FRIDAY 9TH JUNE 2023

Tinubu Meets Senators, Members-elect, Charges Them to Work Together, Choose Own Leaders

Tinubu Assents to Bill Unifying Retirement Age of Judicial Officers

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has assented to a fresh amendment to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria unifying the retirement age of judicial officers in the country.

With the signing of the constitutional amendment bill, the retirement age and pension rights of judicial officers have been effectively brought into uniformity and other related matters. With this development, High Court

and Court of Appeal judges who retire at age 65 will now retire at age 70 like the Justices of the nation's apex court, the Supreme Court. The signing of the bill into law, which was the first bill to be signed by the President since his inauguration

on May 29, 2023, took place yesterday, at the State House, Abuja. Tinubu, according to a statement issued by Director of Information at the State House, Mr. Abiodun Oladunjoye, signed the bill into law as part of powers vested in him under the 1999

Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

The president signed into law the “Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Fifth Alteration) (No.37), 2023,” presented by the outgoing 9th National Assembly.

TINUBU MEETS SENATORS, MEMBERS-ELECT, CHARGES THEM TO WORK TOGETHER, CHOOSE OWN LEADERS

Democratic Party (PDP) were said to have hatched a plot to support Abdul-Aziz Yari, a leading contender for the presidency of the 10th Senate. Besides Yari (Zamfara West), other members of the faction, which is opposed to the choice of presiding officers made by the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), are Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), Osita Izunaso (Imo West), and Sani Musa (Niger East).

APC has anointed Senator Godswill Akpabio from Akwa Ibom (South-south) and Senator Jibrin Barau from Kano (North-west) for Senate President and Deputy Senate President, respectively. In the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas from Kaduna (North-west) and Hon. Benjamin Kalu from Abia State (South-east) are the ruling party’s preferred candidates for Speaker and Deputy Speaker, respectively.

However, PDP seems to be planning a repeat of the 2015 scenario, when Senator Bukola Saraki of APC and Senator Ike Ekweremadu of PDP emerged Senate President and Deputy Senate President, respectively, against the ruling APC’s nominated candidates, Senator Ahmad Lawan and Senator George Akume.

In the House, current Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, had also lost to Hon. Yakubu Dogara by just eight votes, while Hon. Yussuff Lasun emerged at the expense of Hon. Mohammed Monguno, who was APC’s preferred candidate for Deputy Speaker. House member-elect, representing

Ningi/Warji Federal Constituency, Adamu Ranga, who shared some of Tinubu's messages to them, said he called for a united front, irrespective of political party affiliation.

Ranga said, "Mr President spoke to the National Assembly, both Senate and the House of Representatives, in order to ensure that we have a solid government.

“Second, he emphasised that he would perform an open-door policy for everybody.

"Whoever wants to see him can see him without any hindrance and whatever you want to discuss with him, he will give you that privilege to discuss. Thirdly, he said we should put our constituency first since we are here to represent them. He mentioned that he wants the Senate and the House to cooperate to elect good leaders."

Corroborating Ranga's account, another member-elect from Ondo State, who preferred not to be named, said the president appealed to both senators and members-elect to leave partisanship aside and make national interest their focus.

"He generally appealed to everyone to put Nigeria first, be focused on the purpose of legislature. He didn't need to tell us who to vote for because we all know what to do," he said.

Tinubu, who was accompanied to the meeting by the vice president, Kashim Shettima, incumbent Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Speaker and Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Secretary to the

Government of the Federation, George Akume, and other key leaders, said he was keen on a smooth take-off of the government with a seamless election of presiding officers for the federal legislature. Gbajabiamila, who also spoke, commended Tinubu for initiating the gathering, saying it would further strengthen the mutual relationship between the executive and the legislative arms of government.

Similarly, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun said governors across party lines had keyed into the APC choices for presiding officers of the incoming 10th National Assembly.

But the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said the party and other opposition political parties in the National Assembly had the numbers to decide the elections of the presiding officers for the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives and would maximise their numbers.

The National Working Committee (NWC) of APC had in May zoned the senate presidency of the 10th National Assembly to the Southsouth and speaker of the House of Representatives to the North-west. The party also zoned the deputy senate president to the North-west and deputy speaker to the South-east.

Specifically, the party adopted the zoning template and candidates of its president-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and settled for Akpabio/ Jubrin for senate leadership and Tajudeen/ Kalu for House of Representatives

leadership.

But the move elicited immediate response from North-central and North-west stakeholders of the party and some senators-elect, who rejected what they described as imposition of candidates. They insisted on producing their leaders, independently, raising fears that the 2015 scenario might recur in the National Assembly.

However, speaking to the lawmakers, Tinubu said the four chosen ranking lawmakers for Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker positions had the capacity, competence, experience to deliver on a stable and progressive parliament that understood the urgency and need to solve critical national problems with parliamentary instruments.

While begging the aggrieved aspirants to bury the hatchet, the president assured lawmakers that he would ensure that Nigeria’s potentials were turned into reality, if they all dropped their colours and fly the national colour of progress.

Thereafter, messages focusing on the need for corroboration and joint task of working to deliver on the Nigeria project were delivered. The lawmakers-elect, who responded via Senator Abaribe Enyinnaya, thanked the President for taking off on a good note by building the bridges of cohesion, inclusion and stability and assured the President that his message was well received.

SULE: BUHARI SPENT OVER $19BN ON FIXING REFINERIES IN EIGHT YEARS WITHOUT RESULTS

Chairman, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Mr. Mohammed Shehu, also yesterday, expressed support for the removal of fuel subsidy, citing lack of transparency in the scheme.

Nigeria’s ailing refineries were built in the 60s, 70s and 80s, but have since gulped billions of dollars in Turnaround Maintenance (TAM), with the expected outcomes mostly disappointing. However, Sule’s assertion that over $19 billion was spent by the former president could not be independently verified.

Sule, also explained that he had always supported the removal of subsidy because he believed that there was massive fraud in the process. He recalled that as Managing Director of AP, he had complained over 22 years ago that there was no way Nigeria would consume 30 million litres of petrol per day at the time.

By 2011, he stated that the consumption moved to 50 million litres per day, and was now about 70 million litres, a development he said was impossible.

Sule said the situation was made worse by the fact that only the volume lifted from the depots, and not the actual consumption data, was known by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.

Sule argued that Nigeria had been subsidising petrol for surrounding countries; reason there was energy crisis in those countries currently after Nigeria withdrew its own subsidy.

The governor maintained that several licences were issued for the construction of refineries in the past, but said that this had not worked because of the nature of the industry. He stated that subsidy should have been removed in 2015, when the prices of crude oil fell abysmally.

Sule stated, “Just look at how much the President Muhammadu Buhari administration spent on fixing of the refineries. In the eight years, he spent more money than the $19 billion that Dangote spent in building his refinery, which is one and a half times the size of all our three refineries combined.

“Our three refineries today have a total capacity of 450,000 barrels per

day. Dangote’s is 650,000 barrels per day. He spent $19 billion. We spent more than $19 billion maintaining these refineries in eight years, yet they have not been maintained.”

Sule stated that because a refinery would usually have up to five components, money was most times released to fix one part, which at the end did not yield any results.

He stated that while the ideal thing would have been to fix one of the refineries, monies released were shared among all the facilities, leading to what he described as “zero work”.

“We have not really managed these things well,” he added.

The governor said, “The refinery is actually a component for water, crude, and diesel, about five or six different components that constitute a refinery.

“The moment the government says we are going to spend $2 billion this year on the refinery. The $2 billion is spent and as far as the president is concerned, they have given $2 billion.

“Now when it goes to the three refineries that we have in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, then they say, you now take $700 million, you now take $800 million, by the time they take that, it goes to fix maybe only one component out of the four components that are all bad.”

While backing the recent removal of subsidy by President Bola Tinubu, Sule lamented the unavailability of reliable data on Nigeria’s fuel consumption, which he said strengthened the argument for subsidy removal.

He stated, “As I am talking to you now, NNPC just last week confirmed to us that it is between 65 million litres and 70 million litres. That is what the government is paying. So, I asked the officials of the NNPC, ‘how are you determining this consumption?’ They said, ‘well, we are determining the consumption by lifting’.

“You are not determining the consumption by actual usage within Nigeria. That is the only way they can do that. If you have a company and have 10 petrol stations and you come and NNPC gives you 10 trucks to take to 10 petrol stations, if you take only five and take the remaining five out of the country, they have

no way of confirming this.”

The former Managing Director of Dangote Sugar Refinery argued that while government might have good intentions, those who did not share the same aspirations had a way of derailing the process.

He assured that the Dangote refinery would reduce fuel prices, with the cutting of freight and other accompanying charges that were paid on the importation of petrol.

Sule pointed out that accountability would come automatically when prices were determined by market forces, since smugglers will stop buying from the country, which would allow Nigeria determine its actual consumption figure.

sustain the phantom payments of subsidy at the detriment of other critical sectors of the economy.

He said ending the subsidy regime would eliminate the alleged uncertainty surrounding its administration and free up funds for the execution of critical national development and human capital enhancement projects. He identified such projects to include provision of an affordable transport system, investment in the education sector, improvement in health care and infrastructural development, and resuscitation of domestic refineries to eliminate dependence on imported fuel, among other key sectors.

Speaking to the media after the Presidential parley, the Communication Adviser to Tajudeen Abbas, Benjamin Kalu campaign organisation and member-elect for Ideato North and South Federal Constituency, Imo State, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, said lawmakers had accepted the message and hand of friendship extended to them by the President to have a stable, united and all-inclusive parliament that would deliver on urgent national goals.

Ugochinyere said the president’s decision to invite members of the opposition alongside lawmakers of the ruling party in his quest for seamless take-off of government was a positive development that has been accepted on the grounds of people's interest and need for courageous decisions in solving huge national problems.

Abiodun: Governors Have Accepted APC's Consensus Candidates

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State said governors across party lines had keyed into the choice of Senator Godswill Akpabio, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Senator Barau Jibrin and Hon. Benjamin Kalu as the Presiding Officers of the incoming 10th Assembly,

Abiodun, who said the governors took the decision after their meeting with Tinubu, spoke when he received a delegation of the Tajudeen Abass/ Benjamin Kalu Campaign Team under the Joint Task - 10th Assembly in Abuja on Thursday.

The governor said, "We (governors) met with the president two days ago. During our meeting, he told us that campaigns are over. He said that he'd be president for all. So, he sought our understanding and collaboration. It is within the right of the president to seek those that will make his job easier.

“He has decided in collaboration with the party that these are the people that he wants to work with. All of us across party lines keyed into what the president told us. We had our meeting after meeting him and decided that we should support the president."

Speaking while signing the amendment bill into law, Tinubu pledged his administration's dedication to strengthening the judiciary, ensuring the rule of law, and empowering judicial officers to execute their responsibilities effectively.

Abass will provide meaningful, purposeful, meticulous, peopleoriented leadership."

Opposition Shall Maximise Their Numbers, Says PDP

PDP claimed that it and other opposition political parties at the National Assembly had the numbers to decide the elections of the presiding officers for the Senate and the House of Representatives. PDP also said it was worried that the Independent National Electoral commission (INEC) was rejecting all documents earlier certified during the pre-conference trial of the presidential election tribunal petition at the Court of Appeal.

Three former PDP chieftains such as Godswill Akpabio, Orji Uzor Kalu and Osita Izunaso are contesting for the office of the Senate President In the House of Representatives, the APC has 179 candidates, while the opposition political parties has 181 members.

Addressing a press conference yesterday at the party secretariat, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Debo Ologunagba said, the PDP and the opposition parties has the numbers to determine, who becomes the presiding officers of the National Assembly.

He claimed that the opposition political parties were united to ensure a leadership of their choice on June 13.

"We the PDP and other minority political parties are united and we shall maximally decide the presiding officers of the National Assembly. With regard to the current race for the Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, it is instructive to note that the opposition parties put together form a strong majority in the National Assembly and we are very mindful of that.

RMAFC:

NNPC's N8.48tn Subsidy Claims Still Unreconciled, Backs Removal

Meanwhile, Shehu, yesterday backed the removal of fuel subsidy, citing lack of transparency in the scheme.

In a statement, he disclosed that from January 2022 to date, about N8.48 trillion withheld by NNPC as reported by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation(OAGF) as subsidy claims was yet to be reconciled by the RMAFC, OAGF and the NNPC.

Shehu said the decision of President Bola Tinubu to end the subsidy regime due to the non-budgetary provision for its continuation was a masterstroke that broke the jinx and a step in the right direction.

He said the country could no longer sustain fuel subsidies whose demerits far outweigh its benefits to the citizenry.

The RMAFC chairman said, "It is saddening to note that since 1st January 2022 to date, NNPC has not been contributing to the Federation Account due to the claimed subsidy payments."

Shehu said in a situation where the records of subsidy transactions were not transparent and crude oil prices were being determined globally, it would be unwise to

He praised the previous administration for providing the necessary enabling environment for the successful take-off of the first private refinery built by Alhaji Aliko Dangote.

Shehu expressed optimism that when the refinery became operational, the country would witness a glorious dawn in hasslefree oil production and distribution in the absence of the subsidy regime.

While commending Tinubu for his uncommon courage and political will in doing away with the issue of subsidy, he urged the new administration to work out strategies that would cushion the attendant effect of the new policy.

He added that deterrence measures should be taken to bring to book all the economic saboteurs who had contributed to national adversity in accordance with the extant laws of the federation.

Shehu said the commission’s position was premised on the fact that the continued payment of humongous amounts to a privileged few in the name of subsidy was a major drain on the nation’s scarce resources, as NNPC, one of the major sources of revenue to the federation account, had since stopped contributing to the national pause due to the fuel subsidy regime, which is characterised by opaqueness and other ambiguities.

He stressed that subsidy removal was long overdue and constituted a major challenge to the economic growth and development of the country.

He said he met with the memberselect of Ogun State and told them "you're standing solidly with Mr. President and the party. I, as governor of Ogun State, I am standing solidly behind you (Tajudeen Abass)."

According to him, “God gives power to whom He wishes at the time hence, the array of members-elect that have aligned with Abbas and Kalu. I want to thank all those that have keyed into your leadership. Like the president reminded us yesterday (during meeting with APC lawmakers-elect), these are positions for the party with the majority.

“But that party must seek the partnership of other political parties. You should carry along all members or most members to ensure that you succeed. Your success will be measured by the way your members take dividends of democracy to their people. I believe Rt. Hon. Tajudeen

"The PDP leadership is working together with our members-elect and opposition parties in the two chambers. Irrespective of the on-going and claims in the media, I want to inform you that the PDP has a clear direction, which we hold close to our chest, our members are united in that direction and it will show on the floor of both Houses of the National Assembly on Tuesday, June 13, 2023.

"In all, we do not discountenance the fact that put together, the opposition parties have the majority in the National Assembly which we are ready to deploy maximally," he stated.

On the presidential tribunal, Ologunagba said, "We are not taking our eyes off the fact that the process of the 2023 Presidential election is still on-going at the Presidential Election Petition Court and other Election Petition Tribunals across the country.”

He accused the APC and INEC of plots to derail the cause of justice in the various Election Petition Tribunals across the country, saying INEC's objection to its evidence in court was indicative.

EXXONMOBIL PRESIDENT VISITS TINUBU AMID LINGERING STALEMATE OVER $1.3BN OIL ASSETS SALE

pledged to ensure competition in the oil and gas industry in the country, following a visit by officials of ExxonMobil Nigeria, to the State House in Abuja.

None of the parties at the meeting disclosed details of the issues discussed, but THISDAY recalls that a pending matter which could not be resolved by the Muhammadu Buhari administration was the $1.3bn assets sale imbroglio between the company and Seplat Energy Plc on the one hand and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) on the

other.

Some of the key officials of ExxonMobil that visited Tinubu, who himself was a former Treasurer of the oil company were the President of Exxon Mobil on Upstream Oil and Gas, Mr. Liam Mallon and the Executive Director Mobil Nigeria, Adesuwa Dozie.

It also followed a similar meeting to the then President Muhammadu Buhari by both officials on the margins of the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly,

HADIZA VISITS THE PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT…

Telecoms Sector Contributed N2.508tn to GDP in Q1 2023

Emma Okonji

The telecommunications and Information Services sector in Nigeria in the first quarter in 2023, contributed N2.508 trillion to the nation’s Gross Domestic

Product (GDP). This represented 14.13 per cent of the GDP, according to statistics released yesterday by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The statistics showed that the

sector recorded a 4.3 per cent increase from its performance in the last quarter of 2022, when it recorded 13.55 per cent.

When compared on a year-onyear basis, the growth showed positive progression from 12.94

per cent in the first quarter of 2022 , to 14.13 per cent in 2023, which is an approximate growth by 9.19 per cent.

The percentage of telecom contribution to GDP was calculated from 46 distinct

Report: At 86 Million, Nigeria Ranks World's Top Country with Lack of Access to Electricity

Nigeria has been designated the country with the largest number of people lacking access to electricity with 86 million of its over 200 million population living without electricity as of 2021, a joint report by multiple international agencies, has revealed.

According to the report compiled by the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), the countries with the largest number of people without access to electricity as of 2021 were Nigeria (86 million), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (76 million), and Ethiopia (55 million).

The report highlighted the electricity access deficits in subSaharan Africa, where half of the regional population still lacks access to electricity, pointing out that the 20 countries with the largest access deficits accounted for 75 per cent of the world's population.

It said bridging electricity access gaps, especially for people living in poor and remote regions, required an annual rate of growth of one point per year from 2021, onward almost twice the current pace.

Many developing economies in sub-Saharan Africa, are

hobbled by scarce financing, inadequate risk mitigation resources, financially nonviable utilities, low capacity in critical agencies, and the absence of local financial institutions with access-related expertise all of which compromise the bankability of electricity access projects.

“As of 2021, the 20 countries with the largest access deficits accounted for 75 per cent of the global population without access. The countries with the largest number of people without access were Nigeria (86 million), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (76 million), and Ethiopia (55 million)", the report stated.

It further stated that access to electricity grew by an annual average of 0.7 percentage points between 2010 and 2021, rising from 84 per cent of the world’s population to 91 per cent.

“If no additional efforts and measures are put in place, some 660 million people, mostly in Sub-Saharan Africa, would still be unserved in 2030," it added.

However, to bridge the access gap, the report suggested that policies for energy access should demonstrate political commitment and maximise the socio-economic benefits of access, keeping the most vulnerable populations at the forefront of efforts to close the access gap.

It highlighted the fact that the sub-Saharan African region

still has the largest electricity access deficits in the world.

The report further emphasised that about half of the regional population still lacked access in 2021, saying as a result, more than 80 per cent of the world’s unserved lived in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2021.

It noted that electricity access was essential for education as well as for healthcare facilities including lighting, clean water supply, childbirth and neonatal care, immunisation, storage, and power for medical equipment.

Unfortunately, this aspect of health infrastructure is often neglected, leading to inadequate access to electricity, especially in low- and lower-middle-income countries, it stated.

It stressed that all countries needed to establish conditions that support new and innovative ways to promote transparency, ensure accountability, and derisk investments.

The joint report suggested regional cooperation as a solution to increasing electricity access in Nigeria and the SubSaharan Africa.

“Because small national power systems predominate in the region, regional cooperation among national electricity companies and regional electricity markets is important to manage prices and ensure the security of electricity supply", it said.

The report also called attention to good regulatory

and policy frameworks that will encourage productive uses of electricity, which generate income and employment in local communities and thus help fight poverty.

It added, "It is important to note that integrated access planning, with special attention to the expansion of minigrid and off-grid systems, is the precondition for such frameworks.

"Also, regulatory and policy frameworks informed by integrated planning can meet the energy demands of industry (especially small and medium-sized enterprises), attract private investment in the energy sector, and multiply the effects of the sector on the rest of the economy.

"Supporting technological innovation and digitalisation could reduce costs, provide efficiencies across the value chain, and improve collection and accountability, encouraging investments that widen opportunities to close the energy access gap while having large cross-sectoral effects.

"Governments across the African continent should also consider the deployment of digital technologies and the interoperability of components when strengthening and updating national institutional networks and legal frameworks that guide standards and regulations for energy products and services."

sectors of the economy, which constitute telecom and information services baskets.

Analysing the NBS statistics, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in a statement it released yesterday, that was signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Reuben Muoka, stated that the Nigerian telecom industry has continued its show positive outlook, which was credited to the innovative and predictable telecom regulatory environment promoted, and implemented by the NCC.

According to the statement, one of the key highlights of the telecom industry performance within the period was the generation of $820.8 million for the federal government from 5G spectrum licences fees paid by three eventual winning operators, MTN Nigeria, Mafab Communications and Airtel Nigeria

"Following the issuance of the licences in December 2021 to MTN and MAFAB, both

companies have launched 5G services. Airtel, which received its licence in December 2022, is set to launch services this month, June 2023.

“Another major development in the sector was the launch of Starlinks broadband services, a satellite-based wireless broadband services with potential nationwide coverage.

“This followed the issuance of licence to Elon Musk-owned SpaceX by the Commission. The services are now available in different parts of the country," the statement said.

Meanwhile, the growth statistics of the telecoms industry showed an impressive record of contributions to the economy. The number of phone subscribers as at April 2023, stood at 223.6 million subscribers, with a tele-density of 117 per cent. Internet subscribers for the same period were 157 million while broadband subscriptions stood at 92 million, translating to 48 per cent broadband penetration in the country.

Katsina, UNICEF Vaccinate 5.7m Children against Polio

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Katsina State government in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has vaccinated over 5.7 million children against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases in the state.

The state government, with support from UNICEF and other development partners, launched polio vaccination campaign on May 15, 2023, across the 34 local government areas of the state.

Over 2.9 million children between six weeks to 59 months were targeted to be immunised with fractional

injectable polio (fIPV) vaccine, and novel oral polio (nOPV) vaccine for children between zero to 59 months.

But a report made available to THISDAY by the state Primary Healthcare Development Agency at the end of the 15-day exercise, revealed that 5,788,714 children across the state have been vaccinated with fIPV and nOPV vaccines, thereby surpassing the 2.9 million initial target.

The report further revealed that 2,815, 424 children have been vaccinated for the fractional injectable polio vaccine and 2,973, 290 children for novel oral polio vaccine across the 34 LGAs of the state.

*Vice President Kashim Shettima receiving former Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman when the latter paid a courtesy visit on the Vice President at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja on Wednesday.

*President Bola Ahmed Tinubu receiving former Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman when the latter paid a courtesy visit on the President at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja on Wednesday

Peter Uzoho

FOCUS

It’s FirstBank’s Finest Hour

Dazzles stakeholders with growth across key metrics

Rising

from a

lower

profit margin of N10.2billion and a debilitating Non-Performing Loan portfolio of 45 per cent in 2015, to an impressive profit of N147billion and a significantly lowered NPL rate of 5.6 per cent in 2022, FirstBank has proven that its back-to-back profit-making is far beyond recoveries made, but rather it’s a reinforcement of a wellarticulated growth trajectory driven by a committed, competent and experienced Board and management team, writes Festus Akanbi

There seems to be a consensus among watchers of the Nigerian banking sector that these days, the changing dynamics foisted on the nation’s economy by both the current local and international economic realities are already taking their toll on Nigerian banks.

As the nation’s population rises, so also the need for banking services by the people. However, the rise in population and the corresponding rise in the number of unbanked and underbanked Nigerians are creating a new dimension of competition among banks in the country.

Therefore, as competition for the sphere of influence becomes fierce, analysts said only banks with a track record of consistent preparation for emerging challenges will stand the test of time, especially in a period of regime change with its attendant restructuring in the Nigerian economic policies.

FirstBank Returns with Solid Fundamentals

Top on the list of banks in this category is FirstBank Limited, a subsidiary of FBN Holdings Plc. This is because, from whatever angle one looks at its performance trajectory, especially in the last seven years, what is constant is the sustained growth in its deliveries coupled with its stabilisation and return to the top of the ladder of the Nigerian banking industry.

The bank has over the years taken some far-reaching decisions, which observers said have created a new benchmark in the Nigerian banking industry, especially with its triumphant return to solid profitability within a period of seven years.

For example, in its full-year results for 2022, the bank was been able to record tremendous improvements in all performance metrics surveyed by our correspondent. It grew the number of total customer accounts from 10 million in 2015 to 41 million customer accounts as of December 2022. Its total number of issued cards rose from seven million in 2015 to 12 million last year.

Also within a spate of seven years, the number of its FirstMobile users rose to 6.1 million, while the number of FirstOnline users was put at 1.1 million in 2022. Its USSD users were said to have hit 14.7 million while the number of its total digital banking customers rose from 600,000 in 2015 to 22 million in 2022.

Agent Banking

In the same category is the bank’s agent banking business where FirstMonie agent banking is reaching out to customers in unbanked or underbanked regions to process financial requests through registered agents. This was non-existent in 2015, but by 2022, the bank could boast of 200,000 direct agents in all the crannies of the country. Analysts are quick to remind us that if we factor in the fact that most of the agent bankers usually employ about two additional staff, what it means is that FirstBank has empowered about 600,000 people.

Performance Indicators

To show for its policy consistency, innovation and its recovery measures since 2015, a comparative analysis of the performance indicators in the bank’s statement of account between the 2015 and 2022 figures confirmed analysts’ vote of confidence in the board and management of FirstBank.

For instance, the bank has significantly grown its customer deposit from N2.905 billion in 2015 to N7.351 billion in 2022. Its

total assets rose from N3.973 billion in 2015 to N10.605 billion in 2022.

It improved on its profit before tax of N10.2 billion in 2015 which grew to N147.3 billion last year. Other metrics include a major improvement in the bank’s pretax return on equity from 0.6 per cent in 2015 to 17.3 per cent in 2022, while its pretax return on asset moved from 0.1 per cent to 1.6per cent. The bank also recorded an appreciable reduction in the cost of funds from 3.6 per cent in 2015 to 2.1 per cent in 2022.

Lower Rate of Non-Performing Loans

However, one major development is the ability of the bank’s leadership to free the institution from the burden of non-performing loans which trended down from 45 per cent in 2015 to 5.6 per cent in 2022.

In response to the ongoing turnaround of the bank initiated in 2015, the latest performance figures showed that the African subsidiaries of the bank have shed their negative position of 2015 to profitability and they indeed contributed 21.3 per cent of its PBT for the year under review.

Perhaps, the most visible indication that FirstBank has returned to profitability is the quantum jump in its share price which moved from N4.88 to N14.17.

First Bank’s Laudable Firsts Industry watchers said the bank’s return to solid profitability can also be assessed in terms of its areas of concentration as a growing concern.

It’s on record that FirstBank has many records of being the first. It was the first financial institution to be established in

West Africa; the first Nigerian company to emerge Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria for six consecutive years in the globally renowned brand Finance Surveys and the first Nigerian bank to surpass 200,000 agent banking locations as an exceptional financial inclusion pioneer. Other pioneering records include its emergence as the first bank to reach N1trillion ((US$8 billion) market capitalisation on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE); the first financial institution to engage in a N100 billion (US$800 million) hybrid offer that marked the largest public offer on the Nigerian capital market and the first Nigerian bank to establish an off-shore subsidiary – FirstBank UK Ltd.

Unique Products’ Offerings

The bank is also reputed as the first financial institution to support a centre on Sustainability in partnership with the Lagos Business School.

Then referred to as the FirstBank Sustainability Centre, it was used as a case study for global best practice in terms of “Partnerships with Business Schools to Advance Sustainability (Ideas that Inspire Action)” championed by the Principles for Management Education (PRME) and the United Nations Global Compact LEAD. It’s the commitment to advancing Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) that earned the Bank several awards including the Market Leader Nigeria (ESG) by Euromoney Market Leaders 2022.

Q1, 2023 Results

Expectedly, the bank has continued to receive impressive ratings ever since its first quarter 2023 result was made public, with analysts saying the transformation has further

confirmed the claim of its management that it has rebuilt FirstBank with solid fundamentals.

For instance, gross earnings recorded a substantial increase of 44.2 per cent year-on-year, while its net interest income saw a remarkable surge of 50.9 per cent year-on-year on the back of optimal asset pricing and effective management of interest-earning assets.

Speaking on the results, the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan disclosed that increasing penetration of digital and transaction banking offerings supported the bank’s Q1 performance in non-interest income by 15.3 per cent growth, adding that “The increase of 21 per cent year-on-year in operating expense reflects the high inflationary environment but within revenue growth. Overall, the Commercial Banking Group delivered substantial growth of 57 per cent and 54.8 per cent in profit before tax and profit after tax, respectively, for the quarter.”

