FRIDAY 6TH JUNE 2024

Tripartite C’tee to Reach Agreement Today

Bagudu: Despite Economic Growth, 40% of Nigerians Still Live Below Poverty Line

Tinubu to Int'l Devt Financiers: Regard Africa as Destination for Growth and Prosperity

Says Nigeria with $2.1bn active investment holds second-largest IFC portfolio in continent

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has called on international development financiers to see Africa as a destination for growth and prosperity.

Speaking on Thursday at State House, Abuja, during a meeting with a delegation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, led by its Senegal-born Managing Director, Mr. Makhtar Diop, Tinubu, according to a release issued by his media adviser, Ajuri

Ngelale, urged global financiers to consider more strategic investments in agriculture, infrastructure, research, and development on the continent.

Tinubu told the delegation, "The IFC and the World Bank need to see Africa differently. I am glad an African is at the helm of affairs at IFC, and as an African, understands that the potential for growth, peace, stability, and prosperity is here.

"The world has to see us as a continent that can help the rest of the world, and not perceive us as backwards, unstable, and with

leadership problems.

"The expectations of the rest of the world on Africa have to change. By looking at Africa as a potential opportunity and not a danger to the rest of the free world, we can stimulate growth and propel inclusiveness.

"You are at the helm now and in a position to change the perception. We are ready to change the narrative and work with you. Africa is open for business, regardless of whatever the perception may be.

"I am an African and proud to be

and will maintain the strong position to collaborate with the rest of the world to see Africa as a destination for growth and prosperity."

Acknowledging that Nigeria held the second-largest IFC portfolio in Africa, with an active investment portfolio of $2.1 billion as of April 2024, Tinubu highlighted the importance of some critical infrastructure projects embarked upon by his administration, such as the 700-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway.

French Investors to Support Establishment of Agribusiness Market in Oyo

The Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser on Agribusiness to Governor 'Seyi Makinde, Dr. Debo Akande, has revealed that a French firm, SEMMARIS-Rungis International Market, was set to support the establishment of an international wholesale agribusiness market in the state.

Akande, stated this yesterday, when a delegation of the firm, including its Head of International Projects, Timothée Witkowski and ConsultantMarket Specialist, Steve Allen, paid a courtesy visit to the governor in Ibadan. According to the OYSADA DG, the investors plan to complement the Makinde administration's efforts in the agribusiness sector with the establishment of the market, which would be a major market for agribusiness and for farmers.

A statement from the Special Adviser (Media) to Oyo State Governor, Sulaimon Olanrewaju,

quoted to have noted that investors before the visit to the governor, went round the State to see the infrastructure built by the governor in the last five years at the Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub as well as major markets.

Akande said: “The team came from what we call the RungisSEMMARIS Market in France. We have been there together with His Excellency in the past.

"What they plan to do is to support us in establishing the International Wholesale Agribusiness Market in Oyo State, most likely in Ibadan.

"This is to complement a lot of work the governor has been doing in agribusiness in the state. This will be a major market for agribusiness and for farmers as well.

“They have gone round to see most of the facilities that have been built by the governor in the past five years. They have been to lseyin-Moniya road, Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub, Bodija Market, Akinyele

DEFUNCT HERITAGE BANK: NDIC VOWS TO RECOVER N700 BILLION LOANS, ADVANCES, INHERITED BANK'S N650BN AT TAKEOVER

depositors and creditors. He also said payment of insured deposits to customers of the failed bank would commence this week, rather than the 30 days prescribed by the NDIC Act.

According to him, 2.3 million insured depositors have balances less than N5 million, while 4,000 depositors have N5 million and above.

He explained that for the insured deposits, the insured amount remained only N5 million – following the recent upward review of minimum deposit cover. He said the corporation did not need to wait until it realised the assets of the failed bank before paying the beneficiaries.

Hassan revealed that 99.9 per cent of the bank’s depositors owned less than N5 million –making it possible to pay their full deposit cover. He urged the creditors to file their claims.

Hassan said, “We would pay it immediately from the Deposit Insurance Fund, which we have built over the years through annual assessment of premiums balance paid by these banks.”

He further disclosed that at the time of takeover of the distressed bank, the corporation found deposits to the tune of N650 billion, adding that the figure may be higher by the time its examiners conclude ongoing assessments.

However, he said it would be difficult to give a timeframe for payment of uninsured depositors

– deposits of staff and management of the failed bank – as the assets of the bank will have to be sold before payment could be determined.

He added that deposits used as collateral for loans also fell under the uninsured category.

He said NDIC was ready for possible litigation resulting from the liquidation process, adding that it is also gathering evidence in this regard.

Hassan said the corporation was already engaging the judiciary for support towards ensuring an accelerated hearing of the cases, stressing that depositors tend to suffer when cases are delayed.

He maintained that NDIC had a duty to recover and pay depositors, and was moving as quickly as possible to realise this objective.

The NDIC chief executive also admitted that historically, the corporation had encountered significantly low loan recovery rates for failed banks.

But he said this time around, the NDIC Act 2023 had granted additional powers to the corporation to deal with debtors.

He said, “The most important thing is to recover them as quickly as possible and we are going to leverage the powers given to us under the Act to do that.”

He said contrary to suggestions that the revocation of the bank’s license was politically-motivated, it was purely a regulatory action for which the apex bank had issued clarifications.

Market and others to see what is currently on ground and what they can do to advance on that.

"What they have in France, which we are mirroring ourselves after, is a global market, the largest wholesale market globally and we have seen it.

“If you go there by 5 a.m, you won't see anybody because most

of the products in that place have been taken by trailers, moving to diverse places in Europe.

"So, we are anticipating that the growth of agribusiness and agriculture within our state would demand us to have that kind of a centralised system for the wholesale agricultural market.

According to him, "We have made various attempts in the past to create dams, but issues with reticulation and irrigation remain. When we consider the living conditions in rural areas where crops are produced, how much funding is allocated for rural roads to expedite transportation to consumer centres?

"The goal of the coastal road and the Sokoto-Badagry Highway is to address this."

Earlier in his remarks, Diop informed the president that during his working visit to Nigeria, the IFC had engaged in productive discussions with Nigerian partners to enhance agriculture, increase food production through irrigation farming, upgrade transport networks, and bolster regional integration.

Expressing IFC's long-term commitment to growing agribusiness in Nigeria, he announced that IFC had signed a $23.3 million loan agreement with Johnvents Industries Limited, a leading agribusiness for economic development and agricultural transformation, to develop the cocoa sector.

The IFC managing director said, "We are supporting small and medium enterprises in the

agricultural sector, and they are doing very interesting things. We need to bring in more big players into food production in the country," Diop said the corporation was ready to partner the Nigerian government on new investments in irrigation, road infrastructure, and logistics around the airport under a Public Private Partnership. He congratulated Tinubu on his one year in office and commended his bold decisions to revamp Africa’s largest economy.

IFC boss pledged the corporation's firm commitment to long-term investment in Nigeria, adding that its single largest investment in Africa is in Nigeria, where it has invested $1.2 billion in the fertiliser industry.

"We are here to support you. The world has been facing a lot of shocks and difficult situations, which have affected many African economies," Diop said.

BAGUDU: DESPITE ECONOMIC GROWTH, 40% OF NIGERIANS STILL LIVE BELOW POVERTY LINE

James Emejo in Abuja

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, yesterday, said in spite of the country's significant strides in economic growth in recent times, millions of Nigerians still experienced multidimensional poverty.

Bagudu said the country faced unique challenges in addressing poverty considering its diverse population and regions.

Speaking at the opening of a one-day high-level stakeholders' dialogue on operationalising the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) in Nigeria, Bagudu said recent figures indicated that about 40 per cent of Nigerians lived below the poverty line.

He stated, "When we apply the MPI, this percentage often reveals deeper, multidimensional aspects of deprivation."

The minister said Nigeria’s MPI brought many concerns together into one headline measure and focused on people who were being left behind in multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the same time.

He said government had positioned the index to play a pivotal role in the hands of discerning stakeholders, including policymakers at various levels of government, the academia, civil society, and the public.

Bagudu said the federal government will continue to

support the implementation of the MPI through the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS) and implementation of the eight-priority areas of the President Bola Tinubu administration.

He said the operationalisation of the MPI was a clarion call to action for stakeholders to embrace a holistic approach to poverty reduction – one that recognised the interlinked deprivations affecting millions of Nigerians.

He said by "leveraging the MPI, we can craft informed, targeted, and effective policies that address the root causes of poverty and promote sustainable development.

"Let us commit to this transformative journey with determination and unity. Together, we can create a Nigeria where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, where no one is left behind, and where the dream of prosperity and well-being becomes a reality for all."

According to him, the MPI is one of the in-flight projects of the NPRGS that was launched in 2021.

The 10-year programme was created as part of the federal government's efforts to intensify its commitment towards eradicating extreme poverty in the country, and accelerating a steady human capital growth.

He said the programme aimed to sustain the reduction in poverty through economic growth and

consistent implementation of social protection programmes.

Bagudu further explained that the MPI was launched in 2022 as a frontline effort of the government to create an evidence-based, data driven strategy for achieving the mandate of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in a decade.

The index remains a transformative tool that goes beyond traditional income-based measurement of poverty.

It was developed through the collaborative efforts of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI), and other key stakeholders.

It recognises that poverty encompasses various deprivations experienced by people in their daily lives, and considers dimensions such as education, health, and living standards, offering a more comprehensive picture of poverty.

The minister pointed out that the MPI provided a nuanced understanding of poverty's complexity.

He said, "By measuring factors, such as access to clean water, electricity, schooling, and healthcare, we can identify specific areas where interventions are needed, ensuring that no one is left behind."

In his remarks, Statistician-General of the Federation (SGF)/Chief Executive, NBS, Prince Adeyemi

Adeniran, said the dialogue had the potential to significantly shape the country's approach to tackling multidimensional poverty. Adeniran said the MPI will also ensure that policymakers had the tools they needed to succeed in tackling multidimensional poverty amid current efforts in the fight against poverty.

He said the meeting sought to build on the success of the 2022 MPI survey by ensuring that the data was used for the benefit of the citizens.

He also stressed the need to invest in continuous training and technical capacity building of personnel to be able to produce these results across the board.

Adeniran said, "It also requires devoting the necessary and adequate resources to produce the data in a timely and sustainable manner, so that the government will have the appropriate tools to effectively monitor and track the impact of the interventions, and where necessary design new interventions to address any lapses.

"While this means more resources from the government side, it also necessitates, more donor support and assistance, both financially and technically.

"While we acknowledge the support already provided by both government and partners, we appeal for more to meet this mandate and task ahead of us."

EDUN PRESENTS COST IMPLICATION OF PROPOSED MINIMUM WAGE TO PRESIDENT, TRIPARTITE C’TEE TO REACH AGREEMENT TODAY

by the Secretary to Government of the Federation, George Akume, at the presidential villa in Abuja, that the president directed Edun to present the cost implications for a new minimum wage within two days.

The labour unions are asking for an increase in the minimum from N30,000 to N494,000, following the rising inflation, high energy costs, skyrocketing transportation fares, increasing house rent, among others.

On Monday and Tuesday, the unions led a strike that grounded the country, after they shut down the airports as well as the national electricity grid, throwing the country into a total blackout.

But yesterday, prodded by reporters on how far government

negotiations with the organised labour had gone after submitting the report, Edun casually told newsmen that there was "no cause for alarm".

The Finance Minister was in the company of the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu and his Information and National Orientation counterpart, Idris.

The president had also assured that he was ready to pay more than the N60,000 offered by the government's team as the maximum the government could pay as minimum wage to workers.

And as Nigerians eagerly await the agreement on the new minimum wage by the federal government, the tripartite committee overseeing the negotiation has given hope that an agreement will be reached at

today's sitting.

In what seemed like an assurance of a likely end to the prolonged negotiation on the minimum wage, Imo state governor, Hope Uzodinma told journalists after yesterday’s session of the tripartite committee meeting that discussion on the issue was on its final stages and that an agreement will be reached by today (Friday).

He was however silent on the exact amount being proposed by government and which will form basis for discussion at Friday's meeting.

Uzodinma while speaking on the outcome of the proceeding said that the committee was taking a holistic approach to the Issues at hand.

He said: "I sure that when we

reconvene tomorrow by 11 am we will be able to reach some kind of concrete agreement and that will be the position we will present to the plenary to adopt.” When asked about the amount being proposed as new minimum wage, Uzodinma said: " It is not a matter of a specific amount, we are taking a holistic approach to the issue because it is not about minimum wage. Wages should be anchored on capacity to generate revenue and the sovereignty of the country is important to us. "It's not about the workers, it is about Nigeria, it is about our nation and it is our responsibility as citizens to work with the government of the day to ensure that the country's interest is protected"

Tinubu

OVERSIGHT VISIT TO NASENI HEADQUARTERS...

Presidency: Tinubu Never Authorised Leaked Fiscal Policy Document, No N5.4tn Subsidy Spending

Atiku urges president to come clean on petrol underpayments APC govt cesspit of corruption, deceit, says PDP

Chuks

Okocha

and Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The presidency yesterday urged the public to disregard two documents on fiscal policy currently in circulation, saying they were not authorised by the federal government.

The documents in reference are: “Inflation Reduction and Price Stability” and a 65-page draft material with the title: "Accelerated Stabilisation and Advancement Plan”. They both contained suggestions on how to improve the Nigerian economy.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement, also appealed for a halt to further discussions on the documents.

"The attention of the presidency has been drawn to two fiscal policy documents in circulation that are being given wide coverage by the mainstream media and social media platforms.

"One of the documents titled Inflation Reduction and Price Stability (Fiscal Policy Measure etc) Order 2024 is being shared as if it were an executive order signed by

President Bola Tinubu.

"The other is a 65-page draft document with the title "Accelerated Stabilisation and Advancement Plan (ASAP), which contains suggestions on how to improve the Nigerian economy.

President Tinubu received a copy of the draft on Tuesday," Onanuga said.

He urged the public to disregard the two documents saying that none was an approved official document of the federal government, as they were all policy proposals that were still subject to reviews at the highest level of government.

He added that one of the contentious documents had ‘draft’ clearly written on it.

Referencing the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, Onanuga stressed the imperative of understanding that policymaking is an iterative process involving multiple drafts and discussions before any document is finalised.

“We assure the public that the official position on the documents will be made available after comprehensive reviews and approvals are completed," he said.

Emanating from the two documents, he said, were reports second-guessing government's policy on customs tariffs, fuel subsidy and other economic matters.

"The government wants to restate that its position on fuel subsidy has not changed from what President Bola Tinubu declared on May 29, 2023. The fuel subsidy regime has ended. There is no N5.4 trillion being provisioned for it in 2024, as being widely speculated and discussed,” he quoted Edun as having stated.

As previously stated by government officials, he stated that the end of the fuel subsidy programme was announced last year, pointing out that the policy remains firmly in place.

He added that the federal government was committed to mitigating the effects of the removal and easing the cost of living pressures on Nigerians.

“Our strategy focuses on addressing key factors such as food inflation, which is significantly impacted by transport costs. With the implementation of our CNG initiative, which aims to displace high PMS (petrol) and AGO (diesel) costs, we expect to further

reduce these costs.

“Our commitment to ending unproductive subsidies is steadfast, as is our dedication to supporting our most vulnerable populations,” Edun was quoted as having further stressed.

Onanuga appealed to the media to diligently exercise checks and restraints in the use of documents that do not emanate from official channels so that the members of the public are properly informed, guided and educated on government policies and programmes.

Also yesterday, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar accused the Tinubu administration of diverting public funds through petrol subsidy, hence the refusal of the government to reveal how much is being spent on subsidy.

Atiku said this in a statement signed by his media aide, Paul Ibe, that the clandestine subsidy regime was one of the reasons investments in the oil sector had refused to come in.

Atiku said: “Tinubu has brought the shady nature of running Lagos to the federal level. He claims subsidy is gone but his Special Adviser on

Kwale Gas Gathering Hub to Contribute $240m to Nigeria's GDP Annually

Peter Uzoho in Asaba

Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is set to receive a major boost to the tune of over $240 million per annum within the next four years from the 300 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfp/d) Kwale Gas Gathering Facility (KGG) in Delta State.

Nedogas Development Company Limited (NDCL) disclosed this yesterday at the inauguration of the KGG and the upgraded Nedogas Processing Plant (NGPP)- two critical gas infrastructure, by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo.

In the project document shared at the event, the company said the $240 million contribution to the country's GDP and socio-economic growth would be through trunk line tariffs, liquid product sales to off-takers and

other infrastructural tariffs and tolling revenue due to the network and trunk line operators.

Nedogas is a joint venture between Xenergi Limited, a subsidiary of Oildata Energy Group, an indigenous Nigerian oil and gas company, and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in collaboration with the Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC), a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).

The company further said the facility would also serve as a provision of alternative gas supply to the Western flank of the ObenObiafu-Obrikom (OB3) pipeline to add to the required volume of gas for economic sustainability of the line.

It added that the facility would also lead to total eradication of flared gas and conversion of an

environmental pollution into products of value, noting that it equally created a strategic gas gathering hub and injection node for quick access to market for operators to monetise gas.

The document stated: "Immense socio-economic growth potential with contribution of up to $240 million per annum to Nigeria's Gross Domestic Products (GDP) within the first four years through trunkline tariffs, liquid product sales to off-takers and other infrastructural tariffs and tolling revenue due to the network and trunk line operators."

Meanwhile, in his keynote speech on the occasion, the minister said the two facilities would also have an impact on a number of other industries, adding that greater supply of gas from the facilities would boost the electricity industry, improve industrial productivity, and offer more environmentally-friendly

home energy options.

According to Ekpo, the Kwale Gas Gathering Facility and the Nedogas Plant which were a result of outstanding initiatives from a strategic collaboration between Nedogas Limited and NCDMB represented a significant advancement in the country's efforts to promote sustainability, energy efficiency, and economic expansion.

The minister said:"The occasion today marks not just a turning point for Delta State, but also a major turning point in Nigeria's continuous quest to use its abundant natural gas resources for the country's development.

"As a result of creative engineering, forward-thinking planning, and joint public-private sector efforts, the Nedogas Plant and the Kwale Gas Gathering Facility have been put into operation.

Energy, Olu Verheijen, says they are intervening from time to time while his Finance Minister, Wale Edun, described subsidy removal as an ‘ongoing process’.

“A document authored by the Coordinating Minister of the Economy revealing how much subsidy is being paid is now being disowned by the very authors of the document.

“Both the World Bank and the IMF have revealed in separate reports that Nigeria is still paying petrol subsidies, but the Tinubu government refuses to come clean. Even a senior member of the APC had revealed that subsidy was being paid.

“For a man who claims to be on a mission to attract foreign direct investment, it is ironic that he cannot see that his policy flip flops and lies are capable of dissuading investors.

“He must come clean on this subsidy issue since he doubles as petroleum minister. The Tinubu

administration should be courageous enough to own their policies and outcome with their full chest and responsible enough to be accountable for their actions to Nigerians," the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, stated.

Atiku explained that the denial lends credence that money meant for the Federation Account, which ought to be shared to states and local governments, is being diverted without any form of accountability whatsoever. He said: “There is a need for the National Assembly to get to the bottom of the matter rather than focusing on frivolous issues.

“The National Assembly needs to be alive to its responsibilities, especially in the area of oversight. Posterity will not be kind to members of the National Assembly if they continue to look the other way while daylight robbery is taking place,” he said.

House Probes Internet Service Providers for Alleged Extortion of Consumers

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday resolved to investigate private Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for alleged extortion of consumers.

To this end, the House called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and relevant agencies to develop a consumer protection framework that includes provisions for automatic compensation or refunds for prolonged service outages or significant deviations from advertised service levels.

It also urged the NCC to initiate a policy of ‘Pay-As-You-Go’ to all ISPs in order to minimise high level of exploitations by ISPs for services not rendered.

The resolution of the House was sequel to the adoption of a motion moved at the plenary by Hon. Leke Abejide.

Moving the motion, he said numerous ISPs has managed to evade accountability for their widespread inefficiency, feeble and inferior service delivery, while consumers are compelled to persistently pay for inadequate services due to the apparent absence of regulations governing their pricing and service provision, thereby enabling them to exploit Nigerians.

The lawmaker added that frequent service outages, slow speeds, and

inconsistent connectivity were widespread issues faced daily by consumers, as in this digital age, efficient internet connection is a necessity, not a luxury.

He expressed concern that consumers sometimes experience service outages for more than an aggregate of two weeks in a single month from some ISPs, with no mechanism for refunding subscription fees, thus perpetuating a disregard for consumer rights and leading to exploitation.

Abejide noted that one of the ISPs operating in Abuja charges its subscribers a flat monthly prepaid rate despite knowing that its services are frequently interrupted.

He stated: “For example, this company offers various tariff rates, with the highest being approximately 483, 000 per month, yet it rarely delivers uninterrupted service for even half of the month.

“Concerned that this ISP deliberately provides reliable internet service only a few days preceding monthly billing, deceiving customers into renewing subscriptions under the false impression of satisfactory performance, before immediately reverting to its persistently inadequate service levels presenting an unethical business model of exploitation of consumers that requires accountability to regulators.”

L-R: Executive Vice Chairman/CEO National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu and Chairman, House Committee on NASENI, Hon. Taofik Ajilesoro and other members of the committee inspecting the NASENI Solar Irrigation System during an oversight visit to the NASENI Headquarters ... yesterday

SIGNING CEREMONY OF FIDELITY BANK PUBLIC OFFER AND RIGHTS ISSUES...

L-R: Executive Director, Chief Operations & Information Officer, Fidelity Bank, Stanley Amuchie; MD/CEO, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe;, Chairman, Mustafa Chike-Obi; Company Secretary, Ezinwa Unuigboje; Non Executive Director, Chidozie Agbapu and MD/CEO Stanbic Capital, Oladele Sotubo during the official Signing Ceremony of Fidelity Bank Public Offer and Rights Issues held at the Bank's Head office in Lagos on Wednesday

FG Directs N150,000 Govt Grant Be Given to Each MSME Owner

.As Shettima inaugurates ultra-modern fashion hub in Ekiti,

Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) should be supported with a federal government's grant of N150,000 each.

Shettima disclosed this when he launched the 3rd edition of the Expanded National MSMEs Clinic in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

The Vice President said the N150,000 was an outright grant that does not require beneficiaries to repay.

According to him: "I am pleased to share that Mr. President has directed me to ensure that all outstanding exhibiting MSMEs at the Clinic today receive a grant of 150,000 Naira each. This is an outright grant, and the beneficiaries will not need to repay it. We extend our gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support".

The Expanded National MSME Clinics is one of federal government's strategies for making it easier to do business in Nigeria through a series of business forums organised in different cities across the country to proffer on-the-spot solutions to challenges confronting MSMEs, with the first and second editions launched in

Benue and Ogun States respectively earlier this year.

Earlier on arrival in Ado-Ekiti, the Vice President who was received by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, his wife and other top government functionaries, inaugurated the Ekiti State Ultra-Modern Fashion and Garment Hub at Odua Textile Complex, Basiri, Ado Ekiti.

Shettima and his entourage also inspected the Adire Ekiti Hub, a pet project of the first lady of Ekiti State.

Launching the third edition of the Expanded MSME Clinics at the Trade Fair Complex, Old Iyin Road in Ado Ekiti, the Vice President hinted at the initiative moving next to Borno and Enugu States, "before culminating in the National MSME Awards in FCT on June 27, 2024, to commemorate the United Nations World MSME Day".

Shettima noted that the only way the Tinubu administration is appealing "to the land of honor and integrity" is by ensuring the expansion of the labour market and supporting the required skills.

"Small businesses are the lifelines of communities across the nation and a strong pillar of stability during this critical phase of our economic transition. We cannot claim to have excelled in our interventions unless they remain our top priority. Our commitment to

revitalizing the MSME sector ensures that these businesses continue to serve their essential buffering function," he explained.

For the ultra-modern MSME Fashion Hub which he inaugurated earlier, the Vice President said while it competes ideally with others globally, the hub has the potential of creating an estimated 48,000 jobs annually.

Describing the hub as a significant milestone by the Tinubu administration to empower local industries, he stated: "It boasts the capacity to produce a wide range of fashion gear, including military uniforms, and rivals any facility in the world. Equipped with modernday machinery and technology, this hub holds immense potential for job creation, with projections estimating an average of 48,000 jobs annually.

"We anticipate that this facility will be managed by a competent private sector entity, while both federal and state governments will maintain vigilant oversight over its operations. With over 300 pieces of cutting-edge equipment, this hub represents a significant milestone in our efforts to empower local industries".

Shettima however expressed regret that it would not be possible to inaugurate the other MSME Clinic project, a fully equipped ICT hub in

Erinmope, which is about two hours from the state capital, due to time constraint.

"However, the President has approved that His Excellency the Governor of Ekiti State, his team, Access Bank and BOI MDs, along with the SSA MSMEs and Job Creation to the President, facilitate the commissioning at the Governor’s earliest convenience. This hub will create an additional 10,000 jobs within the ICT space in the Erinmope area of Ekiti," he noted.

