucial transfer of power. Nothing! If our eminent jurists in, I can bet that the same crowd will gather again to cheer the new victor. That’s the way of international politics and diplomacy. For now, everyone needs to get ready to, at least, accommodate these current realities that have at the centre, Tinubu’s right to step onto the podium to assume the duty of leading Nigeria in these fractured times.
However, those points, bare and cogent as they are, are not all there is to the upcoming and bad blood mustn’t just be wished away. energies have either been suppressed or have become aggravated mainly as a result of the lack of will or inability of relevant entities to address them adequately and promptly. In attempting to forge ahead as a people, something agitates me a times. We tend to paint dubious pictures, sometimes, while assessing critical situations.
I recall the period that followed the demise of the late General Sani Abacha. Some persons went to town, rejoicing that they had fought the dictator to a standstill. individuals and groups confronted the Nigerians from various angles. The National name in gold as it took on Abacha through orchestrated campaigns locally and, even more potently, outside the country. Many civil society organisations from within went into the trenches. Some people paid the ultimate junta out of power and restore democracy. Painfully, Nigeria did achieve a pariah status among the comity of nations because of the ostracise the government. But in all of that, no one brought the loathed administration to its knees. Instead, when Abacha rolled out his own return to civilian rule programme, the political parties, made up of adult Nigerians, ran over themselves to present the hated man as their consensus candidate. If death had not taken him away, Abacha
would have succeeded in transforming into a ‘democratic’ president. It was all sham, quite frankly, and indeed one of the lowest points in our history, but it can’t be wiped from our records.
Curiously, a similar narrative from the school of hyperbole is being cooked. Whenever I hear that Tinubu won the contest ‘fair and square’, I wonder. I’ve found to disprove INEC’s conclusion and make the judges look their way instead. Even if they convince the tribunal and courts that the one fondly called ‘Jagaban’ by his followers didn’t win after all, persuading them that be uphill. The unprecedented closeness in the mysterious malfunctioning of the IReV heighten the prospects for errors. So, even if Tinubu’s supporters run around with tales of a clear electoral triumph, the former above the fray and refuse to be misled. It
the poll that made him president in 2007. That could even earn him some goodwill among the bitter portion of the electorate. Who knows?
messages have been circulated by the “Nigeria is our home and together we can build a better future for ourselves and our of the incoming administration. Nigeria: aside and work together to support the new administration towards a secured future for our nation. Nigeria: Better together!” And three: “As Nigerians, we share a common the new administration for the progress and development of our beloved country. Nigeria: Better together!”
doubt. I wonder how beautiful it would have been if the same tone was adopted by the February and March elections, if gentle,
public discourse then. In preparing for the handover party, the PTC appears to realise that the somewhat subdued atmosphere in the country requires maturity, humility and restraint from the incoming leadership. caution away in the face of many wounded guidance out of its present dilemma.
Dr Ekpe is a member of THISDAY Editorial Board
1 THISDAY THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023
www.thisdaylive.com opinion@thisdaylive.com
NIKKY ONYERI
T U S N 22 20
The PTC appears to realise that the somewhat subdued atmosphere in the country requires maturity, humility and restraint from the incoming leadership. Tinubu and his crew can’t afford to throw caution away in the face of many wounded expectations
Thursday May 25, 2023 Vol 27. No 10270
The upcoming inauguration demands a deep sense of responsibility from all stakeholders, writes MONDAY PHILIPS EKPE
NIKKY ONYERI
The incoming administration should implement affirmative action for women in Nigeria, writes
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION FOR WOMEN
Barring any unforeseen circumstances a new government led by the president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be sworn in on May 29, 2023. Expectations are that the government will hit the ground running if it wants to put unemployment, insecurity, rabid ethnic nationalism, impunity, and cronyism, among to attack the ligaments that connect the Nigerian body parts together.
But today the country has another chance to redeem itself and push beyond a certain threshold of development. This cannot be achieved without taking some hard decisions
women to go into elective positions. It is not
Olufemi Tinubu, who had recommended 50 per cent inclusion of women in government. During the Omo-Agege Senate Constitutional Review Committee, Senator Oluremi Tinubu recommended 50 per cent women participation which is in line with the position of the Women for Mentoring and Advancement.
It is the hope of many of us in the Women Group that Nigeria will be better for it if women are allowed greater access to government. We are not unaware of more in government, including what the exiting Buhari government did. How his administration tried to improve women’s participation in government through such programs like the National Gender Policy, Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill, the All-Progressives Congress Political Representation, the Girl Child Education Program and the Government Enterprises and Empowerment Program (GEEP) etc.
VICTOR C. ARIOLE argues it’s the duty of the mainstream press to sieve what makes for national integration and project it
NAL, MEDIA AND NATIONAL INTEGRATION
The Vice Chancellor of Federal University Kashere, Gombe State, Professor Umaru Pate delivered the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL) lecture of 2023 at the Bayero University Kano in a palatial complex donated and named Dangote Business School. The lecture entitled: Media, Diversity and Nigeria’s National Integration in The Digital Age”, seemed to be anchored on what could be constant for the credibility of recognized media houses vis-à-vis current digital era that has allowed uncensored, unethical and informal plethora of information dissemination in line with diversity of opinions, though not well harnessed to promote national integration. National integration, according to Professor Pate is not inimical to freedom of expression as freedom of expression is mother of all freedom and it behoves the formal press, print and broadcast, to penetrate also the space informal and alternative media operate like facebook, twitter, instagram and spread the facts and
mainstream media report in a proactive stance, as against reactive reportage.
In furtherance to that, Professor Pate disagrees with recruiters of high-level manpower that must lead or be in charge of institutions that require national integration disposition which the press must be present in sounding the alarm when such recruitment is undertaken. He does not see how someone who had his/ her kindergarten education, for example, in an imaginary BUK village, primary school in the same place ditto secondary school and university, with NYSC manipulated to be there also, being thrusted on Nigerians as capable of heading or even recruitable in an institution that must preach and command national integration. As far as he is concerned, such a person can never see beyond what is relevant to the supposed clashes galore with those who see such BUK as just a parochial ground distinct from what the entire Nigeria stands for.
to include relevant parts of the society in the new government. In this wise, inclusion of reasonable number of women becomes a sine qua non in the building of the new Nigeria, envisaged post-May 29, 2023.
It is a fact that women are the bedrock upon which societies are built. And the United Nations did not acknowledge this less when it averred that women’s equal participation in government is critical to building democracy and promoting social progress.
women, designed to eliminate unlawful discrimination against them has continued to elicit positive responses from governments across the globe. While the United Nations recommended a minimum threshold of 30% participation, the African Union endorsed 40%. So far this threshold of participation has not been met by any African country, including Nigeria. The closest to the 40% women participation in government in Africa is achieved by Uganda and Mozambique. Both countries have about 32% inclusion. Nigeria’s benchmark of 35% participation is previous governments.
Appointing women into government may have received more attention than electing them probably because of funding and the patriarchal nature of the Nigerian society.
As the president of the Society for Women Mentoring and Advancement, I have been at the forefront of women’s participation in government, and I have continued to make it clear that the incoming Tinubu administration has the responsibility to fully implement stated above, previous governments might to impact on the recommended percentage of inclusion. The non-implementation by past administrations easily leaves many thinking it may be another cold day in July expecting the incoming Tinubu the thought has a chance to concentrate the of smoke with the realization that Tinubu’s government did not discriminate against women while it lasted in Lagos. In fact, as governor of Lagos State, Tinubu met the 35
political representation at the level of both the local, state, and national government. Indeed, the Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill which approximates still waiting to be passed by the National Assembly.
Nothing will be more gratifying than having the incoming administration bring aboard more women to meet the set
win, it will be worthwhile to have them there. The National Assembly as presently constituted has less than 10% of women in representation. This is poor and does not speak to the large population of women. This is unfair because in population women are more in number and should not be subjected to such dismal proportional representation in government.
for a mandatory quota for women in the composition of the Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly as well as government appointments. It is not as if women cannot strive for and achieve excellence, but in Nigeria, like in most other countries, especially in Africa, women have historically faced barriers and discrimination that have limited their access to opportunities and hindered their socio-economic and political advancement. In Nigeria for example women have had to face inhibiting cultural norms, patriarchal systems, limited access to resources, and gaps in political awareness.
But it is possible that with implementation opportunities for women in areas such as education, employment, politics, and leadership position, more women will have access. No doubt, these challenges require a comprehensive approach that involves legal frameworks, institutional support, awareness campaigns, and active involvement of government, civil and international partners. It is not likely there to have string institutional framework.
Princess Onyeri is President of the Society for Women Mentoring and Advancement
news that make for national integration, so as to avoid the undermining of truthfulness by the alternative media. He, also, acknowledges the fact that media in Nigeria are associated with regions and ethnic groupings and expect their positions on what make for national integration not to be compromised, as most of them hardly acknowledge that equal access to education by all in Nigeria and what concerns education, including even NYSC that is being desecrated now, ought to remain sacrosanct in their reporting and analysis of national as a stranger while in BUK, as he pursued educational objectives that elevated BUK to greater heights in media studies and earned BUK great grants; and BUK is a national heritage for the dissemination of educational issues that must encourage inclusiveness and best practice. Hence, like regional newspapers like Nigeria’s educational system, and it does not augur well for the “main constant” that promotes national integration in the midst of overreaching alternative media and “easy to use” media that attract the majority of Nigerian youths that must remain patriotic for the sake of national integration.
According to him, another valuable integrative force which the mainstream media should be less regional about is the promotion of the presence of traders of a section of Nigeria in all the nooks and crannies of Nigeria. The local or alternative media could be averse to such presence or even instigate hatred of such presence, but it behoves the mainstream media to counter such instigations or remain dispassionate about such news if, indeed, national integration matters without which disintegration could loom greater than expected.
It goes with those recruited by institutions to learn to know what must not be compromised for national integration to work and how the
village and suddenly someone decides to recruit you to rule over Nigeria in Abuja. It behoves also the mainstream press to counter, in all platforms, what could create disharmony among Nigerians when falsehood is projected. For example, as he observed, using Nigerian languages in BBC, someone from Birmingham in UK coupled the incident of Rwandan genocide with a space in Nigeria and claimed that it was an event happening in Nigeria.
The dimensions of evil that dehumanize the Nigerian person are well known at any given time by the mainstream press and, though one of the ‘signature tune’ of journalism is “Bad news is good news”, it is also admitted that “Good mood in sorrowful environment is unhuman”. Hence, the reportage of the mainstream media as against alternative media in the midst of banditry and kidnapping in the Northwest, oil thievery in the South South, herdsmen and farmers killings in the North Central, IPOB killings in the South East and ritual killings in the South West must be reported as unhuman activities and counter those perpetrating it and being loud about it in the alternative media.
The digital age is the age of letters and liberal art as both letters, sound and pictures are propped up to convey messages, either for populism politics or communicating abundance of good or evil. It behoves the mainstream press to sieve what makes for national integration and project it in abundance as well as present the unhuman occurrences projected by populism that lead to war like it is happening in Sudan against the populace, and as it is happening in Ukraine against a sovereign state as restrained mainstream press in Russia fail to see the human carnage in Ukraine.
France heralded the most vibrant “Academie de lettres” (French Academy of Letters) where people like President Senghor of Senegal reign supreme, and it postulated some of the Human rights “letters” that govern the laws of UNO.
3 THISDAY THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023
Ariole is Professor of French and Francophone Studies, University of Lagos
21
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
EDITORIAL
FOOD EMERGENCY IN THE NORTHEAST
There is need for an urgent intervention
Despite abundant natural resources and vast arable land, Nigeria has failed to make investments necessary to provide sustainable and healthy diets for citizens. But the challenge in the Northeast has been compounded by the insurgency that has claimed the lives of thousands of innocent people and displaced millions of others. Following the Launch of the Lean Season Food Security and Nutrition Crisis Multi-sector Plan 2023 last Thursday, the United
hunger and malnutrition crisis in Northeast Nigeria from turning fully catastrophic US$396 million is urgently needed to scale up humanitarian action in Borno, Adamawa and
This is an emergency that should concern all critical stakeholders in the country at a time the focus is on transition. More than half a million people, according to the UN body, may face emergency levels of food insecurity, with extremely high rates of acute malnutrition and cases of mortality if there is no rapid
of malnutrition. Some 700,000 children are at risk of severe acute malnutrition – meaning that they are 11 times more likely to die compared to well-nourished
Stunted growth implies a marked increase in the child’s susceptibility to infections and contributes to child mortality. Invariably, pregnant women who are not adequately nourished eventually give birth to babies with low weight, thus putting their survival at
10 are critical and should be considered an emergency. That sadly is the situation today in the Northeast. Unless authorities in Abuja and the 36 states take immediate steps to address hunger and malnutrition, especially
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Letters to the Editor
in children and pregnant women, the poor indices on maternal and child mortality, will further worsen.
lives of their malnourished infants in our partner-run stabilisation centres. This is a situation no one should
who described going for days without eating enough. Mothers who said their children go to bed crying from hunger. Families struggling to feed their families as they have gone for months without receiving food the unfortunate reality for millions of food-insecure people in the three states unless resources and funding are urgently mobilised. Authorities in Nigeria need to sit up by addressing the crushing indices and causes of malnutrition that have continued to deprive over half of our children and productive life span. Since better nutrition is the foundation to advance health and well-being, educational attainment, prosperity, and equity, we need urgent intervention in the Northeast. The Country Representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund averting human catastrophy. The Food and Agricultural Kafeero, has also warned that with the lean season coinciding with the rainy season, humanitarian partners are also concerned about outbreaks of diseases, such as acute diarrhoea, cholera, and malaria, which will only aggravate the situation of malnourished children. risk of dying from common infections hence the concern by these multilateral institutions and development partners. That the federal government and authorities in is troubling.
Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-300 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (750- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with photograph, email address and phone numbers of the writer.
LETTERS
BETWEEN BELLO MATAWALLE AND ABDULRASHEED BAWA
The recent exchange between Bello Matawalle, the outgoing governor of Zamfara State, and Abdulrasheed Bawa thetragic.
Nigeria is a country burdened with corruption. That this burden as costly as it is does not generate the amount of bother it ought to speaks more to the nonchalance of a country headed for the rocks than to the cost of corruption on the country’s resources.
Before Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, the extreme-by their inability to demand accountability from thieving autocrats had set up Nigeria to always struggle to account for every kobo coming from its oil. When he became President in 1999, Olusegun Obasanjo just like other presidents that have since come after him expressed as action was undoubtedly what led to the estab-
Upon its establishment, the Commission, like a rabid dog, was tasked with going after those who, having had the opportunity, sold Nigeria short, spiriting away humongous sums of money in the process.
bringing the anti-corruption body through some of its best days. If Nigeria’s quest to recover her money senselessly stoa thing of beauty, it was not always without blood.
The commission has witnessed some brutal days in which it was left with a bloody nose as it went after the big beasts of Nigeria’s corruption. In a country where everything can be been caught in its fair share of headwinds in its anti-corruption mission.
A lot of these headwinds have been political, the handito shield their loot and lackeys from the long arm of the law. -
itics has sometimes penetrated the highest decision-making quarters in the country to ensure that corruption got away. A case in point was in 2022, when the Council of States sat and decided to free Joshua Dariye and Jolly Nyame, two ex-governors who had been convicted for stealing billions of Naira
Under the administration of President Muhammadugations that it has been nothing more than a tool of political vendetta in the hands of the present administration. It has appeared like this for eight years now.
In Nigeria, 36 states orbit the Federal Capital Territory. -
tion of power.
Ike Willie-Nwobu, Abuja
4 THISDAY THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023
T H I S D AY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD
OMBUDSMAN
H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D
22
Children suffering from malnutrition are at higher risk of dying from common infections hence the concern by these multilateral institutions and development partners
KAYODE KOMOLAFE T
FG: Adoption of Blockchain Policy Will Boost Innovation, Create Job Opportunities, Drive Economic Growth
Emma Okonji
Following the approval of Nigeria’s Blockchain Policy that was recently signed by President Muhammadu Buhari, the federal government (FG) has said the policy, which has become a working document for the development Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, will enhance technology innovation, create job opportunities and drive economic growth of the country.
These were the views of President Buhari, when he signed the policy document recently. With the signing and adoption of Blockchain Policy for Nigeria, the
country has joined other countries of the world like Estonia, Georgia, United Arab Emirates (Dubai), Switzerland, and Singapore that have also adopted and signed Blockchain Policy.
Developed by the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, the Blockchain Technology (BT) is an emerging technology that offers a unique opportunity for various sectors of the economy to experience greater transparency, increased efficiency and more secure transactions.
“As the leading digital economy in Africa, we have again taken the lead in developing a policy for the adoption of this important
technology. We will use BT to boost innovation, improve public services, create job opportunities, reduce corruption and drive economic growth. As the world prepares for a BT-driven injection of $1.76 trillion to the global GDP by 2030, our development and implementation of the National Blockchain Policy for Nigeria will prepare us to be active players and to benefit from this emerging global source of revenue. The National Blockchain Policy for Nigeria has therefore been developed to serve as a roadmap for Nigeria’s adoption and utilisation of BT. The Policy lays out a comprehensive framework
for integrating BT into different spheres of our national life in order to fully realise the potential of BT,” Buhari said while signing the policy document.
He therefore ordered the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), as well as other relevant regulatory bodies, to develop regulatory instruments for the deployment of Blockchain Technology across various sectors of the economy. Buhari also
directed all relevant government agencies to immediately commence implementation of the policy, along with stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria creates a Blockchain-powered economy that enhances innovation, growth, and prosperity for all.
Highlighting the benefits of blockchain technology, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ibrahim Pantami, said: “Blockchain will provide us with immense opportunities to improve efficiency, security, and transparency across various sectors of the economy. The National Digital Economy Policy
and Strategy (NDEPS), was developed to realign the Nigerian economy to take advantage of the numerous opportunities that digital technology offers. As part of the implementation of the NDEPS, the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria has developed the National Blockchain Policy in line with the 7th Pillar of the NDEPS, which focuses on Digital Society and Emerging Technologies.” Blockchain Technology has become a groundbreaking
Continued on page 24
Public Affairs Experts, Economists Warn Incoming Government against Policy Loopholes
Raheem Akingbolu
Public Affairs experts and economists have warned the incoming government against policy loopholes that can derail the administration.
They identified critical areas that have presently put Nigeria in bad shape, which they said, should be of major concern to the incoming
government.
The pit holes indentified during a recent Webinar themed: ‘Setting a Fiscal Policy Agenda for The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administration’, include; risk-unconscious overdependence on hydrocarbons, poor policy, fiscal inefficiency and revenue leakages and misplaced priorities.
The third National Policy Dialogue
webinar, which was organised by the Public Affairs Service of CMC Connect LLP, Perception Consulting, aimed to foster a national discourse on the fiscal policy direction of the incoming government especially in the areas of regulations, taxation, excise duties and other policies that are making the ecosystem unfriendly for business growth.
The keynote Speaker, who is an economist, Dr. Abiodun Adedipe, said: “The fiscal inefficiency, revenue leakages, misplaced priorities, risk-unconscious over-dependence on hydrocarbons, poor policy coordination, and counterproductive fiscal policies are the major reasons Nigeria is in a bad shape. However, I believe this discourse will serve
as a platform to tell the incoming government the need to engage the private sector deeply in formulating and reshaping economic policies that will make Nigeria and the productive sectors bounce back, thereby promoting a better Nigeria.”
He further said: “What we are selling to Tinubu`s administration is to set an agenda for ourselves,
to be in the top 10 economy in ten years time.”
