SATURDAY 3RD JUNE 2023

Gbajabiamila Steps in as Chief of Staff, Akume is

President Bola Tinubu yesterday announced the appointment of the Speaker of the House of Representatives,

Femi Gbajabiamila, as his Chief of Staff, and a former Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, as Deputy Chief of Staff.

The President, in a press statement issued by State

House Director of Information, Abiodun Oladunjoye, also named former Governor of Benue State and immediate past Minister of Special Duties, George Akume, as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

Later in the afternoon yesterday, Gbajabiamila formally accepted his appointment as the Chief of Staff to the President.

In a brief statement, Gbajabiamila appreciated Tinubu for finding him

worthy, saying with his 20 years’ experience at the National Assembly, he was well equipped for the task ahead.

He said, "I shall work with Mr. President in discharging the enormous task ahead of

him for the peace and progress of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I shall give my best when I take office on June 14, 2023 as reflected in Mr. President's official letter."

The newly appointed Chief

NCAA Denies Nigeria Air Approval for Phase 2 of AOC Certification...

Tinubu: We Will Review Minimum Wage to Reflect Current Realities

Identifies welfare, security of Nigerians as priorities

Continued on page 5

Subsidy Removal: NLC Declares War, Begins Nationwide Strike Wednesday

TUC opts for further dialogue with FG

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday directed its members and affiliates to begin nationwide protest and withdrawal of services from next Wednesday, if the federal government fails to compel the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) to reverse the increase in the pump price of petrol.

However, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) rejected the strike option and resolved to continue dialogue with government’s negotiation team over the contentious issue of fuel subsidy withdrawal.

President Bola Tinubu had during his inaugural speech on Monday, May 29 announced the removal of fuel subsidy. “Subsidy is gone,” Tinubu said. The NNPCL followed up on

THE PRESIDENT AND HIS

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha and Udora Orizu in Abuja

The President, who spoke

SUBSIDY REMOVAL: NLC DECLARES WAR, BEGINS NATIONWIDE STRIKE WEDNESDAY

May 31, by announcing new pump prices according to states, with Borno State having the highest price of N540 per litre of petrol. Some representatives of the government also met with the officials of the NLC over the issues but it was deadlocked.

After its three-hour emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja yesterday, the NLC rejected the petrol price increase and said further that workers are also demanding a comprehensive probe of the entire fuel subsidy regime to unravel the fraudulent activities that have taken place over the years.

Addressing journalists after the NEC meeting, NLC president Joe Ajaero said the Congress had resolved to mobilise workers nationwide to

compel NNPCL “to withdraw the N540 per litre illegal fuel price template.”

While reading out the resolution of the NEC meeting, Ajaero said: "whereas the NNPC has refused to tell us the landing cost of imported PMS up to this moment, whereas the NNPC has refused to disclose the beneficiaries of the subsidy payments, the NLC is hereby calling for proper investigation of the process of subsidy to know those who are the beneficiaries and to know the amount that were involved and to investigate it properly before it is swept under the carpet.

"That the current attempt to sweep under the carpet the fraudulent practices of the subsidy regime should not be tolerated by all well-meaning Nigerians.

"That the NEC in session directed that the leadership of the NLC should be cautious of negotiating with people without portfolio, that it should wait until government is properly constituted and the people who will negotiate with labour are such people with mandate and capacity for being in the government of the day.

"Consequently, the NLC decided that if by Wednesday next week, the NNPC, a private limited liability company that illegally announced the new price regime for the oil sector refuses to reverse itself for negotiations to continue, the NLC and all its affiliates will withdraw their services and commence protest nationwide until this is complied with.

"That NNPC doesn't have the monopoly to act illegally even as a private company.

NLC NEC therefore directs all state councils and all industrial unions to commence mobilisation from this moment to make sure that the action is in force."

President Tinubu said last Monday, while announcing the subsidy removal that the revenue would be channeled to the development of other sectors.

But the organised labour comprising Trade Union Congress and the NLC described the move by Tinubu and the NNPCL as a “joke taken too far.”

Earlier, at the NLC NEC emergency meeting in Abuja, Femi Falana, SAN, made a presentation on the subsidy removal.

He described the fixing of new pump prices for petrol by the NNPCL as illegal.

GBAJABIAMILA STEPS IN AS CHIEF OF STAFF, AKUME IS SGF

of Staff to the President is not an outsider when it comes to Nigeria’s political sphere.

Popularly called ‘Gbaja,’ the CoS is an age-long associate of Tinubu, and both have maintained this relationship on a steady course.

His primary duty as Chief of Staff is to act as the principal aide to the President. He will serve as a key liaison between the President and other government officials, political leaders, and stakeholders.

Often regarded as the ‘gatekeeper’ for the President, the Chief of Staff does not hold direct constitutional powers. Yet, the influence and impact of the office on decision-making processes cannot be underestimated.

Abbas, Shehu Sani Commend Appointments

Meanwhile, the APC candidate for the position of Speaker in the 10th National Assembly, Tajudeen Abbas, has congratulated Gbajabiamila on his appointment as the Chief of Staff to the President.

Abbas said Gbajabiamila’s appointment is a testament of his pedigree, capacity and competence to handle any national assignment given to him.

The lawmaker, who represents Zaria Federal Constituency of Kaduna State, hailed President Tinubu for making the right choice.

He said Gbajabiamila is bringing to the table two decades of parliamentary experience during which he occupied the positions of Minority Whip, Minority Leader, Majority/House Leader and ultimately the Speaker.

Abbas said Tinubu had once again demonstrated that he is truly a talent hunter and a strategist by appointing Gbajabiamila as Chief of Staff.

Also, Senator Shehu Sani has commended Tinubu for not appointing his Chief of Staff from among any of the former governors from the North-west geopolitical zone.

Senator Sani, who took to his twitter handle yesterday said, "If President Tinubu had appointed any of the North-west governors as his Chief of Staff, he would have incubated serpents in his palace."

There were speculations that President Tinubu would have appointed the former governor

of Kaduna State, Nasiru el Rufai or the former governor of Kano State, Ganduje as Chief of Staff.

Senator Sani went further to describe the appointment of George Akume as the SGF as a fair deal for the North-central.

He appealed to Tinubu to avoid nepotism in the appointments of the security chiefs, “like former President Buhari did and yet the North was not saved from the hands of bandits and other non-state actors,” and urged the new president to do things differently.

The Man, Gbajabiamila

Born on June 25, 1962, Gbajabiamlila had his secondary education at Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos and proceeded to the King Williams College, Isle of Man, the United Kingdom for his Advanced Level.

He graduated at the top of his class and went on to the University of Lagos for a Bachelor of Law degree programme. He graduated with honours in 1983 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1984.

Gbajabiamila started his career as a lawyer with the law firm of Bentley, Edu and Co. in Lagos, where he distinguished himself with an exemplary discipline and good work ethic. He eventually left Bentley, Edu and Co. to set up his practice, Femi Gbaja and Co.

In 1998, he returned to school at the John Marshall Law School in Atlanta, Georgia in the United States of America. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from John Marshall and earned for himself a Juris Doctor degree. He then went on to write and pass the Georgia Bar exams, after which he set up another thriving law office where he practised until his return to Nigeria.

Gbajabiamila delved into partisan politics and offered himself up for service on the platform of the then Alliance for Democracy and has thereafter been elected for six consecutive terms to represent the people of Surulere 1 Federal Constituency of Lagos in the National Assembly.

The CoS was always on the side of truth and justice, and his views truly reflected the wishes and aspirations of his constituents. This was

especially evident during the “third term debate” when he was Chairman of the 2007 movement in the House, a group primarily credited for ending the “third term agenda” of the then President, Olusegun Obasanjo.

He served as the Minority Whip of the house, and by the end of his second term in office, Gbajabiamila had sponsored the highest number of Bills in the National Assembly.

Gbajabiamila proposed an amendment to the National Honours Act of 1964 to make stringent guidelines for selection of National Award nominees. He thus became the third and youngest Nigerian to reject National Honours after late Chinua Achebe and Prof. Grace Alele-Williams.

In 2015, Gbajabiamila put himself forward to lead the House as Speaker of the 8th House. He narrowly lost that election. He put himself forward again in 2019 and was on the 12th of June, 2019 overwhelmingly elected Speaker of the 9th House of Representatives.

Gbajabiamila also served as the Chairman of the

Conference of African Speakers of Parliament.

Benue-Born Akume

Akume was born on December 27, 1953, and is from Wannune, Tarka Council Area of Benue State.

He obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Ibadan in 1978 and a Master’s degree in Industrial and Labour Relations from the same university in 1986.

Akume was a Senator and served as the Minority Leader from June 2011 to June 2015.

He was also the Governor of Benue State from May 1999 to May 2007 and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army.

Akume was re-elected Senator for Benue North-west in the April 2011 elections, running on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria. He won another term in 2015 but lost to Senator Orke Jev of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2019.

In 2019, President Buhari appointed Akume as Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs.

Falana said he would challenge the unconstitutional action of the NNPCL in court.

Ajaero, who spoke before Falana’s presentation, sought for public inquiry into the operations of the federal government's contentious fuel subsidy regime.

The NLC president said, “Nigeria has always been faced with the vicious circle of subsidy withdrawal or no subsidy withdrawal without one really taking time to interrogate its meaning and operation.

"For every government that comes to power in Nigeria, subsidy now seems to be a cat with many lives and they will always announce subsidy removal and the meaning of subsidy withdrawal to them is increase fuel price. So, we woke up one morning to hear that the subsidy was gone, on the day of his (Tinubu) inauguration, without a cabinet and without going to the National Assembly.

“But we were told that there were provisions in the budget for it to end by the end of June. We do not know whether there was vehement or adjustment to the budget. All we heard was that NNPCL, a private company, went ahead to announce an increase in fuel price. We are wondering whether it is the function of a public liability company to fix prices of petroleum products.

"And the level of impunity leaves much to be desired in the sense that the issue of subsidy had not been properly probed all these years. And for anybody to close that chapter is like covering fraud."

Ajaero said the reason for summoning an emergency meeting of NEC was to enable the congress to interrogate some of the fuel subsidy issue and to know how it was disbursed and who and who was collecting this subsidy money and how they have collected.

"It is not enough to say we are paying subsidy because if the report we are getting about the landing cost of the product is correct, it means that NNPCL is making more than 100 percent profit from

imported PMS," he said.

TUC Opts for Further Dialogue

The TUC yesterday rejected the strike option over the petrol price increase and resolved to continue with the dialogue with the federal government negotiation team.

At its emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held yesterday in Abuja, TUC said that it had agreed to give the government until Sunday to respond to its demands before the association will decide on the next line of action.

Addressing journalists after the NEC meeting, TUC president Festus Osifoh said the members used the opportunity to consider palliatives planned by the federal government and also outlined their key demands to be submitted to the authorities.

Osifoh said: "First of all, the congress was unhappy with the unilateral decision of the fuel subsidy removal by the government. Our expectation was that they should have engaged the representatives of the people, the organised labour, but it was done unilaterally.

"We told them that the least of the things that we want to put forward won’t be submitted now but that we will discuss with our organs and take mandates from them on the things which we can put forward.

"So, that is one of the things that led to the NEC. We have had a conversation and the NEC has mandated us to go back to that meeting and put our demand before the government.

"It is how the government reacts to our demand that will now necessitate the next line of action. We will tarry till Sunday when we will meet with the representatives of the government. Once we are done with the meeting with the demands that the TUC will put forward, their reaction will determine our next line of action."

TINUBU: WE WILL REVIEW MINIMUM WAGE TO REFLECT CURRENT REALITIES

yesterday while receiving members of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), led by their Chairman, Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, at the State House, Abuja yesterday, said the national and sub-national governments would work together on the minimum wage, which already requires “soul searching.”

He said: “We need to do some arithmetic and soul searching on the minimum wage. We will have to take a look at that together, and the revenue. We must strengthen the source and application of our revenue.”

President Tinubu urged the governors to seize the opportunity of being chosen among millions of citizens in their states to make a difference in the lives of people, adding that he would work for the benefit of Nigerians.

According to him: “This meeting is not strange to me, and the content of the meeting is so valuable. The camaraderie is very stimulating. This is about the Nigerian project, not Bola Tinubu."

The President also said the multiple exchange rates would be streamlined, noting that governance was a continuum.

“I have inherited the assets and liabilities of my predecessor. This is the first time you entered the Council Chambers, and it is my first time too for a meeting.

“As progressives and thinkers under the umbrella of the All Progressives Congress (APC), you have a role to play in educating our people and making sure we manage ourselves,” the President told the governors.

President Tinubu said it was a good and encouraging sign that the APC has a majority in the National Assembly and some Houses of Assembly, which would make it easier to develop policies that would directly impact the economy and the people.

“If we work together, the Nigeria of our dreams is not far away. Be assured that we will not have multiple exchange rates anymore. You asked for this meeting, and I had to set aside time to be here.

“We have a political party that we will need to manage, whichever way, we have inherited assets and liabilities, and we cannot complain,” he stated.

The President said he would

maintain an open-door policy, willing to entertain issues, deliberate, and collectively find solutions to the challenges facing the country, including security.

“It is in our hands, and I am ready to work and listen at any time,” he added.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, in his remarks, called on the governors to rally around the President as he tackles the challenges that stagnate the economy, like the oil subsidy and multiple exchange rates.

Earlier, Uzodinma, pledged the support of the Progressive Governors to the President, noting that his initial decisions already foretell good intentions for the economy.

The PGF also threw its weight behind the federal government's decision to remove petrol subsidy but expressed concern over the sudden hike in petrol prices following Tinubu's inaugural speech.

Addressing newsmen after the meeting with the President, Uzodinma, condemned the price increase on what he describes as “old stock” and called on Nigerians to rally behind

the government's decision to remove the subsidy.

According to him, the subsidy was no longer sustainable as the country had been having to borrow money to pay for it, and that the National Economic Council (NEC) had already voted against it.

Uzodinma said: "It has gotten to a point that it is either that, which is no longer sustainable, is managed or there will be no Nigeria and all of us are committed to the success and unity of the country and the last appropriation, which is law, made provision for subsidy up till June. The President, who has just been sworn-in a few days ago, has not prepared any budget, and he's under oath to respect the laws of the land and one of these laws is 2023 Appropriations Acts. “So, it is not new and I want you people to help this situation because collectively, only by working together, we can save the country. I thought that what we should be saying now is, in the absence of subsidising petroleum products, how are we going to make this product available to Nigerians.”

Lukman: ‘Reckless’ Adamu Will Lead APC to Political Suicide if Left Unchecked

Says‘pompous’Omisorelackspowertowinelection

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The National Vice Chairman, North-west of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Salihu Lukman, has described the National Chairman of the party, Abdullahi Adamu, as a reckless conservative and reactionary politician, who, if left unchecked, would lead APC to committing political suicide.

He said that all party leaders and members must wake up to this reality and stop Adamu from achieving his mission of self-destroying the APC.

Lukman, in an open letter to APC leaders noted that the ‘pompous’ National Secretary of

the party, Senator Iyiola Omisore, lacks capacity to win election in Osun State and yet pretends to command political influence.

He lamented that billions of Naira had been expended based on discretionary decisions of the Chairman and Secretary.

Lukman stressed that till date, no member of the National Working Committee (NWC) could claim to know how much was in all the accounts of the party outside Adamu and Omisore and perhaps the National Treasurer and National Financial Secretary.

The party chieftain stressed that Osun and Ekiti elections cost the party billions without any attempt

Kefas: I’ll Probe My Predecessor Where Necessary

Wole Ayodele in Jalingo

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has disclosed that it was expedient for his administration to probe his predecessor wherever necessary in order to avoid the mistakes of the past.

Kefas, who revealed this while fielding questions from journalists at the Government House in Jalingo yesterday, further stated that he would go round the state to inspect uncompleted projects to ascertain the level of work done on them.

The governor maintained that it had become imperative to probe the activities of the previous administration if his administration is to avoid pitfalls and also learn valuable lessons that would be of great assistance.

He further revealed that his administration would provide the necessary framework for civil servants to do their jobs without any let or hindrance, particularly auditors who would ensure that the state does not

lose any of its resources.

According to him, “There are civil servants, especially auditors, who would be given free hand to do their jobs and wherever it is necessary to ask questions, we would not hesitate to do that.”

On the litany of uncompleted projects that litter the state, some of which are already inaugurated by the immediate past administration, Kefas noted that he would embark on a tour of the projects and thereafter set up a committee that would advise the government on how to complete the projects based on priority.

He however assured that since all the projects are to benefit the people of the state, his administration would ensure that none of the projects is abandoned.

Kefas, however, disclosed that his administration would declare a state of emergency on all the public primary and secondary schools in the state due to the level of decadence in the area.

France’s Minister of Development Commends Improved Public Transport in Lagos

Duro Ikhazuagbe

France’s Minister of State for Development, Francophone and International Partnerships, Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, has expressed satisfaction with the level of support the European nation is giving to Lagos State in improving its public transport system.

The minister, who was in Nigeria to represent the French Government at the inauguration of Nigeria’s 16th President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, used the visit to connect with Lagos State authorities responsible for water and land transportation, which included a deep-dive session in projects supported by the French Development Agency (AFD).

Over the past 12 years, France through AFD has been investing US$700 million in the development of Lagos State including US$350 million to develop the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS). This has contributed to reducing travel time and travel costs for millions of Lagosians and to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

After a briefing on urban mobility

to review experiences, adding that in the case of Osun, to specifically identify reasons why the party lost the election.

He noted that the ruling party faced an embarrassing situation whereby in Osun during the just concluded 2023 elections, was roundly defeated.

Lukman said: “We lost all the three Senatorial seats, lost all the seats for the House of Representatives and lost all the House of Assembly seats. And this is the state where the National Secretary, Omisore comes from. And he sits shamelessly, pompously and pretending to command political influence when he cannot win any election.

“If we are truly aspiring to be a progressive party, leadership must be earned. Omisore must give

account of his leadership in Osun State in every respect. Osun is the only state in the country today where the party has no single elected representative. Maybe we have Counsellors, who by this trend would be voted out in the next election.”

The national vice chairman said he had been accused of violating the agreements reached at the NWC meeting of May 3, 2023 that he should stop media campaigns and use internal structures of the party to make his demands.

He pointed out that since the agreements of May 3, no dedicated meeting was convened to consider all the issues that made it compelling to institute the court case aimed at restoring constitutional order in APC in

the first place. Lukman noted that Adamu and Omisore are the ones who have betrayed the agreements reached on May 3, after their failure to convene meetings of structures of the party after May 10, 2023.

He revealed that Adamu, Omisore and the two Deputy National Chairmen, Senator Abubakar Kyari and Chief Emma Eneukwu, were part of the consultations that led to the zoning arrangement of the 10th Assembly released by the party,

According to him, “To my mind, I believe the complaints by party leaders and members from North-central about exclusion are legitimate. However, the way to resolve the grievances would have been to put all the leadership

positions in the two chambers of the National Assembly as part of the basket of positions being negotiated. This is in the first place what Article 13.4(vi) of the APC constitution directed the NWC to first undertake by developing a proposed electoral guidelines and regulations to guide negotiations within the structures of the APC.”

Lukman added that to recommend consultations without providing the needed leadership through activating meetings of organs of the party, was, to say the least, dereliction of responsibility.

He noted: “He knows exactly what he is doing by not convening the meetings of organs of the party. By every definition, Sen. Adamu’s politics is conservative and reactionary.