The Vice President also disclosed that based on Governor Oyebanji's request, President Tinubu has approved the establishment of another modern ICT facility in Ado Ekiti, a project he said "will be completed within 90 days from today (Thursday).

He conveyed President Tinubu's gratitude to the government and people of Ekiti State for hosting the 3rd expanded National MSME Clinic under the Renewed Hope administration, describing it as a revitalization of the entire value chain of the nation's MSME sub-sector.

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the Vice President for his wise counsel and support for his administration in the state, noting that President Tinubu had, indeed, been a father who has

House of Representatives Okays N98.5bn

2024 Supplementary Bill for FCTA

Senate refers bill to committee on FCT

The House of Representatives yesterday passed the 2024 supplementary bill of N98.5 billion for the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

This is just as the Senate passed for second reading, the FCTA supplementary bill and referred it to its committee on FCT for further consideration.

The Chairman of the House Committee on FCT, Hon. Aliyu Betara presented the report of the committee to the House at the plenary for consideration.

President Bola Tinubu had recently presented the supplementary appropriation bill to the National Assembly for considerations, saying the money was meant to take care of critical infrastructures.

Presenting the report of his committee, Betara said the committee had scrutinised the presentation by President Tinubu and arrived at the conclusion that the money was needed

to develop certain infrastructures in the nation's capital.

He said: “That this House do consider the Report of the Committee on Federal Capital Territory on a Bill for an Act to Authorise the issue from the Federal Capital Territory Administration's Statutory Revenue Fund of the Federal Capital Territory Administration account, the total sum of N98,500,000,000 only for Capital Projects; for the Service of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, for the Financial Year ending December 31, 2024"

"Provisions of the supplementary appropriation states that the Director of Treasury of the Federal Capital Territory Administration shall, when authorised to do so by warrants signed by the Minister Federal Capital Territory Administration with responsibility to pay out of the Federal Capital Territory Administration Statutory Revenue Fund of the Federal Capital Territory Administration during the financial year 2024 the sum specified by the warrants, not exceeding in the aggregate N61 ,553,778,260.00 only,"

Betara explained.

Betara added that all revenues accruing to the FCTA, including the statutory revenue distribution shall be paid into the FCTA statutory revenue account.

In passing the budget, the House said that no money shall be withdrawn from the account mentioned in Section 3(1) above without appropriation by the National Assembly.

The House, however, granted waiver to the minister saying where, due to revenue shortfall, amounts appropriated under this Bill cannot be funded, the minister shall seek from the National Assembly a waiver not to incur such expenditure.

Senate Refers Supplementary Bill to Committee on FCT

In a related development, the Senate has also passed for second reading, the supplementary bill of the FCTA.

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, referred the bill to the Committee on FCT for further consideration.

Akpabio also directed the committee to report back to the Senate within two weeks.

The Deputy Leader of the Senate, Senator Oyelola Ashiru presented the estimates of the budget during the plenary.

The lawmakers had on Wednesday, stood down the bill because the breakdown of the budget lacked proper details.

When the fiscal document was presented again at yesterday’s plenary, the deputy leader of the Senate urged his colleagues to support its passage for the development of the FCT.

Contributing, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, also appealed to the senators to support passage of the bill.

Barau, who represents Kano North Senatorial District, claimed that the lawmakers had earlier debated on the bill before it was stepped down.

projects 48,000 jobs annually

fulfilled all of his campaign promises.

He called on the political class in Ekiti to support his administration, noting that "it is only in unity that we can attract so much for the good of the our people."

In his goodwill message, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele commended the effective collaboration between the federal and state governments, culminating in the execution of the MSME focused projects.

He disclosed plans by his office to devote a portion of his constituency project funds in the coming year to support the development of MSMEs in the state.

Also speaking, Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr Dele Alake, assured the people of the state that their welfare and wellbeing are being prioritized by the Tinubu administration.

He urged Ekiti people to support the federal government regardless of the prevailing conditions, assuring that the future is bright, as "Nigeria is going through the challenges of economic restructuring and socio-economic re-engineering".

In her remarks, the state Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Hon Omotayo Adeola, thanked the federal government for its relentless support to small businesses in the state which, according to her, birthed the first hub for garment makers in the state, among other related services.

Earlier, Shettima also inspected exhibition stands where products made in Ekiti State were on display by small businesses in the area.

During his visit to the Palace of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, HRM Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, the Vice President described Ekiti as a land of honour, commending the royal father and his chiefs for maintaining the peace in their domain and immensely supporting the administration of President Tinubu at all times.

On his part, the paramount ruler of Ado-Ekiti thanked President Tinubu for his love for the people of Ekiti State manifested in the launch of the Expanded National MSME Clinics and commissioning of a fashion and garment hub for small businesses in the state.

Kano to Unveil Intermodal Public Transport System

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, yesterday said the state would unveil the reformation of the public transport sub-sector of the economy of the state by introducing efficient and reliable inter-modal public transport system in line with global best practices.

The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Aminu Gwarzo at the Kano State Transport Policy Dialogue organised by the state government, said the that Kano had undertaken many transformation projects in the transportation sector to align with modern transportation policies.

"The dialogue was informed by the decision of this administration's drive to reform the public transport sub sector of the economy as a prelude to ensuring a safe, reliable, effective and efficient inter-modal public transport system in line with global best practices is ushered in the state," he said.

The governor listed some of government's achievements which include the construction of the first three flyovers at Kofar Nasarawa, Obasanjo Road and Murtala Muhammed Way.

"We have also constructed two underpasses all aimed at reducing traffic congestion which causes a lot of inconveniences to motorists," Yusuf added.

In his address, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa'id Alkali,

encouraged the states in the federation to develop their own transport policy in order to stimulate a well-developed transportation sector for the country.

"I wish to congratulate the state for this laudable initiative and inform that my ministry is ready to provide all necessary support for the finalisation of the policy.

"I therefore encourage other states of Nigeria to also kick start the development of their own transport policy so as to develop a well-developed transportation sector for Nigeria," he said.

He expressed delight that states such as Lagos and Kano had become trailblazers as they have recognised the need to provide a blueprint that would serve as a set of principles and ethos to guide their overall decision making for an integrated and functional transport system.

"I am particularly glad that the leadership of Kano State took to heart the resolutions of the recently concluded 18th National Council on Transportation(NCT) and convened this laudable event.

"I am very encouraged that the fundamental goal of this administration which is to develop an adequate,safe,secure, smart, environmentally sound, efficient, affordable, sustainable, preferred and integrated transport system is gradually being actualised," the minister said.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Adedayo Akinwale and Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

ABIODUN AJALA

LAUNCH OF KATSINA STATE N5 BILLION MSME FUND...

Africa Energy Bank Signed into Implementation, Signalling New Era of Hydrocarbon Growth

Peter Uzoho

The African Petroleum Producers Organisation and Afreximbank have signed the document establishing the Africa Energy Bank in Cairo, a pivotal step towards improving project financing in Africa.

The signing ceremony was held in Cairo on Monday June 3, and marked the official creation of the institution.

According to a statement, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) commended efforts by APPO and Afreximbank to not only establish such an important financial institution but to fast-track its creation.

“The AEC believes that the Africa

Energy Bank will play a central role in strengthening energy access and growth in Africa by providing the financing needed to get large-scale projects off the ground.

“The signing ceremony comes ahead of the continent’s biggest energy event – African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy – which aims to drive new investment across the continent’s energy value chain.

“Uniting investors and projects developers with African energy projects, the event has long-advocated for the establishment of an Africa Energy Bank, and in 2024, the conference will further unpack the role the institution will play across

Premium Times’ Olorunyomi Harps on Deployment of Data in Journalism

Dataphyte names Abuja centre after veteran journalist

The Founder of one of Nigeria’s investigative online newspapers, Premium Times, Dapo Olorunyomi, has highlighted the crucial role data plays in modern journalism, urging media practitioners to embrace its deployment.

Speaking at the launch of an innovation hub and unveiling of the Dapo Olorunyomi Theatre (DOT) in his honour by Dataphyte Foundation in Abuja, the renowned journalist noted that data was central to presenting insightful stories.

He explained that the modern journalist must learn how to harness data, provide analysis about it so as to give insights, and more than that, to help people get meaning out of it by visualising it.

“I believe that data is central to the project of journalism of the modern time. All the stories that we do, and we need to recreate, we need to use to achieve purpose, the whole purpose of writing, reporting, and covering is all about data.

“Indeed, the reception of our messaging is all also about data, but above all, also the whole infrastructure of how we put together the financing of journalism today and tomorrow is all about data.

“So, in a nutshell, the epicentre of journalism really is all about data.

To the extent that we want to do journalism, we want to develop

stories, provide insights about our community, requires us to first and foremost be data literate,” he said.

Olorunyomi, who also founded the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), stressed that journalism that serves the country must be rooted in data and must be one that is professional and ethical.

He commended Dataphyte for the honour, noting that the organisation had continued to play a vital role in Nigeria’s democracy.

The facility is expected to serve as a platform for fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence in data for development in the country as well as provide technology resources, training, and networking opportunities to emerging media entrepreneurs, social innovators and development practitioners, thereby catalysing social impact and sustainable development visions.

Reflecting on his early encounter Olorunyomi, the Founder of Dataphyte Foundation, Joshua Olufemi said the veteran journalist sees people as allies and not threats, and picks up opportunities in adversity.

“As I reflect on the Dataphyte vision that began in 2019, and that which drives this hub's purpose, I am reminded of the impact one person can have. Dapo's legacy inspires us, and his story finds new meaning in our pursuit of innovation and excellence.

the continent,” it added.

According to the statement, despite the role oil and gas plays in Africa, global efforts to transition to alternative sources of fuel have created a significant investment gap worldwide.

It noted that in recent years, fossil fuel funding had been declining rapidly, while IOCs divest their oil and gas assets, favoring more strategic investments. “At the same time, Africa still faces an energy crisis, with more than 600 million lacking access to electricity and over 900 million lacking access to clean cooking solutions.

“The International Energy Agency estimates that delivering modern energy to the entire continent will require up to $25 billion in annual spending until 2030, highlighting a significant opportunity for financiers.

“The Africa Energy Bank aims to directly address funding challenges by providing an African solution to financing energy projects. With $5 billion in initial capital raised from African signatories, the institution

aims to close the funding gap by providing capital to oil and gas projects across the continent.

“In a relatively short period of time, the institution has garnered substantial interest from African governments and development financial institutions, all of which recognise its role in funding future projects.”

APPO Secretary General Omar Farouk Ibrahim, had announced in March 2024, that the bank had already started receiving funds from APPO member states – underscoring the level of interest in supporting its establishment.

The bank is seeking approximately

$83 million from each of APPO’s 18 signatories, amounting to almost $1.5 billion. With the establishment of the bank, African countries would not only be able to benefit from a new source of financing but would be able to reduce their reliance on foreign capital.

Uganda National Oil Company Seeks to Partner PTI on Human Capital Devt, Others

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) has sought for collaboration with the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, Delta State, in the area of human capital development.

Chief Human Resource Officer of UNOC, Catherine Tumusiime, during a tour of the Institute facilities yesterday, said there were lots her country could learn from Nigeria's oil and gas development.

She said the key take away from their visit to PTI was that there were many areas of collaboration which Uganda could benefit from.

"We undertake knowledge sharing. We know they have a lot of expertise in this Petroleum Training Institute which we can share with Uganda people.

"We know Nigeria is far ahead of Uganda Government. We are here learning from them and oil has been here for quite some

years. We know there is a lot of national content value retention in the country.

"The government is intentional to build the capacity of their people and prevent capital flight out of the country. So we have learnt a lot in terms of value retention, the national content policy and reparation through investment into their own country and making sure there is less capital flight out of Nigeria," she said.

Host Oil Communities Defend Komolafe, Say Critics on Extortion Mission

Disclose N53.2bn, $92.7m disbursed so far under new law

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Host Communities of Nigeria (HOSCON) Producing Oil and Gas and Pipeline Impacted States in the Niger Delta, yesterday rose in defence of the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mr Gbenga Komolafe, against those they described as extortionists.

Briefing the press at the office of the organisation in Abuja, National Chairman of HOSCON, Dr. Mike Emuh, maintained that the unnamed petitioners against Komolafe, are persons the commission had stopped from cutting corners in the oil industry.

Some little known groups had recently flooded the media with unsubstantiated allegations against the NUPRC’s chief executive. But the host communities insisted that the insinuations were instigated by those affected by the changes in the operational ecosystem that has now denied them of corrupt practices.

“It is now fashionable for those who have failed in cutting corners in the oil industry, following extensive regulations in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), to resort to alleging corruption within the system and

calling for the head of the commission chief executive.

“They are reactions from those affected by current wave of reforms in the Nigerian oil and gas industry which has made it impossible for business as usual. They are fighting back. Corruption is fighting back,” Emuh stated.

Stressing that the agenda was to hoodwink and extort the commission, the host oil communities stated that the detractors have failed in their mission.

“They were the same persons, who seven months ago, threatened to shut down production of crude oil when it became obvious that the commission would not dance to their tune and that of their paymasters.

“Their requests are outside the dictates of the PIA. PIA has appropriate structures for dealing with host community developments and entitlements. Komolafe has demonstrated significant leadership, transparency and accountability in the regulatory functions of the commission,” the group added.

HOSCON pointed out that Komolafe had delivered on his regulatory responsibilities, taking into account current status of PIA and

its implementation, with recognition and attention being given to host communities, unlike in the past.

“The NUPRC chief executive and his management team are effectively implementing the regulations concerning the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) without let or hindrance, which is one of the reasons for the persistent attacks and petitions.

“The commission has diligently pursued the setting up of the Host Communities Development Trustees and subsequent release of the 3 per cent OPEX Trust fund, an aspect that most operators/settlors who have not complied with the conditions of setting up the board of trustees in accordance with the legal framework are trying to frustrate, by creating distractions through petitions,” Emuh stated.

He added that some personnel nominated into the commission were serving as agents to their godfathers, alleging that since they cannot carry on business as usual in the commission they had resorted to attacking the chief executive for refusing to act their script.

“The operators/settlers are not comfortable with the establishment

and implementation of the Host Communities Digital Operational Platform, and they have variously voiced their resentment during our stakeholders' consultative meetings.

“The platform is meant to cover all financial activities and records of the operational activities of operators/ settlors. The determination of the commission to enforce this regulatory requirement has not gone down well with them.

“Within the short period of incorporation of the HCDT, we have also noted the engagement of 71 active upstream operators, 124 incorporated Trusts, 70 funded Trusts, 167 ongoing CDT projects as well as disbursements of N53,209,213,390 and $92,773,905.

“It would clearly be seen as an aberration and a maliciously wicked act for some elements within the oil and gas producing communities or states to think of pulling down the commendable achievements already recorded by the commission within this short period, instead of joining hands to improve the economic base of the country and making the Niger Delta area a more conducive and prosperous place,” HOSCON said.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

L-R; Director General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria SMEDAN, Charles Odi; Director General, Katsina Enterprise Agency, Aisha Aminu; Governor of Katsina State, Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda; Executive Director, Corporate Services, Bank of Industry, Ussien Effiong and Managing Director, NEXIM Bank, Abba Bello, during the launch of Katsina State N5 billion MSME Fund and Dikko Business Development Services Corp in Kastina State.. yesterday

LASU'S 27TH CONVOCATION LECTURE...

L-R: Commissioner for Tertiary Education in Lagos State, Hon. Tolani Sule; Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; Convocation Lecturer, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN; Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. lbiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello; Pro - Chancellor, Sir David Sunnmoni; and Chairman of the occasion, Emeritus Professor Peter Akintola Okebukola in a group photograph shortly after the Lagos State University (LASU) 27th Convocation lecture with the theme, "Embracing the Future: Navigating the Intersection of Technology and Humanity,” on Tuesday

To Address Housing Deficit, Sanwo-Olu Inaugurates

270-unit Egan-Igando Estate in Lagos

Announces N10m reward for best-graduating student of LASU

Segun James

In a bid to address the housing deficit in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday inaugurated the 270-unit Egan-Igando Housing Estate at Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Authority (LCDA) in the state. The estate consists of 45 blocks of two-bedroom apartments with complimentary infrastructure. This is as Sanwo-Olu has also announced a cash reward of N10 million to the best-graduating student of the Lagos State University (LASU),

Mr. Olaniyi Mubaraq Olawale.

Inaugurating the project, SanwoOlu, while acknowledging the shortage of housing in the state, reiterated the determination of his administration to reduce this deficit by implementing policies that would ensure the availability of decent

homes for all.

Sanwo-Olu said: "Today, we commissioned a housing project completed by this administration but initiated by previous administrations. We completed the first phase, consisting of 270 two-bedroom units, to be handed over to qualified

Kano Emirate Tussle: Court Fixes June 13 for Ruling on Jurisdiction

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Justice Muhammad Liman of the Federal High Court sitting in Kano, has adjourned the ruling regarding the Kano Emirate tussle on the issue of jurisdiction to June 13, 2024.

The lawsuit, filed by Aminu Babba Dan’agundi—a title holder and senior counsellor in the Kano emirate, is challenging the repeal of the 2019 Emirate Council Law by the Kano State House of Assembly.

Dan’agundi, represented by M. S. Waziri, argued that the repeal of the 2019 law unlawfully stripped

both the Emirate Council and the plaintiff of their powers.

He said: "On the issue of jurisdiction, in compliance with the order of the court, we have filed a written address dated June 6 and hereby adopt same and maintain that the court has jurisdiction to entertain the matter because the issue of fundamental human rights is at stake.”

The counsel stated that the applicant as a member of Kano emirate kingmakers, ought to have been involved in the reinstatement of the new emir.

"My lord, a breach of fundamental rights has no timeline. I urge the court to proceed with the case," he added.

On the other hand, the defence, led by Mahmud Abubakar Magaji, contended that the plaintiff did not follow the proper procedure when filing the case.

According to him, the suit was disguised as a fundamental rights violation, and the 2019 law was no longer in effect when the case was filed due to the 2024 repeal.

He added: We filed a written address dated June 3 and filed June 6. In the constitution, only the Kano

State House of Assembly has the authority and power to make law.

"The applicant is neither a member of the House of Assembly or the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs. The applicant may not need to be consulted."

Also, counsel to the second and third respondents, Ibrahim Isah Wangida, aligned himself with the submission of the first and fourth respondents, arguing that the applicant cannot claim his rights was breached as the 2024 law was repealed and assented to before the applicant filed action.

House Investigates ‘Fraudulent Land Documents’ Issued Before Wike’s Appointment

Demands deployment of more emergency response specialists to rescue trapped miners

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives resolved to launch an investigation into the suspected fraudulent allocation of land documents in Abuja before the appointment of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The decision of the House followed the adoption of a motion moved at the plenary on Thursday by Hon. Jonathan Gbefwi.

In another development, the House also called on the Ministry of Solid Minerals to deploy more emergency response specialists to rescue trapped miners at the Galadiman Kogo mining site in Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State without further delay

The resolution of the House

followed the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance moved at the plenary on Thursday by Hon. Ismail Modibo.

Presenting the motion on suspected fraudulent allocation of land, Hon. Jonathan Gbefwi said by virtue of Section 297 of the Constitution, the ownership of all lands in the FCT is vested in the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He explained that Section 302 of the Constitution provides, inter alia, that the President may, in the exercise of the powers conferred upon him by Section 147 of the Constitution, appoint for the FCT, Abuja, a Minister who shall exercise powers and perform such functions as may be delegated to him by the President, from time to time.

Gbefwi added that President Bola Tinubu was sworn in on Monday 29th May 2023, marking the start of the four-year term as President and Kashim Shettima as Vice President.

The lawmaker stressed that Wike assumed office as the FCT Minister on the 21st of August 2023.

He lamented that several land title documents were fraudulently allocated while the FCT Minister position was vacant.

Gbefwi wondered if the Director of Lands or any official of the FCDA, who issued R of O’s, purportedly in the name of the Minister of FCT, at the period when the office of the Minister was vacant, have the legal right or authority to do so.

He expressed concern that some of the lands affected were subject

to litigation which were yet to be resolved.

The lawmaker regretted that some of the beneficiaries of these alleged fraudulent allocations are already using them to forcibly grab disputed land which is a recipe for conflicts. He said if the title document of any land was fraudulently issued or procured, whatever is built on it should not stand in the interest of the public.

The lawmakers who observed that some of the land documents have been backdated, unanimously resolved that all such lands which are subject to litigation or multiple allocations, should be identified and their allocation withdrawn by the Minister pending the resolution of the matter.

recipients.

"In recent months, we have focused on completing housing projects inherited from the past administrations, funded through budget allocations and joint ventures with development partners. I am delighted that we have completed this project through determination and dedication.

"This is just the first phase; the second phase, which is cluster two - comprising 216 Home units, and cluster three, which will come in the third phase, comprising 360 Home units, will soon be delivered. In total, this housing estate, when completed, will deliver 846 Home units to ease the housing deficit in the state.

"The housing shortage in Lagos State is real, but our administration is determined to reduce it by implementing policies that ensure the availability of decent homes for all, regardless of ethnic, religious, or political affiliations. Our goal is to ensure no one is left behind, providing decent housing for all citizens, whether in rural or urban areas," the governor explained.

He however urged the private sector to continue to support the state, saying the "provision of mass housing is an endeavour accomplished by the combined effort of both the public and private sectors. We urge more investors to partner with us in mass housing provision, ensuring mutual benefits for investors and the economy. Providing homes creates jobs and strengthens the financial system for all stakeholders.

"We encourage investors to explore opportunities in rural and suburban areas, where we are systematically addressing infrastructural deficits. We welcome partnerships at all levels, housing provision, convenient mortgage packaging, and peopleoriented home-rental programmes," Sanwo-Olu added.

He promised to complete the second phase, which is Cluster Two comprising 216 Home units, and Cluster Three, which will be in the third phase, comprising 360 Home units.

In his welcome address, the state Commissioner for Housing, Hon Moruf Akinderu-Fatai recalled: "The journey of Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Scheme began in 2001, with the ambitious goal of delivering 846

housing units to sub-urban dwellers in the state. However, due to funding issues, the project was abandoned and transferred to the Lagos Building Investment Corporation (LBIC) in 2006.

"Despite significant interest and financial commitments from over 924 subscribers, the project stalled again and was taken over by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure in 2013.

"With very minimal progress recorded, the project was returned to the Ministry of Housing in the Year 2016 by the former Governor, His Excellency, Akinwunmi Ambode.

"In a transformational pursuit to making Lagos a 21st Century Economy under the Year 2019 T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda of our able Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo Olu, a holistic approach to complete the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Scheme alongside other ongoing projects began.

"This led to the strategic division of the project into three clusters to facilitate its completion. It was also discovered that many buildings had failed structural integrity, leaving us the difficult but necessary decision to pull down the compromised structures and erect new ones.

"Today, we are proud to present Cluster 1, We not only celebrate the completion of these units but also the resilience, dedication, and hard work that has brought this vision to reality," the commissioner explained. Sanwo-Olu Announces N10m Reward for Best-graduating Student of

LASU

In another development, Governor Sanwo-Olu has announced a cash reward of N10 million to the best graduating student of the Lagos State University (LASU), Mr. Olaniyi Mubaraq Olawale, at the 27th Convocation Ceremony held yesterday at the main campus of the university.

A total of 11,195 graduands for the 2022/2023 academic session, comprising 554 Diploma students, 8,477 students for First Degree programmes, and 2,164 Postgraduate students (Postgraduate Diplomas, Academic Master, Professional Master, Doctor of Philosophy and Professional Doctoral Degrees) graduated at the ceremony.

POLITICS

Email: deji.elumoye @thisdaylive.com

08033025611

Interrogating Priorities of the 10th Senate

Mon-Charles Egbo takes a look at the implementation of the 10th Senate’s Agenda of Renewing Hope for a better Nigeria as captured in a document released some months back by President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

Alegislative agenda is to the parliament what a navigation compass is to a ship. Apart from offering direction, it guides appraisals. It is not a legal requirement but it is a mark of diligence and commitment to benchmark accomplishments.

However, in Nigeria, it has always been one thing formulating an agenda defined by ambitious projections and yet another thing getting them actualized, even if not completely.

For the 10th Senate, the priority areas of its agenda are food security, ending poverty, economic growth and job creation, access to capital, inclusivity, improving security, rule of law and fighting corruption.

Remarkably, there is an open acknowledgement that these are “in line with the Agenda of the President, Senator Bola Tinubu” and also that they are “ambitious yet realistic, visionary yet grounded in the needs of our people”. As such, the theme of the Senate’s agenda is Renewing Hope For A Better Nigeria.

Though this piece is just an overview of the policy thrusts essentially to track performance, it is instructive that in a developing democracy like Nigeria, where the president enjoys absolute powers and influence sequel to a faulty constitution, it is only by deliberate collaboration that the other arms can meaningfully function.

Put differently, a legislature can deliver optimally only when there is a fair balance of influence or relative equalization of powers between it and the executive. This is common knowledge, anyway, and of course, the major reason the Constitution deserves urgent attention.

Hence, the president of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, is not wrong in asserting that this Agenda is a reflection of “the collaborative spirit between the 10th Senate and the Executive”.

Again, it is noteworthy that those highlighted areas of focus are interrelated thus necessitating largely holistic strategies.