Adedipe who elaborated on strategic directions for Bola Tinubu’s government, said in the immediate future, the incoming government should match non-oil revenue to recurrent spending, aggressively
Continued on page 24
BONDS DESCRIPTIONPriceYield Change (%) Updated Time ^13.53 23MAR-2025 104.0411.04 0 May 15, 2023 ^12.50 22JAN-2026 98.95 12.95 0 May 15, 2023 ^16.2884 17-MAR-27 110.51 12.72 0 May 15, 2023 ^13.98 23FEB-2028 99.87 14.00 0 May 15, 2023 ^14.55 26APR-2029 101.36 14.20 0 May 15, 2023
BILLS MATURITY Discount Yield Change (%) Updated Time NTB 8-Jun23 5.505.52 0.00 May 15, 2023 NTB 7-Sep23 4.58 4.64 0.00 May 15, 2023 NTB 26-Oct23 6.15 6.32 0.95 May 15, 2023 NTB 9-Nov23 4.50 4.60 0.00 May 15, 2023 NTB 7-Dec23 6.80 7.07 0.00 May 15, 2023 OTC FX FUTURES CONTRACT TENOR (MONTH) Contract Current Rate ($/₦) Updated Time 1 NGUS MAY 31 2023 473.90 May 15, 2023 2 NGUS JUN 28 2023 476.31 May 15, 2023 3 NGUS JUL 26 2023 478.72 May 15, 2023 4 NGUS AUG 30 2023 481.13 May 15, 2023 5 NGUS SEP 27 2023 483.53 May 15, 2023 CPS MATURITYDiscountYield Change (%) Updated Time NSDL CP IIA 22-NOV-23 18.90 20.97 0.00 May 15, 2023 MTNN CP V 23-NOV-23 11.9812.78 0.00 May 15, 2023 NSDL CP IIB 23-NOV-23 18.9120.99 0.00 May 15, 2023 VAAG CP XVII 24-NOV-23 16.6918.31 0.01 May 15, 2023 RICL CP IV 1-DEC-23 16.1617.72 –0.01 May 15, 2023
MARKET DATA AS AT WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 2023
BUSINESS WORLD Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com 08056356325 23
RATES AS AT MAY 24,2023 MONEY MARKETREPOS & P INDEX S & P INDEXEXCHANGE RATE OPR 11.25% CALL 19.12% INDEX LEVEL 611.31% 1/4 TO DATE -0.07%N462.50/ 1 US DOLLAR* OVERNIGHT 11.50% 1-MONTH 16.25% 1-DAY 0.03% YEAR TO DATE 0.48%*AS AT LAST FRIDAY 3-MONTH 15.75% MONTH-TO-DATE -0.7% THISDAY THURSDAY, MAY 25, 2023
State Government Urged to Unlock Digital Economy with Startup Act
Emma Okonji
The ONE Campaign, in collaboration with the Nigeria Startup Act Secretariat, has called on various state governments to embrace the Nigeria Startup Act and harness its provisions to unlock the vast potential of the digital economy.
The call follows the completion of the first phase of the Startup Act State Adoption campaign in six states - Kwara, Osun, Ondo, Kano, Plateau, and Oyo.
The Nigeria Startup Act provides a comprehensive roadmap to establish supportive policies, regulations and programs that can create
ICT DEVELOPMENT…
a flourishing ecosystem that fosters innovation, attracts investments, and generates much-needed employment opportunities for the country’s vast population of unemployed youth.
Nigeria Country Director at ONE Campaign, Stanley Achonu, said: “Nigeria is facing an alarming unemployment
rate, and the dire need for job creation is evident, particularly for the teeming young population. Unlocking the immense potential of the digital economy is crucial to addressing this pressing issue. By embracing the Nigeria Startup Act, state governments can unleash a wave of innovation, attract
investments, and foster job creation on a significant scale. Already, ONE and the Startup Secretariat have taken proactive steps to drive engagement and awareness in six states, bringing together key players from both the public and private sectors within the tech ecosystem to highlight the substantial benefits of the Act and assist the state governments in customising and drafting the state versions to suit their specific needs. We call on other states to acknowledge the transformative potential of the digital economy and take swift action to adopt and implement the Nigeria Startup Act.”
State Adoption Lead, Nigeria Startup Act Secretariat, Mrs. Tracy Okoro Isaac, spoke about the success of the program and lessons learned, saying, “65 per cent of the young people for whom we are creating poverty eradication and employment programs and initiatives are in the states; and as such, the State
Adoption Program is driven on the premise that unless states and local governments create an enabling environment for citizens to thrive, every other endeavour or initiative that is deployed in the country will not be sustainable. The State Adoption Program encourages and supports state governments to adopt the Act, create and support digital economy ecosystems, ensure a conducive environment for wealth creation, and promote a balanced approach to managing disruption and displacement.”
The Act encompasses essential provisions such as streamlined business registration processes, tax incentives for startups, access to affordable financing, intellectual property protection, investment promotion, and other measures that are vital for startups to navigate the complex business landscape, engender a culture of entrepreneurship and attract both local and international investors.
Avetium Consult Engages Zoho Users to Enhance Optimisation
Nosa Alekhuogie
L-R: Managing Director, New Horizons Computer Learning Centres, Tim Akano; Special Guest of Honour and former Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon (rtd) and Director-General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. Gen. Y.D Ahmed, during the commissioning of NYSC ICT Centre at Gowon House, NYSC headquarters to mark 50 years of the agency in Abuja… recently
NYSC, New Horizons to Empower Corp Members with ICT Skills
Emma Okonji
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with New Horizons Nigeria to train corp members in ICT 4.0 skills and other latest e-business programs to boost employability and job creation opportunities for members.
In addition to the MOU, the ICT firm also donated about 1,000 ICT courses and a new learning portal (www.NYSClearns.com) to support the Skills and Entrepreneurship Department (SAED) during the commissioning of its ultra-modern NYSC ICT centre in Abuja to mark 50 years of the establishment
of NYSC.
In his appreciation, the Director-General, NYSC, Brig General YD Ahmed, thanked New Horizons Nigeria’s CEO, Mr. Tim Akano, for his support to NYSC concerning the empowerment of youths in the area of ICT.
According to Ahmed, “The objective of this administration is to contribute to the overall national efforts at addressing the problem of youth unemployment. In this regard, management recognises the imperative of strengthening our working relationship with worthy partners such as New Horizons to enlist their technical and material support.
“Under this MoU, we shall put into effective use the ICT
sections of the NYSC Skill Centres in Ekiti, Gombe, Nasarawa, Ogun, and Yobe states, as well as others, for the benefits of both the corps members and members of the host communities.
Ahmed assured everyone that the management would play their part by providing the enabling environment for the smooth implementation of this partnership.”
On his part, the MD/ CEO of New Horizons Nigeria, Tim Akano said the company donated 1000 ICT courseware and a new learning portal to support the SAEED empowerment Initiatives) to celebrate NYSC at 50 years.
He noted that today’s job market is looking for graduate who are digitally
literate, able to solve problems and meet the needs of organisations, contribute to their bottomless and help scale companies.
Akano further stated that the 21st century organisations are demanding more from their employees and the only way to get through is to be equipped with the ICT tools and services.
At the commissioning of the NYSC ICT centre the special guest of honor, former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu (rtd) Gowon urged the corp members to use the ICT books, the portal and the newly commissioned ICT centre to improve their skills, and contribute positively to the growth and development of Nigeria’s economy and human capital.
Avetium Consult, a Business Technology Solution and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) company has reiterated its commitment to make users of Zoho software, optimize its use.
This was made known by the Managing Director of Avetium Consult, Adeyinka Adedokun at an event tagged #More with Avetium, which held last week in partnership with Zoho, in Lagos.
According to him, Avetium and Zoho are two brands that believe in each other, and everything possible will be put in place for the users to get value out of Zoho Products and Services.
“A technology that is easy to use is the most important thing every user wants and that is what Zoho has provided,” Adedokun said.
He added that one of the things that attracted Avetium to Zoho is the fact that the software charges in local currency. “Aside this, the software is simple to use, friendly for SMEs, flexible payment, easy integration with other applications and the company is great with partnerships and support.
Avetium in conjunction with Zoho have been able
to build its clientele list for Zoho in the financial services industry (FSI), like Education, Healthcare, Aviation, Fintech/ ICT, Retail/E-commerce, Transport and Logistics and Utility sectors of the economy. Also at the event, the country manager for Zoho, Kehnde Ogundare, said the event was the first of its kind with a Zoho partner in Nigeria.
According to him, “Zoho has three levels of partnership which ranges from authorized to advanced and then premium. Avetium Consult is the first company in Nigeria to achieve the status of an advanced partner with Zoho.”
Zoho, he said, remained unique and powerful software suite that transforms the way a business works. According to him, It is designed for businesses of all sizes and it is built by a company that values data privacy.
Zoho has over 60 different applications that can be used individually or as a bundle to enhance organisational business processes. Some of the bundle products are Zoho CRM Plus, Zoho People (HRMS) Zoho Desk, Zoho Workplace, Zoho Finance and Zoho One.
In 2021, Avetium Consult attained double ISO 27001 AND ISO 27701 Certifications.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
EXPERTS, ECONOMISTS
promote exports to the world market starting with African countries, strengthen domestic manufacturing, and interrogate the nexus between import and export tariffs.
Elaborating further, the policy expert and Chief Consultant at B. Adedipe Associates, recommended that the Tinubu’s government should ensure actionable, consistent and coherent fiscal, trade and monetary policies by promoting high level actions on policy coordination and ownership, unified voice on policy pronouncement, setting the right tone at the top, revamp reform on ‘Ease
WARN
of Doing Business’ and evaluate policies based on deliverables. He espoused that the government must expand non-oil fiscal space, push for a tax/GDP ratio of 15 per cent and above, and align fiscal, monetary and trade policies.
In his own submission, the Corporate Affairs and Communications Director at Japan Tobacco International, JTI, Mr. Vivian Ikem, who was a panelist, spoke about issues on policy consistency, stating that inconsistency in the government policies can affect the drive of foreign direct investments.
Blockchain have been widely adopted globally. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC),
FG: ADOPTION OF BLOCKCHAIN POLICY WILL BOOST INNOVATION, CREATE JOB OPPORTUNITIES, DRIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH advancement in the digital age with the potential to revolutionise many industries, from finance and healthcare to transportation and supply chain management. Governments all over the world are exploring how to leverage Blockchain Technology to boost innovation, improve public services, create job opportunities, and drive economic growth. Digital technologies such as
INCOMING GOVERNMENT AGAINST POLICY LOOPHOLES
He urged the incoming government to ensure consistency of policies. He emphasised that the incoming government should ensure tight control of the illicit market and stop adulterated products from grey markets being dumped into the country. Nigeria, in its present state he said, remained a difficult place to do business, adding that the incoming government should endeavor to reform the current fiscal policy and the civil service.
Other panelists Uzo Odenigbo and Tilewa Adebajo, both submitted that the economy under the Tinubu’s
administration should be data driven. According to them, data is key in comparative fiscal analysis with other markets, and in policy formulations. Adebajo advised that the incoming government should be people centric in its policy formulations. Oil subsidy, he stated, should not be removed at once. It has to be a gradual removal while refineries are being brought to optimal performance.
The former Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, and presently the Board Chairman of Odua Group, Bimbo Ashiru, advised the incoming
president to be very altruistic in his appointments into key positions that are germane to the success or otherwise of his administration. The former banker wants Mr. Bola Tinubu to follow in the footsteps of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, by appointing Nigerians with capacity to run the economy irrespective of tribe, religion and party affiliation. He emphasised that the incoming administration should also prioritise agricultural transformation being the largest employer of labour and contributor to the gross domestic product of
Blockchain Technologies could boost the global economy with $1.76 trillion by 2030.
the economy.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the moderator Mr. Yomi BadejoOkusanya, founder and Lead Partner at CMC Connect LLP, stated that “to achieve optimal growth and broadly shared prosperity, monetary policy must complement physical goals.”
Badejo-Okusanya enumerated key areas of failure of the Buhari’s administration, bringing out baseline facts and data on macroeconomic indicators from where Nigeria was in 2015 and where the nation is presently.
24 THURSDAY, MAY 25, THISDAY
BUSINESSWORLD NEWS
NiRA Assures Members on Capacity Building, Repositioning
Nosa Alekhuogie
The newly elected Board of Trustees (BoT), Directors and Executives of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), the registry for .ng Internet Domain Names, have pledged their support to build capacity for the association, through repositioning that will reflect growth.
The newly elected President and Vice President, Mr. Adesola Akinsanya and Mr. Murtala Abdullahi respectively, gave the assurance, shortly after they were elected.
Akinsanya who spoke on behalf of the elected executives, promised to increase capacity building for NiRA members, non-members, and
Registrars through NiRA’s Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV).
“I will make sure we fully utilise NiRA’s SPVs (.NG Academy and Ndukwe Kalu Foundation) for the purpose of capacity building/ training for NiRA members and the Registrars by providing scheduled webinars on relevant industry topics,” Akinsanya said.
They were elected during NiRA’s 15th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which held recently at The Zone, Gbagada, Lagos State.
Prior to his election, Akinsanya was a member of the Executive Board of NiRA under the leadership of Mr. Muhammed Rudman, the immediate past president.
Members also elected officials to
fill vacant positions on the Board of Trustees (BoT) and the Executive Board of Directors (EBoD).
Elected to NiRA BoT are Mrs. Mary Uduma; Mr. Yunusa Zakari Ya’u; Mrs. Ibukun Odusote; Mr. Remmy Nweke, and Mr. Biyi Oladipo. While Mr. Ebenezer Dare; Mr. Seun Kehinde; and Mr. Peter Oluka were elected as members of the EBoD.
In his acceptance speech, Akinsanya expressed gratitude and immense appreciation to the members for electing him as president. “This is a call to greater service, and I promise to justify the confidence reposed in me,” he affirmed.
Akinsanya, a Director at
iQuolify Launches Immigrant Recruitment Portal in Nigeria
Emma Okonji
Upperlink Limited, had expressed in his manifesto, that he would employ winning formula: people, processes, performance, and accountability, to continue repositioning NiRA for greater success. He focused on a few key areas such as improved RegistryRegistrar relationship, stating his strong belief that “the relationship between the Registry and Registrar can be deepened thereby making it a win-win situation, while promising improved incentives for Registrars which, according to him, will lead to mutual growth.
He also promised to expand NiRA’s outreach with more engagements with Local and international industry players.
Airtel Launches Brand Campaign to Inspire Youth Creativity
Emma
Okonji
Airtel Africa, a provider of telecommunications and mobile money services, has launched a new Africa-wide brand campaign focused on building a deeper emotional connection with young people.
The brand campaign is also expected to connect Nigeria’s productive generation of youths. The campaign includes a new strapline for Airtel: ‘A Reason to Imagine’. It is driven by the insight that in Africa, imagination is the only qualification that matters and showcases Airtel Africa’s role in harnessing this potential by delivering relevant solutions to consumers that enhance digital and financial
inclusion.
The ‘A Reason to Imagine’ campaign highlights the status of Airtel as an enabler of young people’s dreams and ambitions, whatever these might be. To this end, the campaign seeks to celebrate the energy, creativity, and innovation of Nigerian youth.
Speaking at the launch in Lagos recently, Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Carl Cruz, said: “Africa’s young people are now more than ever, owning their passions boldly, chasing their dreams with all their heart, and living life on their terms. At Airtel, we see this growth as a beautiful thing. This is why our new brand purpose represents our commitment to the future. It is about youth, about excitement,
about fun, and most of all, about imagination.”
Airtel Africa’s Group Chief Commercial Officer, Anthony Shiner, said: “It’s a wellunderstood fact that youth are central to achieving Africa’s potential. More than 60 per cent of Africa’s population is under the age of 25, and empowering this new generation is transformative for the future of the continent.
“Through this campaign, we are reaffirming Airtel Africa’s commitment to advancing the progress of Africa’s young people by providing the connectivity to turn every situation into an opportunity.”
According to Shiner, “The ‘Reason to Imagine’ brand campaign is Airtel Africa’s
most ambitious, yet it comprises a series of television commercials and a combination of marketspecific print, online, outdoor, and mobile creative executions. The current title sponsorship of ‘The Voice Africa’ is an example of how Airtel Africa is giving the youth a reason to imagine by partnering with The Voice to bring the show to the continent. The Voice Africa showcases exceptional African musical talent in a show that also features a high-profile panel of coaches and TV hosts.
One of the 100 selected talents will eventually be crowned ‘The Voice Africa’ in a live show that is currently airing on free-to-air TV stations across the continent and Airtel TV.
An immigrant recruitment portal for professionals has been launched in Nigeria for immigrant job seekers in Canada, Europe and America.
The portal was unveiled at a virtual event that was held recently and attended by resettlement experts, Information technology experts, human resources experts and international development experts.
Speaking at the launch, the Founder of the www.iquolify.com Project, Akin Fadeyi, said: “iQuolify is a well thought out digital recruitment solution for immigrant professionals who compromise their qualifications for jobs below their pay grade outside their countries. iQuolify will focus on showcasing immigrants to prospective employers, data analytics for policy makers, mentoring and training until target immigrants are able to optimally integrate and unlock their potentials.”
MacArthur On-Nigeria Director, Dr. Kole Shettima, said the Foundation had always held diversity, equity and inclusion as values, adding that at the MacArthur Foundation, we ensure that our decisions and actions are rooted in the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion by embracing the unique attributes of all individuals, creating a fair playing field for all and cultivating environments where everyone feels respected, valued, and a sense of belonging. “iQuolify is therefore a very compelling fit into our work culture, and I commend the initiative,” Shettima said.
Co-Founder for the Canadian iQuolify, Dr. Bankole Odole, said: “As an immigrant with five Masters Degrees, I have experienced
the challenges that immigrant professionals grapple with. The idea of iQuolify is therefore a ready solution capable of shielding other incoming immigrants from such same challenges.
African Award-winning Actress and Social Advocate, Kate Henshaw, who was a guest speaker, expressed her delight, describing iQuolify as a project whose time has come. She said: “Many people have good reasons to migrate but find themselves disadvantaged as migrants and then resort to menial jobs. She said iQuolify is a great vision that will bring to table solutions to less dignifying jobs. Kate Henshaw added the need to maximize one’s opportunities at home or abroad, by focusing on constant self-improvement, not just leaving the country by any means.”
Board Member Tech HERfrica and former Vice Chancellor, Osun State University Prof. Sola Akinrinade, spoke about educated migrants not living up to their potentials because they travel unprepared and encouraged all to take advantage of iQuolify to mitigate such lapses.
Immigrant Resettlement Expert, and Director of Marketing and Communications at Toronto Newlife Wellness Place, Tracy Docheff, said her job as an immigrant settler within various Canadian communities would be simpler with iQuolify.
Founder and Lead Consultant, HR Madam Consulting, Olufunmilola Bucknor, who shed light about her challenges recruiting for organisations within and outside Nigeria over piles upon piles of resumes, said iQuolify would bridge the gap.
25 THISDAY THURSDAY, MAY 25, 2023 BUSINESSWORLD NEWS
THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 • THISDAY 26
France-Nigeria Business Council: As Herbert Wigwe Takes Charge
Group CEO Access Corporation, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, takes over as President, France-Nigeria Business Council after its pioneer President, Chairman of BUA Group Abdul Samad Rabiu’s two-term tenure. Many expect the strategic EuroAfrican platform to blossom under the adroit and circumspect guidance of its new leadership, writes Louis
Penultimate week, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Group CEO of Access Corporation took over from Abdul Samad Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group, as the president of the strategic France-Nigeria business council. Rabiu served as the council’s president for two terms.
According to a statement issued by the Council, Rabiu handed over the reins to Wigwe in a ceremony held on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, in Paris, France. This definitely marks a new chapter in the Council’s history.
During Samad Rabiu’s tenure as pioneer president, the Council achieved significant milestones in strengthening business ties between France and Nigeria, promoting mutual growth and prosperity.
In his farewell address, the BUA Group’s Chairman expressed gratitude to the Council members, President Macron and other stakeholders for their unwavering support during his tenure. He acknowledged the exceptional service of Jean Haas, the Secretary of the Council, who will continue in his role under the Herbert Wigwe leadership.