The Making of a Transaction-led Institution

Another game-changer in the story of the transformation of FirstBank was the conscious attempt of the board and management to make the bank a transaction-led institution.

Analysts said the feat was achievable because of the commitment of the bank’s management to invest and deploy technology to the fullest.

For instance, FirstBank is the first to begin the Technology Academy in Nigeria and this has helped the bank to build a transaction-led “machine” -a digital infrastructure that can accommodate huge transactions. Today, the bank has been able to grow its customer accounts to 42 million-as against the 10 million it recorded in 2015, while it has over 22 million active customers on its digital channels.

Adeduntan explained further that “In cleaning up the bank, there was no additional fund injection, which is the most dramatic thing. That means we have been able to achieve all these without shareholders losing their business. What happened was that we did our own AMCON by cleaning our books ourselves without any external capital injection.

Human Resources

Realising the pivotal role of its employees, the bank decided to invest in its staff while it sought external assistance on areas it couldn’t address locally. Thisday gathered that the bank liaised with international institutions like Standard Chartered; Citibank and JP Morgan.

The bank also has a structured succession plan having initiated a development plan in 2015 that allows most if not all the vacancies in the bank to be filled internally.

The bank also put in place a Senior Management Development Programme (SMDP), which is an intensive modular programme for a select group of senior managers to principal managers who are proven leaders in their respective functions and have been identified as central to the Bank’s succession plan.

Other initiatives include the Leadership Acceleration Programme (LAP), which was specifically designed to develop and infuse critical leadership and change agents within the middle management staff cadre of the Bank. The list also includes First Bank Management Associate Programme, a 24-month fast-track comprehensive programme targeted at young, dynamic and highly driven individuals that are passionate about making a difference in the financial services industry. The programme is designed to build the next generation of leaders to drive the Bank’s vision of being Africa’s Bank of First Choice.

Adeduntan

POLITICS

Gbajabiamila: Bowing Out in Style

Musa Krishi writes about the legislative interventions of Hon Femi Gbajabiamila as Speaker of the Ninth House of Representatives between 2019 and 2023.

It is just like yesterday that Hon Femi Gbajabiamila took over the mantle of leadership as the Speaker of the 9th House of Representatives. Four years down the line, Gbajabiamila is leaving office fulfilled.

He was returning to the House for his 5th term back in 2019, and after an unsuccessful attempt to become the Speaker four years earlier, in 2015, he clinched the position in an unprecedented manner by polling 281 votes to defeat his opponent back then, Mohammed Umar Bago, who is now the governor of Niger State.

June 11, 2019, was a day to remember in Nigeria’s history because that was the day that the Nigerian Parliament, for the first time, got someone who had occupied both the Minority and Majority leadership positions in our history elected as Speaker. Having garnered experience from both sides of the divide, Gbajabiamila was truly prepared for the job ahead of him.

In his inaugural speech, Gbajabiamila promised to do things differently and “shake the table” a little. True to his words, he did things differently as Speaker.

Soon after the assumption of office, Gbajabiamila appointed a committee of distinguished members of the House headed by Prof. Julius Ihonvbere to come up with a legislative agenda for the House. When the document was ready, top on the list were health, education, and other legislative interventions.

The House barely commenced the implementation of the legislative agenda when the world was taken by storm. The COVID-19 pandemic struck like a whirlwind, and activities around the globe were grounded. During that difficult period, Gbajabiamila was up and doing. He provided decisive leadership.

He personally sponsored the Emergency Economic Stimulus Bill, 2020, to cushion the effects of the pandemic on the citizens.

The bill sought to provide tax relief, the suspension of import duty on selected medical goods, and the deferral of residential mortgage obligations.

He came up with the Control of Infectious Diseases Bill. But as is the case in Nigeria, there were media campaigns and outright lies against the bill. However, Gbajabiamila was vindicated when everyone, including our leaders, queued up to take the COVID-19 vaccine several months after he advocated for it in his bill.

Gbajabiamila spearheaded several other interventions and met with senior government officials day-by-day to ensure that the government’s palliatives during the lockdown period got to the targeted citizens.

Perhaps, the biggest intervention Gbajabiamila provided during those perilous times was that which averted the planned industrial action by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).

Members of the association had been at loggerheads with the Executive arm since 2019, and in the middle of COVID-19, they threatened to embark on a strike. If not for Gbajabiamila’s intervention, only God knows what would have become of Nigeria had they embarked on the strike.

After the nationwide lockdown necessitated by COVID-19, the House had to review its legislative agenda to accommodate certain things. The document was christened ‘Our Contract with Nigerians.’

It was also Gbajabiamila who insisted on having the national budget run from January to December, as envisaged by the constitution. He had been an advocate of the January-December budget cycle long before he became Speaker.

For the first time in our history, the 2020 budget was passed in December 2019 and signed into law the same month. The country’s subsequent budgets under him

also followed the same trajectory.

One thing that had been close to Gbajabiamila’s heart was a befitting legislative library for the Nigerian Parliament. Soon after he assumed office, he created a committee known as the Legislative Library, Research, and Documentation Committee. He made sure that budgetary allocations were made in the 2020 and subsequent budgets for the building of a world-class library for the National Assembly.

Today, that gigantic project, located behind the House of Representatives New Building, is almost complete, and it is expected that the next leadership of the National Assembly will carry on with it.

Nigerians will not forget in a hurry Gbajabiamila’s role in persuading members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities

(ASUU) in October 2022 to call off their eight-month strike, which they embarked on in February, 2022.

ASUU and the Federal Government went back and forth for several months, and there had been deadlocks on many occasions. But Gbajabiamila, in his usual leadership style, personally intervened and presided over several meetings between ASUU and top officials of the executive arm, including ministers.

His intervention yielded good results when ASUU called off the strike on October 14, 2022. The universities’ teachers association also commended Gbajabiamila for his role in the resolution of the issue.

It was also under his leadership as Speaker that key some legislations were passed.

The then Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which took almost two decades at the National Assembly, was passed and signed into law. The Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), and the Deep Offshore Sharing Agreement Bill, among several others, were also passed and signed into law under Gbajabiamila’s watch.

But one bill that may have defined the 9th House was the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, which the House passed alongside the Senate.

What the Green Chamber did became a game changer in the history of elections in Nigeria as the new law gave the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) the room to introduce more technology into the electoral process, which saw the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) during the 2023 general elections.

As busy as Gbajabiamila has been as Speaker, he still found the time to sponsor bills. Before occupying that position, he was one of the top sponsors of bills in the House, so he did not want the position of Speaker to stop him from bill sponsorship.

Within his four-year term, Gbajabiamila sponsored over 20 bills as a sitting Speaker.

Some of the bills he sponsored include Electric Power Sector Reform Act (Amendment) Bill, 2019; Physically-challenged (Empowerment) Bill, 2019; Presidential (Transition) Bill, 2019; Economic Stimulus Bill, 2019; Labour Act (Amendment) Bill, 2019; Students Loans (Access to Higher Education) Bill, 2019; Employees (Unpaid Wages Prohibition) Bill, 2019, and Federal Highways Act (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

On February 25, 2023, Gbajabiamila won his sixth term to return to the House to represent Surulere 1 Federal Constituency of Lagos State.

-Krishi writes from Abuja

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10th House Speakership: Why Tajudeen Abbas?

Al-Maruff Ajibolu writes that Hon Tajudeen Abbas possesses the necessary legislative experience to serve as the Speaker of the 10th National Assembly.

The race to produce the speaker of the 10th House of Representatives is getting more interesting as the lifetime of the current 9th Assembly is gradually coming to an end .

The contest is interestingly throwing up different aspirants that are in their own rights deemed qualified.

Interestingly, a few of the re-elected ranking members of the House of Representatives with geo-political advantage to succeed the current Speaker, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila have equally made their intentions known. However, the most outstanding of the lot is the lawmaker representing Zaria Federal Constituency of Kaduna State, Hon. Tajudeen Abass

What prospects does Abass holds for our national growth in our joints bids to redressing our not too palatable state of affairs by using stocks of Legislative tools?

Tajudeen Abbas, who has being adopted by the All Progressive Congress (APC) for the speakership of the House of Representatives has shown that he possesses all the needed qualities to be the next Speaker of the 10th Assembly. Abass, currently the House Committee Chairman for Land Transport, has convinced every of his colleagues that he is the best prepared and most qualified person to be the Speaker of the 10th

Assembly. He is enviably educated and eminently experienced to preside over the affairs of the House.

He has distinguished himself as the only federal lawmaker from the North-West who has thus far sponsored unprecedented 74 bills.

He is also the first in the history of democracy in Nigeria to have sponsored over such a number of bills and remain the first to have over 25 of his bills signed into law by the president, adding this can only be achieved by someone with the zeal and passion for his country’s greatness.

Abass speakership ambition has indeed been faithfully endorsed by several

professional bodies and a large majority of the newly elected and re-elected members of the House of Representatives.

He also stands out as a man that is most suitable in character, experience and academic qualifications to preside over the House.

In Education, Hon Abass obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 1988. He also in 1993 obtained a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Ahmadu Bello University and was later awarded his PhD in year 2010 in Business Management from the Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto.

The federal lawmaker also has a very robust career trajectory that covers education, management and marketing.

He worked as a primary school teacher from 1981 to 1988 with the Education Department of Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State. He latter proceeded to Trust Acceptance Limited as an Investment Officer from 1988 to 1989. He also worked at the Bursary Department of Kaduna State Polytechnic as Accountant II in 1989.

-Ajibolu writes from Abuja

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EPISTLES of ANTHONY KILA

Republican Presidential Primaries’ Coming Showdown

great again.”

Politicians, prevarications and the art of being on the two sides of an issue. They have good company with economists who are famous for their omnibus qualifier: “on one hand, and on the other hand….”

Depending on who you ask, it is part of the beauty and dynamism of politics strategies where there are no permanent enemies, but permanent interests.

Broadly, I underscore the fact that his main positions questioned the ideological truthfulness and reliability of Mr. Trump to conservative positions and ideals.

Also, he raised issues regarding the former president’s efforts and statements, which basically offer some defense of the Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The immediate past former Vice President of the United States Mike Pence has decided to take on his controversial ex-boss Donald Trump for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.

Over the past three years, especially Mr. Pence has shown that he is a man capable of controlling his emotions, even where the affirmation Trump jeopardized his life when the Republican and right wing activists set up on congressional building at the Capitol. He has shown self-restraint. But it seems he has had enough hence his decision to formally make his announcement speech on Wednesday laced with direct attacks and suggestive digs at the famously controversial Mr. Trump.

After several months and years of dillydallying or add best tiptoeing around the big elephant in the room by Mr. Pence, he decided a few days ago to state clearly that Trump deserves blame for the unconstitutional and unlawful efforts which sought to overturn the 2020 election during the January 6 insurrection.

Pence whose major base and active supporters draw from Conservatives and evangelical christians, pointedly said of the embattled Trump: “Anyone who puts themselves over the Constitution should never be president of the United States, and anyone who asks someone else to put them over the Constitution should never be president of the United States again.” Specifically, on January 6, 2021, rebuffed Trump’s schemes and pressure to stop the counting of the electoral votes, necessary, to certify the results of the election of Joe Biden.

The evidently Trump-inspired mob of insurrectionists who were aware that Pence was in the U.S. Capitol to complete the constitutional duties of his office were very violent and chanted “Hang Mike Pence.”

Pence, a former Governor of Indiana and ex-member of the United States Congress, claimed during his comments a few days ago: “I know we can beat Joe Biden.” Significantly, he said in Iowa where the Republicans/GOP is characterized as the first-in-the-nation caucuses: “But we must resist the politics of personality and the siren song of populism unmoored to conservative principles.”

In a spectacular double-speak, Pence, a former Indiana congressman and governor, who turned 64 on Wednesday January 7, 2023, artfully added that he will “always be grateful for what President Trump did for this country” and proudly stood by former President Trump as his VicePresident “every single day when we made America

Trump did those even before and after Mr. Putin’s invasion, escalated subjugation, destruction and daily commital of War Crimes in the sovereign country of Ukraine. Putin is still seen and rated by some government officials as the biggest foe of the United States.

Trump benefits in a field of too many aspirants, If he is still able to contest in 2024 — although he has since declared he is running for President.

Considerably at this time, the most serious threat to him capturing the ticket as flagbearer of the Republican Party for the next election of President of the United States will be, I’ll say: first, the disposition and outcome, of any substantial, potentially criminal outcome of the court cases and litigations he has around the country — especially those from the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Washington DC. That’s outside the Rpublican Party.

However, inside the Republican Party, the racially polarizing political hustler, diversity insensitive and anti-historical facts dude who’s otherwise titlrd as the Governor Florida, Ron DeSantis, ignorantly dismissed Russia’s decimation and War Crimes in Ukraine as a “territorial dispute.”

This governor, who I’ll characterize as a mini Trump, reflects the state of the Republican Party in its headlong collapse into the pits of toxic ignorance, and destruction of some of its abandoned Lincolnesque values as a previously, credible counterweight to the other extreme liberalisms across the country.

One of Trump’s former allies, former Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey, is in the presidential contest, and has a message to the party members and Americans: “Tonight is the beginning of the case against Donald Trump.”

It’s easier said than done. Not so fast.

The divisive and cantankerous former President of the United States Donald Trump since Tuesday November 15, 2022 “officially launched” his third campaign for the White House.“In order to make America great and glorious again, I am tonight announcing my candidacy for president of the United States…. America’s comeback starts right now.”

The issue is not merely declaring opposition to the cunning Trump. It is organizing and securing your team. He’s proven to be a cat with nine lives! Time will tell, soon.

Anthony

Kila advises President Bola Tinubu on the need for him to embark on some economic reforms and general policies that will stand him out as Nigerian leader.

Today’s epistle is addressed to you as the new president of a new Nigeria and it is aimed at suggesting some reforms and policies that I believe will be very advantageous for Nigerians and consequentially beneficial to your own legacy.

It is not often said, but one of the perks of being a good leader is that what benefits the country is also good for the leader and where what is good for the leader is not good for the country, it simply means the leader is a bad leader.

To those checking to see if, or wondering why I am not starting my first epistle to the new president with congratulatory notes, let us quickly confess that I have sent you private messages.

This epistle is a public missive for public consumption and presidential consideration. As president, your first act was your inaugural speech and it was more than a good speech. By the way, it is still not clear to me if the best way to address you is “President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu” or just “President Bola Tinubu”. That is just an aside and I am sure once you nominate a spokesperson, we shall take a cue from him or her.

Your speech, I was saying, was not only very impressive in content, it has also turned out to be very impactful. The content of your speech demonstrated a clear understanding and appreciation of your new office, you also used it to show a clear understanding of the socioeconomic and political reality of the country and very importantly you set the pace of how you intend to govern.

In terms of style, relevance and impact, it can be argued that what you delivered on May 29th 2023 was arguably the best inaugural speech of the 4th republic.

That speech will however be remembered for a sentence: “Fuel subsidy is gone” and its consequential effects on the lives and businesses of Nigerians.

I have tried elsewhere to explain that you did not actually do anything to cause the situation but that you simply took note of a situation you inherited and that you just reported a fact to all but, herein lies the rub, you are not a reporter so please do not report again Mr President.

You should tell us your own plan and better still act. Just to be clear, I would have handled that situation differently but then again, vous êtes le président, pas moi …

One of the major features of the time you got into office is the lack of funds available to govern, the country is broke and even in debt, yet govern you must govern.

Money matters no doubt but some of us argue that ideas can be more valuable than money especially when there is no money to spend.

To aid your plans and polices, here are some impactful ideas for your presidential considerations, there are things that you can do at no cost at all and that can yield beneficial effects for the country and your legacy.

Now that you are in office, one of the first and most important things you need to do is to assemble a cabinet, to do such, you will

ear President Tinubu, Please correct me if I am wrong, but I doubt you have been president of any other thing before now, senator, yes, governor, yes, leader yes, chairman maybe, but I am not sure you have ever had that title of president prefixed to your name before 29th May 2023. That is impressive, to put it mildly.need the approval of the legislative arm of government.

In absolving this function, you need to, unlike your predecessor, avoid wasting precious time. You should also, unlike all your predecessors, go to the national assembly with portfolios attached to the list of cabinet members you want to use. With this singular act you will not only create a useful precedent, you will also show that you are bringing people with a plan and objectives that can be articulated and measured. Attaching portfolios to prospective ministers will allow the national assembly and, through them, the whole country know precisely what to expect and from whom.

Naturally these nominees would have demonstrated to you that they have meaningful things to offer your government and the country.

Once nominated, you can mandate each minister to hold not less than quarterly meetings with operators and other stakeholders in their ministries.

Such meetings, at virtually no cost, will not only allow ministries share their plans, it will allow operators and other stakeholders get update and progress reports on government actions.

You, Mr President should also make it a point to address the country directly at least every month. This way you get to show the country that you are on top of things and that you are making progress.

This zero-cost practice will also make those working with you develop a very high sense of purpose and accountability.

There is an ongoing project causing more than a mild discontent in the aviation industry. It is the Nigeria Air project.

The best institutional response to give in this circumstance is for the government to create an independent and authoritative public inquiry charged to examine the project, its process, participants and budget. Such inquiry will allow all those who have issues and questions about the project to table their concerns, it will also give those involved in the project to respond without fear or intimidation and for all interested Nigerians to know what really happened and what to expect from the project.

-Kila is Institute Director at CIAPS. www.ciaps.org.

continue

NOTE: Interested readers should

Chido Nwangwu writes that there are many interest groups and individuals within The Republican Party who are opposed to the presidential ambition of controversial Donald Trump in the United States.

D

Senior Customs Officers Urge FG to Halt Controversial $3.2bn Modernisation Project

Eromosele Abiodun

Senior officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have called on President Bola Tinubu to stop the controversial $3.2bilion customs modernisation project, also known as e-customs, being promoted by the Comptroller General of NCS, Col. Hameed Ali, (Rtd.)

In a letter by a group of concerned customs officers,

seen by THISDAY, the president was informed that the project amounts to a concession of customs modernisation for 20 years and will result in some persons with vested interest taking away government revenue under the Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) account

The officers described the customs modernisation that is already a subject of litigation in

the Federal High Court as a channel to waste government revenue.

Faulting the award of the modernisation concession, the group alleged that the company handling it was hurriedly registered, without the required technical experience and could set the gains achieved by the service backwards.

According to them, the NCS is presently one of the most automated government agency

in the country with a homegrown Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS) that only requires upgrade to meet the demands of current reality.

They added that NCS is the most modernised customs administration in West and Central Africa handling the highest volume of trade relying on a blend of technology and human expertise while querying an intended loan

facility for modernisation that will impoverish the country.

They claimed that using the existing modernisation template of the service, the NCS has been able to move from generating N800 billion in 2015 to collecting N2 trillion in 2022 without the controversial concession.

The group said over 3,500 officers of the Nigeria Customs Service have been trained while

150 of them are presently undergoing technical training on various aspects of modernisation required for trade.

Bionica Technologies, had dragged the federal government and the Nigeria Customs Service before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.

Experts: Poor Performance, Incessant Flight Delays, Distrust Bane of Nigerian Airlines

Chinedu Eze

Experts in the aviation industry have listed poor on-time performance, incessant flight delays, among others as some of the key factors that led to the demise of Nigerian airlines after a short period of operation.

The experts stated this while examining some of the major reasons why Nigerian carriers cannot compete effectively with other airlines on international routes.

They added that those factors made it extremely difficult for

foreign airlines to have code-share arrangement with Nigerian operators.

According to them, flight delays create air of uncertainty in the passenger who goes to the airport not knowing when he will really fly despite the fact thats flight has been scheduled.

Travel expert and organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ambassador Ikechi Uko, told THISDAY that poor on-time performance was one of the drawbacks of Nigerian airlines because it does not make them competitive in an environment

where other airlines are operating like the West Coast, international destinations, noting that consistent flight delay has affected the image of Nigerian operators and can be defined as negative branding for them.

He said lack of respect for time in every scheduled flight has made Nigerian airlines to lose their premium passengers and has also made it difficult for Nigeria to attract business class passengers on international destinations.

Uko also observed that Nigerian airlines may not even compete

with road transporters because ‘a God is Good Motors’ bus can leave Lagos to Benin and arrive Benin before noon, but a passenger who has Lagos-Benin flight by 8 am will still be at the airport by mid-day.

He said on-time performance remained key to business success for airlines, but however explained that it had never worked well in Nigeria because of internal peculiarities, which are strong in Nigeria.

“It stems from the culture, where people do not take keeping to time seriously. One is even

tempted to believe it is a Nigerian thing because whenever there is group trip involving Nigerians and others, it is the Nigerians that do not turn up as scheduled,” Uko said.

“If you say that such delays among Nigerian airlines occur because of operation environment you can deflate that argument with the fact that African World Airline (AWA) comes to Nigeria, keeping to its schedule but Nigerian carriers will go to Ghana and fail to keep to their schedule. So, why it is that our own is not as smooth as theirs? I think it is a cultural

thing and it is not good for our airlines, ”he said.

The organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market said that Ibom Air and Green Africa Airways have been comparatively doing well because on-time performance in Ibom Air is 74 per cent and Green Africa is 73 per cent.

He noted that while they could be commended for doing better than others, that percentage is not good enough when compared to the standard outside Nigeria.

The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Island Port Complexes in Lagos… yesterday

Akeredolu-Ale: Why FG Should Not Reintroduce Commodities Board

In this engaging interview, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lagos Commodities and Futures Exchange, Mr Akin Akeredolu-Ale, highlights how commodities ecosystem can drive the Nigerian economy and advises the federal government on why Commodities Board is no longer relevant in the modern day financial market. Excerpts

How would you respond to President Bola Tinubu’s Speech that the Federal Government would target 6% growth of the Nigerian Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ?

Governments around the world set a target for economic growth, such as a specified percentage rise in GDP. An increase in GDP growth rate can signify a thriving economy which can be brought about by an increase in productivity. This also leads to a higher living standard for the public. Such ambitious expansion necessitates a combination of good economic policies, infrastructural investment, human capital development, and promotion of favorable business environment.

To examine the feasibility and possible impact of a 6% GDP growth rate, numerous elements must be considered, including the current health of the Nigerian economy, sectoral contributions to the GDP, government policies, global economic conditions, and the country’s growth potential. Economic growth objectives should be founded on a thorough grasp of the country’s strengths, problems, and possibilities. It is important to note that obtaining a given GDP growth rate necessitates collaborative efforts from both the public and private sector.

Furthermore, economic progress should be inclusive, with benefits dispersed equally and reaching all elements of society. Focusing on job creation, food security, and ending extreme poverty, as President Bola Tinubu mentioned in his speech, is a positive starting point because improving job opportunities could potentially increase healthy business competition and productivity in various sectors of the economy, eventually reducing reliance on imports, as the president also mentioned in his speech.

Where does the commodity ecosystem come in for the government to achieve this target?

The Commodities Ecosystem is a treasure trove of opportunities for this new administration to drive the Nigerian Economy. I have said it several times that the Commodities Ecosystem is a One Trillion Dollar Economy across all assets of Commodities- Solid Minerals, Oil and Gas and Agriculture. A lot of opportunities abound for the country to take advantage of to generate FX proceeds. One of such opportunities is the gap in the global wheat and Gas market caused by the Russia invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent ban on Russia products by global leaders. The Electronic Vehicle Industries is also developing fast and one of the minerals used for the batteries is Lithium. Nigeria has substantial deposits of Lithium and many other precious metals which can be harnessed to bring about a positive change in our current situation. We also have the capacity to produce the food we need to ensure food security thereby empowering local producers. This new administration can choose any aspect of the commodity ecosystem and with the relevant structure and support to drive the Nigerian Economy.

What are the main challenges faced by commodities Exchanges in Nigeria at the moment and the way forward ?

The commodity exchanges have made huge strides in recent years but nonetheless. there are still challenges being faced. To name a few: Commodity Stakeholders are still unaware and do not understand the role and benefits of Commodity Exchanges. This cuts across farmers, dealers, and investors. The Commodities Ecosystem has been trading informally for many decades and we understand that they would not want to move right away to a structured system, but we are certain that with more engagement and sensitization they will adapt to this system. The ecosystem has struggled with post-harvest loss due to lack of standard infrastructure. To develop a structured ecosystem, a certain level of control and standardization is required. This is what has been absent in our Commodities Ecosystem. Access to standard infrastructure like warehousing, vaults, Cold Storage and effective transportation is limited in the ecosystem. Inadequate storage facilities can lead to post-harvest losses, reduced commodity quality, and higher transaction costs. All these pose significant challenges to Commodity Exchanges.

The successful operation of commodity exchanges requires a strong and supportive regulatory environment. Nigeria has made headway in this area with the introduction of the Capital market under the supervision of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the amendment of the Investment and Securities Act that has included commodities as securities. There is still more to be done to ensure rules and policies with clear and comprehensive rules that address concerns like contract enforcement, quality standards, and market manipulation are still needed.LCFE and the Commission have developed some rules in this regard and with the guidance of the Commission. Commodity standardization is critical for facilitating trade and maintaining transparency. However, in Nigeria, the lack of consistent grading and quality standards across

different areas and market participants makes creating a seamless trade environment difficult.

How can these challenges be addressed?

The way forward for commodities exchanges in Nigeria involves addressing these challenges through various. LCFE has spent a lot of time organizing. various sessions of market sensitizations across the Commodities Ecosystem and the Capital Market. These sectors are vast and joint efforts should be made to improve farmer, trader, and investor market education and awareness. Training programmes, workshops, and awareness campaigns can assist in educating stakeholders about the benefits of commodities exchanges and how they can participate. It is critical to invest in standard infrastructure such as storage facilities, warehouses, and transportation.

The Exchange and its registered members have created a framework for the development of financial instruments to channel relevant investment for infrastructure development.€Exchanges play a significant role in risk management by implementing, regulating and enforcing risk management procedures across its members. This includes the use of hedging products, the broadcast of price information, and risk management training for market participants. The participation of Commodities Exchanges promote transparency, uniformity, and market integrity.

To see an overall effect on the economy there must be an alignment of regulatory framework across all commodities exchanges. To effectively develop an enabling environment for commodities trading, regulatory agencies, exchanges, and market participants must work together. Efforts should be made to create uniform grading and quality standards for various commodities. This will make trading easier, increase transparency, and foster confidence among market players. Overall, by addressing these challenges and implementing appropriate measures, commodities exchanges in Nigeria can unlock their potential, promote inclusive growth in the agricultural sector, and contribute to the overall economic development of the country.

What policy measures do you think the Federal Government should put in place to boost activities in the commodities ecosystem in Nigeria?

The ecosystem comprises stakeholders and value chains who engage in several activities within the ecosystem. The value chains include high-quality inputs, farming, mining, trading, logistics, processing, and the market. These stakeholders encounter different challenges in their respective segments, and these has hindered the growth potential of this industry. The government must establish and enforce enabling policies to protect value chain players and provide subsidies to stakeholders in the ecosystem. Access to cheap finance is a challenge for stakeholders in the ecosystem, by establishing a subsidy regime to cater to finance needs of ecosystem the stakeholders will have access to cheap finance thereby boosting their

exchanges to ensure effective policy co-ordination. This collaboration can aid in the streamlining of laws and regulations, remove bottlenecksand the promote a favorable environment for agricultural trading.

Can you give an insight into the trading on LCFE since its inauguration last year ?

At our official Commissioning in July 2022 when we launched the first Gold Spot instrument on any Exchange in Nigeria, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, unveiled the first exchange traded Gold Coins, The Eko Gold Coin. These Coins are 99.99% or 24 Carat pure Gold and weigh 50g each. Gold Trading Commenced on the Exchange started at 43,000 per gram and today, it is appreciating. The Securities and Exchange Commission granted approval of wheat, bringing the total number of SEC approved commodities to 14. We signed the agreement with the Lagos state government on rice initiative. Active Trading of paddy rice has commenced on the Exchange.

The Exchange has been highly visible in all activities about Lagos Rice Mill, Imota. What is driving this collaboration with the Lagos State Government?

productive activities.

Are you comfortable with the plan by the Federal Government to introduce Commodity Board?

Commodity Boards played a very significant role when they were prevalent. They ensured price regulation. Price discovery and standardisation across all the participants. These are the services provided by Commodities Exchanges today. Reintroducing Commodity Boards back into the ecosystem will see a duplication of functions. The existing structure required by the Commodity boards are already being implemented by the Commodities Exchanges.

The Federal Government should work with the SEC-licensed commodities exchanges to grow and develop the Commodities ecosystem and the Nigerian Economy.