As an instance, and given the inter-connectedness of poverty, food shortage, unemployment and insecurity as indices of an ailing economy, the proposed measures include the passage of laws that prioritize technical and vocational education as well as skills development, healthcare, transportation systems, energy, export-oriented industries and non-oil sectors including the creation of opportunities for the digital economy and other emerging technology-driven sectors including, generally, an atmosphere for private sector investments.

Above all, the Senate shall initiate two specialised bills. One is to establish the National Poverty Alleviation Management Commission taking into account, the unemployed, underage, older people, and those with disabilities.

Among others, there shall be provisions for “the support needed to participate fully in the economy and society” in favour of the vulnerable population, and also, “unemployment insurance schemes to provide temporary financial assistance to unemployed individuals actively seeking work”.

Then the second legislation shall create the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Development Fund that offers low-interest loans and grants to verified SMEs. These grassrootsoriented initiatives shall be backed up by strategic policies to “attract both domestic and foreign investors”, make it easier for the banks to lend to the SMEs and generally, guarantee “a stable environment for economic activities”.

The other intended bills are on tax reform, microfinance and small business support, to stimulate sustainable investments and wealth creation, in addition to the ones that “focus on improving working conditions, enforcing minimum wage laws, and supporting workers’ rights to organize”.

The rest are “to allocate more government funding to the agricultural sector, focusing on infrastructure development such as irrigation systems, storage facilities, and rural road networks to facilitate access to markets”, ensure the safety of farmers, prevent disputes over lands and empower the agricultural research institutions for resourcefulness and productivity.

Then towards attaining accelerated improvements in farmers’ income and access to technology, private sector investments, quality of fertilizers and growth of the seed industry

as well as access to local and international markets, there shall be an integrated review of the National Agricultural Policy, Agriculture Promotion Policy, National Food Security

Council, National Fertilizer Quality Control Act, Seed Act, Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, Rural Development Policy and Special Agricultural Processing Zones.

The Senate shall also pass the Food Safety and Quality Bill to discourage food importation and ensure safe food products. Again, it shall review and expand the social investment programmes and other related existing frameworks for effectiveness.

On insecurity, the senate proposed “the formal integration of community policing into the National Security Strategy, emphasizing the role of local communities in intelligence gathering, conflict resolution, and maintaining public order”.

Equally, it is poised to consciously promote economic development programmes for the geo-political zones with an emphasis on job creation, education, and infrastructure development, and quite proactively, create “a legal framework for national reconciliation processes, including truth and reconciliation commissions, to address historical grievances and ethnic or communal conflicts”.

There shall also be specific laws for “the enhancement of border security through improved surveillance, intelligence sharing, and cooperation with neighbouring countries to prevent cross-border movements of terrorists and arms”.

-Egbo writes from Abuja.

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

Appraising Fubara’s One Year as Rivers Gov

Tony Uwakwe reviews the one-year old administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.

After the storm comes the calm; this is the case of Rivers State under Governor Siminalayi Fubara. In one year, he threaded on a path not many would dare. His message was consistent with the oath of office to serve the people, not individuals. In one year, he has recorded incredible feats despite all the distractions.

Fubara is a man who has the interest of the people of Rivers State at heart. According to him, if he has to fight so that the people can be liberated, so be it. He has done this much in the last one year in office and has commendable projects to show for it.

Rivers people are indeed indebted to him for braving the odds to free the state from the clutches of a select few who see the resources of the state as their birthright. This is indeed a worthy cause, and I can say that the governor has written his name in gold regarding the history of Rivers State.

The achievements recorded in one year remain outstanding. The state has remained a beehive of activities in critical sectors.

As a fact, almost all sectors of the state are receiving the deserved attention. This only happens when a leader puts the people’s interests first and above personal interests.

Rivers State remains a good example that other states should emulate. Only when our leaders put the people’s interest at heart will our quest for sustainable growth and development remain a mirage.

Many commentaries have been written about his modest achievements in office. It is a testament to his passion and dedication to turn around the state’s fortunes. He is not given to grandstanding. It is not an attribute that relates to his personality. The reason is simple. Rivers people deserve more due to the economic resources in the state.

At the end of four years in office, the people of Rivers state will nickname him the “Special One” who came, saw and conquered. From all indications, Rivers

state shall be great again, and the people will line up solidly behind him should he seek re-election.

It would be a formality because his records would speak for him, and the only choice the people would have is to give him the mandate to consolidate his efforts towards making the state great again.

I recall that someone mentioned that Fubara is a magician. I agree because only a magician does what he has done in one year in office despite the challenges he encountered. He was resolute with his blueprint for development. Many would have buckled if faced with such situations. But not Fubara because he has a brave heart and came prepared to do what is right, as evident in the numerous projects inaugurated in the state.

Roads across the local government areas in the state are receiving attention. Under his leadership, health care for rural dwellers has also received adequate attention, as well as in the educational sector.

The beauty of Fubara’s one year in office is that he has been able to douse ethnic tension in the state. He has made Rivers people realize that though tongues differ, there is one Rivers state. This is also remarkable and a disconnect from previous administrations that entrenched ethnicity in governance and

gave birth to ethnic tension in the state. This, we must admit, gave birth to insecurity in the state.

Under Fubara, the case is now different. Rivers people were united in one voice to fight for a just cause in the interest of the state. Various ethnic groups embraced one another because the governor was not selective in the development of the state. It is instructive to state that places that deserve interventions are given attention, not of their location or ethnicity.

I salute the courage of Fubara in hitting the ground running in piloting the affairs of the state in the last one year. His mission was clear: he wanted a state its indigenes would proudly call home. He has achieved this much in one year in office. It remains unprecedented in the annals of the state.

The fact that Rivers state has abundant resources, yet the people are lacking, is an anomaly that Fubara is addressing given the proper support and cooperation. At this point, there is no doubt he has performed creditably well in one year in office.

The country needs braver hearts like Fubara to address its myriad of challenges. He has redefined leadership by exhibiting courage in the face of adversity. This is an attribute that the majority of those in leadership positions lack.

The Rivers example should reverberate across the country. It is an example of courage, dedication and passion. These attributes are necessary for translating our hopes and aspirations into tangible realities.

I doff my hat to the governor of Rivers State. He is a man on a mission. And posterity will be kind to him.

There is nothing more to say than that Rivers State is on the path to greatness with Fubara at the helm of affairs. It is what it is.

-Uwakwe writes from Abuja.

Power is essential to rural development, argues JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA

ABBA ALIYU’S RESCO AND RURAL ELECTRIFICATION

I was scrolling through Twitter recently and saw on a man’s bio, ‘Canada Visa Advisor,’ amongst other job titles that often suggest that the person was most likely unemployed. I thought that was interesting because this Canada visa advisor is out in Lagos looking for Canada visa too, whilst he continues to advise others, earning a living from teaching them how to migrate. Elsewhere, it’d be a contradiction that someone who hadn’t found his own way was looking to get paid to show others the path. Not in Nigeria though. We are a country where contradictions often appear to be the norm. Cerebral skit maker/ comedian, Isaac Olayiwola Layi Wasabi’s ‘Mr Richard GNCC’ character is especially successful because it is relatable. However, the issue at hand is not for jokes.

One of those contradictions happened during the week. Because of its nationwide strike, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) put the nation in darkness by turning off the national grid. Nigeria’s rural areas who are off grid could not relate to that. For the rest of them whose communities are powered by renewable energy sources, conversations about the national grid breaking down or getting switched off are of no effect. Whilst a contradiction, it is beautiful.

Rural-urban migration in Nigeria and its attendant multi-dimensional effects is at an alarming rate. A World Bank estimate suggests that 53 per cent of Nigerians live in urban areas. If you think the country’s 2.4 per cent population growth rate is astounding, what would you say about its 6 per cent urban growth rate? Whatever pressure you think our runaway population growth is having on our resources, it is twice more on our rural areas. Lagos reflects that pressure because despite its respectable infrastructural development through the years, it must constantly negotiate a population growth rate that’d often render the infrastructure inadequate just a few years after they are constructed.

Nigeria must stem the tide of migration from the rural to urban areas. This of course does not mean government should get in the way of people’s right of movement. It simply means that we must create economic and social incentives for our people to prefer to work and live in rural areas.

Whilst we bear the brunt of food shortage, it was intriguing and concerning to hear the International Fund for Agricultural Development’s (IFAD) Park Sangho say, at the Korea-Africa Summit, that India alone supplies 11 MT of rice to Africa. That’s about a third of the rice consumed on the continent. With the demand for rice growing as much as 6 per cent per year according to some estimates, there is here, a problem and an opportunity. West Bengal is the

largest producer of rice in India. Some 89 per cent of West Bengal is rural. What we have refused to do with our rural areas, others are doing, and we are literally paying for them — in dollars at least and other socio-economic consequences.

To put it in simple terms, there can be no development without electricity. If that is the case, rural development cannot be isolated from rural electrification. The motivation of the young people looking to migrate from Nigeria is not so different from the young people looking to leave the rural areas for the cities. Each of them is attracted to the opportunities in their target destination. And opportunities will always be moderated by electricity. The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Dr Akin Adesina said during the bank’s Annual Meetings in Nairobi last week that his greatest concern for Africa is insecurity. You can plot an inverse relationship graph between electricity and insecurity. You get less of one when you get more of the other.

Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA) is in a vantage position to deliver affordable and sustainable electricity supply to Nigeria’s rural communities. This it has done to some respectable degree to this point. The newly deployed strategy of the REA to institute a Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCO) will help to open opportunities for the private sector to invest more in alternative power generation in Nigeria’s rural areas.

Access to power in Nigeria, and especially in rural areas requires a paradigm shift. The RESCO idea is a rare one in an industry that is happy to grow gradually. What access to power needs though is scale, on account of the gap that requires bridging. REA’s partnership with Husk Power Systems offers an exciting prospect and the more of such partnerships the agency can secure, the better for access to reliable power in our underserved communities.

According to the Act, Managing Director and CEO of the REA, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, “RESCOs play a crucial role in complementing Distribution Companies (DISCOs), focusing on utility-scale portfolios ranging from 50 to 100 MW. The partnership between REA and Husk Power will lead to increased renewable energy generation, accelerating Nigeria's renewable energy sector”. If this scales, it could be one of the most telling ideas in the industry for decades. For a country happy with any form of forward movement, the scale of Nigeria’s challenges requires that the solutions must be capable of being at comparable sizes to the problems.

The most important measure of success when it comes to electricity is whether the people can access it. The whole purpose of generating, transmitting, and distributing power is so we can power our homes and industries. Recent experiences have also shown that the future cannot rely on the national grid, even for our cities. We must explore means and ways that’d sure sustainable solutions from our rural to the urban areas.

We have at times entrusted leadership to people who appear to be working hard, but on the wrong things. With competent hands, priority often meets precision. The renewed efficiency of the REA reflects the essence of its new triple A leadership. Nigeria may yet count its success in megawatts delivered to its rural population. The outcomes of its economic productivity will leave our urban centres reaping the benefits too.

Omojuwa is chief strategist,

MUSA JOSEPH reckons that Uba Sani is rekindling the fire of unity, peace and progress in Kaduna State

‘LOVE TO ALL, MALICE TO NONE’

In Kaduna State of today, Governor Uba Sani has rekindled the fire of unity, peace and progress. And in doing this, he has been very deliberate and intentional. Gradually, the state which about a year ago was viciously divided along ethnic, religious, political and social fault lines and exacerbated by the northern and southern dichotomy, is fast receiving healing in many fronts.

It was learnt that many had expressed worry and apprehension that the new helmsman would probably open up their wounds the more, or chastise them with scorpion in place of the constant whip they were used to. But surprisingly, the same person has been at the forefront of gathering the whips and throwing them into the furnace through rapprochement, reconciliation, forgiveness to completely obliterate the sad and bitter memories of yester years and beating their swords into ploughshares. Welcome to a new Kaduna unravelling under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani who is proving by the day to be irrevocably bent on creating a brand new Kaduna reminiscent of the once peaceful and accommodating home for all.

Indeed in the last one year of Governor Uba in the saddle, a new vista has opened in terms of inter-ethnic, inter-religions and inter-social relationships. A new tune oozing harmony, warmth and affection for one another irrespective of whether you are from northern or southern Kaduna, Muslim or Christian is now on the loop, playing ceaselessly and with it, a significant drop in the heartbreaking incidents of banditry, kidnapping and general insecurity in the state.

From all indications, Governor Uba Sani, it would appear, has chosen to prioritise establishing working relationships with all and sundry both at state and even national level in a manner that is void of offence towards man and God. His motto reads something like: “Love to all, malice to none.

Truth is this deliberate move to effect healing and reconciliation didn’t just start in June 2024. Speaking in December 2023 at the Kaduna Unity Christmas Carol which was organised by the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Governor Uba Sani promised that his administration will not discriminate against anybody on the basis of religion and ethnicity. That used to be the norm. He emphasized that religious and ethnic differences have caused so much division and stunted the development of Kaduna State.

His vision is simple and straightforward. For him, the twin problems of religion and ethnicity will not stop him from “making sure that development is taken to every nook and cranny of Kaduna State”. In the Christmas carol, Uba Sani has this to say: “When I was growing up, my Dad would always force us to go to all Christmas Carols. So to me, this is a normal thing.

“Leadership is all about equity and justice. My government will not discriminate against anyone based on religion, ethnicity or whatever differences.”

Such a solemn vow. And through to his words, the governor stormed Southern Kaduna not long after the carol for the groundbreaking ceremony of four major road constructions. From all indications, here at last is a governor whose administration can be said to be committed to championing genuine reconciliation among the people in the southern part of the state.

Last week, the Governor joined the Arewa Think Tank to commemorate President Bola Tinubu’s first year in office just like his own, too. The event, which was held at the iconic Arewa House in Kaduna, highlighted the achievements of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration and reaffirmed the strength of Nigeria’s diversity.

Speaking at the occasion, Governor Uba Sani praised President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to revitalization of the economy, degradation of criminal elements, and his support for Northern Nigeria even when there had been some trenchant voices from the zone in the period under review. Expectedly, he used the opportunity to share his administration’s efforts to forge unity among Kaduna State’s diverse population, rebuilding trust and reawakening the Kaduna spirit of oneness, hospitality, resilience, and innovativeness.

The event was graced by dignitaries such as the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia; APC chieftain, Chief Bisi Akande; representatives of the Bauchi State governor, and the Chief of Defence Staff, amongst others.

Many, however, will never understand why Governor Uba Sani would take time out to celebrate President Bola Tinubu. The truth of the matter is that both politicians were in the trenches fighting for the enthronement of democracy back in the days of military dictatorship.

Little wonder that the Governor spoke out clearly and unambiguously in favour of President Tinubu in October 2022 when Tinubu and others were criss-crossing the country seeking votes from the people to be voted for as the nation’s President. He had declared that Tinubu was the most qualified for the presidency

He had argued that Tinubu fought and paid his dues for the enthronement of democracy in the country today while other presidential candidates were mere military apologists.

His argument was that it was the turn of Tinubu to be Nigeria’s President, as he has all it takes to propel the country to greatness.

Sani spoke at the award ceremony of the Association of Lagos State Indigenes in Kaduna State, during the ‘Isokan Omo Eko Day’, in the state capital. He said, “You cannot compare Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu with other Presidential Candidates, because they were nowhere to be found when Asiwaju and people like us were fighting for the enthronement of the democracy we all now enjoy today.

“I have known Asiwaju since 1992. We backed friends because we share the same convictions; the convictions for rule of law, the conviction for justice and freedom of Nigerians. We fought together for the enthronement of democracy in Nigeria.

“Nigerians should not forget that the reason we can gather here and associate freely is because of the sacrifices of some people. That is why I am calling on Nigerians to support Asiwaju Tinubu to be President of Nigeria. Of all those contesting, Tinubu is the most qualified.”

Joseph writes from Southern Kaduna

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

THE IMPERATIVE OF FOOD SAFETY

Regulators should strengthen food control systems and surveillance

With the slogan, ‘Food safety is everyone’s business’, this year’s World Food Safety Day (WFSD) stakeholders in a country where, according to the World Health

cause. Celebrated every year on June 7, the idea is according to the WHO. “Governments can commit to food emergencies, strengthening food control systems,

Consumers are enjoined “to be aware incidents and understand the consequences of unforeseen events themselves to react

has for years been a growing concern in the country. Increasingly, many Nigerians are dying, ironically, alive. Across the country there are disturbing incidents of deaths after meals.

daunting challenge hence an urgent need for strict

grains as one of the causes of the rising cases of food

borne diseases with their attendant social, economic

on Food Hygiene and Safety, launched in 2000 as an is to attain high level of food hygiene and safety

legislation will address the unsatisfactory level of food in the country.

The consumption of food grains laced with pesticides by vendors to preserve their shelf life, and protect them from destruction by pests, puts many people at risk of gastro-intestinal disorders and some types of cancers

T H I S D AY

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU

DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE

MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI

EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA

GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI

DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI

SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI

CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Letters to the Editor

widely consumed in Nigeria, and indeed in many source of carbohydrates. commonest meals, with It has one major drawback: named Linamarin which when eaten is converted to

substance to cause acute intoxication, goiter and in

most vulnerable of society, the infants, young children, Federal Ministry of Health, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and NAFDAC should mitigate all food

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

GREAT NATION SHOULD BE NIGERIA'S NATIONAL ANTHEM

of music or an anthem will need to focus on only four elements.

Nigerian anthem from the new to the old.

We will assume that when we refer to the ‘sounds’ of a song or

element, diction – the words – are often the vehicle with which the said that there is no art to tell the mind’s construction in the face,

words and the sounds sing and dance together that create rhythm, mind.

become an anathema, through the rubric of the above four ele

man from the 50s, to the new generation who are of AI, the inter Netizens would have seen a recent video of music culled from the sounds made by an angry cat to understand something of the

their mark in life through the music industry, and I can imagine old anthem would be able to ascribe it to a Nigeria of Asake, Rema, Wizkid, Ade Bantu, Arya Starr, Burna Boy, Charly Boy, D’banj, Da vido, Don Jazzy, Femi Kuti – young Nigerians who have made in delible marks in contributing to Nigeria’s new imagery as the new tened to songs that have come out from Nigeria in the last decade, struggle to come to terms with something as antediluvian as this.

that Nigeria holds. Here are a few of the words: Bob MajiriOghene Etemiku, editor in chief/publisher of WADONOR, cultural voice of Nigeria

L-R: Marketing Director, Airtel Nigeria, Ismail Adeshina; Director, Internal Audit and Risk, Airtel Nigeria, Ngozi Akamelu; Environmental Scientist and Advocate, Dr. Eugene Itua; Director, Corporate Communications and CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran; and General Manager, Customer experience, Oluwabunmi Abejirin, during an insightful employee session to mark World Environment Day 2024 in Lagos...recently

L-R: Nigeria-Britain Association (N-BA) Executive Secretary, Miss. Olajumoke Adeola; N-BA President, Mr. Sola Oyetayo; N-BA former President and Governing Council member, Mr. Shola Tinubu; representatives (students) of the third-placed school, Keke Senior High School; and Keke Senior High School Educator, Mrs. Egwuchukwu Nneka Virginia, during the Akintola Williams Youth Debate Competition held in Lagos...recently

Chairman of Ikoyi Club Golf Section, Oyetola Akeredolu (left); Brand Manager Dairy Category, Promassidor, Lilian Omorenwa (middle); and Brand Manager, Beverage Category, Promassidor Nigeria, Mrs. Candy Agu (right), with Ikoyi Club kids during the Ikoyi Club Golf Tournament on Children’s Day in Lagos...recently

L-R: Medical Director, Garki Hospital, Abuja, Dr. Adamu Onu; and Institute of Human Virology Nigeria team leaders, Ms. Nana Uwakwe; Ms. Vivien Iba, and Dr. Abiodun Enoma, when the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Infection Prevention and Control Project team presented an award to Garki Hospital in recognition of the facility’s performance in Infection Prevention Implementation, held in Abuja...recently

L-R: Deputy Director, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Ebere Ijomah; Chief Executive Officer, Sparks Ventures Hub (SVH), Mrs. Chinyere Otuonye; Director, Enterprise Development Centre, Coal City University, Enugu, Mr. Okechukwu Chukwuemeka; Enugu State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Chief Lawrence Ezeh; and Executive Director, Daniel Ukwu Leadership Foundation, Mr. Nkemakulum Ukwu, during the inauguration of Sparks Ventures Hub in Enugu...recently

L-R: Chairman, Public Account Committee (PAC), House of Representatives, Bamidele Salam; Chairman, Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Victor Muruako; and Executive Director, Orderpaper, Oke Epia, during the Orderpaper Private Sector Engagement on Public Finance Management Dialogue, with the theme: ‘Nigeria’s Fiscal Policy and the Private Sector’, held in Abuja...recently

PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN

BUSINESS WORLD

Report: Inflationary Pressure Eased to One-year Low in May

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report of the Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc has stated that the rate of inflation eased to a one-year low in May 2024.

The report also stated that the headline PMI posted 52.1 in May, up from 51.1 in April and the highest since January 2024.

The latest reading also signaled a modest improvement in business conditions in the Nigerian private sector, but one that was still less pronounced than the historical trend.

In addition, new orders increased solidly in May, extending the current

‘Incessant

sequence of growth to six months while business activity was also up, and to the largest extent since January as growth was recorded across all four monitored sectors, with the sharpest rise in manufacturing.

The PMI report said: “Although purchase prices continued to increase sharply during May, the pace of inflation eased for the second month running from March’s survey record to the lowest for a year. Weakness of the naira against the United States’ dollar continued to be the main factor raising the costs of materials, but higher fuel prices were also mentioned. “Nigerian companies increased their selling prices in May, reflecting

the pass through of sharply rising input costs to customers. Although remaining rapid, the pace of charge inflation eased to the slowest since May 2023. Around 39 per cent of respondents increased their selling prices, while 2.0 per cent reduced charges. The improvement in customer demand seen in May encouraged companies to expand their purchasing activity.”

However, the report stated that business confidence waned and was the lowest since the survey nadir posted in February despite stronger expansions in output and new orders in May as, “more than 43 per cent of respondents remained optimistic.”

Commenting on the report, the Head of Equity Research West Africa at Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Muyiwa Oni, said; “the Stanbic IBTC headline PMI increased to 52.1 points in May from 51.1 in April – its highest level since reaching 54.5 points in January. This implies that Nigeria’s private sector activity maintained a better footing in May even as the rate of expansion remained slower than the series average as high prices continued to limit demand.

“Nonetheless, the purchase costs and selling prices increased at their slowest rates in a year, thereby supporting a sharper increase in both output and new orders relative to April. The Nigerian economy grew

moderately by 2.98 per cent y/y in Q1:24 from 3.46 per cent y/y in Q4:23.

“From a structural perspective, the services sector remains the growth engine of this economy, contributing 83.2 per cent to the real GDP growth rate, with industries and agriculture contributing 15.5 per cent and 1.3 per cent respectively to the real GDP growth.”

He added, “As expected, the interest rate sensitive sectors experienced a slowdown in growth safe for the manufacturing sector whose growth improved modestly to 1.49 per cent y/y, from 1.38 per cent y/y in Q4:23 – albeit still lagging the three-year average growth (2.40 per cent y/y).

“The April and May headline PMIs point to a slight improvement in private sector activity in Q2:24, although still underwhelming compared to Q2:23. We expect domestic demand to remain weak relative to historical average; exacerbated by inflationary pressures which may likely peak in May. “Besides, interest rates at unprecedented highs will continue to have a negative pass through impact on the non-oil sector. However, because of an expected favourable base-effect induced oil sector’s growth, the overall economy is on course to grow by 3.51 per cent y/y in real terms in Q2:24.”

Disruption of Operations in Aviation Sector Erode Investors’ Confidence’

Following the recent industrial action embarked upon by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), aviation industry stakeholders have warned that disruptions are disincentive to investment in the sector.

It is estimated that the recent strike action embarked by the NLC and associated unions led to a loss of about N3 billion in the aviation industry within the 36 hours the strike lasted.

As a result of the strike, all flight operations were shut down, including private jet charter services and scheduled operators.

Also, oil and gas shuttle services that are based at the airport were not allowed to access their offices and many flights were cancelled.

Recently, aviation unions picketed Turkish Airlines office and disrupted its operations, forcing the airline to cancel its flights for some days, which led to the abandonment of passengers at the airports, before the case was later resolved.

Analysts believe these hiccups have consistently characterised the

mode of service that is delivered by Nigeria’s aviation industry.

“Strike actions embarked by labour have led to loss of humongous amount of revenues and in addition to labour strikes, government failure to abide by agreements it reached with organisations further make investing in the aviation industry very precarious, “said a top player in the industry.

Notably, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), has been having running battles with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) over period of the later’s concession agreement and the facilities at the Lagos airport that were incorporated into the agreement.

The company that pioneered the concession of cargo services at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Pan Express Limited was unceremoniously sacked from the concession by the aviation labour unions under the prompting of the then Managing Director of FAAN.

“These incidents have created air of uncertainty in the aviation sector that it will be difficult to attract foreign investment; just as local entrepreneurs are unwilling to commit funds amid

such perilous situations, “the top player who doesn’t want his name in print said.