He also expressed strong confidence in Dr. Wigwe’s ability to lead the Council towards new heights, citing his vast experience and keen understanding of the global financial landscape as key assets.
As Dr. Wigwe begins his tenure, Council members, including the BUA Chairman, have pledged their support and look forward to continued collaboration in fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth for both France and Nigeria.
France-Nigeria Business Council
The France-Nigeria Business Council is a key platform for strengthening business ties between France and Nigeria targeting promotion of mutual growth and prosperity. It also serves as a nexus for collaboration, innovation, and partnership between the two nations, fostering an environment conducive to sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
The Council has Gilbert Chagoury of Chagoury Group, Mike Adenuga of Globacom and Conoil, Aliko Dangote of Dangote Industries, Tony Elumelu, Chairman UBA & Heirs Holdings, and Herbert Wigwe, CEO, Access Coporation as the Nigerian members of the council. The largest French companies including Dassault, Danone, Axens, Ponticelli and Total Energies are also members of the council.
It would be recalled that in June 2021, French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the France-Nigeria Business Council - as a private sector initiative to enhance business relations between the two countries.
The new Council then had Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder/Chairman of Nigeria’s BUA Group as its inaugural President. Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Council in Paris on the sidelines of the Business France Summit in Versailles, France, Abdul Samad Rabiu thanked President Macron for “his vision in creating the French Nigeria Business Council which has led to a reset in the business relationship between Nigeria and France and has created a viable platform for business from both countries to partner and improve business ties.”
Herbert Wigwe Takes Charge
Now in the saddle as President, France-Nigeria Business Council, many economy sector observers are keen to track the changes Dr. Wigwe will bring to the critical platform. Industry analysts familiar with his track-record know that he has shown a relentless pursuit for growth and has done so in a measured and calculated manner.
They believe that what Dr. Wigwe and his team have done to transform the growth trajectory of Access Corporation is nothing short of remarkable.
It is against this background that the change of baton at France-Nigeria Business Council vis-a-vis the huge potentials for an economically beneficial well moderated two-way business relationship between the two Euro-African giants - France and Nigeria can hardly be overstressed.
The former Council President Samad Rabiu rather nailed it when he accurately observed that, “Nigeria is blessed with numerous potentials for French companies to do business across different areas,
notably solid minerals, mining, manufacturing, agriculture, associated equipment, power, food processing, and even in the business of associated equipment or infrastructure for the value chains of these sectors.”
Dr. Wigwe brings a compelling industry background to enable him create a massive sea change at the France-Nigeria Council. Beyond strategic acquisitions under his firm guidance Group CEO of Access Holdings Plc. trading as Access Corporation, Nigeria’s biggest bank by assets is indeed transforming Africa’s financial institutions’ eco-system.
If he can create the massive transformation at Access Corporation, the emerging consensus among economy gurus is that Dr. Wigwe can replicate the growth magic in the France-Nigeria Council.
Wigwe regularly rejects staying tamely at the end of received policy prescriptions. He covets knowledge-driven innovations, proactive engagement with stake-holders, policy makers and sure-footed action. These dimensions have been boldly mirrored in his leadership of one of the continent’s now transformed financial services behemoths.
The new France-Nigeria Council President and Access Corporation boss simply revels in pushing frontiers. Even as the world and Africa stand on the brink of substantial disruptions - and of considerable opportunity - as new business models challenge traditional templates - France-Nigeria Council will certainly benefit from Wigwe’s bold
visioning and governance nous.
As it were, a powerful vision draws in ideas, people and other resources. It creates the momentum and will to make change happen. It inspires individuals, complementary organizations and institutions to commit, to persist and to give their best. Keying into this enduring philosophy, Wigwe has also deployed impeccable professionalism, discipline and persistence to change the traditional narrative of business governance.
It could be recalled that mid-May, Access Bank, the flagship company of Access Holdings PLC, officially launched its subsidiary in Paris, France to connect the former colonial power with Africa. Access Bank’s presence in France represents an important step towards achieving its goal of bridging worlds and connecting opportunities for African businesses. The Bank’s latest stride also lays a marker for realising its recently unveiled 5-year strategic growth plan.
Although driven by a different industry visioning, it cannot be denied that this notable growth trajectory will generate further bigger-picture business synergy - with Wigwe recently taking charge at France-Nigeria Business Council.
Unquestionably, Access Bank’s presence in France represents an important step towards achieving its goal of bridging worlds and connecting opportunities for Nigerian/African businesses.
With his recent emergence as the President of the Council, Wigwe is uniquely positioned to instigate
more opportunities for scaled economic growth and development across the France-Nigeria divide. He would definitely sway the flow of capital, goods, and services across both countries, as well as support economic growth and development.
It’s no secret that where French businesses have formerly been risk-averse or outrightly unable to do business with Africa’s largest economy Nigeria, they can now be assured of a platform through which they can penetrate and mutually grow the market.
Where Nigerian companies were initially leery and had not seen French companies or the French market as a viable destination due to a lack of information, they can now be sure of a platform to facilitate this. With Wigwe in the France-Nigeria Council cockpit, significant changes beckon. French President Macron’s pledge that his government’s support to facilitating better dialogue amongst the Nigerian businesses present and their French counterparts represents a confidence boosting commitment from that country highest level of government.
Many observers are certain that going forward, regular France-Nigeria Business Forums in Paris and Abuja/Lagos to support various related initiatives fostering collaboration between the brightest minds of both nations and nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs would be a key feature of the Council’s new leadership. It is game on.
FOCUS THURSDAY, THISDAY 27
Herbert Wigwe
Achi
HEALTH & LIFESTYLE
Accelerating Implementation of the NHIA Act to Improve Health Insurance Coverage in Nigeria
Stakeholders at the 2023 Nigeria Health Watch, NHW, health financing policy dialogue recently held in Abuja with the theme, ‘Accelerating the Implementation of the NHIA Act to Improve Health Insurance Coverage in Nigeria’, have harped on the need to hasten the implementation of the National Health Insurance Authority, NHIA, Act so to improve health coverage in Nigeria. Sunday Ehigiator reports
The NHIA, formerly known as the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is a body established under the NHIA Act 2022 by the Federal Government of Nigeria to improve access to quality and affordable healthcare for all Nigerians.
The NHIA Act, which repealed the previous NHIS legislation, was signed into law on Thursday, May 19, 2022, by President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Law mandates NHIA, amongst other things, to ensure that health insurance is mandatory for every Nigerian and legal resident, to promote, regulate and integrate health insurance schemes in the country, and to improve and harness private sector participation in the provision of health care services.
The ultimate aim is to ensure the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all Nigerians.
It is against this backdrop that the stakeholders seek the speedy implementation of the act to improve health insurance coverage in Nigeria and minimize the out-of-pocket (OOP) spending on healthcare among Nigerians
Negative Indices of OOP Expenditure among Nigerians
Healthcare is becoming more unaffordable for many Nigerians, particularly, the masses that still cater for their health concerns largely through out-of-pocket expenses.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), out-of-pocket payments can make households and individuals incur catastrophic health expenditures and this can exacerbate the level of poverty.
According to a study published in the journal PlumX Metrics and titled ‘Out-of-pocket payments in Nigeria’, less than five per cent of Nigerians in the formal sector are covered by the NHIS. The study revealed that only three per cent of people in the informal sector are covered by voluntary private health insurance.
The Lancet Nigeria Commission, a multidisciplinary group of Nigerian academics based in Nigeria and around the world, working in close collaboration with University College London’s (UCL’s) Institute for Global Health and Policymakers, over two years reviewed existing disease burden, and opportunities to improve health.
Their report noted: “Government health expenditures have risen somewhat under the Fourth Republic, however, Nigeria’s total government spending as a share of overall health spending was at 4·6 per cent in 2017, lower than the African average of 7·2 per cent and the world average of 10·3 per cent.
“In contrast, out-of-pocket expenditure is extremely high, at 77 per cent of total health spending in Nigeria, compared with 37 per cent for the African average, and a much lower 18 per cent for the world average. Compounding Nigeria’s health inequities are low investment in water and sanitation infrastructure compared with other low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), as well as generally low government spending across sectors.
“Overall, Nigeria’s model of healthcare financing since the First Republic has gradually transformed into one focused on the generation of revenue
for hospital management through the charging of user fees.
“Public health centres have been pseudocommercialised as they are restructured to generate funds to work efficiently and independently. In the public and organised private sectors, neoliberal reforms have led healthcare providers to be more market-oriented, even though 60 per cent of the Nigerian population is estimated to have minimal disposable income.
“As a result of underfunding, the capacity and quality of government health facilities and health services dwindled due to the persistent unavailability of drugs and equipment, resulting in increasing reliance on home treatment, medicine sellers, traditional medical systems, and faith healing by the Nigerian populace.”
The Role of Health Insurance
Speaking at the forum, the Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Prof. Mohammed Sambo highlighted the critical role of health insurance in driving health outcomes and its strong connection to productivity and socioeconomic development.
He shed light on the importance of government support, adequate funding, strengthened governance structures and a conducive environment for the NHIA to flourish.
He emphasised that health financing should consider a country’s level of socioeconomic development, and Nigeria cannot rely solely on traditional methods but must explore innovative approaches.
He stressed the collective responsibility of all stakeholders, both within and outside the health sector, to collaborate and improve health
insurance coverage in the country.
According to him, “Developing relevant policies and optimising available resources is crucial to ensure equitable access to essential healthcare services, leaving no one behind.”
Need for Innovative Health Financing Mechanism
Also speaking, the Director-general of the Budget Office of the Federation (BoF), Mr Ben Akabueze discussed the need for innovative health financing mechanisms to cater to vulnerable groups in the country. He acknowledged the financial constraints that hinder adequate health insurance coverage in developing nations like Nigeria, where limited budgets from governments and donors have impacted healthcare funding. He, therefore, emphasised the importance of implementing accountable and transparent systems to maintain public enthusiasm and ensure value for money in healthcare provision.
In her address, the General Manager of NHIA, Barr. Blessing Nienge highlighted the efforts made since the signing of the NHIA Act in May 2022 to establish a reliable and sustainable framework for mandatory health insurance. She emphasized the role of mandatory health insurance in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and emphasised the need to bridge gaps and improve health insurance coverage swiftly.
Beaconhill Smile Group Takes Oral Health to Communities
Rebecca Ejifoma
Beaconhill Smile Group, under the umbrella of Beaconhill Smile Foundation, sensitised communities in the Victoria Island area of Lagos state on the significance of better oral health against the menace of oral cancer in Nigeria and Africa.
The group executed this walk in partnership with Lakeshore Cancer Centre to mark this
year’s International Oral Cancer Awareness Month in April.
In his speech, the Beaconhill Smile Group’s Managing Director, Dr Oluwaseun Akinbobola, spoke on the importance of early detection of oral cancer.
“Some of the major causes of oral cancer are alcohol and tobacco intake, poor dental hygiene, exposure to extreme sunlight, among others, all of which Nigerians are widely predisposed to from our social nature,” he warned.
If the doctor detects the disease early, Akinbobola said, the chances of survival are much higher, around 90 per cent.
That is why Beaconhill Smile Foundation aims to increase awareness of the disease nationwide, including risk factors and warning signs.
The dental practitioner further encouraged people to be proactive regarding their oral health.
He encouraged them to
be alert to any changes in their mouth and speak to a dentist or doctor as soon as they notice anything.
While citing the latest WHO data, Akinbobola decried that oral cancer in Nigeria has reached about 2,238 or 0.15 per cent of the total annual deaths in the country.
“This silent killer deserves a much-needed worldwide awareness, and Beaconhill Smile Foundation was able to close this care gap suc-
Significance of the NIHA
Earlier in her address, the Managing Director of Nigeria Health Watch, Vivianne Ihekweazu commended the country’s progress in striving for health for all. She acknowledged the significance of the NHIA Act in providing mandatory health insurance to all Nigerians, protecting them from the high cost of healthcare services.
However, she decried the slow implementation of the scheme, with less than five per cent of the population covered as of 2018.
“Factors such as the non-compulsory nature of the Act and poverty contributed to these challenges. The NHIA Act passed in May 2022, aimed to address these gaps by making health insurance mandatory for every Nigerian and authorising the NHIA to improve healthcare provision through private sector participation.”
Ihekweazu emphasised the critical role of effective communication in promoting health insurance uptake among the public.
“Ensuring that people understand the benefits of health insurance and the importance of enrolling in the scheme is key to its success.”
The Forum
The forum brought together various stakeholders, including the national and sub-national governments, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, the private sector, development partners, and the media. It provided a platform for sharing experiences, insights, and perspectives on NHIA implementation in Nigeria. The discussions centred on identifying challenges, exploring opportunities and developing strategies to accelerate the implementation of the NHIA Act.
cessfully,” he recommended.
The four kilometres walk started as early as 7 am, from Beaconhill Smile Clinic to Lakeshore Cancer Centre in Victoria Island Lagos.
The walk also gave oral cancer sensitisation on the causes, preventive measures, early detection needs, and treatment of the disease followed afterwards.
Free oral and breast cancer checks followed immediately at Lakeshore cancer centre.
Beaconhill Smile Group emerged as the Best Dental Care provider at the Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Awards (NHEA) 2022.
The dental organisation is a fast-rising international clinical chain with several specialist clinics across Lagos, Nigeria – from dentistry, physician-led skin aesthetics and dermatology centre, optometry and Beaconhilll Global Eye LCC in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 07010510430 THISDAY AY, MAY 25 , 2023 28
L-R: The Director General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Mr Ben Akabueze; Managing Director of Nigeria Health Watch, Mrs Vivianne Ihekweazu, and the Executive Secretary of National Health Insurance Authority, Prof. Mohammed Sambo during the dialogue forum recently held in Abuja
Dental Association Calls for Synergy Between Public, Private Practices
OVARIAN CYSTS (PART 2)
Rebecca Ejifoma
The Association of Private Dental Practitioners in Nigeria (APDPN) has called for deliberate synergy with public dental practitioners nationwide to further develop the practice and halt mass migration.
The president of the association, Dr Afolabi Ogunderu, made this call at the 5th Annual General Meeting and Awards/Dinner Night in Lagos.
“A significant contemporary issue is the japa syndrome (mass migration). This time, we have had a lot of dentists, medical doctors, and health workers leave the country due to economic reasons, among others,” he said.
Owing to this worrying trend, Ogunderu emphasised the need for practitioners to look at home-grown solutions amongst “Ourselves and train ourselves in many other aspects like a business”.
For dentistry to be sustainable and successful, the president insisted that the onus rests on the private sector, the academia, and the government.
He added: “The academia churns out and produces dentists for the public and the private sector. If there’s no synergy between the tripods, there will be a problem.
“The three parts need to come together for dentistry to be solidified so dentists can provide good quality services.”
Speaking on the theme, “Inflation and Migration Rate: Implication on Private Dental Practice in Nigeria”, the APDPN president lamented that about 85/90 per cent of what we use in dentistry is imported.
“The forex is a major issue. Then there is a brain drain. Currently, we have less than 3,000 dentists in Nigeria for a population of over 200 million. About 40 to 50 per cent of the dentists are residing in Lagos.”
He cited the current doctorto-patient ratio in Nigeria as 1 to 30,000 patients in the South and 1 to 45,000 patients in the North. In contrast, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommended a mix of 23 doctors, midwives and nurses per 10,000 people.
Hence, Ogunderu implored both private and public dentists across the country to come together as a body to brainstorm and look for a way to forge a positive future.
On her part, the Public Relations Officer of APDPN, Dr Opeyemi Okoisor, emphasised the need for collective and joint efforts of dental practitioners to deliver quality services amid the brain drain.
She added: “We are all familiar with the japa syndrome, the rising inflation, particularly posts Covid-19. We know that the dental industry isn’t the only one affected. But we have been severely affected daily by
the brain drain.
While lamenting that qualified doctors that should be able to work in private practice have migrated, Okoisor said one of the ways out is collaboration.
Her words: “We need more collaboration as a group. Instead of all of us working independently, having the same issues, when we come together, we can be more powerful and provide better care when we join forces.”
Speaking also, the CEO/ Founder of Luxe Dental Clinic, Dr Funmi Adeniyi, harped on financing medical healthcare to solve mass migration.
“I do not believe the bill to restrict medical and dental practitioners from leaving the country is the solution to our problem.
“The government needs to look inward and think about how to finance healthcare in Nigeria,” says Adeniyi.
She noted that if dentists are remunerated accordingly, have excellent living standards and can compete with their colleagues anywhere in the world, they wouldn’t want to leave.
That is why with the AGM, the association is looking inward and focusing on how to re-strategise as practitioners to be more profitable and to be better business owners.
She explained: “There’s the business of health. There’s the practice of dentistry and then the business of dentistry.
Nisa Medical, Clarion Call Care Honour Living Kidney Donor, Promise Support
Adedayo Akinwale
Nisa Medical Group and Clarion Call Care have pledged to provide support and care for living kidney donors in the country.
The Founder, Nisa Medical Group, Dr. Ibrahim Wada disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja at the inaugural Living Donor Day Celebration, which he described as the first of its kind in the country.
He said: “Today we recognise and honour the selfless individuals who had given the ultimate gift – the gift of life, through organ donation.
“I say to them, your courage, your compassion and your generosity have touched the lives of countless individuals and families and for that we thank you.
“Through this event, we aim to not only recognize, but also offer our support to living kidney donors, who had often undergone often
challenges in their journey to give life to someone else
“We want to provide the platform for living donors to share their experiences, to connect with others who are on similar journeys and to receive the support and care that they so rightfully deserve.”
Also, an eye surgeon, Dr. Abali Chuku, said he realized that even though kidney transplantation was a viable option for many patients, unfortunately the procedure was not widely available in Nigeria.
He noted that it was based on this that he assembled a team of experts and subsequently embarked on a mission to bring kidney transplantation to the South-east.
Chuku noted that on December 7, 2017, historic kidney transplant was performed at the Federal Medical Center, of charge for the two patients. According to him, It was a
groundbreaking achievement that has brought hope to many patients suffering from kidney diseases. And since then, we have continued to build on this success. Currently, we have done 11 at the FMC.
Chuku urged leaders in healthcare to continue to work together to improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
“It is said, if you want to be the best, copy the current best and what you need to add to the current best? One percent,” he added Also, a Senator-elect, representing the Isialangwa constituency, Abia State, Darlington Nwokocha the way the government has given priority to the aviation sector, the same should be done to the healthcare sector.
He pledged to work on legislation to improve insurance coverage for all patients, specifically legislation that protects and supports those who donate the gift of life as living organ donors in Nigeria.
Last week, we started a topic on ovarian cyst. We defined and discussed the causes and types of ovarian cyst. This week, we will conclude with its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN CYST
Women with ovarian cysts typically experience little to no discomfort and may go about their daily lives without interruption. Women with cancerous or large cysts, on the other hand, may experience noticeable and even life-threatening symptoms. Among the most common symptoms are:
discomfort.
abdomen.
bleeding absence (amenorrhea), heavy bleeding (menorrhagia), and painful periods (dysmenorrhea).
abdominal pain, fever, and nausea.
retention, if a cyst presses against the bladder. Even though symptoms vary depending on the individual, women with endometriosis cysts are more likely to experience the following:
lower back or abdomen
painful
Those suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which causes an abundance of small, unruptured follicles or cysts on the ovaries, may also experience the following symptoms:
as a result of an increase in the production of masculinizing hormones (hirsutism).
If you have experienced any of the above symptoms or have been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, it may be a good time to consult with a clinician to determine a diagnosis and next line of treatment.
DIAGNOSIS OF
OVARIAN CYSTS
A gynecological examination is required to diagnose an ovarian cyst. If an ovarian lump or mass is found, additional tests are required to rule out the possibility of ovarian cancer.