POWER ON THEIR MINDS...

L-R: Aspirant for the position of Deputy Speaker 10th National Assembly, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu; Aspirant for Speaker, Tajudeen Abass; President Bola Tinubu; and Vice President Kashim Shettima, during a visit by the duo to the President and his deputy in Abuja... yesterday

10th Senate Will Rubber Stamp What’s Good For Nigerians, Says Akpabio

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

challenges at the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) in the presence of the Managing Director of Lagos MetropolitanArea TransportAuthority (LAMATA), Engr. Mrs. Abimbola

Akinajo, the minister embarked on a boat trip around Lagos island to see major infrastructures to be delivered under two key projects supported by France: the Lagos State Strategic Transport Master Plan (LSTMP) project and the Waterways Investment and Development of the Environment in Lagos State (WIDE-LAG) project.

On the boat trip, the minister could see Marina interchange hub to be developed under LSTMP from wheretheBlueLineofthemetrosystem recently inaugurated by Lagos State starts, and could observe various ferry terminals to be upgraded by 2028 under the WIDE-LAG project at Ebute Ero, Lekki 1, Falomo and Victoria Island.

She expressed her happiness with what the partnership has been able to offer the state.

“I was very impressed by my field visit this morning (on Thursday) and I can testify the excellent partnership between France and Lagos State,” she said.

The anointed candidate for the position of the 10th Senate Presidency, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has said that the National Assembly, if elected, would not be a rubber stamp parliament but would “rubber stamp whatever is good for Nigerians and what Nigerians want.”

Akpabio stated this at a dinner organised for him and the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the position of the deputy Senate President,

Barau Jibrin, by some Senatorselect under the aegis of Stability Group.

The former governor of Akwa Ibom State said with him as Senate President, things would work better for Nigerians.

“Things would change in Nigeria for good under this administration and that is our promise to Nigerians. Be rest assured that we shall succeed by the special grace of God,” he said.

Akpabio, according to a

statement by his media office, said the dinner was organised by the leadership of the group for members to further deliberate on how to collaborate with the President Tinubu-led administration for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians.

He said the meeting was a continuation of the one earlier held at AV Suites.

“We believe that it is important we continue to bond together because God has put us together for the next four years to work for the benefit of

Nigerians in the 10th Senate,” Akpabio said.

Speaking further, the former Senate Minority Leader, said “We believe that every Senator irrespective of his or her political party is first and foremost a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

On the allegation that the Senate under his leadership would be a rubber stamped one, Akpabio said, “The 10th Senate is made up not only men and women of high integrity but people of diverse

Skills Acquisition: World Bank Partners Ogun to Train 10,000 Youths

The Ogun State Government is set to partner the World Bank to train not less than 10,000 youths in different types of trade while reviving all the State Technical Colleges.

Planned under the state’s Skills Fund Project of the State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) office, is to improve economic livelihood and enhance productivity among citizens.

The immediate past Commissioner for Budget and Planning Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, disclosed the state’s effort, during an

interview with journalists.

He said the project was set up as an initiative to support technical and vocational skills in the state, towards the production of skilled and employable youths and to check lack of adequate skilled manpower in workplaces.

Olabimtan said that the project would be executed by people of integrity as Board of Trustees, to ensure that the fund is separated from normal government budgetary systems in order to achieve transparency and sustainability.

The former commissioner explained that the selection process for the skills fund would be

community-based, though in a very competitive manner.

He posited it was high time the society desist from celebrating individuals with questionable sources of wealth, rather, encourage hard work, diligence and the acquisition of skills.

Speaking on the project, the immediate past Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, noted that the government cannot employ everybody as civil servants and has therefore provided a means of empowering them and making them employers

of labour themselves.

He noted that the skills acquisition programme is well-structured and technologically driven unlike the traditional skills acquisition method.

He therefore, called on parents of interested learners from Junior Secondary School (JSS 3) not to discourage their children and wards from attending the State Technical Colleges as the certification from the colleges would be recognised by creditable bodies and they would still have the opportunity of proceeding to universities or polytechnics in order to be more academically inclined if desired.

James Sowole in Abeokuta

NCAA Denies Nigeria Air Approval to Proceed to Phase 2 of AOC Certification

Chinedu Eze

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has denied Nigeria Air approval to proceed to Phase 2 of the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) certification.

In a letter with reference number, NCAA/ DOLTS/GEN/ Vol. 111/16123, addressed to the Managing Director, Nigeria Air, titled: ‘Re: Request to Proceed to Phase Two of AOC Certification’ and signed by Captain O. O.

Lawani.

NCAA stated that “The Authority is in receipt of your letter dated 25th May, 2023 on the subject matter.

“Quite contrary to our earlier letter of 16th May, 2023 which enumerated the documents to be submitted with formal application form OPS 002, your letter of request to proceed to Phase Two has no inclusion of a formal application form and the necessary documents referenced

EFCC Grills Ex-Minister, Pauline Tallen over Alleged N2b Fraud

Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday, grilled the immediate past Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, over alleged corrupt enrichment to the tune of N2 billion.

THISDAY gathered that the former minister, who arrived at the Abuja Zonal Command of the commission on invitation at 12p.m. was still being grilled by investigators of the commission as of the time of filing this report last night.

Though details of the allegations against the ex-minister were sketchy, a source familiar with the case said it bordered on corrupt enrichment to the tune of N2 billion.

Part of the money was allegedly diverted from the African First Ladies Peace Mission project.

Spokesman of the Commission, Wilson Uwujaren, could not be reached for confirmation.

It would be recalled that the former First Lady, Mrs Aisha Buhari, had openly demanded that the former minister return a N500 million donation by the federal government to the project.

“I will like to thank the Nigerian government for their intervention. We also understood that some funds amounting to N500 million were allegedly received by the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs on behalf of the Africa First Ladies Peace Mission.

“We, therefore, appeal to the minister to immediately credit the account of the Peace Mission for the purpose of accountability,” she said.

The anti-graft agency had, Thursday, quizzed the former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, over alleged diversion of N4 billion while he served as the state chief executive.

Nnamdi Kanu’s Release Will Heal Nigeria, HURIWA Tells Tinubu

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Civil rights advocacy group, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, (HURIWA), yesterday, urged President Bola Tinubu to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, as a way to begin national reconciliation and healing in the country.

HURIWA, in a statement by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said the continued detention of Kanu by the Department of State Services (DSS) two years after he was abducted from Kenya despite an Appeal Court order releasing the IPOB leader is a flagrant disregard for the rule of law and principle of justice.

The group said President Tinubu should consider Kanu’s release as a gift to the South-east geopolitical zone, which he alleged, was marginalised and unfairly treated by the outgone administration of Muhammadu Buhari.

HURIWA, which backed the appeal by Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, urged President Tinubu to enforce Kanu’s release in accordance with the Appeal Court verdict and hand the IPOB leader to any of the five governors in the South-east.

The group urged Governors

in the formal application form. Hence, the certification process cannot progress to phase two without these required documents.

“Please be reminded that your post holder’s letter of commitment to Nigeria Air has a tenure of three months and as such expires now.”

To obtain AOC an airline has to go through five phases. Nigeria Air was on Phase 1 when the former Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika displayed an aircraft with foreign registry and Nigeria Air livery on May 26, 2023 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, an action industry observers described as illegal and worse because there was litigation against the airline by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON).

The five phases that qualify

an airline to obtain AOC are as follows: Stage one is the pre-application phase where the NCAA will appoint a certification team and process the pre-application statement of intent form (AC-OPS 001). In this stage, discussions on all regulatory requirements, the formal application and attachments and any other related issues will take place. This is usually a week’s process.

The second stage involves a formal application for intending entrants where documents and manuals (including the curricula vitae of key management personnel) must be submitted for evaluation. The minimum timeframe for the formal application phase is two weeks.

Stage three involves document evaluation where the NCAA will

review the applicant’s manuals and other related documents and attachments to ensure conformity with the applicable regulations and safe operating practices. The minimum time frame for the document evaluation phase is three months.

The process moves to Phase Four: demonstration and inspection, this is a key stage of the process carried out only after a satisfactory documentation evaluation phase. In this stage, a thorough audit by the certification team at the applicant’s premises will be conducted to ensure that the proposed procedures are effective and that the applicant’s facilities and equipment meet the NCAA’s regulatory requirements.

Also, in this stage, other demonstrations like emergency evacuation and ditching will be

NEW DEAL. . .

Ogbonna Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Alex Otti (Abia), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), and Chukwuma Soludo (Anambra) to emulate the new Enugu State governor by declaring an end to the Monday sit-at-home currently paralysing trade, commerce, creativity, entrepreneurship, and productivity in the South-east zone.

On Thursday, at the end of his first security council meeting with the heads of all the security agencies at the Government House, Enugu, Governor Mbah appealed to the new President to release Kanu, saying that it will be a pointer to President Tinubu’s administration’s extension of brotherly hands of fellowship to Ndigbo.

Mbah also expressed his government’s readiness “to engage in dialogue with people, who have genuine grievances towards bringing lasting peace and security to Enugu State.”

He also signed three Executive Orders including Executive Order 002 for the removal of ‘Unauthorised Street Barriers Across the State Within 100 Days’.

HURIWA’s Onwubiko said, “We commend Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for the courageous decision to remove unauthorise barriers and checkpoints across the state during his first 100 days in office.

carried out and after successes in these exercises; a demonstration flight will be carried out. The minimum time-frame for the demonstration and inspection phase is two months.

The 5th and final phase is certification and this means once the airline has met the regulatory requirements of the Civil Aviation (Air Navigation) Regulations, the NCAA will issue the AOC with the appropriate specifications and ratings. The minimum time frame for the certification phase is one week. And after the issuance of the AOC, the applicant can engage in commercial aviation activities in Nigeria.

It is worth noting that Nigeria Air is yet to scale through even the first phase of the five stages it has to go through before it would obtain AOC.

Court Affirms Ayu’s Removal as PDP’s National Chairman

George Okoh in Makurdi

A Makurdi High Court, yesterday, ruled that Dr. Iyorchia Ayu can no longer hold office as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) having lost membership of the party in his Igyorov Council Ward of Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State.

A member of the PDP in Benue State, Conrad Terhide Utaan dragged Dr. Ayu to court after his Igyorov Ward executive committee of the party suspended him after passing a vote of no confidence in him.

In suit No: MHC/85/2023,

Utaan, sought among other reliefs a declaration that, Dr. Ayu is no longer fit and qualified to hold office as the national chairman of the PDP, having lost membership of the party in his Igyorov Council Ward of Gboko, where he first registered as a member of the party.

He also sought a declaration of court that Ayu cannot hold himself out, function and preside over the affairs of the PDP as its national chairman having ceased to enjoy all the rights and privileges of membership by virtue of his suspension by the ward executive committee of the party in his Igyorov Council

Ward of Gboko Local Government Area.

The plaintiff further sought an order restraining Ayu from parading himself as the national chairman of the PDP on the premise that he had lost membership of the party in his ward, amongst other reliefs.

Dr. Ayu through his counsel J.J Usman, SAN, filed preliminary objections to the suit bordering on the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit, saying it was an internal affair of a political party.

He also challenged the locus standi of the plaintiff, Utaan to institute the action, adding that

the plaintiff had not exhausted the internal dispute resolution mechanism of the party, amongst other objections.

Utaan through his counsel, Emmanuel Ukala, SAN, argued against the preliminary objections and urged the court to discountenance the preliminary objections and grant the reliefs sought by the plaintiff.

Delivering his judgement that lasted for two hours, the Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, resolved all the issues raised in the preliminary objections in favour of the plaintiff and accordingly dismissed the same.

Nwosu, APC National Welfare Secretary Laid to Rest Amidst Rain of Tributes

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The remains of the National Welfare Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Friday Nwosu, were committed to mother earth yesterday amidst outpouring of tributes by political associates and friends across the nation

Both the national and the Abia State APC leaderships defied the rain and were fully represented at the requiem mass officiated by the Catholic Bishop of Aba Diocese, Most Rev. Augustine Echema, at the country home of the late politician in Mgboko Umuoria,

Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State

The National Chairman of APC, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, was represented by the Deputy National Chairman South, Emma Eneukwu, who was at the Head of a high powered delegation of the National Working Committee (NWC) members.

Adamu described the late National Welfare Secretary as “a resourceful member of the NWC, a great man who lived his life creditably,” adding that the party leadership has been in mourning since the news of his death was received.

The APC National Chairman in

his tribute also noted that the late Nwosu was a man of “personal integrity who was committed to the success of our party in every facet.”

The governorship candidate of Abia APC in the 2023 general election, High Chief Ikechi Emenike, led a team of party faithful, including the state chairman, Dr. Kingsley Ononogbu, Secretary, Chief Chidi Avaja and other members of the State Working Committee (SWC).

In his remarks, Emenike noted that though Nwosu, who was the first Abian to be a member of the NWC of the ruling APC, has departed to meet his maker,

the life he lived would continue to bear good testimony for him.

He said: “We shall keep thanking God for F.N. Nwosu’s life of honesty, integrity and loyalty. FN was not a double dealer, unlike many Abia State so-called politicians.

“Both in private and in public he (Nwosu) was dedicated to a course of action once he had come to believe in it. His kind is uncommon.”

From Bayelsa State, the Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo led a state delegation which included the former governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West in the Red Chamber.

New Acting Comptroller General of Immigration Service, Caroline Wuruola Adepoju promising passport applicants in Abuja better deal henceforth... yesterday

EFCC Lacks Constitutional Powers to Probe Zamfara State’s Accounts, Says Court

Wale Igbintade

A Federal High Court sitting in Gusau, Zamfara State’s capital, has declared that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) lacked the constitutional powers to invite by letters, telephone calls or any other means of communication serving and past officials of the state for the purpose of explaining how the state’s funds are utilised.

Justice Aminu Bappa Aliyu made the order on Wednesday while delivering judgement on a suit instituted by the Government of Zamfara State and Attorney General of Zamfara State against the EFCC and the Attorney General of the Federation.

The Court held that the power

to audit the public accounts of Zamfara State is not vested in the 1st defendant (EFCC) or any other authority, person, body or organisation other than in the Auditor General of Zamfara State.

The court also set aside EFCC’s letter of invitation to the past and serving officials of Zamfara State Government, dated 28th September, 2021, or any other date, noting that such letter, “being ultra vires the powers of the 1st defendant”, was null and void and of no effect whatsoever.

These and other orders were made after the court had listened to submissions of the plaintiffs’ counsel, Abdulfathu Shehu; and counsels to the defendants, Adebisi Adeniyi and P. A. Attah, in the Writ of Summons suit, dated and

filed on November 16, 2021 and marked: FHC/GS/CS/30/2021.

Having gone through the processes filed by the parties, Justice Aliyu granted all the prayers of the plaintiffs, stressing that only the Zamfara State House of Assembly and the Auditor General of the state are vested with the constitutional authority of seeking explanation or inviting public officials on how the state’s money is being spent and not the EFCC or the AGF.

The Zamfara State Government had also prayed the court to bar EFCC from inviting, arresting or detaining any government officials as regards the appropriation of public funds in the state as such contradicts the power of the antigraft body.

The presiding judge granted all

NDLEA Arrests 24 Suspects with Indian Hemp, Cocaine, Tramadol in Ondo

Fidelis David in Akure

CELEBRATIONS…

the plaintiff’s prayers, saying, “A declaration is made that, having regard to the provisions of Section 120, 121, 122. 123, 124, 128 and 129 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, the 1st Defendant (EFCC) does not have the powers to invite (by letters, telephone calls or any other means of communication) serving and past officials of the Plaintiff for the purpose of explaining how funds meant for security votes, estacodes and travelling allowances were utilised, or are being utilised, when such funds are such that the Auditor General and the Zamfara State House of Assembly have the constitutional authority to conduct investigation and exercise powers and control over same.

Operatives of the Ondo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested 24 suspects involved in the act of selling and using different psychotropic substances such as Indian hemp, cocaine, tramadol among others in the state.

Parading the suspects yesterday at the command headquarters in Akure, the state capital, the state Commander of the agency, Mr. Kayode Raji, said that the suspects were arrested during dislodgement and raid of black spots in the state.

Raji, who noted that out of the 24 arrested, one of them was a female, stressed that the raid was an order from the headquarters, which was part of this agency’s

Senate Presidency: Tinubu’s Fresh Intervention May Alter Zoning

North-centralmayproduceDSP

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The leadership tussle in the National Assembly is about to take an interesting dimension following a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and the duo of Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, and the Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, at the Presidential Villa on Thursday.

Investigations by our correspondent revealed that Tinubu, following series of complaints that greeted the zoning arrangethe two chambers of the federal parliament, decided to intervene

solution to the issue which was already creating tension among the lawmakers.

A reliable source told our

and Gbajabiamila to ensure that double nomination was avoided in both chambers on June 13.

The source said the presidpointblank that there was no way a zoning arrangement which excludes the North Central and gave two slots to the North West would work.

The source said, “The Presi-

dent wanted to avoid all forms of distractions and ill-feelings among members-elect of the 10th National Assembly so that he could concentrate on the onerous task of providing good governance.

“As we are all aware, the National Assembly is very critical. Since the APC has the highest number of members in both chambers, it was the president’s opinion that the leadership must not be imposed.”

Further investigations by our correspondent revealed that both Lawan and Gbajabiamila had asked all aspirants to put their houses in order to avoid rancour

on the day of inauguration. Towards this development, the camp of Godswill Akpabio and Barau Jibrin met at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja on Thursday night for several hours.

Similarly, the Senate Democratic Caucus which has the likes of Senator Abdulaziz Yari, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, and Osita Izunaso, also met at Destination Hotel in Wuse 2, Abuja.

Meanwhile, our Correspondent learnt that another meeting called by the Democratic Caucus group at the Wuse Zone two, was holding simultaneously then.

Shettima Inaugurates N’Assembly Mosque, Says Power, Wealth Transient

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima, yesterday, inaugurated the newly built National Assembly Central Mosque in Abuja, saying that power and wealth were transient. He therefore urged everyone in a position of authority to embrace humility.

Nigerian leaders at all levels to imbibe the virtue of humility and work with it because both power and wealth are

ephemeral.

He said, “Fifty years from now, half of the Assembly members will not be around and very few people will know that we existed. So we should work the earth with humility.

“As much as possible, let us strive to be humble and as much as possible let us strive to be kind to each other.

“Power, wealth are gifts from Allah to humanity. May Allah make our contributions toward the construction of this

mosque a blessing.

“Even if we are gone, reward from the construction of this mosque will follow us,” the vice president said.

He on behalf of President Bola Tinubu whom he represented at the event, felicitated with the Muslim Ummah in the National Assembly for contributing resources in

the crucial role played by the President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan and the Speaker of

the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, in the construction of the mosque.

“I recognise their contributions without whose consent not a single erection plan for the construction of the mosque.”

Similarly, the Sultan of Sokoto and President, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic felicitated with the Muslims on the realisation of the construction of the mosque.

aggressive measures to rid the state of drug abuse.

“As usual, because of the menace constituted by the users of hard drugs, we normally go on raids and dislodgement of black spots within the state. But this is a special one, before the inauguration of our president, we got a marching order from our headquarters tasking us to clean the whole state of black spots and other criminality related to hard drugs before the inauguration, so that we have a peaceful transition programme.

“And of course, we went round the state, we went to black spots, joints and these the ones were apprehended. We went to so many places and hideouts and about 24 were arrested and a female was among them,” he said.