It was learnt that FAAN and some investors have engaged in legal battles over land appropriation, where lands paid by one company would be resold to another or outrightly taken over by the agency.

A charter services operator told THISDAY how he acquired a plot of land from FAAN and the land was sold to a construction company.

“So, how do you expect somebody to invest money under such uncertainty? FAAN is a government agency. I cannot fight it. Even if I win the case, FAAN may still decide not to abide by the court ruling,” he said in exasperated voice.

The Chairman of BASL, Dr. Wale Babalakin had once warned that a country that does not abide by its own laws inhibits its growth adding that no serious investor would commit resources in such environment.

Stakeholders in the industry have noted that the greatest disincentive to investment in the aviation industry is the activity of labour unions.

Industry expert and former

Commandant of the

Group Captain John

told THISDAY that for too long the industry has allowed the unions have their way in their self-serving initiatives, embarking on strikes at whim to press for their welfare while they kill organisations that sustain the industry.

“For too long, we have allowed this to happen because the regulatory authority, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) allowed it. I repeatedly said it when it happened to Bicourtney at the MMA2 Terminal that labour unions strike should not be conducted to disturb or disrupt other airport users, operators and services providers. If they have to demonstrate against their employers, it must be carried out in the employer’s main offices outside the airport general operational areas so as not to be disturbing or disrupting other operators,” Ojikutu said.

Late last year, aviation industry stakeholders pointed out that in addition to factors that lead to poor investment in the aviation sector, high airfares and cargo

charges significantly contribute to it, describing as outrageous taxes and charges levied on airlines, entrepreneurs and other users of airports.

In order to enforce the right charges, labour has at different occasions stopped companies from operation and, as industry observers noted, there are many occasions aviation agencies use labour to disrupt operations at the airport.

In February 2020, aviation union was used to force out the officials of the Integrated Intelligent Imaging West Africa Limited (ICUBE), when it wanted to terminate its concession agreement with the company.

A coalition of aviation workers’ unions stormed the tollgate to chase away officials of ICUBE, and replaced, them with FAAN officials citing expiration of contract since February 2019.

However, the former Director General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Benedict Adeyileka, told THISDAY that it would be fair to look at the issues broadly and noted that labour unions take actions when organisations renege on agreements.

He wondered why a company will sign agreement with labour and when it is time to fulfill that agreement the company would renege. Adeyileka said when a company buys a land at the airport, he is expected to start developing the land immediately; “but some of them allow the land to lie fallow for several years, and when FAAN takes it over they would start complaining.

“You cannot take land at the airport and fail to develop it. People should be given condition if you want to acquire a land, FAAN will tell you the timeline when you are supposed to develop the land under which is there is a failure to build on that land, FAAN will take it over,” he said.

On Labour, Adeyileka said: “Companies renege on agreement with Labour. After signing agreement on the welfare of the workers in your company, they fail to abide by agreements, when labour takes action, everyone will start attacking them. That’s not the right way to go about it. But while protesting labour is not supposed to use key to lock anywhere; it is supposed to carry placards and protest.”

Chinedu Eze

Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos,

Ojikutu,

Abiodun Restates Commitment to Gateway

Stories by Chinedu Eze

The Ogun State government has expressed the determination to make the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport viable by developing facilities that attract importers and exporters to use the airport for cargo freighting and also bring in schedule flight operating for air travellers.

The state government is prompted by the desire to create jobs, boost the state’s revenue and make the airport pivotal in air transport in Nigeria.

To actualise the objective, Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has appointed three distinguished aviation consultants, each bringing huge wealth of experience and expertise to their roles.

The Secretary to the Ogun State government, Mr. Tokunbo

International Airport

Talabi, who disclosed this, said the appointments would leverage expert knowledge for the airport’s development and operational excellence. The appointed consultants include Capt. Dapo Olumide who is the Consultant on Airport Management; Benedict Adeyileka who is the Consultant on Regulatory Matters (Aviation) and Mohammed Odunowo who is the Consultant on Aviation

According to the state government, Capt. Olumide will oversee airport management, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport. His extensive background in managing airport operations is expected to set a high standard for the new airport.

Adeyileka will handle regulatory matters, ensuring the airport complies with all aviation laws

and standards. His expertise in regulatory affairs will be crucial in maintaining safety and operational standards, navigating the complex landscape of aviation regulations.

Odunowo will focus on strategic planning and the integration of advanced technologies in the aviation sector. His role is essential for positioning the airport as an innovative and efficient hub, fostering growth and development within the state’s aviation industry.

Talabi highlighted the significance of these appointments, stating that they were made based on the appointees’ relevant and extensive experience in the national and international aviation sectors.

“The above appointments by His Excellency were made considering the relevant and cognitive expertise and experience of the appointees in national and international aviation sectors,” the government said.

Uganda Airlines Wins Aviation Cup Africa Golf Tournament

East African carrier, Uganda Airlines has won the third Annual Aviation Cup Africa Tournament held in Lagos recently.

The tournament, which held in Ikeja Golf Club over the weekend, was declared opened with aceremonial take-off, by the Managing Director of Federal Airport Authority, Mrs.Olubunmi Kuku, who was represented by the Director of Airport Operations, Capt. AbdullahiMahmood, in the presence of Dr. Gabriel Olowo, the chairman of Sabre Travel Solutions.

The duo of Chris Erhagbe

and Abdulai Musa, who played for Uganda Airlines cardedcombined stableford points of 67 on Day 1 and 70 on Day 2, emerged as the winners of the Corporate Foursome team game.

Playing for South African Airways, Guy Omene and Deji Johnson recorded combined Stableford points of 63 on Day 1 and 57on Day 2, which earned them 2nd position

Speaking to reporters after ceremonial tee off, the representative of FAAN MD, Capt.Abdullahi Mahmood

said “FAAN is proud to be associated with Aviation Cup Africa GolfTournament. The event has grown in leaps and bounds in the last few years, and it is agreat way to bond with other stakeholders while enjoying the beautiful game of golf. AtFAAN, we care about the well-being of our people and will always promote healthycompetition that usually brings out the best in humanity. Congratulations to theorganizers on another successful event, and we look forward to taking more trophies nextyear.”

Ethiopian Cargo, Liege Airport Celebrate Partnership

Ethiopian Cargo and Logistics Services and Liege Airport, the Ethiopian cargo hub in Europe, have celebrated 17 years of successful partnership.

The two organisations reaffirmed their commitment to boost freighter operations and strengthen the strategic alliance that has played a significant role in connecting Europe to Africa and beyond.

Over the past 17 years, Ethiopian Cargo has played a significant role in positioning Liege Airport as a leading cargo hub in Europe. In 2023, Ethiopian uplifted approximately 160,000 tons of cargo from Liege, facilitating efficient and reliable transportation of goods between Europe, Africa, and the rest of the world.

Celebrating the estimable partnership, Ethiopian Airlines Group

CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew said: “This partnership has been instrumental in Ethiopian Cargo’s success as one of a global leader in the air cargo industry. Liege Airport provides us with a strategic location and world-class infrastructure, enabling us to offer our customers seamless and efficient cargo solutions. We are grateful to the management of Liege airport and our stakeholders for the unwavering support we have been receiving for the 17 years.”

CEO Liege Airport, Laurent Jossart, expressed his pleasure saying: “We are delighted with our long-term partnership with Ethiopian Cargo. Ethiopian is a magnificent success story and continues to grow here. The company links different continents (Africa, Asia, Europe, North and

South America, Middle East) with a fleet of state-of-the-art aircraft. Their Boeing 777s have an average age of 7 years and are among the most efficient aircraft in terms of noise and environmental performance. We are honored by Ethiopian’s confidence in Liege Airport, and we will always be at their side to help them in their development.”

The partnership between Ethiopian Cargo and Liege Airport has been mutually beneficial, contributing to the growth and development of both organizations. Ethiopian Cargo’s extensive network and operational capabilities, combined with Liege Airport’s modern infrastructure and efficient processes, have resulted in a highly effective and reliable cargo hub.

GET Opens Application for MSMEs Grant

Oluchi Chibuzor

Group Business Editor

Eromosele Abiodun

Deputy Business Editor

Chinedu Eze

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Asst. Editor, Money Market

Nume Ekeghe

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising)

Correspondents

Emmanuel Addeh (Energy)

KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets)

James Emejo (Finance)

Ebere Nwoji (Insurance)

Reporters

Peter Uzoho (Energy)

Ugo Aliogo (Development)

The Grooming Endowment Trust (GET) has announced the call for application for its third edition of Get Compass programme that seeks to support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) with grant fund.

The 2024 edition of GET Compass annual programme is where MSMEs are equipped with contemporary business etiquette and financial aid to help them scale up.

Speaking to Journalists in Lagos, the Operations Manager of the Trust, Michael Adoghe said that application for the grant commenced on May 27th 2024 to June 28th, 2024.

He said MSMEs with innovative ideas, willing to scale up and expand their operations are encouraged to apply on the GET website.

He further said that this year’s edition would provide business advisory services tailored to the

AIR WATCH

73 CEOs Sign IATA Charter on Aviation Safety Culture

Chinedu Eze

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that 73 airlines have committed to its Safety Leadership Charter, focusing on passenger and airline staff safety.

IATA said the charter was created in collaboration with airlines worldwide and aviation community members, with the goal to encourage safety cultures through eight principles.

The principles include: Reinforcing safety through both words and actions; Fostering safety awareness among employees, the leadership team, and the board; Guiding the integration of safety into business strategies, processes, and performance measures; and Creating the internal capacity to proactively manage safety and collectively achieve organisational safety goals.

Other principles include: Creating an atmosphere of trust, where all employees feel responsible for safety and are encouraged and expected to report safety-related information; Establishing a working environment in which clear expectations of acceptable and unacceptable behaviors are communicated and understood; Creating an environment where all employees feel responsibility for safety; and Regularly assessing and improving an organisational safety culture.

IATA said 2023 was the best year ever in the commercial aviation industry, noting that last year, no member airlines registered any fatalities, and not one crash occurred on a jet-engine aircraft. A turboprop aircraft crashed in Nepal in January; an ATR 72 operated as Yeti Airlines Flight 691.

IATA’s Director General, Willie Walsh, said: “Strong leadership and strong safety culture are interdependent. And both are needed to drive continuous improvements in safety performance. By putting their names to the IATA Safety Leadership Charter, 73 airline CEOs have set an example for their airlines and for the industry. In doing so, the Charter is a call to action that keeps in focus the critical obligation of airline CEOs to lead a safety culture that keeps their passengers and staff safe.”

In explaining the charter, the global body said the three major points of IATA’s strategy for improving safety in the industry, were safety leadership, safety risk, and safety connect.

“First, IATA hopes to encourage safety cultures worldwide, which Boeing leadership has discussed since the major Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 door plug blowout in January. Safety risk means that collecting and analyzing data can identify and mitigate risks. Safety connect encourages a transparent culture, enabling leaders to report, discuss, and resolve safety concerns,” the global association said.

IATA had also announced strengthened profitability projections for airlines in 2024 compared with its June and December 2023 forecasts and remarked that an aggregate return above the cost of capital, however, continues to elude the global airline industry.

needs of the final 15 businesses in addition to the business workshop they will undergo.

According to him, “Our goal with GET Compass is to provide support beyond funding. We strongly believe in the potential of SMEs as the economic driver of the Nigerian economy and are glad to present this opportunity to business owners. Supporting small businesses is the core focus of the GET Compass program. In its 3rd edition, the program seeks to empower businesses with N2 million in equity-free funding.

“The training will cover business development, marketing, branding and many more. Selected businesses will also learn from mentors in the GET business ecosystem to further provide support and morale. Interested applicants must have a registered business and be 18 years and above.”

The outlook highlights indicated that net profits are expected to reach $30.5 billion in 2024 (3.1 per cent net profit margin). That will be an improvement on 2023 net profits which are estimated to be $27.4 billion (3.0 per cent net profit margin). It is also an improvement on the $25.7 billion (2.7 per cent net profit margin) forecast for 2024 profits that IATA released in December 2023. Return on invested capital in 2024 is expected to be 5.7 per cent, which is about 3.4 percentage points (ppt) below the average cost of capital. Operating profits are expected to reach $59.9 billion in 2024, up from an estimated $52.2 billion in 2023. Total revenues are expected to reach $996 billion (+9.7 per cent) in 2024—a record high. Total expenses are expected to reach $936 billion (+9.4 per cent) in 2024—a record high. Total travelers are expected to reach 4.96 billion in 2024—a record high and total air cargo volumes are expected to reach 62 million tonnes in 2024.

“In a world of many and growing

uncertainties, airlines continue to shore-up their profitability. The expected aggregate net profit of $30.5 billion in 2024 is a great achievement considering the recent deep pandemic losses. With a record five billion air travelers expected in 2024, the human need to fly has never been stronger. Moreover, the global economy, counts on air cargo to deliver the $8.3 trillion of trade that gets to customers by air. Without a doubt, aviation is vital to the ambitions and prosperity of individuals and economies. Strengthening airline profitability and growing financial resilience is important. Profitability enables investments in products to meet the needs of our customers and in the sustainability solutions we will need to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050,” Walsh. He also said: “The airline industry is on the path to sustainable profits, but there is a big gap still to cover. A 5.7 per cent return on invested capital is well below the cost of capital, which is over 9 per cent. And earning just $6.14 per passenger is an indication of just how thin our profits are—barely enough for a coffee in many parts of the world. To improve profitability, resolving supply chain issues is of critical importance so we can deploy fleets efficiently to meet demand. And relief from the parade of onerous regulation and ever-increasing tax proposals would also help. An emphasis on public policy measures that drive business competitiveness would be a win for the economy, for jobs, and for connectivity. It would also place us in a strong position to accelerate investments in sustainability,” said Walsh.

IATA noted that profitability is expected to strengthen in 2024 as revenues grow slightly faster than expenses (+9.7 per cent vs. +9.4 per cent respectively). Operating profits are expected to reach $59.9 billion (+14.7 per cent from $52.2 billion estimated for 2023); while net profits, however, are expected to grow slightly more slowly at +11.3 per cent, from $27.4 billion estimated for 2023 to $30.5 billion estimated for 2024.

The international organisation projected that the industry revenues are expected to reach an historic high of $996 billion in 2024.

“Passenger revenues are expected to reach $744 billion in 2024, up 15.2 per cent from $646 billion in 2023. Revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs) growth is expected to be 11.6 per cent year on year. The longterm 20-year growth trend is expected to see passenger demand grow 3.8% annually for the 2023-2043 period.

Passenger yields are expected to strengthen 3.2% over 2023. When measured in constant 2018 dollars, the real average return airfare in 2024 is expected to be $252, significantly less than the $306 of 2019. This continues the trend of ever-increasing affordability for air travel, even if the figures are somewhat skewed by shorter journey distances in 2024 due to the slower pace of recovery in some long-haul markets. In line with this, IATA’s April 2024 polling data revealed that 77% of respondents agree that air travel is good value for money.

“The average passenger load factor is expected to be 82.5 per cent in 2024. This is largely in line with pre-pandemic levels (82.6 per cent in 2019) and reflects tight supply and demand conditions from ongoing supply chain issues for aircraft and engines. IATA’s April 2024 polling data aligned with expectations for continued strong performance in passenger markets. Some 39 per cent of respondents expect to travel more over the next 12 months than they did in the previous 12-month period. The majority (54 per cent) said that they expect to travel as much as they did in the previous 12 months. Only six per cent reported that they expect to travel less. Some 46 per cent of respondents expect to spend more on travel over the next 12 months than they did in the previous 12 months. An almost equal proportion (45 per cent) expect to spend the same on travel over the next twelve months while 9% expect to spend less,” IATA also said.

Access Bank: Lessons in Corporate Governance

Raheem Akingbolu reviews the recent evaluation and rating of corporate brands by Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy, which adjudged Access Bank as ‘Most Valuable Brand’, reflecting on what the feat means to the brand and the Nigeria’s banking public

Global and local experiences are sufficient for curious minds to know that brand building and sustainability are deliberate management decisions of brand promoters. As reflected in the profile of most successful brands, a deliberate brand can only be an offshoot of strategic planning, core competence and marketplace realities.

Few days ago, the comforting news by the Brand Finance report that Access Bank, for the 3rd consecutive time, had been named ‘Most Valuable Brand’ in Nigeria, confirmed that the financial brand is not an accidental brand but a deliberate brand conceptualised by fertile minds of core professionals who want to proudly represent Africa by building a global brand. From the overarching business strategy to brand message and customer service, promoters of Access Bank reflect their core competency and business vision. No wonder, the lines have fallen onto them in pleasant places.

The 2024 analysis of the latest Brand Finance report showed a significant 73 per cent increase in Access Bank’s brand value, reinforcing its status as one of the continent’s leading banking brands and clearly Nigeria’s top financial institution, per Brand Finance’s annual ranking of the world’s Top 500 Banking Brands.

In this year’s edition, the bank also led the rankings in terms of sustainability perceptions value, surpassing Flour Mills of Nigeria, which ranked second. This

“In the latest edition, it reported that banking brands accounted for 50% of the total brand value among Nigeria’s top 25 brands. Within the Nigeria 25 2024 ranking, banking brands emerged as not only the most valuable, but also the strongest and fastest growing, representing value for shareholders and investors alike.”

highlights the bank’s commitment to sustainable practices and its leadership in embedding environmental, social and governance considerations into its daily operations.

Access Bank’s brand value rose to N355.3 billion, placing it as the 31st most valuable brand in Africa, according to Brand Finance’s Africa 200 2024. This remarkable growth is primarily attributed to substantial increases in interest-based income, reflecting improved revenues and strong financial performance.

TESTAMENT OF COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

For the bank and its promoters, the rating was not accidental but a testament to their commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth. The Managing Director and the Chief Executive Officer of the bank Roosevelt Ogbonna, captured it succinctly when he stated that the management was, indeed honoured that their favourite brand was recognised again as Nigeria’s most valuable brand.

“This accolade is a testament to our commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth. We will continue to deliver exceptional value to our customers and stakeholders, driving positive impact across the communities we serve,” Ogbona said.

Speaking at the Brand Finance Nigeria Forum 2024, the Group Head of Group Marketing & Retail Analytics at Access Bank, Toyin Henry-Ajayi, also pointed out that Access Bank’s consistent performance and brand value growth reflect the management’s adherence to their core principles of excellence throughout each strategic 5-year cycle.

She said: “Our journey has been one of continuous improvement and adaptation, and we remain dedicated to setting new standards in the banking industry, while contributing our quota to Africa’s economic development.”

RANKING AND PROCESS

Perhaps the importance of the recently revealed ratings wouldn’t have received the mileage it did but for the pedigree of the ranking

agency. Brand Finance is not only a global leader in brand valuation, its process and criteria for ranking have been commended over the years.

Brand Finance is the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. Bridging the gap between marketing and finance for more than 25 years, the consultancy evaluates the strength of brands and quantifies their financial value to help organisations of all kinds make strategic decisions.

Headquartered in London, Brand Finance has offices in over 20 countries, offering services on all continents. Every year, Brand Finance conducts more than 5,000 brand valuations, supported by original market research, and publishes over 100 reports, which rank brands across all sectors and countries.

In the latest edition, it reported that banking brands accounted for 50% of the total brand value among Nigeria’s top 25 brands. Within the Nigeria 25 2024 ranking, banking brands emerged as not only the most valuable, but also the strongest and fastest growing, representing value for shareholders and investors alike.

Brand values in the rankings are calculated using the Royalty Relief approach, compliant with ISO 10668 standards. This method estimates future revenues attributable to a brand by calculating a royalty rate for its use, resulting in a ‘brand value’ that reflects the net economic benefit achievable by licensing the brand in the open market.

Managing Director of Brand Finance Nigeria, Babatunde Odumeru, commented on the resilience of Nigeria’s top brands, saying, “Despite a tumultuous financial year marked by the Naira plummeting over 30% against the US dollar and soaring inflation, Nigeria’s leading brands have displayed remarkable resilience. These top-tier brands have not only withstood economic pressures, but many have continued to flourish, with 23 of Nigeria’s top 25 most valuable brands achieving brand value growth. We are also increasingly seeing top brands continuing to expand beyond their domestic borders and grow their influence across the continent.”

“Brand values in the rankings are calculated using the Royalty Relief approach, compliant with ISO 10668 standards. This method estimates future revenues attributable to a brand by calculating a royalty rate for its use, resulting in a ‘brand value’ that reflects the net economic benefit achievable by licensing the brand in the open market.”

THE ACCESS BANK BRAND...

Like a few Nigerian brands that have become household names in the market, Access Bank started humbly about three decades ago with the ambition of becoming a solid brand that would command respect in many sectors. Armed with a well setout objective, coupled with a properly aligned strategy and service offering, the bank has grown from that humble beginning into a banking giant with an admirable reputation that transcends the local market.

Today, Access Bank is a full service commercial banking institution, operating through a network of over 700 branches and service outlets spanning 3 continents, 21 countries and over 60 million customers. Beyond a cool logo or beautiful campaigns, a lot of work and cutting-edge strategy have gone into building the bank into a formidable banking brand. With its retained status as the brand leader in Nigeria, it’s obvious that the future looks good for the brand and its promoters as Access continues to chart the path towards a prosperous future for all its stakeholders across Africa, and indeed, the rest of the world.

Aviation Sector in One-year of Tinubu’s Administration

Chinedu Eze examines the milestones in the aviation sector in one year of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the performance of Festus Keyamo as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, within the same period

Nothing fundamental happened in the aviation industry from May 29, 2023 to August 16, 2023 when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Festus Keyamo as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development to implement the agenda of his administration in the aviation industry.

Shortly after his appointment, the new minister undertook facility tour of major airport facilities and infrastructure, especially at the Abuja and Lagos airports to have a conceptual view of level of development in the sector.

FIRST EFFORTS

By the end of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, what was left loudly uncompleted was the national carrier project, Nigeria Air. The uncertainty about the project hung like thick fogs and not without burning rage in the heart of many Nigerians who were peeved about how the then Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika deceived them with the arrival of a phony Nigeria Air flight.

After reviewing the situation, Keyamo made unequivocal statement and suspended the Nigeria Air programme, saying that whatever that would happen about the airline would be at the behest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

With frequent hiccups due to several fire incidents in what is now known as the old international terminal of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, Keyamo in September last year, ordered the relocation of all airlines from the old to the new Murtala Muhammed International Airport terminal in Lagos. While justifying his action, the minister said it was a complete disgrace to the country as a whole to continue the use of the old terminal, which became an eyesore, while the new terminal remained under-utilised.

“We have 60 check-in counters in the new terminal, and most are not in use. Why are we struggling with the old terminal that is smelly, leaking, and a complete disgrace to our country? That is why I said we should use the new facility. Just like it’s done in so many countries, we are going to do some emergency procurement and get buses so that we can, in an orderly manner, board passengers, disembark them, and also bring them to the aircraft for arrival and departure. We would do this as a temporal measure,” Keyamo said.

However, renovation has been going on at the old terminal, as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) intends to fundamentally overhaul the infrastructure at the terminal because it has higher capacity and with growing passenger movement and new airlines coming to Nigeria, there will be need for the expansion of the terminal facilities.

Few weeks after he was appointed, Keyamo together with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, met the host community where the second runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport would pass through. Agreement was reached on the compensation of the people of the community and the Aviation minister few weeks later flagged off construction of the second runway. The Minister who is strictly monitoring the level of work done said that the runway would be completed very soon. Keyamo said last year that his agenda in the nation’s aviation sector was to ensure improvement and development of infrastructure for passenger convenience.

Speaking at a webinar titled, “Repositioning the Aviation Sector for Revenue Generation and growth: the role of legislation,” the Minister said he would optimise revenue generation in the sector. According to him, evolving market dynamics and global uncertainties have necessitated the need to reposition the nation’s aviation sector for sustainable growth.

Keyamo said: “As a Ministry, our mandate amongst others, is the formulation and management of the government’s aviation policies, overseeing of air transportation, airport development and maintenance, provision of aviation infrastructural services and other needs.

“To achieve this mandate, the ministry developed an Aviation Road Master Plan which clearly defines what we need to do to achieve our objectives. It is also instructive to state that upon assumption of office, I have reviewed the progress made so far vis-a-vis the existing gaps. Accordingly, we are already looking at focus areas which are encapsulated in a five-point agenda.”

KPIs

One of the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) of the Minister of Aviation, is to empower Nigerian airlines to make them profitable and to make them have the capacity to operate international routes. This was what prompted the minister to engage

lessors, aircraft manufacturers and others who play critical roles in facilitating aircraft acquisition.

Keyamo wanted to remove the tacit blacklisting of Nigerian airlines by lessors and also to review the insurance premium paid by airlines for aircraft insurance, which is outrageous and offshoot of the blacklisting of Nigerian carriers on long term leasing (dry lease).

The minister’s efforts on this prompted the Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema to commend the federal government for the commitment to help Nigerian carriers by agreeing in principle to facilitate ways Nigerian carriers can lease aircraft on the long term.

Onyema said that by that promise, the government has indicated that it is not paying lip service to its plan to provide lifeline and support to Nigerian airlines and a positive revolution in the aviation industry is now imminent.