To diagnose a benign ovarian cyst, the clinician may use one or more of the following tests:
Ovarian cysts are frequently detected when symptoms suggestive of an ovarian cyst are mentioned or during a routine pelvic exam, in which the clinician examines the abdomen for an abnormal swelling that may be a cyst. However, if the pelvic examination does not yield a definitive diagnosis, a vaginal sonogram is performed.
This imaging test provides the clinician with the most precise picture of the ovary and cyst.
A small instrument is inserted into the vagina and sound waves are bounced off the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries, forming a picture on a monitor. This image allows the clinician to accurately determine the size of the cyst as well as see inside it and determine whether it is solid or fluid-filled. While a vaginal sonogram may detect the presence of a cyst, it cannot tell if it is benign or malignant. If the sonogram reveals a cyst, the next step may be surgical removal of the cyst to determine whether it is malignant or benign.
The surgeon can see and remove the cyst with this minimally invasive surgical procedure by making a small incision in the abdomen rather than a long cut. The laparoscope, a thin lighted telescope, is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision. The cyst is then removed using small instruments placed near the pubic bone by the surgeon.
TREATMENT OF OVARIAN CYSTS
Treatment is determined by the age, size, and type of cyst. It may also be determined by the symptoms. The clinician may recommend the following steps:
preferable to wait and be reexamined to see if the cyst disappears after a few months. If you have no symptoms and an ultrasound shows a small, fluid-filled cyst, this is usually an option regardless of age. You may need several follow-up pelvic ultrasounds to see if the cyst’s size or appearance changes. hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills. This may help to prevent future ovarian cysts. However, birth control pills will not shrink an existing cyst. appear to be a functional cyst, continues to grow, or causes pain may be removed by the surgeon. Some cysts may be removed without removing the ovary (cystectomy). In some cases, the cystic ovary is removed (oophorectomy). Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopy) with a laparoscope and instruments inserted through small cuts in the abdomen may be performed. If the cyst is large or there is a risk of cancer, an open procedure with a larger cut may be required.
An ovarian cyst that appears after menopause is occasionally diagnosed as cancer. In this case, you should consult with a gynecologic cancer specialist (gynecologic oncologist). The uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries may need to be removed surgically. You might also require chemotherapy or radiation.
CONCLUSION
Ovarian cysts are benign growths that form on or within the ovaries. Cysts come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common type is harmless, does not cause symptoms, and eventually goes away on its own after a few months without treatment. Regular pelvic exams to help reduce the chances of having a cyst and be aware of the symptoms that may indicate a serious problem requiring specialist review.
THISDAY AY, MAY 25 , 2023 29 NEWS
(Middle) President of APDPN, Dr Afolabi Ogunderu flanked by other members of the association at the 5th Annual General Meeting and Awards/Dinner Night in Lagos
FERTILITY
AILOJE drkemi@lifelinkfertility.com www.lifelinkfertility.com +2348033083580
With Dr. Kemi
Total Domestic Investors’ Transactions on NGX Rise to N659.26bn in Four Months
Kayode Tokede
Amid the current macroeconomic challenges, the total domestic transactions performed by investors on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) has so far risen to N659.26 billion in the first four months of 2023.
This is according to the recently released data on domestic and foreign portfolio participation in Nigeria’s equity trading for the month of April.
The prolonged foreign exchange scarcity, inflation among others have been taking their toll on the Nigerian economy and the capital market which is the barometer of the economy
has seen mixed sentiments in transactions in the month under review.
For instance, domestic transactions decreased by 45.30 per cent from N3.556 trillion in 2007 to N1.945 trillion in 2022 while foreign transactions also decreased by 38.47 per cent from N616 billion to N379 billion over the same period.
Furthermore, total domestic transactions accounted for about 84 per cent of the total transactions carried out in 2022, while foreign transactions accounted for about 16 per cent of the total transactions in the same period.
However, the transaction data for 2023 shows that total
domestic transactions stood at N659.26 billion, while total foreign transactions currently stands at N62.18 billion.
According to the report, total transactions at the nation’s bourse at the end of April, increased by 30.77 per cent from N146.22 billion (about $317.09 million) recorded in March 2023 to N191.21 billion (about $413.25million) recorded in April 2023. However, the performance of the current month when compared to the performance in April 2022 (N205.88 billion) revealed that total transactions decreased by 7.13 per cent.
Access Holdings Shareholders Approve N1.30 Final Dividend, Growth Expansion
Kayode Tokede
The shareholders of Access Holdings Plc, yesterday approved the management’s N1.30 final dividend payout at the PanAfrican financial institution’s first Annual General Meeting (AGM), since its transitioning into Holdings Company in Lagos.
The approved dividend by shareholders is in addition to the interim dividend of N0.20 kobo per ordinary share paid at mid-year.
Speaking at the meeting, President Pragmatic Shareholders Association, Mrs. Bisi Bakare, commended the management for growing gross earnings above the N1 trillion mark and maintaining dividend payout,
stressing on the Group’s expansion in total assets.
She acknowledged decline in cost-to-income ratio to 57.9 per cent in 2022 from 58.8 per cent in 2021 amid macro-economy challenges, while urging the company to maintain effective management over rising inflation rate.
Speaking earlier, the Group Chairman, Access Holdings, Mr. Bababode Osunkoya, at the meeting said 2022 was a year of unprecedented challenges for Access Holdings and for society more broadly.
According to him, “As a company, we continued to demonstrate our resilience, our ability and commitment to support customers, clients, and wider stakeholders in ever
changing economic conditions.
“In January 2023, we began the implementation of another five-year strategy which we shared with the investment community and stakeholders.
A key aspect of our intent over the next five years is to become a top-five financial services provider in Africa by 2027.
“We will build a large, diversified company, by consolidating our wholesale franchise and embedding ourselves firmly in the retail market. This strategy will be digitally led, customer-focused and supported by various collaborations with reputable Fintech companies, to deliver a deeply entrenched retail footprint and payment business.”
NGX: Sustainable Finance Key to Transforming Nigeria’s Economy
The Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) has said sustainable finance can be a transformative tool used in shaping the Nigerian economy for the better.
The Divisional Head, Capital Markets, Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), Mr Jude Chiemeka, made this known yesterday in Lagos at the Investor Engagement session organised by NGX and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) themed: ‘Empowering Responsible Investing – ESG Disclosure’.
GRI partnered the Exchange on the engagement session to further educate the investor community on incorporating
ESG data into decision making.
Chiemeka noted that the exchange recognised the power and potential of responsible investing while adding that it firmly believes that sustainable finance is not merely a buzzword but a transformative force that has the ability to shape the Nigerian economy and society for the better.
He further added that the NGX have wholeheartedly embraced this vision and have taken concrete steps to contribute to the advancement of responsible investment practices.
Emphasising the important role GRI plays in shaping
the global sustainability reporting landscape, The NGX Divisional Head, said: “Through their work, they have paved the way for greater accountability and responsible business practices. We laud their dedication and unwavering commitment to building a more sustainable future.”
Delivering the keynote address, the Special Adviser to the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Sustainable Banking, Dr. Aisha Mahmood, spoke on CBN’s efforts in enabling sustainable banking in the country via regulatory enforcement of ESG disclosures for banks.
LOTUS Bank Supports Yaba College of Technology
Nume Ekeghe
In a bid to support the education sector in Nigeria, LOTUS Bank has donated a brand-new 18-seater bus to Yaba College of Technology, Lagos.
The donation was made alongside other contributions, which include the renovation of the college’s Banking and Finance Department, the provision of office equipment for the department, and the award of cash prizes to the Best Graduating Student and Best Female Graduating Student.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, in Lagos recently, the Managing Director, Kafilat Araoye, said a conducive environment and
adequate resources were key to achieving growth, productivity, and results. Transportation is also important to the operational success of any entity. “This is an opportunity to give back to our institutions. With these renovations and provisions, we hope it will serve as an added resource to improve the productivity and mobility of key stakeholders within the Yaba College of Technology community. We see the prizes to our students as a form of encouragement for them to continue to strive for excellence, and success and to embrace equity in banking for sustainability,” she said.
The team at Yaba College of Technology expressed their
Money Market Indicators (in Percentage)
gratitude and excitement about the facelift and donations to the Banking and Finance Department and encouraged Lotus Bank to continue to provide support to their stakeholders and community as they fulfill their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
In addition to the bus donation, LOTUS Bank also renovated the Banking and Finance Department and provided office equipment to support the department’s academic activities.
The bank also awarded cash prizes of N500,000 and N350,000 to the Best Graduating Student and Best Female Graduating Student respectively, to encourage academic excellence.
OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 8 MARCH, 2023
The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $84.37 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $84.59 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).
BUSINESS/ MONEYGUIDE
MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) AUGUST 2022 Money Supply (M3) 49,356,443.6 -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 50,601.36 Money Supply (M2) 49,305,842.3 -- Quasi Money 27,869,678.3 -- Narrow Money (M1) 21,436,164 ---- Currency Outside Banks 2,680,236.81 ---- Demand Deposits 18,755,927.2 Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 5,074,909.92 Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 27,869,678.3 -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 61,195,142.4 ---- Credit to Government (Net) 21,001,401.5 ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA 0.00 ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 0.00 ---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) 40,193,740.9 --Other Assets Net 6,785,979.22 Reserve Money (Base Money 14,040,351.9 --Currency in Circulation 3,210,664.98 --Banks Reserves 10,829,686.9 --Special Intervention Reserves 390,557.8
MARKET INDICATORS
MonthJuly 2022 Inter-Bank Call Rate 13.00 Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00 Treasury Bill Rate 2.76 Savings Deposit Rate 1.42 1 Month Deposit Rate 3.64 3 Months Deposit Rate 4.96 6 Months Deposit Rate 5.87 12 Months Deposit Rate 5.76 Prime Lending rate 12.10 Maximum Lending Rate 27.61
L-R: Executive Director, Technical, Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Mr. Joseph Oladokun; Group Chairman, Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi; MD/CEO, Tribune Newspaper, Mr. Edward Dickson and MD/CEO, Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Mr. Femi Asenuga, during the visit of Tribune’s management team to the financial institution in Lagos...recently
30 THISDAY DAY, MAY 25, 2023
Shareholders Extol Performance of Berger Paints, Laud Dividend Policy
Nume Ekeghe
Shareholders of Berger Paints
Nigeria Plc have commended its Board and Management over the company’s impressive performance despite the tough operating environment.
At its 63rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held yesterday in Lagos, the shareholders endorsed the company’s dividend policy, which has been consistent for the past 10 years. The firm recorded a
profit of N208.6 million in 2022, as against N135.6 million, an increase of 53 per cent.
The shareholders approved the payment of N202,876,413 as dividend at the rate of 70 kobo per share as against 40 kobo paid in the preceding year while the appointment of Mrs. Alaba Fagun as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer was unanimously approved at the meeting.
A shareholder, Olowolafe
Kehinde, who appreciated the performance of Berger Paints despite the business environment, said: “Despite the economic issue that is affecting us in this nation and also many companies’ operations, our revenue grew from N4.9bn to N6. 9 billion, representing 28 per cent increase. Profit after tax also grew from N135.6 million to N208.6m, also an increase of 53 per cent. Going forward, our earnings per share grew from
47k to 72k. Also, our net assets grew. When we look at all these indices, it shows the resilience, unwavering ability of the able board and management.”
Kehinde stated that the company’s dividend policy had been consistent for the past 10 years, while thanking the board and the management for their roles in growing the business.
The Chairman, Abi Ayida said the paint manufacturer would not rest on its oars.
“I think our performance speaks for itself. We accept the commendations but we are not satisfied. We are driving the company to do better. Last year was a very difficult year, the rise in input cost would have sunk most companies but we are well positioned to meet whatever challenges come our way because we think about how to move the company forward,” the chairman said.
Speaking about the setting
up of a new subsidiary called Swift Painting, Ayida said it would be a valued added service, designed to be faster and more consistent than the manual painting process.
Its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Alaba Fagun, noted that the challenges of business environment had prompted a dynamic strategic approach of re-engineering the company’s goals to achieve more with less.
PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF MAY/23/23
MARKET NEWS
MAIN BOARDDEALS MARKET PRICE QUANTITY TRADED VALUE TRADED ( N ) MAIN BOARDDEALS MARKET PRICE QUANTITY TRADED VALUE TRADED ( N )
31 THISDAY DAY, MAY 25, 2023
Nigeria’s Media Democracy: A 2023 Elections Postscript and the Urgency of Now
By Paul Obi
“The basis of our governments being the opinion of the people, the very first object should be to keep that right; and were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”
- Thomas Jefferson, Former US President
Democracy is a tricky phenomenon. For the African and Nigerian version of democracy, it has been more daunting; unwilling to accept political equality, freedom and equal measure of voices in the public and civic spaces. But for all that we know, a free press is the most testable and self-evident precondition of a democracy in its true sense. Framers of the Nigerian 1999 Constitution, including the 1979 piece were conversant with this global requirement of the free world: that man and woman; boys and girls; old and young should have the freedom to express themselves in a manner that does not breach law and order; doesn’t dehumanised the dignity of citizens. And that this singular right cannot and should not be inhibited by the state and even the courts except where those rights encroach permissible boundaries: i) where national security overrides the public interest to know, ii) tortuous wrong-doing in the course of news reportage and iii) to criminally wanting to or already profit from a journalistic act. That’s actus reus or mens rea. This is the acceptable benchmark within the democratic liberal world.
Thus, how the media relates with democracy in fulfilling these principles is also very key to nationbuilding, development and overall well being of the state. Former US President, Thomas Jefferson in the opening quote above provides the basis upon which free societies should see the media as an indispensable democratic institution. But like everything in Nigeria, the mixture of a wobble democracy and unfreedom within the media space signals a very troubling tapestry of nationhood challenges. These challenges of media democracy are both historical and systemic; considering the turbulent history of journalism, media, communication and the press from colonial, military dictatorship to the present democratic dispensation. In measuring these challenges, Nigeria has not fared better. This gap accounts for the poor ranking of the country in many global ratings focusing on press freedom and democracy. From Freedom House, Reporters Without Borders, to Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Nigeria’s scorecard is a telling catastrophe of the country with regards to
media freedom and democracy.
Regrettably, not much scholarly interrogation has focused on this contemporary challenge; nor has the crisis formed part of the fulcrum within the discursive space in Nigeria. Inadvertently, the Nigerian media hardly engages itself or self-reflect. It is for this gap, ignited by recent attempts by the Nigerian state to gag the press through the introduction of anti-press legislations, particularly targeted at the mainstream and online media in the National Assembly around July of 2021 that led to this book project billed for public presentation tomorrow, Thursday, 25th May, 2023. Hence, Media and Nigeria’s Constitutional Democracy: Civic Space, Free Speech, and the Battle for Freedom of the Press published by Lexington Books, an imprint of Rowman and Littlefield in Lanham, Maryland, United States (US) took nearly two years to publish. From July 2021 to February 2023. The book which is for both academic and general-purpose readers explored critical debates within the Nigerian media landscape, tracing the historical nuances of press freedom from the context of British colonialism and the Willinks Minority Commission and Minority Rights in the 1950s. The book also x-rayed issues of censorship; ethical self-interrogation of the Nigerian media itself, the shrinking civic space, national security versus the public interest to know, the Nigerian state’s
(non) conformity with the democratic ethos of the media, government regulation, online media and the cyberspace and the ensuing diffusion, among other salient areas. Also, we particularly singled out THISDAY Newspaper, The Cable Newspaper Journalism Foundation and the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) for appreciation for all the support in the course of this book project. Propelled and bugged by the dearth of global standard and deep scholarly works in media scholarship in Nigeria compared to the fields of law and political science, the book is a pool of distinguished experts with both academic and practical journalistic field experience. From a journalist turned professor from University of Jos, an Harvard University trained legal luminary and scholar, to a retired Brigadier General and former director of the Nigerian Army Public Relations Directorate, scholars from University of Maiduguri, Cultural and Gender Studies experts, one of the top administrative head of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to intellectually adapt journalists and civil society experts with the requisite knowledge on the subject, the book is a contemporary collection that should be in all public libraries and the library shelves of all Nigerian universities, media houses, legal firms, political science scholars, national security experts among others. The book, beyond providing a poignant outlook
of the contemporary Nigerian media ecosystem, is also a pan-Nigerian work given that all the six geopolitical zones are equally represented in the pool of Editors and Contributors.
As we present the book to the Nigerian public tomorrow in Abuja, we have also been discreet in selecting the Chairman of the Occasion and Chief Presenter of the book in the person of the Governor of Bauchi State, Sen. Bala Muhammed, CON. At the moment Nigeria is troubled. More so, with rancorous 2023 General Elections, specifically, the presidential polls. The book presentation is also slated as a post-2023 general elections national dialogue on Nigeria’s media and democracy. With Gov. Bala Muhammed as the Chief Presenter of the book, and being a journalist, he would provide some profound discourse on safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy and what role the media plays in navigating the contours of Nigeria’s transitional democracy. As a democrat who have climbed through the ladder as a journalist and politician, who is also media friendly and his policies in Bauchi State are people-oriented, it’s our conviction that he is the best fit for the job tomorrow.
Added to that, the Chief Reviewer of the book, Prof Abiodun Adeniyi, a journalist and Deputy Director, School of Post-graduate Studies, Baze University, Abuja will be joined by other panellists like Prof Udenta Udenta, Associate Prof Taye C. Obateru, Dr Igomu Onoja of NBC, Brigadier General Sani K. Usman (Rtd), Dr Bridget Onochie of the Guardian Newspaper and the Chief Host and Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Dr Sam Amadi. The panel for the post-2023 general elections dialogue is highly representative of all the strands and fields required in resetting the national debate on democracy and the salient role of the media.
Again, with growing concerns about attempts to suppress press freedom as witnessed during the 2023 general elections, there are fears that the country may sink deeper into authoritarian regime and innocuous media clampdown in a post-2023 Nigeria. For us, we believe these are real threats and palpable constraints ahead. The urgency of now therefore is not to be complacent, but to remain vigilant by advancing this national dialogue on Nigeria’s media and democracy. The book, therefore, aptly captures the past and contemporary dialectical interactions between media and democratic politics in Nigeria, and the unsettled challenges. It is a national dialogue and conversation intended to aggregate all the viewpoints on how to make our democracy sustainable – and irrepressible. That way, a warning bell would have been sounded on the exigency of protecting Nigeria’s democracy from unfreedom - with the media leading the charge.
Obi, is a media scholar, journalist and co-editor of the book, Media and Nigeria’s Constitutional Democracy: Civic Space, Free Speech, and the Battle for Freedom of the Press (Lexington Books, 2023)
Election Tribunal Dismisses APM, APP Petitions against Sanwo-Olu
Wale Igbintade
The Lagos State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal yesterday dismissed the petitions filed by the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) and the APP against the election of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat.
Other respondents to the two petitions were Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Chairman of the 3-man Tribunal, Justice Arum Igyem Ashom, dismissed the petition following its withdrawal by the parties.
Other members of the Tribunal were Justice Mikail Abdullahi and Justice Igho P. Braimoh.
Lawyers to the two parties, Henry Bello and Francis Ese, told the Tribunal that their client had decided to do away with the petitions.
Sanwo-Olu polled 762,134 votes to defeat Rhodes-Vivour, his closest rival, who scored 312,329, while Adediran, who came third, garnered
62,449 votes.
The candidate of APM, Funmilayo Kupoluyi scored 884 while the candidate of APP Abiola Adeyemi 259, according to results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The parties had argued in their separate petitions that Sanwo-Olu and his deputy were not qualified to contest the election and that INEC failed to comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act and the 1999 Constitution.
When the case was called, the lawyer to APM, Bello informed the Tribunal that the motion for withdrawal was predicated on four grounds supported by two affidavits sworn to by Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, the party’s National Chairman.
He said, “Our candidate has lost interest in the petition and has proceeded to congratulate the second respondent. We urge the petition to strike out this application.”