What can the government do to align with the operations of commodities exchanges in Nigeria?

One of the primary roles of the Commodities Exchanges is to align all the stakeholders of the Commodities Ecosystem to contribute to the development of the Nigerian Economy through the Commodities ecosystem.

One of the major stakeholders in this ecosystem is the federal government. The Government can align the with Commodities Exchanges in the following areas;

In the area of regulatory framework, Securities and Exchange Commission and the Ministry of Finance have supported the amendment of the Investment and Securities Act which is a great first step. More needs to be done to ensure the implementation of the Act. This will ensure commodities trading openness, fairness, and integrity, while also protecting all stakeholders. There is a need for financial assistance to encourage farmers, cooperative societies and other agricultural stakeholders to participate in commodity exchanges.

The government can align with Commodities Exchanges to ensure a structured financing system through the capital market for stakeholders. This aid may include transaction fee subsidies, credit access, and technical assistance in implementing best practices. The alignment with structured exchanges ensure that the funds are easily repatriated. The government can partner with Commodities Exchanges to build dependable market information systems that give real-time data on agricultural commodity pricing, demand, and supply. Farmers will be able to make more informed decisions and increase their negotiating power when trading on commodity exchanges with this knowledge.

Commodities Exchanges should host joint capacity building session for civil servants and commodity stakeholders. This can involve instruction on quality standards, post-harvest management, grading, and other features that increase agricultural produce’s marketability. The government must guarantee coordination among key ministries, agencies, and parties involved in agricultural and commodity

LCFE and Lagos State Government relationship stems from the same agenda. We both understand the need to drive the development of the Rice value chain in the nation. This collaboration will drive Paddy rice to the Lagos Rice Mill, Imota, integration of all Rice Stakeholders in Lagos State, standardisation of Paddy and Head Rice in Lagos State, opportunity for investment in the Rice Sector through LCFE, creation of Financial Instruments for Paddy Trading opportunities for Rice distributors and stakeholders to trade on the Exchange, opportunities for financing for aggregators and distributors of rice and participation of the Nigerian Capital Market in the Lagos Rice Value Chain. We are looking to replicate this model with other Subnational across the country.

There is still a wide knowledge gap in understanding the basics of commodities exchanges in Nigeria. Are there plans to address this in order to attract investors into the market ?

Yes, our first step when we entered the market even before we received our license from the Securities and Exchange Commission was stakeholder sensitisation and capacity building. This is a strategy we will never stop executing. When we started, the concept of a Commodities Exchange was still relatively new. Stakeholders could not draw the line between Commodities trading and being an Exchange. We understood that and ensured that we trained capital market operators to differentiate between Commodities Trading and being a regulatory entity. Commodities Exchanges shouldn’t own commodity assets like paddy rice and warehouses because they need to regulate stakeholders who own these assets. You can’t own and regulate at the same time. The Exchange will continue to drive this narrative and capacity building across all stakeholders in the Commodities Ecosystem and the Capital market.

How do you intend to attract youths into the commodities ecosystem in view of their population and strong technology inclination?

At LCFE, one of strategies is hinged on the understanding that the current investing population in Nigeria is an aging one and if the new generation is not encouraged to invest in Nigeria, our capital market will be in trouble. There is a need to sensitize the youths as they are becoming more involved in the activities of today. This simply comes down to the increase in accessible information online and the technological inclination.

These young investors are actively trading in foreign stock, cryptocurrencies, and multiple digital assets abroad but are not trading in the Nigerian Capital Market.

We are implementing the following strategies to ensure that the next generation of investors consider the Nigerian Capital Market as attractive: Digitization of commodity instruments, using blockchain technology to ensure that investors can invest in small fractions of commodity instruments which they can afford, providing a variety of financial instruments aid their portfolio diversification, organising educational programmes, campaigns and events to teach young people about the commodities ecosystem. One of such programmee is our annual Financial Literacy Seminar for Secondary and University students, technology integration to facilitate easy access to commodity markets, creating user-friendly mobile applications or internet platforms that allow young people to easily watch market trends, access real-time data, and conduct trades. and networking events, seminars, or webinars, aimed exclusively towards young people interested in commodities’. These are just some of the strategies we are implementing at LCFE at the moment.

Akeredolu-Ale

23 THISDAY FRIDAY, JUNE 9, 2023

Gupta: Efficient Management Secret

Chinedu Eze

of NAHCO’s Success

Group Managing Director of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO), Mr. Indranil Gupta has attributed the success of the company and profit recorded in the 2022 financial year to the strategic relationship management that NAHCO has across all its stakeholders and clients.

Gupta said the company’s profitability was also enhanced by strategic appointments and recruitment, deeper understanding of the operating environment, a commitment to excellent delivery of service and an outlook for the growth of NAHOC’S business concerns.

While explaining the company’s increase in tariffs for its services, Gupta said that NAHCO increased its tariff not to enhance its revenue, but to meet the increasing cost of doing business.

“For example, y-o-y, operating costs increased by 32 per cent while

administrative costs increased by 45 per cent. The above notwithstanding, the increase in tariffs caused a 41 per cent increase in revenue in 2022 and a 270 per cent increase in profit after tax (PAT).

He also explained that with the implementation of the new tariffs, the prices of services have become quite competitive with the rest of Africa, adding that the commitment to safe operations, and adherence to SOPs (standard operating procedures) as spelled out in the Ground Handling Agents (GHA) and SLAs (Service Level Agreements) with client companies.

“The operating environment is quite safe and secure. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and all the other airport authorities are committed to the security of the operating environment, ensuring adherence to safety procedures and enacting policies to cover all identified gaps.

“There are however a few challenges with the timely

maintenance of some infrastructure provided by the airport authority like carousels, belts, scanning machines, etc. These should be properly maintained to prevent frequent breakdowns which hamper the efficient provision of our services,” the Group Managing Director said.

He also observed that the new tariffs have also made the market more attractive to new entrants, but however, noted that the industry is quite specialized with specific skill set requirements, huge capital investments and strict regulations which may be quite difficult for new entrants to meet.

AIR WATCH

Chinedu Eze

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has upgraded its outlook for 2023 and expressed hope of improved airline industry profitability during the year. IATA added that airline industry net profits are expected to reach $9.8 billion in 2023 (1.2 per cent net profit margin), which is more than double the previous forecast of $4.7 billion in December 2022.

NPA Commissions Control Towers to Improve Operational Efficiency

Gilbert Ekwugbe

In a bid to further reduce vessel-turnaround time, enhance operational efficiency at the nation’s ports of Apapa and Tin-Can, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) yesterday commissioned Control Towers at the ports in Lagos.

Speaking during the commissioning exercise, the Managing Director of NPA, Mohammed Bello-Koko said the newly renovated Control Towers will improve Vessel Traffic Management, Navigation Assistance, Advance Visibility, Safety and Security, Emergency Response, Communication, Resource Management and Disaster Risk Mitigation amongst other.

According to him, “The commissioning of control tower signposts our unwavering commitment towards improving

operational efficiency through aggressive infrastructure and equipment renewal.

“The multiplicity of functions such as Vessel Traffic Management, Navigation Assistance, Advance Visibility, Safety and Security, Emergency Response, Communication, Resource Management and Disaster Risk Mitigation amongst other crucial functions which a control tower enables are the reasons why we placed the equipping of this facility on top priority as management team.

“As most of us are aware, safety and security constitute critical operational preconditions necessary for the actualization of our strategic intent of becoming the maritime logistics hub for sustainable port services in Africa, which is why we placed high priority on putting in place a modern control tower

of this nature in order enhance our domain awareness capability.”

He added, “Given the decrepit and non-functional state we met this facility, the decision to invest so much towards making it the state-of-the-art and well equipped edifice was made taking cognizance of the need to equip our highly cherished and well trained marine talents with the right tools and comfort required to deliver efficient services to our stakeholders.

“Sustainably providing efficient port service in safe, secure, and customer friendly environment requires that we ensure and assure that we are up to date in terms of skill and equipment, and I will like to assure that beyond this commissioning today, we are resolved to continually equip and re-equip this facility whilst training and re-training its users to be bestin-class.”

United Nigeria Airline to Increase Fleet, Plans Regional Operations

The Management of United Nigeria Airlines Limited has announced plans to increase its fleet size and expand operations to more cities across Nigeria and the African region.

According to the plan, the airline will acquire two Embraer-190 aircraft, which will be delivered by the fourth quarter of the year 2023 as well as introduce 10 brand new Embraer-175 aircraft in batches within 24 months afterwards.

Commenting on the expansion plan, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the airline, Osita Okonkwo, said United Nigeria Airlines would not relent in its effort to sustain its presence in the aviation sector

and further serve Nigerians better.

He said: “We are desirous of expanding our operations. So, the acquisition of more aircraft is in accord with our business development and growth plan. We are bringing in Embrarer-190 aircraft. We expect them to be in Nigeria by the end of the fourth quarter of year 2023.

“We are also expecting another set of aircraft thereafter – 10 brand new Embraer-17. These will help us increase our capacity for national and regional operations also.”

He disclosed that arrangements are in top gear for operations to Ghana, Angola, South Africa, Niger Republic, Cote d’Ivoire, and Senegal

among other African countries.

The airlines, which started operations in February 2021, with four Embraer-145 aircraft, effectively services nine cities in the country, with plans to connect more Nigerian cities within the 2023 fiscal year and in line with its mantra …flying to unite.

IOSA’s Senior Vice President, Operations, Safety and Security, Mr. Nick Careen, said: “IATA is proud to recognise that United Nigeria Airlines Company Limited has been successfully registered as an IOSA Operator under the IATA Operational Safety Audit programme, in accordance with the provisions of the IOSA Program Manual.”

Dana Air Recognised for Outstanding Services, Collaborations

Dana Air has been recognised for its outstanding services and collaborations over the years by the Manager of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo state.

Speaking on the award to Dana Air, the Owerri Airport Manager, Mrs. Rejoice Ndudinachi, said Dana Air had been outstanding in terms of their service delivery at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport here in Owerri and very willing and available to

support and collaborate when the need arises.

“We appreciate Dana Air’s support and its outstanding service delivery to our customers here in Owerri and we encourage them to keep up the good work,’’ Ndudinachi said.

Receiving the award on behalf of Dana Air, the Acting Station Manager of the airline, Owerri station, Kingsley Adichie, said:

“Dana Air will always work with the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria in Owerri to not only

It also highlighted that airline industry operating profits were expected to reach $22.4 billion in 2023, much improved over the December forecast of a $3.2 billion operating profit. It is also more than double the $10.1 billion operating profit estimated for 2022.

It also declared that some 4.35 billion people are expected to travel in 2023, which is closing in on the 4.54 billion who flew in 2019, adding that cargo volumes are expected to be 57.8 million tonnes, which has slipped below the 61.5 million tonnes carried in 2019 with a sharp slowing of international trade volumes.

IATA also stated that total revenues are expected to grow 9.7 per cent year over year to $803 billion, noting that this is the first time that industry revenues will top the $800 billion mark since 2019 ($838 billion) and expense growth is expected to be contained to an 8.1 per cent annual increase.

“Airline financial performance in 2023 is beating expectations. Stronger profitability is supported by several positive developments. China lifted COVID-19 restrictions earlier in the year than anticipated. Cargo revenues remain above pre-pandemic levels even though volumes have not. And, on the cost side, there is some relief. Jet fuel prices, although still high, have moderated over the first half of the year,” said IATA’s Director General, Willie Walsh.

IATA said that the return to net profitability, even with a 1.2 per cent net profit margin, would be a major achievement. First, it was achieved at a time of significant economic uncertainties. And second, it follows the deepest losses in aviation’s history ($183.3 billion of net losses for 2020-2022 (inclusive) for an average net profit margin of -11.3% over that period). IATA recalled that the airline industry entered the COVID-19 crisis at the end of a historic profit streak that saw an average net profit margin of 4.2 per cent for the 2015-2019 period.

“Economic uncertainties have not dampened the desire to travel, even as ticket prices absorbed elevated fuel costs. After deep COVID-19 losses, even a net profit margin of 1.2 per cent is something to celebrate. But with airlines just making $2.25 per passenger on average, repairing damaged balance sheets and providing investors with sustainable returns on their capital will continue to be a challenge for many airlines,” Walsh further said.

IATA also said industry revenues were expected to reach $803 billion in 2023. An inventory of 34.4 million flights is expected to be available in 2023.

“Passenger revenues are expected to reach $546 billion. With COVID-19 restrictions now removed in all major markets, the industry is expected to reach 87.8 per cent of 2019 levels of revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs) for the year with strengthening passenger traffic as the year progresses. The high demand for travel in many markets is keeping yields strong with a modest 1.1% decline expected in 2023 compared to 2022 levels (following increases of 9.8% in 2022 and 3.7% in 2021).

“Efficiency levels are high with an expected average passenger load factor of 80.9 per cent for 2023. That is very near the 2019 record performance of 82.6 per cent.

international trade of economic cooling measures introduced to fight inflation.

“Yields are expected to correct with a 28.6 per cent decline this year, but still remain high by all historical comparisons. Note that yield increases of 54.7per centwere recorded in 2020, 25.9 per cent in 2021 and 7.4 per cent in 2022.

Expenses are expected to grow to $781 billion. Jet fuel costs are expected to average $98.5/barrel in 2023 for a total fuel bill of $215 billion. That is cheaper than the $111.9/barrel previously expected (December 2022) and the average cost of $135.6 experienced in 2022, “it added.

IATA stressed that high crude oil prices were exaggerated for airlines as the crack spread (premium paid to refine crude oil into jet fuel) averaged more than 34 per cent for 2022—significantly above the long-run average.

“As a result, fuel was responsible for almost 30 per cent of total expenses. In recent months, the crack spread has narrowed, and the full year average crack spread is expected to fall to around 23%, which is more closely aligned with the historical average rate. Fuel costs will account for 28 per cent of the average cost structure, which is still above the 24 per cent of 2019, “IATA stated.

IATA observed that non-fuel expenses have been controlled well by airlines despite inflationary pressures.

It said, “With fixed costs being distributed over a larger scale of activity, non-fuel unit costs per available tonne kilometre (ATK) are expected to fall to 39 cents per ATK. That is -6.4 per cent compared to 2022 (41.7 cents /ATK) and marks a return to about pre-COVID levels. Total non-fuel costs are expected to reach $565 billion in 2023.”

According to IATA, the economic and geopolitical environment presents several risks to the outlook.

“With just $22.4 billion of operating profit (2.8%) standing between $803 billion of revenues and $781 billion in expenses, industry profitability is fragile and could be affected (positively or negatively) by a number of factors. In particular, consideration should be given to inflation fighting measures, which are maturing at different rates in different markets, “IATA stressed.

IATA explained that central banks are calibrating the best levels for interest rates to have a maximum cooling effect on inflation while avoiding tipping economies into recession.

achieve efficient service delivery across board for passengers but strengthen the smooth working relationship that both teams have enjoyed over the years.’’

He appreciated the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, for being supportive as always and finding Dana Air a worthy partner in progress.

Dana Air is one of Nigeria’s leading airlines with daily flights to major cities in Nigeria and varied fleet of Boeing aircraft.

IATA’s May 2023 passenger polling data supports the optimistic outlook, with 41 per cent of travelers indicating they expect to travel more in the next 12 months than in the previous year and 49 per cent expect to undertake the same level of travel. Moreover, 77 per cent of respondents indicated that they were already traveling as much or more than they did pre-pandemic, “IATA said.

“Cargo revenues are expected to be $142.3 billion. While that is down sharply from $210 billion in 2021 and $207 billion in 2022, it is well above the $100 billion earned in 2019. Yields will be negatively impacted by two factors, which include the ramping-up of passenger capacity which automatically increases available belly capacity for cargo and the potential negative effects on

“Another factor is war in Ukraine, which according to IATA, is not having a major impact on profitability for most airlines, but noted that a currently unanticipated peace could carry the potential for cost improvements with lower oil prices and efficiencies from the removal or easing of airspace restrictions.

“It remarked that supply chainissues continue to impact global trade and business. Supply chains are shifting to fill gaps in resilience caused by current geopolitical tensions and the challenges experienced during COVID-19. Airlines have been directly impacted by aircraft parts supply chain ruptures which aircraft and engine manufacturers have failed to sort out. This, IATA said, is negatively impacting the delivery of new aircraft and the ability of airlines to maintain and deploy existing fleets, “it stated.

www.thisdaylive.com

SPORTS DEVELOPMENT POLICY: WHAT NOW?

KESIENA IGHO

OGHOGHORIE canvasses the remodeling of the entire sports system

BETWEEN THE CHIEF AND THE PRESIDENT

The last ASUU strike lasted for eight months, between February 2022 to October 2022. But for the intervention of the National Assembly (NASS),

intervention played a pivotal role in the National Assembly was involved in the negotiations between the Academic

See page 25

GOOD NIGHT, MEKUS EZEIGBO

PAT ONU tribute to his friend , Emeka Ofomata, a good man who passed in April

leading to the eventual end of the strike. More recently, the Speaker helped to organized Labour, particularly the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). Unlike the in this situation helped to avert a strike and excellent negotiating skills were instrumental in preventing further This came on the back of President Bola their strike which had lasted a week.

mention the fact as the Speaker of the

See page 25

EDITORIAL OF ARBITRARINESS AND EXPATRIATE QUOTA

at this till the end of his valedictory June. These skills and values are valuable assets for when he assumes the role of the

A consistently missing element when it comes to governance in Nigeria is most governments across the three tiers not showing enough care for the dayto-day challenges of ordinary citizens. Any parent would be concerned if their children stayed home for a full academic session when they ought to be in school. There is the general belief that public servants would do more to prevent such strikes if they had their own children in

beyond personal interests. Leaders must focus on delivering solutions and addressing the needs of the people they serve.

Our institutions are still evolving,

was inaugurated. That action looked like demonstrate its mettle. It immediately intervened in the matter. The ideal would be that such issues never arise that would be to see them nipped in the intervention stands in stark contrast to past situations as controversies like that have dragged as though the country was a village without a head.

It is early days at this point, so one would be the norm but seeing as, if they had failed to act or act promptly, they would have been handed knocks for missing the ball early, it is only fair to at least recognize the reverse.

My secondary school principal used to ring it in our then small heads, ‘morning it was not too early in life to get our act together. It was also his way of letting us know that our actions at the time would

In a race, whether a sprint or marathon, a great start is a telling advantage for finishing well. A great start does not guarantee a great finish, but every athlete would choose to start great if you handed them a choice. Because starting great has a positive effect on the rest of the race

a race, whether a sprint or marathon, a great start is a telling advantage for athlete would choose to start great if you handed them a choice. Because starting the race.

Unlike an athletic race, leading a country consists of many moving parts. It is a complex problem that presents itself as a myriad of complex problems. Success depends largely on delegating responsibilities and prioritizing resources. Irrespective of how limited such resources or how many such moving parts, success depends on how much the leader cares for the people they are leading. Mind that these are you on, often, they are a mix of people with varied intentions. This ranges from steadfast support to unwarranted criticism and the middle grounders, those who will react only according to what they perceive to be good or bad, wrong or right. Leadership consists in delivering the goods of governance to all parties.

Many Nigerians have lost faith in the and the fact more Nigerians who can vote are refusing to vote. There is a lot of work to be done and it really must start with seeing the challenge for what it is; an unprecedented one. If everything or most things worked, Nigerians would by guaranteeing the safety of lives and properties and making power available, you would attract a lot of our citizens back home. A lot of those who left things of life that even the fact they were earning enough money here could not guarantee them; the need to be alive for starters.

This is the Nigeria that was inherited by President Bola Tinubu. In his picked a man who always made sure to stay plugged to the voice of the street and the yearnings of the people. That unhindered access to what the people want and are saying will prove more than useful against the negative sound-proof walls.

Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach and author, Digital Wealth Book

JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA reckons that the President’s choice of Chief of Staff is well made

KESIENA IGHO OGHOGHORIE canvasses the remodeling of the entire sports system

SPORTS

DEVELOPMENT POLICY: WHAT NOW?

The inauguration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the 16th President of Nigeria has come and gone, living Nigerians with bated breath on the government’s policy thrust and direction, not least, on sports development.

Sports in Nigeria in the last eight years have been a mixed bag, cycling between farce and failure. A few candles of hope however

Federation of International Basketball Women’s the African Women’s Football Championship

States and British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) in the United Kingdom. Nigeria’s local circumstances and peculiarities should be given consideration in the creation of the model.

Thirdly, sports policy, a major component of vision, strategy, necessary legislation, responsibilities and programmes for the development of sports in a society. It aids in the conceptualization of a clear pathway and sustainable ecosystem to maximize sporting potential.

Whilst there was the 171- paged National Sports Industry Policy, 2020 by the last administration, the implementation moonshot be made to rev the idle engine of the sports policy document to full speed. Such a move would involve collaborating and engaging with all relevant sports stakeholders across the country including the state sports ministries and commissions, with a view to ensure that all the lofty and grandiose ideas contained in the policy document are brought to fruition.

PAT ONU tribute to his friend , Emeka Ofomata, a good man who passed in April

GOOD NIGHT, MEKUS EZEIGBO

Bro Mekus, Ezeigbo, as I would call you, it is an understatement to say that I am devastated by the disturbing news of your sudden and painful passage in London, on April 1, 2023. Indeed, dealing with the reality of your loss stressful.

However, beyond the grief, I want to take a moment to celebrate the amazing person that you were. You were kind and had a smile that could light up any room. You were an inspiration to me and so many others.

We neither knew each other from the beginning nor attended school together nor had any prior connection until we met at your Just on my routine inspections of the property. We then told me immediately that our friendship will endure. And it did grow straightaway into a meaningful connection that shaped our lives and brought joy. We connected and our friendship extended to our mutual friends and

These mutual thoughts led at the time to develop what we termed tactical inclusive engagement with Nigeria as the best option for Ndigbo. This philosophy would encompass principles and values that would guide Ndigbo’s interactions and active involvement in various aspects of life, including inter-ethnic relationships, professional endeavours, and community participation. We believed that this inclusive engagement would eventually help in breaking down barriers, dismantle exclusionary practices, and actively seek out diverse voices to create meaningful dialogue, and collaboration.

record of winning the competition nine times the 2022 World Championships in Oregon, United States, etc.

Yet, the mild directional shift in the wind that blew through Nigerian sports towards the end of the last administration should not be misinterpreted as a change in the weather. There are still fundamental problems impeding the development of sports in Nigeria which the new administration would need to address, with a view to entrenching sports in

First up is sports administration, which is the process of carrying out administrative assignments within a sports organization. It is, arguably, the most vital component of sports development, the absence of which could impact on overall performances.

Yet the issue of sport administration has been one of people feeling comfortable in waters and wanting to keep things as they are.

mismanagement and misappropriation of funds, etc.

The new administration would therefore need to embark on a radical overhaul so as to keep the sports administration machine made to ensure that sports administrative appointments are based on merit and not on political patronage, as this would make sport administrators have a steady hand on the tiller and grasp the nettle of sports development problems in Nigeria.

Secondly, School Sports are the bedrock of sports development in any nation. The success of countries such as the United States, Great Britain and Jamaica at the global level could be linked to their vibrant school sports system. Whilst Nigeria appears to have a similar system such as the Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF) and the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), their operations and structures are not as robust as required.

A root and branch reform of the school sports system in Nigeria would therefore be needed so as to bring it in sync with global accepted standards. Such move would involve remodeling the entire sports system, along the lines of successful school sports systems across the world, including the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in the United

Also, the issue of sports funding remains a major Achilles heel to the development of sports development in Nigeria. While the past administration initiated the ‘adopt an athlete’ funding programme, the issue of funding still persists. A more robust funding model would need to be formulated, moving forward.

A good place to start will be an upward review of the budgetary allocation for sports in the country, with the exploration of other sustainable funding sources. The National Lottery Trust Fund, as obtains in other developed climes, is one viable option. Consideration should also be given to the creation of the Nigerian Sports Trust Fund along the lines of United Kingdom (UK) Sport funding, which will be saddled with the responsibility of developing a sustainable and the country.

Finally, a country’s sporting prowess is largely dependent on its level of investments in world class sporting infrastructure. Yet there Whilst the previous administration came up with the ‘Adopt a Stadium’ programme, it was, sadly, perceived by sports experts as another watered down approach that fell shy of what is required.

The sporting infrastructure base of the country would therefore need to be enhanced, with a view to bring it in sync with global standards. Such move would involve the strategic refurbishment, renovation and construction of stadia and sports performance Centres in the six geo-political zones of the country. The issue of maintenance and management of the facilities would also need to be explored, with consideration given to private sector experts who have the proven ability and expertise to manage such facilities, as obtained in other climes. This is in addition the facilities, so as to ensure that the structures are contributing to the revenue generation drive of the country.

There has clearly been a long feeling of despondency with the country’s performance in sports at the global level. The ‘renewed hope’ slogan of the new administration now provides some optimism that from the ashes of uncertainty and despair of sports in Nigeria shall arise stability and hope. Nigerians are anticipating.

Oghoghorie,

an Abuja-based Lawyer, is a Sports Policy and Development Expert

family, creating a robust support system.

In hindsight, the absence of our prior knowledge or connection gave us fresh perspectives that resulted in shared discoveries, unconditional acceptance, mutual curiosity, and profound support. We were also contemporaries in age, and this provided a unique framework for our friendship to thrive. It meant that we were navigating life at similar stages, and this led to united references, understanding, validation, and support.

Our meeting was at the initiation of this current democratic dispensation, more than 24 years ago. Being from the same part of Nigeria, we mulled at options available to our part of the country. We were restless and sought answers for the place of Ndigbo in Nigeria. We were discussing today’s elephant-in-the-room matters concerning Ndigbo like marginalisation and underrepresentation, over-policing and insecurity, poor infrastructure, democratically elected President of Nigeria of southeast extraction and so forth. We were unanimous in our resolution. We agreed that the best strategy for Ndigbo was to be good neighbours to other Nigerians because they will perpetually be within the geographic space called Nigeria.

We concurred that Ndigbo should work hard at being good neighbours by fostering a sense of community, mutual respect, and consideration for other Nigerians. We agreed that Ndigbo needed to respect their neighbour’s personal space, avoid unnecessary intrusion,

statements. We settled that Ndigbo are great people, however, they need to communicate their position continually and clearly to other Nigerians. We equally agreed that they are blessed, and should be more generous and sensitive to the plight of other Nigerians. In this way, Ndigbo can coexist in great harmony with others in Nigeria.

It was based on this vision that we formed the Association of Igbo Professionals (AIP) interests of Igbo professionals in Nigeria and around the world with you as protem chairman and myself as secretary. We rallied including business, education, medicine, law, engineering, and the arts. AIP worked to provide a platform for Igbo professionals to connect, network, and collaborate on various initiatives and projects aimed at promoting the socio-economic development of the Igbo people and other Nigerians in general. Through its various programmes and activities, AIP embarked on a sustained campaign, communicating the challenges Ndigbo faced and robustly engaged those that attempted to ridicule Ndigbo with hundreds of newspaper and television advertorials. AIP also sought to empower Igbo professionals with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed in their your aspirations for AIP will live on.

Bro Mekus, Ezeigbo, my bosom friend, we collaborated on so many fronts and it is hard to imagine the world without you. You were so full of life and joy. Your kindness, compassion, and generosity touched the lives of everyone who knew you. You never word of encouragement to those in need. Your words of wisdom and guidance were a gift that I will never forget. Your strength and your perseverance were an inspiration that I will always respect. You lived life to the very end with honour, truth, and justice, and never wavered in the face of strife. You held fast to your values till the end, and lived a life of purpose and meaning. into focus the impermanence and ephemeral nature of life. It reminds me of my mortality and raises questions about the meaning and purpose of life. These questions do not have easy answers, but they can prompt and what kind of legacy we want to leave behind. Also, by grappling with the big questions of life and death, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the preciousness of life, the importance of human connection, and the power of meaning and purpose. Questions surrounding death are complex and multifaceted that have been explored by many philosophers throughout history. Death continues to mystify and confound. However, one common perspective is that death is a natural part of the cycle of life and that we should not fear it, but instead accept it as a necessary part of our existence.