Also, the Chief Operating Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, Mr. Osita Okonkwo had commended the minister, saying that the Minister had met with the international lobby group to prompt the lessors to remove Nigeria from their blacklist and this include Aircraft Leasing Group (ALG), comprising the two largest aircraft makers, Airbus and Boeing.

It was learnt this was one of the reasons why the Minister embarked on the bilateral working visit to France few months ago.

AIR PEACE LONDON FLIGHT

When Keyamo became the Minister of Aviation he pushed Air Peace process to fly to London from Lagos forward by travelling to the UK and to meet relevant authorities to ensure that the Nigerian carrier got approval and certification to start the London flights.

During the inaugural flight of Air Peace to London, Keyamo said: “The most important reason why Nigerians should fly Air Peace is that there would be no problem of trapped funds because it is a local company; so, it won’t need to repatriate money through the CBN. The airlines that come to Nigeria – what we experience is massive repatriation of funds that puts pressure on the naira because they have to seek dollars to repatriate revenues earned from the sale of tickets. So, it eases the pressure on the naira because this is a Nigerian company that deals in naira. We as a government must ensure that local carriers that want to embark on international flights must have access to aircraft on dry leases. If they don’t have it, it will be difficult to sustain international routes.”

AIR SAFETY

The Minister of Aviation has made significant efforts to improve air safety. Safety in Nigeria’s airspace is guided by effective regulations, navigational infrastructure and airlines operating efficiently.

The minister has initiated efforts to ensure that the right facilities and equipment are deployed in the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). He signed agreement with Thales of France when he visited Toulouse recently to ensure proper and effective maintenance of the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON).

Under the Minister, work has resumed for the completion of the Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) project and he has directed that more training should be conducted for Air Traffic Controllers and aeronautical engineers.

Keyamo

Evangelist Ebenezer Obey: The Juju Legend Who Defied

His Mother’s Wishes to Follow His

Dreams

Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi, the renowned Juju music icon and Evangelist, clocked 82 recently and is still waxing strong in his chosen career. Despite his mother’s initial disapproval and wishes for him to pursue a career in law or medicine, Obey followed his passion for music, which he believed was assigned to him by God. He began playing the drums at age 12 and formed his professional band at 15. After trekking to the Decca Records office in Lagos, he convinced the MD to give him a chance, and his music career took off and he eventually became a star. Obey transitioned to gospel music after a divine call and was ordained as an evangelist. He has mentored many artists and has over 100 albums to his name. At 82, Obey still exudes the same passion and energy that propelled him to stardom over seven decades ago. In this interview with MARY NNAH, Obey reflects on his life journey from humble beginnings to international recognition, and how he overcame scandals, challenges, and temptations to become one of Africa’s most esteemed musicians and a prominent evangelist

What’s it like to have reached the milestone of 82 years?

Iam so happy and grateful to have reached 82 years of age. It’s a time for reflection, to look back at my life in different phases. Every 10 years is worth celebrating, and reaching 82 is a testament to God’s faithfulness.

What’s the secret to your remarkable energy and vitality at 82?

It is still God who reigns supreme, whose works are eternal and unchanging. As Ecclesiastes 3:14 declares, ‘Whatever God does is permanent, nothing can be added or taken away.’ God’s sovereign actions are designed to inspire awe and reverence, so that we may fear and honour Him. Though enemies may rage and sicknesses may come, God’s presence guarantees our triumph. I have experienced this firsthand, having faced health challenges in 1980 that required surgery in London. Today, I rely on a walker for mobility, a humbling reminder of God’s grace and strength in my weakness. Recently, I underwent prostate surgery at Kelani Hospital in Lagos, and though complications arose, God’s mercy saw me through. Now, I use a walker or receive assistance from others to stand and move around - a far cry from the vibrant health I once enjoyed, but a testament to God’s sustaining power. These trials have deepened my gratitude and fueled my Thanksgiving celebration, a testament to God’s faithfulness and enduring power.

At the age of 82, many would expect you to have retired from music, but are you still actively involved in the industry?

Retiring from music is unthinkable for me. If I were to stop playing music, a part of me would die. Music is my passion, my love, and my source of joy. When I sing, I derive immense happiness from seeing people’s faces light up with delight. I feed off the joy that I bring to others through my music. It’s a reciprocal relationship that sustains me and keeps me going.

What led you to choose music as your passion and profession?

As for my music career, I believe that God has a plan for each of us. I didn’t intentionally choose music; I believe it was a calling from God. Signs of my musical inclination appeared early in life. My mother noticed my attraction to music, and the pastor even prophesied that I would become a musician. Despite my mother’s initial reluctance due to concerns about my studies, I persisted and formed my first professional band at the age of 15 in 1957. I believe that God sent me here specifically to be a musician. I trace it back to April 1942, when I was born in the church, and the signs were there.

When my mother noticed that I always crawled to the choir section and was attracted by their songs, she would follow me and pick me up, but I would still crawl back there. I remember my mother telling me that the pastor took me from her one day and announced, like a prophet, “This boy is going to the choir side, especially where they are playing musical instruments; this boy is going to be a musician.” That was how it started. I was influenced by music through the choir, and as I grew up, I became a member of the choir and the school band. I started leading a band, though I was the youngest among them, at just 12 years old. But my mother didn’t like that; she preferred me to be a member of the choir. My mother asked me one day, “What’s wrong with you, Olasupo? Why do you want to be a drummer? This drumming won’t let you concentrate on your studies. I want you to face your studies rather than drumming. I want you to be a lawyer or a doctor, so people will call me the mother of a doctor or lawyer.” She would ask me, “Don’t you like to have a pleasure car?” That was what they used to call big cars then. I would tell her that I would like to have one, and she would say that I should face my book. She asked me to promise her that I wouldn’t go out to beat the drum again, and I would promise her not to join the drummers again. But the next day, when they started beating drums, she would call me and ask if I would go out, and I would tell her that I wouldn’t. I didn’t know what happened to me, but I would always run out of the house to join the musicians, and there was no electricity then. She would come with a lantern, beat me, and drag me back to the house. She would say she wanted me to study. The more difficulties I went through with my mother, the more my mind wanted music.

One day, I asked her why she didn’t want me to drum, and she said that drummers smoke cigarettes and Indian hemp, and she didn’t want a child who smokes. I promised her that I wanted to beat the drum and sing, but that I would never smoke cigarettes or Indian Hemp. After that, I had my band, then, because the elderly people had lost interest in me. After all, my mother used to trouble them to leave me to study. So, I formed my professional band at the age of 15 in 1957.

Can you share your journey into music production and how you got your start in recording albums?

I trekked because I didn’t have money for transportation to Lagos. I trekked to the office of Decca Records from Mushin. I trekked there, and I still remember all the places I passed to get to their office on Abibu Oki Street on Lagos Island. Their studio was in Abule Oja in Yaba, but their corporate office was in Lagos Island. I got there, and the gateman didn’t want me to enter, but I told him I was a future star. Reluctantly, he finally allowed me to go in, and I met the secretary, who had a barrier that people used to pass through to get to the Managing Director. She was the secretary to the Managing Director, and it was only when she lifted that thing that you could pass. I got there in the afternoon and told her I wanted to record in the company and that I was a future star. I had sweated a lot while trekking, so she looked at me like, “Who is this?” She said she was sorry that the artist manager was on leave, and I couldn’t see any other person. I explained myself to her, and the MD pressed the intercom, it sounded on her table, and he asked what the noise was about. She told the MD that there was a young man there, who said he was a future star, and that I wanted to see him.

The MD, a white man, Mr. C.K. Crest, said they should let me in. I went inside, prostrated, and greeted him. I told him my name and said I came to record with the company and that they shouldn’t pay me; they should just record me. I said, “Pay me after you have sold my record. My record will sell.” He was just looking at me. He called Mr. Ogunbayo, who was the marketing manager, to come and see me. I prostrated again and started speaking Yoruba. I told him I was a future star and that I wanted to record an album

with them, and they shouldn’t pay me. He was just looking at me. Ogunbayo told him what I said. Later, the MD said, “I think we should give this young man a chance.” Ogunbayo said it was okay. I told the MD that I trekked from Mushin, and he said I wouldn’t trek home. He told the secretary to call somebody from the account, and he wrote something on a paper and signed it. The next thing I saw was that they put ten shillings in an envelope for my transport. That was a lot of money then. That’s how they gave me an audition at the studio in Abule Oja.

They said they wanted six songs, but they selected two out of the songs. One was “Ewa wo oun oju mi ri emo. Ara me riri mo rori ologbo lori ate.” It was about a man who went out with a plier and torchlight to go and steal somewhere. He knew they might have passed electricity through the gate, so he took those items with him. He took the pliers to cut the wire. The owner of the shop was wiser. He thought they had disconnected the thing, but he was electrocuted. In the daytime, people came to see the man before the police came. I said, “Let me sing about it.” That was at Adekunle Street, Olorunsogo, Mushin.

The second song was “Makanjuola orebikan Ara mi o, lo fi pepe wowo.” When they recorded at that time, the tradition then was that when an artist recorded, there would be a listening time for distributors to listen and order the record. If they didn’t order up to 500 copies, then the person would not be signed in. After the whole thing, it remained 19 for the order to get to 500. They told the MD, “Sir, your future star didn’t make it.” They said it remained 19 to hit 500 copies. For the first time, the MD personally ordered 25 copies to make it 506. That was the break. Later, when I became a star, whenever I wanted to go to the office, it would be like a president was coming. They would prepare well to receive me, and a lot of crowds would welcome me. Later, the white man said, “Ebenezer, I congratulate you; you knew what you wanted and you spoke with confidence.”

He said he was happy that he risked ordering 25 copies, and that if he didn’t do what he did that day, they would have lost a future star.

How did you navigate the challenges of fame, and what inspired you to create your album?

I was 21 years old in 1963 when fame knocked on my door. It was what I had always wanted to do; it was my expectation. I was convinced I would be a future star. I believed it before I even said it out loud; I was that sure. I had that confidence. Music has always been at the centre of my life, and I am a skilled composer. Adeolu Akinsanya was my mentor; I would compose songs and take them to him, and he would praise my work. God has His ways of doing things, and I believe He ordained me to come into this world and be a musician.

What was your experience with female fans when you rose to fame? How did you handle the attention and temptations that came with it?

As a musician, I’ve experienced the allure of female attention, and it can be overwhelming. But with God’s guidance and strength, I’ve been able to resist the temptation. While I can’t claim to be 100% blameless, I’ve been fortunate to have God’s help in achieving victory over my weaknesses. It’s a common challenge for musicians to face temptation, but I’m grateful for God’s grace and support in overcoming it.

What’s the story behind your stage name, ‘Obey’, and how did you come to adopt it as your musical identity?

My nickname ‘Obey’ has an interesting origin. Back in my school days, I held the position of class monitor. With this role came certain privileges, such as delivering teachers’ notes to the headmaster’s house and receiving them back on Monday mornings. As a class monitor, I also had some authority over my peers. Whenever students failed English spellings, they would face punishment - six lashes of the cane. While they try to explain why they failed so as not to get caned, the teacher would sternly say, ‘Obey first and then complain later.’ I would often repeat this phrase, and it eventually became a nickname that stuck. As I entered the school compound, pupils would greet me with ‘Obey!’ The fame was overwhelming, and I eventually adopted it as part of my name, becoming Ebenezer Obey Fabiyi. It’s a name that has stayed with me throughout my life, a reminder of my school days and the authority and respect that came with being a class monitor.

What sparks your creativity when writing songs, and what is your total album count to date? We have done uncountable albums, well over 100 albums. Inspiration is my profession, it is my gift. Composition is the easiest thing for me to do.

What qualities or actions make someone worthy of being celebrated in your songs, and does financial backing play a role in that decision?

Praise singing is an integral part of Yoruba culture. In our tradition, when a baby is born, the naming ceremony takes place on the eighth day, and drummers spontaneously gather to celebrate, even if they’re not explicitly invited. Similarly, when an elderly person passes away, drummers come to pay their respects. In the past, apart from monetary gifts, people would also offer beautiful clothes to the drummers as a gesture of appreciation. This practice is deeply rooted in our culture.

Currently, there’s a debate about the appropriateness of spraying money during celebrations, with some labelling it as naira abuse. While I agree that mishandling the currency is wrong, I believe that spraying musicians is a harmless tradition. The real issue lies with those who misuse the naira, not with those who show appreciation to musicians through monetary gestures. For many of us, this practice is a means of livelihood, and it’s essential to our daily bread. Instead of discouraging the practice entirely, we should focus on promoting responsible ways of showing appreciation, such as placing the money in an envelope. Let’s preserve our cultural heritage while maintaining respect for our currency.

What inspired your transition from Juju music to gospel music, and how did you navigate that creative shift?

My transition to gospel music wasn’t about feeling fulfilled in my Juju music career, but rather a divine calling. After years of success in the music industry, God began speaking to me, but I resisted the call for 11 years.

Obey

Advocating for Change, Resilience Among Naval Officers’ Wives through “The Women Called Wives”

Chiemelie Ezeobi

To highlight the unique challenges faced by women married to Naval Officers and other military men, Agbaje Menunaya Ayah, a renowned actor, movie producer, and naval wife, recently produced a film “The Women Called Wives.”

According to Ayah, who also serves as the National PRO of the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA), the need to address societal issues, advocate for change and instill core values brought the vision of the film to light.

Ayah spoke at the private viewing of the movie at EbonyLife Cinema in Lagos, where she hosted NOWA members led by NOWA National Vice President, Mrs. Zainab Akpan, who represented the NOWANational President, Mrs. Ijeoma Ogalla at the sidelines of the recently commemorated Nigerian Navy 68th anniversary.

She said: “The idea behind the movie is advocacy. We tried to use the movie to talk about core values that we want to impact in society and things that we think should be changed because, over time, there’s been an evolution.

Some traditional practices have not changed.As a woman, I chose to speak about those things and, if possible, correct them.

“The Women Called Wives delves into pressing issues such as hunger, starvation, unemployment, drug abuse, and the struggles within marriages and family units.

“ It sheds light on the peculiar

challenges faced by military wives and offers guidance on coping, adapting, and improving family dynamics.”

Ayah, who expressed confidence that the film would significantly impact women in the naval community, added that “we have taken steps to speak about some of the things we have considered as ills and documented them in a movie form to educate.

“The movie, which will be aired on DSTV and shown to officers’ wives nationwide, aims to reorient thinking and promote resilience. When you see a movie over time, it begins to gradually

affect the way you think. We will achieve the reorientation that we are working on”.

On how military wives cope in the absence of their husbands, Ayah said she prioritizes activities that build her family and mind, participating in training, events, and seminars designed to support naval officers’ wives.

“It takes a strong breed to be married to a military man. We need to stay focused, strong, and supportive. As part of their initiatives, the Naval Officers Wives Association hosts programs to impact both commissioned and non-commissioned officers’ wives, emphasizing strength,

mental and physical well-being, and self-love.”

Ayah also highlighted the importance of prayer for military wives. “Every woman, whether a military wife or not, should be prayerful. Without God, we will all be losing our minds. The uncertainty of our husbands’ safety is scary, and prayer is a stabilising factor.”

Her message to officers’ wives was clear: “Be strong, be prayerful, pray for your husbands day and night, stabilise your homes, and preserve your minds and those of your families. We will continue to sail in unity and unison.”

Ogalla, Delta Governor, Professor Edozien, Pastor Ezeobi, Others Set to be Honoured with Coveted Silent Heroes Awards

Victoria Ojiako

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff; RT. Hon Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State; Prof. Leroy Chuma Edozien, Ubili Ka Nkwu Ahaba; IGP Kayode Egbetokun; and Pastor Ikechukwu Edmund Ezeobi, are some of the personalities that would be honoured with the sixth edition of the Nigerian Silent Heroes Award (NSHA) on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Cabana Hall, Wells Carlton Hotel, Asokoro Abuja.

While Ogalla was nominated as a Silent Hero in Maritime Security; Oborevwori was picked as a Silent Hero in Infrastructure Development; Edozien will be honoured as a Silent Hero in Medicine and Politics in recognition of his contribution to the development of Nigeria and selflessness in service to humanity; IGP Egbetokun as Silent Hero in Policing; and Ezeobi would be honoured as a Silent Hero of Faith for his pastoral works spanning over two decades, both locally and internationally.

The 2024 annual NSHA ceremony, which is the sixth, in the series is being hosted by SHA Initiative, a non-governmental organisation, aiming to express gratitude of society to the award recipients for their kindness towards fellow individuals, families, community and environment and their silent heroic service to fatherland.

The initiative was conceived by the founder, Odita SundayUdemaguna, an influential journalist and humanitarian who noted that “In our larger society, there are men and women who are silently working assiduously behind the scenes to oil our nation’s wheel of progress.

“These people are SILENT

HEROES in their own right but have largely remained unsung and under-celebrated. Believe it or not, they are the reason our nation has made the modest progress recorded in different spheres in contemporary times.”

Other nominees include Minister of state for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON as Silent Hero in Governance; Alhaji Jibrin Baba Nadace, Director General, Voice of Nigeria as Silent Hero in Journalism; and Dr. Awele Elumelu, CEO Avon Medical Practice as Silent Hero in Medicine.

Others include Mr. Dozy Mmobuosi CEO, Tingo Inc. as Silent Hero in Fintech & Agro Development in Africa; ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr as Silent Hero in Police Image Management; Dr. Ejikeme Odumegwu Owelle as Silent Hero in Philanthropy; Alex Nwankwo, CEO Amity Global Network as Silent Hero in Image Management; and Evelyn Usman,

Asst. Crime Editor Vanguard Newspaper as Silent Hero in Journalism (Print Media).

Ogbu Johnson Chinecherem got the Silent Hero in Nollywood; Mr Jason Bent as Silent Hero in Administration; Professor Muhammad Shafi’u Abdullahi, DFCISM as Silent Hero in Education; Mrs. Judith Ogunleye (Ofulue), Founder, Ubulu-uku Community Outreach as Silent Hero in Community Development and Philanthropy; and Mr. Monye Lucky Ehiwogwu, MD/CEO as Silent Hero in Private Security Practice.

Others in the list include Shina Philips, CEO Matchmakers Int. Consult Silent Hero in Management; Dr. Osadebe Osakwe, MD North China Construction Ltd., Silent Hero in Business and Philanthropy; Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, National Coordinator HURIWA, as Silent Hero in Human Rights; Chief Dr. Aisha Tosan, CEO Bi Communications Ltd, as Silent

NIGERIAN NAVY @68: NAVAL EDUCATION DIRECTORATE HOLDS CNS DEBATE, QUIZ AND STEM COMPETITION

Victoria Ojiako

As part of the Directorate of Naval Education’s contribution to mark the recently commemorated 68th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy (NN), the 2024 Chief of Naval Staff(CNS), Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla annual Inter-School Debate, Quiz, and STEM competition for the Nigerian Navy Military and Secondary Schools, was held at the Nigerian Navy Secondary School (NNSS) Ojo, Lagos.

The competition was themed: ‘Information and Communication Technology: A Panacea for Improved Educational Service and National Development’ and in the two days event, 36 participants were drawn from the Nigerian Navy Military and Welfare Secondary Schools.

Among the schools present were Nigerian Navy Military School (NNMS) Ikot Ntuen in Akwa Ibom; NNSS Port Harcourt in Rivers State; NNSS Ogbomosho in Oyo State; NNSS Okura in Kogi State; NNSS Calabar in Cross River; NNSS Ojo in Lagos State; Command Day Secondary School, Ojo and the Naval Officers Wives Association Secondary School.

According to the Director of Naval Education, Commodore SA Ogwu, the competition was targeted at enabling the students display their mastery of their day-day classwork, which often serves as a measure for peer review.

At the event, a documentary on the exhibition of STEM competition among NN schools was watched and a debate on “The moral decadence of this generation is the result of wrong social values” was held.

During the STEM competition, the NNMS presented a security system and a web app site; the NNSS, Okura presented a liquefied petroleum gas, an agricultural multipurpose machine and a simple camp gas stove; NNSS Port Harcourt presented a new voting system and an electromagnetic steamer, one channel remote control switch and a dry and wet crop segregation strong box processor; and NNSS Ogbomosho presented flat hole unifier elastic STEM and a security entrance STEM system.

The projects were judged by uniqueness, workability, safety, creativity, originality, durability, relevance to the society, materials used and cost implications by the judges sourced from the Lagos State University (LASU), Lagos Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN), Directorate of Naval Education( DNED), Naval Air Base (NAB) Ojo, and staff from the invited schools.

Commander S O Adéyemí announced the results and it was presented by the Special Guest of Honour, the Flag Officer Commanding West, represented by the Commander NNS WEY, Cdre MM Braimah in the presence of Rear Admiral B. Iyalla. At the end of the competition, Nigerian Navy Secondary School(NNSS), Okura, Kogi State, emerged as winner of the STEM competition, while NNSS Ojo won both the quiz and debate categories.

Afurther breakdown of the winners in the various categories saw NNSS Okura, Kogi state win the STEM while NNSS Ogbomosho was second, NNSS Port Harcourt was third , while NNMS Ikot Ntuen, Akwa Ibom, was fourth.

For the Debate, NNSS Ojo was first, NNSS Calabar came second, NNMS Ikot Ntuen was third, and NNSS Okura was fourth position.

In the Quiz competition, NNSS Ojo came tops, second position was by NNMS Ikot Ntuen, third position was NNSS Okura, and NNSS Port Harcourt was fourth.

SKG PHARMA HOSTS HIGH-OCTANE ANNUAL TRADE PARTNERS

Hero in Media; Yushau Shuaib, Founder, PRNigeria as Silent Hero in Security Advocacy; Ebaide Omiunu as Silent Hero of Climate Change & Social Impact; Haliru Nababa, FICMC, MFR, mni, Controller General Nigerian Correctional Service, as Silent Hero in Public Service; and Moses Amiebenomo, CEO Sagesse De Dieu Limited as Silent Hero in Business & Enterprise. Zenith Bank bagged Silent Hero in Banking Sector; Prince Martins as Silent Hero in SME Development & Job Creation; Chief Nwoye-oba Chinedu Jonathan, CEO Lamido Motors as Silent Hero in Business and Enterprise; Christian Ogbonna, CEO Gorton Superstore Wholesale Market in Manchester as Silent Hero In Business & Enterprise; Christopher Okonkwo, Silent Hero In Cyber Security & Artificial Intelligence; and last but definitely not the least, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo Governor of Kogi State Silent Hero in Security Management .

In a move poised to revolutionize the pharmaceutical landscape, SKG Pharma Limited, a trailblazing drug manufacturer in West Africa, convened its annual Trade Partners Conference in Lagos, galvanizing distributors from across Nigeria to propel business growth and fortify relationships.

The power-packed conference zeroed in on strategic relationship-building, featuring interactive sessions, awards, and the unveiling of Novadex Extra, a groundbreaking painkiller poised to transform pain management.

Managing Director of SKG Pharma, Dr. Okey Akpa, underscored the pivotal role of partnerships, declaring, “Our Trade Partners are the backbone of our success.” Audion Pharmacy emerged as the top awardee at the National Awards, a testament to their exceptional performance and dedication. Mrs. Edith Nwachukwu, Managing Director of Audion Pharmacy, lauded the conference as a “game-changer” for the industry.

With a staggering 50+ household pharmaceutical brands in its portfolio, SKG Pharma cements its position as an industry leader. The annual Trade Partners Conference serves as a beacon of the company’s unwavering commitment to fostering growth and excellence in the pharmaceutical sector. SKG Pharma’s launch of Novadex Extra, a novel painkiller combining paracetamol and caffeine, is set to redefine pain relief. Pharm. Victoria Okon, Head of Marketing at SKG Pharma, hailed the product as a “breakthrough” in pain management.

The conference sent a resounding message of SKG Pharma’s unwavering dedication to innovation and growth,

to reshape the pharmaceutical landscape.

Mary Nnah

poised

Movie producer and NOWA National PRO, Agbaje Menunaya Ayah (in orange) with NOWA National Vice President, Mrs. Zainab Akpan (in black) and other NOWA members at the private viewing of “The Women Called Wives”

Firm Urges Investors to Take Advantage of UK Property Market

Raheem Akingbolu

In what appeared like an exhibition to a dreamland, Jide Taiwo & Co Estate Surveyors and Valuers has urged clients and prospective investors to utilise the opportunity of buying or renting properties in the United Kingdom to triple their profit margin.

The firm made this known in an exhibition held in Lagos to showcase its properties scattered across major cities in the UK, reeling out limitless investment succours for investors that would ultimately shore up their return on investment.

Managing Director, Legacy Investment Consult, Mr Hiren Naker, in his presentation on the UK property window, said UK remained the best destination for property investors as the market has remarkably grown with 183 per cent in house prices in the last 20 years.

Naker gave choice property market in Aspen, Canary Wharf; Falcon, Red Dark; Berkeley Square; Neighbourhood Heights and The One Residences, while promising investors of seamless profit on their investments.

According to the Managing Director, International Marketing, Mrs. Olashore Olawumi, first time property investors stand to gain lots of benefits making London their destination in property investment.