Addressing the court, counsel to APP told the Tribunal that he had
the directive of the Chairman of the party, Chief Okey Nwosu, to withdraw the petition.
In his response, John Baiyeshe, who represented INEC in the APM petition, did not oppose the motion but asked the court to dismiss it and not strike it out, because parties have joined issues.
While counsel to Sanwo-Olu and Hamzat, Ayuba Kawu and that of the APC, Abiodun Owonikoko, did not oppose the motions for withdrawal; they also aligned themselves with Baiyeshe’s argument that the petition be dismissed.
“We have no objection to the application and no agreement or
undertaking about withdrawing of the petition. We align that the appropriate order to make is a dismissal
Owonikoko also submitted that it was trite law that where pleadings had been joined, the appropriate order was dismissal. In his ruling, Justice Ashom held, “The sum
effect of what the petitioners said is that the petition is withdrawn. The respondents have filed an affidavit of non-collision and did not object.
“Considering the level at which the petition is and that pleadings have been closed, we order that the petition be dismissed,” he held.
No Increase in Tuition Fees at Ambrose Alli University, Says Varsity Management
The management of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Ekpoma has described as false and misleading rumours making the rounds that the institution has increased its tuition fees.
In a statement, the Acting Registrar, Ambrose E. Odiase, debunked the false information, noting that tuition fee for returning students remained unchanged for the 2022/2023 session.
He said, “It has become necessary for the Management of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma to set the records straight regarding the issue of tuition fees for students at the University.
“This follows the misinformation that has been spread on the media space in the past few days by mischief makers who have been churning out staggering and inconsistent figures and claiming them to be the official fee regime of the University.”
The Acting Registrar noted, “For the avoidance of doubt, and for the general information of all, there is no tuition fee increase for the 2022/2023 session in Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma for returning students of the University. All tuition fees remain the same as in the 2021/2022 academic
session for our students.
According to him, “Potential students are, however, advised to visit the University website to access the fees applicable to them and decide for themselves whether or not they wish to be students of the University.”
He added that, “Management states categorically that no candidate seeking admission into Ambrose Alli University is yet a student of the University until he or she has matriculated.
“Such potential students should note that the offer of admission will
lapse after two weeks from the date of publication of the admission list and that the payment of acceptance fee will determine those to be registered for matriculation. The University will not be prepared to admit beyond its quota.”
“Management hopes the above information will be fully digested and advises anyone who seeks further clarification on the issue of fees charged at Ambrose Alli University to visit the University website at the address given above,” he added.
PERSPECTIVE THURSDAY, THISDAY 32
NEWS
Sen. Bala MuhammedObi
NUPRC Unveils 10-year Corporate Strategy, Hinges Growth on Responsiveness, Integrity
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) yesterday unveiled its 10-year corporate and regulatory strategy implementation plan, which it said will help firm up the organisation’s supervisory role in the nation’s oil and gas industry.
Speaking at the official launch of the document in Abuja, the Chief Executive of the commission, Mr Gbenga Komolafe, pointed out that although not cast in stone, the plan will help refocus the regulator on its core responsibility to stakeholders. He noted that the document was partly a result of a retreat held by the
organisation sometime ago, stressing that having a strategic plan remains key, being part and parcel of building the commission to prevent it from running in the wrong direction.
In the last 18 months, since the NUPRC was established, the chief executive noted that the commission had worked tirelessly to put its house in great shape, describing the unveiling as a milestone.
Komolafe explained that the strategic plan which will be in place to direct the activities of the commission could match the best in the world, stressing that the document contains the steps to be taken to position the NUPRC as a leading regulatory body.
In addition, he stated that the body
would continue to drive economic growth and ensure the sustainable development of the nation’s natural resources.
The strategy document, he said, encompasses key elements that will drive the NUPRC’s success, having identified core focus areas to optimise value creation, diversification of revenue sources, enhance stakeholders’ relations, attract investors and enhance transparency.
According to him the development of the document followed three phases and was guided by some key considerations including the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), global best practices, value creation, effective operating model and people.
BUHARI, FINISHING STRONG, SEEKS SUPPORT FOR APC, TINUBU
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed eager anticipation for his exit as Nigeria’s president in the next five days, even as he sought support for his party, the APC and the incoming President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The President also revealed he is facing tremendous pressure in the last few days of his administration.
Buhari spoke Tuesday night, at the close of the Regimental Dinner organised in his honour by the country's armed forces at the Nigerian Armed Forces Officers’
Mess, Asokoro, Abuja.
The president chaired a valedictory session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) yesterday, and met with staff of the State House, as part of the countdown to the end of his eight years administration. He expressed appreciation for all the support and loyalty of his cabinet and staff.
At the dinner, Buhari apologised to the gathering for showing up late. He stressed that he had been under immense pressure coping with the array of events lined up for the inauguration, in addition to wrapping up official duties of
his office.
The president had same day inaugurated the new headquarters of the Nigeria Customs Service in Maitama District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), before virtually inaugurating six other projects across the country.
He also presided another extraordinary FEC meeting from midday till late Tuesday evening, before heading to the Regimental Dinner.
The president told the audience, which included the Chief of Defense Staff, service chiefs, and other top military brass, “Please, I will like
The chief executive of the NUPRC stated that other notable oil regulators globally were benchmarked, while top management was consulted, the outcome of which was later endorsed by the board.
“We have redesigned our organisational structure to ensure effective alignment and streamlining of operations and have deployed a new employee corporate policy to provide clear guidelines and standards for our workforce..
“Our work processes are now well documented with areas needing interdepartmental collaboration identified. Furthermore, we have undergone a comprehensive rebranding including a redesign of our brand and logo
to digress a bit from the prepared speech. I apologise most sincerely for keeping you waiting for about half an hour. Actually, I can hardly cope with the pressure and I’m desperately looking forward to the next six days.”
In his address, Buhari charged officers and men of the armed forces, as well as other security and intelligence agencies, not to relent in their effort to ensure absolute security in all parts of the country. He expressed appreciation for the sacrifices they had so far made. He told the security chiefs, “Please, permit me use to this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation
Tina Turner, 'Queen of Rock 'n' Roll’, Dies at 83
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
American-born singer, Tina Turner, who became one of the top recording artists of all time, died yesterday at the age of 83, a Reuters report said.
She died peacefully after a long illness in her home in Küsnacht near Zurich, Switzerland, her representative said.
Turner began her career in the 1950s during the early years of rock and roll and evolved into an MTV phenomenon.
In the video for her chart-topping song "What's Love Got to Do with It," in which she called love a "second-hand emotion," Turner epitomised 1980s style as she strutted through New York City streets with her spiky blond hair, wearing a cropped jean jacket, mini skirt, and stiletto heels.
With her taste for musical experimentation and bluntly-worded ballads, Turner gelled perfectly with a 1980s pop landscape in which music fans valued electronicallyproduced sounds and scorned hippie-era idealism.
Sometimes nicknamed the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll," Turner won six of her eight Grammy Awards in the 1980s. The decade saw her land a dozen songs on the Top 40, including "Typical Male," "The Best," "Private Dancer" and "Better Be Good to Me."
Her 1988 show in Rio de Janeiro drew 180,000 people, which remains one of the largest concert audiences for any single performer. By then, Turner had been free from her marriage to guitarist Ike Turner for a decade, Reuters said.
The superstar was forthcoming about the abuse she suffered from her former husband during their marital and musical partnership in the 1960s and 1970s. She described bruised eyes, busted lips, a broken jaw and other injuries that repeatedly sent her to the emergency room.
"Tina's story is not one of victimhood but one of incredible triumph," singer Janet Jackson wrote about Turner, in a Rolling Stone issue that placed Turner at No. 63 on a list of the top 100 artists of all time.
international sensation - an elegant powerhouse," Jackson said.
Most of Turner's hit songs were written by others, but she enlivened them with a voice that New York Times music critic Jon Pareles called "one of the more peculiar instruments in pop."
"It's three-tiered, with a nasal low register, a yowling, cutting middle range and a high register so startlingly clear it sounds like a falsetto," Pareles wrote in a 1987 concert review.
She was born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939, in the rural Tennessee community of Nutbush, and her father worked as an overseer on a farm while her
mother left the family when the singer was 11 years old, according to the singer's 2018 memoir "My Love Story."
Tina employed her strong voice and strenuously rehearsed dance routines as lead vocalist in an ensemble called the Ike and Tina Turner Revue. She collaborated with members of rock royalty, including The Who and Phil Spector, in the 1960s and 1970s and appeared on the cover of issue two of Rolling Stone magazine in 1967.
Ike and Tina Turner bounced between record labels, owing much of their commercial success to a relentless touring schedule. Their biggest hit was a cover of Creedence
Clearwater Revival's "Proud Mary."
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted Ike and Tina Turner in 1991, calling them "one of the most formidable live acts in history."
Ike Turner died in 2007. She battled a number of health problems after retiring and in 2018 she faced a family tragedy, when her oldest son, Craig, took his life at age 59 in Los Angeles. Her younger son Ronnie died in December 2022. Her name continues to draw audiences years after her retirement. She is survived by Bach and two sons of Ike's that she adopted.
as part of our renewed vision and commitment,” he noted.
He added that innovation now remains at the core of the work of the organisation, pointing out that at the heart of the strategic plan are professionalism, responsiveness, ownership and integrity.
According to Komolafe, being entrusted with the responsibility of regulating the oil and gas sector, it has to uphold its functions with utmost professionalism, uphold highest standards and ethical standards as well as promote best practices.
He also stated that the ability to adapt and respond quickly to change remains crucial, promising to engage with all stakeholders to
to the officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their unwavering loyalty, hard work, dedication and selfless service to our beloved nation.
“I’m fully aware of all your sacrifices and commitment in tackling the various security challenges and your contributions to the successful elections in our country.
“However, until the issue of insecurity is surmounted, much more is still desired from the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Consequently, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the other security agencies must always remain resolute in the face of the country's security challenges. In this vein, our administration, though winding down soon, will never relent in providing the needed support to the military, to enable them to effectively carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
“Let me now thank the chief host, the Chief of Defense Staff, the Minister of Defense, the Service Chiefs, and heads of other security agencies at this event, for your dedicated service to the nation. I commend you and thank our esteemed guests for coming to this historic occasion.
“Let me now pray for the repose of the souls of our fallen heroes. Their ultimate sacrifice will never be in vain. May the Almighty God continue to grant them eternal rest.”
Dignitaries at the dinner included Governor of Kebbi State, Atiku Bagudu; Chairman of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr. Tony Elumelu; Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele
be able to identify and respond to change quickly.
He also urged staff to take ownership of the their work, enforce accountability which he assured will come with a good reward system so as to deliver on the organisation’s core mandate.
“As we move forward, we commit to upholding the tenets of integrity in all our dealings, conduct ourselves with fairness, impartiality and a strong sense of ethics to build trust among stakeholders,” he pointed out.
Describing it as a call to action, he said it will contribute to the realisation of the organisation’s vision and leverage its expertise to take the NUPRC to new heights.
Kyari; Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele; and members of the National Assembly.
Meanwhile, in his remarks at the valedictory FEC meeting held at the State House Council Chambers in Abuja, the president thanked the ministers for their steadfastness in pursuing the goals of the administration. He sought support for the incoming president, Bola Tinubu, even from outside government.
Buhari appreciated the ministers for working closely together, despite many odds and challenges, and sustaining the synergy that translated into many achievements.
“I am proud to say we gave our best,” he said.
The president directed the ministers to tidy up their work and avoid lastminute rush that could compromise the good deeds they had done over the years.
According to him, “In the course of our years together, ranging from our newest addition to the oldest members of the team for the past seven and a half years, we have differed on many issues.
“I urge that we understand that those positions were for the collective good, and no one should keep grievances, or carry these differences forward.
“For those of us that will not directly be in government, I know that I am one of such, I ask that we continue to provide our support, in whatever way we can, if called upon by our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), that gave us the platform to stand and
Continued on page 37
ADVONICS GETS AQC AWARD DAYS AFTER FEC APPROVED RAILWAY,
AVIATION SECURITY EQUIPMENT SUPPLY, INSTALLATION
promised that ASNL would always strive to justify the laurel.
He also said the company would continue to cover more grounds, particularly, as regards information and technological innovations in ensuring operational quality, as well as making cutting-edge safety and security products available to Nigerian homes and businesses.
AQAA is an annual award initiated by the African Quality Congress (AQC) to celebrate leadership in quality management in Africa.
The organisers of the 2023 edition said it was aimed at identifying, recognising, and rewarding companies and products that applied quality culture and quality management best practices in achieving their corporate objectives.
In his remarks at the close of the event, Prof. Stanley Timeyin Ohenhen, who was the guest speaker, implored awardees to remain committed and dedicated to quality security, and safety of processes and operations in all spheres of human endeavor.
Meanwhile, the Federal Executive Council (FEC), recently, approved the supply and installation of security equipment for the nation’s Aviation sector and railway stations phase II, across the federation to Advonics Services Nigeria Limited.
for the procurement, deployment, installation, testing and commissioning of security equipment for Nigerian railway stations across the federation (Phase II).”
He said this second phase would cover Itakpe-Warri, which included Itakpe, Abeokuta, Itogbo,Agenebode, Uromi, Ekehen, Ibanke, Agbor, Abraka, Okpara, and Ujevwu, while the Lagos-Ibadan covers the Apapa port, Apapa habour, Lagos, Agege, Agbado, Kajola, Papalanto, Abeokuta, Olodo, Omi-Adio, Ibadan, and Owowo rail lines “in favour of Messrs Advonics Services Nigeria Limited.”
According to the minister, “Due to overbearing threats of disruption of train services by hoodlums in order to discredit the efforts of government in railway modernisation, it has become necessary to secure lives and property through provision of holistic and high technology security for the Nigerian railway infrastructure nationwide.
“This is also in consideration of the commencement of commercial operations at the Itakpe-Warri and Lagos-Ibadan train lines,” adding that reports from security agencies on the imperative of the equipment were attached to the memo.
security at the airports.
However, commenting on the news, Egboh said, his company won the contract awards based on track record, capacity to deliver, and most importantly, integrity of the company.
“Advonics recently was nominated as the best in Africa for Security Equipment Services quality delivery. I always say this to everyone, especially our clients. We prefer to serve quality and make far less than the other way round,” he said.
Further elucidating on what might have given Advonics some edge above their competitors, Egboh said, “We have what it takes to deliver, and records show that Advonics goes beyond boundaries, especially after sales service to our valued clients' needs.”
On when he thought the project would be delivered, he said, “FEC has approved. This is the phase ll of the project, and we’ll hit the ground running in the very words of our in coming president, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
"She's transformed herself into an Late Tina Turner
Minister of Transportation, Sambo Muazu Jaji, in his memorandum at FEC, stated: “The purpose of this memorandum is to seek council’s approval for the award of contract
Earlier, the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, had also hinted at the approval for the supply and installation of liquid explosive detectors at the nation’s five international airports to Advonics, saying it was an initiative designed to enhance
“We also thank President Muhammadu Buhari for the laudable project approval and the Honorable Minister of Transportation, his counterpart in the Aviation ministry, and not forgetting the entire team of the two ministries, who believed in our capacity to always deliver in real time, as well as the Nigerian Railway Cooperation, which stood by us in ensuring the realisation of the project.”
THIRTY-THREE THURSDAY, THISDAY 33
AMBODE'S MOTHER CELEBRATES 90TH BIRTHDAY...
L-R:
House Passes N579bn Budget for FCT, Okays N876bn
NDDC's
2023 Expenditure
Extends implementation of 2022 capital, supplementary budget to December 31
The House of Representatives at plenary yesterday, passed N579.69 billion budget of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for the 2023 financial year.
This followed the passage through third reading, a bill for an Act to authorise the issue from the Federal Capital Territory Administration's
Statutory Revenue Fund of the Federal Capital Territory Administration Account, the total sum of N579,693,907,532.00. Out of the amount, N78.135, N78.13 billion was for personnel cost and N122.51 billion was allocated for overhead costs; while the balance of N379.04 billion is for capital projects; for the financial year commencing from January 1
and ending on December 31, 2023.
Similarly, the House approved the total sum of N876 billion budget for Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for the 2023 financial year.
This was sequel to the consideration and adoption of the report of the House Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), chaired by Hon. Olubunmi Tunji
Ojo (APC, Ondo) by the committee of supply. Out of the amount N34.24billion was for personnel expenditure, the sum of N17.47 billion was for overhead expenditure, the sum of N3.71 billion was for internal capital expenditure and the sum of N490.55 billion was for development projects for the service of the NDDC for the financial year ending March
Agora Report Calls for Continuation, Optimisation of Buhari’s Power Sector Policies
Seeks decentralisation of TCN's operations
Agora Policy, an Abuja-based thinktank, has called for the continuation and optimisation of the power sector recovery plan put in place by the outgoing Muhammadu Buhari administration.
In a brief on the power sector released yesterday, the think-tank called on the incoming administration to prioritise solving the interface issues and challenges across the entire power sector value chain.
It stressed that this ranges from natural gas-to-electricity interface, generation-to-transmission interface to transmission-to-distribution as well as building on the current initiatives and projects of the Buhari government, with the objective to optimise the value-for-money outcomes of a number of the interventions.
“The incoming administration needs to continue the implementation of the power sector programmes, initiatives and interventions carried out by the Buhari administration.
“Oftentimes, new administrations are under political pressure to either terminate, suspend, put on hold, or create parallel projects, policies and interventions in the power sector.
“As an example, the administration of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua government suspended indefinitely the implementation of the National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP) and other power sector reform initiatives by the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo, with great negative consequences that the power sector is yet to recover from,” the report recalled.
The brief was put together by a
power sector expert and the Chief Executive of New Hampshire Capital Limited and the lead consultant on power to the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Odion Omonfoman.
Agora added that the Buhari administration initiated a number of interventions to address the challenges of the power and improve the infrastructure across the sector. The most talked about, it said, is the Siemens power projects, being implemented under the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI).
The Siemens project, Agora noted, is a three-phase infrastructure initiative designed to rehabilitate, upgrade, modernise and expand power transmission and distribution infrastructure across Nigeria.
It said that phase one of the PPI is estimated at 2.3 billion euros, explaining that 85 per cent of the funding will come from a consortium of German banks and in certain instances, Development Finance Institutions (DFI) while the Nigerian government will provide a counterpart funding of 15 per cent.
Aside from the Siemens projects, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the report said, has also secured a number of offshore financing to improve transmission infrastructure across the country.
“The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has also been involved in providing long-term capital to the sector for transmission and distribution interface projects.
“The World Bank funded DISREP is a $500 million programme to help improve service quality of Discos in the areas of metering, loss reduction and distribution infrastructure
network rehabilitation, improvement and expansion. The National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP) is an initiative aimed at closing the metering gap in the country.
“The incoming administration should continue the implementation of these and perhaps other projects and initiatives of the Buhari administration in the electricity sector.
“While we advocate for the continuation of the Buhari administration interventions, the incoming administration should also review and optimise some of these programmes and initiatives to ensure value-formoney,” Agora posited.
Besides, it pointed out that Nigeria’s subsisting national electricity policy was developed in 2000, explaining that the policy has basically remained unchanged since it was developed under late Dr. Olusegun Agagu as the Minister of Power.
With the recent constitutional alteration of section 14(b) of the concurrent legislative schedule of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the think-tank said it has become more imperative to develop a new national electricity policy.
“This is more so as decarbonisation and energy transition from fossil fuels to clean sources of energy are now very important aspects of any country’s national energy policy.
“Consequently, the incoming administration must develop a national electricity policy that reflects the electricity aspirations of both the federal government and the states in line with the new provisions of the constitution. In same vein, the EPSRA (2005) is no longer fit-for-purpose,” it added.
While the National Assembly may have started work on the new electricity law, Agora said that it should strengthen the national regulatory framework and the powers of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) as the electricity regulator as well as improve and strengthen existing electricity market structures.
31, 2024.