Wema Bank Announces New Board Chairman

Omolabake Fasogbon

The Board of Directors of Wema Bank Plc has announced the appointment of Dr. Oluwayemisi Olorunshola as its new Board Chairman.

The new appointment followed the retirement of the bank’s current Board Chairman, Mr. Babatunde Kasali who is proceeding on retirement having attained the retirement age in line with the Bank’s Articles of Association.

In a statement signed by Wema Bank’s Company Secretary/ General Counsel, Johnson Lebile, said the appointment takes effect immediately.

The statement reads that Olorunshola joined the bank as a Non-Executive Director in 2022

and until her new appointment, was the Chairman of the Board’s Nomination and Governance Committee.

Prior to her joining the bank, she had worked with Unilever Nigeria Plc for 15 years with experience spanning across supply chain, business re-engineering and process management.

She boasts over 10 years of boardroom experience and business management. She possesses a B.Sc. degree in Education and Economics from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, a Master of Business Administration degree from University of Liverpool, UK, and a Doctorate degree in Business Administration from Walden University, USA.

Oyo Guber: Tribunal Dismisses Petition against Makinde’s Re-election

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, yesterday, the Action Alliance (AA) and its candidate in the March 18, 2023 election, Mr. Babatunde Ajala, against the victory of Governor Seyi Makinde.

The three-man tribunal, led by Justice Ejiro Emudainohwu, in a unanimous ruling yesterday, dismissed the petition and awarded a cost of N600,000 against the two petitioners.

Other members of the tribunal

are Justices Baraka Wali and I. S. Galadima.

The tribunal awarded a cost of N100,000 in favour of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and N250,000 each in favour of Governor Makinde and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

respondent, while Governor Makinde was the second respondent and PDP, the third respondent.

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Otunba Kunle Kalajaiye, represented Governor Makinde, while Mr. Isiaka Olagunju (SAN) was the counsel for PDP.

I have Unshakable Faith in Unity of Delta, Says Oborevwori, Swears- in SSG, SPOLAD

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Governor of Delta State, -

litical appointees, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley belief in the unity of the state and determination to resist all forms of sectionalism and nepotism in the discharge of his statutory responsibilities.

Oborevwori also swore-in former managing director of NDDC, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, as Senior

Political Adviser (SPOLAD).

While congratulating the appointees on what he called their “well-deserved appointments”, the governor urged them to key into the M.O.R.E Agenda of his administration towards sustained infrastructural renewal, human capital development and social investment programmes.

He reassured on his promise to run an all-inclusive government but stressed that “capacity and merit” would form the basis of political appointments under his watch.

R-L: National President, Evolving Women In Politics, EWIP, Hajia Fatimah Bello; Vice President, EWIP, Hajia Raliat Anako Abdulsalam; Grand Matron, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo; Treasurer, EWIP, Olori Aderonke Erinle and Assistant National Secretary, EWIP, Hajia Toro Baiyewu during the EWIP Presidential Inauguration celebration and victory dinner held at MODA, Abuja...recently.

THISDAY

Traffic Congestion in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT); Abuja is one of the leading states in Nigeria with the best road network. The roads are not just parlous but well-lit with street lights, greenery with a beautiful range of mountain landscape that allures visitors and residents as they commute daily.

rent in the city. They live in the satellite towns and suburbs and commute daily into the city, as well as businessmen and women whose businesses are clustered within the city.

(Nyanya-Maraba road), Airport Road Lugbe and the Kubwa expressway. These three major access road corridors are laden with massive commuters are going to work, places of business and, in the evenings, when commuters are returning from work.

the city in the day for economic and commercial activities are exposed of automobiles. Report has it that an average Abuja commuter from

The unpredictability in estimated travel time and/or wait time at both designated and undesignated points also has impact on

Very recently, commuters experience has worsened due to the adjustment in premium motor spirit (PMS) price where private commercial public transport operators peg their charges at will, with no regulation. These drivers do not only demand outrageous amount from passengers but further subject their comfort to ridicule by carrying more than the approved passengers. Passengers who dare to object are requested to drop thereby extending their wait time or endure being sandwiched against each other. Interactions with commuters in Abuja have revealed that

day. Others complain on the impact the recent change has had on their mental health; some complain they no longer look forward to leaving their houses.

The transport sector drives the economy of any country

public transport system as such there is high automobiledependency which is worrisome. Majority of the population depend on automobiles to move around and this comes with a box load of challenges; the long wait on the roads by

passengers exposes them to exhaust emissions that are detrimental to roads, aggravating the already existing problem of congestion. Touts popularly known as Agberos are now marshalling popular car stops in extort monies from drivers.

Abuja only has few designated bus stops within the city, with no drivers are emboldened to wait and or pick passengers indiscriminately. automobile-dependent nature of the city, exploring other viable options such as walking, cycling, bus rapid transit system (BRT), rail, etc. The transportation system becomes. In Latin American cities for instance, Interestingly, this system has been adopted in Lagos, although not a designated lane, designated bus stops, and a fairly predictable travel Lagos. The city administrators can adopt the BRT system to reduce the Bassey Bassey, Executive Director at HipCity Innovation Centre, basseyita@gmail.com

Dangote Refinery: Can Nigerians Roll Out the Drums?

Recently, the moment Nigerians have eagerly anticipated eventually dawned. President Muhammadu Buhari commis-

in the world, is situated in the Ibeju-Lekki Free Zone in Lagos, and projected to process 650,000 barrels of crude oil daily. Should this number be right, this will mean Nigeria may no longer have the need to import petroleum products into the country.

This is a great news and explains the hopes that Nigerians wagedtions of Nigerians. Although Nigeria is rich in oil, citizens have not

If it is not fuel scarcity, it is the corruption-tainted fuel subsidy rewealth. All of these unpalatable experiences are what many Nigerians

This much was hinted by the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria,

petroleum products into the country, and in the process, save Nigeria huge amount of money that goes into servicing subsidy.

Petrochemicals could spare Nigeria about N5trn to

This is huge, especially given the monumental poverty and infrastructural decay that is bedeviling Nigeria. Since 2005 when subsidy found its

now, Nigeria has spent excess of N20 trillion on subsiding petroleum products. This makes no sense, especially for a country that has nearly half of its population in abject poverty. During the 2022 PHC Summit, the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHDA) noted quality primary healthcare services and this is responsible for the worsening disease outbreaks and out-of-pocket expenditures.

Sarafa Ibrahim, Iwo, Osun State

editorial board chairman, Olusegun Adeniyi, presenting his books to the President of Sierra Leone, HE Julius Maada Bio at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja. On the left is former Minister of State for Defence, Mr Murtala Yar’Adua and right, the Centre’s vice chairman, Mr Akin Kekere-Ekun

Arik Air Announces Withdrawal of CRJ 1000 from Its Fleet

Chinedu Eze

Arik Air has announced that it has withdrawn its aircraft, CRJ 1000 from services and claimed that it was the decision of JEM Leasing Limited, owners of the aircraft and its Canada (EDC) to sell the aircraft.

But JEM Leasing Limited reacting to the announcement said that it was not party to the plan to withdraw the aircraft, sell it and tear it down, as indicated by Arik Air.

FINAL GOODBYE…

Police Present N61m Cheques to Deceased Officers’ Families in Nasarawa

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Police Command yesterday presented cheques worth N61.022 million to families injuries in the course of discharging their duties.

In a release by the Police the command, DSP Ramhan Nansel, the Nasarawa State

Police Commissioner, Maiyaki Baba, presented the cheques on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba.

Presenting the cheques, CP Baba said the gesture was an initiative of the IGP Family Welfare Scheme, Group Personal Accident and Group Life Assurance aimed at improving the living standard of the families of police operatives that lost

Emenike Commends Tinubu over Appointments of Gbajabiamila, Akume

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been commended for appointing the outgoing Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila as his Chief governor of Benue State, George Akume, as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

The Abia State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general election, Chief Ikechi Emenike, made the commendations while reacting to the appointments of Gbajabiamila and Akume

respectively, to the new President.

The two appointments including that of the former deputy governor of Jigawa State, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, as Deputy Chief the President yesterday during a meeting with the Forum (PGF) at the State House, Abuja.

“In choosing Hon. Gbajabiamila, Mr. President has picked the right person for this very important position,” Emenike said, putting a square peg in a square hole.”

Capital Market Ready to Aid Development- Yuguda

With the assumption of office of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Securities and Exchange Commission has assured of the readiness of the capital market to aid in infrastructure development. This assurance was given by Director General of the SEC, Mr. Lamido Yuguda during a recent meeting with media stakeholders in Lagos.

Yuguda expressed the belief that the Nigerian Capital Market, being an organised and specialised financial market that drives capital mobilisation through domestic savings and foreign capital inflows, is well positioned for the realisation of the infrastructure objectives of the nation.

their lives in the line of duty.

He added that the initiative was also meant for police personnel who sustained varying degrees of injuries in the course of discharging their duties.

The CP sympathised appreciated the IGP for his love, service to humanity and his contribution to support died in active service.

The aircraft with registration number, 5N-JEE was acquired by Arik Air (in receivership) in 2014 and it was one of the newest aircraft acquired by the airline before it was taken over by AMCON in February 2017.

Arik Air said the reason for the withdrawal of the aircraft was because the leasing to sell the aircraft.

“We equally wish to notify on the decision of the buyer to tear down the plane. Arik Air, as the lessee since 2014, operated the Aircraft pursuant to a lease agreement with JEM Leasing Limited. Arik discontinued operations of “Arik Air would like to assure all stakeholders, including passengers, partners, and the general public, that the decision by the owner and or compromise its commitment to providing safe, reliable, and convenient air travel services.”

Bode George: I’m Not Seeking Appointment in Bola Tinubu’s Government

“The initiative is also for as a result of accident or any inherent hazard of police job that was experienced in the course of discharging their duty,” CP Baba explained further.

He, therefore, urged the token judiciously to cater for the families left behind and for the betterment of their health.

Organisers Vow to Provide Worthwhile Hajji for Nigerian Pilgrims

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The Hajj Organiser Company for African Non Arab Pilgrims (Mutawif) has declared its determination to make the 2023 Hajj a worthwhile one for the Nigerian contingent to Saudi Arabia.

This declaration was made by board Mr. Umar Mandura, Mr Khalid and Mr. Adnan Mukhtar at a meeting with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) Deputy Makkah Coordinator, Alhaji Alidu Shutti, held in Makkah in Saudi Arabia.

A statement issued by the NAHCON after the meeting in Makkak and made available to THISDAY in Ilorin, Kwara

State yesterday, stated that “the company representatives are working hard to receive Nigerian Pilgrims to Makkah for the hajji exercise without any hindrance.” The trio noted that “the company is poised to work with other relevant parties in the kingdom to give the pilgrims a memorable 2023 hajj experience because service to the pilgrims is a trust, honour and responsibilities.

Earlier, NAHCON Deputy Makkah Coordinator, Alhaji Shutti had expressed the appreciation of the Chairman/ CEO of the NAHCON, Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan and the serving the pilgrims diligently.

St. Lauren Pledges Support for Trade Partners in PH, Abuja

According to him, the benefits of adequate infrastructure in any economy cannot be over emphasised as they help to speed up development and create wealth.

He said, “If we are able to get well thought out infrastructure in this country, it will do a lot of things. It will raise the level of economic activities in the country as a whole and these activities will need people to be employed so they can carry out those activities.

“That means the youths and our people will get more employment and as you get more employment, people get more disposable income and need to find outlets to spend that income. That means people can set up small.

Mary Nnah

The premium non-alcoholic sparkling wine brand, St. Lauren, has taken the new look bottled wine to Port Harcourt in River State and Abuja, where it promised trade partners unprecedented sales for 2023.

St. Lauren, which recently launched its new packaging and two variants- Red and White in Lagos, treated customers and partners in Port Harcourt and Abuja to an exquisite wine-tasting event attended by existing and potential trade partners, wine lovers, customers,

During his remarks, Stanley Obi, Director, Grand Oak Limited, Prime Business Unit, reiterated the unique value that Port Harcourt customers. He said, “Just like we did in Lagos, we are thrilled to present the new look of St. Lauren to our esteemed customers in Abuja and Port Harcourt. This relaunch represents our commitment to providing a luxurious and exceptional experience to our consumers and event planners. With the quality of the St. Lauren wine and its exceptional taste, our customers can rest assured that they will always win!

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George has described as sheer fallacy and a bundle of untruth the rumour that he has accepted a political job under the President Bola Tinubu-led APC administration.

The elder statesman said that he is too old to engage in any full time work, let alone apply for one from another political party.

“Whoever is behind such a story that I have accepted a job from the federal government is being clever by half and economical with the truth.

“At nearly eight decades on mother earth, I should be allowed to enjoy my role as a patriot and advisor on good governance. Nobody should bandy my name

to earn cheap popularity in the media,” the Lagos-born retired Naval Officer emphasised.

“My prayer is for greater benefit for the greater majority of Nigerians. I hate to see my fellow countrymen and women suffer. Welfare and security of the citizenry should be the top priority of any government.”

On the fence-mending effort by a Lagos group to cement the relationship between him and Tinubu, he stated thus:

“I appreciate the brains behind the ongoing parley. But for the between him and I. Our differences are basically hinged on principles, which we are both entitled to. I wish him and all Nigerians well. Meanwhile, I am not available for any job, and those pushing for one for me, should count me out of their desire.”

Sages & Scribes to Host the 2023 EAP Summit for Corporate Organisations

Sages & Scribe, a leading consultancy firm, is set to host a two-day Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Summit at the NECA House Event Centre on Wednesday 2, and Thursday 3, August 2023. The event, themed ‘Employee Wellness for Productivity and address employee and individual psychosocial health beyond medical services.

The EAP Summit will bring together employers of labour, HR practitioners, EAP practitioners, medical personnel, occupational therapists, psychologist, educators, and wellness enthusiasts to discuss workplace wellness, employee well-being, organisational performance, profitability, long-term sustainability, viable workplace benefit, and not just wages and salary increase, psychosocial Risk Assessment and Management in the workplace. Moreso, the summit will enlighten the participants on how to run with the concept further promote Corporate Social Responsibility in Nigeria. According to the Managing Consultant/CEO of Sages & Scribes Consultants, Ven. Adelowo Adesina, “Statistics have also shown that in terms of human and industrial productiv-

ity and performance, our nation Nigeria is among the lowest ranking in the pecking order.

“It is no gainsaying that Nigerian workers are stressed, harassed, traumatised and burnt-out. Just imagine what we all went through during the currency exchange exercise.

L-R: Abia State APC 2023 governorship candidate, High Chief Ikechi Emenike and State Chairman, Dr. Kingsley Ononogbu, at the burial ceremony of late National Welfare Secretary of APC, Friday Nwosu, at Mgboko Umuoria, Obingwa LGA, Abia State...yesterday

Segun James

Memo to President Tinubu

Dear President Tinubu, one of the reasons your predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, failed woefully was because of his clannishness and religious extremism. Buhari was never President for all; he was never President of Nigeria, as his appointments were dominated by people from his ethnic and religious groups; people largely without the capacity to deliver. You must run away from this baloney if you truly want to succeed. The heads of military and para-military agencies in Nigeria, for eight years running, have been largely from a section of the country, no thanks to Buhari’s clannishness. As a first step to show that you are President for all, these lopsided appointments must be dismantled immediately and new appointments reflecting federal character made into military and para-military agencies.

Already, I can see so many of your Yoruba brothers pressurizing you for appointments. This is the time to resist the temptations and act as President for all. Mr. President, all your appointments, including personal aides, must reflect Federal Character. I need to remind you that in 2015, Goodluck Jonathan appointed a Fulani man from Adamawa State, Hamman Tukur, as his Principal Private Secretary. This is the meaning of a truly Nigerian President.

Mr. President, I thought you will hit the ground running concerning the appointment of personal aides and ministers, considering the mirage of problems facing this country. Six days after your inauguration, Nigerians are still waiting for this to happen. At a point after your election, we were told that you were in France to finetune your ministerial appointments. It was a ruse. In 2015 and 2019, Buhari hit the ground, sat down and never recovered. Nigeria suffered greatly for this. I hope you won’t allow this to happen to you. In developed climes, appointments of ministers are done swiftly. I remember the then Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom announcing his entire cabinet within 48 hours of emerging victorious. In the United States, Presidents announce almost their entire cabinet before being sworn-in. Mr. President, let’s have your list of ministers even before the inauguration of the National Assembly. You can’t be struggling with this after all your years of traversing this country.

The major challenge facing this country is insecurity. Beloved Nigeria has been turned into a massive killing field, no thanks to your predecessor. Killings and abductions by terrorists are now a daily occurrence with no part of Nigeria spared. Boko Haram, ISWAP, Fulani militias, kidnappers,

IPOB/ESN and all sorts of terror groups are ravaging our land with thousands sent to early graves. Just last Tuesday, 25 people were killed by terrorists in Maru LGA, Zamfara State. Mr. President, one of your promises is that you will tackle insecurity. Acting authoritatively in this direction within days of being inaugurated will send the right signal to all that you are ready to end insecurity in Nigeria. This has not happened.

If you are talking about wiping out terrorists, the men in charge of the war’s Command and Control ought not to be in office by this time. I can’t understand why the security chiefs are still in office. It is shocking that the inept DSS DG Yusuf Bichi is still in office. Mr. President, I have not seen your blueprint on how you will wipe out terrorists. I don’t think you have one. But let me tell you straightaway, our gallant soldiers have done their best in this war against terrorists. But their best is not enough to end the war.

Technology, intelligence, quality equipment and quality manpower are necessities for taming terrorists. Use of drones for intelligence gathering and attacks is also vital. Our security agencies lack these. They obviously lack the capacity to effectively monitor the movement of terrorists. This is why these guerrillas move around in hundreds undetected. This country needs help from abroad. This is where the use of foreign military contractors becomes pertinent. Mr. President, you must

quickly approve this if you want this war against terrorists to end.

One of the reasons terrorists are having a free rein across Nigeria is because many, whose opinions would have helped this country, have become merchants of lies, rolling out imaginary security achievements. Mr. President, don’t allow them to deceive you. They will always work against the clamour for the engagement of foreign military contractors (mercenaries) to support the Nigerian military in the fight against the terrorists.

Mercenaries are engaged by countries for specific purposes, with deadlines. Even the United States engaged military contractors for its war in Iraq and some other locations. A people-oriented government will seek help from anywhere to protect its people against terrorists. Mr. President, just do this swiftly. Nigeria needs help from climes that can provide these military necessities. Our security chiefs won’t admit this because of ego and personal gains.

Heads of failed government departments and agencies that have done collateral damage to this country are still in office six days after your inauguration. How can the leadership of the Customs and Excise remain in office by this time? Why should the leadership of the CBN, NCC, NAIC, NBC, PENCOM, NPA, AMCON, NDDC and NIMASA remain in office? The leadership of the FIRS is still in office, yet, you are talking about swift reforms. Change in this direction should come within 24 hours of your inauguration. Mr. President, you must truly hit the ground running.

Mr. President, you talked about fighting corruption in Nigeria. Tinubu fighting corruption? That’s the big question that troubled me for most of this week. Well, to douse my fears, you should start by making public your asset declaration at the Code of Conduct Bureau. Late President Umaru Yar’Adua made his own public after submitting to the Code of Conduct Bureau. That is the meaning of a good leadership interested in fighting corruption.