She said, “With the fluctuating currency regime in Nigeria, bringing your money and bringing your investment into the UK means you are going to get rental income and capital investment appreciation in pounds. Definitely you will gain a lot. And based on our current exchange rate there are many benefits for you. I can sit locally in Nigeria and be making profit in pounds in the UK.”

Speaking on why the

property firm extended its business tentacles to the UK, the Managing Director JTC & Co. Estate Surveyors and Valuers in Nigeria, ESV Mohammed Ibrahim, said that the “JTC & Co has been in Nigeria for over 40 years now with great spread. And overtime we have been able to add values to our clients’ investment. And with a spread that is incomparable to any player in the property business, I am not sounding immodest to other operators in the property business.

“So, we take advantage of the global business strength to serve Nigerians in the diaspora. We have been in the UK before but we reentered the market in 2022 to take care of Nigerians in the diaspora and other nationals. We lead in progressive and value added services across the world.

We have a presence in Dubai and very soon in America too,” he stated.

Kuda to Resume Account Opening as CBN lifts Restriction

Kuda Microfinance Bank has announced that it will resume new account opening as it has met the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) regulatory requirements.

Recently, Kuda, along with three other fintech companies, was directed by the CBN to halt onboarding new customers until specific conditions were met.

The suspension was part of a broader initiative by the CBN to enhance the Know Your Customer (KYC) processes across the financial sector.

The December 2023 direc-

tive required all financial institutions to ensure valid identification for all types of accounts, strengthening measures that were initially relaxed to promote financial inclusion.

“Kuda has made significant strides in meeting the CBN’s mandates. The bank has updated its account tiers, which now include Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3. To open a Tier 3 account, customers are now required to provide a Bank Verification Number (BVN), National Identity Number (NIN), and proof of address, which will undergo verification. This process not only ensures compliance with

regulatory standards but also enhances the security and protection of customers’ accounts. We are pleased to announce that Kuda will resume the opening of new accounts this week,” said Managing Director of Kuda Microfinance Bank, Musty Mustapha.

He added, “We have worked diligently to meet the CBN’s requirements, ensuring that our customers’ data is secure and their accounts are protected from fraudulent activities. The verification of addresses for Tier 3 accounts is a critical step in this process, providing an additional layer of security for our customers.”

CRC Credit Bureau Appoints Owoade Chairman Board of Directors

CRC Credit Bureau has announced the appointment of Mr. Joel Owoade as the new Chairman of its Board of Directors.

Owoade, currently the Group Chief Credit Officer at United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, was unanimously appointed during the board meeting held on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

Owoade, it said in a statement, brings over two decades of experience in the financial services industry, “with a strong background in credit risk management, strategic planning, and regulatory compliance. His extensive knowledge and expertise will be instrumental in steering CRC Credit Bureau towards achieving its strategic objectives and enhancing its role as a critical player in the Nigerian financial ecosystem.

“Owoade holds an M.Sc. in Banking & Finance from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and qualified as a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria in 1991. Additionally, he serves as the Vice President of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria. His academic background and professional qualifications have equipped him with a deep understanding of the financial landscape, enabling him to make significant contributions to the institutions he has served.”

“I am deeply honored by this appointment and grateful for the confidence the board has placed in me. CRC Credit Bureau has a vital role in Nigeria’s financial infrastructure, and I am excited

to work with the talented team here to enhance our service offerings, promote financial inclusion, and contribute to the growth and stability of the Nigerian economy,” said Owoade.

Mr. Owoade succeeds Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, Acting Group Managing Director/ CEO of First Bank of Nigeria, who has served out his term with distinction as Chairman. Under Mr. Alebiosu’s leadership, CRC Credit Bureau made significant strides in improving the quality and accessibility of credit information in Nigeria. His tenure was marked by a commitment to innovation, customer service, and stakeholder engagement. The board extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Alebiosu for his exceptional contributions and dedication.

Ex-Lagos AG Unveils Book on Electronic Transaction June 11

Former Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem, SAN will unveil a new book titled, “The Nigerian Law of Electronic Transactions,” on June 11. In a statement by Adeniji Kazeem & Co., the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN will chair the public presentation of the book while former Federal

Commissioner of Works, Alhaji Femi Okunnu, SAN will be the Special Guest of Honour.

The statement x-rayed the predominance of electronic transactions in the 21st century and the need to understand the legal framework that governs it.

Kazeem, as noted in its preface, said: “In today’s digital age, electronic transactions have revolutionized

the way we conduct business and manage our financial lives.

“From online banking and mobile payments to cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, the landscape of electronic transactions is constantly evolving.

“As we navigate the digital economy landscape, it is essential to understand the legal framework that governs electronic transactions,” Kazeem said.

Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq),

L-R: Events Director, Rental Professionals Society of Nigeria (RPSN), Patricia Osazuwa; Treasurer, Olayinka Thomas; President, Taiwo Oderinlo; Vice president Bunmi Adeboye and Financial Secretary, Makanjuola Bolaji during the Rental Professionals Society of Nigeria (RPSN) Press Conference held at Ikeja, Lagos yesterday. …. SUNDAYADIGUN

Kayode Tokede

Presco Shareholders Applaud Management, Okays N24.3b Dividend

Kayode Tokede

Shareholders of Presco Plc have applauded the company’s management for its effort at enhancing their returns over the years.

Also, the shareholder approved dividend of N24.30 per 50 Kobo share, amounting to N24.3billion for the year ended December 31, 2023. At the 31st Annual General

Meeting (AGM) of Presco Plc in Lagos yesterday, the shareholders authorised the company to raise additional capital through debt finance or equity raising or a combination as determined by directors.

The shareholders also empowered the directors to invest indirectly or through its subsidiary, acquire assets, all or majority of the shares of a company/companies

and entities in the same line of business with Presco Plc.

Together with the interim dividend of 200 kobo per 50 Kobo share, which amounted to N2billion, the total dividend for the year ended 31 December 2023 amounts to N26.30 per share amounting to N26.3billion.

During the period under review, the company’s revenue grew by 26.4 per cent from

N81.03billion in 2022 to N102.42 billion in 2023, while Profit After Tax reached N32.86 billion, marking a significant increase of 152 per cent from the previous year.

Addressing Shareholders, Chairman of the company, Mr Rasheed Sarumi explained that the board is firmly committed to maintaining the highest standards of corporate governance in line with best

practice.

He said: “During the year, Grant Thornton Consultants, an international corporate consultant, repeated the annual Board Assessment and reviewed the Company’s corporate governance policies and procedures to monitor compliance.

“Their report forms part of the annual report and accounts as required by the Securities

and Exchange Commission (SEC) Code and the 2018 National Code of Corporate Governance Practice.”

The chairman assured the shareholders that Presco Plc is committed to leveraging the abundant business opportunities present within Nigeria and the ECOWAS sub-region to realise its strategic growth ambitions for the benefit of all stakeholders.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF JUNE 6/24

Thisday Afrinvest Index Down 0.3%

Thisday Afrinvest 40 index dipped 0.3% to print at 3,999.85 points due to price decline in TRANSCORP (-3.3%), FIDELITY (-9.7%), and STANBIC (account for 6.2% of the index.

Local Bourse Reverses Gain ASI down 0.2%

STANBIC (-8.8%), FIDELITY (-9.7%), and TRANSCORP (-3.3%) dragged the NGX-ASI down by 0.2% to 99,134.85 points. As a result, YTD return declined to 32.6% (previously 32.8%), 56.1tn.

and value traded rose 0.5% and 10.7% to 309.8m units and Mixed Sector Performance

Performance across sectors within our coverage was balanced as two indices gained, two lost, while the Industrial Goods and AFR-ICT indices Insurance and Oil & Gas indices

gains in NEM (+8.8%), CUSTODIAN (+1.9%), OANDO (+9.8%), and ETERNA (+9.7%). Conversely, the Banking and Consumer Goods indi- -8.8%), FIDELITY (--10.0%).

Outlook

breadth, improved to -0.01x (from -0.10x) as 17 catalyst.

17Okomu Oil Palm PLC255.70

18Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC47.00

19Nigerian Breweries PLC27.90

20AXA Mansard Insurance PLC5.50

21NASCON Allied Industries PLC40.85

Breweries PLC3.99

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

BOI WINS AWARD FOR BEST SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME...

R-L: The Managing Director/CEO of the Bank of Industry(BOI), Dr. Olasupo Olusi and Mr. Christopher Moore, CEO and Publisher of the EMEA Finance at the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) Awards in London, UK. BoI won the award for Best Social Development Programme in Africa for the Investment in Digital and Creative Economy (IDice)

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate has passed a bill seeking to prescribe improved salaries, allowances, and fringe benefits of Judicial office holders in Nigeria by 300 per cent.

The development followed the adoption of report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters presented by the Chairman of the committee Senator Mohammed Monguno (lBorno North).

The Executive bill forwarded by the President is titled “A Bill for an Act to Prescribe the Salaries, Allowances and Fringe Benefits of Judicial Office Holders in Nigeria and for Related Matters”.

The bill provides a total monthly package of 5,385,047.26 for the Chief Justice of Nigeria

Justices of the Supreme Court

are to earn a total package of N4, 213,192.54, while the President of the Court of Appeal is to earn a total monthly package of N4, 478,415.78.

Also, justices of the Court of Appeal are to earn a total monthly package of N3, 726,665.40, while the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, President of the National Industrial Court, Chief Judge of the FCT High Court, Grand Khadi, FCT Sharia Court of Appeal, President of Customary Court of Appeal, Chief Judge of State High Court and Grand Khadi of State Sharia Court of Appeal and President of state Customary Court of Appeal are to earn a total monthly package of N3, 527,022.61. Monguno said stakeholders at the public hearing of the bill were unanimous in their support for its passage.

Etsu Nupe Wants Govts to Invest More in Health Sector

Laleye Dipo in Minna

The Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar has tasked governments in the country to invest more in the health sector to improve the living standard of the people and take health care delivery services closer to them.

Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar also challenged the wealthy as well as public spirited individuals to join in the provision of health infrastructure in their societies.

He commended Sunti Sugar Company for its interventions in the various aspects of the lives of its host community recalling that the company had constructed roads and educational facilities which it donated to the people.

In his address, the General Manager of the Company, Mr. Anlo Du Pisani, said the project was one of many earmarked for the community as part of its social responsibility and the license given to it to operate within the area.

He said the purpose of the bill is sacrosanct to the justice sector reform initiative of the present administration.

He said the bill was in consonance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the standing rules of the Senate.

He said, “The proposed legislation is apt and timely as the increase in remuneration of judicial office holders is long overdue in light of the present economic realities and high inflation in the country”.

Monguno said the bill was

“quite innovative,” aside from the increment in the basic salary, it also took cognisance of certain peculiarities of the administrative structure and operation of the judiciary."

He said, "Generally the bill, if passed will birth an appropriate and commensurate remuneration that will ensure judicial independence and integrity.

"That no doubt adequate remuneration will allow judicial officers to focus on their professional development without worrying

about financial constraint; hence it will improve their professionalism and decision-making skills.

"That fair compensation for judicial officers is crucial for maintaining public trust in judiciary's impartiality and integrity.

"When Judges are adequately compensated, it demonstrates a commitment by society towards the important role they play in upholding justice".

He said the increase in remuneration for judicial office holders

was essential to attract and retain highly qualified and experienced professionals who possess the necessary skills, knowledge and integrity to serve on the bench.

"That certainly, the bill if passed will give financial security to retired judicial officers after years of dedication in the profession and allowing them to remain comfortable during their retirement".

He said the increment under consideration has been captured in the 2024 Appropriation Act.

EU, UNDP Leveraging Art to Combat Sexual, Gender-Based Violence

Oluchi Chibuzor

The European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have said they are leveraging the power of art to combat all forms of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) because of the potency of art as a driver of social transformation.

This they are doing through ‘Deafening Silence’, a feature film on the theme of SGBV, now showing in cinemas across the country.

‘Deafening Silence’, a film produced by the UNDP within the framework of the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, is a programme that aligns strongly with the government of Nigeria's gender priorities, as well

as the EU’s and the UN’s Gender Action Plans.

Speaking at the screening of the film, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, represented by Head of the Governance, Gender Human Rights and Migration Section at the EU Delegation, Ruben Alba Aguilera, stated that SGBV is not only a Nigerian problem but a global issue requiring a collective effort and approach to solve it.

The EU Ambassador stressed the need for continued advocacy about the menace, to inspire action to combat it and promote gender equality and women and girls’ empowerment.

Isopi affirmed that the ‘Deafening

Silence’ movie would contribute to broader interventions around gender-based violence, connecting with rights holders and bearers, and opening up otherwise complex and difficult perspectives.

According to her, “Through initiatives like Deafening Silence we aim to spark meaningful conversations and inspire tangible action towards gender equality.

“We hope that the movie will contribute to moving the needle on these very sensitive topic, and trust that it will galvanise action and be a natural or intuitive way of further engaging with this discourse. Art has the unique ability to address sensitive issues like sexual and gender-based violence with depth and nuance."

Reaffirming the EU’s commitment to combating sexual and genderbased violence, Isopi said the power of storytelling showcased in ‘Deafening Silence’ would amplify the voices of survivors and advocates, and drive momentum for change.

“The power of art lies in its ability to evoke empathy and provoke introspection. It provides a platform for marginalised voices to be heard and validated,” she said. The film “Deafening Silence” utilises and leverages the power of storytelling to explore themes of Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment, and SGBV in Nigeria.

AKHA Approves Six Months Tenure Extension for LG Transition Committee Senate Passes Bill to Increase Judicial Officers’ Salaries By 300 %

The traditional ruler made the remarks, Thursday, while speaking at the commissioning of a Primary Health Centre constructed and donated to Kanzhi Community in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State by Sunti Sugar Company.

Alhaji Abubakar who was represented by the Galadima Rabba, Alhaji Gimba Abubakar, noted that healthcare facilities are grossly inadequate in the country requiring all hands to be on deck to arrest the situation.

The monarch said the provision of standard health facilities with modern equipment will also stem medical tourism thereby saving the country hard earned foreign exchange.

His words: "We conducted an independent needs assessment of our host community and identified priority thematic areas for development and investment and using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as reference, we resolved to support the communities in building of a school, rehabilitation of roads, water and with the latest on building of a Health Care Centre."

The General Manager who was represented by Mr. Barry Parking, promised that the company will not relent in its interventions towards improving the living standard of the people of the area.

The ceremony witnessed cultural displays and presentation of gifts.

Udeme Utip in Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly yesterday approved an extension of local government Transition Committee for another six months, pending the conduct of elections into local government councils.

This followed a report of the House of Assembly Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs presented by its Chairman,

Hon. Mfon Idung, at Plenary.

According to him, the current transition committee chairmen and members in all the local government councils were enthusiastic to implement the ‘ARISE Agenda’ of Umo Eno through implementation of capital projects, personnel development and humanitarian services.

"The house committee in carrying out its mandate, visited each local government council and upon

arrival, was received by transition committee chairmen and their team, and subsequently taken round project sites such as the Arise Demonstration Farms and other projects of each council.

"Full allocation accruable to each local government council has been released to the Council by the governor, since the inception of the interim administration.

"Most of the local government

transition committee made judicious use of the funds allocated to their councils. There was no local government council without a signature project", Idung said in his report.

The Lawmaker said the House Committee was satisfied with the performance of the local government interim administration except for a few local government councils which are under the watch of the committee.

PRESENTATION OF 2023 NBRRI SCORE CARD...

National Coordinator, Rising-up

Obi Disowns LP’s Creation of Obidient Dept, Says Movement Far Beyond Particular Political Party

The Presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in last year’s election, Mr. Peter Obi, has told his party chairman, Julius Abure, that the Obidient Movement, which was a major backbone of his Presidential quest, “is far beyond a particular political party.”

But in a swift reaction, the party renamed the Directorate as the Directorate of Mobilisation and Integration. According to a statement by the Obi's media aide, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, Obi said, “it is not domiciled within any particular party or headquartered in any particular part of the country,” Obi, in a post in his verified X handle, said: “Let this serve as a clarification that the Obidient Movement operates independently of any political party, and its membership is not limited to any particular affiliation.”

The Labour Party national chairman had created a directorate for the Obidient Movement and even appointed officials for all positions in the directorate without consultation with the movement leaders and rank and file. This elicited anger among the rank and file in the Movement.

According to the statement by Obi: “I like to categorically state that the Obidient Movement is not a directorate of any particular political party. Any individual or individuals claiming to be leaders of this non-existent directorate are

simply not members of the broader Obidient Movement.

“There may be a youth mobilization directorate in political parties but the Obidient movement is far beyond a particular political party. The Obidient Movement is a diverse and inclusive collective that transcends traditional political, religious, and ethnic affiliations.

“It is not domiciled within any particular party or headquartered in any particular part of the country. Its membership spans across Africa and the globe, comprising individuals from various backgrounds, including rural communities, and public, private, and corporate entities, united by a shared vision for a new and better Nigeria. Guided by the principles of adaptive and transformative change, progress, discipline, and democratic values, the Obidient Movement advocates fairness, equity, inclusivity, and justice.

“It is committed to a strictly accountable and responsible code of government. Our members are committed to contributing to the realization of a better future for Nigeria through the New Nigeria project, anchored on loyalty, integrity, and democratic values.

“The Obidient Movement seeks to foster positive change through a commitment to integrity, honesty, and accountability, rejecting deceitful behaviours.

“We serve as a beacon of hope

Hajj 2024: NDLEA Arrests Intending Pilgrims with Cocaine Consignments in Lagos

Some intending pilgrims to the ongoing hajj in Saudi Arabia have been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) while ingesting wraps of cocaine ahead of their flight to the holy land.

A statement by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi said some pilgrims that were lodged at Emerald Hotel, Ladipo area of Oshodi, Lagos State during the raid of the hotel were caught in the act of ingesting wraps of cocaine ahead of their flight to the holy land on Wednesday.

He revealed that those arrested during the intelligence-led operation include: Usman Kamorudeen, 31; Olasunkanmi Owolabi, 46; Fatai Yekini, 38; and a lady, Ayinla Kemi, 34.

He added that the four suspects were lodged in two rooms in the hotel where they had prepared 200 pellets of cocaine weighing

2.2 kilogrammes to swallow when NDLEA officers stormed their rooms.

He said 100 wraps of the Class A substance were recovered from each of the two rooms bringing the total seizure to 200 wraps, claiming that two suspects were to swallow 100 wraps each.

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Agency, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Marwa (Retd) while commending the Commander, officers and men of the Lagos state Command of NDLEA, which conducted the operation, said the agency will continue to spread its dragnet to track, trace and apprehend criminal elements who may want to hide under pilgrimage to carry out their nefarious activities capable of denting the image of the country

The NDLEA boss also stated that “the Agency will work with our counterparts in Saudi Arabia to ensure that the designated recipients of seized illicit drug consignments in any part of Saudi Arabia are also traced and dealt with accordingly”

for a reimagined Nigeria, where leadership is grounded in character, capacity, competence, compassion and the well-being of all citizens.

“Let this serve as a clarification that the Obidient Movement operates

independently of any political party, and its membership is not limited to any particular affiliation.

“Our focus remains steadfast on driving positive change and promoting a New Nigeria for all.

This is who we are and will remain for all time."

Meanwhile, following the controversies arising from the creation of the Directorate of OBIDIENT Affairs, in the party, the Directorate

is hereby renamed the Directorate of Mobilisation and Integration. The inauguration will take place on Saturday June 8, 2024 at the party's National Secretariat, Utako, Abuja by 10 am.

Again, Senate Bemoans Rising Insecurity, Asks Tinubu to Review Strategies

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate, Thursday, lamented the insecurity situation in Nigeria and charged President Bola Tinubu to immediately review security strategies to curtail the unfortunate development.

The Senate’s position was sequel to a motion sponsored by Senator Nasiru, Sani Zangon Daura (APC, Katsina North).

The Red Chamber also sought increased collaboration between security agencies and state governments on matters of security.

The Senate specifically urged Tinubu to direct a thorough review and evaluation of the strategies employed by Security Agencies in the North West and North Central region.

The senate asked the President to consider the deployment of additional security personnel/special task forces to the identified hotspots to ensure the protection of lives and properties.

It charged security agencies to take matters of intelligence gathering more seriously.

It specifically sought "the establishment of a task force to evaluate the effectiveness and implications of negotiating with bandits, conducting a thorough analysis of the shortterm gains versus the long-term consequences of such actions"

Apart from this, the upper chamber also called on the Military/

Security Agencies to be proactive and innovative in their strategies to secure farmlands so that farmers may return to their farms to ensure increased food production and food security.

Former Senate Majority Leader, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, in his contribution to the debate opened up on how residents were being made to make financial payments to kidnappers.

He said: "The entire North Central and North West are on fire. There is no security anywhere. We pay kidnappers. This thing has become commonplace.

"We don't see it as news again. It is ubiquitous. Are we going to continue to talk? There is no recommendations being made now that haven't been recommended in the past.

"We must reach out to the President of this country to look at our recommendations. It is all encompassing. We have wasted a lot of resources at this National Assembly but nothing has been done. We won't give up on this nation."

Also, former Senate Deputy Majority Leader, Senator Abdul Ningi, said the president should consider giving time frame to appointments of service chiefs

"The President is the appointing authority. I think he must give a time frame for his Service Chiefs when appointing them. There must be a timeline to IGP and others when they

are being appointed. 10,000 bandits can't be holding over 250million Nigerians to ransome."

Ningi accused some senior security chiefs of compromise.

He said, "We need to sit down with Mr. President and give him the information that he doesn't have. We must give them what they needed, there must be timelines. Once they know that they can lose their jobs, they will sit up.

"I have my fear that one of these days, if care isn't taken, one of these states will be taken over by bandits.

Defending his motion earlier, Daura noted that "Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa and Kebbi States have been plagued by escalating banditry attacks, resulting in 'loss of lives, kidnapping for ransom, displacement of communities and disruption of socio-economic activities"

He also drew attention to the need for collaboration and coordination among state governments, security agencies and relevant stakeholders to develop holistic and sustainable solutions to the challenges posed by banditry in Northwest Nigeria.

Daura expressed concerns that incessant banditry attacks on communities in Northwest region has significantly affected food production and agricultural activities.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar'adua

said security agencies should be commended for what they have been doing. At the same time, knowing how they have been losing their lives, in the fight against insurgency.

He said: "I want to support the fact that there is need for a coordinated effort. However, we must realise that our security agencies need the right equipment and what it takes to be able to carry out this coordinated effort.

"So, it is important that we realise that whenever the security agencies come to us here seeking to get this equipment it is very important for us to realise that we have to pass their budgets. One of the impediments they are having is the issue of this envelope budget.

"As I'm talking to you, the supplementary budget of the army, the capital project appropriation is yet to be released to them. So how do you expect them to fight this battle?

"It was lodged in the recurrent expenditure and yet they have not gotten what they need to fight this battle. So, I think it is very important for us to understand.

"The issue of coordination, I think I even raise the motion here on the need for them to improve in their synergy. And if we remember, we invited them here and they won't conform to us that there is a great effort in ensuring that the synergy among them."

Fashola Wants Building of Infrastructure to Support Art, Tourism

Funke Olaode

A former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) has called on government to develop infrastructure that would make art, tourism and talent thrive as a driver of growth.

Fashola, who made the statement yesterday at the ongoing 2024 Egbe Amofin Oodua (Yoruba Lawyers' Forum) annual conference holding at Airport Hotel, Lagos, noted that what Nigeria needs to achieve the desired change is inclusive and expansive growth.

The former governor of Lagos state encouraged members of the group to promote dispute resolution mechanisms

among their clients, urging the Yoruba lawyers to rethink their roles as agents of development.

Fashola emphasised that the prospect for development growth requires enabling law reform’s to ease of doing business.

"In cases where injunctions have been granted ex-parte or on notice and the party who got them turned out not to be entitled, what has been the consequence?

" How many lawyers/judges have been involved in trial to enforce the indemnity given for a wrongly granted injunction and what was the outcome? The prospects for economic growth depend on our collective professionalism to help overcome

challenges that stand in the way.

"As an Egbe of legal practitioners, a lot exists that we can do including but not limited to...promoting an efficient dispute resolution process that aids ease of doing business and the removal of legal hurdles to ease of construction and delivering hard infrastructure.

"These are my thoughts on the prospects and challenges for economic growth. The possibilities are enormous, but we must act deliberately and in collaboration to realise them," he said.

In his remarks, a candidate for the position of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) 1st Vice President, Reginald Ugwuadu, urged the legal minds to interrogate the challenges facing the

administration of justice and proffer solutions.

He urged participants to use their own power to strengthen democracy and the rule of law.

Earlier in his address, Dr Kemi Peinhero (SAN) said an efficient judicial system provides the framework for stability and economic development.

"It is crystal clear that a working and functional judicial system plays a major role in the society in maintaining, not just law and order but boosting the economy.

'The government must as a matter of great importance take active steps towards reforming the judiciary to ensure the expeditious and fair administration of justice.