The NDDC managing director, Samuel Ogbukwu had during the budget before the House Committee supervising the commission said the revenue estimate included cash brought forward of N5 billion, federal government statutory transfers of N150 billion.
He said others are: "Unpaid arrears of N450 billion being expected revenue from the Federal Government through recovery by the EFCC from oil companies. Expected revenue of N250 billion from the Oil & Gas Companies. Expected N20 billion from Ecological fund; N500million from internally generated (bank interests and sales of boarded items)."
Also, the House extended the implementation of the capital aspect of the 2022 budget and the supplementary appropriation for the preceding financial year.
This followed the passage for first, second readings and consideration and adoption of the report for a Bill for an act to amend the Appropriation Act, 2022 to extend the implementation of the capital aspect of the appropriation act, 2022 from June 30 to December
31, 2023.
The executive bill was sponsored by the majority leader, Alhassan Ado-Doguwa and considered by the committee of supply.
The House had last year passed a bill for an act to Amend the Appropriation Act, 2022, to extend the implementation of the capital aspect from 31 December, 2022, to 31 March, 2023.
The green chamber also approved the N819.54 billion supplementary budget sent by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Buhari had in a letter to Speaker Gbajabiamila said the request was meant for the capital expenditure component of the 2022 budget and would be financed through new domestic borrowings.
Buhari also said the addition became necessary due to the devastation caused by floods on farmlands and road infrastructure.
The letter read: "The year 2022 witnessed the worst flood incidents in recent history in the country which has caused massive destruction of farmlands at the point already close to the harvest season. This may compound the situation of food security and nutrition in this country.
FG Tasks NBS to Beam Searchlight on Equipment Leasing Activities
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
The federal government has tasked the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) to report on the activities of equipment leasing segment of the economy throughout the country, as part of its functions.
The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, made the call while inaugurating the Board of the Equipment Leasing Registration Authority (ELRA) in Abuja.
The minister said the establishment of the authority which was in consonance with Section 8 of the Equipment Leasing Act, 2015 presented a great opportunity for the government to generate more revenue for the nation. She observed that the establishment of the authority would assist the government to expand the provision of infrastructure and equipment to the critical sectors of the economy for
rapid industrialisation and economic development.
Ahmed charged members of the ELRA Board not only to regulate the industry but to also sensitise members of the public on the benefits of equipment leasing, urging the NBS, as part of their functions, to report on the equipment leasing activities throughout the country.
The newly inaugurated board comprises 11 members, including the Executive Chairman, Saidu Njidda; Registrar/Secretary, Bassey Imoh; one representative each from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Federal Ministry of Justice, Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, and three representatives from the
Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria (ELAN), the umbrella body of lessors which sponsored the bill.
Responding on behalf of other members at the inauguration, the Chairman of the Board of ELRA, Njidda, observed that the implementation of the Equipment Leasing Act, was a viable alternative to loan.
He stated that it heralded a new era of enhanced revenue generation given that the industry was capable of generating an estimated total volume of $1.5 trillion globally, accounting for 20 per cent of total investment in equipment and contributing about 1.5 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Njidda, also noted that equipment leasing as an alternative and significant source of finance to loans has been immensely contributing to capital formation in the global Economy with its wide usage in many countries for the acquisition of capital assets.
NEWS 34 THURSDAY, THISDAY
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Udora Orizu in Abuja
A former Supreme Court judge, Justice Oguntade; former Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode; his wife, Mrs Bolanle; Mrs Obosa Akpata, her husband, Mr Uyi Akpata, at the thanksgiving service in Honour of Mrs Christiana Oluleye Ambode’s 90th birthday celebration, in Epe, Lagos … yesterday
A SOUVENIR FOR MR PRESIDENT...
Ogun Guber Election: Police Want PDP's Adebutu Investigated over N2bn Allegedly Spent on Vote Buying
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Nigeria Police Force has recommended for the investigation of candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last governorship election in Ogun State, Mr. Ladi Adebutu, over allegations bordering on breach of electoral and financial laws.
Besides Adebutu, the police are also seeking the investigation of a bank and a fintech firm for conspiracy, aiding and abetting crime.
The police stated that its investigation of those arrested and those invited for investigation and inquiry revealed that the suspects were given the tier-one bank’s prepaid verve ATM cards, loaded with N10,000 each to induce electorate to vote Adebutu as governor in the 2023 gubernatorial election.
Specifically, the PDP guber candidate was being accused of printing a total of 200,000 ATM cards in the name of an endowment scheme which was distributed during the governorship election to allegedly induce voters.
The 200,000 cards with a sum of 10,000 each sums up to N2 billion in bribe or vote buying.
The recommendation for investigation was contained in an Interim Police Investigation Report dated May 12, signed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department, Ogun State, DCP Mohammed Babakura.
The report according to a Certified True Copy (CTC) seem by THISDAY, was titled, "Re: Case of Bribery/Conspiracy and Undue Influence, Breach of electoral Laws,
Wale Igbintade
Justice Olubumni Abike-Fadipe of the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos, has threatened to declare former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, wanted for his refusal to appear for trial.
Fani-Kayode is standing trial on a 12-count charge bordering on the use of false documents, use of fabricated evidence, procuring the execution of documents by false pretence and fabricating evidence.
The defendant was alleged to have forged medical report(s), which he tendered before Justice Daniel Osiagor of a Federal High Court
Prohibiting
Vote Trading, Deliberate Facilitation of Money Laundering, Connivance to Defeat Monetary Policy of the Federation against Hon. Ladi Adebutu.”
According to the interim report, Adebutu was said to have asked the bank for 200,000 pieces of ATM cards with the inscription "Dame Caroline Oladunni Adebutu Memorial Endowment Scheme", with the sum of N10,000 in each card.
While the request was said to have been made by Adebutu on February 27, 2023, all the cards were reportedly loaded on March 16 and 17, 2023.
"Hon. Ladi Adebutu Operates 77 bank accounts with 13 banks, with a total inflow of Nine Billion, five hundred and forty-three million, four hundred and forty-eight thousand, four hundred and seventy naira and seventy-eight kobo from July 17, 2012 to April 20, 2023.
"It is also worthy of note that observing from the summary of accounts, there were major heavy transactions emanating from and concluding in accounts all belonging to Hon. Ladi Adebutu, which is an indication of self-money laundering.
"It is pertinent to note that the cards were specifically loaded two days to the gubernatorial elections on March 18, 2023 and on the eve of the election, also considering that these cards were distributed on elections day, it is safe to infer that the purpose of the prepaid cards was for vote buying, this premise is also corroborated by the POS operators who stated that some of their customers who came to withdraw money using the aforementioned cards stated
clearly that the cards were given to them as a reward for voting for PDP.
"Drawing from the statements given by the POS operators who are witnesses in this case, several funds withdrawal transactions were carried out before, during and after the 2023 Gubernatorial election using the Dame Caroline Oladunni Adebutu Memorial Endowment Scheme prepaid cards containing ten thousand naira each however, not all of the cards could be successfully dispense funds," the report read in part.
The police added from the statement of accounts/transaction history
gotten from the POS operators, it was observed that all the fund withdrawals made using the said cards uniquely had a description "Bank Card," as against what would ordinarily be the account holders name, adding that "this -lends further credence to the fact that a prepaid card is not tied to any personal account.
"Secondly, a careful observation of the statements of account/ transaction history of the POS operators, reveals that a lot of fund withdrawals were done on March 18 and 19, 2023 which had the description "Bank Card." "Therefore, the facts that these
prepaid cards were requested on February 27, 2023 and delivered on March 16 and 17, 2023, being the eve of gubernatorial elections and distributed to 'voters only' with traceable fund withdrawals being made from the prepaid cards during and after elections is a clear indicator that the whole act is a calculated attempt at vote buying".
While the police pointed out that the cards had the inscription "Dame Caroline Oladunni Adebutu Memorial Endorsement scheme" printed on it in addition to her photograph, the police said that "a quick internet search revealed that no such foundation/entity named
"Dame Caroline Oladunni Adebutu Empowerment Scheme" exists neither is any such registered under the Corporate Affairs Commission".
The force in addition claimed that all effort to reach and invite the directing members of the said Empowerment Scheme, proved futile, as no records of its existence could be found.
"That the actions of Hon. Ladi Adebutu and the PDP, directly inducing Voters by giving them each, through preloaded prepaid ATM Verve Cards to buy their votes, is in total violation of sections 121 and 127 of the Electoral Act 2022 of the {Federal Republic of Nigeria."
FEC Okays N226bn, $592m for Power Projects Nationwide
Approves new multipurpose policy for NIN, debit cards
Okays publication of compendium of Nigerian laws
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved contracts worth N226 billion and $592 million to increase power supply across the country. Briefing newsmen after yesterday’s valedictory FEC meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari at the State House, Abuja, Minister of Power, Abubakar Aliyu, said the power contracts were spread among communities across the country, including Potiskum in Yobe State, Daura in Katsina State, Sapade in Ogun State, and Benin in Edo
State, among others.
According to him, “Council approved award of contract for the engineering procurement, construction and financing on the implementation of 330 KV and 132 kV line transmission lines and 33 KV, 11 KV and 400 PE distribution line project under phase 1 of the presidential power initiatives in favour of two contractors in the sum total of $581,629,355.93, inclusive of 7.5%, at the prevailing exchange rate with period of completion 36 months as indicated.
“The recipient companies for
lot one, from DL from Benin and Enugu DISCOS, Messes SLD electric. Then, Lot DM 3 Abuja, Jos, Kano, Kaduna DISCOS, Messes China civil engineering construction cooperation totaling distance of around 13,000 kilometers for the two LOT and it has been graciously approved by council.
“Council approved the award of contract for the construction of 750 kilowatt solar PV power plant at the headquarters, where TCN is also situated in favour of Proserv Energy Services Limited in the sum of N1.6 billion inclusive of 7.5% VAT with completion period of six months.
it easier and more prudent to take electricity from from Damaturu to Potiskum over a distance of 120 kilometers, because the longer you take the electricity on a 132 line, you get low quality of electricity.
N4.9bn Fraud: Judge Threatens to Declare FaniKayode Wanted over Refusal to
sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he is being prosecuted by the EFCC for an alleged N4.9 billion fraud.
After his arraignment and commencement of trial, he has refused to appear for trial for like three adjournments, the development which the judge frowned at.
At the last adjourned date, his counsel, Mr. Wale Balogun, had informed the court of the absence of the defendant due to health reasons and issues he had with the Department of State Services, (DSS).
Balogun had also pleaded with the court to grant him adjournment with a promise to make him available at yesterday's proceeding.
Appear in Court
However, when the matter was called, Chinozo Eze who represented him, told the court that Fani-kayode, was not in court due to health issues.
He informed the court that a medical report and a letter seeking the leave of the court to vacate the two dates were already in the court file.
EFCC Counsel, Zinat Atiku, confirmed the development and said the prosecution's hands were tight as to how to forge ahead.
However, the judge frowned at the constant non-appearance of the defendant noting that the last time he was in court was November 4, 2022.
The judge sighted series of
excuses that had been tender by the defendant for his non appearances.
The court subsequently threatened to issue a bench warrant against him if he fails to show up at the next adjourned date.
The judge also frowned at the prosecutor for non-diligent prosecution, noting that they could withdraw the matter if the Commission was not ready to prosecute.
Justice Olubumni Abike-Fadipe adjourned the case to November 7, 2023, for the continuation of trial.
The EFCC counsel, Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari, confirmed that the defence gave some documents to the prosecution.
“Council also approved a routine maintenance for the Transmission Company of Nigeria. The council approved contract for the upgrading of the substation in Potiskum town in Yobe State with 132 power transformer.
“It is an existing substation, which has been there for a very long time with only one transformer and it serves a lot of areas around Potiskum, it is the largest town in the state with a very huge population and is the hub for commerce and transportation. So, with this upgrade, Potiskum will become a hub for electricity transmission and distribution.
“The other component of it is the line bringing additional line from Damaturu. Before now, the line is coming from Gombe, which is over 200 kilometers. It is a 132 single line coming into Potiskum to power the substation. So, having now 330 substitution in Damaturu, that makes
“So, with the 132 from Gombe single line and now this proposed one coming from Damaturu to Potiskum, you will have double circuit and with additional transformer of 132 cable, that is one by 60 MB. The second one on that memo is construction of two by 60 MVA and 132 line a transmission substation at Sapade in Ogun State and in favour of Messes VNK international technologists at the total cost of a foreign component $10.2 million and local component of N3.3 billion naira.
“The third one is the supply and installation of 33 KV substation equipment at Daura Emirate Katsina State, in favour of eases Power Deal Construction limited in the sum of N4 billion.”
Also briefing, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Pantami, said FEC approved a memorandum from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), which will allow banks to produce debit card that doubles as National Identity Card.
He said Nigerians could now request their commercial banks to provide them with a debit card, which could double as their National Identity Card at no extra cost than the normal fees charged for debit cards.
NEWS THURSDAY, THISDAY 35 Continues online
EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa (left), presenting a souvenir to President Muhammadu Buhari, as memento of the Commission's performance under his watch in Abuja… yesterday
OKOWA INSPECTS PROJECTS IN WARRI...
Amosun: Abiodun Should Give Facts on How Ogun Lost Dangote Refinery to Lagos
Says his only sin was protecting host community’s interest Believes Dangote took business decisions of his own capacity
Former Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, yesterday, challenged his successor, Dapo Abiodun, to come forward with facts on how his administration frustrated the setting up of the Dangote Refinery in the state before it was eventually relocated to Lagos State.
Reacting to a statement by the Abiodun administration in which he directly accused Amosun of frustrating the Dangote refinery project, which was inaugurated on
Monday, the former governor in a statement titled: “RE: Olokola Free Trade Zone & Dangote Refinery: The Facts!” said, he had refrained from directly engaging and very rarely joined issues on any matter of policy undertaken by his government or the successor administration.
According to him, the logic is simple, because “even if one were to stand right before a 10-storey building, a congenital liar and unrepentant pessimist will still indulge in selective amnesia and see nothing.
“But, when lies and half truths are churned out so repeatedly and unashamedly, without being challenged, the innocent public may begin to reckon with such concoctions as the gospel truth. Hence, I am making this exception. It is my hope that this will be my final word on the Olokola Free Trade Zone and the Dangote Refinery Lagos relocation debacle.”
Telling his side of the story with facts, Amosun, in a statement from his Media Office, and signed by by Bola Adeyemi, said, “Let me
put it straight: The Olokola Free Trade Zone project was not solely owned by Ogun State. From its conception in 2007, it was a Joint Venture. The Federal Government of Nigeria owned the majority 51%, Ondo State Government (14.5%), Ogun State Government (14.5%), and strategic core investors (20%).
“Alhaji Aliko Dangote, according to the information availed us when we took office, subsequently bought, and took over the 20% equity of the core investors. Ogun State was a minority equity stakeholder only, without proprietary strength and
Ortom to Buhari: No Need Going to Niger, I’ve Forgiven You
Rules out defection to APC, vows to support Tinubu after office
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, yesterday, mocked President Muhammadu Buhari, and said there was no need for him to seek refuge in Niger Republic, because he has forgiven him.
He however, ruled out plans to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) but pledged to support the President-elect, Bola Tinubu, after leaving office, even though he was a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) member.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show, the governor said he would continue to ensure equity and justice in Nigeria, adding that, he worked for the emergence of a southern presidency because he wanted equity and justice.
“That is not on my table. I’m in PDP, and I worked for the Southern presidency, which Tinubu and Obi, were part of. Defecting is not on my table now. If Tinubu is sworn in, I will continue to pray and support him to succeed. I remain the leader of PDP in Benue State but will continue to work for equity and justice in Nigeria,” he said.
Ortom said although President Buhari’s administration took the country from top to bottom, he has forgiven him and there was no need for him to relocate to Niger.
His words: “For me, as a born again Christian, I have forgiven President Muhammadu Buhari. He has taken us from top to bottom but that does not mean we should continue to hold it on him. Thank God the constitution provides four years, after four years, you can go in for second term and then another person will come.
“So, we hope that the incoming administration will provide succor, will provide security for our people and provide economic development and peace for our people. We have suffered for eight years.
"For me, I have forgiven him. He doesn’t need to go to Niger, he should stay here with us and all of us should stay here and work with the incoming administration
that God will put in place and by the grace of God, we shall move again from bottom to top.”
Ortom also said even though he knew that how much money that was given to the people of Benue for him to lose election, he has accepted it as the will of God and did not see a reason to go to court.
“I know how much that was
given to Benue State to ensure that I lose election, fine and good. God has permitted it and I have accepted it and I have accepted to move on. I have also accepted that if another person comes, I should support that person. If they need my support, I will always be there and if they don’t need it, I will go back to my farm and my business and I can even be a freelance journalist,” he said.
to take sole decisions on the Joint Venture enterprise.
“I am proud to put on record for posterity that the brouhaha and misconception about the true and full ownership of the project became confused for reasons of the proactive and investment-friendly disposition of our administration. Ogun State, under my leadership, went beyond and above duty and did all we could to ensure that the project saw the light of the day.
“As Governor at the time, I appointed two (2) carefully chosen stakeholders of Ogun East/Ogun Waterside Local Government extraction to represent Ogun State’s interests on the joint venture enterprise and advise the State.
“These were Dapo Abiodun (now Governor) and Mrs Kemi Adeosun, then Commissioner for Finance, who incidentally hailed from the host Community of the Olokola project. After Mrs. Adeosun was elevated and became a minister, another son of Ogun East, Lekan Onamusi, took charge and represented Ogun State on the Joint Venture.
“Based on the advice of our representatives on the project, we engaged the majority equity holder, FGN and our joint venture
partner, Ondo State Government, who were very responsive and eager to have the project in Olokola Free Trade Zone. We also vigorously engaged Alhaji Aliko Dangote and did everything possible to make the enterprise take off.
“A total of 10,000 hectares of land was made available. As mere holder of 14.5% equity interest, it is most uncharitable for anyone to churn out lies that Ogun State was in a position to unilaterally frustrate the project or was responsible for the logjam. With respect to all sides, it accords more with logic to appreciate the fact that Alhaji Aliko Dangote took business decisions of his own in accordance with the goals of his business strategy and risk assessment.
“Our position was that, at the minimum, 500 hectares from the Ogun State portion be reserved for the host Community, Ogun Waterside, as against ceding the entire land of the Olokola Free Trade Zone. Indeed, at some point and at my instance, our revered Elders, Baba Olusegun Obasanjo and Kabiyesi Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona were involved, where we all met to ensure that the project was sited in Olokola Free Trade Zone.
PRESIDENCY: TINUBU WILL GET SEAMLESS HANDOVER CEREMONY, ASO ROCK EMPTIED ALREADY
Mr Shehu Garba, said Tinubu and his deputy, Kashim Shettima, had 60 per cent of the total invited guests.
But the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the federal government and President Muhammadu Buhari to speak out on reports in the public space of alleged moves to declare tomorrow, Friday, May 26, a public holiday as a ploy to stop the Supreme Court from sitting to deliver judgment in the disqualification case against Shettima, over double nomination, already scheduled for that date.
Specifically recalling the alleged embarrassment at the airport in 2015, when then outgoing president, was reportedly disallowed from taking the presidential wing while exiting to Bayelsa, Garba also noted that whereas he got handwritten notes from his predecessor, it would not be the case this time as Buhari had signed an executive order which would expressly ensure a smooth transition.
“When former President Jonathan handed over to President Buhari at the Eagle Square on May 29, 2015, there were very embarrassing moments that followed reportedly. In fact, the former president trended
at some point because the story was told that by the time he got to the airport, security operatives will not allow him the use of the presidential wing of the airport, and all of that.
“So all of these things have been foreseen. So, you would expect a perfect process of exit and incoming processes involving the two leaders, that is the outgoing president and the incumbent president,” he stated.
Garba also stated that the State House has now been emptied for the incoming president to bring in his own employees, especially political appointees.