Dr Onukwuli writes from Bolton, UK, patonukwuli2003@ yahoo.co.uk

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

EDITORIAL OF ARBITRARINESS AND EXPATRIATE QUOTA

The authorities should check the abuse of expatriate quota by companies

One of the issues thrown up by the internal problems within Seplat Energy Plc is the abuse of expatriate quota by many companies, especially in the oil and gas sector. Although the federal government has discontinued the suit

breaching the extant provisions of the Immigration Act, 2015, the withdrawal of residency status itself is rather telling. Despite the local capacities that exist in this sector which hold prospective job opportunities for thousands of Nigerians, most jobs are arbitrarily

Today, the misapplication of expatriate quota is the norm in almost all sectors of the Nigerian economy by many foreign companies operating on our shores. There are repeatedly reported cases of companies in the food and beverages industries engaging technicians and paying them as engineers. This is in addition to placing them over their professional superiors as supervisors and bosses, simply because the latter are Nigerians. The concern is not just that Nigerians are denied the available opportunities in these areas, but that many companies exceed their legitimate quota. the re-designation of individuals in a manner not consistent with their training and skills to giving them undeserved positions, expatriate quota has become a serious issue of concern.

Instructively, former Minister of Labour and meeting with the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, the Petroleum and Natural Gas contractors in the oil and gas sector that the federal government would “check the abuse of the nation’s

SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, 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

immigration/labour laws.” While we do not know

Tinubu to pay more attention, especially with the bring in all category of personnel, from cleaners, drivers to specialised skills personnel, all in the name of using the expatriate quota. Meanwhile, the provision is for locally, or which may not be available in the country. The labour and trade unions that should pay attention

The relationship between unemployment, crime, social tension, and national development is such that anything that detracts from the ability of the nation to keep the citizens gainfully employed should be treated as economic sabotage. In this regard, the subsisting abuse of expatriate quota should be viewed as a serious economic crime and treated as such by the relevant authorities. What critical stakeholders must not forget is that the nation faces a frightening youth bulge now. This is in addition to graduate unemployment and a prevailing national economic downturn. These are not the times for abuses that impact directly and visibly on the nation’s ability to deal with routine matters of human capital deployment for national development. This is unacceptable even in the best of times but moreso at such a period as this in the life of our nation.

While the federal government must go beyond the oil and gas sector in dealing with this issue, we urge further that the authorities also make public details of what categories of skills are not covered by the expatriate quota, what constitutes abuse of such expatriate quota and what long- and shortterm penalties may apply in cases of default. These measures will spread awareness about the abuse and help in curbing it.

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

LETTERS

AKUME: A ROUND PEG IN ROUND HOLE

The news of the appointment of the former Governor of Minister of Special Duties as the new Secretary to Government of the Federation must be commended by all Nigerians. This appointment which was a departure from the past and a pragmatic approach to the development of the country is coming at a time when a President known for his commitment to excellence is starting on a good note for the betterment of our country.

This appointment which buttresses an adage by our people that “the day that would be good would be known from its morning” has shown that our new President, good governance by bringing on board competent, coman assurance that we can take to the bank any day. This is because many who had followed the career, politics and achievements of George Akume and his journeys would easily agree that he is a round peg in a round hole vis-avis his present appointment. George Akume was at various times a civil servant who rose to the echelon of the

State civil service, a two-term governor, a three-term senator and a Minister of Special Duties under the just ended because this appointment has shown that our President meant his words when during the campaigns he made a commitment to bring on board people with experience, panache, commitment, intelligence and ability to do the

The president must be commended for going above petty political considerations and recruiting the most suitto the smooth running of government.

This is really from the beginning demonstrating his administration’s commitment to good governance by bringing on board credible Nigerians from any part of the country to assist him with the onerous tasks of taking Nigerians to the renewed hope dispensation.

Musa Wada, Abuja

DON’T LET THE LIES LIE

The YouTube blog site has made an announcement in regard to false claims about the US 2020 election that “...we will stop removing content that advances false claims that widespread fraud, errors, or glitches occurred in the 2020 and other past US Presidential elections.” An odd statement surely.

This is certainly a negative approach as not calling out false information and conspiracies gives them some credibility when they are ‘published’ on a major media site. Attaching a big red ‘liar’ logo to false information pages would just make it a farce, so why allow the lies? Are YouTube viewer numbers declining, I doubt it. Are they afraid that if Trump returns, they will have to be on his positive side, if so then politics, media, and the truth will make strange bedfellows.

Fortunately, most newspapers still tell the truth and only the truth so there is hope if more people can be encouraged to pick up a paper rather than looking at a screen of lies.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

The relationship between unemployment, crime, social tension, and national development is such that anything that detracts from the ability of the nation to keep the citizens gainfully employed should be treated as economic sabotage

Egbochie: Global Economy on Rebound Despite Ukrainian War

As a strong player in a vital sector, how will you describe the current state of the Nigerian economy?

The Nigerian economy has witnessed its fair share of challenges in the post-lockdown era. These challenges are not peculiar to the country – the US, UK, France, China, South Africa and Ghana are also struggling with various levels of economic challenges.

The prevailing issues around the economy trickle down to runaway inflation, climate change, scarcity of FX, weakening local currency, widening fiscal challenges and insecurity which the government is strongly tackling Kudos to the Federal Government, it has been putting in place policies to address these top issues. With policy consistency, the country should be in a better position in the coming years.

Fidossi wines & spirits brand products are making impressive penetration in the Nigerian market. How will you describe the wine and spirits market in the country?

Nigeria has the largest population in Africa. The demography of the country presents whooping advantages for businesses. The fairly growing middle class and the emerging young consumers with increasing urbanization keep driving preference for premium wine and spirit brands among the population. There is also an increase in the population of female consumers of these products. In addition to these drivers are lifestyle changes that are akin to what is obtainable in Europe and North America’s thriving markets. Young consumers keep demonstrating strong aspirations and are making consumption choices that reflect their focus.

Large cities such as Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt are massive markets for wine and spirits brands locally. Although beer dominates the alcohol market, wine and spirit brands are fast taking market shares.

What sets Fidossi wines & spirits apart in a hugely competitive market?

Fidossi wines and spirits maintain a sustained commitment to delivering quality, tasty products in the wine and spirits category.

We understand the taste palate of the premium consumers in the market segment better than the competition. Our products are sourced from the best vineyards in Italy and a few other European countries. From the vine gate through processing to retail and tables, we pay rapt attention to quality and taste. Our brands comprise Fidossi Spumante Red/White, Fidossi Moscato Rose/White, Festa Red Wines, Mood Luminous Wines, and San-Felice Toscana premium vintage wines, Vecchia Romagna Brandy 1820, Amaro Montenegro Bitters, and Select Aperitif amongst others. These products can be purchased online and across retail stores such as D’Wine Bank, Pelssy Wine, Bakan Gizo, IC World, and so on. We recently won the West African

Brand Excellence Awards and the National Quality Order of Merit Awards for the best wines and spirits distributor in Nigeria. The award recognitions are a validation of our competitive quality focus.

What is your projection for the future of the Nigerian economy?

The disruptive effects of the pandemic and ongoing wars in Ukraine certainly took a toll on the global economy. A rebound is currently underway. Like every other country, the Nigerian economy was hit heavily by those disruptions. Thanks to the cushioning efforts of the Federal Government, global finance agencies and corporate organisations, we are seeing a level of improvement in the economy.

Meanwhile, the country is undergoing a revolution in its digital economy drive. Structures, systems, and processes are being put in place to fast-track a largescale evolution of the digital economy.

More, the country especially has an attractive population. This is an investor’s delight. The population as of October 28, 2022, is 217,975,712 according to Worldometer, a digital research agency based in the United States.

With improved market conditions and regulatory regimes, the Nigerian economy will take off strongly in the nearest future. I believe this strongly.

What is the future of the wine and spirits segments?

Research reports put the estimated value of the spirits market at $2.84 billion. The growth trend in the segment is about 7% year-on-year. The premium spirits segment is seeing an annual growth of about 20%. I expect this trend to continue barring any upset in the global economy in the coming years. The wine market which is valued at around $370 million has been predicted to grow at sic per cent each year by experts. Although accurate local consumption data are hard to come by, it is reported that an estimated 5 million people consume wine in Nigeria. This number is expected to grow as the country navigates the aftereffects of the lockdown periods and other socioeconomic challenges.

Finally, tell us about yourself

I studied Mechanical Engineering at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. My family has a deep root in distributing well-brewed beer and beverages locally as my dad was a channel merchant who served as a major distributor to Guinness Nigeria, Nigeria Breweries Plc, Nigeria Bottling Company (Coca-Cola) and Consolidated Breweries for more than 25 years in the South-South region of Nigeria.

I helped build and managed my father’s business before venturing into the winery business 13 years ago. My exposure at those levels helped prepare me for the success we are recording in the wine and spirit segment. My vision is to deliver world-class wines and spirits sourced from the best vines and brewing houses globally to upscale retail shelves, premium events and households across Nigeria.

Egbochie

Chief Executive Officer of Fidossi Wines & Spirits, Mr. Fidelis Egbochie, speaks about the global economy and the Nigerian economy, including the wine and spirits segment and the future industry. Chinedu Eze brings the excerpts:

“These products can be purchased online and across retail stores such as D’Wine Bank, Pelssy Wine, Bakan Gizo, IC World, and so on. We recently won the West African Brand Excellence Awards and the National Quality Order of Merit Awards for the best wines and spirits distributor in Nigeria.”

IKENNA OPALA: Resilience of a Visually Impaired Lawyer, Perfumer

Ikenna Okpala might be visually impaired but that has only gone to heighten his third eye and olfactory sense. He turned the loss of sight, which may seem an impediment to others, into lemons- first by acquiring a Law degree and specialising in Corporate and Commercial Law- and secondly, veering into perfumery and cosmetics. In stimulating his olfactory senses to curate scents and smell for personal use, this blossomed into Alpha Fragrance Limited, an online and offline perfume shop. Call his trajectory one of resilience, will and passion, you wouldn’t be far off from the truth as he didn’t let the fact that he moved from partially to fully visually impaired deter him from living life to the fullest. In this interview with Tosin Clegg, he takes us on a journey of his childhood, path into studying Law, his entrepreneurial spirit and his passion for perfumery which led him to start Alpha Fragrance Limited

Tell us about your family and growing up?

Iwas born into the family of five and I’m the first child. Growing up was very interesting. I played like every other normal child would play in the streets of lagos and of course, I had a little delay going to school owing to my visual impediment. My parents at some point felt that something could be done medically and so for that reason they tried their very best but like I tell people, their best was their best. Their best was good enough to keep me the way I am today because I mean if you ask me I will tell that my being blind is actually for a very good reason and I just enjoy my life. I had my own fair share of pranks and everything that was. There wasn’t anything specific to me as a blind person growing up in lagos as I just played like every other normal child and every child in my neighborhood accepted me for who they got to realize.

Why the choice of Law?

Growing up as a child, my Dad made it mandatory to listen to NTA news at 9pm. I remember very well I would listen to news but I still had my partial sight as I wasn’t completely blind at that point. I use to listen to FRA Williams who would talk on legal matters, seeing him coming out of court, that was just it for me, you know. Of course as I went into secondary school it was about the time when Mike Ozekhome will come on television and talk about human right related patterns. I just felt this course looks nice and the prestige that came with the course.

At what point did you decide to further your Law degrees?

Having a little bit of corporate practice, I started liking commercial practice or commercial law-related transactions so I went to the UK to do a Masters in International Commercial Law. I started liking it while I was with the law firm of Kemi Balogun and Co. I just liked the whole board room arrangement. I liked the law input to all that we were doing.

After the degrees what prompted you to do business?

Starting a business has always been something that has always been in me in a way. I must confess that while I was at Law school, I remember missing classes just to go down to Mandilas in Lagos Island to meet one of my cousins. I would go there and buy the suits he imports from Turkey, a few pairs. I would take those suits round to Lagos, to banks and some other places to get them sold. I had always had that passion for entrepreneurial activities and so finding myself in this today didn’t come to me as a surprise because it has always been there.

How did you venture into the perfume business?

While I was in the university, I had one of my close relations who was traveling, always doing trips to France. So he goes to France, comes back with these perfumes and I buy a few off him and I use for myself. I have always been a perfume lover so I continued that until sometime in 2018, we were having a discussion and he said that these perfumes that I buy why can’t I also put it out there to see if other people

would buy it and I said okay. I did a little bit of feasibility studies to find out what I will be selling to the last man on the street of Lagos and I found out that it will be worth the struggle so I ventured into it. When I started out the business of perfumes it was strictly perfumes actually but along the way the cosmetics became an addition as we moved on. So as I started then I

had a vehicle and I would just put the perfumes in my trunk and my driver will drive me round different offices in Lagos as I had friends there so I just go there and tell them about the perfumes. After the little successes, I decided on reaching out to a wider community and we got good patronage. So I thought it’s good we take this to the next level, at that point I didn’t have a shop, I didn’t even have money to get a shop so I continued and in 2020 we had the whole COVID-19 lockdown and it all worked out. At that point, I now switched to dealing with people online via the social media platforms and we continued from there and then in 2022 I got a shop and reached out to more people.

How are you able to manage being blind and running your business?

With the advent of technology that has been made so much easier. Whenever we get new products, we enter them into the system and we have an inventory software that allows us take in all the items that comes into the shop and we sell only via the inventory software. No items leave the shop without being paid for and I can operate the computer as I check through to know what it’s left on the shop floor. I also have someone at the back end, a remote

staff who sees exactly what happens in the shop. I would say I’m in total control but I must tell you that I have a team and I believe in teamwork. I have people who bought into my vision and we are trying to see how we can make that vision actually realisable.

What are your plans for possible expansion?

My team and I are looking at more partnership, more investment opportunities and I mean to have come to this point I must admit that it’s not been a walk in a park. Some people have come in to join us in this project and provided some start up capital and to the glory of God I must say I think they’re enjoying the relationship. We’re giving them a good return on investment and we’re looking at expanding.

Also we are looking at reaching out to more international brands for franchise rights and setting up production outlets in Nigeria so that we can even employ more people and also reduce how much of dependence we have on foreign exchange because the items you see here, they’re all imported. But we have a few of them that are products actually made in Nigeria as well but largely 95 per cent of the items we have here are imported. With a franchise right that will even allow us to begin production of some of these things in Nigeria we would be creating employment and even the government at the end of the day would benefit from that move.

What do you want the world to know from your story?

I want everyone to know that in every adversity there is this seed of greatness in there. If there’s something that has sustained me so much I must say it’s my believe in God and my positive values as I try to stay positive at all times. I believe that whatever one is experiencing there is a lesson in there and only if one is patient enough, if one put in a whole lot of deep thought to that experience, you would get to realize that there’s something in there that’s going to be more beneficial not just to one alone but to so many other people that will come in contact with that individual.

So for me, that is the thing as I just believe that even if it appears that the future looks bleak in actual fact, it’s the other way round. The future is very bright and I must say that the lost of sight for me has actually strengthened the sight of the mind, the sight of the inner mind that’s the third eye, so things that people don’t get to see I’m seeing it and I can relate with it.

You must allow your inner eyes to work better than even the physical sight so that’s my take away for people to keep believing in themselves. I tell people something that is very convincing in me is the fact that for God to have made me a Nigerian, for God to have allowed me to be born of Nigerian parents there’s something inherently great about that mission and it’s left for me to discover that inherent greatness.

Nigeria is a developing economy, an emerging economy whichever adjective one uses to describe the country but it’s a country with very huge potential and only those who allow their inner eyes to function very well will be the one to know at the end of the day what they will benefit from the huge potential Nigeria has in stock.

“I want everyone to know that in every adversity there is this seed of greatness in there. If there’s something that has sustained me so much I must say it’s my believe in God and my positive values, as I try to stay positive at all times”

Grandeur as Lagos Serial Entrepreneur, Beulah Akingbelu-Banjo, Marks 40th Birthday

Stories by Mary Nnah

It was spectacular and impressive sight as friends and family members gathered recently at The Maradive, Lekki, Lagos to honour Lagos serial entrepreneur and CEO of Pukka Logistics and Support Services, Mrs. Beulah Akingbelu-Banjo who celebrated her 40th birthday in a grand style.

It was an old-school party tagged, “Ruby Jubilee” and titled, “Beulah’s Retro Party”. The theme and dress code for the party was Retro (the 1980s) and the aim was to depict the 1980s model of dressing and to have the music of the 80s while guests had so much fun.

Speaking on what informed her choice for the rare theme chosen for the party, Banjo, a lawyer, business midwife and immigration consultant, said, “I have had this idea for two years now and I am so excited that it is coming to fruition. I wanted to take people back to the period when I was born, which was in the 80s, so that was just what inspired the theme.

“Everybody was excited about the theme because it is not something you see every day. You know people do Owambe and they tie gele and all that but I wanted something different. I wanted a disco and that is what we are in here for.”

As the Chief Executive Officer of Pukka Logistics and Support Services Limited and Principal Partner of Pukka Solicitors, a director of the Sporty Internet Group: owners of Sportybet and Sportytv;

a director of Mobile Sport; worldwide proprietors of the Msport brand, Legal and company secretary of Wetherheads Advertising Group Limited, Recoplastic Limited and a host of other companies, Banjo is popularly known within the business space as a corporate midwife responsible for birthing and supporting several companies in Nigeria.

Also as an immigration and management consultant, Banjo assists foreign companies to set up their businesses in Nigeria and also provides support for them.

Explaining her role as a business midwife, she said, “We birth cooperate babies. I’m a professional midwife. So if a company in Germany phones

me and says they are coming to Nigeria, I help them curate the experience from start to finish. I help them register their companies, procure all their licenses for all their expatriates and business setups.”

She explained further that although her company was set up to support Nigerians living in the diaspora but intends to come back to Nigeria to set up, however, while it progressed, the vision became clearer and its services were extended to foreign companies.

“Nigerians in the diaspora know more about Nigeria already even though they have left Nigeria and may have a faint idea of how things are run but foreigners have not been to the country before and

PE ENERGY IDENTIFIES ESG AS KEY FACTOR TO DRIVE ECONOMIC PROSPERITY IN NIGERIA

therefore don’t know what the social climate look like, so supporting them goes a very long way”, she noted.

Driven by the passion to serve and the desire to impact her world, what keeps Banjo going each day is the inclination to work.

“I am a self-driven person and I believe that I can do a lot of things. I waste myself if I don’t do them. So, that’s what inspires me to wake up and ensure that I do a lot of things. I am very passionate about service, so when I wake up in the morning, I think of how to improve my world”, she affirmed.

On how she m anages to juggle several roles as a serial entrepreneur, wife, and mother at the same time, her response was epic. “My work time is from when I open my eyes till when I close them.

I don’t have a resumption or closing time. Whether I am in the car or anywhere I work. That is my life. Even when I am relaxing I am working but I always find a way to relax because it is very important for my mental health and well-being. And I take time to sleep as well”.

Banjo who revealed further that her 40th birthday celebration was the first ever birthday she has celebrated in her entire life, added, “I am so excited that people have come out here to celebrate with me. I can see the efforts that have been put into dressing up; I am so excited that people are excited about this birthday celebration.”

The African Praise Experience: a Night of Musical Excellence Holds Today

The African Praise Experience (TAPE) is set to take place today Friday, June 9th from 8 pm till dawn at the splendid auditorium of the Rock Cathedral of the House On The Rock, Lagos.

TAPE is a night of indigenous praise in the most extraordinary way. The event is hosted by the Metropolitan Senior Pastor of all House On The Rock, Pastor Paul Adefarasin.

House On The Rock is a church renowned for bringing together world-class minstrels on one stage in an ambiance of undiluted worship.

This one-of-a-kind concert aims to bring together music enthusiasts, people of diverse tribes, dialects, social strata and demography to celebrate the universal language of music and the best part, is free.

Attendees will be treated to an exceptional array of ministrations

by the line-up of psalmists set to grace the stage.

From the electrifying energy of the dynamic duo of Mr. M &

Revelation and Eben to the soulful harmonies of Judikay and Kike Mudiaga, to the infectious beats of Dare Justified.

According to organisers, the concert promises something for every music lover as intended attendees are advised to be prepared to be transformed by the powerful vocals of Eno Michaels, the incredible instrumental solos of Nathaniel Bassey and Beejay Sax and the breath-taking compositions of the most phenomenal choir in the Lagos metropolis, the Lagos Metropolitan Gospel Choir (LMGC) that will resonate within souls.

And debuting for the first time at the event are Adeyinka Alaseyori, Prospa Ochimana, Prinx Emmanuel and the phenomenal wordsmith IB Quake.

Event updates are available on the Church website, www. houseontherock.org.ng and social media platforms.

Media Industries Concept Sponsors TV Show Celebrating Women

Media Industries Concept recently hosted Nigerian women and mothers across several local government areas in Lagos State to a spicy TV Programme to showcase the qualities of the female gender during the International Mother’s Day Celebration. The Mother’s Day TV Show was hosted on Lagos Television (LTV8).

The Talk-Show programme had a Live audience anchored by Melony Ishola, a presenter/ producer at the media station. It was a huge success as it was ‘issue based’, intellectually balanced and beautifully presented with viewers yearning for more, celebrating the

ingenuity of mothers.

Managing Director of Media Industries Concept, Mr. Precious Eze expressed delight over the huge success of the event, noting that Nigerian women should lead the crusade of women helping one another grow.

He said further that the success recorded with this year’s edition has spurred him to continue to celebrate women’s unique features and continue to make this show a yearly event.

Guests on the programme took time to dissect, demystify and break down to points, issues affecting women in their totality and tried as time allowed them to find long-lasting solutions

to the majority of the topics trashed on the programme such as the plight of widows,barbaric cultural practices that have relegated women base on ethnic and traditional belief, daughters-in-law and Mothers in-laws fights over attention from their husbands or son how it has affected the relationship in most homes, personality interview on the role of women in leadership and nation building and the main topic which dwelt on: “Women helping other women grow”.

The Mayoress of Ikosi Isheri LCDA, Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada expressed that women should stand forth and take positions of authority by themselves

The Founder/Group Managing Director of PE Energy Limited, Daere Akobo, has identified Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) as key element to drive economic prosperity in Nigeria.

According to Akobo, ESG together with resources, would help Nigeria to achieve economic prosperity.

He said this in an exclusive interview with Majorwaves on the margins of the 2023 Nigerian Oil and Gas Opportunity Fair (NOGOF), which held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State with the theme “The Oil and Gas Industry – Catalyst and Fuel for the Industrialisation of Nigeria.”

“A catalyst is something that accelerates the production of any organism. What is going to fuel the growth is sustainability. And sustainability has to do with Environmental Sustainability, Social Activity, and Governance. Those three things together with resources will galvanise and bring us economic prosperity,” Akobo said. The PE Energy boss said NOGOF has been able to showcase reasonably available opportunities in the industry, and the support that the regulatory authorities - the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) are providing for players.

“So without industrial policies, there’s no economic prosperity. I put it in three bubble: there is a bubble of the market, a bubble of passion, and a bubble of the technology. So the three things put together will create what is called economic prosperity,” he said. On local content development in the country’s oil and gas industry, he said: “There are two words that we must begin to integrate in our discussion about local content. One is capacity. And one is capability.

“When somebody is capable of doing something, it means that it should be a trajectory. But when you’re talking about capacity, you are talking about the present.

“Local content is looking at capacity building. It means that as a child, you have to learn how to sit. And when you learn how to sit, you will learn how to stand, when you learn how to stand, you will learn how to stand properly.”

“So yes, there are companies that have the capability. But capacity comes with training, capacity comes with knowledge, capacity comes with availability of discharge. So if you don’t have that availability of discharge, you cannot have the capacity that they’re talking about,” he added.

PE Energy is a Total Solution provider of Valve & Actuation, Measurement Solution, Power, Water and Process Technologies, Automation (E&I) Solution, Exploration & Production Solution, Digital Solution, and Supply Chain Solution for the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors of the oil and gas industry.

PE Energy is a subsidiary of Pana Holdings Limited, which also has Synergy E&P as its exploration and production support company, while AKD Digital Solutions, another of its subsidiary, provides digital solutions for the industry.

as no man would give them the space if they were not willing and ready to take the responsibilities by themselves.

Bada stated further that a woman can rise to the pinnacle of her career in any field of service as opportunities can only meet preparedness for them and when they come, the woman should be ready to grab them and excel in them individually.

She added that women must support other women to grow instead of bringing themselves down as what is happening in various industries today, adding, “Women compete unhealthily.”

In May, NXT Energy Solutions Inc. announced a ten-year strategic alliance and associated financing with Synergy E&P which grants Synergy an exclusive license to use, distribute, sub-license, market and sell NXT’s SFD® solutions in Africa.

“PE Energy Limited, an affiliate of Synergy, has performed several commercial projects with NXT in Africa in the past.

“Synergy, with this new arrangement, will be advancing the SFD® technology to address energy security in and transition in the African continent for both oil and gas and geothermal sources. Synergy and NXT will work closely together to train local technical teams and regulatory authorities on the patented SFD® technology application and related knowledge transfer,” NXT said in a statement.

SFD® means Stress Field Detector technology, for airborne data acquisition, processing, interpretation, and integration.

AKD Digital Solutions Ltd on the other hand, is a dynamic technology company that specializes in providing innovative digital solutions aimed at optimizing operational workflows, creating organized and actionable databases, and enabling clients to make informed, optimal decisions across their company’s value chain.

Beulah Akingbelu-Banjo

Daere Akobo

Uzoma Mba

The African Praise Experience host, Pastor Paul Adefarasin

ASUQUO EKPENYONG: A Political Shining Light for Next Generation

In the words of the Roman stoic philosopher Lucius Seneca, “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end”. It is pertinent to state that the Southern Senatorial District needed the current generation to champion the cause of promoting oneness, togetherness, and nation-building, and chart a path that leads to the development of a senatorial district that works for all. This is why the emergence of Asuquo Ekpenyong as the youngest senator-elect in Nigeria, representing Cross River South has come as good news to many and will put the youths at the forefront of nation-building, Emmanuel Clark writes

In time past we have seen how youths around the world were able to create changes that drove innovation and economic growth across all sectors. Most pre-Independence political parties engaged the likes of Anthony Enahoro, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello, who were all previously youth movements involved in the anti-colonial struggle. And those mentioned, alongside many others, were youths who played pivotal roles in the emergence of what became an independent Nigeria. For instance, Anthony Enahoro was barely 30 when he moved a motion for the independence of Nigeria in 1953.

Asuquo Ekpenyong is on a mission to crest his name on the sands of time as one of the youths in Cross River State that will take on the mantle of power and leadership to shape the narrative of Africa’s largest nation, eschewing hatred and bigotry that has long been associated with the political elites and masses — and reposition Cross River State on the global stage where it belongs.

As a young senator skilled in business planning, business strategy, financial modeling, and corporate finance, it is believed that he will facilitate training for youths, empower women, create job opportunities, and most importantly make an ideal people-oriented legislation that will provide solutions, and create pathways for

good governance. With the unemployment rate projected at an all-time high of 32.5% in 2021, Nigerian youths have been at the direct receiving end

of the system. This is one of the first areas the young Senator intends to arrest before other projects. If the youths are gainfully employed, empowered, or trained on a particular skill,

it will help reduce the rate of unemployment and crime in the state, and the country at large.

People argue that youths of today are inexperienced and not ripe enough to govern, but I must point out clearly that such minds are still living in the dark ages, failed to delve into history, and have refused to reposition themselves with the present realities around the world.

The young Nelson Mandela at the age of 24 joined the African National Congress and started the movement that resulted in the emancipation of the black South Africans. Similarly, the founding fathers of Nigeria’s independence were all in their prime when they led the struggle to secure independence from the British colonial masters. Youth are key to securing a more sustainable, equitable, and innovative future and we must tap into their energy, leadership, and optimism.

The craving for radical change is not just about Asuquo Ekpenyong, it is about the state’s collective consciousness and political will for a new beginning.

As we look toward Cross River South’s future optimistically and the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, we believe that the young senator’s bravery, morals, audaciousness, and experience in business strategy will translate to a more productive and effective representation.

Sanwo-Olu’s Renewed Vision for Lagos

Dr. lshmeal Udenka

“We stand on the threshold of a new era. Our vision for Lagos is one that sees no bounds. It is a vision of a city where dreams take flight, where every citizen is a part of our growth story, and where the global community looks towards us with respect and admiration.”

The above words were from the working re-elected Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, a man who has beyond reasonable doubt, surpassed the expectations of the people in his first term. SanwoOlu is tested and trusted. He is what the Igbos call “Ekwueme” meaning: “Talk and Do”. His mind-blowing achievements in security, health, education, traffic management and transportation, infrastructure is a testament that he is capable

of delivering. The outstanding performance of the working governor earned him an express victory in the March 25 governorship election.