L-R:

of United Nigeria (RUN), Samson Adodo; Chief Executive Officer, Dellamond Global Concept Ltd. Adebayo Olumide; Director General, National Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), Prof. Samson Duna; Representative of ICPC Chairman, Jimoh Oladipupo and President, Civil Society Groups for Good Governance, Chief Ogakwu Dominic, during the presentation of 2023 NBRRI Score Card in Abuja on Thursday ENOCK REUBEN

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Tension Rises as Senate Demands Breakdown of N’Assembly Staff List

Fumes over lopsided recruitments North-central, 1,024 workers; south-south, 631; south-east, 592; north-west, 564; north

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs, has directed authorities of the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) to provide details of the 3,000 members of staff on the employment of the federal parliament.

The Chairman of the Committee, Senator Allwell Onyesoh (PDP Rivers East) gave the marching order during an investigative session with the Chairman of the Commission, Ahmed Amshi and top management staff of the NASC.

The senators were probing the Commission's appointments and the extent of its compliance with the Federal Character Principles.

The federal lawmakers during the engagement, maintained that recruitments by any federal agencies which is not in compliance to federal character would amount to a breach of the Constitution.

Although the NASC Chairman told the senators that the Commission had never done any recruitment since he assumed office, the breakdown of the staff records presented by the commission did not confirm his submission.

He nevertheless noted that the last time employment was done by the Commission was in 2018. He also told the Committee that

the Commission has a staff strength of 3000 with statistical distribution of the number of workers according to zones.

According to Amshi, the North Central has a total of 1,024 workers, which is the largest; South-south has 631; South East, 592; North West, 564; North East, 474 and South West, 436.

The Chairman of the Senate panel therefore, directed the NASC Chairman to provide the Committee with more documents.

He was told to provide details of how many workers were recruited

from each state and each local government area of every zone.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, Onyesoh said: "We asked for further explanation because when you lump everything together, it doesn't answer the question explicitly."

He added: "For us to get to the root, we asked for further explanation, by way of more documents breaking it down to states and then to LGAs, because I have a situation where a particular region has 1024 workers in one place out of 3000.

"You will now go home with a feeling that this zone is over represented. Then you will be shocked to find out that two or three states in that zone do not have anything, and that one or two states will take everything. That was the reason we asked them to bring everything down to states.

"If you have North Central which has 1024 workers in the National Assembly, break it down to states: Kogi, Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, Kwara, Niger.

"Let's see how these workers were distributed among these states.

Then let's go further and look at the states because some states are over populated with workers.

"Then, when you go to a particular state, you discover that they belong to few of the local governments in the State. And that is not the spirit of the Federal Character Principle.

"The essence of the Federal Character Principle is to ensure that people get what they deserve, so that they have that sense of belonging that the country is for all of us.

"It's for the sense of fairness to be seen. That's the essence of

the Federal Character, and once you don't keep to it, you defeat the whole essence and purpose of the idea behind its establishment. "That's why we asked for further presentation of documents up to local government levels. Bringing it down to LGA is actually going to be the basis for assessing fairness.

"Federal Character Principle is a constitutional issue. It was created to ensure that there is unity and fairness in the country, so that everybody will have a sense of belonging and you don't feel that you are being cheated."

Alleged N3.8bn TETFUND Fraud: I'm Not in ICPC Custody, Chukwuma Clarifies

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Founder of Fides Et Ratio Academy, an educational services provider, Paul Chukwuma has denied being arrested and detained by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over his alleged involvement in contract scandal currently rocking the Tertiary

Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

Chukwuma was said to have been detained by the commission upon honouring an invitation at the anti-graft agency’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.

It was alleged that TETFund awarded a controversial N3.8 billion contract to Chukwuma’s company and paid N2.9 billion to the company in four installments

without following due process.

But reacting to the claim in a statement issued yesterday by his Media Assistant, Obi Chukwuemeka, Chukwuma described the report as entirely false, adding that he was at work in his office and not in detention.

While noting that his firm, Fides et Ratio, had always complied with contractual obligations

and adhered to the principles of accountability and transparency, Chukwumah acknowledged the ICPC's mandate to supervise contractual requirements and request for documents to ensure compliance.

"Once requested, every lawabiding company is required to comply with the agency's request and provide requested documentation.

"Fides et Ratio will continue to collaborate with the ICPC to demonstrate adherence to regulatory provisions, as the company is built on transparency and respect for the law," he added.

Chukwuma urged the general public to disregard any further misleading publications on the matter.

Images of Suleja Jail Break Escapees Will be Made Public in Weeks

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), yesterday announced plans to unveil the pictures of the escaped inmates of the recent Suleja jail break in the coming weeks.

In April 2024, no fewer than 119 inmates escaped from the medium security custodial centre, Suleja, Niger State, following an overnight torrential rainfall that damaged the walls of the prison facility.

The spokesperson of the Service, Mr. Abubakar Umar, who was responding to a question on the number of fleeing inmates already recaptured after the incidents said that no fewer than 23 escapes had been recaptured so far.

He spoke at the joint press briefing of the security, defence and response agencies, at the defence headquarters

in Abuja.

Umar said: "I want to say hear that there is a concerted effort by the service to recapture fleeing inmates. I want to put on record that we have been able to recapture 23 escapes, so far. I want to also assure you that we are working hard to release the pictures of the fleeing inmates.

“We are working with other security agencies to enable us accomplish this task urgently. Our IT unit is working collaboratively with other relevant government agencies to get this done.

“ We are ready to release the photographs of the wanted inmates. I can assure you that we have concluded the process and we are ready to unveil the pictures in the coming weeks."

Also speaking on what the correctional centre was doing to reform the inmates before they leave the centres, Umar said that over 300 inmates were pursuing various classes of degrees, while six others were concluding their PhD programme.

Gen. Edward Buba, explained that during the month of May 23 to Jun 24, the potency of the terrorists was largely degraded with 9,303 terrorists neutralised while 6,988 terrorists including their logistics suppliers and informants arrested.

He stated that 4641 hostages were rescued, stressing that notably, 9,562 Boko Haram/ISWAP combatant fighters and their families surrendered to security forces.

N91,247,052,565.10.

Also, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), said that it is not under any obligation to invite any suspect before carrying out its investigation. The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who made this clarification, was responding to question on why the police were targeting journalists under the guise of Cyber Crime Act 2024.

carrying out investigation.

“We can only honour you by sending an invitation to you but when you fail to honour it, we would go to court and get a warrant and get you arrested. It is not that we are applying cyber crime act 2024 to witch-hunt, harass, or oppress you".

On the number of inmates in their custody, Umar said: "As at this week, we have over 80,000 inmates under our watch and speaking about the facilities, we have 256 correctional centres across the federation.

“Most of these upcoming bloggers often contravene the law because they want to break the news first. You must crosscheck your facts before going public. When an invitation is extended to you by the police, honour it, we are all human beings". Military neutralises 9,303 terrorists, arrests 6,988 in one month

“This is a very sensitive matter and when we are dealing with issues of this nature, we must ensure that we cross check our facts very well before putting it out in the public space. This is the major cause for the delay.

Also speaking, the Director of Defence Media Operation, Maj.

“In the fight against oil theft, 1,437 perpetrators were apprehended, with 363 neutralised. Additionally, 245 kidnapped hostages were rescued, leading to a marked improvement in prevention of crude oil theft.”

Other notable achievements in the last 12 months, he said, include the prevention of oil theft which denied the oil theft of an estimated sum of

Debunking the allegations that journalists were being targeted, the Police Spokesperson said, the application of cyber crime act 2024 is not aimed to witch-hunt, harass or oppress journalists as been alleged.

Adejobi said: "We are not under any obligation to even send invitation to a suspect. It is just a mark of respect. There is no law that says that the police must invite a suspect before

He added: "Let me put it on record that if any petition is written against you as a journalist, I think the best thing you should do as a trained journalist is to honour the invitation and then get across to us in the public relations department.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF ABBEY MORTGAGE BANK...

L-R: Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Abbey Mortgage Bank Plc, Mr. Geoff Amaghereonu; Non-Executive Director, John Obasa; Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Mobolaji Adewumi; and Executive Director, Treasury and Business Growth, Mr. Oladipupo Adeoye, at the annual general meeting of Abbey Mortgage Bank in Lagos...recently

Ikechukwu Aleke in Abuja

DEEPENING TECHNOLOGICAL ENTERPRISE…

L-R: Director, Africa Region, Asana, Rilwon Jaiyeola; Information Technology Project Manager (ITPM), Oluyomi Adeniji; Vice President, People & Culture, Terragon Group, Misan Olukuade;

Software Quality Assurance, Interswitch, Temitope Omolere, and Director, Business Development, Semi-Colon, Sean Burrowes, during the Asana breakfast summit

Participate in Active Politics to Tackle Challenges Facing Nigeria, Professionals Told

Sylvester Idowu in Warri

The Association of Professional Body of Nigeria (APBN) has urged members to be actively involved in addressing the contemporary challenges in the country by demanding accountability from public and political office holders. It also charged members to partake in the politics of governance at all levels in order to collaborate effectively with

‘Suspension of $300 Helicopter Landing Levy Right Step’

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) yesterday applauded the federal government’s suspension of the $300 helicopter landing and take-off levy as a step in the right direction.

The AON made this known in a statement signed by its Spokesperson, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, in Lagos. Okonkwo commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN) on the suspension, saying it would support growth and sustainability of operators in the industry.

He said that AON and other stakeholders’ stance on the matter was not ignored, as the minister listened and acted appropriately.

According to him, the controversial landing and takeoff fee to be collected by Messrs. Naebi Dynamic Concepts Limited, started in 2018, with the company demanding the levies to be paid in dollars, contrary to the provision of section 15 of the CBN Act.

The fees were to be paid for helicopter landings and take-offs on and from oil rig platforms and private helipads, among others.

Abiodun Appoints Two More Permanent Secretaries

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved the appointment of Mrs. Adejumoke Adewole and Mr. Olanrewaju Ogunyinka as Permanent Secretaries in the Public Service of the state.

The appointment of the Permanent Secretaries was disclosed in a statement by the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya.

Onasanya said the appointment was made in due recourse to the provision of Section 208 (c)

of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and having considered merit, professionalism, inclusiveness and seniority in the Civil/Public Service of the State.

He added that the appointees were carefully selected from the pool of directors, who were successful in the Ogun State Pipeline Leadership Development Programme conducted for top management level officers to be eligible for appointment into the position of Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil/Public Service.

Pepsi Launches New Logo in Nigeria

Global beverage giant, Pepsi, has officially introduced its new logo and visual identity to the Nigerian market. This marks a significant step forward for the brand, signifying its commitment to innovation, creativity, and continued cultural relevance.

To celebrate the launch, Pepsi orchestrated a captivating digital spectacle, transforming two of Nigeria’s most recognisable landmarks – the National Theatre in Lagos and the Abuja City Gate. Utilising stunning digital animation, the brand brought its new identity to life, showcasing its iconic bottle emerge from the top

of the Lagos masterpiece, while the City Gate welcomed the arrival of the new label.

In a statement announcing the launch of the new logo in Nigeria, Marketing Director, PepsiCo West, East and Central Africa (WECA), Marius Vorster, said that the brand refresh transcends a simple logo update, noting that it signifies the dawn of a new era for Pepsi.

“Through the transformation of iconic landmarks and the creation of captivating virtual experiences, we are reaffirming our commitment to innovation, creativity, and fostering deep cultural connections.”

government in policy strategies. These positions were contained in a communique issued yesterday at the end of a two-day “2024 Presidential Retreat Warri” with the theme “Contemporary Challenges In Nigeria: The Response of Professionals,” which was organised by APBN.

The presidents and delegates of 17 professional bodies from different parts of the country attended the retreat that was held in Warri, Delta State.

In the communique that was signed by Mr. Manason Rubaino and Mrs. Adefolake Adeniyi, the President and Secretary General of the SPBN respectively, also

called on professional bodies to showcase their local content by engaging and encouraging the youth to follow their footsteps, especially at the primary and post-primary levels of education.

It urged the federal government to strengthen the independency of the judicial system by ensuring parity and equity as well as reviewed moribund laws and regulations to enable stronger institutions.

APBN also called for enabling the regulatory professional bodies and law enforcement agencies to propose laws and regulations that were enforceable under constitutional provisions.

Aba Killing: We’ve Started Getting Very Credible Information, Says Otti

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State yesterday said the government has started receiving credible intelligence on the killing of five soldiers which took place on May 30 in Aba.

Otti disclosed this yesterday when he paid a morale-boosting visit to the officers and men of the144 Battalion Nigerian Army, at the Ngwa High School, Aba.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that on May 30, five soldiers were killed by yetto-be-identified gunmen, at the Obikabia Junction in Aba.

The governor said that he was on the visit to address the soldiers on the killing of five soldiers at the Obikabia junction. He said that the efforts made by the government to gather

intelligence on the incident had started producing results and it would be sustained.

He said: “We have started getting very credible information, this intelligence gathering will continue, but I do not want it to dampen your morale.

“We have all been working together to secure this state in the last one year that I have

Statistician-General Calls for Action

The Statistician-General of the Federation, Mr. Adeyemi Adeniran, has called on stakeholders to take action to eradicate poverty in Nigeria.

Adeniran, CEO, National Bureau of Statistics(NBS) said this at a Stakeholders’ Technical Dialogue on the “Operationalisation of the Multidimensional Poverty Index(MPI) as a Policy Tool in Nigeria” in Abuja yesterday. He said results from the 2022 MPI survey showed Nigeria has 133 million citizens living in multidimensional poverty in spite of its vast resources and potential for exponential growth.

been the Governor of the State, and I want to encourage you to continue your work; don’t get distracted.

“I believe, from credible intelligence available to us, that this criminal act may have been executed by people who are opposed to the progress and the good things that are happening in Abia.

to Eradicate Poverty in Nigeria

“The MPI has given us a clear picture of what is happening in Nigeria. It has shown us that poverty in Nigeria is not merely a lack of income but a deprivation of health, education and living standards.

“We can no longer afford to look away, the MPI report has highlighted critical areas that demand our attention. It has illuminated a clear path for strategic recommendations to lift millions out of poverty.

“We need your support and your contribution can turn this recommendations into reality.”

“It is a daily struggle for clean water, adequate nutrition, safe housing and quality education for all genders and demography. But we have an opportunity to change the situation we are in.

Corps Marshal: FRSC’ll Address Number Plate’s Scarcity, Driver’s Licence

The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has said adequate measures are being put in place to address issues associated with current scarcity of numbers plate nationwide.

Mohammed also said the issues associated with issuance of driver licence nationwide would also be addressed.

The FRSC boss made this known while inspecting the FRSC strategic facilities at Wuse, Kado and Gwagwalada in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) yesterday in Abuja.

Mohammed commended the investment of the federal government and the administration of President Bola Tinubu, to enhance Motor Vehicle Administration in the country.

He said that the Corps would

soon meet with the Joint Tasks Force (JTF) and other partners to address the challenges of production and distribution of FRSC products and services.

According to him, within the few days that I assumed office, I received series of complaints from the general public concerning the National Driver’s Licence (NDL) office.

Mohammed said: “We are not unaware of their pains and suffering and that necessitated our on spot assessment of the uniform license care facilities in FCT.

“We have visited the NDL centre in FCT. We have visited the print farm where the licenses are being produced and we are here at the plant where number plates are produced.

2024 Budget: Osun APC’s Chronic Liar, Propagandist, Govt Tells Public

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Apparently disturbed and uncomfortable with the geometric rate at which the administration of the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, is making a steady rise in virtually

all sectors since inception, the state All Progressives Congress (APC) is out again to paint the administration black in the estimation of the public.

However, the Osun State Government is particularly miffed and appalled beyond

description by the recent statement issued the opposition political party in scoring the Adeleke-led administration low in the 2024 budget performance.

The government stated that jumping into such empty conclusion about the

underperformance of the 2024 budget is not only based on ignorance and mischief “but the usual calculated attempt at all times by the shameless opposition party in the state to paint the performing Adelekeled administration black.”

Kano Gov Flags Off 70km Road Networks in 10 Rural Communities

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Kano state Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has flagged off a total of 70 kilometre roads across 10 communities in the state.

The flag-off ceremony took place at Rijiyar Gwangwan and

Mile 10 in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area of the state.

He said two locations out of the 10 are set to enjoy the various road networks being allocated with 14.7km out of the total of 70km.

The governor said: “The

road projects are going to be executed in partnership with Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and Lives and Livelihood Fund (LLF) through the Kano State Agro-pastoral Development Project (KSADP) under the Kano State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (KNARDA).”

While flagging off the project, Yusuf said his administration is determined to execute life-changing infrastructural development projects for rural communities in the state.

Head,

in Lagos... recently

Lawyers Urged to Champion Justice for Indigent Nigerians

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Legal Aid Council (LAC) has urged those in the justice sector to ensure that the poor and indigents get justice always in society.

The Director-General of the LAC, Aliyu Abubakar, also urged lawyers already providing pro bono services as well as those interested in offering free legal assistance to indigent individuals, to register with the agency.

Abubakar made the call in Abuja at the human rights conference and human rights honour organised by the ‘Call a Lawyer’, a group of lawyers that provide free legal services to indigent Nigerians.

He said until the poor access to justice, the concept of justice is meaningless to society, and therefore urged all to ensure justice for everyone irrespective of status.

He said: “The council maintains a register of legal

practitioners who represent indigent persons that are qualified for legal aid. This will enable the council to track and monitor the progress of cases being handled by such lawyers.”

The conference has the theme: ‘Human rights, rules of law and the future of Nigeria’, and was organised by ‘Call a Lawyer’, aimed at promoting human rights in the country and to enhance cooperation among stakeholders.

Illegal Structures: Govt Constructs Corner Shops in Bauchi Metropolis

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Government has stated that the ongoing demolition of illegal structures in the state metropolis is not meant to victimise anyone or make people suffer, rather it is in line with the administration’s #MyBauchiproject agenda aimed at making the state better.

The state government made the clarification yesterday during a ministerial briefing held at the Executive Council Chambers that what it is doing presently is to clear illegal structures erected indiscriminately thereby blocking pathway on the road.

Led by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ibrahim Kashim Mohammed, the state government stated that those affected by the demolition would be taken care of as there are plans to relocate their businesses to better locations

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as OKAFOR JAMES OKAFOR, now wish to be known and address as JAMES OKAFORMBAH. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly knowned and addressed as SALAMI SEKINAT ODUNAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as GBOGUNNIYI SALAMI SEKINAT ODUNAYO. All former documents remain valid, Bank’s and the general public should please take note.

I, formerly knowned and addressed as RUFAI AWWAL AYOMIDE, now wish to be known and addressed as GBOGUNNIYI AWWAL AYOMIDE. All former documents remain valid, WAEC and the general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS THERESA OKEOMA IMEGI now wish to be known and addressed as MRS THERESA OKEOMA IROJIOGU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

This is to notify the general public that NWOJO PRINCESLEY ENYINNAYA was wrongly written in my documents instead of NWOJO PRINCELEY ENYINNAYA. Henceforth, I wish to be addressed as NWOJO PRINCELEY ENYINNAYA. All documents remain valid. The general public to take note

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OHANYIRI CHINYERE THELMA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS IHEAMA CHINYERE THELMA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as IFEACHO JENNY CHINYERE now wish to be known and addressed as EGBEOGU JENNY CHINYERE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

in the state.

According to the government, there was no cause for alarm or panic because the government has secured befitting area where the affected business owners will enjoy doing business without any fear of intimidation.

The state Commissioner for Lands and Surrey, Amina

Mohammed Katagum, while addressing journalists at the Government House in Bauchi, said: “The government has since provided a permanent place for all owners of temporary structures in line with Governor Bala Mohammed’s efforts and directives as contained in the #MyBauchiproject agenda.

Oriental Energy Installs Climate Monitoring/Observation Station in UNIUYO

Okon Bassey in Uyo

An indigenous oil firm, Oriental Energy Resources Limited, yesterday handed over the first phase of a climate monitoring and observation station in the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to the school.

The facility installed at the main campus of the university is expected to provide practical experience in the various components of climatology and climate change studies in the university.

It is also to encourage research in climate-related studies across several disciplines within the university and lay the fountain for the introduction of capacity building programmes on climate and meteorology for internal and external clients.

The Managing Director of the oil firm, Mr. Mustafa Indimi, who hand over the facility to the management of the

university, said the project was the company’s contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) 13 as adopted by the United Nations in 2015.

Indimi, represented by the Head of External Relations, Mr. Kazeem Koleoso, said the company is committed to partnering the government and the private sector to combat the negative effects of climate change in the country.

According to him, “In specific terms, SDG13(Climate Action) requires that urgent steps are taken by the public and private sectors to combat climate change and its impacts, by mitigating it’s effects, promoting adaptation, and increasing resilience to climaterelated hazards.

“This is very important because every person in every country and in every continent of the world will be impacted by the negatives effects of climate change.

Oyo Monarch Calls for Genuine Love for Less-privileged

Kemi OlaitaninIbadan

The Aseyin of Iseyin, Oyo State, Oba Sefiu Oyebola, has charged Nigerians to show genuine love to children from poor homes to create a just society. The monarch made the call at the 2024 Children’s Day programme organized by Women’s Organisation for Resources, Knowledge and Skills (WORKS) at his palace in Iseyin. He said the absence of communal love for children that are orphaned or from less-privileged homes has led to a disorganised society, where the rich care only for their own children while the poor ones are forced into early marriage, illicit drugs consumption, child trafficking and criminal activities.

The king stated that the time has come for the people to return to the old communal ways of caring for children from extended family, whereby a privileged family member would sponsor sons and daughters of relatives to have good education and job opportunities.

According to him, “We now

live in a society where everyone only cares for his or her own children, leaving the children of the less-privileged to suffer the consequences of global and national economic crises; this has led to these indigent children to be forced into early marriage, turned into easy target for child trafficking, join bad gang to take illicit drugs and engage in criminalities.

“Why can’t we take on children of our relatives who have little or nothing to cater for their education and wellbeing? That is what used to be when our uncles who were teachers and earning averagely well would take into custody, the children of their brothers and sisters that have little or nothing to send their children to school, it is what made many billionaires of today.

“If we continue to shut these indigent children out of opportunities, we are creating a horde of enemies for our own children that have every opportunity today; they will envy our children for having it all and hatred will grow. Therefore, let us work towards having a just society.”

The Best 10 Days of theYear WORLD OF ISLAM

By: Islamweb

TEdited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

he believing human self needs strong provocations in order to awaken whenever it is enveloped by laziness in relation to performing acts of worship and whenever it is impaired by a tendency of seeking pleasure. Amidst the increasing worldly crowdedness of distractions, issues that make one heedless, and pure material gains, the soul of the believer aspires to a state of faith that raises it above the ground and makes it fly in the vast divine horizon.

There are times and days when the soul aspires very much to return to Allah and establish a new pledge with Him. The ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are considered the most appropriate time for this return and sincere repentance.

The educational Islamic approach considered making use of these days a useful means to a faith-oriented upbringing and a good motivation for the spirit and the heart. Therein, disobedient hearts are cleansed of their impurities, negligent souls return to their Creator, and the spirit resorts to a pure transparent life wherein is nothing but obedience and faith.

All Goodness

These ten days gather all goodness. They are the best days and the most superior in status. Allah The Almighty swore by them in His Book, when He Said (what means): “And [by] ten nights.” [Quran 89:2]

The majority of the scholars of Tafseer (interpretation, explanation) said that this verse refers to the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.

The Prophet (pbuh) raised the good deeds performed therein to a very high status. Ibn ‘Abbaas (ra) narrated that the Prophet (pbuh) said, “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” [Al-Bukhari]

It was also narrated on the authority of Ibn ‘Abbaas (ra) that the Prophet (pbuh) said, “There is no deed more precious in the Sight of Allah, nor greater in reward, than a good deed done during the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah.” [Ad-Darimi; Al-Albani: good]

He ordered frequent Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) in those days as it was narrated on the authority of Ibn ‘Umar (ra) that the Prophet (pbuh) said: “There are no days greater in the Sight of Allah and in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days, so during this time recite a great deal of Tahleel (There is none worthy of worship except Allah), Takbeer (Allah is the Greatest) and Tahmeed (Praise be to Allah).” [Ahmad]

The Prophet (pbuh) used to fast on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah. It was narrated that one of the wives of the Prophet (pbuh) said, “The Prophet (pbuh) used to fast on the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah, the day of ‘Aashooraa’, and three days of each month, these are the first Monday and two Thursdays of each month.” [Al-Nasaa’i and Abu Daawood; Al-Albani: authentic]

Imam An-Nawawi (ra) said that fasting the ten days is highly recommended.

He commanded fasting the day of ‘Arafah. It was narrated on the authority of Abu Qatadah (ra) that the Prophet (pbuh) was asked about fasting the day of ‘Arafah. He said, “It expiates the previous and the coming year.” [Muslim] Ibn ‘Umar (ra) said, “When we were with the Prophet (pbuh) we used to consider it equal to two years.” [At-Tabarani; Al-Albani: authentic]

Imam Ibn Hajar (ra) said in Fat-h Al-Bari, “It seems that the reason of the excellence of the ten days of Thul-Hijjah is that they gather the main acts of worship: namely, prayer, fasting, charity and Hajj. This only happens in the ten days of Thul-Hijjah.”