Mr. President, you promised to revive the economy but you did not acknowledge the deep mess Buhari left this country after eight years of misrule. Perhaps, because he is your co-party man. You must first acknowledge and deconstruct a deep problem if you really want to tackle it. Nigeria is now the poverty capital of the world, no thanks to Buhari. This country is now home to the largest number of people living below poverty in the world.

El-rufai is Simply Shameless

Less than 24 hours to the end of his tenure, Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State proscribed the harmless Atyap Community Development Association. This happened in a state where terrorists enjoy a free rein. El-rufai failed woefully to tame terrorists in all his eight years as governor. While his reign lasted, he enjoyed showboating amid the killing of scores of people by terrorists. He is now holding the Atyap Association responsible.

Honestly, el-rufai was a big disappointment. Under him, terrorists persistently kill and kidnap people on the roads,

highways, homes, farms, offices, schools, churches and mosques. His response was always predictable: He visits the community, laments the incessant killings, vows to tame the killers and the story ends there until there is another attack when he would repeat the same swagger. Back in March 2020, el-rufai told a bewildered nation that the bandits had been wiped out by security agents. It was a subterfuge. I’m not sorry to say that killings and abductions festered under el-rufai because he took sides in the disputes.

How can el-rufai say that the Atyap association “constituted itself into a so-

ciety that is inimical to the peace of the state and has been covertly involved in acts capable of endangering the peace, tranquility, harmonious coexistence, and good governance of Kaduna State.” This is preposterous.

For me, the only achievement by el-rufai in all his years is to smuggle his son, Bello, into the House of Representatives. This 32-year-old boy has already taken a second wife, preparatory to his inauguration. What a country!

I urge the new Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, to immediately unban the Atyap association. Uba has to undo all the garbage by el-rufai to ensure the state enjoys peace.

Current statistics from the World Food Programme (WFP) on global food security revealed that 64.3 million Nigerians do not have enough food to consume. This is about 32 per cent of this country’s population. These Nigerians struggle for a meal a day. The last eight years have been most traumatic. Rampaging terrorists and bad economic policies of the Buhari government have pushed many under poverty. Many have lost jobs while a huge number of our farmers have been forced out of their farms by terrorists. The Buhari government spent years celebrating false food security achievements and pushing out false figures.

Mr. President, it means you must swiftly tackle insecurity alongside the dismantling of Buhari’s ugly economic policies in order to revive the economy. Manufacturers need an enabling environment to operate and create jobs. The tax system is stifling. You must fix power. You must fix roads. You must fix the supply of petroleum products. You must fix forex. To do these, you need people with the right energy and mentality in key positions. You must ignore the large number of charlatans running round you for jobs and put forward our best brains.

Federal revenue collection remains miserable, at the same time, this country is facing a debt crisis. Buhari spent the last eight years binge borrowing amid the dwindling revenue. According to the Budget Office, between 2016 and 2022, the Buhari government raised total revenues of N26.67 trillion and expended N60.64 trillion, leaving a deficit of N33.97 trillion. The hole was financed with domestic debt, which rose from N8.84 trillion in December 2015 to N44.91 trillion by June 2023, while external debt rose from $7.35 billion in December 2015 to $37.2 billion in June 2023.

This excludes the support provided by the CBN amounting to N25 trillion. Buhari moved Nigeria’s debt from N42 trillion to N77 trillion. This has had associated effects on debt servicing, which rose from N1.06 trillion in 2015 to N5.24 trillion as at 2022.

So, Mr. President, it is pertinent for your government to increase revenue and reduce debt. You must end foreign loans for all sorts of rubbish. The approach should be a pragmatic one. Big revenue agencies can double income within a year and substantially fund budgets at all levels. Unfortunately, there is a lot of theft in a large number of the departments and agencies. Customs alone can generate N10 trillion if the holes are blocked.

Mr. President, it is good you promised to end multiple forex exchange rates. This drivel must end in Nigeria for this country to optimally utilise its forex. The IMF and the World Bank have persistently told the Nigerian government this. Government forex must be sold at market rates. This will naturally eliminate sharp practices in the purchase of official forex, the PTA/ BTA inclusive. A unified and marketclearing exchange rate remains critical to enhancing confidence in our economy and curbing corruption. Those benefitting from the hopeless skewed forex policy don’t want this to happen. Mr. President, you must force it.

Mr. President, I’m not one of your fans and I will not pretend to be one. My only interest is for beloved Nigeria to exit the inglorious club of corrupt and backward countries. I will not hesitate to yell if you fail to lead aright. And one more thing: Please leave your family out while running Nigeria. This country is not a family business.

Tinubu

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

Play Network Studios Set for ‘Hijack 93’

Mostly known for remakes of old Nollywood movies, Play Network Studios maybe doing something fresh and of Nollywood titles like Nneka the Pretty years later the story is being told in motion

Tiwa Savage Sparks Relationship Rumours with Mystery Man

one showing her and a mystery man at a “Who is this mystery man?” Everyone overtime has arguably

and love life, both real and imaginary, readily

a lot of attention from listeners who drew

Isounds, so when I started doing the South though there are fast beats, there are slow

she’s not ready to admit if she’s in a new

Lancelot Imasuen to Hold International Student Film Festival

Six years after he established with Igebinedon University, another milestone as the maiden edition of his newly foundedindustry greats from within and outside -

the festival, the founder said,

Charles Okpaleke on set of Hijack 93’, flanked by Idia Aisien, Nancy Isime, Sharon Ooja, and Jemima Osunde

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Tosin Clegg

Play Networks Studios and Native Media,

Tiwa Savage with mystery man

Seyi Vibez

Lancelot

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Angela Okorie

I Have Been Doing Music Before I Started Acting

Angela Okorie aka Legit Queen is not new in the art of movie and music. For starters, who have doubts of her status in Nollywood and entertainment, can ‘ask Google’. A household name, Angela has seen it all, done it all and has weathered the storm having had her fair share of controversy in the industry. She speaks to Ferdinand Ekechukwu about her music, acting which brought her fame, difficult moments and more. . .

Youappeartobedoingmorein musicnowthaninmovies?

Yes, for like the past four years plus now I have been doing music.

Isitsomethingyouhave alwayswantedtodoorsomethingyoujust veeredintobeingthatyoucansing?Orhas itbeenpartofyou?

Yea music has been part of me for a long time. In fact, or let me say as a matter of fact, I have been doing music before I started acting. I was singing in church for so many years. I started from singing when I was seven years old. And I have been singing in church for a long time before I started acting. And then I got admission into the university to study Public Admin. From there I started modeling for about ten years. From then I started acting when I followed a friend to a movie set. They asked me and I said I can. I was instructed properly. That was how I started acting. So music for me has always been there. But I have always known that music is bigger than movie somehow because in music you need some kind of fund and fame to push your career. So if I had started music before acting, probably people wouldn’t have heard me. So

but yeah after my acting and then I’m famous and all that days I said okay it’s time for me to do music. And that’s why I slowed down on acting. Yes, because I wanted my music to be heard.

Doyouthinkyourmusichasreallybeen heard and getting the acceptance you so much wanted?

Yes, I am accepted in music, if not some of my songs that you know wouldn’t be trending because people have already accepted me.

Whatlabelareyousignedto?

I’m signed to my own record label Moving Train Entertainment. It’s my company and has been there for like over 12 years now. It covers also my acting and movie production. And I just started doing music for like four years now. I knew I was going to sing because I love music so much. People who live around me, people who know me very well know I love music.

YoursongLegithappenstobeoneofyour hitsongsandIhaveheardyoutalkaboutit and how you put in it can you share with ussomeofyourothersongs?

Yeah Legit, I have some other songs like, E Pain Dem, Ije Life, Vibes, Lift Me Up, Give Me

Love, Because of Money… but Legit actually went far. I put in over a 120 million naira in it… So far it has got over a million streams. With social media your claim to spend such amount on a song could be argued. Because you could have used social media to push the song alongside your popularity Yea social media but how about people on the streets? Not everybody is on social media. The street is where the credibility is. What the streets.

What’syourrelationshipwithNairaMarley?

He’s just a friend, a cool guy. We have done a song together titled ‘Gain’.

Whatotherprojectsareyouworkingon?

I’m working on an EP which I will be dropping soon. I already got an album Burst Everywhere - which was put out 2-3 years ago. I’m also working on a movie. People still want to see my face in movies. I’m coming back to acting. The title of the movie I don’t want to put out yet.

Doyouwriteyoursongs?

Yeah I write my songs, all my songs I have written. But right now, I’m tired of writing. My song Legit I wrote that song many years ago.

I have always known that music is bigger than movie somehow because in music you need some kind of fund and fame to push your career. So if I had started music before acting, probably people wouldn’t have heard me. So but yeah after my acting and then I’m famous and all that days I said okay it’s time for me to do music. And that’s why I slowed down on acting. Yes, because I wanted my music to be heard

Wouldyoupayforasongwrittenbysome otherperson?

It has to be on some form of agreement if someone should write a song for me. I will get my lawyer involved and we sign and do it not after writing the song and I invest in it and the person comes out and starts dragging me and claiming owing him/her for the song. There should be some kind of agreement before taking up a song someone wrote. I have about over a hundred songs written but not released. So there are still more songs…

Hasitbeenwhatyouexpecteddoingmusic? Orarethereanysurprises?

The truth is some of my friends in music weren’t really open to working with me. I mean friends that I knew when I started acting o! But that’s it. I kept on doing my thing and I’m cool getting paid for it. Now if you come My popularity from acting has helped me. My movie fans automatically turned into my music fans. I’m legendary. I’m the highest paid actress at the moment... The last time I featured in a movie some three years ago I got paid 3million naira. Now if you want to have me on a movie set for weeks is 10million naira. Same amount I get paid to perform at shows here in Nigeria.

Youhavefacedsomechallengesonyour journeytofameandall,howdidyouovercome them?

It’s God… If not it wouldn’t have been easy. The movie I’m working on will tell the story; like action movie you will see it. Like when I was shot. It’s my true life story. Some people said so many things about that attack. But it was armed robbers. They attacked me somewhere at Orile on my way back from a show. They posted pictures when I was been treated in hospital. My skin cut open and bullets were been removed. I will tell everything in the movie.

Whoorwhatdoyouconsiderthegreatest any other person… That’s why people look up to me because they want to be like me. And they say it to me.

Youoftenshowandtalkaboutyourson, how’shedoing?

playing football. He’s in a football academy.

Fansareofteninterestedtoknowthemain in the life of their favourite celebs. Who is themaninyourlife?

I prefer to keep my relationship private. I am a very private person. I tell fans what they wish to know but not my relationship. That’s why I keep it personal to me and that’s how it should be - private.

Okorie

Bluena Releases ‘Choose You’ Glame Fashion Showcases at the Warri Lifestyle Festival

Fast rising Afro swing/Afropop artiste, Shalom Amadi better known as Bluena is one multitalented superstar in the making as her ability to switch ranging from Afrobeat, Soul, Reggae and The Pride Rock Entertainment new signee ‘Choose You’ produced by ilblackibeat and written by Bluena as well as Justice Nuagbe (Ushbebe) With ‘Choose You’ Bluena preaches love, harmony and trust; noting that when you have someone you really cherish and value, irrespective of the challenges, you will simply want to hold on to that special person.Inspired by the relatable things that go on in our daily life, the Port Harcourt entertainer disclosed that her love for music started at age 10 when she began vibing to music. She adds, “With my interest in music, I started listening to songs by Rihanna, Adele and some other artistes. At some point, I got depressed and I decided to download TikTok and I started making covers. So many went viral and it gave me an awareness on TikTok and I decided to use my favorite

color as my brand and ever since I was doing music.”

As an emerging artiste, Bluena sees her brand becoming one of the biggest female artists and winning so many awards.

PEFTI Students Release Music Video

Students of the multipleaward-winning PEFTI Film Institute have released an electrifying music video for their hit single “Kosowo”.

The song details the many struggles and pains of the average Nigerian youth while giving hope for a brighter tomorrow based on hard work and persistence. The project is produced by members of the PEFTI Family, as the song is performed by The Pencils Band, with a beat by Salt, while the music video

is directed by Director A3 & IMO.

According to Abiola Adenuga, Managing Director, PEFTI, “As a creative institute, not only do we encourage our students to explore their creativity, we are also ready to support them in all ways to achieve their dreams.

Kosowo is available on YouTube, Boom Play, Spotify, Tidal, Apple Music, Deezer, Amazon Music, and other streaming services worldwide. Look out for more PEFTI Students’ projects coming very soon.”

Glame Fashion, an arm of Glame Attire was live at the just concluded Warri Fashion Lifestyle Festi- val, WFLF, a show that celebrates and showcases indigenous fashion design brands from Warri, Delta State, and Nigeria as a whole.

Glame Fashion showcased her unique designs on the innovative “X” shaped runway to the delight and awe of all in attendance, most of whom are fashionistas. Wears, Native Attires, Corporate Dresses, Shirts, Vintage Shirts and Joggers which were showcased on the runway by male and female models.

The audience were particularly wowed by the uniqueness of the brand’s fabrics which were all designed and printed locally, before being brought to life with expert tailoring executed by the Glame production team.

Speaking at the event, Creative Head, Glame Attires, Ogunli Glory Oritseweyinmi stated that she is excited

and delighted on the outcome of her participation at the show. “I feel honoured by the reception the clothes made by that was put into the creation of the

The accountant and poet rolled into one stated that her dream is to be part of an international fashion event before the end of the year.

The Fashion house is an Afrocentric Nigerian fashion design brand that caters to male and female clients of all ranges regardless of age, religion, and fashion taste. Glame’s designs imbibe the Western influence on fashion while maintaining the rich African culture. Glame’s clients get the luxury of wearing outfits crafted from indigenously produced fabrics made by BMan prints, this means our looks are never duplicated elsewhere due to our “fabric to finish” model.

Headquartered in Lagos State, the fashion nerve centre of Nigeria, Glame Fashion is positioned to tell the African story of fashion with “New “cloth twist.”

Tales of an Explora’s Desires to Showcase African Culture

Shofoyeke Ademolu, an ambitious and passionate young entrepreneur, is the visionary CEO of Tales of An Explora Limited. Passionately dedicated to uncovering and sharing the under-told stories of world heritage, with a primary focus on the diverse and rich cultures of Africa. With his strong commitment to promoting global tourism, Ademolu is not only giving a voice to overlooked destinations but also enabling global audiences to experience these locations virtually. Detailing the company’s mission, he noted that, “At Tales of An Explora Limited, we are set to uncover, narrate,

and promote the untold stories of world heritage sites, primarily in Africa, to a global audience. We aim to foster a deeper appreciation of these sites and boost tourism, while providing an innovative and immersive virtual experience.”

The company is an innovative destination marketing brand dedicated to bringing the untold stories of world heritage sites to the fore. It’s team of dedicated explorers and storytellers visit locations, dig deep into their history and culture, and then tell their stories to a global audience. They not only highlight these locations but also promote them to the international tourism industry, showcasing their unique attributes and attractions.

Ademolu said, “We have leveraged technology to create immersive virtual experiences of these locations. Our virtual tours allow individuals worldwide to enjoy the beauty, history, and uniqueness of these sites from the comfort of their homes.

“This integration of technology also contributes to sustainable to explore that limits environmental impact.

With Tales of An Explora, you don’t just visit a place – you experi- ence it. We weave a rich narrative deeper, more meaningful connec- tion to the world around us.”

After over a decade of entertaining Nigerian and global audiences with quality comedy content, award-winning comedian, Emeka Erem, famously known as Ajebo has concluded plans to celebrate the 10th anniversary of his show, ‘Ajebo Unleashed 10.0’.

Tagged the ‘Grateful’ edition, the entertainer says that he will be delivering a scintillating performance for his audience on the 25th of June at Eko Hotel and Suite alongside some of the funniest men and rave musicians

in Africa.

Speaking about his show, he said, “Basically, ‘Ajebo Unleashed 10.0’ is my way of expressing my gratitude to God who has brought me this far. I owe everything to him. Without God, I won’t be here. It is also a Thanksgiving concert as I had a major accident last year and came out unscathed. I am grateful to God for life as well. I will be talking about my fatherhood experience. I’ve had three daughters God the glory.

“The event is my way of saying thank you to my fans who have stayed loyal to the Ajebo brand

over the past decade. The show started as a child of passion but grew to become a household name, all thanks to the loyalty of my teeming fans.”

In light of this, the humour merchant revealed that he has curated a list of the in Africa and the Diaspora to provide quality entertainment on the 25th of June.

As a comedian, Ajebo has had a colourful career in the humour industry. In addition to his show, he is also the brain behind the ‘House of Ajebo’ cartoon brand which has been running for the past 13 years. According to the cerebral comedian, the best is yet to come from House of Ajebo as he will be making some interesting announcements

Tosin Clegg

Tosin Clegg

Tosin Clegg

Tosin Clegg

Bluena

PEFTI Music Students

Ademolu

Ajebo

Oritseweyinmi

with Omolabake Fasogbon... 08155131874

Texaco, STEAM Fun Fest Engage Youngsters on Creativity Challenge

Texaco Nigeria Outer Shelf Limited, a Chevron company has teamed up with STEAM Fun Fest to equip youngsters with problem-solving skills through ‘Project iCommunity’ initiative.

Project iCommunity is a competition designed to encourage creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students.

According to the sponsors, the project

themed, “Solving Our Community’s Problems Using Design Thinking” is aimed at developing next generation of problem-solvers and change makers. for teachers and the onboarding of 10 schools across Lagos Education District lll. 500 students will undergo design thinking training for four weeks, after which 10 students will be selected from

Bluetti Announces Entry into Nigerian Market

Market leader in the energy storage, Bluetti has announced its presence in the Nigerian renewable energy market with the launch of varying alternative power solutions.

This is coming in the face of soaring domestic demands for power and a urgent need to address

According to the World Bank, Nigeria has the about 85 million persons lacking access to grid electricity.

The company said that its entrant in Nigerian

Addressing the press in Lagos, Marketing Director of Bluetti, James Ray stated that the organisation observed a huge energy gap in Nigeria, a situation he said was hindering development across the board.

He maintained that the company’s range of products including Bluetti EP600&B500, AC500&B300S, EB55, AC200MAX and EP500Pro, amongst others, were designed to improve life experiences and enhance business process such that Nigerians will no longer need to rely exclusively on the grid.

`He said, “With more than 350 patents, we have demonstrated our commitment to innovation and excellence. Our latest models have recently won the Red Dot Award, which is recognised globally as a mark of creativity and quality design. Our power stations adopt Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery cells to ensure a safe operation and a longer lifespan of 7-15 years compared to traditional Lithium-ion batteries.”

boasts a global presence in about 70 countries, was dedicated to providing sustainable and reliable power solutions for households, businesses, and

He said, “I once paid a visit to Nigeria where I discovered that most students use their parents’ by the time they are done, the battery has run out.

These ones usually try their best to get everything done in the daytime since they have to live in the dark after sunset.

milestone for us. Our mission is to provide clean and independent energy for all human beings.

Foundation Charges Youths on Excellence, Empowers 2000

The Faith Iyowuna Ikekhide Foundation (FIIF) has admonished the youth to aim at excellence in all their endeavours to be able to give Nigeria a deserving future.