Sanwo-Olu secured an impressive total votes of 762,134 against his main challengers Gbadebo Chinedu Patrick Rhodes-Vivour of the LP who got 312,329 votes

while Olajide Jandor’ Adediran of the People’s Democratic Party polled 62,449. Sanwo-Olu’s transparency, fairness and doggedness in ap-

proaching issues (especially the COVID 19 pandemic) concerning the people and the state has also earned him a universal respect.

Sanwo-Olu ensured the total control of Coronavirus disease (COVID 19) which gave the entire world sleepless nights. Lagos State had recorded the highest number of infections.

His efforts and role to ensure that lives were saved from the dangerous pandemic disease was noticeable and appreciated by all Nigerians. I thank you Sir for the privilege and opportunity to work with you. I assure you of the continued support of our people the Igbos living in Lagos, to ensure that our promises to the people State are actualised.

May 29, again, will definitely mark the beginning of a new chapter of another journey to greatness as you revalidate another promise to residents of

Emurgo Africa Set to Unveil Africa’s First State of Web 3.0 in

A comprehensive State of Web 3.0 in Africa Report, is set to be released on June 23, 2023. The report highlights the rapidly-evolving landscape of Web 3.0 technologies in African countries, providing in-depth analysis of their impact, opportunities, and challenges and offering recommendations for fostering growth and measurable impact.

Web 3.0 technologies are experiencing exponential growth and expansion in Africa, with the potential to bring transformative change to various industries such as trade and industry, financial services and lending, supply chain management and logistics and healthcare provision and accessibility.

Factors such as regulatory clarity, infrastructure development, and collaboration between stakeholders will play a significant role in the widespread use and successful implementation of these technologies.

The report, sponsored by Emurgo Africa, will be launched at a media event in Nairobi, Kenya, with industry leaders, policymakers and press in attendance.

Key figures from prominent blockchain investors, developer and ecosystem players, including NODO, CVVC, GreenHouse Capital, PwC and Cardano, will deliver notable conversations and remarks at the event.

The Report aims to fill a

knowledge gap by examining the potential of these technologies to advance social and economic development in Africa.

It presents a detailed view of the current landscape and future prospects of Web 3.0 technologies in the region, featuring real-world use cases, possibilities and obstacles connected with their adoption.

The Report explores various aspects of Web 3.0, such as decentralized finance (DeFi), blockchain technology, digital identity, smart contracts, and data privacy. It also investigates the regulatory environment, infrastructure, and access to technology in the target nations, identifying areas for development that will facilitate the growth

and adoption of Web 3.0 technologies.

Key findings from the report include the immense opportunities for the African continent through the adoption of Web 3.0 technologies, a staggering 1,668 per cent increase in investment in blockchain technology in Africa between 2021 and 2022, and the crucial importance of collaboration between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and regulators in fostering an environment conducive to the growth of Web 3.0 technologies.

Ahmed M. Amer, CEO of Emurgo Africa, said: “The future of Web 3.0 technologies in Africa is bright, with the potential to drive unprecedented social, financial

Lagos. In your inaugural address, to focus on T.H.E.M.E.S which stands for Transportation and Traffic Management; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy, Entertainment and Tourism and Security and Governance as the major focus of your second term will obviously ensure a greater Lagos than your administration inherited it. I wish you God’s protection and guidance to accomplish your promise of building a greater Lagos. Congratulations to you on your re-election and swearingin our able Governor of Lagos Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Africa Report

and economic development across the continent.

This report emphasizes the critical importance of collaboration between stakeholders, policymakers, and regulators in fully realizing the transformative power of Web 3.0 technologies in Africa.”

EMURGO Africa, a dynamic blockchain technology company, is steadfastly committed to creating an inclusive and sustainable future for Africa.

By leveraging on blockchain’s potential, their experienced team aims to address key challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. With a vision of empowering Africans to improve their lives and

communities, their mission is to cultivate a robust blockchain ecosystem that fosters economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. Adhering to their core values of innovation, integrity, and sustainability, they partner governments, businesses, non-profits, and academic institutions.

Their achievements include the launch of blockchainbased platforms that provide free education, affordable healthcare, and access to financial services, significantly impacting millions of Africans. Also, their dedication to effecting positive change through blockchain technology remains unwavering, and we’re excited to be a part of Africa’s transformative journey.

Ekpenyong

Sanwo-Olu at his swearing him for his second tenure

Ikeja Electric, Sahara Group Foundation Build

Travelers’ Lodge for Ipaja Police

Uzoma Mba

Nigeria’s leading Electricity Distribution Company, Ikeja Electric Plc (IE) has built and commissioned a brand-new travelers lodge for police officers in transit, at the Ipaja Police Divisional Headquarters, Alagolo, Lagos state.

The project, which was executed through Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social sustainability vehicle for the Sahara Group, is in line with IE’s commitment to impacting the environment where she operates through sustainable interventions that helps to make a positive difference in the society.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Folake Soetan, Chief Executive Officer of Ikeja Electric said “the new traveler’s lodge would help to boost the morale of the Police officers in the station. Therefore, promoting efficiency, as well as an enabling environment for them.”

She also reinforced Ikeja Electric commitment to supporting sustainable development across its host communities and environs through projects like this. Contributing to improved wellbeing for all.

The Ipaja Police Station travelers’ lodge features a range of facilities and amenities, including a two- room hostel block with lavatory and kitchen fittings, overhead tank for water supply, wardrobes, reading tables and chairs.

Also speaking at the commissioning event, Ejiro Gray, Director, Sahara Group Foundation, said “the decision to build this traveler’s lodge was an easy one, as it helps to reflect the Foundation’s commitment to supporting improved security across communities, in ways that enhance the efficiency of the police force thereby promoting sustainable societies”.

Gray also thanked the officers of the Ipaja Police Divisional Headquarters, Alagolo, for providing adequate support during the construction of the lodge, stating that the importance of collaboration cannot be overstated if we are to improve security in our society.

In his remarks, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Lagos state, DCP Ewah Bassey, thanked both Ikeja Electric and the Sahara Group Foundation for the traveler’s lodge. He also endorsed the message of collaboration, stating that “achieving effective policing is a collective responsibility.”

DCP Bassey urged the Ipaja Police Station officers to make effective use of the facility and said it would go a long way to boosting the effort of the police officers in safeguarding

lives and properties.

Also speaking at the event was the Oba of Ipaja, Oba Kolawole Ajani Egundupe. He commended Ikeja Electric and Sahara Group Foundation for this laudable project, stating that it would go a long way to promoting safety in the community. He also thanked the officers of the Ipaja Police Divisional Headquarters for their commitment towards safeguarding lives and properties in the community.

Ikeja Electric and Sahara Group Foundation, through strategic initiatives such as this, remain fully committed to

impacting lives and livelihoods across communities.

About Sahara Group Foundation Sahara Group Foundation is Sahara Group’s vehicle for social sustainability with a focus on promoting access to energy and sustainable environments, ultimately helping to build sustainable societies. The Sahara Group Foundation anchors its volunteering work through its Personal and Corporate Social Responsibility (PCSR) initiatives that give employees platforms to make a difference through

various projects.

Ikeja Electric Plc is Nigeria’s largest power distribution network whose vision is to be the provider of choice wherever energy is consumed. The company is focused on providing the best quality service to customers while adhering to the highest standards of safety at all times.

Ikeja Electric has over a million customers who the company is committed to serve with a New Spirit, New Drive, and New Energy. This resolve continues to elicit a passion for service excellence and new thinking on how to empower lives and businesses across the IE network.

Tingo Group Refutes Fraud Allegations, Says Coy Law, Corporate Governance Compliant

Precious Ugwuzor

Following the recent unflattering media report against its CEO and Founder, Dozy Mmobuosi, Tingo Group yesterday said the company remains in compliance with the laws of the territories in which it operates and maintains the highest standards of corporate governance.

Tingo Group, Inc. is a global Fintech and Agri-Fintech group of companies with operations in Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

In a press release made available to THISDAY, the group said the allegations as misinformation against its brand.

The statement read as thus “for whatever it is, the trending story against Nigeria’s Dozy Mmobuosi; an emerging large-hearted entrepreneur and his group of companies, can best be described as an attempt to smear the good intentions behind the great strides the Tingo Group is making to bring solutions to some of the multi-faceted challenges in contemporary global environment particularly in the African continent.

“The media report published by Hindenburg Research, for all intents and purposes seems to be a calculated attempt to put some clog in the wheel of progress for Mmobuosi, the

Tingo Group Founder and Chief Executive Officer whose profile got boosted soon as he indicated interest to buy Sheffield United Football Club in England a few months ago.

“The Hindenburg’s story already debunked by the Tingo Group largely gives some semblance of effort which is premised on hatchetry of some sort, thus leaving some space to wonder what might be the intentions of the writers.

“The report, which contains numerous errors of fact, together

with misleading and libellous content, appears to be a deliberate attempt to undermine the positive work that Tingo Group is undertaking across various worldwide markets.

“As disclosed by Hindenburg Research, the report represents their own opinion, and is designed to benefit a short position taken by them and their associates from which they stand to realize sizeable gains.

“The company can confirm that no attempt was made by Hindenberg Research to verify

the allegations or otherwise make genuine inquiries concerning the information provided in the report prior to its release.

“Tingo Group confirms that it remains in compliance with the laws of the territories in which it operates and maintains the highest standards of corporate governance.

“The company also confirms that its accounting records are accurate and correct and that its financial results are accurately reported within its financial statements and its SEC filings.

“The investor community has demonstrated its faith in Tingo Group on the basis of detailed analyses and reports prepared by leading professional advisors, financial experts and credit rating agencies.

“ Tingo Group will respond in detail to the allegations made by Hindenburg Research in due course, but for the avoidance of doubt, the company believes the report published is a deliberate attempt to damage its reputation maliciously and unlawfully through the issuance of false, misinformed and distorted information”.

They further stated that contrary to claims, they have testimonials from farmers of their input into their work.

The statement continued: “A sampler is the June 7, 2023 letter from the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) announcing the manifested progress in its

partnership with Tingo Mobile, a subsidiary of the Group.

“The letter reads: ‘The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) is pleased to announce a noteworthy progression in its lease and service agreement with Tingo Mobile Limited, a significant provider of mobile and fintech solutions in Nigeria. As of today, AFAN reports that an estimated 11 million of its members have adopted Tingo Mobile’s smartphone and fintech applications, including the Nwassa platform, as part of their daily operations’.

“This update signifies a considerable stride in AFAN’s goal, established on December 14, 2022 to provide its members with access to advanced mobile technology and financial services.

“In addition, some members have started making their produce available for processing to Tingo Foods Plc, an affiliate of Tingo Mobile. This development is a modest but promising step in AFAN’s partnership with the Tingo Group.

“This collaboration underscores AFAN’s dedication to modernising agricultural practices and ensuring its members are given the necessary tools to adapt in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

“It is interesting to know that the All Farmers

Association of Nigeria (AFAN) is the umbrella organisation for all farmers, agricultural cooperatives and associations in Nigeria committed to promoting the interests of farmers and development of agriculture in Nigeria.”

Tingo Group’s wholly owned subsidiary, Tingo Mobile, is the leading Agri-Fintech company operating in Africa, with a comprehensive portfolio of innovative products, including a ‘device as a service’ smartphone and pre-loaded platform product.

Tingo Group’s other Tingo business verticals include: TingoPay, a SuperApp in partnership with Visa that offers a wide range of B2C and B2B services including payment services, an e-wallet, foreign exchange and merchant services; Tingo Foods, a food processing business that processes raw foods into finished products such as rice, pasta and noodles; and Tingo DMCC, a commodity trading platform and agricultural commodities export business based out of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre.

In addition to its Tingo business verticals, Tingo Group also holds and operates an insurance brokerage platform business in China, with 130+ offices located in China’s cities and major towns; and Magpie Securities, a regulated finance services Fintech business operating out of Hong Kong and Singapore.”

L-R: DCP Ewah Bassey, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Lagos State; Ejiro Gray, Director, Sahara Group Foundation; Folake Soetan, Chief Executive Officer, Ikeja Electric; and Oba Kolawole Ajani Egundupe, Oba of Ipaja, at the Ipaja Police Station Travelers’ Lodge commissioning, held in Lagos State

Dozy Mmobuosi

L-R: Council

Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (ICCON), South-south zone, Prof. Iwekumo Agbozu; Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Wilford Jwalshi; Vice President/Vice Chairman of the Council, Mr. Majek Owoo; and Chairman, Committee on Chemical Safety and Security, Prof. Kollo Babagana, during the Institute’s awareness programme on ‘Chemical Safety and Security’ in

Some Lagos State staff members taking selfie with the state Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu (right), on his first day at work at the secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, for his second term in office…recently

member,

Ehuda, Port Harcourt, Rivers State… recently

The Queen of Apomu Kingdom, Olori Janet Afolabi (centre), in a group photograph with the beneficiaries of free interest loan given to traders by the Queen at the Alapomu Palace Hall, Apomu, headquarters of Isokan Local Government Area of Osun State…recently

A cross-section of the newly appointed Osun State permanent secretaries by the state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, held in the Local Government Service Commission hall at the secretariat in Abere, Osogbo…recently

L-R: Dawn Project Collaborator, Stanley Evans; another Dawn Project Collaborator, Desmond Majekodunmi; collaborator/environmentalist, Prof. Akin Abayomi, receiving recognition award and commendation for his support and service to humanity; and a guest, Dr. Pamela Ajayi, as Dawn Project marks 2023 World Environment Day in Lagos...recently

L-R: Independent Non-Executive Director, Ardova Plc, Mr. Olusola Adeeyo; Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Moshood Olajide; Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Olumide Adeosun; Independent Non-Executive Director, Mrs. Abiola Durosinmi-Eti; Company Secretary, Mr. Oladeinde Nelson-Cole; Chairman, Mr. AbdulWasiu Sowami; and Non-Executive Director, Mr. Mohammed Umar, during the Ardova Plc court ordered meeting held in Lagos…recently

GAMING WEEK

Edited by NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG | ikotibok@gmail.com

Is ‘Nouns Hunt’ Africa’s Distinctive Answer to ‘Wordle’?

Co-Founder & CEO, Dash Studios,

Word games have become extremely popular in the world of mobile gaming, attracting millions of players who enjoy the mental stimulation they provide. These games often require players to engage their cognitive abilities, including problem-solving skills, vocabulary knowledge, and critical thinking.

Before now, players often bought hard copies of such games and played them in their spare time. For those on-the-go, their best bet was the daily word games that were published in special sections of daily newspapers or magazines. This has long changed with the advent of mobile apps and PC games.

In 2009, Zynga developed and launched ‘Words With Friends’, it gained popularity quickly and became one of the most successful word games on mobile platforms. Its success also inspired more word games to emerge, with many developers simply cloning the game’s codes and slapping a different label on them. The market became saturated.

In 2021, an innovative Welsh software engineer Josh Wardle developed and released ‘Wordle’, a guessing word game  that challenges players to guess a five-letter target word within a limited number of attempts. It became a global smash after its release. In 2022, New York Times promptly bought the free online game for over $1 million.

Toeing a similar path as Wardle, and Zynga, Co-Founder & CEO, Dash Studios, John Ikpeme hopes to accomplish a similar feat, and possibly become the first African game publisher to rank well and gain popularity in the word game

sector of mobile games with ‘Nouns Hunt’.

According to Ikpeme, ‘Nouns Hunt’ is a unique and enjoyable variation of the popular game ‘Name, Animal, Place & Thing’ or ‘Column game’ that is widely played in Africa and other parts of the world. He emphasizes that this game is the

FORECAST

Hope to Complete Historic Treble in European Footballs Showpiece

Davidson Abraham

On Thursday, Sparta Rotterdam and Twente clash in the second leg of their EUCL playoff. Either team can win, but Sparta Rotterdam holds the home advantage; Expect a game with at least 2 goals. Luxembourg will hosts Malta on Monday and both teams have a chance to win, but expect a low-scoring match due to their weak attacking abilities.

Manchester City are the favorites to beat Inter in the UEFA Champions League final when they Faceoff in Istanbul on Saturday in a game where Haaland has been tipped to score. If they win, it will be the first European crown in their entire history and it

ADVISORY: +18

will see them complete an incredible treble (UCL, EPL & FA Cup).

Malmo and Halmstads have been tipped to Win or draw against Vaernamo and Verberg respectively; While Fenerbahce is expected to beat Istanbul Basaksehir to the Turkish cup title. In Africa’s Club footballs showpiece event, North African heavyweights Wydad Casablanca and Al Ahli will face off in the CAF Champions League Final. Al Ahli come into this game with a one goal advantage after winning 2-1 in the first leg. The pressure will be on Wydad Casablanca to turn the tie around at home. Ahli Has been tipped to lift the trophy but their opponents have the home Advantage.

first of its kind in the mobile word game market. Ikpeme also highlights some of the features and benefits of the game, stating that:

“The ‘Nouns Hunt’ experience offers a word game experience that is currently unavailable in the word game market. Players

can look forward to daily rewards, contests, and the upcoming ‘Nouns Hunt Story’ competition, which will surely keep them engaged and entertained.” Evidently, ‘Nouns Hunt’ is poised to become a hit with lovers of word games. The Open Beta version of the

game which was released on March 31, 2023, rose to top 12 on word games on the App Store, nine hours after it was released. It currently boasts over 1,000 active users (as of the time of this publication) spread across over 25 countries.

So far, the team at Dash Studios are harvesting data from users in the beta testing phase to ensure a seamless experiential experience for players. Upon its release last September, they revealed that the game will be augmented with added social interaction features that include bots, audio chat, character assistance and a public room, allowing players to compete with strangers around the world, and make new friends.

“We wanted to create a seamless experience that could allow up to 20 players to connect at a time and enjoy a fast-paced multiplayer word game. For this we needed ease of input in typing the words, and ease of data sharing within the loop. This has led to us developing a couple of prototypes and testing gameplay on different engines before finally arriving.

The current trajectory of the game, in terms of popularity around the world, could be attributed to the use of online servers instead of local servers that are restricted by geography, Ikpeme hinted to this reporter.

The project spanned a total of 11 months, beginning in April 2022 and concluding in March 2023. This timeline encompassed the entire process from conceptualization to the Beta phase. Ikpeme also disclosed the app launch is arriving later than planned. He cites funding, and codebase regression as major constraints.

Surmounting those hurdles, Ikpeme reiterated that the game’s build is designed with a global audience in mind. He expects ‘Nouns Hunt’ to compete in the global market with hopes to open windows of opportunities for local game developers to international investors.

Until its release in a couple of months, ‘Nouns Hunt’ could either be the single game that put African game developers on the map, or at least starts serious conversations around investing in African-owned games. But for now, we wait.

PERSONS UNDER 18 MUST NOT PARTICIPATE IN BETTING, GAMING OR LOTTERY ACTIVITY

John Ikpeme hopes to become the first African game publisher to rank well and gain popularity in the word game sector of mobile games with ‘Nouns Hunt’, writes Iyke Bede

Arbitration: Elumelu Calls for Rule of Law for Economic Growth in Africa

Rebecca Ejifoma

The Founder of the Elumelu Foundation, Tony Elumelu, has deepened the conversation on the need for the rule of law for economic growth and development in Africa.

He remarked on this at the 7th International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Africa Conference on International Arbitration, which coincided with the 100th anniversary of the International Court of Arbitration held in Lagos.

According to Elumelu, “We need to handle adjudications and judgments quickly because if you are going to invest in an environment, critical criteria to consider is the practice of the rule of law in that country. If there is a business dispute, how do you resolve it? It is so critical.”

Elumelu added that there is an emerging growth trend in technology, manufacturing,

financial services and payments for doing business in Africa.

While underscoring the need to democratise wealth creation in the continent, Elumelu implored Africa to address critical soft and hard infrastructural gaps for the growth of her economy.

On his part, the SecretaryGeneral of ICC, John Denton, said ICC would deploy all tools necessary to achieve it.

Continuing, he said the institution would help drive economic development in regions while also encouraging young entrepreneurs.

He argued that the institution could help bring justice to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and people in Africa who cannot access justice due to the cost.

He said, “If we can provide access to private justice throughout the world, we can create additional economic development, and we can give life to that promise.”

Denton outlined that he made a decision that the voice of Africa would flow through the ICC and help regenerate the institution.

“We didn’t have enough voices from the global South, and I decided that in my time, the dominant voices in ICC would come from there. We now have ICC representation in over 170 countries, and over 70 per cent of those countries are in the global South,” he said.

Speaking also, the Chairperson of ICC Nigeria, Commission on Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Dorothy Ufot (SAN), appealed to the international community to make Nigeria the seat of arbitration.

She said: “We want African arbitrators appointed to huge arbitration cases. We also want Nigeria and Africa to be the seat and venue of arbitration proceedings.”

Flour Mills of Nigeria Commits to Sustainable Development

Flour Mills of Nigeria, has announce the successful commissioning of a solarpowered clean water plant it financed for the Gbaji-Yeke Community, Badagry.

The company in a statement said the milestone was achieved in partnership with the Lagos State Government under the esteemed One Community at A Time project (OCAAT), which aims to address the specific needs of grassroots

communities and provide sustainable solutions.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Group HR & Services Director FMN, Mr. Wale Adediran, expressed enthusiasm for the project and its transformative impact on the Gbaji-Yeke Community. “We are proud to partner with the Lagos State Government through the One Community At A Time project to deliver

MARKET INDICATORS

this solar-powered clean water plant,” he said in his address.

The Secretary to the State Government, expressed her excitement about the project and its impact on the GbajiYeke Community. She stated, “The commissioning of this solar-powered clean water plant marks a significant milestone in the OCAAT initiative, delivering critical infrastructure for Lagos State communities.”

‘Health Benefits Driving Acceptance of Golden Terra Soya Oil’

The management of TGI Group, makers of Golden Terra Soya Oil has stated that the product has gained massive inroad into the Nigerian market because of its health benefits.

The company in a statement said consumers are now more interested in cooking oils that not only provide excellent taste but packed with health benefits.

TGI Group stated that Golden Terra Soya Oil’s natural supply of 5x more PUFA, which is considered good fat provides your body with numerous health benefits it requires than the popular Palm Olein.

“PUFA, are “good fats” unlike Saturated fats, which are generally viewed as “bad fat” because they can raise your cholesterol levels which increases risk of heart disease.

PUFA are a type of fat that is good for heart health. Since the body cannot make this type of fat, it must be included in your diet by adopting edible oil and foods high in PUFA, “it stated.

Speaking with Mrs. Lilian Onyeabor, a health-conscious consumer and mother of three, claimed that she made a switch to soya oil after discovering that it is packed with lots of health and nutritional benefit that her family requires.

“My desire to live a healthy lifestyle has always been influenced by growing up in a household where both my parents are health professionals. I opt to use soya oil for my family because it has so many health benefits. After my little research, and reading most cooking brand compositions on their packs, I

discovered that Golden Terra Soya contains all the health and nutritional benefits I need for my family’s well-being. The oil doesn’t foam and doesn’t give my meal an aftertaste, “She said Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group, Probal Bhattacharya, mentioned that Golden Terra Soya Oil is not only prioritizing health for a wide spectrum of consumers across Nigeria with its health credentials but also offering affordable & convenient choices for all.

“Through Golden Terra Soya Oil, we are serving a community of consumers who make conscious decisions about healthy cooking oil in their homes. It is our belief that with the brand’s immense health benefits, it will become a staple in most kitchens across Nigeria,” he stated.

American Varsity Rewards Opah’s Excellence with Doctorate

AMERICAN Heritage University of Southern California, USA has conferred an honorary doctorate degree in Business Administration, DBA, on Eric Opah in recognition of his commitment to industry and intellectual excellence.

Opah is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Fortune Global Shipping & Logistics Limited, a major player in the sector. Known for its excellent services and

distinctions in its relations with clients, Opah invested resources in preparing himself for the big stage.

He said of the award, “The areas that the award emphasised are areas of interest to me. Education changes society quickly, and commitment to best practices in business has been a core value of Fortune Global’s services”. The award, he said, was a call to do the things he has been doing better.

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage)

American Heritage University of Southern California is renowned for its unique attention to “revolutionary education” which concentrates on business and accessibility of education to people in different circumstances.

It found Opah’s long provision of valuable, reliable services, and his development of people and communities worthy of its doctorate.

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT 8 MARCH, 2023

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $84.37 a barrel on Tuesday, compared with $84.59 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

From L-R: Corporate Citizenship Specialist, Union Bank, Nkiru Ozili; Host & Founder Chrystallis Conversations, Kemi Ogunleye; Lead, External Communication, Union Bank, Jennifer Ugboh and Head, Strategic Brand Management, Union Bank, Alvin Agorom, during the inaugural Chrystallis Live Event held recently in Lagos… recently

Prof-taking Persist as Stock Market Depreciates by N37bn

Kayode Tokede

Investors profit-taking continued to dominate the stock market of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) as capitalisation extended losses for a second consecutive session, falling by N37 billion at the end of yesterday trading.

Accordingly, the All Share Index (ASI) shed 67.93 basis points or 0.12 per cent to close at 55,956.59 basis points from 56,024.52 basis points it opened

for trading.

Consequently, the Month-toDate and Year-to-Date returns moderated to 0.3per cent and 9.2 per cent, respectively.

Also, market capitalisation depreciated by N37 billion to close at N30.469 trillion from N30.506trilllion it opened for trading.

Across the sectors, the NGX Insurance Index rose by four per cent, NGX Oil & Gas Index gained one per cent and NGX

Banking Index added one per cent, while the NGX Industrial Goods Index dropped by 0.7per cent and NGX Consumer Goods dipped by 0.1 per cent.

According to analysts at InvestmentOne Research, “The local bourse closed lower due to the bearish sentiment seen in the Industrial and Consumer Goods sectors.

“Going forward, we expect investor’s sentiment to be swayed by the search

for real positive returns and developments in the interest rate space.

“We reiterate that this may be a great period to pick up some quality names with a medium to long-term investment horizon.”

However, market breadth closed positive, as 41 stocks gained relative to 13 losers.

E-Tranzact International, Japaul Gold & Ventures, Prestige Assurance, Secure Electronic

Technology, Sovereign Trust Insurance and Unity Bank recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at N4.84, 44 kobo, 44 kobo, 33 kobo, 44 kobo and 66 kobo respectively, per share.

MRS Oil Nigeria followed with a gain of 9.96 per cent to close at N59.60, while Cornerstone Insurance rose by 9.90 per cent to close at N1.11, per share.

On the other hand, John

Holt led the losers’ chart by 9.68 per cent, to close at N1.40, per share. Caverton Offshore Support Group followed with a decline of 7.14 per cent to close at N1.30, while Wapic Insurance declined by 6.52 per cent to close at 43 kobo, per share.

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria depreciated by 5.30 per cent to close at N7.15, while Stanbic IBTC Holdings declined by 3.02 per cent to close at N45.00, per share.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED ASOF JUNE/08/23

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

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

GUIDE TO DATA:

Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 07June-2023, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF.

Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS

AIRTEL NIGERIA'S COURTESY VISIT TO SANWO-OLU...

CBN Takes eNaira Sensitisation Campaign to Akwa Ibom

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday, took its eNaira awareness drive to Akwa Ibom State, explaining that the digital currency was introduced to aid financial transactions in the country.

The CBN therefore called on Nigerians to embrace the digital currency.

The CBN offered the explanation while speaking during the eNaira sensitisation at the University of Uyo.

Branch Controller of CBN, Uyo, Mercy Itohan Ogbomonpaul, said the sensitisation programme was to educate the university community on the system and encourage them to key into it.

Interacting with the Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, the CBN branch controller noted that though the eNaira was launched in 2021, it has not received wide publicity and usage as it should.

Ogbomonpaul, who was

represented by the Assistant Director, CBN, Isang Agbomi Enya, said Nigeria was the seventh nation to introduce eNaira, pointing out that other countries have gone beyond the physical cash payment and are now using the e-payment system.

"We are here to partner with you on the eNaira. Globally, the economy is now going e-payment and not cash payment as it is known in our environment. The central bank in its wisdom, in line with best practices adopted the eNaira platform.

"The eNaira is expected to help us to be in par with what other countries are doing. The unfolding trend now is that we use e-payment rather than the physical cash. The e-naira is an initiative of the Central Bank that would work in par with the physical cash.

"It is the semblance of the naira that we could use in transaction rather than the physical cash because the naira as we know is very difficult and is costly to

replace.

"The eNaira would help us to handle those deficiencies that are noticed and experienced in the use of cash. The eNaira would also help us in our policy making, in terms of monetary policy decisions because decisions are made based on information we have.

"If we are all in the eNaira platform, the central bank would be able to ascertain how much has been transacted in the e-naira platform and able to make policy decisions for our monetary policy in the country," she stated.