On why Tinubu and Shettima were getting their national honours today, days before the inauguration, against the tradition of giving them out on the day of inauguration, Shehu stated that the committee set up by the president had visited Kenya and the United States to learn how the handover could be better done.
According to him, just 40 per cent of expected guests was invited by the federal government, including foreign missions, explaining that there was ‘massive interest' by people, who wanted to be present.
He noted that people who thought they played one part or
another in the process leading to the handover would also want to be there, disclosing that that the presidency was expecting ‘a huge crowd full of enthusiastic and very keen people.’
Asked to elaborate on what he meant by the State House being ‘emptied’, the president’s aide noted that Buhari has since quit the main building at the state House for the smaller ‘glass house’ in preparation for May 29.
According to him, the incoming president will make the choice who to go into the State House with him, including his personal staff, but recalled that aside himself, Femi Adesina and a protocol member of staff, Buhari did not make any major appointments until the third day.
On whether any staff of the Buhari administration had already started switching allegiance to the incoming president, Shehu argued that it was the nature of humans do so, but noted that Jonathan’s case was more pronounced because many of his aides were angry with him for deciding to handover power peacefully when he lost the 2015 presidential poll.
“You can't change human beings.
So, the man of the moment obviously is the incoming president. So, you will expect people, who will come around him, but I think the case of Jonathan was different, because I think again, there was desertion by a number of people around him who felt disappointed that he chose to be patriotic, nationalistic and accepted defeat.
“And quite a number of people, who were within his camp were not happy with that. So, yes, there was a desertion, but I think in the case of President Muhammadu Buhari, the Villa had never been like the party headquarters for him in the last eight years
“Visitors come, but there has been some decency in all of these things. And I don't think that we're witnessing any spectacular desertion of the place,” he added.
He stressed that the relationship between Tinubu and Buhari remained cordial, noting that the president-elect had once thanked Buhari for being neutral and allowing him win the poll.
“It’s going to be a perfect relationship, because it is going to be the same government although different administration's. He's APC. When
he (Tinubu) took his certificate from INEC, the first thing he did was that he flew to Daura and showed it to the president.
“The incoming president never gets tired of saying that the president allowed him to win. It is very significant. He allowed him to win in a free and fair process,” he stressed.
PDP Challenges FG over Alleged Plan to Declare Public Holiday on Friday against S’Court Ruling
The PDP has called on the federal government and President Muhammadu Buhari to speak out on some reports in the public space of alleged moves to declare Friday, May 26, 2023 a public holiday as a ploy to stop the Supreme Court from sitting to deliver judgment on the disqualification case against Kashim Shettima, over double nomination.
The PDP also called on the federal government to come clean on a further allegation, which was also in the public domain that the APC was mounting pressure on the Department of State Services (DSS) to advise President Buhari to declare the public holiday.
36 THURSDAY, THISDAY NEWS
L-R: Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa interacts with His Royal Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Olu of Warri, Special Project Director, Trans-Warri Ode-Itsekiri roads and bridges, Chief Otimeyin Adams and the Managing Director, Setraco, Mr Ziad Mouannes, shortly after the governor’s inspection of the project in Warri, recently.
James Sowole in Abeokuta
NBCC BREAKFAST MEETING...
Keyamo to Buhari: Junior Minister Designation Constitutional Aberration
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, has told President Muhammadu Buhari in plain language that it was a constitutional aberration to appoint Minister of State.
This was as another Minister of state, Rahmatu Tijani, canvassed outright for the scrapping of the portfolio by the next administration.
Keyamo, who spoke at the valedictory Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held at the Council Chambers of the State House, Abuja, declared that the concept or designation of “Minister of State” was a constitutional aberration "and practically not working for many so appointed."
He thanked Buhari for enriching his Curriculum Vitae, through the appointment, but noted that some other Ministers of State, had been grumbling and not bold to speak out.
"Successive governments have
come and gone and many, who were appointed as Ministers of State have not spoken out at a forum such as this because of the risk of sounding ungrateful to the presidents, who appointed them."
According to him, it was difficult to assess the individual performances of the Ministers of State since their discretion was shackled under the discretion of the substantive ministers as any original ideas developed by a Minister of State were subject to clearance by another colleague in cabinet before they could sail through for consideration by FEC.
The minister who read from a prepared text, stated, inter alia: "Today, I cannot find the words to express the depth of my gratitude to you for finding me worthy, out of over two hundred million Nigerians, to be nominated and subsequently appointed to serve as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. My curriculum vitae has been greatly enhanced – forever.
"From my very humble beginnings in a small dusty town in Delta State, where I was born and raised by my struggling parents, all the way to the Council Chambers at the Presidential Villa, where I had the honour and privilege to participate weekly in decisionmaking for my country in the last four years, it has been like a fairy tale. I give God all the glory.
"What I am about to say, therefore, is not and should not be construed as an indication of ingratitude. Far from it. What I am about to say is just my
own little contribution to our constitutional development as a relatively young democracy and to aid future governments to optimise the performance of those they appoint as Ministers.
"Mr. President, the concept or designation of “Minister of State” is a constitutional aberration and is practically not working for many so appointed. Successive governments have come and gone and many, who were appointed as Ministers of State have not spoken out at a forum such as this because of the risk of sounding ungrateful
to the presidents, who appointed them. However, like I said earlier, this is not ingratitude.”
Relieving her experience, Minister of state for Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rahmatu Aliyu, lamented how the Minister of state office limited capacity and talent in her four year stay in FCT.
“if you are appointed, if you serve your state, if you underwent the same training, you attend the same FEC representing your people. Why then is your voice hinged upon another minister’s voice? Why is lack of planning
on another minister’s part an emergency on yours? Why is the label ineptitude now the label you will carry if he should fail?
“All these should be looked into by the next administration to put the country in the good path of trajectory. Let me tell you this, if and only if, and that is the little minus I saw in this administration, all ministers were allowed to perform, the performances of the government and the achievement of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, I'll beat my chest they cannot be equaled,” She said.
Apapa Hints on Grouse With Obi as LP Seeks Reconciliation
than expected and also hinted at his grouse with the Presidential candidate of the party, Peter Obi.
they were also doing there.
BUHARI, FINISHING STRONG, SEEKS SUPPORT FOR APC, TINUBU we must continue to support it in every way we can."
Buhari attributed all the achievements of his administration to God’s intervention, saying, “I also thank God for the strength and for keeping us together.
“I look forward to seeing many of you, disproving that Daura has not become too distant because I am no longer Mr. President.
“I will also be happy to do the many things that I have not been able to do since May 29th, 2015, one of such is my favourite pastime of taking care of my cattle.
“I wish all of us the best and hope to hear good news whenever any of our names are mentioned. Thank you and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The president also met with members of staff of the State House, lauding both the senior and junior workers for supporting his administration. He noted that the administration had stretched to accommodate the views of workers and to meet some of their needs, within the available resources.
Speaking with newsmen after the farewell FEC meeting, information and culture minister, Lai Mohammed, clarified that the FEC had not been dissolved. Mohammed described
as false the news that Buhari dissolved the council in the course of the meeting.
Rather, he said, the president directed all ministers to return to their desk and continue working on their transition assignments.
The minister stated, “I just want to make this clarification. While we were at the chambers there was a false breaking news that the FEC has been dissolved. That is not correct. As a matter of fact, we have been directed by the president that we should all go back and return to our offices. So it is not true that the FEC has been dissolved, it’s is still very much alive.
“We have all been directed to go back to our offices and ensure that we continue to work to the end of May 29. So, please, ignore the fake news.”
Speaking further, Mohammed disclosed that during the FEC meeting, ministers were allocated time to deliver their farewell messages.
He said, "During that meeting, we adopted minutes of the two extraordinary FEC meetings and at the same time, opportunity was given to every minister to make his own farewell speech. It’s instructive to note that each and every minister present today, and I'm not aware
of any who was absent, was given between two to five minutes to make his or her own valedictory speech and I think, largely, everybody commended Mr. President and thanked the president for the opportunity to serve the country at this level.
"Many also took the opportunity to reel out what his or her own ministry or department had achieved over the last eight years. Of course, you know there are about three classes or categories of ministers: there are ministers that came in 2015 and we, who were retained till 2023.
“There’re ministers that came in 2019 and have been there till 2023 and there are the last batch of ministers that came in about nine months ago.
"So everybody made his or her own valedictory speech, depending on how long he or she had been occupying the position. But, generally, I think it was just a glorious moment for all the ministers to thank the president, thank their colleagues and also give gratitude to God, that a journey that started in 2015 is ending very well in 2023.
"I think everybody, including the Chief of Staff, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Head of Service, the vice president, all made their valedictory speeches and, then,
the president responded. And I think, largely, he thanked all of us for our contributions and prayed for us in our next endeavours."
Mohammed said the president also emphasised the need for ministers to be up and doing, especially, as it concerns the transition programme that terminates on May 29. He said of Buhari, "He reiterated the fact that we should all go back to our offices so that we can carry out the assignments and tasks assigned to us in respect of the transition programme.
“For instance, tomorrow (Thursday), we’ll all have to be present at the conferment of the national honours on both the president-elect and the vice president-elect and at that occasion I think the handing-over instrument will also be given to the in-coming president. That’s Thursday.
"On Friday, of course, there will be prayers. On Saturday, there’ll be public lecture. On Sunday, there will be church service and, then, on Monday there will be the inauguration proper at the Eagle Square, and then there will be dinner in the evening, largely for visiting heads of state and those who have been invited to the dinner.
“So governance continues until May 29."
He listed such reasons to include Obi's refusal to obey court order suspending Julius Abure, non-payment of party's agents and lack of support for candidates, who contested various elective positions during the general election.
This, however, came at a time the leadership of the party has taken a bold step to end the lingering rancour among key members of the party, urging the warring factions to sheathe their swords.
Apapa, while responding to allegations levelled against him by the Abure-led National Working Committee that his faction was shopping for court injunctions against the party in some northern courts, in an exclusive interview with THISDAY, accused Obi of attempting to seize ownership of the party from the original owners.
Obiora Ifoh, National Publicity Secretary of the Abure led-NWC had in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday, debunked allegations of financial mismanagement by Obi, and thereafter accused the Apapa-led NWC of deceiving a judge in a federal High Court in Kano, who entered a judgement against the party, sacking some of its elected members, including its Abia State Governor-elect, Alex Otti.
But, Apapa in his response, said those who purportedly traced him to the houses of the said judges should come out and tell the world what
"It's evident that they are the ones shopping for injunctions against the legal executive of Labour Party led by Lamidi Apapa. The question begging for answer is whether they mismanaged our money or not?” he asked.
Apapa said he was not only disappointed that Obi had the audacity to tell Nigerians that he didn't know him (Apapa) but his refusal to fund the party despite the billions of naira generated through diaspora funding for the 2023 elections, left a lot to be desired. He said Obi was supported financially during the elections and went further to lament that till today, no Labour Party agent who monitored the 2023 general election, has been paid.
Meanwhile, the party has called on all its aggrieved members to sheath the sword and come forward to present their grievances to end the ongoing rancour threatening the soul of the party.
At a press conference in Abuja, yesterday, the Security, Peace and Conflict Resolution Committee (LP-SPCRC) headed by retired Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Charles Ugomuoh, promised “not to standby and allow the party to disintegrate.”
According to him, the Committee had reached out to not less than Seven persons with various grievances to see how the issues could be settled amicably for the party to forge ahead in a rancor-free situation.
NEWS THURSDAY, THISDAY 37
Emameh Gabriel in Abuja Factional National Chairman of the Labour Party, Bashiru Lamidi Apapa, has given several reasons why the crisis in Labour Party might linger
L-R: MD/CEO Geregu Power Plc, Akin Akinfemiwa; Chairman Programmes Committee Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Tajudeen Ahmed; MD/CEO Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC), Tinuade Sanda; Deputy President NBCC, Ray Atelly, and Head of Corporate Affairs, Alaro City, Yomi Amoussa, at NBCC's May 2023 Breakfast Meeting held in Lagos… recently.
TENECE GROUP MARKS 15TH ANNIVERSARY…
L-R: Executive Director, Government and Multilateral Agencies, Tenece Group, Mr. Emmanuel Madubuike; Managing Director, Tenece Holdings, Dr. Lina Eze;Chief Executive Officer, Tenece Group, Mr. Kingsley Eze; Regional Head, Shared Services, Tenece Group, Mrs.
and Country Manager, Tenece, Ghana, Mr. Jonathan Dartey, at the media parley to mark the 15th anniversary celebration of Tenece in Lagos… recently ETOP UKUTT
Health Workers Protest Non-implementation of New Salary Scale
Onyebuchi
The Joint Health Sector Unions and Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations (JOHESU/AHPA) yesterday held a protest in Abuja, urging the federal government to pay its members the adjustment of Consolidated Health Salary Structure(CONHESS).
The workers, who staged
an early morning protest at the Unity Fountain, called on President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately approve and implement the Technical Committee Report on the adjustment of CONHESS.
The unions also tasked the incoming government, National Assembly especially, Senators-elect and House of Representatives members-elect
to ensure the appointment of seasoned administrators with cognate experience as ministers in charge of the health sector.
The National Vice Chairman
of Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), Dr. Obinna Ogbonna, while reading a letter addressed to the Senate President, Senator Ahmed
Lawal, said the unions were compelled to embark on the protest rally to draw the attention of the National Assembly to the unending
vicious cycle of tyranny visited on the respective affiliate of JOHESU in the health sector by the physicians- dominated Federal Ministry of Health.
Senate Bill Seeking Compensation for #EndSARS Victims Scales Second Reading
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
The Senate yesterday passed for second reading, a bill seeking to compensate victims of #EndSARS protests in Nigeria.
Management
Act”
Agency (NEMA)
It was sponsored by Senator Gershom Bassey (PDP CrossRiver ).
He said: “Distinguished colleagues, you may recall that there was the #EndSARS nationwide protests in October 2020.
protest.
Michael
The United Kingdom (UK) has assisted in the introduction to Nigeria Systems of Rice Intensification (SRI), a climate smart agricultural practice that would lead to efficiency rice production
The introduced system can lead to reduction of input costs by 50 per cent, with less use of water, doubling yields for farmers and reducing GHG emissions.
A statement yesterday by the Senior Press & Public Affairs Officer and Communications Lead, Prosperity and Economic Development, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, Ndidiamaka Eze, read: “Since 2021, the UK Government’s LINKS programme implemented by Tetra Tech International Development has been piloting a couple of climate smart farming initiatives; helping
farmers to increase yields and become more resilient in the face of climate change while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.”
Eze said at a climate smart agriculture results and lesson sharing event which held in Abuja on Wednesday, LINKS demonstrated that the project is starting to deliver impressive results, particularly the SRI, a climate smart agricultural practice which is a different way of producing rice that reduces input costs by 50 per cent, with less use of water, doubling yields for farmers and reducing GHG emissions.
She explained that SRI involves early transplanting of seedlings and wide spacing to allow the plants to flourish, alternative wetting and drying rather than flooding and the use of organic rather than chemical fertilisers.
Wike Unveils Teaching Hospital
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
Governor Nyesom Wike has donated the sum of N500 million to PAMO University of Medical Sciences (PUMS), Port Harcourt as an encouragement to continue to promote quality tertiary medical education in Rivers state.
The Rivers State governor made the donation yesterday, in his remarks while inaugurating the 250 beds PAMO Teaching Hospital in Iriebe, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Wike who commended the former state governor and founder of PAMO Educational Foundation, Dr Peter Odili for his wealthy investment and development in the state, especially in health sector, said the institution is the first private university established in Rivers State
The governor, who said since its inception the management of the school has proven to be worthwhile therefore, not misplaced, stressed that Rivers indigenes who have benefited from the state’s scholarship will have to work for the state for a number of years.
He said in its five years of establishment, from 2018 till date, PAMO University of Medical Sciences was being celebrated because of the quality of students it has groomed already, and the satisfying growth it has witnessed.
According to Wike, Dr. Odili, after his years as governor of Rivers State, did not go into retirement or relocate to Abuja to join association of former governors, but established the University to offer more humanity service to the society.
The proposed legislation was titled, “A Bill for an Act to Amend the National Emergency
Sylvester Idowu in Warri
Community Development Committees of Niger Delta Oil and Gas Producing Areas (CDCNDOGPA) has said that there was no leadership crisis between the Managing Director
Bassey, in his lead debate, said the bill seeks to provide for the establishment of the #EndSARS Victims Compensation Fund.
of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, and Chairman of NDDC, Ms. Laureta Onochie. The group attributed the perceived crisis in the commission, as promoted in some sections of the media, to the
“ Judicial panels of inquiry were constituted to address the demands of protesters and compensation for verified victims of the #EndSARS
“The findings of the judicial panels of inquiry and the Senate Joint Committee on #EndSARS revealed the killing of protesters, destruction of private and public properties by rampaging hoodlums, who seized and took over the protest vandalizing and looting valuable assets.
UK Boosts Efficiency Rice Production in Nigeria No Leadership Crisis in NDDC, Says Niger Delta Group
handiwork of mischief makers within and outside the region to once again destabilise the board and the management with the aim of derailing development in the Niger Delta.
The Chairman of CDCNDOGPA, Mr. Joseph
Ambadekerimo, in a statement issued in Warri yesterday, warned that his group would soon name those behind the media campaign to distabilise the interventionist agency, if they do not desist from their evil machinations.
Police Parade 10 Kidnap Suspects, Display Recovered Arms in Nasarawa
Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia
The Nasarawa State Police Command, yesterday, paraded 10 kidnap suspects it has arrested in different locations across the state recently.
The command equally displayed arms and live
ammunitions recovered from 10 kidnap suspects arrested around Tunga and Farin Ruwa axis in Awe and Wamba Local Government Areas of the state respectively.
Briefing journalists shortly after parading the suspected kidnappers in Lafia, the
Nasarawa State Commissioner of Police, Maiyaki Baba, said that the operatives attached to Awe Division arrested the trio of Jibrin Idris (20yrs) of Doka village in Kaduna State, Manu Kauji (20yrs) and Tukur Sule (20yrs) in Tunga village in Awe where live ammunition
were recovered from the suspect .
The police commissioner, who spoke through the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP. Ramhan Nansel, said that upon interrogation, the suspects confessed to the crimes.
Hajj 2023: NAHCON Warns Intending Pilgrims against Carrying Contraband Items
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has warned Nigerian intending pilgrims for this year’s Hajj to avoid carrying contraband items to Saudi Arabia.
The NAHCON also said that the warning was meant to ease
of passage at any of the two air entry points and to guard against any unpleasant situiation in Saudi Arabia.
The warning was contained in a statement that was issued by the Deputy Director, Information and Publication of NAHCOM, Mr. Mousa Ubandawaki, in Ilorin,
Kwara State.
The statement was on the sideline of the recent remark of the Madinah Coordinator of the Commission, Mr. Ibrahim Idris Mahmoud, during his meetings with stakeholders to prepare ground for smooth reception and sound services to the pilgrims on
arrival and the duration of their stay in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Mahmoud said that they have visited the airport, the Adhillah, who are responsible for pilgrims’ accommodation and caterers engaged to properly feed the pilgrims in Madinah.
FG Floats Cooperative Scheme for Ex-agitators
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
The federal government has launched the Presidential Amnesty Programme Cooperative Society Limited (PAPCOSOL), a new initiative designed to enthrone a more
sustainable empowerment and reintegration scheme for the 30,000-strong ex-agitators in the Niger Delta region.
The cooperative scheme, which already has a seed capital of N1.5 billion for take-off, was launched yesterday, in Abuja,
by the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Maj. Gen. Barry Tariye Ndiomu (rtd), amid plaudits by various stakeholders. Ndiomu, who disclosed that PAPCOSOL comprising eminent personalities, including top
leaders of the ex-agitators on the advisory board, was aimed at ensuring a more viable means of livelihood for ex-agitators with socio-economic development of their communities and the Niger-Delta region in general as an intended consequence.