The foundation declared this at the 2nd edition of its Lagos Children Empowerment Conference, where it empowered over 2,000 secondary school students across Alimosho local government area of Lagos state. President of FIIF, Faith Ikekhide explained that the initiative was driven by a need to make a meaningful life out of the youths and expose them early enough to skills &craft such that would drive their interest in legitimate business.

The programme took participating students mentorship and skills acquisition such as hair, soap, shoe and bag making, amongst others. Addressing attendees, Int’l President of the Pleasant Gathering, Barr. Joy Ogbonnaya reiter-

ated the importance of youth empowerment to nation’s Ogbonnayadevelopment. who described the programme as being timely for this period stated that a nation with ill-bred and disinformed youths risks huge loss.

She besought parents, teachers, government and stakeholders to join hands to nurture children to desired taste to achieve a Nigeria of dream.

In his message, a pastor from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Juwon Adekoya enlightened the students on prices they have to pay to attain the feat of excellence.

He said, “To achieve excellence, you must be ready to be above board, determined and avoid evil peers. I want to commend FIIF for engaging the children with initiative like this to distract them from delinquent engagements. This is highly commendable and should be emulated by others.”

Group Unveils Solution to Tackle Water Challenge

The Society for Family its commitment to clean and safe water at the launch of its water guard tank disinfectant in Lagos, recently.

The group noted that the new solution would make Nigerians to access and consume clean water, devoid of contaminants that may expose them to diseases.

Speaking at the launch of the product, Managing Director of SFH, Dennis Aizobu remarked that Nigerians, both in the rural and urban areas, were at risk of multiple diseases as a result of water crisis in the country.

According to World Health Organisation (WHO), up to 70 million Nigerians lacked access to basic drinking water services.

Aizobu maintained that accessing clean and safe pipe- borne water remained a major challenge that is further dragging the realisation of Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs in the country.

He decried many Nigerians preferences for the popular ‘sachet or pure water ‘which he said were not all clean or pure as claimed.

He urged Nigerians to explore various water sources to get water, but should pay key attention to its treatment, stressing that everyone has a role to play to improve present situation.

Aizobu said: “Water guard tank disinfectant is one of such solutions that will address water challenge in the country, particularly as we look at issues around hygiene.

each school to present their school’s solution to a panel of judges at the STEAM Competition Pitch Day in July.

Speaking on the initiative, a member of STEAM Fun Fest team, Titi Adewusi reiterated that the initiative would improve participants’ problem-solving skills and prepare them for the future of work.

She said: “Critical thinking, problemsolving, creativity and collaboration are the key skills of the future. The Project iCommunity will give the children an opportunity to hone these skills.”

Tutor General/Permanent Secretary

Education District III, Dr. Mrs. Idowu Oyetola expressed delight at the sponsors’

partnership with Lagos state, stating that the project aligned with government’s drive for quality education.

Represented by Mrs. Abiola Adebola, the District Director, Oyetola remarked that the initiative would prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century. “We believe that Project iCommunity will help to develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking in our students”, she said.

On her part, Senior Special Assistant to Lagos state Governor on Education, Dr Tola Salau urged full commitment from teachers towards the success of the project.

CIFCFIN Gets new Board, Vows to End Financial Fraud

The Chartered Institute Fraud Investigators of Nigeria its commitment to ending through a robust practice of forensic investigation and prevention process.

The institute stated this at the inauguration ceremony of its new Board of Diplomates that took place in Abuja, recently.

CIFCFIN also announced the appointment of Prof. Godwin Oyedokun as the Chairman of the Board of Diplomates of Forensic Accounting and Audit of the Nigerian College of Forensics and Fraud Investigators, NICFFI. President of the institute, Dr I. B Gashinbaki while addressing the new diplomates

Firms Announces Finalists for 2023 Africa Education Medal

charged them on performance and discipline needed to achieve the institute’s objecof integrity and professional excellence in forensic accounting and fraud prevention.

He explained that the CIFCFIN Board of Diplomates comprises various advisory committees who are experienced and specialized professionals in relevant investigation. Gashinbaki further commended the passage of the CIFCFIN Bill by the National Assembly and its assent by President Muhammadu Buhari.

He described the move as a step in right direction considering the days the

The organisers of “The Africa Education Medal” for the 2023 edition of the prestigious award.

The Medal is acclaimed to be Africa’s most prestigious education accolade established to recognise the exemplary feats of brains behind the transformation of education across the continent.

The initiative, a brain work of T4 Education and Hewlett-Packard (HP), in collaboration with Microsoft is also aimed at celebrating stories of those who have lit the spark of change and inspired others to take up the torch.nounced by the organisers of J A Africa, Simi Nwogugu.

Nwogugu is recognised for her passion and commitment to youths as demonstrated in J A Africa’s workforce comprising 37% youths. Her organisation is renowned for pushing and empowering young people to grow their entrepreneurial ideas, hone their work readiness skills, manage their earnings and secure better life for self, families, and communities.

She is also known for her advocacy on girls’ education, with one of her well embraced initiatives being the Leadership, Empowerment Achievement & Development (LEAD) Camp for Girls that has inspired and empowered over 1,200 young girls to become high-achieving women leaders in society.

L-R: Managing Director of SystemSpecs Technology Services Limited (STSL), Demola Igbalajobi; Chairman, HumanManager Limited, Waheed Olagunju; Managing Director, HumanManager Limited, Adekunbi Ademiluyi; Chairman, SystemSpecs Limited, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe; Group Managing Director, SystemSpecs Limited, John Obaro and Managing Director, Remita Payment Services Limited, Deremi Atanda at the HumanManager breakfast and product launch held in Lagos... recently

L-R: Member, STEAM Fun Fest team, Wale Ogunjobi; Director, Lagos Education District lll, Mrs. Abiola Adebola; Principal, Dolphin Senior Secondary School, Omoteji H.I; Principal of Girls Senior Academy, Akanni Sabiti Amina and Member, STEAM Fun Fest team,Titi Adewusi during Project iCommunity STEAM Competition by Texaco Nigeria Outer Shelf Limited (TNOS) and STEAM Fun Fest team, in Lagos....recently

Top 16 Car Care Tips for Rainy Season

Every car owner has faced a problem during the days of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. While it is important to get your car serviced regularly, it is not possible to turn up to a service centre every day after a heavy shower. For this reason and many more, it is crucial to know a few tips and tricks to keep your car shielded from water and corrosion.

If you live in an area where it rains frequently, make sure you note these pointers down. And if your car is not used to the rainfall, it is even more essential to follow the steps. Let’s have a look at the car care tips for the rainy season.

Starting with the very basic, but often overlooked point; always remember to give your windshield and other mirrors a good clean. If you’re taking out your car after a night of rain, you may have noticed dirt and dust on the glass.

17th Lagos Motor Fair, 10th Autoparts

Africa Expo to Drive More Investments

The organisers of the annual Lagos International Motor Fair & Autoparts Expo Nigeria has disclosed that the forthcoming edition of the all-inclusive event is aimed at driving more investment into automobile spare parts and accessories manufacturing in Nigeria as well as boosting aftermarket activities in the sector with the objective of showcasing the capacities and potentials of this important sector of the economy. According to the Managing Director BKG Exhibitions Limited, Mr. Ifeanyichukwu

to be and remain the major hub of auto spare parts manufacture in particular and the entire automotive sector business in general in not only the West African region but also in other parts of Africa. It boasts of a huge domestic

market and has a large population. further revealed that to achieve this, this edition of the event will focus on Business-To-Business interface between the exhibiting Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and dealers in auto parts from major auto parts across Nigeria and some neighbouring countries, which he said have been reached out to for the event.

“We are aiming at using such a platform to see to working business partnerships between them and the OEMs that will lead to them setting up plants in Nigeria to manufacture parts and accessories”. The event is aiming at spurring the rapid springing up of companies that manufacture these components parts and use it to enhance the policy leading to the establishment of a virile automotive sector in the country.

advised the Federal Government to focus more on

spare parts manufacturing in place of assembling. Spare parts is the place where the real technology transfer takes place. It involves precision and proper planning more than the coupling that takes place in assembling. This will give rise to the establishment of more Original Equipment Manufacturers and increase employment”. He said that there should be a review of the ongoing auto policy to make it achieve the desired ends. The automotive sector is vital as it shows physically the state of the economy and it generates much revenue and creates enormous employment. No serious government toys with it. Auto sector. It is a sector that drives the economy; if it is badly affected, other sectors suffer. It is the artery 0f the economy. Government should parley seriously with the sector stakeholders to see how it could be made better.

“Organising the event has been very challenging.

Hyundai, Kia Renew FIFA Partnerships through 2030

Hyundai Motor Group (thehave jointly announced the renewal of their longstanding partnerships with FIFA through 2030. The renewed agreement welcomes Group subsidiaries Boston Dynamics and Supernal into the fold.

The renewed partnerships will encompass a wide range of prestigious FIFA competitions, including the highly anticipated FIFA Women’s 2026TM, among others. Hyundai and Kia’s support for FIFA has spanned more than two decades, with a new emphasis on the growth and development of the women’s game.

To commemorate the occasion, FIFA and Hyundai Motor Group held a signing ceremony today at its headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland. FIFA President Gianni Infantino joined hands with Hyundai Motor Group President Karl Kim the partners’ shared commitment to make football truly global.

“We are thrilled to continue our longstanding partnerships with Hyundai and Kia. Over the years, they have consistently demonstrated their commitment to supporting FIFA, and we value their dedication to enhancing the overall experience of our tournaments,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “As we enter this new era together, we are excited about the prospects that lie ahead with the addition of

Hyundai

This is because the water dries out in the morning and leaves the mineral deposits behind, which transform into the dirt. Now if you drive with a dirty windshield and mirrors, it would hamper your judgement and give you an unclear view of what is ahead. Moreover, if it rains against, the water droplets will stick to the dirt and dust, giving you even more difficulty while driving.

It is recommended to give the windshield, back mirror, and side mirrors a thorough cleaning to avoid an unfortunate incident. You can additionally use a water-repellant product that will improve the visibility as the raindrops will roll off, rather than smearing the glass.

During a heavy downpour, your lights are the one that guides you through the path. They improve visibility not just for you, but also for the incoming traffic. And so, you should always pay extra attention to the lights before driving your car in the rainy season. Make sure your lights are working properly and efficiently.

A good way to check your car lights is to turn them all which includes the fog lights, headlights, hazard light, taillights, indicators, etc. If you notice that the lights are flickering or getting dimmer, this is indicative that some of the bulbs need a change. The issue can also be related to the battery.

To keep things less foggy and more clear, clean your car lights before heading out, and you can use the same water-repellent product on them too.

If the climate of your place is alternating between monsoon and summers, chances are you haven’t used the windshield wiper since the last monsoon. During the summer, due to the excessive heat, the rubber of the wiper can crack and become brittle. You may want to have a look at the windshield wiper before you are entering the monsoon season. It is very easy to replace the windshield wipers and you can do so by buying replacements from a car shop. Additionally, make sure you have the time and leave behind a sticky residue which

And you don’t want that when you’re stuck

4. Wash & Wax

Before we move on to the big things, let’s have a look at the point no 4 of our car care tips for the rainy season.

You’re probably wondering what’s the use of cleaning the car when it’s going to get dirty again in the rain. Well, there is a point.

Dynamics and

Together, we will continue to work on uniting the world through football.”

“On behalf of Hyundai Motor Group, we are honored to extend our partnerships with FIFA, reinforcing our longstanding commitment to the world of football,” said Karl Kim, President of Hyundai Motor Group. “As we embark on this renewed collaboration, we look forward to showcasing the capabilities of our mobility solutions and partner brands on a global scale. Together with FIFA, we aim to inspire and

unite fans around the world through the power of football.”

Hyundai and Kia will continue to play crucial transportation operations at FIFA’s global events and competitions. With the automakers’ extensive global distribution networks, they will provide comprehensive vehicle lineups that FIFA, enabling seamless movement of teams,

Once your car goes through the muddy water and stays like that for a few nights, the easily removable spots become stubborn. This means you will have to go through a cleaning service to get them removed. Moreover, just like your car glass, your car paint is also vulnerable to the dirt spots A good car and wash will not only remove the dirt and dust but will also protect it from getting dirty and muddy again. The wax acts as a water repellant, so instead of smearing on, the rainwater droplets will easily roll-off.

(Source:ActonServiceCentre).

Vehicles on display at the 16th Lagos Motor Fair

Motor Company and Kia Corporation FIFA partnership vehicles Boston

Supernal.

AUTO WORLD

What is The Value of Your Child’s Life

Ihave three lovely sons. Like every good parent, their welfare and safety is a prior- ity to me. The same should be the case for every parent. I do not know if you are a parent like me. Or whether you are single or double, if you know what I mean? Do you have kids? Have you ever lost any through a road cars? Two, three or just one car? What is the value of the car or cars?

Are your cars like mine? Tokunboh or tear rubber? Please forgive me for these questions. They are necessary in laying the foundation for today’s discussion. Of course, if you are one of my regular readers, you must have read some of my write-ups on child safety.

As a parent, as well as a safety ofThis passion is driven by my belief that my work as a Christian, is my Ministry; what my Pastor would call my market place. Secondly, the love of my three lively sons and the need to leave a legacy as safer roads drives me to promote safe and best practices for children.

These two driving forces were reinforced when some years ago, I had the privilege to travel to Cape Town in South Africa for a training program. During the visit, I saw measures to protect black kids in black neighborhood in Gordon’s Bay. These volunteers refused to sit on the fence, but rather took a stand to protect the group we all call the leaders of tomorrow.

Black home, the reverse is the case as we leave everything to God, instead

SAFE DRIVING with

Jonas Agwu amnipr, mcipr,mprsa,arpa Assistant Corps Marshal Zonal Commanding Officer Federal Road Safety Corps.

of taking a stand to protect children whose birth we all gladly celebrate with so much partying. As a parent, or guardian, do you know of the provi- sions of section 58(4) of the National makes it mandatory for all occupants of a vehicle to use a seatbelt for their safety?

Do you know this provision covers children, also? Please forgive me for stressing you with these questions but my intention is to challenge your consciousness to the dangers we expose our children to, despite our claim that we love and cherish them so much. Most of us who have heeded the Federal Road Safety Corps call to use seat belts, unfortunately, do not see any sense in protecting our children while driving by strapping them in the appropriate car restraints.

Some lap them. Others leave them unattended in moving vehicles. In the front and sometimes the rear seat of the vehicles. Others who are daring enough and too exposed for our clime even share the vehicle steering with the innocent but vulnerable kids. Some claim strapping these kids in a car

seat is alien. This group maintains that strapping children in a car is meant for the white man, not a black man. I believe this group knows what they are saying. Afterall, these vehicles were manufactured in Oshodi in Lagos State or maybe in Aba,Abia State by our ingenious engineers.

Others say the cost for a seat is high. Yet the cheapest among these while others go for as high as 5million naira, compared to car seats which for the protection of the life of God’s precious gift. Even the lettered ones share the same ignorance while some buy the seats yet lack the boldness to use them.

The irony is that these same parents would not mind hanging out with friends and business partners to spend thousands on drinks, pepper soup and other extra. The female ones would prefer spending thousands of naira on designer shoes and bags, but not on the safety of their children. This is what a handful of parents call choices.

Now, let me explain why this child safety campaign. It has been over twenty years since the Corps came up with the seat belt driving culture. Yet observation shows that a greater percentage of parents and guardians don’t care about child safety. Daily, these children, whether in school buses or family vehicles, are transported without any iota of safety. This worry prompted the Lagos State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps. Arrive Alive, Child Safety Foundation and El-elyon to birth the idea of a child Passenger Safety campaign with the theme, “Don’t kill the Child, Kill the Bad habit” aimed

at raising safety awareness on children safety.

This is because, Road safety crisis is the leading cause of preventable death; the 3rd largest cause of disabilities. In deaths after Aids/HIV. In the same Africa, there’s generally no costing data estimate except for a few Countries. global road deaths occurred in Africa vehicles are in the continent. This study posits that if reporting of

likely would show more deaths. South Africa and Nigeria, according to this study, account for most of the reported deaths.

These deaths, according to the study are caused mostly by human error and vehicle factors that include the following; over-speeding, dangerous overtaken, alcohol and drug abuse, negligence of drivers, poor driving standards, overloaded people or goods vehicles, poor tyre maintenance, burst tyre, bad roads and hilly terrain, negligence of pedestrians, distraction of drivers by passengers, cell phone use among others.

The truth is that child safety is a global concern. This is because road cause of death among children 15-19 years and the second leading cause are not inevitable. They are prevent- able. Ironically most parents are not concerned, going by their actions behind the wheels. Signs of these concerns are legion.

POLITY

Children’s Day: How Elizabethan Humanitarian Life is Rewriting History

Raheem Akingbolu, who has been following the activities of a non-profit organisation, Elizabethan Humanitarian Life (H&H) Foundation, that chooses the unusual path of focusing on the challenges faced by children, especially the male gender, in the society, writes on how the foundation is leveraging local and global children-focused activities to make a statement on why the society must not pay lip service to issues that concern the children in

The United Nations is not oblivious of the need to protect the wellbeing of the children. The world organisation is concerned about the more than 2.6 million young people aged 10 to 24 that die each year in the world. These deaths are mostly due to preventable causes such as substance abuse. A 2022 report by the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime in Nigeria indicates that 14.4% (14.3 million) of people aged between 15 and 64 years abuse drugs. Most of these people are within the category of boy-child and young adults.

To confirm the organization’s concern for the children it set out the International Children’s Day to recognise children all over the world. World Children’s Day was first established in 1954 as Universal Children’s Day and is celebrated on November 20theach year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare. The UN considers “November 20th as an important date as it is the date in 1959 when the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child. It is also the date in 1989 when the UN General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child.”

Since 1990, World Children’s Day also marks the anniversary of the date that the UN General Assembly adopted both the Declaration and the Convention on children’s rights. According to the organisation “Mothers and fathers, teachers, nurses and doctors, government leaders and civil society activists, religious and community elders, corporate moguls and media professionals, as well as young people and children themselves, can play an important part in making World Children’s Day relevant for their societies, communities and nations.” Consequently, “World Children’s Day” offers each of us an inspirational entry-point to advocate, promote and celebrate children’s rights, translating into dialogues and actions that will build a better world for children.”

Children’s Day is a commemorative date celebrated annually in honor of children, whose date of observance varies by country. For instance, China celebrates Children’s Day on June 1, while Japan celebrates theirs on May 5, and Britain celebrates theirs on August 20. In Nigeria, May 27th of every year is set aside for Children’s Day. Although it is not a general public holiday, the day is set aside to honor the younger generation and, thus, primary and secondary children are given a day off from school. In addition to the festivities and celebrations of Children’s Day, this date also serves to recognize that all minors and children have the right to health, education, and protectio

Following the UN demand encouraging all persons including civil society organisations to engage in advancing the cause of the children, a Nigerian non-governmental organisation, with headquarters in Lagos State, Elizabethan Humanitarian Life Foundation, otherwise known as H&H Foundation, was recently launched to promote the wellbeing of the children with emphasis on the male gender. According to the Founder of the organisation Mrs. Oyinade Samuel-Eluwole, H&H Foundation is a non-governmental organisation, NGO, that is set to identify, rehabilitate and provide succor for those children who are unfulfilled, disconnected, rejected, dejected and disillusioned from society with a distraught feeling towards life.