According to Ogbomonpaul, the eNaira system was more

viable, simple, and easy to use, adding that it would ease the payment of revenue and was in line with what is tenable in other advanced nations.

"The eNaira would make our payment system more viable and bring in more people into the system. It is simple, it is easy

and will allow the government to get its revenues in terms of payment very easily,” he added.

Responding, Vice Chancellor of University of Uyo, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo said the institution was happy to be part of the initiative and would partner with CBN on the eNaira.

Israel to Partner Nigeria on Job Creation through Digital Economy

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Ambassador of Israel to Nigeria, Michael Freeman has disclosed the readiness of his country to partner with Nigeria towards realisation of the policy on creation of one million jobs through digital economy.

Freeman, who is also the Permanent Representative of Israel to ECOWAS, made the disclosure at a news conference on the official inauguration of the 3rd cohort of the Innovation Fellowship for Aspiring Inventors and

Researchers (I-FAIR), yesterday in Abuja.

He said Israel remained excited over plans to partner with President Bola Tinubu’s administration to achieve meaningful growth through digital technology, noting that the first two editions of I-FAIR programme provided young Nigerians with mentorship and tools needed to realise their innovative ideas.

He said many I-FAIR graduates now have various businesses with fellow Nigerians contributing to the economic growth of their

NAHCON Explains New Saudi Arabia Policy on Accommodation of Pilgrims

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The National Hajji Commission of Nigeria(NAHCON) has said the new policy that allows pilgrims to be moved to Makkah after five days in Madinah was to avert the Saudi Arabia authorities’ sanctions.

The Commission said the new policy came following complaint of Saudi Arabia authorities over the overcrowding of pilgrims in Madinah.

The Deputy Director, Media and Publication of NAHCON, Alhaji Mousa Ubandawaki, explained this in a statement made available to THISDAY in Ilorin, yesterday.

It added: "The Commission had to adopt the new policy, after

wide consultations and exhaustive deliberation and it is important to note that for the first time in a long time, NAHCON is given100 per cent Nigerian pilgrims the opportunity to visit Madina in the first phase or before Arafat.

"However, to achieve this and in order to avert sanctions against the country if there are pilgrims overcrowding in Madina, the Commission had to adopt the new policy, after wide consultations and exhaustive deliberation.

"Moreover, it is a known fact that Nigerian pilgrims live in the exclusive Markaziyya area during their stay, a decision which has been overwhelmingly commended and for which the Commission never intended to compromise.

"And if the policy must be

sustained, then the number of days our pilgrims must stay in Madina had to be reduced.

"As it is well known that Hajj is fast changing with new development and realities, if the Commission must achieve the objectives of making the 2023 Hajj seamless and comfortable for our pilgrims, it is important to synchronise the airlift of pilgrims to the Holy land with the bed space available, so that the Commission won’t be penalised for airlifting more pilgrims into Madina than the available accommodation or be forced to take the pilgrims to another area which are well below the standard of the current Markaziyya."

The statement noted further

that: "Tough a decision this may seem, we felt it is a necessary action we need to take, so that we won’t be at the receiving end of Saudi laws and at the same time it was considered more utilitarian for Nigerian pilgrims to spend five days in Madina thereby allowing more pilgrims to travel to Madina in the first phase from where they would be moved to Makkah to continue with their Hajj rites, than to delay their departure for wants of bed spaces in the Prophet’s city.

"We therefore crave for the understanding and support of the pilgrims, Hajj officials and indeed Stakeholders for the successful implementation of this policy. We should not give up the gains we have so far achieved.”

fatherland.

Freeman, who said the third edition of I-FAIR had been officially inaugurated, insisted that, “This is the official launch of the 3rd I-FAIR programme since President Tinubu was inaugurated and one of the key focus of his inaugural policy was improving and strengthening Nigeria’s economy.

“He actually spoke specifically on a number of targets, to increase local and foreign investment in Nigeria, also to create one million jobs in the digital economy.

“Israel is the world leader in digital economy and it is also the world leader in manufacturing investment in several other places.

“We buy into this vision and we want to partner President Tinubu and his administration, to help create the environment for investment.

“To help create a million jobs in the digital economy and that is why we are here today, because the I-FAIR programme will help to create jobs, investment and new generation of entrepreneurial Nigerian innovators.”

The envoy said such would boost job creation in the economy through learning from Israeli experience whereby 45 per cent of the GDP was based on human capita and research development.

He described I-FAIR as initiative of Israel through partnership with Nigeria with mandate to empower innovators, inventors and entrepreneurs, and had become flagship of IsraelNigeria programmes, since their 60years of diplomatic relations.

Also speaking at the event,

Founding Partner of Future Africa, a private organisation, Iyinoluwa Aboyaji, commended partnership between both countries to have helped in the development of youth innovation in Nigeria. He said: “This collaboration between Nigeria and Israel has been extremely fruitful, particularly in the area of helping us to commercialize the research and development that comes out from our university.

“Specifically, the partnership with the Innov8Hub programme, which is incredible; I am delighted with the President’s mandate for a million jobs in digital economy.

“It is extremely an important mandate, we are not going to get there without the support and knowledge that comes from collaborative partnership from country like Israel,” Aboyaji said.

He further advised young people to key into the Innov8Hub programme with zeal, as an opportunity to become successful through their innovation and skills development.

I-FAIR is a six-month programme that provides selected participants access to expertise, technology, mentorship and network needed to develop products and businesses, as well as create advanced prototype and pitch to investors among other things.

Since the inception, two I-FAIR editions have been completed with 63 Fellows and 56 products developed under 1,300 mentorship hours and 100 ideas such as Thinkbike, Soiless farm labs, QuadloopAfrica and Eco Circilat Solution turned into enterprises.

L-R: Lead, CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Chioma Okolie; Head, Public Relations, Airtel Nigeria, Sam Adeoye (Back Row), Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz; Accountant-General, Lagos State, Dr. Abiodun Muritala (Back Row); Executive Governor, Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Head of Security Services, Airtel Nigeria, Oluwaseyi Adetayo (Back Row); Deputy Governor, Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat; Director, Corporate Communications and CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran; and Lagos State Permanent Secretary, Debt Management Office, Mrs. Rukayat Alake Sanusi, during Airtel Nigeria's courtesy visit to the Governor of Lagos State, at the Governor's office, Ikeja on Tuesday

Ensure Nigeria’s Image Remains Untainted, FG Tells Foreign Service Officers

Michael

The federal government has advised the country’s foreign service officers to ensure that the image of the country remains untainted.

The federal government made the call yesterday, while tasking the participants of the 25th Regular Course of the Foreign Service Academy (FSA) not to soil Nigeria's image abroad.

The call was made even as the Permanent Secretary, Ministry

of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Adamu Lamuwa, charged the graduating foreign service officers to always remember that their ultimate mandate was to defend, advance and protect the national interest.

Lamuwa, who spoke at the Graduation of the 25th Regular Course of the Foreign Service Academy (FSA), at the Ministry's headquarters in Abuja, also asked the graduands to go out there and give back to the system what it gave to them.

The former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Martin Uhomoibhi, said, foreign service was a sacred duty, and a call to holiness.

Uhomoibhi, who was former President of the United Nations Human Rights Council, told the graduands to consider themselves lucky, as only few are privileged to fly Nigeria's flag, outside the shores of the country.

The retired Nigerian Ambassador, said to be amongst the elite civil servants was not

NYSC Warns CPIs against Enrolling Unqualified Graduates

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

The Director General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. Gen. Yusha'a Ahmed, has warned Corps Producing Institutions (CPIs) that the scheme would no longer take lightly the issue of enrolling unqualified graduates. He gave the warning yesterday, in Abuja, at the second edition of the annual meeting of the NYSC and registrars of CPIs

Ahmed, said a major challenge was the harvest of graduates from unaccredited institutions as well as the enrollment of part-time graduates by accredited institutions.

"While I am glad about the positive feedback, more still need to be done to make the mobilisation process more seamless. For instance, the continuous decline of quality of graduates which has largely been attributed to factors such as harvest of graduates from unaccredited institutions, manipulation of data to allow part-time graduates enroll for service and other unwholesome practices leaves much to be desired from the citadels of learning.

"Management is determined not to take it lightly with institutions or individuals perpetrating these acts intermittently.

"In recent times, the NYSC has consistently harped on appointment of credible Students

Affairs Officers (SAOs) and Data Entry Officers (DEOs).

“In this regard, let me echo our call taking cognisance of the fact that no one can guarantee excellent output when the quality of input is not guaranteed,” he added.

He emphasised the importance of those charged with the responsibility of enrolling corps members, noting that "undoubtedly, the crucial roles of SAOS and DEOS in the mobilisation process cannot be disputed."

According to him, the meeting would enable the scheme to, "generate feedback that will significantly fill the gap between, sharpen our focus on recurrent challenges and also generate ideas that would sharpen policy and implementation, largely eliminate or reduce them to the barest minimum."

He added it was also designed to maintain a balanced connect between the managements of NYSC and that of Corps Producing Institutions.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Administration(FCTA), Mr. Adesola Olusade, alluded to the fact that Corps members were contributing immensely to the economy of the FCT.

"I want to assure you that we will continue to deepen our partnership with the NYSC to see to the successful implementation of its lofty objectives. Let me also acknowledge with gratitude that the

giant strides in our achievements as an administration in the FCT is attributable to the selfless services of Corns Members deployed to serve in the Territory," he said.

only a privilege but also, a huge responsibility.

He said: "Please don't soil our image, you are there to promote, project, protect and defend Nigeria's interest, not your own interest. It is a sacred duty, it is a call to holiness and it is uncompromisable. You can't be a drunk and be a diplomat, and expect to be respected. You cannot be a vagabond and expect to be respected.

It is a sacred duty, a call to holiness. To be a diplomat and a flyer of Nigeria flag, you must be unblemished. It is also a call to excellence, you must read books to excel as a diplomat.

“Knowledge is key, because you cannot give what you do not have. If you put a buffoon in office, you get buffoonery, you can pray from now till next year and God will feel insulted.

“So, as a representative of Nigeria you must seek knowledge, you must know. You must know God; you must

apply God in your work. God should not take second place in your life, even as a diplomat, faith is powerful."

Uhomoibhi added: “You are representing Nigeria; you must listen to Nigerians outside the shores of this country who come to you. It does not always have to be money. If you don't have money you can receive or be nice to them, empathy not sympathy. You must put yourself in the shoes of stranded Nigerians who have no other relation out there except you".

The Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, said, training and retraining of staff brings out the best in them, hence her interest in capacity building.

Yemi-Esan, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, charged the graduating foreign service officers to acquaint selves with the civil service rules, as

that will guide them throughout their career.

The Director General, National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ahmed Abubakar, represented by Director Training NIA, Ambassador Chituru Chendo, encouraged the graduands to make use of emotional intelligence at all time.

Earlier in his address of welcome, the Head, Foreign Service Academy, Amb. Franklin Oguyemi, said, the 25th Regular Course of the Foreign Service Academy (FSA), was significant as it marks the implementation of the new foreign service academy curriculum.

He said the aim of the new curriculum was to produce diplomats who were physically, mentally and intellectually prepared to navigate the everchanging world of diplomacy including possessing the necessary knowledge and skills to project, advance and protect Nigeria's interest beyond its borders.

Sudan Crisis: JAMB Rolls Out Modalities for Absorption of Returnee Students

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has rolled out modalities for the absorption of returnee students from war-torn countries into Nigerian universities.

Head, Public Affairs of JAMB, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, in a statement said the modalities were follow-ups to the high-level meeting between the Federal Ministry of Education (FME), Federal Ministry of Health, JAMB, Nigeria in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), National Universities Commission (NUC), and other critical stakeholders, on the integration of returnee Nigerian students from war-torn countries into the nation’s tertiary education system.

The Registrar, JAMB, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, while presenting the modalities at a virtual meeting with Vice Chancellors of Nigerian universities and other critical stakeholders on Wednesday, 7th June 2023, said it was imperative to hold talks with the Vice Chancellors following the peculiarities of each

university and the variation in the responses received from them on the matter.

The registrar pointed out that the emergency meeting was, therefore, convened to fashion out uniform standards and minimum acceptable benchmarks for the proposed absorption in line with global best practices.

He also stated that the Senate of each university had the right to decide on university transfers and needed not to wait for JAMB to initiate such adding that the parley with the stakeholders was to present the modalities for critique as well as receive inputs.

Oloyede reminded the vicechancellors to key into the earlier advisory sent to universities on the procedures for processing applications for foreign and domestic inter-university transfers.

He stated that the current advisory on the returnees does not override the earlier one rather it serves to reinforce it by strengthening the procedures for transfers.

The statement by Benjamin

noted that goodwill messages were taken at the meeting from the representatives of the FME, NUC, NiDCOM and vice-chancellors, who aligned themselves with the position of JAMB and promised to support the initiative.

The JAMB spokesperson disclosed that, “the latest advisory on procedures for emergency transfers of returning students was that each of them is mandated to do a retroactive registration with the FME, visit the returnee application page on Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS) as accessible from the JAMB website, where the returnee students would upload their registration slips, complete the transfer of personal data, which would include; name, National Identification Number (NIN), telephone number, active e-mail account, current university, country, city of study and programme, year and current level of study.”

According to the new procedures, “the returnee students would select their preferred university of choice,

programme and upload scanned copies of their current university admission letter, transcript, data page of their international passport and a sworn affidavit confirming the genuineness of uploaded documents.

“The returnee students are directed to click SUBMIT for onward movement to their university of choice, which would receive a notification as well as an IBASS mail on the application for evaluation of the returnee’s credentials.

“If the returnee is found worthy of admission, a notification is sent to him/her on the status of the admission.

“Consequently, successful returnees students would be directed via email and SMS to approach any JAMB office in person to complete the interuniversity transfer application.”

The registrar charged the vice-chancellors to be vigilant and thoroughly scrutinise the certificates submitted to their institutions to avoid any pitfall that could impugn their hard-earned reputation.

Olugbode in Abuja

CELEBRATING A MILESTONE...

Public Confidence in INEC Dropped to 40% After 2023 Polls, Says Situation Room Report

Electoral body blames some election criticisms on ignorance

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room has said based on the analysis of the post-2023 general election survey it conducted, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dropped on public confidence scale.

It said the analysis showed a drop in public confidence from 60 per cent attained in the 2015 general election to 40 per cent after the 2023 election.

The Situation Room report came as INEC disputed the claim of poor performance, saying most criticisms of its role during the last election are based on inadequate knowledge of the commission's rules and enabling constitutional provisions.

Speaking during the public presentation of the report in Abuja yesterday, Convener of the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room, Ms. Ene Obi, said the conduct of the 2023 general election grossly fell short of expectations and, as such, INEC should apologise to Nigerians.

Obi said Situation Room’s observation and analysis of the election indicated that the election fell short of the credibility threshold set out by the group.

Obi said the Situation Room expected that the innovative reforms introduced by INEC, in furtherance of the new Electoral Act 2022, would lead to efficient and accountable election

management, together with effective monitoring of political parties and campaign process, improved access to polling units, hitch-free accreditation and voting, and effective violence mitigation.

According to the Situation Room, "Contrary to these expectations, the 2023 general election was marred by very poor organisation, severe logistical and operational failure, lack of essential electoral transparency, substantial disruption of voting, and several incidents of violence.

"As a result, the process cannot be considered to have been credible. Given the lack of transparency, particularly in the result collation process, there can be no confidence in the results of the election.

“In addition, there was very poor communication from INEC on challenges with its processes on election day.

"The Situation Room believes that additional reforms and improvements are required to ensure that the quality of future elections in Nigeria does not further decline, and that public confidence in the capacity of INEC to conduct elections is restored, while trust in the credibility of elections is re-established."

Obi listed some recommendations, which Situation Room would want the election management body to adopt to improve the electoral process and elections in Nigeria.

FG Declares June 12 Public Holiday to Commemorate Democracy Day

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The federal government has declared Monday, June 12, 2023, as a public holiday in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day celebration. The declaration was communicated in a statement yesterday, by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Oluwatoyin Akinlade, who congratulated all Nigerians on the occasion. The statement read: “Nigeria’s democratic journey has, like in many other climes, encountered both stormy and

smooth sails, but the ship of State, it’s institutions and most importantly, the Nigerian people have remained steadfast on the tenets of democratic governance.

“On this memorable occasion therefore, Nigerians and friends of Nigeria are invited to appreciate the progress that has been made, celebrate the milestones covered and look forward to a better future for the country's democracy.”

The Permanent Secretary wished all Nigerians a Happy Democracy Day celebration.

Responding to some of the issues raised by the report of the Situation Room, INEC National Commissioner in charge of Information and Voter Education, Mr. Festus Okoye, said notwithstanding

the criticisms, the 2023 general election delivered a number of positives that could be improved upon.

Okoye said that in a few weeks, the commission would begin a review of the 2023

elections.

He said, "We should not reduce the election success and hinge all issues on the challenge with result upload alone.

"You will agree with me that there were a lot of positives

that arose from the conduct of the 2023 general election. The commission will harvest all those positives, consolidate on all those positives and move ahead towards the next general election.”

10th Senate Presidency: Christian Group Endorses Yari, Decries Religious Sentiments

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

A group of clerics under the aegis of Christian Organisations of Nigeria (CON), yesterday, in Abuja, endorsed former Zamfara State governor, Abdul-Aziz Yari as President of the 10th Senate and encouraged all senatorselect to vote for him on June 13 because he remained the most capable among the aspirants.

The Christian body stated this at a news conference addressed by Bishop (Prophet) Blessing

Fashola of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC).

The CON said it accepted the decision of the senators-elect to reject the All Progressives Congress (APC) endorsement and to vote according to their conscience.

"The Christian Organisation of Nigeria (CON) is calling on the senators-elect to discountenance miscreants and enemies of democracy trying to use politics and religion to discourage them from voting Yari as the next

Senate President.

"The hollowed Chambers of the Senate is where Nigeria must speak as one united and indivisible entity hence every religious, ethnic and racial divisions must be highly discouraged.

"After a critical assessment of all the contestants irrespective of their religious divide we have chosen to endorse H.E Abdulaziz Yari because he is the most capable.

"CON is apolitical and does

not share the myopic reasoning that a Christian must be endorsed because we do not see any Christian from the lot contesting that is more capable that Senator Yari."

The Christian body pointed out that the 10th Nigerian Senate was not a place where cheap religious sentiments could fly, hence several propaganda machinery deployed to hoodwink senators-elect into supporting a failed project was dead on arrival.

Akume Commends North Central Govs for Their Solidarity

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has commended the North Central Governors’ Forum for the solidarity visit they paid to him following his swearing-in ceremony by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He made the commendation yesterday when he received in

Arrest Killers

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Ibadan (UI) Chapter, yesterday, asked the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, to assist the Oyo State Police Command, with all logistics support needed to unravel and arrest the killers of Prof. Opeyemi Isaac Ajewole, of the department of Social and Environmental Forestry Development, of the premier university.

Ajewole, was killed by yetto-be-identified assailants in the evening of Monday, 5 June 2023, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

audience the governors from zone in his office.

The governors on the entourage included the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule; Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang; Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia;Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello; and Governor of Kwara AbdulRahman AbdulRazak.

The SGF noted that the

solidarity visit would serve as an encouragement to achieve greater strides for the nation.

“I thank my fellow brothers from the North-central Zone, who in their wisdom decided to pay this courtesy call on one of their own. I am very delighted. When you see people very close to you coming around you, then, you know that sky is the limit,”

Akume said Speaking earlier, Chairman of the North Central Governors' Forum and the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, congratulated the SGF on his appointment by the President. He said the governors from the zone pledged to give Akume the needed support to succeed in his new assignment.

of UI Don, Ajewole, ASUU Tells Tinubu, IGP

The union in a statement yesterday, by its Chairman, Prof. Ayo Akinwole, tasked President Bola Tinubu, to take passionate interest and ensure the security system unmasks the faces behind the murder of the professor.

"The hearts of every ASUU-UI member are bleeding so profusely as if pierced by swords. Our bones shook so tremendously as if our marrows were naked in the tundra region. We condemn in totality the gruesome murder of our comrade, Professor Opeyemi Isaac Ajewole, and charge the security operatives to track down and apprehend the perpetrators of this dastardly act, with a view

to unravelling the motive behind the incident as well as bringing the perpetrators to book," he said.

According to Akinwole, the only tribute which the death of Ajewole deserves was that his killers are brought to justice and that Nigerians' lives should matter to the Tinubu presidency, noting that, "Professor Ajewole’s gruesome murder again reminds us of how valueless human lives have become in our clime."

The ASUU boss maintained that, "death lurks in all imaginable and unimaginable corners of this country and comes cheaply. The Nigerian populace is constantly assailed by terrorism,

banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, assassination, hunger, unemployment, and many more insidious exterminators of our individual and collective dreams."

Akinwole, stated further that, "the situation of the Nigerian academics is even doubly precarious; they are prophets without any honour at home. Despite their immense contributions to national growth and development and recognitions in the international circle, Nigerian academia are scorned and shabbily treated by the Nigerian state and the public for being unrepentant patriots.

L-R: Founding Partner, Kenna Partners, Professor Fabian Ajogwu, SAN; Managing Partner, Mr. Ituah Imhanze; Practice Director, Mr. Adekunle Omidiora; Partner, Mr. Adeola Adeniyi; and Partner, Mrs. Justina Fakulude, after a Thanksgiving Mass to mark the 30th anniversary of their law firm, Kenna Partners, at the St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 1004 Estate, Victoria Island, Lagos…yesterday. MUBO PETERS

SIGNING OF MOU ON VOCATIONAL TRAINING FOR YOUTHS...

Alia: Ex-Benue Gov, PDP Should Seek Our People’s Forgiveness

Alleges they looted govt’s property, left empty treasury Decries high unemployment, says education will top priority

Tyessi

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth

Alia, has advised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a former Governor of the state to seek forgiveness from the people of Benue over what he called the maladministration by his government in the last eight years that led to looting of the state and leaving behind an empty treasury.

He also decried the high level of graduate unemployment in Nigeria and insisted that skill acquisition and entrepreneurship education remained critical towards tackling menace.

In a press release by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Tersoo Kula, Alia, who reacted to a press conference by the PDP condemning the recent decision of the state to terminate last minute appointment into the civil service, said it was rather

WEF Report Highlights Retirement Trends as Life Expectancy Increases

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has revealed that life expectancy increased from an average of 46 to 73 years between 1950 and 2019, just as the United Nations (UN) has forecasted further increases.

In a new report titled: ‘Living Longer, Better: Understanding Longevity Literacy,’ which the WEF developed in collaboration with Mercer, a business of Marsh McLennan, also estimated that global average life expectancy would reach about 81 years by 2100.

It noted that longer lifespans were causing individuals, governments and business leaders to rethink their approach to work and retirement.

Furthermore, the law explored how lengthening lifespans were reshaping how individuals view their working lives and retirement. The report offers recommendations for government and employers to ensure they are adequately supporting people in multiple stages of work and retirement.

It also highlights purpose and quality of life in addition to financial health and resilience – themes that are traditionally associated with retirement planning. Similarly, it offers options that individuals could consider to ensure they are approaching work, learning and retirement in ways that best

meet their needs.

“When it comes to longevity and living longer, healthier lives, everyone has a role on this critical topic,” Longevity Lead, World Economic Forum, Haleh Nazeri said.

“How will business support an older workforce and one with growing caregiving needs, what will policymakers do to help all citizens reach retirement equity, and finally, what can individuals do at every life stage to ensure they are able to stay financially resilient in a longer life.

“Employers are thinking more about the current age distributions within the areas of talent needed to operate their organizations and how to influence the trajectory of these distributions,” Executive Director, Investments & Global Chief Investment Strategist, Mercer, Rich Nuzum added.

“To leverage longevity and fight the war for talent effectively, moving from individual roles to team-based roles can help employers take full advantage of the diverse strengths of teams that comprise a combination of older and younger workers.”

The report revealed that a new survey, Pulse Poll, of almost 400 professionals indicated that women and men viewed retirement differently.

pathetic that the PDP, whose maladministration imposed untold pains and penury on the people of the state was calling for the reversal of the same decisions that former governor Samuel Ortom, took shortly after assuming office in 2015.

"Just a week and a few days after assuming office, the governor has taken key decisions and deliberate steps that have received applause from the majority of the Benue electorate and from the key decisions and his approach to governance so far, Benue people are basking in a renewed hope that the governor will fulfil his campaign promises," he said.

The governor said even though the PDP has a right to criticism, it should not go overboard to make the Benue people angrier, bearing

in mind that the party has not been forgiven for the unprecedented devastation it caused the people of the state and must only raise issues that would contribute to reclaiming the lost glory of the state, which was an unfortunate experience that was perpetrated by their leadership.

"The PDP is not ignorant of the fact that all the appointments and recruitments that were carried out by former governor Samuel Ortom at the twilight of his administration, were not done in good faith. Is it not curious that for more than 7 years, Ortom could not employ indigents of the state into the Civil Service, until a few months to the expiration of his tenure?

"This suspicious move should prick the conscience of the PDP to question the motive of the

former governor rather than shift the blame to Rev Fr. Alia and his new administration. Thankfully, Governor Alia warned about it before and after he was elected into office.

"It is even more ironic that the PDP, that is now crying wolf, left Government House owing salaries of Benue Civil Servants from December 2022 to May 2023. The same PDP administration left salary arrears of 5 months for state government workers in 2017; 10 months for Local Government workers in the same year, 2017. Under this same PDP government, pensions were last paid in the year 2021.”

On the state of education, Alia, who spoke in Abuja, when he paid what he described as a solidarity visit to Executive Secretary of TETFund, Mr. Sonny Echono,

at the Fund's Headquarters, commended TETFund management for the huge intervention in public tertiary institutions in Benue and the nation at large.

Alia, who noted that his administration would give education top priority in Benue State, also sought partnership with TETFund, to boost the quality of tertiary education delivery in the state.

He said what he has discovered as responsible for high rate of unemployment in Nigeria was that a lot of degrees have been acquired by youth in the country but the "skills are not attached to those degrees, noting this was one of the reasons why both graduates and those who have not attended the four walls of education roam the street across the nation.

Obaseki Set to Reconstitute Cabinet, Sends 15 Nominees to Assembly for Approval

Congratulates Oye on inauguration as NACCIMA president

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

In a bid to reconstitute the State Executive Council (Exco), the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, yesterday, sent names of 15 nominees to the state House of Assembly for approval.

Obaseki had on May 3, 2023 dissolved the state Executive Council, expressing appreciation to members of the council for their service to the government and people of the state.

A letter to the Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, which was signed by Secretary to State Government (SSG), Mr. Osarodion Ogie, contained 15 nominees.

The letter titled: "Request for The Confirmation of Commissioner Nominees," dated June 8, 2023 read: "I write at the instance of His Excellency, the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin. Nogheghase Obaseki to forward here-with the under-listed names of Commissioner

Nominees to the Edo State House of Assembly for consideration and confirmation."

Names of those nominated were: Ethan Osaze Uzamere, Christopher Osaretin Nekhihare, Monday Osaigbovo, Dr. Joan Osa-Oviawe, Isoken Omo, Stephen Ehikhioya Ideheren, Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, and Patrick Uanseru.

Others were: Dr. Samuel Alli, Adaze Aguele-Kalu, Kingsley Uwagbale, Uyi Idowu Malaka, Joshua Omokhodion, Ojiefoh Enaholo Donatus, and Christabel Omo Ekwu.

Meanwhile, Obaseki, has congratulated Mr. Dele Kelvin Oye, on his inauguration as President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA).

The governor, in a statement, urged Oye to deploy his wealth of experience and Midas touch to impact the organised private

sector and the nation’s business community, placing the country on the path of sustainable socioeconomic growth and prosperity.

Obaseki noted: “I heartily congratulate you, Otunba Dele Kelvin Oye, on your inauguration as President of NACCIMA, which prides itself as ‘the voice of the Nigerian business.’

“Otunba Oye, whose mother hails from Benin City, has continued to distinguish himself, building a reputation for excellence in the world of commerce and business with a track record that has set him apart from the crowd; true to type of a man with Edo heritage.

“From his stint as the Chairman of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) between 2008 and 2011 and the National Deputy President of NACCIMA and Chairman of the Nigeria-Turkey Business Council (NTBC), he has continued to deploy his over 33

years’ experience as a first-class lawyer and astute entrepreneur in advocating the interests of Nigerian businesses both locally and internationally.”