‘Two Million Persons Affected with Obstetric Fistula Every Year in Africa’
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
A health expert, Dr. Bawa Maryam Shehu of the National Obstetric Fistula Centre in Ningi, Bauchi State, has stated that about two million people, mostly women, are affected by obstetric
fistula every year in Africa. She attributed the cause of the disease to prolonged labour that exceeds three days as well as the absence of skilled birth attendants.
Shehu, who was speaking in Bauchi yesterday during an
event organised by the Bauchi State Ministry of Health and the National Obstetric Fistula Centre Ningi (NOFICN) to commemorate World Fistula Day with the theme: ‘20 Years
On-Progress But not Enough! Act Now’, disclosed that no fewer
than 500 persons in Nigeria are diagnosed annually with the fistula scourge.
THISDAY learnt that the event was supported by USAID Engender Health and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
THURSDAY MAY 25, 2023 THISDAY 38 NEWS
Ezigbo in Abuja
Olugbode in Abuja
Blessing Emenike,
Man Utd Asked to Pay £140m for Osimhen’s Transfer to Old Trafford
The Napoli striker spotted in Berlin amidst speculations of talks with Bayern
Duro
As the summer transfer window is
fast approaching in Europe, Nigeria and Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen, has become the major subject of speculations of where he’s going
to anchor his trade next season. Both Manchester United and Bayern Munich appear the front runners for the signature of the
Nigerian who led Napoli to their third historic Serie A title this season.
Uk’s Daily Mirror reported in its online edition that United have been told they must pay £140million to sign Osimhen this summer after agreeing a deal to sign his Napoli teammate Kim Min-jae.
Osimhen is a prime target for United this summer and he heads the club’s striking shortlist.United scouts attended Napoli’s Champions League clash against Milanlast month and have been planning a move for the Nigerian since last summer. His Napoli teammate Kim, 26, has already decided to join United despite only moving to Naples last year. The South Korean international enjoyed a tremendous campaign as he starred in the club’s remarkable Serie A title-winning campaign,but his contract contains a £43million release clause.
A deal for Kim is said by Naplesbased Il Mattinoto be in place, the player has no doubts about joining United – who simply need to pay his clause.
Indeed, Napoli have already lined-up Kevin Danso of Lens as Kim’s replacement. A deal for Osimhen is more complicated as no such clause is in place, but Napoli do not consider him as one of their ‘untouchable’ players.
Indeed, Napoli have been planning to sell the Nigerian since last summer; their signings of Giacomo Raspadori and Giovanni Simeone – initially on loan deals – was with a longterm view to softening the blow of Osimhen’s departure.
That is not a foregone conclusion this summer, but President Aurelio De Laurentiis will sanction a sale if an offer in excess of £140million arrives.
Of course, this could be negotiated down should Napoli’s stance change but they are open to a sale.
Meanwhile, Osimhen was spotted in Berlin yesterday amid speculations that he may likely join the European giants, Bayern Munich.
The Serie A winner with Napoli was snapped outside the famous Adlon Kempinski hotel in Berlin after checking out of the five-star establishment with his girlfriend Stephanie Ladewig and their oneyear-old daughter Hailey True. Thomas Tuchel’s side have never hidden their intentions to lure the former Wolfsburg player back to the Bundesliga. With these speculations surrounding Osimhen exit, the Nigerian who is now a cult-hero amongst Napoli fans is likely to incur the wrath of the same Neapolitans in their last Serie A game of the season.
How Warri, Abuja Stood Still for Heineken’s ‘Cheers to All Fans’
Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the oil-rich city of Warri were pumped up with excitement as the Heineken ‘Cheers to All Fans Campaign train made a big splash in the two cities. With fans across the world already eager to know the finalists in this season's Champions League, Heineken made the passionate fans in Abuja and Warri have something extra to look forward to.
Flying Eagles Beat Italy to Leave ‘Group of Death’ Precarious
Femi Solaja
Nigeria’s Flying put out a brilliant show at the Mendoza Stadium last night as they defeated Italy 2-0 in their Group D second game of the FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina.
The result puts Ladan Bosso wards one foot in the knockout phase pending the result of the late fixture between Brazil and the Dominican Republic.
The feat earned the Nigerian side two wins with maximum six points.
They now needed just one point in their last match on Saturday against Brazil to top the group.
Should Flying Eagles fall to the Brazilians, the possibilities of all top three teams ending the group stage with six points is there.
Yesterday’s match started with the young Azzuris dominating the possession as expected but the Flying Eagles kept it right, especially at the
back and waited for counterattack to do the damage.
The first half ended in a stalemate as the Nigeria side grew into the game, stamping their authority.
In the second half, the Flying Eagles put up a more impressive performance and it paid off in the 61st minute when Salim Fago Lawal's flying header put the two- time finalists ahead.
The Italians tried to come back into the game but found the Nigerian backline hard to crack.
Jude Sunday added the second in extra time to kill off whatever effort the Italians were putting up to share points.
In the last group matches on Saturday, should Italy beat the Dominican Republic and Nigeria lose to Brazil, all three teams will be tied on same six points only to be separated by goals difference. The third placed team in the group is very likely to pick one of the two extra slots meant for the best third teams in the group stage.
Propel Sports Africa Set to Change the Face of Nigerian League
Kunle Adewale
In its quest to give Nigerian fans the kind of football league they have been craving for, the Interim Management Committee (IMC) in partnership with GTI have signed a live streaming deal with Propel Sports Africa to boost the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The deal which was signed on
Tuesday at the corporate headquarters of GTI on Lagos Island, is expected to be powered by strategic partners to the NPFL, the GTI Asset Management and Trust Limited and Propel Sports Africa(PSA).
The live streaming is expected to commence via a dedicated Over The Top (OTT) platform- NPFL Live when the new season kicks off in August.
Speaking at the unveiling of the partnership, Propel Sports’ Basil Kabbani, said PSA and GTI will commence the live streaming of the games on a dedicated OTT platform, known as NPFL Live, to be viewed on mobile device and laptops.
He said that the project was enabled by the world’s most advanced AI technology, and that the NPFL
would be the first league in Africa to deploy the technology.
“Pixellos, the world-leading provider of AI-automated sports video and data solutions, and ITV Africa are proud to announce a partnership with NPFL, GTI and Propel Sports Africa, revolutionising sports coverage in the country with a broad coverage of the league’s matches.
He expressed hope that over 100 million viewers across the globe will watch all the matches via the NPFL Live platform from their mobile devices and laptops, just as he said the NPFL will be the first league in Africa to deploy one of the world’s most advanced AI Technology to beam live matches across global audience.
He said Pixellos are involved in the project with ITV Africa to boost coverage of the NPFL matches.
PSA President, Ed Simmons, in his own submission said, "the initiative is a five-year plan and we are happy it is coming up now. This live streaming is the very first of its kind in the world because not even in the English Premier League and other top lagues across the globe can boast of it."
In the end, it was a spectacular show, on and off the pitch for the fans and loyal Heineken consumers who thronged the De Clouds Lounge in Warri and then the Papiees Meatro in the heart of Abuja.
In Warri, the attention was on the Milan derby, where Inter were looking to complete a double over their city rivals while AC Milan on their part were hoping to turn the tables after a 2-0 deficit from the first leg. Most fans on the night in Warri were neutral; unanimously wishing the better side to pick the ticket and
that better side turned out to be Inter who won the second leg again. Laturo Martinez got the goal that saw Inter progress on a 3-0 aggregate scoreline and end their 13-year wait for a chance in the Champions League final.
As jubilant Inter fans partied into the night at San Siro, it was the same festive atmosphere in Warri as Heineken pumped up the excitement for the fans who all gushed over the unique viewing experience.
‘Cheers To All Fans’ as preached by Heineken was evident as there was a high turnout of female football enthusiasts who commended the Premium brand for their deliberate inclusivity drive.
City...yesterday
Federation Cup: Bendel Insurance Qualify for Q’finals
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
Bendel Insurance Football Club of Benin, yesterday evening in Awka defeated Heartland FC of Owerri 1-0 to progress to the quarter final stage of the 2023 Federation Cup.
Sarki Ismael scored the only goal of the match in the 47th minute to give the Benin Arsenal a deserved win over Heartland whose unbeaten run in the Nigeria National League this season could not extend to the Federation Cup.
The Benin Arsenal's unbeaten run in all competitions this season continues as they proved their worth as NPFL top side in the game played at the Awka City Stadium in Anambra State, taking 65 percent of possession before the heavy down pour that temporarily affected the game.
Insurance FC will be facing NPFL side Sunshine Stars of Akure in the quarter finals on Sunday.
Insurance next opponents Sunshine Stars on the other hand defeated EFCC FC 3-2 in the round of 16 to set up Insurance FC quarter finals battle.
Meanwhile, Insurance Feeders will continue their battle with NPFL giants Lobi Stars tomorrow morningas the heavy rain at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri forced the postponement of the match after 35 minutes of play.
The junior Insurance had shocked Lobi in the early part of the game with 7th minute goal scored by Sylvester Eweka before the big boys from Makurdi rallied to a 2-1 lead before the heavy down pour. Goals scored by Suur Kumaga(28 min) and Joseph Atule(32mn) brought the Makurdi based side back into the game. The remaining 55 minutes of the match will be played tomorrow morning, begining from 8.00 AMat the Dan Anyiam stadium, Owerri.
THURSDAYSPORTS Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY
LEAGUE U20 WORLD CUP THURSDAY, THISDAY 39
CHAMPIONS
As GTI, IMC sign $5m live streaming broadcast deal
Ikhazuagbe with agency report
Victor Osimhen...the beautiful bride being courted everywhere
L-R: Akin Olamilokun; Okpekpe Road Race Promoter, Mike Itemuagbor; Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu; and Mylaps Timing Company’s Jessar during the presentation of 2023 Okpekpe 10km International Road Race bib to Shaibu in his office in Benin
L-R: President of Propel Sports Africa (PSA), Edward Simeon; Chairman of Interim Management Committee (IMC), Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye; Group Managing Director of GTI, Abubakar Lawal; and Chairman of PSA, Basil Kabbani during the signing of the broadcast contracts for NPFL Live by PSA and IMC in Lagos...on Tuesday
Sam Ortom to Muhammadu Buhari
“We have suffered for eight years. He doesn’t need to go to Niger Republic. He should stay here (in Nigeria) with us. All of us should work with the incoming administration and by the grace of God, we shall go from bottom to top,”—Benue State Governor, taking a dig at the president whom he says he has forgiven for the fate that befell his people in the last eight years.
OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com
EFCC and the ‘Roforofo’ Fight Ahead
Since he who asserts must prove, the onus is now on the Zamfara State Governor, Bello Matawalle to provide evidence that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, demanded a bribe of $2 million from him. “It is not just to always blame governors. It is not only governors who have treasury, the federal government also has. What does the EFCC boss do to them? As he is claiming he has evidence on governors, let him show to the world evidence of those at the federal level,” Matawalle said in a recent interview with BBC Hausa Service. “If he (Bawa) exits office, people will surely know he is not an honest person. I have evidence against him. He requested a bribe of $2 million from me and I have evidence of this. He knows the house we met, he invited me and told me the conditions. He told me governors were going to his office, but I did not. If I don’t have evidence, I won’t say this.”
The battle between Matawalle and Bawa is bound to be interesting, beginning from next week when the governor would have been stripped of his immunity from prosecution. I choose to reserve my opinion until the governor presents concrete evidence to back his weighty allegation, but Bawa must understand that you don’t fight corruption with street gossip or fishing for evidence. What irks Matawalle is the reported invitations to outgoing governors and their commissioners over alleged corruption and abuse of office. Targeting state governors while turning a blind eye to the misdeeds in Abuja, according to Matawalle, is unacceptable. Whatever his motivation, Matawalle has a valid point on the EFCC modus operandi. The idea of ‘probe’ that the commission revels in is a throwback to the military era when accused persons were presumed guilty until they could prove their innocence. Under democracy and the rule of law, the presumption is that of innocence until evidence is adduced in a court of law to secure conviction. Leaving federal officials to target governors, as self-serving as Matawalle’s argument may be, is also wrongheaded. There are several federal government agencies that manage resources far bigger than what is available to all the states combined. Yet, heads of these agencies are never subjected to public ridicule like governors routinely are by the EFCC, as Matawalle stated.
Meanwhile, the commission should be concerned about its future under the presidency of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Two years ago, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu signed into law a controversial bill that empowers the Lagos State Anti-Corruption Commission to take over “all anti-corruption and financial crimes cases” involving the finances and assets of the state government being investigated by any other agency.” The executive bill initiated by the governor enjoyed speedy passage by the House of Assembly before being signed into law. Section 13(5) says, “The Commission shall have power to the exclusion of any other Agency or body to investigate and coordinate the investigation of corruption and financial crime cases involving the finances and assets of the State Government.” The Lagos law was meant to castrate the EFCC whose powers over states have always been in contention. We wait to see what Tinubu will do with EFCC once he moves from the passenger’s side to the driver’s seat of power in Nigeria, but the Commission’s problem goes beyond one man.
In January this year, a former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) president, Mr Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, questioned the legality of EFCC on several actions, especially regarding states. Section 214(1) of the constitution (as amended), according to Agbakoba, says: “There shall be a police force for Nigeria, which shall be known as the Nigeria Police Force, and subject to the provisions of this section, no other police force shall be established for the Federation or any part thereof.” Since EFCC was a creation of the National Assembly (and none of the constitutional amendments we have had over the years has inserted it into the Constitution), Agbakoba avers that the commission does not have the powers to interfere with the activities of state governments. “The
Supreme Court in many of its decisions has held that federalism means two autonomous and independent governments and if that is correct, the EFCC does not have the right to go to the state and examine their accounts,” Agbakoba argued. Established in 2003, there is no doubt that the EFCC has done much in the past two decades to fight corruption. The commission has secured high-profile
convictions, especially of governors, and helped to raise the consciousness of Nigerians regarding the lack of transparency and accountability that defines public service in our country. But it is also evident that the EFCC is derailing, and its method is becoming counterproductive. Naming and shaming may have its use, but it is neither sustainable nor is it the right way to fight a serious crime. There are many glaring examples to cite but one stands out.
Shortly after Mr Willie Obiano handed over as Governor of Anambra State on18th March 2021, he was intercepted and stopped from travelling to the United States, arrested, and transferred to Abuja. While being held incommunicado, the EFCC let it filter out that Obiano was being held for fiddling with the ubiquitous ‘security vote’ and was to account for some N47 billion. Then the EFCC leaked a video of Obiano being interrogated by their operatives as well as a photograph of him in an undignifying posture. While the uproar that greeted the unprofessional conduct was yet to die down, Bawa hit the media with allegations about another unnamed governor. “Very soon, Nigerians are going to see some of the things that we are doing. I can tell you for free that the new Department of Intelligence that we have created is working wonders. They have come up with a lot of intelligence,” Bawa said. “In one of them, a governor in a Northcentral state within the last six years (one individual) has withdrawn over N60 billion in cash.”
We hope the EFCC has a watertight case against this “N60 billion in cash” Northcentral governor. But nobody is surprised that despite the drama, the Commission has not been able to press any serious charge against Obiano. It is typical. Two years ago, the Corruption
and Financial Crimes Cases Monitoring Committee (COTRIMCO) set up in November 2017 by the then Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen, blamed delays in financial crimes cases on a combination of factors, but chiefly on poor prosecution. According to COTRIMCO, “offenders are charged to court before proper investigations of the charges are done, and afterwards, expecting the court to detain such alleged offenders till conclusion of their investigations”.
As I have reiterated many times on this page, fighting corruption goes beyond making sensational claims not backed by evidence. What is required are investigative and legal structures that will lead to trials and convictions of those who are guilty, without tarnishing the reputation of innocent people. That Nigerans are not yet able to draw the line between when the EFCC is putting up a media show and when it is engaged in the nitty gritty of fighting corruption is the reason the Commission is fast losing credibility.
Beyond the Matawalle and Bawa battle, there are interesting days ahead for the EFCC. Whatever happens, the Commission must understand that fighting corruption requires some measure of tact and sobriety. Investigation of such serious crimes takes time, painstaking efforts and a coherent strategy founded on due process of law. The Gotcha approach that has become EFCC standard practice, as I have highlighted on this page several times in the past, can only provide momentary entertainment. That is not what Nigeria needs at this time given how the malaise has almost destroyed the moral fabric of our society. Not to mention the economy. What we require is a thorough, methodical, and strategic war against corruption. It is not too late for the EFCC to change their tactics.
Dangote: Nigerian Name, Global Brand
On Monday in Lagos, Alhaji Aliko Dangote raised the stakes higher when President Muhammadu Buhari was joined by colleagues from Ghana, Togo, Niger Republic, Senegal, and a representative of the Chadian president to commission his mega refinery. Situated on 6,180 acres (2,500 hectares) of land at the Lekki Free Trade Zone, the Dangote Refinery boasts of the largest sub-sea pipeline infrastructure in the world (1,100 kilometres) for crude supply. And with the capacity to process about 650,000 barrels per day, it is also the largest single-train refinery in the world.
While I join in commending Dangote for breaking business barriers on the continent, I am aware that there are people who do not share in the euphoria of the moment. I have heard the argument that Dangote enjoys enormous government patronage and support for his projects. And not all of them can be dismissed as sour grapes. When a man amasses the humongous wealth available to Dangote in our kind of environment, there will always be legitimate questions to ask, especially by competitors. But as the late global icon, Mr Nelson Mandela of South Africa, also reminded us in the counsel he gave to his country’s music star, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, “It is what we make of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another.”
Former Cross River State Governor, Mr Donald Duke, once told me that he first met Alhaji Aliko Dangote in 1978 (the year he started his trading in commodities) and that he could still remember his (Dangote’s) business contemporaries at the time in Lagos. After reeling out a few names that I was hearing for the first time, Duke muttered: “only God knows where those guys are today. So, that tells you something about Dangote’s resilience”. From sugar to salt to flour to fertilizer to frozen fish to baby food to poly bag to cement, Dangote was
Dangote
just another trader (and importer) less than three decades ago. Today, he is a producer of some of those commodities not only for our country but also for the African market.
Last month, at the invitation of its Chief Upstream Operating Officer, Mr Bala Wunti, I was in Lagos to speak at the Annual Value Assurance Review (AVAR) of the NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS). But as I recalled in a short piece that I wrote
the day after, the most insightful presentation came from Dangote who shared some of the challenges he faced while trying to build the refinery. He was compelled to construct his own port at Lekki. He erected over 200 kilometres of gas pipelines across different projects. He built his own power plants. He bought his own cranes and mined his own granite. There is hardly any sector that Dangote has not had to invest in because of the absence of critical infrastructure that can support mega projects in Nigeria. What his story therefore teaches is that as tough as the Nigerian business climate may seem, those who dare still wins.
Meanwhile, the interesting subtext to the Dangote Refinery story is the role played by three principal characters: Ibikunle Amosun, Dapo Abiodun and Babatunde Raji Fashola. The refinery was to be cited at the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun State then governed by Amosun. Chairman of the trade zone at the time was Abiodun, the current governor. When the project could not fly in Ogun State after several months of negotiations, Dangote came to Lagos where Fashola (then state governor) embraced the idea. But it was a herculean task convincing Ibeju Lekki landowners and Lagos white cap chiefs to buy into the project. At one meeting in 2014 where Fashola “handed over” Dangote to these chiefs, there was open dissent. But he was determined to have the project in Lagos. Given what transpired a decade ago, if the project had failed, those who conspired against Dangote in Ogun State would probably be hailed today for their “foresight”. Now that it has worked out, the same people are reading from the Book of Lamentations while those who opposed Fashola in Lagos nine years ago are waxing lyrical about the refinery. Such is life!
I congratulate Dangote on this rare feat as I wish him success in his next frontier-breaking endeavour.
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