She adds: “We are passionate about children in general, but to be very effective in our chosen operations, we are focusing on the male gender. We commemorate this year’s Children’s Day by joining The Feeders Foundation at the Slum to celebrate with the children.

“We will also continue our advocacy by drawing the world’s attention to some quiet and salient areas, particularly about the male gender, that could cost us all the essence of humanity, if there is no intervention such as we have in this foundation. We are happy that the world set out a Day to recognise the pains and the concerns of children. And we are celebrating Children’s Day in Nigeria, just like the rest of the world.”

Prof. Emevwo Biakolo, the Founding Dean of the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, commended Nigeria alongside other countries of the world for instituting the Children’s Day to recognise the special needs of the children and their plight.

We will also continue our advocacy by

training of the males is telling on their overall growth, and impinges on their relationships with the girl-child when they eventually get married.

The plight of the children in general, and the male gender in particular, is not just an intellectual exercise, it also assumes an existential proportion. Mrs Folake Sanu, CEO, FS Global Consulting, and former Executive Director, Wema Bank Plc., knows this as she also shares in the celebration of the Children’s Day, especially with a focus on the male gender.

She expressed happiness for the establishment of the Elizabethan Humanitarian Life (H&H) Foundation in Nigeria to cater for the interest of the children. According to her, society’s perception of masculinity contributes to the challenges that the male gender faces,from cradle up to marriage; and in their old age. “The society sees the male child as very strong, and hence the emotional and psychological state of the child is usually not put into consideration. The male child is expected to live some stereotypical life, and there are some people who believe that there is a specific way behind how a boy should behave - a boy is supposed to be strong, and from childhood he is not supposed to cry, his emotions are suppressed.

Usually, the boys gravitate more to their mothers, while the general belief is that their fathers should be the ones to guide them accordingly through life. Unfortunately, most often, their fathers are so busy with work and business that they do not have much time to provide the necessary guidance for the male child. This is why the growing attention on the male gender through the recognition of a special international day and the establishment of the Elizabethan Humanitarian Life (H&H) Foundation to cater for their wellbeing in Nigeria, is a welcome development”.

The plight of the children is conspicuous in all parts of the Nigeria - with specific manifestations in the north as the Almajiri phenomenon, and child labour in the form of trading in the south. Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, former Adamawa State Commissioner of Information and Strategy, who shared his concern about the Almajiri phenomenon said that we owe it to the children to ensure their wellbeing in health, education, social provision, etc. He lamented the tragedy of the Almajiri phenomenon as a scourge that must be eliminated from Nigerian society.

He supported Mrs. Sanu’s view about the society’s perception of the male child when he said that “We are making a mistake by thinking that the physical strength of a man is equal to his psychological and emotional strength. We believe that men can bear pain without expressing emotions. This is the kind of ideas that the Children’s Day and the Elizabethan Humanitarian Life (H&H) Foundation are set out to correct.”

This same story is rehearsed in the South East where children, particularly the male gender prefer delving into trading and business without paying much attention to their education. Barrister Emeka Anolefo, who has practiced law for many years, said that the Children’s Day should be a day to reflect on the wellbeing of the children. He endorsed the establishment of Elizabethan Humanitarian Life (H&H) Foundation to focus on drawing the society and government attention to the plight of the children. He lamented the growing trend in the South East Nigeria where many young boys would prefer trading and business to education because of the motivation to make money.

The Emeritus professor of communication, who is also a US trained and licensed Marriage Counsellor and Therapist, highlighted the core issues of concern about children generally, and the male-gender roles and social expectations in particular. He underscored the consequences of the social environment, especially youth consumption of social media content on children. He said that the effect of absentee fathers in the

The patron of the H&H Foundation Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, OON, expressed his gratitude to the international community for recognising a Day for the children. He also commended the Founder of the H&H Foundation for the boldness she took to establish the NGO to cater for children and the male gender in Nigeria. The Chairman of Elizade Motors and Founder of Elizade University said that this is a clarion call to the fathers and the society at large to take the training of the children as seriously as possible He pleaded with parents to please show love to their children as no one knows what they will become in life. He admonished those that have been neglecting the malechild to turn a new leaf. “I am happy that Children’s Day is a day set out to recognise the concern and wellbeing of the children. I hope everyone will truly understand and value this day and use it properly to upscale the lives of our children,” he said.

Oyinda

drawing the world’s attention to some quiet and salient areas, particularly about the male gender, that could cost us all the essence of humanity, if there is no intervention such as we have in this foundation. We are happy that the world set out a Day to recognise the pains and the concerns of children.

And we are celebrating Children’s Day in Nigeria, just like the rest of the world

general and the male gender in particular

POLITY

Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation Harps On Children’s Education

Maxim Uzoatu

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Cakasa Nigeria Company Limited (CNC), Mr. Barnabas Olise, has called on parents, guardians, and educators to recommit themselves to the task of developing the next generation.

Olise made the appeal during a two-day event held by the Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation (CEF) in Lagos in honour of the 2023 Children’s Day Celebration for the children of Mushin.

The CNC Project Manager, Engr. Evans Agboson, represented Olise at the event.

Olise was overjoyed to reach out to the kids of Mushin and share in the joy of recognising the inherent greatness, innocence, and beauty that they represent.

“In contemplating the significance of this event, my thoughts gravitate towards a timeless African proverb that encapsulates the essence of our gathering, ‘Children are the reward of life.’ “These words hold profound wisdom and encapsulate the immense value that children bring to our lives, families, and communities. “They remind us that the future of our society lies in the hands of these young souls, brimming with dreams, curiosity, and untapped potential.

“Today, we come together to celebrate not just the children

in our midst but also the profound responsibility that we, as adults, bear in nurturing and guiding them towards a bright future.

“It is through initiatives like this that we acknowledge and embrace the importance of investing in our children, providing them with a platform to express themselves, and empowering them to become the change-makers of tomorrow,” Olise said. The CEO made the point that children are a blessing for everyone, not just their parents.

According to him, their laughter, creativity, and unfiltered perspectives infuse vitality into our world.

He said that children remind us to find joy in simple pleasures, to view the world through innocent eyes, and to believe in the possibility of a better future.

“Our children are the torchbearers of hope, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that their flames burn brightly.

“Through Cakasa Ebenezer Foundation, we have committed ourselves to making a positive impact in the lives of children. “We believe that every child deserves access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for personal growth.

“It is through our various initiatives, such as providing scholarships, adding value to existing structures within schools, and organising events like this that we strive to create an enabling environment for our children to thrive,” Olise said. He said the two-day event is a testament to the unwavering commitment of CNC to the well-being and development of children.

“It is a celebration of their unique talents, aspirations, and

achievements. “We have planned an array of activities and performances that will bring joy, laughter, and inspiration to all.

“From art and craft presentations to music performances, cultural displays to games, every moment is an opportunity for our children to showcase their skills and explore their passions.

“Moreover, this event is not just a celebration but also a platform for learning and growth.

“We have wonderful adults, mentors, and role models to engage with our children, share their experiences, and ignite their aspirations.

“Through these interactions, we aim to broaden their horizons, expand their knowledge, and instil in them a sense of confidence and purpose,” Olise said.

He urged parents, uncles and aunties to recognise the immense potential within their children, nurture their dreams, encourage their passions, and guide them with love and understanding.

“Remember that they are the reward of life, and it is your unconditional support that will shape their journey towards success and happiness,” Olise said. He thanked the foundation for everything that it does to ensure the health and success of children. He continued by saying that everyone has a better future if we invest in children now. Mr Ajayi Abimbola, head of the Local Government Education Authority, made a similar plea to parents, reminding them that their children are the future’s decision-makers and hence deserving of their undivided attention. The New City and Papa Ajao Primary Schools in Mushin both participated in the Children’s Day celebrations.

StarTimes, Kartoon Channel Inspire Learning in Primary Schools

StarTimes and Kartoon Channel, the family entertainment destination that delivers enduring childhood moments of humour, adventure and discovery, have partnered to gift educational materials to pupils in selected schools across Nigeria.

The initiative, part of the children’s day celebration and Kartoon Channel!’s launch on StarTimes platform, is aimed at making children happy and encouraging them to watch educational and entertaining content on Kartoon Channel!

Kartoon Channel has exciting kid’s content such as Stan Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten, Rainbow Rangers, Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab and Llama Llama. The channel also airs family-friendly movies at weekends, such as Stan Lee’s Mighty 7, Ella Bella Bingo, Toys & Pets and Boonie Bears.

Kartoon channel! shows have no violence, no negative stereotypes, and no inappropriate language. They are designed to spark imagination and creativity in children of all ages.

StarTimes team visited the schools and distributed branded school bags and water bottles to the pupils, based on pupils’

needs. The team also interacted with the pupils and teachers, and introduced them to the exciting programs on Kartoon Channel!

The pupils expressed gratitude to StarTimes and Kartoon Channel! for the gesture and promised to tune in to Kartoon Channel! on StarTimes channel 304/357.

The teachers also commended StarTimes and Kartoon Channel! for their social responsibility and commitment to providing all Nigerians quality and affordable digital TV service and family entertainment.

Lazarus Ibeabuchi, Public Relations Manager of StarTimes Nigeria, said: “We are delighted to partner with Kartoon Channel! to gift school bags and water bottles to these lovely pupils. We believe every child deserves access to digital TV and educational content that can inspire them to learn and grow. As we mark this year’s children’s day, we want to share the joy with our kids and give back to the society that has supported us over the years.”

L-R: Behind, Bose Adewara, Asst Marketing Director, StarTimes Nigeria; Lazarus Ibeabuchi, PR Manager, StarTimes Nigeria; P.R.O of Mushin SUBEB, Ojurongbe Olarenwaju; teachers and pupils of Papa Ajao Primary School, Mushin during a CSR project powered by Kartoon Channel!

L-R: Former President Muhammadu Buhari and Former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal; during Tambuwal’s visit to Daura, Katsina State......recently

L-R: Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs,

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Novarick Homes and Properties, Noah Ibrahim; Associate Partner, Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL), Beverley Agbakoba-Onyejianya; Author of JAPA/CEO Schoolingyonda Consultancy, Olufunmilayo Modupe; and Chief Executive Officer, PECANTRUST Microfinance, Mopejuola Faloye, during the official unveiling of The Book JAPA at Laterna Ventures in Victoria Island, Lagos… yesterday

L-R: Special Adviser on Education, Youth and Sports, Apapa Local Government, Dr. Mike Egbayelo; Council Manager, Apapa Local Government, Mrs. Mosunmola Okoka-Otaiku; Executive Chairman, Apapa Local Government, Hon. Idowu AdejumokeSenbanjo; Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Gibratar Njowusi; and Supervisor,Information Intergovernmental Relations and Budget, Tosan Wilishire , during a-5-Day Workshop on Robotics Technology Education for ICT Teachers in Primary School in Apapa Theme: Transiting Apapa Primary Schools to Global Schools organised by Apapa Local Government in Lagos... recently ETOP UKUT

Disaster Management and Social Development, Mrs. Sadiya Umar-Farouq presenting her handover report to the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Nasir SaniGwarzo during the first edition of the Nigeria International Humanitarian Summit (NIHS) held in Abuja... recently

POLITY

Judiciary as the Odium of Nigeria: The Case of Gov Eno

Cyprian Edward-Ekpo

Irecollect my virtual presentation to the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on October 19, 2020, during the youth unrest in Nigeria tagged the “End-SARS” protest. Many people asked why I asserted that the Nigerian youths were directing their fight to a wrong and innocent party, that the Nigerian Police is never the problem of Nigeria, rather the Policemen are equally victims of the Nigerian state. The Nigerian Police was wrongly blamed.

I retorted that the judiciary had been the enabler of all atrocities committed by law enforcement agents and the officials of the Executive Arm of Government. It is the judiciary that is legally and constitutionally placed in a position to checkmate and review the actions of all other arms as well as persons. Because the judiciary has surrendered its authority and integrity to the dustbin of the state, and there are no consequences, that is why police brutality and other social malaises flourish in Nigeria. In fact, the ills of the Nigerian Judiciary are complex and multi-dimensional.

I was opportune to see the records of the case involving the current Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno’s conviction by the Chief Magistrate Court, Abuja. The crux of the matter exposes a gargantuan proportion of subterfuge and perceived corruption in the FCT Judiciary, just like many other jurisdictions of the Nigerian judiciary.

The story of Pastor Eno as found in the case record is shocking. The record speaks volumes that Pastor Eno is alleged to have committed an offence of cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property against one Mr. Godwin Edet Etim, a former contract staff to Exxon Mobil Producing Nigeria Ltd, wherein the man forfeited wages belonging to the said Godwin Edet Etim. Despite all pleas, he refused to release the money and when the said Edet Etim accosted him, he was detained by his guards for seven days.

He also lost his daughter due to the ill-treatment by Mr. Eno. Parts of the crimes extended to Abuja, thus leading to a criminal summon against Pastor Eno, his arraignment, trial, and conviction pursuant to Section 325 of the Penal Code law.

An extensive trial was conducted by the Magistrate Court throughout the year 2022 until judgment was delivered on December 20, 2022, convicting Pastor Eno for the alleged crimes based on the findings of the Court. The Court could not pronounce the sentence due to the absence of the Defendant in Court. The Court granted additional Order issuing a Warrant of Arrest for sentencing. Upon service of the Warrant on the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Eno instructed his lawyers to file a Motion to set aside “Issuance of Warrant of Arrest”.

On January 9, 2023, the legal team of Pastor Eno filed a Motion on Notice to set aside the Issuance of a Warrant of Arrest and filed nothing more. That is to say, was no motion to set aside the judgment and the conviction of the Court.

On January 10, 2023, the Court granted an Ex-parte Order for the hearing of the Motion on Notice to set aside Issuance of a Warrant of Arrest and the said motion affidavit undertook that Mr. Eno will appear in Court as the basis for the grant of that relief. The said Order of Substituted Service which slated a hearing date for January 13, 2023, was served on the Complainant lawyers (the law firm of Law Icons Solicitors & Notaries) on the same date as January 10, 2023. As the record demonstrates, the complainant filed a counter affidavit and a

written submission opposing the Motion to Set Aside “Issuance of Warrant of Arrest” slated for hearing on January 13, 2023, as indicated in the Court Order of Substituted Service.

Known that there was no defense to the crime allegedly committed, tried, and convicted, in an obvious perfection of fraud against the judicial proceedings, when the Complainant’s lawyers arrived at the Court on January 13, 2023, the matter was called from the Cause List. Neither Eno’s lawyers nor the said Mr. Eno made appearance in Court. As practice appeared to be, the Complainant’s lawyers urged the Court to deem Eno’s application to set aside the issuance of a warrant of arrest abandoned and strike it out.

One would be so shocked why the Magistrate, Mr. Emmanuel Iyanna had to inform them that in the absence of the Complainant and his lawyers, on January 11, 2023, less than 24 hours after service of Order of Substituted Service on the complainant lawyers to appear on January 13, 2023 for hearing, he had set aside the judgment of December 20, 2022, which convicted Pastor Eno when a date for the hearing of Motion to Set Aside Issuance of Warrant of Arrest was slated for January 13, 2023. Only corruption or mental health crisis could have given birth to such fraudulent proceedings.

What is more surprising, the complainant’s lawyers have insisted that the said Magistrate Court did not sit on January 11 2023, such proceedings could only have been held at the Magistrate’s House, in the bush, or another world, but not the open Court. They also claimed that they applied and obtained the Cause List of January 11, 2023 and the Court did not sit.

What is more, the Complainant filed an appeal against what he regarded as “Fraudulent Proceedings” seeking the Appellate Unit of the High Court of FCT to set aside the alleged fraudulent proceedings of January 11, 2023 and pronounce a sentence on Mr. Eno, including binding him from holding public office in Nigeria for ridiculing judicial proceedings.

Both Appellant and the Defendant had exchanged briefs of appeal with the one of Eno appearing with no answer to the issue of fraudulent proceedings of January 11, 2023.

The Appeal was fixed for hearing on May 4, 2023. Surprisingly, the media was again awash alleging that the Chief Judge

of FCT, Hon. Justice Husseini Yusuf had been compromised by aides of former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Governor Udom Emmanuel to cause him to intervene and stop the appeal from being heard until after May 29, 2023, when they can plead immunity clause to free Eno perpetually.

In what appears to have manifested the allegation of compromising the appeal hearing, on May 2, 2023, the Chief Judge of FCT suddenly suspended the appeal and dislodged the appeal panel via a directive. Angered by the complainant lawyers, they wrote a letter to him demanding that an appeal panel be reconstituted and the appeal must be heard within seven days.

They also informed the National Judicial Council of the ugly development. The FCT Chief Judge obliged the request and reconstituted another appeal panel with a new judge, Hon. Justice Belgore presiding and Hon. Justice M. B. Idris assisting.

The matter was slated for hearing on May 17, 2023. On the May 16, 2023, Pastor Umo Eno Counsel led by Uwemedimo Nwoko, SAN, and Paul Usoro, SAN who had filed their briefs as early as April 2023 without reference to the supplementary record, filed a Supplementary Record alleging that there was a hearing notice served directly on the complainant counsel on January 10, 2023 which informed of hearing on January 11, 2023. It seems clear that the tactics was to enable the Court delay proceedings until after May 29, 2023 as Eno appeared to have no defense in the matter.

Such a supplementary record could only become an issue if there was a background discussion between the Court and Eno’s team on what could be a way out.

One may ask, could the Magistrate Court which issued an Order of Substituted Service January 10, 2023 with a hearing date of January 13, 2023, also on the same January 10, 2023 issue another hearing notice for hearing on January 11, 2023?

During the proceedings of May 17, 2023, Justice Belgore of FCT High Court adjourned the matter to May 24, 2023, despite granting a motion filed by the Complainant lawyers for an Order of Accelerated Proceedings to hear and determine the matter before May 29, 2023.

On May 24, 2023, all efforts of Ibrahim Idris, SAN, counsel brought in to lead the complainant’s team, to urge the Court to allow counsel to adopt the processes for the Court to deliver judgment on the appeal proved abortive as the Judge was seen to be guided by Paul Usoro to divert from the business of the Court to an issue that a lawyer from Law Icons chambers deposed to an affidavit challenging the alleged fraudulent supplementary record.

The judge adjourned to May 25, 2023, for ruling on the Plaintiff’s legal representation just a mere ground that a lawyer from Law Icons deposed to an affidavit that no hearing notice was served on her for any hearing on January 11, 2023 except an Order of substituted service which fixed hearing for January 13, 2023. The Court directed itself to a no issue and the appeal hearing was frustrated. On May 25 2023, the Court ruled and disqualified the law firm of Law Icons from the proceedings for challenging a fraudulent supplementary record.

Edward-Ekpo is the Director-General, Institute of Law Research and Development of United Nations (ILAWDUN), Washington D.C, U.S.A; Principal Executive Director and Universal School of Eclectic Analysis, Research & Legal Studies (UNISERL), London.

Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

DHL Express CEO Describes Nigeria Market as Unique

Mary Nnah

Chief Executive Officer, DHL Express, SubSaharan Africa, Hennie Heymans has said that the Nigerian market is unique for DHL because of the incredible growth the company has experienced both at the macro level and particularly in the SME sector.

Speaking during a Meet and Greet with selected journalists at the DHL Express Lekki Facility, in Lagos State, Heymans said that Sub-Saharan Africa, especially Nigeria was a critical part of the DHL Express network, not just in Africa but also globally.

“From a regional office point of view, Nigeria is an important market for us and we will continue to invest in this market”, he said.