According to the governor, “Oye is coming to the saddle of NACCIMA’s Presidency at a time the nation’s economy is gasping for breath and in dire need of leaders with the exceptional skills, strategic vision and unshakable drive to navigate the choppy waters of economic instability and steer the business landscape on the path of growth and prosperity.”

He added, “While the task ahead is daunting, I have no doubt that you will leverage your skills and wealth of experience in charting a new course for the next phase of growth for NACCIMA and advance the interests of Nigerian businesses and contribute to our nation's economic growth and development.”

George Okoh in Makurdi and Kuni

in Abuja

L-R: Consultant IYAMIDR Italy, Mr Emeka Maduka; Representatives of Genoa and Genova Consultant Training Institution, Dr Antonio Lovecchio; Director, Initiative for Youth Awareness on Migration Immigration Development and Reintegration (IYAMIDR) Nigeria, Comrade. Solomon Okoduwa; during the Signing of MoU on vocational training for Nigeria Youths in Italy..Yesterday

PETROLUEM MARKETERS VISIT TO PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU...

INEC's Adhoc Staff Testify on Inability to Transmit Results Real Time

As

Two Presiding Officers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), yesterday told the Presidential Election Petition Court ( PREPEC), that they were unable to transmit real time results of the presidential election conducted on February 25. The two Presiding Officers, who served in Abia and Bauchi States respectively stated this at the resumed hearing of the petition of Atiku Abubakar, candidate of the

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Both witnesses were subpoenaed by the court to give their evidence, following an application of Atiku and the PDP.

First to testify was one Mr Friday Egwumah, a PO for Polling Units 017, Aba North, ward 3, Abia State and a former member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

According to Egwumah, everything went peacefully in his polling unit during the election, without any molestation, adding

CLEEN Foundation Trains Heads of CSOs in Bauchi to Monitor Implementation of ACJL

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

CLEEN Foundation, a nongovernmental organisation (NGO) supported by MacArthur Foundation has trained 20 Heads of Civil Society Organisation (CSOs) in Bauchi State to monitor the implementation of administration of criminal justice law (ACJL) in the state.

The Executive Director of the Foundation, Gad Peter, who spoke at the official launch of the CSOs’ platforms towards the efficient implementation and compliance with administration of criminal justice law, held in Bauchi yesterday, said the essence of the training was to strengthen and enhance capacity of CSOs in Bauchi State to work closely with government agencies, institutions, agencies and stakeholders working on justice administration to live up to their responsibilities.

According to him, the democracy Nigerians are currently enjoying, the fight against corruption and the cry for social justice were all made possible because CSOs added their voices in demanding that appropriate actions should be taken.

"What we doing this morning is to enhance the capacities of CSOs and help them form a loose coalition or network that will be able to work as a team instead of, at an individual level, to be able to put subtle pressure on government to do what they are supposed to do

“For example, we are looking forward to the possibility of the CSOs reminding government of its responsibility to decongest prisons from time to time, ensure that the police are reminded that when they arrest suspects, they have a right to life, a lawyer and fair hearing and also, in the area of criminal cases in court, someone is there to keep an eye to ensure that the proceeds are going appropriately," he said

He said that the fight against corruption was a collective effort by all, adding that people should serve as whistle blowers in their own capacity to reduce the menace of corruption to the barest minimum.

According to the Executive Director, "We should try to fight corruption in our own little way. When you talk about corruption, people think that it is only government agencies that should fight corruption, but in our homes, churches, mosques, our work places, we can also support that effort by stopping corruption in these places and when there are bigger cases of corruption, we are able to amplify our voices and demand that government take appropriate action."

He told the CSOs to use the tool of advocacy to create the change they want to see in the society, pointing that advocacy required clear vision of the desired outcome through a deep understanding of the particular issue as well as the ability to prepare evidence-based policy proposal.

that at the end of voting and collation of the votes, he went to his ward to hand over all polling items, including the results from his unit, before going home.

Responding to question from INEC's lawyer, Mr Abubakar Mahmoud, SAN, the 1st subpoenaed witness told the court that he experienced technical glitches at the point of uploading the captured presidential results to the IReV portal.

Egwumah noted that the glitches was related only to the presidential results as other results like the Senatorial and House of Representatives polls were electronically transmitted to the portal seamlessly.

When asked whether he was aware of offline transmission, the witness explained that the information/results captured in the Bi-modal Verification Accreditation System (BVAS) were uploaded whenever there was a network.

The witness observed that he

did not breach any law in the conduct of his assigned task and told the court that the candidate of the Labour Party won the election in his pulling unit.

The 2nd subpoenaed witness, Grace Timothy, also corroborated the claim of Egwumah, adding that after the counting and announcement of results which she signed alongside agents of political parties in her polling unit, she encountered difficulties in uploading the presidential results real time to the IReV.

The ex-Corper, however, stated that she then took the materials and results to her ward for submission before going home.

Earlier, INEC, Tinubu and the APC had objected to the application by Atiku's lawyer, Chief Chris Uche, SAN, that the witnesses be allowed to adopt their witness statement on oath.

According to Tinubu's lawyer, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, the petitioners ought to have

front-loaded the statement of subpoenaed witness at the time of filing the petition.

Olanipekun accordingly asked the court to reject the witnesses and discountenance their statements on grounds of violating the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022.

Responding, Mahmoud, who told the court that INEC would ordinarily not have objected to the adoption of the witness' statements because they were supposed to be INEC's Adhoc staff, said because of the position of the law, they will be aligning themselves with the submission of Olanipekun.

Similarly, APC's lawyer, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, in objecting to the adoption of the subpoenaed witnesses statement, faulted the action of the petitioners, advising that the petitioners apply for leave of the court for extension of time to enable them bring in the subpoenaed witness' statement on oath.

Responding, Uche urged the court to discountenance the objections of the respondents for been utterly misconceived and designed to delay the proceedings.

Atiku's lawyer pointed out that there was a distinction between subpoenaed witnesses and willing or ordinary witnesses, adding that, "because they are being compelled to appear before the court, they do not fall into the category of additional witnesses...".

After listening to the submissions of parties, Presiding Justice, Haruna Tsammani, stood down the matter for the court to deliver its ruling.

However, on resumption, he announced that ruling in the objections had been reserved and would be delivered alongside the final judgment. He also ordered that the evidence of the three subpoenaed witnesses be taken and the respondents to crossexamine them accordingly.

Hearing continues today.

Mbah Seeks Enugu State Assembly Members-elect Support

Enjoins them to support his administration’s disruptive innovation to accelerate development pre-inauguration workshop for Members-elect

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, yesterday, sought constructive partnership with the 24 members-elect of the State House of Assembly to accelerate development and render utmost service to the people of the state.

Mbah, who spoke while declaring open a two-day pre-inauguration workshop for the 8th Assembly members-elect at Nike Lake Resort, Enugu, assured them that his administration would do what it takes to ensure that the constructive partnership in the service of the people of the state will be sustained.

Represented by his deputy, Ifeanyi Ossai, the governor in a statement, disclosed that he was making every effort to infuse the executive arm of government with the intellectual energy needed to deliver on his mandate, and fulfill his campaign promises to the people of the state.

Mbah, described the workshop as a step in the right direction, adding that it would extensively equip the

incoming members of the state parliament with the necessary tools needed to execute their constitutional assignment.

Reminding them that quality service was expected of the new executive and legislative arms of government by the people of Enugu State, the governor said he had no doubt that the members-elect would perform their legislative duties efficiently and effectively.

Conveying the goodwill and felicitations of Governor Mbah to the members-elect, Ossai explained that the governor came prepared with his mantra of disruptive innovation, adding, “and the disruptor himself, Dr. Peter Mbah is making every effort to infuse the executive arm with the intellectual energy needed to execute this assignment.

“I am left with no doubt that our people will be happy at the end of the day because there is capacity in the governor to navigate us through a complex and possibly complicated

process.

“But that process is the only pathway to the great Enugu State we have all envisioned. It is the only pathway to the apex of development that we need to keep Enugu competitive and ensure that we will be able to compete with cities around Africa and the world.”

In his welcome address, the Clerk of the House, Dr. Emmanuel Okey Udaya, stated that Mbah in the light of his vision and innovative approach to issues gave him the approval to organise the two-day orientation programme for members-elect of the State House of Assembly.

Udaya, who pointed out that the workshop has remained a valuable platform for exposing members to the fundamentals of legislative business, told the 8th Assembly Members-elect that the modified induction programme would “expose you more to the fundamentals of governance, legislative practice and procedures, leadership, management

and related issues.”

According to the Clerk of the House, who is also the Head of Legislative Service, “this programme is aimed at providing a platform for participants to deepen their understanding of the mandate, workings, vision, governance and legislative processes, and to guide you to collectively reflect and initiate strategies that will enhance the delivery of the mandate of the members and management of the State Assembly.”

Prof. Osy Okanya, one of the resource persons present at the opening ceremony, delivered a lecture titled: “Principles of Separation of Powers and Understanding the Legislative Rules, Practice and Procedures (Standing Order) and Role of Bureaucracy and Aides.”

The Speaker of the 7th Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Uchenna Ubosi, was billed deliver a lecture on "Fundamentals of Committee System and Oversight Process."

Alex Enumah in Abuja

L-R: Chairman, ARDOVA Plc, Alhaji Abdulwasiu Sowami; Chairman, DAPPMAN Plc, Dame Winifred Akpane; Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun state; Presidential Aide, Dele Alake; Group Managing Director Rain Oil Limited, Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie addressing the State House Correspondent shortly after the meeting of Petroleum Marketers with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Wednesday GODWIN OMOIGUI

OBASEKI MEETS MUSLIM PILGRIMS...

Obi Seeks Permission to Question INEC over ICT Personnel Used

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr Peter Obi, has requested from the Presidential Election Petition Court (PREPEC) permission to question the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) experts used during the conduct of the February 25 presidential election.

Obi's request was presented by his lawyer, Mr Patrick Ikweto, SAN,

during yesterday's proceedings.

The petitioners had hinted the court of their pending applications during Monday's proceedings but the court could not take it after the respondents claimed that they would object to the request within the time allowed them by law.

However, shortly after the end of cross examination of their second witness, Ikweto sought permission to move the two pending applications

15 CSOs Want Staff of New Almajiri Commission Drawn from Existing MDAs

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

To cut overhead costs, 15 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have advised the federal government to draw the staffing of the new Almajiri Commission which seeks to tackle Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis, from the civil service.

Ex-President Muhammadu

Buhari had in the twilight of his administration, passed into law the establishment of the Almajiri National Commission which would provide multimodal system of education to tackle the menace of illiteracy among Nigeria’s children.

Led by the Almajiri Child Rights Initiative (ACRI), the CSOs in a statement co-signed by 14 other groups in Abuja, stated that the establishment of the commission was a significant step forward for Nigeria’s underprivileged children. The group urged the government to ensure that the commission remains focused on delivering real solutions to the problems faced by Almajiri and out-of-school children, rather than merely serving as another avenue for employment.

“As a collective, we suggest that the commission adopts a specific timeframe for its existence, enabling expeditious work and timely achievement of milestones.

“This time-bound approach will reinforce the urgency required to address the Almajiri issue and ensure that tangible outcomes are achieved within a specified period.

“We also suggest that staff of the commission should be drawn from existing MDAs and agencies to reduce overhead cost and to ensure effective utilisation of funds meant for real interventions,” it

stated.

Furthermore, the CSOs called on governments at all levels to prioritise the issue of out-of-school children and fully implement the Child Rights Act to safeguard the rights and protection of both boys and girls.

“It is imperative that every child in Nigeria has access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances,” the coalition argued.

It stated that the establishment of the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education was a significant milestone in Nigeria’s collective efforts to address the Almajiri issue in Nigeria.

While lauding all the stakeholders that worked towards ensuring the law was passed, for context, the group stated that a 2018 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) report estimated that Nigeria had about 13.2 million out of school children after rising from 10.5 million in 2010.

Of this number it said that 69 per cent was estimated to be from Northern Nigeria. In addition, it estimated that that 9.5 million Almajiri reside across the country, with the highest concentration in the north, quoting the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) as of 2010.

“The Almajiri children experience severe violations of their rights before and during their time on the streets and in the hands of their caregivers.

“They are faced with multiple deprivations including lack of access to basic services, violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation, as well as vulnerabilities to alcohol and substance abuse,” it said.

which specifically sought to know the quality of the ICT experts deployed by INEC for the presidential poll. Specifically, the petitioners prayed the court for an order compelling INEC to supply them with the names and profiles of the ICT experts that participated in one way or another in the February 25 presidential election. Besides, Obi and his party raised 12 questions to be forwarded to INEC for answers.

It is the position of the petitioners that INEC did not only breached its own regulations and guidelines for the conduct of the presidential election but manipulated the process so that the outcome provides a specific desired results.

But, the respondents however opposed to the granting of the request on the grounds that it was belated and that the court lacked necessary jurisdiction to entertain

the applications.

According to INEC's lawyer, Mr Kemi Pinhero, SAN, the applications were not only incompetent but amounts to a waste of the precious time of the PREPEC.

Similarly, Tinubu and APC represented by Chief Akin Olujimi, SAN and Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, in their individual submissions also opposed the granting of the two applications.

After listening to arguments of counsel representing parties, the Presiding Justice, Haruna Tsammani announced that ruling has been reserved to a later date. Meanwhile, Obi and LP as part of further proving their case through documentary evidence also tendered the Form EC40G being summary of cancelled votes in the presidential election. Hearing continues on today.

LP: We'll Take Decision on Choice of Candidates Weekend

Udora Orizu in Abuja

The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, yesterday, said the party would take a decision on the choice of candidates to support for the 10th National Assembly leadership by Friday or Saturday.

This was as the Abia Governor, Alex Otti, met with the National Assembly members-elect of the Labour Party (LP) to take a decision on which candidates to support for the incoming leadership.

At the same time, the Southeast caucus of the 10th House of Representatives, has adopted Hon. Tajudeen Abass and Hon. Benjamin Kalu for Speaker and Deputy Speaker for the 10th House.

Although in his brief opening remarks, Otti said he came from a meeting with President Bola Tinubu and later decided to interact with them as one family.

He enjoined them to work for the people who elected them and ensure that the dividends of democracy was delivered to them.

However, briefing the governor

on a series of meetings so far held to decide on who to support amongst the array of candidates jostling for the senate presidency and House of Representatives speakership and their respective deputies, Abure said a decision would be taken by weekend.

"We have been having these engagements for quite some time. So, immediately we were elected, we decided to have constant meetings so that we can put ourselves together because we believe that if we have this unity and vote together as a family, it will help us do better as a party.

“It will even help us memberselect to operate better and so, we have consistently held this meeting. We have four or five of this meeting, our own presidential candidate (Mr Peter Obi) has been involved in this meeting. You will recall that I have also had the privilege of informing you about the meeting but for tight schedule, you have not been able to join us.

"I recall the last one. I requested you should be available because of the critical decision that we are about

to make. Where we are right now is that, the National Assembly is at the verge of being inaugurated and leadership is expected to emerge both in the Senate and in the House of Representatives.

“It will appear as if some of our members are divided along some political lines and so, we have had series of this engagement. The last one was on Monday where we resolved unanimously that we are going to make the decision on Friday which is tomorrow or Saturday.

“So, as one of the great leaders of the party, we are grateful that you brought us together this evening considering background and circumstances of the party, looking at the mood of the nation which led to the Obi-dient movement that eventually culminated into the election of all our members, we must be very conscious of our behaviours, we must be conscious of what we do.

“Expectations from the people are very high, people see us those elected on this platform as those that will save the country and save

them and therefore, the exceptions are high. Therefore, we must watch our behaviour and our actions.

“Whether we are going to enjoy the support that we enjoyed from the people, depend on the way we conduct ourselves especially our behaviour in the National Assembly. Whether we like it or not, those elected today will become the mirror through which the party will be assessed," Abure said.

Meanwhile the adoption of Abass and Kalu came after a meeting of the caucus held in Abuja last night.

Over 30 members of the caucus signed the endorsement document.

Deputy Chairman House Committee on Appropriations, Hon. Igariwey Iduma Enwo, who made the announcement during a meeting with Abbas, Kalu and their team, said the endorsement list was an ongoing one.

He said there were 43 members in the caucus out of which 32 had signed the endorsement list, and noted that other members of the caucus who were not in Abuja would sign when they return.

EXXONMOBIL PRESIDENT VISITS TINUBU AMID LINGERING STALEMATE OVER $1.3BN OIL ASSETS SALE in New York, USA in September last year.

While making the meeting public on his Twitter handle, Tinubu said it was part of his efforts to ensure collaboration among all stakeholders in the oil and gas sector.

“ It was a pleasure to play host to ExxonMobil Executives, Mr Liam Mallon and Mrs Adesua Dozie, at the State House earlier today (Thursday).

“The meeting marks the continuation of this administration’s efforts to secure the collaboration of critical players in the oil sector towards ensuring stability, transparency and fair competition

in the sector,” he stated.

ExxonMobil upstream affiliate in Nigeria, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPN) is involved in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas, and operates several joint venture concessions and deepwater production sharing contracts with the NNPC.

The company and its joint venture partner, NNPC, operate over 90 offshore platforms comprising of about 300 producing wells at a capacity of over 550,000 barrels a day of crude, condensate and natural gas liquids.

Exxon has experienced setbacks since Seplat Energy announced that

it had entered into agreements with the company to acquire the entire share capital of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited.

Seplat had offered ExxonMobil a purchasing price of $1.3 billion plus up to $300 million contingent consideration to buy the stake in the shallow water business, a deal that has been beset by several stumbling blocks.

Exxon Nigeria controls four oil mining leases (OMLs 67, 68, 70, 104) and its portfolio includes one of Nigeria’s largest export facilities, the Qua Iboe Terminal.

It also has a 51 per cent interest in Bonny River Terminal and Natural

Gas Liquids Recovery Plants at East Area Projects (EAP) and Oso. While the acquisition had been scheduled to be completed in the second half of 2022, with Buhari initially giving approval in August 2022, he reversed the decision after the industry regulator, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) disagreed with the takeover.

The NNPC insists that it has first refusal rights and has since then blocked the deal between Seplat and ExxonMobil, maintaining that the company has a right to take over the 40 per cent stake for itself.

Otti meets party’s senators, members-elect South East caucus adopts Abbas, Kalu

L-R: Chief Imam, Benin Central Mosque, Alhaji Fatai Enabulele; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Chairman, Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Sheikh Ibrahim Oyarekhua and Alhaji Alli Mohammed, during a meeting with pilgrims ahead of their departure for pilgrimage at the Edo Muslims Welfare Board Office, in Benin City... yesterday

COURTESY VISIT……

Police, Amotekun, NSCDC, Others Rescue 13 Victims from Kidnappers in Ondo

Fidelis David in Akure

No fewer than 13 persons kidnapped along Abuja Road in Isua, the headquarters of Akoko South-East Local Government Area of Ondo State by gunmen have been rescued by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, Ondo State Security Network Agency codenamed Amotekun and others.

THISDAY gathered yesterday that the victims were in an 18-passenger bus travelling to Abuja from Lagos when the hoodlums waylaid, dragged

them out of the bus and marched into the bush on Tuesday evening .

An eyewitness who preferred anonymity revealed that: “It was like a movie when an 13-passengers, Abuja bound bus was waylaid on Tuesday by some gunmen at Isua the headquarters of Akoko South East Local Government and marched them to the forest leaving only three of the passengers,” he said.

It was gathered the security agencies, which included the men from Amotekun corps, the

CD Backs Fuel Subsidy Removal, Calls for Palliatives

By Laleye Dipo in Minna

The Campaign for Democracy and Human Rights North Central Geo Political Zone of the country has thrown its weight behind the removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government but asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to introduce palliatives that will cushion the effects of the removal on Nigerians.

The CD said its position is

informed by the realisation of the fact that subsidy had never served the interests of the average Nigerian but was an avenue for some few people to enrich themselves.

Rising from its executive meeting held in Minna the Niger state capital, the organisation said in a communique made available to newsmen that “ the immediate removal of fuel subsidy is long overdue and a welcome development

Monarch’s Wife Empowers Women Traders in Osun

Sophia Adeyemi and Yetunde

Bello

In a remarkable display of women empowerment, Olori Janet Afolabi, the Queen of Apomu Kingdom, Isokan Local Government of Osun State, has provided a new batch of market women with interest-free loans.

A total of 50 women were randomly selected and shortlisted by prominent women leaders in the

community, led by the Otun Iyalode of Apomu Kingdom, Christiana Akinlabu. Olori Afolabi urged the beneficiaries to utilise the funds for the intended purpose, emphasizing that the money was intended to assist them in expanding their existing small-scale businesses or initiating new entrepreneurial ventures.

According to her, the loan repayment period has been set at five months, providing the women with ample time to manage their finances effectively.

Abiodun Reappoints SSG, DCOS

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the reappointment of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, for another term of office. This was confirmed through a statement issued in Abeokuta yesterday by the Permanent

state commands of the police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps as well as the soldiers , on getting the information immediately swung into action and combed the forest

where the victims were rescued .

Another source said the victims were rescued at Ikakumo area in Akoko North-east Local Government Area, a distance of almost 20

kilometers from Isua where they were picked, saying:

“The joint security agents immediately embarked on combing of the forest and their efforts yielded fruitful result

when some of the abducted travelers were rescued during the joint operation.”

The rescued victims were said to have been taken to the Isua Police Station.

Ngige Mourns Senator Annie Okonkwo

Onyebuchi

Former Anambra State Governor and the immediate past Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen Chris Nwabueze Ngige has expressed sadness over the death of business mogul and

former Senator who represented Anambra Central in the 6th Senate 2007- 2011, Sen. Annie Okonkwo.

In a statement yesterday, Ngige described the death of Okonkwo at the age of 63 as an unexpected uprooting and

fall of an Iroko with attendant huge loss to the business and political firmament of Anambra State, the South-eastt and Nigeria in general. He described the late senator as a very strong and dogged politician with whom

he fought many political battles, fierce contests, the most memorable being the three-pitched fight for the Anambra Central Senate seat between himself, the late senator and late Prof Dora Akunyili in 2011.

Enugu Governor Visits Tinubu, Discusses Economy, Security, Other Issues

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu state yesterday visited President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja in the course of which he discussed issues pertinent to the people and development of the state with the president. Speaking with newsmen,

Mbah, who described the meeting as heartwarming, said partnership and collaboration with the federal government was critical to actualising his administration’s agenda for Enugu State, especially in the areas of economy, infrastructure, security, and activation of dormant assets.

He also said the meeting equally discussed the need to release the leader of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, saying it is a demand by the South-east, which is very much in tandem with President Tinubu’s promise in his inaugural address to engender national

healing and reconciliation. Mbah said:”I came and frankly I brought to the President, the warm greetings and best wishes from the government and the people of Enugu state. But, above all, you may also know already that we made massive campaign promises to the people of Enugu.

Rivers CP Warns Vigilance Group against Torture of Suspects, Extortion

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Rivers State Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr. Nwonyi Polycarp has warned the various vigilance groups operating in the state to desist from extortion, unlawful detention or torture of any arrested suspect.

The police boss gave the warning in a Riot Act read to the local security

group at a stakeholders meeting with people of Rivers East Senatorial District, held in Port Harcourt. Polycarp, who appreciated the contributory effort of the vigilance group in crime fighting in the State, said: “While we like their activities, we emphasize on their excess. We will not tolerate jungle justice from vigilance groups. We cannot have a group of people to protect life and

property and the same people are the ones killing, beheading.”

He said tyrannical activities of vigilance must be curtailed, adding that they are not force unit themselves.

“For instance, we have situation where they turn to debt collectors, flogging people. Your duty is to arrest and share information. You don’t have power to detain and investigate.

“If a person is condemned by court

for hanging and the person is shot the person who shot him has committed murder,” CP Polycarp.

The CP said the vigilance groups must maintain their mandate, adding that “activities of vigilance groups must be monitored by the traditional rulers, Police, Local Government Chairmen. Any arrest made by the vigilance group must be handed over to the Police”.

Osun Speaker Meets Assembly Workers, Assures them of Better Days

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Speaker Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, has assured staff of the assembly of better days, saying that their welfare is of utmost concern to him.

Egbedun stated this

yesterday at his interactive session with the Assembly staff since he assumed office as Speaker of the 8th Osun State House of Assembly.

The speaker noted that he thought it is wise to meet with the staff of the Assembly before embarking fully on their task

as legislators. He further assured the staff that with him as speaker, other principal officers and members of the house generally, better days are here for them and Osun State.

“Your welfare is of utmost priority to me” he declared,

promising to carry them along in the goings concerning the assembly. He, however, strongly advised them against any acts of indiscipline as he would not tolerate any attitude that would affect the smooth running of the legislature.

Remain Loyal to the People , Constitution, Kogi SDP Candidate Tasks Assembly Members

Secretary, State Ministry of Information, Mr. Waheed Adesina.

In the same vein, the government announced the reappointment of Dr. Toyin Taiwo as Governor Abiodun’s Deputy Chief of Staff.

The appointments, according to the statement, take immediate effect.

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

The newly inaugurated members of Kogi State House of Assembly have been urged to remain loyal to the people and constitution of the country in the discharge of their duties.

The charge was given by candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Murtala Ajaka, in a congratulatory message to Speaker of the 7th Assembly. The SDP candidate explained that the assumption of office of the lawmakers is a major boost

for democracy in the state and urged them to be focused on interests of the people. The message reads in part:

“May I on behalf of SDP and its teeming members and supporters in our dear state and beyond congratulate you and the honourable members of the 8th Kogi State House

of Assembly inaugurated on Wednesday 7th of June, 2023.

“It is with delight and rekindled hope of a new beginning that I received the news of your swearing-in to legislate and carry out oversight functions on the other arms of government on behalf of the citizens of our dear state.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Dray Entertainment Abuja, Dare Adefioye ifeanyi; Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mr. Bode Adeleke, and Founder, KPV Network, Adegboyega Adekoya, during the courtesy visit to Nigeria Police headquarters in Abuja…recently

Ezigbo in Abuja

DSS’Attempt to Arrest Anambra Lawmaker- elect from Assembly Complex Foiled

A huge commotion ensued at the Anambra State House of Assembly complex yesterday when operatives of the Department of States Services (DSS) invaded the assembly complex and tried to whisk away one of the lawmakers-elect. Sources told THISDAY that the lawmaker-elect for Nnewi North constituency, Mr. Onyekachukwu Ike, was arrested by the operatives and bundled into the trunk of a car and made to leave the complex before they were stopped.

An eyewitness said: “Security men at the gate of the House of Assembly upon noticing it, shut the gate and refused the operatives the opportunity of driving out with the lawmaker-elect.

“The incident happened after the arrested lawmaker-elect participated in a valedictory thanksgiving service for the outgoing seventh Assembly.

“The Deputy Governor, Dr Onyekachi Ibezim, who came to represent the governor at the session, and the outgoing speaker, Mr. Uche Okafor quickly intervened and Ike was released.”

The Acting Clerk of the Assembly, Mrs. Esther Aneto and

other senior staff were quoted as saying that the operatives did not inform them or even the police personnel before trying to whisk away the lawmaker-elect.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Tochukwu Ikenga who confirmed the incident, said the matter had been resolved.

“There is no cause for alarm, it has been resolved. I think it was DSS that was on that mission, but I think everything has been resolved.

I was told that the deputy governor and speaker of the house intervened. So, everything was resolved but I don’t know the circumstances surrounding serving him( Ike) invitation.”

Bayelsa Guber Poll: Youths Adopt Diri as Sole Candidate

Thousands of youths and other stakeholders from the four constituencies in Southern

Speakership Crisis: Sule Recognises

Abdullahi as Speaker

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

Following the emergence of two Speakers at the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, the state Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has said he only recognises Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi as the Speaker of the Assembly.

The immediate-past Speaker of the Assembly, Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi, and Hon. Daniel Ogah Ogazi, were last Tuesday elected simultaneously at different locations as Speakers of the state House of Assembly.

However, while featuring as a guest on Arise Television last Wednesday night, Governor Sule said he only recognised Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi, who was sworn in by the clerk of the Assembly.

He said: “Only the clerk can swear in a Speaker. The moment he inaugurates a Speaker, the Speaker will now turn around to inaugurate the other members.

Eno Sues for Harmony among LeadersReligious in A’Ibom

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Umo Eno, has called for harmony among religious leaders and Christian community in the state, promising that every interest would be accommodated for the realisation of the vision of his administration.

The governor said his vision for the state is in agriculture, rural development, infrastructural expansion, security, and education and entrepreneurial development (ARISE) agenda.