The noble Taabi‘i (from the generation after the Companions) Sa‘eed ibn Jubayr (ra) used to be extremely diligent in these ten days, to the extent that he almost could not afford any more. It was narrated that he said, “Do not turn your lights off in the ten nights,” meaning: maintain reciting the Quran and praying at night.

Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali (ra) said: “Since Allah The Almighty caused the souls of His believing slaves to long to visit His Sacred House, and given that not everyone is capable of visiting it every year, Allah enjoined performing the Hajj once in one’s life time upon the capable and made the season of the ten days common between the pilgrims and those who are not performing the Hajj.”

Shaykhul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (ra) was asked: “Which is better: the ten of Dhul-Hijjah or the last ten of Ramadan?” He answered, “The ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are better than the last ten days of Ramadan, but the last ten nights of Ramadan are better than the ten nights of Dhul-Hijjah.”

Ibn Al-Qayyim (ra) also compared the virtue of those days saying: “The best day in the sight of Allah is the day of Nahr (sacrifice), which is the day of the Hajj. This was mentioned by the Prophet (pbuh) when he said: “The greatest day in the Sight of Allah is the day of sacrifice and next the day of resting.” [Sunan Abu Daawood] The day of resting is the day of staying at Mina, which is the eleventh day. It was also said that the day of ‘Arafah is better because fasting it expiates two

years. Besides, there is no day on which Allah frees more slaves from Hell than the day of ‘Arafah. In addition, Allah, the Exalted, comes near His slaves and boasts about the people of ‘Arafah to His angels.” These ten days really encompass all goodness. Every good deed is recommended therein. There are no days on which good deeds are better than those days. They are pure goodness for the innocent human soul. They are a spiritual course of faith that occupies the first position in the year in terms of the goodness of its days.

Between Hajj and Slaughtering

As for those whom Allah guided to perform the Hajj to His Sacred House; He thus guided them to what He Loves the most, chose to cleanse them from their sins and return them—if they made their intention sincere and perfected their Hajj—as sinless as the day on which they were delivered by their mothers, and guided them in order to open a new, white record to start a new stage of faith.

The clothes of Ihraam (ritual consecration) take him out of the mindset of seeing the pleasures and get him into the mindset of seeing the shroud (of the dead). No deceiving adornments, no lusts that lead to heedlessness, and no foolish struggles upon the perishing world. All people in the clothing of Ihraam are absolutely equal, as they will be in the last dress. All are afraid of their sins and hope to attain the mercy that encompasses everything.

Let the Muslims declare an international declaration on the day of Hajj at a time when the nation is bleeding, and its blood is being shed. Let them declare that the Muslim peoples all over the world share the same heart, the same approach, and the same target; worship the same Lord; and hope to attain His Mercy and fear His Punishment. Let Satan and his allies, then, be despised and rejected. Let every Muslim be proud of his religion; this religion that ascends and progresses for Allah is its protector, and its enemies have no protector.

At the same time, when pilgrims shed the blood of their Hady animals (those brought for the sacrifice), and other Muslims slaughter their sacrificial animals on the day of Nahr, and the cheers of Takbeer spread in the horizon, the righteous martyrs all over the earth offer their blood and their souls in a good and easy manner for the Sake of Allah, their Lord. Thus, their lips smile at the last breath of the soul. They receive the Hereafter while their blood flows from them. The color is the color of blood, and the smell is the smell of musk.

The ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are considered an educational opportunity that every educator can make use of in directing to the best virtues and morals as well as in making them a correct starting point for an annual psychological renewal.

Educators and the Ten Days

The ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are considered an educational opportunity that every educator can make use of in directing to the best virtues and morals as well as in making them a correct starting point for an annual psychological renewal for those whom he educates in terms of faith, repentance, and good deeds.

In this context, we suggest that this takes place through some main aspects, such as:

Firstly: Preparing the atmosphere of faith: Fasting, reciting Takbeer, remembering Allah, abstaining from cutting one’s hair or nails, hearing the loud voice of the Talbiyah of the pilgrims in all places transmitted by all the Radio and TV channels and media, buying the sacrificial animals, making arrangements for the day of Nahr; all these things help the educator to complete the required atmosphere of faith.

Secondly: The call to changing oneself: These days are appropriate for the educator to renew his call, to those whom he educates, to undergo a process of change for themselves, their bad or negative morals, and their rejected habits into pure selves towards all creatures; having morals resembling those of the Prophet (pbuh); and good habits of faith, leaving behind the morals and habits of arrogance, utilitarianism and issues related to the love of the self and the desire to be superior to others.

Thirdly: Instructing towards cooperation and holding firm:

In the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, the ideas of holding firm to Allah, the Exalted, and abandoning division clearly appear. All Muslims wish to perform Hajj to the House of Allah The Almighty. The pilgrims represent the greatest real image of cooperation and holding firm to the same approach and the same target in the East and West. He who was not guided to perform Hajj this year shares the emotions of the pilgrims, and his soul flies around them, asking Allah to make him join them in the future. Thus, they see the whole universe full of delight and transparency. Light is combined with happiness, and hope with honesty. Paradise becomes the demand; sincerity, the hope; and having good expectations of Allah, the cave of wishes.

Finidi Unleashes Lookman, Boniface, Iheanacho on S'Africa

Benin Rep. beat Rwanda to further push Super Eagles to fourth on the log

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Thunder does not strike twice in the same place we are made to believe. Super Eagles missed last World Cup in Qatar in very unusual circumstances. They were beaten by an away goal rule right in front of home fans in Abuja by Ghana in the lead up to the 2022 World Cup. Today in Uyo, new Head Coach, Finidi George, knows any wrong result against the Bafana Bafana will be leading to another thunderstorm in Nigerian football.

After two match-days of the race to the 2026 World Cup to be hosted by Canada, USA and Mexico, Super Eagles have just two points to show for the draws against Zimbabwe and Lesotho to stay fourth on the log. Rwanda were surprise leaders on four points until they lost Match-day three 0-1 to Benin Republic last night. Benin are now tied on same four points as Rwanda at the top while South Africa are third on three points. Super Eagles are now fourth in standing ahead of tonight’s match.

It is this scenario that Finidi George

WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS

will have at the back of his mind when selecting the starting squad that he believes will deliver the right dividend from the encounter inside the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo at 8pm tonight.

Expectedly, reigning Africa’s Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen is a Major absentee due to injury. Is Finidi going to miss him? Definitely. However, in Osimhen’s absence, three players in his shadow have proved their worths in Europe to be considered capable enough to bridge the gap.

First on the line is Atalanta manof-the-moment, Ademola Lookman who did what no man has done in a European championship final before, scoring three goals in one night. Lookman is in a great form to continue where he left off after the Africa Cup of Nations, where he netted three crucial goals to steer Nigeria to a second-place finish. He also netted an important winner for the Eagles against Ghana in a friendly

2024 Durban Marathon: S'African Athlete, Havyarimana, to Raise Funds for Zeebah Foundation

Wale Igbintade

Jean-Claude Havyarimana, a South African athlete will be participating in the Ultra Marathon in Durban, South Africa to help raise funds for The Zeebah Foundation, a not-for-profit dedicated to inclusive education for persons affected with autism in Nigeria

The Durban Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, June 9, 2024, in Durban, South Africa.

A statement issued by Zeebah Foundation, said the proceeds from Havyarimana’s run will be directed towards The Zeebah Foundation’s proposed purpose-built Therapy, Care and Support Centre in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (Abuja).

The statement read: “Jean-Claude Havyarimana, an unwavering advocate and a cherished Friend of The Zeebah Foundation, is set to embark on an extraordinary journey again.

“On the 9th of June, he will lace up his running shoes and take on the formidable challenge of the Comrades Ultra Marathon in Durban, South Africa.

“Havyarimana’s dedication to the cause knows no bounds. He previously ran for The Zeebah Foundation at the November 2022 NKolay Istanbul Marathon.

“His commitment to making a difference is palpable. Every stride he takes at each marathon course is a step towards positive change.

in Morocco three months ago, which helped Nigeria to a first triumph over Ghana in 18 years.

Victor Boniface on the other hand partly led Bayer Leverkusen to their first ever German Bundesliga title this just ended league season. And of course, Kelechi Iheanacho, despite injuries was part of the squad that returned Leicester City to the English topflight after just a season in the second tier league.

The chances of Nigeria picking all three points rests squarely on the shoulders of these three men as Finidi searches for his first competitive win as coach of the Super Eagles.

If there is however any area of the senior Nigerian team to give Finidi cause for concern, it is in the rear

where defence lynchpin, William Troost-Ekong (this year’s AFCON’s Man of the Competition), is unavoidably absent due to injury. Same is Kenneth Omeruo, and Zaidu Sanusi.

However, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Others have the opportunities to prove that they can be relied upon in situations like this crucial encounter.

Nigeria has lost only one competitive game since it was opened 10 years ago.

Incidentally, that one competitive loss was to the Bafana (0-2 defeat at the start of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations incidentally in same Uyo) on 10th June 2017, but the Eagles rallied in the campaign and eventually finished ahead of the Bafana to qualify for the finals in Egypt, where they also defeated the Bafana

in the quarter-finals on the way to a third-place finish.

The Bafana may also count as triumph their 2-2 with the Eagles draw at the same venue on 19th November 2014, which prevented Nigeria from qualifying for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, the Super Eagles are always one to rise above monsters of the past and do their thing, and Vice Captain Ndidi insisted yesterday that the three-time African champions will give their very best this evening.

“Nobody needs to tell us that we did not start the campaign well enough. The opportunity has arisen to take our fate in our hands and rise to strong contention in our pool.

We will approach Friday’s encounter with the right mental attitude,” the Leicester midfield enforcer assured Nigerians.

REVIEWING BAFANA GAME-PLAN...

Super Eagles yesterday reviewing their game-plan at the last training session ahead of today's 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa in Uyo

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Football pitch construction expert, Ebi Egbe, has said that highest goal scorer in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Enyimba’s Chijioke Mbaoma ugh to be in the Super Eagles to play the two 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.

Mbaoma has scored 15 goals for the Aba Elephant in the Nigerian topflight to lead the chart. He’s not in Finidi’s 23-man squad. Remo Star’s Sadiq Ismael is the only out field home based player in the team that also have Enyimba ‘s goalkeeper, Ojo Olorunleke.

But the Monimichelle Sports Infrastructure Ltd Chief Executive Officer, Egbe, told THISDAY ahead of this evening’s clash between Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana that the home-based players who strut their stuff on that Uyo pitch are at advantage playing on it.

“Finidi George understands the dynamics of the effects of playing turf on elite football players and raw talented players,” began the stadium turf expert.

He stressed that the Super Eagles coach not having ample time with the players on that Uyo stadium pitch poses a disadvantage to the

team.

“South Africa has elite hybrid pitches (natural and synthetic turf fused pitches) in their two major stadiums in Cape Town and Johannesburg. The closest pitch with similar ball movement in Nigeria is the Remo Stars hybrid synthetic pitch in Ikenne, Ogun State. That is the only natural, infill synthetic turf pitch that is currently being maintained to standard in Nigeria and has fast ball movement which makes it a speed football pitch. 100% natural grass pitches on the other hand naturally has slow ball movement.

“The South African team is mostly made up of home-based players who ply their trade on 100% natural turf. So the South Africans will try to show their skills in Uyo knowing that the pitch is a 100% natural turf pitch with very close similarity in ball movement with where they play and train week in week out in their South African club sides.

“The Nigerian National Team, a star-studded elite team with 95% players that ply their trade only on elite pitches week in week out at their various club sides, will find the Uyo pitch a different ball game. They are used to the advance pitch with a totally different ball movement.”

This Sunday, Enyimba will travel to The Cathedral Stadium in Enugu to challenge NPFL leaders, Rangers International, in the reverse fixture of their Oriental Derby This crucial showdown between 2022/23 league winners Enyimba, who are currently sitting second on the table, and Enugu Rangers on 61 points could very well determine the fate of the NPFL title race. The match will air live on Beta Sports channel 244 on StarTimes this Sunday at 5 pm. But for the last-minute save by Enyimba Captain and Goalkeeper, Olorunleke Ojo, Rangers would have

clinched the maximum three points against The People’s Elephant in their first meeting of the 2023/24 NPFL season. But this Sunday, Enyimba will be without their star keeper, Olorunleke, who is in on national duty with the Super Eagles for the World Cup Qualifiers.

Enugu Rangers will also miss their formidable defender, Kenneth Igboke, also on same national duty.

The first leg match was a testament to the intense rivalry between these two powerhouses.

In the game's dying seconds, Enugu Rangers' Joel Odoh found himself with a golden opportunity to secure a victory. A perfectly timed through pass from the midfield sent Odoh one-on-one with the keeper, but Olorunleke's lightning-fast reflexes denied him the winning goal. With the absence of Igboke, Enugu Rangers Coach will have to come up with a better option on how to keep goal-scoring monster, Chijioke Mbaoma at bay. Mbaoma currently leads the Golden Boot chart with

Ogunmodede has urged his players to maintain focus and determination as they enter this crucial match.

Mastercard successfully concluded its UEFA Champions League campaign in Nigeria with an exclusive viewing event of the final match, blending the thrill of football with priceless experiences for cardholders.

Mastercard also hosted a number of guests, including partners, cardholders, football legends, and other notable personalities, at the Landmark Event Centre in

Lagos, in a memorable

this

campaign to offer fans not just a viewing experience but also an immersive journey into one of the world’s most prestigious football tournaments.

“At Mastercard, we are passionate about connecting people with the experiences they love most, and football holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Nigerians. Through exclusive events and expe-

riences, we aim to bring football fans closer to the excitement of the UEFA Champions League, reinforcing our commitment to delivering priceless experiences to our customers. As the tournament concludes, we are proud to have played a part in enriching lives and strengthening connections along the way,”

Friday, June 7, 2024Price:

MISSILE

United Nations to Nigeria, Others

“Since the previous edition of the Hunger Hotspots report (October 2023), the Central African Republic, Lebanon, Mozambique, Myanmar, NIGERIA, Sierra Leone, and Zambia have joined Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Malawi, Somalia and Zimbabwe in the list of hunger hotspots, where acute food insecurity is likely to deteriorate further during the outlook period” –UN Report, reveals that acute food insecurity may hit Nigeria and 17 other countries.

FEMI FALANA

GUEST COLUMNIST

The 1999 Constitution is Not a Fake Document!

It is indisputable that the people of Nigeria were not involved in the processes that led to the enactment and imposition of all the constitutions and other laws that were promulgated by the British colonial regime. Thus, the Lugard Constitution of 1914, Clifford Constitution of 1922, Richards Constitution of 1946, Macpherson Constitution of 1951, and Lyttleton Constitution of 1954 were enacted in London and imposed Nigerians. But in order to protect the interests of the British Government and its allies at the end of colonialism, the independence Constitution of 1960 was negotiated between the departing British colonial regime and the nationalist politicians.

Even he much celebrated Republican Constitution of 1963 was a mere amendment of the Independence Constitution because it protected the interest of the indigenous ruling elite. Hence, the amendment of the Constitution carried out by the first set of parliamentarians was rather cosmetic. Specifically, the president replaced the British Monarch as Head of Government while the Supreme Court of Nigeria replaced the British Privy Council and became the final Court of Appeal.

However, the Nigeria Police Force, the armed forces and other instruments of oppression established by the colonial regime were left intact to protect the interests of the indigenous ruling class while the post colonial economy was left in the firm grip of imperialism. The anti peoples’s colonial ordinances, which legitimized the exploitation of Nigeria by the British government, were adopted and renacted as Acts of the Nigerian Parliament.

No doubt, the 1963 Constitution recognised the relative autonomy of the Eastern, Western, and Northern regions as each of the regions had its own constitution and managed its own affairs within the neocolonial economic structure. In 1964, the Midwest region was carved out of western Nigeria to weaken the region as the northern and eastern regions were not split.

The manipulation of the courts and security forces by the ruling party aggravated the election violence that broke out in the western region in 1964 and the brutal killing of Igbo people in the north. Thus, the subversion of democracy and abuse of power by the chief operators of the 1963 Constitution led to a total breakdown of law and order in the country. It was under the pretext of restoring law and order that a group of young army officers led by Major Kaduna Nzeogwu seized power on January 15, 1966. The coup plotters killed the civilian Prime Minister, Mr. Tafawa Balewa, two regional heads of government, Messrs Samuel Akintola and Ahmadu Bello, and some military officers.

The national and regional constitutions were suspended while political parties, trade unions, and ethnic organisations were proscribed. The coup plotters were overpowered and arrested by senior officers who appointed Major General Johnson Thomas Umanakwe Aguiyi Ironsi as the Head of State. A unification decree was promulgated to abolish regional institutions and the federal system of government. There was a counter coup in July 1966, which led to the brutal murder of the military ruler, General Aguiyi-Ironsi, and the military governor of western Nigeria, Col. Adekunle Fajuyi.

The new head of State, Lt. Col Yakubu Gowon failed in resolving the political crisis. The military oligarchy ruled by Decrees signed by the Head of State. Even though the military dictators claimed to have set up the Federal Military Government, it was a unitary government in every material particular. In other words, both Ironsi’s unification decree and Gowon’s supremacy decree were six of one and half a dozen of the other.

In 1967, the 4 regions were split into 12 states while military governors were appointed by the Supreme Military Council to govern them. The governors ruled the states by edicts. Regional institutions, including universities, radio, and television stations, were

nationalised by the Federal Military Government. In 1975, the Murtala Mohammed military regime appointed a group of 49 persons to draft a new Constitution for the 2nd Republic.*The Committee was headed by the late Chief Rotimi Williams SAN. At the end of the assignment, the committee produced two reports, the majority report prepared by 47 members and the minority report prepared by two members, namely the late Dr. Bala Usman and Dr. Segun Osoba. Since the minority report advocated for a socialist state, the Olusegun Obasanjo regime rejected it and forwarded the majority report of the Rotimi Williams group for the consideration of the constituent assembly led by Justice Udo Udoma.

Even though Chief Obafemi Awolowo declined to serve in the Constitution Drafting Committee, he lauded the body for recommending the entrenchment of chapter two in the Constitution. For him, the fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy largely reflected the ideas canvassed by him in his book titled “People’s Republic” published in 1966. However, upon the submission of the Draft Constitution by the constituent assembly to the regime, General Obasanjo single-handedly amended it and inserted therein four statutes, i.e. (a) the National Youth Service Corps Decree 1993; (b) the Public Complaints Commission Act; (c) the National Security Agencies Act; and (d) the Land Use Act. Even though these laws were not part of the Constitution, the purpose of entrenching them in the Constitution was to ensure that they could only be amended like other provisions of the Constitution. Thereafter, General Obasanjo enacted the Constitution (Promulgation) Decree No 104 of 1979. Thus, the 2nd Republic was operated under Decree 104 of 1979, otherwise called the 1979 Constitution. When the military sacked the civilian government again in December 1983, the 1979 Constitution was suspended. As part of the preparation for the restoration of civil rule, the 1989 Constitution was written by a Constituent Assembly led by Justice Anthony Aniagolu under the Ibarahim Bbangida military junta. But, due to the annulment of the election won by Bashorun MKO Abiola, the 1989 Constitution never came into force.

As General Babangida was forced to step aside, his plan to metamorphose from a military dictator to a civilian president failed to materialise. The plan of his successor and comrade in arms, General Sani Abacha to have himself elected as a civilian president also

failed. Hence, his 1995 constitution did not see the light of day. The last military ruler, General Abdulsalami Abubakar repealed the suspended 1979 Constitution and imposed the 1999 Constitution on the nation via the Constitution (Promulgation) Decree No 24 of 1999. The committee that drafted the 1999 Constitution was headed by a famous jurist, the late Justice Niki Tobi. Even though the 1999 Constitution was not prepared by a constituent assembly, it is a replica of the 1979 Constitution in every material particular.

It is on record that the late Chief Rotimi Williams SAN once described the 1999 Constitution as a fraudulent document for telling a lie about itself. As far as Chief Willaims was concerned, the Constitution was imposed on Nigerians, though the preamble stated that it was made, enacted, and given to the Nigerian people. In the same vein, Chief Wole Olanipekun SAN has insisted that the Constitution is a fake document. With respect, the Constitution is neither fraudulent nor fake as its authors are well known. Indeed, in several judgments delivered by the Supreme Court and other courts since 1999, the Constitution has been described as the grundnorm of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Since the Constitution protects the interests of the ruling class, the National Assembly and the Houses of Assembly of the 36 states of the Federation have resorted to regular amendment of some provisions of the document. The said amendments have also received judicial imprimatur. To that extent, it is not legally correct to say that the Constitution is fraudulent or fake.

In making a strong case for a new Constitution that will reflect the democratic wishes of the Nigerian people, it ought to be pointed out that there are some provisions of the 1999 Constitution that cannot be wished away. They include chapter two (sections 13-24), thereof culled from the 1979 Constitution, which contains the fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy. Despite its limitations and contradictions, the chapter provides for participatory democracy, adequate security and welfare for the people, adequate housing, employment and payment of unemployment benefit for unemployed people, payment of a national living minimum wage and pension, right to education at all levels and right to health.

In particular, section 16 of the Constitution provides that the resources of the nation shall be controlled by the government and be equitably distributed among the people and that the commonwealth shall not be concentrated in the hands of a few people or a group. The provisions constitute the core of the socioeconomic rights of the Nigerian people. Even though the provisions are made not justiciable, several laws have been enacted by the national assembly to actualize certain provisions of chapter two of the Constitution. In a number of public interest cases, the courts have upheld the rights of Nigerian people under such welfare laws. It is interesting to note that the members of the 2014 National Conference unanimously recommended that the fundamental objectives and directive principles be made justiciable in the Constitution.

Under the defunct military junta, the central military government took over the control of the national economy. By fiat, the principle of derivation was jettisoned while the states were run as extensions of the central military government. The 1999 Constitution has challenged the over absolute control of the central government in the management of the national economy. To that extent, no constitutional arrangement can jettison section 162 of the Constitution which states that “the principle of derivation shall be constantly reflected in any approved formula as being not less than thirteen per cent of the revenue accruing to the Federation Account directly from any natural resources”.

This is unlike section 140 of the 1963 Constitution which merely provided derivation of “a sum equal to fifty per cent of (a) the proceeds of any royalty received by the Federation in respect of any minerals extracted in that Region; and (b) any mining rents derived by the Federation during that year from within that Region.”

The point that I am struggling to make is that the 13 percent derivation from revenue in section 162 of the 1999 Constitution is much higher that the 50 percent derivation from royalties and rents in the 1963 Constitution. Furthermore, the states that are entitled to the 13 per cent derivation are equally entitled to a share in the monthly statutory allocations distributed to the three tiers of government by the Federation Account Allocation Committee.

The campaigners for restructuring have argued that the development of the regions before military rule was based on the 50 percent derivation applicable under the 1963 Constitution. This is misleading as the development of the regions was based on the huge revenue derived from agricultural products like cocoa, cotton and palm oil. Agriculture that was the mainstay of the economy got a boost from the regional commodity boards which protected the interest of farmers. But the boards were abolished in the late 1990s as part of the conditionalities of the Structural Adjustment Programme. Unaware that the Commodities Board Act has not been repealed, Vice President Shetima recently announced that the federal government would soon set up a new National Commodity Board.

Even though President Buhari was opposed to restructuring, the devolution of powers recorded under his regime has been the most profound since 1999. Items like electricity, railways and prisons which were in the exclusive legislative lists have been trasferred to the concureent legislative list. The implication is that states have been empowered to legislate in these areas for the overall development of the country. The financial autonomy of the state legislature and judiciary has also been restored by another constitutional amendment. No doubt, solid minerals are in the exclusive legislative list. But state governments and individuals are given licences to mine them and pay royalties to the Federation Account. Before then, licences for oil blocks were awarded to a few registered corporate bodies and state governments which were required to pay signature bonus and royalties to the Federation Account. The trend is going to continue as the Bola Tinubu administration has already awarded many oil blocks and granted licences for solid minerals. Plans have also been concluded to amend the Constitution to pave way for the establishment of state police in response to the worsening security crisis plaguing the nation.

It is pertinent to note that the main disputed area among the political class is whether the Constitution should provide for a presidential or parliamentary system of government or whether the country should have strong regional governments and a weak centre. A fresh agitation has also arisen in the Niger Delta region for resource control in view of the decision of the federal government to allow state governments and private companies to mine solid minerals and pay rents to the Federation Account. In other words, the oil and gas producing communities have demanded to control the resources and pay rents to the Federation Account. In view of the foregoing, it is crystal clear that the members of the political class have resolved not to discard or throw away the 1999 Constitution because it protects their class interest. This explains the regular amendments of the Constitution by every session of the national assembly and houses of assembly of the states. In fact, each house of the 10th National Assembly has set up a constitution review committee for the purpose of further amending the Constitution. It is expected that the review will lead to another alteration of the Constitution.

No doubt, the country needs a new and popular Constitution prepared by the accredited representatives of workers, women, youths, physically challenged people, and other interest groups. But a new Constitution that is democratic, inclusive, and transparent can only emerge from the struggle of the Nigerian people. Therefore, it is indubitably clear that without a revolution to herald a new legal order, no new constitution will emerge in Nigeria.

TRUTH & REASON

N400

Tinubu