DHL Express, Heymans revealed further, has invested heavily in the facilities such as the acquisition of two model boats for navigation, promising that the company will continue with the investment.

He noted, however, the company’s focus right now was to grow SMEs, adding, “We see growth in the SME market here and we believe it’s our role and part of our purpose, to make sure that we help and stimulate that growth responsibly.”

In his assessment of the SME sector in Nigeria, Heymans said, “From a few macro-observations, I can see the progress in the infrastructure which has eased traffic in a city like Lagos. When compared to 2019, there is a major improvement.”

He said further that SMEs play an incredibly critical role in the Nigerian economy, adding that they make up about 48%

of Nigeria’s GDP.

“They make up about 96% of businesses and create about 84% of job opportunities in the local market.

“We are adamant that we will see a further significance and focus as the population in Nigeria grows because it’s become

a real source of economic growth, inclusion, and job employment.

If you extrapolate that statistic across Sub-Saharan Africa, there are about 44 million SMEs across this continent.

“Now we know that we suffer a little bit from data poverty. So, you know that 44 million could be closer to 47 or 48 million. So SMEs are an incredibly important source of economic growth, and providing jobs on this continent”, Heymans said.

He noted that DHL company is looking to do several things in supporting SMEs in Nigeria.

“Firstly, we help bring the world to SMEs in Nigeria and take the SMEs from Nigeria to the world. And we do that through our extensive network, cross border network and there are a couple of ways to interpret the concept of networks. The first one is bringing international trade in and taking international trade out.

“Whatever gets produced by the SMEs to take that cross border with Africa, or internationally. We are particularly proud of the fact that we connect the world through our aviation network. Our aviation hub was based in Lagos, but they also have a network which is an extensive, independent retail outlet network that gives accessibility to the SMEs.”

Observing that one of the challenges that the SMEs face not just necessarily in Nigeria, but around the world, was the lack of skills, training, and understanding of international trade, the DHL boss said the company has put together some programmes like Power Up your Potential which is a training programme that is specifically designed to educate SMEs about the business and about taking their businesses across borders.

“We also have programmes such as GO Trade which draws on the Group’s expertise in trade and logistics to enable developing countries and their SMEs access the global market, ”he noted.

L-R: CFO for DHL Express, Sub-Saharan Africa, Ralph Nyarenda; CEO DHL Express, Sub Saharan Africa, Hennie Heymans; Director of Projects and Programs for DHL Express, Sub Saharan Africa, Meruschka King and Managing Director, DHL Express, Nigeria, Muyiwa Adeseyoju during the event.

Eno

Wilfred Ndidi Will Respite Come from Naples?

For several seasons, he was regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe and of cause Nigeria’s biggest export to the English Premier League.The just concluded season has however not been too good for Wilfred Ndidi, with injury culminating in loss of form thereby limiting his playing time for Leicester City.With the Foxes now relegated to the English Championship, the big question is what is next for the midfield enforcer? Respite might however come his way as Italian champions; Napoli seems to be looking in his direction

Serie A champions, Napoli are said to be eyeing a move for Super Eagles’ midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi as the 26-year-old has reportedly emerged as a summer transfer target for the Parthenpeans, who are said to be preparing to bolster their squad ahead of the coming season.

According to reports, Ndidi is one of the players the Italian champions believe can help them retain their league title next term, with the reports also suggesting the deal between the Nigerian and the Italian club would be concluded in coming days.

Ndidi has one year left on his current contract at Leicester City.

Ndidi perfectly encapsulates the contrast between Leicester City’s success and subsequent decline. Once heralded as a top defensive midfielder, the Nigerian is now a shadow of his former self. Thus, it is no surprise that Ndidi’s calamitous drop-off has coincided with Leicester City’s gradual slump in form.

Ndidi at his peak was renowned for his destructive ball-winning capabilities and was part of a much-coveted Leicester midfield trio.

Whilst these halcyon days feel like the distant past given the current predicament, even as recently as last season, Ndidi was still putting up around six tackles and interceptions per game. This season concluded has seen a drastic decline in his defensive

output, with the 26-year-old mustering a measly 3.5 tackles and interceptions per game. On the pitch, this has resulted in the side being bypassed too easily with Ndidi no longer the solid protector in front of the back four.

Whilst his passing has never been his forte, such glaring limitations on the ball are even more evident due to the decline of Ndidi’s defensive output. and Leicester City have really struggled to build up with Ndidi in the ‘6’. His inability to show for the ball or deal with it in tight spaces means that the Foxes often have to go long, ceding possession back to the opposition. At times these technical deficiencies have even directly led to opposition goals due to Ndidi dawdling on the ball or making an errant decision.

After a horrific outing against Man City, Ndidi did himself no favours in his bid for future selection. For the three goals scored by the Citizens, Ndidi could be criticised for his role in each one. Firstly, he lost his marker John Stones, though this could be harsh to criticise since Stones’ finish was unbelievable and unexpected. Nevertheless, the other two goals were the direct result of the Nigerian’s failings. His costly habit of giving away penalties and his failure to win a 50-50 in the midfield led to the game being out of sight by half-time. The latter error is something that the Ndidi of old would not have permitted.

The one-man wrecking ball is clearly no more leaving the club with no chance of survival, and it was no surprise that the Foxes were eventually relegated. With Nampalys Mendy impressing when coming on, he was the best fit for Leicester’s relegation run-in. Even though he lacks the height and defensive presence of Ndidi, he is much better with the ball. That being said, after many poor displays, can Ndidi still hold his defensive acumen as his unique selling point?

Before his injury, among the King Power Stadium faithful, Ndidi was a cult hero, and to Leicester City Manager the midfield enforcer is indispensable.

The Nigerian was then a sure starter and statistics proved that he was Foxes most important player in the last two years.

To some then, it was still a miracle that Leicester City were able to hold on to their jewel in spite of inquiries from big European clubs of the former Nathaniel Boys player.

For several transfer windows, Ndidi has been linked with a move to Old Trafford to take command of the holding midfield, an area the Red Devils have been found wanting but somehow Leicester City held on to the midfielder.

Ndidi had severally proven to be one of the best tacklers in Europe. In the Community Shield game against Manchester City, Ndidi rose to the occasion for Leicester City and was the boss in midfield.

Ndidi also increased his passing accuracy and he hardly makes mistakes when protecting his back three or back four and he gives his central midfielders the confidence to surge forward.

At the end of the 2021/22 season, he has had 591 tackles in 152 premier league games, 325 interceptions and 355 clearances. He has 1,291 ball recoveries and has won 1,277 duels, one of the best records in the Premier League.

How much value Ndidi adds to Leicester City has never been lost by former manager, Brenden Rodgers and the Irish has never stopped showering encomiums on the Nigerian, describing him as irreplaceable.

“It’s impossible to find what we have, we’ve got good players, but specifically the job Ndidi does in breaking up play and just his overall defending and in the box, he’s irreplaceable for us,” Rodgers had said.

“He’s one of the top players in world football. His quality in his football is improving all the time. He is irreplaceable for us. He’s fantastic for a young player.

“What is pleasing as a coach, is that he wants to learn. He will improve and get better. I’m so happy he plays in my team,” Rodgers once said.

Though Ndidi’s contract with Leicester does not expire till next year, with his fitness still suspect, a move to Naples will just be a respite.

Wilfred Ndidi tries to stop Kevin de Bruyne

Enyimba, Remo Stars to Kick off NPL Super 6 Playoffs Today in Lagos

Expresses displeasure at snubbing NPFL players for Nigeria-G’Bissau encounter

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Draw ceremony of the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) Championship Super 6 Playoffs pitted eight-time former champions Enyimba FC of Aba against Remo Stars of Ikenne in the opening game at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos today.

Before the draw ceremony, league

organisers, the Interim Management Committee (IMC) unveiled a new logo for the first tier of the Nigeria club football.

It marked a total break with the previous NPFL under the now sacked League Management Company (LMC).

The Super Six Playoff scheduled to begin today will end on June 11 with the winner going home with a N100million pay cheque.

All the clubs to participate in the Super 6 were represented at the brief by impressive ceremony which held at the corporate headquarters of the GTI Asset Management and Trust Limited who are strategic partners of the NPL.

In the second game of the opening day, Sunshine Stars of Akure were paired with defending champions Rivers United of Port Harcourt.

Unbeaten Bendel Insurance are to stake

Rangers, Insurance Rekindle 1978 Challenge Cup Final in 2023 Fed Cup

The Federation Cup has produced some great and memorable moments and one of such was the 1978 Challenge Cup between heavy favourites, Enugu Rangers that paraded experience and established players such as Christian Chukwu, Emmanuel Okala, Aloy Atuegbu, Patrick Ekeji among many others against and a young Bendel Insurance side that had players such as Peter Egharevba, Kadiri Ikhana, David Adiele, Francis Monidafe.

Against all odds, it was the young side from Benin that triumphed 3-0 against a highly favoured Enugu Rangers.

As both sides come against each other in this year’s Federation Cup final, memories of the 1978 edition of the competition is expected to be rekindled.

A Godwin Obaje’s late spot-kick expertly tucked away past experienced Suraj Ayeleso, who stood between the sticks for Plateau United ensured that the Federation Cup multi-titlist, Rangers International F.C of Enugu booked their passage to its 13th final appearance in the oldest club competition in the country with a 1-0 win inside Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu-Ode.

The highly entertaining and fiercely contested semi-final of the Federation Cup 2023 encounter saw the six-time champions take the lead on 90 minutes after Obaje converted from the spot after goal bound, left-back, Philip Clement was upended in the box and the referee wasted no time in making the call that resulted in the match winner.

Coach Abdul Maikaba kept faith with the starting team that brushed aside the challenge of Doma United in the quarter-final of the competition and they did not disappoint as the brave displays of Suraj Ayeleso who stood between the sticks for Plateau United ensured that both sides went for the break on even notes just as Detan Ogundare was marvelous for the Enugu side as the last man in defense.

Maikaba did a little rejig to the team as the second stanza commenced with the duo of Shedrack Asiegbu and Adamu Saidu making way for Ejike Uzoenyi and Samuel Pam but it was Plateau United that created the first opportunity for the opening goal in 48 minutes when Mustapha Ibrahim’ connecting left footed shot from the edge of the box was brilliantly pushed over the bar by Detan Ogundare.

Efforts from both sides to break the deadlock failed to materialise going into the later part of the match and in a counterattack by the Enugu side that saw left-back, Philip Clement released and on his way to goal but was upended by Adams Yakubu in the vital area and the referee awarded a penalty kick that was stabbed in by Obaje for the only and winning goal of the encounter on 90+2 minutes that qualified Rangers for the final match of the competition against Bendel Insurance of Benin in a repeat of the 1981 final match which the Enugu side won by 2-0.

Maikaba in a post-match chat, said, “I am a very happy man today after winning against my former side, Plateau United. It was a hard-

fought encounter that could have gone either way but after our tactical change in the second half which pushed our opponent back and in one of our forays upfront, we were rewarded with a clear penalty call almost in the 90th minute of play and we converted to qualify for the final. Congratulations to all Rangers fans. It is my desire to win the Federation Cup for Rangers for the seventh time.”

Administrative Secretary of the Enugu side, Ferdinand Ugwuarua, said, “It was a very tough encounter which Plateau United had to succumb at the very last minute of the encounter. We take each game as they come and I am very sure that our final match against old rivals, Bendel Insurance F.C would be used to present a welcome gift to the new governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah.”

Match winner, Obaje said, “I give God all the glory for our win today over Plateau United. It was a very difficult match as Plateau is not a push-over. But due to our tactical discipline and determination to qualify. Scoring the late penalty was very difficult but with experience, I had to steel my nerves to score and ensure that our supporters who have been there for us, are given something to cheer this season.”

Rangers will play old rivals, Insurance F.C of Benin who have been on a roller-coaster ride since the start of the season for the third final match between both side with Insurance enjoying a 3-0 win in the 1978 final while Rangers replied with a 2-0 spanking of the ‘Benin Arsenals’ in the 1981 finals.

their invincibility against Lobi Stars in the last game of the day in what promises to be a bruising battle.

Earlier at the ceremony, IMC Chairman, Gbenga Elegbeleye, commended GTI for the company’s commitment to laying a strong foundation and transparent football ecosystem in the country using The Nigeria Football Fund (TNFF) as the vehicle in achieving this laudable dream.

Elegbeleye revealed that the NPL Championship Playoffs will see the best of Nigerian league football on display as the six teams will trade tackles in a round-robin format.

Complimenting Elegbeleye’s statement, the GMD of GTI Group, Abubakar Lawal, affirmed that the company was employing every best international practice to give Nigerian football a desirable breakthrough.

“GTI is committing lots of material and financial resources towards ensuring that the NPL enjoys robust financial support in order to become self-sustaining.

Enyimba vs Remo Stars (2pm)

Sunshine v Rivers United (4pm)

B’ Insurance v Lobi

Chidiebere Nwobodo of Rangers is challenged by Ibrahim Abubarkar of Plateau United

Ten Hag Set to Halt Guardiola’s Treble Ambition as United, City Divide Manchester

With the Premier League already in the bag, Manchester City will today take another bold step to winning their second trophy of the season on their way to winning a treble. However, standing between them is the red side of Manchester, who interestingly are the only side to have achieved the feat back in 1999.The Red Devils’Manager,Ten Hag, is however set to stop the Citizens’from equalling the 24-year-old record, but with Pep Guardiola’s men in top form, it would take more than mere determination to stop City from achieving their treble ambition

The 142nd FA Cup final will see a Manchester derby take centre stage for the first time beneath the famous arch of Wembley Stadium as treble-chasing Manchester City lock horns with bitter rivals and EFL Cup winners Manchester United this afternoon.

While the Citizens are seeking to lift England’s oldest trophy for the seventh time in their history, the Red Devils are hoping to get their hands on the prestigious prize for a 13th time.

Four years on from winning the firstever domestic quadruple in English football, history beckons once again for Man City as they endeavour to become the first English team since rivals Man United in 1998-99 to win the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League in the same season.

The Citizens already have one trophy in the bag after clinching the top-flight title for a third successive year and for a fifth time in six seasons, with Pep Guardiola’s side ending the Premier League campaign five points clear of their nearest challengers, Arsenal.

With one eye on their pursuit of the treble, a much-rotated City side were beaten 1-0 at Brentford in their final league fixture of the season last Sunday, a result that ended their exceptional 25game unbeaten run in all competitions.

Nevertheless, Guardiola has wisely managed the minutes of his first-team stars over the last two weeks and hopes

they have taken his advice on briefly ‘disconnecting’ from the rigours of their hectic schedule in preparation for today’s behemoth battle with their bitter rivals.

A journey to Istanbul for a Champions League showpiece event with Inter Milan awaits in a weeks’ time, but Man City’s focus is now on the FA Cup and their 12th final in the competition. The Citizens have won six and lost five of their previous 11 FA Cup finals, most recently romping to a remarkable 6-0 victory over Watford in 2019 – the joint-largest winning margin in cup final history.

Man City have seen off Chelsea, Arsenal, Bristol City, Burnley and Sheffield United – beating the latter 3-0 in the semi-finals courtesy of a Riyad Mahrez hat-trick – to book their Wembley appearance, with Guardiola’s side yet to concede in this year’s competition; only Preston North End in 1889 and Bury in 1903 have ever won the FA Cup without conceding a single goal.

The Citizens, who are also the highest scorers in this season’s FA Cup with 17 goals, have a perfect record in major domestic cup finals under Guardiola – winning five in total since his arrival in 2016, although they have lost four of their last six visits to Wembley and have failed to score in three of those.

The carrot of FA Cup glory against Man United to boost their treble hopes is certainly alluring, but Man City will

not take their opponents lightly after losing 2-1 at Old Trafford in the most recent derby showdown in January.

Indeed, Man United enter their 21st FA Cup final – the joint-most of any team in the competition’s history along with Arsenal, in buoyant mood after winning their last four Premier League matches to secure third place and Champions League football for next season, albeit finishing 14 points behind champions Man City.

The Red Devils followed up an emphatic 4-1 home victory over Chelsea a week last Thursday with a 2-1 finalday win against Fulham on Sunday, with goals from Jadon Sancho and Bruno Fernandes turning the game on its head after Kenny Tete had opened the scoring.

After beginning the 2022-23 campaign with harrowing losses to Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford back in August, few would have envisaged Man United bouncing back in such impressive fashion, and after guaranteeing a top-four finish, Erik ten Hag is seeking to steer the club to their firstever domestic cup double.

The Dutchman ended United’s six-year trophy drought by guiding his team to EFL Cup glory at the end of February, beating Newcastle United 2-0 at Wembley, and the Red Devils will certainly take great pleasure in halting Man City’s pursuit of the treble by winning the FA Cup today.

Man United are competing in their first FA Cup final for five years after successfully navigating their way past Everton, Reading, West Ham United, Fulham and Brighton, winning their first four ties by a 3-1 scoreline before eliminating the Seagulls in a nerveracking penalty shootout following a goalless semi-final draw after 120 minutes.

The Red Devils last had their hands on the FA Cup in 2015-16 when they required extra time and a late Jesse Lingard winner to beat Crystal Palace 2-1, two years before losing 1-0 to Chelsea in their most recent final in the competition.

Only Arsenal (14) have ever won the FA Cup on more occasions than Man United (12), although the latter do hold an unwanted record for the joint-most defeats (eight) in the competition’s showpiece event along with both Chelsea and Everton.

Man United will, on this rare occasion, head into today’s final as slight underdogs having lost three of their last four derby clashes with Man City by an aggregate score of 12-4, including a heavy 6-3 Premier League defeat earlier this season.

However, they can take some inspiration from their FA Cup head-to-head record with the Citizens as they have won five of the last six meetings with their ‘noisy neighbours’, most recently winning 3-2 away from home in January 2012 – the only exception being a 1-0 semi-final loss at Wembley in 2010-11.

Manchester United Raphael Varane puts pressure on Manchester City’s striker, Erling Haaland when both sides last met in the Premier League at Ol Trafford

FA CUP TROPHY

Osimhen Bags Serie A Best Striker Award

Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen has been named the best striker in the Italian Serie A for the 2022/23 season.

Osimhen has enjoyed a phenomenal campaign with Napoli. The Nigerian striker is currently enjoying his best campaign in his career with 30 goals across all competitions. The 24-year-old goal

poacher has hit 25 goals in the Serie A, dominating the league’s goalscorers’ charts.

Also, Osimhen has written his name in Serie A history, smashing Samuel Eto’o and George Weah’s records. He currently holds the record for the most goals by an African in a single Serie A season. Osimhen is also the highest-scoring striker in Serie

A history.

The former Lille man has won the Serie A Player of the Month multiple times already, but he has now added another award to his cabinet. Osimhen has been named the Best Striker for the 2022/23 season. He was nominated alongside Inter Milan star Lautaro Martinez and AC Rafael Leah.

Nigerian-American, Ogunbowale Named WNBA Western Conference Player of the Month Cup

Arike Ogunbowale, a NigerianAmerican professional basketball player, has been awarded the Western Conference Player of the Month for May.

Yesterday, the Dallas Wings guard was selected as the WNBA Western Conference Player of the Month for May.

Ogunbowale averaged 25.3 points across four games in May,

placing third in the WNBA in scoring.

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America immigrant parents Yolanda and Gregory Ogunbowale, Arike is of Nigerian descent.