He expressed gratitude to religious leaders and the entire Christian community in the state for the commitment, prayers and support during the electioneering culminating in his emergence as the governor of the state.

Eno was speaking while addressing a cross-section of religious leaders in the state at the state Banquet Hall in Government House, Uyo.

Ijaw Local Government Area (SILGA) of Bayelsa State, have adopted the state’s governor and candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Douye Diri, as their sole candidate for the November 11 governorship poll, citing performance and deployment of infrastructural projects to their area.

The youths also set up a security and intelligence gathering units ahead of the election in the state and pledged to work with security agencies to check-mate those in the habit

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as OGUNBANWO ADESOJI TAYO, now wish to be known and address as OGUNBANWO ADESOJI SUNDAY. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as SAMPSON OGAR now which to be known and address has SAMPSON UNDIUGWEUNDELE OGAR. All former document remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS AMADI JOY IJEOMA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NWANGUMA JOY IJEOMA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as CHARLSE EBIKPI ABIA, now wish to be known and addressed as ABIA EDIMA ISAAC. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as IRABOR BLESSINGMITCHELLE J., now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OMOZOKPIA EHIGATOR BLESSING MITCHELLE J.. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

of throwing up fake figures in order to rig the electoral processes.

The stakeholders, who are made up of youths, community leaders, women groups, traditional, religious leaders and other critical segments of the people of Southern Ijaw extraction of the state, urged security and intelligence agencies to take special interest in the local government where some known political elements specialised in manufacturing delusionary votes to satisfy their inordinate desires.

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as BAMIDELE MODUPE FEYISIKE, now wish to be known and address as OGUNLEYE MODUPE FEYISIKE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ALOZIE PATIENCE CHIJIOKE now which to be known and address has IZUEGBU-EMEKA PATIENCE CHIJIOKE. All former document remain valid the general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as IGE FOLAKEMI CAROLINE now which to be known and address has OMOLE FOLAKEMI CAROLINE. All former document remain valid the general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as THANKGOD OGBUNDE, now wish to be known and addressed as THANKGOD IWE WEKPA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ANYANWU EVANGELINE, now wish to be known and addressed as IBEAWUCHI EVANGELINE CHINWE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

Understanding Hajj Beyond Rituals WORLD OF ISLAM

Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email deji.mustapha@thisdaylive.com

By: Maulana WahiduddinKhan/IslamiCity

HAJJ is one of the fundamental pillars of Islam. Like other forms of worship in Islam, Hajj is based on God-consciousness. At the same time, it has a unique feature—it is linked to the life of Prophet Abraham.

Every Muslim capable of doing so must perform Hajj at least once in his lifetime. By engaging in various actions during Hajj, he expresses his complete servitude to God. He symbolically performs actions that were performed by Prophet Abraham, kindling the zeal in man to mold himself on the pattern of this Prophet of God.

After building the Kabah in Makkah, Prophet Abraham called on people to perform Hajj for the sake of God. The journey of Hajj is an affirmative response to this call. During the Hajj, pilgrims call out, ‘Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik,’ which means, “Here I am at Your service O Allah, here I am.” The air resounds with this cry as if in answer to the call issued by Prophet Abraham; the pilgrims appear before God, wholeheartedly willing to fulfill any command.

The literal meaning of ‘Hajj’ is ‘to go on pilgrimage.’ According to the Islamic Shariah, Hajj happens once every year when people circumambulate the Kabah, halt on the Plain of Arafat, and perform the other actions that are part of Hajj.

Hajj is a comprehensive form of worship. It entails spending one’s wealth and physical exertion, too. It involves the remembrance of God and sacrifices for God as well. Hajj is a form of worship in which the spirit of other forms of worship are also present. Central to Hajj is the ‘House of God,’ the Kabah, located in Makkah. The Kabah is a reminder of a truly devout life of an exalted servant of God, Prophet Abraham. It is a reminder of how a devoted servant of God gave up everything for God, patterned his whole life in accordance with God’s will and devoted himself completely to God’s mission till his last breath.

Journey towards God

Hajj is a journey towards God, the ultimate form of closeness to God in one’s life. When the pilgrim stands in front of the Kabah, it reminds him that man has to stand before God. The circumambulation of the Kabah symbolizes the pilgrim’s focus around God on finding Him.

A special feature of Hajj is the location—Makkah and its surrounding areas. It is a place selected by God as it was the center of the religious mission of the great missionary, Prophet Abraham. The early history on the basis of which Islam unfolded emerged here. All around are reminders of the great spiritual revolution ushered in under the guidance of Prophet Muhammad some 1400 years ago. These traditions and special features have given Makkah particular significance. A special spiritual and historical atmosphere pervades the place. None who goes there can remain unaffected. One who returns after completing the Hajj is like someone who was earlier covered with dirt and dust and then emerges out from a stream, bathed pure and clean.

This special importance of the Hajj is its spirit, and not so much its external form, or rituals. Just going to Makkah and returning is not Hajj. It is to acquire those special spiritual qualities, for which Hajj has been made obligatory. Hajj is meeting with the Lord. When a pilgrim travels and arrives at places associated with the Hajj, he feels especially inspired. He feels that he has left ‘his world’ and arrived in ‘God’s world’, that he is running towards his Master, and that he is journeying for His sake; that he is ‘throwing stones’ at Satan his enemy in the way of the Lord, that he is asking God for all his wants, and receiving from God all that he needs.

The Kabah is among the signs of God on earth. In Makkah, where the Kabah is located, the Prophet received revelations from God, which provide guidance for humanity. But only those who are willing and keen on acquiring it receive guidance. For other people, Hajj is just a sort of tour. They go on Hajj and return no different from what they were before they went.

According to a Hadith (words of the Prophet) report, Hajj is the halting on the Plain of Arafat, indicating the importance of Arafat. During the Hajj, the Plain of Arafat presents an image of the vast assembly of Hajj is a journey towards God, the ultimate form of closeness to God in one’s life. On the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah, vast numbers of God’s servants arrive at the Plain of Arafat from all directions. This is an amazing sight. Every single person is wearing the same simple white dress or ihram, has lost his or her distinguishing marks and utters the very same words: Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik. Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik. On witnessing this sight, one is reminded of this Quranic verse: “The trumpet will be blown and, at once, they will rise up from their graves and hasten to their Lord.” (36:51)

Hajj is a great form of worship. The status that the Kabah enjoys among all the mosques is the same that Hajj enjoys among all forms of worship.

The Psychological Aspect of Hajj

God, in the Quran, says: “And I did not create the jinn and humankind except to worship Me.” (51:56)

This suggests that the urge to worship God is innate and deeply rooted in human nature. This is what his very nature demands. Worshipping God is inherent in human nature. This is the reason why other than worship of God, nothing can give man true satisfaction.

Just as a little child spontaneously rushes to hug its mother, driven by a compulsive inner urge, so too impelled by an inner voice, man is driven to rush towards God. Man cannot change his inner personality. Hence God cannot be removed from his heart and mind.

Evidence of Worship of God from Anthropology

Anthropologists have studied a number of human societies from the dawn of history to the present day. They discovered, among other things, a very important fact—that despite life’s ups and downs, man has always been a worshipper of God. God and religion are so integral a part of human nature that under no circumstance can they be separated from it. The Encyclopedia Americana summarizes this finding (Encyclopedia Americana, 1961, vol. XXIII, p. 354).

It is a fact that consciousness of God is embedded in man’s nature, this being how man was created. That said, this consciousness lies dormant. That is why when man does not find the true God, he begins to worship artificial, self-created gods. The urge to worship emerges from a compulsion rooted in his own nature. If he follows the guidance of God’s prophets, this urge will find its answer in the form of the worship of the one God. And if he does not follow this guidance, he will worship beings other than God, treating them as God to satisfy this urge. Man’s purpose is just one, the same purpose as that of his Creator and Master in creating him. If man closely examines his nature, he will discover signs of God in himself. Prophets help people to express their dormant innate desire to recognize and worship God.

Symbols Set Up By God

The true vision of God will happen only in the Hereafter. But while having this faith, man still wants to find God in this world. He seeks to get close to God right away, now and not sometime in the future. How can this quest of man be fulfilled in this world?

The answer to this is provided through symbols set up by God (2:158 Quran). God has made some things as His signs on account of their historical importance. Various conditions surround these signs as reminders so that on seeing them, one is reminded of God. God, who cannot be found directly, can be found indirectly. Man cannot see God. Worshipping God is inherent in human nature. This is the reason why other than worship of God, nothing can give man true satisfaction. He cannot find a manifest form of God that he can touch and experience a sense of closeness to Him. But man can touch the symbols set up by God, and through them experience the closeness to God.

Symbols are signs or reminders of something, something that is not the real thing but because of some connection with the real thing reminds one of the real things. An example of this are the two hills, Safa and Marwah, ‘symbols set up by God’. (2:158 Quran) Safa and Marwah are located in Makkah, five hundred feet apart, near the Kabah. When Prophet Abraham brought his wife Hagar (Hajira) and infant Ishmael and settled them here—which later became the town of Makkah—this place was uninhabited with no water available. As Hagar’s supply of water exhausted, she ran in search of water—seven times— between Safa and Marwah. God was pleased with Hagar and declared Safa and Marwah as His symbols—a reminder of her devotion to God. In remembrance of this, today pilgrims run seven times between Safa and Marwah.

Seeing Safa and Marwah, one is reminded of the history of how a devout servant of God, Prophet Abraham, left his fertile land in Iraq and came to a desert land with his wife and child solely for the sake of God. This is a perfect example of faith in God and trust in Him.

Other things related to the Kabah, the Hajar al-Aswad (the Black Stone in the Kabah) and Hajj are also signs of God. They are symbols of the God-oriented genuine monotheist, Prophet Abraham and of those people in history who led ideal lives of devotion to God. All the rituals of Hajj are conducted amidst some of these symbols set up by God. Being in the environment of these symbols, one feels one is in God’s environment.

Meeting With God

The Kabah is the ‘House’ of the One God. It was made by two great prophets of God, Prophet Abraham and his son Ishmael. The lofty lives of these two prophets and the amazing sacrifices that they made for the sake of God are linked with this ‘House.’ And then, the lives of devotion and service to God by the last Prophet, Prophet Muhammad and his companions unfolded in its environment.

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa

Osimhen Named Most Valuable African Footballer

Femi Solaja

After a superb season in which he played a significant role in making Napoli win a third Scudetto title after 33 years, Victor Osimhen, has been named as the most Valuable African Footballer in the world.

The Nigerian international who is on the radar of top European clubs

as the summer transfer window is about to begin, was listed amongst the top 100 most valuable footballers in the world at the moment by the CIES Football Observatory.

According to the CIES report published on Thursday, Osimhen, who is now a cult hero in Naples is valued at €77.3 million.

The valuation done using a statisti-

cal model exclusively developed by CIES, ranked the 24-year-old Nigerian star 40th in the world, making him the highest-ranked African in the top 100.

With the valuation, Osimhen beats Liverpool and Egypt’s superstar, Mohamed Salah, who is valued at €61.2 million.

Osimhen became the first African to be crowned Goal King of Italy

this season, scoring a total of 26 Serie A goals.

He surpassed the feat of one-time World Footballer of the Year George Weah, Samuel Eto’o and Obafemi Martins to become the first striker from Africa to finish top scorer of the top league.

Two other Africans on the list, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and

Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus, were also valued at €53.7 million and €53.5 million respectively by CIES.

Manchester City’s Erling Haaland was ranked as the most valuable footballer based on transfer values at the moment. Haaland, who also led his club to domestic success in England, has an estimated value of €245.5 million.

Lowly Muchova Upsets Sabalenka to Reach Women’s Singles Final

Czech player Karolina Muchova became one of the lowest ranked players to reach the French Open women's final as she edged a thriller against Belarusian second seed Aryna Sabalenka.

Ranked 43rd in the world, Muchova won 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (5-7) 7-5 after saving a match point at 5-2 in the decider.

Muchova, 26, will play Polish top seed Iga Swiatek in Saturday's final.

Defending champion Swiatek, 22, won 6-2 7-6 (9-7) against Brazilian 14th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia later on Thursday.

Sabalenka's exit means Swiatek will remain world number one, a position she has held for 62 consecutive weeks, after she beat 27-year-old Haddad Maia.

Sabalenka, 25, served for the match in the decider but was overcome with tension as Muchova kept her composure to win an epic

FRENCH OPEN

in three hours 13 minutes.

"I don't really know what happened," said Muchova, who is the fourth lowest-ranked woman to reach the final after Swiatek, Jelena Ostapenko and Renata Tomanova.

"It is unbelievable. I tried to keep fighting and it worked. I'm so happy."

Muchova covered her face with a towel as she sat and contemplated the magnitude of her achievement, a stark contrast to when she sobbed on her chair at Roland Garros last year after having to retire injured from her third-round match.

Swiatek will be the overwhelming favourite to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen for a third time, having reached the final without losing a set and only dropping 23 games in her six matches.

Taiwo Awoniyi Makes Surprise Visit to IGH, Pays Bills for Patients

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Super Eagles and Nothingham Forest of England striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, visited the Ilorin General Hospital yesterday to make cash donations to the Theneedy.former Union Berlin of Germany marksman was received by the hospital's Chief Medical Director (CMD), Dr Bola Abdulkadir, into the facility.

The Super Eagles' striker was later conducted round different wards of the hospital where a female cancer patient was introduced to him for help.

The Nothingham Forest striker after receiving briefs of the patient was told that the she needed a complete dose of a particular injection which each cost N107,000. Awoniyi paid instantly for the remaining four doses.

Another patient who was in need of just N5000 to get oxygen for one of her children received over N100,000 from the former Liverpool forward while he also supported two old men with another N100,000.

Awoniyi's many donations came after he had presented envelopes containing cash to several patients receiving treatments at the hospital.

The Nothingham Forest striker also initiated several unaccounted donations at the hospital before departing for his usual off season training.

CMD of the hospital, Dr Bola Abdulkadir, thanked Awoniyi for deeming it feat to visit the hospital to make donations to the patients.

The CMD posited that government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of everything hence the need for the well to do individuals to be of help.

He solicited the support of the striker to make a donation to a foundation in the hospital where funds are accessed the needy for treatment.

Awoniyi had earlier visited the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim ZuluGambari, where the chairman of Kwara Traditional Council, prayed for the continuous success of the footballer in his career.

Mohbad, Brymo Set NPFL Championship Playoff Aglow

The Nigeria Premier League (NPL) Championship Play-offs 2022/2023 will be set aglow when Nigerian musical icons Mohbad and Brymo will take the centre stage on Matchday 4 today and Match-day 5 on Sunday respectively to thrill and entertain fans at Mobolaji Johnson Sports Arena Onikan.

Rivers United and Bendel Insurance will kick off Match-day 4 games at 2pm local time while Lobi Stars will take on Remo Stars immediately after the first game at 4pm. Sunshine Stars will square up against Enyimba International of Aba for the last match of the day.

NPL strategic partners, GTI, alongside the Interim Management Committee (IMC) have so far offered the football fiesta free to fans who thronged the match venue to watch hostilities in Matchdays 1, 2 and 3 but has introduced tickets starting from today through Sunday when musical shows will commence.

GTI/TNFF Head of Media &

Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, told journalists in Lagos that the musical variety is being introduced to spice-up the event that has attracted football fans cum stakeholders within and outside Nigeria.

“On Friday, June 9, which is Match-day 4 of the ongoing NPL championship play-offs, we will be having on the sideline stage, Mohbad, one of Nigeria’s established Afrobeat Hip Hop star performer on parade with his singers and also on Sunday, June 11 for the

closing events, Brymo, another big name in the musical industry will take to the stage to thrill fans and stakeholders of the beautiful game in Nigeria.

“We believe a mix of music and football is good for the rebuilding of the NPFL brand by tapping into the appeal of music to our huge youth population to drive the project of restructuring the Nigerian football league,” Ekejiuba said.

He further revealed that the entry to the VIP extension will now attract

N2000 while the popular terraces will require N1000 access fee.

Ekejiuba affirmed that access to the VIP Box will be strictly by invitation as only those with the official access tags would be admitted.

Enyimba and Rivers United are tied at the top on five points after three games while Remo Stars and Bendel Insurance are also tied on three points with Sunshine Stars and Lobi Stars having two points each.

‘Equestrian Can Contribute $500m Yearly to Nigeria’s GDP’

Olawale

Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Nigeria Equestrian Federation (NEF) has declared the equine industry as capable of contributing a minimum of $500million annually to the country’s GDP if the sport can be properly harnessed.

The founder/coordinator NEF

Record Entry Trails WTT Contenders in Lagos

No fewer than 25 countries including Nigeria will participate at the first WTT Contender Series in sub-Saharan Africa which will hold in Lagos from 12th-18th June 2023 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.

More importantly, $75,000 prize money will be up for grab among 150 top players that have been confirmed to participate in the

tournament and battle for ranking points towards qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics Games.

At a crowded press conference yesterday evening, Barrister Wahid Enitan Oshodi confirmed that Korea Republic, Germany, Slovenia, Chinese Taipei, India, China, Egypt, Slovakia, Poland, Portugal, Denmark, Ukraine, Algeria, Belgium, Italy, France, England, Côte d’Ivoire, Serbia, Ghana,

Luxembourg, Switzerland, Wales, Sweden and Nigeria will take part in the tournament.

“The fans should expect a fantastic tournament, great things to look forward to as some of the best players in the world, different styles and Dmitri Ocherov, former world number one. When a non-Chinese player becomes number one in table tennis, you know how good he is. Five

of the top 20 players in the world.

“Sadly, Aruna Quadri had to pull out of the tournament but this gives other players a chance to make the breakthrough with the support of the Lagos fans. “There’s big prize money relative to table tennis and players have to challenging for that and the players start arriving over the weekend. It’s going to be tough and like we say here ‘fire for fire” he explained.

Dr Obiorah Anthony, stated this yesterday at a press briefing to unveil the federation’s upcoming events and programmes.

He described the equine industry as a potential goldmine given the country’s huge population of over 200,000 horses and its entrenched horse culture.

Anthony also lamented that the country is currently without a verifiable horse impact statistics which explains why the federation is out to address the bottlenecks that have impeded Nigeria from competing favourably with its counterparts across the globe.

“Let me give us a little insight into the global industry statistics to buttress the aptness for setting up this federation. The global equine industry has economic worth $300 billion and 1.6 million full time jobs. The horse industry contributes $122 billion annually to the US economy. Economic

value of the equestrian industry in the UK comes in at £4.7 billion. In South Africa, the horseracing industry contributes $226 million annually to its GDP,” Anthony noted. The equestrian federation was founded on December 9, 2022 following a communique issued after the maiden edition of the Nigerian Equestrian Festival same year.

Anthony said NEF is presently working on a national equestrian centre where anybody who has interest can work and show interest while it is talking with the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports on how to partner its programmes.

The federation sought government support to realise the potential of equestrian sports by investing in infrastructure such as training facilities, stables, riding arenas, crosscountry courses, policy and regulatory framework.

Czech player, Karolina Muchova upset second seed Aryna Sabalenka 7-6 (7/5), 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 to reach the women’s singles final of the French Open ...yesterday

Victor Osimhen...more listed as Most Valuable African Footballer of the moment

Taiwo Awoniyi (left), interacting with a patient at the Ilorin General Hospital...yesterday

Bishop Ajakaye to Gen. Lucky Irabor

“Surprisingly, Gen. Lucky Irabor, the Defence Chief, informed the world that arrest has been made regarding the June 5, 2022 Sunday attack at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo. Unfortunately, one year after, we have not heard anything again from the army general. Please, sir, when shall we be lucky to know what has become of the people you told Nigerians and the whole world were arrested due to their involvement in the massacre of the over 41 people...” –Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Felix Ajakaye, calling on the Federal Government to bring the perpetrators to justice.

AKIN OSUNTOKUN

DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

From Awolowo to Akintola Politics

Speaking of late Chiefs Obafemi Awolowo and Ladoke Akintola politics, I have a pertinent personal testimony to tender. I had a pretty early and unique exposure to Nigerian politics which can be literally cited as baptism of fire. I was born into one of the contradictions of Yoruba politics which fostered in me a lifelong skeptical attitude towards the totality of Nigerian politics and its received wisdoms. My first memory of life on this planet was as a witness to an arson attack on our residence, as me and my grandmother fled the scene. She had earlier refused entreaties to leave the compound because in her consideration, her son had not committed any crime, let alone, the generic accusation of public office theft, with which, the Western regional political leadership under the premiership of Ladoke Akintola were collectively tarred. Her son and my father, was Chief Oduola Osuntokun, who served as cabinet minister from 1955 to 1966 straddling the premiership of Chiefs Obafemi Awolowo and Ladoke Akintola.

Why would, perhaps, one of the most ethically upright and conscientious public servant of his generation be subjected to the censure and demonisation that was visited on those who took sides with Akintola in the violent Awolowo/Akintola schism that rocked the Western region from 1962 to 1966? It is on record that, as Minister, he midwifed the establishment of the ikeja, ilupeju and bodija housing estates without allocating a single plot of land, directly or by proxy to himself.

More significant was the character witness of being the only Minister exonerated by the Justice Kayode Esho panel that was charged by the first military governor of the Western region, Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi to probe the preceding Akintola government. Neither did he partake of the widespread election rigging that characterised the 1965 regional elections in the Western region were the testimonies of his opponents in the four general elections he contested to be believed.

This was the riddle I had to grapple with as a child growing up in the Yoruba society of the late sixties and early seventies. Yet, in acknowledgement of one of those rare moments of ‘good things happening to good people’

I would, at this juncture, want to express my immense appreciation and gratitude to the Odua group of companies, for deeming my dad worthy of adoption as a political role model in its memorialisation of Yoruba exemplars. The debt of gratitude I owe, commensurately escalates, with the choice of my uncle, Professor Olukayode Osuntokun for the same recognition in the academic/ professional category.

In earnest, the phenomenon of Awolowo’s embodiment of Yoruba politics, began with the formation of the egbe omo Oduduwa in 1948. ‘In 1951 he founded the Action Group, with some of the Egbe’s members as its nucleus, and in the process became the party’s first president. In the same year, the party won the first elections held in the Western Region, and Awolowo subsequently served as leader of government business and

minister for local government.

From 1954 to 1959, as premier of the Western Region, he worked, assiduously, to establish the imperishable legacy of the socioeconomic transformation of the Western region with such enormously successful progressive policies as free universal primary education and free health care for children. The constitutional provision of regional autonomy that undergirded the practice of Nigerian federalism gave him the latitude to make a peerless impact on the socioeconomic development of the Western region and thereby eternally capture the imagination of the Yoruba people.

From the authentic and the original to the mutant and superficial, the Awolowo political brand has run the gamut of the Action Group, AG, Unity Party of Nigeria, UPN, Social Democratic Party, SDP, and the Alliance for Democracy, AD until all pretences and affectation of any such brand were thrown overboard at the formation of the All Progressives Congress, APC in 2015.

The stillborn outreach of Awolowo to the similarly rigorous modernisation platform of Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe and the NCNC was resurrected in the formation of the United Progressives Grand Alliance between the AG and the NCNC (shorn of its Western region component) in 1964. ‘Up until the eve of the civil war, argues Ralph Uwechue, Nigerian politics was dominated by the big three tribes.... In this triangular fight the key to victory was the combination of any two sides. It did not matter which two’

This was the political challenge and context that subsequently tasked Awolowo in his bid to become the Prime Minister of Nigeria in 1960. Thus advised, he reached out for a coalition with Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe and the National Council of Nigerian Citizens, NCNC (dominated by the Igbo writ large Eastern region). For reasons that were not quite clear, his hands of fellowship were spurned by Azikiwe in preference for Ahmadu Bello and the Northern

Peoples Congress, NPC.

Beyond the speculation of a tit for tat display of ethnic chauvinism, semblance of an explanation may be found in the calculations of patronage politics and benefits accruable to any of the southern regional rivals that secures an alliance with the Northern region partnership. In the event, the most insidious by-product of this alliance was the lapse into ideological normlessness and a resultant prioritisation of the politics of consumption over the sacrificial and tasking politics of development.

The coup and counter coup of 1966 and its ultimate degeneration into the civil war in 1967 required Awolowo and the Yoruba to make a choice of which side to support between the North and the East. It was a no easy choice and it would take the strategic cultivation of Awolowo by the northern dominated federal government and the non strategic implacability of Ojukwu and the Eastern regional political elite to break the tie. Integral to the choice was the notion that whichever party that released Awolowo from prison was always guaranteed to reap a debt of gratitude from the Yoruba political leader.

Nonetheless, the natural allies of the North among the Yoruba was the Akintola faction and this dialectical contradiction reasserted itself in the political isolation of Awolowo to its regional stronghold in the 1979 presidential election. The fact that he felt compelled to seek recourse to the incredulous (and non-starter) presidential ticket comprising himself and Philip Umeadi from the South East was an indication of his insurmountable political distance from the north. The futile defiant gesture of this presidential ticket ironically bolstered his credentials as the avenging angel of the progressive political movement of Nigeria.

The bitter political reality of Nigeria was that Awolowo would only have a fighting chance of realising his presidential ambition once he was ready to capitulate and played the protégé to the mentorship of the feudal conservative North. This option of self-abnegation (otherwise coined political compromise) was, of course, one step too far for Awolowo to contemplate and the reality must have dawned on him even if he gave the impression of being oblivious of it.

Out of the ashes of Awolowo’s frustrations as leader of opposition at the national Parliament, rose his belligerent backward glance at the position he voluntarily relinquished and bestowed on Akintola. As the tension between the two intensified, so did pressure grow on Akintola to seek a powerful external ally in the regionally controlled federal government. In the circumstance, Akintola entertained no compunction in accepting the terms of the relationship including, especially, the implication to serve as proxy for Sir Ahmadu Bello and Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa.

A critical aspect of the ensuing patron/client relationship was the entitlement to increased patronage (appointments, scholarships etc) from the federal government. This sense of entitlement played out in a chauvinistic inter ethnic jostling between the East and the West

for the dispensation of pork from the senior partner.

The struggle was theatrically captured in a witty rendition by Akintola in his peerless mastery of Yoruba illocution and lores. It was accomplished through a dexterous manipulation of the surname of Dr Ikechukwu Ikejiani who was the chairman of the Electricity Corporation of Nigeria, ECN. Intended to illustrate the lopsided patronage of the Igbo to the disadvantage of the Yoruba at the federal government level, Akintola parodies “Ikinni a ni, ikeji a ni, iketa a ni”. Pronounced in Yoruba tonation, Ikejiani means, the ‘second one is given’.

Deriving from this deliberate malappropriation, the late Premier draws a sketch of a tendentious marginalisation of the Yoruba corresponding to the gluttonous satiety of the Igbo. He then contrived a three line stanza to prove the point, with a preceding ‘Ikinni a ni’ (the first is given) to Ikeji a ni (the second one is given) followed by Iketa a ni (the third one equally takes!).

Ultimately, the objective of Akintola was (for the Yoruba) to supplant the Igbo as the new favoured beneficiary of federal government largesse

The incendiary tribal jingoism was perniciously echoed in the ivory towers and the point of incidence was the university of Lagos. In the words of Tim Livsey, “The University of Lagos, like the universities at Ibadan and Ife, was affected by the rise of the NNDP (Akintola’s party), which had formed a coalition with the NPC in the federal government. The NNDP took the federal education portfolio, and installed nominees on the University of Lagos council”.

“A crisis broke out in February 1965 when the university council announced that Prof Eni Njoku, the founding vice-chancellor, would be replaced by Dr Saburi Biobaku. Njoku was considered a capable administrator, and his dismissal was widely understood in ethno-political terms because he was Igbo and supported the NCNC. ‘It will be difficult for the Council’, noted the ‘West African Pilot’, ‘to escape the charge that it has practised naked tribalism’’.

Like Akintola before him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s politics is predicated on the victimisation of the Igbo on one hand and voluntary (albeit gainful) submission to the protective custody of the Muslim North on another. The former was unfurled in raw and open display of latent genocidal threat to the Igbo during the 2023 general elections in Lagos while the latter was heralded by a subordinate partnership in the formation of the APC and a crowning Muslim/Muslim presidential ticket.

Substantially and within the context of Yoruba politics, the emergence of Tinubu as the President of Nigeria is an epiphenomenon of the transition from Awolowo politics to Akintola politics. Indeed, it is the ultimate triumph of Akintola’s vision of Nigerian politics encapsulated in a menu comprising pragmatic hostility against the Igbo; pragmatic deference to the north and pragmatic monetisation of politics.

Awolowo