The Dallas Wings had a strong start to the season, and the fifth-year guard added 4.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists to her

FIFA U20 World Cup

Flying Eagles Storm Santiago del Estero for Korea Republic Battle

Nigeria’s inspired U20 boys have flown into the northern Argentine city of Santiago del Estero ahead of tomorrow’s FIFA U20 World Cup quarter-final clash with their counterparts from Korea Republic.

The Koreans on Thursday edged hard-fighting Ecuador 3-2 in their own Round of 16 encounter, to set up a muchanticipated last-eight tango with the two-time silver medallists. Seven-time African champions

Nigeria have surged on the bookmakers’ ratings and are now regarded as favourites following Wednesday night’s commanding defeat of hosts and six-time champions Argentina in their Round of 16 encounter in San Juan.

Isah Ladan Bosso, who was also head coach when the Flying Eagles reached the quarter-finals of the FIFA U20 World Cup in Canada 16 years ago, told thenff. com on Thursday that his team

has kept to the pre-tournament philosophy of dealing with one match at a time.

“We are delighted to have executed a perfect game plan against Argentina. Our strategy and tactics worked out and the boys worked very hard. Now, we have to concentrate on what to expect from the Koreans. We have been watching their games at this championship and we have a good idea how to prepare for them.

stat line.

Ogunbowale became the 11th player in league history to score 20 or more points in each of the first four games of the season after tallying 21 points in a victory against Minnesota.

The two Commissioner Cup victories that Ogunbowale played well in were among the three Wings victories.

Norrie Knocked Out of French Open, Djokovic Battles Through

Cameron Norrie’s French Open campaign ended in disappointing fashion with a straight-sets loss to Lorenzo Musetti in the third round.

It is the third year in a row the British No 1 has fallen in the last 32, and he only managed to mount any real challenge in the third set before going down 6-1 6-2 6-4

in two hours and eight minutes on Court Simonne Mathieu.

There is certainly no disgrace in losing to 21-year-old Musetti, who is ranked only five places below Norrie and whose best surface is clay, but the 14th seed will be disappointed by the manner of what is one of his worst Grand Slam losses

Ivorien Official for Ghana, Nigeria’s WAFU U20 Women Clash

in terms of scoreline.

The result, meanwhile, brings an end to British singles hopes at a tournament where only three players even made the start line.

Norrie lost to Musetti in Barcelona recently but spoke positively after his second-round victory over Lucas Pouille about what he had learned from that clash.

Barcelona Sweating on Oshoala’s Fitness ahead of UWCL Final

Spanish Liga F champions Barcelona are sweating over the fitness of Asisat Oshoala ahead of the UEFA Women’s Champions League final against Wolfsburg at the PSV Stadium, Eindhoven on Saturday, June 3.

Barcelona head coach Jonatan Giráldez named a 27-player group for the trip to the Netherlands, with Oshoala and SpanishNigerian wonderkid Vicky Lopez making the cut.

However, there are genuine concerns about the fitness of

the Super Falcons striker, who is struggling to overcome a thigh injury before the showpiece.

On the eve of the final, the 28-year-old underwent individual training as her teammates sweated it out on the pitch.

She was forced off injured in Barcelona’s final league game of the 20222023 season, making way for Salma Paralluelo in the 21st minute after feeling discomfort in her thigh.

This season, Oshoala has appeared in nine Champions League matches, scoring five goals including braces against Benfica and Rosengård. She was also rated as doubtful to take to the pitch against Chelsea in the semifinals at Stamford Bridge, but came off the bench for the last six minutes.

Barcelona have reached the Champions League finals four times in the past five years, with Oshoala part of the squad that won it in the 2020-2021 season.

Mourinho Charged for Using Abusive Language Towards Official

Roma coach, Jose Mourinho has been charged by Uefa for using insulting or abusive language against an official after Wednesday’s Europa League final.

The charge relates to an incident in a car park after the game, when Mourinho, 60, directed a foulmouthed rant at English referee Anthony Taylor.

The Portuguese had been booked by Taylor in Budapest, where Sevilla beat Roma on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

Both clubs also face several

charges over their fans’ and players’ conduct.

Sevilla and Roma have been charged with throwing of objects, lighting of fireworks and improper conduct of their team.

Spanish side Sevilla have an additional charge for invasion of the field of play, while Roma were also charged with acts of damage and crowd disturbances.

Uefa’s control, ethics and disciplinary body (CEDB)

will decide on the matter in due course.

Mourinho criticised Taylor in his news conference and was later captured confronting the Englishman and other officials as they boarded a minibus in the car park under the stadium.

The former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss repeatedly swore and twice shouted about a “disgrace”, before talking further in Italian.

The Confederation of African Football has appointed Ivorien official, Natacha Gerardine Konan as referee for Saturday’s WAFU B U20 Women Championship final match between arch-rivals Nigeria and Ghana in Kumasi. Her compatriot, Ndeko Edwige Appia will be the assistant referee 1, while the Burkinabe duo of Ami Kouma and Jacqueline Nikiema will be assistant referee 2 and fourth official

respectively. Baptista Mariette Toi from Benin Republic will serve as match commissioner and Ghanaian Augustina Fugah will be in the role of referee assessor. The match commences at 6.30pm Ghana time (7.30pm Nigeria time) at the Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi on Saturday.

For the third-place match, starting at 3pm Ghana time the same day and venue,

between Burkina Faso and Benin Republic, CAF has appointed Edoh Kindedji from Togo as the referee. She will be assisted by Sakina Hamidou Alfa from Niger Republic (assistant 1), Beauty Kabenda Terah from Nigeria (assistant 2) and Ghanaian Rita Boateng-Nkansah (fourth official). Nigerian Ruth David will serve as match commissioner while Augustina Fugah from Ghana will be the referee assessor.

Izedonmwen, Igbinadolor Triumph at BCGS Captain’s Golf Tourney

Dr. Omo Izedonmwen and Ehis Igbinadolor emerged victorious at the Benin Club Golf Section (BCGS) Captain’s Inaugural Golf Tournament 2023 concluded on Sunday in Benin-City, Edo State.

Izedonmwen (hcp 16) against all odds played a net score of 72 to emerge best in the men’s hcp 0 - 18 category. Gen. Oscar Iyare (rtd) placed second by beaten Engr. Ben Oghumah (hcp 8) and F. Aganmwonyi (hcp 14) on count-back having all played 75 net for them to place third and fourth respectively.

Igbinadolor (hcp 11) cart away the ladies hcp 0 - 28 trophy with amazing 72 net ahead fmr. Lady Captain, Suwadetu Mahmud (hcp 19) who had 79 net while LGAN South-South Zonal Vice-President, Sandra Emina

(hcp 14) with 80 net beat Joy Omorogiuwa on count-back to third spot.

The men’s best gross award went to Osazee Iyare with 79 gross while Debby Otabor with 90 gross won the ladies category of the inaugural tournament held for two days with over 150 golfers across Nigeria.

In his closjng remarks, BCGS Captain, Joseph Idahosa appreciated the Committee, members, guests golfers for making the event a great success beyond his expectation.

Joezaza as fondly called who was showered with encomiums for his leadership quality and humility promised to leave a legacy that his administration will forever be known, adding that more tournaments were in the process.

Other winners included O. Akhigbe (hcp 27) with 85 net in the men’s hcp 19 - 28 category, Foluso Oboro (hcp 35) with 78 net in the ladies hcp 29 - 36 cadre.

Sir Tony Aghedo played 75 net to win the veteran men’s while Dr. Jackson Gaius-Obaseki with 86 net won the super veteran men’s. Also, Prof. Mrs A.O Dawodu won the veteran ladies with 81 net just as Chief Mrs Ivie Iyoha dominated super veteran ladies category with 88 net. Sala Oise Esq., (UBTH) won the guest ladies with 73 net. Similarly, the longest drive Day 1 hole 11 men’s and ladies waa won by Pharm. E. Enomase and Mrs Edith Edeki. The Day 1 nearest the pin hole 14 winners were D. Iberi and Mrs Foluso Oboro

Man United, City FA Cup Clash Live on GOtv

Premier League champions, Manchester City and Carabao Cup champions, Manchester United, will rekindle their derby rivalry in the FA Cup final today, and the match will be live on GOtv.

Pep Guardiola’s men are vying for a historic treble victory against their local rival could place them in a firm position to achieve their ultimate ambition. Watch the match live on Football Finals pop-up channel ( GOtv ch. 65) at 2:45pm.

City have been crowned the league champions and they defeated Real Madrid to set

up a UEFA Champions League final clash against Inter Milan.

The Citizens, under Guardiola, became the first and only English team to have won a domestic treble in 2019, but European glory remains elusive for them.

However, Manchester United, being the only English team to have completed a treble, which they achieved under Sir Alex Ferguson in 1999, are keen to stop their local rival from repeating the feat.

While addressing the fans at Old Trafford last Sunday after the club’s final Premier League match of the season

against Fulham, Manchester United manager, Erik Ten Hag thanked the fans for their support and assured them that the players will give their all to beat Manchester City.

“I want to thank you all. You played a really strong part during the season, at Old Trafford and also away. I want to thank you for the contribution, for the backing, for the support, it was great.

“But when I talk about support. there is still one game to go, and I am sure that these players will give everything to beat Manchester City next week.

Osimhen

Flying Eagles arriving in Santiago del Estero on Thursday

“In

CHUKWUKANNAMDI

GUEST COLUMNIST

Gauging Gov. Yahaya’s Missteps on Goje

At the critical cusp of Africa’s most knife-edged presidential transition, some sub-national chief executives are choreographing surprisingly naïve plots to consolidate their perceived power. Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State is one example.

It is then not surprising that a clearly miffed All Progressives Congress’ NCW - recently moved swiftly to rein in the needless contrived conflict the governor is conjuring both covertly and overtly - targeting Senator Danjuma Goje. The party obviously saw these political missteps as an excessive flight of fancy.

About a week ago, APC decisively nullified the so-called expulsion of former Governor Goje, currently a serving senator representing Gombe Central, over his alleged involvement in anti-party activities. Goje was purportedly expelled by his Kashere Ward of the ruling party in Gombe State. Not surprisingly, the so-called expulsion choreographed by Governor Yahaya was later affirmed by the state executive of the party. Governor Yahaya served as Commissioner of Finance for eight years under Goje’s administration.

The APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, issued a statement on behalf of the party in Abuja, titled, “Expulsion of Senator Muhammad Danjuma Goje set aside - remains a bonafide member of APC.”

He said: “The attention of the National Headquarters of All Progressives Congress has been drawn to media reports of the purported expulsion of His Excellency, Senator Mohammad Danjuma Goje by the Gombe State Executive Committee of our party.

“The party has directed that the said expulsion, and all related actions in the matter, be and are hereby, set aside pending further review and decision of the party’s National Working Committee on the matter. Therefore, Senator Goje is, and remains, a bonafide member of the Gombe State chapter of our party.”

The APC had correctly read the governor’s puzzling shenanigans as endangering the state which had been traditionally a Peoples’ Democratic Party enclave. Statistical analysis of the last general elections shows that the state was almost slipping back to PDP grip.

It could be recalled that during the February 25 election, Governor Yahaya shockingly lost his polling unit, ward, local government, senatorial district and indeed the entire state to PDP. In the governorship election many political observers believe the governor deployed huge resources at his disposal to win the election unlike in the presidential election where the APC failed. Yahaya’s victory however is being challenged in court.

Instructively, the Governor Yahaya’s prime target Senator Goje remains the key pillar keeping the party from being swept out by the PDP sweeping tide. It is this circumspect statesman and pillar of APC political strength in Gombe State, Senator Goje, that Governor Yahaya, early in the month applauded the state APC for allegedly expelling him on the trumped-up charges of anti-party activity.

It could be recalled that addressing newsmen at the Sani Abacha International Airport, Lawanti, Gombe, after a three-week break for lesser hajj, Governor Yahaya said he was in tune with happenings in the state, while away in Saudi Arabia. He said: “I am a member of APC. Whatever the party has done, I support.”

If Yahaya’s alleged anti-Senator Goje plots were

initially seen as speculative, the governor himself killed off any niggling doubts as to his intent.

Many political stakeholders in Gombe recall that Governor Yahaya’s successful governorship aspiration was given critical fillip and substance by the focused influence of Senator Goje’s towering clout. They readily recall that Governor Yahaya emerged through a transparent process under Goje’s able leadership during the APC’s 2018 gubernatorial primary elections, despite the arrays of prominent and strong contenders like; Faruk Bamusa, Muhammed Jibrin Barde, Sen. Idris Umar, Dasuki Jalo Waziri, Hon. Khamisu Ahmed Mailantarki, Habu Mu’azau among others.

In effect, tracking back, what determined the gubernatorial outcome and gave Yahaya the throne in 2019 general election despite PDP’s power of incumbency coupled with their financial war chest, was the ability of party leader, Senator Goje not only to nimbly appease towering chieftains who lost to Yahaya in the gubernatorial primary election but also ensuring none defected from the APC to PDP.

Goje also successfully courted folks like Jamil Isyaku Gwamna, Bala Bello Tinka, and Abubakar BD among others to join the APC’s train then. Goje is seen as the pivot and remains rallying point of APC in Gombe State. He represents the foundational base of APC’s 2019 triumph in the state.

It could also be recalled that when Goje took over Gombe State in 2003 from Hashidu of ANPP, he returned the state fully to PDP. When he joined APC, he also led the party to win all the NASS seats and returned the state to fully APC.

Instructively, during the February 25 2023 election, only Goje won a senate seat for APC out of the three Gombe State senate seats. In House of Representatives, APC won just one House of Representatives seat and this was mainly influenced by Goj’es towering popularity as they shared the same federal constituency and local government.

Governor Yahaya’s sole focus was on retaining his gubernatorial throne which he did by the skin of his teeth. Even this tenuous victory is being challenged in court. Losing his own polling unit, ward, and local government clearly signalled that the supremacy conflict he is pushing with

Senator Goje could cost APC a lot. Even the APC presidential candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu lost the state woefully to the opposition PDP.

Many political observers correctly believe that a naive challenge to Senator Goje’s authority or influence in the state he made considerable sacrifices as one of the key founding fathers by any young upstarts will naturally end in futility.

It would also appear that in a season of partisan frenzy, fair assessment of matters, personalities and contexts in the political space has indeed become a strenuous undertaking. Like the patient vulture, the PDP waits and plots its own counter punch.

For the anxious Gombe folks who wait in the wings, its indeed morning yet on creation day.

Gombe State is among the few states where the military interregnum did not last long. This is because barely three years after it was carved out from Bauchi State, Nigeria returned to presidential democracy.

In the governorship election of 2003, Goje defeated Alhaji Abubakar Hashidu, who was elected in 1999 as the first democratically-elected governor of the state on the platform of All Peoples Party (APP).

It is on record that before he was massively voted for in 2003 as governorship candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Goje had a rich political resume and private sector experience. He served in the Bauchi State House of Assembly as well as, in the Federal Ministry of Power and Steel as the Minister of State.

So, with that level of experience and political maturity, Goje knew how to make things happen in the development of Gombe State. Of course, being a graduate of Political Science from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, he did not waste time but formulated impactful policies and programmes.

As governor, Goje pursued very ambitious programmes and projects that lifted Gombe State from obscurity to star-status in the comity of Nigeria’s 36 states. Through these life changing projects in Healthcare, Agriculture, Infrastructure, Education, Poverty Reduction and Environmental protection, not many remembered that Gombe State was among the latest six states created by the military regime of General Sani Abacha in 1996.

Today, the Gombe State University, Pantami International Stadium, and Gombe State Airport stand prominently as part of the Lionhearted courage of Goje’s administration. Apart from the state university, the Goje administration expanded the access of women and the girl-child to formal education, just as the government gave fillip to the cause of adult education, which led to the leap-frogging of literacy in the state.

He passionately influenced the setting up of the College of Horticulture at Dadin Kowa in Yamaltu Deba Local Government. The heterogeneous nature of Gombe State showed a markedly native Muslim and Christian population and a sprinkling of traditionalists in Southern parts of the state.

It was therefore in a bid to strike a sort of religious balance, the Gombe Central Mosque and Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN) Centre were built. Indeed, throughout Goje’s tenure as governor, there wasn’t any religious crisis or protest of discrimination unlike what has become the order of the day currently.

It was in recognition of his drive for peaceful coexistence among different religions in the state that Goje became the only Muslim governor to be honoured with a ‘Peace Award’ by CAN youth wing in Abuja at an event attended by prominent

Christian leaders including; Gen. Yakubu Gowon rtd, late Solomon Lar, Pastor William Kumuyi, Bishop John Onaiyekan among many others. Under Goje’s watch, Gombe State experienced improvement in security and urban sanitation, even as the state enjoyed relative peace and improved access to safe drinking water.

On the political front, Gombe State, which suffered marginalisation before it was carved out from Bauchi State, benefitted immensely from Goje’s efforts at grooming a pool of emergent leaders. Thus, a significant feature of that policy of raising future leaders saw the emergence of the current governor, Inuwa Yahaya as the Gombe State chief executive.

Immediately, Goje took the mantle of leadership from Hashidu in 2003, he recruited some young people, including Inuwa, into the state cabinet with the intention of raising a body of experienced politicians for the state to fall back on for leadership recruitment. That could explain why Goje retained Inuwa as his Finance Commissioner for the two-terms he served the state as governor.

That background enabled Inuwa to start dreaming big about becoming governor. He left the cabinet to contest unsuccessfully for the PDP governorship ticket in 2015, losing to the former Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, who eventually won the gubernatorial election.

Although Inuwa Yahaya and Usman Bayero Nafada challenged the governorship primary that threw up Dankwambo, most of the losers at the primaries remained angry with Goje in the belief that he favoured Dankwambo to clinched the ticket.

In spite of the fact that Goje brought Dankwambo into politics like many others, Dankwambo brought about some anti-Goje policies and even abandoned initiatives of his predecessor. What a payback!

Nonetheless, as a father committed to a better future for his children, Goje overlooked Inuwa’s outbursts against him after he lost the PDP ticket in 2011 and carried him on his back to APC, where contested the governorship against Dankwambo.

However, Inuwa failed, because while APC won at the Presidential election, it lost the governorship. Though it was not Goje’s fault, Inuwa’s loss raised some question marks about the APC governorship candidate in the election.

Yet, pushing aside the strong reservations of well-meaning leaders and influential traditional rulers, Goje overlooked Inuwa’s rebellion in 2011 and supported him for the APC governorship ticket at the expense of the then House of Representatives’ Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Bayero Nafada.

But, Senator Goje was severely cautioned against supporting Inuwa, because according to them supporting Inuwa would leave sands in his mouth. Regrettably, Inuwa lost in the same state that Buhari’s got massive votes.

It was after seeing Inuwa’s repeated electoral losses as a dent on his political clout that Goje campaigned vigorously for him in the 2019 governorship, taking him around the 11 Local Government Areas of the state as he begged voters to elect Inuwa as governor for his sake.

But, not long after Inuwa won and became governor, he forgot what Goje went through to make him succeed. He descended on his benefactor and former principal, Senator Goje.

•Nnamdi, a public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja

the past 8 years, President Buhari has demonstrated in most cases that he did not belong to the whole country but to a group, his tribe and religion, which is contrary to what he said in his inaugural speech that he belongs to everybody” –Elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark describing Buhari as the worst leader Nigeria has ever had.

Clark on Buhari

Goje